Broome
After a nights rest at YTNK, we were up early to head to Broome via the Bungle Bungles and a refuel at Halls Creek. Flying into Broome was breathtaking, with the blue ocean and the white sand of cable beach. Broome radio was most helpful and very professional.
I think we had the last aircraft park and the last motel room in Broome, as the Broome cup was on at the time. We stayed at the Broome Motel which was clean and comfortable and very central to all the attractions.
Cape Leveque, Buccaneer Archipelago
After your stay in Broome, why not put the icing on the cake and continue your cruise northbound up the coast. We used to cruise up here at 1500 feet and land at Kooljaman, Cape Leveque. Sadly, this option is no longer available to visiting pilots. But you must leave time to overfly the Buccaneer Archipelago.
It is the most stunning vista I believe I’ve ever flown over. The blue ocean, impossibly white sand and stark red cliffs are the enviable trademark of our Western Australian coastline. Pop across and see the famous Horizontal Waterfalls and zoom up the Prince Regent River. This is all bucket list territory. Take your time.
Home Valley Station
At Prince Regent River, we turned west and followed the gorge to rivers end and on past Drysdale River, to land at the newly opened Home Valley Station, nestled amongst the breathtaking Cockburn Ranges. We stayed in an eco tent for $190 and were well catered for by the friendly staff. The nightly entertainment under the large open air restaurant was certainly a highlight.
After a leisurely breakfast and an unforgettable meeting with the Superintendent of the property, Brett, with his inspirational views on Australian land and culture,
El Questro
After three days in Darwin, it was time to backtrack to El Questro resort. We tracked direct Kununarra and flew over lake Argyle on the Ord River, down to the Argyle Diamond Mine and onto El Questro . We were number 2 to land, behind a new, 4 seat Jabiru, owned by an ex 747 Qantas captain, Ken Smithwell and his delightful wife Sue. They were great company and we were able to swap notes and tips over happy hour at the resort. We joined together to do the guided tours through El Questro Gorge and Zebedee Springs, with our ranger ‘Keechy ‘, who was most entertaining.
Our accommodation was in a station bungalow which was very comfortable and overlooking a beautiful stream. The Chamberlain breakfast cruise the next morning was breathtaking and exciting, with the fish- feeding a bonus. The accuracy of the Archer Fish with their water spits is incomprehensible. At this stage in the travels, my dear wife decided that due to the lifestyle and surrounding beauty, that was El Questro, she felt like aristocracy and proclaimed her new pseudonym to be ‘Lady Kimberly’.
Emma Gorge Resort
Emma Gorge Resort is literally 10 NM over the hill from El Questro station. On departure, you can fly over the station – looks fabulous from the air – then fly on down the gorge and onto Emma gorge. At 900M, the strip is fine, but has a ski jump at one end! Emma Gorge has luxury tent accommodation with ensuites, so super comfortable.
We lucked out and scored a fantastic Chef during our stay who fed us beautifully. The walk and dip in the amazing swimming hole is unforgettable.