Day 41: Out and about with a bit of variety

There are lots of things to see and do in this area. The weather predicted a few showers and a temperature in the mid 20s. Well, it didn't get very hot and the 'showers' were a few drops of rain on the windshield.

Paringa bridge over the Murray River

Lock no.5

We started our day at Paringa, having a geography lesson about locks and weirs, which was very interesting. Next, on to the Big Orange (which was closed today) on the way to Berri, which was berry nice. We did our step exercises up the water tower lookout (an old water tower that has been converted into a tourist attraction) and you can see the whole district from the vantage point at the top.

Berri's water tower lookout.

Next, on to Banrock Station, which is one of our favourites and worth a visit. They have made the effort to look after their wetlands and are very 'green'. There are a series of walks that you can also do on the Station. We had a few tasters of all the sparkling wines, bought some, had lunch, then did one of the walks. Very noice.

Walking at Banrock Station

After this, much to Andrew and Callum's joy, we headed off to Monash to the Adventure Playground, which is quite extensive. Andrew insisted on a visit to the tantalising chocolate shop across the road, promising that he wouldn't ask to buy anything - a promise he of course broke as soon as he glimpsed the wares.

Adventures on the playground.

Home was the next stop and both boys wanted to have a swim. The temperature, I discovered after sitting at the pool supervising for a while, was a chilly 15 degrees! No wonder my knee caps were going purple.

Anyway, tomorrow we are off to Swan Hill and it is going to be a long drive. It is amazing how long it takes to get around this huge country. I look at the map and the distance to cover up to Cairns (our hoped for turn around point) with a shiver up my spine. One day at a time...