North & West Australian Outback Adventure

Day 1 – Park Hyatt Sydney

Touch down at Sydney International Airport, upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the Park Hyatt Sydney. After checking in you have the day and evening at leisure. Explore the close by exclusive shopping precinct of Double Bay or stroll the cosmopolitan streets of Potts Point. From Circular Quay take a ferry trip to Darling Harbour or Balmain and discover many specialty stores, cafes, restaurants, museums and art galleries.

Park Hyatt Sydney (Accommodation only)

Day 2 - Deep Well Station

This morning you will be transferred to the Sydney Domestic Airport for your Qantas flight to Alice Springs. Here we will transfer you deep into the Outback at Deep Well - a large Central Australian cattle station. Meet your hosts Bill and Jan Hayes, who operate Deep Well Station. The property has been in their family for six generations. Covering 450 000 acres, it is situated between the MacDonnell Ranges and the Simpson desert, boasting magnificent red sand hills, weathered rocky outcrops and an abundance of plant and wildlife.

This afternoon view and explore the ancient landscapes and trace the endeavours of early gold mining and pastoral settlers. Your hosts know all the best spots for adventure and sightseeing. End the day with delights from the camp oven as millions of stars light up the inky black sky. Your accommodation is in comfortable bush huts - an authentic place to rest after a day in the Outback.

Deep Well Station (L,D)

Day 3 - Deep Well Station

Today saddle up and head south, through shimmering Ghost Gums in the dry riverbeds of Deep Well station. Then ride into the Simpson Desert where the blood red dunes are interspersed with twisted and gnarly Desert Oaks. This will be a full day of adventure into the real 'never never' of this timeless land. Witness the colours of the aptly named Rainbow Valley and travel further into the deep interior, traversing towering sand dunes to arrive at nature's pinnacle - Chambers Pillar. See where the Hayes ancestors inscribed their names (in the late 1800's) as they passed by the pillar during construction of the overland telegraph line. Lunch will be en-route.

Return to the homestead for a well-earned refreshment and freshly baked damper under a symphony of stars.

Deep Well Station (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Deep Well Station

The day is yours to do as much or as little as you please. Take a casual 4WD tour and gain insight into the workings of a huge central Australian cattle station. There are many activities for you to participate in either by foot or even on horseback. Riding through this rugged beauty is an experience not to be missed, even for the novice. If you are lucky you may be involved in the thrill of a cattle muster or watch the chopper pilots bring in the mob.

Experience the adrenaline and skill of the ringers and the chopper pilots as they orchestrate this massive operation.

This evening take a nocturnal tour and have the magic of the outback revealed to you, or listen in fascination to the countless tales these Outback characters can recite.

Deep Well (B,L,D)

Day 5 - Bullo River Station

This morning your board your scheduled flight to Darwin airport. Here your charter plane will meet you for a 1 and a ½ hour flight with Franz to Bullo River Station. Situated in the top western corner of the Northern Territory, Bullo River Station is a ½ million-acre commercial cattle property. Get acquainted with your hosts - Marlee (nee Henderson) and Franz Ranacher. Bullo has been in the Henderson family since the late 50s when Charles Henderson - a pioneering American - purchased the 1 million acre, undeveloped cattle property. On Bullo you will experience cattle station life in a very remote part of Australia. Marlee and Franz will be your guides throughout your stay.

Bullo can be as daring or tranquil as you choose. Marlee and Franz will find the perfect activity for you.

This evening enjoy Dinner in the original homestead. Those who are adventurous will need a good rest this evening for the following days activities.

Deep Well Station (B)
Bullo River Station (L, D)

Day 6 - Bullo River Station

Arise and breathe in the Outback air! Take a helicopter ride and become familiar with this awesome property. Witness the Bullo River, which meanders for over 50 miles through a spectacular valley on the property. The river runs from the lush fresh water of the Bullo Gorge to the mighty salt-water tidal Victoria River.

Depending on seasonal work you may get the chance to participate in a helicopter muster. Experience what it is really like. Or become a 'ringer' bull catching wild scrubbers. This is a must, and a high adrenalin activity flushing the wild bull from the undergrowth and then guiding it with the chopper toward the ground crew to capture in a cut down Land rover.

Bullo River Station (B, L, D)

Day 7 - Bullo River Station

Today, again participate in the station activities or you may choose to go Barramundi fishing. The property has some of the best Barramundi fishing in the area. (Barramundi is Northern Australia's premier angling and eating fish). It is also abundant in bird life and native fauna because of the natural permanent waters. Go bird watching or search for salt-water crocodiles from your own boat guided by Franz.

This evening return to the homestead and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Outback and great Aussie food and wine.

Bullo River Station (B, L, D)

Day 8 - Bullo River Station

Today is your last day on Bullo River Station. Take the opportunity to do more exploring, go hiking into the escarpments and to the many secluded private billabongs and waterfalls that dot the landscape. Or simply grab a picnic and cruise down the Gorge in the boat while taking in the landscape that is northern Australia.

Tonight is your last evening in the Australian Outback! Sit back, relax and enjoy!

Bullo (B, L, D)

Day 9 - Faraway Bay

This morning your private air charter is waiting to take you to a place so far away, they named it Faraway Bay. The plane ride hugs the spectacular Kimberley coast for a short period before flying inland above a myriad of ravines and sandstone pinnacles. Landing at the strip you will be met by your hosts and transported by 4WD vehicle for the final few kilometres to The Bush Camp.

Spectacularly isolated, your bush-style cabin has a 180-degree view of the ocean. Eagle Lodge is the main building, which comprises the relaxing lounge and dining area, that, overlooks our cliffside freshwater plunge pool and the magnificent Faraway Bay.

After taking in the views and settling into your accommodation you will have the option of being taken in one of the smaller boats to try your hand at some fishing. View the amazing rock formations, visit a beach made of shells and enjoy a picnic lunch. You will arrive back at the Faraway Bay camp in time for a cooling swim in the pool with champagne or cool drinks before dinner.

Following dinner sit and listen to the silence or watch the stars dancing in the jet-black sky, or the full moon's startling appearance over the hills behind.

Bullo River Station (B)
Faraway Bay (L,D)

Day 10 - Faraway Bay

Sunrise at 530am slowly lights up Faraway Bay and after a leisurely breakfast at 700am (which gives time for early risers to explore or walk along the beach). This morning is the beginning of possibly the highlight of your stay where you will be taken out in the 13-metre cruiser Diamond Lass along the coast to the King George River. On the journey there you will have the opportunity to visit secluded beaches and learn of Second World War heroics. Then you will cruise into the mouth of the mighty King George River. As you travel further the river narrows to be engulfed on either side with cathedral like spectacular sandstone cliffs, ending with the grand twin waterfalls. If the falls are flowing its time for an invigorating fresh water shower as the Diamond Lass edges up the rock face and directly under the waterfall. After the powerful natural spa, lunch is served on board.

After lunch if you are feeling fit you may decide to hike to the top of the waterfalls to get a true appreciation of the size and majesty. Alternatively, try fishing in the mangrove creeks or at the mouth of the King George River where you can go into a smaller boat. Those who don't want to go fishing can sunbathe on board Diamond Lass. Return to camp for a well-earned evening drink and then be waited on as the last rays dance across the rocks and water in a kaleidoscope of colour.

Faraway Bay (B,L,D)

Day 11 - Faraway Bay

Today explore the beauty of Faraway Bay. Enjoy bush and rock climbing, beach combing, flora and fauna watching, photography, painting, ocean sports fishing, star gazing, exploring - or just relaxing!

In the evening it is time to relax and soak in the ambience of this remote and pure wilderness. Enjoy a fine Australian wine as you sit back and be tantalised by the delicious aromas of freshly caught fish being cooked with herbs. Tonight you must treat yourself to the ultimate seafood dining experience of freshly collected oysters from the rocks combined with the northern delicacy of mudcrabs.

Faraway Bay (B,L,D)

Day 12 - Kimberley Coastal Camp

Your private charter flight will transfer you to the Mitchell Plateau. On arrival at the Mitchell Plateau strip, your own personal helicopter awaits you. The chopper trip will fly you via the awe-inspiring Mitchell Falls en route to your destination, Kimberley Coastal Camp (KCC). You will fly low through spectacular gorges and over palm dotted sandstone ranges. Continue flying low over the tidal rivers and mudflats - with luck you will spot huge estuarine crocodiles scuttling into the water or sunning themselves on the bank and see birds fly from their roosts.

KCC is perched on a pristine white beach surrounded by almost sculptured sandstone formations. Fly over the camp in a circle to announce your arrival and proceed to land on the beach only metres from the camp. Here your hosts for the next four days - Rocky & Liz Terry - will meet you.

Kimberley Coastal Camp is on the remote and pristine shores of Admiralty gulf in the far North Kimberley of Western Australia. Today get to know your hosts and plan your adventures for the next 4 days. You may chose to take in the sights of this unspoiled land, take a dip in the pool or just sit and read a book.

Sunset is the time to relax here, soak up the ambience in the open main living area and dream of the time ahead. Drinks and hors-d'oeuvres are served as a prelude to possibly a platter of freshly caught fish, mud crabs or oysters, followed by delicious desserts.

Faraway Bay (B)
Kimberley Coastal Camp (L,D)

Day 13 - Kimberley Coastal Camp

If fishing is the way you like to spend your time, you'll find that the fishing in Admiralty Gulf is truly magnificent. As Kimberley Coastal Camp is so isolated, with access only by sea or air, these really are untouched waters. There is access to huge tidal rivers, mangrove creeks, estuaries, offshore reefs and islands as well as many deep-water options. Guests are amazed by the variety of species including Barramundi, Mulloway, Mangrove, Jack, Fingermark, Javelin Fish, Threadfin, Salmon (Giant and Blue), Trevally (Giant, Golden and Spotted), Queen Fish, Mackerel, Tuna, Coral Trout, Cod and Blue Bone. Mud crabs and oysters also inhabit these pristine waters. Fishing gear is supplied on a replace if lost basis but it is encouraged that you bring your own favorite rod and reel. You will generally only need light (6 - 10 kilo) gear except for when you hook one of the Giant Trevally that are found amongst the reefs and bommies. Then it's "every person for themselves!" Fishing operates on a catch and release basis with only those fish destined for the table being retained from the day's catch.

The purpose built and surveyed, 28 foot boat Warabi, has a lot to offer guests who like to fish but would rather not stand for long hours in the sun fishing from a dinghy. Its special design allows for easy maneuvering in tight and shallow spots and the boat has lots of fishing and casting space and has ample shade as well. There also is a 16-foot tender set up for fishing and crabbing in the mangrove creeks.

Or perhaps discovering Rock Art may be on the agenda, the North Kimberley is home to some of the oldest known rock paintings. The best known of these is the delicate and very beautiful Bradshaw paintings. Hidden amongst rock faces and caves scattered over this ancient land, they are simply astounding. The Bradshaw rock art has been dated at over seventeen thousand years. Many experts in the field of rock art believe that they may even be closer to thirty thousand years. These exquisite paintings, mysterious and intriguing to anyone privileged enough to see them have been amazingly preserved and represent a culture, now lost in time. Visits to the Bradshaw sites can be done by walking, boat or helicopter.

Kimberley Coastal Camp (B,L,D)

Day 14 - Kimberley Coastal Camp

Toady take a gentle stroll or don a good pair of walking shoes and explore. From the high red cliffs sheltering remnant patches of rainforest to pristine white shell beaches and rugged sandstone country with its rivers and caves - experience this land of contrasts. A half-hour walk from camp will take you to Mackerel Point, from where you can see the whole of Warrender and the nearby islands. Other walks will take you inland through wild terrain with plant and animal life unique to the area.

Kimberley Coastal Camp is the ideal location for wild life and bird watchers. There is a wide range of habitats round the camp including marine, mangrove, estuarine, river, rainforest and rugged sandstone. All of which offer sanctuary for a very wide range of bird life. Some of the species that frequent the area include - Great Billed Heron, Chestnut Rails, Grey Goshawks, Brown Tailed Flycatchers, Little Terns, Rufous Owls, Sea Eagles, Sandstone Shrike Thrushes, and many others.

You may want to combine just a little bird watching with other wildlife and scenery watching activities. The area is abundant with a wide range of native Australian fauna. Crocodiles, shy Rock Wallabies, Quolls and other animals can be seen in their natural habitat.

Maybe escape camp completely. A short scenic boat trip away is deserted islands waiting to be explored with rocky, shell or coral beaches and dozens of treasures awaiting discovery. There are also rivers where you can walk alongside a string of beautiful billabongs. If exploring is your thing but walking isn't, it is possible to arrange the "Ultimate Off-road Vehicle" (a helicopter), to whisk you off with one of Liz's delicious picnic lunches. A longer flight will take you along the uninhabited coastline, up rarely seen rivers and to surprising gorges, waterfalls and perfect picnic spots by crystal pools. Return for your last evening at Kimberley Coastal Camp.

Kimberley Coastal Camp (B,L,D)

Day 15 - Saville Park Suites, Darwin

This morning depart Kimberley Coastal Camp by helicopter to the Mitchell Plateau, where you will be met by your private charter flight to Kununurra. Connect with your scheduled flight to Darwin. Your private car will transfer you to your accommodation overlooking the harbour. Darwin, a modern tropical capital set on a harbour twice the size of Sydney's, is Australia's most successful multicultural city.

You then have the evening at leisure - try a local restaurant. The input of so many different cultures makes eating out an even greater pleasure in Darwin - whether the food comes from the markets (held year-round at Parap on Saturdays, Nightcliff and Rapid Creek on Sundays and at Mindil Beach on Thursday nights during the Dry season), a silver-service restaurant, a fish and chip shop at the Wharf or one of the eateries on the boardwalk at up market Cullen Bay. Thai, French, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and modern Australian cuisines are all well represented.

Saville Park Suites (Accommodation only)

Day 16 - Tyrconnell Gold Mine

Rise early & transfer to the Darwin Airport for your scheduled flight to Cairns. Arriving in Cairns at 320pm you will be met by Cate and Andy and transferred by vehicle to their property Tyrconnell Gold Mine. You will be driven through country steeped in pioneer and Aboriginal history, perhaps stopping en-route for afternoon tea in the pristine Australian bush. Tyrconnell is one of the last relics of the pioneer mining area. On arrival, familiarise yourself with the surrounds. You will find good old-fashioned hospitality in a location that has remained secret from the world.

This evening, sit down to a sumptuous home cooked dinner set amidst 1800's machinery and let Andrew and Cate recount the vision they had for the property sitting upon the veranda of the abandoned cottage several years ago.

Your accommodation is in the original mine manager's cottage or in one of the new cottages fashioned in timber and iron typical of the outback.

Tyrconnell Gold Mine (L,D)

Day 17 - Tyrconnell Gold Mine

Following breakfast this morning experience the pounding of the vintage quartz-crushing machine as Andrew coaxes it into action, or marvel at the tenacity of the early settlers in Cate's cemetery interpretation. Try your luck at gold panning, spot an elusive kangaroo or walk in wheel ruts made by a steady stream of carriages 100 years ago.

This afternoon experience more of this rugged land rich in Aboriginal and European history. Visit local industries such as sugar cane, coffee, mango and tea tree farms in the area. Or you may choose a trip to local underground caves, vast wetlands and outback pubs.

For those who prefer to simply relax, hang in a hammock and doze to the sound of rustling leaves and bird song.

Tonight, don't miss the sunset from Rock Bluff and another lavish dinner, this time under the stars of the Southern Cross. Stargaze and absorb the scents and sounds of the bush.

Tyrconnell Gold Mine (B, L, D)

Day 18 - Haggerstone Island

This morning you will return to Cairns with Cate & Andy. Departing Cairns by light plane and boat will transfer you to the incredibly stunning Haggerstone Island. Haggerstone Island is covered by lush jungle, with white sandy beaches and blue lagoons. Arriving in time for a leisurely lunch, meet your hosts, Roy and Anna and settle in for your 4-night stay.

This evening enjoy an unforgettable sunset over the surrounding reef from the sundeck. Sip fine wines in the true wilderness, and then savour Anna's cooking in the 'dining room' - a sand cay at the end of the island. Most of the food is gathered and grown on the island.

Retire to your own guesthouse - Robinson Crusoe style.

Tyrconnell Gold Mine (B) Haggerstone Island (L,D)

Day 19 - Haggerstone Island

Today the island is yours to explore - its beauty will overcome you. For those who enjoy fishing it is fantastic at all levels - rod, reel or fly fishing, reef, ocean or river. As there is no human habitation anywhere nearby, the fishing grounds around are rarely disturbed. Bait is caught off the island beach.

Spear fishing is a popular method of food gathering. Reef fish and tropical crayfish are easily caught on nearby reefs. Bring your catch back to be cooked on the sundeck fireplace. Accompanied with fine Australian Wines, sit back and relax.

Haggerstone Island (B,L,D)

Day 20 - Haggerstone Island

After your tropical breakfast, why not try your hand at snorkelling? Two incredibly clear lagoons display their beautiful coral gardens right at your doorstep, and the marine life is prolific. Adjacent to Haggerstone Island on the Barrier Reef is one of the largest Green Turtle rookeries in the world, and turtles are abundant in the waters off of Haggerstone Island. Anna and Roy have a 7-metre catamaran and 7-metre and 6-metre fibreglass boats available for all of your diving, fishing and exploring.

Return to your luxurious base for another mouth-watering Dinner.

Haggerstone Island (B,L,D)

Day 21 - Haggerstone Island

Today is your last full day on magnificent Haggerstone. Why not go beachcombing on the adjacent mainland beaches; many miles of uninhabited virgin coastline are waiting to be explored. It is also a perfect day to relax under a palm tree and read a book from the well-stocked library and listen to some classical music. Or lie on a secluded beach and swim in the clear island waters.

Haggerstone Island (B,L,D)

Day 22 - Homewards

This morning you will be transferred back to Cairns by boat and light aircraft. On arrival you will be met and transferred to the main airport by Tana Jane McCaldin. Connect with your scheduled flight homewards.

Haggerstone Island (B)

PROPERTY DESCRIPTIONS

DEEP WELL STATION: 4 spacious bush huts with ensuite bathrooms, built from local stone and timber provide a welcoming place to lay your head after a day in the outback; maximum capacity, 8 guests.
Includes: Accommodation, all meals, laundry, private driver/guide, horse riding.

BULLO RIVER STATION: Three twin bedrooms (double beds) with private facilities. Part of the main Homestead, they consist of a large room with two double beds, wardrobe, dresser and adjoining bathroom.
Includes: Accommodation, meals with wine and drinks, station activities and use of helicopter for 1 hr.

FARAWAY BAY: Spectacularly sited, all eight secluded bush-style cabins enjoy 180-degree views of the ocean, combining a true remote experience with safety, comfort and style. A central modern ablution block provides the luxury of flushing toilets, hot and cold water and a washing machine. Eagle Lodge, the main lounging and dining area (without any walls!) overlooks the cliffside freshwater pool and Faraway Bay.
Includes: Included: Accommodation, all meals, snacks, soft drinks, wine and beer; a return scenic flight ex Kununurra, boat cruises, fishing cruises, vehicle transfers from Faraway Bay airstrip to Faraway Bay & return.

KIMBERELY COSTAL CAMP: The camp is well appointed with guests enjoying their own "private space" in twin share, gazebo-style rooms. These spacious rooms have their own view of the sea, are flyscreened and also feature ceiling fans and reading lights. Showers and flushing toilets (on a share basis) are built ingeniously against a rock wall. Max capacity 8 guests
Includes: Accommodation, all meals, activities & limited alcohol.

SAVILLE PARK SUITES: Situated on The Esplanade, the award-winning Saville Park Suites overlooks Darwin Harbour to the Arafura Sea. This beautiful 4 star hotel offers 140 one, two and three bedroom apartments, 64 hotel rooms and has a restaurant & bar, outdoor swimming pool and spa. Apartments have large private balconies, perfect for experiencing a famous Northern Territory sunset.1 Bedroom suite.

TYRCONNELL GOLD MINE: Staying at Tyrconnell gives guests a taste of pioneer living albeit with modern day comforts. Well away from the main buildings the original Manager's cottage has been fully refurbished & furnished in true colonial style. It offers 3 bedrooms, kitchen, lounge, bathroom & a typical large veranda. The cottage provides excellent privacy & views over the surrounding area.

HAGGERSTONE ISLAND: have 3 guesthouses each with its own view of the sea. Each includes a bathroom and sundeck. Each guesthouse can accommodate a twin/double. Haggerstone caters for just 6-8 guests at any one time. There is room and laundry service. "With conical roof, shutters for walls, a big bed made up with cotton sheets that smell of the sun, a slate floored bathroom with one glass wall and a bleached deck with a view of the turquoise lagoon, the sea and uninhabited islands in the horizon." - Vogue