Moving deeper into Kakadu today-to Merl camping ground. The camp ground is near Cahills Crossing-which is the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land. Lovely camping area with toilets and hot showers again!

After set up-we went to a free Ranger guided walk around the Aboriginal rock art in the area. Called Ubirr rock. The rangers call themselves "interpretive rangers", and start with a welcome to country, from both the traditional owners and NT National Parks. It was awesome to hear what the ranger had to say about the rock art-it made the paintings come alive with history. I would recommend all of the free ranger guided stuff -they really know their stuff and have a great connection with the land and the aboriginal culture. We ventured to the top of a rock escarpment-with an amazing view of the wetland below ( at sunset). We listened to the ranger talk about the local seasons, signs the aboriginals use to determine the changing of the seasons, all whilst watching the sun set over the wetlands! Was amazing! The ranger finished with a quote from a local elder-which left us all speechless, and emotional -making us all consider our place in the world. The aboriginal culture, the things we have learnt, certainly makes me feel devoid of any culture. The kids have all embraced the aboriginal teachings-are interested in the seasons, and checking the bush tucker book for what is safe to eat. It has really opened their eyes to a different culture/way of life. And all right here in our great country!

Next day went walking to Cahills crossing, at high tide. Was an awesome sight to watch the water flowing out of the river, then as the tide came in-it got faster, in the opposite direction. We spent a good part of the day lazing on the viewing platform, watching salt water crocs catch their meals on the incoming tide. Also walked along the banks of the East Alligator river, on a designated track, spotting crocs and wildlife. Emma and I continued on into the women's only section of the walk. We enjoyed sharing a women's only aboriginal sacred site.

The boys tried there hands at fishing for the afternoon. They enjoyed the beautiful scenery, and Eli and Coen enjoyed feeding grass hoppers to the fish. Unfortunately we missed out on fish for dinner.