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We moved onto our next camp which was going to be in Merl, but we were told that there was a mozzie infestation going on there. So we decided to book into Kakadu Resort in Jabiru which was only $6 per night dearer and we had the perk of having a pool to swim in. So by lunchtime we had booked in and were set up. We treated ourselves to a pie from the local bakery for lunch then went and had a dip in the pool. Today was to chill out a bit cause the last few days have been full on and everyone's battery needed recharging. Plus we thought the girls needed some free and fun time. The pool was bloody freezing! What is it with NT pools not being heated?? Maybe we're just pussies?? Anyway, l didn't last long. Surprisingly Marty stayed in for a long time sitting in the water on the side step. The girls had a ball!
In late afternoon after the girls had had a swim and play around camp we headed off into Ubirr. First stop was the Border Store to book our next cruise for tomorrow morning. Then we went and did the Manngarre rainforest walk which was a 1.5km walk through monsoon rainforest beside the East Alligator River. It was quite surprising how lush and tropical this place is and harsh and rugged five minutes down the road. Just into the walk we saw a croc on the banks of the river sunbaking, only 5-10 meters away from us! Just up from that Marty had to take a detour as their was a women's sacred site that only women and girls are allowed to walk beside. Marty wasn't too disappointed to be taking a short cake and getting a break from us at the same time, double bonus l reckon. So the girls and l made our way up the path and steps to a huge fig tree that told an ancient story of woman's business. Plus we had great views over the river but couldn't see a croc. we eventually caught back up to Marty and hightailed ourselves quickly out of the walk as we were getting attacked by a vast number of mozzies!
Next stop was Ubirr which is a 1km circular track that takes us past several Aboriginal rock art sites. There were at least four 'galleries' where we saw amazing rock art depicting the foods they would have been hunting and also a number of stories told about behavior and law, especially at the Mabuyu, Namarrgarn Sisters and Rainbow Serpent sites. The paintings were amazing and it is believed that they are at least 1500 years old. In the main gallery there was an example of contact art which depicted a 'white fella' shown wearing a short, boots and with his hands in his trouser pockets. They reckon this bloke was probably sb early buffalo hunter painted in the early 1880's. As we meandered through the walk, it was hard to believe the history we were surrounded by and the stories that are continually bring told today. We finally made our way up to Nadab Lookout and were greeted with amazing views over the floodplain below. Even though the girls were running a riot, Marty was being anxious about their every move scared they were going to fall over the edge, we still got to enjoy the serenity. As the sun set, turning a deep red/orange color, the sky turned its spectacular colors of pink, purple and yellow, we watched one of the best sunsets ever!! I think the lookout is now one of my favorite places I've seen in Oz! Big statement l know, but it was so beautiful. Even with the hundreds of people up there and the girls constantly chatting, it still was glorious.
We headed home just before dark, not completing the rock art walk. It was late and ended up being another late day. It was hotdogs in bread for tea and then straight to bed. Tomorrow is our last day in Kakadu. Can't believe our time has nearly ended and it feels like we have just experienced a touch of this vast land.
Bell Xxx
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