After leaving the Flinders Ranges, we made our way down to the mouth of the mighty Murray River to visit Coorong Country. Due to heavy rains in spring-time, the southern part of the Murray River was brimming with life and we were able to see 'the Coorong' in all its glory. The Coorong National Park is a spectacular saline lagoon that stretches for 140km along the South Australian coast. It is separated from the wild Southern Ocean by extensive sand dunes and is internationally significant as a migratory wader and waterfowl refuge. Of course, Mr Percival and his mates from the set of the classic Aussie film 'Storm Boy' were there to greet us.
We based ourselves in the riverside town of Goolwa, and although we only saw a small part of Coorong Country, it was enough to enjoy the immense beauty of the place with its wild, windswept beaches, untamed wilderness, wetlands, birdlife and tranquil lagoons. To view it from the water we took a half-day cruise with Spirit of the Coorong, which was fabulous. Along with lots of pelicans, sea eagles and other birds, we spotted lots of lazy sea-lions basking in the sun and dolphins making their way from river to ocean. Due to the unpredictability of water flows in the Murray River, there are a series of 'barrages' built near the mouth of the river to control fresh and saltwater flows. The engineering is very interesting and the sea-lions appear to love the massive structures for sun-bathing.
The Murray River, which is Australia's longest river, flows out into the Southern Ocean in the Coorong after a massive journey of over 2500km starting in the Australian alps. It looks and feels wild and dangerous which makes it a photographers delight and a mariners challenge.
Barossa
On our way through Adelaide, the Barossa region was top of the list for a visit and some real tourist time visiting lavender farms, the famous Maggie Beer Farm Shop, for a spot of lunch, and a couple of nice wineries. We also re-visited the beautiful Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens to view some lovely autumn colours in the foliage.
Next stop
Back to Tassie to check on the home front, then we're heading to regional Victoria for a while to continue our adventures. Happy travels everyone!
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