For the last 2 days in Karumba we have lived like locals enjoying the local hospitality and friendly faces. Everyone seems to be smiling, more evidence to support Ray’s hypothesis that people are friendlier, happier and smile more in warmer climates. 

We have lazed around the park. Swimming in the pool, reading, walking to the shop for icy poles and taking advantage of the local facilities. 

Caleb and I played tennis at the local tennis club but it was much too hot to do any serious running, so it was a very slow paced game. While we were doing this, Ray was hard at work, refining his discus throwing skills. 

He has entered himself in the Masters Games to be held back in Cairns in August. His goal is to add another gold medal to the one he won in Alice Springs. Our outback Queensland travelling gives him the perfect opportunity to “throw his weight around” in the wide open spaces. 

We enjoyed some local fish and chips and I had my first try of Barramundi. This area is Barra country and fishing, ( locals and tourists alike ) is the main pastime. If there is not a boat attached to the top of your 4WD, then you are not a serious fisherman. To alleviate this problem, Ray enquired about hiring a tinnie to go out in but they were booked solid. He was relegated to fishing off the boat ramp with the other “non-serious”, keeping an eye out for crocs and not having much luck. In his defence, there hasn’t been much of a wet season up here which would normally wash the prawns into the Gulf and then the Barra follow. No prawns. No Barra! The locals are reporting reduced catches too so it could be worse. There could be plenty being caught and Ray’s bucket could still be empty. Then we would know there is a definite problem with his technique. Poor boy! (Check out the photo of his catch after a whole day fishing). 

There’s not a lot in Karumba, but that’s the beauty of it. The basic services are here, enough to survive and then it’s just nature, the outback and you. Simply stunning!