17 July
Yesterday we moved on from Mt Isa to Camooweal, only 14 kilometers from the QLD/NT border. We enjoyed our camps at Lakes Frances and Canellan last time and want to stay a few days this time.
At Mt Isa I caught up with the usual domestic chores: washing and restocking fridge etc. Although it is a smokey, rather ugly mining town there is still a certain beauty to the harsh industrial lines in the landscape. The sunrise and sunset were just as spectacular as any we have seen. We enjoyed time at The Outback Park Botanical garden, which is behind the Information Centre. The Irish Club was a great spot for a cooling ale after our busy day before we returned to camp.
Casa Grande 
Irish Club 
Mt Isa Sunrise Day 32
We followed the Barkly Highway from Mt Isa to Camooweal, which is a very small settlement. The sign at the edge of town boasted a population of 310 people. Nearly all the business in the main street of town are closed, with the exception of the pub, which has a caravan park in the back yard; the post office/general store, two service stations and the Drover’s Camp Museum. We crossed the huge bridge over the Georgina River, and turned into dirt track on the other side, leading to the three free campsites: Drover’s Camp, Lake Francis and Lake Canellan. Even though it was relatively early, 11.30 am, Whist we counted about 100 vans and trailers already in residence along the way. We selected the same spot we camped in last time, at the beginning of Lake Canellan, and down near the water.
While we set up camp, a strong southerly wind blew up. When Norm checked the forecast it looked like we are in for wind for the duration of our planned 3 days here. Rosie and I took a walk along the lake after lunch and saw many of the resident birdlife. It was too windy for a campfire tonight, so we enjoyed the beautiful sunset and after glow from inside tonight.
Looking back to our camp 
Wind ruffled ears 
Whistling Kite 
Sunset from kitchen window 
Evening colours from our verandah
ON THE ROAD 