TAMBO TO BARCALDINE
Light misty rain was wafting in as we packed up and set out along the Lansborough Highway towards Barcaldine. About 20 klms into our trip we caught up with a road train and the rain became heavier as the water logged earth could not soak up another drop. Soon the land was more lakes than paddocks and creeks became torrents, encroaching the road in many parts. In front of us, the Road Train disappeared into a mist of spray thrown up by the wheels. We settled down and followed our huge forward scout as far as Blackall.
As we continued towards Barcaldine, the skies lightened, blue replaced white overhead and our spirits soared. Near the turn off to the Lara Wetlands which were closed again, we pulled into a rest stop for lunch, lamenting that once again we were denied the chance of camping there.
Back on the road we decided to bypass Barcaldine, given that we have visited that town many times in the past, including last year when we camped at the Showground on our way to Coomalie. As we approached the main street of Barcaldine, preparing to turn left towards Longreach and our camp for the night, another road train blocked our way. Upon more investigation, we discovered that the road ahead was closed by floodwaters. Town was packed with nomads in caravans, campers, trucks and every other variety of transport. After some discussion we decided there was no choice but to bunker down at the Showground until the blocking floodwaters recede.
ON THE ROAD 