Edith Falls

23/03/2010


Today we headed off about 90klms North to Edith Falls, we were not sure of what was there for us as with most things it could have been closed but we decided to go for a short drive. Edith Falls is known as Leliyn in its aboriginal context and this land is owned by the Jawoyn tribe. You are notified that should you venture more than 50 metres from the roadway then you need permission to be there.

Edith Falls is a series of waterfalls starting with a pool at the very top and cascading down over 3 waterfalls to a very large swimming hole at the bottom where there is a small shop and camping area. All bar the top pool was closed due to “salties” being seen in the area so until they can be 100% guaranteed then they will not allow anyone to swim.

After driving we decided to walk to the top pool and have a look and a swim. The walk itself is a little over 1 klm but it is straight up aided by rock steps all the way. The heat and humidity is something to behold and by the time we got to the top we were exhausted and dripping with sweat.

The water holes and falls were spectacular and the water was just so clear and fresh. We all went in for a swim but we couldn’t help but notice that the water was moving quite quickly towards the next falls so you had to lock yourself into a rock to prevent you being swept away. I swam across the current to another rock outcrop to get some better photos all the while being warned by Patrice not to be so silly, I’ll be right is my usual comment. Got some great shots and then jumped back into the water to get back to everyone else, I think it was the extra momentum but straight past them all I went and the only thing I could grab was John’s leg, thanks John.....

Here we were all fresh and clean putting out sweat laden clothing back on to wander back down the track once more to have a look at the lower pool. By the time we arrived we were once again hot and bothered and just laid on the grass under some trees to cool down.

You can’t help but notice how beautiful the country is but at the same time how remote everything is. Back to the caravans for a swim and recovery, everyone was strangely quiet and I think that is was just that the heat had taken its toll. When we got back we had a swim to cool down and then had a little late afternoon kip, I am not as young as I used to be.

Tonight we are going to have a few drinks as John and Wil are turning around from Katherine and heading back Alice Springs while we have made the decision to head straight to Darwin.