Broome

De Grey campsite

 

It was an early start from De Grey River campsite as we had a big travelling day to Broome; some 500kms. We changed drivers regularly so one could rest on the couch and read a book; keeping cool under the air conditioning vent. There was little to look at out the window: a smattering of RV’s and road trains, three touring cyclists (what they were doing out in this heat I don’t know!) and a black cat. A fuel and rest stop at Sandfire Roadhouse was a pleasant diversion, complete with roaming peacocks and pea hens (including a white one!). Eddie and Kathleen Norton took a gamble in the late 60’s to set up a service point halfway along the 600km stretch from Port Hedland to Broome, as travellers were often stranded after breaking down or running out of fuel and/or water. They started trading in 1970, the road was sealed in 1981, and the business is still run by the family. For this reason, I believe, it’s one of the better roadhouses that you’ll find in WA as it’s well cared for.

 

 

 

Eventually we arrived in Broome: the palm trees, bougainvillea and the humid air soon let us know we were in the tropics. We drove out to Gantheaume Point to view the scene from mum’s toilet door poster before the sunset crowds congregated, and had a good view of the infamous Cable Beach to the north and the ochre rock formations. Unfortunately there were neap tides so we couldn’t explore for dinosaur footprints below the cliff.



 



We spent a relaxing evening at the Recreation Caravan Park (recommended), chatting to our neighbours Jill and Dennis from New Zealand, then rose early for a bike around the town centre, including China Town (or Tourist Town). Much to my horror Gary requested McDonald’s for breakfast, as it had been six months since he was last exposed to fast food. However, if that’s what will get him on the road bike then so be it!

 

Next stop, Fitzroy Crossing.