Lake Argyle (12 - 14 Jul)

After the Bungle Bungle Range, we had to return to Kununurra to retrieve our caravan before heading to Lake Argyle for a few days. On our way to Kununurra, Google Maps suggested an alternate route along an unsealed road due to a traffic accident on the approach to town. Unencumbered by our caravan, we followed the new route which led us through increasingly remote areas, and observed in puzzlement over the lack of traffic going in either direction.

As we approached Ivanhoe Crossing, a sign warned drivers to cross at their own risk. Experienced in river crossings by this point, we approached the water ready for our mission. When we were unexpectedly greeted by a wide (which we estimated to be over 100m), raging river which no vehicle could cross, we understood why no-one was attempting this route. By the time we backtracked onto the main road, it was just re-opening which enabled us to make it in time to Kununurra to pick-up the caravan and replenish our supplies.

With the delay, we commenced our drive to Lake Argyle much later than we had planned and arrived as darkness descended. At the caravan park reception, we collected our parcels which included my “surprise” mug, but my other birthday order was not there despite confirmation of delivery. Late and tired by this stage, we had dinner at the onsite restaurant, which was bustling with families enjoying the last weekend of the school holidays, before retiring for the night.

During our stay, we joined a cruise on Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in Australia covering an area of 1,000km2, and learnt about the dam and the many industries it used to support. We also saw rock wallabies and freshwater crocodiles, and marvelled as the Archer fish squirted water at a pea-sized piece of bread, held over the water, with amazing accuracy. I also learnt that the Argyle pink diamond, which I hadn’t associated with the region, was mined in the Kimberley until production ceased in November 2020.

So what of the missing parcel? Over the following days, we were to make numerous phone calls, enquire at the Kununurra post office and trek to the local courier company in an attempt to locate the parcel. Having exhausted our lines of enquiry, Justin finally called Amazon who simply despatched a replacement without requesting any evidentiary support. I have to say we were all impressed by Amazon’s customer service.