Wilpena Pound , Day 5, 16 June

Night before was actually the first ever night sleeping in the Camper (‘Bernie’ … because it’s a Cub ‘Brumby’ model … Canberrans will get it ). Manufacture was slow and delayed so we only picked it up 14 days before our departure. That did not leave time for a ‘shake out’ trip😳. Turns out all is well , didn’t take too long to set up , stayed warm and dry all night and the queen sized bed with feather doona is going to make it hard to go back to our 3 season hiking tent and lightweight sleeping mats on the next tramp! Thanks to Jon and Kristen for the chance to season the canvas on their property down in the Snowy Mountains the week before departure (see image below).

Bernie getting ‘seasoned’ in the Snowys prior to the trip

Initially, today’s plan was to hike up Ohlsen Bagge. We had considered St Mary’s peak ( higher / better views) but the traditional owners hold it sacred and ask that people don’t go up.

Ness had some work to clear up back in Canberra, so we weren’t free until 2.30pm. Mark spent the time poodling around with the Amarok and trying various re-packing plans in the Ute tray.

The day itself was abysmal weather wise…9 degrees C actual and a few degrees lower apparent, 20 knot winds from the west and constant sleet. The Ohlsen Bagge climb is advised as 4 hours return . Considering the conditions and certain return after dark we opted for a drive through the Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorges instead .

A brilliant loop showcasing the ancient landscape of the region. Light wasn’t the best so these photos do not do the terrain justice .

Looking south towards the Pound from
the Bunyeroo Gorge Road
Second worst selfie ever
Looking north at the mid-point of the
Brachina Gorge Road

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