January 19th / 20th

January 19th
On our way to Mt. Gambier, drove through Portland ( I remember that name from somewhere!). Mt. Gambier is halfway between Melbourne and Adelaide.
Beautiful old buildings in the center of town. Mt. Gambier is famous for its crater lakes.
We were tempted to stay at this old prison block. It is now a backpackers place and you can stay in a cell for $22! Or solitary confinement for an extra fee!
Outside of the prison, spoke to one person staying here, he said there are quite a few long term guest staying here. Weird!! Each cell is basically untouched from its original state, to give you the authentic experience.!
This is Blue Lake, which has a brilliant blue colour. It changes to green in the winter ( July,Aug) The photo doesn't really do it justice, it really is a startling blue colour. The town has 3 crater lakes, with great hiking trails around the rim of them.
This is Umpherston sinkhole. The land was purchased in 1884 by Mr Umpherston, sinkhole and all. Back then, there was water at the botton of it, so he turned it into a cool retreat. Rowing boats were added and he planted and tiered the land. It was so successful, that it is now a tourist attraction. At night, you can buy food and feed the many possums that turn up there.

We drove to Kingston, looking for campgrounds, but each one seemed to have swarms of horseflys. This is the road as we took off looking for a place to camp. Straight road that seemed endless, and not to much around.
Eventually found a General Store, that offered camping in their backyard. At least the grass was soft, no flys and they offered hot showers!! This area is called Salt Creek and there is nothing around here, but barren lands.
Wed 20th,
Set out for Adelaide. Crossed the river at Lake Alexandrina by ferry, similar to our own little Camby Ferry. Once on the other side, the landscape was different, and we drove into wine country. At last, something to look at. Another hours driving, and we arrived in Adelaide. Good to see our friends Ian and Jane, who we haven't seen for 28 yrs! Looking forward to a good nights sleep- in a comfy bed!!