Today we followed the Paddy Behan Way, an alternate route recommended by the caretaker at our station stay who said it would offer nicer outback views .

it was a pretty rough and ready narrow tarmac road,  which promised to avoid the road trains (and hopefully road kill). It lived up to expectations and the small amount of traffic we did encounter was mostly locals and caravans who like us, had obviously been given ‘the word’.

The road passed through several unfenced stations,. The first couple were cattle stations but after crossing the ear piercing dingo fence we began to see sheep.

We stopped for an early lunch in a cute little town called Isisford on the banks of the almost dry Barcoo River renowned for its annual giant yellow belly fishing competition- of course with a giant sculpture to go with it. 

Arrived in Longreach round 12.30 to 35 degree heat and opted to tour the Qantas museum rather than melt. (It was a line ball to be honest). While it didn’t change my world it was quite interesting, and after walking through decades of old planes I can confirm we who sit in the back definitely have less leg room than we used to.

We finally did set up camp late afternoon as the cool breeze came in. And even fit in a load of washing. The wading  machines require you to enter your mobile number and send you a text as your washing finishes – a neat solution to the usual dog eat dog world of camp laundries. 

The camp ground is ringing with the sound of cracking stock whips from all the kids (and big kids) who visited the Stockens  Hall of Fame today.  Maybe I’ll be doing my own little whip cracking tomorrow!

Had a hearty meal at the local Woolshed Tavern , and now feeling replete having devoured a small calf (me) and a ram shank (D).