Camping Archives - Finniss River & Bynoe Harbour

What Clothes & Accessories to Pack for Outdoor Activities in the Top End Northern Territory (Dry & Wet Seasons)

Packing for the Top End’s outdoor adventures means preparing for tropical heat, intense sun, humidity, and sudden downpours. Here’s a season-by-season guide for both the dry season (May–September) and wet season (October–April), with key accessories for comfort, safety, and sun protection.

Dry Season (May–September)

Lightweight, Breathable Clothing:
Opt for loose-fitting shirts, shorts, skirts, or dresses made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, or bamboo. These fabrics allow airflow and help regulate body temperature.
Sun Protection:
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants (preferably with UPF rating) for extra protection from the harsh UV rays.
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap to shield your face and neck.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm.
Swimwear:
Essential for swimming in waterfalls, waterholes, or at the beach.
Comfortable Footwear:
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for bushwalks and rocky terrain.
- Sandals or breathable shoes for casual wear.
Light Layers for Evenings:
Pack a light jacket, fleece, or sweater for cooler nights and early mornings, especially if camping.
Accessories:
- Reusable water bottle (at least 1L capacity).
- Quick-dry towel or sarong for swimming and drying off.
- Insect repellent (tropical strength).
- First aid kit.
- Headlamp or flashlight for camping or power outages.
- Daypack for hikes.

Sunglasses

Wet Season (October–April)

Quick-drying, Lightweight Clothing:
Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that dry quickly after rain or sweat. Avoid heavy denim.
Rain Protection:
- Lightweight waterproof jacket or plastic poncho (heavy raincoats are unnecessary and bulky).
- Dry bags or waterproof liners for electronics and valuables.
Footwear:
- Sturdy, waterproof shoes or sandals that remain comfortable when wet.
- Avoid shoes that trap moisture.
Sun & Insect Protection:
- Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Insect repellent-mosquitoes, march flies and midges are prevalent.
- Long-sleeved, loose-fitting shirts and pants for extra protection.
Swimwear & Towel:
Multiple swimsuits are helpful since they may not dry quickly in humid conditions.
Other Essentials:
- Umbrella for sudden downpours.
- Reusable water bottle-stay hydrated in the humidity.
- First aid kit.
- Headlamp or flashlight-power outages are possible during storms.
- Daypack with waterproof cover.

Ponchos

General Tips for Both Seasons

Pack for Sun, Heat & Humidity:
Always prioritize sun protection and hydration.
Cultural Considerations:
When visiting Aboriginal communities or sacred sites, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Practical Accessories:
- Power bank for charging devices in remote areas.
- Quick-dry towel or sarong for swimming and covering up.
- Map or GPS for hiking.

Summary Table

Item	Dry Season	Wet Season
Lightweight, breathable clothes	✔️	✔️
Quick-dry fabrics	✔️ (recommended)	✔️ (essential)
Long-sleeved sun protection	✔️	✔️
Wide-brimmed hat & sunglasses	✔️	✔️
Swimwear & quick-dry towel	✔️	✔️ (multiple)
Sturdy walking shoes	✔️	✔️ (waterproof preferred)
Sandals	✔️	✔️
Light jacket or fleece	✔️ (for evenings)	(rarely needed)
Rain jacket/poncho	(optional)	✔️ (essential)
Insect repellent	✔️	✔️
Reusable water bottle	✔️	✔️
First aid kit, headlamp	✔️	✔️
Dry bags/umbrella	(optional)	✔️

In summary:
Pack for high heat, humidity, and strong sun year-round. In the wet season, prioritize waterproof gear and quick-drying fabrics; in the dry, add a light jacket for cool nights. Always bring sun and insect protection, sturdy shoes, swimwear, and plenty of water-essentials for safe and comfortable outdoor adventures in the Top End.

Backpacking & Hiking in the Top End

Backpacking in the Top End of the Northern Territory is an adventure through some of Australia’s most dramatic landscapes, featuring tropical waterfalls, ancient rock art, unique wildlife, and vibrant Indigenous culture. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or road-tripping, the Top End rewards those who come prepared and ready for the wild.

Top Destinations & Experiences

Darwin: The gateway city, offering backpacker hostels, markets, nightlife, and easy access to national parks.
Kakadu National Park: World Heritage-listed, with epic waterfalls, Aboriginal rock art, wildlife cruises, and multi-day hikes like Koolpin Gorge and Baroaldba Creek.
Litchfield National Park: Famous for Florence Falls, Wangi Falls, and the Tabletop Track-a 39 km multi-day hike through woodlands and escarpments.
Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge: Kayak, hike, or cruise through stunning gorges; the Jatbula Trail is a renowned 62 km trek from Nitmiluk Gorge to Edith Falls.
Katherine Hot Springs: A relaxing stop for a swim and a chance to do laundry before heading into the bush.

Swags

Best Hiking & Backpacking Trails

Trail/Area	Distance/Duration	Highlights	Difficulty
Jatbula Trail (Nitmiluk)	62 km / 5–6 days	Waterfalls, swimming holes, Indigenous rock art	Moderate-Hard
Tabletop Track (Litchfield)	39 km loop / 2–5 days	Waterfalls, woodlands, solitude, escarpments	Moderate-Hard
Koolpin Gorge (Kakadu)	Variable	Remote gorges, wet season hiking, rugged landscapes	Hard
Baroaldba Creek (Kakadu)	Variable	Off-track, stone country, wet season adventure	Hard
Nourlangie Rock Loop	12 km / 6–8 hours	Rock art, plateaus, rare wildlife	Moderate-Hard

These trails offer a mix of marked and off-track experiences, with swimming, wildlife, and cultural encounters along the way.

When to Go

Dry Season (May–September): Best for hiking and camping-clear skies, warm days, cool nights, and accessible roads.
Wet Season (October–April): Lush scenery and flowing waterfalls, but high humidity, heavy rains, and some road/trail closures. Some off-track hikes (like Baroaldba Creek) are best in the wet.

Backpacking Essentials

Clothing: Lightweight, sun-protective, quick-dry clothes; hat, sunglasses, swimmers, sturdy shoes/runners, and thongs for camp.
Gear:
- Tent or swag (waterproof and well-ventilated)
- Sleeping bag or liner (suitable for tropical nights)
- Lightweight stove or cooking gear
- Ample water bottles or hydration system
- Headlamp/torch with spare batteries
- First aid kit and personal medication
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Map, compass, or GPS (many areas have no phone coverage)
- Baby wipes for bush showers
Permits & Bookings:
- Book campsites in advance, especially in Kakadu and Litchfield.
- Some remote areas and Aboriginal land require special permits.
Food:
- Bring non-perishable, lightweight food; resupply in Darwin or Katherine.
Safety:
- Be “Crocwise”-camp at least 50m from water, never swim unless signed as safe.
- Tell someone your plans and expected return.
- Check park alerts for closures or weather warnings.

Getting Around

Fly into Darwin: The main entry point for the Top End.
Self-drive: 2WD is sufficient for many main attractions, but a 4WD allows access to more remote areas, especially in the wet season.
Tours: Many backpackers join guided tours for convenience, safety, and local knowledge.

Unique Experiences

Wildlife Encounters: See saltwater crocodiles, wallabies, kangaroos, and abundant birdlife.
Cultural Experiences: Join Aboriginal cultural tours, visit rock art sites, and learn from Traditional Owners.
Waterfalls & Swimming: Enjoy safe swimming in marked waterholes and springs-iconic Top End experiences.

Useful Resources

Backpacking in the Top End is about embracing adventure, respecting the environment and culture, and being prepared for the region’s tropical extremes. With the right planning, it’s an unforgettable journey through some of Australia’s most remarkable wilderness.

Camping in the Top End Parks

Camping in the Top End’s national parks is a fantastic way to experience the region’s wild beauty, but it comes with important rules, safety considerations, and planning requirements. Here’s what you need to know:

General Rules for Camping in NT Parks

Designated Campgrounds:
Most NT parks and reserves have designated campgrounds you can use unless closed due to seasonal weather. Camping outside marked areas generally requires a permit.
Booking & Payment:
You must book and pay for campsites online before arrival-there are no pay facilities at the parks.
Book NT Parks campsites here.
Permits:
A permit is required for camping outside marked campgrounds and for Garig Gunak Barlu National Park (Cobourg Peninsula).
Camp Setup:
Camp only in marked areas. Bring long nails and a hammer or sandbags for tent setup, as ground can be hard.
Respect Others:
Show consideration for fellow campers and keep noise to a minimum.

Kakadu National Park

Where to Camp:
Kakadu has both managed campgrounds (with toilets, showers, and BBQs) and bush campsites (basic or no facilities, often 4WD access only).
Booking & Fees:
Managed campsites charge a fee; bush campsites are cheaper but may have fewer facilities.
Kakadu camping info and bookings.
Camping Rules:
- Camp only in designated areas-wild bush camping is not allowed.
- Pay all applicable camping and shower fees before using facilities.
- Fires only in provided fireplaces; never leave fires unattended and extinguish fully before leaving.
- Carry out all litter and dispose of it properly.
- Generators are not permitted in most areas.
- Carry a first aid kit suitable for tropical conditions.
Safety:
Always be “Crocwise”-camp at least 50m from water and never swim unless a site is clearly signed as safe.

Litchfield National Park

Where to Camp:
Litchfield offers a range of campgrounds, from basic bush sites to serviced campgrounds with hot showers, toilets, BBQs, and picnic tables.
Booking & Fees:
Most sites require online booking and payment before arrival.
Litchfield camping info and bookings.
Camping Rules:
- Camp only in designated areas.
- Generators and pets are not allowed in national park campgrounds.
- Fires only in designated fireplaces and only during certain times of year; bring your own firewood or collect along the road into Central Valley, not within the campground.
- Move into your campsite after 12 noon and leave by 11am on your departure day.
- Caravans are not allowed in some areas; check access and vehicle rules for your chosen site.
Facilities:
Some campgrounds have pools, BBQs, laundry, and even cafés. There is generally no mobile phone coverage inside the park.

Tents

Essential Safety & Environmental Guidelines

Crocodile Safety:
Always assume crocodiles may be present in any waterway. Camp well back from the water and follow all signage.
Insects & Wildlife:
Use insect repellent, keep tents zipped, and do not feed or disturb wildlife.
Fires:
Only light fires in designated fireplaces or pits and ensure they are completely out before leaving.
Leave No Trace:
Carry out all rubbish if bins are not provided. Respect sacred sites and do not disturb Aboriginal heritage areas.
Supplies & Preparation:
Bring enough water, food, first aid supplies, and navigation/communication tools. Tell someone your plans and check park status before your trip.

Quick Checklist

Book and pay for your campsite online before arrival.
Camp only in designated areas unless you have a specific permit.
Stay at least 50 meters from water and be “Crocwise.”
Use insect repellent and secure food from wildlife.
Light fires only in approved areas and follow fire restrictions.
Bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, first aid, and navigation/communication tools.
Respect park rules, signage, and the environment.

By following these guidelines, you’ll enjoy a safe, rewarding, and environmentally responsible camping experience in the Top End’s spectacular national parks.

Links for More Information and Bookings:

What to Consider When Buying a Tent

Choosing the right tent is key to a comfortable and safe camping experience. Here are the most important factors and features to consider:

1. Capacity & Size

How many people will use the tent? Choose a tent with enough sleeping space for all campers, plus extra room for gear if needed.
Vestibule size: Extra vestibule space is useful for storing gear outside the sleeping area, especially for groups.

Tents

2. Weather & Seasonality

Seasons: Decide if you need a tent for 3-season (spring, summer, autumn) or 4-season (winter, alpine) use or if only for the Top End, Summer!.
Weather resistance: Look for waterproof materials, taped seams, and a bathtub-style floor to keep water out.
Ventilation: Good airflow prevents condensation, especially in humid or stormy conditions.

3. Weight & Packed Size

Weight matters: For backpacking, lighter tents are crucial. Compare the “packed weight” (includes all components) rather than just the “minimum trail weight”.
Packed size: Consider how much space the tent will take up in your pack or vehicle.

4. Ease of Setup

Simple assembly: Choose a tent that’s easy to set up and take down, especially if you’ll be moving campsites or dealing with bad weather.
Pole design: Fewer poles usually mean faster setup, but more poles can add stability in strong winds.

5. Durability & Materials

Tent fabric: Ripstop nylon or polyester are common and durable. Check the denier (D) rating-higher numbers mean thicker, tougher fabric.
Pole material: Aluminum poles are strong and reliable; carbon fiber is lighter but can be more fragile.
Floor strength: A robust, waterproof floor is essential for comfort and longevity.

6. Features & Design

Doors: Multiple doors make entry/exit easier for groups.
Height and wall shape: Steeper walls and higher ceilings provide more usable space for moving around or getting dressed.
Internal pockets and gear lofts: Handy for storing small items and keeping the tent organized.
Footprint size: Smaller tents are easier to pitch in tight spots, but larger tents offer more comfort.

7. Price & Value

Budget: Tents range from budget options to high-end models with advanced features. Balance your needs with your budget.
Warranty and support: Consider brands with good customer service and warranties for peace of mind.

8. Intended Use

Backpacking vs. car camping: Lightweight, compact tents are best for backpacking; larger, more feature-rich tents suit car camping or base camps.
Special features: Stove compatibility, snow skirts, or modular designs may be important for specific environments or activities.

Summary Table

Consideration	Why It Matters
Capacity & Size	Comfort, gear storage, group needs
Seasonality	Weather protection, year-round use
Weight & Packed Size	Backpacking vs. car camping, portability
Ease of Setup	Convenience, speed, solo vs. group setup
Durability	Longevity, resistance to rips and weather
Features	Usability, organization, comfort
Price	Value for money, features vs. budget
Intended Use	Matching tent to your camping style

In summary:
Choose a tent that matches your group size, expected weather, and camping style. Prioritize durability, weatherproofing, and ease of use for the best experience. Always check reviews and, if possible, set up the tent before your trip to ensure it meets your needs.

What to Look for & Consider When Buying a Hunting Knife

Choosing the right hunting knife is crucial for safety, efficiency, and enjoyment in the field. Here’s what to consider:

1. Blade Type: Fixed vs. Folding

Fixed Blade: Stronger, more durable, easier to clean, and better for heavy-duty tasks like skinning or cutting through bone. Preferred for most big game hunting and reliability in the field.
Folding Blade: More compact and safer to store, suitable for light outdoor use or as a backup. However, folding mechanisms can fail under heavy use and are harder to clean.

Hunting Knives

2. Blade Material

Stainless Steel: Rust-resistant and low maintenance, but may require more frequent sharpening.
Carbon Steel: Sharper and easier to hone, but requires more care to prevent rust.
Premium Steels (e.g., S30V, 154CM, VG-10, Magnacut): Offer high edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, but can be more expensive and sometimes harder to sharpen.

3. Blade Size & Shape

Length: A medium-sized blade (3.5–5 inches) is ideal for most hunting tasks. Longer blades can be unwieldy; shorter blades may not handle larger game efficiently.
Shape: Drop point blades are versatile and strong for skinning and quartering. Some knives feature gut hooks for easier field dressing, while caping blades are designed for precise work around heads and feet.

4. Handle Design & Material

Grip: The handle should feel comfortable and secure, especially when wet or bloody. Synthetic materials (like Micarta, rubber, Zytel) offer excellent grip and durability; wood and bone are attractive but can be slippery and less durable in wet conditions.
Safety Features: Look for a finger guard or contour to prevent your hand from slipping onto the blade.
Fit: Try to handle the knife before buying-too small or too large a handle can lead to fatigue and poor control.

5. Tang Construction

Full Tang: The blade extends through the entire handle, providing maximum strength and durability. This is recommended for heavy-duty use.

6. Sheath Quality & Safety

Material: Leather (classic, durable), Kydex (rugged, waterproof), or nylon (lightweight, affordable).
Retention: The sheath should hold the knife securely and allow quick, safe access.

7. Maintenance & Sharpening

A good hunting knife should hold an edge well but also be easy to sharpen in the field. Regular maintenance is key-a sharp knife is a safe knife.

8. Intended Use

Match the knife to your primary quarry and tasks: smaller blades for small game, larger and sturdier knives for big game. Some hunters use multiple knives for different jobs.

Summary Table

Feature	What to Look For
Blade Type	Fixed for strength, folding for portability
Blade Material	High-quality steel (stainless or carbon)
Blade Size	3.5–5 inches for versatility
Handle	Comfortable, non-slip, durable
Tang	Full tang for strength
Sheath	Secure, durable, easy access
Maintenance	Holds edge, easy to sharpen
Intended Use	Size/shape matched to game and tasks

Bottom line:
Invest in a quality, well-crafted hunting knife that fits your hand, suits your primary hunting needs, and is made from durable materials. A reliable knife will make field processing safer, easier, and more enjoyable-and last you a lifetime with proper care.

Stay Connected

To stay connected to the internet while camping in remote areas, especially in Australia’s Top End, you have several options depending on how remote you are and your connectivity needs:

1. Mobile Phone Hotspot
If you are within range of a mobile network, using your phone as a hotspot is the simplest and most cost-effective solution.

Telstra has the best coverage in remote Australia, followed by Boost and other Telstra resellers.

Choose a plan with generous data allowances if you plan to use the internet extensively.

2. Dedicated Mobile Hotspot Device
A portable Wi-Fi hotspot (also called a MiFi device) uses a SIM card and creates a Wi-Fi network for multiple devices.

These are ideal if you need to connect several devices or want to avoid draining your phone battery.

This is a good solution for people working remotely or needing a steady connection for streaming or video calls.

Satellite Phones

4. Satellite Internet
If you are camping in areas with no mobile coverage, satellite internet is the only reliable option.

Devices like Starlink Roam are specifically designed for travellers and provide high-speed, low-latency internet almost anywhere, as long as you have a clear view of the sky.

Satellite internet is more expensive (both hardware and monthly fees), but it offers coverage in places where no mobile network reaches.

5. Wi-Fi Signal Boosters
If you are near a campground or caravan park with weak Wi-Fi, a signal booster can extend the range and improve connectivity.

Note: This only works if there is an existing Wi-Fi signal to boost.

Summary Table

Solution	Coverage	Cost	Best For
Mobile phone hotspot	Mobile network	Low	Occasional/basic use
Mobile hotspot device	Mobile network	Moderate	Multiple devices, regular use
4G internet router	Mobile network	Moderate-high	Work, streaming, better signal
Satellite internet	Anywhere (clear sky)	High	Full remote access, heavy use
Wi-Fi booster	Near Wi-Fi source	Low	Campgrounds with weak Wi-Fi

Tips:

Always check coverage maps of your provider before heading out.

Carry backup power (power banks, solar chargers) to keep devices running.

Consider your data needs and the reliability required for your activities (work, navigation, emergencies).

For truly remote camping, satellite internet (like Starlink Roam) is currently the most reliable way to stay connected anywhere in Australia. For less remote areas, Telstra-based mobile solutions are usually sufficient.

Essential Camping Equipment & Supplies for the Top End of Australia

Camping in the Top End of Australia-covering regions like the Northern Territory and northern Western Australia-requires careful preparation due to the area’s tropical climate, remote locations, and unique environmental challenges. Below is a comprehensive checklist of camping equipment and supplies, tailored specifically for the Top End’s conditions.

Swags

Shelter & Sleeping Gear

Sturdy tent with good ventilation and waterproof fly (essential for tropical rain and humidity)
Tent poles, pegs, ropes, and mallet
Tarp or groundsheet for extra shade and protection from rain
Sleeping bag or doona (choose a lightweight option suitable for warm nights, but bring a warm top for cooler dry season nights)
Sleeping mat, airbed, or stretcher for comfort
Pillow
Swag (optional, popular for outback camping)
Mosquito net (highly recommended due to tropical insects)

Clothing & Personal Items

Lightweight, breathable, quick-dry clothing
Long sleeves and pants for sun and insect protection
Sturdy, well-worn-in walking boots and several pairs of hiking socks
Swimwear and microfibre towel (for swimming in safe waterholes)
Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Raincoat or waterproof jacket (wet season or unpredictable storms)
Personal hygiene items: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo, toilet paper, wet wipes
Insect repellent (tropical strength)
First aid kit (including bandages, antiseptic, painkillers, allergy meds, and any prescription medication)
Eye mask and earplugs (for a better night’s sleep)

Camping Equipment

Esky/cooler or camp fridge for food storage
Portable stove or gas burner with fuel (LPG or butane)
Pots, pans, frying pan, BBQ tongs, skewers
Cutlery, plates, bowls, cups, and glasses (unbreakable preferred)
Sharp knife, cutting board, can and bottle opener
Food staples: dry pasta, rice, bread, canned goods, fresh fruit and vegetables, long-life milk, tea/coffee, spices, snacks
Water (ample supply; always carry more than you think you’ll need)
Water purification tablets or filter (for remote or questionable water sources)
Rubbish bags (leave no trace)
Washing up bowl, detergent, tea towels, dishcloths, paper towels

Camp Comfort & Essentials

Camp chairs and table
LED lantern, torch/headlamp, and spare batteries
Power bank or portable generator/power station for charging devices
Matches or lighter (in waterproof container)
Binoculars and camera for wildlife and scenery
Small rucksack or daypack for hikes
Maps (paper), compass, and/or GPS device (remote areas often lack mobile signal)
Personal locator beacon (PLB) or emergency beacon for remote trips
Emergency kit: whistle, survival blanket, multi-tool, spare batteries
Rope, extra pegs, and repair kit for shelter
Shovel and axe (for clearing campsites or emergencies)
Clothesline and pegs for drying clothes

Basic Car Kits

Vehicle & Safety (for remote travel)

Spare tyre(s), jack, tyre repair kit, pump, and wheel brace
Basic tool kit, spare car battery or charger, engine oil, coolant, electrical tape
Emergency contact numbers and downloaded emergency apps
Ensure your vehicle is serviced and ready for remote trave

Other Useful Items

Swimming goggles, mask, or snorkel (for safe waterholes)
Portable camp shower or solar shower (for comfort in remote areas)
Stubby holders, bottle opener, and corkscrew
Food storage bags, foil, and wraps
Entertainment: books, cards, or games for downtime

Special Considerations for the Top End

Heat & Humidity: Prioritise ventilation in tents, bring plenty of water, and use lightweight clothing.
Wet Season: Prepare for sudden storms, heavy rain, and muddy conditions-waterproof gear is essential.

Insects: Mosquitoes and midges can be relentless; use strong repellent and consider mosquito nets.
Remoteness: Carry extra supplies, navigation tools, and emergency communication devices, as help can be far away.

This checklist covers the essentials for a safe and comfortable camping experience in the Top End of Australia, ensuring you’re prepared for its unique climate and remote environment.

Eco-Friendly Resorts/Retreats

A lot of accommodation offered in the Bynoe, Finniss River and Dundee areas are offered by people who have lived for a while in the immediate area. They know the seasons and how the environment changes during the year. They know the risks and adjust accordingly. With great incite they offer affordable and considerate locations to enjoy.

However, there are some, who see a quick buck and develop under the auspice of “Eco Friendly” without any due consideration for the surrounding flora/fauna, environ, guests or neighbours. Like so many places today, they haven’t lived in the surrounds and have no idea. Business comes before anything else. Don’t be fooled by their glossy pictures or marketing strategies, it’s all gimmicks & hype with little if any basis to their claims! Do your homework before deciding to part with your hard earned dollars. Think twice about lining the pockets of those that don’t care about anything but the money unless you make the conscious informed decision to do so. According to our survey, the majority of respondents want a quiet, safe, self-catering family vacation/accommodation, not hoon-ville, rowdy partying or large expensive resorts.

Some Resorts/Retreats may cite function/education facilities with bars/restaurants etc. but that means noise, excess lighting and traffic! Ok if you are in party mood, but if not are you prepared to pay a high price for high end or luxury accommodation only to find some arrogant group booking taking over the whole place day and night with no regard to yourselves? How would you feel if you booked a week’s holiday with the focus of relaxation only to find 20-40 school kids running a muck on a school camp! Eco-Friendly being just token words as our wonderful fauna that we want to see and appreciate is not necessarily going to stay around organised (or disorganised) chaos. They are just pushed further and further away into smaller and smaller locals! Accommodation star ratings mean nothing to our fauna.

Have you seen sites announcing themselves as eco-friendly but displaying pictures of people tracking wildlife with guns at the ready and implying shooting/hunting safaris, especially as they rip up the ground on quad bikes? That’s really reducing, minimising, or excluding harm upon flora/fauna and ecosystems or the environment isn’t it? NOT! I visited one website that stated there were kangaroos to see at their place within an hour’s drive from Darwin. Sorry to spoil the illusion, but there are no kangaroos just wallabies in the top end! They really know their stuff! Ever seen the environmental impact reviews of these places? No? You’re not likely to either!

These “out of towners” won’t let on about and support you with the sand flies,

mosquitos, march flies, wasps, spiders, snakes and other undesirables either which are more prevalent at certain times of the year. Yes we may know about the dangers of crocodiles but your holiday vacation will be very uncomfortable if you and yours are covered in itchy welts for the whole time. Just imagine your wedding party bathed in a swarm of blood hungry suckers or your honeymoon ruined by constant itching. It’s also an hour or more to medical assistance! Want to listen to pig hunters shooting day and night?

Besides the usual, here are a few things you should consider when booking accommodation in the Bynoe, Finniss River and Dundee locations:

Who manages the accommodation? Is it managed by paid staff or local owners?
Are staff/owners easily available for immediate assistance? On site, local area, back in Darwin?
What insurance and in particular liability insurance does the accommodation have?
How many camping/caravan/room/cabin sites are available? The more there are the more potential for noise, lighting and disruption if quiet and tranquil is your goal.
Is there private or shared bathroom facilities? Internal or external?
Is the accommodation nestled within trees and bushland? Overhanging branches? Great for shade but branches drop and so does the wildlife. Ever woken up in a green tree ants nest!
Green Tree Ants Nest
If a bush fire was to approach, would you be safe?
What shade structures are there for everyone or privately?
Is the accommodation roofing and under floor areas accessible to wildlife like snakes/spiders to crawl in/on or under?
Are there great looking low set tropical/native bushes around camp sites or guest accommodations? Great places for snakes to hide!
Northern Brown Snake: Highly venomous snake. Known to inhabit the Finniss River area.
Is the site well cleared with easy line of sight for nature’s intruders i.e. snakes? Or might you suddenly have an encounter at close range?
Are there private cooking and BBQ facilities including kitchen or are you forced to eat at the sites restaurant or travel some distance? What precautions have been taken for opportunistic ants?
What parking areas are available close to accommodation sites? Room for car and boat or caravan? What is the security like?
How far is it to launch a boat? Are there boat ramps accessible dry and wet seasons?
How far are you away from a water source? The closer you are the more potential for problems. Fresh or salt water. Will the water source rise in the wet season? If so be prepared for everything to move up to join you too!
King Brown Snake : One of the longest venomous snakes in the world. Recently spotted on Hardcastle road.
Rising flood waters, rivers and billabongs can smell. Accommodation close to or over water sources can smell and develop mold. They may look inviting in a picture but your nose won’t know till it gets there!
Are water sources on the property or close by protected by fencing or other deterrents so croc accidents are minimised and children can’t easily access either? Crocs do move around some distances.
Where is the septic tank? Are the wet season rains and rising water tables going to over whelm it? There is no town sewer system in these areas. That fish you just caught and are cooking– what’s it been swimming in?
Is the site hilly? Will there be lots of walking up and down slopes/stairs? Does the accommodation cater for the disabled?
If the site is on a significant slope are the grounds terraced or has the site been cleared retaining the original landscape. Wet season rains can contribute to significant erosion of cleared lands if not managed well.
How good are walking paths or bike tracks? Again erosion issues and potential for loosing ones footing? Turning an ankle can be painful!
Can you control the outside lighting? Is there excess lighting that will attract flying insects? Insects bring cane toads and other frogs and in turn this brings snakes.
Does the accommodation have bar facilities? Be prepared for drunken idiots stumbling around! If BYO, then this can be just as bad if you’re not looking for a booze up!
Does the accommodation offer a swimming pool? Are you prepared for noise!
Does the Retreat/Resort offer guest motor bike or quad bike rides? More noise, dust etc.?
Does the Retreat/Resort offer night walks? Potentially more light, noise and carry-on.
Do you have to buy insect repellent or sprays or does the accommodation offer free of charge? There isn’t much opportunity to buy locally.
Is the accommodation positioned close to a road or set well back? On a corner? Nothing worse than traffic noise and dirt road dust.
Does the accommodation have fly screen protection? Is there al fresco dinning/bar without necessary protection from insects etc. The last thing you want to swallow is the natives!
Golden Orb Spider
Does the accommodation have air-conditioning or fans or both? A nice enclosed breeze way? It can get hot and steamy in the top end!
How is waste managed? Accumulating food scraps and other wastes attract mice, rats and again snakes.
What is the water source for the accommodation use? The best is rain water. The worst is river/billabong/dam water.
Where is waste/grey water going? What’s that puddle you just stepped in?
Is the electricity provided by generators? These can be noisy. Does it have solar power?
Is mud racing/motorbike riding circuits available in wet areas? Have you heard of Melioidosis?
Are you in an area renown for pig or goose shooting/ hunting i.e. Finniss River and associated flood plains? Gun shots can be unnerving for the unprepared.
Do you want a place that excludes pets? Can you take your beloved canine, and if so what protective measures are in place? It’s no fun for “Fido” if he has to be chained up all the time! The prey instinct is often high in many breeds and they are likely to chase wallaby well out of your sight. Even trained hunting dogs are lost, never to be seen again. Good fencing etc is a must. Keep them away from water. Many a dog has been lost to a croc attack!

Don’t be taken in by the use of marketing terms such as “ECO”. We humans impact wherever and whenever we go.

Whatever you want to do, wherever you go and stay in this unique place in the world, please choose wisely and be safety and environmentally conscious!

Fog Bay Road

Fog Bay Road Upgrade

In the May 2016 NTG Budget, Transport Capital for Top End Rural and Regional was announced.

This included the completion of the Fog Bay Road upgrade at Rocky Creek Bridge and thus the final wet season obstacle addressed for Bynoe and Dundee residents and visitors.

Fog Bay Road has had a number of upgrades in recent times.

Changing from being totally unsealed with no bridges to the current bituminised road with now all the rivers Charlotte, Annie, Rocky and Leviathan Creek now bridged.

The 2016-17 budget allowed for continued funding to the existing upgrading of Leviathan Creek Bridge (now complete) as well as provide new funding for the Rock Creek Bridge crossing – the last crossing to be upgraded.

A total of $5.77 million of Northern Territory Government funding had been provided for Fog Bay Road in 2016-17. About $4M alone on the Leviathan Creek Bridge.

Construction of Rocky Creek Bridge was done under tender awarded to Allan King & Sons Construction Pty Ltd with a tender costing of $1,570,888. This was published by the Northern Terrory Goverment at the end of Novemeber 2016.

As the 2016-17 wet season like many before had resulted in Rocky Creek being impassable due to flooding and surface conditions ruined on numerous occasions the completion of road works before the 2017-18 wet season is a welcomed sight!

Fog Bay Road is now a much better all season road for residents and tourists alike.