Diary of an aviation nut: Peaceful (but sad) Adels Grove

The emerald waters and lush vegetation of Lawn Hill Gorge form a beautiful oasis in the outback, attracting abundant wildlife and offering exceptional views, walks, canoeing and cultural sites. It’s a stunning place which I was looking forward to showing Siimon.

Sadly, the main reception, kitchen and restaraunt area at Adels Grove Camp adjacent to Lawn Hill was burned to the ground in July which has seriously compromised the operation. It must have been heart breaking to watch the building burn as the nearest fire engine is 1.5hrs away and the building was all but gone by the time they arrived. The camp has had to limit the numbers that can stay but the staff remain positive and are making the best of what they have left. Reception is operated from a caravan and meals and drinks are served in an outdoor dining room which is actually very pleasant given the warm climate.

When we arrived we jumped straight on the bus that ferries people the 10km to the Lawn Hill National Park. We hired a canoe and paddled up through the spectacular gorge to the Indarri Falls. Flowering lillies lined the river banks leading to the rich ruby coloured walls of the gorge.

At the Indarri Falls you can leave your canoe and explore the area. At the small jetty I wanted to introduce Simon to the Archer fish that live in this area. I’d perked some bread from another person visiting the park and told Simon to sit on the jetty and slowly crumble the bread into the water. If there’s Archer fish present they shoot a jet of water at you as they think the falling bread crumbs are insects. The jet is quite powerful and gives you a helluva fright if you’re not expecting it. Of course, I hadn’t told Simon this! Sadly, my plan was foiled as there were no Archer fish. Bugger.

After returning the canoes we did the Island Stack walk which takes you high up onto a plateau to view the lower gorge. It was a hot but pleasant walk.