The Kakadu Experiment

So. Since the beginning of time, whenever anyone has mentioned the word ‘Kakadu’, I have always immediately associated the word ‘4WD’ next. Call me crazy. It’s true though. Kakadu = 4WD. Doesn’t it?? Xpose has reinvented itself under the ‘Mythbusters’ banner, and set off to see one of the Territory’s greatest attractions, in my little 2WD to prove that it can be done.

AIM: To discover as much of Kakadu in 3 Days with a Conventional Vehicle.

METHOD:
Employ ‘Southerner’ sister for assistance in experiment. Devise basic route and key attractions. Pack esky. Drive to locations. Camp with basic facilities. Engage in activities that showcase the park: walks, ranger talks, swims, rock art, cruises, sunsets, culture centres, etc. Spot as much wildlife as possible. Always keep eye out for Crocodile Dundee filming locations. Debrief in Humpty Doo Hotel over cold beer.

RESULTS:
Sister was employed with great enthusiasm. Route devised after some debate, but changed regularly during trip due to some poor road conditions. Deemed 37k’s of corrugation unsuitable for small car, stick to bitumen. Esky well stocked with snacks, fruit, sandwich making materials, water and most importantly, beer. Driving slightly interrupted by tyre issue. Resolved by purchase of new tyre in Adelaide River. Camped at excellent campsites in two locations, Mardugal and Merl. Excellent facilities, some ants present.
Activities abundant. In total 6 walks, each showcasing a different habitat and component of the diverse Kakadu landscape. Longest walk approx. 3.5k’s, with mostly easy grade. Very dirty feet ensued. Combined Ranger talk and Rock Art experience: informative and interesting. No swimming was recommended by guidebook where we could access, however in desperate need so it had to be Jabiru swimming pool instead. Consequently felt chloriney, but feet slightly cleaner. Sunset to die for.
Undertook Guluyambi Cruise of East Alligator River, spotted millions of croc (approx.), learned a great deal from local Aboriginal Guide who was born and bred on the river. Gained some essential spear fishing techniques that could probably save my life one day, both from hunting and defence perspective. Gained a lot of respect for the connection the Traditional Owners of Kakadu feel with the land.
Saw dingo, kangaroo, wallaby, croc, a vast array of birds (sadly no jabiru), lizards, and a few small black insects that seemed to hang around my face.
I swear I saw two filming locations of Crocodile Dundee, however sister failed to concur.

CONCLUSIONS:
By no means did we get everywhere in Kakadu. Many a stone was left unturned. However, we did see a lot, and a lot that was different. The most beautiful thing about Kakadu is how quickly the scenery changes. We were definitely able to experience a good mouthful of what was on offer over 3 days. So if your planning on heading out bush for only 2 or 3 days like Xpose, I would say that a 2WD is perfect for the job. However for those wanting to go crazy in the park and see it all – my advice is to take at least a week, and a 4WD.
As for the Myth? BUSTED!!

RECOMMENDATIONS

• Just because you can do Kakadu in a 2WD, it doesn’t mean you can do the walks in thongs…
• Plan your trip, but also plan for flexibility.
• Take off your watch. Tell the time by the sun.
• No takeaway alcohol sales are available within the park. If you think you will deserve a cold beer at the end of each day, bring some with you.
• Collect firewood responsibly. And in daylight!
• Buy a new tube of suncream before you leave. Aim to use it all!!
• Carry at least a basic First Aid Kit.
• Unless you like the idea of a blowfly sandwich for lunch, try to keep your mouth closed whilst walking!
• Check the conditions of unsealed roads.
• Be aware of speed limits – these are in place not only for drivers safety but the safety of the local wildlife.
• Take Binoculars.
• Taking Digital Camera?? Go easy with it. By the 3rd day we were both out of battery, with nowhere to recharge! Probably a good idea to use one camera till its flat, then move to the next, and share your photos.
• Guluyambi, Guluyambi, Guluyambi. Just do it already. Guluyambi Cultural Cruises, 1800 739 113 www.kakadutours.com.au, or book at the Border Store.
  See more of my Kakadu pics