Last time, we checked out Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) and Dulundi (Silent Grove). Go here if you missed it.
We left Dulundi and headed to Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary.
What Exactly Is Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary?
In a nutshell, it’s a huge tract of land privately owned by a non-profit organisation called the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. They have an excellent website explaining who they are, what they do and lots of detail on the Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mornington Wilderness Camp is simply the accommodation facility within the Sanctuary. The emphasis is on conservation, not tourism. Keep this in mind when you visit.
Imintji Roadhouse
On the way we called into Imintji Roadhouse on the Gibb River Road (GRR). It’s a neat and tidy place, but only sells diesel – a trap for the unwary. Since we last visited, Imintji closed down for a while but has since re-opened. You can also buy basic supplies.
A Meatworks In The Middle Of Nowhere
Mornington is about 90km south-east once you turn off the GRR. Generally the road was pretty good, with a few gates and lots of dips. The last 20km or so deteriorates into a rocky track, but nothing too taxing.
The country deteriorates as you travel south-east. You are in fact on the boundary between more arable country to the north and the endless deserts to the south.
We passed an old meatworks en route to Mornington Wilderness Camp, set up in the 1950s. Cattle were slaughtered there and then flown out whole. Maybe it made sense at the time, but I can fully understand how this venture wasn’t viable – it’s just so far from any market.
Shady Trees, Serenity… And Birds Everywhere!
Mornington Wilderness Camp is a great spot for campers – plenty of shade, flushing toilets and hot showers. It’s expensive though. You might want to check out the prices before driving all the way in there. Although remember the place is run by Australian Wildlife Conservancy, a non-profit organisation. So your camp fees go to a great cause.
The campsite backs onto Annie Creek and the whole area was rich with birds. A birdwatcher’s paradise! An easy walk along the creek is an opportune time to stretch your legs and see some of these beautiful birds up close.
Next time: There’s so much more to see at Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary is on Worla and Punuba Country.
Looking for more information on the Gibb River Road? Then go here.
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