WILD AUSTRALIA DIARY ENTRIES
NT Congregating crocs, Kakadu National Park
The dry season is a great time to spot Australia’s largest terrestrial predator, the saltwater crocodile. Dwindling pools and rivers cause them to concentrate in ever-shrinking bodies of water, while the cooler weather forces them to haul themselves up onto muddy banks to bask in the sun. Increase your chances by taking the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise, a unique Aboriginal-run boat tour on the East Alligator River.
More info: Call Kakadu Cultural Tours on 1800 525 238 or visit kakaduculturaltours.com.au
WA Blooming wildflowers, The Kimberley
Southern WA is famous for wildflowers in spring and summer. But the state’s far north also has a spectacular, albeit slightly more subtle, floral display, that appears a little earlier. Look for fields of pink bachelor button flowers, roadside verges filled by purple mulla mulla and the red blossoms of Kimberley bauhinia everywhere. Flowering trees include the bright-red blooming Kimberley rose and woollybutt dressed in clusters of vibrant orange gum blossoms. More info:
Call Broome Visitor Centre on 08 9195 2200 or visit visitbroome.com.au
SA Migrating southern right whales,
Encounter Marine Park
These huge mammals migrate May–October along the SA coast. Victor Harbor, one hour’s drive from Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula, offers a good chance to spot some. Encounter Marine Park – particularly Basham Beach, where females and calves hang out near shore – is one of the best places for a sighting. More info: Call National Parks and Wildlife Victor Harbor office on 08 8552 0300 or visit parks.sa.gov. au/parks/encountermarine-park