Flinders Ranges, SA
Airing Date: May 31st, 2008
A corridor through time in South Australia's Flinders RangesThe Flinders Ranges are South Australia's largest mountain range which starts approximately 200 km north of Adelaide and stretch for over 430 km from Port Pirie to Lake Callabonna. The Ranges are approximately 450 km or a comfortable 4-5 hour drive north of Adelaide.
Although driving here in a 4WD is legendary, much of the Flinders is easy for two- wheel vehicles.
In summer, daytime temperatures can soar. Winter temperatures are lower, and although the nights can be cold, winter is often considered to be the best time to visit, especially the more northerly areas.
Brachina GorgeA corridor through time in South Australia's Flinders Ranges. Brachina Gorge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Flinders Ranges Outback region. It has an unaffected natural history which can be explored by taking the 20 kilometre self guided tour trail that passes through 130 millions years of earth history. Trail signage provides an insight into past climates, the formation of the ranges and the evolution of early life forms. The trail is best travelled from east to west, commencing at the Brachina Gorge/Blinman Road junction.
The gorge is also an important refuge for the Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby as well as many species of birds and reptiles. Camping at the gorge is allowed in designated areas, and an off road vehicle is recommended.
The colourful and spectacular gorge has long attracted visitors and was used from 1862 as a commercial route for cartage of copper ore from the Blinman Mine, 35 kilometres to the north. The gorge provided access to the western plains until a road through Parachilna Gorge was established in the 1880's to connect Blinman to the northern railway. Today the gorge provides a pathway through the rock sequence which reveals their history as a corridor through time.
Rocks which are exposed along the Brachina Gorge Geological Trail were once sediments deposited in a shallow, elongated basin known as the Adelaide Geosyncline. These sediments were transported by rivers and at times by glaciers and deposited on the seafloor between 650 and 500 million years ago. The area was flooded by the sea for much of that 150 million year period, during which the sea level rose and fell many times.
A geological map and more detailed information on the Brachina Gorge Geological Trail is available from the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre open from 8am daily.
Open 24 hours seven days a week.
Park Vehicle Entry Fees
Car - $7.50
Car (Concession) - $6.00
Motorcycle - $4.50
Motorcycle (Concession) - $3.50
Buss Passenger Entry (Per Passenger) - $3.00
Camping Facilities - Brachina EastCar - $10.00
Motorcycle - $6.00
No Vehicle Per Person - $5.00
Camping prices are for one night only. Campers are also required to pay a once only park entry fee where applicable.
Flinders Ranges National ParkWilpena Pound, Hawker SA 5434
T: (08) 8648-0048
http://www.parks.sa.gov.auDerek's 4WD Tours AustraliaDerek's 4WD Tours Australia is based out of Hawker in the Flinders Ranges of South Australia, Derek conducts full and half day tours of the Central Flinders Ranges, including the popular Gorges tour. Pick up can be arranged from the Hawker Caravan Park and other accommodation places on arrangement.
Derek provides passengers with a relaxed and enjoyable experience in the beautiful Flinders Ranges. He alleviates the need to worry about reading maps, driving, burning up fuel, risking damage to your vehicle and missing many of the "hidden" treasures all in the luxury of a modern Toyota Landcruiser 4WD able to carry up to six passengers in comfort.
During the tour Derek will provide an insight into the geology, fauna, flora and history of the Flinders Ranges and can even introduce visitors to some Aboriginal culture by visiting art sites and seeking out bush tucker.
Derek's tours run all year round weather permitting. Customised tours are available on request.
Full day tours from $160 per person. Half day tours from $105 per person. All tours include interpretive guide, transport, morning or afternoon tea and park or track fees.
Derek's 4WD Tours Australia92 Wilpena Road, Hawker, SA 5434
T: 0417-475-770www.dereks4wdtours.com
Wilpena Pound ResortWilpena Pound Resort is nestled on the banks of Wilpena Creek in the heart of the Flinders Ranges National Park near the entrance to Wilpena Pound. Set amid stately red gums and native pines the Resort is a pleasant 4.5 hour drive (429 kilometres) from Adelaide on a bitumen road.
The Resort offers a choice of accommodation to suit every budget with a range of facilities for guests, including swimming pool, spacious lawned areas and a fully licensed bar and restaurant where South Australian cuisine and wines can be sampled. The Resort houses the Wilpena Pound Visitor Information Centre where staff can provide guests with information, National Park Passes, campground check-in, bushwalking information and bookings for 4WD Tours and Scenic Flights.
The General Store stocks anything from groceries to souvenirs, hot snacks and fuel. There is ATM and internet access and they are available to help visitors with just about anything.
The resort has 60 units ranging from backpacker to four star deluxe suites. All rooms have en-suite bathroom facilities are fully air-conditioned for all-year comfort, have satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities. WiFi internet connection is also available.
The Caravan Park and Campground has 30 powered sites and hundreds of bush sites along the Wilpena Creek. The campground can also cater for large groups with powered Bus Bays, gas barbeques, laundry and ablution facilities. Permanent tents are also available sleeping up to five persons. Campers have full use of the Resort's facilities.
Accommodation at Wilpena Pound Resort starts from $135 per night twin share for a standard motel room. Includes 1 double and 2 single beds. Maximum occupancy 4 people. $25 per night per extra adult and children under 13 stay free.
Heysen Deluxe Units are available from $200 per night twin share, $25 per extra adult and children under 13 stay free (maximum occupancy 5). Includes a queen and 2 single beds, and an outdoor setting for guests to enjoy the view from their own veranda.
Wilpena Pound ResortWilpena Pound, SA 5434
T: (08) 8648-0028www.wilpenapound.com.au
Wilpena Pound Visitor CentreWilpena Pound Resort
T: (08) 8648-0048For further information visit
www.southaustralia.com
