5 June 2013 – Kakadu National Park - Jabiru

This morning we headed to the famous world heritage listed Kakadu National Park.  Driving along the Arnhem Highway we crossed into Kakadu, and before too long we pulled into a large wetland area with hundreds of birds.  Next stop was straight into Jabiru which is one of the main towns in Kakadu.  The town of Jabiru increased in size in particular when the Ranger mine was built.  There are a few various caravan parks and hotels as well as a small shopping centre and great little bakery here.  We set up the van at Kakadu Lodge & Caravan Park and went straight to the pool area.  The caravan park was lovely and green (thanks to their constant watering of the areas) and they even had a bar set up in the pool area.  This afternoon we went for a drive to the local shops and past the famous Gagadju Crocodile Holiday Inn.  We also drove out past the Ranger uranium mine which is surprisingly not far out of Jabiru and right near the beautiful cliffs and rocks inside that are Kakadu.  It’s a shame this is here as it spoils the whole serenity of this land.  Next we went to the Bowali Visitor Centre.  It’s a big information centre with lots to see, and it was air-conditioned, so we spent quite a bit of time here.  Back at the van we prepared dinner early as tonight was Game 1 of the State of Origin.  The kids watched a movie inside on the laptop whilst we set up the television outside for the game.  Occasionally Zoe would run out to find out what the score was whilst Sami I don’t think moved off the bed.  Maybe all this adventure is starting to wear her out.  Our van spot was not far from the pool area which also had a big screen with the game.  Unfortunately, they were watching it via Foxtel so we could hear about a 3-5 second delay and knew what was coming whilst we watched it.  It was a great game, made even better by NSW winning – first time in a long time!!