In search of the Sturt Desert Pea. Mildura to Port Augusta
The Sturt Desert Pea is a rather striking and peculiar desert flower, fittingly the floral emblem of South Australia. With the unusual current levels of rain, this flower has been blooming big time. It was frustrating for me as I wanted to see it and was in Indonesia on holiday and attending my daughter's wedding whilst the news about this event was happening. For example - ABC News - "Rainfall brings 'super bloom' of Sturt's desert pea to outback SA"
My motto for road trips is "bring all your toys". The inflatable kayak was perfect for a couple of paddles on the river. Rain was forecast in mid north South Australia, and I did not want to get bogged in the bull dust, so staying put was a worthwhile and enjoyable decision with this activity as a diversion whilst I waited for a better weather period. The Murray river is so beautiful, and I am looking forward to paddling its navigable length - perhaps next year.
Numerous dirt tracks run along the river's edge. My idea of combining a ride with the paddle is transforming from a possibility to a definitely achievable adventure. I like cycling and I like paddling, why not have both ?
It is now the 20th of October, I have a leave pass. Have the flowers done their bit ? The news was in September, are they still there ? I looked on various Facebook groups eg "Flinders Ranges - Natures Outback Paradise", there was some indication that they were still there, but the enthusiasm of topic as died down.
I also read that there was a special plot at the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens . That is 576km or 6 1/2 hours away. If I go there, I can determine whether I go further to Broken Hill or South Australia. Decision made - I am off !
You know, it is not the destination, but the journey that matters. Lake Tyrrell, some 5 hours away was a worthwhile stop over. It too was on show with its very pink waters. L
The silo art is a marvel, even viewing the second time around. (on another road trip to Qld 2023).
The Australian Inland Botanic Gardens at Mildura did not disappoint with its plot. They were planted in very similar soil and presentation as that would occur in the central desert areas.
Hardly surprising, as Mildura is on the border, and it is the Murray river that furnishes it with water to support the vineyards and fruit industry, stopping it being a desert.
Camping is easy and comfortable on its banks and the locals are very friendly too.
I digress. What was the objective of this trip ? Ah yes - the Sturt Desert Pea, in bloom, in its habitat.
North to Tibooburra, or west to the Kimberley region of South Australia ? According to road reports, flood waters and closed roads abound up north. The creek crossings have washouts which are a risk to the low slung overhang of the van. So it is west I go, to Andamooka and hopefully to Arkaroola in the Flinders Ranges.
Adorning the long straight roads on the way are many wild flowers and birds, presenting a wonderful alternative to my targeted flower - it is the journey that counts.
On the way past Port Augusta, I dropped in to the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden. I preferred this to the one in Mildura as it was strictly Australian natives, whereas the Mildura garden included other plants such as roses. Here I got to see the other state emblem (well territory) the Sturt Desert Rose. emblem to Northern Territory.
Many other shrubs were on display, all endemic to the area I am visiting. I am feeling positive about my trip's mission success.
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