Mannum, By the Lagoon

Mannum

By the Lagoon 

(or Feel the Serenity)

Note: Jethro II in all his glory

We had to proceed with some caution.  Who warned me that I was supposed to run in a new Toyata before towing with it?

There should be a sub-story here about our jaunt to Pt Broughton the day we got the car, doing 350 Km to at least polish the rings a bit. That's the famous pub,  right. We had a great (real) coffee at the Cafe on the sea-front before heading home to Ochre Ridge.

 The lagoon side sites at Mannum Caravan Park are grass with shade-cloth pegged down as a pad. Good idea because you can just back in and not be too worried about lining up the side of the van with pavers or concrete.
The weather for the first two days was balmy; no wind, gentle nights and overcast. We did several forays locally to  check out some prospective places to visit.

One particular spot is at Big Bend, near Swan Reach. It's owned by friends of the family in  Bill and Marg Crocker who made us feel that we could visit this mildly wild spot. On the river, through a locked gate, it seemed a good idea.
However, the track in is a bit rough for the delicate understory of Elly May and we won't be taking her there. Visit?  Yes, please!  The giant red-gums are just marvellous, and the orange cliffs provide an impressive backdrop.

We had a great time at the Mannum Bowling Club, meeting both new friends Arthur and Ruth S whom we met at Waikerie last week, and new friends like Stumpy and Santa (!) from Mannum. 

We didn't win the prizes but both of us put down enough good bowls to be respectable. We ate at the Community Club, sitting at the prized Table 2 which has a fabulous view of the river.  No, no pix.  You'll just have to try it yourself.  Try all the above - you won't be disappointed!