Our morning began with a reliable breakfast of scrambled eggs on toast before we set out to explore the local offerings. We made our way into town to visit the Saturday Markets, which proved to be a significant disappointment. The variety of stalls was severely lacking, with only two vendors offering fresh produce. Had we known, we might have opted to eat there, as the hot food stalls were the only highlight of the gathering. Consequently, we were forced to complete our shopping at the local supermarket to secure the items the market lacked.

We relocated to Katherine Gorge, a short distance of only 32 kilometres from the centre of town. Despite the brevity of the trip, the heat felt like a major milestone. Our first priority was a swim in the resort pool, which was incredibly refreshing.

The landscaped pool area features palm trees and orange sun umbrellas, offering a cool retreat from the Northern Territory heat.
The landscaped pool area features palm trees and orange sun umbrellas, offering a cool retreat from the Northern Territory heat.

After our initial swim, the afternoon was dedicated to rest. We found that a nap was the most sensible way to spend the hottest part of the day. Later in the afternoon, as the light began to soften, we ventured out for a short walk toward the boat jetty to capture some photographs. We considered the trek to the lookout, but one look at the steep ascent and the four-kilometre return distance convinced us otherwise. With the sun already beginning its descent, we decided there simply was not enough time to complete the hike before dark.

The wooden walkway leads down to the tour boats moored at the quiet jetty of Katherine Gorge.
The wooden walkway leads down to the tour boats moored at the quiet jetty of Katherine Gorge.

The walk to the water took us through trees that were heavily populated with bats. These creatures are a constant presence here, hanging in large clusters from the branches. They serve as a vivid reminder of previous encounters in Broome years ago; the feeling of unease regarding their presence remains unchanged for some of us.

A large fruit bat hangs suspended from a branch, its dark wings wrapped tightly around its body.
A large fruit bat hangs suspended from a branch, its dark wings wrapped tightly around its body.

While exploring the flora near the water, we encountered striking clusters of orange blossoms. These vibrant flowers provided a sharp contrast against the green foliage and the pale bark of the trees.

Brilliant orange eucalyptus blossoms stand out in sharp relief against the dusty green leaves.
Brilliant orange eucalyptus blossoms stand out in sharp relief against the dusty green leaves.

As the day transitioned into evening, the Katherine River took on a serene quality. The water became a mirror, reflecting the clouds and the golden hues of the sunset. It is a location that commands silence and observation.

The setting sun casts a warm glow over the still waters of the Katherine River, reflecting the scattered clouds.
The setting sun casts a warm glow over the still waters of the Katherine River, reflecting the scattered clouds.

During our afternoon swim, we noticed several guests enjoying dinners prepared at the poolside cafe. The quality of the meals looked impressive, so we decided to dine there ourselves. We both chose the grilled Barramundi, accompanied by a glass of red wine and a beer, marking the end of a four-month period of abstinence from alcohol. It was a well-earned drink.

While eating, we were joined by the resort’s Human Resources manager. By sheer coincidence, his name was also Steve. He was an exceptionally well-travelled individual and proved to be excellent company. We spent a pleasant evening sharing stories of the road before retreating to our room for a shower and a movie, concluding a very relaxing day at the Gorge.

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