4/7 Decided to drop in to Edith Falls again. Didn’t walk today as Rose hurt her toe at Gunlom and we gave it a rest. Snorkeled again in the plunge pool at the base of the falls.

Didn’t see too much this time, only a couple of turtles and smallish fish.  Later Rose insisted on a Devonshire tea at the kiosk. Surprisingly good homemaid scones, and real cream.

5/7 This morning an 8.6 km return trek to Sweetwater pool which is at the top of Edith Falls.  Took lunch and stayed for a few hours. Another really nice waterhole at the base of cascading falls.

There were a number of hikers stopped there who had walked from Katherine – 6 day trek. One couple had a baby they had carried. Apparently the hubby is an adventure type who holds a record for some Antarctic venture. Six days carting dirty nappies is some adventure. Bit of a trudge back as we were pretty weary and it was quite hot. Rose spent ½ hour photographing a Red Winged Parrot.

He was spectacular, although his wings were actually orange. Bit of a panic as half way back down the hill Rose realized she’d left her backpack back at the parrot site. A mad scramble back to retrieve it.

6/7 Off to Katherine today staying at the Gorge NP. Nice pool, which was under construction when we were here 6 or so years ago.  Rose spent some time photographing a Rainbow Beeeater that was feeding in the pool area. Beautiful plumage.

I went down to the cruise/canoe area and came across a guy holding a file snake, which they found while canoeing.  It was quite strange to hold, felt very floppy, loose skinned and boney. These are apparently good tucker, and aborigines catch them by feeling around in the weeds in billabongs. Bugger that with crocs around. Later we walked up to the lookout to watch the sunset over the first gorge.

On the way back we were amazed to see thousands of flying foxes swarming over the river flying off to their feeding grounds. Lots were skimming over the water presumably getting a drink. Apparently freshwater crocs jump out of the water trying to grab them. Unfortunately we didn’t see any, maybe tomorrow night, if we go down again. It wasn’t very pleasant to watch as the bats piss while flying, and apart from getting sprinkled, the stink was awful.

7/7 Sitting eating toast outside the van this morning when I was swooped by a Kyte trying to pinch it. I had the toast up to my mouth and got a scratch on the side of my nose and a finger.Importantly I saved the toast. Rose spent time photographing all manner of things, particularly bats.

There are quite a lot of different birds around, and quite tame.

The campground cleared out this morning so we took the opportunity to laze around the pool while things were quiet. Life's tough.