Darwin city | Getting to Borroloola from Darwin in Northern Territory Australia

  • Darwin Esplanade Credits M Christie

     

    Getting to Borroloola from Darwin in Northern Territory Australia

    • Borroloola is a relaxed and friendly remote fishing community on the McArthur River in the Gulf of Carpentaria. This historic town is considered the gateway to the Gulf region and is famed for its excellent fishing. Borroloola can be accessed via the Carpentaria Highway from Daly Waters in the Northern Territory or on the road through Garawa Aboriginal Land Trust from Queensland. Once a frontier town, Borroloola is now the capital of the Gulf region. Today, the town is still a bit wild and unruly at times, but the people are friendly and easy going.

    • Fishing and camping remain a way of life for locals and travellers chasing barramundi. King Ash Bay, a great fishing spot 50 kilometres from Borroloola, also attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Sir Edward Pellew Group of Islands provides good reef fishing where red emperor, coral trout and parrot fish can be caught. The settlement has two main events every year. The Rodeo, Gymkhana and Campdraft held over three days in August and the Fishing Classic usually held on the Easter long weekend at King Ash Bay.

    • Although Borroloola belongs to the Barkly Tablelands area of the Northern Territory it's an area which, in both its vegetation and climate, is more typical of the tropical Gulf Savanna which stretches around the Gulf of Carpentaria from North Queensland.

    Getting to Borroloola in Northern Territory Australia

    Located 954 km south-east of Darwin and 380 km from the Stuart Highway, Borroloola is a smaller settlement in the Gulf of Carpentaria which sits on either side of McArthur River like two independent towns, around some 50 km from the estuary.

    We understand Borroloola is unusual in that it is the home of a number of Aboriginal cultures. The Yanyuwa, Mara, Karawa and Kurdanji people all live around the town. The Yanyuwa and Mara are referred to as 'saltwater people' and are associated with the Sir Edward Pellew Islands and the lower reaches of the McArthur and Wearyan Rivers . The Kurdanji and Karawa people are classed as 'mainland people' and are associated with land to the south and east of the present township.

    How to get there?
    Route 1
    Katherine - Hi-Way Inn/Daly Waters via Carpentaria Highway to Cape Crawford to Borroloola.

    Route 2
    Start near Mataranka travel on the Roper Highway then on Nathan River Road to Roper Bar and then onto Borroloola

    Route 1: Borroloola can be accessed via the Carpentaria Highway, which departs Stuart Highway at Daly Waters. It takes about 6-7 hours driving from Katherine to Borroloola. Borroloola is also accessible via all weather bitumen road from Barkly Homestead to the south and from the Hi-Way Inn for travellers heading south from Katherine / Darwin / Western Australia.

    Route 2: The Savannah Way Road between Borroloola and the Queensland Border is closed during the Wet Season (December - March) due to swollen river crossings. The Roper Highway (Nathan River Road section) is also closed to traffic during the wet season months when the river crossings are impassable.

    Airstrip The nearest main airport is in Katherine. Borroloola has a bitumen airstrip, which has a mail plane. There is a sealed all weather airstrip at McArthur River Mine, permission has to be sought from the mine liaison officer at Borroloola to utilise this strip. Note: Any unscheduled patient transport may take longer that the scheduled flight times depending on the availability, weather and the necessary inter health transfer time.

    Linking out: Informative report by a local business - http://www.handr.com.au/ Mataranka to Borroloola Via Roper Highway and Nathan River Road. Also we must mention Explor Oz as their site has excellent information we find: For distances we often suggest http://www.exploroz.com

    Scroll down to see the following information for Borooloola as services in Borroloola include:

    Payphones ~ Camp Grounds and Caravan Parks ~ Health Centre ~ Tourist Attractions ~ Places of Interest ~ Tourist Visitor Information ~ Fuel and Food Stops to Buy ~ • 2 stores ~ Post office with Commonwealth banking agency ~ ANZ banking agency ~ School ~ Butcher ~• Service stations ~ Takeaway food outlets ~ Police station.

    McArthur River crossing near Borroloola

    Borroloola Township -aerial - Gulf Region

    Borroloola - Gulf Region - aerial

    Around Borroloola Township  

    Borooloola - McArthur River Caravan Park

    Area: Borooloola. McArthur River Caravan Park is located 658 km south-east of Katherine on Robinson Road, Borroloola. Access is by private arrangements, tour of express coach. Local airport pick-ups can be arranged.

    The owner John and his son Patrick are very helful to visitors (we have experienced this first hand). Powered and unpowered van and camping sites. Self contained cabins suitable for families, budget accommodation and laundry facilities. Excellent barra fishing during February, March and April and mudcrabbing all year roound. Pets are allowed but must be restrained. The small town of Borroloola is rich in history. Learn about the lawless days of illegal activities, being tamed by our first police presence in 1886.

    Land of the Paperbarks is an area well known for its great river system and close proximity to the Sir Edward Pellew group of Islands. With many attractions you will find many ways to fill your days, taking in the beauty of the area and exploring the spectacular walks, parks, falls, flights and fishing.

    The Caranbirini Conservation Reserve is just 45 km from us.
    LOCATION
    781 Robinson Road Borroloola,
    situated adjacent to the picturesque McArthur River in the Gulf of Carpentaria.
    Phone: +61 (0) 8 8975 8734
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 89758712
    Location: Borooloola McArthur River Caravan Park,
    781 Robinson Road, Borooloola, NT, 0854

    Post Office & Supermarket - Borroloola - Gulf Region
    Robinson Road, Borroloola
    Post Office & Supermarket - Borroloola - Gulf Region
    Borroloola Hotel/Motel
    Robinson Road, Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 75 8766
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 89 758 773
    Borroloola Hotel/Inn NT - Restaurants
    Robinson Road, Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 8975 8766
    Main Street - Borroloola - Gulf Region

    Borroloola Public Payphones

    1. Chicken Shop on Robinson Road, Borroloola
    2. Yanyula Community on Robinson Road, Borroloola
    3. Yanyula Community on Jose St (Cnr Anyula St) Road, Borroloola

    Public telephones (In Darwin in this picture 'Not Borroloola')
    Borroloola Town Council
    Robinson Road, Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758 799
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 89 758 762
    Borroloola government buildings from Water Tank Hill - Gulf Region
    Borroloola Guest House
    Robinson Road, Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758 883

    Borroloola Aerial Services
    Lot 822A Borroloola Airport, Broad St, Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 411 055 039
    Borroloola Township -aerial - Gulf Region
    Borroloola Mobil Services
    As above: Lot 822A Borroloola Airport, Broad St, Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 411 055 039
    Main Street - Borroloola - Gulf Region

    Borroloola - Petrol Supplies

    General Information
    Chicken Shop (BP)
    Fuel Bulk Discounts
    Mobile Carpentaria Enterprises
    Mobile. King Ash Bay Fishing Club
    Mobile Fuel and Service Station.

    2881L-Courtesy of NTTC-MiniMart-Fuel-Borroloola

    Mini Mart & Service Station - Borroloola - Gulf Region , Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758 716

    The Gulf Mini Mart is your One Stop Shop in Borroloola situated on the southern entrance to Borroloola.
    As well as a supermarket, takeaway, service station, tyre centre and BOC gas agent, the Gulf Mini Mart also boasts the only alfresco dining within a 700km radius.

    Pop in for a light snack freshly prepared by qualified chefs or just a hot cappuccino.
    Whatever your needs, the Gulf Mini Mart is sure to be able to cater for them.

    Come in and say hi to our friendly staff who will assist you with all your requirements for an enjoyable and memorable experience in Borroloola and the Gulf Region.

    Gulf Mini Mart Borroloola
    Robinson Rd, Borroloola, NT 0854
    p: (08) 8975 8790 f: (08) 8975 8730

    2881L-Courtesy of NTTC-MiniMart-Fuel-Borroloola

    Old Police Station Museum Borroloola - Gulf Region Borroloola, Borroloola

    Borroloola History and Museum
    Anyone interested in reading about these wild early residents should consult J. A. Whitaker's book Borroloola Isolated and Interesting 1885-1985 which is available from the Borroloola Museum which is open from 8.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m during the dry season and on weekends.

    There are also a number of holders of keys to the museum in town including Red Dirt Trading, the McArthur River Caravan Park, Gulf Mini Mart, Terry Fisher Motors and Morgan at the H& R Holiday Unit.

    2900 	Old Police Station Museum - Borroloola

    Health Centre - Borroloola - Gulf Region

    The Community Health Centre, managed by the Northern Territory Government Department of Health and Community Services, provides an essential Primary Health Care service to the community. There are four nurses and six Aboriginal Health Workers on staff (as at 23 Nov 2004) to service the needs of the locals and visitors to the community. The Health Centre is located at 9 Garawa Street.

    Visiting Services
    • Dentist and Dental Therapist — every 6 months for 1 week.
    • Surgeon – as required
    • Gynaecologist – as required
    • Audiologist — annually
    • Physician — 3 visits each year.
    • Paediatrics — every 8 weeks
    • Ophthalmology — annually
    • Optometrist — 2 visits each year
    • Physiotherapy — 3-4 visits each year
    • Occupational Therapist — 4-6 weekly
    • Mental health — irregular, infrequent visits
    • Adult Assessment & Coordination Team — 5/6 visits each year
    • Family Youth & Community Services — as required
    • Environmental Health Officers — twice each year

    Pharmacy
    Clinic staff dispense appropriate medications according to need and eligibility to the resident population of Borroloola.

    GP Services in the Community
    There is a GP in Borroloola, but the position is currently vacant. Darwin DMO Services supply GP visits to Borroloola, Robinson River and Kiana Station.

    Last Report we recieved

    Police
    Police responsible for Borroloola and its surrounds are located in Borroloola and can be contacted on 08 8975 8770.

    Malandari Council building - Borroloola - Gulf Region , Borroloola

    Rrumburriya Malandari Council Aboriginal Corporation -

    Rrumburriya Malandari Council Aboriginal Corporation
    Robertson Rd, Borroloola, NT, 0854
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758 922

    Malandari Council building - Borroloola - Gulf Region

    Borroloola Entertainment
    TV
    - SBS - Imparjia - ABC - Seven
    Radio - ABC 106.1, 107.7 and Caama 102.9

    Borroloola Community Government Council and Communtiy Site
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758 799
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 89 758 762

    Borroloola road sign - Gulf Region

    H&R Guest House

    Robinson Rd Borroloola NT 0852

    Tel: + 61 (0) 8 89 758 883

    Fax: + 61 (0) 8 89 758 877.

    Main Street - Borroloola - Gulf Region

    Borroloola

    Permission to camp on pastoral properties and Aboriginal land is required.

    We suggest you consider staying at MacArthur River Caravan Park.

    Borroloola Estuary Fishing Tours

    Lot 539 Anyula St, Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758 716
    McArthur River - Borroloola - Gulf Region
    Borroloola House Boat Hire

    5 Riverside Drive, Borroloola
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 759 760
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 89 759 772
    McArthur River near the crossing at Borroloola

    Borroloola Events - Borroloola has two main events for the year.

    The Rodeo, Gymkhana, and Campdraft goes for three days in August every year. Often around the following dates the 20th, 21st and 22nd of August. Locals and visitors from Queensland compete in the 3 day event.

    The Fishing Classic also attracts many visitors from all over Australia. It is usually held over the Easter Weekend. The event is held at King Ash Bay Boat & Fishing Club. See the website above on King Ash Bay.

    To confirm dates please contact the community site
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758 799
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 758 762
    http://www.ropergulf.nt.gov.au/

    NT Luxury Houseboats - Darwin

    Fish and Cruise Darwin Harbour or the McArthur River. Leave the cares of the day to day lifebehind you and set your own schedule. Based near Borroloola at King Ash Bay and Darwin Harbour in the Northern Territory, NT Luxury Houseboats offers a unique experience in a wild and remote part of Australia. This is the perfect way to relax with family and friends. Have a drink and a BBQ on the foredeck; kick back in the spa or relax in the fully air conditioned interior. NT Luxury Houseboats new boat can take up to 12 people in comfort and offers a great way to do it yourself with a touch of class.

    • Spectacular Scenery & Wildlife • Fully Air-conditioned • Kitchen • Spa on Foredeck • DVD & Movie Library • Great Fishing • Sun Deck • BBQ -We will operate all year weather permitting.

    Darwin Harbour

    Darwin Harbour Prices on Application

    King Ash Bay

    June, July & August (last known prices)

    Per Day: $950
    4 Days:$890 Per Day

    April, May, September & October

    Per Day: $1200
    4 Days:$1000 Per Day

    Tender Hire
    4.5m Tender with 40hp Honda Motor

    Per Day: $200
    4 Days:$180 Per Day

    Grocery Stocking Available on Request

    All prices include GST

    We will operate all year weather permitting.

    www: Houseboats
    Location: Darwin Harbour or King Ash Bay

    King Ash Bay is located around 50 kilometres past Borroloola on the McArthur River and is a popular fishing spot all year round. The King Ash Bay Boat and Fishing Club is a primary destination for visiting anglers and hosts the annual Borroloola Fishing Classic, a fishing competition that attracts competitors from all over Australia. There’s also a service station, mini-mart, houseboats, accommodation and fishing tours available. The clubhouse is open nightly and serves counter meals at the Groper Bar from 1800 to 2000.

    Borroloola is a remote fishing community on the McArthur River in the Gulf of Carpentaria. This historic town is considered the gateway to the Gulf region and is famed for its excellent fishing. Borroloola can be accessed via the Carpentaria Highway from Daly Waters in the Northern Territory or on the road through Garawa Aboriginal Land Trust from Queensland. Once a frontier town, Borroloola is now the capital of the Gulf region. Today, the town is still a bit wild and unruly at times, but the people are friendly and easy going. Fishing and camping remain a way of life for locals and travellers chasing barramundi. King Ash Bay, a great fishing spot 50 kilometres from Borroloola, also attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Sir Edward Pellew Group of Islands provides good reef fishing where red emperor, coral trout and parrot fish can be caught. The settlement has two main events every year. The Rodeo, Gymkhana and Campdraft held over three days in August and the Fishing Classic usually held on the Easter long weekend at King Ash Bay.

    River View Cottage at King Ash Bay

    King Ash Bay, approximately 40 kilometres past Borroloola, is a mecca for fishermen. Nestled on the banks of the McArthur River, life at King Ash Bay focuses on that king of sportfish, the mighty barramundi. With access to a vast river network, mud crabs crawling through the mangroves, plus reef and sail fishing in the Gulf of Carpentaria, it's a wildlife haven; mind the crocodiles! The magnificent Sir Edward Pellew Island group, just offshore, is yet another fishing paradise. On the off chance your life doesn't entirely revolve around fishing, these islands provide world class oportunities for bird watching and photography. The licensed club house at King Ash Bay Fishing Club provides all the services you'd expect from your local at home. Every Easter they host the Barra Classic, which draws fishers from all over Australia to tackle the wet season runoff. Petrol station, supermarket, bait, spare lures :-) it's all here ready for you. Launch your boat at the purpose built concrete ramp... it's next to the bar, so don't mess up... then moor at your own private jetty right outside your door at River View Cottage.

    www: http://www.kingashbay.com/

    McArthur River near the crossing at Borroloola

    King Ash Bay Fishing Club

    Welcome to the King Ash Bay Fishing Club, the club is situated on the banks of the McArthur River approx. 52km past the township of Borroloola (see map & road conditions page for directions).

    A two lane concrete boat ramp gives you access to a huge system of rivers and channels (this area is famous for its Barramundi). Several main rivers lead to the Gulf of Carpentaria which is approx. 30km by river from the King Ash Bay Fishing Club. Offshore you can fish for Mackeral, Tuna and a variety of reef fish in the blue tropical waters of the Sir Edward Pellew group of islands. Maps and tide charts for this area are available from the Mini-Mart. For your convenience there is a Service Station, Mini-Mart, House Boats, Accommodation and Fishing Tours available.

    The clubhouse is also open nightly from 5 - 9 pm serving counter meals at the Groper Bar from 6 - 8pm. The Club has 240v power available 24 hours a day and its own water supply suitable for drinking. Coin operated washing machines are situated in the main toilet block if needed. For the serious fisherman the King Ash Bay Fishing Club conducts its annual Fishing Classic each year on the Easter weekend. This event is conducted over 2 days and has cash and prizes for all divisions.

    www: http://www.kingashbay.com/

    Fishing at Borroloola - Gulf Region

    McArthur River - Borroloola - Gulf Region

    Road Report Links, Routes & Maps  

    Some local, Government & Tourism Association sites to visit.

    Map

    Road Conditions and Safety

    • Road conditions along the Savannah Way can vary from bitumen to gravel and dirt, be careful of soft edges and narrow roads. On unsealed roads, fine dust can conceal deep potholes and dust reduces visibility, so slow down. Staying in contact in the outback is vital. While mobile phones will work in many towns, staying in contact by radio, satellite phone or carrying an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is advisable. You should always check road conditions prior to travel. To get the latest information on road conditions check the following websites:
    • Queensland Road Conditions
      www.racq.com.au
      Ph: 1300 130 595 for 24-hour road reports
    • Northern Territory Road Conditions
      http://www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/roadreport/
      Roads Closed
      Tel 1800246199 (Only within Australia)

    Notes: Year Round Access Borroloola is accessible by road via a sealed highway from Katherine.

    It is also accessible by Air all year round.

    The Savannah Way Road between Borroloola and the Queensland Border is closed during the Wet Season (December - March) due to swollen river crossings. The Roper Highway to Mataranka (Nathan River Road section) is also closed to traffic during the wet season months when the river crossings are impassable.

    Roper-River-Nathan-River-Road

    Route 1.
    Katherine - Hi-Way Inn via Carpentaria Highway to Cape Crawford to Borroloola

    Notes: Year Round Access Borroloola is accessible by road via a sealed highway from Katherine.

    It is also accessible by Air all year round.

    Borroloola road sign - Gulf Region

    Route 2.
    Mataranka to Borroloola
    Via Roper Highway and 4WD Nathan River Road

    The Savannah Way Road between Borroloola and the Queensland Border is closed during the Wet Season (December - March) due to swollen river crossings. The Roper Highway to Mataranka (Nathan River Road section) is also closed to traffic during the wet season months when the river crossings are impassable.

    Nathan River Road - Roper Bar to Borroloola. We strongly recommend you buy detailed maps,

    Linking out:

    • Informative report by a local business - http://www.handr.com.au/
      Mataranka to Borroloola Via Roper Highway and Nathan River Road.

    Map

    If one leaves the Stuart Highway south of Mataranka, travel on app. 135 km of single lane bitumen before you hit the gravel.For distances we often suggest http://www.exploroz.com

    The Roper Bar crossing used to be the site of an old Police station , the concrete road across the river (now a concrete causeway) that will get rather slippery. The Roper Bar Store (Phone 08 8975 4636) and associated campground is the last opportunity to fuel up etc before setting off east, then south, to Limmen Bight and Borroloola.

    It is also here that you turn off the Roper Highway and enter the Nathan River Road. It is here that the road sometimes changes character and looks like no-one has travelled it in a while. The road follows the Roper River for another app. 93 km, with several cleared camping spots and a boat ramp along the way.For distances we often suggest http://www.exploroz.com

    The Limmen River Fishing Camp is around half way along Nathan River Road. It is about 24 km off the main road and has all the facilities that you would need to have a bush camp. It is still an untapped resource in the Northern Territory, being travellers traffic.

    Every year the road is graded and again in 2007 there were major enhancements completed to the 'softer' sections. The road into the camp was also graded. Each year the number of caravans utilising this road between Katherine & Borroloola is increasing although most old maps indicate 'no vans'. Four wheel drive is recommended , mainly due to the road clearance.

    However we've had some late model sedans arrive here with no problems at all. For updates ring the Limmen River Fishing Camp. A tip for locating the turnoff to Limmen River Fishing Camp, you turn off at the cox river crossing ( north side). The Cox river flows into the mighty Limmen River. The Limmen River Fishing Camp is one of those locations where you can enjoy, relax and even experience Territory bush living.

    Reference to http://www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au/parks/find/limmen#.UjbU4EqwqM8

    Savannah Way sign

    Roper Bar, Savannah Way Tourism Drive

    Roper Bar, Savannah Way Tourism Drive

    A warning that there is No fuel for the next 360km sign rather near to Roper Bar heading to Borroloola or Cape Crawford

    Further On - Areas  

    MacArthur River Mine

    McArthur River Mine open pit development From a remote corner of Australia's Northern Territory, McArthur River Mine (MRM) has become one of the world's largest providers of zinc in bulk concentrate form. Our objective is to produce competitive and reliable supplies of zinc bulk concentrate for global markets through a sustainable mining operation.

    This operation works in partnership with employees, customers, the community of the local Borroloola region, the Northern Territory and Australian Governments and all other stakeholders based on integrity, cooperation, transparency and mutual value-creation.
    https://www.glencore.com.au/operations-and-projects/mcarthur-river-mine

    Borroloola Township -aerial - Gulf Region

    Lorella Springs Caravan Park


    13/01/2023 - Announcement Lorella Springs will not be opening its doors in 2023, except for visitors as part of a prebooked outback tour group.

    This is not goodbye, but… This announcement is going out with a heavy heart, a lot of emotion and a bit of fear, as we step into the unknown.

    Lorella Springs will not be opening its doors in 2023, except for visitors as part of a prebooked outback tour group.

     

     

    Northern Territory

    LORELLA SPRINGS WILDERNESS CAMPING AND CARAVAN PARK

    Also with BackPacker and Farmstay Accommodation

    Outback Australian Eco Safari Adventure

    Family Owned 1 Million Acre Waterfront Wilderness Sanctuary

    LORELLA IS NOT JUST AN OVERNIGHT CAMPING AND CARAVAN PARK ACCOMMODATION STOPOVER, BUT A MAJOR, ONE MILLION ACRE, REMOTE, UNSPOILT, WATERFRONT, LONG STAY DESTINATION.


    So ... Travel to Way Outback Australia, in the Northern Territory's Gulf of Carpentaria, along the Savannah Way - camping, caravanning, adventuring, swimming, fishing, bush walking, sight seeing, 4WD driving, bird watching, crocodile spotting, relaxing - and much, much more.


    Accessible in the dry season, by most outback prepared vehicles.

    Comfortable African Style Safari Tent Accommodation also available.

    We also now have Luxury, Roomy, Fully Self Contained, Air conditioned Cabins
    - with Queen Bed and 2 Bunk Beds. Sleeps 4 persons.
    - ( Has ensuite, fridge, table and chairs, BBQ, Air conditioner, complementary coffee and tea. Bedding and linen supplied)

    Located 15 degrees south of the equator, in one of the remotest and most isolated areas of Australia or even planet Earth, we offer a superb retreat experience of an outstanding natural environment.

    Lorella Springs Tourist Park is part of Lorella Springs Station, a virtually untouched one million acre cattle station located 180 kilometres west of Borroloola, off the Savannah Way. This huge, remote property offers a retreat of solitude and serenity. With over 20 kilometres of coastline, waterways, wetlands and swamps, spectacular rock formations and mountain ranges, ancient chasms and gorges, the environment is teaming with wildlife including bird-life, crocodiles, wild buffalo, brumbies and dingoes.

    The campground at the station homestead includes safari tent style accommodation and acres of shady, grassy camp sites beside a natural hot water thermal spring, which is perfect for visitors to relax in. The historical homestead houses a tourist information centre and a great bar. General supplies are available along with showers, toilets, a camp kitchen, fire places and wood piles.

    The Rosie Fishing Campground is also located on the property which offers diverse fishing opportunities ranging from pandanus-lined freshwater billabongs, estuarine river and creek through to tropical reef outcrops. This campground has limited facilities, boat ramps, and is accessible by four wheel drive only. Lorella also caters for specialised interest touring - fishing, four-wheel driving, survival, bird watching, and bush walking.

    THINGS TO DO

    Daytrip - FREE - Come visit us and enjoy relaxing in the "Magic" Natural Thermal Pool. Visit some of our natural attractions.  

    • Local to our camp ground we have some excellent freshwater fishing in large billabongs
    • Walking trails
    • Safe swimming holes
    • Croc Spotting
    • Relaxing

     CARAVAN PARK:

    • 3 toilets.
    • 3 showers.
    • Acres of mowed camp sites along spring.
    • Fire wood piles.
    • Lots of BBQ fireplaces
    • Landscaped Magical Hot Water Thermal Pools.
    • Liquor Licence.
    • EFTPOS
    • Walking trails
    • Workshop.
    • Under cover communal BBQ, kitchen area,
      tables, chairs, cooking implements, wash up area.
    • Good Drinking Water
    • We allow pets on a lead
    • We sell fuel with prior arrangement
    • Airstrip ( Dry season access only )
    • Caravan Park GPS co-ordinates
      15-43-20S - 135-38-30E - WGS84

     

    Come visit us and enjoy relaxing in the "Magic" Healing Natural Thermal Pool.

    Visit some of our many natural attractions.
    •Local to our camp ground / caravan park, we have some excellent freshwater fishing in large billabongs
    •Walking trails
    •Safe swimming holes
    •Croc Spotting
    •Bird Watching
    •Yabbying
    •Crabbing
    •Canoeing
    •River Fishing
    •Coastal Fishing
    •Best 4x4 driving for both beginners and extreme 4x4 drivers. •Interesting rock formations
    •New discoveries, all the time
    •Wildlife
    •Old Pioneers' Ruins
    •Photographer's Paradise
    •Fossicking
    •Relaxing
    •Exploring
    •Meals
    •Licenced Bar
    •Camera Vantage Points
    •Plenty of things for the kids to do
    •Boat Launching Access to Rosie River and Gulf of Carpentaria (80 Km from homestead)

    GETTING THERE:

    Much of Lorella and its coastline is untouched and approx 80 km or more from the homestead and can only be reach by EXTREME 4WD Driving by HIGHLY PREPARED and EXPERIENCED DRIVERS or by escorted tour. Destinations, times, adventures and prices by arrangement


    Lorella Springs Caravan Park
    Savannahway, Borroloola
    Email: Website: https://www.lorellasprings.com.au/

    Photo's are courtesy of www.lorellasprings.com a memorable experience in the outback

    Lorella-Springs-Tourist-Park

    Major National Parks in the Region

    Barranyi ( North Island) National Park - This 541ha national park lies within the Sir Edward Pellew group of Islands approximately 30km from the mouth of the McArthur River and the Carrington Channel entrances ( refer to marine chart AUST 305). The Island is the traditional home of the Yanyuwa Aboriginal people. The park plays an important role in the preservation and protection of their culture and tradition.

    Travellers wishing to visit the park should contact the NT Parks and Wildlife staff at the Borroloola Office on
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758792
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 89 758701

    Major National Parks in the Region

    Caranbirini Nature Reserve - Located 37km from Borroloola on the Carpentaria Highway Carranbirini offers the visitor easy walks through sandstone towers on a path which overlooks a billabong and looks across the escarpment country of the Gulf Region. There is no camping. It is restricted to day use only.

    For more information contact the NT Parks and Wildlife staff at the Borroloola Office on
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 75879
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 89 758701

    Major National Parks in the Region

    Limmen Bight National Park ( Proposed ) - Located on the Roper River road180 km from Borroloola on the Lost City Access Track.

    Contact the NT Parks and Wildlife staff at the Borroloola Office on
    Tel: +61 (0) 8 89 758792
    Fax: +61 (0) 8 89 758701

    Cape Crawford

    Crawford features the famous Heartbreak Hotel and lies at the intersection between the Carpentaria and the Tableland highways. The gateway to the Gulf Country, it is worth stopping for a while and taking a breathtaking scenic flight over the Lost city in the Abner Rangers.

     

    Cape Crawford is a remote stop, home of the famous Heartbreak Hotel, at the junction of the Carpentaria and Tablelands Highway. Despite the first part of its name, Cape Crawford is situated approximately 120 kilometres from the ocean and is so named because it is situated at the northern extremity or ‘cape’ of the Abner Ranges, which were first ‘discovered’ by drover Lindsay Crawford in 1880.

    The Abner Ranges are home to an impressive formation known as the Lost City. The Lost City covers an area of about 8 square kilometres and is dotted with towering sandstone formations. These natural pillars remind many observers of skyscrapers, and are well worth a visit. Helicopter flights which land in the Lost City give access to four wheel drive tours through the sandstone formations. (Copyright & Courtesy of Toursim NT)

     

    Pungalina Station - Caravan and Camping Accommodation

    Pungalina Station, situated in Australia's Northern Territory Gulf, is 500,000 acres of remote outback wilderness with a comfortable eco safari camp for 12 people next to a natural thermal spring. Designed for 'flyins' or four wheel drive access, it is fully catered and licensed.

    Seven day air tour charters from Melbourne across Australia to Pungalina can be arranged with special discounts for groups of 6 to 8 clients. Activities include barramundi fishing, canoeing, bush walking, bird watching, swimming, limestone caving, gorge exploring and more

    Camp Ground
    Campers may have access to Pungalina Station on occasion with prior arrangements. This will be very limited to ensure guests have that 'exclusivity' feeling in an outback remote wilderness in the Gulf.

    Safari Camp
    The camp is situated in a shady grassed area adjacent to a natural underground thermal spring near the Calvert River.

    The site provides a safe and healthy water supply and the springs are perfect for that early morning or afternoon swim. Guests stay in spacious, fully insect screened individual or twin share tents, in comfortable beds with doonas and permanent lighting.

    Although many meals are served outside in the shade, a central marquee accommodates the dining room tent. All meals are prepared by the safari camp chef.

    Hot showers and flushing toilets are available. Safari camp tents can accommodate overnight stays as well as extended stays so please note, the rate supplied reflects daily rates only.

    Rate does not include air transfer and prior bookings are essential.

    Getting there by road: Pungalina is a very remote wilderness even by outback Australian standards. Access is via four wheel drive only, and then only during the dry season.

    The drive from Mt Isa will take at least 13 hours. Follow the Wollogorang to Borroloola Rd ( Savannah Hgwy) going west past Hells Gate Roadhouse. 26 Kms past Wollogorang is Red Bank Copper Mine. Then another 14 kms to the entrance to Pungalina cattle station. This turn off is on the right with a round white "Pungalina " sign and it is a 65 km driveway to the homestead. This is 4WD and includes many creek crossings, sand areas and rugged sections.

    Gate entrance co-ordinates on the Savannah Way are : S 17° 9.75' E 137° 38.90'

    http://www.pungalinasafaris.com.au/ this used to be the web iste but appears down now.

    Permission must be obtained prior to entry from Owen Davies at Pungalina on (08) 8975-8951. The drive from the Savannah Hgwy is 65 kms and could take 2 hours.

    Campers are requested to stay in the safari camp accommodation. Leave camper vans etc at Hells Gate prior to entry and/or make other arrangements with Owen Davies.

    Important: We suggest ring them now- before you depart for up todate information. As this is a remote spot you must make sure there is room for you and you have the correct information as the as this page is a general guidleine.

    Bauhinia Downs Station

    Another 45km south from the Lorella turn off is the turn off 24km in to what is probably the Northern Territory's finest springs. There are both hot springs, cascading down from a giant cleft in the ancient rock wall through a spectacular series of rock pools, and cold springs mixing into a large thermal lagoon. The whole effect is quite awesome and really has to be seen to be believed! This area is not open to the public but Sandra at Cape Crawford Tourism runs very popular tours into the springs at Bauhinia from near here; her helicopter tours are a great way to experience this magnificent location. Flights might at first seem a bit expensive but overall it's a cost effective way to view and photograph these spectacular places; it's not a cheap place to park a helicopter on the off-chance. Ground tours can also be arranged into both Bauhinia and the Lost City during the dry season. For further details call into Cape Crawford Tourism on the Roper Bar Road, follow the signs, or phone Sandra Schleter on (08) 8975 9611. Click here to go to her website.

    Cape Crawford Tourism is located 6 kms up the Roper Bar Road, 2 kms west of Cape Crawford in the Northern Territory. It is 110 kilometres south-west of Borroloola and just north of the Cape Crawford Roadhouse. Just follow the signs if you have not made a booking. If the helicopter is not at the pad opposite Heartbreak Hotel or at the pad on Leila Creek Station, the tour is in operation and we will return within 2 hours.

    Or

    Bookings essential contact Mr Harry Lansen through Mabunji. The property used to have hunting tours for buffalo, and barramundi fishing available. An airstrip is close to the community and the hot springs. This area is regarded by some people as the best gorge and hot water springs anywhere in the top end of Australia. The area is still very undeveloped and closed completely during the wet.

    Bauhinia Downs is some 120 km south west of Borroloola and has beautiful pristine waterfalls, gorge, hot and cold springs. It also supports a variety of wildlife such as salt water and fresh water crocodiles, bat colony, gorgeous butterfly colonies, bush turkey, brolgas and kangaroos just to name a few, there is also a large variety of birds. Bauhinia Downs offers camping with facilities at a fee.

    Season: Starting in April, depending on the wet season, going through to the end of October. Eventually more tourists will travel the Northern section of Australia in the wet season enabling us to operate 12 months of the year.

     

    Mabunji Outstations

    Mabunji services 26 Outstations Homelands, providing services such as transport, housing, water, power (electricity, solar). Mabunji is located in the main town of Borroloola and employs over 300 Indigenous people on a CDEP Government funded scheme. The centre is also responsible for a lot of town based facilities and hosts the Community Radio Station.

     

    Please Note: Please note these links are supplied only as a link for information, which our company has no affiliation wth these links. Please note our company is not responsible for the contents of any link sites and is offered in good faith only.

    We strongly recommend you verify all information and comments supplied here and use it only as a general indication and guideline. Planning to travel from Katherine to Borroloola to Hell's Gate to Lawn Hill.

     
    http://www.tropicaldarwin.com/ Darwin to Alice Springs self drive intinerary and selfdrivre routesNorthern Territory Australia full map