Cattle Drive



Cattle Drive
 

STAGE 4 CATTLE KINGS

HIGHLIGHTS
Tour four of the Cattle Drive offers a rare opportunity to actually enter the world’s largest cattle station, Anna Creek, measuring some 26,000 square kilometres (5.5million acres), which is roughly the size of Belgium. The station has been continuously occupied since it was located in 1872, resisting the effects of drought, flood and adverse economic conditions - the only property in the region to have done so. It's hard country here, the droughts are savage, but you'll hear stories of people - past and present - who have overcome the odds. Today Anna Creek is home to some 15,000 cattle. Though as your herd makes its 50-odd kilometre drive, at least for a short time, that figure will seemingly rise to 15,500... You'll be following the remains of the original Ghan railway track, as well as what's left of the Overland Telegraph line - both critical in the settling of Australia's interior. You'll hear the stories of the explorers, the pioneers and the pastoralists along with historical accounts by descendants from original inhabitants, the indigenous people. Cattle driving is thirsty business. So the outpost of William Creek - complete with roadhouse, campsite, racetrack, airport and 'rocket park' will make for a very special stop. With a population of less than 10, it's often claimed to be Australia's smallest town. What's beyond dispute is the fact it's home to one of Australia's most isolated pubs. What can we say about the William Creek Hotel? It's probably best left as a surprise - but suffice to say, it's like no other! You can do as much or as little of this cattle drive as you wish; optional coach tours on Days 3 and 4 are available to show you further regional highlights and histories. Experience the Outback from a unique vantage point and join a scenic flight over Lake Eyre, Anna Creek Station or the Painted Desert at an additional cost. Your village of superior tented accommodation is Anna Creek Campsite, located 180km south of Oodnadatta.

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For detailed itineraries - Just ask!



INTINERARY

Day 1
Monday - Arrive 11:00am at Anna Creek Campsite. Enjoy the official welcome briefing, settle into the camp and have lunch. Transfer to the herd and meet the droving and farrier teams before being matched with your horse. After you get acquainted, you'll spend your first afternoon droving cattle! Return to the camp, where your evening meal will be served. The open fire will be a great place to get to know the members of your group.
(Meals - Lunch and Dinner)

Day 2, 3, 4
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday - Each morning after breakfast you will be transferred to the horses where your droving will commence. The cattle will move some 14km each day, so your droving departure and pick-up points will change. Lunch is delivered to you as the cattle rest and feed. Take the opportunity to chat to the drovers and farriers during the day. Upon returning to camp in late afternoon, you'll find hot showers, the camp library, and cold drinks at the bar (alcohol is available for purchase). The evening meal will vary from buffet style (served in the on-site marquee) to camp-oven meals cooked on the campfire. Dinner is often accompanied by tales from the Outback - including yours! On days 3 and 4 you are invited to join a coach tour to take in more of the highlights and history of the surrounding area (optional). Scenic flights are also available for an additional cost.
(Meals - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 5
Friday - Enjoy breakfast then farewell your Outback home of Anna Creek Campsite at 10:00am.
(Meal – Breakfast)




 
 



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