Today we headed off to Lizard Island, via an overnight stop in Blackall.

Our friends Peter and Joy picked us up this morning, and we headed out to Essendon Airport for our flight to Blackall in central Queensland.

Andrea and Joy, ready to board.
Andrea and Joy, ready to board.

We took off around lunchtime and landed in Blackall just before 3:00 pm. About 1,000 km inland from Brisbane, Blackall is a small town, with a population of around 1,500 people. Blackall is the home of the Black Stump, which marks the location of the original Astro Station established in 1887. Places west of this point are said to be “beyond the black stump”.

Blackall Airport.
Blackall Airport.

We were picked up at the airport by the manager of the motel we had booked in Blackall for the night.

Our accommodation in Blackall.
Our accommodation in Blackall.

After checking in to the motel, we decided to walk to the Black Stump. The original Black Stump was destroyed in a fire so the one that it there now is a replica made from petrified wood.

Andrea at The Black Stump.
Andrea at The Black Stump.
Joy and Peter at The Black Stump.
Joy and Peter at The Black Stump.
Andrea and Keith at The Black Stump.
Andrea and Keith at The Black Stump.

After being out in the pretty oppressive heat for a while, we retreated to the pub for a drink and an early dinner. The pub was full of very interesting outback characters and was an enjoyable spot to relax and enjoy a meal.

After dinner we headed back to the motel and retired for the evening. Tomorrow we are flying to Lizard Island for a few days of relaxation.