What's happening in Cape York today ???

[Scorcher]

I thought that it might be a good idea to post items of interest of current Cape York happenings.

Here's one that I just picked up off the Sydney Morning Herald site.

http://au.news.yahoo.com/080512/2/16tmr.html

An interesting story about Bertiehaugh Station and the Irwin's links to it.

Scorcher

[Stacky]

What's happening up here?
HMMMM........well finally there's a window of opportunity this weekend to head out to the reefs as the winds have finally dropped back on the East Coast.
So, that's what I'll be doing.

[Nedly]

What's happening up here?
HMMMM........well finally there's a window of opportunity this weekend to head out to the reefs as the winds have finally dropped back on the East Coast.
So, that's what I'll be doing.

Life's tough at the top.

[highlift80]

Yeah I need to have the lifestyle I have here up in the Cape then, I would be in Paradise.

[Scorcher]

Today's latest article on the "Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve"

http://au.news.yahoo.com/080519/2/16wzp.html

Scorcher

[xina]

Hi guys,
Don't know if I'm putting this in the right place, but here goes. If any of you are serious about buying up there, there is a share in what I think has to be the Wattle Hill company for sale at $29,000.
The Ad. in Grass Roots Mag. reads:

Wilderness in Cape York, Qld: share of 89,000 ac. lease (I think they got a ninety year lease this time. You'd need to check, but I know it's a looooong one.) on the Pascoe River near Lockhart River township. Ph: 0740-916-292.

If it's not W.H. it's a newey on me. Fyfes' had a place on the southern side of the Pascoe, but didn't have shareholders when I was up there.

If I could afford it, I wouldn't be letting you know, I'd grab it myself.
Cheers,
xina.

[campdog]

Hi guys,
Don't know if I'm putting this in the right place, but here goes. If any of you are serious about buying up there, there is a share in what I think has to be the Wattle Hill company for sale at $29,000.
The Ad. in Grass Roots Mag. reads:

Wilderness in Cape York, Qld: share of 89,000 ac. lease (I think they got a ninety year lease this time. You'd need to check, but I know it's a looooong one.) on the Pascoe River near Lockhart River township. Ph: 0740-916-292.

If it's not W.H. it's a newey on me. Fyfes' had a place on the southern side of the Pascoe, but didn't have shareholders when I was up there.

If I could afford it, I wouldn't be letting you know, I'd grab it myself.
Cheers,
xina.
What a dream to have. Maybe down the track I could think about.
Maybe Ant could but it from the sale of his magazine. We could be shareholders and haave an annual holiday there.Or mabe caretaker.

[highlift80]

Only $29,000, that was how much my fuel bill was last month.... maybe
I could nahhh... perish the thought, I had better pay BP.

[Stacky]

What a dream to have. Maybe down the track I could think about.
Maybe Ant could but it from the sale of his magazine. We could be shareholders and haave an annual holiday there.Or mabe caretaker.

Great idea Campdog,
Hey Ant.....do you want me to cruise out there and check it out, I could tear out there this weekend. Any excuse to explore another section of the Pascoe.

[Nedly]

Here's another bit on the Cape Alumina v. Irwin family currently under discussion in the courts.

This is in the The Australian Business section, dated June 25, 2008.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23917404-5005200,00.html

[Nedly]

Another item on Cape Alumina, looks like a new haul road is to be built.

http://news.theage.com.au/business/cape-alumina-signs-agreement-with-rio-20080625-2wju.html

[Scorcher]

For those interested, I saw an advert for Message Stick this Sunday on the ABC (Sydney, anyway).

It is a special entitled "A Postcard from Pormpuraaw" -part 1 , on at 1.30 this Sunday.

The review sounds like it will be "must see TV" (for Cape York fanatics, anyway).

Scorcher

[xina]

Thanks for that Scorcher.
Cheers,
xina.

[Scorcher]

Thanks for that Scorcher.
Cheers,
xina.

Hey Xina,

I'm pretty sure that the ABC will be more reliable than Channel 7 ;) !!

I expect that they would also play the same episode nation wide.

Regards

Scorcher

[xina]

I think they're pretty much the same all over from what I've heard from other friends. As you say, ABC will probably be more reliable. Don't know much about the West coast, so I hope it's interesting.
Cheers,
xina.

[Scorcher]

I think they're pretty much the same all over from what I've heard from other friends. As you say, ABC will probably be more reliable. Don't know much about the West coast, so I hope it's interesting.
Cheers,
xina.

Here's a link to the Message Stick site with a brief outline of the show. The preview looks pretty good.

Happy viewing

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/messagestick/

[xina]

Thanks again Scorcher. Looks like a good one.
Cheers,
xina.

[Stacky]

Here's a link to the Message Stick site with a brief outline of the show. The preview looks pretty good.

Happy viewing

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/messagestick/

Our forecast is 30 knot winds and light showers.....AGAIN!!!!
So, it looks like i will be sitting at home at that time of day to watch it.

[Scorcher]

For those interested, I saw an advert for Message Stick this Sunday on the ABC (Sydney, anyway).

It is a special entitled "A Postcard from Pormpuraaw" -part 1 , on at 1.30 this Sunday.

The review sounds like it will be "must see TV" (for Cape York fanatics, anyway).

Scorcher

Did anybody catch Part 1 of this show last Sunday??

I found it very interesting. Also good to see something positive after all the bad publicity a number of aboriginal communities have had of late.

Can't wait to the next 2 episodes...

Scorcher

[xina]

Hi Scorcher, I found it interesting, but it looks like Episode 2 is going to be better. I'll be watching again this week,
Cheers,
xina.

[Stacky]

I missed it,
I spent a day in the car and explored some new areas out along 'Old Site' road. I forgot all about the program. The winds are still blowing 30+knots and apparently the Portland Roads road is closed through Tozer Gap from the unusual rain we're get. Maybe i'll be watching it this Sunday.

[xina]

Todays' doco (no2) was a goodie. Wish I could have copied it. Beautiful Crocs. Hope you didn't miss it today Stacky.
Cheers,
xina.

[xina]

Hi Scorcher, what did you think of it?
Cheers,
xina.

Where is everybody? I know Ant's up where we want to be, but nobody else is doing much talking.

[Scorcher]

Hi Scorcher, what did you think of it?
Cheers,
xina.

Where is everybody? I know Ant's up where we want to be, but nobody else is doing much talking.

Hey Xina,

I'm still here, just checking in quickly numerous times each day. In the middle of a heap of other stuff at the moment, so my mind has wandered away from Cape York a little :(

I was away all weekend, but set the tape for it. Watched it last night - an interesting and enjoyable show.

Makes me want to visit there again. Only did the drive through many moons ago, when we took the short cut from Karumba to the Cape.

Scorcher

[campdog]

Hey Xina,

I'm still here, just checking in quickly numerous times each day. In the middle of a heap of other stuff at the moment, so my mind has wandered away from Cape York a little :(

I was away all weekend, but set the tape for it. Watched it last night - an interesting and enjoyable show.

Makes me want to visit there again. Only did the drive through many moons ago, when we took the short cut from Karumba to the Cape.

Scorcher
Did you find a short cut Scorcher.Wouldnt mind finding one.

[Scorcher]

Did you find a short cut Scorcher.Wouldnt mind finding one.

G'day Campdog,

I suppose you might call it a shortcut, anyway.

1 year we left Karumba, took the Burke Development Road, went up through Palmerville Station, and came out near Laura. Only did this because the Mitchell River was impassable further downstream.

A later trip we took the Burke Development Rd from Karumba, across to Kowanyama, drove through there as quickly as possible (wasn't a very inviting looking place 10 years ago), crossed the Mitchell River, then out to Pormpuraaw, then inland to Musgrave. That was a fantastic run. Caught land locked Barra on the Coleman River, and caught the biggest Saratoga I have ever seen on the Edward River. That trip had an enormous variety of scenery & adventure.

I suppose that these routes saved backtracking all the way to Mareeba anyway.

Scorcher

[Nedly]

Hi Scorcher, what did you think of it?
Cheers,
xina.

Where is everybody? I know Ant's up where we want to be, but nobody else is doing much talking.

I've just got back from our trip and am currently trying to catch up on the latest.
Looks like there has been a lot added over the last 4 weeks.
I'll be more active once I'm up to date.

[xina]

Hi Nedly, glad you got your fix for this year. Planning the next already? Disgusting news about the Irwin place. I saw what BP did to midden sites on Bolt Head 20 years ago.
cheers,
xina.

[campdog]

G'day Campdog,

I suppose you might call it a shortcut, anyway.

1 year we left Karumba, took the Burke Development Road, went up through Palmerville Station, and came out near Laura. Only did this because the Mitchell River was impassable further downstream.

A later trip we took the Burke Development Rd from Karumba, across to Kowanyama, drove through there as quickly as possible (wasn't a very inviting looking place 10 years ago), crossed the Mitchell River, then out to Pormpuraaw, then inland to Musgrave. That was a fantastic run. Caught land locked Barra on the Coleman River, and caught the biggest Saratoga I have ever seen on the Edward River. That trip had an enormous variety of scenery & adventure.

I suppose that these routes saved backtracking all the way to Mareeba anyway.

Scorcher
Sounds like Kowanyama is the way to go.Will have to look into it.
John

[Scorcher]

Hi Nedly, glad you got your fix for this year. Planning the next already? Disgusting news about the Irwin place. I saw what BP did to midden sites on Bolt Head 20 years ago.
cheers,
xina.

Just saw this !

http://au.news.yahoo.com/a/-/latest/4986487/irwin-mining-court-case-result

[xina]

Hi Scorcher, just read your news item. Unless the Cape has changed dramatically in the last 20 years, the claims of supposed "intensive cattle grazing" are a load of BULL. NO PUN INTENDED. The reason there are so few properties still running cattle, is that it is not (or was not) a paying proposition on most properties, which is why so many went on the market when the Space Base was proposed, and they thought they could make a real profit.
Some did sell then. ( I'm talking here about properties north of the Wenlock.)
Got a blank spot at the moment. The only real paying property was the one near Weipa. Can't remember the name momentarily, but even then they had had to put in a hell of a lot of improved pasture.
I used to tell my husband at the time,that some form of eco-tourism was the way to go way back then, because the ratio of cattle per thousand hectares was so small it was ridiculous to even try to make a living with them, according to DPI figures of the day.
As I said, things may have changed since then, but I really would be surprised.
Cheers,
xina.
PS. Just remembered the name . It was Sudley.

[Stacky]

Todays' doco (no2) was a goodie. Wish I could have copied it. Beautiful Crocs. Hope you didn't miss it today Stacky.
Cheers,
xina.

Yep,
I missed it, i drove out to Cairns and left Sunday at lunch time. Just got back yesterday.
Xina, i should have got you to copy it for me. Oh well, maybe there will be a repeat down the track later.

[Nedly]

Yep,
I missed it, i drove out to Cairns and left Sunday at lunch time. Just got back yesterday.
Xina, i should have got you to copy it for me. Oh well, maybe there will be a repeat down the track later.

Missed it as well, to busy unpacking (gotta luv that) and sorting stuff out.
I wonder if you contact the ABC if the series can be purchased?, might try that.
I'll let you know how that goes.

[Scorcher]

Did anybody catch 60 minutes tonight ?

A segment on the Irwins. 2 years since Steve's tragic death, a bit on how they are going, how young Bob's growing up, and a push on the fight against the proposed Mining of a portion of the reserve.

Looks like the gloves are off & look out for Bindy and her travelling puppet show trying to gain support against the mining of the reserve.

Scorcher

[xina]

Saw it Scorcher. Bob sure looks like a chip off the old block. I wonder how long Terry wll be able to afford to keep on fighting? Hopefully CYPLUS and maybe a few other organisations will get behind her to give her a hand.
Sure envy those kids growing up that way. I'd have loved it when I was their age.
Cheers,
xina.
PS. Would you believe I missed the last Kowanyama doco.

[barney]

I also watched it - glad to see 60 minutes gave a more sympathetic view point then what a local Weipa paper has given The Irwins. They have been quite dismissive lately re: Bindi's puppet show and their fight against Cape Alumina, claiming that "locals" believe the Cape needs further development. Further development and regional infrastructure - yes, but I don't think strip mining for bauxite is the answer. By the same token, I don't necessarily agree with locking up the cape - there must be a middle ground. I think I agree with Dave Donald in his Cape Yorker interview - the development of environmental and indigenous tourism, in all shapes and forms, catering to the self-driving adventurer, the do it yourself fisherman through to your well managed tour groups is probably the answer. More power to the Irwins I say!

[Scorcher]

Saw it Scorcher. Bob sure looks like a chip off the old block. I wonder how long Terry wll be able to afford to keep on fighting? Hopefully CYPLUS and maybe a few other organisations will get behind her to give her a hand.
Sure envy those kids growing up that way. I'd have loved it when I was their age.
Cheers,
xina.
PS. Would you believe I missed the last Kowanyama doco.

Hi Xina,

Yes, it would be a wonderful adventure (in many ways) being that age, and getting to do some of the adventures they have been on. I'm sure that there is equally many downsides to it. Hopefully Steve's legacy will live on for many decades.

Kowanyama Doco.... I taped all 3, but have only watched part 1 and most of part 2. If I get a chance in the next couple of weeks, I'll see if I can copy them to DVD and get in contact with you. Just got a lot on at present, and planning to head off for a quick fishing trip up to South West Rocks in a fortnight.

I'll put it on my "to do" list.

Regards

Scorcher

[Scorcher]

I also watched it - glad to see 60 minutes gave a more sympathetic view point then what a local Weipa paper has given The Irwins. They have been quite dismissive lately re: Bindi's puppet show and their fight against Cape Alumina, claiming that "locals" believe the Cape needs further development. Further development and regional infrastructure - yes, but I don't think strip mining for bauxite is the answer. By the same token, I don't necessarily agree with locking up the cape - there must be a middle ground. I think I agree with Dave Donald in his Cape Yorker interview - the development of environmental and indigenous tourism, in all shapes and forms, catering to the self-driving adventurer, the do it yourself fisherman through to your well managed tour groups is probably the answer. More power to the Irwins I say!

G'day Barney,

Yes I agree. Middle ground so that all stakeholders are treated fairly would be nice. Unfortunately, the almighty $ is hard to beat. Mining in areas like the Skarden River, and current exploration near Pera Head is already limiting access to the fishing and adventurer groups.

Other than the strip mining, I would have great concerns over the infrastructure needed to support it all. I guess a bridge over the Wenlock to link the mining area to Weipa would be a given, and a conveyor system or haul rd to either the existing Weipa Port, or worse still to the mouth of the Wenlock, would be likely.

I'm glad I saw a lot of the Cape 20 years ago, before "progress" began in earnest.

Cheers

Scorcher

[ant]

Got to agree with Barney (and Dave Donald). I have seen the Cape change in a very short time over the last few years and it is not all for the good either.

I am trying like mad to get an article on the Irwin family for next years Cape Yorker magazine. Some areas of the Cape should be left alone and not destroyed by big companies.

[xina]

You got that right Ant, like MOST OF IT.
Cheers,
xina.

[campdog]

Hi Xina,

Yes, it would be a wonderful adventure (in many ways) being that age, and getting to do some of the adventures they have been on. I'm sure that there is equally many downsides to it. Hopefully Steve's legacy will live on for many decades.

Kowanyama Doco.... I taped all 3, but have only watched part 1 and most of part 2. If I get a chance in the next couple of weeks, I'll see if I can copy them to DVD and get in contact with you. Just got a lot on at present, and planning to head off for a quick fishing trip up to South West Rocks in a fortnight.

I'll put it on my "to do" list.

Regards

Scorcher
Heading up my way Scorcher,were heading inland from Kempsey for the Long weekend.Hope you have a good time.
John

[Scorcher]

Heading up my way Scorcher,were heading inland from Kempsey for the Long weekend.Hope you have a good time.
John

Yeah, was thinking about you up that way Campdog.

Thought that I better do the family holiday, after the boy's Cape York fishing trip a few months back.

Who knows? Might even get enough brownie points up to sneak in on next years tag-a-long trip????

Scorcher

[Scorcher]

There's a new series starting on the ABC tonight (Tues 16/9, 8am) called "Two in the Top End", with John Doyle & Tim Flannery.

They travel the area from Cooktown to Broome. If their last series "Two Men in a Tinnie" (?) down the Murray River is anything to go by, it will be worth a look.

Scorcher

[xina]

Thanks Scorcher, I hadn't noticed that.
Cheers,
xina.

[campdog]

There's a new series starting on the ABC tonight (Tues 16/9, 8am) called "Two in the Top End", with John Doyle & Tim Flannery.

They travel the area from Cooktown to Broome. If their last series "Two Men in a Tinnie" (?) down the Murray River is anything to go by, it will be worth a look.

Scorcher
I have been watching the previews on the ABC website.I think you can watch it online tomorrow if you miss it.

[campdog]

Yeah, was thinking about you up that way Campdog.

Thought that I better do the family holiday, after the boy's Cape York fishing trip a few months back.

Who knows? Might even get enough brownie points up to sneak in on next years tag-a-long trip????

Scorcher
Hat Head is my favorite spot. Were only about an Hour or so away but we always turn left and head into the bush for a quiet time,campfire and fish for bass.Oh yeah I nearly forgot.Wipe out any recovered brain cells from last trip with wild turkey.

[Scorcher]

Hi Xina,

Yes, it would be a wonderful adventure (in many ways) being that age, and getting to do some of the adventures they have been on. I'm sure that there is equally many downsides to it. Hopefully Steve's legacy will live on for many decades.

Kowanyama Doco.... I taped all 3, but have only watched part 1 and most of part 2. If I get a chance in the next couple of weeks, I'll see if I can copy them to DVD and get in contact with you. Just got a lot on at present, and planning to head off for a quick fishing trip up to South West Rocks in a fortnight.

I'll put it on my "to do" list.

Regards

Scorcher

Hi Xina,

All 3 episodes now copied to DVD HDD. I'll burn a copy and send it off to you this week.

Scorcher

[xina]

Hi Guys,
Just noticed in the next weeks' TV Guide, Australian Geographic has one on Channel 9 at 7.30 pm. Friday [tomorrow] night. Titled--- Best of Australia: Tropical North Queensland.
I don't know if it's about Cape York, or just the Cairns area. I'm hoping it's the one Geoff is in.
Cheers,
xina.

[jackslayer]

Cheer's xina, will check it out, anything to do with the cape is good to watch. Jackslayer.

[Scorcher]

Hi Guys,
Just noticed in the next weeks' TV Guide, Australian Geographic has one on Channel 9 at 7.30 pm. Friday [tomorrow] night. Titled--- Best of Australia: Tropical North Queensland.
I don't know if it's about Cape York, or just the Cairns area. I'm hoping it's the one Geoff is in.
Cheers,
xina.

Thanks Xina,

Good to see that somebody's on the ball. My TV guide didn't give too much away in the title.

Regards

Scorcher

[geoffjy]

Hi Guys,
Just noticed in the next weeks' TV Guide, Australian Geographic has one on Channel 9 at 7.30 pm. Friday [tomorrow] night. Titled--- Best of Australia: Tropical North Queensland.
I don't know if it's about Cape York, or just the Cairns area. I'm hoping it's the one Geoff is in.
Cheers,
xina.

Hi xina,

I dont know anything about this one and havnt had anything to do with Geographic.

I really should install a TV aerial so i can watch all these doco's, but as with a few other things i have to do, i will get around to it in my spare time. :eek:

[xina]

Hi xina,

I dont know anything about this one and havnt had anything to do with Geographic.

I really should install a TV aerial so i can watch all these doco's, but as with a few other things i have to do, i will get around to it in my spare time. :eek:

PM'd you before I scrolled down. Sorry about that Geoff. Did you hear we're going to have 15 channels on digital free-to-air TV early next year?
Cheers ,
xina.
PS. I don't know if the doco. is about Cape York,which was why I was asking you about it. If you'd said yes, it definitely would have been.

Cheers,
xina.

[geoffjy]

PM'd you before I scrolled down. Sorry about that Geoff. Did you hear we're going to have 15 channels on digital free-to-air TV early next year?
Cheers ,
xina.
PS. I don't know if the doco. is about Cape York,which was why I was asking you about it. If you'd said yes, it definitely would have been.

Cheers,
xina.

No worries xina.

I would love to get Austar here. It costs a couple of hundred and only once there are a few other people that want theirs installed, then they will send someone up.

The docco you are talking about, i wont be in. The centre might get a mention in the credits though or it just might be the council.

[Scorcher]

And yet more news on "Steve Irwin Reserve"....

http://au.news.yahoo.com/a/-/latest/6475567/irwins-attacked-over-out-of-control-fire/

[Handy]

yeah that would be right, blame it on the pig hunters.
they must have a short memory, steve was a mad pig hunter.
just an excuse for them being to green and not back burning. cheers

[xina]

I know a lot has changed since my time, but since when have Pig-hunters burned country, to hunt pigs?
Cheers,
xina.

[Handy]

it must be a new age thing xina.

[Nedly]

I know a lot has changed since my time, but since when have Pig-hunters burned country, to hunt pigs?
Cheers,
xina.

Crackling!
That way they can hear them coming, that's my theory anyway :rolleyes:
And it's not a lot of land that's been burnt, only 20% :rolleyes:
Not sure how big the property is but 20% couldn't be much more than say 80,000 hectares :rolleyes:

[Brigalow]

yeah that would be right, blame it on the pig hunters.
they must have a short memory, steve was a mad pig hunter.
just an excuse for them being to green and not back burning. cheers

I think the locals aint too impressed with the way the land is managed...I see they were told to remove "the gaint keep out or sign "...
In its original state re 100000000 years or so the indigenous would wonder around and do there own little burn offs....but now it seems off side for everbody errr but for 500 head of cattle that is...;)

[Handy]

a bit of free agistment going on there brigalow.

[Brigalow]

a bit of free agistment going on there brigalow.

You betchya!!!
With out getting political it peaves me off when the money makin machine of the Irwins tries to con kids into joining these wild life warriors and ask for $80 to save steves place...yep my 9 year old grand kid was bitten.

http://www.wildlifewarriors.org.au/

This mob can be found out with a little bit of a google search....they were caught red handed and flogged in court and now there conning the kids to fund there legal challengers...talk about a croc show.

http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/terri-irwin-accused-of-wildlife-charade/1262629.aspx?storypage=1



"Cape Alumina chief executive Paul Messenger said freedom-of-information searches showed Terri Irwin was planning a substantial expansion of cattle farming on the property.
Dr Messenger said expanded cattle farming on the property would be far more damaging than bauxite mining, which would take up only 2 per cent of it.
He said, ''We understand that, despite her conservation efforts, she plans an extension of the intensive cattle grazing operations through the construction of 31 dams and over 100km of barbed wire fencing and an airport funded by millions of dollars of taxpayers' funds.'' Dr Messenger challenged Ms Irwin to explain how she would protect ''the important Bertiehaugh dry vine forests from potential land degradation, overgrazing, erosion, changes to vegetation and surface water run-off caused by her intensive cattle grazing plans without any detailed environmental impact assessment''.

[highlift80]

Political or not I don't care, I've never been a fan of these people, so called Enviromental "dogooders" trying to make money off someone's name for their own gain, At least Mining companys do their homework they employ enviromental officers who implement plans and stratagies and report to the EPA they abide by strict enviriomental guidelines, they regularly undergo audits and inspections of their mining sites. These companys by law set aside 10's of millions of dollars for rehabilitation during and after their operations. They have a minimal impact and it's far more friendlier on the enviroment than over running a lease with cattle, who's managing the damage that's been done by the cattle?.

[Scorcher]

So.....

What's happening in Cape York today??

Any news? Anything on the new National Parks? Any recent news on the mining front?

Cheers

Scorcher

[loxsmith]

So.....

What's happening in Cape York today??

Any news? Anything on the new National Parks? Any recent news on the mining front?

Cheers

Scorcher

Mining will go ahead
http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2009/12/31/85365_local-news.html

[batesy]

Political or not I don't care, I've never been a fan of these people, so called Enviromental "dogooders" trying to make money off someone's name for their own gain, At least Mining companys do their homework they employ enviromental officers who implement plans and stratagies and report to the EPA they abide by strict enviriomental guidelines, they regularly undergo audits and inspections of their mining sites. These companys by law set aside 10's of millions of dollars for rehabilitation during and after their operations. They have a minimal impact and it's far more friendlier on the enviroment than over running a lease with cattle, who's managing the damage that's been done by the cattle?.


Geez, I missed this one earlier.

Highlift, I gotta disagree with you here. I reckon a few cattle cocky's up north might too.

Firstly, don't believe the mining company's line about any of the above (EPA etc) ... ANY MINING COMPANY - be it RIO, BHP, XSTRATA, CAPE ALUMINA, MATILDA, CHINALCO... the list goes on.

Secondly, I'm not against mining. I've lived in mining towns since 3 years of age. My family has always been in mining. Even our weekends were spent prospecting.

Mines provide income, tax revenue for gov, and development opportunities. The flip side is that mining companies are run by people. People are often fallible. They don't do the proper research, they don't give a toss about the correct way to maintain sustainability with development - water/environment/animals. Many managers/workers have a single purpose - moving higher up the chain.

You would be astounded at some of the inbuilt stupidity in certain circles within mining companies.

Yes, let's mine our resources. But let's do it properly instead of having the lies and soft power approach by manipulating the media and general public.

Am I fan of the Irwins? Can't say I know them. Could be some muddied info from them as well.

All in all - not good.

Powerful people are all around us. And they play us like puppets.

Maybe one day I'll write a book about this stuff!! ;)



Lots of stuff happens behind closed doors ... and not much of it for our collective benefit.

[loxsmith]

Abbott to overturn Wild Rivers Act
The latest from our powers that be
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=993021

Glen

[geoffjy]

So.....

What's happening in Cape York today??

Any news? Anything on the new National Parks? Any recent news on the mining front?

Cheers

Scorcher

No idea. Have been trying to get back since sunday. On our Air NZ flight we had a cracked windscreen and got diverted to brissy. Got into cairns this arvo on the next available flight then onto horn island tomorrow then Bamaga on Friday. So much for starting work yesterday.

[Nedly]

No idea. Have been trying to get back since sunday. On our Air NZ flight we had a cracked windscreen and got diverted to brissy. Got into cairns this arvo on the next available flight then onto horn island tomorrow then Bamaga on Friday. So much for starting work yesterday.

Cracked windscreen on plane, not a bad excuse.
I'll have to remember that one the next time I need a reason for the boss as to why I'm late back from my hol's.

[geoffjy]

Cracked windscreen on plane, not a bad excuse.
I'll have to remember that one the next time I need a reason for the boss as to why I'm late back from my hol's.

It's a good one hey. Its been on the news a bit.

[campdog]

You would think those planes going the other way would slow down and stop flicking stones up

[ant]

Probably didn't have their headlights on either!!

[geoffjy]

Finally made it back to Bamaga Friday morning. Talk about a sigh of relief. Our plane from Cairns was delayed an hour and the turbulance was pretty good too.

Have caught up a bit with what is happening in Oz. From what i have heard and read on the news, they might be trying to overturn the Wild Rivers decision. Be interesting to see what happens here.

[geoff.hardiker]

Hi guys,

We're only a month away from leaving Brisbane for the Cape and we were wondering if the graders are out on the roads yet.

And how long it would take to grade the main road after it is dry enough for work to start.

I'm not looking forward to navigating chopped up roads for hundreds of k's, then again a three week holiday in the Lions Den bar could have it's good points.

Regards
Geoff

[yetti]

gday all,

just thought i'd pass on some info. the week just gone has seen a fair whack of rain on the npa (sat - wed). since then things have eased a tonne. i actually got home on thurs!

more importantly a group of 4 vehicles rolled in on monday. They left cairns the previous thursday arrived late monday. They reckon the PDR is a breeze, and believe it or not they say they did the whole OTL. admittedly they were in fairly hardcore vehicles, but said they did it fairly easy.

i should say this info was passed on after a few beers, and one of the blokes worked up here a couple of years ago and the run was more about the trip rather than the destination.

hope that settles a few of your nerves!!

cheers,
BAT

[campdog]

Cape York wouldnt be the same without the pot holes and corrugations.I loved the bit from Captain Billy turn until Bamaga when you wernt sure if your 4b would fly to bits. Or your trailer falls in half or blow a few tyres. Everything full of dust and of course the beauty of the place. Ill take the old road anytime. Cooktown to Lakefield to Musgrave to Chille Beach and back up Frenchman rd to the tele track with a 4wd drive full of water in Nolans.
Bloody hell I wish I packing for the Cape this week rather than Samoa. Better get the DVDs out to calm me down.
John

[Scorcher]

I'm feeling your pain Campdog ! I'm sure that you will have a great time in Samoa.

9 weeks & counting for Cape York trip No11 for me. Just about roughed out an itinery. Meet up with my gang at Cooktown, up to Bathurst Bay, across and up to Vrilya Point, down to Kowanyama then across to Chillago, whizz into Cairns to drop the family off (who are flying home), then a road trip with the boy's back to Sydney.

Can't wait !!

p.s.......good to see you still poking your head in every now & then !

Cheers

Scorcher

[campdog]

I'm feeling your pain Campdog ! I'm sure that you will have a great time in Samoa.

9 weeks & counting for Cape York trip No11 for me. Just about roughed out an itinery. Meet up with my gang at Cooktown, up to Bathurst Bay, across and up to Vrilya Point, down to Kowanyama then across to Chillago, whizz into Cairns to drop the family off (who are flying home), then a road trip with the boy's back to Sydney.

Can't wait !!

p.s.......good to see you still poking your head in every now & then !

Cheers

Scorcher
Hi Scorcher. Havent been away, always looking in here, just dont want to cause myself too much pain thinking about the Cape. My mate leaves for the Cape the week after we get back from Samoa. Cant go because we are off to Tonga in August. We were supposed to off on a 2 month Kimberley trip this year but work wont allow, thats why we are doing a couple of Island trips instead.
My thread on 4wd monthly is still kicking so I hope to update it one day when we get back to the Cape.
John

[geoff.hardiker]

gday all,

just thought i'd pass on some info. the week just gone has seen a fair whack of rain on the npa (sat - wed). since then things have eased a tonne. i actually got home on thurs!

more importantly a group of 4 vehicles rolled in on monday. They left cairns the previous thursday arrived late monday. They reckon the PDR is a breeze, and believe it or not they say they did the whole OTL. admittedly they were in fairly hardcore vehicles, but said they did it fairly easy.

i should say this info was passed on after a few beers, and one of the blokes worked up here a couple of years ago and the run was more about the trip rather than the destination.

hope that settles a few of your nerves!!

cheers,
BAT

That's good news, I was prepared for corrugations but some of the tracks down this way end up with deep wheel ruts after rain and it makes for pretty slow going.
Regards
Geoff

[GQ conquers all]

G'day, I'm planning a trip to Cape York in July with my GQ 4.2 diesel Patrol and want to tow a 4m boat with offroad trailer as far as possible. I assume getting to Weipa would be no problem but can anyone tell me where else on the cape you can launch a boat and would be accessible with a good trailer? I'm hoping to get out to the islands and reefs near Cape Melville either from Cape Melville Nat Pk or from the creek mouth at Port Stewart, and maybe other spots on the east coast of the cape further north.
cheers,
AB

[Scorcher]

G'day AB,

If your trailer is suitable for offroad travel, in particular beefed up springs & rattle proof, there should be no reason that you can't travel to all places where standard 4x4 vehicles towing Camper Trailers go. You just need to take the necessary care on the ever changing road conditions.

Water crossings shouldn't be an issue by July.

Cape Melville & Port Stewart (in particular) shouldn't cause any issues, Weipa and surrounds (including Mapoon) give you a few options. If you head over the Jardine, you obviously have Seisia on the west, and access to the Jackey Jackey system on the east. I've also seen some pretty big tinnies launched at Vrilya Point over the years.

Cheers

Scorcher

[GQ conquers all]

Thanks scorcher. What about launching at Capt Billy Landing? Red Cliffs or Olive River? The boat is a 4.3m 4mm plate so it's heavier than a tinnie but should survive the corrigations, it needs to be launched into about 30cm of water (too heavy to drag) but the trailer is tilt and has an extending drawbar.
If you think I'll be able to get it into most of these places, which are your picks as the best camp and fishing spots?
cheers,
AB

[Scorcher]

Thanks scorcher. What about launching at Capt Billy Landing? Red Cliffs or Olive River? The boat is a 4.3m 4mm plate so it's heavier than a tinnie but should survive the corrigations, it needs to be launched into about 30cm of water (too heavy to drag) but the trailer is tilt and has an extending drawbar.
If you think I'll be able to get it into most of these places, which are your picks as the best camp and fishing spots?
cheers,
AB

AB,

I haven't been to Captain Billy's for many years, so couldn't really say. I haven't heard of "Red Cliff's".....could you be referring to Vrilya Point, south of the Jardine River?. From the reports I have heard about the Olive River, I think that you may struggle. Also, it has restricted access, and doesn't normally open up until later in the season (from what I have been told).

My favourite spot? Definately Vrilya Point. Hard sand for boat launching, easy access to estuaries both north & south, and plenty of bommies holding a wide variety of fish.

Hope this helps.....

Cheers

Scorcher

[GQ conquers all]

Thanks Scorcher. I had a look at pics of Vrilya Point, looks great.

Red Cliffs is a spot marked on the ExplorOz web maps about 25km south of Capt Billy Landing, outside of the national park (east of Richardson Range), at 142.85355, -11.81800. I'm hoping to get out to the islands and reefs out from the point between here and Olive River. My boat is small but has high sides and is very seaworthy for it's size, and can go 40km out on a good day.

Also a yachty told me it's often very windy up the cape over winter, do you have any comment on this or can you suggest what months between May and Sept would be likely to be the calmest? Are the winds mainly easterly or westerly this time of year?
cheers, AB

[ant]

Also a yachty told me it's often very windy up the cape over winter, do you have any comment on this or can you suggest what months between May and Sept would be likely to be the calmest? Are the winds mainly easterly or westerly this time of year?
cheers, AB

GQ,
Winds during that time of year are south easterly and it generally is a bit of a gamble to picking a 'calm' period.
Hope Scorcher can help you out a little more with the rest of the details.

[GQ conquers all]

Just checked out the BOM website - east coast of the cape looks bloody windy in winter - better start getting my sea legs now!

[yetti]

GQ,

Mate across the top of the cape, you can generally assume (read hope), that winds will drop over the quarter moon. Winds generally ease from october on, and may can be fairly kind. personally from the quarter to the full would be my pick of weather guessing??!!

A lot of people make the mistake of believing that the GBR provides a lot of protection off shore, and that the sea conditions are not as bad as, quote 'bass strait', 'off Sydney heads' etc. well for the record, in winds over 20 kn....expect the worst. swell will generally be around 2m, with a 2mt chop...coming from every direction....literally.

my tub has 6mm bottom and sides and at 6.1m, weighs 1.5 tonnes. I'vee been smashed in 15-20kn only 3 km offshore after a morning of greasy conditions.

Be careful, cos you won't sea another boat.

stay safe,
cheers,
BAT

[Scorcher]

Thanks Scorcher. I had a look at pics of Vrilya Point, looks great.

Red Cliffs is a spot marked on the ExplorOz web maps about 25km south of Capt Billy Landing, outside of the national park (east of Richardson Range), at 142.85355, -11.81800. I'm hoping to get out to the islands and reefs out from the point between here and Olive River. My boat is small but has high sides and is very seaworthy for it's size, and can go 40km out on a good day.

Also a yachty told me it's often very windy up the cape over winter, do you have any comment on this or can you suggest what months between May and Sept would be likely to be the calmest? Are the winds mainly easterly or westerly this time of year?
cheers, AB

We try to coincide all our Cape York trips to get out of the colder months in Sydney. Our last 10 trips have been between late April to late July.

Yes, the prevailing wind during the May to Sept period tends to be predominantly South East. We tend to spend most of our time on the west coast, which is much more pleasant except when the big blows are on.

On the trips when we have stopped on the east coast, predominantly at Cape Melville, we have been lucky to snag a few good day's, but most of the time we have needed to "batten the hatches" down. Having said that, you do get a little bit of relief from the south-easterlies in Bathurst Bay. There are also numerous islands within a short distance from shore, as well as a number of creeks & rivers.

Cheers

Scorcher

[GQ conquers all]

Thanks guys, lots of good tips. Bring on July!

[plucker]

Chilli beach sees a few boats launching - even real big ones. From there you can go out to the reef which is just there or go down to Lochart river for a bit of fun.

There is a few boat ramps down the Lochart way, one being on Quitell beach which is exposed and the other is on the Jeannie River which is in the same bay as the Lochart.
You might need permission from the locals for them though.

A little north is Portlands road which would be a calm launch point and you could head North for the Pascoe which is about 6 or 7 KM's from memory. It is also zoned olive as opposed to green out the front.

All of the northern east coast does experience the "Mango Winds" that time of the year. They call them that because they blow all the week fruit from the trees, and it happens for weeks at a time.
You have to be lucky to pick a calm time.

On the other hand the west coast seems to be immuned to a lot of this.

[Scorcher]

Yes Plucker,

The West Coast will give you a lot more potential fishing time due to the calmer conditions.

Last trip we spent a bit of time at Vrilya Point. Unfortunately it coincided with a Land Gale warning on the East Coast, which whizzed across Heathlands causing metre high wind waves coming from the shore. Much fun in a 12 foot tinny !

Cheers

Scorcher

[xina]

I remember going home [to Temple Bay] from Portland Roads in a 16ft Tinny with 6 inch freeboard, and a 4-5 ft. following sea about 3 ft. from the stern.
Not very comforting to watch. That was around Fair Cape. The saying up there used to be, [and probably still is,] "Fair Cape is a Fair Cow".

Cheers,
xina.

[Scorcher]

I found this recent article while doing a search on the Skardon River..

http://bonzle.com/c/a?a=p&p=310788&cmd=sp&place=Skardon%20River%20Mine&file=Skardon_River_Mine.htm

Does anybody know anything about this??

A bit of google searching indicated that the Kaolin Mine was closed (mine equipment listed on Grays On Line a few months ago), and the mining of Bauxite was now being looked at.

Just doing a bit of research for our next trip up to the Cape next year, and looking at access into some of the more remote areas of the Cape...

Scorcher

[Scorcher]

And a bit of info about Rio Tinto's plans to the south of Weipa

http://cairnschamber.com.au/images/RioTinto_180811_South_of_Embley_CCoC_Presentation. pdf

[plucker]

Not real sure of what is happening at the Skardon River now.

When I was there a number of years ago it was permit only collected by the mine. The locals were looking at closing access to the fairer skinned people which was through the mine site because of the rubbish that was left around.

Is a nice place to visit if you can get there.

[Scorcher]

Yes Plucker, fully agree.

We went there 3 or 4 times back in the late 80's, early 90's. No access issues then, no mine, and very few people too !!

Last I heard also was that Permits were still possible, but limited. We bumped into a group a few years ago at Vrilya Point who had permits for a 3 week trip. Lucky buggers ! Not cheap though...

A mate just emailed me some further media releases indicating that a W.A. group has bought out the Skarden River Kaolin Mine (very cheaply), and were doing some further exploration before starting it up again. Also, many areas between the Wenlock River & the Skardon River have been identified for future Iron Ore mining.

Scorcher

[batesy]

Yes Plucker, fully agree.

Also, many areas between the Wenlock River & the Skardon River have been identified for future Iron Ore mining.



........ :(

[geoffjy]

I called in there in May when i did my two weeks away down the coast. No one was at the mine. There is only a caretaker back from the mine where the accomodation is. You can still obtain a permit to access the area for the time being.

[Scorcher]

Thanks Geoff,

I've had a couple of conflicting reports about where to organise a permit from.

One was to get it from the Camping Ground in Weipa, the other was from a person in the community north of Weipa (can;t locate the number).

Do you have any idea??

How's the fishing going? Managing to get out very often these days?

Scorcher

[geoffjy]

Hi Scorcher,

The crew at Bramwell Junction said that you could actually ring up Weipa Campground and pay for it and get the permit faxed through. I believe the council office in Weipa may provide permits.

Not getting out as much as what i would like. Went out 40km off the east coast the other day and got a few tuna and trout. Wind picked up in the arvo and come home.

[Scorcher]

Thanks Geoff, I'll give them a call.

40km's to get only a few fish?? A bad day out fishing is usually better than a good day at work I would guess !! Things should start firing shortly though !

Cheers

Scorcher

[geoffjy]

We weren't fishing hard. We left about 8am and got back about 4pm. Water was glassed out in the morning.