Fri, 8th Jan, 2016 Thegoa Lagoon & Reserve, Wentworth (Thegoa Lagoon)

Cold morning, 18 degrees, with a strong wind.

Went for a drive to check out the Thegoa Lagoon following the self-guided map I picked up. Near Lock 10 was the information board. We are camped in the left corner where the yellow line reaches the Murray River.

The inlet regulator was installed in 1956 to allow water into the Lagoon. No water flowing in at the moment.

Followed the track past the cemetery. Not very inviting countryside.

Mr Goanna stood his ground – well until we got too close then he slowly moved away and climbed up the tree.

Stopped to check out this unusual bush – but it turned out to be a heap of feathers stuck in the branches.

The creek area.

Interesting formation in the branches – they say it was created by the aborigines grafting the branches together to create circle – to show the boundary of their land. There was another purpose given and that it was a place of offering. Was pretty good but not sure if it was just natural. Steve now checking out all the trees.

Lots of young River Red Gums along the edge of the Lagoon.

Steve spotted another circular branch but it had died before joining completely.

Found the start of the Lagoon.

There was a bird hide with information too.

Further around were a couple of properties – lovely draught horse – also saw a wagon with car tyres that he pulls.

More grape vines too – using the water from the lagoon.

Another boundary tree – there were also midden piles and scar trees.

A lot more water in this part of the lagoon, which is up to 3 metres deep here.

Another bird hide and we think the framework is for the birds to sit on so people can watch them.

Back around to the Murray River where the river red gums are growing well. The final boundary tree has died and crashed to the ground.

Up the track to our van and lunch. 31 degrees though it felt a lot warmer as we drove around. When we bought the Hema there was a note about getting a new map so I got the details and set everything up for the upload as we have good reception here. Took over an hour but everything went ok – I hate doing those in case it all crashes!!

Back into town to dump the toilet and get some milk we saw an interesting set up – should have stopped and asked how he got permission for that. Steve said to send it to Steve Allard too.

As we pulled in beside our van, Mr Goanna raced up the tree. He dug in his claws and just hung there for hours.

He was watching Steve but then it made some noises so he turned to keep an eye on me too.

Sitting by the river having a drink I spotted a heap of heads bobbing up and down. It was the nursery school of Cormorants having a swimming lesson. It was so cute.

All together now – and duck!!

Then they got excited and started to fly too. Got a good video.

Clouds have come over but still a strong breeze though Steve got the camp oven going ok. Had a nice chat with Jon – he said it is very hot and muggy at home.

After tea though the breeze stopped and it stayed warm for the night.