Day 15, 6/3/26, Strathgordon Dam, to Ted's Beach

 Another full day of exploration ahead of us, we packed up and tried again, unsuccessfully, to pay for our lovely camping spot. To this date we are still in their debt, with no response to emails with accounts to pay etc.!!

First stop Junee Caves River system. Only disappointment is that one couldn't enter the caves, well, no organized walk even in the entry, its really only for experienced and equipped cavers, and a solid gate ensures the safety of other inquisitive people.

Where the underground river emerges

Even spotted a trout?

Then drove out to Strathgordon Dam, beautiful scenery, rugged mountains and impressive engineering feats all on display. Having been advised that we must visit the Pedder Wilderness Lodge, thanks Nathaniel, it was our first stop. All that driving and viewing of scenery makes one hungry. We were not disappointed, so suitably fueled up, us and the camper, off we went to the Dam. Again, thanks Nathaniel, other wise without your recommendation we may not of gone due to the bit extra driving, but it was well worth it. I am always awed by the ingenuity of those who build major infrastructure like this, and what a stunning place to work! Though looking at all those ladders and steps, everyone who works out here must get very fit, it was enough just to walk down, and then back up, all the steps to gain access to the dam wall.

Yummy lunch, nice to be inside was cold out and windy.

Then off we went to try to get a campsite at Ted's Beach campsite on the shores of  Lake Pedder, created by the dam. Already very busy when we got there, so pulled up at one spot while Naarah walked around to see if there was a better spot. She did find one, and after much maneuvering of the camper, I managed to get it relatively level so we didn't roll out of bed, and cuppas didn't slide off the table. We then just relaxed and indulged in a entertaining past time of watching more late arrivals do the same as us in trying to find a campsite. This camp site, Ted's again is one mans vision, who fulfilled his dream even when everyone poo pooed his idea. He created the campsite before the dam was finished, hence everyone must off laughed at his "beach" idea, but he knew better, and as the dam filled, the water came up, and lo and behold, the action of water and waves with the wind washed on the shoreline, and soon a beach appeared from the sandy broken down rock of the area. Now there is a beautiful spot for everyone to enjoy, with enough sand that some camp spots only accessible by 4WD's. A toilet block with covered BBQ and dining area complete the facilities, which we saw much enjoyed by some late arrivals. These must be regulars, who come with a trailer full of kayaks, as with army precision they flicked up their little tents all around the toilet block, where I wouldn't of thought to pitch a tent, but as long as the ground is relatively level it's far game, then noisily played card games into the night, tempted to jump in and join in their Qwiddler game.

Our little spot, hotter here, so got our gear dried.

Ted's beach

Loved the tannin coloured water

The feral cat.

Writing this, just remembered we forgot to report the cat we sighted there to national parks, as its definitely not the place for a feral cat to take up residence!