Story and photos by Fireman Ron and Di Sinclair
Takarakka Bush Resort is THE place to stay when visiting the beautiful Carnarvon Gorge in central Queensland. We’d been told that the road to Takarakka Bush Resort was unsealed and not so good, but it’s all sealed and good. Takarakka’s quite a way from the nearest town, so you need to book ahead and get fuel at either Injune, to the south or Rolleston to the north on your way in. You may need it on the way out!
As we pulled into the Takarakka Bush Resort entry I was immediately impressed with the natural beauty of the place and the obvious care they take in maintaining the grounds Check-in procedure was quick and painless and we settled into a very spacious, flat site with power and water.
There are a number of amenities blocks, including the new dump point, which were very clean and modern to cater for the crowds that flock to this fabulous part of the world. The park is set up in sections which range from ‘camping areas’ depending on what you are towing or need to on-site accommodation.
Takarakka Bush Resort staff, and guests, are extremely friendly. Every afternoon at four o’clock is Happy Hour on the deck, where everyone gathers to make new friends and chat about the ‘Gorge’ and their other travels. Everyone also gets the chance to cook and eat together at the fantastic camp kitchens, and then you can spend some time around the big open fire to wind down the day. If you’re there on the right days the resort puts on a fabulous roast dinner a couple of nights a week, but it’s essential to book ahead. We also managed to catch a movie on the deck after dinner and thoroughly enjoyed the open-air experience with a bunch of other travellers.
Takarakka Bush Resort offers guided tours of Carnarvon Gorge as well as an Astronomy Tour presented by a genuine astronomer. Combine this with the native flora and fauna, such as Kangaroos, Wallabies, Echidnas, lots of birds and even Platypus, and you will soon realise that you haven’t allowed enough days for your Takarakka experience.