Caravan trip 2015 Coober Pedy 21.6.15

From Mannum we drove to Port Augusta which was a long day but as the weather wasn't particularly kind it was a reasonable thing to do. More pleasant rural scenery.  As we were tired the next day decided to spend it relaxing in Port Augusta. Tried out the washing machine which seems to do a good job and Bill fixed the water pump to the drinking water tap which had developed an air lock.  Did some shopping and later in the afternoon part of one of my molars fell off.  The very helpful staff at the Caravan Park organised for me to see a dentist the next morning.  The dentist turned out to be a  young chinese girl who was extremely gentle and, hopefully, very deft.  Got away at 11.30 am and set off up the Stuart Highway.  The Stuart was also looking quite lush for that part of the world after recent rains.  Stopped at Pimba for lunch and Bon Bon Rest Area for a night's free camp. A cold night but not too many trucks roaring past.  Into Coober Pedy by 11 am the next morning.  After setting up at the Big 4 we did a quick orientation drive around town.  Since we last visited in 2001 things have changed quite a bit.  A lot of modern homes have sprung up and the main street has kerbing etc.  All looks quite tidied up although there are still many many old wrecked trucks, cars, buses, tractors lying around. After lunch we drive out to the Breakaways which were looking very colourful.  Continued on the loop round past The Castle, the Dog Fence and out to the William Creek Road.  Lots of excellent scenery and a nice relaxing pace. A nice afternoon.
Today we spent exploring the township, visiting an Opal mine, opal shops, underground churches etc.

The Breakaways