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11th August 2008.
Located in the largest shire in the world (Shire of East Pilbara, 371,696sq kms), Marble Bar has the reputation of being the hottest town in Australia. The record is 160 consecutive days over 38.7 degrees recorded in the sweltering summer of 1923-24. It also boasts a Jasper Bar which was originally mistaken for Marble, which is how the town got it's name, so decided it was worth a visit.
Leaving Port Hedland, we came across some very safety conscious termite mounds. They were all wearing safety hats :)
The drive there was pretty interesting with the first part being some of the most barren and desolate ground we've covered so far. Hard to believe the cattle survive out here in these harsh conditions. Then out of no where, we come across Coongan Pool and some very picturesque tight and winding roads up over the hills. Slow going though with a 40kph speed limit on most bends for a few kms.. Once through, the countryside opens up to wide rolling hills the rest of the way.
The town of Marble Bar is quite small with not much here. The local Roadhouse is obviously the main fuel supply, but it's also the local supermarket and cafe.
The colourful rocks are quite a sight and we've never seen anything like them before. A few different gorges and pools in the area, so plenty to see.
There's quite a bit of history in the town, Corunna Downs Air Base, Iron Clad Battery, Old Comet Gold Mine and the trip here was worth it. It's nowhere near as spectacular as other places we've visited, but it a really different place to visit.
Life on The Road:
Although it's winter, it's really starting to get hotter during the day as we head further north and we're looking forward to getting the air conditioning unit replaced in Broome.
Can't believe the red dust, it gets into every crack and cranny and even makes all the towns and buildings look old and dirty and it's getting worse the further north we get. Pity the poor people living with it all the time.
Still having a ball and enjoying every minute of the trip. |
Our Trip 
