So off we we went, pulling our suitcases behind us! Sure enough, along came our pick up bus, and we joined the 30 or so other folk who would be traveling with us on the Ghan.
Now this train is enormous! 38 carriages, 2 locomotives of 4000 horsepower each, and a length of 902 meters, almost a kilometer long! There are Four dining cars, four lounges, and four kitchens.
There are 217 guests, most of whom are “aged” , some of whom are infirm(have to include myself in that group, as I’ve brought my walking pole along to assist me when necessary) and some of whom are younger and fitter.
We boarded without incident, half a dozen steep stairs, and found our room. It was quite a stark contrast to the last five nights we have enjoyed in our room in Darwin :).
At 10am, we felt the train moving, we were on our way. An enjoyable lunch was served in our dining room, although TRO found choosing between curry, chicken and vegetarian a little tricky, as he’s not keen on any of those dishes.
Our first off train excursion we chose was to
https://www.katherineoutbackexperience.com.au/
This was a great show, we all loved it. A fabulous exhibition of horse training, and working dogs. Some singing and joking thrown in along the way.
We were given afternoon tea, and were able to cuddle the new puppies on the property. It was a very hot day, but the show was made comfortable by being under cover.
Back on the Ghan, we changed for our 6.30 dinner timing, where the menu was more to someone’s satisfaction. I think three of us had barramundi for main, and we all had mango parfait for dessert.
I finished up with coffee and Baileys, I’d forgotten how much I enjoy a Baileys.
Our beds (bunks) had been made up whilst we ate, and now there was even less room to move around in!
An early night for all of us, it had been a long day.
Yes those carriages are a little tight :)
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