TAFE SA: Tuesday October 16th - DAY 4

Team at Mataranka Hot Springs

We finally arrived in Darwin after 4 days on the road. After leaving Daly Waters this morning, we headed to Mataranka Hot Springs for a swim. The thermal pool was surrounded by palm trees filled with bats (Little Red Flying Fox). We all enjoyed the swimming after the dust and heat.

After stopping in Katherine for fuel we headed for Darwin. In the afternoon we saw many fires burning in the bush along the side of the road. The sky was overcast and often filled with smoke. We were concerned for the loss of direct sunlight and its effect on the solar car. Using the pyranometer we measured less than 100 w/sq.m compared to over 900 in clear direct sunlight.

After setting up in a large bus area in the caravan park we enjoyed another swim in their pool and a superb curry dinner put together by our marvellous chefs.