FIELD NOTES// Banka Banka Station

BANKA BANKA STATION

18° 47′ 32.024’’ S, 134° 1′ 51.088’’ E

Nestled into the side of the Stuart Highway is Banka Banka Station. A wonderful spot if you’re in need of a night of respite. Friendly staff, traditional camp kitchen, facilities and some beautiful walks.

Head up the hill out the back to the lookout and you’re surrounded by rocks of bright orange and a 360-degree view of the station and road in and out.

It’s a calming spot to sit for a few moments, to sketch the trees and to daydream while the sun beats down on your gently closed eyelids.

A walk further off the property brings you to a haven for birdlife. An oasis in the middle of the paddock. A waterhole teeming with life. Sitting there you become aware of the birds walking slowly, stalking their prey. The walls of rock cliffs disappearing into the water – their reflections whisper oranges and rusts, tinted green by the waterhole. Flies languish and stick to your skin. Slow to move away.

The bush cracks around you. The gentle rustle of leaves. Simple. Understated. But with the gentle promise of life. Existing. Coming and going.

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NOTES

Smells like:

Dry leaves.

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Sounds like:

The bush cracking. Leaves rustling.

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Looks like:

Burnt orange, tangerine, rust, ochre. New colours of rocks protruding from the ground.

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