The Ghan - one of the Great Rail Journeys of the World - day 2

We awoke to another change in landscape, were amazed at how well the bathroom worked, then headed to the restaurant for another multi course breakfast.

We spent some time sitting in a siding just out of Alice Springs but eventually arrived at the station and transferred to our coaches. We chose the West Ventures tour, a visit to Standley Chasm and Simpson's Gap. From the coach I was reminded of the landscape that became synonymous with Albert Namitjira, red earth and white trunked trees.

We had been to Standley Chasm many years ago and it was just as breathtaking now as then. I adore the colours of the Centre. Our young guide showed us many plants and told us about their medicinal uses to the aboriginal people.

We had a short break on the way to Simpson's Gap where we saw a very old ghost gum. In fact, this stop was one of logistics because once another coach drove by in the opposite direction we were able to move off. 

Arriving at the Gap we were directed to where lunch was set up. Sitting in the sandy base of the Gap, in the shade of ghost gums, we were offered a very fresh and delicious picnic lunch. Somehow it felt very special.

Our guide this afternoon was very experienced and probably very well educated. His theme was survival in the bush ... how to find water, how to make  tools for hunting, foods found in the bush. He was articulate and charismatic and I'm sure all came away with a greater understanding of living life in the outback and the aboriginal culture.

Returning to the train we had a short time to dress before going to the Old Telegraph Station for Dinner under the Stars. What a night!

On arrival we were welcomed by a country music duo and waiters with glasses of bubbles. There was time for short camel rides, a blacksmithing demonstration and a look at the displays in the Old Telegraph Station.

We were seated with eight New Zealanders who had been on an eight day coach trip to Uluru and beyond and had just picked up The Ghan again. The food, the wine and the service could not be faulted. Four courses with no shortages, and of course happy and generous staff caring for every-one.

The band played throughout the evening, an astronomer with a comedic bent entertained us and by the time the fruit and cheese platters and the port came out most people were up dancing in the sand. All lights were turned off for the demonstration of the various constellations, we sat there in total darkness under a blanket of stars.

It was truly a night to remember.