Chillagoe

While at Mareeba we decide to go for a day drive to Chillagoe, about 140 km each way. There are three sections of unsealed road between Almaden and Chillagoe, about 20 km in total. The day was clear so off we went, with thermos and packed lunch. On the way out we passed small groups of cyclists on 'mountain bikes'. All the bikes were showing numbers, so we guessed that this must be some sort of competition ride. On arrival at Chillagoe we found the answer. This bike race is known as 'The Crocodile Trophy' and is an international event, apparently. Some riders have participated in 'The Tour de France'. This was day 2 of the event and this leg was 157 km. The race that began in Cairns is to finish at Daintree via Laura and Cooktown, the race is 1160 km in total.

Just arrived at Chillagoe and it's time for picnic lunch at the park.

An old 'Australia Bank' vault. Any wonder they went out of business, there is no door on the vault.

Not the Post Office, but the Post Office Hotel, main street in Chillagoe.

The Hub, Chillagoe Information Centre. While talking to Tonia in the Centre she asked: "Are you staying in town tonight?" We replied: "No we are only here for the day." To which she replied: "You had better not leave it too late in leaving then, the clouds are building up and the road becomes very slippery when wet." Sure enough, it started raining on the way home, we got through but the car got very dirty. Some of the late arrivals in 'The Trophy' were also very wet.

On the way to Balancing Rock.

Here is Balancing Rock, with a bit of support from Noel.

A giant's chair.

The edge of the slag heap at the abandoned smelter, with the view beyond.

Two of the old smoke stacks at the smelter.

A third smoke stack.

Some of the abandoned equipment, entry to these areas is prohibited because of crumbling masonary.

Another photo of more old machinery.