MUST   DO   GNARALOO  

101 things to do while you visit one of the most
incredible destinations in Australia
 

1) Keep a look out

Throughout your stay do regular visual sweeps of the horizon and the land around you. You are most likely to see pods of dolphins surfing the waves, manta rays dancing their way along the back of the reef, a curious turtle having a bit of a squiz around (or if you're very lucky, cruising up the beach to lay a nest* !), schools of tuna generating a white water maelstrom with seabirds chasing whatever they are chasing and last but not least - mighty whales doing full breaches of the ocean. On land you can see emus, kangaroos, eagles and goannas as well as our very own sheep and goats.
* please ask for information on turtle interaction so our turtles are not disturbed !  

2) Do a night beach walk 

Grab your torch and head North from 3 mile along the beach after dark.

You may see a variety of fish and rays in the shallows, and you will definitely see hundreds of amazing Ghost Crabs. They come out nightly and are both interesting and hilarious with their antics.  But look out for those googly eyes watch your toes with interest. 

3) Hike between 3 mile and the Homestead 

Ideally – it will be a low tide. That way you can walk along the beach the entire way prior to making your way over the dunes to the Homestead (the operational hub of Gnaraloo Station.) The hike takes a comfortable 2 hours (or 4 return) A good option is for 2 people to head off from 3 Mile while 2 others drive to the Homestead and set off from there. That way you can meet halfway – everyone gets to see it all and the car finds its way home. 

4) Visit Gnaraloo Bay
Gnaraloo Bay is a pristine white beach that stretches for miles. There is a surf break off Gnaraloo Point, fantastic snorkelling directly off the beach and there is no problem finding a private stretch all to yourself. There is excellent beach fishing from 6 Mile and when the sea breeze comes in at 3 Mile – it’s offshore at Gnaraloo Bay. For joy – For joy. 
  

5) Check out Monument Cliffs

Geographically – the cliffs are magnificent – however – on a big swell you will witness some of the most awesome perspectives of the power of the ocean that you are ever likely to see. After all – it was the waves that forged these cliffs and it truly is a sight to behold. I personally recommend sunset as the best time to be there.  
   
6) Snorkel the 3 Mile Lagoon

The lagoon at 3 mile camp is nothing other than spectacularly special. Not only does it form part of the Ningaloo Marine Park – it is also within a sanctuary zone. A beautiful white sandy beach leads you straight into the lagoon. It’s like we have our own aquarium. Staghorn, fan and brain coral abound as does a prolific sea life that includes a multitude of fish species, turtles, sponges, shellfish, squids and rays. The lagoon is protected from the swell so the visibility is usually better than good and it’s an awesome and safe spot to introduce both yourselves and your children to the wonders of the Ningaloo Marine Park 
 



7) Check out Tombstones 

You don’t have to be a surfer, wave sailor or kiteboarder to appreciate the talent and skills of those that travel from all corners of the globe to experience the wave at Tombstones. On a global scale it is a serious wave and one that needs to be treated with a great deal of respect. Professionals in all 3 disciplines travel to Gnaraloo to enjoy the wave and train here during their respective off seasons from the world circuit.  
 
8)  Catch a fish

I have been witness to some of the most hopelessly equipped, unlikely and inexperienced fisher people reel in the catch of their lives here. It’s really not very hard to supplement your diet with a fish that would cost you a fortune in a restaurant and there is nothing quite like catching your own feast. There is a bulk of information on where (and where not) and when to go, up at the 3 Mile shop as well as bait and a limited supply of tackle. Your worst case scenario is that you might spend a couple of hours in quiet contemplation on one of the most pristine coastlines in the country. It sort of makes it OK to come home empty handed -however unlikely.  
  
9) Do something for the environment

It’s not inconceivable that you can leave a place better than you found it. At 3 Mile we have attempted to define walk trails and to keep the area free of all refuse. As a result of some peoples ignorant behaviour and sometimes due to the prevailing winds it is not unusual to find bits of plastic attached to a bush, a stubby top lying in the dirt etc etc. We’re not trying to get out of work here but it can be a gratifying and fun experience to have a busy bee around your camp. Hunting out those illusive bits of alfoil and plastic that not only detract from the whole Gnaraloo experience but are also bound to show up in what might otherwise have been a perfect photo. 
    
10) Roast a marshmallow or pop some corn 

There are so few places left on he Australian Coastline where campfires are permitted that a treat like a campfire roasted marshmallow is something to be cherished. If you haven’t brought any with you – there is usually an ample supply at the 3 Mile shop. 
    
11) Experience a Gnaraloo Full Moon 

There are so many great vantage points to see a full moon at Gnaraloo you will need to have lots of film and/or lots of space on your digital to do it justice. Imagine – the moon rising over the desert and descending over the Ningaloo Reef/Indian Ocean. You will tell your grandchildren about it – and you can save your torch batteries for a few nights.  
     
12) Have a jam session.

Be it some rice in a tin or an empty water container – it’s easy to find or make an instrument at Gnaraloo and where better to go tribal. At any given point in time there are usually some great muso’s staying at Gnaraloo so don’t be surprised if you initiate an impromptu party.  

13) Do sunset from the top of the dune

Gnaraloo offers a myriad of wonderful spots to watch the sun go down but a personal favourite is the top of the dune system just north of 3 Mile Camp (of course you cannot drive here, but the walk will help you to build up a thirst !). It offers an amazing vista of both the ocean and the inland desert. My recipe is as follows – Pack a small backpack with the following –

A couple of coldies, or a nice red or a crisp dry white or some gin and some tonic (don’t forget ice and lemon). Or all of the above. Soft drink or water if kids are involved.
Some nice cheese, dips and crackers.
A small blanket or tarp to set up your sunset feast
A torch if there is no moon (just so you make it home)
   
14) Host a dinner party

Don’t worry – if you plan it right you will only have to prepare one dish. At any given time there are people from all over the world staying at Gnaraloo. It’s a taste sensation in the making. Anyway – why not host a dinner party whereby all those invited bring a dish using a traditional recipe from their respective country. If you are concerned that you may not have anything in common – you are wrong. You all made it to Gnaraloo. It’s kinda like instant cred.  
    
15) Check out the constellations

Some call it Gnaraloo television. OK – so you know where the Southern Cross is (or do you?) but can you find Orion or perhaps your own star sign? Gnaraloo offers the perfect environment for a bit of star gazing and you’ll be amazed at how many wishes you get to make with all those shooting stars (or were they satellites ?) 
     
16) Get a tan where the sun don’t shine

Don’t go too hard too fast but if you want to add a bit of colour to those parts of your body that may not see much sunshine – Gnaraloo is the place to be. It does not matter if you are extrovert or introvert – we have 69 kilometres of coastline and if you are willing to walk a little way a certain degree of privacy is guaranteed. 
   
 17) Build a Sand Castle

Don’t just pile sand up into a dome – go for broke and create a sand palace. There’s no shortage of shells and bits and pieces with which to decorate your palace. Why not challenge your neighbours? 
  
18) Bocce
This game that dates back centuries has taken on a new light at Gnaraloo where guests carefully select a set of round rocks and naturally a small bocce and find a challenging spot to play the game.  
     
19) Sand Boarding

You don’t need a sand board – just a sturdy sheet of cardboard. Head off to the dunes and have some fun. Mind the vegetation and be sure to dispose of your board sensibly. If you don’t have any cardboard - ask up at the shop – we are always takings deliveries of goods and can put some aside for you.  
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21)  Do something artistic

As you move around 3 Mile Camp you will be pleasantly surprised as to how creative people have been. We have sculptures made from bone and shell, works of art created from broken surfboards, Beautiful carvings from cuttlefish etc. Why not see what you can come up with?
22) Drive the coast road to the Bluff

It’s a beautiful drive and one where you are bound to see lots of wildlife and some spectacular vistas. Head out towards Tombstones and just prior to reaching the carpark you will see a track going off to your left. Take this track and so long as you keep the ocean to your right – you can’t go wrong. Along the way you will see little branch off tracks. These only go a couple of hundred metres and each one is worth checking out as each is a scenic lookout. The track itself is fine however it does get rocky in places. Just cruise and you will be fine. Upon reaching the Bluff you can either come back the way you came or alternatively take the main track back to Gnaraloo.  
23) Write a story
It’s virtually impossible to come to Gnaraloo and not experience something totally unique or wonderful. Why not write about your experience send it to us at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for posting on this website.   
24) Take a photo

Wherever you go and whatever you are doing at Gnaraloo it is well worth having a camera handy. You never know when Mother Nature is going to surprise the hell out of you and who knows – it may even find it’s way into Australian or National Geographic. At the very least you could find your photo on our wall of fame up at the shop or alternatively send it to us for posting in the photo gallery on our website. 
25) Make a short film

While it doesn’t necessarily have to entered into Tropfest (the Australian Short Film Festival) it can be a lot of fun making a short film and there are no shortage of characters, sets and material around Gnaraloo. Come up with a plot or a common theme and run with it. Interview other guests, interview your own family – go for it – In years to come you will be glad you did. 

26) Get an autograph
At any given time there is someone famous or relatively so – staying at Gnaraloo. Some of the worlds best professional surfers, kiteboarders and wavesailors are regulars at Gnaraloo as well as the occasional television personality, colourful racing identity etc. You never know who you might bump into out here...
   

 
 
27) Check out other peoples set ups

Cruising around 3 mile camp and the swag camps at the Homestead is like going to a real life caravan and camping show. You will be amazed as to how innovative some people are and some of the great setups you will come across. Some guests have been coming here for such a long time (in some cases – 3rd generation) and over the years have got it down pat. Most are proud of their setups and are more than happy to have a chat. Why reinvent the wheel 
  
28) Nurture some dreadlocks

Why not have a dreadlock holiday? It’s easy here at Gnaraloo – All you do is go swimming a lot, stand out in a dust storm or two and don’t wash or brush your hair (if you have enough). Surprise all your friends with your new style .
  

 
 
 29) Create a Rain Dance

Now a lot of people don’t necessarily like rain on their holidays but a little rain goes a long way up here. After a small fall you will be amazed at how many critters come out and frolic, not to mention the small desert flowers that come into bloom. A successful rain dance is not only rewarding, it’s environmentally friendly and it keeps the dust down.
30)  Eat an oyster straight from the rocks

Right along the coastline of Gnaraloo there are outcrops of oysters just on the shoreline. All you need is a sturdy knife and a slice of lemon and you’re in for a treat. Plonk yourself down and have a gorge. Who knows – you may even find a pearl (it’s unlikely but as previously mentioned Gnaraloo is full of surprises) Make sure you are not in a sanctuary zone and please take only what you can eat.    
31) Kick the habit – the Gnaraloo way!

Where better to give up smoking. Where more appropriate and what a great thing to do on holidays. Gnaraloo is highly conducive to kicking the habit. All that hiking and snorkelling the Ningaloo Reef certainly reaffirms the need and the fresh sea air combined with a complete change of scenery all lend themselves to an effort worth making. If you feel yourself teetering – just paddle out to tombstones and take one on the head and your resolve will be strengthened immeasurably.  
32)  Support Royal Flying Doctor Service

Gnaraloo Station is a very active fundraiser for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. We regularly hold sausage sizzles and small events to raise funds and the cause is certainly a worthy one. Why not hold your own event or alternatively make a donation at the counter. Not only will you be rewarded with a warm fuzzy feeling – it’s also very good Karma for anyone travelling in remote locations such as ours. 

33)  Book for next year

Gnaraloo is becoming increasingly busier each year as both the population and the popularity of the North West increases. As a result it is becoming increasingly important for visitors to book in advance. It’s more than a case of getting a good spot – it’s a case of getting in at all (particularly over peak periods). So – during the course of your holiday – pop up to the shop and make your forward bookings to avoid disappointment. 
34) Brush up on your languages

At any given time there are people from all over the world visiting Gnaraloo (particularly over the summer months). If you’re bi-lingual or multi-lingual, it’s a great place to brush up on your German, Swiss, French, Swedish, Spanish etc etc. If you’re not it’s always handy to at least know how to say “cheers” in a foreign language.  
35)  Go Spotlighting (without the gun)

It’s amazing what critters come out at night. Grab a torch and take a night walk up to Tombstones or along one of the tracks. See how many different creatures you can spot.   
36) Write a letter to someone special

Gnaraloo provides inspiration on so many fronts and once you’re in that Gnaraloo state of mind anything is possible. Everyone loves to receive a letter (especially a hand written one). Why not make someone’s day and put pen to paper. Maybe an old friend or perhaps a relative you haven’t heard from in a while. Sharpen up your penmanship at the same time. After all – it and the art of letter writing are a dying art form. 
37) Read a book

Not just any old book – something pertaining to the area. It’s great when you are away somewhere and you’re reading about that place or the surrounding areas. If the author is any good – you will get a real sense of place. Often you can feel, smell and taste exactly what they are describing. There are numerous books on the early days around the Gascoyne Region, what it was like to grow up, in and around Carnarvon. The early settlers and explorers. HMAS Sydney (one of Australia’s great maritime mysteries) and suspected of being located immediately off the coast here somewhere. I strongly recommend a book called – The Wreck of the Barque Stefano. It happened right off this coast and is an epic tale of survival (for some). 
38) Make a kite and fly it

At certain times of the year Gnaraloo would have to be one of the best places you could ever hope to fly a kite. Pack one before you leave or make and decorate your own while you are here.  
39) Fish with a balloon

OK – so you don’t have a boat and you want to catch a tuna or a macky – no problem if you pack a balloon or two. Wait for a reasonably strong offshore breeze, set up the right rig and let the wind take your line out over the reef to where the pelagic fish roam. The really serious guys use helium  
40) Fish Monuments

Now you are going to need a cliff gaff because if you hook up a big one (and there is a high likelihood) you are going to want to bring it in. Hauling up a big fish without a cliff gaff is not only extremely hard work – you are very likely to lose your catch (and your rig) There are some serious fish out there and a lot of crew with tales of the one that got away. 
41) Go Trolling

Ideally you need to have at least a dinghy with a small outboard; however we have had crew troll behind their windsurfers and sea kayaks with great success. It is certainly the best way to catch a Spanish mackerel, a wahoo or a tuna. Don’t forget the wasabi and soy.  
42) Ride your mountain bike

Some are more challenging than others but there are all sorts of trails and pathways around Gnaraloo and mountain bike riding is not only a great way to get around, you will also improve your fitness and see some fantastic sights as you introduce pedal power to your Gnaraloo holiday. 
43) Pull out the board games

Be it chess, backgammon, playing cards, monopoly, trivial pursuit – whatever – Gnaraloo is a great place to play all sorts of games. You’ve left the hustle and bustle of your day to day existence and more importantly - the television. The conversation is good, the atmosphere fantastic and a good game brings family and friends together for a lot of fun and laughs. 
 44) Do a drift dive

It’s kinda like being in outer space. Wait for the right tide – head south from 3 Mile or south round the point at the Bay and jump in. You only need your fins to steer as you drift over an amazing and ever changing underwater landscape. You choose how adventurous you want to be but I can assure you that you will see heaps of good stuff.  
45) Go Beach Fishing

6 Mile is the place to go if you want to do a spot of beach fishing. Sunrise and sunset are good times and you are almost assured of catching a good sized tailor and of an evening you have a good chance of a squid or two (if you have a jig). Head out past the Homestead towards Gnaraloo Bay and at the second track marked with a small Telstra sign turn right. The track will take you around the bay and outside of the Gnaraloo Bay Sanctuary Zone. Mmm – camp fried calamari and pan cooked tailor – magnifico. 
   

 
 46) Slip, slop, slap
It doesn’t matter what time of year it is – while visiting Gnaraloo – be sun smart. Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat.  
 47) Go Spear fishing
Gnaraloo is a truly world class spear fishing destination. Make sure you are with a buddy, make sure that you are outside of the sanctuary zones and make sure you abide by the rules of the Ningaloo Marine Park. (this includes – no spearing bald chin groper and no use of scuba gear). Now you have that sorted out you are in for a treat. It’s like a fish supermarket down there and you’re out shopping.   
48) Snorkel a shipwreck 
If you are at a loss for something to do on a medium to high tide with a low swell – go and snorkel a shipwreck. The Magnolia ran aground in 1938 and is located just offshore at Monuments. The hulk of the wreck has become a home to heaps of sealife and wreck diving is always an interesting exercise.  
49) Massage

It can be almost as gratifying giving a massage as it is receiving one. Pack some massage oil and use your visit to Gnaraloo to hone in your massage skills. It’s up to you whether you want to receive or offer something therapeutic or intimate but that depends on who you’re travelling with and whether you like them or not. We sometimes have practicing masseurs on site who will also oblige for a fee, ask at the shop or homestead office for details. 
50) Check out the shearing

They say that the economy of Australia was built on a sheeps back and there is nothing quite like an outback shed in action. Shearing generally occurs at Gnaraloo over December and/or January. Guests at Gnaraloo are more than welcome to come take a look. You will be amazed at how hard these guys work, the camaraderie of the shearers and the spirit of competition that exists. It’s certainly an eye opener. 
51) Sleep under the stars

Especially in the summer, it doesn't matter if you don't have a swag, a sleeping bag and/or mattress will do fine. Find yourself a spot that's shady in the morning, fall asleep under the stars and get a great nights rest.. 
52) Fall in love and make a baby

There have been many Gnaraloo matches and Gnaraloo babies made over the years - love is in the air, everyone's half naked and on those winter nights could use a warm bed fellow. Where better to follow your primeaval urges to find a mate and populate the planet. Remember to bring your offspring back next year ! 
53) The Korean Star

The wind and the waves have taken their toll on what remains of the Korean Star which ran aground in cyclonic conditions at Cape Cuvier in 1988. That should not deter visitors from taking the short detour to view the spectacular coastal scenery and salt mine port facilities. It is truly wild and breathtaking. No problem getting in and out for 2 wheel drives and some good exploring to be done with 4 wheel drives or hiking. You can read about cyclonic events at http://www.bom.gov.au/weather/wa/cyclone/about/carnarvon/index.shtml and can learn more about the Korean Star at http://www.amsa.gov.au/Marine_Environment_Protection/Major_Oil_Spills_in_Australia/Korean_Star/index.asp 
54) Point Quobba Lighthouse

On the left just before the 'king waves kill' sign - No better place can you witness the stark contrasts of desert meeting sea than from this amazing lookout. You will be taken aback by the beautiful view and just how far you can see. The track is quite steep, but firm and is ok for 2 wheel drives.
55) Adopt a tree or a shrub

During the course of your stay you will come across a great many thirsty trees and shrubs. If you are emptying an esky or disposing of any water whatsoever – don’t just tip it in the dirt. Put it on a tree or shrub. You will be amazed as to how quickly they react to some TLC. 
56) Walk from the lagoon to fencies on the low tide

There are an amazing array of critters that hang out in the caves and rock pools on low tide. Put on some reef shoes or old sneakers and surprise yourself. You are likely to see heaps of crabs, the occasional octopus and lots of fish. Polarised sunglasses will make a big difference as to what you may or may not see. 
57) Have a bit of a fishing comp with your buddies

Now you need to establish the rules of engagement from the outset to assure that the competition is fair and fun. A fish caught from the beach may carry more points than one from a boat. A pelaegic may carry similar points to a bottom fish (depending on it’s star rating) You could have prizes for the best macky, best baldy, best emperor etc. All earn points . At the end of your visit someone has won a carton of beer or whatever (or the loser has to do the washing up !).
58) Do nothing

Do nothing, absolutely nothing. Do not even ponder your belly button. As our lives become increasingly hectic opportunities to do nothing become fewer and further between. Take advantage of them. 
 
59) Hike along the ridge

On your way to Gnaraloo bay running parallel to the airstrip is a rocky ridge that offers great views and heaps of wildlife, mostly reptilian. Put on some sneakers and prepare yourself for a few surprises. Don’t sneak around up there. You are much better off not surprising some animals. If they feel the vibrations of your approach they will get out of your way.  

60) Learn, master and utilize a new knot

Irrespective of whether you are boating, camping, fishing or just packing up – Gnaraloo is a great place to learn and master a new knot. You may even surprise yourself as to how often you may utilize this new skill in times to come.  
61) Billy Tea and Damper

It’s such an aussie tradition that no camping trip is complete until you have mastered  billy tea and damper. Are you a 3 swings forward or 3 back sort of person. If you are going to be swinging scolding water about the place – please be careful. Go for real butter and lashings of jam on the damper. It’s a taste sensation.  

62) Experiment with your tyre pressure

Firstly make sure that you or a friend has an air compressor and a pressure guage (or failing that you can ask at the Homestead to use ours). Here at Gnaraloo the road conditions can vary a great deal as sand moves from one place to another, corrugations come and go and pot holes appear and disappear like magic. Your driving comfort and the impact of your vehicle on Gnaraloos tracks can be largely attributed to what you are running your tyres at. After all – what works on a freeway does not necessarily work here. 

63) Exercise body and soul
With all that swimming, surfing and walking you wouldn't think you'd need any more exercise, but the culinary delights of Gnaraloo can take their toll, and not forgetting that the old grey matter needs a workout too. Why not try a new meditation regime, or maybe a touch of yoga ? 

64) See a rare or endangered species
Gnaraloo and the Ningaloo Reef are a haven for many rare, endangered and protected animals, plants and fish. Many pass through on their migratory journeys. Keep your eyes open and you might see:

Birds: Southern Giant Petrel, White Bellied Sea Eagle, Barn Swallow, Rainbow bee-eater, White and Cattle Egrets, Oriental Plover, Little Curlew, Fork tailed swift. 

Reptiles: Loggerhead Turtle, Green Turtle, Leatherback Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Seasnake, Spectacled Seasnake, Olive and Turtle Headed Seasnake, North Western Mangrove Seasnake, Elegant Seasnake, Yellow-bellied Seasnake. 

Sharks: Grey Nurse Shark, Great White Shark (OK - maybe you don't want to see one of these too close !!), Whale Shark.

Fish: Gales Pipefish, Pig-snouted Pipefish, Ladder Pipefish, Tiger Pipefish, Brock's pipefish, Ribboned Seadragon, Western Spiny Seahorse, Spiny Seahorse, Flat-face Seahorse, Prophets Pipefish, Bonyheaded Pipefish, Indonesian (Gunthers) Pipefish, Bluefinned Ghost Pipefish, Spotted Pipefish, Double-ended Pipehorse, Bend Stick Pipefish.

Mammals: Southern Right Whale, Humpback Whale, Bryde's Whale, Dugong, Killer Whale, Indo-pacific Humpback Dolphin, Minke Whale, Common Dolphin, Risso's Dolphin, Spotted Dophin, Spotted Bottlenose Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin. 
65) Surf a puddle

If you are lucky enough to see rain at Gnaraloo (and we've had more than our fair share this year), celebrate with us the coming of green grass and fat sheep by surfing a puddle ! 
66) Meet Hoover
Hoover is our resident big old Cod. He often follows the boats into the bay towards the end of the day so look out for him. Some of the fishoes feed him tit bits from their catch - but mind your fingers !!

We have also had reports of another large cod that sometimes comes in towards the 3 mile lagoon - keep an eye out for him - if you're the first to get a picture of him you can choose his name.   
67) Surf the web

If you not much of a surfer (or even if you are) it's now much easier to stay in touch with friends and family from the depths of deepest darkest Gnaraloo. Come to the 3 mile shop, or the Homestead office where wireless networks are now in place, and an internet kiosk is also available. All you have to do is buy a voucher ($10 for 1hour/25MB download) from the shop and you're surfing !!

April 2008 - sorry guys - internet is temporarily out of order at both sites - we're working to fix and will update as soon as we have it working again !!
68) Go Squiding

From a tinny, or even from the shore, grab a few different colours of jig (we sell them at the shop if they're not in your tackle box) and try for a few squid - mind you don't get inked !. We also sell, breadcrumbs and tartare sauce if you're successful - or try them thinly sliced on a pizza.  
69) Bake a pizza or some bread

Some of our ingenious regulars had some time out of the waves last year and built a few pizza ovens on the sites at 3 mile. If you are lucky enough to get one - why not try it out. Or if you didn't get one - have a look at the existing ones and have a go at building your own !
70) Pat a dog

These days you cannot visit Gnaraloo without meeting one of our little tribe of friendly dogs. Star and Meg are sisters from a Gnaraloo litter of Kelpies (born on the doorstep of Cabana 4), and Meg has recently added to the band with her daughter 'Chops'. Plus there's a little heeler cross, Chloe, who you'll see around the Homestead 'helping' Treve. Always ask the owner before petting a new dog - but the answer with our dogs will usually be 'yes' - they can't get enough cuddles ! 
71) Get a hole in one

Gnaraloo has hazards galore, but why not bring your golf clubs for the challenge. On the 'flemings' dunes just northwest of the homestead there are a few flags set out to aim for. Please walk to reach the 'course' (as there are essential water lines in this area) and, as always, mind the vegetation!
72) Mini Golf at 3 mile

It just so happens that there are 18 campsites on the north end of camp and a constantly changing array of hazards, cars and tents on the route around. Some of our regulars use them as a mini golf course. Just putt your ball around and hit each of the numbered stones in order - the perfect way to while away an afternoon at 3 mile. Do watch out for cars (and car drivers look out for golfers !) , as always, help us to protect the vegetation !

73) Have a drink or two

Now we at Gnaraloo support responsible drinking, please remember that a station/desert environment can be a hazardous place to be uncoordinated and that medical help is a fair way away - take it easy and pace yourself. Please NEVER drive anywhere on Gnaraloo under the influence of alcohol.  However, you are on holiday, so why shouldn't you celebrate another fabulous sunset with a few glasses of your favourite beverage? One of our european visitors has a fantastic game he calls 'friendship drinking' - you have a drink in each hand and drink out of whichever is heavier - the ultimate way to maintain perfect balance ! We now have a liquor license at 3 mile, so pop up to the shop for a coldy. 

74) Make a Sundial

Easy - all you need is a watch, a day to waste, a few shells and a stick. Check your clock on the hour, every hour and mark where the shadow line falls with a shell or rock - do this for 12 hours and voila ! your very own sundial which should tell you the time for the rest of your stay (if you are a long termer you may need to readjust every few weeks to keep it accurate). 
75) Volley a ball

New for this year at 3 mile camp - a volleyball net for when the wind/waves/weather are not going your way. Find yourself some other bored friends and come up to the shop to borrow the ball ! 

76) Beach Cricket

Bring some stumps a bat and ball, challenge your neighbours, and make sure that the rest of camp knows so that they can be your audience !

OK, OK - so we haven't got 101 yet - but well done for reading this far ! 

Come to Gnaraloo and find some more ways to enjoy this fantastic place and then tell us about them. Let's face it - most of you have been here before - give us your ideas !

 All submissions to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it - if your idea makes the 101 list you will receive a Gnaraloo goody bag so please include your name and address in your email.