Strange encounters in Tunnel Creek
Descending into the subterranean world of Tunnel Creek, the air temperature dropped dramatically – welcome relief from the Kimberley sun. Flicking my torch into life, I headed for the darkness, crossing sandy banks and wading through the shin-deep water. Shining the torch down, I could see freshwater prawns wiggling around my toes. Then the guide suddenly stopped, switched off his torch and pointed into the darkness across to our right. The hair on the back of my neck stood up as I saw two tiny red eyes looking back at us. Though crocodile sightings are rare here, the occasional freshwater fellow does find his way in. Now I know these crocodiles are far more docile and harmless than their estuarine cousins, but I was truly uncomfortable with such a shadowy encounter. Not surprisingly, the rest of our venture into Tunnel Creek passed quickly as we picked up pace and raced towards the daylight ahead. After a refreshing swim in a crocodile-free waterhole, we retraced our steps through the darkness, eyes peeled for our snappy friend.
- Helen Craig travelled on Kimberley Wild’s 1 Day Windjana Gorge – Tunnel Creek Adventure
