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The Finke River, reportedly the oldest river in the world, rises in the West MacDonell Ranges, west of Alice Springs. In this tract of country is the marvellous campsite we call Finke River @ 2 Mile. It’s an area very dear to us as we always camped there during the years of our Larapinta Trail Walks. It is close to  one of the few permanent waterholes on the Finke, such precious water in this very dry time. This sense of specialness infused all the work created.
The campsite, nestled in the protective saddle of a small hill, belongs to Trek Larapinta (the walking tour business Charlie started in the 90’s). Tall canvas tents, stretchers, gently winding paths, a composting toilet, a charming outdoor shower and a large covered kitchen area as well as our usual marquee ‘studio’ made for easy camping.  Being up above the river, we had incredible views in every direction; out over the ranges, the salty plain and the braided beginnings of the Finke.  The view was sometimes so overwhelming that people focussed on the smaller details of rocks, plants and the rhythms of the land before they tackled the omnipresent Mt Sonder, (Rwetyepme).
As well as exploring this immediate area we visited Ormiston Gorge, some choosing to do the 8k Ormiston Pound Loop walk, the most beautiful walk in the west Macs, many say. We also went to the less visited Roma Gorge, soaking up its special ambiance, discovering the petroglyphs to the joyful sounds of Zebra Finches. Everything we saw, everywhere we went, poured into the week’s creative work.  Even around the fire people kept working, needle felting little birds from wool.  And the natural dyeing results were a delight…. Have a look at it all!  Click on a thumbnail to bring up the slide show.
Photos are by me, Deb, unless indicated otherswise