The October long weekend provided perfect spring weather for the AJC trip to the Argadells located about 15 ks north of Quorn in the southern Flinders ranges.
4 vehicles took advantage of the great weather and arrived on the Friday night with the remaining 6 vehicles (including a commy jeep) leaving Adelaide on Saturday morning traveling in convoy from Gepps Cross.
After a couple of fatigue breaks at Pt Wakefield and Warnertown the second group arrived at Quorn at midday.
After refueling the journey continued north over dirt roads to the Argadell station to find the first group comfortably set up under some shady trees in a perfect location next to the creek.
Bush camping was the go with a long drop not far away. After a short lunch the group was keen to go for a drive. Dave our trip leader led the expedition on various tracks around Mt Arden culminating in a vertical climb to the summit of Mt Arden (850 METRES). Views were fantastic over the Flinders during the climb but the vista from the peak was breath taking. Saturday afternoon continued from the peak down various other tracks back to the camp site. The tracks whilst not difficult demanded concentration from drivers to pick the right line ascending and descending on the often rocky terrain. Low range selection was the majority of driving selection with the occasional water across the track a few inches deep.
The area was well populated over the weekend with other four wheel drive enthusiasts enjoying the sites. Saturday afternoon finished with happy hour back at camp. A bon fire was the order of the night with many a shared story and jokes. The night was cold even though the day temperature had reached well above 25'C.
Sunday morning presented a beautiful back drop to the Southern Flinders awaking to the sound of goats on a hill, kookaburras and other birdlife. After the traditional eggs and bacon were consumed the group once again formed a posse and we traversed other tracks not covered on the Saturday. Low range gearing was required for most of the day traversing rocky trails in formation. Plenty of radio banter played the air waves as new species of flowers were discovered adopted with very scientific names such as pink, blue, purple, yellow, orange and red.
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One member chose to get close to nature by having to place their jack' under their vehicle to change a flat tyre.
More driving continued following numerous tracks that equally provided spectacular views of the Flinders throughout the Argadells. The day concluded with a walk to Buckaringa Gorge for the more energetic members of the group.
Sunday night around the camp fire finished with tales of the day and one member sharing 'it's a true story' to the attentive (yawn) listeners. Monday morning was as perfect as the rest and the group packed camp and made their steady trip back home.
The Argadells provides excellent camping areas and numerous tracks to occupy a full weekend. Numerous tracks of varying difficulty traverse the property with the chance of meeting other vehicles on the same track minimal.
The trip to Mt Arden is well worth the climb to take advantage of the views at the peak. The majority of driving was in low range and all terrain tyres are recommended. Several of the tracks require concentration on tyre placement to avoid vehicle damage and flat tyres.
Animal life was quite abundant including goats, sheep and wallabies. After the spring rain a colourful array of wild flowers and green pasture was on display. The Flinders at this location was the greenest it has been in years. This site is also a short drive to other parks and places of interest in the area.
Thanks to our trip leader for finding such a peaceful (not including the wildlife) and picturesque area with plenty of tracks to drive on only a few hours from Adelaide. Well done D SQUARED.
Steve Speake / OSCAR
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