I'm A relatively short flight in clear blue-sky conditions had the Bazflyers safely repositioned some 200 km west of Kununurra. Our new stop-over for two nights was Home Valley Station. Stoically perched on the western reaches of the mighty Pentecost River the property is an amalgamation of three historic pastoral-holdings and covers a mere 3.5 million acres. Accounting for cattle on a property of this scale relies on individual livestock carrying an identifiable brand which for Home Valley Station is HV8.
Owned by the Indigenous Land Corporation on behalf of the traditional land dwellers, Home Valley Station operates a training program for indigenous peoples who are involved in all aspects of the station's operations including tourism, horticultural and pastoral enterprises. Significantly, this program is perhaps the most positive indigenous venture we have witnessed on any of our Australian travels.
On landing at the homestead airstrip we were met by Alfie, an indigenous Australian and a graduate from the training scheme. Just before sunset Alfie transported us via a well used Land-cruiser to an elevated spot, where comfortably seated and with drinks in hand, we watched in awe as rock formations on the distant Cockburn Range danced in the setting sun. Then to supplement the nature show an articulate, knowledgeable and always smiling, Alfie graciously shared his story and culture with us.
Landing at HV8
Alfie
Pentecost River
Waiting for sunset
Setting sun dancing on the Cockburn Range
Harsh environment
Dinner music
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