The Creb Track.
Buckle up, fellow adventurers! Django the parrot here, I’ll explain how and why this trip improved our mental health. I’m ready to share the tale that unfolded as we flapped our way into the unexpected Creb Track. Twice.
In the midst of this adventure, we discovered that these 9 benefits of travel DO indeed improve our mental health. We prove how travel affects mental health and more. As the landscapes unfolded, so did our bodies and minds, offering unexpected moments of reflection and rejuvenation. Join me as I unfold the tale of our feathered expedition and delve into the mental health aspect that turned this unplanned escapade into a giant breathing space from day to day reality for both animals and humans.
What started as a simple quest for a fancy canvas for mine and Chia’s cage turned into a wild ride along the legendary Creb Track – TWICE. Little did we anticipate that this seemingly straightforward getaway, originally planned as a short overnight trip only an hour’s drive from home, would evolve into a two week 1600km unplanned journey.
Our journey took us through rugged landscapes of Far North Queensland, leading us to a picturesque campsite in Youku Baja Muliku country at Archers Point near Cooktown. There it unexpectedly transformed us into guides for a pair of spirited lads from NSW.
The Feathered Expedition:
Our mission was clear – to procure a canvas fit for the feathery royalty, and our four-legged adventurer, Chia. Nestled within the secure confines of our on-the-road haven – a customised dog cage on the back of the ute – this wasn’t just any canvas. It had to withstand the unpredictability of the elements on the open road. From sun-drenched highways to Australia’s torrential rain, with the odd occasion where my beak, and our claws might try tearing into it.
Little did we know, this quest would morph into a wild ride along the notorious Creb Track. A track that is often closed nearly 6 months of the year, that slippery and wet, that if it rains whilst your doing the track, you may just need snow chains to get out. This journey was challenging both us animals, the humans and the four-wheel drives.
Wings of Healing:
Embark on a transformative journey through Far North Queensland’s iconic Creb Track, where unexpected camaraderie, untamed landscapes, and the soothing impact on mental health await. Join me, Django as I share the road’s custom made bumps and dips, proving that sometimes, the path less travelled becomes a sanctuary for feathers and the soul.
As we delve into this exploration of mental health and travel, let the tales of our journey along the way serve as a testament to the healing potential embedded in the landscapes we traverse. Together, let’s uncover the profound connection between the vast beauty of Australia, the human spirit, and the therapeutic embrace of nature.
As we navigate the challenges of the Creb Track, each twist and every turn becomes a metaphor for resilience, reflecting the unconditional love of embarking on such. Oh how our eyes can see, and the mind now can FEEL.
Exploring the Creb Track:
The Creb Track, a legendary off-road trail, weaves through the pristine rainforests of Far North Queensland, Australia. Stretching approximately 68 kilometres (42 miles), it’s not just a drive; it’s an expedition into the heart of one of the world’s oldest rainforests.
Campfire Chronicles at Archers Point:
Discover the serendipity that led us to set up camp at Archers Point near Cooktown. Amidst the rustle of leaves and the distant call of wildlife, our unplanned stop turned into a feathered haven under the stars.
Meeting Mates from the South:
Enter a pair of lively lads from NSW who, like us, sought adventure in the northern realms. Our paths crossed, conversations flowed, and soon we found ourselves forming an unexpected feathery convoy.
Guiding the Adventurous Souls:
Embarking on the journey toward the Creb Track, we became inadvertent guides to these adventurous souls, sharing the waypoints that only days earlier coloured our own expedition. Our convoy weaved through the rugged beauty of Far North Queensland, tracing a route marked by nature’s wonders and tales of the road.
So, settle in for a feathery ride as we unfold the unexpected and celebrate the spirited adventures that make the Creb Track an unforgettable chapter in our travel diary.
Exploring the Creb Track:
The Creb Track, a name that makes my feathers ruffle with both trepidation and excitement, is a winding dirt trail through the lush rainforests of Far North Queensland. This off-road marvel decided to challenge even this seasoned bird and my trusty humans with its steep climbs, river crossings, and narrow passes. As we ventured onto the Creb Track, the landscape transformed around us.
Towering trees enveloped the track, creating a natural canopy that filtered the sunlight, casting dappled shadows on the earth below. The air was thick with the scent of eucalyptus, and the sounds of other birds accompanying the rumble of our ute’s v8 song. The track, known for its rugged beauty, threw surprises at us around every bend.
At the bottom of one of the bigs hills, whilst Mandi and I had a dip in the crystal clear creek, Bruce helped a dozen or so motor bikes up the hill. It was on this same hill that 3/4 the way up, we had to pull off to the left into a little pad pushed up by a dozer to allow a few other vehicles that were coming from the north to pass. It was that slippery that as one of the cars, another V8 cruiser came down he lost reaction sliding within inches of the back of our ute. Talk about exciting, Mandi and Bruce had smiles from ear to ear. Myself, I find that the sounds of nature can be so loud but they are also peaceful in its own voice.
Steep hill climbs tested the capabilities of our four-wheel drive, demanding both precision and power. At river crossings, the crystal-clear waters sparkled, inviting us to navigate carefully through the cool streams, stopping for a dip in a few along the way. My feathers loved the cool, clear, calm water so much, but its okay there will be more, that i am sure.
This track is more than a physical challenge; it’s a journey through time and nature’s wonders. Ancient ferns lined the path, their fronds whispering tales of resilience. Sights of distant mountains unfolded as we climbed to higher elevations. Breathtaking views made the challenges worthwhile, these were everywhere the eye could see. Some parts were good old aussie bush but quickly changing to rainforest and back again it was so awe inspiring. So many of my family live in these trees, I enjoy talking to them along the way.
Meeting Mates from the South:
As our ute rolled into Cooktown’s Archers Point, the sun casting its warm glow, I, Django, perched high, observed the coastal winds, relentless and gusty, hinting at a dance between rain and firelight. Laden with firewood tales from the Creb Track, our ute stood ready for the night.
In the midst of the winds’ symphony, familiar faces emerged – the two lads from the south, our inadvertent travel companions. A reunion, it seemed, memories of a rest stop near Cairns surfacing. In the spirit of shared journeys, our humans extended a bundle of firewood, the universal currency of the road. Setting up amidst the winds’ cacophony, a makeshift campsite unfolded. Firewood became the bridge connecting tales of adventure. The winds howled, and clouds hinted at rain as our shared fire became a source of warmth and stories.
Campfire Chronicles at Archers Point:
Beyond the comforts of shared flames, camaraderie extended to the realm of problem-solving. Our human, Bruce, with his knack for fixing things, inspected the lads’ failing 12V fridge. In the fading light, amidst gusts of wind, he managed to diagnose and mend the wiring snarl – an impromptu troubleshooting session, uniting our paths in a shared quest for the unexpected.
Yet, amidst the camaraderie and windswept conversations, I, Django, observed a silent exchange. The two lads, eyes revealing an unspoken desire for an untamed adventure. Possessing 4x4s both nearly untouched by the grit of low range 4wd, their yearning lingered. It was in that moment, amidst the winds of Archers Point, that I knew – the Creb Track was calling us back. One thing i know is that my humans can be so strange, they say one thing then do another. I guess this is why they say that they don’t like making plans – because they rarely stick to them.
I recall reading just the other day “According to leading psychologist Emma Kenny, travelling spontaneously can actually reduce stress and anxiety. It also introduces a level of playfulness into day-to-day life. As well as the psychological benefits, data shows that spontaneous travel can be more cost effective.” I think Emma is bang on!
But what about Innot Hot Springs? I had overheard the humans discussing the inland road, a deviation from the coastal allure, a pit stop at Innot Hot Springs WAS on the agenda. Plans, however, are as fickle as the winds that sculpt the landscapes.
Guiding the Adventurous Souls:
The following day, as we set forth in convoy for the first time, the course of our journey shifted. The Creb Track, an unexpected detour, awaited our return. The two lads from the south, eyes alight with the prospect of untrodden tracks, joined our vehicular caravan. A convoy, not just of vehicles, but of shared stories and unspoken camaraderie.
The journey continued, steering us away from the coastal allure, as Innot Hot Springs stood patiently on the horizon. Each twist and turn of the road, a choice etched in tire tracks, weaving our collective narrative. Perched high, I observed the changing landscapes, a silent witness to the unfolding chapters of our feathered and four-wheeling odyssey.
Our first pause was at the Black Boulders, monumental formations that stood as silent sentinels, weathered by time and elements. Amidst these ancient stones, the air whispered tales of the land’s enduring resilience, inviting fellow travellers to pause and soak in the grandeur.
To the Indigenous traditional owners, Kalkajaka holds sacred significance as a battlefield where spirits and warring clan groups intersect. For tourists, it’s known as Black Mountain—a captivating yet eerie landform along the Trevathan Range, often a must-stop on the journey from Mareeba to Cooktown.
The towering mass of granite boulders creates a stark contrast against the scrubby green savannah below, casting a black and barren silhouette over the landscape. Black Mountain resonates with mystery and legend, earning it the moniker of the ‘Bermuda Triangle’ of far north Queensland, with tales dating back to the late 1800s of people, horses, and entire herds of cattle vanishing without a trace. Read more here. And here.
Continuing our trail, the Lions Den Hotel awaited. I remember Mandi recalling a childhood memory of the Lions Den. As a 5 year old she remembered that whilst her father ordered his xxxx, she had spotted a 20c coin on the bar, she laughed as she recalls trying to pick it up. The man at the end of the bar calling out “Marj, we gotta another one!” The 20c coin was in fact glued to the bar. And YEP 35+ years on, I later overhead Bruce joking with the lads about how of course she had to try again. It was still there, thats some bloody good glue.
The Lions Den is a legendary outpost with its own storied history. This iconic watering hole provided a respite for both travellers and locals, the walls echoing with stories shared over cold beverages. Here, we exchanged nods and smiles with fellow adventurers, the comraderies of the road binding us. We are all out here exploring together as friends do, and of course in family tradition, a xxxx or 2.
As the sun began its descent, we sought refuge at a little creek just outside Rossville. The sounds of flowing water and the rustling leaves formed a natural symphony, again we find ourselves in another perfect place. Whilst the sun gave us orange, yellow, and red rays into the mountains. Altogether it was nature at its best.
Our campsite became a temporary home, nestled within the embrace of nature, a space where stories of the day found voice around crackling campfires. Guiding the adventurous souls wasn’t merely about sharing knowledge and providing directions; it was about sharing the essence of the journey—the hidden gems, the storied landmarks, and the sanctuaries where the road-worn souls could find solace.
As the wheels rolled on, we left behind no markers for those who would follow, leaving it for them to discover the untamed beauty themselves. That is unless they are reading this….
After a little bit of a drive, all three vehicles air down and after a bite to eat at the Yindilli camp grounds set off into the clay like mud of the track.
Navigating the Creb Track wasn’t just about conquering the terrain; it was an experience that tested our teamwork and trust. As i perched in my cage, I find my self watching this adventure with both curiosity and some composure.
Chia on the other wing, our four-legged companion, lounges comfortably in her secure hand crafted cage. Our new canvas is great, it does everything is was meant to do and more. Its makes our home water tight, bird and dog friendly, well so far. Chia and i agree, It a bloody rippa mate.
As we manoeuvred through the track, the unexpected became the norm. It wasn’t just a journey; it was an immersion into the raw, untamed heart of Australia. The Creb Track, with its challenges and surprises, etched itself into the chapters of our adventure, proving that sometimes, the unplanned detours are the ones that leave the deepest impressions. And sometimes the sorest legs, do you realise how hard it can be remain perched as the vehicle goes up and down up and down up and down.
But i never worry, i know my humans are watching me on their camera i know if i fall they will stop. Boy was it good for me to be able to stretch my wings at the end of each day.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of twilight over Wonga Beach, our feathery convoy decided to halt for the night. The echoes of the Creb Track still resonated in the air as dawn painted the sky in hues of amber. The following morning marked our farewell with the spirited lads, their path diverging from ours. Only to perhaps meet on the road again one day. Safe travels boys.
Our feathers fluttered towards Port Douglas, a seaside haven where we lingered for almost a week, they even put on fireworks for us. Nah, it was for a seaside wedding, but we joked that they were for us. I really enjoyed soaking in the coastal vibes and giving my legs a break.
When it was time to head home, not surprisingly the journey took an unexpected turn AGAIN —a 300km detour up the Gillies range to Innot Hot Springs. Yay, Innot Hot Springs, about time.
Only a short drive from Innot hot springs we found a magic free campsite there were toilets, a creek to swim in and even a lovely, knowledgeable, talkative old fella that came by daily selling firewood – CHEAP. Three more nights under the stars, enclosed in nature’s embrace. This road more travelled will still hold more surprises with this, our adventure continued to weave its story.
Wings of Healing:
I could sense that we were soon headed home, the mood had shifted. Everyone was a lot quieter. We already can’t wait for the next adventure, i wonder where that will be. Insulator creek again? I bet it will be, I love seeing how happy the humans are there. I love watching Chia run along the beach. I really love eating mud crabs. I must tell you of our trips there, the fishing, the great campfire meals, the land cruiser really really bogged, the time bruce and mandi had to row the entire creek after the trusty OLD Johnson outboard finally died, the month long “Test Trips” to trial new additions and modifications to what is now our full time home. Remind me!
Here is a sneak peak though…..
Whether traversing the iconic Creb Track, meandering through the diverse landscapes of Australia, or embarking on journeys of self-discovery, the profound impact on mental health is undeniable. I Django have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of exploration.
I wonder if Bruce and Mandi realise just how much this trip has positively impacted them? Do they see that they literally become better versions of themselves? Do they notice that they smiIe and laugh much more that normal? Surely they do….. or don’t they? I wonder what the best way is to get them to document this would be? A survey? Or some sort of mood assessment before and after? Maybe track their eating and sleeping habits? Or i could just interview them? I’ll have to put some thought into this…
Numerous studies echo the sentiments of this feathered adventurer, highlighting the positive correlation between travel and mental well-being. The stimulation of new environments, the release of stress, and the sense of freedom that accompanies the open road contribute to reduced anxiety and enhanced mood.
The open road, with its twists and turns, becomes a metaphorical pathway to healing. Nature’s grandeur, from the towering trees along the Creb Track to the serene beauty of Australia’s landscapes, offers a sanctuary for the mind. The rhythmic hum of the engine, the rustle of leaves, and the symphony of the bird create a harmonious backdrop that transcends the ordinary. Freedom of the mind, heart and soul, each day minute, second, a different time. Don’t hold onto it. Let it fly, a new beginning is in every moment. You too can catch an updraft and feel like me…. FREE.
Studies affirm that engaging in travel positively impacts mental health, offering respite from routine, diminishing stress, and fostering a spirit of adventure. The Creb Track, with its awe-inspiring scenery and unpredictable turns, transforms into a canvas for rejuvenation and self-discovery. Nature, my co-pilot, provides serene moments amid the rugged terrain, allowing for reflection and a mental reset.
Incorporating travel into well-being routines contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life. The unique challenges posed by the Creb Track become a metaphor for life’s obstacles, teaching resilience and adaptability. So, fasten your seatbelt for future mental health journeys with us, as the road unfolds always providing a therapeutic landscape. Each and every km the breathtaking beauty of Australia’s Far North Queensland offers an opportunity to reconnect.
Australia, with its vast and diverse terrain, serves as a playground for such therapeutic escapades. From the challenges of the Creb Track to the tranquil allure of hidden gems like Innot Hot Springs, each destination weaves a unique thread into the tapestry of mental rejuvenation.
Amidst the rustle of leaves and the distant echoes of the Creb Track, I found solace in the rhythm of the road. The winding trails not only tested the wheels of our ute but also unravelled the knots within. Nature has this magical way of untangling the threads of the mind. The camaraderie, the challenges, and the sheer beauty of Far North Queensland became a balm for the soul. In the dance between vehicle and nature, a sense of peace settled, and the journey itself became a remedy for the wearied mind. Sometimes, it’s not just about the places you go; it’s about the healing that happens along the way. Mental health, too, found its sanctuary in the journey’s embrace.
Stay tuned for more tales as I share the magic we discover.
Have you been to any of the places we visited this trip? Leave a comment below telling me about it. I’d love to hear your stories too.
You might also like to check this post out. “Beach Camping Townsville: 4×4 Bogged: Barramundi, Crocodiles: R.I.P. Johnson!”
Django 🦜
