Wilpena Pound

As winter approaches it is fascinating to see the changes to Wilpena Pound National Park. It is possible to camp inside the National Park, but you do need a permit otherwise there's a fine camping ground at the Wilpena Pound Resort. The advantage in staying here is that all the bushwalks are signposted. "We're right on the edge of the camp ground where the trails begin. One of the special walks is St Marys Peak truly spectacular." The Walks are generally well marked and interpreted. Wilpena Pound was formed over hundreds and millions of years. Initially the area was a giant seabed and as the planet changed, the water receded and the earth buckled. This forced the crust skyward forming what we now know as the Flinders Ranges. Although the mountains have eroded with time, the crown of the pound is still extraordinary. It's a saucer shape known as a sincline. The Wilpena Pound Resort has been run by the Rasheed family for over a quarter of a century. "It's obvious to me how beautiful this place is, the open space, colour and all it needs is some fine tuning that's about it." The Rasheed's have just watched a six-million dollar redevelopment of the resort which includes a brilliant visitors centre. There are now 60 air-conditioned motel units, 10 of which are self contained and all have en-suite bathrooms. The village has the features of home such as a restaurant, supermarket, laundry and service station. In addition, the power is provided by a solar system which means no noisy generators. 2000 square metres of solar panels - the equivalent of five tennis courts provide the environmentally friendly electricity supply. It's the largest solar power plant of its type in Australia and cost about two-and-a-half million dollars. From the village it is possible to organise scenic flights of the pound and four wheel drive tours but most people agree the best way to experience the Flinders at this time of year is on foot. Wilpena Pound is 400 kilometres north of Adelaide. The motel units are $98 for a double and $5 for extra children. The camping ground has powered and unpowered sites. For more information you can email info@postcards-sa.com.au