Bookabee Travels Outback Tours in Australia

Water in the Flinders Ranges

2011-08-17T13:27:00.002+09:30

One of the great things about traveling through the outback at the moment is the impact that almost 2 years of generous rainfall has had on the region. As I travel through the Flinders on my Chauffeured outback tours, I can identify easily how the region is recovering from the extended drought that has occurred over the past decade and a half.

The first notable impact is the bush (which has generally a brownish hue) is now proudly portraying a greenish tinge. The abundance of water has resulted in streams and creeks that have flowed (some are still flowing) longer and with more vigor. Waterholes have breathed a breath of new life into the scorched dry landscapes. They provide wonderful opportunities to take a break and enjoy the moment with families and the wildlife alike.

: Bookabee Tours Australia - Reflections of sunset in the Flinders Ranges

Bush flowers and plant have blossomed including some which have not been evident for many years. The wildlife seems to have breathed a sigh of relief and emu and kangaroo alike are enjoying the rewards of a lush breeding season. As i travel across the land it just appears to have a healthier look about it.

Come see for yourself join me on my next Bookabee tour - www.bookabee.com.au/aboriginal-tours/

ww.bookabee.com.au/aboriginal-tours/

: Bookabee Tours Australia - creek crossing in the Northern Flinders Ranges

Kangaroos in the Flinders Ranges

2010-07-06T17:49:00.002+09:30

The Kangaroos in the Flinders are friendly at Wilpena Pound and with all the rain we have had there are plenty of them around

Echidna on the track

2010-06-26T22:47:00.003+09:30

I was driving along on tour the other day and came across this Echidna trying to cross the track.
We jumped out and took a few photos, but when i started to bury itself in front of the vehicle, i had to rescue it and move it to a safe place so we could continue on our way...

Karen was treated to a real privileged experience, it's not every day you come across and Echidna around these traps...

Check out our new-look website... cheers
Haydyn Bromley
:-)

Bookabee checks the floods in the Flinders Ranges

2010-05-02T16:24:00.003+09:30

A recent deluge in the Flinders Ranges @ Wilpena Pound saw a river of water flood past and into my bedroom... The down pour happened so quick I didn't get a chance to cover the door before it came flooding in.

The patch outside this window was bone dry a few minutes earlier...

This was a local creek that was a raging torrent less than 1/2hr after the downpour.
cheers
Haydyn :-)

Flinders Ranges

2010-02-25T22:44:00.004+10:30

Sacred Canyon

Brachina Gorge

If you are keen, check out our Facebook and become a Facebook Fan. Search for Bookabee to find us.
cheers
Haydyn

Bookabee takes Trifecta and Wins SA Tourism Awards for third year running

2009-12-23T00:15:00.004+10:30

Hey All
We Won the South Australian Tourism Awards, Third Year Running and now we are in the SA Tourism Hall of Fame...
more later, got to go...
Cheers

Rain clouds in the Flinders Ranges

2009-10-17T23:21:00.002+10:30

Just a couple of shots of the Flinders Ranges with clouds covering the walls of Wilpena Pound.
cheers
Haydyn
www.bookabee.com.au

Andu - The Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby

2009-08-28T22:57:00.003+09:30

One of the most captivating characters of the Flinders Ranges is the Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby or as us local Adnyamathanha know it by... the Andu.
This mum had a young joey in her pouch. Watching them for about 1/2 hr, you got a sense that life was pretty good for the joey. Not only was the joey safe in mum's pouch, but from time to time, the koey even got to have a nibble on the grasses as mum bent down for a feed.
What a life!!!

When you get the urge to see for yourself... drop me a line...
Enjoy, have a great day.
Cheers
Haydyn Bromley
Bookabee Australia

Bookabee Travels Australia: Now this is a pin cushion... Echidna at large!!!

2009-08-28T22:57:00.000+09:30

Bookabee Travels Australia: Now this is a pin cushion... Echidna at large!!!

Now this is a pin cushion... Echidna at large!!!

2009-08-28T22:10:00.003+09:30

Walking along in the Flinders Ranges, it's easy to get a little blase as you admire the rolling hills, the magnificent scenery and the spectacular wildlife. But, you can't help but count your lucky stars when you look down and spy an echidna ambling along the side of the walking track. This one caught the sharp eye of Iteka, one of the children who was on the bushwalk.

Gently picking up the echidna (having had extensive experience in doing this, definitely not something I would recommend to a novice, attempting to pick up an echidna could result in injury to the animal or yourself), I pointed out its unique features to my tour guests such as its back feet and the way the tail is hidden cleverly within the array of quils that protrude from its body.

Seeing echidnas isn't an every-day event especially here in the Flinders Ranges. Despite having lived in and around the Flinders Ranges for most of my life, i still get excited when my path convergeses with such special animals. Echidnas are monotremes (egg laying mammals), the only other being the Platypus. It is important that we do as much as we can to assist in preserving the environment of the Echidna. Eradication of predators that threaten them such as feral cats and dogs, and stopping the destruction of their natural environment are crucial to their existance. we all have a roll to play for these uniquely Australian animals, you are wither part of the solution or part of the cause. Be the former....
cheers to all :-)
Haydyn Bromley
Bookabee Australia

Bookabee makes Australian Top 20 Aussie Tours 2009

2009-07-07T20:06:00.004+09:30

From the Australian Traveller website... read on...

To truly experience the Flinders Ranges, hook up with local Adnyamathanha tour guide Haydyn Bromley for this incredible four-day mission of discovery. The luxury 4WD journey visits the natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound, Brachina Gorge, Red Gorge petroglyphs, Bunyeroo Gorge, Italowie Gap, Malkaii Rock Art and the Ochre Pits in Bromley’s traditional homeland. He tells the Adnyamathanha Creation stories and traces the path of the Kingfisher Man, who came down from the north to Wilpena Pound followed by Akurra, the Rainbow Serpent, where their squabbles resulted in the formation of the current landscape.

Cockatoos, emus, red and grey kangaroos and, Haydyn’s personal totem, elusive yellow-footed rock wallabies will cross your path and after you nibble on native gooseberries, bush bananas and quandongs you’ll have to agree with Bromley that “no-one went hungry living in this land”. Whatever your bent, this tour fits the bill – and there’s a lot to be said for the air-conditioned comfort of a luxury vehicle on those days when the mercury climbs to more than 40ºC.

Brag Factor // Munch on sandwiches beneath thousands of ancient petroglyphs at a gorge in the Northern Flinders Ranges.

Details // Tour by Bookabee Tours Australia, $2025 per person twin-share, all-inclusive. (08) 8235 9954, www.bookabee.com.au

check it out online at Australian Traveller there are some great photos there too...

Bookabee Tours takes you to Nepabunna Aboriginal Village - Flinders Ranges SA

2009-07-07T19:47:00.004+09:30

Nepabunna Aboriginal Village
This is one of the four welcome signs that greet travellers as they enter our village.

Three children under the Aboriginal Flag at the March Consent Determination gathering on Nepabunna Land.

Some kangaroos will sleep anywhere...

These lizards are a common sight when bushwalking around the Flinders Ranges.

On this tour, we took both Bookabee Tour vehicles...

Hi All, been really busy of late. Just a quick post to say that we are still going strong. the other week (end or May actually) we were listed in the 2009 Top 20 Aussie Tours by Australian Traveller Magazine. Things are looking bright...
Check out our website... we've recently had a refresh as well. Bookabee Website
Cheers
Haydyn Bromley
Cultural Director: Bookabee Australia

Bookabee tries winter in New York

2009-02-09T21:22:00.002+10:30

Winter time in New York is really really cold.

Hi All
when we went to New York, i took lots of little video clips...
see.
Cheers

Haydyn

Bookabee Travels USA on G'Day USA Roadshow

2009-02-09T20:43:00.004+10:30

Haydyn and Quentin in Time Square: New York.Grand Central Station: New York

Haydyn And Quentin at LAX.

Hi All
I had a great time on the G'Day USA roadshow in January 2009. The travel industry appointments were all top notch and Bookabee's products were received with much enthusiasm.
During the 14 Days, we traveled to Los Angeles, New York and Toronto in Canada. it was an experience for sure.
Thanks to my special friends at Tourism Australia and the South Australian Tourism Commission. I appreciate your assistance and all your help.
cheers
Haydyn Bromley
Bookabee Australia.

Bookabee joins 2009 USA and Canada Indigenous Roadshow

2009-02-03T23:36:00.005+10:30

2009 G'Day USA Gala Dinner: LA

January 2009, Bookabee Tour Director Haydyn Bromley contributed to a very successful Trade delegation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tour Operators who visited North America to spread the work about the good work we have bee doing. The delegation of approximately 30 visited three destinations to meet with industry representatives. In Los Angeles, New York and Toronto (Canada) we met with Travel Industry reps.
It was great... so was the LA Gala Dinner...

L-R: Karyn Kent: South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC), Haydyn Bromley: Bookabee, Maite Conway: SATC and John Daw: SATC

Haydyn with his G'Day USA Gala Dinner Ticket.

Warren drumming up some business in Beverly Hills

Haydyn drumming up some business with the Bookabee Banner on outside the Paley Centre in Beverly Hills.

The Bookabee Banner on display inside the Paley Centre: Beverly Hills.

more to come...

cheers

Haydyn....

Bookabee Tours Post Cards

2008-12-29T21:32:00.003+10:30

Hi All
check out our range of great postcards...
All contain Adnyamathanha Traditional Language and translations.
cheers All
Haydyn...

Go to our website for more details. www.bookabee.com.au

Just another beautiful landscape on a bookabee tour

2008-12-03T18:49:00.002+10:30

Hi
just another spectacular landscape in the Flinders Ranges...
cheers
Haydyn

Bookabee gains Eco-Tourism Accreditation

2008-12-03T18:24:00.004+10:30

Great News... Bookabee Tours Australia achieves stage 1 Eco-Tourism Accreditation

Say no more!!!

cheers

Haydyn Bromley

Back to Back Best Indigenous Tour Operator Awards

2008-12-03T16:09:00.005+10:30

Bookabees’ “Brilliant Blend” takes out back to back wins
What do you get when you take an in-depth knowledge of Indigenous culture, a passion for teaching and the courage to combine the two into a touring company?

The answer is an award-winning formula for Bookabee Tours Australia.

Bookabee has been named South Australia’s Top Indigenous Tour Company for the second year running at the prestigious South Australian Tourism Awards.

And the SA award comes hot on the heels of the fledgling company taking accolades as Travelling in Australia Magazine’s Best National Indigenous Experience 2008.

Haydyn Bromley says the award is a reward for the hard work that he and partner Lele have put into building the company, and confirmation that Bookabee Tours is on the right track.

“We started Bookabee three years ago, with two goals in mind,” Haydyn says.

“The first was to preserve Adnyamathanha culture by sharing the knowledge and teachings of our elders.”

“We want to give others an understanding of the value of caring for land and preserving our stories and practices.”

“The second reason was that as a former teacher this proved to be a natural progression where I could continue sharing knowledge.”

“The only difference is that my classroom is now our land and my pupils are the tour guests that come for the experience.”

Haydyn says the award win is a clear sign that they have hit the right market at the right time and that the passion they have for their job is acknowledged and appreciated.

Bookabee offers a range of two-day to seven-day tours highlighting the best of what’s on offer in the Flinders Ranges, Clare Valley and the Outback.

A new tour brings Coober Pedy and surrounds into the mix with a day along the famous Oodnadatta Track.

For those with time constraints there are also two-hour guided walking tours in and around the city and half-day and full day tours to near country locations.

So far this year, more than 400 guests have enjoyed the Bookabee experience.

That represents a 35 per cent increase on last years’ numbers.

“Our predominant target market, the international traveller is really coming on board,” Haydyn said.

“We have seen a significant growth during 2008-2009 season and have had a 60 per cent increase in international wholesale contracts to deliver Aboriginal and Outback experiences to international inbound experience seekers.”

Bookabee’s biggest markets are the UK, USA, Germany and Europe and the company has seen an increase in tours from countries like Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland and Denmark.

They also cater for domestic travellers who are looking for quality, genuine Aboriginal culture and knowledge experiences.

“We highlight not only the big tourism points of interest, but the cultural knowledge that can only be shared by an Aboriginal person with local connections and knowledge of the area,” Haydyn says.

“Things like important local sites and those that are not accessible to the general public and mainstream tourism operators.

“This gives Bookabee a discernable point of difference from other operators that value adds to the tourism experience through anecdotes and local knowledge.”

Bookabee now goes into the running for the National Tourism Awards
Awards to be decided in Melbourne in February, 2009.
For more information, High Res Images or detailed tour itineraries contact:
Haydyn Bromley: Director Bookabee Australia Pty Ltd

Hope you enjoyed this blog as much as we enjoyed winning the award...

cheers

Haydyn Bromley :-)

Flinders Ranges and Outback signs

2008-08-10T21:11:00.003+09:30

Nepabunna Aboriginal Village now has modest accommodation to suit the happy camper. Give them a call 8648 3764 for enquiries.

At Marree you can commence the legendary Birdsville Track... Read the sign first.

Make sure you are prepared for the outback, take plenty of water, emergency provisions and your common sense. Don't take unnecessary risks and make sure people know where you are going.

At the other side of town (Marree) you can commence the Oodnadatta Track. Same deal, take it easy and don't take silly risks... Enjoy your travels, better still travel with us.
Cheers
Haydyn Bromley

Travelling with Pierre from France

2008-08-10T20:47:00.003+09:30

Pierre on the scenic flight around Wilpena Pound

looking down into Bunyeroo Valley along the Bunyeroo Gorge Trail

Pierre and Haydyn after the scenic flight at Wilpena Pound

a different view down the Bunyeroo Gorge Trail, Flinders Ranges

Haydyn introducing a Bearded Dragon to Pierre along the track
Enjoy the photos,
cheers all
Haydyn Bromley

Bookabee hits the road Land Rover Discovery 3 HSE

2008-08-10T20:20:00.005+09:30

We had a great time recently on a special charter tour. 7 Days, 2360 km, Adelaide to Flinders Ranges to Marree to Lake Eyre, the Oodnadatta Track then back to Olympic Dam and Roxby Downs before returning to Adleaide via Woomera, Port Augusta and the Clare Valley.
one Great Tour, heaps of 'Great Photos'. thanks Pierre Grundmann from France for giving Bookabee your photos.
cheers all
Haydyn Bromley

Bookabee Wins National Tourism Award

2008-07-19T23:54:00.011+09:30

Bookabee Australia has just won Australia’s Best Indigenous Experience which was judged the Aussie Specialist program.
So much Australia so little time...
There comes a time, usually at about age 40, when it becomes all too evident that too few vacation days will accrue in the years that remain, and too many journeys remain untravelled. When the harsh reality hits, there are essentially two options; sell the house and the kids, or prioritise your holidays to include only the best of the best. For inbound travellers to Australia short-listing can be an impossible challenge, as Australia’s a big country with a lifetime of experiences to offer.
TIAM set about finding the best of the best and a panel of hard-core Australia-holics (international Premier Aussie Specialists) determined the following winners...
Click here to visit the Travelling in Australia Bookabee Award Page
For the full list of Travelling In Australia 20 Best Experiences Awards Nominees click here
Category: Best Indigenous ExperienceWinner: Bookabee Tours Australia (South Australia)
Bookabee Tours Australia takes you on a memorable journey of Indigenous discovery, immersing you in cultural experiences and visiting exclusive locations that few people have ever seen. Bookabee is based in Adelaide, South Australia and was established in early 2005. Owned and operated by Haydyn Bromley, an Indigenous man of Adnyamathanha, Narrunga and Yarluyandi origin, his people hail from the Flinders Ranges, Yorke Peninsula and Birdsville areas. Embark on an extended outback tour from two to five days, or a shorter local tour from two hours to a full day. For those with individual needs, Bookabee offers the choice to create your own, self-designed, personalised tour to locations like Birdsville and Coober Pedy. For those with a little more time, escape to the magnificent Flinders Ranges; travelling by luxury 4WD. Explore the outback’s wonders with visits to caves decorated with ancient Aboriginal paintings and engravings, indulge in gourmet bush tucker, and listen to creation stories of the Adnyamathanha people. For travellers with a restricted itinerary, local tours around Adelaide are also offered. Learn about the history of the area as you travel through the Flinders Rangers. Bookabee Tours has a strong focus on South Australia’s Indigenous history and guests are left with a deep understanding of and appreciation for the Adnyamathanha culture.
What makes Bookabee the best?
“My husband and I were fortunate enough to take a trip with Haydyn last September, pre-Corroboree. During my many travels to Australia I had never experienced the terrain and history of the Indigenous people as I did with Haydyn, our guide to the Outback. He was fluent in his story telling about the land and the people who occupied it. As an Aboriginal, his pride in the history - his history - was quite evident. Haydyn brought the history to life, was a wonderful host and created a memorable trip.”
Sharon Oberritter, Oberritter Travel, USA.
Come join us some time... email to find out more tours@bookabee.com.au
Cheers
Haydyn Bromley :-)

Bookabee Land Rover Discovery 3 HSE

2008-07-19T23:54:00.009+09:30

Hi All
Been real busy over the past 12 weeks. lots of touring and heaps of great people to meet. Our latest tour vehicle pictured above is performing a treat. The tour guests love it and I'm wrapped... It's a Land Rover Discovery 3 HSE equiped with all the bells and whistles...
Come try us out some time...
Cheers
Haydyn Bromley

Aboriginal Rock Art: Flinders Ranges

2008-05-09T18:50:00.004+09:30

One of the places we frequent on a regular basis is a local Flinders Ranges Adnyamathanha Rock Art site. At this site, there are a collection of traditional rock paintings depicting different facets of Adnyamathanha life. For more information go to http://www.bookabee.com.au/

This site is under threat from senseless vandalism by persons whom obviously have little regard value or respect for the preservation of the cultural icons and treasures that enrich the diversity of the "real Australian" past.

The Vandalism photographed below is a good example of the mindless destruction of culture. If the bright sparks knew the true origins and meanings of this symbol, they'd probably think twice about using it. just goes to show you can be as thick as two short planks but still somehow manage to work out how to scratch a symbol onto a rock. Pity this person wasn't smart enough to write their own name next to it so we could thank them personally. I guess it is easier for people with limited brain capacity to scratch a symbol than spell long words... (besides, his mum probably never told him how to spell his name anyway...)

Cheers.
Haydyn Bromley

Bookabee Tours Australia

A Kangaroo or three!!!

2008-04-22T22:55:00.002+09:30

With most of South Australia enduring drought, a light shower brings out a Kangaroo or two. Here they have flocked to the road to drink the water as it runs over the painted lines. In the photo, there are about 40 Kangaroos.
Photo: Haydyn Bromley
For more info, go to www.bookabee.com.au
We'll make your next holiday an experience to remember.

Bookabee Australia Pty Ltd South Australia & Northern Territory Distributor

2008-03-11T10:00:00.004+10:30

Hi All
Bookabee Australia Pty Ltd (parent company for Bookabee Tours Australia) has just taken on the Distribution of Outback Pride Bush Food Products for South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Check out our website for further details and ordering information...
Cheers
Haydyn

Kookaburra for lunch

2008-03-11T09:13:00.003+10:30

Hi All
Seems you can't have a lunch in the park these days without uninvited guests. this one, a Kookaburra proved a big hit among the large group of tour guests i had eating our bush food lunch. It even cheekily stole a piece of cheese from the table when we had our backs turned... the resolution is not great, i snapped this photo with my phone camera... have a good day.
cheers
Haydyn

The Apology

2008-03-11T09:05:00.005+10:30

It seemed that everyone had something to say on the day... Well Done Mr. Rudd.
Cheers
Haydyn

A new Day for Australia

2008-03-11T08:54:00.003+10:30

With the victorious demolition of the previous howard dictatorship, Australia breathes a collective sign of relief as the new government start the first day of parliament with an unprecedented Aboriginal cultural welcome. To top this, Mr Rudd then writes himself into the history books by accomplishing what the previous parasite didn't have the guts or fortitude to do. He said SORRY. Well done Mr. Rudd. Before Australia can move on, we must acknowledge the genocide and atrocities that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were subjected to in the past. Acknowledgement is the first step in healing our country. Again, well done Mr. Rudd.
Cheers
Haydyn

Bookabee Tours: Welcome

2008-01-18T21:28:00.000+10:30

Bookabee Tours: Welcome

Hi All
hope you had a great festive season and new year...

Mother and Joey

2007-12-04T08:23:00.001+10:30

Some of the nicest things pop up when you least expect them. On a recent tour, we happened across this female Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby when all of a sudden her little joey decided to make an appearance. It was pretty slow moving (must have just woken up...) but it had a good look around before mum decided to hop to another location...
The tour guests loved it.
for more check out Bookabee Tours Australia
bye for now...
Haydyn

On top of the hump...

2007-12-03T11:47:00.001+10:30

Gee we had a great ride... I tagged along on a recent camel ride at Pichi Richi Camel Tours with two of my tour guests from the USA. We walked through picturesque bush land and soaked up a tour with a difference. Bookabee Tours Australia can incorporate camel rides, mountain bike rides and all manner of experiences within our personalised outback tours. just give us a call and we'll see what we can do.
cheers
Haydyn...
For more info on what we are up to click the link above.

On the camel train...

2007-12-01T20:15:00.001+10:30

Hi All
Recently guests had a great camel ride at Pichi Richi Camel Tours in Quorn. Moving along atop a camel in the Flinders Ranges is definitely an experience that must be had. Our host and owner Graham Cannard treated our tour guests (and myself) to a very enjoyable and thoroughly entertaining 1 & 1/2 hour camel ride around their scenic property.
the guests loved it... I loved it... I recommend you give it a try... (PS. I can even get you there, just give me a call).
For more check out www.bookabee.com.au or Pichi Richi Camel tours
PS... if you want to see the photo in its true perspective, tilt your head to the left. :-)
Cheers
Haydyn...

soaking up the sun...

2007-12-01T19:57:00.000+10:30

Hi All
Here's just another photo of a small dragon that we were able to get a great photo of on the last tour. These colourful little lizards adorn the rock along walking paths around the central Flinders Ranges. Take a step to close and they dart off into the bush or under a rock.
For more check out www.bookabee.com.au
cheers
Haydyn...

Bookabee meets Getaway's Jules Lund

2007-11-24T00:09:00.000+10:30

Bookabee Tours

Hi All
Check out the great time that we had when we spent a little time with Jules Lund and the Getaway crew from Channel 9's Getaway travel program...
If you want to find out more, check the facts sheet on the Getaway site of ninemsn.
cheers
Haydyn

Bookabee wins Best Aboriginal Tourism Award

2007-11-11T21:34:00.000+10:30

Bookabee Tours Australia awarded Best Indigenous Tourism Operator at 2007 South Australian Tourism Awards
Bookabee Tours Australia’s devotion to providing the right blend of Indigenous luxury and outback touring was rewarded with a recent win at the 2007 South Australian Tourism Awards.
Amid the glitz and glamour of the black tie gala event, Director Ms Lele Sanderson joined Bookabee’s Chris Clark on stage to accept the award for Best Indigenous Tourism Operator.

Watch the kids...

2007-11-06T16:33:00.001+10:30

Hi All
One of the nicest treats whist touring is when you come across a family of emu with dad escorting the little ones over the road. Unfortunately dad wasn't interested in rushing the experience and things could have ended in disaster had it not been for some quick braking.
In the bush, the male emu sits on the eggs and plays the key role of raising the young.
Unlike for most of us, this is one case where the female gets it easy...
For more check out www.bookabee.com.au
Cheers
Haydyn...

Soaking up the Sun

2007-10-31T21:25:00.001+10:30

Hi All
Here is a female Painted Dragon caught soaking up the sun on a rock in the Flinders Ranges. Note her tail is missing its end.
For more info check out www.bookabee.com.au
Cheers
Haydyn

Gecko on my shoulder.

2007-10-25T21:32:00.000+09:30

Hi All,
Found this little Gecko on the way to my room in Leigh Creek. When i put him on my shoulder he tried to eat my wallaby... It took him a few goes to realise that it wasn't his dinner...
Cheers

Haydyn...

One Big Lizard...

2007-10-25T09:34:00.001+09:30

Hi
Here is a shot of a goanna taken in the Flinders Ranges National Park.
He's got nice long claws, just what you don't want sinking into you legs... Good thing they are just as afraid of us as we are of them...
for more info check out www.bookabee.com.au
cheers
Haydyn...

Who Me???

2007-10-25T09:28:00.001+09:30

Hi All
Here is another pic from a recent tour of a Sleepy Lizard. We took this photo up north.
He doesn't seem to impressed...
For more info check www.bookabee.com.au
cheers
Haydyn...

Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby

2007-10-25T09:19:00.001+09:30

Hi All
Here is a shot of a Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby we took on a recent tour.
Enjoy

For more info go to www.bookabee.com.au
Cheers
Haydyn...

Echidna in the Flinders Ranges

2007-10-21T15:47:00.000+09:30

Hi all
On a recent Bookabee Adventure to the Central Flinders Ranges, we we treated to a rare sight when we happened across an Echidna wandering over the track.
We were able to get a few photos and even some really bad video footage of this strange mammal before it burrowed in under a fallen tree for safety.
The Echidna is a monotreme (egg laying mammal). Like the platypus, they share the honor of being the only mammals who lay eggs.
As shown in the picture, this one was light brown as is the custom for those found in warmer climates. As you head south, they get darker with the ones found in Tasmania being almost black.
Join me on a Bookabee Adventure. for more go to www.bookabee.com.au
cheers
Haydyn

One perfect day (in the central flinders).

2007-08-26T19:40:00.000+09:30

Looking west to the Picturesque Wilpena pound is just one of the breathtaking sites you can experience on your personalised Bookabee Tours Australia, tour. From this lookout, we can see the yacca trees in the foreground, the road cutting through the centre of the photo, and the eastern rim of Wilpena Pound featuring Saint Mary's Peak in the centre of the photo.
It was a great tour and a perfect day for traveling.
Come koin me some time. For more info, check out our website www.bookabee.com.au
Cheers
Haydyn.

Now this is a BIG Truck...

2007-08-21T17:56:00.001+09:30

This is me standing in front of one of the e coal dump trucks used at the Leigh Creek Coal Fields in Leigh Creek in the Flinders Ranges. These things are gigantic... I though I was tall, but standing in front of this I look like a dwarf. I'm 6 foot tall and even the wheels tower over me.
To get to the cabin you need to climb up almost 18 feet of steps. These beasts are diesel electric jobs and they can carry a heap of coal. Anyhow, If this is your thing, we can even organise a tour of the coal mine as part of your personalized Flinders Ranges outback experience.
Cheers for now... For more check out the website...
Haydyn.

Andu the Yellow footed rock Wallaby

2007-08-15T21:21:00.000+09:30

Hi All
this is Andu the Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby. He;s pretty special and you can find him in the Flinders Ranges. On a Bookabee Tours Australia tour, we visit places where you can see this special wallaby in its home environment. A few years ago the Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby was threatened and almost found itself on the endangered species list. With some commitment from a lot of people the species is fighting back..
cheers
Haydyn

You never know where we'll go on a Bookabee Tour

2007-08-11T09:10:00.001+09:30

One of the greatest features of a Bookabee Tours Australia tour is that we could end up anywhere. From Open plains to mountain ranges, ochre pits to outback waterholes. It all happens on a Bookabee Tour. Come join us and we'll make your next outback vacation a real holiday experience to remember. For more check out www.bookabee.com.au bye now...
Haydyn.

The mighty wedgetail eagle

2007-08-11T08:59:00.001+09:30

On tour we see a lot of wildlife in out travels. most of the time, usually, by the time you get your camera out, they have flown off. On this occasion though, there were 7 eagles feeding and they weren't going to let an approaching vehicle scare them off. We sat for a few minutes and collected some great photos of these magnificent eagles feeding and jockeying for the best parts of the animal. this photo was taken as this eagle was trying to intimidate another into moving over. It would have worked for me... they are pretty fierce when they want to be...
for more check out the website on www.bookabee.com.au
cheers
Haydyn

True art in unlikely places...

2007-08-08T20:36:00.000+09:30

Hi Again...
Another fascinating etching is this one of a Urtlu (Kangaroo). Along side of t is an etching of hand prints, a snake, some paw pints and an Waartyi (emu) foot print.
'It's all good' hope to see you on tour one day.
Cheers
Haydyn...

Stepping back in time

2007-08-07T11:47:00.001+09:30

Hi All
One of the special treats about touring with Bookabee Tours Australia is the ability to travel to places generally considered closed to Tourism. As an Adnyamathanha (pron. Ud-nah-mut-an-ah) person, I can visit many places around the Flinders Ranges where my grand father took me to when i was younger. The best part is I can also share many of his stories.
This place is among many others like it, where the spiritual significance just exudes from the surroundings. The picture depicts an etching of an owl along side other etchings. The site has long been known as a place where Adnyamathanha allowed members of other groups to pass through our land. It contains many etching believed to be from right across Australia. It's a great place to visit to re-energize and recharge the batteries.
Anyhow, for more check the website.
Cheers
Haydyn...

My little friends...

2007-08-05T18:31:00.000+09:30

On a Bookabee Tours Australia tour you never know who you'll meet when you travel the roads in the outback... This little friend was spared a nasty end when I saved him from being squashed. Despite him not being too pleased (about being moved off the road) he did prove to be a great photo opportunity for the guests. They also got to feel his back and tiny feet.
I placed him back on the side of the road and the last time we saw him he was moving in the right direction... For more, go to www.bookabee.com.au
cheers
Haydyn...

Bookabee at goes to National Aboriginal Tourism Conference

2007-07-30T13:00:00.001+09:30

Bookabee Tours Australia invests time in a range of broader tourism related issues such as participation in National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism Conferences. These conferences are held annually and in 2006 it took place in Cairns Qld. Here, Lele Sanderson (Bookabee Australia Director) and Uncle Brenton (Sharpie) are found standing in front of the Expo stand with the Bookabee table to the right of picture.
These are great opportunities for Bookabee to meet up and network with other like tourism operations from across the country.
Check out more at www.bookabee.com.au
Cheers
Haydyn

Bookabee Achieves National Tourism Accreditation Status

2007-07-28T11:28:00.000+09:30

Hi, One of the other things that Bookabee Tours Australia is involved in is that provides a benefit to our tour guests is Aboriginal Tourism Australia. Aboriginal Tourism Australia is a national association with a distinct tourism focus that has established protocols for conducting business (essentially tourism) within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities. This regime is call Respecting Our Culture (ROC) and many Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Tourism based organisations are becoming accredited and adopting this culturally appropriate manner of conducting their businesses. At the beginning of July 2007, Bookabee Tours Australia had our ROC accreditation endorsed. Along with this accreditation, completing it also got our tour company the National yellow tick accreditation for Tourism Australia Accreditation Limited (TAAL).
Its All Good...
Oh Yeah!!!
Cheers
Haydyn...

Water Sports on the Birdsville Track

2007-07-18T19:28:00.001+09:30

On a charter tour to Birdsville in May we came across a lot of water and "Road Closed" signs on our way back along the Birdsville Track.
This photo was taken from another vehicle and shows the headlights on the Tour Vehicle which were submerged moments before, and popped up as the photo was taken.
The tour guests loved it.
Check out the full story at www.bookabee.com.au
cheers
Haydyn

Bookabee Tours Australia: Aboriginal Scar Tree

2007-07-13T19:26:00.001+09:30

This tree, like many others could be located anywhere in the bush, but unlike most other trees, it serves as a reminder of one of the common practices associated with Traditional Aboriginal life. In this photo you can see me pointing out the scar that was left when the bark was removed to make a traditional implement. The implement was most likely either a shield or a some form of implement used to assist in food gathering.
This tree and many like it remind us of a time when Aboriginal people roamed the country going about their traditional practices and life styles.
For more info feel free to drop me an email or check out the website: www.bookabee.com.au
Cheers
Haydyn
tours@bookabee.com.au

Bookabee Bush Food Tastings...

2007-07-11T22:24:00.000+09:30

One of the nice touches that tour guests receive when on a Bookabee Tour is the opportunity of enjoy a range of bush foods. As part of every outback extended tour, each morning tea features a Bush Food theme.
The first generally is organic Scones with a selection of bush jams and fresh cream, the morning teas include bush delights like smoked kangaroo and emu, a selection of bush food chutneys and relishes and a choice of two bush food dukkahs (dipping spices).
It's all good...
On our local tours, we offer a spread where guests can taste the range of what we offer (see the photo above). If you are interested in trying any of the bush foods we offer, drop us a line and we can organize a tour for you.
For more info or to browse our website go to www.bookabee.com.au
cheers...
more later...
Haydyn :-)

The clouds did it...

2007-07-07T15:53:00.001+09:30

Some of the places are simply breath-taking... Take this spot here on the Birdsville track... Just across the way was a couple of Brolga, but It was the reflection of the clouds on the river that captured my eye. Feel free to send me your thoughts, to check out more go to www.bookabee.com.au
Bye for now...
Haydyn

Bookabee Online Article

2007-07-06T19:40:00.000+09:30

Hey All
Things are getting better all the time...
I opened up my email yesterday morning to find a compliment from another tour operator. The compliment was for a great writeup in Selling Down Under (which has now also gone online).
The writeup was terrific and I really want to thank Selling Down Under http://www.sellingdownunder.com.au/ for this great article.
If you get the time, check out the article online at the address above.
You can even go direct if you follow this link... http://edition2a.intellimag.com/?id=sdujuly07
Bye for now...
Cheers
Haydyn
Photo courtesy South Australian Tourism Commission.

Aboriginal Art, Etchings and Engravings.

2007-07-03T21:44:00.000+09:30

There are some sites in the Flinders Ranges that are so special, you have to see them to appreciate their significance. On my tours, we visit many of these special sites and see places that are extremely powerful, both spitirually and culturally to my people, the Adnyamathanha. Adnyamathanha means "Rock - People" and as it is with most Aboriginal groups across the world, we share a special affiliation with the land. which, in most cases can't be quantified in dollar terms.
On the tours, I speak of this important connection to the land and also why it is so important that there is and will always be custodians who are charged with the duty of protecting and looking after the land.
I'd love to share my stories with you all, take the time to check my website and if you like the feel, send me an email.
cheers for now...
Haydyn...
www.bookabee.com.au

The Friends You Meet...

2007-07-01T10:57:00.000+09:30

You never know who you might meet on a tour. In February, we were traveling along and met this little lizard. He was sitting in the middle of the road sunning himself.
Given that it was a reasonably busy track, i moved him to the side and placed him on a rock. He thanked us by showing us his teethy smile.
Then he shot off into the bush.
For more go to www.bookabee.com.au
bye...
Haydyn :-)

Who needs a holiday???

2007-06-28T20:21:00.000+09:30

One of the greatest benefits of my job is that I get to go to places others dream about... and someone enjoys the fact that I have taken them there. Last year (and earlier this year) I was fortunate enough to conduct a tour to Birdsville in south west Queensland. It was GREAT!!! On the way, as we traveled up the Birdsville Track, we saw Brolgas nesting near the track.
It was pretty inspiring. We got a great picture of the male Brolga dancing for the affections of his female partner.
For more check it out at www.bookabee.com.au ...
More later... bye...

Sun Rise to Sun Set... It's an experience!!!

2007-06-27T18:35:00.001+09:30

One of the Things I love about the Flinders Ranges is the great sunrises and sun sets. On tour, there are plenty of opportunities to take fantastic photos of either when you are out. Sometime we head out before sunrise and go to some of the best locations for photos. I boil the billy and we wait for that perfect moment.
Come along some time and I'll show you what i mean...
For more great photos visit the website www.bookabee.com.au
More later...
cheers
Haydyn

Come on a holiday vacation with us for a genuine outback experience

2007-06-26T23:06:00.000+09:30

BOOKABEE TOURS AUSTRALIA
www.bookabee.com.au

Travel in Australia on your Holiday or vacation with us to experience a real authentic Australian Aboriginal Outback Adventure. We not only give what the others offer, we do it with style.
Bookabee Tours Australia has been around since the start of 2005. We offer quality outback experiences departing from Adelaide in South Australia.
We've run tours all over South Australia as well as through the Northern Territory and Queensland. Anyway enough about us, you'll pick up who we are and what we're on about soon enough.
I'd really like to share my experiences and some of the great photos I capture whilst travelling through the bush in the great Australian outdoors.
We take visitors to some great places... Check out our website to see a comprehensive image gallery. we can be found at www.bookabee.com.au

Photo courtesy South Australian Tourism Commission