27th August, 2014

This morning started with a walk to the Derby Jetty to see it at low tide. We walked for the van park and covered 7 kilometres for the return journey. Here is a shot of the jetty at low tide. The tides are up to 12 metres here so the difference is quite noticeable.

After lunch we headed out to check out a few sites in and around town. We stopped off at the Old Derby Gaol and read about how the prisoners were held here for up to 6 months at a time. The gaol was basically a tin roof and bars, fully open to the elements with one toilet in the corner. The prisoners (mostly aboriginals) were chained together by neck and wrist chains and then chained to the ground until they awaited a trial, whether as a suspect or witness or just for the hell of it. I now how hot the car and camper get out here in the sun, so I can only imagine what those metal chains would have done to their skin in the full sun.

From there we headed out to the Pioneer Cemetery and visited the grave of William Richardson who was the police Constable shot dead by Jandamarra, the Aboriginal Freedom Fighter. 

The Boab Prison Tree was our next stop. This is a 1000 odd year old tree where the Aboriginals were chained around and held until they were transported into Derby. 

Near the tree is Myalls Bore which is a cattle drinking trough capable of feeding 500 cattle at a time back in the day. It is now filled by a windmill.

Frosty's Pool is really close to both of these Historical Markers, which is a pool built during the 2nd World War and use by the troops and officers to keep cool in the tropical heat.

Trent and I then went fishing for Jewfish at the pier, no luck. 

We then picked up the girls and went back to the pier for the sunset before heading back to camp for a Roast Chicken and Vegies in the Weber, luxury.