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• Ethabuka Ecological Survey Trek # 1 - June 7 to June 22
• Ethabuka Ecological Survey Trek # 2 - July 12 to July 27

Summary
Ethabuka Reserve is located in western Queensland, bordering onto the Northern Territory and joining the Simpson Desert National Park. This major arid-zone property of 213,300 hectares is a haven for desert wildlife, with river floodplains, dune systems, claypans and ephemeral and semi-permanent wetland systems of national significance.

The Mulligan and Sylvester Rivers border the eastern side of the reserve and the Field River creeps through the Simpson Desert dunefields in the southwest.

It has a remarkable diversity of mammals, birds and reptiles and we will be working together with BHA to conduct surveys in the more remote western & southern section of the reserve. In January and early February 2010 there were heavy rains in the district with the rivers and creeks all experiencing minor flooding. Consequently, our survey will be well timed to document the resulting proliferation of species and rejuvenation of this spectacular part of the Simpson Desert.

Sydney University's principal researchers Drs. Chris Dickman and Glenda Wardle, have worked at Ethabuka for over 20 years and along with numerous students and researchers from the Institute of Wildlife Research, now work closely with Bush Heritage. Their team will be working on Ethabuka during our trek. an weather and logistics permitting, we may 'combine camps' at least once during the trek.

This survey trek represents a wonderful opportunity to get a 'hands on' experience in ecological field work in areas of the majestic Simpson Desert that are seldom visited, and to see first hand the significant management complexities involved in managing such a diverse area of the majestic Simpson Desert.

...further information on Ethabuka Reserve

March 2010 - Heavy rain in Queensland
Since the end of February there has been record breaking rainfall in Queensland, including in the northern Simpson Desert. The Field River has received substantial flows, as has the Mulligan/Eyre Creek system and the Diamantina River. The trekking conditions on Ethabuka in June and July will be exceptional, as the entire property has received heavy, soaking rain. Click here for more information and images.

Photo courtesy of BHA

Trek Details - departure # 2
Dates: July 12 to July 27 2010 trek completed
Total days including transfers: 16 - 2 day transfer/12 days trekking/2 day transfer
Trekking days: 12  ...trek itinerary  
Grade: Moderate
Departure point: Brisbane
Finish point: Brisbane
Maximum places: 13
Full tour price: $5390
Repeat Trekker price: $5120

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Photo courtesy of BHA