We walked down to the pearl farm tour where we were given the history of pearling in the area, then headed to the pearling operations building where the cultivation process was outlined. Pearls are seeded and take about 2 years to grow, where they are harvested and then the oyster is reseeded. Occasionally natural pearls will also grow which are not seeded and are not uniform in shape. We watched as a natural pearl was extracted. Then on to a demonstration of the different qualities that determine the value of a pearl, and finally a sample of the pearl oyster meat (for everyone except me 🙂 ). Then through the pearl gallery with some seriously impressive (and expensive) pearls on display and for sale.

After lunch we piled in the Scott’s car and headed out to One Arm Point. The weather was still pretty miserable but the coastline was quite moody. I hope that we can get at least a glimpse of sunshine before we leave the area to experience the amazing colours of the rocks and water that Cape Leveque is known for.

We paid for a tour of the hatchery on the way into town, but the weather meant it wasn’t going to be a great tour so the host suggested we come back and try again tomorrow. So we added that to the list with the cancelled cruise. On the way back to Cygnet Bay we called in to Gumbanan Wilderness Retreat – a lovely waterside camp ground with tidal rock fish traps down below.

We are getting updates suggesting the Gibb river crossings have risen to impassable levels. Once we have an idea of time for the crossings to drop and the anticipated road opening we can start to make some plans for our forward itinerary.