Footsteps
As its name suggests,
Crystal Brook Explorers Trail is dedicated to the many explorers who had passed through some of our country's harshest land. The trail focuses on the way in which these people did their explorations. Although the purpose might have remained the same, their means of transport continued to develop over the years.
Ships
Aboriginal and early European explorers made their way across Australia on foot in search of water, food and shelter. Hence,
Footsteps is the first sculpture you'll see along the trail. Edward John Eyre, with indigenous tracker Whylie, traversed the Nullarbor Plain in the mid 19th century. They dealt with not only difficult terrain and extreme weather but also the lack of water and scarcity of feed. They relied on
horses to carry large packs. John Ainsworth Horrocks, on the other hand, availed himself of
camels which were tougher and hardier.
Whale boats
were used to explore over the seas. Matthew Flinders charted the coastline of South Australia while commanding the Investigator. As for inland waterways, small and light
whale boats were chosen instead. Charles Sturt's expedition resulted in the discovery of the Murray River.
Motor vehicles
The trail consists of seven sculptures in total. I was surprised at the final two and you might be too when you come to them. You'll find the trail on Bowman Street in
Crystal Brook. Do make an effort to 'explore' this beaten path next time you're in the vicinity.
