THE BURKE Shire is historic and interesting country - where at certain times of the year the famous Morning Glory cloud formation rolls across the sky, where the locals will probably give you a wave as you come into town, and where there’s still adventure to be found.

The clear air and crisp mornings are a good start to the day. Many people are so contented with the lifestyle on the southern shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria that they stay an extra day or two - after all, what you can’t fit into today, you can always do tomorrow. Wander around the district and see the saltpans, the artesian bore which during more than a century has built up mineral deposits in all the colours of the rainbow, the old meatworks and even the cemetery. Do some fishing at the Albert River – you might spot a crocodile too.

Discover the land’s aboriginal heritage, the cattle industry, mining industry and the genuine outback welcome. A good place to start is at the tourist information centre in Burketown where you’ll get some good pointers on what to see.

At Savannah Lodge, fully self-contained cabins are available for your stay. There’s almost a resort feeling here, with pathways leading to the upmarket accommodation, a pool, the option to have breakfast on the deck and a pleasant garden setting. For those who can’t leave their computers behind on holidays, wireless internet is available to all rooms.

On Sundays, the Volunteer Marine Rescue has a barbecue and visitors are always welcome. (They usually put a signboard outside the SES building in Beames Street as a reminder on the day.)