I am reaching out to share an experience I had back in 2001 while working at a resort in Kings Canyon, Northern Territory, and to seek your insights on the matter.
During my time as a kitchen hand at the resort, I had the opportunity for some exploration on my days off. One particular day, my flat mate and I decided to venture out to Carmichael’s Crag for some exploration. Our journey took us through mulga scrub and across a dry claypan, where we stumbled upon small flints and grinding stones before continuing towards the base of the Crag and the valley beyond it.
After climbing a dry waterfall to gain a better view of the natural amphitheater, we amused ourselves by calling out coo-ees to enjoy the echoing effect. However, our merriment was interrupted by a peculiar sound emanating from the valley below. It was unlike anything I had ever heard—a deep, rhythmic oomph accompanied by the reverberating bang of a large drum.
Perplexed, my flat mate and I exchanged bewildered glances, unable to identify the source of the sound. Despite my familiarity with the Australian wilderness through the likes of Harry Butler, Malcolm Douglas, and The Bush Tucker Man, I found myself at a loss. Even nine years later, I am haunted by the memory and ponder whether we encountered something beyond our understanding that day, perhaps even a yowie.
I recall that camels were present in the area at the time, but having heard their calls during visits to Kings Creek Camel Station, I can confidently say that the sound we heard bore no resemblance to a camel’s call.
