Binghi Station

Charli-Chai’s First Adventure: A Weekend at Binghi Station

Charli-Chai had been freshly kitted out—new suspension, recovery gear, and a gleaming coat of dust-ready paint. She was more than just a 4WD; she was the newest member of the crew. And this weekend, she was about to earn her stripes.

Friday: River Crossings and Rolling In

The convoy gathered at BP Aratula just after 9am. The air was crisp, coffee was strong, and spirits were high. With Charli-Chai chomping at the bit, we rolled out toward the Condamine River Road—a scenic detour that promised more than just pretty views.

The river crossings were a thrill. Water splashed high as tyres gripped through the shallows, and Charli-Chai handled each crossing like a seasoned pro. Cameras clicked, laughter echoed, and by midday, the crew pulled into the Killarney Hotel for a well-earned pub lunch. Schnitzels, chips, and cold drinks were devoured under the shade of the verandah.

After turning off Bruxner Way the road quickly turned to dirt. The final stretch to Binghi Station was a dusty ribbon winding through cattle country. Sandy tracks greeted us at the property boundary, and Charli-Chai danced through them with ease. Just before sunset, we arrived at Secret Gorge—a hidden gem along the creek, framed by granite cliffs and whispering gums. Swags were unfurled, the fire was lit, and the stars began their nightly show.

 

📸 Saturday: Tracks, Waterfalls, and Suspension Glory

Saturday was all about exploration. Binghi Station sprawled across rugged terrain, with trails that twisted through gullies, over ridges, and past ancient rock formations. Charli-Chai took it all in her stride, her new suspension soaking up the bumps like a dream.

The highlight? A photo shoot at the waterfall crossing. With water cascading gently over the rocks, Charli-Chai posing like a true adventurer—mud-splattered, proud, and perfectly framed by nature’s backdrop.

Lunch was bush wraps and billy tea beside a granite outcrop. The afternoon brought more trail time, with each rig tackling sandy climbs and rocky descents. By evening, the fire crackled again, camp ovens worked overtime and stories flowed like the creek beside them.

Sunday: History and Farewell

Sunday morning brought a special treat. After Henri found her own tasty breakfast treat, and we'd packed up, the station owner, a weathered bushman with a twinkle in his eye, offered a tour of the old tin mine. The rock crusher of the old tin mine stood silent but proud—a relic of hard days and hopeful dreams. Nearby, Aboriginal rock art told stories far older than any mine, etched into stone with reverence and mystery.

 

The crew listened in awe, humbled by the land’s deep history. As the sun climbed higher, it was time to pack up. They exited via the “back road,” a winding trail that offered one last taste of Binghi’s wild charm.

Charli-Chai rolled out with dust on her flanks and pride in her engine. Her first trip had been a triumph—river crossings, sandy tracks, waterfall glamour, and ancient stories. She was no longer just the new rig. She was part of the legend.

 

Follow Charli-Chai's adventures on Instagram @Helens_4wd_adventures

Disclaimer: Parts of this report may have been composed using AI.