007 Camp by a billabong

If it wasn’t for a certain popular surf wear brand, the rest of the world would probably have never heard of a billabong, let alone camping by one – or, better yet, going for a swim in one.

If it wasn’t for a certain popular surf wear brand, the rest of the world would probably have never heard of a billabong, let alone camping by one – or, better yet, going for a swim in one.

Annoyingly, the word is of Scottish origin, but we still reckon taking a dip in a billabong is something you can only do in Australia. It’s also one of the most fun things you can do without paying a cent. And with the outback sun beating down without mercy, who cares if there might be crocs about? Being chased by a saltie is just one more in a long list of unique Australian experiences. Although if you want the billabong minus the predator, check with the locals and only swim if there are no warning signs.

Where // Throughout the Australian outback, the dinkum Aussie billabong is a still-water pond or creek that – on rare occasions – may even house a Bunyip.

Did you know? // A strange animal skull was found in the Murrumbidge in NSW in 1846, with several experts declaring it an unknown species. Many took it as evidence of the existence of Bunyips – although it was later debunked as being a malformed cow or horse.

SEE THE FULL LIST: 100 Things you can only do in Australia