Another Update From The Road

After the drive through Mount Isa we spent time in Winton as I was wanting to show DI where I had been on the team that did production for the 1995 Waltzing Matilda Centenary celebrations. As we neared the town we found out that the Outback festival was on so we stopped for the afternoon and walked around enjoying the different things going on. As you walk down the street you can’t help but notice the bins as they are made to look like dinosaur feet. We grabbed a ticket for the Waltzing Matilda Centre and went through the exhibits including some dinosaur bones as well as a large amount of old machinery and a multi media presentation that was great. They projected an image onto a large oval shaped area full of opaque rods. When you looked a bit further there was a display of old medical technology and an old iron lung for paralyzed patients. I am really thankful that we live in this time with all the advancements in medical care. We looked at a hybrid caravan/camper trailer and that is always a bad thing to do as they look so nice compared to the Hilux Hilton and they have a real shower and you take everything in drawers and it slides out. But after looking we found out the price and we were cured of that desire.

Later that night we came to a place that was pretty nice with loos that were clean so we set up camp a fair way back from the road just in case of trucks. We had the whole place to ourselves for a while but someone joined us later complete with a big dog that wasn’t overly friendly and would’ve liked to bite me I think. Anyway they camped far enough away that it wasn’t an issue. After we made our dinner we settled down for the night and slept well until a road train full of sheep turned up. I thought at the start the truckie was adjusting something as you could hear the hoofs of the sheep as they moved around and the occasional running water which turned out not to be water. But one good thing was that we had camped up wind so we never smelt the sheep., but the same could not be said for the guy with the grumpy dog who was copping it all.

We set off at first light and headed for Longreach and got into town around 4 pm so we headed to the Stockman’s Hall of Fame to see when it opened and how much it was. When we got there we were really pleased as we were offered a 99 dollar ticket that included dinner and a show that night as well as entrance to the Hall of Fame the next day and another show. It was such a great score not only did we not have to worry about dinner we got an evenings entertainment as well. At dinner we got the privilege of sitting with a young couple on their honeymoon and some seasoned travellers so it was a great meal. Steak and roast veggies was the order of the night and all you could eat at that too. The show started and it was great to see the skills of the performers and hear about the history of the Australian stock horse and some of the training methods and the roles they have performed. The show included stock horses quarter horses and a huge bull that weighed over a tonne. The show itself was very informative but really entertaining and included the best of the stockman and the skills they learn. After the show we went back to sleep having had a great night and recommending it to anyone as it really is good value.

We woke up the next morning and made our way to the Hall of Fame and started what would be a very long but educational day. we started with the stories of the travelling merchants and what they sold as well as telecommunications and their development throughout our history. Along each wall they have stories of people who made a real difference in spite of the circumstances and challenges that the Australian outback gives. It was great seeing the history of the major cattle stations as well as the wool trade and just how much effect it had on the Australian economy and still does. We looked at the Christian origins of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and its’ growth in both reach and equipment. As a side note every time we drove across vast distance some of the roads were widened as emergency landing strips for the Flying Doctor service to get to patients.

The second show was at 11 so we made our way out and were taken through the process of breaking in a horse and what a stockman needs and also goes through to perform their job at the different stations. He also broke into song every so often and while it wasn’t my style of music it was ok. There was no denying that this guy had some serious riding skills and so did his wife. After the show we continued looking through the place for another few hours and reading the stories of past Australians and how times have changed. It was great to see the contributions of indigenous Australians honoured as without their help much of Australia would remain out of reach. It is shame that some of the past was stories of abuse against them but hopefully we as a people have learned from our past so that we do not repeat it. Their is brilliance in us all regardless of background of where we come from.

A Big Drive Across

After leaving Katherine we headed down to the three roads junction on the way to Tennant Creek and we turned off just before as we had word that our oldest daughter had been in an accident and rolled her car. Although she is ok it still isn’t easy being on the road when you hear that news. So we thought while the top end is closed we might pass by home to make sure she is really ok to Mum and Dad standard. We decided not to rush too much and saw another brown sing to a little place called Daly Waters and I have to tell you this place was a cracker. Even from the fuelling up experience, I stopped at the bowser and filled the hilux and there was a sign go to the pub after you fill up. So I filled up and went into the pub and the guy said how much did you get and that’s what I payed for. Inside this place were thongs, t-shirts, business cards, you name it and it was on the walls. They had an Anzac commemoration outside with an old vehicle and of course the helicopter on the service station. I was feeling a bit hungry so we ordered a bowl of sweet potato chips and a burger, and they were huge. We were flatout getting through them but they tasted great. This is one of the only places that got every sweet potato wedge crispy ( it ruined me for any others I think). After a full car and full stomachs we headed to 2 roads and topped up for the long drive ahead as we turned toward Mount Isa and our beloved Queensland.

Anyway we stopped along the road at a place called 41 mile bore rest stop and it was a nice place to set up and rest if it wasn’t for the flies. These things were out of control trying to become a food group as they go straight for the mouth and ears. We pulled out our secret fashion statement “THE HEAD NET” . It still doesn’t stop the humming or the feel of flies in your arm hair but it keeps them out your mouth. We pulled up and scored the most amazing spot with a cement pad for our tent so the ground sheet didn’t come out ( I am thankful for the small things). As the sunset so did the flies and the buzzing stopped the nets came off and we cooked ourselves some dinner and had a coffee while watching the stars overhead. It is so wonderfully peaceful out here and we were far enough from the road that trucks weren’t an issue. In fact the only issue we had was when I took the portaloo out of the truck and set it up some water had leaked into the bowl and I thought I will just open the valve and it will all be good. It wasn’t, as for some reason pressure had built up in the bottom tank and as soon as I cracked the top seal she sprayed on me. I am saying it was only the fresh water tank that got on me cause I don’t think I would cope with the alternative ( note to self never again buy a kings toilet).

We woke just before sunrise the next and I said to Di lets pack up quick before the flies come but only a few minutes later as the sun began lighting the sky the humming began and the head net was on. Aside from these little monsters it was still one of the nicest places we stayed and we slept well. After we got the Hilux on the move again (I love this Ute) we came to the Berkley Homestead which really is an oasis in the middle of nowhere with air conditioning and really good food and nice staff. We had the best tasting bacon and egg roll ever and 2 coffees that felt like a hug in a mug. Once again the world was wonderful so we set off again without filling up as I was determined to make the 700klm journey on one tank of diesel. It is amazing how you entertain yourself on long trips.

More long and boring straight roads were getting really boring but we got a strong reminder to stay alert as I saw what looked like a piece of plane wreckage 500 metres ahead. As we neared the site it was a large caravan and a Toyota Land Cruiser that were destroyed. We pulled up as their was no police tape or signs on it and it looked recent so we looked around to make sure no one was still there or worse still hurt. When we found no one we headed for the nearest police station as we had no signal only to be told we took care of that 2 days ago (we really prayed for the people in the vehicle as it did not look good. Both of our minds went our daughter Rachel and her crash and how much worse it could have been.

After a while more of driving we got within 18 klms of Mount Isa before the fuel light came on so erring on the side of caution in went a jerry can of diesel but I am declaring it a win for the fuel range, I just wasn’t wanting to drag any stuff from the bottom of the tank through the filters. We reached Mount Isa and stopped at Maccas to hatch a plan, which would include getting all our necessary gear for a service as the Hilux was due having done over 10000klms. We found a Supercheap and got all the right gear for the service.

We stopped at another roadside rest area which was nice even down to the carpet snake in the toilets and thought we may sleep in the Hilux but after 20 minutes we decided that was a rubbish idea and set up our tent properly and drifted off to sleep. knowing that in thew morning we would be servicing the ute flies and all. The service didn’t take as long as expected and really this vehicle has been brilliant without a single hiccup in performance or any niggling problems (except the reversing camera which failed on day 1. There is much more to follow as we are currently on the Sunshine Coast and have been helping Rachel choose a new car before we change vehicles and travel again. We spent time in Winton and Longreach and will be updating the blog shortly as we really loved the towns.

Up Around Broome

After driving through some nice scenery we got to Broome and had a look around to see what was happening and it was not much. If you like fishing it would be great I think but apart from that we couldn’t see a whole lot more to do, so after a bit of planning we decided to rock into Derby a little further on to see the largest tidal shift in Australia which can come in at around 6klm and hour so it is pretty fast moving. When we arrived in Derby we organised to stay in a CWA place that was old fashioned but really nice and the hot shower certainly didn’t go astray. It was the first time since we started travelling that I was able to cook a roast and vegetables which was pretty yum (although I did have a mishap with the pork being too close to oven element). The main street had Boab trees down the middle that looked great and very different to what we normally experience here. While we were getting to our accommodation for the night a young Aboriginal guy showed us a Boab nut that he had carved and it was amazing with staggering detail of 2 stingrays on one side and some trees on the other. We settled down for a relaxed evening and had a really sound sleep before waking and making our way to Katherine the next morning. We also came across a lot of old abandoned equipment and I loved the crane sitting by the water and took photos accordingly.

On the way out we came across the prison tree which had a story all of its own, and history that we were unaware of until we read the plagues. It was a huge Boab tree that had become hollow in the middle and it was used as a rest spot for prisoner transport by the local police. The tree also has some significance to the local aboriginal people with 6 different sing giving the history of the area.

We arrived in Katherine later in the day and it was a pretty little place and when we arrived we were told about some hot springs that sounded inviting. They were right as we wandered down and saw what they had been talking about. The water was crystal clear and warm enough to relax aching muscles and we had a foot spa while we were their. It is funny that you can swim in here but less than 50 metres away is a croc infested river. After the hot springs we found a great little pop-up cafe within walking distance that was really nice and made a great coffee. We settled in for the night and our minds while enjoying our time were thinking of family as our Rachel had an accident while we have been gone and is ok but it still doesn’t make it easy to be away at times like this.

After a great nights sleep we packed up and were ready to head further north only to find out due to residual water that many of the areas we wanted to visit were not open and may not be for 3 weeks so we changed plans and headed south toward Sandfire. It is amazing that we could go from not much water to too much of it, but we live in an unpredictable country after all.

A lot of water around here

Top of WA

We made it to Kununurra after some free camping overnight it was and made our way to the Kimberleys area and began to explore the forestry areas and started following the signs for a place called Valentines springs which is not too far off the highway and around 12klms in on a rutted but reasonable dirt road. It was very hard to miss as you drive through it and apparently in the wet season it is impassable as the crossing is too deep and the area is essentially a set of rapids that empty into several pools. Even in the dry there is still water in the main pools due to the fact they are also spring fed. Something was in there and we were not sure what but it was not a croc but looked like a large silver fish swimming around. We got out for a while stretched our legs and took a bit of a breather before we explored further in.

Middle Spring

We came across a series of signs that directed us to Black Pool and Middle Spring both of which are inaccessible in the wet. We made it to Black Pool but it was largely dry as rain had not fallen in the area for a while but it was still an ok drive in and a nice walk to the falls area. It was a bit surprising that not much water was in the Springs as the dam flood gates were open in the town as the dam was full and run off was still coming from the heavy rains they had further north.We noticed a track off to the side that said High Clearance 4wd vehicles only. That was our way in to Middle Springs and it was definitely a lot of fun getting there through some very soft sand rocky gullies and a switch back with a water crossing at the end opening out into a great picnic area. We did put some scars on the Hilux and hit the jerry cans on top a bit, although not too badly. It was a really lovely spot and we spent some time chilling out and enjoying the day. When we did move on we went out it seemed shorter and a bit easier but still made for a great day.

One thing I have really enjoyed is seeing the birds of prey as we travel and the sheer numbers of them. I took the following picture near the dam of this beautiful bird and there were probably another 12 or so on the other side of the waterway. My amazing kids gave me an eagle experience at Australia Zoo and I got to hold one of these birds but to see them in the wild is really something else as they area very large bird and have been known to take a lamb. Unfortunately there were also a number of them dead on the road after being hit by cars while having a feed on the road kill. In one spot alone Di and I counted 213 dead roos in 2 klms.

Life From the Road

We have based ourselves in Karatha for a bit and have explored the area, as I said last time Red Dog was filmed here and I loved the movie. The area has salt flats on the side of the main drag through town and we got to attend the Karatha Baptist Church while we were there. It was Easter on Good Friday and they put 3 crosses out on the mud flats as the sun rose. We Loved the Sunday message and it was a great encouragement as to how we listen and observe.

After the weekend we decide to go and see the Millstream National Park as we had heard it was a great area for photography and some good 4wd areas. It certainly didn’t disappoint as we spent a lot of time driving in and through the gorge areas seeing some great geography and a lot of dust and corrugations. The one thing that stands out in this area is the contrast in colours from grass and dirt to sky, and the rock formations that seem to be almost man made. The following is a blurb from WA parks and wildlife about the area.

Millstream Chichester National Park is highly diverse within the Pilbara region due to the presence of permanent water and associated wetlands. Over 120 species of bird, 30 species of mammal, 150 species of reptile and 500 species of plants can be found in the park. This includes spectacular riparian birds such as the Rainbow Bee-eater, Sacred Kingfisher and Blue-winged Kookaburra as well as desert adapted species such as Spinifex Pigeons and the impressive Bustard. Twelve species of Raptor live in the park and can be seen flying high over the arid plains and on the margins of waterways. Interesting mammals include Euros (Hills Kangaroos) and the endangered Northern Quoll as well as Ghost Bats and a suite of marsupial “mice” are found in the park. Pilbara Dragons are often seen darting up trees and several species of Goanna are regularly seen, as well as Stimson’s Pythons and the impressive Olive Python, which frequents rocky cliff faces along the Fortescue River.

Beyond this they have 50 bajillion flies all who really want to get right in your mouth all the time, I mean there are a lot of flies and they love bushmans, aeroguard , rid, and tailswat. I supplemented our meals with these wonderful little treats YUCK. We visited an amazing swimming area known as Python Pools and it is a natural waterway that cascades down a rock face into a large pool at the base that has been dug out by the water over time. During our trip there had not been rain for a while so the park was dry but there was water in the pool.

Python Pool

After spending the day exploring we went to Hearsons Cove to experience the staircase to the moon but due to the clouds we missed it, but it didn’t stop us from experiencing a great sunset and recording it for our memories. I hope you enjoy these photos as much as we have been recording them to share with you. It was a nice night to just sit and snuggle up enjoying the natural beauty of this wonderful place. Next after some rest it was on to our next stop and yet another adventure.

Sunset at Hearsons Bay

More News From The Luxxy

So we decided to have a bit more time in Karatha as it seemed to be an interesting town with shipping ports to one side in Dampier and a ghost town called Cossack pretty close by. We went to this wonderful little town because “who doesn’t want to see a ghost town”? It is an old pearling town situated near Settlers Bay around 15 klms out of Karatha in a village called Cossack.. As you begin to explore it has numbered posts outside each building giving an indication as to some order in which to see them. As is always the case we kept tot the normal way and started at 3. It was a school house that would’ve fit only 20 or so students made of sandstone with timber inside. It burnt down at one stage and during the 6 month rebuild the kids were taken by horse and carriage 15 klms away for school (I love the combustion engine).

Court House

The town had its own functioning courthouse and Jail complete with pretty much nothing at all except a bed and a pot (kinda like camping) and some really big bars. It was not a place I would like to spend any time in at all, and if compared to todays prisons the guards probably lived worse than inmates do today. As we walked around it was hard not to appreciate the sense of history and the difficulty of every day task but the sheer ingenuity that people used to make life a little better. You could still some cyclone damage fro the storms that ravaged the state with the lookout areas roof down on the rocks below. You could see the surrounding bays where they harvested the pearls from as they had to move further and further from shore and into the Bay as the stocks became depleted.

They had the local store of course but it was no IGA but surprisingly large for a small town but even 15 klms to get more would take so much longer than today and the journey far more difficult. Today there is a cafe with all the usual touristy stuff made in China. The coffee is good but then so is our campfire coffee espresso maker which I have to say for an on stove device makes great smooth coffee except for the end of the shot when it has a coughing fit and tries to spray hot coffee on you. Any way I digress, after more exploring we found 2 cemeteries 1 for Asians and the other for Europeans about 50 metres apart from each other. This seemed to be an ongoing theme wherever we go. Not sure if it was racial, cultural or ceremonially driven but will look into that for another day. At least places like this provide the backdrop for exploring and learning who we were as a people and how we arrived at what we are today.

There were some lovely beaches but the water is starting resemble more of a brown milkshake colour rather than the crystal clear we are used to. As we continue to learn I will put up some updates for Mills National Park as it is said to be beautiful and contains a place called Python Pools which I am looking forward to seeing. Bye for now catch up soon.

Added Post

Got a bit out of order on the last post as we visited Bluff Point and had a look around and found it to be an industrialized place with a considerable port presence and some heavy duty lifting gear. While we where her we spied out an old lighthouse that had the top shrouded which we only realized later was the last candle powered lighthouse in the West Australian coastline. We also stopped near a park and were entertained by a couple of hundred cockatoos screaming at each other as per usual, still saying the same things but louder than usual. After exploring the town a bit more and the surrounds we were off again. I am beginning to get the feeling I have a hard time slowing down and just sitting anywhere for any length of time.

The Days Roll On

Owing to the limited and sporadic availability of internet access the updates won’t be day labelled but kinda throughout the week as it makes it easier. Anyway on to this update and it is filled with drama intrigue and action (not really but it sounds good). .After leaving Perth we decided to head North we saw a brown sign for the Pinnacles Desert and thought that could be cool and I assure you was. I am a big Stargate fan and these outcrops looked other worldly like a set I had seen used once. It was a great drive through well kept sand tracks that 2wd could get through. We drove the entire area and walked through many of these sand stone monuments that seemed so incredibly out of place. It really is worth a visit if you get over this way as it seems so out of place with the rest of the scenery.

Then it was on to Jurien Bay and we stayed at a footy field (no accommodation due to Easter)hoping to settle in for the night for a good sleep. After much procrastinating about a good site (bull ants verses no bull ants) we finally decided on a setup not to far from the amenities and on an ant free surface. We were all settled in for the night, or so we thought as a 40 kph wind began to blow with gusts of up to 80 so the tent became very much like a giant sail trying slap us at every chance. The velcro holding the tent top and sides gave way so some of it came for a visit. After trying to hold it from inside I went outside to re-do the velcro only to have the pegs pull out 10 mins later and again the tent wanted to slap us. I went outside armed with my secret weapon zip ties and anodised sand pegs convinced that this would save the day but it didn’t. Our wonderful water proof tent was leaking through the walls and I found myself holding the walls so they didn’t take flight. It was at this point of sheer camping victory that we decided it was time to bail. So first things first we had to cut the zip ties but could only find cheap scissors. Each step we were working between wind gusts and driving rain and lightning seriously wanting a caravan but eventually we got it all packed up, and like 2 drowned rats we jumped in the Hilux and left Jurien Bay with somewhat tainted memories. Just a PS to this we had some amazing fish and chips for dinner before the storm came so not all bad memories.

As we got back on the road we dried out a bit and were amazed at the sheer force of the wind, we had been told it was windy but this was nuts. An update that apparently this bad wind system only happens once a year and they are never quite sure when, but we sure were. After driving for a while we finally gave in and spent the night sleeping in the Hilux a bit damp but happy for the sleep, only to pass a rest area 20 mins down the road with toilets and good camping areas. Once the day dawned we continued on after a fuel stop to Carnarvon and learned that even though normally they would have accommodation that owing to Easter and the Gascoyne Offroad championships (which are awesome) even the free camping sites were full. The Bogan in me really enjoyed watching these off road machines trundle through town and stopping for fuel. I have included a couple of images but they are not my own and belong to the Gascoyne Rally page.

So after getting my fix of these incredible machines we headed out for another adventure although we were both very tired and in desperate need of some sleep. No sooner have we got 20klms out of Carnarvon we came across and English couple from Manchester who had misjudged the fuel range of their vehicle and had run out of fuel. So we did a run back into town for them and picked up a can and some fuel to help them out. It was a bit sad but he seemed genuinely surprised that we stopped to help him and were prepared to drive back to town to get fuel. I think the Love God Love People vision of Lifepointe is for circumstances like this, especially when you don’t feel like it or have a dozen excuses. Even better we made some new friends.

At the recommendation of some great people we decided to head for Coral Bay and see if our chances for any accommodation would be better but wouldn’t you know it, it was worse and the winds were terrible. Even the excellent 4x4 tracks were chockers as no one could do anything else as the wind was stopping most other things. We took some photos and drove out thinking that this will be a monster of a day unless find somewhere soon. Well we finally drove into Karatha and found a place to stay as Easter is the time the locals leave so the place gets smaller. We had only just arrived and we were driving around and I started to think I had seen this place before but not sure how. It wasn’t until we went into Dampier and saw the statue of Red Dog that the penny dropped. It was filmed here. Anyway after an extremely long day we finally slept long and well.

DAY 15&16

We after staying at Albany we were on to Perth, we thought about Bunbury (big shout out to Dillon) but it was raining and I wasn’t overly keen on setting up in the rain again. We arrived in Perth and drove around to see what was what and checked into some accommodation that didn’t have wheels or needed to be pegged down. I would love to say I am a total convert to the camping way but it is a process I think and like all processes it takes time. So we checked in to this wonderful place with an amazing view across the bay to Perth city. First things first it was cold and wet so I got a gelato (as you do) which was great mascarpone and cocoa flavour which didn’t really warm me up Di had a apple pie one which was also great but not the most warming thing. We had a quick scout around and realised that the best thing we could do to avoid costly parking go to our accommodation and make a plan. First things first a cuppa and then attack the pile of washing that needed to be done as the used clothes far outnumbered the clean. Anyway after all the domestic duties it was an easy night a simple meal and a great sleep.

The plan today was to get up early and go and walk around Perth, and it worked we stayed less than 5 mins walk to the ferry so we took it to the city and walked around for most of the day looking at the various touristy things but also just wandering where we liked. Di and I really like this city it is very clean and feels relaxed, which is pretty amazing as it has the same population as Brisbane but looks markedly smaller in geography. It has an eclectic feel with having architectural swings between classic and very modern with a lot of development going on. We visited the old court house and the supreme court which are surrounded by beautiful gardens. A lot of old churches and buildings have commemorative things honouring our fallen soldiers, and serving as a reminder. We also ran into a couple of guys advertising the Alpha course and families course for their local churches. We found this great little Cafe/chocolate shop owned by a Choclatier Sue Lewis on St Georges Terrace and had a coconut honey cake that has ruined every other coconut slice I will ever have. The coffee was top shelf too, and I know bad coffee I have been making it for weeks out of the back of the Hilux. Check out Sue Lewis’s website as she makes these cute bunny bums, as well as some extraordinary other types of chocolate.

We found eatery after eatery and the usual shops to look through but we had a great time and walked just over 10klms from end to end of the city and to many places in between. We finally took a ferry back to our unit and booked in for a meal at Mr Walker a restaurant located on the wharf and returned to have a great meal together with a view of Perth.

We are currently on the hunt to find a church to attend tomorrow for Good Friday but if we don’t we will have our own service somewhere, as we have much to remember at this time of the year and much to be grateful for. When every religion says you must measure up and then to have Jesus reach down to a broken people is staggering to me. We miss our church family at these times but know that they will be remembering along with us. And of you are reading this and want to know more or have questions about faith look on google for an Alpha course and join the discussion.

DAY 14&15

After the Nullabor (really like saying that) we encountered more long straights, enough to know this is certainly not Queensland. Maybe QLD has taken WA’s corners and straight is all there is left. Anyway I digress, we arrived at Norsemen our gateway to Esperance so we stopped and did the IGA stop to replenish our food supplies and headed off. Fuel was now only really high priced rather than ludicrous price so I filled the luxxy and we drove to Esperance only to find out that due to the holidays being here there was no accommodation available in the town. It was a pity as it looked lovely. So we headed on again to Albany and we really love the place, it has a kind of feel similar to the Sunshine Coast but a bit smaller and for the first time we saw beaches that rival our own. This beautiful beach was found in Frenchman Bay and the water was so clear and clean it looked like water should (all clear and nice). The temperature was too cold to swim pfffff as if I would swim anyway, but this place got me close. We visited some other lookouts and rock formations and the blowhole near the unprotected beaches. All up it was great days exploring.

Anti Submarine Missile

We went to see the Anzac centre here and it shows a rich military involvement from both locals and others they served with. Being a town with an ocean facing bias it had strong fortifications and gun emplacements built into the cliffs and a great deal of retired weaponry was on display. A plaque showed the placement in the bay of the fleet of ships as they were positioned holding some 30 000 soldiers. As we explored we noticed an area we assumed was for a private event but we later found out that this was a display in honour of the fallen. It was described as the Field of Light installation but I will get to that later. Most of the place is free to visit but the main centre is admission fee. The rest of the walk and displays are very informative and volunteers in uniform are full of interesting insights into the life of those who were stationed here. It is great too see that our nation still not only remebers those who agev their lives for our freedom and way of life but also chooses to remember our history so it never repeats.

As I mentioned the Field of Lights installation was on so we stayed on the next day to visit it and see how it was done and to experience this walk through. It just so happened that this was done in April to commemorate Armistice Day. This installation was done by people not a government initiative but a group of incredible volunteers who worked on laying out everything according to the artist design and intent . So not really knowing what to expect we headed to the Field of Lights. We first had dinner at Joe Joes pizza and kebab place, I only say this because we ordered a seafood basket and it was huge, I mean really big and a salad that filled a mid sized mixing bowl. Just giving them a shout out as they were really friendly and the food and atmosphere was great. Back to the field of light as we drove up we scored a great park as someone was leaving and so began our journey. As we walked through the entrance it was a bit overwhelming as your senses try to take in what you are seeing. The guides were quick to steer us to the commentary via our smart phone as we started the walk. It outlined different characters and events and was very personal in reflections of those who had lost their lives sharing their backgrounds and stories. It was really emotional as you wandered along taking in the entire scene as the lights seem to ebb and flow with different colours made to resemble a field of wild flowers gently swaying in the breeze all while your host delivered the soundtrack to unpack the people and places. As we walked up the hill emotion seemed to build as I found myself really humbled at these amazing young men and women who had given their lives for people they would never meet. No photograph could ever do justice to this art piece but both Di and I were so privileged to be here to see it together. To Bruce Munro who put the installation together we really appreciate your vision and work in giving us this Avenue of Honour. To see some more pics go to www.fieldoflightalbany.com.au and it will give you some insight into this wonderful experience.

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Added post

While we were away the most amazing thing happened and my son got engaged to the most wonderful girl ever. We are overjoyed but a little sad that we weren’t there for it but we are so happy for Jesse and Meg as they now head toward marriage. As always we are praying God’s best for Jesse and Meg now and always.

DAY 13

After we left Streaky Bay we headed for the Nullabor inspired by what we heard about the vast distance and intense nothingness. I must admit to being a bit overawed at the concept of the sheer distance involved and ensuring we had the best fuel places. Well servo number one at the Nullabor roadhouse 2.05 per litre I had to do a double take as that can’t be right. As we went further on though some sanity prevailed and we got 1.87. Anyway this isn’t fuel watch but be aware if you travel this way fuel is dear. We stopped at one the brown signs that said lookout 1 and I am so glad we did as our coastline is spectacular. There were another 2 lookouts and each is worth stopping for as it give an appreciation of the distance you travel but the beauty that is hidden there. I would love to say there is heaps to look at but but much of the scenery is the same, so we pushed on until late afternoon and reached Madura where we camped for the night. Unfortunately unknowingly we had setup camp within earshot of a huge generator that ran all night supplying the local service station and Motel. After a while we got some sleep and it rained again. After a rubbish nights sleep we had some coffee and decided the Nullabor had to be done and dusted so we set off with a full tank and after seeing a an eagle chewing on some roadkill and nearly giving skippy his last rites we pressed on and came across the longest straightest road in Australia 146.6 Klms without a single turn. Even my boredom was getting bored by now we tried I spy but there was nothing to spy after road tree and nothing. We finally pulled into Norseman after a long drive and did some grocery shopping and made our way to Esperance where we were going to stay but due to some inability to access any internet Wiki Camps let us down as even the paid camping was fully booked so we had to leave. On we drove to Munglinup and pulled into a free camp called Hillbilly Hangover, not sure why though as it was pretty nice and the facilities were good and clean. As we settled for the night we got our first electrical storm winds and rain so I didn’t sleep much at all but a beautiful sunrise sent us on our way in the morning as we headed towards Albany.

DAY 11&12

We woke early in Kimba and fired up the kettle, how good is a cuppa when you are cold and waiting for sunrise? A bit of light rain had fallen during the night but we stayed nice and warm especially as the daily packup routine began although we are getting pretty good at this now. Once everything had put in it’s place we fired up Luxxy and headed out of town for our next destination. We thought maybe Ceduna today but as it turned out the call of the laundry was strong and we detoured to a town that reminded me of my childhood home Hervey Bay. Streaky Bay is a quiet little town surrounding a little bay that was used for exporting wheat and wool. In 1802 Matthew Flinders named Streaky Bay whilst on his voyage in the Investigator. In his log of 5 February 1802, he describes: "And the water was much discoloured in Streaks... and I called it Streaky Bay"

We booked into the Discovery Caravan Park and made use of the washing machines. A breeze began to blow and while I was undoing our awning to attach the tent I went to the rear of the ute to get a peg and the awning decided to twist itself around over the roof and sheer off the locating pin that holds our tent up. My average happiness meter plummeted as the thought of no tent was decidedly an unfun and uncomfortable idea. Thanks to some good old lateral thinking an Aldi wall bracket has now become a permanent addition to our setup, although the awning does look a little worse for wear. We were setup probably 6 metres from the water front so sitting in the gazebo doing nothing would be some peoles idea of heaven but I grew up in a little sleepy town like this and sitting is no fun so we walked to town and had a look. IGA, coffee shop, post office, op shop so time to head to back and we took the scenic route along the rock wall carved out by the sea and wind. A nice 5klm round trip from our base. We also did a bit of exploring and got the Hilux dirty and we explored further around the next bay. At 7.30pm a huge boom goes off across the park and then another and another. This Park has a starling problem, apparently these little birds arrive every evening at around 7 by there hundreds, stay the night, poop on everything that is parked near and tree and then move on. Thankfully we were nowhere any trees so we had no issues with poop or bird noise. The wind did increase that night which required the tent and awning to be pegged down just in case as I wasn’t made of Aldi brackets. I am not really sure if I would recommend Streaky Bay as some people love it but all I can say if you love Hervey Bay then you will love this place. It is quiet, quaint and slow moving but the local coffee shop makes a mean cappuccino. I must admit though while watching washing dry I got to read a large portion of Isiaiah which is always great. After some light rain in the night we woke early and packed up to move on.

Day 9&10

After we left Victor Harbour it was on to who knows where but we put Port Augusta in the gps and headed out. It had been raining each day on an off so it was nice to see consistent sun for a while as the tent was about to be put back into action. After some further travel and low level boredom kicking in, suddenly the crocodile song from Mainly Music sprang into my head just to make the drive more interesting. These areas were new to us having been to the others before on our last trip. Di took to some of the driving and got a drug and alcohol test (another first) an of course she passed. As we got going again we passed through Port Augusta and it had a different feel to it but we continued on to see what was next. I am so glad we continued as we may have missed an absolute jewel of a town called Kimba. As we were driving through we saw these massive silos that had been painted with the most beautiful artwork of a young girl in a field. It would have looked spectacular on its own framed on a wall but this covered a huge area, being some 24.7 metres tall and using 200 litres of paint. The scale of it amazed me as most of the time I find drawing to scale on A4 a struggle of massive proportions let alone this big. Then as we were about to drive on we saw a sign free camping pointing up the street and thought what do we have to lose, the town was already pretty great in my view. The free camping didn’t disappoint with the local sports ground parking used as free camping and that was not the least of it. There is gentleman there with the name of RED and he has a huge beard but an even bigger personality and he loves his town, within a few minutes we felt like part of the family and were invited to the pub and given a run down on everything to do in Kimba. It really is well thought out as there are toilets (flushing) and shower facilities and a gravel base for tents and motorhomes, and even the Galah show, when hundreds of them appear from nowhere yell at each other for a while then dissapear as quickly as they arrived. As we setup for another night in the Hilton we were able to meet a number of new people including some from QLD which is fairly common as we are finding out, and hearing some great recommendations an stories as well. We had learned from our time at the Ettamogah to give the tent a quick spray with the insect spray and a peaceful night is almost guaranteed. Just a quick add today Di overtook a road train (36 metres of it) and fairly giving th Hilux a serve while doing it.

DAY 7&8

Mildura it was as we headed out on a beautiful morning stopping at Bonney Lakes overnight for our next night which turned out to be very cold but the Hilton held up well and we met some more amazing people travelling around Australia with a young family. On a cold morning it sure was nice to eat a hot breakfast on be on our way. With pelican and a beautiful lake to look at we were spoiled with such an amazing view. Having a quiet time by the lake as the sun rose over the water was a truly memorable experience. So after packing up and putting everything back we were off again, after checking all the nuts and bolts that could come loose. A short stop at the Banrock winery gave us a look into their wine making operations and then after that we continued along a very long boring road that was same, same, same, same, getting us ready for the Nullabor I think. We stopped at the Hattah Roadhouse as I saw 2 enduro bikes so we had a chat and purchased the most expensive wedges in the world and moved on. From there more of the same road but with an exception we entered an are of sand plains that were so smooth it looked as though someone had laid it down with a precision spatula, and coming from this was bright green spinifex plants, hundreds of them, and the contrast was an incredible sight (sorry no photo was in the moment not recording it).

BIG LIZZY

Following another brown sign we visited Big Lizzy a heavy duty transporter made years ago in 1915 with a capacity of 80 tons and able to move at up to 3 klms per hour on a wheel system called a dreadnought. Being a tech guy with an engineering background I was all over this thing seeing how it worked and what did what. The wheels had spokes thicker than my thumb and the specs of this machine were pretty big considering the day and age they were made in.

No visit this way would be complete without a pit stop in the Barossa Valley to visit our favourite winery Seppelts. The last time we visited it was much smaller with less areas developed and it had a very different feel to it. The staff were amazing But I couldn’t help feel a lot of the intimacy and what made this place special to us was lost a bit. There was no doubt the restaurant was beautiful and they had a jam factory dedicated to art and artists showcasing their skills and talents. I knew they were good artists as I didn’t understand much of it so it must be good. Of course we tried a few tastings which were not as nice as the last time we were here – I am beginning to think I am stuck in the past or my memory is remembering things better than they actually were.  I have decided that nostalgia is not as good as it used to be. One thing that excited me way more than it should and I realised I may have just become my father was when I saw diesel for 139.9 and almost danced at the bowser at the thought of that cheap fuel filling the Hilux.

Our final stop was Encounter Bay in the beautiful Victor Harbour to stay with some dear friends Phil and Alison and also take the opportunity to catch up with Stevenson family. If you have the opportunity make sure you take the walks around the bluff area of encounter bay as many stories are attached to each bench along the way and the views are brilliant. We are here for a couple of days before we head toward WA and the incredible and diverse landscape that awaits.

DAY 5 & 6

Days End

We left Ettamogah at what we thought would be an early start but over slept and left at 10 toward Echuca and wouldn’t you know more roadworks. We had not been to Echuca in 9 years as the last time was with good friends Dave and Shaz (visited the bakery Shaz no neenish tarts). Did the walk around and found it to be very different from last visit as flood waters had significantly damaged the foreshore area so there was no access while the repairs are underway, and a visitor centre was now in place instead of a walk along the steam engines and old machinery. If you want to see them it $14 per adult but it also shares some of the rich heritage of the Murray River.

Later that day after checking in to the local caravan park as they had a super special on an ensuite site we sat down for a cuppa we could hear the steam whistles of the paddle steamers as they made their way up the river and the constant drumming of the paddles churning up the water. Just when it couldn’t get any more peaceful a flock of cockatoos came for a visit. I am not sure what it is with these majestic birds but they must all be deaf. They stand next to each other and scream their heads off and to me it sounds like the same thing over and over again, surely it should drive them nuts - or maybe it has. Todays list of those we met was 3 couples from the Sunshine Coast and 2 from Bundaberg, with one of the gentlemen Lenny working for a company tied to the one I used to work for. There is a strong chance that I helped build the train he used to be a guard on. It certainly is a small world, but it makes us think of home and family as they are incredible people and we love them dearly. In the morning we packup and decide which way we go from here, to the Barossa via Mildura or the Great Ocean Road. For sure it is a tough choice but we will let you know.

DAY 4

Today we set out in a southerly direction headed somewhere but really nowhere in particular. Start up WikiCamps and find out the Ettamogah Pub (the real one) has a free camping area in the carpark. So with destination set away we went, and of course looking out for the brown check this out signs and stumbled across and amazing little place called Hartley which contained some restored and some original buildings. It is often great to read about and consider the sheer determination of the people who lived in these remote areas. No ipad, no internet very little communication but they still made a life in spite of it. We truly are blessed to stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before.

After our impromptu tour we set out again for the Ettamogah and talked with the locals who were amazing people each with a story of their own. The only shame was that, something that is an Australian icon is struggling to survive. I know it is a pub and alcohol problems are rife in our country but it is known for much more. We set up camp for the night and met a couple beside us who are visiting the Sunshine Coast in August and are interested in doing Alpha with us.

DAY 3

Majestic panorama

We woke up refreshed and feeling about 75% human again as you never seem to sleep as well as your own bed, but seeings as our bed the night before was the Hilux then anything would be an improvement. We started a Bible study together from Erwin McManus of Mosaic church and it is both inspiring and challenging, talking about anxiety and worry. Anyway we drove to Echo Point lookout expecting to see a myriad of tourists and crowds but we were one of only a handful of people there. To say the view was majestic is an understatement as the clouds hung below the three sisters formation giving a truly majestic feel that added to the whole experience. As you stand there the clouds begin to lift and the view gets clearer and clearer and it becomes a panorama to rival any I have seen before. We walked along the pathways and discovered some of the not so hidden secrets like he cable car and the falls. And while we where at the bottom lookout someone must have released the tourists, it was kind of like when you drop food and you get an ant-alanche seemingly from no-where they emerge in their hundreds. this didn’t ruin our fun as we love people so we offered to take photos for them so we became a part of their trip as they became a part of ours. As we went back to the top viewing platform we saw more buses and people turn up, it seems we had accidentally picked the best time to be at echo point. As we left we gave our parking ticket to someone who had just arrived just as a way to make their day a bit easier. It was from their to the glow worm caves we thought. It turned out the way in was being resurfaced for the Easter rush and was not open for us and the other option was to hike in but being particularly round still, my current fitness would not allow this.

DAY 2

Well after being awake for a long time we had decided to find somewhere to sleep so we headed toward Lithgow to find a camping area to recharge our batteries. The one thing that stood out on the drive was the sheer amount of roadworks going on and how inconvenient it was slowing down and then speeding up all the time. Then that still small voice inside reminded me that things that need to be repaired cannot take the same amount of stress as they used to, otherwise they can fail more spectacularly. With some problems needing the area to be pulled up and relaid with better foundations. Anyway once we had driven a little further we came across the gardens you will see in the portfolio section of the web page which just reminded us of the beauty contained in this wonderful country.. I was really impressed with the range of flowers and plants, and this comes from a man who knows if it’s green and tall it’s a tree and if it is short and colourful it is a flower. After our first night being sleepless we stayed at echo point in Katoomba and slept well, knowing tomorrow would have some brilliant sight seeing opportunities.

DAY 1

We headed out much later than expected but the thought was, if not today then another day wasted. So with a tank of diesel and a freshly serviced Hilux we set off. 3pm sounds as good a time as any doesn’t it? Hindsight can be a funny teacher though as through a combination of inattentiveness and an unwilling ness to disturb others, we stopped in at New Italy rest area which had vans and campers around the edge and a large bitumen area in the middle. If we had known then what we know now we would have stopped as the heat wave we had been in on the coast disappeared and been replaced by a breeze from the freezer. After departing New Italy we set off for Coffs Harbour but it wasn’t very late when we got there so we kept on going to Port Maquarie. This is where the plan got murky or should I say someone missed the turn off and we sailed on into the night. Well after 700klms a mix of fatigue and darkness kick-in and we parked and slept for a couple of hours. So night one can be chalked up to hotel Hilux