On The Wallaby Track

Back Home Again

2011-09-09T12:55:00.000+10:00

Well, it has been along time between drinks - so to speak. Bucko and I arrived back in Sydney, around Easter, after spending 3 months in Adelaide.

The reason we were in Adelaide so long, was to let my right leg heal from an accident I had in Esperance, WA. I was walking down a gangplank from a boat to a jetty on Woddy Island. The sea was very rough that day, and suddenly the gangway started to rock, roll and buck around. Next thing I knew I was sliding through the side of the railings and the (by now), broken gangway came crashing down onto my leg. I was not able to walk, and the skipper of the boat came along with a wheel chair and pushed me up to the cafe on the island. To cut a long story short, the upshot was, I had no broken skin or bones, but, coming across the Nullabor, my leg started to turn black!! On arriving at Ceduna, we went straight to the hospital and had the leg looked at. Turns out, I had a touch of gangrene in my leg, and I woudl need to be VERY careful for the next few months to make sure the leg healed. So, we stayed in Adeliade, which was no problem for us, we love the place and would like to live there.

Anyway, this is just a short posting to say, I will be back to finish our Blog, Too many tales an photos to share with all of you, not to finish the story of our wonderful trip Along The Wallaby track.

Darwin City Sights, NT (13 - 29 August, 2010)

2011-01-02T16:56:00.004+11:00

The Darwin Museum and Cyclone Tracey Exhibit. A darkened room with the sound of the cyclone playing over a speaker lead us into the exhibit on Cyclone Tracey. The recording was made by a minister of religion when he was hiding under his house as the cyclone raged around him. Leaving the room there is a mock up of a house with pieces of timber, steel etc stuck in the walls, like it was on the day. Eye witness accounts made by folk who had lived through the terror of that day, could be listened to by pressing a button. The city of Darwin looked like an Atomic Bomb had hit it; there was no where to live and no-one could go about their daily life as they did before the cyclone. The government sent in the Army and Police from many of the other States, to help evacuate the city, leaving only these services people and approximately 10,000 others to clean-up and sort out the mess. Around Thirty Thousand plus people were evacuated in a matter of days. After the cleanup and rebuilding, new building regulations were introduced to try and avoid such destruction in the future. An interesting fact from the NT Government site, "Earlier in December 1974 Cyclone Selma had hovered around Darwin before changing course and disappearing." I always thought I was bit of a cyclone - at times!

For more very interesting information follow the link: http://ntlapp.nt.gov.au/tracy/basic/Tracy.html

Parliament House The design of the Darwin Parliament house is unusual and it has been specially designed for the tropical heat, storms and cyclones. The day we went on our tour, there was a test being conducted on the non-use of the air conditioning. Oh, no, was my first thought; however, I need not have been concerned. The building has been so well designed, even when we went into the upstairs public viewing rooms it was not hot, or even uncomfortable.

For more information follow the link: http://www.nt.gov.au/lant/parlhouse/features.shtml

Government House is the oldest European building in the Northern Territory, surviving both World War 2 bombing raids and Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Used a residence for the NT Administrator and lucky for us, there was an open day while we were in town, these open days are not very frequent, so, Tanya, Paul and myself took ourselves off to see how the other half live; at the taxpayers expense. The house is gorgeous, high ceilings, huge wide stone paved verandas, with shutters to help reduce the heat and shelter from the tropical storms during the wet season. The gardens are crammed full of stunning tropical plants; I went crazy with my camera, so many plants so little time!

For more information follow the link: http://www.nt.gov.au/administrator/house.shtml

Botanic Gardens The day we visited the gardens was VERY hot, (some of you may say that is normal for Darwin), so we did not 'do' the whole grounds. Many gorgeous and colourful tropical plants are everywhere, however, the item that really took my fancy was the Cannonball Tree, which is from South Africa. The seed pods are the size of cannonballs, hence the name of the tree, and the flowers are very pretty, in shades of pale pink and cream.
For more information follow the link: http://www.nt.gov.au/nreta/parks/botanic/
Album: Darwin Botanic Gardens

Burnett House, was an historic building we both wanted to see, it has withstood the bombing of Darwin in the 2nd World War, as well as many cyclones, including the BIG one - Cyclone Tracey. An example of the older style of Darwin house, designed by B.C.G. Burnett for the tropics and to capture the breezes. Burnett House was completed in 1939 and allocated to the NT Director of Works. It is the only surviving example of a Type ‘K’ house - an unusual design which incorporated an entrance lobby and lounge/dining room at ground level, and bedrooms above. Many of the homes destroyed in the cyclone were made of Fibrolite and the wind just tore them to shreds. If I lived in the tropics I would like my bedroom to be like this one.

For more information follow the link: http://www.nationaltrustnt.org.au/index.php?/eng/Left-Menu/Register-of-Significant-Places/Burnett-House,-Lot-1099,-Myilly-Point

Enjoy.

Darwin - Litchfield Park, NT (13 - 29 August, 2010)

2011-01-02T14:04:00.002+11:00

After leaving Jabiru we drove down the Arnhem Highway to Darwin, the main reason we were going there was to see our finds Chris and Tanya. It was terrific to see them again, and Tanya looked so good, we had dinner with them that night at the bistro in the caravan park.

Saturday, Bucko and I had a few errands to run, the main one being to have the prescription for my glasses filled. I had my eyes tested in Alice Springs and when I was told it would take 10 -14 days (because the script would go to Melbourne); I decided to have them done in Darwin. Ha, ha, not a good idea, this time the script went to Brisbane, and was going to take 10 -14 days again! In the end, it only took 7 days. Now, I can see properly, as well as having two sets for the for the price of one. Our next stop was the very popular Parap Markets, to buy fruit and veg, while there I also bought myself a cool, (in looks and comfort), tied died dress.

While in Darwin we also decide to have the Air Con for the van serviced, it had been working very well in the heat, but, as we knew there would be plenty of long hot days ahead, we wanted to make sure all would be ok.

One of our day trips was to the Litchfield NP, where the Magnetic Termite mounds are and they look nothing like the ones we saw up in Kakadu, these mounds are a greyish colour and are aligned North/South to help keep them cool. A fence surrounds the mounds and we were unable to get close to any of them. However, I am fortunate to have a good camera and I was able to zoom in for the shot below. Notice the ragged top? This is an active termite mound. If the termites have left the nest for some reason, the mound starts to deteriorate. Don't they remind you of a set of tombstones?

Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park, is one of the few falls that have water flowing during the dry season of the Northern territory, a very popular place to go on a stinking hot day.

How about the photos of 'The Lost City', rock formations you would swear had been man-made, and the one on the right looks like a Camel.

Dingo bites Croc. Jabiru, NT

2010-12-29T15:03:00.003+11:00

Ah ha, I bet that got your attention!

One evening I mentioned to Paul that I had not seen the Dingo that strolled through the park each evening, I was feeling deprived! Anyway, we decided to cook our steaks that night on one of the BBQs, a bit of a walk across the park, from our caravan. While standing around the BBQ and chatting to a fellow camper, we noticed a very healthy looking Dingo amble past us. I thought I would try communicating with the animal and let out a Dingo like howl. Well, that stopped the dog right in its tracks, it turned round and looked at me for a while, then carried on it's way.

Later that night, I was sitting at the PC, Bucko was in bed asleep, the outer door of the van was open, with the screen door closed. I heard noises outside the door, so opened it up and looked out. Did I get a fright, a Dingo was moving very calmly away from the door, he was in no hurry, obviously not afraid of humans. My heart was going pitter, patter, then it went into overdrive, I heard a growl and looked to the left of the open door and there was another Dingo there!!....... I tell you, I closed that door quick smart, my heart was racing, and my hands were shaking.

When I told Bucko in the morning, he said to "Maybe the dingo was coming looking for his Bitch!!!! and the howl I had let out the night before must have got the dog excited" - ha, ha, Bucko.
Later that morning, Bucko noticed teeth marks in his Crocs, obviously the shoe was not to the Dingos liking, so he dropped it, hence the title of this posting - Dingo bites Croc.

Jabiru, Kakadu NP, NT (6 - 12 August, 2010)

2010-12-29T14:56:00.008+11:00

Jabiru was built by the Rio Tinto mining company, to house the staff from the Ranger Uranium Mine. The caravan park we stayed at is very pretty, with lots of gorgeous plants all around the grounds. The caravan and tent sites are is set in a circle with a wonderful resort style pool at the centre. Most other travellers in the park were bunched in close to each other, on the opposite side of the pool to us; I don't know why they did that, as we were told by the reception staff to "find your own spot and then let us know where you are". At least it was quiet where we set up our rig.

Voting at The Border Store

While in Jabiru, Bucko did the cooking on the small hotplate we had set up outside the van; each night a Dingo would stroll through the camp and past

Bucko. I am sure the Dingo was checking out what food was on offer; more on that in a later Blog see 'Dingo bites Croc'.

The 2010 Australian Election was held while we were in Jabiru, so Bucko took the opportunity to cast his vote at the Border Store at Ubirr (the border between NT and Arnhem Land), along with locals and other travellers, in total 12 people cast their vote that morning. I am not an Australian citizen, so I did not vote. For more photos, click on Album: Voting at The Border Store

Arnhem Land was always going to be a highlight of our trip to Kakadu, and it was. The countryside is virtually untouched by mankind (white fellas, I mean) and the areas we were privileged to see, felt like God had just finished creating the Billabong, trees, rocks etc, the beauty of it all took our breath away. Our bus driver and guide for the day was an Aboriginal man, who was born in Roper River, (not too far from Kakadu), and even though he was not a person of the Arnhem Land clan he was able to tell us of the cultural and historic stories. Bucko (and others), took a 15 minute clamber over rocks etc, in the stifling heat, to see rock art; while I sat in the air conditioned bus, along with other ladies. I missed out on seeing with my own eyes the following wonderful drawing, but,at least we have a picture of it.

Ubirr Rock Art, Kakadu NP, NT (12 August, 2010)

2010-11-06T10:44:00.002+11:00

Our visit to see the rock art at Ubirr was one of the many wonderful highlights of the days we spent in Kakadu National Park. The day was not too hot which was good because there was a fair bit of walking and rock clambering to do to see the various places where the drawings were. I have only included a few of the many photos that we took, there are SO many paintings to see. Why not do yourselves a favour and come out to visit them one day.
Some of the paintings look very fresh and they are. Over the years many of the drawings have been painted over by people, long gone from this world; in fact the actual indigenous clan who were the owners of the land around Ubirr, no longer exist. To ensure the spirits are kept happy, some of the paintings have been refreshed by a member of a clan from a neighbouring tribe. Thirty to Forty years ago this person was given permission by his elders to refresh the paintings. Only the very important drawings have been given a 'new' coat of paint, in the traditional way of course. It is not hard at all to see the faint outlines, colours and shapes of other drawings underneath the more vibrant top paintings.

Boys and Crocs at Cahills Crossing, NT (10 August, 2010)

2010-11-05T14:20:00.004+11:00

Cahills Crossing is a causeway across the East Alligator River, and the way into Arnhem Land, from Kakadu National Park. The river is tidal up to the crossing and freshwater on the other side. At high tide Crocodiles mill around, waiting to cross over to the opposite side they are on. When we went to see the crossing, there were approximately 30-35 crocs, most of them huge and few younger ones. People were standing on the rocks and fishing while the crocs were cruising around, fishing was certainly not on our agenda that day!

There was a queue of vehicles on both sides of the crossing, waiting for an opportunity to cross the river; many of the 4 wheel drives which had raised suspension were able to push through the water with ease. Next thing we know, an older model sedan was coming over from Arnhem Land, it stopped about 3/4 of the way across and two young men got out! Gasps of horror filled the air! A partly submerged tree branch had blocked the way of the car, so, of course it had to be removed. Don't worry about the crocs, the driver of the car was the look-out. Don't worry the submerged crocs might jump out and grab someone!!
After much struggling, and many raised and excited voices, the log was freed. The car was moved to shallower water, the doors opened, water rushed out. Everyone on the viewing platform and rocks gave a huge cheer, along with wolf whistles and claps, we were rewarded with two beautiful bright white smiles and a bow before the young men jumped into the car and drove off. To view more photos, just click on the Cahills Crossing album Link below.

Boys at Cahill Crossing

Album: Cahills Crossing

Her Tribe Has Vanished - a poem

2010-11-04T21:52:00.002+11:00

Following is a poem which is written on a wall hanging in the old Durack Homestead, at Lake Argyle, near Kununurra, in the Kimberley region of WA. I don't know who wrote it, but Paul & I feel the same about the poem; we feel it speaks volumes about the many Aboriginal people of this land, who have 'vanished'.
Her tribe has vanished' her daughters & sons
all her people are under the sand
nothing to prove that she'd ever lived
but the faint outline of a stencilled hand
in earth red ochre or charcoal line
so may caves with the same mute sign
trace the shape with a pensive finger
why do I linger?
an ancient sadness chills this place
that's why I stop & pause
dark sister without name or face
I place my hand on yours
the long unmeasured years between us
too late - too late for meeting
but in the quiet forsaken cave
hand touch in greeting.
END
"I touch my hand to yours, as well, my long departed Sister" - Selma Janet

Cooinda, Kakadu National Park, NT (2 - 5 August, 2010)

2010-10-17T09:30:00.003+11:00

Leaving Mataranka, we were excited, at last we were on our way to Kakadu. On the road to Cooinda we saw our first Termite Mounds, this one was actually the biggest one we saw while in Kakadu.

We arrived at the Cooinda Caravan Park in the Kakadu National Park and settled in for the next 4 nights.

The next day we booked into the Yellow Water Billabong Cruise on a tributary of the South Alligator River. Weird isn't it, there are no Alligators in Australia, only Crocodiles, yet, the main rivers in Kakadu are named the South, East and West Alligator Rivers !!

Before going on the cruise we visited the Aboriginal Cultural Centre near the caravan park. I met a lady who was teaching people to make bracelets out of Pandanus leaves, so, I joined the group. Lily, the name of the Aboriginal lady who was teaching us, would go out each day to pick the leaves, then bring them back to the Cultural Centre in preparation for the class of the day; which could be making bracelets or weaving baskets. There are three main colours used , yellow from the Kapok Tree root, brown from the bark of a tree, and cream, which is the colour the pandanus leaves go once they are boiled and dried in the sun. The leaves are stripped of the serrated edge, then separated in two parts, so the whole leaf ends up in two whole parts; the parts are duplicates of each other. Small strips are made out of separated leaves. The leaves are then placed into a pot of boiling water, which had had the required colouring agent (bark or tree root) added to it and left to simmer. Once the leaves have reached the desired colour, they are removed from the pot and hung until the water has stopped dripping out of them. It is to easier to weave the leaves if they are still moist, so they are then placed in a plastic bag to keep them supple; if they start to dry out, a spray of water is all the is needed to restore the suppleness. My bracelet was ok, but, nowhere near as good as Lily's.
The cruise is actually on the Yellow Water Billabong,which is at the end of Jim Jim Creek, a tributary of the South Alligator River. The river system, which is the largest in Kakadu, contains extensive wetlands that include river channels, floodplains and backwater swamps. About one third of Australia's bird species are represented in Kakadu National Park, with at least 60 species found in the wetlands. Crocodiles and wetland birds were out in force when we went on the cruises; the morning (9am) and Sunset cruise, and as there was a special on the cost of cruises; "take a sunrise or sunset cruise, and it will cost only $10 extra, in lieu of the normal $82." Both cruises were wonderful, and although there was plenty of water, birds ad crocodiles to see, both of us would like to return to Kakadu just after the Wet Season to see the park in it's real glory. I have attached a few of the many photos that we took while on the cruise. - Enjoy.

Mataranka, NT (29 July - 1 August, 2010)

2010-10-09T19:14:00.003+11:00

Mataranka is the setting for the book by Mrs Aeneas Gunn (Jennie Gunn) of 'We of The Never Never'. Mataranka is known for the many hot springs in the area, and as the weather was starting to heat up the further North we travelled, we had no intention of dipping into the pools; it was all far too hot for us! The small town of Mataranka, is like many country towns in the outback, I wonder how they survive; it is truly a hard life in this big brown land.
A trip on a cruise boat in the Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge), visiting the old Cemetery of the now non-existent Elsey Station, (from We of the Never, Never fame), and a visit to the caves at Cutti Cutti were the main items on our agenda.
Our stay in Mataranka was for 4 nights, before we left for Cooinda in the Kakadu National Park.

Ref: Elsey Station

The Devils Marbles

2010-10-09T18:40:00.001+11:00

While at Wycliffe Well, we drove out to see The Devil's Marbles, only 10 minutes away from the caravan park. The Devils Marbles are 393 km north of Alice Springs and 760 km south of Katherine. In other words, in the middle of nowhere. Guide books and brochures about the Australian Outback feature a picture of the Marbles, or rather, of two of the marbles.... most travellers are not aware there are more than two marbles! The Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve is 1802 hectares in size, and that there are lots of marbles here.

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In the Aboriginal mythology the Devils Marbles are the eggs of the rainbow serpent, and many "dreamtime" stories and traditions of the Warumungu, Kaytetye and Alyawarre Aboriginal people are linked with this area. It has a deep spiritual meaning for both men and women (Aboriginal cultural sites are often specifically for either men or women.) The traditional Aboriginal owners of the area regard the marbles as having extraordinary powers. Damage to them can have life threatening consequences for their custodians.
Imagine their distress when in 1953 an eight tonne rock was taken from the area to be placed on John Flynn's grave in Alice Springs (the founder of the Royal Flying Doctor service). A similar thing happened in 1980, when a rock from the Devils Pebbles (a similar area north of Tennant Creek), was removed without consulting the traditional owners.
The pebble was returned in 1981, but only after 15 months of painful controversy and the tragic death of an Aboriginal elder. The marble from Flynn's grave was eventually returned, too, and replaced with another rock, identified by and taken with the permission of the Alice Springs Arrernte people. But it took until 1998 for that to happen...Even today very few white Australian people understand the distress that the desecration of sacred sites can cause...
Ref: Outback Australia Travel Guide

Wycliffe Well, NT (26 - 27 July, 2010)

2010-10-09T18:05:00.001+11:00

We finally left Alice Springs after 36 days, including our trip to Yulara. While in Alice, Bucko returned to Sydney for a few days to see his children before Kellie took off to the UK to work, Ben and Rosemary left for a 3mth tour of Europe and Josh attended a wedding in the USA. It rained the whole time Paul was away, I was happy and snug in our we van and though settled down to do a bit of reading and relaxing.
A special caravan park (on the way up to Mataranka, our next stop), is Wycliffe Well. Special for what, you may ask, well for being the UFO Centre of Australia. The walls of the Roadhouse dining room are covered in newspaper clippings of supposed sighting. I was able to find a few Aliens outside the reception area. Wycliffe Well is the closest place to stay to visit the Devils Marbles, and the reason we stayed for three nights. New owners of the park are spending time, money and effort renovating the place, and have opened up the Dining room out the back of the park. A Chinese chef is in residence, and the food was terrific. Road-trains with clearance lights a blaze could be seen and heard from the park, this did not worry me, I like to hear them in the night, and the trucks look so pretty with the lights on. Hope you like the photos, if you look at them you may see the gremlins have been at work in some of them, or could it have been ALIENS!

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Aileron Man, on the road to Wycliffe Well (26 July, 2010)

2010-10-09T18:00:00.000+11:00

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Aileron, just north of Alice Springs, is the proud owner of a 17-metre high sculpture of an Aboriginal man which sits on a hill overlooking the town. It's based on a traditional man from the local Anmatjere tribe. The huge sculpture was made by Mark Egan (Ted Eagan’s son). Down near the Art Centre and close by the Aileron Roadhouse, is Aileron man's wife and piccaninny. The sculptures are both anatomically correct, if you get my drift. I have also thrown in a few photos of the stunning cloud formations we saw on the way. The road to Wycliffe Well also crosses the Tropic of Capricorn; I have included photos of the two of us at the marker.

Aileron Man

Mags n Me

2010-10-09T16:28:00.001+11:00

My sister Mags is 8mths younger than me, and our Mum used to dress us in similar clothes when we were young, often the only difference being the colour of the clothing. The time we spent together in Alice Springs was terrific, after many years of being apart, we soon got into our own way of communicating again. The same things would make us laugh and many times one of us would make a comment, which the other would interpret with our own understanding and a grin would appear on our faces. In keeping with how our Mum dressed us in similar clothes, Mags and I had our picture taken by Bucko. Here is is. Thanks for such a great holiday Mags. Love you heaps.

Selma Janet and Mags - The Purple Twins

Palm Valley, NT (24 June, 2010)

2010-10-08T06:32:00.000+11:00

If any of you have the chance to visit Central Australia, do yourself a big favour and take a trip out to Palm Valley. The valley is a place that time has forgotten, a magnificent piece of God’s handiwork on display. Due to the recent rain in Alice Springs the Finke River had plenty of water in it, and the road to the valley had been closed for a few days. I am glad we were not in our 4WD, I would have been so scared having to cross the rivers, and then trying to make our way up onto the slippery banks. On my last trip, the tour only went as far as walking alongside the river bed and then returning. There is now a ridge top walk, which the three of us did, an easy walk with a few stairs to ease the way now and again. I am glad we decided to start the walk at the beginning of the valley, because, at the other end there is a very steep set of stairs, which we would have had to have climbed if we commenced the walk from there! It was so much easier for us ‘oldies’ to climb down them! The views across to the other side of the ridge and down to the river were spectacular, especially being able to see the Livingstonia Palms from above. These palms are the same type around in the days of the Dinosaurs. By the end of the walk, I was starting to lag a bit, and Mags was also struggling as her bad foot was giving her heaps. By the time we reached the shelter we were well and truly ready for our lunch.

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Emily Creek Big Hole, NT (23 June, 2010)

2010-10-08T06:27:00.003+11:00

There are many beautiful gorges around Alice Springs, in the East and West MacDonnell Ranges, one of the most beautiful is Ellery Creek Big Hole. I will let the pictures tell the story.

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Standley Chasm, NT (23 June 2010)

2010-10-08T06:14:00.002+11:00

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Standley Chasm is on the must see list of most tourists to Alice Springs.
The path into the chasm is very, very rocky, and one needs to be fairly agile, the creek bed is made up of large rocks and boulders, and it can be dangerous if one is not careful. There is a warning sign at the start of the track, it says the walk it is 'easy but rocky'... Hmm.. think they need to revise that, the sign is misleading, and the path can be very difficult; we actually met up with an older women who was using her 3 pronged walking stick! I don't know how she did it, at least there was a person to help her along. Mags, Bucko & myself, took it slowly and stopped to admire the scenery on the way through, we were in no hurry as we had given ourselves plenty of time to reach the Chasm. A group of high school students were on a mission, which I think may have been, to see how quickly they could get to the end of the track. At noon the sun is overhead and shines down into the small chasm to light up the sheer high walls, and turn them the colour of gold. The walk was worth it. Take a look at some of the photos, and you will see plenty of people hanging around for the sun to arrive. The show is over very quickly and the place cleared out in a matter of minutes. At last we had the chasm to ourselves and so, enjoyed the cool shade and the peacefulness. Arriving back at the car we sat down for a much needed rest and ate our lunch in the shade of the trees. Many travellers where having their lunch near us, and it was not long before I was chatting to them; asking the Traveller Trifecta ''where are you from? where have you been?, where are you going?" - (I can hear you both cracking up from here, C&T, and yes, someone did ask us "is it worth it?").

Simpsons Gap, NT (23 June, 2010)

2010-10-08T06:08:00.002+11:00

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Simpson Gap is the first gorge that is on the Larapinta Drive out of Alice Springs. Due to the heavy rains in Alice Springs, while we were there, the gorge had plenty of water in it so we could not go further into the Gap, nevertheless, it was a pretty place to visit. Enjoy.
My sister Mags took these photos with the camera she bought while in Alice Springs; nearly every picture she took while on her holiday with us came out extremely well. Considering Mags is not used to using a camera, I am very proud of her and the photos she has taken. Thanks Mags.

Alice Springs Desert Park, NT (22 June, 2010)

2010-10-08T06:00:00.000+11:00

Alice Springs Desert Park is set out in sections to display the plants, earth and fauna of the different types of land in Central Australia.

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The walk around the park is an easy one, with free audio commentary, which explains the different eco systems. An active display of wild native birds, was a highlight of our visit to the park; it was terrific being able to see up close, many of the birds that we have seen during our travels. As the birds move SO fast, Mags and I were unable to get any photos except for an Owl, however, I hope you enjoy the pictures of flowers, goannas and birds from the park.

Road back to Alice - The Undie Tree (19 June, 2010)

2010-10-08T05:54:00.001+11:00

The return trip to Alice Springs is backtracking via the only bitumen road (Luritja & Lasseter) into and out of the area. There is talk of sealing the (4WD only track) of the Ernest Giles road (see map), to cut down the time taken to get from Alice to Kings Creek, then onto Yulara. Talk is talk, and it has been happening for years, so who know when the bitumen road will actually exist. The only safe road for tourists to travel (unless they have a very good off road car and or caravan), is the long way round!

At the junction of Lasseter Highway and Luritja Road there is a tree, not any ordinary old tree, and UNDIE TREE. On the way to Yulara we saw the tree and I said "I want to add a pair of knickers to the tree on our return trip". So, Mags and I did. I had a special pair of Bonds - Pink Breast Cancer Ribbon undies to add, Mags had a skin coloured pair of Bonds undies. Sarah O'Hare/Murdoch would have been proud of us, I am sure.

Kings Canyon, NT (17-18 June, 2010)

2010-10-08T05:50:00.000+11:00

Our next stop after Yulara was the campground at Kings Creek Station, a working cattle station near Kings Canyon. To get to Kings Creek Station from Yulara we had to travel back along the Lasseter Highway, then turn left onto the Luritja road which lead to the station. Trivia Time: what is the difference between a Canyon and a Gorge? Answer is at the bottom of this posting. The campgrounds are rustic and very appealing; red earth, covered BBQ area, deep fire pits with stone surrounds, plenty of shade trees, large clean shower cubicles and even a swimming pool. To use the one and only (fairly new) washing machine, the cost is a voluntary gold coin donation to The Royal Flying Doctor Service, a fantastic idea. The machine sits in a tiny outdoor, undercover setting in the grounds. The Station has quad bikes for hire, camel rides and helicopter flights, Sadly, (for the staff of the station), when we were there a long term employee (of the Station) had died, and most of the staff were off in Alice Springs attending the funeral, so no rides were available, which did not worry us.
I was fortunate to be able to climb the rugged path up to the top of Kings Canon when I was there 30 years go, but, old age has caught up with me! My Bursitis (which affects my knee and hip) was giving me heck and Mags could hardly walk because a problem with her foot and back; which left Bucko as the only one who was fit enough to do the climb, however, he decided to stay at the base with us and do the creek walk. What a sweetheart. The creek walk is stunning, it takes about 1 hour, following the path of the creek, which wends its way through huge magnificent Red River Gums, huge fallen Mereenie Sandstone rocks, (the last major rock fall was in the 1930s), surrounded by towering walls of red rock, ending at a deep, dark emerald/jade green waterhole. From the Creek Walk we could look up and see people who had done the climb looking down at us. I feel very lucky to have been able to see both sides of this wonderful part of the outback.
One Friday morning (18th) we drove up to the Kings Creek Resort to take a trip in a helicopter, Mags had never been in one, so it was all very exciting for her. The flight took us over Kings Canyon and to the area behind the canyon, which is like a pound; high walls, surrounding flat grazing land with a creek flowing through, the creek flows into Kathleen Springs, which is in Kathleen Gorge. A lone camel could be seen wandering around, below the helicopter.
Trivia Answer: Gorge is an English word and Canyon is American, both mean the same thing!

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Mt Conner NT, Afternoon/Evening trip (15 June, 2010)

2010-10-08T05:37:00.002+11:00

On the road to Yulara, there is a huge flat topped, rock like formation, tour guides tease tourists with this sight, "oh, can anyone see Uluru", or "what is that.," I have heard these words myself, on my trip 30 years ago, everyone of the bus went "ooh" and wanted the driver to stop the bus. Amongst the tourist trade Mt Conner is referred to as 'Fooluru'. Mags mentioned she would like to go out to Mt Conner, and I said "they don't do tours out there". The good news was, tours are now available to view Mt Conner at sunset, followed by a BBQ meal at the Curtain Springs Station Roadhouse. Mt Conner is owned by Curtain Springs Station.
The rough dirt road through Curtain Spring Station was the original route from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock, (as it was named in the 'old days'), and it would have been a rugged, hot and tiring ride, which took a week! One of the over night stops for travellers, was at Curtain Springs Station, the following day they would be on the rough, dirty, rocky road for the next leg to The Rock. Our trip from Alice Springs to Uluru took 5 hours, on a great bitumen road all the way. The day trip from Yulara Resort to Mt Conner was in an air conditioned 4Wheel Drive (SUV). Along the route we stopped off at a salt lake which is on the station. Large clumps of pale pink salt can be found sitting on the top of the lake; me being the questioning person I am asked "what makes the salt pink?' Neither of the two guides knew. I wonder if they did a search on Google to find an answer, or maybe one of you can tell me?
Spotted wild camels wandering about, these were quickly reported to the Station Owner as they are classed as feral animals, which compete with the cattle for food and water, as well as damaging fences. In the harsh and dry climate of Central Australia, water is precious commodity, so, camels are shot on sight. The Camel population (in Australia), is greater than in the Middle East; if a camel is lucky, they may be captured and shipped off to Arabia to become a racing camel or as breeding stock to refresh the blood lines. The Camels in Australia have a pure blood line, and are strong and healthy as they have been wandering free for the past 100 years. Camel meat is also sold in The Territory, and the taste is a cross between Beef and Mutton.
Mt Conner is actually the same size as Uluru, but 1 metre lower,some of the staff from the Station have built a cairn at the tope to bring the height up to match Uluru. There is a VERY rugged track up the eastern side of Mt Conner which we drove up, to about half way. The view is wonderful and most of us had a bit of fun playing around at pretending to fall off the side of the mountain, me included of course! Those who know me well, know I am a big kid at heart!

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Kata Tjuta, NT (14 and 15 June, 2010)

2010-10-08T05:28:00.001+11:00

One of the must see sights in Central Australia are the HUGE domes like structures which make up Kata Tjuta. I so enjoyed my visit to them 30 years ago, of course the facilities for travellers is so much better than then, now there are safe walking paths, bathroom facilities, picnic areas, with gas free gas BBQs etc.

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After doing the morning the Mala Walk, at Uluru, we drove out to see Kata Tjuta, a trip of approximately 45kms, with a number of viewing sites along the way. We decided to make our first stop the Kata Tjuta sunrise viewing platform.

The flies were out in force, so Mags and I donned our glamorous headwear of black fly mesh. Many comments were made by passers by on our walk to the platform, all along the lines of how they 'wish they had one of those, and to heck with how it looks'. Mags ands I were not worried about how we looked, at least there were no flies on us!

One evening we went out to view the sunset at Kata Tjuta, nibblies and drinks in hand of course, this time we had to take our small camping seats with us, and as the viewing site was not near the car park, this was no effort. We settled in for the show, which is a second cousin to the display at Uluru, however, it is still impressive and we enjoyed it.

Uluru, NT (12 - 16 June, 2010

2010-10-08T05:13:00.002+11:00

The day before we left the Alice for our trip out to see Uluru and Kata Tjuta (previously named Ayers Rock and The Olgas) was spent shopping in preparation for our stay at the Yulara Campground; we had been told everything was more expensive out there, so we stocked up on fresh salad items and fruit etc.
The trip to 'The Rock' takes about 5 hours with a van, so Saturday morning, (12th), we were up and breakfasted early for a quick getaway. With Mags being an experienced hand at tent camping, it did not take us long to pull down and pack up the annexe, the caravan had been made ready the day before. The halfway point to 'The Rock' is the Erldunda Roadhouse on the Stuart Highway, so this was where we stopped for lunch, and topped the car up with petrol, which at $1.79 per litre; was the most expensive price we had paid so for on our trip, still, we had to have it.
The campground at Yulara is the closest one to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, (there is a VERY basic campground at the Curtain Springs Station Roadhouse, but this is 78kms away), we had booked for five nights to give us plenty of time to see the park.
After setting up the van and annexe we took off to have nibblies out at Uluru. Thirty years ago, when I last was out at Uluru, the viewing sites were all over the place, tourist coach passengers and independent travellers, jostled for space to get the best view, at times the language was very heated; when someone's head appeared in the view finder of folk's cameras. Today, it is all very civilised, with separate viewing areas for Coaches and cars, we found a spot to view the Sunset, opened up the back of the Land Cruiser and sat on the tailgate, with drinks and nibblies set out, and waited for te sun to set.

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The next four days, we went in and out of the park many times, we could also most travel the road blindfolded! One of our visits was to The Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which is excellent, a few hours were spent there learning about the dreaming stories and how the people lived in this area for 50-60 thousand years. I have never climbed Uluru as I respect the request of the Owners to not do so, Bucko is of the same view as me, and I think Mags took one look at the climb, which was closed, due to high winds, and was happy the decision was taken out of her hands! We drove around Uluru instead, as well as walked The Mala Track.

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A meeting of Nomads - Alice Springs NT

2010-09-21T22:43:00.001+10:00

Alice Springs was the meeting place of a few friends we had made along the track as well as some friends of ours from Nowra, NSW.

Ian and Shirley Salway (from Caravan CoverUp), along with Kerry and Coralie, had arranged to meet us in the Big 4 at the MacDonnell Range Holiday Park, after they came in from the Tanami Track; and we had returned from our trip out to Uluru. I had rung Ian a few days beforehand to find out when they would be in town, Ian, as usual the joker, teased me with the comment of "we won't have time to stop off at Alice" I was starting to take the bait, then quickly thought, no, they wouldn't not see us! By the time we returned to the park (from Uluru), they were settled in and had left a message at Reception, with details of which site to find them on; so, as they were out jaunting around we left a message to tell them we were in the park. It was not long after we had finished wetting up and there was a verbal 'knock, knock' outside our awning; Bucko and I raced out to be greeted with huge hugs and smiles all round; it was SO good to see the 4 of them.

Ian's working previous life was spent as a 'Truckie' so, and it took no arm twisting to get all of us to go along to see the National Transport Hall of Fame Museum, a Truckie's Heaven; this was also our only chance to sit in a huge Kenworth truck, and we loved the place.

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Evenings meals were spent with each other at the BBQ's with shared salads and many, many laughs. Note the campground ambience in the photos - yellow lighting to prevent mozzies hanging around, and this type of lighting works. We felt sad to say goodbye to our good friends, but, they were on their way back to Nowra, NSW, at lest we have good memories of our time in Alice. Thanks Ian, Shirley, Kerry & Coralie. Happy Trails to all of you.

L-R around the table: Shirley, Ian, Mags, Selma-Janet, (in 2nd pic - Bucko) Kerry & Coralie

Alice Springs, NT 4 - 10 June, 2010

2010-09-21T09:58:00.001+10:00

The MacDonnell Range (Big 4) Caravan Park was to be our 'home' for the next 8 nights before we went to Uluru. Then park was also to be a meeting place for a number of our old and new friends.

The caravan sites in the park are huge, plenty of room for the van, a concrete slab for the annex and green grass (as opposed to dry brown grass or red dirt) for the car, with room besides. My sister, Mags, was flying in from Tauranga, via, Auckland and Sydney to spend 17 nights with us, so in preparation we set up the full annexe, stretcher bed, table lamp and heater, as this was going to be Mags' bedroom.

After setting up our van then went looking for fellow travellers (Ashley & Bev), that we met while in Burra. The four of us had really 'clicked' and had made arrangements to meet up again when we got to Alice; along the track we had kept in touch with each other, so we were looking forward to having a few beers, and many laughs with them. To give you an example of Ashley's sense of humour, when talking about a dirt road they had travelled, he said 'the corrugations are so deep you need a packed lunch to get out of them" I love the guy! Bev and Ash were in town for the next 3 days so of course we shared a meal or 2 with them, then off they went; the next time we see them will most likely be in their hometown of Muswellbrook, NSW.

The next few days we became real domestics, cleaned the van, top to toe, washed the clothes, shopped for food, and checked out the town. On entering Woolworths we felt like kids being let into a lolly (candy) shop, we went crazy, so much FRESH food, crisp lettuces, fruit that was not too ripe, meat and bread that was not frozen, it was almost heaven!

Mags arrived on the 9th, looking rather tired after the long trip, leaving Tauranga at 2am the same day and arriving in The Alice at 1pm. That afternoon was spent settling Mags in then we went for a drive around; I had been to Alice Springs 30yrs before and the town was unrecognisable to me, so we had good time exploring. The next day we took a trip out to beautiful Trephina Gorge, in the East MacDonnell Ranges, which has sheer quartzite cliffs and a sandy creek bed, lined with gorgeous River Red Gums. We walked along Trephina, with its wide views and sandy creekbed, to the John Hayes Rock Hole with its steep, narrow rock walls. The rock pool was too cold and deep for us oldies to walk through, however a few young folk were on the other side of the creek, sunbathing on the rocks; they must have been from a warmer climate and were feeling the heat! Along the way to Trephina we stopped off to have a look at a wonderful old Ghost Gum.

Into the Northern Territory - Kulgera Roadhouse, NT (3 June)

2010-09-20T10:11:00.001+10:00

After leaving Coober Pedy we had another long trip ahead of us. Entering the the Northern Territory, we had a sense of excitement; at last we were finally going to see the 'real' outback; our first night in the Territory was spent at the Kulgera Roadhouse. Not upmarket, but so very 'outback'. Rugged, and like many of the Stuart Highway roadhouses, it has basic camping grounds, with ablution blocks, fuel and a restaurant. The food at most roadhouses is usually deep fried, and the coffee is often "help yourself, to the coffee" (after you have paid the required amount, International Roast awaits); needless to say, we cooked our own food, and brewed our own coffee! Many travellers stay at some of the free camps that line the route, often camping in overnight spots with signs stating 'Road Trains/Trucks only'. It must be frustrating for the long haul drivers, to pull into a camp spot, only to find heaps of Grey Nomads, with their RVs taking up most of the room!. What gets to Paul & me is the way some of the 'free-loaders' brag about staying in the Truck Stops. No wonder some of the States are removing the free camping areas.

The good news about Kulgera RH is, it is a step above the others in regards to food, however, we still cooked our own. The showers, were ok in cleanliness, but the hot water ran out around 7pm, I am just glad we have an ensuite in our van. Most travellers leave their vans hooked up ready for a fast getaway in the morning, and it is not uncommon to be woken around 5am with a van creeping out of the campgrounds. Bucko and I are never in a hurry, so we are often amongst the last few to take off.

I thought you may like to see a few photos of the trip up the track, from Coober Pedy to Kulgera; notice the long straight red road, the speed limit sign (a change from the SA maximum, of 110), various road signs, a red letter box, red earth and the one I like the best, the Roadhouse sign.

Enjoy.

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Woomera and Len Beadell - Australia's last great Explorer

2010-09-07T00:33:00.001+10:00

We had to include information on Len Beadell The reason you may ask? During our travels around Coober Pedy, we heard many stories of Len Beadell, a truly remarkable man. Folk who have travelled across and around this vast brown land, have heard of Len, and in particular The Gun Barrel Highway, probably one of Len's most famous/infamous roads, depending if you have travelled the highway or not!

Len was also the person responsible for selecting the location of Woomera, those of us in our 40s or above will be familiar with the rocket launches that took off from there; even this little Kiwi knew about Woomera!

For those who may be interested in this wonderful man, why not get yourself an copy of Mark Shephard's book A lifetime in the bush: the biography of Len Beadell. or, go to the link included with Len's name above.

Following is a summary of Len's chronology.

1946 Appointed to find a location for a joint British/Australian government rocket range.
1947 Selects the site of Woomera and the flight path, north-west across the Great Victoria, Gibson and Sandy Deserts.
1948 Surveyed Woomera, and mapped area to the north.
1950 Continued to survey the centreline of the range.
1951 Located and surveyed the 250 mile, 300 mile, 400 mile and 500 mile points along the centreline of the range. Tallaringa Well was located this year. An important Aboriginal waterhole it had not been visited by a white man since Richard Maurice in May 1902. A conservation park has now been proclaimed to protect the area.
1952 Selected the site for atomic bomb tests.
1953 Built access road to the site at Emu, which would become the first section of the Ann Beadell Highway. Later that year he was asked to locate a more accessible site. Maralinga was chosen and named, with access via the Transcontinental Railway.
1954 Prepared contour maps and developed the Maralinga site.
1955 The Gunbarrel Road Construction party was formed. Selected the site for Giles weather station. Originally required to determine the weather for atomic bomb tests, Giles is still operational and is the most remote meteorological station in Australia (25 01' 128 18'E). The Gunbarrel Highway runs from Victory Downs (25 59' 132 58'E) (west of Kulgerra in Northern Territory) to Carnegie Station (25 47' 122 58'E) in Western Australia, which was reached in November 1958.
1956 Work continued on the Gunbarrel Highway. Beadell began reconnaissance of a road from Mount Davies on the Gunbarrel across the Great Victoria Desert to Emu on the Ann Beadell Highway. Sites for mobile meteorological stations were selected at Mount Lindsay in the Birksgate Range (27 01' 129 53'E) and Coffin Hill (27 31' 130 28'E).
1957 Work continued around Giles Weather Station, the Mount Davies Road, and Anne Beadell Highway.
1958 Gunbarrel Highway completed.
1959 Continued survey work at Maralinga. Took five months off on an around the world trip.
1960 Surveyed and constructed Sandy Blight Junction Road from east of Giles, north to Mount Leisler (23 19' 129 21' E), where he re-located a tree blazed by William Tietkens in May 1889. From here he directed a road east to Mount Liebeg (23 16' 131 16' E), and also to the west (Gary Junction Road).
1961 Kintore Avenue was constructed. This short section linked the Gunbarrel Highway with the Mount Davies road - named after nearby Mount Kintore (26 33' 130 29' E). Another section of the Anne Beadell Highway was constructed from Anne's Corner to Voakes Hill (28 29' 130 34' E). From Voakes Hill he constructed a road south to Cook on the Transcontinental railway.
1962 Anne Beadell Highway was continued west from Voakes Hill to the Western Australia border. With his wife Anne and baby daughter Connie, Beadell reconnoitred a road south from Warburton (26 13' 126 39' E) across the Great Victoria Desert. At what would become the Neale Junction he turned east to link up with the construction party. Later that year he reconnoitred the road south from the Neale Junction to the railway line at Rawlinna. This became the Connie Sue Highway. Anne Beadell Highway was pushed west to Yeo Lake (27 58' 124 21' E). The Anne Beadell Highway now ran over 1065 kilometres from Mabel Creek, near the Alice Spring's railway line, to Yeo Lake in Western Australia. It had taken nearly ten years to complete.
1963 The Gary Highway from Everard Junction on the Gunbarrel Highway was pushed north to Gary Junction (22 30' 125 15' E) near the Canning Stock Route. The Gary Junction Road was built across the Great Sandy Desert to Callawa Station (20 37' 120 30' E).

Coober Pedy - Mad Max country - SA (28 May - 3 June 2010)

2010-09-06T23:15:00.003+10:00

After leaving Woomera we continued on up the middle, next stop was Coober Pedy, where the Mel Gibson movies, of Mad Max were filmed. Coober Pedy is famous for the wonderful colourful opal mined here, as well as for under ground homes and Churches. The trip from Woomera to Coober Pedy is the longest stretch on the Stuart Highway without fuel stations. A lesson was learned on this stretch - always top up with petrol when one has the opportunity! We speak from experience; about 80kms out from Coober Pedy we noticed the fuel gauge was getting rather low, so slowly, slowly, the speedo started to descend, until we limped into the town (along with 6 other vehicles) and made a bee-line for the first petrol station. A very strong head-wind played havoc with our fuel consumption, and as it turned out, we had 30 litres to spare. Never again have we gone past a petrol station without topping up! The locals must have a laugh to see all the different vehicles limping into town.
When in the caravan park at Coober Pedy, I mentioned to a lady we were staying 5 days, talk about shock, horror, the response to my comment was, "Five days in Coober Pedy, what is there to do?" I am sure you will be able to see from our list below, there is more than enough to do for many days stay in Coober Pedy. We had a great time, and Bucko had a delicious 'Coat of Arms' pizza in the best food shop in town, 'Johhnos', spotlessly clean, incuding the front and back counter space, along with great service, food and coffee. Coober Pedy is a very unusual town, the streets are dry and dusty, nearly all the front yards look like garbage dumps, took me a while to figure out why - doh! No backyards to hide the unwanted cars, tyres, pipes and the general rubbish in, so, of course they all sit out the front. General decorations around the town are old used tyres; they are used as retaining walls, garden beds, you name, the folk of Coober Pedy have come up with a way to recycle the tyres. All in all, we enjoyed are time in this rustic town very much, a few photos from around the town are in the album below.

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After a look around town and the usual visit to the Information Centre, we decided to extend our stay from 3 to 5 nights, there was so much we wanted to do! Amongst the list was:

Take a 4hr flight to view Lake Eyre, with water in it, and stop over for lunch at William Creek, an iconic Outback Pub, which was once a stop on the old Ghan Railway line, total population 6! Fantastic food, prepared by the lady who started the "Road Kill" menu at Parachilna in the Flinders Ranges.
Ride with the Postman (and 12 others), on the 12hr mail run to out back stations. Lunch was at William Creek, we were almost locals, 2 days in a row we had been there for lunch. Dinner was at the Pink Roadhouse at Oodnadatta. Stations we stopped at along the way included Anna Creek, at 34,000sq kms the largest in the world - and the size of Belgium! The photo album includes a photo of the mailman, who is an very interesting man, we learnt heaps, about the area and the brave explorers who ventured into the outback. A special stop for myself and Bucko, (we both adore anything to do with Trains), was at the old iron railway bridge; which was part of the old Ghan rail track. The powers that be, decided to pull down the bridge, however, the locals kicked up a bit of a ruckus and the bridge still stands. No welding was used in the bridge, only steel rivets, and the bridge has withstood many very high floods, as high at the railway lines, running through it. More info: Mailrun Tour

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Visit Underground Churches and Fays House. Our pick of the churches is the Serbian Church, a true underground church. On opening the door, one has to walk down and down a cool corridor, with walls of sealed stone, to then turn left into the main chamber of the church. Unfortunately, due to cost savings some of the lights were not working, so the wonderful painted windows did not show up well in the photos I took; still we liked the place. Fays' house, is like time has stood still and we had stepped back into the 60s. A condition of sale, when Fay sold up, was for the house to be kept as a living museum, and it is, a lovely cool house to live in. On those extra hot days that they get in Coober Pedy, a swimming pool is just outside the underground house, clean and ready for a quick dip, all under the cover of a roof and with shade cloth walls. Ah, the best of both worlds.

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Visit the Old Timers Mine, this is an old abandoned mine which was accidently discovered when the owners decide to dig out another room, for one of their children. Instead of digging into solid rock, suddenly a hole appeared, and there was the old mine, just as the old miners had left it, many years ago. The good news for the new owners was, the wall they broke through actually had a good seam of opal in it. I would not have liked to have been a miner in the old days, scary stuff in those terrible cramped and dusty conditions, see the 'models' below!. Come to think of it, not much different nowadays - thinking of those miners in Sth America. More Info: Old Timers Mine

Tour a working Opal mine, now, this was very interesting, the young women who showed us around worked in partnership with her Dad; her young son, was scampering around the mine, just like any child would do in their own back yard! A demonstration was given on how to make the explosives, used to break up the rock - they look just like a giant firecracker. A sad tale we were told was, when a friend of the young women turned 21yrs, there was a party up above one of the mines. The Birthday boy went down to set up a 21 bang salute, then came back up to view the fireworks, oops, the last one did not go off, so back down the mine he went to see what had happened..... a complete NO, NO, the poor lad was killed when the explosive went off. Talking about dust, the demonstration given to us, was all done with the miner in a very confined space, drilling with the jack hammer, type of machinery and with NO mask. All the folk on the tour gasped, and asked about masks, the response was"yeah, I am meant to wear one, but, they get too hot etc etc." All I could think of of was how her lungs could be sucking in all that damaging dust. Us city folk are so conscious of work safety, and out in some of the bush areas it seems it is all to hard.

Visit The Breakaways, most people who come to Coober Pedy do so, to see the opal mines, a few dugouts and usually only stay a night or two. What a wonderful landscape they are missing out on, The Breakaways. See for yourself.
Take a trip to the Dog Fence, a fence of legend, which is really just a fence, but, we had to see it. For my international readers, you may be asking, "What is the Dog Fence? "The Dog Fence is a pest-exclusion fence that was built in Australia during the 1880s and finished in 1885, to keep dingoes out of the relatively fertile south-east part of the continent (where they had largely been exterminated) and protect the sheep flocks of southern Queensland. It is one of the longest structures in the world and is the world's longest fence. It stretches 5,614 km (3,488 mi). (Ref: Wikipedia). The only native dog in Australia is the Dingo, who just loves to hunt sheep.

Purchase a book 'The Last of The Nomads' which is about Warri and Yatungka who were believed to be the last members of the Mandildjara tribe, of the desert nomads to live permanently in the traditional way. This book is a real eye-opener on how strong and resilient the Aboriginal people were, to be able to live and survive for thousands of years in such a hostile and harsh land. Do yourself a favour and borrow the book from your local library, or better still, purchase it for yourself, this book is a 'keeper.' To purchase follow this link The Last of The Nomads.

I hope you enjoy reading this posting; why not leave us a comment, go on, be brave, it is so easy to do. Just click on the word Comment and follow the instructions. Don't forget to sign your name to the comment, so Paul & I know who you are. (smile)

Up the middle, on the Stuart Highway - Woomera - SA (27 May 2010)

2010-09-06T14:28:00.014+10:00

After our wonderful adventure in The Flinders Ranges, it was back down to Port Augusta for a couple more nights, to stock up on groceries and do the washing, before we set off up 'The Middle'.
We left Port Augusta on the 27th of May. To begin with the weather was dull and grey, and we felt a tad sad to be leaving views of the Flinders Ranges behind us; about 15mins out of the town, the rain came bucketing down, all smack bang into our windscreen. It was rather difficult to see at times, and we were just glad we did not meet up with any Road Trains going down to Port Augusta. The rains topped and then a very strong headwind took over!
Woomera, was a stop over on our way to Coober Pedy; Paul & I had wanted to stay here so we could look at the old rockets used on the Woomera Rocket Range. The camp ground is vey small, with clean pre-fabricated ablution blocks. The lady on reception was friendly and gave us a map to the town and the sites. As soon as we had settled in, we did our usual and took off for a drive around town, this did not take very long! I could feel spirits of old about the place, and the town seems to have a sad are about it. The supermarket was HUGE with very wide aisles between each section, a left over from the days when the town was full to capacity, with Defence Department personnel, who worked on the rocket range. The Defence Department still maintain a small presence in the town, which most likely keeps it going. The rockets intrigued us, so here are a few pics to share with all those who are old enough to conjure up visions of rockets, when ever Woomera is mentioned! Enjoy.
To see the photographs, click on the link - View Full Album

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Flinders Ranges - SA (12 - 26 May 2010)

2010-08-01T18:34:00.007+10:00

Port Augusta : Our trip from Burra to The Flinders Ranges was via Port Augusta, at the head of the Spencer Gulf in SA. Port Augusta is where five roads converge, (commonly known as The Five Ways), West to Perth, North to Darwin, North-East to Broken Hill and New South Wales, South-East to Adelaide and Melbourne, and South-West to the Eyre Peninsula, SA. Port Augusta is a seaport with a natural harbour, which was settled on 24 May 1852 by Alexander Elder and John Grainger. The port was named after Augusta Sophia, Lady Young, the wife of the Governor of South Australia, Sir Henry Edward Fox Young. A railway junction city, Port Augusta is a stop on the Indian Pacific trans-continental train service on the Sydney–Perth railway and on the Ghan service between Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin. Most travellers use Port Augusta as a stop-over enroute to other parts of Australia, a quick shop to stock up on food items, do the washing in water other than brown bore water, then on their way again. Bucko and I were no different, we did however visit the Wadlata Outback Centre, attached to the Information Centre, which provided us with an introduction to life in the Australian outback. The Wadlata Outback Centre is well worth a visit. Ref: Wadlata Outback Centre and Port Augusta Council

Rawnsley Park Station : We had booked to stay at the caravan park at Rawnsley Park Station (RPS) for 3 nights, however, in the end we extended our stay to 11 nights. There is so much to see in The Flinders Ranges, including WiIpena Pound, a natural rock formation resulting from millions of years of erosion, and many picturesque and ancient Gorges. Rawnsley Park is in an isolated part of the Flinders Ranges, and as such has only satellite communications (Phone, TV and Internet) to the rest of the world including Australia. The high walls of Wilpena Pound blocked standard communications from getting into the Park, and surrounding areas, hence the reason for many folk driving to The Pound to make mobile calls, or to use their lap-tops. Bucko and I were amongst those people, we made a few calls out to family and friends when we where up visiting The Pound.

From RPS we were out and about nearly every day, of course it did rain the day we arrived and the day we left, we are The Rainmakers after all! Listed below are some of the many wonderful sights etc, that we saw in our travels around The Flinders.

a plane flight from RPS took us over Wilpena Pound, and the Ranges, a beautiful sight. A hazy start to the day soon cleared, and we were able to see the Ranges in a soft golden light.

Glass Gorge, I drove off road, along an ancient and rugged river bed, through stunning Glass Gorge, where (while I was driving), we spotted a rare Red Footed Wallaby, who scampered off, up the side of the road before I could get a photo. I was however able to take a picture of a Grey Wallaby, this creature was not shy at all, and did not even move as the car crept slowly along beside her, and her Joey. The track to Glass Gorge runs north from Blinman and is the original route for drays delivering copper to the railway at Parachilna, it is a pretty rugged road, so I would not like to have been a bullock driver in those days!

Parachilna Road House with it's menu of 'Road Kill' - Kangaroo, Emu etc was a very interesting place, the roadhouse 'sits' right beside the railway and with overflow accommodation (from the Hotel), in old Shipping Containers'. If we had stayed until the evening, we would have been able to sit on a bench outside the pub, to watch the coal train returning from Leigh Creek (in the North), roll on by on its way to the power station at Port Augusta. The train consists of some 180 trucks, 3 km in length, and takes about 5 minutes to pass.

A walk into Wilpena Pound, took us to where the original station farmhouse, which belonged to the Hill Family, still stands; along with a few items used on the station. The walk in is along boardwalks (which are over the river), and rough paths, along the way we came across a few Wallabies just doing their thing, they didn't even look at us humans! There is now a Heritage Protection on the area surrounding the old house.

A steep rocky climb behind the house, took us to a platform from where we could view the Pound, which appears to be a real oasis. The river runs into the Pound, but looks can be deceiving, the place was no good for farming, too dry, and then floods would come and wash away the pathway into the Pound, making it far too difficult to take goods in and out. In the end the family went back to Adelaide and gave up the farm. The path was cut out by the family themselves, and it is not until we saw it with our own eyes, that we appreciated what a hard life the early famers had. The photo above is of Sliding Rock, which sits almost (in this section) on a very narrow path into the Pound.

Arkaroo Rock , an important Aboriginal art site in the Flinders Ranges features ochre and charcoal images depicting the creation of Wilpena Pound. The circuit walk to the cave drawings was so beautiful, a bit rocky, but well worth the climb. We met a friendly traveller, on his way back down, who advised us to "take the path to the left when you get to the fork in the road, as it was much easier to climb". Good advice.

The trip back down was much rockier, and the view more spectacular than the path upwards; at times we felt we could almost reach out and touch to huge rocky outcrops to our right.

Sacred Canyon, a small chasm where ancient Aboriginal rock engravings are found on sandstone walls, however the carvings were very hard to photograph, so we took none. At the end of the chasm was a very high rock wall, with a THIN ledge, Bucko climbed the wall, then came back to tell me "if you don't come come up here, you will be disappointed, there is a massive OLD River Red Gum, which I know you will like to see." So, up I climbed. It was worth it. Bucko stood inside the burnt out trunk of the, still surviving tree, just to give a bit of perspective of how high this tree is. The return trip back to our car, was rather scary for me as I started to slide off the edge of ledge!!! Thank goodness, my hero was there to save me.

The Cazneaux Tree, This magnificent River Red Gum was photographed by a renowned Sydney photographer, Harold Cazneaux in 1937. The photograph, titled 'Spirit of Endurance', gained international recognition. The tree is about 700 years old and is still sprouting new branches; fire, drought and floods seem to not impact on the wonderful River Red Gums.

Old Wilpena Station, lies within the park only a few kilometres from the Wilpena Pound Resort. An important pioneering pastoral run, Wilpena Station was established in 1851 and had a working life of 135 years, before it slipped into retirement. The station finally ceased operations in 1985 when the Hunt family's (they were the last pastoral lessees) lease expired. It was purchased by the government and in 1988 dedicated as an addition to the park. Today the Old Wilpena Station Historic Precinct is one of South Australia's most significant pastoral settlement sites due to its fine condition, wealth of heritage and spectacular setting. Preserved at Old Wilpena Station is the most complete group of early station buildings surviving in South Australia in an authentic pastoral landscape. It was interesting walking around this old station, the sight that took our eye was the tree with the fence posts in it? The posts have been there for over 100 yrs!

Bunyeroo Valley and Gorge, a very scenic drive through the valley with views of the impressive Razorback Ridge, with various lookouts along the way. At the end of the valley, after passing the old stockyards of Yanyanna, which was the central point in the Aroona pastoral run, we then followed the creek bed to pass through Bunyeroo Gorge. It had rained a few days before we took this drive and water was in the creek, a bit of mud sliding took place, but we handled it ok, I am glad to say, Bucko was driving. The photo to the right is of the ABC Range, taken from the lookout, before we went down in to Bunyeroo Valley. The road was dirt all the way and from other campers we had heard it was a tad scary when they drove through, after the rain a few days before!

Brachina Gorge is one of the park's most popular and spectacular tourist attractions. The gorge is an important refuge for the Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby as well as many species of birds and reptiles. The Brachina Gorge Geological Tour is a 20 km self-guided trail that passes through 130 million years of earth history. This gorge just blew us away! Along the drive are signs detailing how old the rocks are in each particular section, how they were formed and what they consist of. We felt like time travellers, it certainly puts things into perspective, we are on this earth for only a mini second! Ref: Flinders Ranges National Park

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary : While at Rawnsley Park we decide to leave our van and drive the Land Cruiser up to Arkaroola for the night; we had booked a basic motel room, and it was very basic, ratty edged towels and freezing cold room, with no heating! Oh well, we did want a rustic experience and we got it! The reason for us going to Arkaroola was to take the very much talked about, Ridge Top Tour. The trip to Arkaroola took us the better part of a day, with a bitumen road to just before Blinman, then it was dirt the rest of the way. I had decided to drive, so off we set, cruising along the road in the early morning sun, until we came over a hill. EEEK!! A huge Red 'roo came bounding diagonally across the road, in front of our car! Fortunately I had not been driving fast, and I was proud of myself, I very slowly and calmly put the brakes on and slowed down, the 'roo bounced off onto the grass and kept on going. Just that morning, I had commented to Bucko, "we have seen all the animals (for the Flinders), which are listed in the brochure, except for the Red Roo." Well, I got my wish, scared the heck out of me! The Ridge Top Tour was simply the BEST, very, very rugged and only for experienced 4WDrivers, at times we seemed to be teetering on the edge of the cliffs! All extremely exciting, and exhilarating, we LOVED it. Although we only travelled 21kms it took us 5hours to get there and back, we stopped for afternoon tea at the tip of 'Sillers Lookout' - aka 'The Top of The World'. To get to the top of the lookout, the driver had to really 'gun' the engine and told us to hang on tight, the road was almost vertical! At the top was the other 4WD with the six passengers, there was JUST enough room for the two cars and not much besides! Where is this paradise you may be asking? Located 600km north of Adelaide and 130km east of Leigh Creek, and in the ruggedly spectacular northern Flinders Ranges, this 610sq km multi award-winning Wilderness Sanctuary, is operated by the Sprigg family. Reg Sprigg, was an incredible person, he was the founder of Arkaroola and Eco Tourism (amongst many other things) in Australia; please follow the link and check out this amazing man, I promise you won't be disappointed: http://www.arkaroola.com.au/sprigg.php. The park contains some of Australia's most spectacular mountain views and offers numerous Advanced Ecotourism accredited guided tours. Arkaroola features rugged mountains, towering granite peaks, magnificent gorges and mysterious waterholes, the home to over 160 species of birds and the shy and endangered Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby. Ref: Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary

Peterborough SA - Steamtown Railway Museum - 10 May, 2010

2010-07-24T17:03:00.004+10:00

While in Burra, Bucko and I took a day trip to the town of Peterborough, (or Petersburg as it was known until 1918), the town was settled to service the agricultural and pastoral endeavours of the 1870s. Once a centre of major railway workshops and where the three different railway gauges, (previously used in Australia), met; Peterborough is now known for a fantastic museum on trains Steamtown - and this was the reason for our visit.

"The Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre is a museum focussing on transportation in a bygone era - particularly Peterborough's narrow gauge railway heritage. What was once known as the Railway Workshops has now become known as the home of Steamtown situated at the western end of the Main Street. Steamtown's collection includes steam and diesel locomotives and numerous passenger carriages. The depot turntable is the only three gauge example in the world. The Roundhouse is the last major example of its kind in South Australia. Historic passenger carriages include fine examples of the cars used on the first transcontinental passenger train to cross the Nullarbor Plain in 1917. Unique special purpose Vans dating back to the 1880s provide a rare glimpse of times past. The collection of rare rolling stock includes a 1937 Morris 25 Motor Inspection Car (MIC). The car was converted to operate on narrow gauge track." Reference: Peterborough Tourism Inc

The attached photo album includes views of a First Class carriage with leadlight windows, a lounge and arm chairs upholstered in red leather, a piano and bar, for those with money, they certainly knew how to live in those days! Also in the album you will find photos of a double-decked sheep/cattle carriage, along with the ramp up to the top deck. Of particular interest to me was the old 1937 Morris 25, used as a Motor Inspection Car, my Dad had a Morris 14, and he drove us everywhere in it; so, this old Morris bought back lovely memories for me.

If you wish to find out more on Peterborough and Steamtown, click on the links. I hope you enjoy this posting as much I have bringing it to you.

Steamtown, Peterborough SA

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Burra – Old Copper mining town SA (6 – 12 May, 2010)

2010-07-13T22:17:00.007+10:00

I am so glad we chose the town of Burra as the next stop in our journey through South Australia, what a wonderful surprise this town was to both of us. The caravan park we stayed in is a only very tiny, and due to word of mouth from amongst the Grey Nomad set, the place very quickly filled up. On speaking to other travellers, we discovered most people book for their stay in Burra, in fact we observed many unlucky caravanners being turned way. Spotlessly clean amenities, friendly managers, and the town is a gem, what more could one ask for.

Burra, was once a bustling mining area, with the discovery of copper near the Burra Burra Creek in 1845, the town of Kooringa rapidly grew to be Australia's largest inland town by 1851. All that is left of the mining activities are a lot of ruins, as well as fine examples of the buildings and townships which now make up the village of Burra. Burra is actually a collection of townships, each with their own history and buildings to explore.

Burra Heritage Trail : The town has a Heritage Passport system of key and guide book, which enabled us to discover the many sites of historical interest. After picking up our keys, we set off to explore. Two places we found of particular interest are listed below:

First stop was the old dugout homes of the Copper Miners Dugouts. (1850) The homes were literally dugout of the soft clay banks of the currently dry, and nearly always dry, creek. The first creek dwellings were being dug in 1846, they were favoured by the miners as they were rent free and close to the water. The downside to living along the creek bed was at times it floods; and when it did the waters came with a vengeance. In 1851 about 1,800 people out of a total population of 4,400 lived in nearly 600 of these dugouts. Three floods in 1851 devastated 'Creek Street' (as it was known), driving the inhabitants from their homes. By 1860 the dugouts were virtually deserted. Two dugouts have been preserved by the National trust as a tourist attraction. Disease was rife amongst the miners and their families and so the government of the day built cottages to entice the people to move out of the dugouts. A group of some of the houses built for the miners, are displayed in the attached photo.

The Old Redruth Gaol built in 1856 it was the first gaol in South Australia outside of Adelaide. It provided for thirty prisoners, male and female. When it closed in 1897, the prisoners being transferred to Gladstone Gaol; it was renovated and opened as a Girls' Reformatory and finally closed in 1922. It is now in the care of the National Trust. In recent years the old gaol has also been the setting for a few scenes in movies, including the trial scene in the Breaker Marrant picture of a few years ago. In the centre of the exercise yard is a toilet - commonly know as a Dunny to those of us in Australia and New Zealand. Any thought of escape over the walls would not be too easy, note the broken glass at the top of the gaol walls!

To view the photos in full view ouside the Slideshow, click on any picture in the slide show.
Note: the Information on the dugouts and gaol is from the booklet - Discovering Historic Burra - G.J. Drew for the National Trust of South Australia

Nuriootpa SA - Maggie’s Kitchen (2 – 6 May)

2010-07-12T23:21:00.004+10:00

After leaving the city of Adelaide, we drove Nth West to the small village of Nuriootpa. The park we stayed at was small and very clean and within walking distance of the town, and was a good base to explore the area further. However, the main attraction for us staying in Nuri – as the locals call it – was to visit Maggie Beer’s kitchen.

After watching every episode of 'The Cook and The Chef' we had to go out to see where the show was made. Did I mention the other reason was to the opportunity to sample good food? Picnic fare is the order of the day at Maggies place, so we ordered our basket and coffee and sat in the sunshine, we cheated, the sun was coming through the window, and ate delicious pate, bread, olives and dip. Afterwards we went to a demonstration – by Maggie’s daughter – on cooking with Verjuice. Before and after the demonstration, folk are encouraged to wander around the kitchen, open cupboards etc and maybe even play at being Maggie, or being able to cook like her and Simon! Yeah, yeah, I know, in our dreams :)

Anyway, here are a few pictures of Bucko and myself in Maggie's kitchen.

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Adelaide Hills etc (19 April – 1 June, 2010)

2010-07-12T22:49:00.004+10:00

The next stage in our journey was Adelaide, and on our list of ‘Must See and Things To Do’ etc was:

Seppeltsfield Winery: First stop was a visit to Seppeltsfield for tastings of their wonderful fortified wines. The road into the winery is lined for kilometres, with huge palms trees, all planted in the days of the depression, by members of Seppelts staff, to help keep them employed during the tough times. If you follow the link at the beginning of this section on Seppeltsfield, you will see a photograph of the avenue of palms. The Seppelt family no longer own the vineyard or winery, however, the present company keep the history of the place alive, with tours of the old house, and many photographs are hung on the walls.

Guess what? One of the earlier Seppelt woman had a very unique name – Selma. A Muscat is named after her, so OF COURSE, I had to buy a couple of bottles, I did taste it first to make sure I liked!

Henschke Winery Paul had been to Henschke Winery many years ago so, we decided to make a visit; of course we only went there to look at the place, and go out to the old church, how could any of you think otherwise! Naturally, we had our arms twisted to have a tasting, and of course we where bludgeoned into making a few purchases.

The church linked to the Vineyards is a few kms from The Cellar Door, however, as I am interested in old country churches we went for drive to see it. WOW! The outside was very impressive and the trip from the Winery was worth it. I have given you a small taste of the wonderful church. You know the drill, if you would like further photographs of the church, go to ‘Churches Along The Wallaby Track’ Blog.

Hahndorf : One cannot go to Adelaide without taking the trip up to the Hills to the small German style village of Hahndorf, so, we did. Sorry, Dr Pete, we blew the cholesterol issues out the window that day! Pork Knuckle for me and Bucko had a wheel of German sausage, of course Sauerkraut was also on our places. A walk around the village was definitely in order after that meal, but, did we enjoy ourselves. While wandering the tree lined streets, with footpaths covered in glorious Autumnal coloured leaves, we noticed signs advertising an Anzac Day Dawn Service, to be held in the village on the 25th. Bucko and I always attend the Anzac Day Daybreak Service at the little Peace Park in Oxford Falls, so this year we observed the Dawn Service in Hahndorf. After the service, (and as per our family tradition), we had a breakfast of Eggs Benedict and coffee; in one of only 2 places open in Hahndorf at 7.30am.

As we had already been up to Hahndorf we decide to take different route back to the caravan park. The Hills area of Adelaide is so very pretty, and at Kersbrook, I found an old country church, pictures of which will be posted to the ‘Churches Along The Wallaby Track’ Blog

Louise Nelson: last but certainly not least, time for me to catch with a very talented lady, Louise Nelson. I first met Louise at a Scrapbooking retreat at Turramurra, run by Sonia Bowers of Forever Always. The style of Scrapbooking (SB) Louise does, can best be described as eclectic, and to a lot of us Scrapbookers simply stunning , which is too mild a word to describe Louise’s creations. Why not take a look for yourselves, and click on the following link to Louise's creative art work. Louise and I spent a day doing the rounds of Scrapbooking shops and also had lunch together, a fun day. I was also very spoilt as Louise gave me a 'Goodie Bag' with lots of wonderful scrapbooking bits and bobs. I am saving them to make a SB page of photos of Lou and myself. Thanks for a fantastic day, Lou.

Goolwa SA – Barrages, keeping the seawater out of the River Murray (16 –19 April, 2010)

2010-07-02T16:50:00.000+10:00

While in the small town of Tailem Bend we heard about the Barrages at Goolwa, so decide to spend a few days around the area and see the barrages for ourselves. The trip from Tailem Bend was very pleasant, we took the ferry over the River Murray to Wellington and then drove down through the picturesque villages along the valley. It was not long before acres and acres of grape vines came into view, lining both sides of the both sides of the roads around Strathalbyn; we were finally getting into grape country. Strathalbyn has a wonderful Lutheran Church which of course I just had to capture photographs for my Blog. Note: those of you who have been reading one of my other Blogs - ‘Churches Along the Wallaby Track’ – the church from Strathalbyn will be posted soon. If you are interested in country churches, why not join my dear friend Sonia and become a Follower?

After settling into the caravan park we took off to see the barrages, we had been following the River Murray for such along way, and now it felt terrific to be able to see where the river meets the sea. For those who may be interested, below is information on the barrages.

The Goolwa Barrages, (South Australia near Murray Mouth & Coorong), have been constructed in the vicinity of the River Murray mouth, are commonly known as the Goolwa Barrages, and consist of five separate structures with connecting roadways across Ewe Island and Tauwitchere Island.

The main purpose of the barrages at the Murray mouth is to maintain the freshness of the River Murray as far downstream as Wellington. This is an obligation under the Act; and to keep the water at a sufficiently high level to permit the watering by gravitation of the various reclamation areas between Mannum and Wellington. In addition to this, it will prevent the ingress of salt water from the sea during periods of low river, and will help maintain the freshness of the water in Lakes Alexandrina and Albert. Thus ensuring the productivity of the surrounding areas which would otherwise be injuriously affected by salt water after long periods of salinity in the lakes.

For those who like more detail, why not read all about the Barrages, the site is very interesting.

Note: All information on the Goolwa Barrages has been copied from : http://www.murrayriver.com.au/river-towns/barrages/

Tailem Bend – on the River Murray – SA (13 – 16 April 2010)

2010-04-27T15:41:00.010+10:00

We left Robe on Tuesday and at first we took the wrong road, oops, so turned around and were soon on our way again, via Kingston S.E. Larry The Lobster, (whom we had seen a few days before on our day trip to Kingston, greeted us when we stopped for a Lobster and lettuce sandwich – yummy and coffee, then we were on our way again. We had booked into a small caravan park which over looked the River Murray. As per usual, with some of the less star rated parks what you see is often not what you get. The BBQ area left a lot to be desired, however, the rest of the place was not too bad. The park is small, with plenty of shady trees, we decided to park near where we could see the river. Well, due to the long drought the river was actually not where it used to be. A photograph, which was taken 6 years ago, is in the park office, and it showed the water, about 6-10 metres from the base of the cliff, with a causeway through the water to a small island. Houseboats were moored to landings and others were moored out near the island. The houseboats are still moored to the landings, but have no way of floating down to the river now that the water has retreated. All, a bit sad when one thinks of how grand The River Murray used to be. Although there have been huge floods up north, including Queensland; and The Channel Country and Lake Eyre have water, none of the it is expected to flow down the river ways to Tailem Bend or the sea; as most of the recent water fall is being stored in huge dams, for the Cotton and Rice growing areas of Queensland and NSW. Talking about storing water, in 1956 there were huge downfalls of rain in Queensland and NSW dams were in danger of overflowing; so the NSW powers that be, decided to release water from the storage area of Meningie Lakes. The huge volume of water caused a massive flood around the lower reaches of the Murray, especially in Murray Bridge.

Link for more info on Tailem Bend: http://www.murrayriver.com.au/tailem-bend/

Wed 14 April - The Big Olive – while in Tailem Bend we went out to The Big Olive, which is set in a new Business Park on the outskirts of Tailem Bend. The olives are grown near Strathalbyn and processed in Tailem Bend. A tasting table was set up with various olives and delicious oils, to sample. Of course we bought oil, as well as olives.

Link for The Big Olive: http://www.bigolive.com.au/about-us/

Wed 14 April – Murray Bridge – After buying the olives we took off for Murray Bridge, there were a couple of churches I wanted to see as well as have a general look around the town. The first bridge to be built across the Murray is was a rail bridge, and one of the supporting pillars has a notice on it noting the level of the flood in 1956. An old steam train is also sits dock side, we had to climb on board like the ‘young’ kids we are! (Click on photos to enlarge)

Thur 15 April - Old Tailem Town – Bucko and I being gluttons for punishment, decided to visit Old Tailem Town, an example of what life was like for the settlers of South Australia from 1860 - 1960. We had seen a Pioneer Village when we were in Inverell, NSW, but this one is different.

Set out in the style of a village, with buildings relocated from their original sites and some of buildings being built onsite, in the style of yesteryear. In particular a house made out of flatted Tar drums. When the roads around the area were being built in the days of the depression folks would grab the empty tar drums, have them flatted by the steamroller and then make a house out of them. All the houses and buildings are furnished in keeping with the period of the house. It was interesting to see how chairs were made out of branches of trees, wire and sacking and beds made with branches of trees for the bedposts. I would not liked to have lived in those days and Bucko and I certainly admire how the pioneers survived in this harsh land. Link to Old Tailem Town:
http://www.oldtailemtown.com/

Robe – SA (7 – 13 April, 2010)

2010-04-18T17:57:00.007+10:00

Wed: 7th April - We arrived in Robe ("as in Robe isn't famous for Robes"), on the 7th April and guess what? Yes, that's right, it rained for 3 out of the 6 days we were there. It actually started to sprinkle as we drove into the town! Ha, ha. Just as well we didn't mind, at least is gave us time to slow down! The trip to Robe (from Mt Gambier)was only 2hrs, and even though we went the coast road, we could not see anything because of the high shrubs and trees. As I never sleep well the night before we go on the road, at least I was able to nod off. Robe is a lovely wee town, heritage buildings mixed with, old beach houses and the more expensive and upmarket, HUGE, glass and timber decked houses. The town has a 'REAL' Butcher who sells fantastic meat; so one night Bucko cooked us a Lamb Roast, with all the trimmings for dinner - Yummy.

Thur: 8th April – As it was a reasonably clear day, so decided to take off to visit Kingston S.E (the reason for the S.E.? There is another Kingston in South Australia. Kingston is (according to those who live in Kingston), the Lobster capital of SA, so of course, the town has a BIG Lobster - Larry The Lobster! Larry is about 30yrs old, according to a man I met while taking the photo, he first saw Larry 30yrs ago. I am pleased to report Larry appears to be very well looked after, and his colour is true to life.

Old Cape Jaffa Lighthouse - While we were in Kingston we discovered the old Cape Jaffa Lighthouse was open to the public. As I am rather taken with lighthouses, we decided to climb the steep stairs, and go inside. Bucko was as happy as me to be able to actually see inside a Lighthouse; even though it is no longer in use, and it is on land. The lighthouse was built between the years of 1868 – 1872, and used to sit out on a platform on the Margaret Brock Reef, (the reef was named after a sailing ship), 15kms out to sea and was relocated to land during 1975-76. The following italic component of this posting, is an excerpt from Lighthouses of Australia website: http://www.lighthouse.net.au/lights/SA/Cape%20Jaffa/Cape%20Jaffa.htm “This type of lighthouse is known as "Wells Screw Pile" and was selected for this location because the narrow wrought iron piles offered the most resistance to the heavy seas that break across the reef. All the parts for this lighthouse were manufactured and pre-assembled, in England then dismantled and shipped to Australia. Extreme difficulties were encountered during its construction which took 3 years instead of the proposed 1 year. Apparently when the site was first chosen the sea and weather was unusually calm. When it came time to construct the lighthouse seas were wild and the weather rough. Early construction was washed away and sometimes the contractors could not go out for days.” The website has photos of the Lighthouse when it was in situ as well as the Gannet Rookery. All the photographs listed in the album were taken by myself.

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The lighthouse is now a property of The National Trust of Australia. The Keeper would have to manually wind the light so it would turn, (the light operates on similar mechanism as a Grand-father clock); so up and down the stairs he would climb each hour during the night to keep the light shining. Initially the Lighthouse Keeper and his family lived out in the lighthouse, and would return to land when his term of duty was up; they would then be replaced by another Keeper and his family. At one stage, due to a severe storm, there were two families living in the lighthouse. For about a month, a total of 11 people were living in the very small rooms until the bad weather was over! I can only start to imagine the horror of it all. Storms raging outside and in with various personalities, and children, how did they all cope? The women had it very tough. Cooking was done on a small kerosene stove and oven. The washing was scrubbed on a scrubbing board, then put through a mangle to remove the bulk of the water, and finally strung outside to dry on a very small line, attached to one of the walkways around the lighthouse. I bet they lost a few items of clothing, by the washing being blown away. To go to the toilet, one had to climb down the main outside stairs, walk along a narrow steel walkway, (all the time making sure one was holding onto the rail), then as was one nearly reached the loo, the rail was no longer there - eek! Someone in their wisdom, set the toilet about 1 metre away from the railing! How scary. Eventually, three houses were built for the three Lighthouse Keepers and their families, so the women and children no longer had to go out to the reef. Imagine trying to bring up children in such a confined and frightening environment, it would be tad difficult to tell the kids to go outside and play! I am sure the house on land came as a very welcome relief for the mothers, and peace of mind would possibly have reigned at last.

The Cape Jaffa Lighthouse platform now has an automatic beacon sitting where the lighthouse used to be and is also a wonderful home to a colony of Gannets; all the side rails and ladders have been removed so that folk are not tempted to climb onto the platform.

The town of Robe is now home to a new and boring contemporary lighthouse, with a feeling no where near as romantic as the old Cape Jaffa Lighthouse.

Craft Work - Now, for the Crafty women in my life.and I mean that in the nicest possible way. I found a Patchwork Shop, and yes, I did buy some material and batting! When I was in New Zealand last, I bought a piece of material to make myself a small quilt, to keep me occupied during our travels. I am taking the easy way out, and using the whole piece of material, I will add the batting and backing, and will then quilt in between the faux patches. The pattern on the material is representative of the many types of weaving found in Maori Meeting Houses. Bucko has a good eye for colours, and chose the backing and border material.

Click on View Full Album to see all the photos. – enjoy.

Kangaroos in the park – Halls Gap, VIC

2010-03-22T17:23:00.000+11:00

Halls Gap is a very small town nestled at the base of The Grampians in the Nth West of state of Victoria. A town with a population of 600 and beds for 6,000. Backpacker Hostels, B&Bs, Motels, Lodges and Caravan Parks abound. Along with the few essential commercial businesses ie General Store, Petrol Station, Camping goods store, Food shops, they line one side of the main road in the village. The opposite side of the road is the National Park of The Grampians. The village is literally at the base of the huge rock face, and many walking tracks lead off into the park from Halls Gap.

Bucko and I stayed at a caravan park about three minutes from the village, far enough from civilisation for Kangaroos to feel comfortable about coming into the park to graze, and to leave their calling cards! Big Western Greys would be bounding around the place at dawn and dusk. I awoke about 7am one morning, dressed in my warm ‘flanno’ shirt, tack pants, joggers and beanie and went out camera in hand to record a few pics of the ‘roos. By the time I returned to the ‘van my hands, feet and nose felt like ice – no wonder, I had been outside for an hour!

At first I was a fair distance from the Kangas. I was peeking my head around a high timber paling fence, but, those critters still heard and saw me. Standing on their hinds legs, heads turned, and eyes gazing directly at me, I just froze as I did not want them to take off. After a while the ‘roos went back to grazing and ignored me, until I took a quick step towards them, the up they would stand and ster at me again. Eventually, I was able to creep within approximately 20 metres of them.

I have taken a few videos of 2-3 Kangaroos boxing (they looked very friendly to me), once I learn how to upload them to the Blog I will let you know, in the meantime time I hope you enjoy the photos.

To see the photos, please click on VEW FULL ALBUM.

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The Wallaby Rocks Track – The Grampians, VIC

2010-03-21T21:53:00.000+11:00

While in The Grampians, Bucko and I decided to go off the beaten track, to do a bit of exploring, without the crowds. The Kiosk Manager at Mackenzie Falls, had drawn a ‘mud map’ for us, of a few unusual rock formations he had discovered during his nine years of tramping about the Falls area.

Rose Creek Road (which leads of the main road), is a fairly good, graded, dirt road, which has a number of tracks ‘running’ off it.

The track we had to look out for was ‘Wallaby Rocks Track’, and here it is, the start of our adventure.

Now the road is 4WD only, and the Land Cruiser ‘came to the party’ and did very well, just what it was built for.

We had three ‘mud maps’ to guide us and to tell the truth, because we were unfamiliar with what to look for, we found only two of the special rock formations. However, we were very happy with the places we did find, along with a couple of discoveries of our own. All up the total distance we travelled along the track was 32kms, but, it took us nearly 4-5 hours, including our lunch stop. At the end of the day, we both felt our trip on the Wallaby Rock Track was the highlight of our visit to The Grampians.

I will let the pictures tell the story – enjoy. To see the photos, Click on VIEW FULL ALBUM

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First water crossing!!!

2010-03-21T16:55:00.000+11:00

I have to share some exciting news with all of you. While we were up at Halls Gaps in Victoria, we decided to take the plunge and go OFF ROAD – well sort of…….!

The track was defined, a bit rocky, with a few potholes and broken limbs of trees lying across the path (now and then), and no black tarsealed road in sight. Most exciting for us was our first ever water crossing, we have finally christened the Cruiser!

I jumped out of the car before we hit the water, to test the depth and of course, to record this momentous event; after all, we want to share this with all of our followers! I swam across to the other side so I could take a photo of Bucko ploughing through the rapids and boulders etc. LOL.

Clunes, the town that time forgot

2010-03-16T15:28:00.000+11:00

Today Bucko and I went for a drive to the town of Clunes, 25kms NW of Ballarat, Victoria. On a previous trip to the country, we had briefly stopped in Clunes to take photos of one of the town’s old bluestone churches; that was all the time we needed to make the decision to return.

In the days of the 1850s Victorian Gold Rush, Clunes was the first town with bankable amounts of gold in Victoria. The National Trust have listed Clunes as Australia's most original 19th Century town, with more than 50 buildings of historical significance.

As it turns out Clunes is a hidden gem! The main thoroughfare by-passes the actual town by one block. The information centre, as usual was a our first port of call – not that we could find anything there – it was closed and only opens Thursdays and Weekends!! Anyway, we were not daunted, we (I) was on a mission to photograph another gorgeous bluestone church (St Pauls), that we had glimpsed on our previous visit. (to view St Pauls in more detail, click on our other Blog at left - Churches along the Wallaby Track ).

After photographing St Pauls we followed a sign directing visitors to the historical section of town. WOW! As Paul and I drove down to the main street, a few old shops came into view, including a butcher.

Directly facing us across the road, on opposite corners of the main street, are two old corrugated iron garages, one still being used for repairing cars. An old Europa (I think it was?), Pegasus sign still sits up on the edge of the garage roof, (click on the photo to zoom in for the Pegasus), and the words of an old Shell sign are faintly visible above the garage doors.

Turning left into the broad main street we both gasped; we would not have been surprised if a woman with a long dress and parasol came strolling down the street! Clunes is often used as a film and television set and it is easy to see why. Old shops, wide veranda covered footpaths, with the signs of the original owners i.e. Bootmaker, Hairdresser etc still painted on the windows and above the doorways. The gutters in the street are a deep and wide, and are made of cobblestone, like many in the town of Ballart and surrounding villages.

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However, the strangest part of being in Clunes is, most of the shops are only open for a few days each week; either Wednesday to Saturday, Thursday to Sunday or Sunday only! When we were there the few shops that were open, and doing a good trade included a Bakery/Tearoom, Ice-cream/Coffee Parlour, Bookshop, Pharmacy/Post office, Greengrocer and the Garage. The local IGA(grocery store) was also closed. Paul and I like to support local businesses, so we had our lunch at the Bakery/Tearooms, then strolled along the street.

Clunes has a small park, with a path up to the old Post Office and Town Hall on the by pass road, which now proudly displays a new and modern, timber and galvanised steel Bandstand with a seating area; flash looking corrugated iron loos (toilets), and a new two plate BBQ; all courtesy of Kevin and the recent stimulus package!

On a wall of an old building, along the pathway to the park, is a painted information sign, yippee!! I was able to identify three more churches in the town as well as another old State School. Off we went again, up the hill to find the North Clunes State School 1875, still in use today. The South Clunes State School is now the Clunes Information Centre, and a Bottle Museum. (to view Victorian State Schools in more detail, click on our other Blog at left – Schools along the Wallaby Track ).

If you are interested in viewing and/or reading about some of Clunes churches and Schools, why not go to our other Blogs. Click on the links in this postings or the links in the Canzaus Kids other Blogs section to the left.

To view an album click on View Full Album link below. To view single photos in more details, just click on them. - Enjoy

Ballarat, Victoria

2010-03-15T09:26:00.001+11:00

Hi Folks, we are in Ballarat, and having such a wonderful time, we have extended our stay twice so far! We arrived here last Wednesday evening - 7pm actually - after having the repairs on two windows in our van completed; we also had to have one of the rear tail-lights repaired as it was not working properly.

Ballarat is such a gorgeous place, much larger then Bendogo. Evidence of the vast amounts of money poured into the city, during the Gold rush, in the 1850s is everywhere, a time when the streets were truly paved with gold! Huge wonderful old buildings abound, but, more of that to come in later posting. We are off, now for a tootle in the countryside. Til next posting, look after yourselves, or find someone that will. :)

Heritage Buildings and Sturt Street – Ballarat, VIC

2010-03-14T20:51:00.000+11:00

Sunday, 14 March, the sun was shining and the feel of autumn was in the air. Bucko and I decided to go into Ballarat’s CBD for a look around the city ‘to take in’ the sights. By sights I mean the wonderful architecture of many of Ballarat’s buildings. A city of immense wealth in the past, when in the 1850s gold was almost ‘running’ in the streets, enabled many graceful buildings to be built. Buildings made of bluestone and brick, with leadlight windows, cast iron lace verandas, in various styles. Designs such as, Venetian, English Gothic, Edwardian Baroque, Art Nouveau, and Revival styles of Greek, Renaissance, Roman and Gothic; as well as Italianate Palazzo and Flemish Baroque.

Banks, Hotels, Churches, Banks, Hotels, Churches, Post Office, Town Hall and Railway Station, to name but a few of the buildings, all solid, usually of three levels and very, very grand.

The main thoroughfare in Ballarat is Sturt Street, which consists of three sections, the left and right sides, with an avenue of huge mature trees down the middle of the 60 metre wide street.

Nestled amongst the trees can be found: 2 bandstands, 3 fountains, 3 monuments, 6 war memorials and 10 statues!

The statues of Queen Victoria and Robbie Burns, with sightless eyes, gaze down upon all who wander haphazardly amongst them; tourists with their heads raised upwards, camera in hand, each person attempting to capture for themselves, a photographic memory of the manmade and natural beauty, surrounding the glorious vista of Sturt Street in Ballarat, Victoria.

Car Museum – Launceston, TAS

2010-03-07T23:32:00.001+11:00

Launceston museum is vastly different than the one at Tocumwal. A sleek and shiny Rolls Royce, old Holden Ambulance, motorbikes, racing cars, many and varied models and colours of vehicles are on display. I will let the pictures tell the story, once again I have been a bit arty with some of the photos. I hope you enjoy looking at them. Why not leave me a Comment telling me what you think. We would love to ‘hear’ from you.

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Christies Car Museum – Tocumwal

2010-03-07T20:56:00.002+11:00

So far during our trip we have visited three car museums, Forbes, NSW (already mentioned in an earlier posting), Tocumwal, NSW and Launceston, TAS. I suppose you could say we have a fascination with old cars.
The museum at Tocumwal is a bit of an eclectic mix, all owned by George Christie, a man who just loves cars, trucks, old farm equipment, old caravans and many other collectable items. George, who until a few years ago lived in Maryville, is a person who loves to have a chat, and is he such an interesting man to talk and listen too. Bucko and I chatted to him for ages about his collection, and life in general; we enjoyed our time with George very much.
Ian (Salway)on the left is a photo of the truck George drove until he retired, isn’t it fabulous?

Outside the museum, in the yard is an old ‘chuck’ wagon made out of galvanised iron and wooden wheels. The wagon was used in the old days of cattle droving. The oven is an cast iron fuel stove and it sits at the front of the wagon, a rough bench runs across the far wall and the Cook’s bed is at the end, at least he had a warm place to sleep on cold nights! Unfortunately, my camera battery had run out, so I was unable to take any photos of the wonderful old chuck wagon.

I had to include the photo of the wonderful old cane dolls pram, I wish it was mine; I can see my old Pedigree dolls sitting in it!

How about Bucko with his Idols? Yeah, we know they are only cut outs, but, what the heck?

Eeek... our Blog was Highjacked

2010-03-07T18:48:00.004+11:00

We have been having problems with the Blog lately. First off, the Blog was highjacked!! I had added a Counter to the see how many hits we are getting ..... not a good idea. The Counter highjacked the site so anyone trying to look at our Blog would see the page for a few seconds, then the viewer would be redirected to a site trying to sell Advertising, or even China TV !!!!! I sorted the probelm out by asking for Help via the Blogger Forum. Yipeee all solved once I removed the Counter.

Well, at least I thought it was ok. My Wndows Live Writer (which is a cool and user friendly way to upload to the Blog), will now not let me to upload photo albums to the Blog! Grr. Waiting for answers from the WLW Forum.

So, until the problem is resolved the Blog will be text and single photos only; and I have such cool photos to share with all of you.

Beautiful Bendigo

2010-03-04T20:09:00.004+11:00

Bucko and I are in Bendigo, VIC. We were not going to visit this town, but, after talking to Ted Riddle we changed our minds. Ted mentioned Bendigo “has lots of wonderful architecture”, so we instantly decided to make Bendigo our first port of call from Echuca. We had intended to go direct to Ballarat, then The Great Ocean Road, however, we can visit them later.

Are we glad we came to this gorgeous town.

Most of the wonderful buildings in Bendigo were designed by the team of Wilhelm C. Vahland and Robert Getzschmann. For those who like detail click on these URLs: http://www.teachers.ash.org.au/dnutting/germanaustralia/e/bendarch.htm

http://www.bendigo.ws/Architecture-and-Buildings/

Left - The Capitol Theatre, previously the Masonic Temple, designed by Wilhelm C. Vahland.

One of the most stunning buildings in Bendigo is the Sacred Heart Cathedral. Built in two stages, the first, comprising the nave and side aisles, was opened in September 1901. I know no what a Nave is, I always thought it was the bit at the front of the church! (Not having been bought up in a conventional religion, our church, the Open Brethren, does not have a nave). In 1954 the second stage commenced, with craftsmen bought in from Italy, and was finally completed, to the original design, in 1977. At first I told Paul, “I always feel funny taking photos of a church”, however, once we had spent nearly an hour in the wonderful building, I changed my mind. My camera was soon working overtime, taking photos of the cathedral. Right – The Nave.

Strawberry head !!!!!!

2010-02-07T14:15:00.001+11:00

I thought all you Sydneysiders could do with a bit of chuckle, what will all the rain you have been getting these past few days; I hear Noah might be in town soon, as well. How is the Dam going? I hope the rain is falling in the catchment area.

Bucko and I took a wee trip the other day, and stopped off at THE BIG STRAWBERRY on the way back, bought an ice-cream then took of again. Before we left the BS, I asked Paul to take a picture (with my phone), of me with my head poking out of the small strawberry. Well, see the results for yourselves. I cracked up when I saw the pic, it looks like I have monstor ears! We figured out the 'ears' are a couple of big seeds from the BS. Anyway, we thought it a bit of fun.

Till next posting, look after yourselves and I hope the rain clears up soon.

Its Raining, Its Thunder & Lightening ....of course, The Rainmakers are in town

2010-02-04T21:05:00.003+11:00

We have been in Tocumwal for two nights, and lo and behold, we had rain today. I am sure you will not be surprised; we are The Rainmakers after all! Oh boy, it didn't just rain, there was LOUD bright lightening flashing and crashing overhead, and I mean overhead. The wee cabin we are in shook. I jumped with fright and was on the verge of a scream, scared the heck out of me. I am so glad we have a dry, non rockable roof over our heads. It was in Tocumwal we had 'The Incident' with the caravan awning. See the post in Back Along The Track of ‘Oops, Slight Incident’ in November 2009, we bought the rain then as well.

Bucko had to go to the Dentist today, he had lost a filling when we were in Strahan, and he now has a glorious stainless steel cap on the tooth. I suppose he will set off the Security alarms at airports now. The Dentist was very good, and recommended the SS cap, much less expensive than a porcelain, gold lined cap. The tooth is at the back, so no-one can see it anyway.

While Paul was in the Dentist, I was in seeing a Doctor. I have a few spots of eczema on me, which needed treating, anyway, I should be ok in few days. Monday, I am booked in to have a Blood test, for my sugar levels and my annual Cancer test. Please wish me well. I feel great, so all should be ok.

Memorial to Stephen King - the pioneer of Poppy growing in Tasmania

2010-01-31T22:18:00.000+11:00

While travelling around Tasmania we were fascinated by the fields and fields of gorgeous mauve poppies; I then recalled Tasmanian farmers grow medicinal poppies. The fields all had warning signs attached to the fences stating Restricted area do not enter etc. We got the message, so no pics folks.

In Devonport we found a wonderful memorial to the pioneer of the Tasmanian Poppy Industry.

The following words have been copied from the memorial.

“This memorial celebrates the pioneer of the poppy growing industry in Tasmania, Stephen King.

In1964 the Glaxo group decided to concentrate poppy cultivation in Tasmania after unsuccessful attempts to grow poppies in the UK and trials in several other Australian states. As director of poppy research and production for Glaxo in the 1960s and 1970s, King encouraged a research culture in the industry and oversaw significant developments in the areas of field production and factory processing. The continuation of this research has led to major breakthroughs in the development and utilisation of:

Improved poppy varieties capable of producing high yields of alkaloid
Chemical control of insect, weed and disease threats to the industry
Improved planting and harvesting techniques

King’s important role in the Industry’s success was recognised in 1979 with an OBE for services in the development of the oil poppy industry.

The Tasmanian Poppy Industry now supplies approximately 50% of the World’s medicinal morphine, codeine and thebaine. Poppy cultivation is one of the major industries in the state, and Tasmania is internationally recognised as having the highest assays and highest alkaloid yields per hectare.

From Vision to Reality

We recognise all who have pioneered and advanced our unique Tasmanian Poppy Industry, including growers, contractors, government agencies and staff of Tasmanian Alkaloids and GlaxoSmithKline.

A tribute to the success of the Tasmanian Poppy Industry and one man’s vision and contribution

Tasmania is the only location in the Southern Hemisphere where poppies Papaver somnifererum are grown for the licit production of morphine, codeine and thebaine. The crop can only be grown by farmers who are contracted to the processing companies, and they must be licensed by the State Government .

Planting occurs in various parts of the state from July to October, with the brilliant flowering panorama occurring in November and December. It then takes 7 weeks for the capsules to mature, ready for harvest. Harvesting occurs from January to March.”

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie. Oi. oi. oi.

2010-01-27T18:49:00.002+11:00

Just a wee posting today, to 'Fly the Flag' - our van on Australia Day.
Bucko tied the flag to the broom handle, and it flies very well; it should do the wind is a frequent visitor to Stanley, in fact to all of the North part of Tasmania. Of course, we are in the area commonly called "The Roaring Forties" Our Australia Day started with the traditional Aussie Day brekky. Low cholesterol, fat free of course! Bacon, eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, toast and tea. Myself, being of Scottish descent had to have Black Pudding! Yum!Yum! The remainder of the day was spent taking it easy around the camp ground.
We decided to stay in Stanley for another night, so we are off to La Trobe tomorrow, which is near to Devonport, in fact it is only 7mins from the Spirit of Tasmania terminal.
Today we had a Tasmanian Scallop Pie, at The Stranded Whale cafe, delicious pie and a fresh salad, which was not the usual limp Iceberg lettuce and sloppy tomato. Then a stroll past some of the gorgeous old 1800s cottages in Stanley, until we arrived at the hand sawn timber cottage, where one of Australia's early Prime Ministers (from 1932 - 1939) - Joe Lyons - was born.
Mr Lyons actually lived in the house for a few years, then moved in with an Aunt who lived in a cottage around the corner. Joe Lyons was the Premier of Tasmania from 1923 - 1928. Sir Joseph Aloysius Lyons, (once he was Knighted) and his wife, Enid had 12 children, one of whom died young. The Lyons and their family lived most of their lives in Devonport. Dame Enid, was born in 1897 near Smithton - 10 mins down the road from Stanley - and was the the first women to be elected to the House of Representatives and Australia's first women Cabinet Minister. While we are in La Trobe we will also visit the house the Lyons lived in at Devonport, which is now owned by The National Trust.
Hope you all had a great Australia Day.

Harvest Time

2010-01-23T01:17:00.003+11:00

Bucko and I have been fortunate to be able to see the food bowls of the Nation at work during our time on The Track. From Gunnedah, to Griffith, the Lachlan Valley and Tasmania, we have seen various crops being harvested and transported off to who knows where, but they are sure going some place! The size of the trucks moving all the food, grains and hay has been a great experience to behold.

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Fields and fields of huge hay rolls and giant hay bales, all a soft creamy/yellow. Some times set in rows, sometimes all over the field, sometimes on trucks, sometimes on brown fields. In Tasmania the rolls and bales are sitting on green fields as the grass is growing back so fast, due to all the rain these past months. Of course I had to take a few photos of the hay fields, as we both thought they looked stunning.
Click on View Full Album then select Slide show. The photos can be made larger and if you wish to leave a Comment with any of the photos, please feel free to do so. - Enjoy.

Timber Water Conduit

2010-01-07T16:25:00.000+11:00

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Near Wayatinah (half way between Hobart and Strahan) is an old timber pipeline made out of Baltic pine; imported from Canada many years ago (sometime in the 1930s), to send water down the line from the Wayatinah Hydro Power station to the next electric generating station. The pipeline is still in use, and is a fantastic sight to behold. The manager of the caravan park at Wayatinah, gave us instructions on how to find the pipeline, so we took off in search of it. Down a dusty road, which also led to another power station and a boat ramp, then along an even more remote road, then we came to a fork in the road. Take a look at the wonderful lichen encrusted sign post, pretty cool I thought. Further along the track we had to leave our car outside a locked boom gate then walk along a wide track for about 5mins, around a bend and there was this stunning and beautiful old pipeline. It is HUGE, as you can tell by the pic of Bucko standing next to it. Huge steel bands hold the timber in place and all looks in very good condition, we only saw one steel strap which was loose in the area we looked at.

A bonus for us while we were walking to and from the pipeline was the wonderful heady fragrance of pine and eucalyptus; we were under the shade of these trees and stopped to breathe in the smell. Bucko and I stood there for ages ‘living and breathing the fragrance, nothing out of a bottle or spray can will ever replicate or come close to this wonderful scent; we could feel it doing us good. Spiritually and physically.

Click on View Full Album then select Slide show, if you wish you can also make the photos larger. Enjoy.

The Yachts – Sydney to Hobart

2010-01-04T01:58:00.002+11:00

On the 4th of January, Bucko and I went down to Constitution Dock to have a wander amongst the yachts which raced in the Sydney to Hobart race. Three of the last race participants came into the dock while we were there, so of course we joined in the cheering, yelling and clapping etc to welcome the sailors to Hobart. We both felt lucky enough to be able to do so. I really admire the people who sail the yachts down from Sydney to Hobart and across the Bass Strait, around Tasman Island and into the Derwent River to the docks; I don’t know how they do it. Sydney folks, ‘our’ race is only one of many which end up in Tasmania early in the New Year. There is the Melbourne to Hobart, which sails down the West Coast. Launceston to Hobart – the L2H and the Melbourne to Launceston. Have a look at the album to see a few of the pics we took and of course I had to have Alfa Romeo as the main shot, I even took a photo of the stern just so you can see it came from Auckland !!!

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Click on View Full Album then select Slide show, if you wish you can also make the photos larger. Enjoy.

Christmas Day in Hobart

2009-12-25T21:24:00.000+11:00

Christmas Day dawned bright and sunny in Hobart, but, I was feeling very much ‘under the weather’ and had been for the past 3 days, I had been coughing and choking with Bronchitis. I was determined to be better so that I could have lunch with our friends Tony and Anne, after all that was our main reason for coming to Hobart. Bucko cooked a lovely breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast, followed by a cup of tea. About 30m mins after eating I felt decidedly ill, so off to the bathroom I went, that was a waste of time; but on the way back, lets just say my breakfast decided to return to the world, I never even made it to the van!! I was still determined to be at the Christmas lunch, so, once I had recovered we took off. I am pleased to say, I soon felt much better, glad I did too.

Our lunch was green salad, fresh oysters, prawns, Tasmanian Smoked Salmon, mussels along with home cooked bread courtesy of Anne. Tony prepared the mussels Italian style and they were delicious.

Anne and I left Bucko and Tony to catch up with each other while we chatted, and sipped cups of tea in the kitchen.

A wonderful day, especially as Tony is not very well.

Good times spent with good Friends.

Cascade Brewery Tour - the best - how to run a tour

2009-12-22T20:13:00.001+11:00

The tour of the Cascade Brewery that Bucko and I went on prior to the Cadbury tour, was so good, and an example of how to run a tour of a factory.

The brewery nestles at the foot of the Mount Wellington in Hobart and the building looks fantastic. The cost of our tour include the opportunity to taste for free 3 refreshments of our choice, Beer, Cider or a soft drink, all made by Cascade in Hobart. Our tour guide was very informative and had a great sense of humour, contrary to some tour guides who try to be funny, this young man actually was. Our tour attire was glow in the dark yellow vests and safety glasses, once decked out off we went. We heard about the beginnings of the brewery and how the land was obtained, originally there was a timber mill where the building is now.

Also, up until 19yrs ago employees of the brewery were still stopping 4 times a day for a company supplied glass or more of ale, and then all back to work boys!!! The photo is of the bell which would be rung to let the boys know 'beer is on' and 'beer is off, back to work'. When the free beer was stopped production slumped, it was put down to happy employees. The company decide to reinstate free beer, but instead of on the job drinking, the lads are given a slab (case) of beer every fortnight.

All in all, Bucko and I really enjoyed the tour and would recommend it to anyone.

Cadbury Chocolate factory visit - NOT HAPPY JAN

2009-12-22T19:38:00.001+11:00

Bucko and I had been advised by lots of folk to go out to the Cadbury Factory, as it was worth it, sorry to say it is a HUGE WOTAM = Waste Of Time And Money. After traipsing half way across Hobart and paying $7.50 each to enter we were VERY dissapointed, and felt the entry fee and what we got for it is a huge rip-off. We were met at the door with a lovely "Welcome" and asked to select 2 mini chocolate treats from a basket at the door. Next we were told there are no actual tours of the factory but there was a video and we could lsiten to an employee explain details of chocolate making....so far so good. So, we paid out monies, and in we went, also being given a samall box of 'Cadbury Favourites' on the way through.

What a let down, the video was not very informative and sped through the making of chocolate, then it was over. So we decided to join the crowd listening to a person in a white coat (not sure if he was a chemist or was dressed up to represent one), however, he appeared to be repeating what we had heard in the video. Through another door we entered into an area designed to take more money of us poor folk. A Coffee shop, small ride for children and the Chocolate shop, which sell 2nds of Cadbury Chocolates. That was it..... our total time in the place was about 20mins. That was it folks. $7.50 of nothing, the whole event was a huge WOTAM.

WOW, WOW and WOW - Tasman Island Cruise - Stunning

2009-12-21T20:09:00.010+11:00

On Sunday night we set our alarm for a 5.30am get up, why would we do that you may ask??? Well, we were booked on a cruise around Tasman Island which leaves from Port Arthur at 10am. Bucko and I decided to drive to the departure place instead of being driven there by the tour company's coach. The trip was lovely, the water in the rivers and bays were like mirrors, so calm with a gorgeous blue haze hovering above the waters. Paradise was around each corner, little villages, with all types of homes overlooking the stunning views - I was so envious.

The small boats - with 3 x 300hp outboard motors - soon had us rushing over the ocean waves, small ones thank goodness. Blackmores Ginger was distributed to all, along with elegant head to toe bright red weather proof gowns - for want of better description! Bucko and I had our beanies and hoodies on under the designer gowns; at first we felt very comfortsable, but once we turned the corner and faced the Easternly winds the cold started to creep in.

Oh my how stunning and glorious were the sights we beheld. At one section of the coastline I mentioned to Paul "this is like God's Cathedral" I certainly felt like I was in 'His' presence. My camera was going overtime, as usual; but to tell the truth in the end I just gave up. My wee pics would not be able to do justice to the wonderful sights and I only wanted to soak it all up. Along the way we were so very fortunate to Dolphins, Fairy Penguins, 3 Albatross, various sized and coloured (including Pink as well as the Lion Jelly Fish which is Cream/Orange) Jelly Fish and a magnificiant Sea Hawke as well as his nest which is 30yrs old.

Peter Raff and our Bro - John suggested we go look at Bruny Island and take the cruise. The cruise Bucko and I went on is actually 'run' by the same compnay - however, the Tasman Cruise is the 'Jewel in the Crown'; we will drive over to Bruny Island a crawl around the sights like the landlubbers we are, instead of cruising.

I have included to link to the cruise company site, why not check it out? http://tasmancruises.com.au/

Hobart - and loving it

2009-12-20T21:05:00.002+11:00

Merry Christmas to All. - Our Christmas photo was taken up in Penguin.

Paul and I are in Hobart, arrived here on Sunday, only a short trip down the road from Launceston - about 2hrs 30mins travel time. The road we took to Hobart, was a 'B road, which up until then had always been very good, not this one though, talk about rough, In a small town along the way we stopped to stretch our legs and there was a notice on the Community Notice board about a pettion to have the road upgraded. Anyway, a short distance from this town the road is actually in the process of being upgraded. I suppose the fact an election is about to take place would not have had any influence on the decision to upgrade!!!!

On arrivng in Hobart, we checked into our park then took off to the local shopping centre to stock up on food for the next for days. It felt really weird to be amongst lots of people, traffic lights and noise etc. Bucko and I decided we don't really like 'civilisation' too much, we have been enjoying the simple life for a while now and it is a great way to live.
Yesterday we woke early and off we went to the Salamanca Markets. One good thing about not having much room in the van, I can't buy too much 'junk'! Lee, I was able to find myself a gorgeous wee Depression Glass vase; it looks good in the van, with apricot coloured rosebuds in it.

Last night we had dinner around at our friend Tony Tonietto's house at Seven Mile Beach; it was lovely to see Tony again, especially as he is not well. Anne, Tony's wife, cooked a fantastic Italian chicken meal with a green salad and home made bread. Our Christmas Day will be with Tony and Anne, we have decided to have a sea food lunch - Oysters, Tasmanian Salmon (cold smoked and hot smoked style), Mussels cooked Italian style, Prawns, fresh home cooked bread, Christmas Pudding and cake. A feast to look forward to.

Have heaps more to tell of our trip so far, just trying to find the time to write!!!

The photo to the right was taken up near Low Head, the flower is of a New Zealand Pohutakawa Tree- a NZ Christmas Tree, I had to add this to the Blog. I miss the sight of them flowering each Christmas, and I feel SO at home in Tasmania, it was good to see one of these gorgeous trees.

Well, I better sign off for now. Paul and I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and God's Blessings for the New Year .

The Old Wool Shed at Woolmers Estate

2009-12-16T15:54:00.001+11:00

Woolmers is a wonderful estate which had been in the same family for 6 generations, all male owners had the same Christian name of Thomas. The last Thomas VI, and direct descendant of the original owner, (Thomas I), died in the late 1990s, an only child and unmarried and with no children. The estate is now managed by a family trust made up of relatives to Thomas VI.
The wool shed is stunning, and is still in use today with the benefit of electric shears, as opposed to the Sawbees of old. Examples of the old blades and shears hang on the walls. I have included photos of some of the shears and the controversial wide comb shears, introduced by those pesky Kiwis a few years ago.

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The tally markings (on one of the walls), of one of the old shearers can still be seen – “W Mathews Nov 18th 1878”, I had to take a photograph of it. Note the lanolin stained gates into the pen, many a shearers hands have a oiled the gate as they went in to drag out a sheep. The shed has been set up as if the shearers have just stopped work for smoko – no sheep in the yard though! Bucko is showing me where two men would climb atop the wool press, and manually turn the capstan on the walkway, winding the shaft down to compress the wool tightly into the bale, which would then be sewn together ready for shipping.
http://www.woolmers.com.au/
Click on View Full Album then select Slide show, if you wish you can also make the photos larger. Enjoy.

Woolmers – Rose Gardens

2009-12-16T15:05:00.001+11:00

Woolmers is very well known in Tasmania for it’s gorgeous rose gardens, the scent was divine, we could smell the gardens well before we entered them. Here are a few photos, enjoy. Our favourite is Tequila Sunrise, the bright orange rose – the cover photo in the album.

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Click on View Full Album then select Slide show, if you wish you can also make the photos larger. Enjoy.

A few photos from along the Track

2009-12-11T01:23:00.002+11:00

Hey folks, if you like, go and take a look at some of the photos I have taken so far Along the Track. Even if you are not on FaceBook you are able to view these photos. To enlarge the photso, just click on one of them, then page through each picture. Enjoy.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=178156&id=646073695&l=7ac9c1b86b

Letter boxes of Wilmot, Tasmania

2009-12-10T21:02:00.002+11:00

The town of Wilmot's claim to fame are the many wierd and wonderful letterboxes, above are a few.

Spirit of Tasmania

2009-12-10T20:40:00.000+11:00

On the way to The Spirit of Tasmania (SOT), oops, we turned the wrong way on the road to the Port of Melbourne and ended up having to go through the city during PEAK hour. Took us an hour to get to the wharf instead of 30mns!!! We should listen to Karen - the voice of our GPS in future. Anyway, that meant we did not have to queue up too long before driving on board . At the van park in Braybrook we had met a couple (Ken and Ros) who live in Hobart, so once we had dumped our bags in the cabin we met up with them for dinner. Bucko and I took a couple of sea-sick tablets and silly me forgot that I had, an ordered a Bloody Mary as a pre-dinner drink. Not being used to drinking I soon ended up feeling rather woozy and very wierd, the legs were wobbly, words were slurring and I was on my way to being a tad intoxicated. LOL. After dinner, we sat around and chatted to Ken and Ros, but before too long I was seeing 2 of everthing and I am sure I had a silly vacant and glazed look on my face. I took off to bed, slept like a top, only woke once and the ship was humming along very smoothly and quietly. We arrived in Devonport around 5:30 am to a sunrise shepherds would not like. Karen had us going around in circles, before we gave up and found our own way. The park is right on the coast, and we can see the Spirit leave each evening at 7pm. Must say, I kind of like the thought of going on a cruise some day, as long as don't take too many sea-sick tabs and mix my drinks!!

Left: Our van on board the SOT;

we had to slip between the

van and the wall.

Right: Leaving the SOT

The Spirit of Tasmania

Melbourne Block Arcade dressed for Christmas

2009-12-10T20:13:00.000+11:00

Another day was spent in Melbourne cruisng around all the stunning laneways, and gorgeous shopping arcades. Thought I would share the best of the arcades with all of you for Christmas. I felt like I was in London, only thing missing was the snow and the cold.

Incarcerated in Melbourne and 'Poor Ned'

2009-12-10T20:00:00.000+11:00

While in Melbourne, we took off into the city to do the proverbial sightseeing. First stop was the gaol, which is right smack bang in the city. A truly incrediible experience, we felt so sad after reading notes on the evidence which supported the decisoon of death by hanging. Death masks of many of the people who had been executed at the gaol are also on display, including - 'Poor Ned' - Ned Kelly. The gallows are still there with a very secure drop door and a long rope, no knot in it , than goodness. Justice was so hit and miss in the old days; one person was pardoned in 2008 due to DNA tests being done on some of the old evidence. Reading some of the information which influenced final judgements, I bet there were many others who were innocent. I am sure curcumstancial evidence and hearsay did it in for lots of these poor folk. All so very chilling.

Bucko with his criminal background - (his ancestror along with a twin, were sent to this wonderful land, in the early days of transportation of the poor and misfortunates from England); decided to have his picture taken. What about it? I thought I better get in on the act as well!

Update on van repairs - Ecucha

2009-11-27T13:32:00.002+11:00

Hi All, thanks for all the kind and caring words, sent via email and the Blog , to both of us in relation to our recent mishap. Caring words such as, Amateurs, Clots, Sounds hilarious, Bugger, Sounds like you are having fun, Ha, ha; just a few words that cut to the source of the problem!!! LOL (Laugh Out Loud to those who may wonder what LOL means). Bucko and I had a good laugh at ourselves.

Anyway, thought we would share with you a few pics of the shade annex we have rigged up; ANZAC ingenuity wins again!

The assessor is unable to come and check the van until 8th Dec and we will be in Tasmania by then....so we have arranged for our van to be inspected while we are in Melbourne. We leave Echuca on Sunday and the Assessor will come out to the Big 4 Ashley Gardens in Braybrook, to take a look at the damage. At present the crook wall has been pushed back into place and HEAPS of silicone has been used to make the van watertight. We have had more rain while in Echuca and so far all is ok, no leaks. Wonderful place, the park is right on the River Murray, hordes of screeching, chattering Corellas nest in the trees in the park, and of course they are nestng right above our van!!! Being in a shady spot is not all too good sometimes, as least we are not under any River Red Gums so we don't need to look out for Drop Bears. Took a drive through the bush near the camp the other day and the Red Gums are so HUGE and very old, a few branches had fallen across the road and they looked freshly fallen.... leaves still green and timber looked ok. One can never tell when a drop bear may decide to fall.... Bye for now and take care of yoursleves.

Slight incident --- oops

2009-11-22T23:44:00.003+11:00

Well, we tell everyone we are the Rainmakers, and we truly are, everywhere we go it rains. This time, if fair poured down, and we awoke this morning to the van making rather LOUD grinding sounds as I walked around. I may be a tad on the heavy side, but I’m not that heavy. Bucko could hear the noise even with his hearing aids out! I mentioned I heard the same noise in the night when I got up, but I just thought it was the caravan legs sinking into the plastic feet due to the soggy grass. Neither of us could think what the noise could be. Anyway, I opened the curtains, Bucko looked outside then exclaimed “Geez” and leapt out of bed, opened the door and what should we see but the awning hanging down, halfway past the door! The awning was full of water, we forgot to put up the rafters the night before, so the rain would not pool on the awning! So, we rushed out and started to push the awning up to remove the water. CREAK, GROAN, CRASH then a huge WATERFALL. The awning tore away from the side of the van taking part of the van with it!!!! So, what does this mean? Well, we went in to Echuca today to see a Repairer, rang the NRMA & we will find out more on Tuesday, looks like SERIOUS repairs are in order. No broken bones only injured pride! We will keep you informed. Wish us luck.

Forbes, NSW (9 - 13 November, 2009)

2009-11-20T17:06:00.003+11:00

Forbes is situated along the Lachlan River in the heart of the Lachlan Valley on the Newell Highway. The Bushranger – Ben Hall used to ply his ‘trade’ around Forbes and he is actually buried in the Forbes Cemetery. We stayed at the Forbes Country Club Caravan Park, small, quite and very clean. Two places of interest to both of us were both to do with cars, the Mcfeeters Motor Museum and Utes in the Paddock.

The Mcfeeters Museum is a private collection, only a few cars have been donated or are owned by other than the Mcfeeters family. A purpose built classy ‘shed’ for want of a better word, is home to the vast collection of Veteran, Vintage, Classic and Street Machines. A red and black T Model Ford which had been driven in the past by Mr Mcfeeters to Alice Springs was also on display. On display are many other Fords, A and Ts, Zephyrs. Also, two highly modified XPs – for display only, never intended to be driven. One highly prized XR GT and one each of the XW and XY GTHOs. One V12 early model Daimler of which 38 was ever made, looked as shiny and new as the day it was bought; no alterations had been made at all by the previous owner. So many wonderful old cars, we had a fantastic time looking over them all.

We were lucky and had a personal tour by Mr Mcfeeters as he was on site the day we were at the museum. In the photo (above left) is a Japanese Hearse, a modified Lincoln Continental looks stunning, as you can see.

The Dish - Parkes, NSW ( on the way to Forbes, 9 November, 2009)

2009-11-20T15:21:00.004+11:00

Parkes, some may know it as the Elvis Capital of Australia, but, Bucko and I think of it as home of ‘The Dish’ – the CSIRO Radio Telescope. ‘The Dish’ was always on our list of places to stop and see on our ‘Trip around the Track’. My camera was working over time; I was even able to record the famous speech and view of Neil Armstrong stepping onto the Moon. Bucko and I both loved the place.

Dining with Denno (and Lyn) at Dubbo - NSW (7 - 9 November, 2009)

2009-11-20T15:14:00.004+11:00

Bucko and I were invited by Graham (Denno) and Lyn Dennison to camp at their beautiful property on the outskirts (about 6kms) of the city of Dubbo; which is midway between Brisbane and Melbourne on the Newell Highway, Mid West NSW. Denno had to resort to rearranging the Flora, ever so slightly with a chain saw to get our van in the yard, then we had to drive through the bull pen to turn the van around so we could get out when we had to leave. The view from the house is wonderful; overlooking a lovely valley and the smell and look of the gorgeous roses from the garden is a sight to behold and breathe. The evening we arrived, Denno spoilt us with a fabulous meal. An Entree of Spicy Asian Prawns, followed by a delicious Roast Beef dinner (hot off the hoof, so to speak, home grown beef), and Vanilla Ice-Cream and fresh Strawberries. All the vegetables were fresh from their garden, and in the mornings the chooks presented us with fresh laid eggs, so bacon, tomatoes and eggs for brekkie. YUM!! We thoroughly enjoyed our time with Denno, Lyn and one of their daughters – Jenna, home on leave from attending Uni in Sydney. We left Dubbo on Monday morning and Denno presented us with a Jap Pumpkin from the garden, as well as fresh eggs, and Silverbeet. The pic above, is of 2 Melons and a Pumpkin, pick the Pumkpkin!

Narrabri, NSW (6 - 7 November, 2009)

2009-11-20T14:32:00.000+11:00

Narrabri, a small town of many wonders, Mt Kaputar National Park and a true gem of natural beauty – Sawn Rocks, when I first saw them many years ago, I was filled with wonder; volcanic rocks looking like giant pipes from a cathedral organ. The 6 dishes of the CSIRO Australia Telescope are only 25km west of Narrabri and well worth a visit as well as the Australian Cotton Exhibition Centre, even if cotton growing is not a popular subject in Australia at present, still worth a visit to see how a Cotton Gin works. Oh, and by the way, did you know it takes double the amount of water to grow Lucerne (know in the USA) than cotton!!!! A farmer who grows Lavender and Lucerne told us that little gem!

Inverell - Sapphire City - NSW (2 - 6 November, 2009)

2009-11-20T14:21:00.005+11:00

Inverell was our next stop along The Newell Highway; it is on the western edge of the New England Tablelands in a valley with the Macintyre River. Inverell is often called the Sapphire City due to the many Sapphire mines around the place. Those who know me well, know how much I adore Sapphires, and yes, we did go fossicking (7 Oaks Fossicking Park) one day and yes, we did find a few Sapphires, not as big, bright or a good as my many Ceylon Sapphires; but, hey, we found them ourselves, and think they are pretty good anyway. Bucko was shovelling piles of rubble in to a bucket ready to sluice, and he found a rather larger dark blue Sapphire just sitting on the top of the dirt in the shovel!

Inverell has fantastic Inverell Pioneer Museum which we wandered around for almost a day; the buildings had all been donated by people from local properties. The buildings had been dismantled then reconstructed onsite at the village. It truly looks like a village, pub, blacksmith shop, school, shearing shed, boot-maker, etc. How about the pic of Bucko in school, the awful part is we both remember sitting at desk like this when we were at school!

A short drive took us to the Wing Hing Long Museum at Tingha. This is an old General Store, built in 1881 which was owned by the same family for many, many years and finally closed trading in 1998. The store them became a museum and part of the Powerhouse portfolio. Everything is the store was left as it was the day trading stopped, out the back in the storage shed are cartons of TAB – some of you may remember? The first diet soft drink, made by the Coca-Cola Company.

Another wonderful few hours were spent in the Inverell Transport Museum, cars, buses, trucks, bicycles etc all under cover and looking terrific. I had to hop on board the old double decker-bus, I remember going to and fro in my early days in Sydney when I lived on the Clovelly route.

Goondiwindi - Home of Gunsynd - QLD (30 October - 2 November, 2009)

2009-11-20T12:35:00.005+11:00

We decided to spend a few days in Goondiwindi (pronounced Gund-a-windy) the home of the famous grey stallion - Gunsynd - for those old enough to remember him! A small town with the growing of grain crops as the main agricultural income for the area. The massive B-Doubles carrying grain from the Stations around the area to the huge silos, never seemed to stop rolling. The park we stayed it was right next to the rail line, but, the trains are few and far between, and when they did roll through it was at 2am in the morning. I would hear the whistle blow, and then the train would creep by so quietly, I could never hear the carriages, and would just go back to sleep. The B-Doubles would ease off around midnight and start up again around 6am, I was always awake by then so no problem for me. Bucko never hears a thing, so noise at night is nver any problem for him.

The town of Goondiwindi is very pretty place with many buildings with wonderful old architecture. How about the gorgeous old Pub in the pic below?

As I am rather fond of the Art-Deco style building I had to snap this picture of the Town Hall. Pity the Town Fathers allowed the cinema owners to deface the building by placing an ugly cinema sign on the facade - grrr....some folk have no respect for things of beauty! I could not inflict that uglyness on you folk, so chose this pic instead.

Bucko and I decided to take a trip out to Texas for the day, 100kms East of Gundy, near the border of NSW/Qld. Now this town has a wonderful example of how to treat an Art Deco building, leave it alone except for fresh paint now and again. Like it?

Brisbane - QLD (22 - 30 October, 2009)

2009-11-12T13:25:00.003+11:00

So, where have we been since last we updated the Blog....where to start?

The main reason for us coming to Brisbane was to see my Niece Catherine and her children James-Louis 25yrs and Eliana-Rose 18yrs; and to meet up with my work cronies form The Big T (Telstra). Eliana turned 18 while I was in Brisbane and we had a quite family celebration at home, I presented her with the Scrapbook I had been making her for the past 6yrs. I felt so proud to be able to give the book to my beautiful girl in person, and I know Eliana will treasure the book. I included a couple of short stories and photos of my parents – her Great-Grandparents as well as photos of her Maternal Great-grandparents, so she could in some small way know what type of people they were. I had a wonderful time just catching up with my Darling Niece Catherine – who has been the apple of my eye since she was born; and generally spending good family time together.

I met up with my Buddies from Telstra at the Casino for a buffet lunch, they have not changed, still as mad and crazy as ever, but gee I really like them. Hey B.B., what did we tell you, we are the Rainmakers, and it fair p....d that night, thunder and lightning we bought it all with us!

Bucko and I took a ride on the commuter Jet-Cat up and down the Brisbane River, the city is so vibrant and seems to be going palaces, and Sydney is left for dead in comparison, re commuter and transport highway networks. Everywhere we went in QLD there were major road works taking place; just wish the Federal Government would throw a few dollars NSW way!

Eumundi, QLD (7th - 22nd October, 2009) and Ben's Wedding

2009-11-12T13:16:00.001+11:00

The trip to stay with Linda (Paul’s sister & her husband Dave), took us longer the normal as we called in to see a girl-friend of mine and her husband, John. Teresa & I used to flat together in Auckland, too many years ago now to count. When Teresa (and John) lived in Sydney I saw them a lot, however, over the years we lost touch with each other and it is only in the past 8yrs we have been in touch again. I always enjoy seeing Treeza, as she is such a kind, thoughtful and loving friend, one could not find one better. I only wish I could live closer to Treeza (too hot up in QLD for me though ), as I know we would have such good times together, with lots of laughter as we used to have in Auckland. Treeza and John met us at the Eumundi markets the following Saturday, first time visit for them, then it was back to the van to check it out and for a cuppa.

While at Linda’s we flew down to Sydney to the wedding of Ben & Rosemary at Balmoral Breach.

As mentioned before this was surprise wedding, only Josh, Ben’s brother knew, he had to he had the rings! It was such a wonderful surprise to all and the day will be one to remember for a long time.

Kellie looked so gorgeous, and what a surprise she had, ‘Groomy’ along with Josh, for her brother Ben, at his wedding!!!

Kyogle, NSW (27 September - 7 October 2009)

2009-11-12T13:10:00.004+11:00

We arrived in Kyogle and booked into the only caravan park in town, it is down near the river and the rail line is close by; each morning a train whistle would toot, followed by the slow rumble and screech of wheels on the track! I would wake up, check the time & go back to sleep, just as well I like trains! After setting up we drove up the hill to the town for groceries. Tom & Annie Rogers, (Tom is a friend of Paul’s from long ago Telstra days, in fact PMG days!) rang later in the afternoon to let us know they had returned from their weekend in Noosa. Dinner for most of the nights we were in Kyogle was with Tom & Annie. Alisha, Tom and Annie’s youngest daughter had recently become engaged, so she, along with Ed her fiancée and his parents, who were visiting from England were also in Kyogle. Plenty of talking, laughing and of course, Annie & I HAD to watch The Rafters on Tuesday night to see what was happening with the family!! Once the house was returned to only Tom & Annie & they returned to work we cooked dinner for them some nights; all great fun.

Kyogle became the base for mini trips to the surrounding area, including a day trip to Byron, we did not like the town, felt it is too commercial. The Lighthouse was a different story, stunning; we even saw a few Whales in the distance.

Paul’s sister – Wendy lives near Lismore with her two daughters, so as Alieta works in Bangalow we decided to meet the girls at a restaurant near Allie’s work. It was terrific seeing them again and catching up on all that is happening, Britney is in her 2nd last year of High School so is thinking about what she would like to do when she leaves school. I always enjoy being around Wendy, such a sunny person, makes me feel good.

Narrabeen (25 August - 16 September, 2009)

2009-10-24T09:57:00.000+11:00

We stayed at the park in Narrabeen while finishing of the painting of our unit in preparation for renting it out. Once all was done, the Property Manager from Doyle & Spillane came and took a few photos to set the advertisement up on the web. In a matter of days we had a tenant, why wouldn’t we the place looks brand new.

John Geluk from (Grady’s Auto Electrics & Mechanical) came to the park and installed rear LED braking and tail lights to the trunk Bucko & Ian Salway (from Caravan Cover Up - Nowra) had welded to the back of the van, to hold the Oz-Tent and fishing lines. John discovered the van’s wiring was not as robust as it should be to support the extra batteries and other electrical goodies we have had installed, so new cabling was hauled into the ducting in the van, by guess who? Bucko and myself! I now know how clean and streamlined the under carriage our van is, very tidy indeed.

Andrew Cross (Cross Plumbing) replaced the old maroon coloured set of taps with as shiny chrome set, more in keeping with the sink. It is now easier to fill the kettle as the new spout is higher.

I learnt a tip from one of the fellow campers – to save on using the gas from our van, and save money, fill the kettle/billy), with boiling water from the cook house. I can hear some you folk saying, “Just like Janet, didn’t take her long to find a Nomad Trick!”

Our first Friday in the park, Joe & Shirley Lizzio along with Kathy & Geoff Hill came around for dinner and to check out the van. Oh my, we all got told off for making too much noise!!! At 10.30pm another camper knocked on our annexe walls and asked us to keep the noise down as it was after 10pm!!! One could have heard a pin drop – for a few seconds at least. I thought it about time to read the camp rules. Sure enough, there were the words “all campers must be considerate of others, so no noise after 10pm”. First lesson learnt, Chris & Tanya Grieg had warned us “everyone is in bed by 9:30”, they sure are, and the grounds are so quite; me being a night owl, keeps on reading though.

My Nephew, Rob and his wife, Bella and their two gorgeous children, Zethan and Eden came over for a BBQ lunch the first weekend we were at the park. Zethan had been told all about Aunty Janet and Uncle Bucko’s trip around Australia in a caravan and was looking forward to checking the place out. Eden was happy chasing the ducks! My cousin, Glenda arrived at the tail end of Rob & Bella’s visit, carrying the most wonderful looking cup-cakes, they looked far too good to eat, but we did.

My birthday (14^th) took place while we were at Narrabeen, so to celebrate we went for a meal on Saturday night to one of our favourite restaurants - Kaiser Stuben at Terry Hills. Our friend Amanda celebrated with us - and was so kind to shout us the meal. It was Amanda who introduced us to the restaurant and we never go there without her now. Good company and fantastic food. Amanda and I also like to ‘eye’ the young waiters in lederhosen!!!

The Young Bucks – Ben, Josh, Kellie and Ben’s fiancée, Rosemary, paid us a visit on Father’s Day and rustled up a scrummy BBQ, I can certainly vouch for Ben’s cooking, top notch, he cooks a mean barbie.

As Ben and Rosemary had recently decided to get married, there was talk of the upcoming engagement party – 18^th October. Bucko & I will fly down for the party, and we are looking forward to celebrating the event with family & friends.

Little did we all know we were actually going to be attending a wedding instead of an engagement!! More on the wonderful surprise in a later posting.
Congratulations to the newly wed couple. Thanks for a fantastic day, Ben and Rosemary.

Smokey Cape Lighthouse, NSW (28 Sept. 2009)

2009-10-23T23:18:00.012+11:00

I fell in love with Lighthouses after Paul & I had a trip to the lighthouse at Point Perpendicular in the Shoalhaven area; so I have decided photos of lighthouses are going to be my ‘thing’ to photograph on this trip.

The walk up to the lighthouse at Smokey Cape (at South West Rocks), is not strenuous, bit steep but no problems for either of us.

The design of this lighthouse is rather different to the picture one has when one thinks of lighthouses i.e. tall and somewhat slender.

The lighthouse at Smoky Cape is a short dumpy building, but it still has character.

Dust Storm on the road to South West Rocks, NSW (22 September, 2009)

2009-10-23T23:13:00.004+11:00

The morning of our trip to South West rocks, I woke early, as per usual before Paul, and looked out the window. Hmm, a rather unusual glow was in the sky and there appeared to be an orange mist swirling around the campgrounds. I decided to go to the cookhouse for some boiling water for our breakfast cups of tea, by the time I arrived there, I could hardly breathe; my asthma was kicking in something savage. I realised the glow and orange mist was dust. Having never experienced a dust storm in my 30 years in Australia, I was not too sure, what was going on. Fortunately, we had packed up most of the van the day before, so we only had to breakfast, hitch up and do the last minute checks before we took off. Along the road out of Port Stephens, I took these photos; it was all so very eerie. The whole trip to South West Rocks was through the dust storm. I rang our neighbour Fay, in Dee Why, who told me the sky was red in Sydney. I assumed the colour in Sydney was the same as we drove through! It was not until we saw the News that night that we realised the dust we saw was not red at all, compared to the red in Sydney. NSW had just experienced the worst dust storm for 70years. The poor farmers, they never seem to be able to win. If it is not an El Nino causing droughts, it is floods, and now the top soil on their farms has blown away.

A lesson learnt, if the weather is not too good and we don’t need to be anywhere at a certain date or time, don’t go. Wait until better weather. So far, on the trip we have experienced gale force winds, dust storms, storms and heat waves, not too bad for being on the road for only a month!

Shoal Bay at Port Stephens (16 - 22 Sept 2009)

2009-10-23T23:11:00.004+11:00

The day we left Narrabeen for Shoal Bay was rather windy, all good practice for Bucko in learning how to manage the van during strong winds. We arrived at the caravan park in the afternoon and set up camp within an hour. Although we had decided to stay in the bay for about a week, we decided not to set up the annexe, as the winds were too strong. The main reason for going to Shoal Bay was to visit Donald – Paul’s Step-dad, his Aunty Betty & Uncle Bruce and to scoot down to Stockton Beach to see John & BA Macpherson – Bucko’s Bro and Sister-in-law.

I had to sneak in a photo of one of the many beautiful Gymea Lillies which grow everywhere around Port Stephens - they are so impressive and simply stunning!

My cousin Yvonne, her husband Fernando and their eldest daughter, Glenda came to stay the night in one of the cabins at the caravan park. It was great to catch up on all the happenings in Cuzzy Wuzzy’s family. There was plenty of laughter, as per usual when my Cuzzy is around; dinner was a pizza from the local Italian restaurant, washed down with a few glasses of good wine....not as good as the wine Joe & Bucko make though!
The following morning I am pleased to say Bucko and I finally achieved a gaol we had set for ourselves many years ago, to climb Tomaree Headland. Cuz Yvonne & Fernando joined us on the walk; we took our time, as oldies do, and made it to the top. Dr Pete, you will be pleased to know we were not at all puffed out, so we must be fitter than all of us think!

The views are spectacular.

While at Shoal Bay, we had a modification made to the awning. Two rafters (no girls, not the hunks from Packed to the Rafters) to slightly raise and slope the awning, for when it rains, were installed onsite, by a local tradesman from Bella Canvas. I was trying to talk Bucko into having two smaller screened windows sown into the side annex wall. My thoughts are, the windows will give us more light and help to keep the heat out of the annex on those extra hot days. Oh, well, it was not too be, we will wait and see, maybe we will have them put in somewhere along the track???

Travelling Companions - Klarry & Martina

2009-10-23T22:51:00.005+11:00

Bucko and I have two travelling companions; we came across them while at Narrabeen.

Klarry, the Koala

and

Martina, the Gay Ram

Shirley and Kathy presented us with these two companions; they couldn’t find a Sheep for me (Kiwi Joke), hence the Ram. I instantly named ‘her’ Martina, after Martina Navratilova, tied yellow bows on her horns, placed an iridescent butterfly necklace around her neck, along with a pink gauze ribbon. Doesn’t she look sweet? Klarry’s Akubra has been adorned with a couple of pins – from Uluru & Tamworth.

Look out for the adventures of Klarry & Martina future postings.

Connecting the new Trunk for our OzTent

2009-07-18T10:36:00.006+10:00

This weekend, we are down in Nowra, where we store our van. Bucko and Ian Salway, (from Caravan CoverUp), are welding additional struts to the back of the van, for the new trunk which will house our Oz Tent. The trunk will be welded and bolted to the new struts, which connect back under and onto, the chassis of the van Once in Sydney, we will most likely have additional rear brake lights etc added to the trunk; the existing lights will not be obscured, but we feel extra lights may be of benefit. Bucko has just shown me the 'Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle' stickers which will also be added to the back of the caravan, these are the same stickers one sees on trucks. As our rig will be rather long in total length, we need to have these Do Not Overtake stickers to indemnify us, if people overtake us when we are turning and cause an accident.

The Adventures of The CANZAUS Kids - Google Maps

2009-06-26T15:51:00.003+10:00

Hey Folks, I have been playing around with Google Earth, so you can follow us on 'The Track'.

This is a test to see if all works out OK. I have mapped out the path of Our Morning Walk to the beach at Dee Why.

The link (included in the title of this post) will take you to a page in Google Maps named: The Adventures of the CANZAUS Kids
Select: Our Morning Walk to Dee Why Beach.

Feel free to move around the other links I have set up, including the one for where our van is stored. I will be using mini pics of our van to 'mark the spot' during our travel, so why not familirise yourselves with what to look for.

Please let me know if all looks OK. If you wish to provide any constructive feedback, please do so; after all, you will be the ones using our Blog, so why provide input.

Thanks heaps.

First Blog via Wireless

2009-06-03T17:33:00.001+10:00

Bucko and I have been playing around with our new laptop and wireless connection, this is a test message sent via wireless.

Google Earth

2009-05-29T12:19:00.003+10:00

Yesterday I had a play around with Google Earth, it is magic. I wanted to send a link to a new friend in the UK, along with a voice recording. WOW! What fun. The plan is to use Google Earth to track our wanderings while on 'The Track'. I know it can be done, I only need to figure it out.

Billy Can Loaf

2009-03-23T13:54:00.003+11:00

A version of Damper, sweet and cooked in a Billy, courtesy Caravanners Forum (CF).

Billy Loaf
(The Billy Can is a tin, with handles and lid, used to carry water, boil water and make tea)

Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup wheatmeal
- 1 teaspoon soda
- 1 teaspoon malt or treacle.

Method
Mix with water, place in billy can with lid on, bake in moderate oven 3/4 hour.

Billy Can Bun

2009-03-23T13:50:00.004+11:00

Another recipe from The Caravanners Forum

Billy Can Bun

Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups of raisins
- 1/2 cup of sultanas
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of mixed spice and cinnamon
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate soda

Method :
Combine all ingredients.

Mix well with one pint of boiling tea.

Empty into a greased and floured billy can.

Cover, let stand overnight.

Steam for 3 1/2 hours

Cook an Egg in a bag

2009-03-23T13:22:00.004+11:00

I found this recipe on the Caravvaners Forum. Bucko & I have tried it out and this is an easy & quick way for a Breakfast on the run, Just cook and drop it into a roll or Lebo bread. Delish.

Egg in a bag
A sandwich bag (resealable type) shapes the egg mix to the size of a piece of toast... but if you want the rolled up look, go for a bigger bag.

Have a pot of water on the go (with enough water in it for the bag to float freely), make sure the water has boiled before you start cooking (otherwise, the egg will cook VERY slowly)

Crack 2 eggs into a zip-lock bag.

Add some cheese and any other favourite omelette ingredients.

Season

Tad of milk for fluffiness or even a titch of water.

Close the bag and "smoosh" the contents making sure they are all well mixed.

Squeeze all of the air out of the bag or it will float too high in the water.

Check the pot of water, once it's at a rolling boil, drop the bag into the water.

You may need to flip the bag over after a minute or three just to even out the cooking (a lid on the pot works too).

I have cooked a two egg baggie in 5 minutes before, but I like my eggs very soft and pliable.
Just keep an eye on it and you will quickly work out how long it takes to your liking.

When you open the bag, watch out for the steam. Then slide out the egg delight.

Tip for Caravanners: The beauty of this is that you can prepare the egg mix in the bag the night before. Makes a quick Get-away Brekky and no dishes to wash up!

Warning: the baggies will tend to expand a bit, but I have never seen one "pop" in the hundreds of times I have done this.

5 Minute Chocolate Mug Cake

2009-03-23T13:13:00.004+11:00

This recipe has been around or awhile, many friends have sent it to me, however I found this on the Caravanners Forum website.

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE

Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)
- a small splash of vanilla extract
- 1 large coffee mug

Method
Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well.

Add the egg and mix thoroughly.

Pour in the milk and oil and mix well.

Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla extract, and mix again.

Place the mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts.

The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed!

Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.

Reactions - How to leave one!

2009-03-19T20:01:00.004+11:00

I have added Reactions to our Blog. At the bottom of each Post, (after the Comments heading), there will be a choice of Reactions available for selection. Click in the box against the Reaction you choose ie I've read this, Cool or Interesting. Refresh the page after you have made your selection & the Reaction count will be added to the Blog. If you have a suggestion for other Reactions, why not tell us by leaving a Comment. I am thinking once we are on the Track a couple of new Reaction will be: Can I come to? or, Wish I could be there! :)

Comments

2009-03-11T11:48:00.006+11:00

Did you know you are able to leave Comments for us on our Blog? Just click on the Comments label listed under each posting. A pop up box will appear for you to write your message and you will need to complete a word verification to proceed.

Feel free to contribute to the interactivity of our Blog. After all, this will be our main form of communication when we are out on The Track. :)

Subscribing to our Blog

2009-03-11T11:34:00.003+11:00

I have been very busy this morning trying to sort out how to let all of those who are not very PC literate know how to subcribe to our Blog. It really is rather easy, I have copied this from Internet Explorers Help section..

To subscribe to a feed

1. Go to the webpage (Google as follows: onthewallaby track, blog ) that has the feed to which you want to subscribe.
2. Click the Feeds button to discover feeds on the webpage.
3. Click a feed (if more than one is available). If only one feed is available, you will go directly to that page.
4. Click the Subscribe to this Feed button , and then click Subscribe to this Feed.
5. Type a name for the feed and select the folder to create the feed in.
6. Click Subscribe.
7. To view your subscribed feeds, click the Favorites Center button , and then click Feeds.

When on the Blog page:

1. Under Subscribe To :
2. Click on the down arrow next to Posts :
3. Click on Atom and follow the prompts

By subscribing to a feed you will have automatic notice, (via Feed buttons), that the Blog has been updated.

Happy Subscribing Folks. :)

Become a Follower of our Blog (for fellow Bloggers)

2009-02-22T17:15:00.010+11:00

Hey, want to find out what Bucko & I are up too? If you have a BLOG of your own, why not join ours as a Follower. Click on the link at the top left of our page.

It will be fantastic for both of us to know who is following us on our trip around Australia, never know, you may want to come and visit us, or we can visit you !!!!

Updated pic of Us Two

2009-02-22T16:58:00.004+11:00

Finally I have a recent photo of the two of us, (top left), this was taken when we were up in Tamworth at the Country Music Festival in January, 2009.

The Road to The Alice

2009-02-22T16:25:00.005+11:00

We have been checking the route to Alice Springs. There are a couple of ways we could go; down via Mildura(Vic) then across to Port Augusta (SA) OR, across to Broken Hill (NSW), then down to Port Augusta (SA). The route via Broken Hill looks like the way we shall travel; especially as neither of us have been there. My sister, Mags, will hopefully meet us in Alice Springs, and spend 2-3 weeks with us traveling the roads around the Outback. I have been to The Alice (about 20yrs ago), and shall be the guide for Bucko & Mags. So many wonderful, breath-taking places to see, I can hardly wait. At this stage, if all goes well with my test results, we are planning on leaving around May; and shall wend our way to The Alice at a leisurely pace; stopping here and there, as our will takes us. Possible stop overs will be Port Stephens, to see Paul's Step-Dad, and John and his wife (BA), (Pauls) brother, at Stockton Beach; Dubbo, 2 lots of friends to visit there, Broken Hill, Port Augusta; and what ever place take our fancy in between these towns.

Peg's Healthy Low Fat Fruit Cake

2008-10-02T13:10:00.004+10:00

Thought I would share the recipe for the fruit cake I made y'day. My scrapbooking Buddy Peg (AP) gave me this recipe, it is so delicious.

Peg’s Healthy Low Fat Fruit Cake - Serves 12

. 2 ¾ cups (500g) mixed fruit (apricots, dates, apples etc)
. 1 cup (250g) apricot nectar
. 1 tsp honey
. 1 cup (250g) mashed pumpkin (or orange sweet potato)
. 1 ½ cups self-raising flour
. 1 tsp mixed spice
. 1 tsp bi-carb soda

· Grease 14cm x 21cm loaf tin, cover base with baking paper

· Combine fruit, apricot nectar and honey in medium pan, bring to boil then cool

· Stir in pumpkin/sweet potato, sifted flour, spice and bi-carb soda

· Bake in moderate oven (180ºC – 20º lower if fan forced oven) for about 1 hour

· Remove and cover loaf with foil, cool cake in pan

. Suitable to freeze (if the kids don’t get it first)

Note: 1g fat, 3g fibre, 45g carbohydrate, 810kj per serve.

Mackel's Bacon & Egg Pie

2008-10-02T12:05:00.010+10:00

What a busy little Vegemite I was y'day, baked a low fat, sugar fruit cake to take on our Mini Trip. Also made a Bacon & Egg pie, Kiwi-style, ala my Lil Bro - 'Mackel's B&E Pie'. Six eggs. lots of lean Bacon & Low fat pastry, can't wait to eat it. When my Bro used to stay with us he always used to make a B&E pie, the last time we shared a pie Mackel was the Supervisor and I was student. I was so proud of the pie, so now when Bucko & I travel anywhere I make a pie and remember my darling Lil Bro.

10 October 2007 - R.I.P Mackel - Little Wolf.
Run Strong, Run Free, Run On.

Mackel's Bacon & Egg Pie (Kiwi Style)

Recipe

Pre heat oven to 200ºc (20ºc lower for a fan forced oven).

Get a pie dish – which ever size you like.

Line the dish with your choice of pastry, (I used Low Fat) .

Join pieces of pastry if the dish is too big.

Cut bacon and sprinkle it on to the bottom of the pie.

Break eggs into the pie, use as many as you like, try not to break the yolks.

Sprinkle with more cut bacon.

Season with salt & pepper to taste.

Cover the pie with a pastry sheet, once again join pieces if they don’t fit.

Crimp the edges of the pie together with a fork dipped into water.

Brush the top of the pie with milk (the glaze makes the pie a lovely colour when cooked ).

Bake in an oven set on 200ºc for approx 40mins or until well risen and golden.

Pie can be eaten hot or cold.

Enjoy

On The Wallaby Track

Back Home Again

Darwin City Sights, NT (13 - 29 August, 2010)

Darwin - Litchfield Park, NT (13 - 29 August, 2010)

Dingo bites Croc. Jabiru, NT

Jabiru, Kakadu NP, NT (6 - 12 August, 2010)

Ubirr Rock Art, Kakadu NP, NT (12 August, 2010)

Boys and Crocs at Cahills Crossing, NT (10 August, 2010)

Her Tribe Has Vanished - a poem

Cooinda, Kakadu National Park, NT (2 - 5 August, 2010)

Mataranka, NT (29 July - 1 August, 2010)

The Devils Marbles

Wycliffe Well, NT (26 - 27 July, 2010)

Aileron Man, on the road to Wycliffe Well (26 July, 2010)

Mags n Me

Palm Valley, NT (24 June, 2010)

Emily Creek Big Hole, NT (23 June, 2010)

Standley Chasm, NT (23 June 2010)

Simpsons Gap, NT (23 June, 2010)

Alice Springs Desert Park, NT (22 June, 2010)

Road back to Alice - The Undie Tree (19 June, 2010)

Kings Canyon, NT (17-18 June, 2010)

Mt Conner NT, Afternoon/Evening trip (15 June, 2010)

Kata Tjuta, NT (14 and 15 June, 2010)

Uluru, NT (12 - 16 June, 2010

A meeting of Nomads - Alice Springs NT

Alice Springs, NT 4 - 10 June, 2010

Into the Northern Territory - Kulgera Roadhouse, NT (3 June)

Woomera and Len Beadell - Australia's last great Explorer

Coober Pedy - Mad Max country - SA (28 May - 3 June 2010)

Up the middle, on the Stuart Highway - Woomera - SA (27 May 2010)

Flinders Ranges - SA (12 - 26 May 2010)

Peterborough SA - Steamtown Railway Museum - 10 May, 2010

Burra – Old Copper mining town SA (6 – 12 May, 2010)

Nuriootpa SA - Maggie’s Kitchen (2 – 6 May)

Adelaide Hills etc (19 April – 1 June, 2010)

Goolwa SA – Barrages, keeping the seawater out of the River Murray (16 –19 April, 2010)

Tailem Bend – on the River Murray – SA (13 – 16 April 2010)

Robe – SA (7 – 13 April, 2010)

Kangaroos in the park – Halls Gap, VIC

The Wallaby Rocks Track – The Grampians, VIC

First water crossing!!!

Clunes, the town that time forgot

Ballarat, Victoria

Heritage Buildings and Sturt Street – Ballarat, VIC

Car Museum – Launceston, TAS

More problems with the van!!!

Christies Car Museum – Tocumwal

Eeek... our Blog was Highjacked

Beautiful Bendigo

Strawberry head !!!!!!

Its Raining, Its Thunder & Lightening ....of course, The Rainmakers are in town

Memorial to Stephen King - the pioneer of Poppy growing in Tasmania

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie. Oi. oi. oi.

Harvest Time

Timber Water Conduit

The Yachts – Sydney to Hobart

Christmas Day in Hobart

Cascade Brewery Tour - the best - how to run a tour

Cadbury Chocolate factory visit - NOT HAPPY JAN

WOW, WOW and WOW - Tasman Island Cruise - Stunning

Hobart - and loving it

The Old Wool Shed at Woolmers Estate

Woolmers – Rose Gardens

A few photos from along the Track

Letter boxes of Wilmot, Tasmania

Spirit of Tasmania

Melbourne Block Arcade dressed for Christmas

Incarcerated in Melbourne and 'Poor Ned'

Update on van repairs - Ecucha

Slight incident --- oops

Forbes, NSW (9 - 13 November, 2009)

The Dish - Parkes, NSW ( on the way to Forbes, 9 November, 2009)

Dining with Denno (and Lyn) at Dubbo - NSW (7 - 9 November, 2009)

Narrabri, NSW (6 - 7 November, 2009)

Inverell - Sapphire City - NSW (2 - 6 November, 2009)

Goondiwindi - Home of Gunsynd - QLD (30 October - 2 November, 2009)

Brisbane - QLD (22 - 30 October, 2009)

Eumundi, QLD (7th - 22nd October, 2009) and Ben's Wedding

Kyogle, NSW (27 September - 7 October 2009)