Day 20: Bush Camp to Caiguna

Today is Fran's last day and he will be sadly missed. Fran has been the life of the group and he is very giving and generous. Fran is missing his wife and kids immensely and is desperate to get back to Perth to join them before they have to fly home to Scotland. This is a planned departure and as far as Fran wanted to come. He has been raising money for kids with cancer especially those that are terminally ill. If anyone would like to donate just contact us on cycleacrossoz15@hotmail.com and we will pass on his donation link to you.

The day started off with a camp fire and everyone not in a hurry to leave the camp site. Fran rode off with his two buddies Jacquei and Jim but soon got left a little way behind until the morning tea break. From MT Jim waited for Fran and rode the rest of the 50 kms into Caiguna with him. It was very emotional for Fran to finish this ride and he will tell you himself that he is not an avid rider like the others but did this for the kids. Well done Fran- we will miss you.

Today the ride was all along the 90 mile straight and the first bend spotted was just before we reached Caiguna. Some of the riders visited the blowhole and apparently the air was warmish today. The day was just perfect weather wise with a cold breeze blowing in around 4.30 pm. There was a slight headwind and could be difficult riding at times.

It was great to get to a roadhouse and get in a shower after 2 days in the bush. We all went to dinner in at the roadhouse for Fran's celebratory dinner but everyone was in bed early. Collis and Fran are desperately asking the truck drivers for a lift for him back to Perth hopefully leaving tomorrow.

Day 19: Newman Rocks to Bush Camp

Jacquei and I were up in time to witness a nice sunrise over the rock pools. No kangaroos in sight around the waters edge, actually the lack of wild life is again very noticeable. Warmer night and morning today but still needing to wear a couple of layers.

The group hit the 90 mile straight today and we have lunch at the sign so that we can get another group photo.

Collis and I find this great little area for the camp tonight and start setting up. The weather has become quite warm and by the end of the day we are all into short sleeves and some have shorts on. The wind has been kind to them today and everyone makes good times but no-one as good as Jacquei, who passed all of them and arrived in camp first. At one stage I drove past and gave her the challenge to catch Peter but did not expect her to pass Di and Doug as well. She is quite chuffed but wants to iterate that the point of her holiday is not to be a race but to be able to enjoy the surroundings and take her time.

Jacquei also made a sultana and cranberry damper for dessert tonight while I made a tuna casserole. Jim did another great camp fire after Jacquei used the chain saw to chop up nearly a whole tree. Great night had by all.

Day 18: Norseman to Newman Rocks

Collis' thermos has had the gong- this is his German model. So he has bought a smaller one made in China (no choice in Norseman). I picked up some grated cheese for one of the recipes I had decided on for the second bush camp and it would have not been the same without this ingredient.

Tonight is a bush camp at a very nice spot called Newman Rocks. We have camped here many times and it has a rock pool with usually enough water in it for a decent wash and sometimes even a swim. We are all looking forward to our first real bush camp for this leg.

The terrain is quite undulating today and everyone is struggling a little. Jacquei is feeling BLAH today and is not sure just why- hopefully she will pick up by the end of the day. Fran and Jim are riding together again today with Jacquei out in front of them.

The rain has been threatening all day but we have managed to get into camp before it started drizzling. It drizzles on and off most of the evening but never too heavy to spoil the camping or the meal. I cooked up a spaghetti sauce last night at Norseman and added into the noodles for a great spag boll. This was followed by a peach sponge type concoction with custard on top (not too bad once it cooked). Jim got a fantastic fire going and it was very pleasant sitting around until a late 8.30 pm.

Day 17: Salmon Gums to Norseman

Lovely caravan park but frosty morning this morning, it was -0.1 degrees at 6 am but quickly went back up to 7 degrees by 7:45 am. The girls shower was still cold this morning and a bit smelly. So again I decided it wasn't worth a cold shower just to smell nice.

Lots of salmon gums lined the local streets and in the natural bush areas. These ones are not as pink as up north but still a favourite tree. We are heading north toNorseman and the wind was a NEasterly. Both breaks today were just on the side of the road. Peter's new bike has developed a noisy bottom bracket. The boys all had a look at it but couldn't fix it.

When we got into Norseman, Peter and Collis rang the bike shop in Bunbury where Peter bought the bike and tried to sort out some sort of solution. It's a bit difficult as there are no bike repair shops anywhere from here to Adelaide. Collis took 3 of the boys shopping for food and I had already done the shop for the next 3 bush camps. I had a word with Peter about the amount of food he had in both eski. Peter is worried he will run out of food on the Nullarbor but we were able to reassure him this has never happened. He did a big cook up tonight to get rid of some of his excess.

Fran, Jim, Di, Collis and I went to the motel next door for dinner. Doug went to the roadhouse for a hamburger and Jacquei and Peter cooked in. The motel meals were quite huge and Di and I were unable to finish them. There was some party activity somewhere in town tonight but I mostly slept through it.

Day 16: Esperence to Salmon Gums

I took a quarter of a sleeping tablet last night and with my new thermals I was toastey and warm and slept straight through. Apparently I didn't wake up to Collis' call to nature or some arguing in camp around 2.30 am. I love my new clothes!

Everyone was away by 8 am and it was a great days ride except for a little drizzle early in the day. The weather cleared and was fine for the rest of the day. Lunch was at Grass Patch which had a very interesting history of the local hero who received a Victorian Cross. Quiet small little town with a quaint little pub.

The day finished at Salmon Gums where Collis shouted everyone Pizza for tea at the local pub. It was lovely and warm by the pub's fire and Collis got to watch the Swans being slaughtered by West Coast.

I went to have a late shower only to find that the water was freezing cold and couldn't work out how to fix it in the dark so I went to bed unclean.

Day 15: Esperence Rest Day

So nice to sleep in again this morning. I ended up taking half a sleeper so I could get a good nights sleep. I was still woken by someone chatting away in the early hours of the morning. First off I thought he must have been on the phone or talking in his sleep but then someone was answering him. A bit annoying but at least we got to sleep in till 7 am when woken by someone looking for laundry detergent. Not too bad as we had gone to bed around 8 pm, so close to 11 hours.

Collis and I have offered to drive the riders out to Cape Le Grand today but Jacquei, Di and Doug decided they weren't all that interested.

 So Collis took the boys and Jacquei and I had a girls day in town with shopping and lunch. I ended up buying myself some thermal pyjamas and Jacquei surprised me with some merino bed socks. I can't wait to go to bed tonight. The boys loved Cape Le Grand and it seems like it is a four day visit next time.

It has rained on/off all day but it is forecast for clearing skies tomorrow. The washing didn't dry at all so it was wait in line for the dryer and then 5 spins later most of the washing was finished. Pumpkin soup and crusty bread for dinner- great.

Got a text from Sam to say they made it to Salmon Gums and yes it did rain most of the day but all good.

Day 14: Munglinup to Esperence

Great night although there was a couple arguing in the middle of the night which woke the camp. Not sure who it was but they were quite loud. Poor old Di has a cold and was coughing a lot of the night- she doesn't sound good. Sam stayed with us last night and is anxious to get to Esperence to get his bike fixed. He has another day in the car with Collis before this happens.

Peter was up early and what Collis and I thought were local indigenous people making noise at 6 am turned out to be the local shearers over at the roadhouse buying their daily grog supply before work. We had to put the generator on early so that we could boil water for breakfast and morning tea supplies. Only one complaint and that was from one of our own riders.

Canola fields all morning giving the scenery a lovely yellow hue which is quite spectacular against the dark grey clouds. No rain as yet but looks threatening. Lots of Port Lincoln parrots flying around. Road still undulating but nowhere near as bad as a few days ago.

Him and Fran ended up riding for approximately an hour in the rain but everyone else seemed to have missed it. The sky opened up as soon as we got here and rained on and off all evening and night. I'm certainly glad I brought my umbrella (much to Collis' disgust) but he has been using it tonight.

Most of us went out to the pub for dinner and met up with Sam and his mate John. John has already fixed Sam's bike and they are heading out tomorrow to Salmon Gums. The boys want to stay a day ahead of us just in case something else goes wrong.

Day 13: Ravensthorpe to Munglingup

It was a lovely morning lying in bed listening to the rain and thinking that we had decided to have a late start today and there was no need to get up yet. People started rising once the rain had stopped which was around 7 am although I found out later that Jacquei had served all the boys coffee in bed.

Sam has decided to accept the lift with us and he is travelling in the car with Collis. He is such a nice guy and is proving very helpful with luggage etc. I told Collis we should employ him on our next lot of rides.

We only have 80 kms today and it is into a bush camp. There is definitely no rush and everybody seems to head off around 9.30 am. Doug and Di seem to like heading off at the front of the group each morning and Peter stays back until last as he is a very fast rider and passes everyone before morning tea. This makes it easier to manage the group.

The wind is favourable again today and the riding is much easier. Doug had told everyone that there weren't many hills according to his google maps or something. The locals had told Fran that the hills were pretty bad. The hills were similar to previous days so we think the locals were correct.

We had a lunch stop around 50 kms and this was a leisurely affair also. Into camp by 2 pm. The camp ground looks a bit suss but proves to be quite good. It is like a park in the middle of the small town with a kids playground, a BBQ area and toilets. We checked at the roadhouse opposite if this was actually a camping area.

No-one got wet whilst riding today but it did come across just as we were getting into camp. Looking at the radar on the Internet, it was pouring down in Esperence and if we had stuck to the original plan then we would have been caught right in the middle of it. Another reason why we made the correct decision the other day.

Dinner tonight was Japanese Curry and followed by apple crumble with custard. The boys all worked together this afternoon and managed to have two fantastic fires- one for warmth and one for cooking. Jim made Collis get the chainsaw out and actually use it. We have lots of wood now.

Day 12: Gairdner to Ravensthorpe

Another 150 kms to ride again today. We still have hills to climb but the wild flowers are quite spectacular and they kept the riders minds off the hills- for some of the way anyway. Unfortunately either the wind had changed direction or the road has. They mostly had a head wind all day which was mostly coming in across their shoulder.

Fran and Sam rode together today which was good as Sam has to slow down due to his load and Fran likes to go slowly but he hates riding on his own. Jim and Jacquei were racing ahead today although Jim dropped back after a drinks stop and rode the rest of the way with the last two.

Doug has an upset tummy and Di feels as if she is getting a cold so they have decided to upgrade into a cabin for a proper bed tonight. Nice camp ground although very basic amenities but clean and hot showers. Lovely green lush grass to camp on.

Jim came in and informed us that Sam had broken a rim on his back wheel and he can't move his bike. Collis went out and picked him and bike up and he is camping with us tonight while he tries to decide what he will do now. We have offered to carry him, his bike and his luggage to Esperence where he is planning on meeting his mate, who by the way had been travelling with Sam up till a couple of days ago before he hurt his knee. His mate was on the bus from Albany to Esperence which passed us on the road today and there isn't another bus until next week we think. These two guys are cycling from Perth to Sydney unsupported.

Jacquei cooked dinner for Collis and I tonight which was lovely. Peter cooked for himself and the rest of them went down the pub for a meal.

Day 11: Albany to Gairdner (Bush Camp)

Thank God we stayed the extra day, the rain was horrendous overnight. Still drizzly this morning and freezing. The rain or really drizzle was coming and going throughout the morning. No-one got really wet.

The scenery continues to please and riding conditions today are perfect with strong tailwinds. We stopped at a roadhouse for lunch and we are told about a community hall in Gairdner that we should be able to camp there. Collis contacted the people who run the hall and they were more than happy for us to stay there. This will be great as it looks like it could be pretty cold tonight.

Everyone was in at camp by 3.30 pm and we were very proud of Fran who was sure he wouldn't be able to finish today. He was very happy with himself also. The hall was opened up for us with toilets and showers and a kitchen to use. We made a $40 donation for the use. The locals bought a whole pile of mallee roots for our outdoor fire which was very generous and made a great fire.

I ended up cooking dinner in the hall kitchen. I made meatloaf, potatoes, carrots and peas followed by baked apples and cream. Doug and Di and Peter all slept out in tents. Jacquei, Fran, Jim and Sam ( a young cyclist that we met on the road today and who rode most of the way with Fran) camped in the hall. Collis and I of course slept in the back of the truck. It was so cold and I had thermals, pyjamas, socks, bed socks, woollen hat and then extra clothes on top of the doona- I was then mostly warm.

Day 9 & 10: Albany Rest Day x 2

Collis and I had a very lazy morning and didn't get moving until after lunch. The weather is cold and wet today so we checked out the forecast for the next few days. There were 3 wild weather warnings for the area we are planning on riding through with possible hail, thunderstorms, strong NW winds and heavy rain with possible flash flooding. The forecast did not look promising and the conditions appeared unsafe especially for a bush camp the first night out. The weather for the following day is much more promising with weather clearing up pretty much late morning. Our decision was made to have an extra rest day here in Albany and take the safest option of riding the following day.

We spent the afternoon visiting the wind farm and some of the local beaches before food shopping and then attending a meeting we called with the riders to inform them of the change to the ride. Most riders were happy with the decision and this would give them a chance to recuperate more from the tough riding over the last few days. Di's hip is still not right and this will give it another days rest, Doug has a broken tooth he wants attended to so hopefully he can get an appointment tomorrow and Peter's new bike requires the cables fiddled with so he can get it into the bike shop. Jim and Fran are happy to give their bottoms a longer rest and Jacquei well she's just happy. There was some dissension amongst the group but all seems to be sorted and we feel we have made the correct decision for their safety. We do not make changes to the ride lightly but we will make changes if and when necessary.

It rained quite heavily throughout the evening but eased overnight. The morning is quite clear and some blue skies. We are still comfortable with our decision especially when we rang around to the places we are staying at over the next few days to find out that the weather there is filthy. By the afternoon the wind has picked up to be very strong and NW (which would have been a headwind). The clouds are closing over and the forecasters may just be right about the rough weather. As I wrote this, the skies opened up and it is pouring. If we had ridden we would still be on the road to an unknown bush camp.

Day 8: Walpole to Albany

The temperature is a bit warmer this morning and it looks as if it will be a great day for riding. The route today is supposed to be quite hilly to start with and then flattening out after about 40 kms (so the locals tell us). Therefore Collis has called the morning tea break at 40 kms with a lunch break at Denmark which is 65 kms.

The three campers left around 8 am even though we did try to get them away a bit earlier. The backpackers seem to have left at around 7.30 going by the text received from Di. Doug and Di have decided not to stop for morning tea but to go straight through to Denmark for lunch. All other riders will be stopping.

Dennis told us at morning tea that he has decided to leave the ride from Albany. He has not been happy since day one and it appears that this ride was his second choice and he did not do enough research as to what the ride entailed. He is much happier now that he has decided to go home and maybe spend more time with his family in a warmer climate. It is a shame to see him go and he is a good rider but he really was concerned that he would not cope with the cold and then rain on top of this. Some of the riders are really concerned about the rain forecast and we are very surprised as I think I have often commented on the very few times it has rained on our rides that the cyclists always seem to accept it and just get on with it and there are very few times when they complain. They will always complain about the wind direction but the rain does not seem to faze them.

The scenery today has been fantastic with rolling hills, that didn't actually stop after 40 kms, and sheep started to appear. There are lots of tourist spots in this area. The ride down into Albany was very impressive also. All riders are camping and Collis and I have taken a cabin. The bush camps start after the rest day so I need to be able to do some preparation.

Day 7: Walpole Rest Day

Today's itinerary was changed a couple of weeks ago so that everyone could have an opportunity to view the magnificent forests and tree top walk in the area.

I have woken with terrible sinus headache and just can't get my head off the pillow- the stomach is churning as well. I stayed in bed and listened to the riders trying to keep the noise down for me before they took off to town for a late breakfast. I eventually rose around 10 am and we went into town to meet them.

Jim went for a walk around the town and has found us an oil drum for our campfires. He decided to test it out at the campground and the manager was not happy. The manager got him a cement fireplace so then we had a lovely fire. There was another drama with the manager over the use of firewood from around the camp area so Jacquei went and bought a bag of wood off him and he settled down. The oil drum now has pride of place in the middle of the trailer ready for our first bush camp.

Jacquei, Collis and I went to see the tingle trees and then the treetop walk. We ran into Peter up there and he has no fear of heights so he actually did the walk whereas Jacquei and I just did some shopping at the gift shop. Peter informed us that Dennis has decided to leave the ride and he should confirm this tomorrow. Di is suffering quite a bit from her hip pain today. Hopefully the rest day will help her.

Fran and Jim sat around camp recuperating.

Collis decided to cook the three campers a BBQ tonight and Jacquei made the salads. Nice night sitting around the fire. There was a little bit of drizzle but it didn't deter us from sitting at the fireside.

Day 6: Pemberton to Walpole

Another cold morning after a freezing cold night where I just couldn't get warm all night. My feet were soooo cold. Everyone's in reasonable spirits and looking forward to the days ride. Still no rain in sight but I'm sure we will have to get some soon.

Jim was off the bike yesterday and he has decided to have another day today before our next rest day. His tummy has been upset so he wants it to really settle down before he attempts to ride again. Fran is still looking shattered but he was being very brave and riding on.

The hills today have been horrendous and it will be shown at the end of the day they will have climbed over 2000 metres. The scenery is magnificent with the tallest trees ever. Fran started vomiting just before lunch and he decided to pull the plug. He had climbed 80 % of the days hills so he should be proud of himself. The vomiting will be because he had overworked himself. Fran is the loveliest Scottish man but he is not an avid cyclist. He loves the outdoors and he is doing this trip to raise money for kids with cancer. We are very proud of his efforts so far. He jumped in the car and rode the rest of the way with Collis and Jim while I monitored Jacquei coming in the last 60 kms.

Doug & Di, Peter and Dennis all decided to stay in the backpackers as they were sure it would rain over the next day or two. The rest of us have taken campsites in a really lovely camping ground down near the inlet. We went out to the local hotel for dinner and we were all pleased with our meals.

Day 5: Margaret River to Pemberton

We have found a few back roads for the riders to take today. The scenery is just magnificent even if we are all cold. The days eventually warm up after morning tea but if the wind picks up then it has a fair bit of chill in it. Dennis told us today that he is rethinking his choice of ride because of the cold and he is worried that it may rain soon. I have reassured him that he can get in the car if it rains and told him not to make any brash decisions. We've had 1 day of rain all the way around so hopefully our good luck continues.

All of us got into Pemberton by 3.30/4 pm. Jacquei and Fran were struggling on the last section as the hills got higher and longer and thought about calling it quits but they kept going. Fran was pretty well shattered so he took a bunk room and shared with Adam ( a polish cyclist that we ran into at lunchtime). Everyone had struggled and they were all tired. 

Doug likes to study the maps and he continually comes up with a new route, so he and Collis spend alot of time discussing our daily distance and travelling times. Tomorrows route has been changed so that we have less kms and hopefully not as many hills.

Day 4: Bunbury to Margaret River

Starting time was again around 8 am and everyone in pretty good spirits even after the theft. Peter was in the car with Collis until we get to Brusselton and then he will buy his new bike. In the meantime the countryside is just wonderful. There is no sign of any droughts here.

Poor old Jim had an upset tummy last night and is feeling a bit weak today. His tummy seems to have settled down but now he's trying to stabilise his electrolytes. 

Margaret River camping ground was really nice. Peter got in late but he is thrilled with his new bike. Doug and Di got picked up and taken out for dinner by some friends and the rest of us went into town for dinner.

Day 3: Bunbury Rest Day

Cold morning again this morning with Norm informing us that it was 1 degree first thing. Message from Jacquei to let us know that Peter had had his $4000 Specialized bike stolen overnight. Unfortunately he had not locked it up like everyone else and someone has come along and knicked it. Understandably he was upset but quite philosophical about it. We took him to the police station to report it.

Later in the day Norm and Collis visited the local radio station to have it announced and informed the cash converters to keep an eye out for it. I put out a thing on FB and checked Ebay. No luck. In the meantime Peter went out to buy a new bike as he does not want to forfeit his ride. The bike he wants is available in Busselton which we will pass through tomorrow.

The group were keeping themselves busy but a few spent quite a bit of time at an establishment by the name of MASH. Sheila and Norm took Collis and I out for breakfast, then we met their son and some of his family before we were taken to Gnomesville. Unbelievable. Very difficult to describe but thousands and thousands of gnomes in this very large bushland setting.

Lovely day and we would like to again thank Sheila and Norm for all their help, support and hospitality not only on this ride but all the rides Sheila has joined us on as well.

Day 2: Mandurah to Bunbury

Well the first night in the tents went quite well for most. Not sure Sheila and Norm would have had a good night as they slept in the back of their ute but Sheila didn’t want the back down so poor old Norm couldn’t stretch out his legs throughout the night. It was a really cold morning this morning but we will have to get used to them as this is what we will be having most of the way.

Everybody was up, tents down and on their bikes by around 8.15 am which wasn’t bad as we are aiming for 8 am starts on this leg.Collis and I are back into the packing up routine after such a small group last leg but we have found we can fit just about all luggage into the trailer. This group have been very good with their luggage limits. With this as the case then we don’t have to strip our bed and roll it up each morning- we make the bed and then fold it in half. So much easier.

Doug and Di were the first bro head out this morning as I don’t think Doug is wanting a repeat of Di getting lost again too soon. Doug and Di both fell off their bikes just over a week ago and Di is still suffering from her injuries. She is finding it easier to ride the bike than it is to walk. I will have to keep an eye on her though- she is trying to hide her pain at the moment.

Beautiful day fro riding again. Crisp clear morning leading into a mild sunny afternoon. Our stop today was at Bunnigup Beach which was just absolutely superb. It was very popular with the tourists and there were even people out there swimming and paddle boarding. We could see Bunbury in the distance.

We arrived early afternoon in Bunbury and Sheila led them in. Nice looking caravan park but they have put us against the fence near the road, so it wasn’t the greatest spot but close to the camp kitchen and the ablutions block. Collis and I did a BBQ for the riders and Sheila & Norm before leaving the group and staying the night at Sheila’s home.

Leg 6 Day 1: Perth to Mandurah

Up early to meet the new group at the Jetty. We are meeting up with Sheila and Norm as Sheila will be leading the group to Bunbury or as far as she can manage. We have two return riders on this group - Jacquei (Swiss living in Brisbane) who has ridden Cairns to Darwin, Darwin to Broome and Broome to Perth and then there is Jim (Kiwi) who has done Perth to Melbourne (the short way) and then the Murray Ride. Also along with these two we have five brand new riders, Doug & Di from Tassie, Fran from Scotland, Peter from NSW and Dennis from Melbourne. It is a beautiful crisp Perth morning without a cloud in the sky and everyone seems to be in good spirits and looking forward to the trip ahead.

We leave right on time at 8 am with Collis and Sheila leading them down the bike path beside the Kwinana Freeway. Collis just rode out to the start of the path to make sure they got on the right path then he rode back because we both have to drive cars on this trip and I have found that I have the worst sense of direction and couldn't find my way out of a brown paper bag let alone find my way out of Perth. In the end we both had to follow Norm. It was like old times.

The next two days are dedicated to Sheila. Sheila has done 4 rides with us in the past but has had some major health issues over the last couple of years and has not been able to participate even though she has been very keen to do so. Today is Sheila's 75 th birthday.

Morning tea was at the Hungry Jacks at Boldivis where the group came in off the path mostly still together. Doug, Peter and Dennis were in quite a bit before the others. We're already able to work out the gun riders.

Lunch was at the end of the day at Mandurah Bakehouse. Everyone managed to get lost but the girls disappeared. They were on the correct road but going in the wrong direction so Collis went out and got them. They were a bit embarrassed but you have to expect it to happen on the first couple of days.

Everyone went into the IGA for a food shop and then we discovered a Woolworths further down the road. Jackie got a bit ripped off with her food shop. Peter discovered that he had forgotten to bring his tent. He had brought along everything else including the poles and pegs but no tent. Lucky we bought a spare tent.

Day 29: Guilderton to Perth

Our last day and everyone should be excited about arriving at our final destination. Unfortunately Jill and I had a confrontation this morning due to something I did say but  it had been taken totally out of the context in which it was stated. Unfortunately Jill was not in a mood to listen to my explanation and she left without any resolve.

This has put a real dampner on the day and the rain and two punctures did not help at all. Morning tea was at McDonalds and then Collis met them at the beginning of the bike path where they had 1/2 an hour to ride before the riders met up with Collis' mate Les Bonza who was going to lead them into Kings Park.

They all arrived around 1.30 pm- safe and sound.

Day 28: Port Dennison to Guilderton

Everybody said they would ride together today but that's not how it ended up. Jill took off very early with Jurgen and Gareth a fair way behind her. This is a bit unfortunate as Jill told us before she left that she wouldn't be going in to look at the Pinnacles. which will put her even further ahead of the other two.  Gareth is planning on going in but Jurgen has seen them before so he won't either as he is concerned of the distances already planned for today.

We got to the morning tea stop which was at the road into the Pinnacles and we see Jill just up ahead, so I chase her down, give her some fruit cake and water but she is determined to keep going stating it is too early to stop. She states she is planning on going into Lancerlin and buy herself some lunch. She told me not to worry about her as she had plenty of supplies. Gareth and Jurgen had morning tea together before Gareth rode the extra 12 kms into the pinnacles and Jurgen just went on.

Now we have only three riders but they are spread out for miles down the road. We catch Jill at the 92 km mark (if she had gone into the Pinnacles that is) but she wants to go on another 10 kms as according to her mileage she is only at 80 kms. There was some confusion and we couldn't work out what she was saying because we didn't realise she did not know that todays mileage included the extra 12 kms into the Pinnacles. This confusion was not sorted until the end of the day. Anyway Collis stopped at 97 km mark which was another 5 kms down the road. Still more confusion from Jill and she did not appear happy. She was still stating she was going to ride into Lancerlin so don't worry about her for the refreshment stop.

When she left I went back to tell the boys that there has been a change in the stop for lunch but I missed Jurgen as he was just about there so I just went and told Gareth. There is even a bigger gap between everyone now. The rain started just after lunch and Collis stayed with Gareth while I went ahead to catch Jurgen for the drinks stop. The rain was still pretty steady so Jurgen chose to not stop. Collis arrived and I get a text from Jill stating she had been at Guilderton for 1/2 an hour and wanting to know where we are. I texted her back and said we should be there in about another half hour. The rain had stopped but we decided Collis should go ahead and that I would wait for Gareth. Just as we were arranging this, Gareth turns up and decides he will just rest for a bit but wouldn't need any drinks. So Collis and I went together onto Guilderton. By the time we arrived, Jill and Jurgen were at the cafe having something to eat.

Unfortunately we find that the pub is not open on a Monday or Tuesday and we will have trouble finding anywhere to get a meal. Collis and I are OK but not sure about the riders. They can get a take away meal if they buy before 5.30 pm. Jill and Jurgen aren't very happy with any of this information.

Day 27: Northampton to Port Dennison

The three riders left together this morning but it wasn't long before we get a call from Jill who has had a flat tyre. She had changed the tube but after pumping up the new tube, she pulled out the valve as she tried to pull off the pump. She was needing another tube. Collis has given her another tube so she still has one on the bike with her.

Collis decided to shout everyone morning tea in Geraldton so that they could have real coffee after so many weeks in the outback with just his colombian plunger coffee. Jill arrived a bit later than the others and wasn't going to bother as she thought it would take too long but we talked her into it and was pleased with the double shot she had but i'm not too sure what she thought of the huge carrot cake she was served. Jurgen, who knows Geraldton quite well was asked to lead the other two out.

We waited around for about an hour to give them a chance to get ahead of us before we followed. We had driven 45 kms and had not spotted any of them so a phone call was made. Apparently they had stopped at Greenough (on Collis' suggestion) and they were still there. They expressed concern regarding the traffic conditions.

It is the first day of the school holidays here in WA and also a Saturday. The majority of the traffic is going north but there is still quite a bit of traffic going south unfortunately. We waited a little over an hour for the riders to arrive for lunch and they were all a little concerned about the traffic. We discussed our options but there was no alternative route for them to take. We offered to take all three in the cars to our destination but all refused. There were high fives between them when they arrived in camp safely.

Dongara Tourist Park is beautifully situated on the beach and the surrounds are just lovely. The weather is cooling but the sun still has a bit of bite to it.

Day 26: Kalbarri to Northampton

Up early this morning as we have to pack our things up before Collis heads back into town by 7 am to give them all the briefing for todays ride before they head out. I'll stay behind here and will meet them out on the road later.

Collis arrived just as Jill was heading out so gave her a quick briefing before then making plunger coffee for the boys and then giving them the briefing. The group are really spread out today with a bit over an hour between Gareth and Jill with Jurgen in the middle. The scenery is quite spectacular at the moment as we are riding along the Indian Ocean with frequent glimpses of the water. Morning tea and lunch breaks were all pretty drawn out for us but then Gareth decided not to eat any lunch and just had a look around the penal colony before heading to our destination.

We were all in at Northampton by 2.30 pm and settled into the caravan park. After checking out all three hotels Jurgen decided he would rather cook himself so the other two joined him. Collis and I are sick of cooking so we decided to eat at the bottom hotel called the tavern. It has all these photos of bottoms over the bar as it is the bottom hotel. I ended up having the soup and Collis had the pork chops. The meal was huge but not cheap.

Apparently a small altercation occurred between the riders and another camper when Jill asked if he would turn his music down. Apparently not appreciated and he stormed off.

Day 25: Kalbarri Rest Day

Our last rest day for this leg. I hope the riders are making the most of it although we don't have any really long rides left. Collis and I have slept in till quite late and then decided to go for a quick walk down to the waters edge. WELL..... not quite so quick. It was supposed to be a 1.5 km walk down the drive but ended up being much longer (my guess would be 3 kms) and once through the farm gate we were walking through huge sand dunes which seemed to go on forever. I enjoyed the walk down there and the beach was worth the effort but the walk back nearly killed me. The sweat was pouring off me and the poor old heart was pounding. Collis kept stopping and waiting for me but then afterwards I find out this was because he too was struggling. Beautiful white sand but so many flies.

In the afternoon we went for a drive around to Port Gregory just to have a look. Nothing much there- it's just a sleepy holiday town with the general store gone out of business. Went past the Pink Lake which for some reason wasn't looking it's usual pink self.

Sunset tonight was a little better than yesterday but not spectacular.

Day 24: Bush Camp to Kalbarri

All riders denied touching food boxes after retiring last night and none of them heard anything. Nothing seems to be missing so we must have scared them off before they could take anything. We have a few sore behinds this morning and this seems to be making a couple of them a little cranky, which is understanding as they have about 140 kms to ride again today. Lunch at the Ross Graham Lookout.

Yesterday they had good winds most of the day but today they have not been quite so lucky. Also today's ride is quite undulating with lots of sand dunes to navigate. This should suit them as it will give them an opportunity to get off the seat throughout the day to relieve their tooshes. It also means lots of great downhills where they won't need to peddle. The day ends up being a bit tough for them and they are probably all wondering why they decided to do this ride.

Collis has surprised me with a couple of nights away so we dropped off the riders stuff at the Tudor caravan park, gave them information on what is available around town then went to the shops. Collis decided to drop some milk off back at the riders camp before we headed out of town only to find 2 riders grumbling about the difficulty of the day and one had a broken spoke. He gave them the spoke tool but neither knew how to do it so we will look at it when we get to Northampton- it should be ok till then.

We are staying a bit out of town right on the beach with fantastic views of the Indian Ocean and the whales frolicking very close to the beach. The accommodation is a bit basic but we should cope for two nights.

Day 23: Hamelin Pool to Bush Camp

The riders left early today so that they could ride 28 kms to the Overland RH for a cooked breakfast. Jill and Jurgen left before Gareth who arrived at the roadhouse just as they were leaving. Apparently the breakfast was fantastic but the three of them still managed to have a coffee and chocolate muffin with us before heading off.

Lunch was at the Billabong Roadhouse and again Gareth arrived just as the other two were leaving. We stopped for a water stop 30 kms down the road before Collis and I drove off scanning the area along the side of the road to find yet another bush camp site around at 145 kms. We found a nice spot which appeared to be quite popular if you can go by the number of cans and bottles left lying around in the bush. It is such a shame people can't clean up after themselves.

Collis got a great fire going and I cooked the lasagne and then apple/peach crumble with custard. Sunset was a bit of a fizzer tonight even though lots of cloud around. Collis was the last into bed but there was a bit of noise around the camp. Just as everything had settled down, Collis and I heard someone or something at the food boxes but by the time he stuck his head out to look whatever it was had departed although there was definitely something there. It took me awhile to get to sleep after this as I was imagining all sorts of situations that could occur out here in the middle of nowhere.

Day 22: Wooramel to Hamelin Pool Station

Cool morning this morning with the riders heading off earlyish. The surrounds here are very relaxing and it would be nice to have a few days. A lot of the caravanners said they come for one night and stay for at least three.

Morning tea was at a pull in with lots of horse dung supplying a lovely aroma for our break. Jill and Jurgen rode together today and Gareth behind alone. Lunch was at the Overland Roadhouse. I got abused by a monkey who was too scared to overtake me (he was pulling a caravan) then started flashing his lights at me, right up my arse so I couldn't pull over even if I wanted to and then dropping back, then speeding up. I eventually pulled over so he could pass when he flew past with his hand on the horn. When we got to the Overland, there he was, stepped out in front of the car with his hand stretched out for me to stop. I gave him the finger and kept driving over to Collis. Quickly told Collis this was the dick and that he was following me over before I put all my windows up. He started banging on the drivers window yelling at me when Collis interfered. He got a bit nervous when he had to deal with a male driver and then puts his hand out to shake Collis' hand. I jumped out of the car to have my say but he just walked off ignoring me. Dead shit.

On we went to Hamelin Station and picked out an area for the riders to camp and then a spot for us. Beautifully run park with shell grit to camp on. The kitchen and dining area here is just great with telecom access in this area only. They also have dinner packs for sale with meat and veggies which you cook yourself.

The riders went down to check out the stromatolites but Collis and I have seen them a few times now. We had a great view of the sunset from our camp site and had drinkies and nibbles here before heading down for dinner. Jill and Jurgen made some new friends from Victoria and had drinks and dinner with them.

Day 21: Carnarvan to Wooramel Retreat

Beautiful morning for a ride. Not too far to ride today-118 kms. The scenery is still pretty blah ( John Tracey I am seeing what you meant last time). I mean to say it's not unpleasant but doesn't change too often. At the moment it is all pretty flat with scrubby trees everywhere. No dramas out on the road today.

We came into the Wooramel Retreat fairly early afternoon and picked a lovely spot next to the river bed under some huge river gums. There is plenty of room for the riders to spread out and separate from us (not sure why but they like to get away from Collis and I). We went for a walk and Collis had a swim in the river before we wandered up to the natural hot spas. These are really lovely with brown spa water filling a large tank with the temperature around 36 degrees. Strange occurrence that the 5 people in the spa all jumped out when we got in. Maybe I'm becoming paranoid but hard not to at the moment.

The retreat had home cooked meal packs available for sale at $20 a pack. Collis had Moroccon Goat and the others tried the lamb dish, pork and another goat I think. The mosquitoes were a bit nasty tonight so Collis and I jumped in the truck to read but the others made themselves a campfire and sat around chatting for awhile. Lovely quiet night.