Downpour overnight with the campsite having a mini flood. I got up to go to the toilet and had to walk ankle deep through the water to get to the ablutions block. I was greeted by Doug, Di and Peter who were planning on leaving early to beat the rain but of course now realise this was not going to happen as the rain beat them. Peter, as spokesperson discussed the chance of staying here until the rain passes and then just riding to Cocklebiddy for the day. I had to explain that I don't make these decisions as this is Collis' department and they would need to discuss their concerns with him and the rest of the team before any changes to the itinerary will be made.
Collis and I checked the weather report and it is predicted to rain for the next 4 days and there is a chance of a thunderstorm but as far as we can work out, this should not happen until late afternoon. The group met up in the roadhouse and after some discussion then Collis made the decision to ride to Cocklebiddy where we will reassess. The team got all their wet gear on and got on their bikes and hit the road. Collis stayed behind trying to find a truckie to give Fran a lift back to Perth. Once we were all packed up I headed off after the riders.
I pulled up about 30 kms down the road and had some fan tales out ready to hand out as they passed. It was pouring rain but most riders still had smiles on their faces. Di was looking miserable and apparently she has not been feeling well for a couple of days. At Cocklebiddy I handed out tea towels (the only dry towels left) to try and soak up some of the moisture. The roadhouse had to mop the floor a few times due to the slip factor. Collis shouted everyone something hot to eat and drink before he told them that we were going through to Madura. Di has decided to get off the bike and into the car. We had a very quick lunch stop but it was still drizzling and everyone was getting cold so we went on.
We got a message from Fran to say that he eventually has got a lift from a shearer in a ute and pulling a trailer. He was pretty happy to be on the road and back to the family.
We made good time into Madura and Di and Doug took a motel room, and Jim and Peter took another one. Collis, Jacquei and I all decided to camp. It was still drizzling on and off. Jacquei was pretty tired after such a long day(the longest for this leg) so she went to bed really early. Collis finished off the tuna casserole leftover from the bush camp and I actually didn't bother with dinner. I'm not thrilled with cold and wet weather so climbed into bed for warmth.
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