Up early this morning and boy is it cold! Very invigorating. Collis has suggested they all leave around 7.30 am as the forecast is that there is a higher chance of rain around midday or later. It may not rain but best to avoid it if you can. We only have 70 kms today but everyone is still worried about the log trucks. Can't do anything about them so I have advised them to just get off when one is coming up behind them.
Everyone gone by 8 am with Neil leading the pack today. We soon come across Doug and Di and we know something isn't right as they had left a half hour before the others but they're now behind Jacquei and not far from Jim and Jen. Apparently Di's cleat is worn out and she is having trouble peddling on one side. Hopefully this can be fixed in Portland- she was offered the spare bike but declined.
Tailwind today and everyone happy even though it is still cold and the log trucks are out there. Jacquei said she has just been getting off the bike when the trucks come along and everything has been great. All into town by lunchtime.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Day 47: Mt Gambier to Nelson
40 km ride planned for today. I have suggested we all meet at the Umpherston Sinkhole for morning tea at 10 am and then ride the 40 kms after that. Everyone thought this was a good idea. Neil would not be meeting us for morning tea as he does this GeoCash thingy (I've read about it on the net as we met a couple of other riders doing it) and he is off to some whorehouse to see if he can get some clue? There is no cash involved so it soon lost my interest.
Doug and Di went out for breakfast and then didn't turn up for morning tea so we presumed they changed their minds. Jacquei, Jim and Jen arrived after getting re-directed by locals back and forth to a sinkhole next to the town hall. Eventually Jacquei rang and Collis gave her clearer directions. Most of the locals are unaware of this sinkhole. Apparently this town has heaps of sinkholes.
Anyway we got back on the road for the 40 kms. Very little winds but they were in the wrong direction. Lots of log trucks which were really very scary and they weren't going to move over for anybody- especially cyclists and drivers with a bike parked on top.
We found Neil, Doug and Di at the general store and Di was upset there was no IGA in town. Mt Gambier had a large supermarket, unfortunately they didn't take advantage of this and there are a few things they require. We won't allow them to go hungry and Collis is shouting everyone fish and chips for dinner tonight. Some of the riders were wanting to stay at the caravan park next to the general store but Collis had booked us into the other caravan park that he had researched as the best CP in the town.
Doug and Di decided to go to the pub for dinner and the rest of us had the fish and chips. The caravan park was set in a lovely bush setting with rabbits and kangaroos everywhere. We had some very cute and cheeky visitors in the evening. Great walks around the park as well. Neil checked out the local cemetery which is apparently well worth a visit.
Doug and Di went out for breakfast and then didn't turn up for morning tea so we presumed they changed their minds. Jacquei, Jim and Jen arrived after getting re-directed by locals back and forth to a sinkhole next to the town hall. Eventually Jacquei rang and Collis gave her clearer directions. Most of the locals are unaware of this sinkhole. Apparently this town has heaps of sinkholes.
Anyway we got back on the road for the 40 kms. Very little winds but they were in the wrong direction. Lots of log trucks which were really very scary and they weren't going to move over for anybody- especially cyclists and drivers with a bike parked on top.
We found Neil, Doug and Di at the general store and Di was upset there was no IGA in town. Mt Gambier had a large supermarket, unfortunately they didn't take advantage of this and there are a few things they require. We won't allow them to go hungry and Collis is shouting everyone fish and chips for dinner tonight. Some of the riders were wanting to stay at the caravan park next to the general store but Collis had booked us into the other caravan park that he had researched as the best CP in the town.
Doug and Di decided to go to the pub for dinner and the rest of us had the fish and chips. The caravan park was set in a lovely bush setting with rabbits and kangaroos everywhere. We had some very cute and cheeky visitors in the evening. Great walks around the park as well. Neil checked out the local cemetery which is apparently well worth a visit.
Day 46: Robe to Mt Gambier
Today is going to be a tough day. They have 135 kms to ride with a few hills and predicted headwinds. A few of the riders have been mulling over the weather charts for a couple of days now. Maybe they think that the more times they look, the better it will get. Then the other riders are philosophical enough to realise, what will be will be. We all know Collis is good but God he ain't.
Neil, Doug and Di took off just before 7 am and the rest of the team left around 7.30 am. The scenery was great BUT this was seen very little as they all plugged along into 35 km/hour headwinds. The traffic picked up the closer we got to Mt Gambier and this just added to the worst day for riding on this whole long leg. Everybody made it in by 3.30 pm. We were unsure if Neil was going to ride the whole day but he seemed to get his second wind, sucked it up and made it to the camp ground.
The caravan park has deteriorated since the last time we were here but still a very pleasant spot and right near the blue lake. Collis and I took both cars into town for dinner so that everyone could get a lift. It was pizza and pasta night at Sorrentos, all large serves for $13.90. Reasonable dinner had by all.
Everybody slept well after the tough day and there wasn't any chatter during the night to wake everyone up.
Neil, Doug and Di took off just before 7 am and the rest of the team left around 7.30 am. The scenery was great BUT this was seen very little as they all plugged along into 35 km/hour headwinds. The traffic picked up the closer we got to Mt Gambier and this just added to the worst day for riding on this whole long leg. Everybody made it in by 3.30 pm. We were unsure if Neil was going to ride the whole day but he seemed to get his second wind, sucked it up and made it to the camp ground.
The caravan park has deteriorated since the last time we were here but still a very pleasant spot and right near the blue lake. Collis and I took both cars into town for dinner so that everyone could get a lift. It was pizza and pasta night at Sorrentos, all large serves for $13.90. Reasonable dinner had by all.
Everybody slept well after the tough day and there wasn't any chatter during the night to wake everyone up.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Day 45: Robe Rest Day
The wind got pretty blustery last night but seemed to settle down by first light. Collis and I were nice and cozy in our final cabin for the trip. I was spoilt with a cooked breakfast in bed before we showered and headed down town for a hot chocolate.
In town we came across everyone but Neil. Jacquei and Jim had breakfast in town but Doug and Di had a Canadian breakfast in camp. Not sure what Jen and Neil did for breakfast. Collis and I then went for a long walk around the town and saw parts of this town we didn't know existed . We were trying to find the coffee roasting place but I was directing and of course took us in the wrong direction. It was a nice walk but it was getting very cold as the wind picked up from the south.
On our return to the camp ground we were told that most of the tents had started to lift in the wind and were heading into the lake. Fortunately one of the caravanners was around and he had spare pegs that he has lent the campers until they leave tomorrow. He pegged everyone's tent down securely and saved some food box lids and our chairs from going for a swim as well.
It was such a cold day that Collis climbed into the electric blanket and had a nanny nap for most. Of the afternoon.
In town we came across everyone but Neil. Jacquei and Jim had breakfast in town but Doug and Di had a Canadian breakfast in camp. Not sure what Jen and Neil did for breakfast. Collis and I then went for a long walk around the town and saw parts of this town we didn't know existed . We were trying to find the coffee roasting place but I was directing and of course took us in the wrong direction. It was a nice walk but it was getting very cold as the wind picked up from the south.
On our return to the camp ground we were told that most of the tents had started to lift in the wind and were heading into the lake. Fortunately one of the caravanners was around and he had spare pegs that he has lent the campers until they leave tomorrow. He pegged everyone's tent down securely and saved some food box lids and our chairs from going for a swim as well.
It was such a cold day that Collis climbed into the electric blanket and had a nanny nap for most. Of the afternoon.
Day 44: Salt Creek to Robe
Neil left first this morning and he beat everyone to morning tea. He must have worn himself out early because once the wind hit in he slowed down considerably. But he was not the only one. It was a bit of a shock to all riders after such great tailwinds. (I can't believe I am raving on about winds- save me Theo).
Everyone had a great ride to morning tea and then this wind kicked in which has made a shortish day a tough day. The scenery is still the Coorong until we reach Robe which is a seaside village.
Everyone into camp by 2.30 pm. Collis and I have gotten our last cabin for the trip and this is our view of the lake.
Everyone had a great ride to morning tea and then this wind kicked in which has made a shortish day a tough day. The scenery is still the Coorong until we reach Robe which is a seaside village.
Everyone into camp by 2.30 pm. Collis and I have gotten our last cabin for the trip and this is our view of the lake.
This is our view of the tents.
Day 43: Wellington to Salt Creek
All riders looking quite relaxed although Neil was maybe a little nervous as he was up and about early then had to wait around for everyone else. He is finding his mojo but it is hard when you are the new kid on the block. Jen having ridden with us before knows the routine but poor old Neil has to get used to the riding every day and a strange routine. He is doing OK.
Another good riding day with tailwinds. We are now in the Coorong and constant views of water and salt bush. Heaps of birdlife and I spotted a line of pelicans which were swimming in a line. Collis had seen the same birds earlier flying just above the water line so they must have landed after he passed them.
Salt Creek is a roadhouse which is run solely by Adam. He had previously had a girlfriend helping him plus backpackers but this all collapsed for him and now he's on his own. He has done a great job cleaning it up and keeping it running. We started off having the place to ourselves but ended up with a group of fishermen who decided to have a party to celebrate their one fish catch of the day. Then an older couple arrived and they parked off in the corner away from us.
Collis shouted everyone a Mullet dinner in the roadhouse which was enjoyed by all. The party ended up going until 2.30 am and we had some very unhappy campers. Jim had made a great fire which we had all enjoyed after dinner but it had gone out by the morning unfortunately. Jim had camped in front of the toilets and the fishermen kept tripping over his tent everytime they staggered to the toilet.
Around 3.30 am I was woken again by all this banging and scraping which seemed to be coming from the roadhouse. I wasn't game to check out what was happening as Adam has a gun and is an experienced hunter- didn't want him to shoot me by mistake. It went on for at least an hour and then Collis heard a truck take off, so still not sure what it was all in aid of.
Another good riding day with tailwinds. We are now in the Coorong and constant views of water and salt bush. Heaps of birdlife and I spotted a line of pelicans which were swimming in a line. Collis had seen the same birds earlier flying just above the water line so they must have landed after he passed them.
Salt Creek is a roadhouse which is run solely by Adam. He had previously had a girlfriend helping him plus backpackers but this all collapsed for him and now he's on his own. He has done a great job cleaning it up and keeping it running. We started off having the place to ourselves but ended up with a group of fishermen who decided to have a party to celebrate their one fish catch of the day. Then an older couple arrived and they parked off in the corner away from us.
Collis shouted everyone a Mullet dinner in the roadhouse which was enjoyed by all. The party ended up going until 2.30 am and we had some very unhappy campers. Jim had made a great fire which we had all enjoyed after dinner but it had gone out by the morning unfortunately. Jim had camped in front of the toilets and the fishermen kept tripping over his tent everytime they staggered to the toilet.
Around 3.30 am I was woken again by all this banging and scraping which seemed to be coming from the roadhouse. I wasn't game to check out what was happening as Adam has a gun and is an experienced hunter- didn't want him to shoot me by mistake. It went on for at least an hour and then Collis heard a truck take off, so still not sure what it was all in aid of.
Saturday, August 22, 2015
Day 42: Gawler to Wellington
This is the first riding day for our final two riders- Jen and Neil. They are both accomplished riders with Jen having ridden with us before. Everyone headed out virtually together today but Di and Doug left the other four behind.
Lovely scenery all the way and the winds were great tail winds. Doug kept saying that the new riders were so lucky for their first day with a strong tailwind. In the 42 days of riding I think we have probably only had a handful of days where there was any hint of a headwind. We have again been blessed with great winds but this does not look as it may last.
We turned at Jervois and the wind then became a headwind. We rode through the cow fields of Jervois and no-one slipped in the cow poo which was all over the road. when we got to the caravan park, they opened up another area of the park that has previously been closed- all very nice. I decided to go for a walk to locate the hotel (which I thought was just across the road) but I walked out the gate and turned right, walked two blocks one way and one block back the other way before I found the pub just across the road from where I came out of the gate.
Lovely to be back on the Murray River after so many months. We have nearly done a complete circle. The new riders did very well for their first day.
We all went to the pub for dinner and the food was pretty good except Di and Neil (who is a qualified chef) had the lamb shanks and weren't really impressed. Warm night overnight.
Lovely scenery all the way and the winds were great tail winds. Doug kept saying that the new riders were so lucky for their first day with a strong tailwind. In the 42 days of riding I think we have probably only had a handful of days where there was any hint of a headwind. We have again been blessed with great winds but this does not look as it may last.
We turned at Jervois and the wind then became a headwind. We rode through the cow fields of Jervois and no-one slipped in the cow poo which was all over the road. when we got to the caravan park, they opened up another area of the park that has previously been closed- all very nice. I decided to go for a walk to locate the hotel (which I thought was just across the road) but I walked out the gate and turned right, walked two blocks one way and one block back the other way before I found the pub just across the road from where I came out of the gate.
Lovely to be back on the Murray River after so many months. We have nearly done a complete circle. The new riders did very well for their first day.
We all went to the pub for dinner and the food was pretty good except Di and Neil (who is a qualified chef) had the lamb shanks and weren't really impressed. Warm night overnight.
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Day 41: Gawler Rest Day
It's supposed to be 22 degrees today which sounds like a heatwave after the cold weather we have had this leg. Jacquei and I decided to go for a drive to check out some of the villages in the area and have breakfast out. We stopped at a little place called Williamstown which had the best op shop I have ever seen. I didn't buy anything but it was all so beautifully presented and the staff were absolute treasures. Breakfast was great as well.
Jacquei then went out for lunch with a friend, Collis took Peter into Adelaide and was then going to pick up Jen from the airport. I just did some shopping. Jim went to breakfast with Doug, Di and Peter and then I'm not sure how everyone's day panned out. Except for Doug, who managed to get his bike fixed. So he can ride with the group tomorrow.
Our two new riders are Jen and Neil.
Jacquei then went out for lunch with a friend, Collis took Peter into Adelaide and was then going to pick up Jen from the airport. I just did some shopping. Jim went to breakfast with Doug, Di and Peter and then I'm not sure how everyone's day panned out. Except for Doug, who managed to get his bike fixed. So he can ride with the group tomorrow.
Our two new riders are Jen and Neil.
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Day 40: Clare to Gawler
Everyone seemed to have a comfortable night except for a couple of (military- according to Jim) helicopters flew over in the early hours of e morning. It appears only Jim and Jacquei heard them so everyone else obviously did sleep well.
We left later today and stopped for a coffee at Auburn at a very nice cafe which catered for cyclists and they were very excited with what we were doing. We again stopped at another town on the way and had another morning tea. Peter is still on the bike path and still enjoying himself. Doug has damaged his cable and is riding on his own as he has very few gears and is going quite fast. Jacquei was riding with Di for awhile but then she dropped back to take photos.
We were all in at Gawler by lunchtime and were given a spot down by the creek on lovely green grass. Collis asked about a camp kitchen but all they have is the BBQ area. The manager came down with a fridge for us.
Tonight is Peter's last night and Collis ordered in pizzas and some wine and beer for the occassion. Tomorrow we have two new riders joining us for the last section home.
We left later today and stopped for a coffee at Auburn at a very nice cafe which catered for cyclists and they were very excited with what we were doing. We again stopped at another town on the way and had another morning tea. Peter is still on the bike path and still enjoying himself. Doug has damaged his cable and is riding on his own as he has very few gears and is going quite fast. Jacquei was riding with Di for awhile but then she dropped back to take photos.
We were all in at Gawler by lunchtime and were given a spot down by the creek on lovely green grass. Collis asked about a camp kitchen but all they have is the BBQ area. The manager came down with a fridge for us.
Tonight is Peter's last night and Collis ordered in pizzas and some wine and beer for the occassion. Tomorrow we have two new riders joining us for the last section home.
Day 39: Laura to Clare
Cold morning with frost and fog. The fire still had glowing embers so Jim was first up and got the fire going beautifully. Such a treat on this very icy day. They are predicting a lovely day by the afternoon so let's hope they are right.
Rolling hills and picturesque scenery with canola fields, wild life and wineries all the way. The day started with a coffee for Jacquei, Peter and Jim in town before leaving. Their stop was not planned and therefore Di and Doug were unaware and they ended up quite a fair way ahead of the group. We have to cater for the group as best we can and when they are so far apart it is not easy. Unfortunately Di and Doug were waiting for quite awhile and were not happy as they had got cold during the wait. We will have to reintroduce the times for morning tea and lunch so people can plan their day in advance- working out what time they will leave to manage to get to tea on time.
Peter rode the bike path for some of the way and thoroughly enjoyed himself. He came in quite a bit later than everyone else but saw much more than they did. This is what these rides are all about. I don't know how many times we have to remind the riders that it's not a race.
Collis and I decided to take a cabin tonight as our previous experiences of Clare are for extremely cold nights and I wanted an electric blanket. The riders have come prepared for the cold nights being equiped with down sleeping bags and thermals night wear whereas Collis is a minimalist and would allow me to pack an extra blanket or two for these cold nights (so now he can pay the price).
All the riders went out for dinner and we stayed in. I wonder how much we were discussed as both our ears were burning.
Rolling hills and picturesque scenery with canola fields, wild life and wineries all the way. The day started with a coffee for Jacquei, Peter and Jim in town before leaving. Their stop was not planned and therefore Di and Doug were unaware and they ended up quite a fair way ahead of the group. We have to cater for the group as best we can and when they are so far apart it is not easy. Unfortunately Di and Doug were waiting for quite awhile and were not happy as they had got cold during the wait. We will have to reintroduce the times for morning tea and lunch so people can plan their day in advance- working out what time they will leave to manage to get to tea on time.
Peter rode the bike path for some of the way and thoroughly enjoyed himself. He came in quite a bit later than everyone else but saw much more than they did. This is what these rides are all about. I don't know how many times we have to remind the riders that it's not a race.
Collis and I decided to take a cabin tonight as our previous experiences of Clare are for extremely cold nights and I wanted an electric blanket. The riders have come prepared for the cold nights being equiped with down sleeping bags and thermals night wear whereas Collis is a minimalist and would allow me to pack an extra blanket or two for these cold nights (so now he can pay the price).
All the riders went out for dinner and we stayed in. I wonder how much we were discussed as both our ears were burning.
Sunday, August 16, 2015
Day 38: Port Augusta to Laura
Cold old morning this morning with another thick fog. We chatted and gave some advice to some Korean cyclists that arrived last night- they are riding 7050 kms from the Gold Coast to Perth via Uluru and the Great Victorian Desert. They are supported by a Korean based company but they are carrying all their own clothes and they share one tent. All very basic. Also another guy who is unsupported and riding up to meet his son in Pimba. His son has ridden from Germany to Adelaide by the time he finishes.
Doug and Di are concerned about traffic out of Port Augusta and seem concerned regarding the climb over the Flinders Ranges (although I found out later that wasn't the case) so they left as soon as the sun appeared. They were going to ride to Melrose unsupported as the others didn't feel the need to leave so early.
We stopped at the lookout on top of Horrocks Pass and decided to have morning tea there. Lovely downhill ride into Wilmington and then onto Melrose for lunch. Di and Doug were still there when we arrived and they bought a couple of things at the bike shop. The shop had a welcome sign out for us when we arrived as well.
Then an easy ride into Laura although there was a little headwind for a short period but it soon turned around. Jacquei rode with a bee next to her for 5 minutes waiting for it to sting her but he just flew off.
Doug and Di are concerned about traffic out of Port Augusta and seem concerned regarding the climb over the Flinders Ranges (although I found out later that wasn't the case) so they left as soon as the sun appeared. They were going to ride to Melrose unsupported as the others didn't feel the need to leave so early.
We stopped at the lookout on top of Horrocks Pass and decided to have morning tea there. Lovely downhill ride into Wilmington and then onto Melrose for lunch. Di and Doug were still there when we arrived and they bought a couple of things at the bike shop. The shop had a welcome sign out for us when we arrived as well.
Day 37: Port Augusta Rest Day
Another lovely day once the fog lifted. Collis and I went out for breakfast then onto the flea market where I bought up big again. After this we went to the Arid Lands Botanical Gardens.
In the afternoon I dropped Collis off at the races before Jacquei and I went back to the botanical gardens for lunch. Peter arrived here just as we were finishing. Great local food at the gardens and plenty of it.
Group dinner tonight with Peter cooking a lamb roast, Di and Doug doing the veggies and gravy, Collis and I contributed a Quandong pie (bought at the market) and Jacquei bought a bottle of red wine. Jim doesn't like roast lamb so he went to the pub for dinner. He had sausages and mash. Great meal- thanks everyone.
In the afternoon I dropped Collis off at the races before Jacquei and I went back to the botanical gardens for lunch. Peter arrived here just as we were finishing. Great local food at the gardens and plenty of it.
Group dinner tonight with Peter cooking a lamb roast, Di and Doug doing the veggies and gravy, Collis and I contributed a Quandong pie (bought at the market) and Jacquei bought a bottle of red wine. Jim doesn't like roast lamb so he went to the pub for dinner. He had sausages and mash. Great meal- thanks everyone.
Day 36: Whyalla to Port Augusta
Everyone is looking forward to another rest day tomorrow so high spirits taking off today. They were warned that the traffic will start to increase even further from here into PA. cold and a little foggy today so take off was a little delayed waiting for the fog to lift slightly for better visibility.
Getting through Whyalla wasn't as bad as most of them thought it would be but Jim and Jacquei took a couple of wrong turns but still made good time. Morning tea was at the junction of the Eyre Highway and the Lincoln Highway. Lots of trucks and caravans around here but we were in a rest area so all good. Short run into PA from here so nice relaxed day(or so I thought).
The riders found riding into Port Augusta a bit hairy but I think they have forgotten what city travel is like after being out in the bush for so long. Anyway everyone made it in safely and settled into the caravan park by early afternoon.
Jacquei, Collis and I went and had lunch in town before going to the movies to see The Last Cab to Darwin with Michael Caton. Great movie and most of the places he stopped at, we had visited just in the last 5 months so this made it even more enjoyable. I cooked in tonight and early to bed.
Getting through Whyalla wasn't as bad as most of them thought it would be but Jim and Jacquei took a couple of wrong turns but still made good time. Morning tea was at the junction of the Eyre Highway and the Lincoln Highway. Lots of trucks and caravans around here but we were in a rest area so all good. Short run into PA from here so nice relaxed day(or so I thought).
The riders found riding into Port Augusta a bit hairy but I think they have forgotten what city travel is like after being out in the bush for so long. Anyway everyone made it in safely and settled into the caravan park by early afternoon.
Jacquei, Collis and I went and had lunch in town before going to the movies to see The Last Cab to Darwin with Michael Caton. Great movie and most of the places he stopped at, we had visited just in the last 5 months so this made it even more enjoyable. I cooked in tonight and early to bed.
Friday, August 14, 2015
Day 35: Cowell to Whyalla
Lovely sunrise this morning which we witnessed over the water. Everyone still very relaxed and weather is looking promising again today. The wind was more than favourable today and Doug said the scenery was the best so far. Actually we are back in saltbush territory so it was looking just the same to me. You do see different things when on the bike compared to what you see in the car.
We were into town early again and Collis dropped his car off for a wheel alignment. We are again camped on the foreshore and loving it. The camping area is a little cramped but the scenery make up for this. Peter is loving the amp kitchen so he is eating at home whereas Collis, Jim, Jacquei and myself went to the Spencer Hotel for tonight's special of soup and schnitzel for $15. Nice night. Doug and Di were deceived by the outer facade of both hotels so picked an expensive restaurant on the foreshore- apparently the food was good.
Collis watched the footy at th camp kitchen and the Swannies won his week.
We were into town early again and Collis dropped his car off for a wheel alignment. We are again camped on the foreshore and loving it. The camping area is a little cramped but the scenery make up for this. Peter is loving the amp kitchen so he is eating at home whereas Collis, Jim, Jacquei and myself went to the Spencer Hotel for tonight's special of soup and schnitzel for $15. Nice night. Doug and Di were deceived by the outer facade of both hotels so picked an expensive restaurant on the foreshore- apparently the food was good.
Collis watched the footy at th camp kitchen and the Swannies won his week.
Day 34: Tumby Bay to Cowell
Woke to some drizzle overnight and this continued on and off till morning tea- just enough to be annoying but not enough to be a nuisance. We were still able to pack up in the dry and between showers. Sad to say goodbye to Tumby Bay even though we had all those storms. The townspeople were all very friendly and it seemed like a really nice community.
As I said, we had drizzle till morning tea but after that the weather settled down and the temperature has started to climb slightly. Rolling sand dunes today with constant sightings of the water throughout the day. The water here is just so clear and a gorgeous colour of blue (anyone would think we were in the tropics if the weather warmed up).
Arrived into Cowell early afternoon and the first place everyone headed for was the hotel that was just around the corner from where we were camping. The hotel also sold coffee and hot freshly cooked donuts which Di, who doesn't normally eat donuts, partook and said they were fantastic. Collis and I refused to eat them In respect of our son who owns "Shortstop Coffee and Donuts" in CBD in Melbourne.
We are camped at the foreshore caravan park which is sort of on the foreshore but it is a long way to the water. Lovely spot with great views and a nice little walkway amongst the mangroves. Dinner t the pub and it was curry night so we all went curry.
As I said, we had drizzle till morning tea but after that the weather settled down and the temperature has started to climb slightly. Rolling sand dunes today with constant sightings of the water throughout the day. The water here is just so clear and a gorgeous colour of blue (anyone would think we were in the tropics if the weather warmed up).
Arrived into Cowell early afternoon and the first place everyone headed for was the hotel that was just around the corner from where we were camping. The hotel also sold coffee and hot freshly cooked donuts which Di, who doesn't normally eat donuts, partook and said they were fantastic. Collis and I refused to eat them In respect of our son who owns "Shortstop Coffee and Donuts" in CBD in Melbourne.
We are camped at the foreshore caravan park which is sort of on the foreshore but it is a long way to the water. Lovely spot with great views and a nice little walkway amongst the mangroves. Dinner t the pub and it was curry night so we all went curry.
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Day 33: Tumby Bay Rest Day
The weather got worse as the day went on yesterday and apparently six Telstra towers on the Eyre Penisular were knocked out by the storm. No communication available until early hours of the morning.
Yesterday Jacquei, Collis and I had a lovely afternoon checking out the local shops and I bought some great quilts and dolls for the grandchildren. Jacquei and I had a nice afternoon tea at the local cafe as well just as the worst part of the storm passed through.
Nice sleep in today and then we went for a drive to Port Neill which is a holiday village and then we went down some back dirt roads to check out the local country farms. My car is a bit of a mess now. The weather is still damp with drizzle on/off but by the afternoon the rain seemed to have moved on.
Yesterday Jacquei, Collis and I had a lovely afternoon checking out the local shops and I bought some great quilts and dolls for the grandchildren. Jacquei and I had a nice afternoon tea at the local cafe as well just as the worst part of the storm passed through.
Nice sleep in today and then we went for a drive to Port Neill which is a holiday village and then we went down some back dirt roads to check out the local country farms. My car is a bit of a mess now. The weather is still damp with drizzle on/off but by the afternoon the rain seemed to have moved on.
Day 32: Cummins to Tumby Bay
Lovely and quiet campsite until around 2.30 am when a train went through and sounded like an earthquake as it took off. Not long after some of the local roosters competed with each other with some unusual crows on/off until sunrise. The night had started off very cold and I had on my wooly hat and woollen headband just to keep my head heat in. But later through the night it seemed to warm up a little but the wind was very cold this morning- I had terrible trouble feeling my fingers.
Collis shouted everyone breakfast (as a surprise) down at the local bakery. The town folk are all very friendly and supportive of each other. The baker uses local meat in his pies etc, local grown wheat in his bread and milk from the local farmers. The local furniture maker was an interesting fellow who uses old style furniture making practices and will make to order.
The riders only have 40 kms today so we let them go at their own pace and we didn't have any breaks. There was a weather warning out with a severe 'low' forecast to pass over the Eyre Penisular today in the afternoon. Unfortunately it came a little earlier and everyone got wet. This weather has been forecast to last for 24- 48 hours so Collis and I had decided to take a room at the local hotel. The riders, when asked at breakfast, if they would camp and thei response was a positive as the weather is not part of their decision to upgrade or not. Funny thing was that they all decided to take cabins rather than camping (not that I blame them at all). Jacquei also decided to stay in the town.
Collis shouted everyone breakfast (as a surprise) down at the local bakery. The town folk are all very friendly and supportive of each other. The baker uses local meat in his pies etc, local grown wheat in his bread and milk from the local farmers. The local furniture maker was an interesting fellow who uses old style furniture making practices and will make to order.
The riders only have 40 kms today so we let them go at their own pace and we didn't have any breaks. There was a weather warning out with a severe 'low' forecast to pass over the Eyre Penisular today in the afternoon. Unfortunately it came a little earlier and everyone got wet. This weather has been forecast to last for 24- 48 hours so Collis and I had decided to take a room at the local hotel. The riders, when asked at breakfast, if they would camp and thei response was a positive as the weather is not part of their decision to upgrade or not. Funny thing was that they all decided to take cabins rather than camping (not that I blame them at all). Jacquei also decided to stay in the town.
Day 31: Elliston to Cummins
Woke to a lovely morning. Got a little blustery during the morning and coming in from the side at times. Everyone looking forward to the change of scenery.
The scenery changed dramatically as soon as we left the coast but this wasn't until the 70 km mark. Up till then we had rolling sandhills and sea views. It was looking a little gloomy by the time we stopped for lunch. Doug and Di decided to follow Jacquei's example from yesterday and they rode through with just a jell to keep them going. The others stopped for lunch and it started raining as they arrived so they waited out the rain before leaving. Unfortunately Doug and Di couldn't miss the rain.
Once they turned inland, the wind was behind them and they really had a lovely run into Cummins. The scenery was of canola fields and wheat fields which were all looking very healthy and everywhere very green.
Cummins was a pleasant little town and we stayed at the community caravan park. We had to get the ablution keys fro the local deli and they gave us the master key for the laundry. It started raining again as we arrived so the ground was a little muddy but the rain didn't last long and there was a great shelter to place all the luggage so that it didn't get wet. The laundry was free so I did a load and then able to use the dryer. Great to get everything clean again. The riders went down to the pub for dinner but Collis and I had a chicken at camp and Jacquei joined us. The showers at this camp were judged the best out of all of Australia- they were strong and hot with lots of room to move around and a dry spot to put your clothes.
The scenery changed dramatically as soon as we left the coast but this wasn't until the 70 km mark. Up till then we had rolling sandhills and sea views. It was looking a little gloomy by the time we stopped for lunch. Doug and Di decided to follow Jacquei's example from yesterday and they rode through with just a jell to keep them going. The others stopped for lunch and it started raining as they arrived so they waited out the rain before leaving. Unfortunately Doug and Di couldn't miss the rain.
Once they turned inland, the wind was behind them and they really had a lovely run into Cummins. The scenery was of canola fields and wheat fields which were all looking very healthy and everywhere very green.
Cummins was a pleasant little town and we stayed at the community caravan park. We had to get the ablution keys fro the local deli and they gave us the master key for the laundry. It started raining again as we arrived so the ground was a little muddy but the rain didn't last long and there was a great shelter to place all the luggage so that it didn't get wet. The laundry was free so I did a load and then able to use the dryer. Great to get everything clean again. The riders went down to the pub for dinner but Collis and I had a chicken at camp and Jacquei joined us. The showers at this camp were judged the best out of all of Australia- they were strong and hot with lots of room to move around and a dry spot to put your clothes.
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Day 30: Streaky Bay to Elliston
Early hours of this morning the wind really started to blow. We are expecting a couple of very strong lows to pass over us in th next couple of days. The wind has been blowing strongly all day with a couple of very short (couple of minutes short) bursts of drizzle.
A crosswind was experienced by the riders but mostly coming from behind. It was so good after morning tea that Jacquei didn't want to stop for lunch and just rode through. Everyone in by 1 pm.
Collis has had a discussion with the group this afternoon as he feels a change of itinerary is required. The discussion went well with everyone agreeable to the suggested changes. So tomorrow, instead of going to Coffin Bay we will head for Cummins and then a very short day the next day into Tumby Bay. We will have our rest day in Tumby Bay instead of Coffin Bay.
A crosswind was experienced by the riders but mostly coming from behind. It was so good after morning tea that Jacquei didn't want to stop for lunch and just rode through. Everyone in by 1 pm.
Collis has had a discussion with the group this afternoon as he feels a change of itinerary is required. The discussion went well with everyone agreeable to the suggested changes. So tomorrow, instead of going to Coffin Bay we will head for Cummins and then a very short day the next day into Tumby Bay. We will have our rest day in Tumby Bay instead of Coffin Bay.
Day 29: Ceduna to Streaky Bay
Everyone seems much better after a rest day following the long stretch across the Nullarbor. It felt everyone was apprehensive crossing the Nullarbor and are now much more relaxed and in a holiday mood. They have all found their riding mojo and are a lot more confident that they will make the whole distance. The group is starting to jell nicely.
Today we head down the Eyre Penisular with our first stop being Streaky Bay. The winds are favourable for most of the day and the temperature is in the low 20's- very nice. We see our first sight of water by just before lunchtime and it is magnificent.
We arrived in Streaky Bay by 1 pm after what the riders called a dream run. Doug said it was the best days ride yet. He did leave Di behind a little bit today so I'm not sure how she felt. The caravan park here is on the foreshore and we are right on the beach. The water is calm and serene creating a very relaxed afternoon.
Peter bought himself a dozen oysters and he got another dozen for Doug and Di. Everyone went to the pub for dinner and the food was very nice. The boys stayed behind (Jim and Collis that is) to watch the Swans game where they got slaughtered and also the OZ vs NZ rugby game where OZ beat the Kiwis. Poor Jim will not live that one down for awhile.
Today we head down the Eyre Penisular with our first stop being Streaky Bay. The winds are favourable for most of the day and the temperature is in the low 20's- very nice. We see our first sight of water by just before lunchtime and it is magnificent.
We arrived in Streaky Bay by 1 pm after what the riders called a dream run. Doug said it was the best days ride yet. He did leave Di behind a little bit today so I'm not sure how she felt. The caravan park here is on the foreshore and we are right on the beach. The water is calm and serene creating a very relaxed afternoon.
Peter bought himself a dozen oysters and he got another dozen for Doug and Di. Everyone went to the pub for dinner and the food was very nice. The boys stayed behind (Jim and Collis that is) to watch the Swans game where they got slaughtered and also the OZ vs NZ rugby game where OZ beat the Kiwis. Poor Jim will not live that one down for awhile.
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