After breakfast and packing up the camper Rena and I headed off up to Tcharkuldu Rock to explore it. There was some really great hidding holes as well as some interesting natural sculptures. Some of the rocks looked like the Devils Marbels formations.
After exploring the rock we headed back to the car whilst trying to escape the never ending flies, one thing that has plagued us has been flies and wind.
We headed to the highway and eastward.
When we past through Wudinna we stoped at a giant granite sculpture dedicated to the agriculturalist. Really well done.
We then hit the road again and called in to the Goyders Monument, we had camped at the monument that was on the eastern side of the Flinders Rangers so was interesting to look at this monument (even if it wasnt on the actual Goyders Line).
I made lunch whilst James squatted the flies. Boy they have been bad, and we escaped in to the car to eat it.
Next stop after lunch was Kimba, we tried to find the Giant Pink Galah, but alas, we haven't found it yet. (Tomorrow), we then headed up to the White's Knob lookout and the iron sculptures of Eyre and his aboriginal tracker. Very well done, worth the look. I had a quick look at the caves, 2 small caves in the hillside.
We then headed back to the Kimba Recreation Reserve and set up camp for the night. What a find, kids playground for Rena, HOT showers ($1 for 3 mins) for me, (YAY a REAL shower), water, toilets, and all free. This town really does welcome RV's.
Well we spent the afternoon relaxing and keeping Rena occupied until it had cooled down enough for her to go play in the playground. James did a tag with me and I came back and cooked dinner, was a novelty tonight, didnt have to fight the elements cooking outside, just had to worry about the flies.
Well after dinner, James and I did the tag team and went and had our showers, OMG it was so good to have a real shower and not have to turn the water on and off, and worry about every mil you were using.
After dinner we got talking to our neighbour, they come from Morayfield, so small world.
Saturday 12 October 2013
Day 244 - 245 Thursday 10th - Friday 11th October 2013; Location Phildappa Rock
Thursday 10th
What a difference a day can make, today it is overcast and showers, but not to hot, but still cold enough to keep the flies away.
We had slept in to 9am, but with getting use to the change in time zone, and adding daylight savings on to it, and not much sleep the last couple of nights, I think we all needed to sleep in.
Well after we got up, we had a nice relaxing day including a much needed shower, no more prickly heat after the last couple of really hot days.
James and I took turns at exploring the rock. Rena went with James and had a great time exploring Phildappa Rock.
It was afternoon before I climbed up on top, wow, what spectacular views from up on top. It was almost clear, so not to many clouds in the sky, but very windy. I didnt want to get to close to the edge because it was gusting.
This is definately a place that we would want to come back to explore again. It is a free camp, they just ask for a donation, which we did give. Toilet, Covered Picnic Area with light, BBQ and bins. very well laid out.
I cooked dinner just on dark to try and avoid the flies, was good not to have to contend with the flies whilst cooking.
After dinner James and I pulled out the maps and books to try and decide where to go to from here. We also wanted to work out wether it was worth buying another Parks SA Holiday Pass as we were going to go in to Gawler Ranges and maybe some other parks. We decided not to buy one at this point, but still couldnt really decide where to go. We will definately come back to SA for some of our 6 week holidays. There is just so much we still want to see here.
We are going to take it one day at a time, we still have about 6 weeks before we need to be back in Brisbane again, so why rush these things, if we like somewhere we will stay a few extra days, if we don't like it we will move on.
Both Rena & I have lifted spirits now that we have a home date. I will have so much to do when I get home, but really looking forward to being there and seeing my family again especially Leaston and my sooty cat. Missing both of them tremendously.
I then decided to hop the net for a little bit, and hopped on the myswag forum, read a thread which was titled 'Twilight Divorces' and had a good laugh, could relate quite well to some of the stories.
Friday 11th October
Woke up to a beautiful sunny day, hopefully the flies will stay away, but I highly doubt it.
We took our time and packed up before heading out to the Gawler Ranges and to the Organ Pipes, was a good drive but had to open and shut 3 gates on the way in and again on the way out.
Once we got to the Organ Pipes carpark, we took the easy 500 meter walk up to the Organ Pipes, it is amazing what nature has created.
After doing the walk and returning to the car, I decided to make lunch, but as the flies were that bad and intent on carrying us away, we decided that I would make lunch in the car, so at least we could attempt to eat lunch without the addition of flies.
We then headed back out of the Gawler Ranges and back to Minnipa, what a wonderful small community, we called in to the store and bought some bread and ice creams, and as I was paying for it, James asked if there was anywhere in town we could get water, and she let James have 20ltrs for free. Which was really nice of her.
We then headed down the road a little and in to the 2nd hand bookshop, so now James and I have something to read and they gave Rena a book to. :)
We then went and looked at the Concrete Crappa before heading back down highway number 1.
We then took the short dive out to Tchackuldu Rock. WOW what another amazing rock formation. Some of the rocks look like the Devils Marbels.
We drove around the rock looking at the camping options, we stopped and had a look at the original hut that has been restored, and then did the short drive down to the Tchackuldu Dam, this was the original water supply for the township. But has not been used for quite some time, James actually drove around the inside of the dam, it is now very very dry.
We headed back to the hut and set up camp near it as there was a nice flat spot next to an old concrete slab, perfect for us to set up next to. The hut was another very interesting find, it has a table and seats, as well as a visitor book (well pages) and someone had left some native flowers on the table along with some current womens magazines. All of the walls had been written on, I dont know if I agree with it, think I prefer to sign a visitor book to deface an historic building.
We set up camp, once again the flies were REALLY BAD, so we sat inside and had our cuppa as you couldn't even drink your tea without swallowing flies.
I waited until just on dark to cook dinner, and a fruit cake, getting good at cooking these cakes in the dream pot. mmm mmm. I think the fact that it wasnt blowing a gale made such a difference with the cooking of the cake.
What a difference a day can make, today it is overcast and showers, but not to hot, but still cold enough to keep the flies away.
We had slept in to 9am, but with getting use to the change in time zone, and adding daylight savings on to it, and not much sleep the last couple of nights, I think we all needed to sleep in.
Well after we got up, we had a nice relaxing day including a much needed shower, no more prickly heat after the last couple of really hot days.
James and I took turns at exploring the rock. Rena went with James and had a great time exploring Phildappa Rock.
It was afternoon before I climbed up on top, wow, what spectacular views from up on top. It was almost clear, so not to many clouds in the sky, but very windy. I didnt want to get to close to the edge because it was gusting.
This is definately a place that we would want to come back to explore again. It is a free camp, they just ask for a donation, which we did give. Toilet, Covered Picnic Area with light, BBQ and bins. very well laid out.
I cooked dinner just on dark to try and avoid the flies, was good not to have to contend with the flies whilst cooking.
After dinner James and I pulled out the maps and books to try and decide where to go to from here. We also wanted to work out wether it was worth buying another Parks SA Holiday Pass as we were going to go in to Gawler Ranges and maybe some other parks. We decided not to buy one at this point, but still couldnt really decide where to go. We will definately come back to SA for some of our 6 week holidays. There is just so much we still want to see here.
We are going to take it one day at a time, we still have about 6 weeks before we need to be back in Brisbane again, so why rush these things, if we like somewhere we will stay a few extra days, if we don't like it we will move on.
Both Rena & I have lifted spirits now that we have a home date. I will have so much to do when I get home, but really looking forward to being there and seeing my family again especially Leaston and my sooty cat. Missing both of them tremendously.
I then decided to hop the net for a little bit, and hopped on the myswag forum, read a thread which was titled 'Twilight Divorces' and had a good laugh, could relate quite well to some of the stories.
Friday 11th October
Woke up to a beautiful sunny day, hopefully the flies will stay away, but I highly doubt it.
We took our time and packed up before heading out to the Gawler Ranges and to the Organ Pipes, was a good drive but had to open and shut 3 gates on the way in and again on the way out.
Once we got to the Organ Pipes carpark, we took the easy 500 meter walk up to the Organ Pipes, it is amazing what nature has created.
After doing the walk and returning to the car, I decided to make lunch, but as the flies were that bad and intent on carrying us away, we decided that I would make lunch in the car, so at least we could attempt to eat lunch without the addition of flies.
We then headed back out of the Gawler Ranges and back to Minnipa, what a wonderful small community, we called in to the store and bought some bread and ice creams, and as I was paying for it, James asked if there was anywhere in town we could get water, and she let James have 20ltrs for free. Which was really nice of her.
We then headed down the road a little and in to the 2nd hand bookshop, so now James and I have something to read and they gave Rena a book to. :)
We then went and looked at the Concrete Crappa before heading back down highway number 1.
We then took the short dive out to Tchackuldu Rock. WOW what another amazing rock formation. Some of the rocks look like the Devils Marbels.
We drove around the rock looking at the camping options, we stopped and had a look at the original hut that has been restored, and then did the short drive down to the Tchackuldu Dam, this was the original water supply for the township. But has not been used for quite some time, James actually drove around the inside of the dam, it is now very very dry.
We headed back to the hut and set up camp near it as there was a nice flat spot next to an old concrete slab, perfect for us to set up next to. The hut was another very interesting find, it has a table and seats, as well as a visitor book (well pages) and someone had left some native flowers on the table along with some current womens magazines. All of the walls had been written on, I dont know if I agree with it, think I prefer to sign a visitor book to deface an historic building.
We set up camp, once again the flies were REALLY BAD, so we sat inside and had our cuppa as you couldn't even drink your tea without swallowing flies.
I waited until just on dark to cook dinner, and a fruit cake, getting good at cooking these cakes in the dream pot. mmm mmm. I think the fact that it wasnt blowing a gale made such a difference with the cooking of the cake.
Day 243 Wednesday 9th October 2013; Location - Kidnippy Rest Area
We set the alarm for 5.30 am in hope to get the camper packed up before the predicted storm front hit at sunrise.
Unfortunately for us the storm front hit at about midnight, and the wind really picked up, so we didnt get much sleep as Rena carried on like a pork chop every time we had a big gust of wind.
So at 5.30 am we turned off the alarm before it went off and got up and had breakfast in the dark, we had mostly packed up the camper at sunrise, but the flies were out in force, I couldnt breath as they were in my mouth, ears, eyes GRRRR HATE FLIES!!!!!!!
Packed up and on the road (before 7am) we headed east and got to Penang and stopped to use the facilities then we decided to do a short backtrack to go to Cactus Beach.
This was a good gravel road, and just before the pink lake there was a sign, slow down our wildlife is slow. There was lizards (mostly shinglebacks) all over the road. James stopped and picked one up and I took a picture of the beautiful lizard. :) We have now seen many pink lakes, they are an amazing sight to see.
We got out to the Port LeHunt Jetty, what a little gem, there was a sign strictly no camping, but there was a caravan and a tent there. Nice netted swimming area, tragically years ago a 10 yr old boy had lost his life at this point from a shark, so the local area made the area safe to swim by netting it.
We didnt go over to Cactus Beach, just looked from afar as it was blowing a gale and threatening to rain. More lizards on the way out. Cute :). The backpackers that were packing up their tent at the jetty came flying past us at a 100 miles an hour only to have to slam on the brakes when a car in front of them slammed on their brakes to miss a lizard, didnt slow them down one bit, overtook the other car and recommenced their dash to the finish line. Idiots, accident waiting to happen.
We headed back to Highway No1 and through the quarantine checkpoint near Ceduna. I hopped out the car, handed over our last apple and avocado from the fridge, and he said 'off you go before you get blown away', thankfully didnt have to open the camper or pantry up only the fridge.
We then drove through Ceduna and down to the turnoff for Streaky Bay. I wanted to see what this side of the Eyre Penninsula looked like. Very rural with lots of wheat/grain farms along the way.
When we got to Streaky Bay, it was very windy, but much cooler, the cold front had already hit here, so we had some reprieve from the previous days heat. We pulled up at the Apex Park and had lunch, once again eating it in the car as the flies were to bad to be able to eat outside.
Used the dump point, paid for 20ltrs of water at the dispenser and off we went again.
We then headed back to Highway No1 at Poochera and headed out to Phildappa Rock to set up camp for the night.
When we got to Phildappa Rock, what an amazing place, where you are approaching it it looks so awesome, and the wave formations. We got out of the car and well the cold front had not yet hit here and it was about 40 degrees and the flies were really bad.
We set up the camper and because the flies were so bad, couldnt sit outside, so we were all humped up in the camper waiting for the cooler weather or dark so we could venture outside without being carried away by the flies. James was the only one who could cope with the flies so he was the only one venturing outside to do anything. Thankfully no bees today.
Well I think that the lack of sleep over the past couple of nights, the heat, and the flies broke me, and I cracked it. Both Rena and I had sweat pouring out of us. It was just so hot and there was no relief. I was ready to get in the car, unhook the camper and drive off on my own.
Thankfully I lied down and must of had a micro nap as after about 10 min lie down I felt much better, so after sunset I went out and cooked dinner, the cold front finally came through and things cooled down a little bit.
Unfortunately for us the storm front hit at about midnight, and the wind really picked up, so we didnt get much sleep as Rena carried on like a pork chop every time we had a big gust of wind.
So at 5.30 am we turned off the alarm before it went off and got up and had breakfast in the dark, we had mostly packed up the camper at sunrise, but the flies were out in force, I couldnt breath as they were in my mouth, ears, eyes GRRRR HATE FLIES!!!!!!!
Packed up and on the road (before 7am) we headed east and got to Penang and stopped to use the facilities then we decided to do a short backtrack to go to Cactus Beach.
This was a good gravel road, and just before the pink lake there was a sign, slow down our wildlife is slow. There was lizards (mostly shinglebacks) all over the road. James stopped and picked one up and I took a picture of the beautiful lizard. :) We have now seen many pink lakes, they are an amazing sight to see.
We got out to the Port LeHunt Jetty, what a little gem, there was a sign strictly no camping, but there was a caravan and a tent there. Nice netted swimming area, tragically years ago a 10 yr old boy had lost his life at this point from a shark, so the local area made the area safe to swim by netting it.
We didnt go over to Cactus Beach, just looked from afar as it was blowing a gale and threatening to rain. More lizards on the way out. Cute :). The backpackers that were packing up their tent at the jetty came flying past us at a 100 miles an hour only to have to slam on the brakes when a car in front of them slammed on their brakes to miss a lizard, didnt slow them down one bit, overtook the other car and recommenced their dash to the finish line. Idiots, accident waiting to happen.
We headed back to Highway No1 and through the quarantine checkpoint near Ceduna. I hopped out the car, handed over our last apple and avocado from the fridge, and he said 'off you go before you get blown away', thankfully didnt have to open the camper or pantry up only the fridge.
We then drove through Ceduna and down to the turnoff for Streaky Bay. I wanted to see what this side of the Eyre Penninsula looked like. Very rural with lots of wheat/grain farms along the way.
When we got to Streaky Bay, it was very windy, but much cooler, the cold front had already hit here, so we had some reprieve from the previous days heat. We pulled up at the Apex Park and had lunch, once again eating it in the car as the flies were to bad to be able to eat outside.
Used the dump point, paid for 20ltrs of water at the dispenser and off we went again.
We then headed back to Highway No1 at Poochera and headed out to Phildappa Rock to set up camp for the night.
When we got to Phildappa Rock, what an amazing place, where you are approaching it it looks so awesome, and the wave formations. We got out of the car and well the cold front had not yet hit here and it was about 40 degrees and the flies were really bad.
We set up the camper and because the flies were so bad, couldnt sit outside, so we were all humped up in the camper waiting for the cooler weather or dark so we could venture outside without being carried away by the flies. James was the only one who could cope with the flies so he was the only one venturing outside to do anything. Thankfully no bees today.
Well I think that the lack of sleep over the past couple of nights, the heat, and the flies broke me, and I cracked it. Both Rena and I had sweat pouring out of us. It was just so hot and there was no relief. I was ready to get in the car, unhook the camper and drive off on my own.
Thankfully I lied down and must of had a micro nap as after about 10 min lie down I felt much better, so after sunset I went out and cooked dinner, the cold front finally came through and things cooled down a little bit.
 | |
| Rena and James with the shingleback lizard |
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| Port LeHunte Jetty |
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| The pink lake |
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| the view from our camp at Phildappa Rock |
Day 242 Tuesday 8th October 2013; Location - West Eucla Bight
What a beautiful day if it was not for all the flies and the wind.
We packed up camp and headed back to Highway No1 and headed into Eucla and crossed over from WA into SA.
The boarder check here is for people travelling west we dont have to be ispected until we get to Ceduna as we are travelling eastward. Fresh fruit and vegis for a couple more days yet. :)
We stopped at the service station and whilst James frequented the facilities Rena got to play on the playground where there was a very old tractor, and all the play equipment looked like it had been there since I was a kid. There was also the Eucla Whale, a big whale at that welcoming people to visit Albany.
We then headed down to the Old Telegraph Station ruins to have a look, we got out the car and instantly we were hit with the very hot dry wind. Was so hot it was burning your eyes, and yes there were thousands of flies.
We had a look at the ruins. I would imagine that it will not be long at all before the ruins are overtaken by the sand dunes. Makes you wonder if they will take away some of the sand to keep it as a tourist attraction or let nature take its course.
It is hard to believe that white man and the introduction of rabbits could cause such devistation, apparently there was a rabbit plague that ate all the dune vegetation and cause the dunes to destabalise and this is the result many years later.
We hopped back in the car, was nice to be out of the wind and flies and in the comfort of air conditioning again.
Back to highway no1 and on to the Great Australian Bight were we called in to the three lookouts, it was just so hot and windy and the flies. Yeah I know I am going on a bit about the flies, but OMG they are so bad.
We got to the Kidnippy Rest Area and tried to find a spot out of the wind with some shade, but didnt have much success. We set up camp, and we went inside as the flies and march flies were so bad you just couldnt be outside.
Not long after we were having a cuppa (thanks James for putting up with the flies and making me a cuppa) and I heard a buzzing sound and thought it might be march flies swarming us, but unfortunately it was bees swarming, they had invaded the sink to get to water and were starting to cover the canvas on the camper and trying to get inside as well. Well as I am alergic to bees, so my wonderful hubby who is not alergic to bees went outside to try and persuade the bees to move on. All he had was a can of Off! and a tea towel :).
Well we were all very glad to see sunset, it was still stinking hot, but at least the flies had gorn away, James cooked dinner, but was invaded by flying ants attracted to the light.
I peeled all the vegis inside as I was going to make a vegetable lasagna and vegi bake to freeze to use up the last of the fresh vegis, but when I went outside to try and cook them I failed miserably, the flying ants just got in to everything, so I bagged it all up and put it in the freezer, as I could take frozen vegis across the boarder.
I did manage to cook the corned beef with only a few flying ants involved. I managed to cook it in the dream pot, love my dream pot, has made such a difference on this trip.
Hopped on the net and was suppose to of got to between 39 and 41 today and I believe it, felt hotter. No air conditioning in the camper trailer, oh yes i do, its called open all the windows and let the hot air blow through :) ahhh they joys of camping.
We packed up camp and headed back to Highway No1 and headed into Eucla and crossed over from WA into SA.
The boarder check here is for people travelling west we dont have to be ispected until we get to Ceduna as we are travelling eastward. Fresh fruit and vegis for a couple more days yet. :)
We stopped at the service station and whilst James frequented the facilities Rena got to play on the playground where there was a very old tractor, and all the play equipment looked like it had been there since I was a kid. There was also the Eucla Whale, a big whale at that welcoming people to visit Albany.
We then headed down to the Old Telegraph Station ruins to have a look, we got out the car and instantly we were hit with the very hot dry wind. Was so hot it was burning your eyes, and yes there were thousands of flies.
We had a look at the ruins. I would imagine that it will not be long at all before the ruins are overtaken by the sand dunes. Makes you wonder if they will take away some of the sand to keep it as a tourist attraction or let nature take its course.
It is hard to believe that white man and the introduction of rabbits could cause such devistation, apparently there was a rabbit plague that ate all the dune vegetation and cause the dunes to destabalise and this is the result many years later.
We hopped back in the car, was nice to be out of the wind and flies and in the comfort of air conditioning again.
Back to highway no1 and on to the Great Australian Bight were we called in to the three lookouts, it was just so hot and windy and the flies. Yeah I know I am going on a bit about the flies, but OMG they are so bad.
We got to the Kidnippy Rest Area and tried to find a spot out of the wind with some shade, but didnt have much success. We set up camp, and we went inside as the flies and march flies were so bad you just couldnt be outside.
Not long after we were having a cuppa (thanks James for putting up with the flies and making me a cuppa) and I heard a buzzing sound and thought it might be march flies swarming us, but unfortunately it was bees swarming, they had invaded the sink to get to water and were starting to cover the canvas on the camper and trying to get inside as well. Well as I am alergic to bees, so my wonderful hubby who is not alergic to bees went outside to try and persuade the bees to move on. All he had was a can of Off! and a tea towel :).
Well we were all very glad to see sunset, it was still stinking hot, but at least the flies had gorn away, James cooked dinner, but was invaded by flying ants attracted to the light.
I peeled all the vegis inside as I was going to make a vegetable lasagna and vegi bake to freeze to use up the last of the fresh vegis, but when I went outside to try and cook them I failed miserably, the flying ants just got in to everything, so I bagged it all up and put it in the freezer, as I could take frozen vegis across the boarder.
I did manage to cook the corned beef with only a few flying ants involved. I managed to cook it in the dream pot, love my dream pot, has made such a difference on this trip.
Hopped on the net and was suppose to of got to between 39 and 41 today and I believe it, felt hotter. No air conditioning in the camper trailer, oh yes i do, its called open all the windows and let the hot air blow through :) ahhh they joys of camping.
Day 241 Monday 7th October 2013; Location - Moonera Tank
We seem to be waking up earlier each day, might have something to do with heading east :)
Packed up camp and eastward we go. Saw one lone Emu and some lizards as the landscaped changed as we crossed the Nullabor.
We came down of the tableland and onto the plains. What a change in scenery.
We decided that we would take a sidetrack and go down and have a look at the West Eucla Bight to see if it was good enough to camp at.
We got to the GPS point and there was 2 tracks one to the left and one to the right. We decided to take the track to the left. It didnt go to far, and at the dead end there was a trap for feral birds, so we decided that we wouldnt camp here for the night as there wasnt anywhere suitable.
We then went back and took the track to the right, glad we had a camper trailer and wouldnt like to see the bush car wash job on a caravan.
When we got to the point where the track went between the 2 sand dunes we picked our spot and set up camp. The beach here was beautiful. There was alot of sea weed on the beach, but wasnt stinking to bad at all which was surprising. As with most of the places we have been in WA since leaving Broome, it is very windy and a plethora of flies, so I am glad that we are between the dunes, it is still windy but at least we are getting a little bit of protection, enough to be able to camp here.
Later in the day we were surprised as a caravan came past us and set up camp up the track a bit, hate to see the damage to the van from the bush car wash.
I lost my patience trying to cook dinner, outside in the elements again. I am so over trying to cook outside in the weather, rain hail or shine I have to cook outdoors, the attempts I have gone to to try and keep this family happily fed. As I keep mumbling to myself 'Im over it', even Rena is now imitating me, so I think I am saying it way too often.
I haven't had any wine or anything to drink since Exmouth, so that isn't helping either, such a tease when I have a couple of dozen bottles of red sitting at home too ;(
Tomorrow we head further east. James is taking his time sticking to 80 lkms an hour, so it is going to be a long trip home. I think the thought of all the work I have to do (and him too and finding a new job) might have something to do with him not wanting to rush it. :)
But at the end of the day, we are still living the dream.
Packed up camp and eastward we go. Saw one lone Emu and some lizards as the landscaped changed as we crossed the Nullabor.
We came down of the tableland and onto the plains. What a change in scenery.
We decided that we would take a sidetrack and go down and have a look at the West Eucla Bight to see if it was good enough to camp at.
We got to the GPS point and there was 2 tracks one to the left and one to the right. We decided to take the track to the left. It didnt go to far, and at the dead end there was a trap for feral birds, so we decided that we wouldnt camp here for the night as there wasnt anywhere suitable.
We then went back and took the track to the right, glad we had a camper trailer and wouldnt like to see the bush car wash job on a caravan.
When we got to the point where the track went between the 2 sand dunes we picked our spot and set up camp. The beach here was beautiful. There was alot of sea weed on the beach, but wasnt stinking to bad at all which was surprising. As with most of the places we have been in WA since leaving Broome, it is very windy and a plethora of flies, so I am glad that we are between the dunes, it is still windy but at least we are getting a little bit of protection, enough to be able to camp here.
Later in the day we were surprised as a caravan came past us and set up camp up the track a bit, hate to see the damage to the van from the bush car wash.
I lost my patience trying to cook dinner, outside in the elements again. I am so over trying to cook outside in the weather, rain hail or shine I have to cook outdoors, the attempts I have gone to to try and keep this family happily fed. As I keep mumbling to myself 'Im over it', even Rena is now imitating me, so I think I am saying it way too often.
I haven't had any wine or anything to drink since Exmouth, so that isn't helping either, such a tease when I have a couple of dozen bottles of red sitting at home too ;(
Tomorrow we head further east. James is taking his time sticking to 80 lkms an hour, so it is going to be a long trip home. I think the thought of all the work I have to do (and him too and finding a new job) might have something to do with him not wanting to rush it. :)
But at the end of the day, we are still living the dream.
Day 240 Sunday 6th October 2013; Location - Newman Rocks
Not a bad spot to wake up to, far enough away from the road not to be woken up by any road noise.
however, FLIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rena woke up early with it being her birthday, and she had great delight in opening her presents. She got a hobby horse that is a pink unicorn pony that neighs and makes noises, the Littlest Pet Shop Zoo, (loves LPS), a fury friends kitten that she has named princess which purrs and makes noises when you pat it (now goes with the cat that Aunty Jenny bought her for Christmas) absolutely loves both. 2 paint books and and new camp chair, so we now have one very happy little girl.
We took our time packing up after breakfast to let Rena have some time to play with her new toys.
We stopped just after 1 pm at Moonera Tank and after we set up camp, I made a little birthday lunch for Rena with lots of good party food, and she had a chocolate mud cake with princesses, crowns, ponys and butterflies on top. I made a lattice biscuit vanilla slice for her too but she didnt like it (so more for James and I to eat)
All in all she had a really good birthday lunch. So later in the afternoon James and I took turns at taking her for a walk to burn off some of the excess energy from all that party food.
We had an easy late dinner as we were all pretty full after Renas birthday party. Once Rena was in bed James and I sat outside for while and enjoyed the evening before it chilled down to much. It was such a nice night.
however, FLIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rena woke up early with it being her birthday, and she had great delight in opening her presents. She got a hobby horse that is a pink unicorn pony that neighs and makes noises, the Littlest Pet Shop Zoo, (loves LPS), a fury friends kitten that she has named princess which purrs and makes noises when you pat it (now goes with the cat that Aunty Jenny bought her for Christmas) absolutely loves both. 2 paint books and and new camp chair, so we now have one very happy little girl.
We took our time packing up after breakfast to let Rena have some time to play with her new toys.
We stopped just after 1 pm at Moonera Tank and after we set up camp, I made a little birthday lunch for Rena with lots of good party food, and she had a chocolate mud cake with princesses, crowns, ponys and butterflies on top. I made a lattice biscuit vanilla slice for her too but she didnt like it (so more for James and I to eat)
All in all she had a really good birthday lunch. So later in the afternoon James and I took turns at taking her for a walk to burn off some of the excess energy from all that party food.
We had an easy late dinner as we were all pretty full after Renas birthday party. Once Rena was in bed James and I sat outside for while and enjoyed the evening before it chilled down to much. It was such a nice night.
Day 239 Saturday 5th October 2013; Location - Kumarl Siding
Up early and on the road reasonably early. I think Rena and I are really looking forward to heading home, on the other hand I dont think that James is.
We called in to Noresman, what a quaint little town, with lots of artwork around the town. We called in to the IGA and I got a cake (choc mud cake Rena's fav) and some stuff for Rena's birthday tomorrow.
We then went to the tourist information centre to get some info on crossing the Nullabor. Very friendly staff member, he was new and one of the people there was getting very stroppy with him because he wanted a refund for a pass and didnt want to fill out any paper work, he kept saying 'the OTHER person does it for me all the time, she just does it all for me and gives me my money back just like that', well to the grumpy traveler, GRRR to you. Most of the people who work in the tourist info centres are volunteers, as is the case at Norseman, the guy was new and was trying his best, and this guy was so rude, just because he had changed his mind and didnt want the pass anymore, GRRR to you.
We then went and checked out the Norseman Horse sculptures and then the Camel sculptures before heading to the petrol station to top up the tank. Got to love long range fuel tanks, hurts when you fill them right up, but it means that we have been able to fill up when cheap and drive past the expensive fuel, which will be the case crossing the Nullabor, wont need to fuel up again until we are well inside SA.
It has been really interesting watching the changing landscapes as we have traversed WA, especially all the wildflowers, it will now be interesting to see how the landscape changes as we cross the Nullabor.
We hit the road again and got as far as Newman Rocks and went to check them out, lots of interesting rocks, but not suitable for a camper trailer as very open, so we decided to head back to the main campground and set up camp there as there was a table and a fire.
After we had set up camp, James lit the fire so that we could get some coals going, Lamb Shanks in the camp over for dinner tonight, mm mmmm.
Camp oven on, and the lamb shanks on a nice slow cook I made a vanilla slice (lattice biscuit type) for Rena's party tomorrow. Got to love no cook recipes. I wrapped the spuds and sweet potato and onions in foil and we threw them in the coals as well, so was a nice easy dinner tonight.
There was alot of flies so we waited until well after dark before we ate (gave the lamb shanks more time to cook) it was nice to eat without fighting the flies for my food.
We ended up washing up tonight instead of in the morning (normally do this to conserve water) as I didn't want to have to contend with the flies in the morning.
We called in to Noresman, what a quaint little town, with lots of artwork around the town. We called in to the IGA and I got a cake (choc mud cake Rena's fav) and some stuff for Rena's birthday tomorrow.
We then went to the tourist information centre to get some info on crossing the Nullabor. Very friendly staff member, he was new and one of the people there was getting very stroppy with him because he wanted a refund for a pass and didnt want to fill out any paper work, he kept saying 'the OTHER person does it for me all the time, she just does it all for me and gives me my money back just like that', well to the grumpy traveler, GRRR to you. Most of the people who work in the tourist info centres are volunteers, as is the case at Norseman, the guy was new and was trying his best, and this guy was so rude, just because he had changed his mind and didnt want the pass anymore, GRRR to you.
We then went and checked out the Norseman Horse sculptures and then the Camel sculptures before heading to the petrol station to top up the tank. Got to love long range fuel tanks, hurts when you fill them right up, but it means that we have been able to fill up when cheap and drive past the expensive fuel, which will be the case crossing the Nullabor, wont need to fuel up again until we are well inside SA.
It has been really interesting watching the changing landscapes as we have traversed WA, especially all the wildflowers, it will now be interesting to see how the landscape changes as we cross the Nullabor.
We hit the road again and got as far as Newman Rocks and went to check them out, lots of interesting rocks, but not suitable for a camper trailer as very open, so we decided to head back to the main campground and set up camp there as there was a table and a fire.
After we had set up camp, James lit the fire so that we could get some coals going, Lamb Shanks in the camp over for dinner tonight, mm mmmm.
Camp oven on, and the lamb shanks on a nice slow cook I made a vanilla slice (lattice biscuit type) for Rena's party tomorrow. Got to love no cook recipes. I wrapped the spuds and sweet potato and onions in foil and we threw them in the coals as well, so was a nice easy dinner tonight.
There was alot of flies so we waited until well after dark before we ate (gave the lamb shanks more time to cook) it was nice to eat without fighting the flies for my food.
We ended up washing up tonight instead of in the morning (normally do this to conserve water) as I didn't want to have to contend with the flies in the morning.
Day 238 Friday 4th October 2013; Location - Munglinup Beach
Well the wind picked up last night, and between it and my toothache (which came back with a vengeance) and my right knee which I have done something to the crucial ligament I didn't get very much sleep last night.
I got up at 6am and went down to the beach to have a look around, what a difference 12 hours makes, yesterday it was so clear and pretty, this morning, it is overcast and blowing a gale and the sea is grey.
Thankfully our campsite is somewhat protected, still not fully out of the wind but we are not being hit with the worst of the wind.
We packed up camp and headed for Esperance, we wanted to know if we could go out to Cape Arid National Park, with all this rain we didnt know if the roads would be open. So we called in to the info centre but they didnt have an up to date report so sent us off to DEC to ask them.
We went and parked the cruiser and camper (Esperance is not an RV friendly town when it comes to parking) and walked back to the DEC office, unfortunately for us it was closed. The notice on the board outside said that most of the roads were closed. So that put that one out. We would miss out of Cape Arid and would have to go via Norseman.
We went back to the car and I made lunch, flies again, so ate in between squatting flies.After refueling the bodies it was time to go and refuel the car. So off to the service station and topped up the cruiser.
We then headed back out of to the highway and headed for Norseman. We got as far as Kumarl Siding and decided to stay here for the night.
Not a bad spot for a roadside, was close to the road and a railway line on the other side of the road, but all in all the noise wasn't too bad, was more noise from a fellow traveler and his generator than the road.
I got up at 6am and went down to the beach to have a look around, what a difference 12 hours makes, yesterday it was so clear and pretty, this morning, it is overcast and blowing a gale and the sea is grey.
Thankfully our campsite is somewhat protected, still not fully out of the wind but we are not being hit with the worst of the wind.
We packed up camp and headed for Esperance, we wanted to know if we could go out to Cape Arid National Park, with all this rain we didnt know if the roads would be open. So we called in to the info centre but they didnt have an up to date report so sent us off to DEC to ask them.
We went and parked the cruiser and camper (Esperance is not an RV friendly town when it comes to parking) and walked back to the DEC office, unfortunately for us it was closed. The notice on the board outside said that most of the roads were closed. So that put that one out. We would miss out of Cape Arid and would have to go via Norseman.
We went back to the car and I made lunch, flies again, so ate in between squatting flies.After refueling the bodies it was time to go and refuel the car. So off to the service station and topped up the cruiser.
We then headed back out of to the highway and headed for Norseman. We got as far as Kumarl Siding and decided to stay here for the night.
Not a bad spot for a roadside, was close to the road and a railway line on the other side of the road, but all in all the noise wasn't too bad, was more noise from a fellow traveler and his generator than the road.
Day 237 Thursday 3rd October 2013; Location - Fitzgerald River (Jacup)
All packed up we hit the road, eastward bound, YAY!!!
We called in to Ravenswood as I needed to visit the chemist and post office. What a friendly little town. The chemist and I had a good chat, she fell in love with Rena and wanted to know all about how she was coping with the trip, she had 2 kids and wanted to do the trip as well. I said just do it, there will never be a right time, you just have to take the plunge and do it.
The post office was very friendly too, was a mixture of a toy store and post office, glad Rena wasnt with me. There was so much barbie stuff I am sure I wouldn't of got out the door without having to buy something.
James went across to the IGA and said that it was stocked with just about everything. I suppose these country stores have to hold alot of different stock.
Back on the road and we headed to Hopetoun, as it was now a beautiful sunny day with light winds. We went down to the town park and Rena got to play at the playground whilst I made lunch. Flies, I tell you they will be the end of me, they are so bad down here.
I went to the IGA and got some bread before getting back in the car, caught up with mum and dad and my sooty boy (Sam the cat that is) we then hit the road again. Really missing both my boys greatly. :(
We headed to Minglinup Beach to camp for the night as there is suppose to be free showers there. Need a shower. Minglinup Beach is west of Esperance but sounded like a nice spot.
We arrived at Minglinup Beach and set up camp, was hot, lots of flies and windy, but was home for the night. The free showers were cold, so we decided to set up our camp shower and have a hot shower instead using the water here instead. (Was a bit brackish)
It was nice to be clean again. I was lucky I got the first shower with our water, James and Rena got the showers using the local water :).
I cooked dinner then I went for a quick walk down to the beach to take a bow peep, wow spectacular, can see why this spot is so popular. I watched the sun start to set and went back so James could come back with his camera and get some good shots of the sunset.
Beautiful red sunset, although the BOM forecast for tomorrow is not all that promising.
Nice night, start were out.
We called in to Ravenswood as I needed to visit the chemist and post office. What a friendly little town. The chemist and I had a good chat, she fell in love with Rena and wanted to know all about how she was coping with the trip, she had 2 kids and wanted to do the trip as well. I said just do it, there will never be a right time, you just have to take the plunge and do it.
The post office was very friendly too, was a mixture of a toy store and post office, glad Rena wasnt with me. There was so much barbie stuff I am sure I wouldn't of got out the door without having to buy something.
James went across to the IGA and said that it was stocked with just about everything. I suppose these country stores have to hold alot of different stock.
Back on the road and we headed to Hopetoun, as it was now a beautiful sunny day with light winds. We went down to the town park and Rena got to play at the playground whilst I made lunch. Flies, I tell you they will be the end of me, they are so bad down here.
I went to the IGA and got some bread before getting back in the car, caught up with mum and dad and my sooty boy (Sam the cat that is) we then hit the road again. Really missing both my boys greatly. :(
We headed to Minglinup Beach to camp for the night as there is suppose to be free showers there. Need a shower. Minglinup Beach is west of Esperance but sounded like a nice spot.
We arrived at Minglinup Beach and set up camp, was hot, lots of flies and windy, but was home for the night. The free showers were cold, so we decided to set up our camp shower and have a hot shower instead using the water here instead. (Was a bit brackish)
It was nice to be clean again. I was lucky I got the first shower with our water, James and Rena got the showers using the local water :).
I cooked dinner then I went for a quick walk down to the beach to take a bow peep, wow spectacular, can see why this spot is so popular. I watched the sun start to set and went back so James could come back with his camera and get some good shots of the sunset.
Beautiful red sunset, although the BOM forecast for tomorrow is not all that promising.
Nice night, start were out.
Day 235 - 236 Tuesday 1st - Wednesday 2nd October 2013; Location - Cosy Corner (East)
Tuesday 1st October
Today we headed in to Albany to do the laundry and the shopping.
First port of call the Dog Rock Laundry. This was great value $3 wash and $1 for 10 mins in the dryer, but they were good. 15 mins and my sheets and towels were dry. Oh and they clothes came out of the washing machines clean not just washed. BONUS!!
We then went to coles and did the restock shop. OUCH!! At least we will not need to restock now for a couple of weeks and will well and truly get us over the boarder.
I then popped in to KMart as I wanted to get Rena a couple more birthday presents, the LPS set I wanted is only stocked at Big W so I got her the Zoo set instead. I think that she will be happy with it anyway.
Next port of call was Spotlight as I had run out of wool. My project is a blanket for Rena that I have been crocheting but have run out of wool. So off we go and find Spotlight but they dont have any wool that is suitable so I pick another lot of wool and will make Rena a scarf, if this horrible weather keeps up she will use it.
We then went and visited James sisters sister in law for a while. This was great for Rena as Tonya had 2 kids a boy 5 and girl 7. Rena was in heaven, kids and toys to play with.
Unfortunately we had to leave about 5 pm as we needed to get back to camp so that I could stow away all the groceries, make all the beds, put away the washing and cook dinner in the mix.
Well we got back just on dark, so James helped me get the groceries stowed away, I then cooked dinner, before making the beds, and putting the clothes away.
Poor little Rena by the time we got her sorted and in her bed it was 9pm. Late night for her.
One would think that after such a busy day I would have been out like a light, but no I had one of those nights and just couldnt get to sleep. (Thinking of home and what I need to do when I get there I think)
Wednesday 2nd October
Woke up to an absolutely beautiful sunny day.
During the night we had some new arrivals a family from Perth with 4 kids. So Rena had her breakfast and went over to say hello. I followed and talked to the parents for quite some time, he is an environmental scientist now working for the WA government. Was very interesting listening to what they are doing.
Rena got to play for a long time, (we did chat for a while) and James potted around the camp, the time came and I had to pull Rena away so I could go back and pack up the camper (still not comfortable about leaving Rena at other peoples camps no matter how nice they are).
Once we had packed up the family came over to say goodbye to Rena, a very nice family :). We then headed back out to the main road and in to Albany so we could refuel the cruiser.
We called in to the replica ship site and took a few photos but didnt realise that you have to pay just to step on the deck and as I had left my purse back in the car, we just looked at it from a distance.
We then went to the museum, and once again needed cash which was back in the car so we looked from outside.
We then went to the replica jetty and read the signs before heading back to the car and off to the service station to refuel.
The 24/7 station was our selected outlet, however the card machine would not allow James to put more than $100 worth of diesel in the car at a time, and each time charging a surcharge for using the eftpos, so 4 attempts we finally got the cruiser full. (Even with the surcharge was still cheaper than Coles with the discount).
We headed back out onto the highway and headed east, we called in to a rest area and had lunch before hitting the road again.
We kept going until we got to our camp for the night, big rest area, with lots of space, only one other van was there.
What we did notice was that there wasn't as many wildflowers in this part of the country I wonder if the September rains had something to do with that.
Today we headed in to Albany to do the laundry and the shopping.
First port of call the Dog Rock Laundry. This was great value $3 wash and $1 for 10 mins in the dryer, but they were good. 15 mins and my sheets and towels were dry. Oh and they clothes came out of the washing machines clean not just washed. BONUS!!
We then went to coles and did the restock shop. OUCH!! At least we will not need to restock now for a couple of weeks and will well and truly get us over the boarder.
I then popped in to KMart as I wanted to get Rena a couple more birthday presents, the LPS set I wanted is only stocked at Big W so I got her the Zoo set instead. I think that she will be happy with it anyway.
Next port of call was Spotlight as I had run out of wool. My project is a blanket for Rena that I have been crocheting but have run out of wool. So off we go and find Spotlight but they dont have any wool that is suitable so I pick another lot of wool and will make Rena a scarf, if this horrible weather keeps up she will use it.
We then went and visited James sisters sister in law for a while. This was great for Rena as Tonya had 2 kids a boy 5 and girl 7. Rena was in heaven, kids and toys to play with.
Unfortunately we had to leave about 5 pm as we needed to get back to camp so that I could stow away all the groceries, make all the beds, put away the washing and cook dinner in the mix.
Well we got back just on dark, so James helped me get the groceries stowed away, I then cooked dinner, before making the beds, and putting the clothes away.
Poor little Rena by the time we got her sorted and in her bed it was 9pm. Late night for her.
One would think that after such a busy day I would have been out like a light, but no I had one of those nights and just couldnt get to sleep. (Thinking of home and what I need to do when I get there I think)
Wednesday 2nd October
Woke up to an absolutely beautiful sunny day.
During the night we had some new arrivals a family from Perth with 4 kids. So Rena had her breakfast and went over to say hello. I followed and talked to the parents for quite some time, he is an environmental scientist now working for the WA government. Was very interesting listening to what they are doing.
Rena got to play for a long time, (we did chat for a while) and James potted around the camp, the time came and I had to pull Rena away so I could go back and pack up the camper (still not comfortable about leaving Rena at other peoples camps no matter how nice they are).
Once we had packed up the family came over to say goodbye to Rena, a very nice family :). We then headed back out to the main road and in to Albany so we could refuel the cruiser.
We called in to the replica ship site and took a few photos but didnt realise that you have to pay just to step on the deck and as I had left my purse back in the car, we just looked at it from a distance.
We then went to the museum, and once again needed cash which was back in the car so we looked from outside.
We then went to the replica jetty and read the signs before heading back to the car and off to the service station to refuel.
The 24/7 station was our selected outlet, however the card machine would not allow James to put more than $100 worth of diesel in the car at a time, and each time charging a surcharge for using the eftpos, so 4 attempts we finally got the cruiser full. (Even with the surcharge was still cheaper than Coles with the discount).
We headed back out onto the highway and headed east, we called in to a rest area and had lunch before hitting the road again.
We kept going until we got to our camp for the night, big rest area, with lots of space, only one other van was there.
What we did notice was that there wasn't as many wildflowers in this part of the country I wonder if the September rains had something to do with that.
Day 232 - 234 Saturday 28th - Monday 30th September 2013; Location - Parry's Beach Campground
Saturday 28th September
Today we went in to Denmark and did a quick shop and the tourist drive around town. (I am glad we didnt have the camper on the back at IGA would not have been able to park anywhere).
On our way back to camp we called in to see Green Pool and Elephant Rocks, it was very windy but very pretty. Even with the choppy ocean you could see why locals like the area so much.
Rena and I took the stairs down to go walk through the Elephant Rocks but as the tide was almost all the way in we had to turn around and come back. We would have got slightly wet if we had of went any further.
We then climbed the stairs back up to the top and met James, he was a bit more adventourous than us and got wet but got some different photos of the Elephant Rocks, in the mean time Rena and I walked around to Green Pool and back to the car where we waited for James to return.
After lunch I made a mars bar slice which would help me with a chocolate fix. Haven't had chocolate in so long craving it. At least the mars bar slice is a weight watchers recipe (that's if you can resist it and not eat to much of it "Evil Grin")
Slice made we basically spent the rest of the day relaxing and dodging the cold wet weather.
It rained on and off for most of the day, I am missing my home. We (well Rena & I) are on a countdown now, we both can't wait until we get back to warmer weather. 15 degree max days and freezing nights.
Early night due to the weather, but at least we are out of the wind here.
Sunday 29th September
Spent the day humped up in the camper, was very cold and wet.
By mid afternoon the pre paid broadband stick had reached its limit, so no internet for James for a couple of days.
James kindly erected a tarp over the kitchen so that I could cook dinner whilst it was raining.
After dinner it was an early to bed, to bloody cold to do anything else.
Fully clothed and under all the blankets, James even put the thermal blanket on the roof of the camper in an attempt to make things warmer.
Monday 30th September
We packed up camp with the sun trying to break through the clouds.
We headed back out on to the highway and James drove past the Honey Winery, which was just as well, as they had honey ice cream mmmm mmmm :)
Anyway we took the Albany scenic route and then side tracked out to West Cape Howe, we drove in to the Cosy Corner West day use area and had a look around, nice spot. Back in the car we drove to the Shelly Beach lookout which had a nice outlook. Then down to Shelly Beach. This is a very remote campground, I don't think I would like to be here in this weather. BYO everything.
As we had the camper trailer on the back we decided that we would not take the 4WD track to Torbay Head and the walk to the most Southern point in WA. The wind was quite brisk and the track look rather well used and sandy.
We then drove back to Cosy Corner East and found a spot and set up camp. The spot we chose had prospects of sunshine, so we were happy.
After setting up camp we sat in the sun eating lunch before the clouds came back overhead again and blocked out our sunshine.
Rena helped me make a cake and had great delight in licking the bowl. The joys of childhood.
The cake turned out really well much to Rena's delight. (Dreampot, wonderful)
Today we went in to Denmark and did a quick shop and the tourist drive around town. (I am glad we didnt have the camper on the back at IGA would not have been able to park anywhere).
On our way back to camp we called in to see Green Pool and Elephant Rocks, it was very windy but very pretty. Even with the choppy ocean you could see why locals like the area so much.
Rena and I took the stairs down to go walk through the Elephant Rocks but as the tide was almost all the way in we had to turn around and come back. We would have got slightly wet if we had of went any further.
We then climbed the stairs back up to the top and met James, he was a bit more adventourous than us and got wet but got some different photos of the Elephant Rocks, in the mean time Rena and I walked around to Green Pool and back to the car where we waited for James to return.
After lunch I made a mars bar slice which would help me with a chocolate fix. Haven't had chocolate in so long craving it. At least the mars bar slice is a weight watchers recipe (that's if you can resist it and not eat to much of it "Evil Grin")
Slice made we basically spent the rest of the day relaxing and dodging the cold wet weather.
It rained on and off for most of the day, I am missing my home. We (well Rena & I) are on a countdown now, we both can't wait until we get back to warmer weather. 15 degree max days and freezing nights.
Early night due to the weather, but at least we are out of the wind here.
Sunday 29th September
Spent the day humped up in the camper, was very cold and wet.
By mid afternoon the pre paid broadband stick had reached its limit, so no internet for James for a couple of days.
James kindly erected a tarp over the kitchen so that I could cook dinner whilst it was raining.
After dinner it was an early to bed, to bloody cold to do anything else.
Fully clothed and under all the blankets, James even put the thermal blanket on the roof of the camper in an attempt to make things warmer.
Monday 30th September
We packed up camp with the sun trying to break through the clouds.
We headed back out on to the highway and James drove past the Honey Winery, which was just as well, as they had honey ice cream mmmm mmmm :)
Anyway we took the Albany scenic route and then side tracked out to West Cape Howe, we drove in to the Cosy Corner West day use area and had a look around, nice spot. Back in the car we drove to the Shelly Beach lookout which had a nice outlook. Then down to Shelly Beach. This is a very remote campground, I don't think I would like to be here in this weather. BYO everything.
As we had the camper trailer on the back we decided that we would not take the 4WD track to Torbay Head and the walk to the most Southern point in WA. The wind was quite brisk and the track look rather well used and sandy.
We then drove back to Cosy Corner East and found a spot and set up camp. The spot we chose had prospects of sunshine, so we were happy.
After setting up camp we sat in the sun eating lunch before the clouds came back overhead again and blocked out our sunshine.
Rena helped me make a cake and had great delight in licking the bowl. The joys of childhood.
The cake turned out really well much to Rena's delight. (Dreampot, wonderful)
Day 231 Friday 27th September 2013; Location - Mt Burnside Rest Area
Last night was quiet even with being on highway no1, but it was bitterly cold.
We packed up camp and hit the road. Today both Rena & I are feeling the cold and missing home. Rena keeps asking about Penny and how long until we get home.
Still no reply from the real estate agent, you would think that asking what the end date of the lease would be an easy question to answer wouldnt you.
We did the Valley of the Giants drive before heading to Parry Beach and setting up camp.
Nice sheltered campground, cheap at $10 a night for the site, but no power, but they do have Solar showers. So if no sun no hot showers.
We set up camp and I headed off to the shower block to see if there had been enough sun to heat the water, and bonus had a warm shower. Was nice not to stop and start the shower.
Once back at camp James and I did a tag and he went off to have his shower.
Early night tonight, bitterly cold.
We packed up camp and hit the road. Today both Rena & I are feeling the cold and missing home. Rena keeps asking about Penny and how long until we get home.
Still no reply from the real estate agent, you would think that asking what the end date of the lease would be an easy question to answer wouldnt you.
We did the Valley of the Giants drive before heading to Parry Beach and setting up camp.
Nice sheltered campground, cheap at $10 a night for the site, but no power, but they do have Solar showers. So if no sun no hot showers.
We set up camp and I headed off to the shower block to see if there had been enough sun to heat the water, and bonus had a warm shower. Was nice not to stop and start the shower.
Once back at camp James and I did a tag and he went off to have his shower.
Early night tonight, bitterly cold.
Day 230 Thursday 26th September 2013; Location - Alexander Bridge Camping Area
Thankfully last night we could hear the wind but it wasn't affecting us. Nice little sheltered spot.
Once we had packed up we headed to the Glouchester Tree $11 park entry to go look at the tree, glad we had our annual pass. James climbed the tree and I let Rena climb about 10 rungs before she climbed down. The wind was howling so we watched the tree sway as James got to the top and back down again.
We then went to the Bicentennial Tree, and James went half way up, as it was bitterly cold and Rena was hungry I headed back to the car to make a start on lunch whilst watching James in the tree. Once again $11 park entry to look at a tree. Go annual pass. :)
James came down and joined Rena and I whilst the kettle boiled, was nice to have a bit of protection so we could boil the kettle. It was Bloody Cold!!!!!
James found out once he was down the bottom that there was a geocache up the top of the tree. But he didnt go back up the tree, something about legs, sore, other tree :) I shall leave it at that. :)
We had lunch and a nice hot cuppa and then headed back down the highway, very beautiful forest drive. Many tall trees around these parts.
We stopped at the Mt Burnside Rest Area and it rained and on off, so we stayed in the camper and occasionally between the showers had a look at the local birds that were teasing James and his camera. The temperature just kept dropping and getting cooler and cooler.
Fast and easy soup and toast for dinner tonight, too cold to stay out here to long to cook tonight. Oh and the rain too. :) ahhh the joys of cooking outside in the elements.
Once we had packed up we headed to the Glouchester Tree $11 park entry to go look at the tree, glad we had our annual pass. James climbed the tree and I let Rena climb about 10 rungs before she climbed down. The wind was howling so we watched the tree sway as James got to the top and back down again.
We then went to the Bicentennial Tree, and James went half way up, as it was bitterly cold and Rena was hungry I headed back to the car to make a start on lunch whilst watching James in the tree. Once again $11 park entry to look at a tree. Go annual pass. :)
James came down and joined Rena and I whilst the kettle boiled, was nice to have a bit of protection so we could boil the kettle. It was Bloody Cold!!!!!
James found out once he was down the bottom that there was a geocache up the top of the tree. But he didnt go back up the tree, something about legs, sore, other tree :) I shall leave it at that. :)
We had lunch and a nice hot cuppa and then headed back down the highway, very beautiful forest drive. Many tall trees around these parts.
We stopped at the Mt Burnside Rest Area and it rained and on off, so we stayed in the camper and occasionally between the showers had a look at the local birds that were teasing James and his camera. The temperature just kept dropping and getting cooler and cooler.
Fast and easy soup and toast for dinner tonight, too cold to stay out here to long to cook tonight. Oh and the rain too. :) ahhh the joys of cooking outside in the elements.
Day 229 Wednesday 25th September 2013; Location - Pine Plantation Picnic Area
Well this is the latest that I have slept in to for ages. Didnt get out of bed until 9am. Had my cuppa first that my wonderful husband made me and gave to me in bed. I am getting quite spoilt with the cuppa in bed each morning, will be hard to give this one up when we get home.
Then it was time to make Rena's 2nd most favorite breakfast Crumpets.
James spent the morning trying to solve a puzzle geocache. Needless to say by the time we had packed up and left James had still not solved the puzzle. Drove him mad. :) (Was funny to watch his brain ticking over trying to solve it and all the attempts he made trying to find it)
We then headed to Cape Naturaliste and did the lighthouse loop walk and down to the whale watching platform, unfortunately it was too rough for us to see anything out to sea, but the information boards were quite interesting and informative.
We then took the road back to Caves Road and James seemed to miss every turnoff back out to the coast, we did take one turn but it took us down a goat track so James had to do some very careful reversing to turn the camper and cruiser around.
We took the road all the way down to Augusta, but as it was now getting late we didnt got to Cape Leuin.
There was some really tall trees along this drive and alot of wineries to drive past and not a taste of one drop. But alas James was behind the wheel and he doesnt drink wine.. If it was rum.. well...... :)
We arrived at our selected Wikicamps campspot and it was just a carpark, bitumen at that so we had to pick another spot, this one was approximately 15 klms away so reverse out of that one and back on the road.
The spot at Alexander River has very limited spaces down by the river but we got a spot up the back. If you wanted a flat spot down near the toilet and river I think you would need to get here very early.
Had a cuppa and then cooked dinner. The ranger came around and collected our dues for the night and the mozzies moved in. They were bad, could carry you away and ate the Off tropical strength for breakfast.
Then it was time to make Rena's 2nd most favorite breakfast Crumpets.
James spent the morning trying to solve a puzzle geocache. Needless to say by the time we had packed up and left James had still not solved the puzzle. Drove him mad. :) (Was funny to watch his brain ticking over trying to solve it and all the attempts he made trying to find it)
We then headed to Cape Naturaliste and did the lighthouse loop walk and down to the whale watching platform, unfortunately it was too rough for us to see anything out to sea, but the information boards were quite interesting and informative.
We then took the road back to Caves Road and James seemed to miss every turnoff back out to the coast, we did take one turn but it took us down a goat track so James had to do some very careful reversing to turn the camper and cruiser around.
We took the road all the way down to Augusta, but as it was now getting late we didnt got to Cape Leuin.
There was some really tall trees along this drive and alot of wineries to drive past and not a taste of one drop. But alas James was behind the wheel and he doesnt drink wine.. If it was rum.. well...... :)
We arrived at our selected Wikicamps campspot and it was just a carpark, bitumen at that so we had to pick another spot, this one was approximately 15 klms away so reverse out of that one and back on the road.
The spot at Alexander River has very limited spaces down by the river but we got a spot up the back. If you wanted a flat spot down near the toilet and river I think you would need to get here very early.
Had a cuppa and then cooked dinner. The ranger came around and collected our dues for the night and the mozzies moved in. They were bad, could carry you away and ate the Off tropical strength for breakfast.
Day 228 Tuesday 24th September 2013; Location - Waggerup Parking Area
Woke up to another wet morning, but James made me a cuppa in bed. Getting use to this will be hard habbit to break.
We had breakfast and starting pack up but not in time. The heavens opened up so sit in the car and wait it out. It is about now that I wish we had to money for a cabin/house for a week until this bad weather passes. 32 hot and sunny back home today :)
We did the drive to Bunbury, but it was blowing a gale, and showers on and off, we went and had a look at the harbour, and then we parked the car down by the ocean and did the walk up to the Bunbury lighthouse then the Apex lookout. Poor Rena almost got blown away up the town it was fairly howling.
We got back to the car just in time and the heavens opened up again.
We then drove down to Busselton so that I could visit toyworld. On the way we called in to a servo and got some take away for lunch and a cuppa we were so bitterly cold. We needed a hot cuppa to warm up and hot chips.
We then drove to Busselton and off I went on my mission to toyworld. Success!!!! got Rena the hobby horse pony that she so desperately wanted for her birthday plus a few other things. Off to coles and a hot chook for dinner. Buggar cooking in this weather.
We were going to go down to the jetty but forgot, it was raining so we just went to the spare parts place so James could get something he needed and we then headed to our campspot for the night, hopeing that it would be out of the wind, as a gale was expected to hit again tonight.
We picked well and it was a nice protected spot in a pine plantation, so I managed to cook James a fruit cake.
I also managed to update my spreadsheet with the stats and then got some emails off.
By the time that I had finished all this and downloaded the photos of the digital camera it was well after 10.30 pm, the predicted gale had hit, we could hear it in the tree tops but we were protected where we were.
We had breakfast and starting pack up but not in time. The heavens opened up so sit in the car and wait it out. It is about now that I wish we had to money for a cabin/house for a week until this bad weather passes. 32 hot and sunny back home today :)
We did the drive to Bunbury, but it was blowing a gale, and showers on and off, we went and had a look at the harbour, and then we parked the car down by the ocean and did the walk up to the Bunbury lighthouse then the Apex lookout. Poor Rena almost got blown away up the town it was fairly howling.
We got back to the car just in time and the heavens opened up again.
We then drove down to Busselton so that I could visit toyworld. On the way we called in to a servo and got some take away for lunch and a cuppa we were so bitterly cold. We needed a hot cuppa to warm up and hot chips.
We then drove to Busselton and off I went on my mission to toyworld. Success!!!! got Rena the hobby horse pony that she so desperately wanted for her birthday plus a few other things. Off to coles and a hot chook for dinner. Buggar cooking in this weather.
We were going to go down to the jetty but forgot, it was raining so we just went to the spare parts place so James could get something he needed and we then headed to our campspot for the night, hopeing that it would be out of the wind, as a gale was expected to hit again tonight.
We picked well and it was a nice protected spot in a pine plantation, so I managed to cook James a fruit cake.
I also managed to update my spreadsheet with the stats and then got some emails off.
By the time that I had finished all this and downloaded the photos of the digital camera it was well after 10.30 pm, the predicted gale had hit, we could hear it in the tree tops but we were protected where we were.
Day 227 Monday 23rd September 2013; Location - Brockman River Parking Area
Well the wind that hit didnt effect us, we had a nice little protected spot. The rain held off long enough for us to have breakfast and pack up camp.
We then headed towards Perth via the Swam Valley. Very very pretty if not a little wet. You could see that they have had alot of rain lately.
We topped up the tanks at Upper Swan Valley then put the coords in the GPS for Kings Park and headed towards the city.
It was very pretty along the Swan River, but as it was blowing a gale, the river was very gray and choppy. We didnt get to Kings Park thanks to the road works that were going on. So we crossed back over the Swan River and headed towards Freemantle.
We went down to West End at Freemantle but James couldnt find any suitable parking so he kept driving, we did a cooks tour of the industrial area and tried to follow the coast down to Rockingham. Very Industrial, Rockingham had some multi million dollar mansions with views to kill for.
We called in to the Rockingham Plaza and went to Wollies to get some essentials, Rena saw a camp chair and really wanted it and when we said no decided to throw a wobbly. GRRR 4 year olds in supermarkets should be banned :D :D :D
Back to the car and I let James put Rena in whilst I snuck back to Wollies to get the chair for her birthday, it is a flat folding one and she really wants a flat folding chair like mine. So I relented and bought the Dora camping chair and snuck it back to the car.
We then headed down the coast and to Lake Clifton as we wanted to see the Thrombolites. Once again it started to rain and Rena made a dash back to the car. I tried to take some photos but had to do a run for it myself. The tide was wrong, the weather was wrong so we really didnt get to see the Thrombolites except through the merky water.
Late lunch made on my lap on the front seat, as not only was there rain, but there was mozzies and midggies by the millions here.
We then headed to our campspot for the night near Wagerup.
It was raining on and off so we didnt bother getting the chairs out of the car and I made a quick omelet between showers for dinner. Nothing quite like standing outside in the freezing rain holding an umbrella cooking dinner.
Even though we were between the main road and the main rail line it was peaceful enough to go to sleep.
The rain and wind has worn me down, I have the Camper Blues and want to go home to my nice dry warm house.
We then headed towards Perth via the Swam Valley. Very very pretty if not a little wet. You could see that they have had alot of rain lately.
We topped up the tanks at Upper Swan Valley then put the coords in the GPS for Kings Park and headed towards the city.
It was very pretty along the Swan River, but as it was blowing a gale, the river was very gray and choppy. We didnt get to Kings Park thanks to the road works that were going on. So we crossed back over the Swan River and headed towards Freemantle.
We went down to West End at Freemantle but James couldnt find any suitable parking so he kept driving, we did a cooks tour of the industrial area and tried to follow the coast down to Rockingham. Very Industrial, Rockingham had some multi million dollar mansions with views to kill for.
We called in to the Rockingham Plaza and went to Wollies to get some essentials, Rena saw a camp chair and really wanted it and when we said no decided to throw a wobbly. GRRR 4 year olds in supermarkets should be banned :D :D :D
Back to the car and I let James put Rena in whilst I snuck back to Wollies to get the chair for her birthday, it is a flat folding one and she really wants a flat folding chair like mine. So I relented and bought the Dora camping chair and snuck it back to the car.
We then headed down the coast and to Lake Clifton as we wanted to see the Thrombolites. Once again it started to rain and Rena made a dash back to the car. I tried to take some photos but had to do a run for it myself. The tide was wrong, the weather was wrong so we really didnt get to see the Thrombolites except through the merky water.
Late lunch made on my lap on the front seat, as not only was there rain, but there was mozzies and midggies by the millions here.
We then headed to our campspot for the night near Wagerup.
It was raining on and off so we didnt bother getting the chairs out of the car and I made a quick omelet between showers for dinner. Nothing quite like standing outside in the freezing rain holding an umbrella cooking dinner.
Even though we were between the main road and the main rail line it was peaceful enough to go to sleep.
The rain and wind has worn me down, I have the Camper Blues and want to go home to my nice dry warm house.
Day 226 Sunday 22nd September 2013; Location - Nobby Head North
What a night, the wind, we were battered, we didnt get much sleep at all last night.
We packed up camp and headed down the road and got to the Pinnacles and headed in $11 entry but our Annual Pass covered that. We were not allowed to drive the camper trailer around the Pinnacles so we parked and unhooked the camper next to the other caravans which had done the same and headed around in the cruiser.
It was a bleak and bitterley cold day with bursts of sunshine, so we managed to get some shots in, got to the main lookout in the middle and well I made it back to the car but the heavens opened up. By this time Rena was refusing to get out of the car as it was too cold for her.
We finished the drive and I took photos from the passenger seat. Rena had a really good point, it was wet and cold, why get out of the car.
We got back to the car park and by this time the sun was back out (for a little while at least) and hooked up the camper again then headed in to the interpretative centre. Very interesting, just wish I didnt have a very active 4 year old with me so I could have read all of what was on display. The lighting in the place meant that I couldnt do what I normally do with Rena and take a photo and read it later.
We then headed in to the shop and I bought a little book on the Pinnacles, very interesting read.
We then headed back to the car and took off back to the coast road, a little while down the road (as I went back to the shop to get the book and left James to take Rena and put her in the car) if he had picked up the wheel chock for the camper. DOH!!!! no he hadn't so u turn and we go back and collect the chock. Luckily no one had picked it up. (we had done exactly that back in VIC when someone had driven off and left it behind we are rather attached to it now, and no we never caught up to the van to give it back either).
We stoped at the Moore River Rest Area and had a late lunch and checked it out to see if we could camp there the night, but it was very tight and not really suitable. We were talking to a local couple for ages who were on there way home. Very nice couple who gave us a heads up on a few nice places to visit.
We decided that we would head inland to try and get out of this horrible wind.
Whilst going through Bindoon I got some fresh mandarins, oranges and avocados from a road side stall. mmm mmm they were all very nice.
We got to the Brockman River Parking Area and the wind wasnt too bad, it was raining on and off, but we managed to set up in the dry.
Early to bed tonight, as we were all very tired.
We packed up camp and headed down the road and got to the Pinnacles and headed in $11 entry but our Annual Pass covered that. We were not allowed to drive the camper trailer around the Pinnacles so we parked and unhooked the camper next to the other caravans which had done the same and headed around in the cruiser.
It was a bleak and bitterley cold day with bursts of sunshine, so we managed to get some shots in, got to the main lookout in the middle and well I made it back to the car but the heavens opened up. By this time Rena was refusing to get out of the car as it was too cold for her.
We finished the drive and I took photos from the passenger seat. Rena had a really good point, it was wet and cold, why get out of the car.
We got back to the car park and by this time the sun was back out (for a little while at least) and hooked up the camper again then headed in to the interpretative centre. Very interesting, just wish I didnt have a very active 4 year old with me so I could have read all of what was on display. The lighting in the place meant that I couldnt do what I normally do with Rena and take a photo and read it later.
We then headed in to the shop and I bought a little book on the Pinnacles, very interesting read.
We then headed back to the car and took off back to the coast road, a little while down the road (as I went back to the shop to get the book and left James to take Rena and put her in the car) if he had picked up the wheel chock for the camper. DOH!!!! no he hadn't so u turn and we go back and collect the chock. Luckily no one had picked it up. (we had done exactly that back in VIC when someone had driven off and left it behind we are rather attached to it now, and no we never caught up to the van to give it back either).
We stoped at the Moore River Rest Area and had a late lunch and checked it out to see if we could camp there the night, but it was very tight and not really suitable. We were talking to a local couple for ages who were on there way home. Very nice couple who gave us a heads up on a few nice places to visit.
We decided that we would head inland to try and get out of this horrible wind.
Whilst going through Bindoon I got some fresh mandarins, oranges and avocados from a road side stall. mmm mmm they were all very nice.
We got to the Brockman River Parking Area and the wind wasnt too bad, it was raining on and off, but we managed to set up in the dry.
Early to bed tonight, as we were all very tired.
Day 225 Saturday 21st September 2013; Location - Ellendale Pool
Well with James snoring down a whole forest last night I didnt get much sleep. Really wish I had some earplugs for nights like this.
We packed up camp and headed south west. No going back to Geraldton to check it out :( no Yeeda meat either or a restock of food. :(
We stoped at the Windfarm rest area and had a look at the wind farm. They had one of the blades on display HUGE!!
We headed for the coast road, and came across the cheapest fuel we had seen in a long time at South Greenough so James put some diesel in the tank and I got some tomatoes.
We headed for Nobby Head North and did a bit of a drive around to try and find a spot out of the wind, and camped near the toilet we thought that we were protected out of the wind so set up camp.
I managed to cook a beef goulash for dinner before the weather turned on us, which was right on dark.
It howled all night long, what a horrible night
We packed up camp and headed south west. No going back to Geraldton to check it out :( no Yeeda meat either or a restock of food. :(
We stoped at the Windfarm rest area and had a look at the wind farm. They had one of the blades on display HUGE!!
We headed for the coast road, and came across the cheapest fuel we had seen in a long time at South Greenough so James put some diesel in the tank and I got some tomatoes.
We headed for Nobby Head North and did a bit of a drive around to try and find a spot out of the wind, and camped near the toilet we thought that we were protected out of the wind so set up camp.
I managed to cook a beef goulash for dinner before the weather turned on us, which was right on dark.
It howled all night long, what a horrible night
Day 223 - 224 Thursday 19th - Friday 20th September 2013; Location - Anchorage Caravan Park, Kalbarri
Today I started the day with the pilgrimage to the laundry, but at 7.30am all the machines were in use so I had to stand and wait my time. No jumping the queue here. Was an all ladies event too. No males standing in line washing. Fancy that.
All the clothes washed and hung out to dry we hit the road to go and explore the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs.
What a truely spectacular coastline.
All the clothes washed and hung out to dry we hit the road to go and explore the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs.
What a truely spectacular coastline.
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