Friday the 1st
The first day of winter and it sure was. It was very cold this morning and after I had my walk and returned to the motorhome we started the heater to warm us up.
That was strange for we were to have our breakfast outside in the morning sun that was warming the day. There was Pelican just sitting on the Billabong amongst the slight fog on the water. (I have been calling the Billabong a Lagoon and that was not case so when we now talk about Kings Billabong that is the correct name)
We sat and read our books until lunch time then it was time for a shower and to get Liz into the Surgery for her Biopsy. We had to travel down Eleventh Street and we again are amazed that it is over 8 kilometres in length.

How time goes in a day for Liz had her appointment for 1.40 pm and did not come out of the surgery until after 3pm. We will now not know about the result until thursday of next week and as previously stated that result will determine our future travels. We drove to the end of Eleventh Street and found Mitre 11 which we did not visit. We were surprised to see Camels in this climate both the desert coloured and a dark brown lot. There was a donkey there who brayed at the top of his voice whilst we taking photo's.
We then travelled over to the Marina where the really plush houseboats were moored and whilst there we went into the cafe and had a cappuccino each.
We then drove over the bridge once again into NSW and then turned off towards the Caravan Park that was well patronised. We pulled into the office for houseboat hire and no one being there we took more pamphlets and the price list for various houseboats which frightened us as to the cost just for three days.
We headed back to camp and as it was now after 4pm we loaded up our chairs and refreshments and went over to Bruce Point to visit the blokes. We spent a pleasant two hours there before heading home in the dark.
After our meal we settled into watch the football on television Sydney V Carlton and then off to bed to read our books for awhile. It will be cold again in the morning though this is not to bad if we have a sunny day to follow.

Saturday the 2nd
A warmer night and morning with the sun shining once again. We both went for a walk alongside the Billabong and the usual water fowls, pelicans and swans were going about their business. We picked up some dry branches and out came the chainsaw cut this up and then cut some green wood as a back log for the fire. Then the fire was set for tonight. We sat outside and had our breakfast in the sun and then cleaned our camp and then out with the generator for we need power this morning to operate the computer for our host is going to finalise the web site on the server.
This went well and now we are back in business and I was able to load all the photo's and doings of the rest of May. Before we knew it we had spent so much time on the web site that it was lunch time. After lunch we decided to go over to Merbein to look at our old camping area.

Welcome to Merbein

Great Ceramic art Merbein

Date Palms Merbein

We allowed the GPS to guide us to Merbein though it was true to say that we recalled the road to take even though it was some five years when we were last there. It is only 12 kilometres from Mildura so it wasn't long before we came across the sign Welcoming us to Merbein. We needed bread so the first stop was the supermarket and that's all we bought noting that the prices for meat and groceries were higher than Mildura. We thought we would then take a cappuccino each down to our old camp area beside the Murray River and enjoy it. We forgot that shops and other stores close at 12 noon on a saturday so other than a fish shop the supermarket and the service station everything was closed.
No Cappuccino so down to the camp area sat in the sun looking at the property's across the river and the few houseboats that were moored by the banks. The day was great with the sun beaming down with no clouds so we enjoyed looking at our old campsite that some happy campers were occupying. We had one happy camper join us and he indicated after awhile that he had a mining lease for Opal at Lightning Ridge which he would be going back to shortly. Having been there a few times it was good to talk to him for we knew what he was saying.
We then drove along the foreshore and there were plenty of happy campers set up. Then it was time to go back to Mildura. We were to see a few ceramic pieces of art and they looked very good.
We then decided to go to the deck of the rowing club where we had a cappuccino and a lemon slice each which was great. We noted the quietness of the area and on the river there was a sculler just gliding along the river and looking upstream we were to see through the bridge piers a houseboat coming from the marina onto the Murray River proper.
We then headed for home for we are expecting Gerhard and Bruce for happy hour and to cook food on the fire for us all. We stopped to drop off our rubbish and then filled the water drums before returning to camp.
Back to camp and lit the fire and stoke it up then placed our grill over it and cooked our meal we all had a few frothy's and Liz a wine. We then had a backpacker come join us for awhile. We said our farewell to Gerhard and Bruce and after they left we came inside to watch the AFL Football.

Sunday the 3rd
A little warmer this morning only required a T-shirt as we walked along the path of the Billabong. We were to see heaps of Pelicans both swimming along and those others were perched on stumps. We were to see a cormorant drying in the misty weather on the arm of the Billabong.
We once again had our breakfast in the sun and after cleaning up we went to get wood for our fire. I also dragged back a large back log which I cut in half. Then we had to go to the dump point and in Mildura it is so spread out you drive heaps of Kilometres to get anywhere as was the case for the cassette.
Back in camp the fire was set and lit for we are having a hot lunch with homemade hamburgers and steamed vegetable for we are going over to have happy hour at Bruce Bend.
After we had our lunch, all cooked or steamed on the fire, we then went in search of the shopping centre in the middle of Mildura, We used this when we were last here many years ago. Many of the small shops were closed so went into Coles to do a bit of top up which will save us doing it at the end of the week. Then it was back to camp and the same back packer is back and we are wondering what they use as a toilet for if they are using the bush's then no doubt the council will close this area for camping. We spent the rest of the afternoon reading and then I noted a bloke in a canoe on the Billabong so I went and had a chat to him for a hour or so. He like us is only visiting the area though is staying at his daughters place. Oh well off to happy hour and tonight we will only be having toastie's for our evening meal and then watch a bit of television before going off to bed.

Monday the 4th
A slight fog this morning though it did not take long for the sun to clear it away. After our walk we had our breakfast outside in the sun which was very nice with no breeze and the bird life on the channel of the Billabong going about their business. Again we had some elderly walkers come over and we had a chat about the area, they once again indicated that the kangaroos were once again up by the road. We were to see a large one yesterday though we did not have our camera with us so missed the photo opportunity. We then drove over to Bruce's Bend and had a chat with the happy campers there and then we were to see a small houseboat enjoying the Murray River, this made us somewhat jealous, those on board waved as they went past to where ever.
Then back onto Eleventh Street and headed down to the wharf area and use their shower again. We enjoy using their free shower for it saves us water etc. We were to see the "Melbourne" Paddle Steamer taking on Passengers.
We drove down to the Loch and watched the procedure of lowering the water to allow the vessel to drop down to the next level to continue on its way on the Murray with its passengers.
We then back to Coles in the city centre for we had forgotten a few items yesterday. Then Liz went off to the op shop and I checked Jaycar out for a television ariel for ours is not performing correctly. In all we covered a lot of kilometres before arriving at fifteenth street where I went into a caravan place to check.
They had what I wanted and it cost $300 take or leave it of course we took it. More cost to the journey them's the breaks.
We then headed back to our camp which was some fifteen kilometres away from where we were. The poor old Terios it has certainly done a lot of kilometres since we have been here.
On the way back we were to note the Date Palms and when we were closer you could see it was a farm and at the gate they had dates for sale at $4 a kilo. We were to note that there were a lot of protective cloth bags around the dates on the palm trees to protect from birds etc we believed.
We arrived back in camp for a late lunch and then it was time to build the fire to cook our meal tonight which is Ham Steaks with steamed vegetables or we may through the potatoes in alfoil into the hot coals to cook. Then we will have our meal outside.
Gerhard is bringing his ladder over so as I can fit the new antenna. So then we will have a few frothy's before I cook our evening meal. Another good sunny day with no clouds just clear blue sky's

Tuesday the 5th
Another gorgeous morning makes you want to walk along the Billabong to see the prolific bird life either sitting on stumps drying or sleeping or just checking for food upon the water. I happened to pick up a nice dry branch so that will go back to camp to be cut up for our fire tonight.
Before breakfast we set up the generator and the washing machine for today is wash day and taking the opportunity to charge the house batteries and the battery for the Waeco in the Terios plus computer etc etc.
We sat out in the sunshine having breakfast then after that put up the clothes line. Liz didn't mess about the washing machine was in action whilst I pulled out the chainsaw to cut the branch to suitable lengths.
We were to help the back packer that has been staying here for the past few days with a jump start to his car and he indicated that he was off to pick oranges for the next couple of weeks to replenish his money supply and then on the road travelling again. The two elderly couples dropped in again and looked at our washing machine and stayed and had a good natter with us again pointing out that they saw the kangaroos again this morning up by the road.
We will be staying around the camp until late this afternoon and then off to replenish the drums with water and then onto Dan Murphy's to check and replenish our happy hour supply.
Then we light our fire on our return for the mob from Bruce's Bend are coming over for happy hour. Then tonight we will cook potatoes and pumpkin in alfoil in the hot coals and steam other veggies and cook our Pork chops and of course throw down a few frothy's before going inside. The new television ariel is working a treat and we have packed the old one away to take home.

Wednesday the 6th
Another pleasant night by the fire last night and not cold at all. This morning just a little cold though not the coldest we have had since our arrival here. The sun is coming later each morning and you could tell later in the day that it is moving north for we are getting shadows earlier than say a week ago. Had my walk and was surprised to see a lack of bird life on the Billabong this morning when I reached the furthest point of the morning walk.
We had two motorhome's arrive yesterday and a backpacker in a ford station wagon. This morning one of the motorhome's left and the backpacker. We did our usual cleanup and then set the fire for tonight to cook our evening meal and to sit beside.
Since we are now getting good television reception with the new ariel I packed away the satellite equipment for later use as we move further into the outback. I saw a large Kangaroo on what appears to be an island in the Billabong and it appeared to be grazing and drinking water. I took a photo and then moved back to camp and head this loud splash in the water. There was the kangaroo swimming to our side of the Billabong and all I could see was its head above the water. I was a bit slow with the camera and only captured a photo of the Kangaroo when it left the water with huge amounts of water running of it. Then the Kangaroo then bounded away still shedding water no doubt to meet up with the mob of Kangaroo up on the side of the hill. In all it looked great and would have made a great movie from the time it left the bank until climbing out of the water and bounding away. We had a cappuccino and then we decided to go for a drive.

We thought the Terios was burning a lot of fuel so this morning we took a kilometre count of what we would do before coming back to camp later in the day. We decided to drive through the grape vines that line both sides of the road and they look pretty the lemon, green and finally the red leaves. We are sure the colours denote different types of grapes. As we were close to the mob at Bruce's Bend we decided to drop in on them. We were to have another cuppa and whilst sitting in the sun we noted the boys and their toys gallivanting around the Murray on their Jet ski's. We had a good old natter and the question of battery's came up and the bloke in the caravan indicated as this was their home they had opted to replace their old house batteries with Lithium Battery's at $1040.00 each. He indicated as a long term investment that was the way to go for they have a twenty year warranty.
We left and continued on further up the road through more grape vines until we arrived at a place selling mandarins at 2 dollars per kilo. We purchased a pack and then drove back to our camp for a late lunch.
After lunch we then took a route that we will probably take if Liz's health is alright and where we can top up with fuel some ten cents a litre cheaper than other service stations. We arrived at the Shopping centre on fifteenth street and went into Woollies and bought some broccoli for $2.50 a kilo and then a carton of custard for Liz had made a pudding this morning in the Dream-Pot which will be great with our evening meal tonight. Went into the Telstra Shop and upgraded our phone system for the old one runs out tomorrow and now I wont have to worry for another 28 days Then into Cheap as Chips and bought birthday cards etc and then took the back way home. On arriving and checking the speedo we found that we had travelled 64 kilometres today no wonder we thought we were burning a bit fuel.
Only a cappuccino tonight for happy hour as we light the fire for our evening meal and to sit by for awhile. It has a been another good day and we are hoping that the report on Liz' Biopsy tomorrow will be good.

Thursday the 7th
We hopped out of bed a bit early this morning having to have showers and get ready for Liz's journey to the doctor to get her Biopsy results. When I came outside the the sun was just rising and it coloured up the sky nicely. On my walk to the end of the walking track the reflections had improved over the larger part of the Billabong, very nice indeed the camera never captures the true colours of the sunrise. Then the Swans were feeding in the reflected sunrise on the Billabong and the colour which included them was very nice. Unfortunately the cloud cover was thick and the sun was clouded out for most of the day only surfacing late afternoon for a brief spell.
Rather than use our water supply we opted to go to the nice hot showers at the Rowing club. We still had time to spend so went up to Coles and bought rolls and bread for the trip ahead.

We then went along to Vinnies and bought a couple of warm pullovers for the cold of today and the rain predicted for tomorrow means rugging up for at the moment at 11am the temperature is only 8.5 degrees celsius.
We still had time so we went back to the Murray and had a cappuccino each and whilst there we noted the houseboat come out of the marina and the across from us there was a paddle house boat called PS Merbein and then we saw the Paddle Steamer Melbourne once again on its journey down river with many tourists aboard.
It was time to go to the Doctors surgery for Liz's results. We were to sit there for 35minutes before being called and then the doctor asked Liz what was wrong. When we made the appointment last thursday we indicated what the reason was. So we had to explain that we were here for the results of the Biopsy. Twenty minutes later the doctor asked us to sit in the waiting room whilst she checked where the results where. We noted that she saw two other patients before she finally called us in. The doctor indicated that the result was that the nodule was benign which made us both happy. Then she wanted blood tests of the thyroid so back in the waiting room and luckily was called back in for the blood sample. The Doctor indicated that the test would not be available until next Tuesday.
By this time we were getting pissed off for she wanted us to stay in Mildura for the results next week. Liz made it clear that we would be moving on tomorrow and that we call the surgery next Tuesday afternoon for the results of the blood test.
We were both happy on the way home on the results and as Liz was getting lunch ready I started dismantling the camp first putting in the awning and then going from there. There is rain tipped for the morning and it would be our luck to have it arrive this afternoon so we completed the packing and then at 4pm we are going over to Bruce's Bend to see the mob and have a final happy hour with them. I am very glad things worked out alright for I was not looking forward to going back to Tassie tomorrow.

Friday the 8th
We awoke at 1am to the sound of rain on the roof and then went back to sleep for rain had been forecast for today. Awoke again at 2am and the rain had persisted and it was obvious that the ground where we parked was getting a good soaking. So out of bed and moved the motorhome over to the bitumen near the pump house entrance and then the car and bra. Back to bed and my sleep was intermittent as it had not stopped raining.
We hopped out of bed at 7.45am and it was still raining though it was more of a drizzle than anything else. With an umbrella I went off capture a few last photo's of the King Billabong before we left. On my return we hooked the Terios on the Motorhome and then moved up to the lookout on the main road where we had our breakfast and then put everything away for travelling.
We were to look at campsites after Wentworth in NSW and then we noticed one in the middle Wentworth that we decided to have a look at. Finally on our way and the first stop was the dump point and then the water tap to fill with water, not from the dump point might I add, then back on the road looking for fourteenth street to lead back onto Deacon Avenue and the way out of Mildura.
Our next stop was the service station to refill the main tank and at $1.42.7 cents a litre we paid $95.40 for the refill. We agreed it will be along time before we see these prices again with refills from here on in to cost over $100.
We took the last roundabout and headed towards Adelaide for around 8 kilometres and then turned onto the road that would eventually lead us to the Silver City Highway. First we were to drive through Merbein and then another turn that was to finally take us towards Wentworth in NSW. We were still seeing plenty of grape vines along the way and then we crossed the Murray River to get into NSW Then we had to cross the Darling River with plenty of houseboats lining the banks. Our first set of traffic lights had us stop to allow traffic from the opposite direction to cross the single lane Bridge complete with lift span for river traffic.
We then relied on the phone and Wiki Camps to lead to our final camp for the day. The area is part of a sports complex and where you park is on Asphalt so the rain and the chance of bogging are non existent.
We hadn't travelled a great distance and had to use the chocks to level up and the we made a cup of tea and then I attempted to get television to watch the football tonight. Again could get all the channels with the exception of the channel 6/7 stations the one's with the football on. Though never fear even in the heavy overcast day with dizzily rain out came the dish and in no time at all we had all the stations including those for the AFL Football tonight. Well time to do the photo's for today's section of the diary and oh no I hadn't replace the memory card back into the camera. This has meant that all photo's taken today are in the camera's memory and I have no cord to download them onto the computer. So no photo's today. Damn!
Kilometres travelled 43

Saturday the 9th
The rain had disappeared and though the cloud cover was thick it was not cold this morning. We had our breakfast and then had a chat with the happy campers near us and found that we were all going the same way to Broken Hill. As the Racecourse at Broken Hill was full for the long weekend they were attempting to make bookings at a caravan park and if successful would be moving on today for their and our destination is only 300 kilometres. We wished them all well and then hopped into the Terios and then drove around the area. We had a look at the nearby Wentworth Prison which is now closed though tours of the Prison take place during the day. We continued onto the Folk Museum and that was closed as well so we will put both of them on our itinerary for tomorrow. As we moved on we came across a road divide that had Rose's in white, pink and red and even though they were starting to wilt they still looked a treat.
Then we drove down to where the Murray and Darling Rivers meet and even though we were in the wrong place we decided to do the walk along the paths of the island that separates the the two rivers. The track was a bit wet though not slippery though we were watching where we were putting our feet.
There were a total of 33 Pelicans sitting on the opposite side of the island and then we were to see a fisherman picking up his nets. We are not aware whether he caught anything in his nets.
As we followed the track we were concerned how long it was and we reckon it was between 1an 2 kilometres long until you arrived at the end and the looked at the two rivers coming together. The locals were to tell us that the Darling at this section looks quite healthy for the Murray is backing up into the Darling and further up the Darling it has all but dried up. Culprit dry weather and irrigation for cotton etc. We finally came back to the Terios and decided to drive back along the highway to get a photo of the single lane bridge controlled by traffic lights that we crossed yesterday.

We took that photo and then returned to the motorhome for lunch. We had a chat to one lot of happy campers who had just pulled in they were the same couple we met on the island walk. We had our lunch and then we decided to go and look at the Lock 10 from this side of the Darling River. When we finally arrived there it is locked up as tight as a bee's knee's so we could only walk around the fence line. We were to see the large sign indicating the Confluence of the Murray Darling Rivers. Lock 10 is actually on the Murray River. It was a fair walk along so you could see the weir in operation and we then recalled that we camped on the other side some years ago on our way to Port Augusta. What prompted our memory's was the fact that they had completed the fish ladder that fish swim through to travel the river. We then drove back along the river to spot off the paddle houseboat we saw from the island.

I took awhile to find the place where it is moored for each road lead into private property and we were to get some heavy stares for being in their lanes. We finally found a lane that took us to where we wanted to go. Close up it was obvious that it was not powered by steam. No doubt the houseboat part was modern and the hull was from a another century. It really looked nice compared to the traditional pontoon houseboat alongside on another mooring. We were really impressed with what had been achieved though might I add the house that it was moored in front of was no cheap property.
We finally came back to the motorhome and started the generator to charge the house batteries and the Waeco battery as well as the small things like tablet and phone etc. As I finish the diary for the day the sun has finally came out from behind the clouds so now we can turn off the generator and allow the solar panels to do their work. No photo's yesterday so I have given a few extra today. In total the amount of photo's on the May and June sections of the Diary is 162. Oh well off to sink a frothy or two for happy hour and we will watch my team St Kilda be beaten by Sydney tonight on the satellite dish before going off to bed

Sunday the 10th
Another heavy cloud over us this morning and it would remain that way all day necessitating the use of the generator to charge batteries. We had a chat to our neighbours who were moving on and hoping to reach Broken Hill today. We were to talk of our past travels and compared notes on where we both camped in previous years. Then it was time for our walk and then breakfast. We were to get rugged up for the temperature is 13 degrees celsius and we doubt if it will get any warmer during the day. We have decided to visit the Wentworth Jail and then onto to the history museum. The charge for seniors is $6 per head for seniors at the jail. The first thing to impress us was the condition of the jail given it was built in 1879 and ceased being a jail in 1927 due to over crowding. After 1927 it was used as a school for a period until the local school was enlarged. Strange though true. As you enter the exercise yard you note how small the area is for so many prisoners both male and female. There are four guard towers on each corner of the jail with the best we suppose is the one overlooking the Woman's section. Each cell though small on average catered for 14 prisoners. It must have been crowded at any one given time. We spent a few moments in some of the cells and the only daylight was from a small window some 4metres off the ground and with heavy bars of course. There was no air conditioning only air that came through the small windows. The woman were lucky to have one outside toilet consisting of a large tin with no seat with no door for privacy only a brick wall so as the guard tower could not look in. In the woman's cell there was a small tin for use once locked up for the night. When we read the signs it was unusual to read that the Salvation Army people both men and woman were locked up for preaching the bible on street corners and not the usual recognised churches. Salvation Army Woman received 7 days detention in the jail and men 14 days. We were both taken back by this. We entered all sections of the jail and took photo's far to many to include here. What becomes clear that the original building in 1879 has stood the test of time with very little restoration work required. The men's section cells housed 14 prisoners and they had no cell toilets and slept on the floor on a mat. The model prisoners were in another section and they had steel fold up beds, which did not look comfortable at all.
In another room it contained the flogging stand and other forms of punishment and plenty of chains and hobbles for troublesome prisoners. All very medieval indeed. Then there were the kitchens and small hospital room for prisoners. It was obvious that once locked in the cells there was no way out. Though a few escaped the exercise yard over the wall and when caught were flogged on the holding apparatus.
We were to see the original jail set up by Major Locker in 1850 which was a series of holding chains embedded in an old dead gum tree where they were shackled.

It was a good tour of the jail with no pressure on you hurry I suppose you could stay all day if you wished. Just being in a cell with the door closed was enough to want you to depart quickly. We only had to walk across the road to the history museum and that was $4 for seniors and when paid and went inside you were taken back somewhat with the memorabilia and the static displays as well as the other displays. The old tractor was all steel and probably would still operate. Then the Model T Ford that is in working condition a little crude in its seating and floor which was wood. From old petrol pumps to a well restored Massey Ferguson Tractor. The displays were great and to see how people lived in early days of the colony is amazing. They had a display of old passenger paddle steamers for it was the only means of transport both for people and for produce etc. You do not have a tour guide though this isn't a problem for there are artifacts from local aborigine tribes and early settlers. They had newspaper reports of huge Murray Cod caught from both the Darling and Murray Rivers. They have an 80 pound murray cod preserved and on display.

We spent nearly two hours looking at everything and finally elected to watch a DVD of the 1956 floods in the area. There is certainly some changes from the machinery and the way people dress and their houses compared with today. It captured the strength of the people and the unrelenting charge of floodwaters that destroyed stock and many houses and is parley the reason for the huge flood banks today.
We then drove down to the river and had a look at the old wharf used by paddle steamers in past years and we were to see a small houseboat about to leave. We noted the fishing rods etc and it was powered by one big outboard motor. Off to the IGA and bought some rolls for lunch and the dreaded Tim Tams that were on special for $1.82 per packet. Back home for a late lunch and then just relaxed listening to the football and reading our books. Later in the day we hooked the Terios onto the motorhome for we are pushing on in the morning towards Broken Hill and further into the outback. Another good day though a little cold.

Monday the 11th
We were out of bed this morning early this morning then went for my morning walk. I was to walk down the side of the Wentworth Prison and in the morning gloom it did not look appealing, on the way back I was to see a flock of Major Mitchell's. We did our final packing and had breakfast then went and said our farewells to the happy campers that we met last night. We checked the Terios ready for towing all lights working.
We moved onto the Silver City Highway bound for Broken Hill. The morning was very overcast and we were heading into a headwind. We were only facing small hills which did not slow us down and there was plenty of traffic including road trains carrying pipes for the water pipeline. They are transferring water from the Murray River to Broken Hill via a 230 kilometre pipeline for use as drinking water etc. The Murray River being flogged for water once again. What would happen if the Murray River was to dry up it would effect many outback towns and city's with the exception of those who are getting their water from the Great Artesian Basin. We were to see sheep that appeared to eating nothing for the paddocks were bare though further up the highway we were to see sheep feeding on saltbush for there was nothing other than red sand.

It wasn't long before we came across the pipeline that had already been buried in long sections and then the loose pipes waiting to be welded together before going under ground. All the machinery appeared to new and they had special machines for the trenching and the handling of the pipes for welding and burial. It just went for kilometre after kilometre and the downside was that rest area's had been removed along with truck rest areas on the pipeline side of the road. We decided to travel only half way to Broken Hill to a rest area we knew that was on the right hand side of the road and therefore not affected by pipe works. We were to see plenty of road kill mainly Kangaroos and then we were to see plenty of Goats along the way.
We were meeting three trailer long road trains carrying ore to where we did not know.
We arrived at our rest area for the night with the strange name of "Popiltah Rest Area" We arrived just on lunch time and other than travellers having lunch there were no other happy campers there. That would change during the afternoon as the rest area filled. As we drove into our spot for the night we noted the mob of small parrots and I was able to catch a few with the camera they looked very beautiful.
We had lunch and set up the satellite dish so Liz could watch the cold slide of coaches and then the Collingwood V Melbourne game. We were to have sun for awhile and then it became overcast so out came the generator. A caravan pulled up close to us and I noted that he had a satellite dish so I thought I would help him if he wanted. Bad decision on my part. For not only did he have the wrong Lnb he did not have his remote control with him. He had been playing with the vast box so we had to do a reset. Then the screen said that no channels were available. I asked when he had updated the card and he stated twelve months ago. So over to our computer and had his card reactivated and then he had all channels. That was a two hour session. So finally came inside to watch the AFL game which Liz was enjoying. Will watch the Talking Footy show tonight before going off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 131

Tuesday the 12th
Very little traffic last night passing our camp so needless to say we enjoyed a good nights sleep, Especially Liz whose football team Collingwood won easily. This morning the clouds had dissipated and the sun was shining and it was quite warm. I went for a walk and the first thing I noticed was the large holes in the ground. Who knows what lives in them, though I did not want to poke to find out. There were a few goats come over the road near our camp for there was a water puddle that they were drinking from. There were Top Knots (Bush Pigeons) drinking after the goats had returned to the scrub on the other side of the road.
The land around us is merely red sand and not much living other that a few Cyprus Pines. The lake behind us was absolutely dry and signs indicated that the area was a fragile environment.
I said hello to several happy campers and then into the motorhome to have our breakfast. The satellite dish was packed away and other gear and we were ready to continue on towards Broken Hill. There was not a lot of traffic about though there were a few ore carrying road trains heading south that caused us no hassle. Along the way we were to see kilometres of pipes awaiting assembly before being buried it appears that they are working from each end of the overall construction site and no doubt will meet in the middle to finalise the construction of the water pipeline. We were to see plenty of goats along the way and a few emu's though we counted 12 emu's killed on the road over a two kilometre stretch of the Silver City Highway we could not get a photo. More goats and more pipes and plenty of construction equipment. We were fighting a head wind and boy you could see the fuel gauge dropping. We finally could see the large Mulloch Heaps in the distance and then the mine winding gear. We pulled into the centre of the city and the old buildings looked a treat very old and well maintained especially the Trades Hall Council Building that stood out from the rest. We were to see the original homes that were quite small and built from corrugated iron and they were well maintained as well. Heavens to betsy we found free showers so we can save our water again and we used them and they were clean and great. We then drove back to the Coles Complex for we needed bread and few other things.
Then onto the service station to refill and it was to cost $1.49.9 cents a litre our dearest yet. We then proceeded to the Racecourse on the chance they may have a vacancy for us. The caretaker was to inform us that it was booked out until Sunday. On the way to the caravan park we came across an Emu that was wandering the streets, we could not get a photo of them on the highway in. The caravan park wanted $46 for the night which we rejected and it looked a bit old and tired. So we elected to leave Broken Hill and head towards Cobar which is some 456 kilometres away. We will have three stops before we arrive there. Around 8 Kilometres out from Broken Hill we came across a rest area and we elected to stay there for the night and it didn't take long for others to spot us and they set up behind us. From where we are parked we can see one of the many mines in the area working in the distance. We need to take on water at our next destination.
Kilometres travelled 157

Wednesday the 13th
We noted last night that it was warm and when we hopped out of bed this morning we noted the Barometer had dropped to Stormy Weather, however later in the day it changed to fair weather. I walked this morning on the highway to the rest area signs and noted on the way back there were 8 camped behind us in a row. We had our breakfast and cleaned away and then decided we would only travel as far as the Spring Hill Rest Area which is only 118 kilometres from our rest area of last night.
We spoke to a couple of happy campers and then we were on the road heading to Cobar.
Even though the hills are dry and covered in small trees and mainly saltbush it still looked pretty especially now the clouds were lifting the sun was shining in our windows. It wasn't long before we reached a sign indicating that we have to put our clocks forward by 30 minutes. We reckon this is crazy for Broken Hill is in NSW and they go by South Australian time and even last night when watching the television we noted the advertisements were all South Australian and Broken Hill and our news came from Adelaide.
We were to see the pipeline from Minindee Lakes snaking its way overland to Broken Hill and again this year we were told that the lakes were down due to lack of rain and the whole area we could see was obviously in drought. No wonder the pipeline coming in from the Murray River in the future.
We were to pass a Truck Roadhouse around 30 Kilometres out from Broken Hill and there were trucks galore resting or getting fuel. We were to pass alongside the railway line which the sun was reflecting off the tracks sometimes in our eyes so they must get plenty of traffic on them.
We were passing many creek beds that were only red sand and not one of those we crossed had water at all. Then we were into an area where there was a lot of road kill and at times we were going onto the wrong side of the road to avoid the mess. We captured one lot of crows that were feeding and they flew away when we were close to them. In the rear vision mirror you could see them returning to feed. We saw plenty of pretty face kangaroos along the way though large kangaroos they seemed to be dead on the highway. We spotted a few Emu's though no dead one's. The land was really desolate as we travelled along and even though we were to see sheep and their lambs that appeared to be eating the saltbush for there was no grass and they were in poor condition.
We came across a flock of sheep gathered at a water tank though it was still saltbush country. We finally arrived at our rest area for the night and though its only midday there are few happy campers set up. We are unable to get Television so we have decided not to put the satellite dish into action we will read our books or watch a DVD this evening.
After lunch we were sitting out in the sun and a happy camper came over and asked if we had any spare diesel for he was about to run out and was still 130 kilometres short of Broken Hill. I reluctantly gave him 20 litres of fuel at an agreed price and when placing it into his tank I enquired why he was so short of fuel. They had not refilled in Wilcannia and thought they would get through. I was surprised when his computer showed he was burning 21.5 litres per hundred kilometres. It was obvious he would not make Broken Hill unless he slowed down. He first stated he was driving at 90 kph and then finally admitted he was doing 110 kph towing his caravan into a head wind.
He departed and we sat out in the sunshine until the fly's become to persistent and then went inside to read and catch up on the phone with some of our friends who are also on the road.
Kilometres travelled 118

Thursday the 14th
Late yesterday afternoon I was to see a few goats around the water tank. Liz was to ensure that the hole near the tank had water for them to drink for there is certainly no water in the nearby creek near our camp spot for the night. This morning the sun was just peeking over the hills on my walk and it certainly looked a treat on the red grassless hills with just a few trees. We had our breakfast and we noted that there was only one happy camper last night and they pulled up behind us. We couldn't understand why there were not more given the clean toilets and children's play ground and water tank for personal use.
It was around 9am when we pulled out onto the highway towards Cobar. Again we were to see plenty of goats and just a few Emu's who were evasive and hard to photograph. As we went along it was clear to see why we like this outback country for the scenery was forever changing with the different hue's of the countryside notably the Ochre and many shades of green of the trees. Of course the ground was sandy and the colours were different as went along. We have to say we have plenty of rest areas and gravel pits we can use and that of course is great for we are fully self contained. We only have to find a dump point and water every now and again.
There was plenty of traffic once again and many road transports heading south both B-Doubles and Road Trains. We were to note the amount of semi trailers heading north with hay bales no doubt headed to the drought country in Queensland.
We noted the many Cattle Stations along the way whose gated entrance appeared to be around 50 kilometres apart. Given the state of drought I suggested to Liz they must be stocking cattle on the basis of one for every 20 acres for all there was to eat was the every reliable Mulga bushes. The goats were eating the lower branch's and we could only assume that the cattle were eating the higher. In some places you could see the farm hands had cut trees to let cattle get to the whole of the tree. We just couldn't believe how rough this bitumen highway was and in places there signs indicating the road was rough and they were right and the verges well you would strip a tyre easily if you went off the shoulder.

Welcome to Wilcannia

Council Building Wilcannia

Post Office Wilcannia

We finally arrived at the Wilcannia welcome sign and then we bought up fuel map on the phone to see what the price of diesel was. We could have made Cobar though I like to keep the tank topped up where possible. The Liberty fuel station on the highway was $1.71 cents a litre for diesel and the B.P. in the back street was 1.59.9 cents a litre again for diesel.
We allowed the phone to direct us to the BP station, which turned out to be a fuel depot. We drove past the Council Chambers which was a very old sandstone building and then across the highway past the Post Office which again was built with Sandstone blocks. Both looked very nice indeed. We refueled and the bloke was a real character and I related the bloke that had pulled in for fuel. He stated I should not have given him any for he is always getting calls for fuel for those who have run out on the highway. He charges $4 per kilometre and the price of the fuel take it or leave it.
We then drove around to the park where were able to see the Darling River and didn't it look sick very little water and no chance a houseboat or paddle steamer could navigate this section of the Darling. We noted the Indigenous people drinking stubbies in the park. We parked up and then went into Miss Barret's Cottage for a cappuccino and whilst there we checked out the bric a brac etc. I raised the low level of the Darling compared to that where it joined the Murray at Wentworth and they informed me they were doing a petition to reduce the water allocations that were killing the river, especially cotton growers. We signed the petition and then enjoyed the morning sun whilst we had our cappuccino's. Back on the road and the going was still good though the rough bitumen was now and again dislodging the GPS connection. Again there were plenty of Goats and a few Emu's along the way. We came across a few wide loads heading south though nothing big enough to slow us down. We finally arrived at our rest area for the night at 1.30 pm and then we picked a spot and had lunch. After lunch up went the satellite dish to watch the AFL game tonight. Adelaide V Hawthorn and the match will mean the loser will have no chance to make the eight.
Kilometres travelled 211

Friday the 15th
A bit of road traffic last night passing our overnight camp in a gravel pit. We had the area to ourselves last night for it is not all that visible from the highway. We only know about it for we discovered it some five years ago. On my walk this morning, though it was brief, I noted a road train go by stacked with hay no doubt for Queensland and the drought areas there.
This morning after tidying up we were on our way to Cobar. We seemed to have a slight tail wind and the going was easy even though there were plenty of hills along the way the motorhome was not worried by them at all. We came across a truck stop and there was the road train parked up and quite frankly he could have dropped the hay off here for the ground was desolate even kangaroo's in this area looked very poorly.
We came across one area that had spear grass and the was a mob of about thirty kangaroo's feeding in the dry grass and they looked in better condition. Cattle will not eat this type of grass. Plenty of goats along the way and we only spotted one Emu. There was no road kill thus no crows though we were to see a small flock of Pink Cockatoo's near the road and of course we were past them before I could get a photo. Then we came across a few kangaroos feeding on the verge of the highway and we were worried they may jump in front of us though they headed for the trees on their side.
All the signs started to appear advertising Cobar and it business's and then we were in the 50 kph area before we knew it, coming through the main street. We drove around to the truck stop and unhooked the Terios and then drove around to the visitor information centre to get water both for the motorhome and our drums for Liz wants to use the washing machine in the morning. Then back and filled the tank of the motorhome and then we were to drive out in the Terios to the old water supply to check the camping out.
What a shock what was once a large lake is now reduced to a mere puddle, so much so that we were able to drive across as a short cut to where we wished to go. We were satisfied that the camping would be ok and we bought the motorhome back to nearly the same spot we camped here all those years ago.
We drove the motorhome over the dry lake bed and then set up. We haven't worried about the awning for today. Then we had another late lunch and after that we went out and cut wood for our fire this evening and possibly in the morning.
The rest of the afternoon was spent making the camp comfortable and then we read our books. At the moment we have very cloudy weather and hopefully it won't rain or we may be here longer than we wish.
Kilometres travelled 134

Saturday the 16th
This morning was very cool and I opted to walk around the the dried up lake and then back to camp. This morning we had a Mc Challis Muffin consisting of two strips of bacon, one egg well done and toasted muffins along with two hash browns each. This was washed down with a cup of tea all very nice indeed.
After breakfast we were to see a lot of bird life around the puddle (lake) drinking and the Pink Cockatoo's were a wonderful sight. We decided to set the fire for tonight and grab our shower gear on the off chance we would find a shower in Cobar. We also took the empty 4 kilo gas bottle to be refilled.
We drove first to the tourist information centre and Liz was to make enquiries as to where we could obtain a gas refill and shower. The gas was only available at the Caravan Park and the showers were $10 each. We decided to use our own shower this afternoon rather than pay that much. Off to the caravan park for the gas which was $25 take it or leave it. The last bottle we paid $16 at Mildura. Whilst there we could have a shower for $3 each which we accepted. We had a shower whilst the gas bottle was being filled.
Then we of course had to go to Vinnies where Liz was to buy a warm parka with a wooly hood. We bought a couple of things at IGA especially cup of soup for each packet you also received a soup cup. We checked the price of 30 can pack of Great Northern and they wanted $59.95 a carton the last I purchased was $44.95, needless to say there was no purchase. We then went of Subway for lunch and Liz had a six inch and I had a foot long. Washed down with a nice cup of cappuccino, we were surprised at the quality. I only ate 6 inches of my roll the rest I will have tomorrow for lunch.
Then we went round to the Forbes Hill lookout and gazed once again down into the pit as it saturday they did not appear to be working so there was no traffic coming or going underground.
We were aware of a market being held from noon so we went in search of it. There were not a lot of stalls though Liz managed to buy a few items. Then we thought we would return to camp and light the fire to sit by. On the way back we detoured and then followed the gravel road out to cattle agistment station, though I have to say there was not grass or feed that we could see.
We came into the back end of the lake and drove up to our camp and we were very disappointed for the fire we set this morning had lit its self from coals from last night and had completely burnt away. All we did was throw a couple of logs and they caught very quickly. Today has been overcast with little sun to charge through the solar panels or recharge this computer. We sat out in the late afternoon reading our books out of the high wind. Other than the cloud it has been another good day for camping.

Sunday the 17th
We did not stop outside last night for long even though we had a good fire. It was so cold the wind it was one of those nights where you needed four fires so you could sit in the middle. During the night we awoke to rain on the roof though it was not consistent like that at Mildura. It was 7.30am before hopping out of bed and then went for a walk around the lake again, there is no doubt it is down at least 3 metres.
The three wader birds were walking all over and it showed the water level is so low. Next I passed an old tree and perched in the top was Budgie's crouched into the wind. My hands were so cold and the wind was strong and clouds again blocking the sun.
On arriving back at the motorhome we had breakfast and decided to leave the area and head into town and park up at the old mine face at Cobar. We were the first there and it did not take long to have at seven other campers come in, mostly caravans. Given the wind those going north like us would driving into a heavy head wind which would mean poor fuel consumption. We took the motorhome into town and then went to the laundromat and that was not cheap. Then when that was done we went and refueled at $1.52.9 per litre. The three service station in town were displaying their fuel prices at the exactly the same price.
We then came back to the camp spot near the large old mine displaying the Cobar sign. We had our lunch and then we decided to hook up the Terios for the morning for head wind or not we are back on the road heading for Bourke.
Rugged up! you bet. Reading our books again until our meal tonight. Tonight we will watch television before going off to bed.

Monday the 18th
This morning the weather was very overcast and absolutely cold from the southerly wind. No walk this morning just had a chin wag to truck drivers that had pulled in for a rest. On was hauling hay on two trailers and he indicated they were going to a property in Queensland that had de stocked dramatically in cattle and sheep. He indicted they had less than a quarter of their original flock and cattle. Those remaining were all being hand fed due to the drought.
Back inside for breakfast packed away made sure the heater in the iveco was on and then we pulled out heading now for Bourke and hopefully to warmer weather. The going was easy again for the wine was either on our side or rear. We were climbing hills now and again though they were not a problem. We noted very little road kill thus not many crows flying around. We were to see goats once again and they appear to be living on nothing and are supplying the farmer with some sort of income.
There were plenty of caravans and road trains on the highway and were heading in both directions. It wasn't long before we were entering the Bourke shire and we noted the clouds were diminishing and we could see blue sky's in the distance.

We arrived in Bourke and turned down the main street and the first thing you notice is the amount to Roller Doors on all property's. Those that were down were business's that had closed up and the others stores had there rollers colour coded to match their business.We pulled up down by the supermarket for that was the only area that you park along the kerb and not at an angle like the other parking spaces. We went walkabout up the the newsagency for a paper and you note the whole building externally is corrugated iron and shuttered doors again of course. Bought a paper and then up the Home Hardware and purchased a new lock for the A-Frame. As it was 12.30 pm we looked for a cafe and found Mad Mick's first and went in a had a look at the junk for sale and then into the cafe next door. Liz opted for fish and chips and I had chicken sznitzel and chips with lashing of gravy.
By the time we ate the large meal we both agreed that for our meal this evening it will be something lite.
We then for a walk down to the Port of Bourke and again the Darling river looks terrible and obviously there is no way a paddle steamer could make its way to the wharf and considering that the port was used for cartage of wool and all sorts of goods prior to road and trucks. We refilled with diesel at $1.55.9 and headed out to North Bourke for our overnight stay. On the way an Emu decided to go to the other side of the roads which made for applying the brakes quickly.
Kilometres travelled 175

Tuesday the 19th
This morning went for a walk down through the camp area at North Bourke towards the old Bourke Bridge where the woodwork in crumbling and there are signs and barriers forbidding you to walk on the structure due to it being unsound . The photo of the top of the bridge just shows the old lift span and the deck and rails are not in good condition at all.
Walking under the bridge the section near and over the water is made of cast steel and all joins are rivets no bolts. This section looks in good condition though looking under the land side of the bridge which is held up by wooden poles it is sagging everywhere. Walking back through the camp area to our camp up on the road I scared a mob of Kangaroo's and was only able to snap these two for they stopped to check me out.
In past years we have always been the only campers up on the road and last night there five in front and behind us. Though down in the camping area there were only two caravans. We had out breakfast, cleaned up and secured everything for even though we are travelling on bitumen it is very rough in sections. It was 9 am before we were back on the road and the morning was very sunny with no clouds. Though it was cold, looking out at the Terios this morning showed there was frost on the solar panel.
We turned the corner onto the Matilda Way and first stopped at the truck stop to dump our rubbish and then back onto the highway headed for the Tuan Waterhole where we have camped in previous years.

It was not long before we were to see Emu's feeding on the watered green grass in front of one of the houses. The going was easy though there were plenty of caravans heading north just like us. We finally arrived at Berrigun where they boast the last Hotel in NSW before crossing the border, we drove through without stopping though we noted they fostered free camping on nice green grass, no doubt watered regularly. The going on the highway was easy going and at one stage we thought we going to collide with a large Kangaroo who decided the cross the road just in front of us. Luckily we spotted the Kangaroo as he was leaving the fence line and therefore able to apply the brakes quickly thus missing him.
Then we arrived at Enngonia and noted that it consisted of a police station and a couple of houses plus a coffee wagon set up in front of one house. We decided to stop for a cappuccino and Liz was to have a carrot cake as well. We joined other happy campers at the tables and had a chat to them about where they were going and when they asked us we replied North for better weather. We had a good laugh.
Then a fellow came along and asked if he could get diesel off us for he has nearly run out. He had tried the Police Station first and they apparently sent him along to us. There was no way we were going to relinquish our last 20 litre drum and another fellow offered 5 litres. It turned out the bloke had only four dollars which he announced after the diesel was in his ute. Later the woman in the coffee van indicated that is was not unusual for people to call into the the Police Station asking for fuel which they had to pay $40 for twenty litres. It became clear why this bloke came to us. We felt sorry for the happy camper that gave him five litres for four dollars for it is going to cost a lot more than that to refill the 5 litre drum.
We bid our farewells and we were back on the road and we came across a mob of cattle in the long paddock and they appeared to be Drought Masters. Then along further there was heaps of hay out for both goats and sheep. The road kill was the most we have ever seen over a twenty kilometre stretch.
Then we arrived at the Queensland Border and took a photo of the fact that we were now entering Queensland. Back on the road and it wasn't long before we arrived at the Tuan Waterhole our camp for the night.
There is plenty of wood around so we will have a fire tonight for there is no television service and I can't be bothered setting up the satellite dish. The rest of the afternoon we sat outside in the sun, with the fly's, and read our books. We will cook our meal tonight on the fir
Kilometres travelled 178

Wednesday the 20th
We had a few bird visitors last night including one Robin Red Breast. We sat out in the late afternoon sun and then lit our fire to cook our potatoes and pumpkin in alfoil in the hot coals of the fire then cooked out lamb chops and had our meal by the fire. After washing of which there wasn't much we cranked up the fire and enjoyed the heat while watching the beautiful stars and rising moon.
Off to bed and read our books for awhile with no television it was great. This morning it was a little cold and the clouds were blocking the sun cleaned up the camp and though the fire looked out with just as I poked a few sticks in and they caused the fire to come alive. I then walked along the fence and not it was at least 2 metres high and extended for as far as the eye could see.
Then it was time to move on towards Cunnamulla. Back on the highway and the road kill was enormous with it being so dry and we came across the high fence was and there was a mob of Kangaroos trying to get through plus several Emu's. Further up the highway we were to see and count 17 Emu's feeding on what in one paddock.
The countryside looks terrible with red sand and no growth and the gum trees are looking distressed and they have lost that dark green look of the leaves. In all the years we have been travelling to Queensland we have never experienced drought to this level. Our GPS is now playing up and probably need replacing for I use it a lot whilst travelling.

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We finally arrived at Cunnamulla and went to the information centre and parked up. Liz was to go to the chemist to get prescriptions filled and then was told to come back in 2 hours due to a breakdown on the printers. We then enjoyed the Rose's that were still in bloom both red and yellow then onto the Cunnamulla Fellah. This would be a statue that is photographed often by tourists.
We are stopping behind the Cunnamulla Hotel tonight and we settled in we used their showers and then hung the wet clothes out to dry. Off with the Terios and then we drove around the various service stations to check the price of diesel the Mobil is the cheapest at $1.56 cents per litre so we will top up there tomorrow morning before leaving. Another happy camper pulled up beside us and they are from Western Australia so we had a good old chat. Then lunch and we then checked the IGA out and then went walkabout around the town. We will have happy hour in the hotel tonight and a meal. The camping is free the cost is in frothy's wine etc.
Kilometres travelled 78

Thursday the 21st
We had a good night in the Cunnamulla Hotel last night plenty of frothy's and wine for Liz and the food was above the normal pub fare, very nice indeed. On the way back to the motorhome we had to support each other.
This morning when going for my walk the sky was as blue as with no clouds and was warm. I decided to walk down to the Warrego River and the sun coming over the trees and reflecting on the river was a treat. I was to note the Emu and its chicks that were made of steel and straw among what I thought were weeds were in fact strategically placed brush depicting their natural habitat. There not many people about and it was pleasant walking in the morning sun as I went looking for taps to top up our water supply. We noted yesterday the smell of the water indicates that we will be taking on Bore Water. On the way back to camp passed by the beautiful yellow roses that really looked a treat, there are signs everywhere stating do not pick the roses.
Back for breakfast and we noted that there was not much movement amongst the happy campers near us. We decided to not move onto towards Charleville today instead head out towards Eulo and the bush camp that we found last year. Luckily last year I had saved the spot to our favourites on the GPS.

We filled with water and we were on our way to the camp for the next couple of days, For tomorrow our friends from Yowah are driving down to Cunnamulla for a few supplies and to have lunch and this is the reason we have decided not move on north today, for we will be meeting them for lunch. In this part of the highway to Eulo the we still have double lane bitumen so the going was easy and in no time at all we had arrived at our camp for the next few days.
First set up the satellite dish so we can watch the AFL later tonight and then out came the chainsaw and cut a back log and smaller pieces for our fire tonight. Then we had lunch and then sat out in the sun with the fly's enjoying the day and just relaxing. It is to easy this bush camping in the outback and we enjoy it. Again this area is in drought even the water trough near our camp for cattle etc is dry. Today we will have happy hour on our own and listen to the traffic passing by before cooking our evening meal on the fire.
Kilometres travelled 14

Friday the 22nd
Cloudless sky greeted us this morning and it was quite warm. We cleaned up around the camp and then gathered wood plus a back log for tonight's fire. We then sat outside for a while and read our books until the fly's became to much. When we came outside again later it was because the birds were coming in to the cattle trough to drink. First there were two sulphur crested cockatoos and when when they left in came the beautiful Major Mitchell cockatoos with their distinctive pinkish crest and the body being a light grey though underneath their body being a nice pinkish colour. They are very hard to catch in flight so I wasn't able to take a photo. We received a call from John indicating they were leaving Yowah and travelling to Cunnamulla for supplies and stopping over for lunch and indicated they would like us to join them.
When they drove past our campsite we then drove into Cunnamulla to meet them along with Rhonda, Brian and Dianne. First we went and refueled the Terios and then onto the supermarket where we met them all.
Then we went to the Warrego Hotel for one of their $10 lunches and what a surprise how large and quality it was for that price. By the time we finished it was obvious that we would not need anything substantial for our evening meal.
Of course we downed a few frothy's and then returned to our camp being satisfied with the trip to town. John and Rhonda dropped into our camp to have a look and John noted it was a good place to stop overnight or longer especially with the amount of wood for big fires laying about.
After they left we had a few more frothy's and then lit the fire again. We decided for our evening meal we would just have a sandwich for we were not hungry at all. We sat out by the fire until the AFL game came on the satellite dish and then we went inside to watch it and then off to bed. Port Adelaide defeated Melbourne by 10 points.

Saturday the 23rd
The night was warm and we were amazed to see the fire still going this morning. There were plenty of hot coals last night and the back log was hardly burnt, this morning there was not much left of the back log.
We were cleaning our area, not that it was dirty it is just that we like to leave things pretty much the same as when we arrived. After breakfast we hooked the Terios onto the motorhome and we were on our way back to Cunnamulla to refuel. We needed to wait for there was line up of customers this being the cheapest fuel in town. We paid $1.56 cents a litre for diesel. Just before we pulled out we noted a small mob of kangaroos feeding on next to nothing across the road.
We wound our way back onto the Matilda Way as the highway north is called. There clouds appearing which made it easier to drive though the outside temperature according the Iveco gauge was 22 degrees celsius at 10.15 am. Now we thought we had seen drought at its worst though nothing had prepared us for what we encountered going along on the rough bitumen. There was paddock after paddock with just dirt and a few sags etc and no livestock at all other then the Emu. Who were on both sides of the fence line. As usual one attempted to commit suicide by running in front of us. Luckily we were aware of what the stupid Emu was likely to do and applied the brakes and just missed running over the creature.
We came across a mob of cattle who were feeding on the long paddock on few tussocks and were overseen by a by a bloke on his motorbike and his two cattle dogs. We slowed until we passed them for we did not know how they would take to traffic so close to them. They just went about their business taking no notice of us at all.
We could see in the distance that the clouds were disappearing and the sun was shining hard into the cabin of the motorhome. Well, finally the GPS stopped working all together indicating its batteries were low. So this could be the end of GPS assistance which is not good for all our favourites and selected campsites are all in this machine.
We finally arrived at our rest area for the next couple of days at Wyandra. We noted that there were a couple of happy campers who we had met further back down the road at various camp spots. We just pulled in and had a chat to them and found they had been here for a few days. We chose a spot and then decided to stay at least till Monday. Out with the awning and tables chairs and cooking apparatus for we will not be having a fire of our own. They have a communal fire pit where everyone goes to for happy hour and no doubt we will do the same. They have solar panels heating the water for showers and when I finish this that is where I am going. Liz has already been and said they are ok those along with the toilets. Tonight we will cook outside and then inside to watch the AFL game again before going off to bed. It is a beautiful afternoon with the odd cloud appearing though it is quite warm.
Kilometres travelled 116

Sunday the 24th
We had a good sunset last night and the Kangaroos were near our camp feeding on spear grass and later they went over near the happy hour shed eating the green grass that has been irrigated. In all there were 26 happy campers come together and the fire pit was lit and many stayed until late in the evening. Rather cool this morning and very cloudy.
I went for a walk and counted 20 caravans and motorhome's parked up and many had been here for several days. The township of Wyandra welcomes you and the State School provides the amenities and looks after them. There is no firm charge just a request to leave a donation which goes to the school. The camp ground is reasonably flat of red dirt which would probably create a problem when windy. The hot showers are great with solar hot water available dependant of the amount of sun. The toilets etc are clean and the sign above the toilet speaks for itself. The school itself is only a primary school and it is well up off the ground to provide a cooling effect in the hot summer though there were many air conditioners located around the building.
There is a sign painted by the children welcoming all travellers to the area and this backs onto the camp area.
We are not sure how many children attend the school and wont know until tomorrow when we may be staying a further day or so for rain is forecast for the next few days.

Most of the houses are built off the ground on piers some long and others short. There were a few miniature horses wandering the street and plenty of dogs barking. I elected to walk down the road to who knows where and was surprised to see they have Racecourse among other things. We are both going around the town this afternoon and probably drop into the hotel for a few frothy's. The washing machine came out and as they supply clothes lines we will use those. I took the opportunity to charge the house batteries and the Waeco battery in the Terios due to the overcast weather. We will go again over to the happy hour shed this afternoon for you hear some story's about peoples travels to date.
Prior to this we will be sitting outside and reading our books and tonight we will watch the State of Origin Rugby before going off to bed. Another good day though we hope the weather picks up and rain does not appear. This could be a bit selfish for they need a good downpour of rain in this area to liven the ground up.

Monday the 25th
Yesterday we had our lunch at the Post Office/Cafe come caravan Park and then into the Wyandra Powerhouse Museum. Their main display was the old generating motors run on diesel before the event of power coming to the town from power lines. We were to note the old house of stilts that required major renovations to be made livable.
Out happy hour last night was great and we were to discover that had been here for over a week and moving on in the morning.
This morning I walked down to the bridge over the Warrego River where they advertise there is a beach. All I could find was some sandy pebbles washed up on the banks either side of the river.
Back in camp had breakfast and it was time to pack away the awning etc for we are moving onto Charleville this morning. We had a few happy campers come over and bid us farewell. We both wished them well in their future travels. We were surprised to see that all had moved on with the exception of two who indicated they were staying for a week. First stop the dump point and then we were on our way to the highway north.

We are somewhat surprised how rough the bitumen is without the black top you would think you were travelling on rough gravel road. The sun was shining nicely coming into the motorhome keeping us warm though we could see in the distance clouds starting to form. We only had around 100 kilometres to go and there was little traffic on the road and we did not catch up to others that we thought we would. We finally arrived at Charleville and the first thing we noted was the changes since we were here 10 years ago. We stopped to refuel at $1.58.9 cents a litre and then went and parked up near the bridge and walked back into town. First stop was the bank for funds and then we strolled along the main shopping street and noted the Historic House Museum and we did not bother to go in. I could not believe that we did not venture into the op-shop though we did stop at the bakery and had a cappuccino and I had a pie the first on this trip to date. We were to meet a few from Wyandra and they were doing the same as us with the majority in the local IGA. We needed to stock up on vegetables and fruit and then bread rolls and a loaf of bread. Then onto the cheap shop and bought a few items that will help us over the next few weeks before we start travelling towards the coast.
We then headed for Ward River our camp for a couple of days before we move onto Quilpie which is some 200 kilometres to the east. It is nice and warm so we had a cuppa and then out came the chairs and we just relaxed for the rest of the afternoon. We will worry about wood and lighting a fire tomorrow, we will need to take the Terios off to go back further towards Charleville for there is not wood close by. We will not be having a happy hour today just sit and relax beside the brown Warrego River which I suspect no fish could possibly survive in it.
Kilometres travelled 123

Tuesday the 26th
It was a beautiful bright moon last night and the stars were as plain as to see. Tonight we will have a fire for after breakfast we collected wood, which is in short supply in this area no doubt due to the amount of happy campers and locals who use the area all wanting fires. The firewood we managed to get was well up the road and required the use of the chainsaw to cut into manageable lengths. After use we re sharpened the chain and set up ready to cut that hard Gidgee Wood later on. The fellow that camped down from us who borrowed match's last had left early this morning and he returned after going into Charleville for supplies and matches. We noted this morning that sky was as blue as though there was cool breeze that had sprung up as we sat outside reading our books after the fire was set.
We were to note that a lot of happy campers had left the camping area across the road and it could well be that they had heard the weather forecast report of heavy storms this evening in this area. We had our lunch and then went walkabout across the road and it was correct all the caravans that were there yesterday have all left. That side of the old highway is black soil and with just a sprinkling of rain will cause it to be very boggy. There is one section that requires that you go down a gully and then up before you get to hard gravel. We were to note all the signs especially the one that called the Warrego River the Ward River Waterhole. Others described fish that are likely to be caught including the dreaded Carp.
Now heavy clouds have come over and the sun is being blocked out so the forecast for the night could be right. We are camped on hard gravel and should not be affected and as Liz has said so what we do not have to move if it rains. We should still be able to drive the short distance to the bitumen. More reading of books and the warm weather has convinced us to have a salad for our evening meal which we are looking forward to.

Wednesday the 27th
We sat out by the fire last night though we came inside to watch the news and get an up to date weather forecast. Which stated possible storms and this did not worry us much as we went off to bed for the moon was shining brightly and there were plenty of stars.
It was a bit humid which we thought nothing about it as we dropped off to sleep and then at 2am there was this almighty clap of thunder that woke both of us up.
Then it started just a few sprinkles on the roof of the motorhome and then the downpour of rain and it was consistent. We went off to sleep and awoke at 6am and the rain was still tumbling down. 7am it stopped as quickly as it started and then at 7.30 we hopped out of bed and noted the mess of the road out that the four wheel drive camper had caused on its way out this morning. It was obvious we were stuck here in the same manner we were some ten years ago.
I decided to test the ground and by the time I had reached the road some 12 metres away I had grown at least a 100 mills with the amount of mud on the bottom of my shoes. I then walked on the bitumen highway to scrape it off and noted the clouds to the north were very dark and over our motorhome they looked as bad. I was to see kangaroos in the distance seeking the new growth of grass beside the road and they hopped away when they spotted me.The morning was warm and there was slight breeze so it is hoped the ground would dry out quickly. The road out had been broken up by the four wheel drive so it looked as if we would be stuck here another night if it did not rain.
Back in camp with heaps of mud stuck to my shoes and then we had breakfast for now the sun was shining though it was still to muddy to go outside.
We noted the caravan and camper trailers that came in late yesterday afternoon had left leaving a muddy mess on the highway.
We had our lunch inside and read our books and then noticed two caravans arrive across the road and then both drivers walked over here to check it out. I implored to stay where they were for they would only make it worse the road out for us. They agreed to that and it was mid afternoon when one of the caravans pulled out with the other deciding to stay given they were on hard gravel base.
I sat outside for awhile as the ground was starting to harden and then it was decided to pull the satellite dish down and watch a DVD tonight for if it starts to rain we will attempt to drive out to the bitumen. The weather forecast is for a chances of another thunder storm later in the day. We will need to replenish our books along the way for we are now running out. There were a few clouds about though we were able to go outside and Liz at the moment is doing her craft work.

Thursday the 28th
I hopped out of bed this morning to check the sky and it was very overcast so I hopped back into bed. I dozed for an hour and then out of bed to check again and found it was just a heavy fog. So I went on my walk again this morning over the Ward River bridge. I was to see magpies, Swallows and wader birds along the way though no kangaroo's.
Back in camp I checked the road out for the other huge four wheel drive truck had gone over the bank to the road. This I would not be able to do and after walking the track out I was sure that we would get out. The only spot was near the bitumen in the spoon drain.
Breakfast and ready for travel, we departed at 8 am the earliest yet on this trip. I could hear the mud we picked up on the way out hitting the bodywork as it came off the tyres.
The fog was pretty thick and would remain that way for the next 100 kilometres. We came across a group of five Bush (Australian) Bustards in a 10 metre area and they were big birds and inquisitive though was unable to take a photo of them all together. The fog became that thick that I had to turn on the headlights of the motorhome. We came across a total of five road trains two being cattle trains and we gave them the road for obvious reasons.
Before we knew it we had arrived at Coolardi and the famous Foxtrap Hotel/Roadhouse. It was shrouded in fog though the building appeared to thrown together over many years and even sported a tennis court.
We were to come down off a plateau and the sight from the top was very nice for the fog had now lifted and we had a nice clear blue sky with the sun belting down through my window.
Before we knew it we had arrived on the outskirts of Quilpie and then went into our riverside camp, selected a spot and then set up camp. It is obvious that they had missed the thunderstorm for the ground was dry. Though if it rains we will once again be in a position of not being able to move. Though that doesn't worry us. We know Quilpie pretty well so this afternoon we will go and use their nice public shower rather than use our own and refill the water drums. We will relax for the rest of the afternoon and watch the AFL football tonight being Richmond V Sydney. I have elected to bring out the satellite dish.
Kilometres travelled 192

Friday the 29th
It was warm during the night and this morning we hopped out of bed at 8 am to a nice fine and sunny day. I went for a walk around the camp grounds and down to the Bulloo River. Back home for breakfast and then spent time talking to a few happy campers that were nearby.
We then went for a drive over to Lake Houdraman where we were to see Emu's and then down at the lake we were to see pelicans and water birds plus the old wood duck. There appeared to be more water than last year. Back to camp and just relaxed with a cappuccino and a few biscuits and before we knew it lunch time had arrived. Emptied the generator fuel into the Terios and made a few running repairs to the chainsaw fuel container and we were on our way to the fuel depot where we were to pay $1.55.9 cents a litre for unleaded fuel. The service station in town costs $1.78 per litre for unleaded and the same for diesel. It is no wonder those who know go to the fuel depot.
Then around to our favourite butcher to buy those nice fat pork sausages for the weeks ahead. The price had not changed and though his meat is excellent the prices are very high.
Then onto the Off Shearer's Bakery where we made out acquaintance with the owners again this year. The bad news was that the lady/wife/mother had died of cancer in April this year and when the daughter was telling us there was a tear in her eye.
We had lunch there with Liz having a mince pie and I had the egg,bacon and cheese burger and then we had a cappuccino each. When the customers had eased for they had all but sold out of their pies and there was few loafs of bread left to sell. We enjoyed our meal then the proprietors came and sat with us and we had a chin wag. With mum no longer being with them they indicated the bakery was on the market to be sold next week and they would probably be moving to Rockhampton to be with the children going to Boarding school. We returned to camp then went looking for wood for tonight's fire and then drove around the area which is quite large. We found that the Polo crosse carnival will be held this weekend so we will spend some time there over the next few days.
Easy night tonight along with a few frothy's and wine for Liz. We are having the large chicken dim sims that will be cooked in the fry pan over the fire. Then we will come inside later to watch the AFL Football before going off to bed. Another good warm day though the clouds are arriving and the forecast has indicated there is a moderate chance of showers tomorrow and if this is the case we will need to sit for we are on black dirt again and you can bet it will become muddy and boggy. As Liz said it doesn't matter for we have food and other requirements available and the awning is out to sit under for it will not be cold.

Saturday the 30th
Very cloudy yesterday afternoon and at dusk we witnessed the pinkish sky though it only lasted a matter of minutes before disappearing. This morning was very windy though dust was evident. Off for a walk again and down in the dry riverbed I was to notice the gum trees with their roots hanging on for grim death, no doubt in the not to distant future the floods when they arrive will probably knock the whole tree over.
Near our camp we are lucky to have a small flowering gum and the bee's are after the pollen you can hear them buzzing away. Time for breakfast and this morning Liz had toast and marmalade and I had hash browns and eggs plus toast all washed down with a cup of tea. Very nice indeed.
We were to say farewell to the happy campers near us for they are heading off to the Birdsville Bash. Then we had morning tea with a few biscuits and then it started to rain so out came the buckets to catch the water. We were concerned that we may be caught in a bog situation again. Though we were lucky for it only ended up being light sprinkles that hardly wet the ground. Then the sun was shining again though there were still clouds around.

We then went over to the over side of the train tracks on the nature walk and there were many signs indicating the types of trees that were in abundance and the many types of birds that frequent the area. We were surprised to see a lone Bush Bustard just strolling along staring at us before it disappeared behind some of the banks in this area. We have not seen so many of these birds in one year as this year. Though what is missing is the Brolga's that are usually in this area there are none to be seen at all.
We then went back to camp and then decided we would go up to the Polo Crosse at the Quilpie Sports ground. When we arrived the games were underway with two games taking place side by side on the large arena. The players travel a long way to participate in this sport for there were teams from Toompine, Quilpie, Roma, Charleville and Longreach. The competition is over the next two days and there is plenty of dust when they are underway. It would appear they play two chukka's and then other teams come on to play. It is a matter of elimination and the final two teams playing off in the finals tomorrow. At one stage we were eating chips washed down with peculated coffee and there was a change of wind that sent the dust in our direction. The game was interesting to watch and we were to note that none of the horses had manes at all. They appeared to be young and in good condition with very shiny coates and bridles. All the riders wore their team colours and all had white jeans or pants, or should we say off white for they were very dusty with red soil.
We watched them for several hours and then decided to come home for awhile and maybe go back up tonight when they are going to have a dance etc. The sun was now breaking through so we sat outside for the rest of the afternoon before cooking our meal for tonight. Thick Pork Sausages, these are the best pork sausages we have ever tasted with little fat during cooking and of course steamed vegetables done outside on our gas cooker and a few frothy's of course. It has been an interesting day to date and we will see what the night brings for we always have the AFL Game tonight if we desire.

July