Saturday the 1st
Well it could be said that we have travelled through the Murray's Green Basin to the Dusty Outback and finally have reached the Ocean on the Redcliffe Peninsula Queensland and finally we will be going down through the Inland Way and onto the Newell Highway on the way back to Melbourne.
Out of bed at 6am to a mild morning and so I set out on my walk down to the foreshore and then along the beach noting the fishing boats out on the water and the couple fishing off the rocks all rugged up.
I was somewhat surprised to see so many people and dogs out walking at this time in the morning though a little cool it wasn't unpleasant unfortunately you could see the smog from the Brisbane area sitting low above the water. I happened to jump on the scales yesterday afternoon and discovered that I had lost 12.5 kilo's since we have left home. Of course now the secret is to keep it off. Now we have hit civilisation the attraction of so many goodies may be to much. Have to get back on the road quickly. Well time for breakfast and relax before we go out for some retail therapy.

First we went looking for a JB Hi fi store so as to buy a new GPS and at the first store it was obvious that the bloke did not know what he was talking about and I was to lose my cool with him and left the store. Kerry was good enough to take us to another JB Hi and there we were served by a young girl who went to a lot of a lot of trouble to make sure I bought the right one and when she wasn't sure she said so. So in the long run it was good to have a person who did not rely on bull to convince me why you should buy it. To top it off we were to receive a sizable discount off the advertised price. Then we went of to the shopping mall at Strathpine where we were to use the ATM for our travels ahead and then we went onto Subway for lunch, which included a Cappuccino for lunch. All very nice and then a trip into the next shopping centre to go into Dan Murphy's for a few cans of frothy's and wine for Liz. Back on the road home and it was full on traffic again. After packing things away we bought out the computer and hooked the new GPS in and found that it did not work like the old GPS. It went straight to wireless and downloaded the latest road maps for this year and next. We then discovered we were able to drag and drop many of the old features across including the camp 8 POI's. We will give it a road trial tomorrow. The rest of the afternoon was spent relaxing and of course it was time for wine and few frothy's before our meal tonight.

Sunday the 2nd
Off on my walk at 6.15 am and the morning was a bit clearer though there was a tinge of smog in the distance. At least this morning you could see the Brisbane Port Cranes though was unable to see if there was any shipping in the port. Again there were fisherman in their boats out on the water at 6.30 am and they appeared to be fishing in and around the reefs that abound in this area of Woody Point.
Back home and had breakfast and then showered before we started the day which of course is Fathers Day. Kerry and Julie gave me a present to mark the day and of course in the course of the day my children were to ring and wish me a happy fathers day. Then out to the car and plugged in the new GPS and did a trial run for some of the features are different to the old GPS. One of the most noticeable is that the screen is brighter and more roads etc were more pronounced.
Back inside and we discussed where we were going and Kerry and Julie once again offered to take us for a drive which took us around the Scarborough way. Of course the road was wind its way along the waterfront and there was plenty of activity for fathers day plus there were plenty of kids around with their family celebrating the day. We drove around near the Marina and you could see the Glass House Mountains in the background with few yachts anchored offshore. We then drove around further and saw the huge shed where they pack, stack and rack the various types of boats for what they call their winter. Then around past the Canals where houses, quite substantial, were right on the edge of the canal with their own jetty and some of the boats/ yachts were very large indeed.
We then went to the Kmart to meet Glen and Tina so we could all have a cappuccino together. After that we went into the Kmart where I purchased a thermos flask to hot water etc over the next few days for we will be putting some kilometres behind us and it will save pulling up to boil the kettle etc.
Then it was around to the Service Station to purchase a toll ticket to go over the Gateway Bridge tomorrow. To no avail they no longer do this service for their has been a change in owners of the toll way.
In our travels today we were to note that diesel was around the $1.60 cents a litre mark so when we arrived back Liz helped me pour 20 litres into the main tank from our spare drum which should get us into NSW tomorrow where it is cheaper by 12 cents a litre.
Then had to go online to purchase the right to go over the Gateway Bridge and what a lot of information you had to give them and their first charge is $1 and they determine later when you cross how much they will charge to my credit card. It is something that I am not happy with so I will just have to live with it.
Later in the afternoon we had a cuppa and then relaxed with everything ready for our departure in the morning. It has been another full on day thanks to Kerry and Julie. We won't take any rocking tonight when we go to bed.

Monday the 3rd
Out of bed at 5.30am this morning and went for a final walk along the foreshore at Woody Point. Back and had our breakfast and then we were to say our thanks and goodbyes to Kerry and Julie who were off to work and later to Glen and Tina who were to see us off before they went to work. We then packed away and then hooked up the Terios for we are going to do some serious kilometres today.
We departed at 7.30am and straight away we were in traffic heading into Brisbane and other areas. We crossed the Hornibrook Bridge and the traffic was bumper to bumper and we were only going along at 10 kilometres per hour due the many roadwork's in the area and indeed when we turned to take the road to the Gateway Bridge the best we could do was 20kph. Of course it is no use getting upset with the slowness of the traffic for you just have to go with the flow, so to speak.
Finally we arrived at the Gateway Bridge and up we went and then down the other side then onto the highway towards the Gold Coast. We were to see the skyline of Brisbane for it hadn't rained at this stage.
Once we hit the four lane highway the speed was to pick up though you had to watch for those vehicles who were entering the highway from the slip roads for they do not ease up at all coming across. The rain started around Yatla and it was steady and of course the trucks and other large vehicles were putting up a good spray off the road.
We passed the theme parks and there did not seem to be much action due to weather we supposed. Then we were entering NSW just past Coolangatta and Tweed Heads. We were climbing for awhile and then we had to go through the road tunnels which feels a bit strange and the GPS changed into night mode whilst in the tunnels.
We finally arrived at the truck service centre just out of Tweed Heads where we refueled at $1.54.9 a litre, whilst there we decided to have a cappuccino plus a donut each. Back on the road and we opted not to go into Ballina the home of the big prawn instead we turned off onto the Bruxner highway bound for Casino. The going was very hilly and then we were to see fields of cane some harvested and others awaiting to be harvested. The going was ok though in stages a bit hilly and we were to go past many Macadamia Plantations etc. First of all we had to drive through Lismore which seemed to go on for ever and then we headed for Casino which had us arriving there at 12noon. We decided to stop for lunch so we had a half a chicken and chips which we consumed on the premises and then we were on our way towards Tenterfield. The hills and mountains were quite steep and we noted we were crossing the great dividing range once again. We came across many horseshoe bends which had us dropping down through the gears. We came through many small town and the lovely old wooden bridge is now being replaced with a concrete bridge alongside it. We finally arrived at a small town where we intended to camp for the night and on going in we decided against for the happy campers appear to have filled the place so we opted to move on to the Tenterfield, when we finally arrived it was time to top up the diesel tank once more. On this occasion the cost was $1.46.3 cents a litre. To put a few more kilometres under our belt for the day we opted to go to the Bonsure Weir a place we had stopped at many years ago. The road from Tenterfield was much better and we had a tail wind which made the going much easier. We arrived at 4.30pm and set up for the night for we are moving on in the morning. A tiring day though well worth the effort for we will enjoy extra time further south at our favoured camp spots.
No television tonight for I cannot be bothered setting up the satellite dish all we will do is read and have an early night.
Kilometres travelled 528 This would be the most we have travelled ever in one day.

Tuesday the 4th
Boy did we sleep last night, we went off to bed around 8.30pm and slept most of the night only awakened when the wind really picked up. Out of bed at 6.30am and went for a walk across the Bonshaw Weir and along the gravel road to the farm entrance. The Bonshaw Weir is just overflowing and that is all for there are many farms irrigating crops of wheat etc. We had our breakfast and we said farewell to other happy campers here and we were on our way towards Yetman.
The going was easy and the wind appeared to be on our back end though we have to say the bitumen in places is rough to say the least. We only had 70 kilometres to go to Yetman.
When we arrived we made a cup of coffee in our insulated cup and then we were on our way towards Warialida. Again the bitumen was rough in places though we were still climbing though, the scenery was great with all the greens and farmland along the way.
We were to drive through Coolatai where we have camped before and we still do not understand why they would have cougars on their signage to the town. We were to see the nice hall where we camped though there were no happy campers there. Along the way we came across a quaint small bridge with its beams being bolt free and it was put together with hot or cold rivets in its time. The signs before you arrive warn of the narrowness and to slow down, if you met a truck there would not be enough room to pass each other.

We finally arrived at Warialida which was a lot larger than we thought and no doubt it services the large farming community in the area. There were plenty of shops and the town looked prosperous. We turned out of town and then we were on our way to Moree along the way there was a lot of road kill which included pigs, two foxes and countless kangaroos and the crows were having a field day. The hills in the distance looked very pretty with their bluish tinge. We were to see plenty of cattle and then we came across an area where there were only sheep. There was a lot of cropping through irrigation and the land that was not irrigated was just red dust and bare of any growth of grass etc. We finally arrived at Moree and drove down the main street and then headed for the Newell Highway. We were to pull into the Puma Roadhouse which you could see had not long been constructed. We pulled into the truck filling area and whilst refueling we noted one truck was filling four of his fuel tanks at once we couldn't hazard a guess on how much diesel he took on board. We were to pay $1.47.9 cents a litre. We parked up and then went into the modern restaurant and had a cappuccino and just relaxed before we pushed on again.
Back on the highway and we had to deal with a lot of trucks going both north and south and where we could we moved off the road to let them go around us. We were to see heaps of wheat and grain silo's plus there was plenty of cotton along the road so it must be grown in this area as well.
We headed off towards Narrabri and along the way we were to see our first crop of Canola on one side of the highway and on the other the crops of canola and wheat giving a nice green and gold look to the countryside. We were to come across a wide load coming towards us and we were to get off the road for he was well over the white line and as it was as it was one side of the trailer appeared to be in the gravel going by the amount of dust he was pushing up.
We finally arrived at Narrabri and before we turned back onto the Newell Highway we came across another wide load though meeting him town meant he had more road to use and did not affect us. We have decided to go as far as the Bohena Creek Rest Area and camp for the night. We arrived at 1pm and it is large mainly for trucks and the bonus is that it has toilets and water. We had our lunch and then just relaxed and will probably have a snooze for we are both tired. Though I have to say the Motorhome is performing very well indeed since its repairs some time back. Tonight we will read and in the morning push onto Gilgandra for our refuel and shower at the truck service centre.
Kilometres travelled 341

Wednesday the 5th
A good nights sleep and we were out of bed at 6.45am then off for a small walk due the density of traffic on the Newell Highway. We had our breakfast and then packed for departure. We were to note the amount of happy campers that must have came in late last night including a vehicle towing a horse float.
We then we headed down the Newell Highway to our next destination. There was a lot of traffic going both ways including Trucks that seemed to come in waves. Again where we could we went off the road to let the trucks past. The going was hilly at this stage though the scenery was great with the exception of the areas where there was dieback of the gum trees. The Cyprus Pines did not seem to be effected by the dry ground only the gums. It wasn't long before we arrived at Coonabarabran though we did not bother to stop for we had only travelled 90 Kilometres to date. The pull out of the town had us changing gears frequently and then we hit a series of mountain ranges that we were climbing in the back ground the mountains looked great and on the highest peak we were to see an observatory which this area is renowned for. It wasn't long and we were going downhill and then up again and we were to note the ground and grass was green so we suspect they had the rains of late. There were plenty of sheep to be seen and no cattle at all. We came across roadwork's which were controlled by traffic lights and we were to sit for around five minutes before we received a green light. Finally we were coming down the hills again and before we knew it we had arrived at Gilgandra. First we went to the Caltex service centre and filled the diesel tank and then had a shower. The water was very hot and there were plenty of interstate trucks pulled up in the yard either sleeping or having a meal in the restaurant. After our shower we opted to go and have a cappuccino and a couple of pieces of carrot cake.
We then drove around and said hello once again this year to Mick and Todd and their mother and father and then we were on the way to our rest area for the night at Collie. It was only 33 kilometres from Gilgandra. We had our lunch and then set up the satellite dish to watch the Marngrook Football Show tonight before going off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 228

Thursday the 6th
A windy morning awaited us and it was so bad I cut my walk short. Back in camp we dismantled the satellite dish and then had our breakfast before we were on the road again at 7.45am bound for Condobolin.
We were to have one thing in our favour this morning and that was the wind was either at our rear or on our side which made for good travelling. On the way to Collie we were to see the ground was as dry as and there appeared to be no growth at all. We came across sheep who had little to eat and along the way we were to see plenty of feeders with grain to keep the breeding stocks going. Most of the sheep had lambs so feeding them grain was the only way to sustain them we supposed.
We then took the turn towards Trangie and it again was an area that had obviously not had a lot of rain and even the water channels they had built some years ago were empty of water. We supposed as we drove past the Gin Gin Weir turn off that the water levels again this year would have been low. Then we went over the Lachlan River bridge and needless to say there was no water at all that we could see from the road.
Before we knew it we had arrived in Trangie and pulled up so Liz could buy the newspaper and while Liz was doing that I took a photo of the very old club rooms for the local bowls club.
Back on the road and the wind had not eased at all and again we were lucky it was on our tail. We arrived at an area which appeared to be green and you could see for a long way that the wheat crop had taken and it was very green and the sides of the road had green verges and then we were surprised to see that bales hay was in one paddock and a lot of it. We can only assume that that there must have been plenty of rain for we could see no means of irrigation.
In this area we were to see plenty of cattle at least two hundred feeding in the long paddock and there were the stockmen and their dogs keeping them in control in one area of the long paddock. Then we arrived at Albert and drove past the Rabbit Trap Hotel which Liz once again wanted to stop for a rest though after discussion we decided to push on.
We were now coming across a lot of traffic especially interstate transport both B-Doubles and Road Trains and a lot of them were carrying loads of hay for the drought stricken parts of NSW and Queensland.
We were now in the area outside of Condobolin which is mainly wheat growing country and again in area it was dry and in other the crop had taken though we suspect that they need a lot of rain to assist in its growing.
The trip so far today has been enjoyable with plenty of nice scenery and lack of fast traffic away from the Newell Highway. We came through many small villages which looked as if they supported the farming in the area.
We finally turned onto the highway into Condobolin and first we stopped at Uncles Service Centre and renewed our acquaintance with the owner. He called me by my first name and Liz as well not bad for an old bloke who hasn't seen us for twelve months or so. We filled with diesel at $1.45 cents a litre whereas the service stations in town were 10 cents a litre dearer. It helps that uncle is the shell distributor for the area including the many huge farms in the outlying district.
We drove through the centre of town and the did not look to be much difference though there appeared to be no shop closures not unlike other areas of the state. We arrived at Gum Bend Lake our camp area until Sunday and due to the high wind we did not pull out the awning though we set up the satellite dish to watch the AFL Football semi final tonight between Richmond and Hawthorn it should be a good game. The rest of the afternoon was spent reading our books and relaxing.
Kilometres travelled 250

Friday the 7th
What a bleak morning it was cold and very overcast threatening rain. It was a cold southerly wind this morning as I went for a walk around the lake it must have been around 3 degrees. Back in the motorhome and they are predicting rain again today. The downpour last night was soaked up and the ground this morning was not damp at all. There was plenty of bird life on the lake and it appeared to be down by at least two metres in level. I wandered over and had a look at the intake for the lake which is situated on the Lachlan River. The river was flowing so there may be a few fish in around the intake as the caretaker has informed us in previous years. I was to meet up with Liz who had trouble walking due to her back problems though at least she is trying. So we walked back to camp and on the way we noted the train passing by and was able to take a photo of Pelicans feeding and the train carriages in the background. There were a few containers that were being double stacked so there must be no low bridges wherever the train is headed. We had our breakfast inside out of the cold and we haven't set up anything outside yet. We will wait until the weather improves before worrying about chairs, tables etc.
This morning we intend to go into town and to the RSL Club to order the courtesy bus for tonight for we intend to go for a meal and a few frothy's and wine.

We went into the town centre around 11am and went straight to the RSL to order a bus to pick us up tonight and renew my membership for the next three years. Then onto Vinnies where Liz was to buy some clothes for the grand child. Then down to the supermarket and lo and behold all we bought was bread rolls a minor miracle. Then into the Bakery where we had a cappuccino and I had a steak and kidney pie which was chocka block full of steak and kidney and Liz had a sausage roll. Then into the newsagent for the paper.
We then drove across the bridge without having to give way to horses as the sign suggested. Then noted there were few people in the caravan park and then we were to see the old utes that used to be in a farmers paddock some thirty kilometres away. The council had moved them into their current location near the showgrounds. The council only installed those old holden's that had to be refurbished by the original artists who had carried out the work originally. They look great all refurbished and we noted there were a few missing and a couple of new utes had taken their place. There was plenty of interest shown with camera's being used by tourists we supposed.
We then went back to camp and noted the sun was breaking through and the temperature was rising so we will get some power into the batteries today from the solar panels. Then it was time for our showers and get ready for tonight for the bus is picking us up at 5.45 pm and hopefully we will arrive in time for the Anzac commemoration.
We will have a meal and a few frothy's and wine and then home to watch probably the last quarter of the football tonight.

Saturday the 8th
We had a nice meal and entertainment last night at the RSL and enjoyed the company of others in the courier bus as it delivered them around Condobolin to their homes. When we arrived back we were to see the last quarter of the Melbourne V Geelong which was a great game never knowing who was going to win until the last ten minutes. Of course Melbourne won convincingly in the end.
When hopping out of bed this morning we were met with brilliant sunshine though this was spoilt later in the day by a cold southerly wind which was hard to get out of. Went for the usual walk around the lake and you can see the level dropping daily. The information is that they are trying to dry the lake out so as they can kill the weeds and refill from the Lachlan River for the have been given a licence to do this.
The bird life is still prolific with the search for small fish on the agenda for the Pelicans and the Swans this morning only appeared to be preening themselves. Of course the Water Fowls were swimming around just like a few Wood Ducks who have just arrived on the lake.
We had our breakfast and due to us leaving in the morning bound for Narrandera we thought we would do the washing up at the Laundromat in Condo. The sun was shining brightly with no clouds in the sky only that cold wind. First stop the newsagent for the paper and then to do the washing and whilst that was in operation over to the cafe for a cappuccino.
Back in camp and up went the cloths line and with this wind it would not take long for the clothes to dry. We were down to only 11 happy campers though there was an influx after lunch. A further two Tassie's arrived and set up near us.
We placed the chairs around the back of the motorhome and spent the rest of the afternoon reading our books in the sun. Then we fitted the A-Frame to the Terios and then hooked it up to the motorhome. Liz is getting all excited for her team Collingwood V West Coast in Western Australia tonight and that should be a good a good game. It is hard to believe that this time next week we will be in Melbourne.

Sunday the 9th
Out of bed at 6am and went for a last walk around the Lake at Gum Bend then back to have our showers before moving on this morning to Narrandra our next overnight stop over.
We had our breakfast and then said our farewells to the happy campers we have met over the past few days and we were on our way at 8.15 am. First stop the dump point and then we were on our way towards West Wylong. We were to see the artistic display of the Holden Utes after leaving Condobolin. We had a wind on our side for most to the way and it was a little strange passing the turnoff towards Tullibegeal and going straight to West Wylong. Along the way we were to see at least seven semi trailers stacked with Hay for where we do not know. Given the amount they were carrying it was obvious they were overweight. We noted in yesterdays paper that they had received permission to be overweight for the carrying of hay for drought stricken areas though they had to be on the back roads and not the highway. Thus the amount of vehicles we were to see on these back roads. The road though bitumen in one place gave you the impression that you were on a corrugated road even though it was bitumen. Luckily it only went for around ten kilometres before it smoothed our again. We were to see many grain receiving depots along the way both under tarp and in the concrete silo's.
We finally arrived at West Wylong and we did not bother to stop for we still had to go 136 kilometres to go to our next rest area. We turned onto the Newell Highway at the Rose Garden which were not in flower though we were to see the last of the daffodils and the blossom appearing on the trees in the park. We drove by the old DC3 which is still in good condition and then we were now facing a head wind. Around another ten kilometres up the highway we came to a rest area so we stopped and poured a cappuccino from the thermos flask and had a walk around.
Back on the highway and it wasn't long before we were coming across hectare after hectare of the Yellow Canola and the green of the Wheat. It was obvious that they have had enough rain to start their crops off though further down the road towards Beckom the crops were failing in areas in the vast paddocks and then down further the crops were healthy again. We both commented how nice the scenery was with the green of the Wheat and the yellow of the Canola.
The traffic was picking up both ways on the Newell and when we arrived at Grong Grong we noted that a new rest area had been built so we went off the highway and had a look. What a surprise there would have been enough lanes for around 60 trucks and trailers the same amount of room for caravans, motorhome's and cars. Plus there were toilets and picnic settings on level bitumen. We were so impressed that we marked it on the GPS for future use. It didn't matter where you parked there were beautiful views of the mountains and farm land. Back on the highway and we noted the Grong Grong by pass had been completed so the hill down into Grong Grong and the sudden turn left had been removed. It must have effected the town for we doubt if anyone was going into the town now.
We were to drive by the turn off to Ardlethan and Griffith and continued on with the wind effecting the motorhome and the fuel usage was noticeable though that is the luck of the draw so to speak.
We were finally driving down the lane of trees going into Narrandra though having no leaves it still highlighted the motto of the town of one of Trees. We drove down past the Fig Tree Motel and it hadn't seemed to have changed over the years. We noted that Apex was having a sausage sizzle to raise money for the drought stricken farmers and there were plenty of people there. Then onto our rest area at the Old Brewery area and set up for the night. When we arrived there were not many happy campers though by mid afternoon there were plenty arriving to camp up. Well we are about to go for a walk down to the river though we won't bother going into town for it being Sunday next to nothing would be open.
Kilometres travelled 249

Monday the 10th
Only a short walk this morning for we slept in until 7.30am. We had our breakfast and packed for the trip ahead and then we were on the move at 9.15am bound for the Caltex Service Centre. We were to refuel at $1.54.9 cents a litre 30cents a litre dearer than this time last year. Back on the road and we were to pass the old dismantled wooden railway bridge which if in use today we would not be able to drive under it let alone a truck. It is just rotting away and they are making no move to preserve the section of railway and bridge. Then we turned back onto the Newell Highway and the going was easy this morning for there was no wind to hamper us at all. The greatest amount of trucks heading north are still those piled high with hay for northern parts and drought areas.
The sun was shining the blueness of the sky did not look as sharp or clear as sky's in the northern part of the country and we were coming across a crops that were not doing all that well. Then we were to see hundreds of sheep and their lambs in a very large paddock that had no grass growth at all and we wondered what they were eating and then 40 kilometres further south we were to see sheep in their hundreds again feeding on green grass which had been irrigated with pivots.
We then arrived at Jirilderie and noted the spring flowers that we expected on the trees in the town centre had not yet arrived. We turned the corner and stopped at the Truck service centre and went and had a cappuccino each and some very nice fruit cake. It gave us a break from driving though we are not travelling far today.
Back on the road and traffic was picking up with a few trucks heading south who overtook us easily and we were getting along at 90 kph. We were overtaken by a V8 Chevy towing an old caravan that had been restored and it was named Lucille. It looked quaint though it had very skinny tyres fitted.
Then we arrived at Finley where we were to see many channels of water all full which was irrigating a lot of land especially as they grew Rice in this area. Again more Canola and this has been the healthiest crop we have seen to date and again it was irrigated.
We then arrived at Tocumwal and then drove down to our preferred campsite on Finley Beach. Luckily there were not many happy campers there so we were able to get a spot close to the mighty Murray River that was flowing past.
While setting up we both worked up a sweat for it was quite warm. Out with the awning and chairs and then set up the firepot for is the last spot on our travels where will have a fire. A couple of happy campers came over and we indicated to them they could have the wood that was left on thursday morning when we leave bound for Melbourne.
The rest of the day was spent relaxing and we are about to go for a walk looking for our old mates the Koala's.
Satellite dish set up for the Talking Footy show tonight and we will have a small happy hour down by the Murray River which is less that ten metres from our camp.
Kilometres travelled 169

Tuesday the 11th
Late out of bed this morning and on my walk I was to see two Koala's who were sleeping and no amount of yelling was to have them lift their heads up for a better photo.
The happy camper that bogged his motorhome last night in the sand was leave early this morning without thanking those who assisted him out of the sand.
We had our breakfast outside for there was no wind and the Wood Ducks came really close to us and that shows that they are now used to people being around. We did not feed them for they leave a rather large calling card and we have no desire to step in it.
Around 10.30 am we hopped into the Terios and we were bound for Shepparton for the day. The traffic was not dense at all and the going was easy given there was no wind and the sun was shining brightly with a clear blue sky. We came to the turnoff on the Murray Goulburn highway and we noted the price of fuel was a lot dearer than last year.
Even when we drove through Strathmerton the fuel was not cheap so we continued on given that we have to put fuel into the Terios just to get us back later in the day.
We pulled into the service station where we go each year for they are cheapest along the way and lo and behold they have closed down.
We pulled back onto the highway and headed for Shepparton we were to take the truck route and then turn on the round a bout and head up old Doakie Road until we turned then into the street where Taigh Brothers were. We purchased two 5litre drums of oil and and a oil filter to do the change on the motorhome before we go away next year. The price had jumped $35 dollars over last year. We then drove around to Dan Murphy's and purchased a 30 can box of Great Northern Bear for $44.90. This was some $11 cheaper than we paid in the outback.
Then into our favourite store Aldi's where I spent the first 15 minutes looking at the boys toys and then we purchased what we required over the next two days for we will do a spend up when we reach Melbourne to take home to Tassie.
Then onto the SPC Wholesale where we noted that prices had risen dramatically and on some items they were cheaper in the supermarkets. We only spent a bit over fifty dollars and the we went into Cheap as Chips next door and browsed and bought some snakes confectionary for the grand kids in Melbourne and a few other things.
By this time we were getting peckish so we opted for Hungry Jacks for lunch and boy did I pig out on a double meat and cheese whopper with large chips and coke. Liz was to have only chicken burger and a small chips. By the time were finished we were full.
It was getting late in the afternoon so we did a window shopping and then went to look for a service station for fuel. We found Woolworth's and filled there even though we did not have a docket. Then we drove on the way back to camp and we were to see in places the flowers budding on some of the fruit trees and not on others. We had bought our shower gear with us and when we arrived at Strathmerton we went in to the public toilets where they have showers for $2.
Then we were back on the road heading for our camp and we noted the wind had picked up considerably and was coming out of the north and was really warm. The happy campers told us later that the temperature had reached 27 degrees celsius and we believed them for at 4 pm it was really warm. We packed out purchases away and then it was time for happy hour on the sandy banks of the Murray River.

Wednesday the 12th
We had a few drops of rain in the early hours of this morning though when we hopped out of bed the sky was a clear blue with the sun rising. On my walk this morning I was to see a Koala climbing down the Murray River Gum and then it decided it wanted to go up the same tree again. It was good to watch how nimble these creatures are in their habitat. Along further I was to see a couple of big Grey Kangaroos though they hopped away before I could get a photo.
I took a photo of the sun shining on the waters of the Murray River. It all looked good and across the river I could see many happy campers at the Town Beach campsite. We still believe we are in the best spot on the Murray with its freedom camping. At Town Point they park up just like in a caravan park and they have to pay for the privilege.
Back in camp and I lit the firepot and cooked toast and crumpets and boiled the kettle of course. It was great having breakfast and watching the Murray River flowing towards South Australia.
After cleaning up we went back over the border into NSW and visited the Op shops in Tocumwal though I only bought a couple of books and Liz was to buy a few items to assist us in our camping We then went around to the book shop and had a cappuccino in their Cafe.
Then back to camp and put more wood on the fire for we are having a baked chicken lunch with veggies all cooked in the camp oven. The meal was cooking nicely on the camp fire and you could hear it sizzling away. We read today's paper that we had bought this morning and then set the table outside for our midday meal. Out came the chicken nicely cooked and wrapped in alfoil and then the potatoes were put on to bake which did not take long for Liz had par boiled the potatoes. Liz steamed the broccoli and carrots plus beans.
The chicken was succulent and there is enough left for a chicken salad tomorrow night. It was a very enjoyable meal which means we probably will only have a sandwich tonight.
The washing up was completed and then we started packing the camp away for we are on the road towards Melbourne in the morning. I ripped another heap of skin off closing the door to the truck.
On went the A-Frame to the Terios and then we sat back and relaxed down by the river in the shade and started reading our new books. Our neighbours came over and we gave them the last of our campfire wood and we will have a happy hour with them later this afternoon. The next few days will see us getting ready to go onto the Spirit of Tasmania on Monday and we will make sure that we pass through Quarantine with no problems.
We will watch a bit of television tonight and then pack away the satellite dish and it components in the morning. Another good day with plenty of sunshine and not to hot.

Thursday the 13th
We had a good nights sleep and hopped out of bed at 7.30am and then went for a final walk along the banks of the Mighty Murray River. The river is in the best condition we have seen it in many years and even the animals seemed to be content. It is a rare occasion when you see Wood Ducks roosting in the trees though this morning we saw one that seemed to be on look out duties. Further along we came across a lone Galah seeming to have a snooze given the morning was warm and there were blue sky's and no wind.
Back in camp and we had our breakfast and then packed up to get on the road into Melbourne. We were to say farewell to the happy campers that we had a few happy hours with over the past few days and then it was hook the Terios onto the Motorhome and we were on our way. On the way out we were to spot the Koala having a relaxing time near the road out onto the highway.
The traffic was light and we were going along steady and then we reached Koonoomoo where we were to see the Big Strawberry and we noted that they have extended the site to include children's play area both inside and outside. You could see the extensions had made the place popular not just for strawberry's for children as well.
We arrived at Strathmerton and pulled into the rest area and used the dump point and then went in and had showers at $2 a time and you had to be pretty quick to ensure you did not run out of hot water.

Back on the road and we decided to go via Katung to the Gouldburn highway into Shepparton. It is a pity for there appeared that a lot of the shops including the post office had closed their doors in Katung. Back on the highway and we noted ahead the traffic was pulled up as there were campervan's/motorhome's being pulled by draught horses crossing from one of the side roads. They looked good and they all had flashing orange lights front and rear.
It didn't take long and we were on the truck bypass of Shepparton and after three roundabouts we were heading once again towards the highway to Melbourne. There were still a lot of milking cows in the paddocks and you could see the grass was green due to the amount of water channels that was crossing the properties.
When we reached the highway we were surprised to see that the service station on the corner had been demolished, a sign of the times we thought.
The going was easy for there was no wind and we decided then to take the by pass and go into Nagambie for lunch for it was close to noon. When we arrived we saw that they were building townhouses next to the hotel and right on the shores of the Lake.
We opted for lunch at the bakery and I had the Stockmen's Pie which was larger than normal and contained beef and kidney plus corn, carrot and beans and it was bloody beautiful mate while Liz opted for a Pastie washed down of course with a cappuccino each. After that we wandered along the street and went into the El Cheapo store and had a look at the goods on offer the days of $2 bargains have gone though the quality of the goods appears to have improved. We had a bit of a stroll along the main street and then back to the motorhome.
Back on the road and we were to note once we were back on the highway that the canola and wheat appeared to be very healthy compared with those crops back up the highway further. We were to note that the cattle were very fat and there were no ribs to be seen unlike those in Queensland. Today we are going to stay at the Taungurung Rest Area and we arrived around 1.30 pm and set up the satellite dish to watch the footy show tonight before going off to bed. Tomorrow we will only have around 100 kilometres to travel before we arrive at our Son in law and Daughters place in Thornbury.
Kilometres travelled 157

Friday the 14th
We awoke several times during the night with traffic noise from the Murray Goulburn Highway though we drifted back off to sleep and hopped out of bed at 6.30am. The walk this morning did not last long for I did not want to walk along the highway due to traffic which included cars and trucks and B Doubles. We had our breakfast and packed away the satellite dish and tripod. Jen rang to enquire where we were and we informed her that we would be on the road shortly for we only had around 100 kilometres to their place.
We pulled out at 8am and the highway was clear of traffic and in no time at all we were taking the off ramp onto the Hume Freeway. We were to note the beautiful golden wattle alongside the highway which looked a treat.
As we ventured further down the freeway we were to note that the turnoff we took in May this year to Kilmore we passed by. Which of course means that we have done the circle and we did not bother to stop at the service centre at Hallam. We were to note the rolling green hills and the trees along the way this scene was certainly a lot different to what we recall of NSW and outback Queensland. We were to see plenty of sheep and cattle all looking in good condition. It wasn't long before we were experiencing the traffic joining the Hume Freeway from the slip roads which of course meant that the traffic became more dense. Of course that meant that the traffic was darting in and out of the various lanes trying to get an advantage that wasn't there. Give me the outback traffic any day.
We finally were to see the high rise buildings of the Melbourne city centre and the smog was not to bad this morning for the there was a strong wind on our rear that was driving it and us along.
We were to drive past the huge blue steel beams that lessened the noise to the local housing estates how much we could not hazard a guess. We then took a turn off and was to wend our way through several suburbs and plenty of traffic and a couple of occasions had to really stand on the brakes to avoid running into cars that had cut in front of us.
We finally arrived at Rob and Jens place and there was Jen waiting for us, again she had saved a parking place near their house. We set up and then unhooked the Terios and put it in the drive way and then inside to have a cup of tea.
We then went into Fairfield to have a cappuccino and while there the girls shared a muffin and I liked the look of a pie being made of puff pastry and what a let down first they warmed it up in the micro wave and then they told me it was beef and I expected cubes of beef not mince and it was terrible. When the girl asked me did I enjoy it I told her no it was terrible and the girl thought I liked it. What a joke and to think I paid $8.
We then thought we would get our grocery shopping out of the way and then we went to Aldies and the first thing I did was to walk the aisles looking at the boys toys and bought a snatch block. Then meat and groceries to take home. On the way back I noted the price of diesel which was all around the $1.59.9 per litre. Back and we packed the goods away though most of it is sitting by the lounge in the back.
Oh well we are now off to the op shop and then relax for the rest of the afternoon and then watch the AFL football tonight Hawthorn V Melbourne and then off to bed.

Saturday the 15th
Slept in this morning after a top game of football last night. It was 8.15am when we climbed out of bed and then off I went to the service station to get the paper and of course exercise for the day. I attempted to pick up the Collingwood bumper sticker with the coupon in the paper and to no avail for it can only be redeemed at a newsagent. We had breakfast inside the house and said our good mornings to the family. This morning Jen indicated that along with Rob and the boys they would take us for a look at the Shrine of Remembrance on St Kilda Road.
The traffic was crazy bumper to bumper and showing no respect for other road users. We finally arrived and parked up and though I have seen the shrine many times I was not prepared for how large it is. That is on the outside and when we went inside we were gobsmacked at what it contained. Though it is generally devoted to the first world war and it service men and woman it also covered all the conflicts since the first world war. There were many photo's, medals and uniforms from the previous conflicts and they all seemed to carry the same story War equals Peace. There would be many who would disagree with that phase. There were many interactive displays and videos and it was obvious that you could spend days in this place and still probably not see it all. There is no idea how big the internals are until you enter by the side entrance. On each floor there is a small shop for gifts or memorabilia. To see a display of this magnitude and then find it is all free, no entrance fee at all is mind boggling and you gained an idea what our services people went through in the various conflicts around the world. There are also copy's of all the medals given in each conflict on display and this excited Liz to see if there was a chance to get copies of medals her father had gained whilst a Rat of Tobruk in world war 2. The attendant was give her the information how to obtain them for her future enquiries. In all we spent over two hours and I am sure we did not see all the displays.
It was decided that we would go to Richmond and the Vietnamese section to have my favourite Pho for lunch. When we came out of the Shrine it was very windy and showery and as we drove down the avenue of trees that were in blossom, we noted that the wind had blown a branch off a tree and unfortunately it came down and went through the rear window of car parked on the side of the road. The owner of the car will not be happy to see the damage to his car.
We were to then drive down through Richmond and the Punt Road grounds of the Tigers which was, needless to say, adorned with Richmond colours and flags. We then turned under the very large monument that leads us into the Vietnamese section of Richmond. We then parked up and found the restaurant that we dined at some years ago.
We all sat down and the boys had a selection of fried and steamed dim sims and spring rolls. We opted for Pho which was either chicken of beef or both. It was all very nice and filling which means we will only have sandwich's for our meal tonight. Whilst we were there Andrea our grand daughter arrived with her boyfriend which we met for the first time and they had a meal with us. Being the good parents and grand parents we are we picked up the bill. Thankfully I did not see it before we offered to pay. We said our farewells to Andrea and we went to the car. I noted across the road that someone had painted a couple of rockets depicting the North Korea and the American leaders both riding a nuclear rocket of course Trump had the bigger rocket. We thought it was quite funny. The ride home was through rain and many suburbs to avoid the amount of traffic that was out and about. Jen was to pull up at the newsagent in Fairfield to get the collingwood bumper sticker for Liz.When we arrived home we had a cup of tea and the boy went off to watch cartoons we had a bread roll and then we settled in to watch the Collingwood V GWS game before going off to bed. It has been an informative and enjoyable day.

Sunday the 16th
We all had a bit of a shock when Jen walked in last night with her makeup on depicting the Living Dead theme for the fundraiser for the School that the boys attend. Liz and I babysat the boys while their parents went out for the night. They were no problem and we all settled in to watch the Collingwood V GWS football game. Liz was pleased at the end of the night when her beloved Collingwood won the game by ten points elevating them to the prelimenary final next week against Richmond.
It was a late night and we awoke this morning around 7.30am and hopped out of bed with me going off to buy the newspaper to see the report on the footy from last night. We then had our breakfast before Rob and Oliver went off to play in the under twelve soccer match. By the time we cleaned up and arrived at the soccer ground they were halfway through the first game. Oliver is very quick on his feet and plays a good brand of soccer. It was good to watch and they won the first game.
All teams had a break and we wandered off to the canteen and had a cappuccino plus I had an egg and bacon roll very nice indeed.
Then the second game started and the team that Oliver's team played against looked awesome for the they were tall and looked older than 12 and under to me. That is the way this match went with the opposite team winning 4 goals to nil. It was a very uneven game and the difference in height and skills were very noticeable. Not to worry at least they won one of their matches.
Back home and it was to do a little of packing to ensure we meet the quarantine requirements tomorrow. We were to take all our fruit and vegetables into Jen and then emptied the fuel from the unleaded drums into the Terios.
It was time to go over to Robs mothers place for lunch and on the way we were to wind our way through various suburbs and then onto the Tullamarine Freeway towards Essendon. There was plenty of traffic on the road and given that it was a six lane freeway all the lanes were full of traffic. We were to turn off and we finally arrived and were greeted by Marika who welcomed us to her home and settled us in and then served a beautiful bowl of chicken noodle soup and then there was roast pork, roast chicken and salad and chips. It was a nice meal of course there was gravy for the meal. There were a few bottles of wine opened for the meal and I settled for a frothy and then after awhile the two blokes had a frothy as well. We all had a good natter about all and sundry and the we had apple strudel with ice cream for sweets. Then later on there were platters of sausage, ham and salami plus cheese and bread. We really had eaten our fill and then we were showed the shed and the many tools that Adolph left behind when he passed away. I was invited to take few and I selected a small selection plus an extendable washing broom for which I was thankful. Then many toys for our two great grand kids were gathered and boxed and we will take them home with us on the ship tomorrow night.
All good things come to an end and we thanked our host for a delightful meal and the the company of her children and then we were headed to home in the dark at around 6.30pm. When we arrived back we packed the toys etc into the motorhome and then went inside to watch a bit of television before going off to bed. Another wonderful day with family even if was very cold.

Monday the 17th
We chewed the fat late last night and this morning we did not hop out of bed until 7.45am. Off for my walk and the morning traffic was plentiful hopefully not so much when we leave to go to Port Melbourne.
I purchased the paper and had a natter to the service station attendant who remembered me from past years getting fuel here for our travels north or topping the tanks heading for home in Tasmania.
Back home and we had our breakfast and said our farewell to Jen first who had to leave early for work in the hospital in the city and then to the boys and Rob who was taking them to school and then off to work himself. We were to have our showers and a final cup of tea and then out to hook on the Terios to travel to the Melbourne Waterfront.
Closed the house down and then we were on our way to the service station to fuel up. We were to pay $1.50.9 cents a litre for diesel and I was surprised how much we took on. Then it was out into the morning traffic and nothing changes you have to be aware of those cars around you for they change lanes with not much warning. At one stage I wished to change lanes and I signaled our intention early given the car behind us was a good four car lengths back behind the Terios. Just as I started to change lanes the car accelerated with horn blaring and as I was committed to the lane change the car just made it by doing around 90kph in a 60kph zone. Amazing and we were to see it all along the way it was a wonder there was not an accident.
The GPS wanted to take us a different way to what we have been travelling for the past ten years so we just ignored that and as we arrived in the city we were to note the hospital where Jen works only being completed late last year. Then we wound our way down past he Queen Victoria Market that doesn't open on a Monday. When we arrived at Spencer Street we allowed the computer to take us the rest of the way. We were doing a lot of lane changing just to keep on track with the GPS and in hind site I should have relied on our knowledge of how to get to our destination. We were coming down behind Etihad Stadium and there was a lot of construction happening and of course the GPS was not aware of the lane closures and sure enough we could not get into the right lane therefore we had to head towards the gateway bridge and the turn off into Todd Road that we knew. We finally arrived at our park up spot for the day prior to us heading for the Spirit of Tasmania and then on our way across Bass Straight.
When we pulled up Liz put the kettle on and we had a cappuccino and some cake. Then I walked over to the waterfront and the first thing I saw was the ship "Searoad Tasmania" in its berth in the Yarra River no doubt being loaded for its journey to Devonport tonight. Then turning around you could see the Spirit of Tasmania who was stern first into the wharf when normally it is bow first and that is how we would normally load so there must be a problem to load through the stern. There were plenty of containers banked several units high and then back to the motorhome for lunch.
After lunch we stayed and read our books for it is a bit cold if we were to go for a walk along the esplanade. So we look forward in getting on the ship later this afternoon and then waking up when we reach Devonport in the morning which is our journeys end for 2018.
Kilometres travelled 15

Tuesday the 18th
Other than feeling a bit of movement of the ship as it came out of Port Philip Bay into Bass straight the trip was very smooth. Early last night the Ships Captain indicated that we experience one metre seas and I knew then we would have a smooth trip. When we went to our cabin last night to read our books before hopping into bed we could hear a car alarm going off every five minutes and it didn't cease until we came through the heads. We raised this with an officer this morning and he indicated that even though they ask passengers to disable their car alarms very few do it and thus the horns blowing in concert when the ship gets a bit of movement. They awakened us at 5.45am and indicated we would be disembarking around 6.30am. When we looked out the port hole of our cabin we noted that the ship was in the throes of being tied up to the wharf. We had time for our showers and then we went outside to look at the dawn and sun was just rising and with the dark cloud there was a nice red glow.
We went down into the lift and hopped out at level five where the motorhome and the Terios were parked and once again they allowed the car to park behind our motorhome. Once the doors were released we went and sat in our vehicles and as usual they were paging a passenger for they were not present when we were ready to leave the ship. We were held up for around 15 minutes for that passenger had blocked our lane. Finally they tracked down the bloke and we were on our way. out through the front of the ship and down the ramp onto firm ground.
When we arrived at the old Quarantine shed I noted that there were hold ups which wasn't normal for we now do our Quarantine inspection in Melbourne. Liz was to get ahead of me and then I noted that there were police dressed in Border Patrol uniforms and Police as well then the dogs appeared and it was obvious that they were doing a drug inspection. Liz went through first and then I was called upon to stand outside the drivers door. I had no idea what was going to happen next for the group were not very pleasant. Along came the dog and sniffed me and then they said I could now leave. I was to pick Liz up in the next street and we hooked the Terios on and we were on our way to Launceston via my sisters house in Carrick.
The temperature at 7am was 9 degrees with just a little cloud the farm land around us on the highway was very green with lush pastures and the dams were full of water. It was the exact opposite to outback NSW and Queensland. Then there were the paddocks of red soil being prepared for crops and in one there were many hectares of potatoes growing.
We arrived at my sisters place and we had a cuppa and spent a pleasant hour finding out what had been happening in the family and then I was given large bag of Meringues that my niece had made for me.
Before we knew it we arrived in Launceston and then there was a certain amount of unpacking to be done before we leave for home on friday. We will see our children over the next couple of days. Then it was time to take down the solar panel and the roof rack on the Terios and then it was emptied with a lot of the items being loaded into the Ute for the trip home. Finally the rear seats were returned to their original position it now looked like a car again. Whilst this was happening Liz was doing the washing and then we stopped to have lunch. We lit the fire to warm the house up and then it was time to go and buy vegetables and what a shock to see the prices compared to what we were paying on Mainland Australia. Then the fuel prices for diesel were all around the $1.63 plus per litre. We did the shopping and then came home and had a cappuccino and now I intend to finish the diary for this year.
So in effect we travelled through three states doing a total of just over 7000 kilometres and spending nearly$2000 diesel for the motorhome and petrol for the Terios and chainsaw and generator which was not used much at all this year. The motorhome performed extremely well the only problem being the crack in the vacuum tank that was fixed pretty quickly and at not much cost. The Terios performed well given that it is a trailer for our wood and camping gear as well as a runabout, in all we were to travel a little over 4000 kilometres when we went walkabout which we did on many occasions. So folks that's it for another year and in all there are 769 photo's in this diary.