Monday the 1st of June
First day of winter and it feels like it. This morning the temperature was only 6 degrees with a cold southerly wind when we hopped out of bed. We went inside the house for showers and breakfast and we farewelled Rob and the boys who were off to school. When Jen arrived back we had a bit of a chin wag and then hooked Digger up behind and we left around 10 am. I fed the destination into the GPS and then we headed down to top up the tank of the motorhome with diesel at $1.21.3 a litre and then we were on our way.
I kept ignoring the GPS instructions for I was heading for the western ringroad and then up onto the Calder Highway bound for Green Lake reserve at Ararat. I kept ignoring the GPS and finally I knew I had taken the wrong turnoff. So I decided to let the GPS take over. I couldn't work our why it wanted to go back to the Hume Highway though I followed along. Disaster some 60 kilometres short of our destination or so I thought I wondered why we were not recognising any of the countryside. I pulled over and checked and found that I had put the wrong destination in the GPS. I reset and found we were some 220 kilometres away from where we intended. By the end of the day we had travelled 359 kilometres instead of only 198.
Though we did not panic for we were to travel through country that we hadn't seen before, we had entered the gold field diggings and every town along the way lay claim to their gold prospecting history and were making a huge effort to attract tourists to their towns. We were to travel through farming land both for cropping and sheep and cattle raising. There were huge vineyards along the way and we noted the large winery built within the grape growing area.
On one of the back roads we came across an old bridge built in 1867 of the old cast steel and hot rivets with timber decking, one side's timber decking was being replaced so we had to wait until our turn came with traffic lights to allow us to cross.
We were to travel through many small towns with old buildings and we were surprised at the amount of old trucks from the 50's and 60's that were being used to cart materials on the highway all being in pristine condition.
We finally arrived at Maryborough and were hoping for a roadhouse to have something to eat for it was 1.30 pm and we needed food and a drink. The only eatery we saw was Macdonald's so we had to settle for a hamburger and chips plus soft drink. We saw a most beautiful Train station which must be many years old built with brick. Back on the road still travelling over back roads that were bitumen and noted the autumn colors of the trees through the many small villages along the way.
We finally arrived at our destination at 4.30 pm and set up, at the moment the temperature is only 8 degrees with some squally rain. Tonight we will settle in and watch the television and see what the day brings tomorrow. We may stay another night and explore Ararat tomorrow at the moment it is dark something that we are not used to.
Kilometres travelled 359

Tuesday the 2nd of June
It was a cold night though we were as snug as a bug in rug, so to speak. We had our breakfast and then decided to leave our showers until later in the day when it was a bit warmer. Did it warm up? not really it remained at 9 degrees with heavy cloud blanketing the sun. Mid afternoon there was enough brightness to charge our batteries though I have had to start the generator for the computer as the battery was nearly flat. We had a walk down to the lake and observed plenty of magpies and parrots feeding where happy campers have left bird seed for them. There is absolutely no water in the lake at all and due to this there are no water birds. It was no sense going fishing even the boat ramp is sitting high and dry. The locals say that it has not had water in it for years though it is still a good place to camp with hot showers and toilets close by.
After cleaning up we unhooked Digger and went into Ararat to check the place out. In previous years we have taken the by-pass road, when we came into the town centre we were surprised to see parking meters so first of all we drove around to Aldi to buy bread. Of course we filled a shopping cart and we are not sure where we are going to put the groceries though we are sure that we will find a spot and I avoided the temptation to purchase Tim Tams, though only just.
We parked in a side street to avoid the meters and then found that the shops lined the main street for some two kilometres. First to the bank and then chemist and it was now that we noticed along shop front verandah's on one side of the road were grape vines which must look a picture in the summer months, the only break was when it came near a hotel and then resumed after that for the entire length of the street.
Many of the buildings are very old and built out of huge stone blocks such as the old school etc. The town hall is of brick with most of it painted white though it looks very good indeed. We stopped at one of the many cafe's that line the street and had a cappacino and a bit of chat with a few locals who gave us the history of the area.
Went into Dimmy's and bought a few things and then down to the op shop and bought books and a few other items. When we arrived back at Digger there was a woman looking at Digger and she wanted to know its history and was surprised how old it was at 30 years old. When we returned to camp many of the happy campers had moved on and a new lot were arriving late in the afternoon. We intend to get back on the road in the morning so we hooked Digger up again and then relaxed for the rest of the afternoon reading and getting the heater ready for tonight. We may play cards or watch television we are not sure yet.

Wednesday the 3rd of June
Shower in chilly weather and then breakfast and we were on the road at 9.15 am. First stop was at the woolworths fuel to top up and use the discount voucher. We sat at the bowser for a couple of minutes waiting for the driver hop out and refuel after more minutes I hopped out and found he was on his mobile phone and tapped on the window and asked him was he taking on fuel. Finally it was my turn, I couldn't believe how slow the flow of diesel was and finally after ten minutes the fill was completed. When I raised this with the attendant she stated that normally people hang up and try again and sometimes it goes faster. We paid $1.23.9 per litre with the discount and she did not charge for the paper.
It was still very overcast and cold with the outside temperature being 5 degrees whereas in the motorhome we had the heater set for 28 degrees very nice. We were to pass the roadside stop which boasts the Big Koala and all sorts of goodies. Plenty of traffic on the road heading for South Australia. We were in the Wimmera district and there was plenty of paddocks of stubble from previous wheat crops and land being cultivated for future planting. There was plenty of sheep feeding on the wheat stubble.
We finally arrived at Dimboola and went to Eddies place and checked it for him for we would him see later in the day. All was ok and Liz then took the opportunity to go to the hospital and have her blood tests. On leaving Dimboola we spotted the dreaded Correla's at least a 100 of them feeding in a paddock which had wheat seed planted.

Back on the road and we travelled up the road for awhile and then we stopped in the pink lake rest area to have lunch. What a beautiful Pink colour it was especially the reflections though the photo does not do lake colours justice. Back on the road and we headed to Nhill to see Eddie in the Nursing Home. When we arrived he was waiting in a wheel chair inside the front door. We spent a pleasant two hours with him and he was hoping go home soon, we bid him farewell as he was about to go out on a bus trip with other patients.
We were now heading toward Japarit and were entering the Woomera district and again there were many hectares of wheat under cultivation. There was not much traffic on the road and at last we drove out of the cloud cover and into the sun. Then we arrived at Hopetoun and then drove down to the Lake Lascelles camp ground and set up.
Unhooked Digger and then went out and cut wood for our fire pot and tonight we are cooking outside even though it is getting a bit chilly. The sunset was the best we have seen for awhile and hopefully we are now in better weather. We cooked our meal on the fire pot and then went inside to eat and course turned on the heater. Settled in to watch television before going off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 314

Thursday the 4th of June
Just a little sunshine this morning which quickly changed to overcast. We set up the camp putting out the awning and table and chairs, lit the camp oven and then lit the fire to boil the kettle and cook our crumpets. The wind had increased and was cold so much so that we had our breakfast inside. Checked the house batteries which were ok and then had a good old chin wag with the happy camper just up the road a bit.
The rain tumbled down so we were lucky enough to cover the wood that is still in the tray of Digger and then put out a bucket to catch the water off the awning. After lunch out came the generator to charge the house batteries for they were getting little from sun etc.
After lunch I started the computer and well it refused to start asking me to check the cable connection, what cable? After three start up attempts a message appeared "Start up Repair" and for the next 30 minutes it appeared to be doing nothing then it asked if I wanted to restart which could lose a few recent files, what choice do you have. Finally it started and the first message was from Toshiba stating the computer battery was charging low and should be replaced. Where we are it is impossible to do so.
The rest of the afternoon was spent reading our books for the weather is to rough to be driving or walking about. Just a Lazy day it has been.

Friday the 5th of June
Another overcast morning though we were able to cook our breakfast on the firepot once again and eat outside. Our next door happy campers were leaving this morning so as they pulled out we moved up to that space. The reason being is that it is the spot where you get the most sun later in the day for the solar panels. It didn't take long to set up for the awning was left out when we moved, this time we put the matting down and the side wall to help deflect the wind. We have pulled the Baby Q out for we are having home made Pizza's for our evening meal washed down with beer and wine.
After lunch we hopped in Digger and drove into Hopetoun to get a paper and do a bit of sight seeing and whilst there we checked out the price of diesel it was $1.41.9 a litre a big jump from what we paid previously. It was a cold miserable day overcast with intermittent rain so we stayed in Digger and just drove around having a look at all the old buildings etc. We noted that the bank had more of those grape vines adorning their verandah no doubt in season they would not last long with birds and people enjoying them.
Back to the lake and we had beautiful hot showers for just a gold coin donation and once again you can stay under longer for there is more water on tap.
Whilst there we had a look at the Aboriginal Totems and the various bits of art on display.
Back to camp and found two new happy campers had arrived so we chewed the fat with them for awhile. Then happy hour arrived so we sat outside and then cooked our Pizza's before going back inside to watch the football game. Though cold we have enjoyed the area once again.

Saturday the 6th of June
This morning was very foggy though not really cold. The happy campers near us were leaving this morning so we had a good old chin wag and they invited us to visit them should we ever be near Cohuna. We told them we would take that offer up probably next year as we crawled up the Murray River. Lit the firepot and cooked eggs and bacon plus toast for breakfast and then sat by the fire getting warm. We went for a walk around the lake and noted the water fowl on the way, they were not skittish at all.
Then it was time to go into the village to buy the paper and then drove around admiring the old buildings and found more buildings with grape vines lining their verandahs. Whilst at the Newsagents getting the paper we also looked at the camping gear they had for sale.
By the time we arrived back in camp it was nearly lunch time though we delayed that whilst we washed all the road grime off the motorhome picked up off the wet roads some days ago. Then Digger was washed and then we had our lunch.
We took our chairs down to the lake for even though the fog low down had cleared it still was high and was blocking the sun again not good for the solar panels for charging the house batteries. A little later in the afternoon we watched the local towns folk fishing and they caught red fin, yellow Belly and catfish. Some of the fish was large especially the yellowbelly they were using garden worms for bait.
In late afternoon the sun broke through and and it was warm so much so that I nearly dropped off to sleep whilst listening to the football on the radio and reading our e-readers. We didn't have a happy hour this afternoon though the happy campers who are about 600 metres from us came and visited we had a chat about how good the facilities were for freedom camping or if you wished to go to the caravan park for $20 per night. There are more in the caravan park than freedom camping. Out with the Baby Q for we only ate one Pizza last night so we will have the other tonight. We then settled in to watch the football tonight before going off to bed. It has been a relaxing day.

Sunday the 7th of June
SUN GLORIOUS SUN! What a sunrise this morning and even though there are a few clouds about it is not cold and no fog. First job get the fire alight then time for breakfast, there was a slight breeze which did not worry us, this will help the clothes to dry along with the beautiful sun. The lake is so tranquil this morning with just the water fowl skirting the edge. We had our breakfast then while Liz cleaned the motorhome and did the dishes I set up the washing machine up for use. The water tap is close by so that was an easy task. We thought we had a dilemma in that the washing machine would not go and they wont go if you do not turn the power on!!!
While Liz was doing the washing I went and cut wood for our fires over the next couple of days and hopefully have a bit left to take with us when we move on. It looks a bit weird with the wood on the basket on the roof of Digger.
We then drove up to the newsagent to buy the sunday paper to catch up on the football results we had our lunch and then the cloths were dry so in they came. The locals are back fishing again though we thought we may have had a lot more people come in considering it is a long weekend though that is not worrying us. We read our books for awhile down by the lake and then we came inside to watch the Collingwood game and then out to the fire to cook our evening meal on the fire pot hot plate.
We came inside and watched the television for awhile then off to bed and do a bit more reading. An excellent sunny day and very relaxing.

Monday the 8th of June
Another sunny morning though there was to be a heavy wind build up during the day. We cooked breakfast on the firepot and then ate inside out of the cool breeze. A few more happy campers left this morning having no regard for the traffic returning home after the long weekend. There were a couple of Bush Pigeons taking in the sun and watching what were only Split more wood and tidied up around the camp and the into Digger and drove into Hopetoun to buy bread and rolls for lunch today. Well we thought we would the newsagent, bakery and the IGA were all closed so we drove down to the Bon Bon Cafe to see what they had on offer. It was lunch time so we decided to have a cappuccino and Liz had a ham salad roll and I settled for a peppered steak pie. They had some beautiful items of art on display which were for sale all made out of old corrugated iron, though the prices were a bit steep.
We came back and checked out the bush camp and noted the two wheat silo's that had been turned into tourist accommodation at $30 per night. Unusual though looking nice we wondered what they would be like in the summer month for it gets as high as 40 plus degrees Celsius. We saw more aboriginal art so we spent some time looking around before heading back to camp.
Carried out a few repairs to the 12 volt system which I threatened to do for a month or more. When this was completed we settled in to watch the Collingwood V Melbourne football game.
The wind has really become strong and has the motorhome rocking we may have to cook inside tonight then watch a bit of television before going off to bed to read our books.

Tuesday the 9th of June
A windy night though when we arose at around 8.30 am it was calm and the sun was shining. We were visited again by around 7 bush pigeons all looking for something to eat. Even though we could feed them we declined for they should forage for their own food rather than reply on being fed.
Lit the firepot and boiled the kettle once again and then whilst Liz had healthy cereal I opted for toast with bananas as it was still a bit cool we ate inside. We had our showers and then we started to dismantle our camp for we are on the road towards Mildura in the morning.
Then into Hopetoun and the chemist and IGA and then off to the Bon Bon Cafe where we had cappuccino once again with small cakes which were nice though a little sweet. We took photo's of the art on corrugated iron and agreed that the works are great since they are all on old corrugated iron either shaped or cut to make flowers and other fine works of art. We thought that all were expensive and we noted the Golliwogs on sale which we haven't seen for years.
We went for a drive around the back streets and there are some nice houses and they all sit on very big blocks. All the shops are open today so we decided to drop into a few of them. The op shop was not open so we went back to camp and had a late lunch. The happy campers down from us were leaving so they came up and said farewell and we exchanged the usual information of travels ahead.
We then loaded Digger with wood and then in came the awning and the ground cover so there is very little to do other than pack the firepot in the morning and then on the road even though we only intend to drive a further 170 kilometres tomorrow. It will depend on traffic given this is a main road for B-doubles and semi's heading for South Australia. As I write this there are more happy campers arriving though we bet they will not work out how to get hot water for the showers. It took us some days until a local pointed out what we should do. They have been nice so we will leave a gold coin donation. Tonight we may have a fire after we cook our evening meal it depends how the cold the wind is etc. Another good day it will be sad to leave this very relaxing area.

Wednesday the 10th of June
What a beautiful sunny morning and it would stay that way all day, no clouds at all. We had our showers and breakfast and then cleaned and packed the rest of the camp away and we were on our way at around 9.30 am. We could not help ourselves we dropped into the Bon Bon Cafe and had a farewell cappuccino and a pie with Liz having scones and jam plus cream. Bought the paper and then we were on our way to our next stopover for the night. We decided to take the longer route and get off the main highway and travel through the farm land that was growing immense amounts of wheat for as far as you could see. The soil was like sand and in some places you could see many sand dunes. We were also to see many sheep grazing amongst Alpaca's who protect the sheep from the wily fox's.
The travelling was easy with little traffic on the road which made it easy for travel. We eventually had to turn onto the highway and before we knew it we were approaching Ouyen who boast prime mallee lamb amongst many other things.
It is obvious that the town services the farming community with all the large machinery for sale and I mean large. We parked up and went walkabout in the main street and called into a few shops which included the op shop and the bargain basement shop etc. We went into the butchers and looked at the prime cuts they had for sale and the cost per kilo was very high then back to the motorhome for the last kilometers of our travels today, we intend to stop at the Hatter South Rest Area for the night and then into Mildura tomorrow.
When we arrived there was no one there and we had our late lunch and collected wood and started the fire to cook out meal for tonight which includes potatoes in foil. There is no doubt they will be fine with cream and cheese plus other items.
We are able to get television here though I suspect that we will sit out by the fire. Other happy campers have come in and asked they share our fire we have no problem with that. The sun is still shining and we are swapping rest area information for some are off to Western Australia. No doubt when we go to bed we will read our books before going off to sleep.
Kilometres travelled 119

Thursday the 11th of June
We had a huge fire last light and after we cooked our meal we sat by the fire which was well stoked up. The fire attracted 7 happy campers and we enjoyed hot potatoes cooked on the fire in alfoil and sausages and others used the fire to cook their evening meal. It was 11 pm before we all drifted off to bed. This morning a few sticks on the fire and it burst into flames so on went the kettle and we cooked toast by the red hot coals, beautiful. A few of the happy campers came back and stood around the fire and the talk was of many things with a few vowing to come to Tasmania.
We were on the road at 10 am for we do not have far to go today. There was a fair bit of traffic on the roads including trucks all heading for Mildura. The sun was streaming through the windows and it was nice indeed and again there would not be a cloud in the sky. The going was easy and we passed through many small towns some well off the highway.

We were travelling once again through wheat country and that was to change to vineyards again as far as the eye could see. We entered the fruit fly zone so we made sure that there was no fruit left for the fine for carrying fruit into the area is $600 on the spot fine. Before we knew it we had come through the outskirts of Mildura heading for our camp area at Horse Shoe Bend. When we arrived we found the area that we had camped in the past was now day use only so we had to move down river a bit to find a suitable place.
We partially set up and then decided to go into Mildura for a bite to eat though before that we carried out some retail therapy at the Big W, Woolworths, Rays, BCF, Dan Murphy's where I purchased two large bottles for my Tap King and then Autobarn. It was nearly 2.30 pm when we sat down at Hungry Jacks. We then drove out through Merbein and then back to camp arriving at 4.45 pm it has been a good day once again. We have enough wood for another big fire tonight. Before going into watch the Marngrook Show.
Kilometres travelled 94

Friday the 12th of June
We did not hop out of bed until 9am this morning after a late night by the fire once again. The morning was a little cloudy though the temperature would rise to 20 degrees later in the day. We have met up with John and Rhonda who are on the mainland travelling for the first time and they wish to go on a house boat trip. We agreed we would share one with them so after we had breakfast and cleaned up we headed into the House Boat Marina and the first thing we noted was that they were stranded for the river was down some 6 metres. Therefore it would be stupid to hire a boat for they are working on loch 11 for the next 10 weeks. This morning we noted houseboats heading for Mildura and then returning a short time later due to the river depth and no operable Lock. We rang Berri and found that we could hire the Ranger once again so we will have that from next Monday until Friday so that was confirmed. We decided to have a cappuccino at the local cafe set up on the house boat wharf where we had a a good view of the stranded houseboats and noted the all glass one that was very luxurious indeed. There were plenty of Pelicans just sitting under the bridge not moving about at all. There is plenty of houses being built and we reckon they would cost an arm and a leg for they have their own berths for their House Boats.
We topped up our water and diesel drums and then went for a picnic down by the river near Loch 11 and they had the park closed off so we headed for a small park well back from the river. It was nice and sunny so it was enjoyable. We went and had a look at the paddle steamer built in 1877 this was the same one that sunk last year and you could see the stains on the superstructure.
Then up to Coles to buy mince so Liz can use most of the vegetables up in a chow mien for our meal tomorrow night. Then the bank for funds and then home to prepare for our trip into South Australia tomorrow as we have to go through a fruit and vegetable quarantine area, we will need to get rid off a few items though not a problem.
Then we had an early happy hour by the fire before going inside to watch the football. It has been a warm day which is great and our travel and picnic down on the Murray River made it even better.

Saturday the 13th of June
It was a pleasant morning with many reflections on the water at Horse Shoe Bend. The Pelicans and a few cormorants were working the river looking for a meal and as the sun rose it left a pinkish tint to the clouds. We had breakfast and dumped the last of our vegetables and fruit for we are going across the border sometime this morning. Parks have listed the camping area we stayed at last year as day use only and what is left is dusty uneven ground and even though we persevered it is doubtful if we come to this area again. We drove to the Apco service station for a refill of Diesel which cost $1.31.5 cents a litre plus bought a newspaper and we were on the road to South Australia.

We drove for many kilometres with wheat fields on both sides of the highway as far as you could see. In the distance we could see heavy cloud cover and it did not take long at all to reach it, which blocked out the warm sun. There is no wind therefore the morning is warm and it wasn't until later that extra cloths were required.
We finally reached the South Australian border so the clock will need to come back thirty minutes and then we arrived at the quarantine station where the inspectors checked for fruit and vegetables. On inspection of the fridge they found a lettuce and they stated as we bought it in Mildura we could keep it, I checked with Liz when were underway and she stated the documentation stated that is was ok to carry lettuce.
We pushed on and arrived at Paringa and went over the cantilever bridge which is some hundred plus years old, last year we went under it in a house boat though this year we will be going in the opposite direction. Not a lot of changes have taken place in Paringa and before long we arrived at Renmark and drove down to Plushers Bend where we will stop for the night before moving on tomorrow.
We set up and unhooked Digger and then went back into Renmark. We stopped at the roadside fruit and vegetables place and bought mandarins, oranges, onions and a bag of Butternut pumpkin that was only $5 for seven pumpkins. Then down to the waterfront and had a look at the old paddle steamer and inspected the huge boiler and beam engine.
We drove back to Paringa and among many things we bought an ice cream each for the day had warmed to 24 degrees so off came a few clothes. Then onto have a look at the black stump which is reputed as being the largest of 11 in existence in Australia. We drove around various Marina's and inspected the house boats. We could easily live full time on one of these cruising the Murray river.
Back to camp mid afternoon and just relaxed listening to the football on the radio and tonight no doubt watch the game on television
Kilometres travelled 165

Sunday the 14th of June
5.30 this morning we awoke to the splatter of rain on the roof. We indicated around the fire last night that if it rained we would have to move immediately for we were parked on black soil. Black soil when wet is so slippery that you have to park up until it dries. By 5.45am we were pulling out on to the bitumen. We turned onto the highway towards Berri and found a rest area some 6 kilometres out from Renmark and pulled up for it was still dark. What a nice area for the council had decreed that motorhome's only can park up for 24 hours, there are a few areas around the town that excludes caravans and tents. I put this into the GPS for we will not be going back to Plush's Bend for it is so degraded and it is full of Backpackers that are working on the various citrus farms at this time of the year.
We did not go back to bed and when daylight arrived we were surprised to see the prehistoric animal in a bird and animal park next door though it is now closed up.
We had breakfast and then on the road for we did not have to travel far to arrive at the Lyrup Ferry to take us across the river to our camping area. Nothing has changed since last year other than there is now a charge of $5 per night whether on power or not. We were lucky enough to plug into power and we have no problem paying that amount for there are clean toilets as well.
We parked up and though it only spitting rain now and again Liz wanted to do the washing before we go on the house boat tomorrow so out with the washing machine and pulled the awning out to keep the clothes away from from the rain. Into Berri and Reject shop, Coles and Woollies for a look see and bought a few items. Then onto Subway for a late lunch and a twelve inch and a cappuccino. Down to the river and looked at the house boats and noted the ranger was moored and we will board this tomorrow for five days.
Off to the bank then drove around Berri and looked at a few things including the Vietnam war memorial and it was strange to see rose's still blooming this time of the year.
The rest of the day was spent listening to the Collingwood game and then tonight will watch television for they do not approve of fires in this rest area only gas operated.
Kilometres travelled 19

Monday the 15 of June
What a night rain and more rain, though we have to say that it is very soothing to the soul to listen to the pitter patter on our roof. We were lucky for this morning the rain had stopped which allowed us to tidy up and allowed us to do our final packing. We had our breakfast and then we put together all the items carry bags to use this morning. Liz and Rhonda went in Digger to buy the provisions in Berri for our travels on the Murray over the next five days.
John and I drove the motorhome's around to the Marina and loaded our gear for the voyage ahead. It was 11.30 am before we pulled away from the mooring and headed for Loxton were to note the amount of Pelicans, cormorants and dive birds sitting on the bank. We also noted the amount of permanent camps along the way that were close to Berri, tents and some tarps making up their camps which looked permanent. We noted the red cliffs along the away and with no wind Ranger was making easy work of it.
Before we knew it we arrived at Lock 4 and had to wait for the lock masters to come along to let us through into the lock. Due to there being no wind it was not difficult to enter.

We noted that another house boat had arrived at the lock from the opposite direction though we were given right of way. It strange to tie up to the lock and watch the water empty to allow us to go to the lower sections of the Murray River. We were to see a hawk swoop and get a fish out of the lock as the water was dropping. The gates opened and we were on our way with the other house boat then coming into the lock to rise to the next section of the murray.
We had made the decision to moor up at around 2 pm so we continued on and soon we were on the shallower parts of the parts of the river though they have posted the shallow parts well.
The pelicans, cormorants and diver birds were all working the river again. We picked a place near the shore and we drove the Ranger into the bank and moored for the night with ropes going out to be tied up to the Murray River gums.
We placed the fishing rods out along the stern and then we took the yabby nets and set three of them along the shore to see what we could catch. Happy hour was great and extended well into the night with our evening meal happening a little later. All we can say is that being on a house boat on the Murray River is a wonderful experience that all should experience.

Tuesday the 16th of June
It was cool when we woke on board Ranger this morning. Checked the yabby pots and other than two river shrimps they were empty and the fishing rods did no better though the bait had been eaten. We had our showers and then breakfast. We have a problem with the generator stopping of its volition now and again and the water pump decided to cut out whilst I was in the shower. Which meant that I was wet though not fully washed especially my hair. Rang the agent and he was at a loss why these events were occurring.
We pulled away from the bank around 9 am and headed for our destination for today. There was plenty of wildlife on the river with the pelicans were to the fore and then we heard that terrible screeching and sure enough we came upon a flock of Correla's though we left them behind quickly.
Though the morning was overcast there was no wind and the reflections on the river was great.

We passed many pumping stations taking water from the Murray River and every now again we would come across a house sitting high on the hill overlooking the river with a few being used as markers on the river maps. There were many derelict houseboats and some built on plastic barrels and others with steel drums welded together. We came across one house boat that looked as if it was screw driven and aptly named the Kookaburra.
We were surprised to see a large grey Kangaroo watching us go past and it did not look moving until I sounded the siren and then it bounded away quickly. We haven't struck any other houseboat on the murray so that has made it easy to navigate and again today we were to pass some very shallow parts of the river though we haven't run aground this year. With no wind the going was easy and the houseboat was very easy to steer, Liz was to take her turn at the helm of Ranger and she quickly had the hang of it and was happy to stay there for awhile.
We had our lunch and then around 1.30 pm we arrived at Loxton and the mooring pontoons were empty it did not take long to turn around and moored faced towards Berri. At 2 pm we staggered up the hill and into the Loxton central shopping district and strolled along the streets looking in the many shops and then down the liquor store to replenish Liz's wine supply.
Due to it being only Tuesday the many eating houses would not be open tonight and the prices at the hotel were a little high for just counter meals. We have decided to eat in tonight and go up town in Berri for a meal on Friday night. There are many trees with their leaves intact still showing the autumn tones and the roses are still flowering. So we staggered down the hill around 4 pm and came aboard Ranger and then decided to have an early happy hour and Rhonda has cooked a nice smelling Spaghetti Bolognaise with garlic bread for our evening meal tonight. We will relax and read and watch a bit of television before going off to bed which are very comfortable.

Wednesday the 17th of June
There was a fog on the river this morning and it cleared away to a fine day with sun shining around 9am. We had breakfast and showers and we had another house boat come from downstream and join us. After he moored we had a chat and found that they have owned the house boat for two years and live aboard full time, they have only pulled into Loxton to replenish their supplies and fuel up before moving on up to Berri.
John and I went to the Loxton Heritage buildings and spent a couple of hours looking at the exhibits and enjoying them all. Some of the old machinery is amazing and showed how tough it must have been for farmers a hundred plus years ago. The old horse driven ploughs and thrashing machines up to the small traction engines that powered the belts for the thrashers. We first went into the old church and as we walked inside a recording started playing as if it was a regular church service.

The amount of buildings with old banks, dentists to mention a few took some time to look at and the items were over a century old. There were children there in period dress and they were making small dampers under the tutelage of volunteer heritage workers. Some were learning how to make rope by twisting three stands of baling twine together with old hand operated machines, I have to say that the children look excellent in there period dress. The equipment and old trains was endless which included a 1949 Velocette motorcycle and cars and utes from the early 1900's, trucks, fire engines. I placed John in stocks and took a photo of him in front of the old jail. Before we left we had a cappuccino as Liz and Rhonda opted to stay on the boat. In all I took 92 digital photo's and again which ones do you use for each one depicted an era gone by. We have to say it was a nice couple of hours ashore
Back on the house boat and we had our lunch and the day had become overcast so we decided we cast off and find a place on the river where we could pull into the bank and light a fire ashore for tonight.
We travelled an hour and found a suitable site and moored to the bank, collected firewood and before long we had a nice fire going and it was time for happy hour once again and we enjoyed that time ashore. We had such a large lunch that we have decided to have just nibbles and sink a few more cold ones before casting off in the morning.

Thursday the 18th of June
Last night after mooring the houseboat to the shore we gathered wood and lit a good fire whilst we had a late happy hour. I tapped my Tap King of Boags Premium and settled in by the fire. As we had a large lunch we settled for cheese and ham sandwich's for our evening meal. We sat by the fire well into the night before going off to bed.
We are now heading back to Berri to unfortunately to hand back the houseboat and end our five days on the Murray River in South Australia. The day is overcast and it may rain who knows. The birdlife was prolific along the way especially those damn Correla's. We were to see two types of cormorants and some were drying there wings they must be getting fish for we are not and including the yabby nets nothing again this morning.

We had a house boat come up on us from astern and he looked like to be doing twice our speed and lo and behold he attempted to pass on the wrong side and we watched him come to a complete halt on a sand bar we were not to see him for another half hour and this time he passed us on the right side and vanished into the distance. We are not in a hurry just cruising along taking in the sights as they appear. We came across the shoal flats which are well sign posted and you could see the sand bars coming out towards us. (No John I have not grounded the house boat this year) Then we were to see a nice big red Kangaroo drinking and he only stayed long enough for us to take a photo and then he hopped into the bush.
We drove the house boat onto a sandy outcrop and did not bother to use ropes to hold us whilst we had lunch and a shower. Then full astern turning the wheel back and forth to get us off the point and back on track up the river. This what I like about these vessels you can do just about anything within reason with no problems.
We finally arrived back at Lock 4 and had to wait for 15 minutes whilst they prepared the lock for us. In we went and there was the surge of water whilst filled Lock to bring up to the next level of the Murray River.
We went for another hour and then found a spot close to Berri for the night which will have us back at the mooring by 10 am in the morning. We had our evening meal and started packing to leave a non rushed period in the morning. Then we settled in to watch the football before going off to bed.

Friday the 19th of June
We had another good evening onshore last night after mooring the house boat and collecting wood. It took some time to get the fire going for the wood was wet from fog etc though in the end the fire was very warm. We came inside to watch the Adelaide V Hawthorn football game then as we were all tired we went off to bed for our last night on the houseboat. We couldn't close off one of the shower taps completely for the washer appears to be worn and the result of that is that the water pump came on every two hours or so and as it was very loud it awakened us at various times.
This morning it was foggy so we had our breakfast and noted that it was lifting slowly and it was around 9.30 am when we cast off heading for Berri. We spotted our first Swans for the trip and they did not move until a tinny came racing up the river. Around four bends and we spotted the bridge over the river at Berri.

We cruised slowly and came past our motorhome's on the bank and then into the space allotted the Ranger. We had packed up and so it wasn't long before we had transferred all the gear back to our motorhome's. We refilled the tanks on the houseboat with fuel and we had used $170 worth. We split that in two and each paid their amount to the hire people, So in all it cost under $500 each for two couples for the hire well worth it.
We pointed out the tap problem and the owners fixed that and have allowed us to use the toilet and shower onboard until we leave in the morning. Then they fixed Johns television antenna for free so that was a bonus.
We then went off to the Berri Gold Club for lunch and the meal was so large we will not want an evening meal again tonight. Then off to buy meat for the trip ahead as we still have heaps of groceries. We went first to Coles and then Woolworths and then back home at 4.45 pm. It has been a full day and most enjoyable and tonight we will watch the football game before going off to sleep in our own bed. The interesting part is that Loxton by road is only 20 kilometres from Berri. On the river it is over 50 kilometres as the Murray River snakes around the countryside. What a wonderful way to spend four or five days.

Saturday the 20th of June
We bid farewell to our house boat and owner and we wended our way out to the dump point in Digger that was located about five kilometres away at a camp site by the river and then drove back to fuel up Digger and then down to the farmers market.
We bought a few vegetables from the outside stalls then inside and bought a date roll to eat along the way. There were plenty of stalls and you could even have a cooked breakfast.
Then back to hook up to the motorhome and then up to the service station where we paid $1.29.5 cents a litre for diesel. The morning was very overcast and cold and would remain that way all day, so we had the heater going in the motorhome to keep warm. The going was easy with plenty of traffic including trucks. We were to see the usual wheat paddocks and now we were seeing more citrus trees and olive groves along the way. We pulled up and out came the chainsaw to cut our wood for tonight for I do not believe that we will find much around the campsite. We decided to pull up before Morgan and check a campsite out at Cadell and it turned out to be a good decision for there is grass and fireplaces toilet and we are on the edge of the Murray River again sharing it with Pelicans etc.

We had to hop on the ferry to go across the river to our camp and we set up unloaded our wood and then hopped into Digger back on the ferry and across the river to go into Morgan. Not much has changed since we were here last though old buildings that used to service the river trade with paddle steamers and barges are still a standout. First we went down to the wharf area and saw the old wharves that served the area and then the craft shop and then onto the museum and that was a real treat with the various old machinery and films depicting the area some hundreds of years ago. There is no doubt that the old timers did it hard.
We decided to cross the river on the ferry from Morgan to Cadell and come into our camp the back way. It was mostly farm land with a smattering of vine yards. We stopped in Cadell for a short time though there was not much to see and drove back to camp. First thing light the fire and throw spuds in foil in the fire to have with our steak tonight and of course we had a few refreshments. A good day and a little bit chilly being so close to the river may be the cause. No television so we may watch a dvd or stay out by the fire until bed time.
Kilometres travelled 97

Sunday the 21st of June
There was no wind at all last night and we were to see the moon arise for the first time in a week or so. They turned the lights on in the park after dark and they lit up the cliffs opposite our camp site, they looked absolutely beautiful. It also let the pelicans see much better as they swam along looking for fish late into the night. We had a good fire where we cooked a couple of big Irishtown spuds in alfoil and grilled up steak to go with them for our evening meal. As we could not get television and I didn't want to set up the satellite dish just yet so we sat by the fire until we ran out of wood and came inside around 10.30 and went to bed to read our books for awhile.
This morning we could not believe it, there was the sun rising and no clouds or fog which has not been the case for around a week. It took only a few twigs to ignite the fire again for the coals were still hot underneath the white ash.
Had breakfast cleaned up and then hooked Digger up and then onto the ferry at Cadell crossing and up to the highway and turned right just before Morgan and then on our way towards Burra. The sun was shining through the windows and it was warming us up which allowed us to shut down the heater. We came across a lot of saltbush country with sheep feeding on what we do not know though when we arrived at Burra we noted the butcher sold Saltbush Lamb.
The going was easy with just a touch of wind that did not worry us until later in the day. We stopped and cut wood for our fire tonight and poor old Digger is piled high with wood.

We eventually wound our way off the highway and into Burra which is a town that is wholly heritage listed. When look at the old buildings made of stone as all nearly are. Then you see the very old single men's quarters for the cornish miners that used to mine for copper in the area. They have all the usual museum's and everything is set for the tourist trade. Due to it being sunday there were not many shops open except for the cafe's. We had a cappuccino and one of their world famous Cornish Pasties and we both agreed they were the best cornish pasty's that we have had. We had a look around for awhile and noted the very deep gutters with the small bridges across to allow you to get to the shops.
Once we left Burra we noted the very green hills and the paddocks were the same with wheat and other grains no doubt shooting up from the ground and it looked good as a mosaic.
We were to come across very large wind farms lining the hills on the way to Peterborough and they looked a sight there on the very green hills and even though the wind was not strong they were still operating as they would normally do. These wind farms make ours in Tassie look very small.
There was a fair bit of traffic on the road especially trucks either bound for Adelaide or Broken Hill. We were to drive through Trethowie which is a small village now, though in the past was very large. All trains had to stop here due to there being two different width of rails between South Australia and New South Wales. Cargo's would be shifted from one train to another and then go on their way. This was the case coming and going until they laid uniform tracks between the states.
We turned off the Barrier Highway to go into Peterborough for a look see for it was still early in the day. Wouldn't you know it we came to the railway crossing and the lights were flashing red and there were train carriages stopped over the road. We sat there for 35 minutes before a train with its many carriages flashed across headed in a northerly direction. After that train had gone through it was another ten minutes or so before the train blocking the road dragged its carriages away which allowed us then to cross.
As we had been here before we only topped up the fuel at $1.33.9 cents a litre and then we headed our to find a rest area for the night. We turned onto the Barrier Highway and the resultant traffic of caravans etc. We were driving into saltbush country again and we were to see many Emu's and a few wild goats along the way. We were heading back into the hilly country's with small towns along the way and farms and we were to see our first cattle which was a change from sheep only.
We drove for another 90 kilometres and found the Winnininnie rest area where we could light another fire and with the sun going down and the wind it will be a cold night. Though it will not worry us when we snuggle up in our bed later.
Kilometres travelled 287

Monday the 22nd of June
It was cold last night even with the fire roaring away, the only consolation was the sky was clear the moon and stars were bright as they are in the Outback. We went to bed around 9 pm and arose this morning around 7 am and was on the road to Broken Hill around 8.30 am.
It was a fine sunny morning though we were pushing a very cold wind so on went the heater once again. The going was becoming undulating and the countryside changed again with plenty of saltbush and plenty of Emu's along the way. There were mobs of goats appearing coloured from black to brindle with kids also. The traffic was heavy especially with trucks and there were plenty of caravans going in the opposite direction. The scenery was improving all the time especially when we were climbing the many small hills.
We passed through many small towns which must have serviced the railway in the past and it didn't matter if there were only a few houses there was always a hotel from time long past. We were to see many old water towers that must have been the refill for water for the old steam trains. We were to follow the rail line for many kilometres though we were not to see any trains at all only small road trains consisting of two trailers of Bdoubles.

We eventually arrived in Broken Hill and we wound our way first to the information centre and then onto the race course for an overnight stay. After lunch we went and bought more groceries for the next week then into Big W and then we wandered around the town centre before heading out to the viewing towers scattered around the town built on old slag from the mines. We were to see the mine winders hauling there load to the surface and then being taken away to the be processed in the mill. We drove up to the viewing tower where the original mine was located and though no longer in existence you could still see the concrete bases for the mill and the bucket lines along the way to carry the ore etc. This mine commenced in 1910. We were to view the Miners Memorial then opted to head for home for the wind is getting colder even though the sun is shining.
John and Rhonda are going there separate ways tomorrow as we head for Minindi Lakes for our next stop and they towards Silverton and wind there way back home. Bearing this in mind we will be going out for our final meal together tonight before we give our farewells early in the morning.
Kilometres travelled 210

Tuesday the 23rd of June
We had our meal at the Musicians Club in Broken Hill last night with John and Rhonda and what a beautiful meal it was and after that the girls played the poker machines for awhile and then we headed for home.
This morning we hopped out of bed at 7am had breakfast and then reloaded Digger with the wood and topped up with water. John and Rhonda came and said farewell as they are going into the city centre for breakfast and then onto the three hour tour of Broken Hill and its mines before heading out to Silverton for a couple of days.
We finally moved and hooked up Digger and headed to refuel at Woolworths with a four cents discount docket. Whilst I was refueling Liz went and bought the paper, this is the biggest refill yet and this due no doubt to the high winds we experienced yesterday. We paid with the discount $1.37.9 per litre.
Now back on the road and heading for the Menindee Lakes some 112 kilometres away. The wind had dropped and the sky had a few clouds and would warm up to 22 degrees celsius before the end of the day thus in trakkies and singlet.
The going was easy and the countryside had changed slightly though there was still an abundance of saltbush along the way with sheep feeding off the stunted growth. Emu's once again and there were lots of road kill.

There was a changing landscape and then we came across the pipeline from the Menindee Lakes that supplies Broken Hill with water. Before we knew it we had arrived at the turn off to the Pamamaroo Lake camp grounds. There being two large areas one called the Burke & Wills Camp Site and the other Main Weir Camp Site. We turned off the bitumen onto clay topped road which in places was corrugated though generally speaking it was fine. As we travelled along we were to see that the water had receded in the lake dramatically leaving dead gums high and dry.
We were to note the camping spots we stopped at last year were empty and as we arrived at the first campground it had only one happy camper though this would change by days end. The weir camp had only one happy camper also, we had a chat to them. The weather forecast is for showers and in the weir camp it is all black soil and you could see where people had bogged not long ago.
We returned to the Burke and Wills camp site and set up in a fashion that if it rained we could get out. It is only mid afternoon so we went walkabout and was stunned by the amount of dry parts of the lake there are with only water being seen about a kilometre away. Of course we looked at the creek and concrete waterway and they had minimal water levels.
We drifted off and had a chinwag with a few of the happy campers and then back and took Digger of the tow bar and set up the satellite dish and as it has been so long it took awhile to capture the satellite.
We will do our cooking inside tonight to see what the weather brings for we want to move fast if it starts to rain though we noted that it dry's quickly given where we are, the surface in mainly sand over black soil.
Well it is time for happy hour and we are now back in the Eastern Standard Time Zone so we get to start half and hour earlier. Tonight we will watch tellie and then off to bed to read our books
Kilometres travelled 132

Wednesday the 24th of June
Well didn't it rain heavy last night it nearly blocked out the volume of the television, it rained heavily last night and ceased around 7am. It was nice listening to the heavy rain on the roof when we were in bed. One of the reasons we set up camp where we are in the open is due to being able to get out onto the road if it becomes to boggy. Needless to say we have covered the wood on Digger and pulled out the awning of the motorhome in case it rains again.
Moving around this morning was fine in most areas, I found one place where my foot slid completely out from under me and I was on the ground luckily landing on my back in a sandy spot so I did not get dirty at all. I was concerned about the camera for it landed heavily though it turned out to be ok.
The sun was to break through the clouds so we went walkabout to talk to the other happy campers here and they like us were worried about being able to get up the road if the ground became boggy. Whilst down by the creek we noted the group of Pelicans that was working the water and now and again they would all dive their heads and beaks down and come up with very small fish. We watched them for about thirty minutes work the creek and it was fascinating to watch them work as a group to round up the fish so they could dive on them. We have never experienced this before normally they fish as one.
Back to the motorhome for lunch and Liz was to cook a nice big pot of chicken soup for our meal tonight for we have been eating to many huge meals over past weeks. The rest of the afternoon was spent reading our books inside and watch out the window the heavy clouds forming and the cold wind once again appearing. It is hard to believe yesterday was trakkies and singlet and today well rugged up. Liz wanted to bring out the washing machine today though we are not sure what the weather is going to do .Tonight we will watch the footy shows and just settle in before going to bed and reading our books.

Thursday the 25th of June
When we went to bed last night the stars were shining brightly though this morning the sky was overcast with sprinkling rain. It was just enough to make the ground soggy again, as our awning was out it left a dry spot near our door. The trip to the toilet was a challenge for we did not want to slip in the greasy conditions. I unloaded the wood off Digger and took the low road out of the camp area and then onto the main road to have a look. The road was slippery so I returned to camp, so going to the township of Menindee today is out o the question. Once out of the campsite we have 8 kilometres of slushy road to navigate, we will stop here until it dries a little. We are booked on the plane from Broken Hill to Sydney next tuesday so we have plenty of time to get back to Broken Hill.
Three happy campers left this morning with one lot having to drive through water and the other two because of their campsites were able to go on firmer ground. Though the ramp up to the main road was churned up for none of them was able to find their way to the hardpan. They reversed down the slope and then took the track alongside the road until they were able to climb onto the road. We were not to see them again so they must have made it. We had the NSW Water Board workers come in and we had a talk and they stated that someone had really churned up the road to the extent they had closed the road down until it dries. They maintain these facilities really well and emptied the many rubbish bins they have in the camping grounds. We are the only happy campers left now so we cant complain of others being to close. We have the sun breaking through the clouds so this may help though I have had to start the generator to charge the house batteries to allow us to watch the Collingwood V Fremantle game tonight.
We took a walk down to the creek watching where we were stepping and then noted the pelicans had left and a few water fowls were cruising the the creek then back to the warm motorhome where we were to read our books and charged everything we have whilst the generator is going.
After our meal tonight we watch television and then of to our comfy bed and read. A most restful day.

Friday the 26th of June
What a wonderful day, at last sunny no clouds and just a slight breeze. We went for a walk around the creek and found that the Pelicans had returned and were working as a group to catch fish. Every now and again you would see very small fish jumping to avoid being the breakfast of the Pelicans. After breakfast out came the washing machine and then Liz was to go full on whilst I put up clothes lines. A good clean up and a chat to a couple of happy campers and then we were off to the township of Menindee some 20 kilometres away.
The road to the highway was a bit slushy in places though Digger was to have no trouble though once we were going sideways. Once we hit the highway which was all bitumen it was not problem, you could hear the clay dropping off Digger onto the road.
On arrival we had a bit of a drive around for it is not a big town boasting only 801 residents though they have five churches and two hotels and plenty of small shops. As it was lunch time we went to the take away and ordered fish and chips for lunch. I was surprised to be handed the package that was wrapped in newspaper, this is the first time we have experienced this.
We sat under the shelter with the sunlight still coming through and enjoyed the meal washed down with soft drink.

Whilst we were having lunch we noted the helicopter dragging a electro magnetic device underneath, so we can only surmise that they are looking for mineral deposits of some description. Being Friday we thought there would be more action in the town and that wasn't to be they seem to be very laid back. There were a few signs selling worms for fishing though I did not bother for I did not want to compete with pelicans. Liz's 5 litre wine cash is leaking so Liz went into the hotel and came out with four empty wine bottle complete with lids. We continued our drive around and went down to the river and noted the area where there used to be a punt across the river where they drove the sheep on to go to the purported largest shearing stand shed in the southern hemisphere. We did not go to the shed for the road looked a bit boggy so we just continued our drive and then finally headed back to camp with the sun streaming through the window.
On the way we stopped and took another photo of the lake which is seriously depleted of water given this is the main water supply for Broken Hill. Back in camp and we started to bottle the wine so it would not go to waste and we recovered nearly 5 litre's so not much had leaked out.
While I was doing this section of the diary Liz has been collecting sticks for we will be able to have a fire again tonight though we will most likely come inside to watch the football on the tellie this evening. Well, off outside to sit in the glorious sun and drop a few cans for an early happy hour.

Saturday the 27th of June
What a glorious morning after a chilly night. The sun was shining brightly and there were no clouds at all, a typical outback morning. We went for a walk around the creek and noted that the pelicans have once again disappeared and indeed there was no birdlife on the water of the creek.
As usual the fire from last night had white ash and when I poked it was still hot so on with a few bits of wood and it burst to life again. The usual fare for breakfast on a Saturday morning. Bacon and eggs and toast washed down with a good cup of tea. We bought out the old camp fry pan and cooked every thing in this, Whilst I was doing this Liz cooked the toast over the red hot coals.
We were half way through our breakfast when a happy camper came over for a chat and we talked about all and sundry whilst we ate our breakfast. After breakfast I went over and showed him my satellite finder he indicated that he used another satellite finder on his ipad which he showed me. It was not wiki camps. After I had a shave etc in the nice warm sunshine I downloaded the app and it did not work properly so I also downloaded a compass and this did not work for the telephone does not have the magnetic's installed so neither of them worked so they will need to be uninstalled when I find out how.

Another happy camper came in and set up and we introduced ourselves and found that they were from New Zealand and then we all came together and had a chat then it was lunchtime.
It is still a glorious day so we just read our books until we pulled out the camp oven to cook a piece of silverside on the fire of course. We have had to dissect the fire so as it does not cook quickly and go tough. Liz has that in hand and I am sure it will be cooked to perfection.
One of the happy campers then alerted us to the fox sunning itself just outside the camp and we were lucky enough to get photo's before it slunk off when a person came from the opposite direction.
We had noted dog paw prints around our camp and thought it was a dog. So we can only assume that it roams around the camps looking for food in the night. Crows were coming in abundance and we watched them pull out worms from near our fire whilst we were not there. When I went to investigate they flew off. Later I will be pulling down our camp and folding in the awning for in the morning we are heading back into Broken Hill. Later we will watch a bit of tellie especially the St Kilda V Western Bulldogs game before going off to bed. Oh well time to have happy hour with the other happy campers.

Sunday the 28th of June
We were up early this morning and had breakfast before saying farewell to the happy campers we have met over the past couple of days. Only one is staying for a few more days before moving on to Adelaide and then Western Australia.
We waited for the four wheel drive's to go for we did not want to be splattered with damp clay as they passed us. Then onto the road to the main road to Broken Hill. The road was still a bit damp in places though we did not need to slow down. It wasn't until we reached Broken Hill that we noticed that Digger was plastered with clay and sand. When we turned onto the main road we noted banks of fog in the distance and it wasn't long before we had our lights and fog lights on. We drove out of it eventually and the sun was streaming through the window, very nice indeed.
There wasn't a lot of traffic on the road and we noticed sheep feeding on the saltbush and a little later we came across a mob of Emu's in the scrub. All along the way we noted the amount to kangaroos both grey and red and countless sheep, cattle and more emu's.

After climbing several hills we could see the mullock heaps of the mines in Broken Hill and traffic was increasing. We aimed to go to Woolworths to top the diesel tanks and Digger plus the generator drum. This will give us a straight run out of Broken Hill after we return from Sydney on Wednesday night.
We pulled into the shopping complex first Liz went into Best & Less then onto woolworths for a few groceries then we went to the cafe and had a carrot cake and Cappuccino I of course had a meat pie.
We then refueled at $1.397 with the discount and then headed off to Coles for bread rolls for lunch, whilst there we went into Cheap as Chips and bought a few items then we headed off to the racecourse for the night. We made arrangements for the motorhome to be stored near the caretakers residence whilst we are in Sydney. and then as we have not had lunch we headed back into town and the car wash to wash all the clay and sand off poor old Digger. We did a dry run to the airport to make sure of our times etc. Whilst we were there the Saab twin prop plane landed and boy isn't it small. They informed us that we had to be at the airport no later than 6.00 am on Tuesday morning with photo identification. On the way back we found that it took 25 minutes from airport to racecourse.
Well off to have a good shower and then tonight watch a bit of television before going off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 128

Monday the 29th of June
This morning was cold with a heavy white frost and beautiful sunshine. It did not take long for the frost to disappear though a cold breeze arrived later in the morning. We checked out the race stands and noted their heavy use of irish history at this race track. They tell me that every St Patrick's day planes small and large converge on Broken Hill for the St Patrick's day horse races, apparently the town swells by around 10.000 people for the event.
Liz was to give me a number four haircut and then we went into town to pick up the plane tickets and the invitation for wednesday. We are both dreading hopping out of bed around 4.30 am in the morning and heading for the airport for the 6.30 am flight to Sydney. We went and checked out the op shops where I purchased a few books and Liz a leather purse. By now it was lunch time so after we left Targets we headed for Hungry Jacks for lunch. We decided to have the works and have a very easy meal tonight.
Then it was back to the camp and started to pack and do other work for we are moving over to the caretakers for tonight and they will keep an eye on the motorhome whilst we are gone and Digger we will leave at the airport for we do not arrive back until after 10 pm Wednesday. A lazy day making several phone calls making sure all was in order and the local CFMEU Secretary was to run off all the material we needed for a successful trip. Even though Liz was prepared to stay in Broken Hill while I was away I finally convinced her that she should fly to Sydney as well.
The next few hours will spent packing and moving and doing the usual thing so as we can start moving north again on Thursday Morning, something we are looking forward to.

Tuesday the 30th of June
We set the telephone alarm for 4 am and the normal clock for 4.15 am to make sure we were out of bed in time to go to the airport. Needless to say we slept on and off so we were both awake when the alarm sounded. Out of bed and checked the bag again and then had a quick cup tea and then we were off to the airport. We had checked the route we needed to take yesterday and fed it into the GPS. We left at 5.40 for we had to be at the airport no later than 6am for the 6.30 am flight, wouldn't you know it the GPS took us in a different direction though we arrived on time and locked Digger and then into the terminal. They do not issue tickets you have to produce a photo identification and then they gave us boarding passes. We use our drivers licence. There were only 8 passengers and they placed all down the back of the plane which was a Saab 340 twin turbo propeller.
After take off the captain informed us that we would be flying at 19000 feet and would arrive in sydney in 2.5 hours time. The hostess came around to offer us breakfast which consisted of sweet or savoury with a cup of tea. We did not know what to expect so we ordered savoury and when it arrived it consisted of chilli rice crackers in a small bag and a cup of tea. We were now flying above the cloud cover and we witnessed sun rise over the clouds. I started reading my Clive Custler novel which consisted of 655 pages knowing full well that it not be finished in the time it took to fly and Liz had her e-book which she was allowed to use after take off.
The cloud cover disappeared as we neared Sydney and we came over Botany Bay and noted the amount of container ships moored and the amount still anchored at sea awaiting there turn. We landed amongst all the huge planes and the taxied to the airport and then onto a bus and then to the terminal where picked our bag up.

We decided to take the train from the airport and get off at Town Hall which was only five minutes away from our accommodation. The fare was $13.50 each or for another 50 cents each we could get a train pass for all day. This we opted for and thirty minutes later we arrive at the Town Hall station and then walked towards our accommodation. A we had not had breakfast so to speak we stopped at Hungry Jacks and Liz had pancakes and syrup and I had an egg and bacon roll washed down with a cappuccino.
We dropped off our bag as we could not check until 2 pm and headed back to the train to use our day pass to go to Circular Quay. We noted the overseas liner in port with the Sydney harbour bridge as a back drop. We then decided to go over to Manly of the ferry and have lunch as it was now 1 pm.
I was about to pay the fare of $13.50 each and then I showed the all day pass for the trains and he said no mate it coverers train, bus or ferry for the day so that was a wise one dollar investment. We hopped on the slow ferry for you get to see more of the harbour at a leisurely pace. We were to take numerous photo's of the Sydney harbour bridge plus the Opera House front and side. It was great on the harbour for there was no wind and cloud was disappearing fast and a warm day.

We finally pulled into the Manly Wharf and then we walked over to the Manly Corso and headed for the beach on the ocean side. We were back among the crowds again so the going was not easy and when we arrived at the beach we noted the amount of people in swimming along with many surfers.
We decided to have fish and chips for lunch so we looked at a few restaurants and finally chose a take away where you could get battered Flathead and chips for $10. We ordered two lots and what a shock as we sat down in the sunshine to eat. There was four pieces of battered flathead each and a heap of chips with lemon and a tub of tartare sauce. We couldn't believe it one box would have been sufficient for both of us. The chips there was enough to feed all the seagulls and pigeons on the corso which we did for we could not eat it all.
We had a look around a few shops without buying and then headed back to the ferry.
We were about go into the ferry terminal when I headed off to have a photo taken with the big bear outside the Brew House. Back on the ferry and we were able to get good seats at the front which allowed us to see the Sydney Heads and all the yachts etc out on the harbour. The skyline of Sydney loomed and as we came around the point there was the bridge and opera house and garden Island.
Back on the train and then onto our accommodation which nearly blew us away it has been a long time since we have stayed in four star accommodation which came complete with individual bath robes and footwear not to the mention the bar fridge complete with beer, wine, champagne and chocolates etc. We were to frightened to touch any after we saw the prices.
We went out for a meal and settled for a Spanish Restaurant where Liz ordered the king prawns and I the pork belly etc. We washed this down with wine and beer. Back to the room for it has been a long day and we dropped off to sleep pretty easily. What a way to spend the last day of June.