Thursday the 11th May
The day has arrived and after overcoming the problems with our solar panel and Waeco fridge we did our final packing and then locked up the house. First stop was at my sisters house in Carrick where had a nice cup of tea and talked about our trip ahead. Michelle had made meringues for us to take for the boys in Melbourne and of course I will partake in one or two. Then onto Spreyton to visit John and Jenny and look at the improvements they have made to their house which included a large shed constructed in the back yard for cars etc. After a cuppa we said our farewells and we were on our way to board our Ferry the Spirit of Tasmania in Devonport. We drove out to the heads first to check on the sea and found it to be quite calm and whilst there we were to see the small passenger ferry cross the river.Who knows how many trips it makes a day. Then we were to see the large ship the "Goliath" the cement carrier coming into the river to reload. We were not to have the usual fish and chips on this occasion for the fish shop we have been going to for the past 10 years is closed and boarded up so we will eat aboard.
It was time to head to the ferry. First, the quarantine station and after a quick check we were placed in line to go aboard. After about 15 minutes we were going on board and parking up and luckily Liz parked behind me on the vehicle deck.
First stop to the pursers office and ordered two more pillows for our cabin for one is not enough. We then discovered that our cabin was on deck 8 one we were not familiar with. We went into the cabin and lodged our gear.
Down to the lounge and had a couple of pots and wine plus more and as we were not really feeling hungry we just had cheese and biscuits to munch on. We noted that there were about 60 teenagers on board and that should liven things up tonight.
After a hour or so we went up to deck 10 and had a few more drinks and just relaxed and watched the passing scenery as we went down the river heading out to sea. The sea was kind to us for there was no movement on the boat at all and that would be the case across Bass Strait to Melbourne.
We went to our cabin around 11.15pm and into bed and off to sleep.

Friday the 12th of May
They called us at 5.45am advising us that we would be unloading at 6.30am. The crossing had been the calmest that we have experienced in ten years of so then under the shower before disembarking. When we went down to the vehicle deck there was enough room for us to hook the car onto the motorhome to save us doing it later on the road. We came off the ferry into drab cool morning with a little cloud about.
Then we were into the traffic and as usual they were driving as there was no tomorrow. On this occasion instead of going by the route we have taken for years we decided to allow the GPS to guide us to our destination. The traffic was increasing as we wound our way out through Richmond and finally on to Darebin Road on the way to Jen and Robs. We were to see a few air balloons going across the sky.
As usual Jen had parked her car in the street to allow room for us to park the motorhome close to their house and as we arrived earlier than previous years they did not know we had arrived until we were set up and taking the car off the back. We went inside and it was good to see the grand sons again and of course Jen and Rob. We had breakfast and then Jen took the boys off to school.
Then it was time to do a bit of retail therapy and off we went and first we had Cappuccino's and Pizza for morning tea at the Plaza and then the girls looked in the various woman's shops and then into Kmart to buy extra gas cans for the journey ahead and then Coles for a few items and then onto Aldi where we bought a considerable amount of groceries and meat. There is no doubt it is much cheaper and especially vegetables. Then it was time to go home and unpack and store away. We have enough food on board to last at least a month.
Liz went with Jen to pick up the boys and then go onto the fair at the school.
Happy hour has arrived and after that we are going out for our evening meal and then probably watch a bit of television before going off to bed. It will be cold again tonight. In all it has been a busy day and most enjoyable meeting up with the family once again.

Saturday the 13th of May
It was a cool overcast morning though it would clear during the day into a nice sunny day. First item today was to drive the Terios to the service station and fill its tank and drums for the generator and chainsaw plus fill the two drums with diesel for our trip ahead. Diesel was $1.21.7 per litre and unleaded $1.24.7 per litre. We all went then to watch Lucas do his soccer training.
Lucas is quite talented and carries out the instructions of the coach of the team without question. Then we went home for lunch before Rob plus myself and the two boys head off to watch the St Kilda V Carlton football match at the Etihad Football Ground. Jen and Liz headed out to do a little retail therapy at the factory outlets for shoes etc. We were to catch the train into the stadium and it was a bit of a shock to see so many people all heading in the same direction, in all there were over 30,000 in attendance. It was great to see all supporters in their football club regalia and as Rob supports Carlton and me St Kilda we were kitted out in our respective scarves and caps.

When St kilda run through the banner there was an eruption of noise which drowned out the opposition. We were sitting up on the third tier and therefore had a full view of all of playing surface. At the first bounce of the ball the roar was enormous and by quarter time St Kilda was well ahead. This changed in the second quarter with Carlton closing the gap and at one time taking the lead. At half time the Saints only lead by three points. During the break all the young Aus Kick players took over the playing surface and there were four different games in play with some of the girl players being very talented.
The second half was one of changing leads until half way through the last quarter when St Kilda kicked away to a 19 point lead. This was maintained until the final siren, so the St Kilda team song was sung resoundly around the ground.
Our next problem was leaving the grounds with so many patrons all heading for the trains. It was a slow process though we finally hopped onto to our train heading for Fairfield and the car to take us home. It has been a full on day and most enjoyable being with our daughter and husband and grand children. We were to watch the Collingwood V GWS on the television and Collingwood just lost in the last minute which did not make Liz very happy. We will call it an early night for it is Mothers day tomorrow.

Sunday the 14th of May
Another cool evening, we never hopped out of bed until after 8am. First, walked up to the service station and purchased a newspaper and back home for breakfast. After breakfast and we checked our gear for we are on the road tomorrow morning heading north.
It was a lazy day very overcast and the sun never broke through the fog and cloudy sky's until late in the day.
Today is a special day for it is Mothers Day and we do not intend to travel around today. We had our granddaughter Andrea drop over for lunch and Rob's mother and sister and husband also arrived. Rob and Jen had bought a 4 kilogram roll of pork for lunch and that was prepared and placed in the Weber on the rotisserie. We were to watch the football whilst this was cooking and Richmond were unlucky to lose the game in the last 9 seconds of the game.
Jen was to set the table for our meal and then the visitors arrived so the wine glasses were filled and and a few cold frothy's were the order of the day. The pork was cooked to a treat and baked potato portions along with salad. We then had apple strudel and ice cream to top off an excellent meal and celebrating the various mothers that were here. It was a lazy day with no retail therapy nor any touristy things the whole day devoted to the mothers. After watching more football it became time for our evening meal we were not really hungry so we just chatted the rest of the evening and reminisced on our previous travels and those of other in attendance especially their overseas travels. We said our farewells to all for we will not have time to do so in the morning given their work and school commitments.
After watching a bit of telly we were off to bed.

Monday the 15th of May
Awoke to a heavy fog this morning which made it crisp for the walk to get the paper. We had breakfast inside the house and before long we were farewelling Jen and then Rob who are off to work and the boys who are off to school. We indicated we would see them again in September on the way back.
We hooked the car on the back of the motorhome and then bedded down all items inside and then around to the service station to top up the fuel tank at $1.21.7 litre. Then onto the road and up to Bell Street and then drove along Bell St in the sometimes heavy traffic until we turned onto Sydney Road and out through Coburg. Here we were to see a good example of a Mosque and it did not look out of place with it surrounding buildings. Then onto the Hume Highway where we to then battle for road with the many interstate trucks mainly being B-Doubles. We would just get wound up into final overdrive and the the lights ahead would turn red. So we were always in amongst the interstate trucks until we reach the 110 kph sign and they left us for dead. Around 70 kilometres out from Melbourne central we would come across a housing division that we have watched grow in the past eight years. They to now have traffic lights to allow then to access across the Hume Highway.
Our first stop was at the Hallam Rest Area where we stopped and went into the dining area and had a egg and bacon roll each plus a cappuccino. They were doing a roaring trade especially amongst the truck drivers. They had KFC plus McDonalds and two other dining areas.
We were back on the road and this stage we still hadn't driven out of the fog and we were some one hundred kilometres out of Melbourne when we did so. It became that warm with the sun streaming through the front window that we stopped and removed our pullover's.

The interstate traffic was getting heavier and that reduced once we had turned onto the Murray/Gouldburn Highway. Of course the highway is two lane all the way to Shepparton.We decided to pull into Nagambie which necessitated us to pull off the highway and take the by pass. We decided to have lunch by the Lake which was shimmering in the afternoon sunlight. We had lunch near the monument to the famous race horse Black Caviar who was born and raised in the Nagambie district. First we were visited by the pigeons and then the sea gulls. We stopped throwing crumbs for the seagulls were just pushing the pigeons aside.
After lunch we walked down the street to the shops and noted the trees have not as yet shed all their leaves and those left are very pretty indeed. Then we went into the cheapo shop and bought a few articles and headed back to the motorhome. Back on the road and we decided to stay at the Calder Woodburn rest area tonight. We have stopped here many times before and realise that we will sharing the area with the interstate trucks coming and going all night.
It was pleasant driving along the road and noticed all the plowed paddocks that had good crops of wheat and canola last year. We will no doubt see this on our return in September.
We arrived at the rest area around 2pm and set up for the night. Then we sat outside reading our books in the sun until our evening meal which was just after our happy hour. The television is tuned in so we will watch a bit of television before going off to bed and read no doubt.
Kilometres travelled 153

We were sitting in the motorhome on dusk and noted the sun setting leaving very nice colours as it went down and after our evening meal we were to note the very large tractor well lit up sowing the crop in the prepared paddocks so we will see what crop it is on our return in September. We watched a bit of television and then off to bed and read our books.

Tuesday the 16th of May
We had a pleasant nights sleep and on going outside this morning there a very slight fog which the sun very quickly evaporated. We packed our gear and then we were on the road at 9.15am bound for Shepparton. We only had 20 kilometres to drive and along the way we were to see the fruit trees that still had their leaves intact and we came across numerous water channels no doubt fed by the Murray River.
We drove into the Iveco service centre and bought oil in case it is needed later on in the trip. It is doubtful if it will be needed it is only a precaution. Back on the road we were to see many interstate trucks and we moved over to let them pass and they all thanked us by radio and their turning indicators.
It was very sunny driving along with the sun streaming through the front window though it was only 15 degrees and at the end of the day it would be 22 degrees and no wind. We pulled into Wunghnu to top up the diesel tank at $1.21 cents a litre.
Back on the road and we then turned onto the highway towards Cobram. We pulled into Strathmerton and decided to make use of the showers there and have a cup of tea before moving on. Before we knew it we were in Cobram bound for Barooga and Quick's beach which we have picked to stay on the Murray River for a couple of days.
We came across the sign indicating that we were entering New South Wales and over the bridge and we could see plenty of house boats moored to the banks of the river.

We drove through Barooga and turned down past the school and jam making factory and then we were at the entrance to the Quick's Beach which is a national park with free camping. On the way in we stopped to talk to people in a motorhome who were on the way out and we had a good chat as to our travelling futures. Like us they are travelling north to the warmer weather.
There were not many in the camp grounds and we chose a spot which is sunny and away from those Murray River Gums who have habit of dropping there limbs. By the time we set up our camp by the river we both had worked up a sweat.
The camp is now set up and we had lunch and relaxed until Happy Hour. We had another motorhome park along from us and we made our acquaintance with them and they like us are travelling north.
With the fire pot set up Liz is getting together all the ingredients for a stew to cook in the camp oven and I can smell the fennel giving off aniseed. We both sat out in the sun for it is warm with no wind and it is so quiet you wouldn't believe it. I am doing this section of the diary early today for it is only 2.30 pm and of course the television is tuned in for tonight.
Kilometres travelled 110

Wednesday the 17th of May
A slight fog this morning as we climbed out of bed to light the fire for breakfast. The sun was trying to break through the slight fog though it was on the cold side. We had a good happy hour last night with the happy campers next to us and this morning they packed up and moved on going on further up road and eventually home to Lake Macquarie. After breakfast we cleaned up and I went for a walk along the river bank towards town and on the way I was to see and hear the noisy Corela's. Every now and again you could hear the air guns going off which is intended to keep these birds away from the wheat silo's and grapes.
We decided to go into Cobram for a look see given that we only drove through it yesterday. The sun had now broken through the fog and the day was warming up.

We had to drive out to the showgrounds in Cobram to find a skip to place our rubbish in though we did not take any water on board for it appeared they were using recycled water. Then around to the main street where we parked up and went walkabout. The trees have still not shed their autumn leaves and they looked very pretty though those few that had left a lot of leaf litter on the ground and footpaths. We went to the reject shop and bought a few items and then the newsagents and the supermarkets to check out their prices on alcohol.
After a pleasant hour just strolling around we hopped back in the car and headed back to camp. There were a few more happy campers arrive in our absence though there is still plenty of room for the later comers.
We had our lunch for the fire did not take much stoking and sat a enjoyed the sun for the river breeze had stopped. After reading the newspaper and our books we took a stroll along the banks of the murray in the opposite direction.
We will not have a happy hour this evening though this could change subject to more happy campers arriving. Just a lazy night watching television before going off to bed.
If it gets to cold this evening we will start the heater which we haven't had to do as yet before hopping into bed and reading our books.

Thursday the 18th of May
No fog this morning and though a little cloudy the sun was breaking through warming up the area. We went for a walk before breakfast and then returned lit the fire and boiled the kettle. After breakfast we cleaned up the area and loaded our chairs into the car and then we were on our way to Tocumwal for the day.
There was still a lot of stubble from last years wheat in the paddocks and the farmers were burning that ready to plough for this years crop. The going was easy and we just took our time enjoying the scenery along the way. First of all we drove into the Town Beach Primitive Camp area for a look see and then walked along the bank so we could look across the river to Findlay beach We then drove into the town centre of Tocumwal. On arrival we checked the library for any books they may have for sale and then onto the newsagent for the paper. We checked the price of beer at the IGA and noticed how the price had increased from that at Cobram. Needless to say we did not buy any.
Then around to the op shop and again they recognised us from previous years and the was a fair bit of chiacking going on while we were looking around and we just bought a few books and a new travel mug.
We were walking back to buy our fish and chips for lunch when we run into Mauri and Gwen and we had a good old chat for we had not seen them for two years. They agreed to have fish and chips with us so we then drove around to Findlay Beach on the Victorian side of the Murray River. It was a be a beautiful day with the sun streaming down and the cool breeze from the Murray as we enjoyed our fish and chips. Unfortunately we were to spot no Koala's. We then went back over to Mauri and Gwen's camp at town beach to have a look at their satellite finder which they had trouble operating. We spent a pleasant hour or so with them and couldn't fix their problem for the machine had a flat battery. We bid them farewell and drove back to camp and did a few chores and I picked up my satellite finder and drove back to Tocumwal hopefully to fix the problem that they had. On my return we will put in the awning and will finish packing in the morning for our departure from this very nice area.

Friday the 19th of May
We cooked our meal last night on the firepot and everything was packed away and the car connected to motorhome which only left the firepot for this morning. Rain had been forecast for today though we were not to worried about getting out of Quick's Beach as long as we left before major downpours.
We awoke to the pitter patter on the roof around 6 am and did not worry to much about it for it ceased and it obviously would be absorbed by the sandy camp and road. The rain steadily increased around 6.30am so we hopped out of bed and had breakfast and when the rain ceased outside to pack the firepot away. We noted that one of the happy campers had pulled out. 7am and we decided it was time to go before we were stuck here for the road out goes through a large gully which has a water runoff from the bush. As we pulled out of our camp we were to note the two Kangaroos that were very wet eating the grass nearby. When we went through the gully it was obvious that if we had left it for another hour we would not have been able to get out.
We drove around to the dump point and did what was needed and the rain was falling steadily so we said our farewells to Barooga and we were on our way towards Mulwulla. We had to turn our driving lights on for the morning was very drab and overcast.
The road to Mulwulla was easy going and along the way we were to see plenty of cropping grounds and sheep with their new born lambs. We were to see Alpaca's among the sheep and lambs which would protect the lambs from the wily fox's that frequent this area. We were to come across a great amount of Irrigation Channels fed by the Murray River and the Lake Mulwulla. The rain was still heavy and one stage I thought we may have to drive straight to Wagga Wagga which is 245 kilometres from where we are. However one of the happy campers had informed us the the camp sites at Kyffins Reserve would not be affected by rain for the there are large grassy spots and the road is flat and of good gravel. We decided to have a look and it is interesting that you go down next to the large caravan park to access the reserve. When we arrived we could see a few happy campers on the edge of the Lake and we selected a spot opposite which was nice and grassy and true to the information we were given the ground was hard so we set up camp. I waited for the rain to ease and then out came the awning and we placed a few buckets and the catch the rain run off which was steadily filling those items.
We had a cup of tea and and decided to take the car off the motorhome and drive back across the bridge to Yarrawonga.

Yarrawonga is only nine kilometres away from our camp and we drove part of the way through the reserve and noted plenty of camp sites available though we are happy with what we have. When we drove across the bridge into Victoria we noted the high level of the water to what we were used to in previous years in the lake. We were to find out later they usually lower the level of the lake during winter so as the sun and frosts can kill the algae around the edges of the lake. On this occasion after trials it was felt there was not a need to drain the lake for the algae was under control thus the high water levels.
We drove through the town centre and dropped off our rubbish in a skip and then we drove around for awhile along the edge of the Mulwulla Lake. Then back to Woolworth's for bread etc. We are not buying much in the way of groceries and vegetables for we are well stocked. We parked in the street and went walkabout and the town having good awnings gave us plenty of shelter from the rain. Due to me carrying a camera a few locals pulled us up for a chat and we found some interesting things about Yarrawonga and when we relayed that it was our wedding anniversary tomorrow they were quick to offer information where to go for a meal which was most helpful.
We decided to have a cappuccino in Big Mick's Diner and as soon as you walk through the doors you are transported back to the 1960's. Even the seating is the old cafe type bench's and inlaid on the table are old 45 records of singers who we recalled. The back of the diner is all Elvis Presley memorabilia and Liz had to have her photo taken next to her idol whilst his songs played in the background. We enjoyed our short time in Big Mick's Diner though we were not to see Big Mick only drawings and photo's.
Then into the chemist and then we walked down one side of the main street and went into Rivers and bought a pair of walking shoes and had a good look about, for they were offering 40% off a lot of items. Of course they were all large sizes so a bought also another flannel shirt for we hear we will be in the cold for awhile given this rain is all the way up to Queensland.
We drove down to the information centre and then we decided to go back to camp and just relax. We arrived around 1.45pm and had a sandwich and as the solar panels are not doing much we pulled the generator out and charged the house batteries and other electrical items.
We will have happy hour in the motorhome this evening and then watch the AFL football. It can rain as much as it wants for we are on solid ground and we are as comfortable as a bug in a rug.
Kilometres travelled 43

Saturday the 20th of May
We awoke this morning to two things, one the rain had stopped and it was our 54th wedding anniversary. When we hopped out of bed and lit the firepot the ground was dry and the was cloud with no wind. The sun would come later in the day.
At the moment it appears that I will not have start the generator to charge the batteries for the solar panels are already showing some charge which increased later in the day when the cloud cleared. The weather forecast for today was for rain and it did not eventuate. We had our breakfast outside and watched the Swans drifting past and there were was a lot of bird life including the Noisy Corella's and the laughing of the Kookaburra's. There were water fowl everywhere and the Wood Ducks made their appearance.
We had our shower straight after breakfast and wouldn't you know it, the pressure of the pump was to hard on the fittings I had used last year to do repairs. Out with the gear and fixed the problem and Liz was just about to hop in the shower when a hose blew. Out with the repair kit and it has held for Liz's and my shower. I need to address this problem when we reach Albury sometime next week. New pressure hose required.
After our showers Liz was to do a bit of washing and then we sat down and had a cappuccino and watched the boats trolling past our camp for fish. Most were using battery operated outboards for quietness. In all there were 10 boats of various size trolling that we could see in front of our camp. We were both wondering how they navigated through the mess of dead tree's and broken stumps both above and under water. Later in the day I was to see some navigation aids which no doubt assisted the fishers.

We checked the camp and the washing and around mid day we headed off to Yarrawonga in Victoria. Along the way we were to note the multi coloured fish outside a tackle shop and it looked like it articulated. Then across the bridge and up to Subway for lunch. We had decided that tomorrow we would go to the chinese smorgasbord for our celebration meal which we booked in for 5.30pm. Into Subway and I had a foot long and Liz a six inch washed down by a cup of cappuccino. We were in there for the best part of an hour and when we came out most of the shops were closed from 1pm. We went walkabout and then came back to the car and drove up to the Pirates Treasure House. What a store everything is cheap and mostly junk and when you walk up an aisle no one can pass you it is so tightly packed. Come tax time it must be a head ache to stock take for we have not seen so much gear on display for sale. We were in there for over an hour and I doubt if we saw it all. We bought a few items and then we headed to the supermarket to buy the paper for the newsagent was closed. We then went down to the weir at Yarrawonga and they are letting next to no water through. We were to drive over the weir and back into Mulwulla.
We checked for a dump point and then we went back to camp and listened to the football and watched the fishermen on the lake as well as the birds etc. We will watch the Collingwood game on the television tonight before going off to bed for it has been a full on day.

Saturday the 21st of May
It was a cool morning and Liz was overwhelmed with the win by Collingwood last night. This morning we awoke to a very heavy fog and no way were clothes going to dry. After breakfast we said farewell to a couple of happy campers who were leaving and came back inside for it was so cold in the fog. We turned on the heater to warm us up and then were off to the dump point and then to get water and the laundromat to dry clothes. All this took place in Mulwulla and when we were finished we went over the bridge once more into Victoria. We noted an old paddle steamer tied up the to the bank and when we went to investigate they were loading passengers for this morning's cruise. The paddle steamer was called the "Comberoona" and by the steady beat of a diesel engine I suspect the paddles are for show only and it would have a normal ships screw for propulsion. We sat and watched it depart as it made its way around the lake of course going nowhere near the submerged trees and stumps sticking up out of the water.Then around to the shop to buy the sunday paper and as it was lunch time we went up to Big Mick's Diner where we had a couple of cappuccinos and two potato cakes each which were very nice. We sat and ate listening to the old tunes from the 60's and 70's then we went outside and found that the fog had lifted and it was a nice sunny day though only 18 degrees.
Off to the junk shop again to stock up on fly catchers for those we bought yesterday caught more than a dozen flies.
We then went for a drive on the road towards Wodonga and then around the waterfront. We could still see the paddle steamer going about its business out on the lake.
We then decided to go back to camp and pack up whilst things were now dry and the fact of us going to the Chinese restaurant for our evening meal which is a result of our 54th wedding celebration yesterday. So that's all for the day we have work to do before we go out.

Monday the 22nd of May
What a pleasant night last night the chinese food was absolutely beautiful and plenty of it. Needless to say I absolutely pigged out with the most enjoyable being the four green lipped Mussels placed in a soup bowl and then sweet corn chicken soup poured over the mussels. Liz was a little more restrained. We then went into the poker machine area and watched the last quarter of the Fremantle V Carlton game which Freo won. We were watching many patrons do plenty of money on the pokies. We left for home around 8.45pm.This morning on going outside it was a beautiful crisp morning with not a cloud in the sky though it was only 9 degrees. I went for a walk and saw many Silver Crested Cockatoo's sitting in the trees by the lake. Further on there plenty of the noisy Corella's sitting on the sandy road. On the way back to camp I was to see two hardy fisherman in the foot propelled canoes which looked rather strange as they did their casting to try and catch a fish or two.
I didn't worry about eating for breakfast I am still full from last night. I just had a cuppa. We finished our packing and on pushing down the tap fixture for the water in the sink it broke off so there is another repair we did not expect. It will need a whole new unit.
We said our farewells to the other happy campers who were also leaving this morning and we were on the road to Howlong.
The highway wended its way around the lake for many kilometres and in one place we were to see many pelicans cruising about seeking fish. We finally arrived at Howlong and went down the rest area at the Lions Park. As we drove down we noted that the camping area would be in shade all day long this being not good for solar panels.
We then decided to move onto towards Albury and passed through the township of Cowera.

Just before Cowera we noted how green the grass was. There was plenty of cropping ground we were passing by. There were many cattle and sheep along the way with their sentinels the Alpaca's and at one point we noted that the had yet to harvest their corn.
It wasn't long before we were approaching Albury and we drove down an avenue of trees. We had chose a overnight stay in West Albury so the GPS was taking us there through many back streets and on arrival we decided not to stop and move closer to Wagga Wagga. We came out on the Hume Highway to Sydney and we drove along this for around 70 kilometres before we turned off for Wagga Wagga. We do not want to arrive today so we drove through Culcairn to a rest area some 10 kilometres on the other side of the town. The road has been good except for a few sections and the sun streaming through the front windowscreen made for enjoyable driving especially with no wind.
We arrived and set up for we are only staying for the night and moving on in the morning. As it is only 1pm we will relax and read our books out in the beautiful sunshine.
Kilometres travelled 156

Tuesday the 23rd of May
We had a peaceful night with the traffic dropping off during early evening. We knew we would get a bit of noise for the rest area was alongside the Olympic Highway. This morning a few clouds though not cold at all and when the afternoon came in Wagga Wagga it was 24 degrees.
On the highway and the traffic was light and the going easy with no wind. We were to go through many small towns that boasted large and small wheat silo's and plenty of small business and the schools were on the highway. We eventually arrived at Wagga Wagga and we wound our way through the town to our rest area at Wilk's Park. On arrival there were plenty of happy campers though there was oodles of room to park. We selected a spot where we could maximise the sun for solar panels.
When we came into the grounds I noted the large bus and recognised Richard who we had met at Condobolin last year. Even though the signs say camping for 72 hours only Richard has been here for three weeks and intends staying a bit longer. I suppose if you live on the road full time as he does you then you do not move about all that much. We set up our camp and before we knew it was after 12 noon so we jumped in the car and drove into town firstly for lunch which we put on hold whilst we went out to the caravan accessory shop. We were lucky they had a unit though they indicated that it may not fit due to the hose ends being different, we paid for it on the basis that if it did not fit our fittings we could return it for refund.
So back we came to camp and out came the spanners including some borrowed and you can imagine it is not easy working in a cupboard where you can not see. It turned out that the end fitting were wrong and a young bloke helped me put it back together. Back to the caravan place and they refunded our money. In all we travelled 28 kilometres there and back on the two trips. We topped up with water and now I am going off to happy hour with Richard and few other happy campers.

Wednesday the 24th of May
We ate outside after cooking our meal on the firepot last night, it was fettuccini plus bolognaise with two rolls of garlic bread that Liz had made and it was very nice. We washed up and went up to visit the people from Northern Territory who had a big fire going. Then home to bed though we watched a bit of television first.
Around 11 pm there was steady rain that seemed to last until dawn. Then it gave way to scudding clouds that the sun was doing its best to breakthrough.
Lit the firepot and boiled the kettle and then cooked crumpets which we have now run out. After breakfast I picked up Richard who was to show me the many shopping centres and for one thing there are shops selling all types of goods in their hundreds and these were in addition the shopping plaza's. We only bought the paper and then came back to camp and noted that there had been an exodus of happy campers.
I picked Liz up and we were on our way to Vinnies to use there showers. They were free and they even supply the soap and towels. We declined this and used out own gear. It was nice to able to stand under the shower without having to be quick due water usage. When we finished they offered us a free meal for lunch which we declined.
We received direction to there Vinnies store which was a couple of kilometres away. It was the largest store that we have seen and no doubt the profits from this supply the meals and accommodation to those who need it. One thing we noticed was the amount of leaf litter that covered the footpaths and gutters and it was widespread with one business owner blowing the leaves from the trees from the front of his shop onto the road and away from his premises.
Whilst in the town centre we received squally rain and then brilliant sunshine for thirty minutes or so before the next shower. We went to aldi and bought more crumpets and onions plus a couple of pieces of steak. Liz went into the woman's centre seeking out a place where she can get her blood tested for iron level and it would appear we will need to go to the hospital tomorrow for that. We were feeling a bit peckish at 1.30pm so we stopped in KFC and had a couple of chicken burgers and chips washed down with soft drink. We feel so full that we have decided to have only noodle soup for our evening meal.
On the road back to camp it was great to see the clouds in brilliant sunshine they looked great highlighting the buildings we were passing. We crossed the bridge across the Murrumbidgee River and then arrived back at camp. In our absence there were more happy campers arrive and set up.
Oh well it is time for happy hour so we will be off to join the mob of happy camper by their huge fire.

Thursday the 25th of May
Boy wasn't it a pea soup fog this morning, everything was wet including the chairs and table under the awning. Happy Campers were leaving early for where we do not know for in this fog where would you go safely. This morning after breakfast by the firepot I picked up Richard and we headed off to Bunnings. I fed Bunnings into the GPS and it took us there ok given it was some 7 kilometres from the camp.
I still had to deal with the water tap on the kitchen sink so I figured that it I was able to get male to male connectors then I could repurchase the tap set from the caravan spare parts place. I purchased also more little gas bottles for later use.
At the caravan place to check the tap fittings I noted the same fixture that we had broken. So I purchased that for $109.90 and sold them the male coupling that I had bought from Bunnings. So on the way home Richard wanted to go to Woolworth's and so we turned off and noted the two police cars at the lights looking at my raised A Frame.
Sure enough it wasn't long before we heard the police siren go off. I hopped out of the car and started to walk back to the police car and he stopped me he was checking the registration on the Terios.
Then the fun began, if you can call it that, he was taking photo's and indicating that it was blocking my vision so I invited him to hop in behind the seat and look for himself and he would find that there was no obstruction to view. He declined and then stated it was dangerous to pedestrians I going to say no more so that large bull bars. I thought better off it he went back to his car and I thought he writing out a ticket which he wasn't. I am sure he did not know how to handle it. I asked him to use his discretionary powers and admonish me which he did not want to do. So now I have to wait to see what turns up at home in the coming weeks or so.
Back to camp and told Liz who was not happy and then I just put the new tap fitting inside the van and indicated I wouldn't be doing it today. I was still pissed off so we went for a drive, less the A Frame of course, out through North Wagga. Then we noted the sign to Oura Beach so we decided to turn off and go for a look as it was only 15 km's.

Along the way sun broke through the fog and it was a nice day along the way we were to see many wineries and vineyards and the rest was cattle and sheep country and the countryside was looking pristine.
We turned down to Oura Beach and discovered it had a large area for camping and an eco type toilet. This would be a good spot for it is on the bank of the Murrumbidgee River and there were not a lot of trees to block the sun. We pulled up and took a few photo's and noted the strange looking round circle benches by the river.
We then decided to head for the camp for it was after 1pm and on the way we noted the extremely long railway bridge supported by many concrete pillars. Near here we spotted some small pieces of dry wood which we cut up until the chainsaw ran out of petrol. So on the way and on arrival at camp while Liz was getting lunch ready I split and stacked what would we cut and this will go well with the semi dry murray gum that we still have.
We had our lunch and the fog had come over again very thick though high up so we really only had about three hours for the solar panels to charge the house and waeco battery.
Liz has made a potato and leek soup for our meal tonight and it is simmering away on the firepot and before we take it off we will add some pieces of ham to make it even better. Gee we hate this grey nomad life on the road.

Friday the 26th of May
A pleasant night after watching the Geelong V Port Adelaide game which was very exciting going down to the wire. Geelong by 2 points. This morning not a cloud in the sky and the sun was shining brightly, it was warm as. It has been very hard to keep our batteries charged so this morning after breakfast by the fire out came the generator and all appliances were hooked into power for charging. I thought I would have a go at changing the kitchen tap and after ten minutes I gave up. I went up to see Leigh who seems to be contortionist and in fifteen he had the broken one out and the new one in. We checked for leaks and we could not see any which was great. It must have been hard working in the confined space like the sink cupboard. Liz said awhile later that there appeared to be a drip of water in the cupboard and no amount to checking could I find it. It wasn't leaking on the new connections. Then Liz tells me it has been like that since the start of our trip. Result lay a tea towel down and see how much water it absorbs. We then went outside and were enjoying the wonderful warm sun and at lunch time we turned off the generator and then went back to battery power. Later in the afternoon the sun disappeared behind the clouds so there is not much solar panel action.
We had lunch and said farewell to a couple of happy camper who left after lunch and then we were visited by some of the others. Time to get water etc so a far bit of time was spent refilling the motorhome and the drums that we carry, it is all good water here.
So today is just a lazy day and with sun breaking through now and again we read our books and relaxed. We will have the rest of our potato and leek soup for our meal tonight and it tastes a treat especially when a dropped some chilli paste in without Liz knowing.
We will go up to the other camp for happy hour today and then have our soup and settle in to watch the football. It has been a lazy day.

Saturday the 27th of May
Another chilly night though the sunshine was great when we hopped out of bed. We stayed in bed until 8.30am and we were to hear happy campers leaving the campgrounds for other places.
One thing that we find strange is the amount of Queenslanders in the camp ground and when speaking to them they comment on the cold weather compared to their home. We had breakfast in the brilliant sunshine and bacon and eggs with hash browns with toast all washed down with a cuppa. Richard and Flo came down for a visit and we spent a pleasant hour talking to them.
Then out with the washing machine and generator and up with the cloths lines and the washing of our clothes was the go. After the washing I renewed the water and then we had our showers in the motorhome.
We decided to go into town for a bit of retail therapy. There are at least one thousand small shops and at least four large shopping centre's containing the major national chains.
We walked around for awhile and then headed off to Big W for Liz wanted to purchase more flannelette sheets. We were surprised at the price asked so we went onto the food hall and there were many types of food you could purchase. We settled for cheese burgers and chips along with gravy for dipping. After this we drove around the Kmart and were able to purchase the sheets Liz wanted somewhat cheaper than Big W. We went into Liquorland and was surprised at the cost of Great Northern Beer at $54 a carton of 30 cans. Liz purchased a bottle of wine and then we headed to Dan Murphy's and lo and behold the same 30 can pack of Great Northern Beer was $44.95 So I purchased a carton.
We then went and checked out the way to Narrandra where we are going to on Monday when we leave here.
We drove around for awhile and then headed for our camp. On arrival in came the clothes and down with the clothes line and then packed away the tent poles that we were using. We stoked the fire up and then had a cappuccino before happy hour arrived.
Come happy hour we gathered with other happy campers and enjoyed their company before coming back to camp to cook our evening meal. We stoked the fire up and then cooked our vegetables in the steamer set and on the firepot also cooked our ham steaks. All very nice indeed. We came inside to watch the football for it was getting very cold outside. Another good day with good people.

Sunday the 28th of May
We awoke at 4.30am this morning to heavy rain on the roof. We went back to sleep and when awakening again at 7am we just had a light shower on the roof. On going outside it was heavy black cloud though it did not rain. Lit the firepot and cooked our breakfast and we sat outside and enjoyed the scenery. Around 10am we drove up to Woolworth's to buy more mouse traps for we have a persistent mouse who sets the traps off and avoids capture. Bought another trap and some pellets to try and get rid of it before it does damage to the electrical wiring etc. We also bought some fruit etc.
Back to camp and stoked up the firepot and then placed a seasoned pork roast on the trivet and placed it in the camp oven. We are having our main meal for lunch and then an easy evening meal. Liz was to steam some vegetables and then we placed potatoes etc in the camp oven. While we were waiting for it to cook we had a cappuccino and a few Major Mitchell Parrots came close to the camp feeding on seeds etc.
Then it was time for our meal and it was all cooked nicely and did not take much time to devour. Washing up done and then it was time to pack up the camp for we are leaving in the morning. First loaded the residual wood onto the roof rack and found we had space for more. We drove a couple of kilometres to where we cut it the other day and cut enough to fill the roof rack for our future use. We were just finishing when the passenger train from Sydney went across the the very long railway bridge and it wasn't wasting any time at all.
Back to camp and then loaded the car and then the awning went in. This morning I had to borrow a ladder to effect some repairs where the sun had perished the awning. I used cloth tape and it will need more attention when we get home in September, hopefully my temporary repairs will last until then.
Finally everything was packed away only the chairs are left out to catch the last of the sun before going off to have happy hour with our happy hour mates. Later we will watching the television before going off to bed.

Monday the 29th of May
I was rudely awakened at 4.30am by the sound of the mouse trap being sprung and the noise as the mouse tried to drag it away. Straight out of bed and grabbed the trap and placed it in the rubbish bin complete with the pesky mouse.
Back into bed and slept soundly until 7.45 am. Hopped out of bed and walked around the camp saying our farewell with happy campers about to leave. Two of the happy campers are who we met at Condobolin two years ago.
We had our breakfast and packed up for the journey ahead. We drove up to Richards camp and spent awhile saying our farewell and then others we met during our stay here. We pulled out of the area and on the road bound for Narrandera. Here we were just getting underway and we drove into a Highway Patrol who were checking vehicles out. Lucky for us we were waved through. Our next stop was at the service station where we took on diesel at $1.25.9 cents a litre. Then on the highway bound for our next destination. There was a heavy fog which fortunately the sun was trying to break through whilst the temperature outside was 6 degrees. The going was easy and then we were passing through farming country which was mostly cropping and with a mixture of cattle and sheep. In no time at all we were entering the outskirts of Narrandera.
We drove down to the old brewery camp area and picked a sunny site for the batteries to recharge with the solar panels or so we thought.
Once we had settled in we decided to walk into town for we needed vegetables and a few other things. We took the track alongside the river and then up onto the bridge and then into the town centre.
We first stopped at a cafe and sat outside and enjoyed a mug of cappuccino, whilst we were enjoying that along came two people we had met back in Wagga Wagga and we had a good chat for they left the camp area a day before us.
We went into Coles and bought vegetables and other things and of course a packet of Tim Tams that was on special. We then set out for home carrying the bags and then into Vinnies where I purchased more books and then a jumper to replace Purple Haze which is literally falling off my back. On the way back to our camp a woman pulled up and offered to run us back to camp we declined. As we approached the highway there was another Highway Patrol pulling up vehicles and testing them for drugs or alcohol. We just walked through ignoring them.
Back in camp we had a late lunch a 2.15 pm and noted then the motorhome and car were in shade so we quickly moved to ensure we received maximum sunshine. A little later the clouds came over so there was no need to move really.
We then walked down to the boat ramp and took a few photo's of the river running. I am not sure what the name of the river is. We relaxed for the rest of the afternoon reading our books and taking in the last of the sunshine for it would appear it is going to be cold in the morning.
Kilometres travelled 101

Tuesday the 30th of May
This is the coldest night and day we have experienced on our journey to date. When we awoke this morning it was only 3 degrees outside, though there was not a frost of fog. We had our breakfast and went to visit Steve and Carol who informed us they were going back to Adelaide and load up their boat and travel up the centre to Darwin for it is to cold here and the forecast for the next week indicates that it will get colder with some rain. We said our farewells for we doubt if we will meet up with them again this year. Back and did our clean up and dumping of rubbish and it was 9.15am when we pulled out of the Old Brewery Rest Area. Up onto the Newell Highway and we decided to do a fuel top up at the Shell Service Station. We pulled in and all the diesel bowsers had out of use sign on them. We can only conclude that the had run out of diesel.
We have enough fuel to reach West Wylong so we are not really worried. Out onto to the Newell Highway after giving away to two interstate b-double trucks and then we were driving down through the Remembrance Avenue of trees who were shedding their leaves. The going was easy for there was no wind though the clouds which were high were blocking the sun.
We decided we would only drive to the Beckom Rest Area which should put us there around midday. Along the way the very large paddocks for as far as you could see had been ploughed and seeded. We will no doubt see the same paddocks on the way down with blooming wheat or canola crops.
At one stage there were plenty of interstate trucks on the move in both directions and where we could we went off the road to let them pass unimpeded. Next we came to the township of Grong Grong which boasts a population of 150 and it also contains a hospital no doubt for the large areas around the township. We were to note that they were building a road bypass which is expected completed around the town next year. That will be a loss to trade for travellers reluctantly only come off highways as a necessity.
We had the heater going in the truck for the outside air temperature was only 6 degrees. Though we were warm.
As we had plenty of time today, given that we were parking up early, we decided we would go off the highway for 2 kilometres and have a look at the Township of Ardlethan. It was like stepping back in history the town was so old and though it boasted a population of 175 people it contains two working hotels. We were to note the price of diesel was $1.23.9. So we topped up and put unleaded into the Terios at $1.26.9 an litre and then drove along the main street and noted they had free camping in a park near all the facilities of town. We stopped and had a look and found the camping was free and that power was available for $2 for twelve hours of power.
Needless to say we decided to stop here for the night and possibly tomorrow night depending on the weather. We parked up hooked into power and plugged the waeco in the car into power as well.
It did not take long for us to plug in the electric heater and charge up all the phones, computer and Liz's wi fi and note book. There is no television here and I tried to set up the satellite dish to no avail for there were to many trees blocking the path to the satellite.
We will read our books tonight or watch a dvd. We had our lunch and settled down for the motorhome now is quite warm and Liz is doing her cross stitch. Later in the afternoon Liz went across to the newsagents and bought a newspaper and informed me that the shop has everything possible for sale so we will investigate later in the day. The sun came out for ten minutes of so and now the rain clouds are back and it really looks like rain. The temperature is only 12 degrees at 2.45pm. Oh well off to have a poppy nap in the nice warm motorhome.
Kilometres travelled 71

Wednesday the 31st of May
We watched the arrival of a Truck and Trailers last night and when going under the loading chute the driver then shut down and went into his sleeper cab on the truck. We were to hear him being loaded at 6.30 am this morning and he was on his way to where ever. What a warm evening last night with the Heater going and the Electric Blankets switched on. As stated previously the site is free just $2 to 12 hours power. All the light is the motorhome are 12 volt though Liz was able to make an apple crumble in the microwave for our evening meal.
We never hopped out of bed until 8.15 am this morning and you could see the sun shining though when going outside there was a cold southerly wind blowing. I went for walk down the main street before breakfast and looked in most of the stores which appear to be multi purpose selling many and varied goods. Down by the centennial park I discovered the financial backbone of the the town was the mining of Tin though now closed. On one shop window they were indicating that was talk of opening the Tin Mine again sometime in the near future.
I came up a small man made lake where a flock of Geese rushed towards me and honking away, they were quite noisy until I was well past. Back at camp and then we had breakfast and cleaned up and then decided to go walkabout.
We walked past the shops and went into one shop that sold the newspapers and lotto at one end and then had a coffee shop at the other. We bought the paper then had a cappuccino each and listened to the local gossip from the take away section.
We were to speak to a few locals and they were happy enough to talk about their small town.
We walked then down to the supermarket and Liz has me well trained when I look like buying something she reminds there is no space left in the fridge or waeco let along the cupboards where apparently there are fifteen packets of various biscuits. So I only bought a lock for the a frame of the terios given that I lost the other one.
We walked around the back streets and admired the old houses from the start of the 1900's. Then back to the motorhome for lunch at around 1.30pm. After lunch we read our books and the newspaper and then went outside and sat against some bush's to soak up the sun and be shielded from the cold southerly.
After our meal tonight we will going to the club or hotel to have some refreshments and to watch the State of Origin Rugby game before coming home to our warm bed for the night.
It has been a good day and we have met also some happy campers from various states who are heading north also though one lot are having trouble with there brand new fridge and have to travel many kilometres to have it fixed. Oh the joys of travelling trouble free, does it ever occur even we have had a few minor problems that we have overcome with new parts. We heard a train coming and it was two engines pulling 40 coal carriages. It appeared to take forever to pass through.

June