Monday the 1st
A pinch and a punch for the first of the month. We arose this morning to a heavy overcast day though it was really warm, warm enough for those dreaded fly's to pester us on our walk this morning. We decided on the long walk as noted the beautiful Bougainvillea and the red and white Roses something you do not expect this time of the year. There were a few people out and about walking they to appeared to have trouble with fly's also. Back and we had breakfast and then cleaned up and then headed down to pick up Mauri.

Mauri and Gwen are in the free camp area and when I arrived I was greeted by Lucy their dog. Picked up Mauri and we were on our way to check the Yabby hole. The sun was just breaking through, though the morning was cold so much so we turned on the heater in the Terios for warmth. I was a bit surprised when I pulled the first yabby pot and there were two which were quickly placed in the bucket. The next four contained two in each and the last one had nothing though the bait had all been eaten.
Back and cooked the Yabby's and then when cooled placed them in the fridge and hopefully if we get enough tomorrow maybe we can have curried yabby's on a bed of rice, Yummy. We had our lunch and a cup of tea and read my book for half and hour. Then refueled the chainsaw and then picked up Mauri again and went out to get wood for his fire. We picked the trees that we would cut and disaster struck. The chainsaw would not start so back and borrowed Chris's battery operated chainsaw. We found where were going to cut and what a pleasure to use a battery operated chainsaw that is so quiet and slices through the Gidgee Wood so easily. Back and unloaded the wood and Gwen and Liz stacked it for use and we were to take the chainsaw reluctantly back to Chris. Chris was to look at my chainsaw and after about an hour it was going again. It would appear that I may be using to much oil in the petrol.

Home and had a shower and it was time for happy hour after a busy day. Set the fire after that and placed a chimney log on the tri pod and in no time at it started to burn from the inside out. We decided not to have a barbecue tonight we thought we would have smoked cod along with vegetables. The sunset tonight was very nice indeed and as evening closed in on us the blasted fly's left us alone. After the chimney collapsed we decided not to have another so we retired inside and cooked our meal and Mauri and Gwen joined us to eat there's and we had ours washed down with wine and frothy's. Then we settled in to watch Tellie for awhile before we all drifted off with us watching the late movie before we went of to bed. A busy and tiring day though most enjoyable. Each day we wonder what we are going to do and it just happens.

Tuesday the 2nd
Out of bed at 7.30am and out onto the road for our morning walk. What a beautiful day with no wind and the sun was shining bright, the temperature was 11 degrees rising to 24 degrees later in the day.Very nice.
We really enjoyed the walk and we were to spot a couple of kangaroos bounding away towards the bush areas and there were plenty of squawking Corella's. Back home we had our breakfast and then cleaned up a bit and then Liz was to come with me to pull the yabby traps. It is a fair way from our camp though it was a pleasurable trip and by the look of the tyre tracks no one has yet leant where are setting. Though we still think the water is a bit cold for the yabby's to move in great numbers. When we pulled the traps we found two in each trap and due to this we decided to place the traps back in the water for tomorrow. We now have enough for a nice curried yabby's on a bed of white rice for our meal tomorrow night.
We were to clean the wood heater of ash and reset for tonight then cooked the yabby's and after they cooled down we placed them in the fridge for tomorrow. We were to get a few nice big ones so we should have a good meal.
Mauri and Gwen came around and we had a cup of coffee and a good old chinwag and after they left it was time for lunch. We just cannot believe the way time fly's even when there is not a lot happening. Then went over to Chris's place for he was having a look at Mauri's chainsaw and sharpening the chain as well.
At 4pm we went up to have a cappuccino before going to the shop to get a loaf of fresh bread that arrived today. On going to the Cafe we found that it closed at 3 pm so off to the shop and paid for our meal for thursday night and also bought a kilo of Eulo honey. We then went to the other cafe and found though "the open sign was out! it was also closed. So we headed off home for happy hour where Mauri and Gwen plus Chris and Bron came to sit around the fire and have a few drinks. The fire was lit and then a chimney log was placed on the fire and it did not take long for it to catch light and throw of plenty of heat, we have a good supply of chimney logs which will last us for awhile. Then we then put the barbecue plate on and cooked out meal for the night. We decided to go inside to eat and then after awhile our guests departed and we settled in to have another cup of tea and watch a bit of the tennis before going off to bed, another good day.

Wednesday the 3rd
A cool morning awaited us being 4 degrees something that we haven't experienced for awhile, it only rose to 18 degrees later in the day though we had clear sky's and sunshine. We went for our walk and happened to go by the cake stall at the shop and sure enough we purchased two cakes for our morning and afternoon tea's. Back and we had our breakfast and then I went and picked up Mauri and we drove out to pull the Yabby traps. Again we were to see no wildlife and when we pulled the traps we were only to catch ten yabby's overall. We packed the traps up and placed them on the roof rack on the Terios. On the way back to camp we noted the countryside and it was rugged though it still had that beauty about it.
Back home and I thought I would read my book for awhile though I dropped off to sleep by the warmth of the fire. on awakening we bought the waeco inside and placed all the frozen food in the freezer in the house and also the frozen goods from the fridge in the motorhome. This allowed us to defrost both for we are nearly half way through out trip this year and defrosting will not be carried out until we arrive home in September. Liz and Gwen went off to the Bingo and Liz was to win several blocks of chocolate with Gwen winning small chocolates so they were both happy. Then we had our lunch and looked at what we needed to do today.
Cleaned the back of the Terios out and packed the yabby traps away for a week or so. Then cleaned all the yabby's and placed the meat aside the fridge for our curry tonight and then we met up with Mauri and Gwen and had a cappuccino at the cafe and then dropped into the library to check out books for future use whilst we are here. I hope to read a lot more in the coming days and just relax. Then out to Mitre 11 to dump off the shells and other rubbish off.
We had decided to go the indoor bowls this afternoon, we haven't played since last year so we thought we might be a bit rusty. We spent a few pleasant hours along with other happy campers with a few staying behind when they opened the bar.
Back home and lit the fire and placed the chimney log on the stand to burn it didn't take long to heat the surrounding area up then we had our curried yabby's on a bed of white rice, very nice indeed. Chris and Bron and the dogs came over for awhile and we had a chat. Then inside and stoked up the fire inside and then settled down to watch a bit of Tellie before going off to bed. We have trouble understanding where the day goes though we are enjoying our time here in Yowah plus renewing the friendship with people who we have met in previous years and that makes us wanting to come back to Yowah.

Thursday the 4th
A cold cloudy morning which ensured we never hopped out of bed until 8.15. The coolness did not deter us from going for our morning walk. I was to pull my jumper sleeves down over my hands. This morning we walked in the reverse direction and in doing so we were to walk past both the S.E.S. and Fire Station. For a small town they have certainly a lot of equipment and the Airport that the Royal Flying Doctor Service use is also used to train their pilots on landing and take off procedures due to the runway being gravel. Indeed the RFDS will arrive tomorrow to service the community with the Doctor and a Podiatrist.
We were then to walk along the Bore Drain and with the many ghost gums sucking up the water they look really great and the grass also grows beside the bore drain. We walked past one of the many Opal Shops and there are plenty of them in the town. Liz was to inspect an old house that is now derelict and a lot of old furniture was still there though it had all been vandalised.
We arrived back home and we had our breakfast and then settled in to read our books after cleaning up. Being a little cold we re-stoked the fire to warm up the house then Chris and Bron came over and we had a cuppa. Chris was to dump gravel on the path we use to go to the motorhome and bed. They are forecasting rain on Sunday so the need to consolidate the pathway so as it does not turn to mud. Then we grubbed a stump out. We did not have lunch today. It is now 8.43 pm and wouldnt you know it the rain has arrived early so the work done today will help us out.
We had our showers late in the day and then we went up to the caravan park for the weekly dinner. There would have been over 100 people there most being tourists to the area. First they were to have the Duck Race that consists of small plastic ducks racing down the bore drain to the finish line. They do not announce the winner until after the main dinner course has been completed. The main meal was either roast pork or roast chicken along with five vegetables all very nice. Then the winners of the duck race were then announced and we of course didn't not have a winning ticket. They then announced the amount raised and the funds of recent years from the duck race went to ensuring that the RFDS had proper consultation rooms and lighting at the airport for night flying. If they come at night to pick up a sick person then the fire brigade is in attendance with flares etc to assist in the landing. Also this year with donations and money raised has allowed the purchase of a second hand Ambulance for the transfer of patients to the airport or other areas. Previously they used the back of a ute to transport people. All this is financed by the duck races and donations.
We then had our desert either pavlova or sticky date pudding with plenty of cream. When had finished our meal we wandered back home by torch light and then settled in to watch the Marngrook and Behind the Bar football shows before going off to bed. Another good day and night.

Friday the 5th
Out of bed at 8.45 am and decided to not go on our walk this morning. It was warm around 12 degrees rising to 22 degrees later in the day. We had our breakfast and then cleaned up and then went over to Chris and Bron's had another cup of tea and then we headed out to the bush to cut wood for both their fire and ours. We decided that we would not have a hunt for chimneys this morning. We wound our way through the bush until Chris found the tree to be cut. Down it came and then cut into lengths with Chris taking the big logs and I cut the smaller wood with the battery operated chainsaw. I am still impressed in the manner in which the battery operated machine works, so quiet and cuts well.
Liz and Bron were loading wood into drums and they were placed in the trailer and then loaded the larger wood onto the trailer. It was amazing how much wood was in the tree which was Gidgee Wood. The larger pieces were split with the block buster and due to the fiddle back grain it took some splitting.
Whilst Chris was cutting with the big saw two cattle came along and Chris explained that they thought that gidgee wood trees were being cut for them to eat for there is not grass or hay available for them.
Back home and a lot of the wood was thrown off at our place and the rest over the road. Lunch time had arrived and Gerhard dropped in and we chewed the fat for awhile and when he left we had our lunch.
Then we had our showers and read our books. Up to the shop for pizza bases for our meal tonight. Then we settled in to read our books for awhile until happy hour arrived.
Chris and Bron and Mauri and Gwen arrived and it was decided we would all have pizza for our meal after a bit of refreshment. Everyone supplied their own topping and come 6pm the woman were to cook the pizza's and they were a delight and as a matter of fact there was enough left over for our breakfast in the morning, cold of course.
We ate them around our chimney fire and in fact the first chimney burnt out so we put on another. We sat out by the fire until we had a rain shower and came inside and had a few slices of chocolate cake and a cuppa. Then when everyone departed we settled in to watch the
Collingwood V Hawthorn game tonight then go off to bed, again we will take no rocking.

Saturday the 6th
An overcast day with a little rain later in the day. Our walk this morning was short and then home to have our breakfast. The usual Saturday fare consisting of a McChallis egg,bacon and cheese in a muffin, very nice indeed washed dow with a cup of tea.
Chris rang and invited us to go for a drive around the area and didn't that turn into a bit of a shock. I have spoken previously of the rugged beauty of the otherwise desolate area around the township of Yowah. Well today I am going to let photo's show what we mean when we say it has a rugged beauty. We left at 10.15am and headed down the Blackgate Road and then turned down onto the old Wool Wagon Road (The photo's on this link will give you an idea of what we were to see. Just click on this link) We were informed that this road is the original road that the wool wagons carted the wool off to the various markets. The countryside changed as we went along and at times we were to see sacred aboriginal areas and drove alongside the gas pipe underground of course. There were old abandoned trucks just left to rust and the old windmill that used to deliver water to the brick water trough that sheep were to use. There is no sheep these days due to ongoing drought and now the farmers run wild goats for their income and there are plenty of them. One of the areas we visited was goat hill which we climbed and were gobsmacked with the view not to mention the amount of goat droppings. Chris was to tell us that during the day the goats went of to feed in the nearby land and at around 5pm they all return and climb the very large hill for the night to stay safe from Dingo's that also inhabit this area. We were taken to a grotto that had a water pool at the bottom along with caves that aboriginals in the past used for their accommodation, there were trees that had a flower like an orchard that they used to eat. All this in one spot and no doubt they used to catch the kangaroos etc. Now I will let the photo's tell the story.
It could be said that had the day been clear blue sky's the photos may have been better, however what we experienced with the wash outs and tracks plus all the natural beauty was captured in out minds for future reference. We spent nearly three hours looking at the rugged countryside and we thank Chris and Bron for their hospitality and telling us of the history of the area we travelled.
It is raining at the moment so there is doubt if we will have an outside fire this evening though being inside with the fire while we watch the football tonight will be fine.

Sunday the 7th
We received a little rain during the early hours of this morning, the morning was very overcast and rain is predicted for later in the day. We were absolutely inundated with fly's on our walk this morning we noted the many puddles of water on the road though the ground was very dry. We noted that the caravan park was nearly full of happy campers. We arrived at the General Store and bought a few items and then walked home to have our breakfast.
After breakfast and the clean up we settled in to read our books for awhile. Liz was to cook a silverside along with cheese and white sauce vegetables for our meal at around 12 noon, Chis and Bron came over and joined us for the meal, it was very nice indeed though we did not have any desert.
Took the block buster to a few blocks of Gidgee Wood for our inside fire later in the day. Then read a bit more of our books and then we were to admire the bush orchids we obtained yesterday.
Chris was to go for a look for more chimney fire wood so we went out to the airport and found a suitable tree on the ground and then worked or way home along the Bore Drain and we were to see the very old Bore Drain Dredge that they use to drag the drain now and again. Further along we were to see a dead cow that had succumbed to the drought and lack of feed available.
Time for happy hour and Mauri and Gwen came along and we decided not to light the outside fire for it looks like rain that didn't eventuate until late in the night. Bron was to bring over a beautiful Lemon Meringue Pie which we shared with Mauri and Gwen to have with their meal this evening. It has been a quiet day and very relaxing and we decided only to have the pie for our evening meal and then settled in to watch the television before going off to bed.

Monday the 8th
A very overcast morning after a little rain in the early hours of this morning. The weather would change in the afternoon and we would then have the sun to warm us, at the moment it is 20 degrees. We hopped out of bed at 8am and as Liz was feeling a bit of colour I went for a walk on my own. The ground was still dry though there were puddles on the uneven bitumen road.
I was to go past another Opal seller who call themselves "Lust in the Dust". They had a home made wheel barrow outside selling pumpkins how they grow them in this ground is a mystery. I wound my way past the caravan park and boy did I get hit with fly's and then home for breakfast. Liz had brightened up so we had our breakfast and then stoked the inside fire for tonight. Collected the rubbish from inside and out and we headed off to Mitre 11 to dump rubbish. There are no goodies to be collected and that shows us that the area is not wealthy at all.
We then decided to drive up to the bluff and take in the views. What can we say, again the ruggedness and the beauty of the land close and in the distance is amazing and though it could be dangerous to be caught out in the wilderness with only goats and a few kangaroos for company. So the beauty can possibility be a death trap if not suitably equipped and without a person with great general knowledge of the area.
We were to see the pyramid styled Totem that has been added to over the years. They have wood available for you to have a barbecue and take in the renowned sunsets if you wish to do so. They have recently built a distance marker that sets out the distance to various parts of the world and parts of Australia all very nice. On the way down off the Bluff we stopped and took a photo of the township of Yowah set in amongst the trees.
We turned off and had a look at the helipad and at the rock heap where we found some opal a few years ago, it has been picked over well now so we did not get out of the Terios.
We are running out of fuel so around to the shop and purchased unleaded at $1.69 cents a litre. On the way back home we dropped in and had a chat to Mauri and Gwen and then home for lunch.
After lunch we prepared the outside fire for tonight and stocked the inside fire box for tonight. Rested up and read our books and it is now happy hour so outside with the fly's. Cook our meal and later in the night come inside to watch the footy show before going off to bed.

Tuesday the 9th
We sat outside for awhile last night by our chimney fire and did not go inside until the fire had died down. The sky was clear and you could see the many stars that are bright in the outback sky. This morning slept in again and as Liz wished to do the washing I went for a walk on my own. The sky's were blue and not a cloud in the sky until late afternoon there was no wind though plenty of fly's as I wound my way up past the caravan park. I was to see amongst the many happy campers in the park a small sedan towing an even smaller tear drop caravan and I assumed it was for only one.
Back home had breakfast and did a few chores around the place and then sat down in the lounge chair to read my book. When Liz had finished the washing we went over and had a cuppa with Chris and Bron and chewed the fat until lunch time.
We came back and had our lunch and as Liz has been a bit off colour the past few days she had a sleep on the couch and I read my book. Set the fire for tonight and it ignited itself so stoked it up to get coals to cook spuds and pumpkin for tonight's meal.
We then went to the shop for the fresh bread comes in today and the shelves are restocked with veggies etc. We bought a loaf of bread and half a cauliflower for $2.90 and a Quarter of cabbage for $1.90. We then drove past the Hot Artesian Spa which had a couple of customers and it is real popular with the visiting tourists. Then drove around the back streets and took a photo of the dilapidated house that was built many years ago and is slowly falling down.
Back home and before we knew it happy hour had arrived and Mauri and Gwen came up from the free camping area and Chris and Bron came over from over the road around 6 pm we will cook our meal and then later in the night we will go inside to watch Television for awhile before going off to bed. The fly's have not been as bad from 4pm as they usually are. the temperature us currently 20 degrees at 4.30pm.

Wednesday the 10th
Last night we had a beautiful sunset that lasted for nearly and hour and whilst that was happening we were visited by three kangaroos next door looking for food and Liz threw some vegetable scraps which they consumed in not time at all. We had another good chimney fire last night.
Out of bed at 7.30am and went for our walk. We wound our way down past the caravan park which had plenty of happy campers. The fly's were a pain in the neck and as we approached the shop the bore drain was steaming in the cool air of the morning. We were to visit the cake stall once again and purchased a chocolate cake and a date loaf. Back home and we had our breakfast and cleaned up and then as Liz was going off to Bingo with Gwen I picked up Mauri and went out to drop in the yabby traps and hopefully tomorrow we will have a good catch. It could be that the water is still a little cold for them to move.
Once we placed the traps in we then found a tree that is good for chimney logs so we cut a few plus other wood. We delivered them to Mauri's camp in the free camp area and then I came home.
Emptied ash out of the inside fire and then reset for later tonight and then settled in to read my book. Around 12 noon Liz arrived home and indicated she had won another large chocolate and a Mars Bar which I quickly devoured.
We had our lunch and then I had a snooze and then read my book until around 3pm when Chris and Bron came over and we had afternoon tea where we cut both the chocolate cake and date loaf, very nice indeed.
Then set the outside fire and as an experiment I placed a smaller chimney log inside a large chimney log. Mauri and Gwen Chris and Bron arrived and the fire was lit and we had happy hour and then cooked our meal for all of us. Plenty of spuds in foil cooked in the hot coals of the fire and then out with the grill plate and cooked the chicken and meat for our meal. The chimney fire was a beauty with the inner log burning first and then the outer which scorched the leaves on a nearby gum tree. We had to move back for the heat was intense and when the logs finally broke open we pulled the rod and tri piece out and boy it was red hot and took some time to cool down.
We said farewell to everyone and then came inside to watch the State of Origin rugby game. Then we will go off to bed another good day and even better if we did not have those terrible little bush fly's.

Thursday the 11th
A very cool night and this morning the sun was shining brightly warming up the day. We were out of bed at 7.30am and then went on our walk and it must have a bit early for the fly's for they never worried us until later in the morning. We had breakfast and the usual chores to be done and then I went to pick up Mauri to go check the yabby traps.
We headed out and on the way near the airport we were to see many Ibis flying around so we then detoured to the airport and there were plenty of Ibis sitting on the ground appearing to eat grit etc.
We then disturbed them and they took off and then regrouped and were flying in formation and with the background of the blue sky they looked exceptional gliding on the breeze of the morning. There were plenty of them and for a moment I thought that they may have been Magpie Geese though was not correct and we finally established they were Black Ibis.
We continued off to the yabby spot and when we arrived there were plenty of fly's and we did not bring our fly nets. We tried the yabby traps further upstream and when we pulled them they did not contain a yabby at all. The other four traps yielded 10 so in the bucket they went and then we moved a couple and then put the rest back. We have decided to pull them out of the water in the morning after checking for yabby's.
On the way back to camp we called into the airport to check on the birds again however they had departed. Back in camp and Mauri was to cook the yabby's for use later on.
Back home and I settled in to read my book for awhile and then went over the road for a cuppa with Chris and Bron and check out the chains for fitting to Mauri's chainsaw unfortunately they were to long so that idea went by the way. We chewed the fat for awhile and then it was time for lunch. Bron had made us a loaf to multigrain bread which we sampled for lunch and it was very nice indeed.
Bought more wood inside and stoked the fire and then Liz had a snooze and I continued to read my Wilbur Smith book of 625 pages. Later in the day Chris was to come over and we went out to look for another tree that was suitable for chimney logs. We found one and Chris quickly cut it up in lengths so that will keep us going for another few more days. The trailer was backed into the yard and it will sit there whilst we choose a chimney log for each evening.
We then had our showers for we are going up to the Caravan Park for a meal again this evening, at $20 for two courses it is reasonable for the food is excellent. They had a choice of Roast Lamb or Roast Chicken Liz opted for the lamb and I had the chicken along with five veggies very nice indeed. Prior to the meal we had the The Famous Yowah Duck Race down the bore drain and as usual we did not back a winner nor did we win associated prizes. Then we had desert of chocolate parfait or lemon cake with cream we opted for the cake and then Liz was given a parfait to eat later at home. Once again it was a good night and then Mauri and Gwen came back home with us and had coffee and tea before going off to their camp. We then caught the last of the Marngrook Football Show and then the Behind the Bar before going off to bed. Another wonderful day.

Friday the 12th
9 degrees this morning on awakening and the sky's were clear once again with the temperature at 3pm 24 degrees. We went for our walk along past the caravan park once again and noted the RFDS Finish line for the weekly duck race to raise money for that organisation. For a change we walked along the bore drain and in places the scenery was great though it didn't shorten the distance we would normally walk.
Home for breakfast and then I finished my book off and then had a cup of coffee. Along with Mauri we went out to check the yabby traps and only caught 6 and then decided to bring the traps in and put them away. Once home stacked them to outside in the sun to dry before putting them on the roof rack. Renewed the wood supply inside for tonight to watch the football. Then before we knew it lunch time had arrived. After lunch Liz was to use the washing machine and then we decided to go for a drive around the town. We went first out along the Blackgate Road and dropped into the golf course which is a sight to see. The 19th hole is a shed and the toilets for male and female are corrugated iron long drops. Now the fairways are all gravel and the greens are the same, you would need to have a strong set of shoes for the area is rough and in the background you can see the opal mines.
We then drove out to the airport and were to see the Royal Flying Doctor Service Plane resting on the concrete pad whilst the Doctor, Nurse and Pilot are in the town doing the normal weekly clinics.
We drove along the side of the airport and then turned off along the bore drain and took the back roads into the free camp area. First we dropped into see Gerhard and then Mauri and Gwen and invited them to come along for happy hour and cook something on the barbecue before we cranked up the fire with a chimney log.
Not much to report today though I am now going out with the fly's to set the outside fire for tonight.

Saturday the 13th
Another cool night though the sun was shining this morning with a chilly wind, our walk this morning took us along the bore drain and again it was a pleasure to look at the different colours along with Ghost Gums, Palm Trees and a lemon tree. Back in camp and it was time to have our usual saturday McChallis egg, bacon and cheese muffin. It again was very nice washed down with a cup of tea. This morning we emptied the freezer and transferred all to the Waeco. Then Liz was to clean the freezer and then we had a cuppa for morning tea and then out to Mitre 11 to dump our rubbish cans from our happy hours etc.
Back home and we took a call from John and Jenny indicating that they would arrive in Yowah later this afternoon, we indicated that we would drive out to meet them and take them down to the free camp area.
Then did a few repairs to the motorhome that were outstanding and set the fire for tonight. We had our lunch and then read our books for awhile and then John and Jenny arrived and then they set up then we introduced them to Mauri and Gwen and then they came up to the house for a cuppa and we chewed the fat.
We placed the big chimney log on the frame and place another on the top which looked spectacular then we placed potatoes and pumpkin etc in alfoil on the hot coals to cook for our evening meal. Then on with the grill plate and cooked our meat which we opted to eat inside the house. After our meal we went outside by the chimney fire which was starting to burn out and collapse. It is amazing how much heat emanates from the the fire which had us moving back. We were to have a good chat until late in the night and then inside to watch the St Kilda V Geelong football game before going off to bed. Another good people's day and picking up news from other destinations etc.

Sunday the 14th
A very cold night and morning so much so that the dreaded fly's did not appear until mid morning. Out of bed at 8am and went for a walk for Liz wished to stay and do a few things as well as get our midday meal ready. The morning was fine plus sunny and I walked once again around to the general store to buy bread for later today. They had run out of bread and indicated they would have more later this afternoon. I strolled down past Val's Park and spotted a lone Kangaroo and I was able to have a chat with Val who indicated that the emu's and kangaroos had died over the summer period when the temperature was hovering around 50 degrees week after week, Val indicated the kangaroos were sitting in the bore drain and though the water was warm it was colder than the heat of the day. I purchased a cooler from her sales table and then went off home for breakfast.
After breakfast we prepared to cook our lunch of roast chicken with five baked veggies. Then over to see Chris and Bron and the dogs we had a cup of tea and then met a couple of their visitors that live in the town. We were to learn a little more about the town and some of the characters that live here.
Home and had our lunch which was really great and we believe that after the meal there is no need to have much for our evening meal. We then took more of our equipment out to the motorhome for our house sitting will end on Tuesday morning and we will be moving down to the free camp area with Mauri and Gwen, Gerhard and John and Jenny.
John and Jenny came around and we had a cuppa and had a look at John's satellite box and found that it had the wrong settings once that was sorted out he found that there was nothing wrong with his LNB and was able to receive the satellite television stations.
Before we knew it happy hour had arrived so the fire was lit and even though the fire ash from last night appeared to be out as soon as I placed paper there it caught light with the remaining heat of the fire. Tossed a few sticks on and it was away then placed two chimney logs on the stand and in no time at all they were away throwing out heaps of heat in all directions. Every one came over and around for a meal and cooked potatoes and pumpkin in foil on the red hot coals and then the barbecue stand was place over the heat to cook the meat. Liz and I opted for a jaffle with the filling being corned beef and cheese and the jaffle iron was place on the coals and in no time at all it was cooked though we had to wait for it to cool before we could eat it, It was very nice. Place another small chimney log on the fire and it took off warming us though we could feel the cold coming down on our shoulders. Around 7 pm we came inside and stoked up the inside fire and settled in to watch a bit of television before going off to bed.

Monday the 15th
Another cold night though once again the sun was shining brightly and those fly's gave us some respite for a few hours before they mobbed us again. We only had a short walk this morning and then home for breakfast. We will not be doing any driving around today for we have to pack and clean the house we have been staying in for the past three weeks.
The motorhome was loaded once again and the Waeco was placed into the Terios. We had Chris and Bron and John and Jenny come for morning tea so we broke out the Tim Tams and Bron bought over some wagon wheels which was great. Once they had departed drove up to the general store to fill a gas bottle for the fridge for it had run out during the early hours of this morning. Unable to fill straight away so will need to go back later in the day.
Liz was to clean the house which included vacuum cleaning then it was time for lunch. Once lunch was over I noted the motorhome was leaning a little on the drivers side and on checking the outside tyre at the rear appeared to be deflated.
I went and borrowed a battery operated air pump from Mauri and then he came along and the tyre was pumped up, we will see in the morning how it is. Chris has offered to check the tyre in the morning and if it is deflated to see where the leak is. He has also offered to take the wheel to Quilpie to have it checked at the tyre service. The rest of the day was spent packing and then it was time to light the fire for our happy hour and what a log we had selected for our fire tonight. Being hollow the fire burns from the inside out and really throws a lot of heat in all directions. Once it was fully alight it created a lot of red hot coals and heat for cooking. It finally collapsed and then we pushed it together and then placed the barbecue plate on to cook our meals and then put potatoes, pumpkin etc in the hot coals.
When cooked we came inside to eat and then went outside to sit by the fire for awhile which meant more wood on the fire. The firewood we have to thank Chris, for he has cut the wood and carted for us to use. Tomorrow he will bring his tandem trailer down to our camp in the park for us to use the wood for our cooking and warming fire etc. Then into watch a movie later in the night. I will be glad when we throw off these problems we have been having with tyres on the motorhome.

Tuesday the 16th
A little warmer this morning and we opted not to go for a walk. We had our breakfast and then put the rest of our gear in the motorhome and then cleaned the yard and the house we had been staying in.
Then we placed all the wood in the trailer to be taken down to the free camp area for our use. On checking the truck tyre this morning it had gone down once again so I decided to drive down to our spot on the concrete block and then take the tyre off.
On arrival we first elected to pull the awning out and then set up our chairs and outside cooking gear. Then Chris arrived with his u beaut rattle gun and then out came the jack and the motorhome was jacked up to remove the tyre. Once this was done we had a cuppa of tea and then went up to Chris's place and blew the tyre up and then placed it in the bath full of water and straight away noted the bubbles coming from the valve extension. So this appeared to be the culprit. On taking the extensions off the inner rubber rings were damaged. Then down to Fred's workshop and he had all types of o-rings and luckily Chris found two that may suit. He dropped me off for lunch and the Liz and I walked up to see how the tyre was going. It was all fixed and there were no leaks detected in the water bath so back to the motorhome and fitted the tyre and lowered it off the jack.
Chris and Bron invited us to go for drive and boy do they know this area. We went up to the bluff and then turned down a gravel rocky road that had plenty of washouts. Again the countryside is rugged and devoid of grass of any description just plenty of rocks. It was explained to us that many years ago the area had been sheep country and the sheep destroyed all grass's and vegetation,
We were drove down a track that followed the power lines and then arrived at the old bore that supplied bore water to the troughs for the sheep to drink. The area was divided into four very large paddocks whose boundaries all arrived at the sheep troughs from the one bore. It was amazing to see what once was though now it is just rocks of all descriptions and plenty of mulga and gidgee trees with a sprinkling of gum trees. We then headed back through many wash outs before we arrived back on the road into Yowah. An excellent trip and once again we thank both Chris and Bron for their very informative information on the area around Yowah and the many trips they have taken us around the area.
We arrived back at the motorhome at 4 pm and it was time for happy hour where Mauri and Gwen and John and Jenny plus Chris and Bron gathered around the fire when it was lit while we discussed the day etc. Then we put the barbecues on the fire to cook our evening meal and then cleaned up and sat around the chimney fire enjoying each others company. Around 8.30 pm we called it a day and reluctantly went inside to watch a bit of television before going off to bed. It has been a wonderful day fixing motorhome tyres and being amongst friends and the wonderful trip in to the outback country.

Wednesday the 17th
Another sunny day as we went on our walk this morning and as yet the fly's have not made their appearance, though that would change later in the day. We tidied up around the camp and settled down to read our books. Liz and the other girls went off to bingo and this is the first time that Liz did not win any chocolates today. It was now lunch time and even though the fly's were bad we still stayed outside and had our lunch. Then set the fire wood for tonight and rolled out another chimney log which we have plenty of thanks to Chris.
Before we knew it the time had come to go up to the hall for our game of indoor bowls. There were around 20 players on two carpet courts and it is great and a means of meeting new people even though most were like us and were visiting the area. The games went until 5pm and Liz and I won one game each and then we walked home to get the fire going.
Of course we had a late happy hour and then we cooked our meal on the hotplate with steamed veggies. We then sat out until late enjoying the heat of the fire and watching the full moon rise. Later we were to see the lights of the space station pass over and the stars were very bright in the clear sky's.
The log was to last for a long time and then when I pulled the tripod our it was glowing red hot. Pushed the fire up and then we went off to bed. another restful day.

Thursday the 18th
Another glorious morning before the fly's arrived to torment us. We went for our walk down towards the opposite end of Yowah and there were plenty of stalls near the road selling Yowah Nuts, of course it is touch and go as to you getting any Opal.
Back in camp and I stirred the fire up from last night and it did not take much to ignite, the trouble is that you can be fooled by the white ash which is still very very hot. We then had our breakfast in the morning sun for the sky's were blue and there was no wind and as yet no fly's.
After breakfast we decided it was time for a good clean of the Terios inside and out, so I washed the outside and Liz followed behind wiping the paintwork. We need to do this for bore water leaves traces of calcium on the paint work. Then it was time to start on the motorhome which is a bigger project though when completed it was time for lunch.
As the fly's had arrived we opted for eating inside and read our books for awhile and then we went up to visit Chris and Bron and chewed the fat and picked up more tim tams. We checked the air pressures on the Terios tyres and found them down a bit so Chris started his big compressor and in no time the tyres all received air.
Back in camp and we placed a chimney log on the fire for we are going up to the caravan park for the usual Thursday night two course meal. We went along with Mauri and Gwen and John and Jenny and shared the same table and had a few refreshments before our meal for it is a byo.
Then the famous RFDS Duck race was conducted and away they went down the bore drain to the finish line, people were lining both sides of the drain watching and cheering on their plastic duck. We then had our main course which was either chicken or beef. Liz and I opted for the chicken and baked veggies and given there were 100 people there we were served quickly and the food was nice and hot. That was very nice especially the gravy.
Then the winners were declared for the duck race and we had no winners on our table. Then the owners dog picks out ducks and those numbers are announced and we again were not in the winners circle.
We all opted for the apple crumble with lashing of cream which was great and then I was given another desert which I gave to Liz to eat tomorrow. Well all good things come to and end and then we went back to camp and stoked the fire up and sat there enjoying the heat of the fire and each others company plus a few frothy's and wine of course until we retired to bed around 10pm.

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Friday the 19th
The early mornings are getting warmer it was around 10 degrees when we arose this morning. First we went on our normal daily walk and noted the caravan park and where we are camped are nearly full in anticipation of the Opal Festival that begins tonight. Back in camp and we placed more wood on the fire which looked as it was out and it came to life on the hot coals. We had our breakfast and decided that other doing our normal chores it would be a day of rest.
And that is what we did absolutely nothing other than read our books and get the chimney fire ready for tonight. It started off with another small chimney on top and then grew to two.
We had our happy hour with Mauri and Gwen and John and Jenny and then it was time to put our potatoes and sweet potatoes plus pumpkin all wrapped in alfoil and then onto the hot coals. Out with the barbecue plate and then we cooked lamb chops, steak, sausages and deer steaks. Chris and Bron plus their son Peter joined us for the evening meal also.
After we completed our meal which was great we had a few more refreshments and then sat around enjoying the fire and talking about the festival which we will go to tomorrow night. As it was we could hear the music from our camp and no doubt it would have been heard over all of Yowah. The fire was going down so we all went off to bed and we caught the last quarter of the Adelaide V Essendon game which Essendon won by 21 points. We are wondering where the day went given we just relaxed and enjoyed the company of those around us.

Friday the 20th
A beautiful morning with a cool breeze and this morning we opted not to walk for we will do enough up to and around the festival today. We had our usual Saturday morning breakfast of McChallis egg, bacon and cheese muffin washed down with a nice cup of tea. All very good indeed we then tidied up after our happy hour last night and then as the bar had bent on our tri pod I attempted to straighten it by hitting it on the bend with the blockbuster. The trouble was it flew back into my shins and it was excruciating pain and loss of skin. So after calming down placed the bar in the red coals remaining from our fire last night and then John bought over his small mall hammer and it straitened no problem at all once hot and then annealed it under water.
At 10 am we all walked up to the stalls that are part of the festival. There was a big crowd looking at the various stalls that contained different types of Opal, from in the rough or that had been polished and being a sunny day they really glistened in the bright sunshine. There were other stalls with other goods and at the Queensland Government stall I was to receive a small jute bag and they placed several items in it such as cap light, pens and key rings and paperwork on how to keep the environment clean. Of course Liz went over to the SES and Fire Marquee and for two dollars won a nice opal pendant on their paddle board and came away with other material also. It took us around two hours to look at everything and frankly speaking there was Opal there that was out our reach money wise. I spotted off an overseas buyer who was having his private viewing of Opals that were not on display so we could only imagine what the prices of these pieces were. We came across the Firey Platypus and the Yowah Fire Chief that were handing out show bags to the children they came across. They do this every year and it is great to see this happen.
We were starting to tire in the hot sun, not to mention the amount of fly's about, so we retired to the bar and had a couple of frothy's and tucked into half a dozen donuts and just relaxed. Liz and Gwen were to buy tickets in the chocolate wheel though neither won any prizes. We came home around 2pm and due to the fly's went inside the motorhome for some respite and have a cappuccino. Tonight we will go up to the entertainment night at the festival and have a two course meal while listening to the music etc. Then home to have a few more refreshments by the fire before going in to watch football and then off to bed.

Sunday the 21st
Last night we went up to the Yowah Festival night and it was nice and warm. The fire with all the big logs was blazing away and the crowd was starting to gather. We were somewhat surprised that the crowd was so low given previous years. We were to have a two course meal for $25. We both had roast pork with baked and steamed veggies and for dessert it was a scoop of ice cream smothered in custard with little fruit pieces, most unusual though very tasty. Mauri and Gwen joined us and the girls bought a bottle of wine each of which they took half a bottle home. Mauri and I had cans of beer and Mauri also had a can of Jim Beam. Then the bush poet entertained us for around an hour and the five piece band took over and we could still hear them later in the night banging out their music when we came home.
This morning was warm again with fly's of course as went on our morning walk. We dropped into Chris and Bron's place and had a chin wag and whilst there they invited us to go to there place for an evening meal later which we accepted.
Back home and we cooked our breakfast and the fly's were so bad we went inside the motorhome to eat. We read our books for awhile cleaned up and outside to get the chimney fire ready for tonight. Then we drove up to catch the last of the markets. There were a lot of stalls already dismantled and others were in the throws of closing. After checking out the stalls for Opal we then went into the bar area and bought to containers of chips and a spring roll for our lunch, we had a talk with a few of the local people we know from previous years and then went up to the cafe for a cappuccino and bought a couple of beer stubby holders with Yowah humour on them.
Whilst there we had a talk with Brian about their intentions and informed him that christmas in July may be later this year due to the time required to clean up after the festival. We then went for a drive around the town and noticed their were a lot of happy campers leaving already and there will be more leaving tomorrow. We do not intend to leave until Wednesday bound for Toompine and then Quilpie. John and Jenny are leaving tomorrow bound for Cunnamulla. After returning from our evening meal we will stoke up the fire and sit outside for awhile for the fly's disappear on dusk. The temperature at 3 pm is 25degrees.

Monday the 22nd
We really enjoyed our meal of roast venison and chicken with plenty of veggies roasted and steamed, very nice indeed especially the gravy which complimented the meal well. Then it was time for the Lemon Meringue Pie and boy that was absolutely gorgeous. Washed down with a cup of tea. We have to say that the hospitality that both Chris and Bron have shown us over the weeks we have been here has been absolutely tremendous, we really do not know how to thank them. We left their house around 8.30pm and wandered down to our camp and the fire was still burning brightly so we sat outside until nearly 10 pm admiring the stars then inside to go to bed.
This morning was really warm and there were plenty of fly's so early. Out of bed at 7am and did not go for a walk for there is so much to do. First up went the clothes line stretched between the power pole and the nearby tree.
Out with the washing machine and placed it on the stand then out came all the power cords and they were fitted to the motorhome and the waeco and the generator of course. Even with the fly's about we opted to cook and eat our breakfast outside, this morning we only had toast and honey, that is Eulo Honey of course, all washed down with a cup of tea. After cleaning up and having our pills, filled the washing machine with water and then it was all go.
I chromed the back wheel on the motorhome that looked rather daggy and as yet the tyre is still inflated. Whilst Liz was hanging out the clothes I set up our fire for tonight and then cleaned out the trailer of wood which will be enough for our fire tomorrow night.
Then cleaned up the trailer of rubbish and prepared it for Chris when he comes down to pick it up. Just another thing that Chris has done for us that is cutting wood both for the house and finally for our camp. Lunch time arrived and we seemed to be busy doing nothing. We opted for cheese and biscuits for lunch with a cup of tea.
I then went out with Mauri to cut wood for his fire in the future and wouldnt you know it the chainsaw would not start then back to camp for we discovered that there was no fuel in the tank. Oh well some mothers do have em.
We had a discussion with a bloke that dropped in who invited us down to his house for afternoon tea. Washing completed and the line is full then away with the power cords and generator and all other bits and pieces that was required. At 2pm the temperature is 25 degrees and we expect it to get warmer later in the day.
The rest of the afternoon we sat inside in the cool motorhome and read our books until happy hour with Mauri and Gwen for John and Jenny left for Cunnamulla early this morning, they intend to travel further north.
Tonight we will watch Talking Footy for Collingwood lost and after the coach of St Kilda resigning they had a convincing win over the bulldogs. We then will hop into bed after a warm and breezy day.

Tuesday the 23rd
Another warm night and this morning when we hopped out of bed it was 14 degrees and would rise to 25 degrees later in the day. We went for our morning walk and were straight away inundated with those pesky bush fly's. We noted that people were not sitting outside on their verandahs this morning we suppose due to the fly's. The locals all say that this is the worst year for fly's that they can remember.
Back in camp we actually cooked our toast and boiled our kettle outside and had our breakfast in the nice warm sun plus fly's. We eventually went inside to finish off our cup of tea. We did a bit of a clean up and then decided as it is our last day in Yowah we would start to pack our gear away.
We were to put our fly nets on to keep them out of our face as we went about pulling in the awning and then the tables and gas appliance and put them away in the respective spots for tonight we will cook inside and probably eat outside by the fire after happy hour.
We then loaded the chimney logs that we cut last week and placed them up on the roof rack of the Terios and strapped them down for the trip ahead to Quilpie, our next camp site. Then we had a visit from Chris so we had a cuppa and then chewed the fat for a couple of hours inside of course.
We then took the Terios for a drive to blow the bark off the roof and then over a few bumps to settle the logs in and when we came home there was only one strap that needed tightening and the bark had been blown off the roof. We then helped Mauri to load his wood on the top of his roof rack and then we put the A- Frame on the Terios and hooked up to the motorhome for our journey tomorrow.
We have been invited to Chris and Bron's place for afternoon tea and there we will thank them for the hospitality once again over the period we have been here. We would never have seen the beauty of the desolate countryside without their assistance. Then we will return and light the fire to burn the last of our Chimney Logs whilst we have our happy hour and then even though the evening meal will cooked inside we will eat out subject to fly's. Then we will enjoy the last fire for Yowah before we go off to bed to read our books for awhile

Wednesday the 24th
We hopped out of bed at 7am this morning and I went for a shower and then we both walked around to the shop for we thought the cake stand would be in operation again after the festival. This was not to be so back to the motorhome for breakfast where we cooked the toast and boiled the kettle inside for all outside cooking gear has been put away. After breakfast Liz was to go for her shower and then I read my book for awhile and the fly's once again were bad.
We did our final packing securing all the camping gear and then checked the brake light and turning lights on the Terios and then sat down for awhile. Chris and Bron were to come down to farewell us and we thanked them again for their hospitality. Bron was to crochet a small blanket for our yet unborn great grand child which was up to her excellent standard. We had another local come and bid us farewell and then we first went around to the dump point and we were then bound for our next destination at Toompine.
We passed the farewell sign that thanked us for visiting Yowah and we were on the single bitumen bound for Toompine. We were to across a couple of caravans on the way out to the turn off and we yielded the right of way on the bitumen. This way we avoided the dust and possible rocks thrown up by their tyres etc. The countryside was as desolate and dry as could be and there were was no road kill on the way or nor did we see any wildlife etc on the way.
We finally reached the turnoff to the Thargomindah highway and again we had 57 kilometres to travel on single bitumen though we were to strike a lot more traffic coming towards us some giving us right of way on the bitumen and others spraying us with dust and rocks even though we gave them the full bitumen road.
Even though the countryside was dry we did not come across cattle or kangaroo's and Emu's along the way. At 10am the temperature was 18 degrees and a perfectly clear blue sky ahead of us. We came to the jump ups or mesa's as they are called and then we were climbing onto a plateau and he scenery in the distance was magic. We were to see small flowers along the way by the bitumen road with some stretching into the bush land.
Once were on the Quilpie road it widened most of the way and passing caravans etc was not a problem. We were to drive alongside for many kilometres alongside wide open plains with nothing at all growing other than mulga and gidgee wood trees. Nearing Toompine we were to see a bit of road kill which the hawks were cleaning up.
When we arrived at Toompine we parked along the fence and then Mauri and I wandered over to the hotel to check out the temperament of the owner which we had been hearing mixed reports about. We found him ok so we had four beers each and the girls joined us for a wine.
They then went home to prepare a late lunch and we have decided to go back to the pub for a few refreshments and meal later in the afternoon. There is a wattle tree outside the motorhome that is in flower the camera really did not capture the beauty of it. The rest of the afternoon was spent having a snooze and/or reading our books and as there is no television here I will not bother in setting up the satellite dish as I have in previous years. We may watch a movie later in the night.
Kilometres travelled 117

Thursday the 25th
We had an excellent meal in the Toompine Hotel last night. The proprietor is a bit of a character and had us laughing while our meal was being cooked, we both elected for a fisherman's basket with salad that was really tasty and for the price plenty of food. Of course we had plenty of wine and frothy's before gong back to the motorhome around 10pm.
This morning we were out of bed at 7.30am and went for our walk along the road where were to see plenty of signs of drought with the creaks all dry and by the look of them they had been for some time. Back and had our breakfast and then packed up and we were on the road to Quilpie at 9.30am.
The early part of the road was double bitumen and the going was easy and luckily we passed three trucks going in the opposite direction and we did not have to go off onto the gravel where the verges of the road were quite rugged, which no doubt would cause problems with the walls of tyres.
Along the way we were to come across many cattle who were grazing on the mulga bush near the road obviously they are used to the travel of vehicles. Then onto the dreaded single lane bitumen and a couple of times we pulled off the road to allow others to use the bitumen thus no stones or dust. We were somewhat amazed by the bands of greenery along the way. We finally arrived at Quilpie and and showed Mauri and Gwen a couple of the conveniences in the town before going down to park up for a few days.
Where we would normally camp was now overgrown with weed and this would be due the downpour of rain they had about two months ago.
We unhooked the car and went and looked for another spot to camp. We came across an area where there were caravans parked close together like a caravan park we elected to go onto river stone near the dry river bed even though in patches there was water.
We set up and out with the awning and then selected a spot for our fire and then unloaded the chimney logs for our fires. We then decided to go back into the town and first we went to the bakery where we had a pie and cappuccino for lunch, both very nice. Then into the post office for money and onto the chemist for scripts. We drove then to the butchery and purchased meat to top up our supply's. Then checked out the catholic church and their Opal studded lectern and Alter. We were to buy groceries from the two grocery stores in the town.
By now it was late in the afternoon so we stopped at the Bowls Club and purchased a carton of wine for Liz and whilst there had a schooner of beer before heading back to camp.
It was now happy hour and we light the fire and placed a chimney on the tripod and relaxed for the rest of the day and as it does not get dark until around 6.30pm. We then cooked our meal for the night and sat out by the fire for awhile before going inside to watch a movie and then into bed. It has been another good day with plenty of sun and warmth.
Kilometres travelled 81

Friday the 26th
We arose at 8am and then went for our morning walk out to the highway and back through the old camping area. On the way we were to see lots of bird life especially small parrots that were quick in moving from tree to tree, it was impossible to take a photo. Just lined up the camera and they were gone again though there is plenty of bird sounds. Back in camp we noted a mud nest close to our camp area though we could not identify the birds that were using the nest.
We cooked our toast and boiled the billy outside for it was a warm 17 degrees though it would only rise to 22 degrees in the late afternoon. After breakfast we cleaned up and then packed our shower gear and we went off to to the park where the beautiful showers were for use of the travelling public. Once again the water was hot and I for one stood under the shower for awhile and then when finished cleaned the area that we had used for the next people and then back into the car and down to the Information Centre.
The girls were very helpful and gave us all the information we needed for out next journey on Monday.
Whilst there we went into the Train museum and looked at the old photos and memorabilia on display. It was obvious that in the early years of last century the railway superseded the old Cobb and Co freight and passenger business. Today neither exist though the government is renewing the railway system so as cattle trains can run three times a year to pick up cattle. We were to see 4 road trains of cattle go by a little later.
I took the opportunity to poke my head through the Emu and Liz was to take a photo. We then moved onto the early years of Quilpie which was a real bustling centre for farming, Opal and general business. There is only one hotel and a bowls club left in the town though Quilpie has a huge amount of tourists who drive through the town centre. With many going to the bakery and other businesses on the way through. Once we had finished with the museums we then went to the bakery where I had a drovers pie and liz had a sausage roll washed down with a cappuccino for our lunch today.
We then went to both supermarkets and bought a few more goods that we will need in the coming weeks in the outback and then to the butchers for a couple of beef sznitzel for our meal tonight. As it is our normal easy night we will have them between bread washed down with wine and a few frothy's by the fire before coming inside to watch the football. Of course we will have our chimney fire again. A few clouds around though it is 22 degrees.

Saturday the 27th
The sky was free of clouds when we went for our walk this morning and again we were to see plenty of green small parrots though they never sat still long enough in the trees for me to take a photo. We just had be content with the sounds they made, up higher on the thermals the whistling kites were just floating around looking for their meal for the day.
Back in camp and it was time to boil the kettle and then cook our McChallis egg,bacon and cheese muffin for breakfast. Once again washed down with a cup of tea and it all tasted very nice and now we are looking forward to next Saturday for our next.
Liz was to do a bit of hand washing and it should not take long to dry given the warm morning and slight cooling breeze. We finished our cleaning and then we drove into the Mitre 11 and found a few useful items and a frame that I can get a few bolts and nuts from before returning it to the tip.
We then decided to take a trip out to the Baldy Top Hill for a look see. There were a few people there and one person you could see on the top who obviously walked up the side of the hill by the walking track. We did not bother though we have to say once again the scenery is excellent, especially with the backdrop of the blue sky.
We then drove into the airport where the Rex intrastate plane lands along with many small aircraft that drop in. While we were there we had a look at the memorial to Amy Johnson the first woman to fly non stop from England to Australia. There is information on all sides of a shed which shows the route that she flew, even landing in Quilpie on her way to Brisbane. All very interesting and we should have also taken the time to look at the information of the wool scour which the airport now sits on.

We then drove down to the Bakery which was just closing, however Kathy was willing to serve us a pie and chips and of course washed down with a cappuccino. We have come to know Kathy over the years and she is a real character always with a smile and a laugh while she is serving you. Up on the wall is a frame containing many photos of when she was a shearer and the many prizes she has won in shearing competitions in the past. She owns the bakery and bakes all the bread and cakes etc. She sat and had a talk with us for quite awhile and then we departed indicating that we would come and see her before we left Quilpie in a few days.
Back in camp and first drove around all the camp spots and it is sad to see the better sites are overgrown with weed and other plant life, though the upside is that the birds are feeding on all.
The rest of the afternoon we will read our books until happy hour and of course we will light another chimney log and sit out until the football commences later in the night. A nice warm day with the temperature peaking at 24 degrees and clear blue sky's.

Sunday the 27th
Last night we sat out by the fire and Gwen and Liz were to give a toast to the chimney fire god for the nice night and warm fire. Another warm morning when we hopped out of bed at 8am with the temperature at 13 degrees rising to a pleasant 26degrees later in the day. We went for our walk and the day was great with just the slightest breeze which at the moment appears to be keeping the fly's away. Again we were looking for wildlife such as kangaroos and Brolga to no avail though the many birds in their many differing colours once again were to skittish to take a photo of. Back in camp and we used the outside gas stove to cook our toast and boil our kettle, already there were a few happy campers leaving the area bound for who knows where. While we were enjoying our breakfast we were to hear the siren of a train and along it came towing many carriages with what looked like railway sleepers. Liz was to hear it yesterday so it must be dumping off sleepers for the rail restoration out to Windorah. This morning it was heading back towards Charleville.
Before we finished breakfast we looked up and there were three kangaroos eating grass. After breakfast checked oil on the Terios and removed screws from items from Mitre 11 and then out with the shower gear and off to town for our showers.
The town had a few happy campers arriving and they were in the information centre and a few in the Bakery which was opened until midday today. We then decided to drive out to Lake Houdraman and have a look see. There were no campers there at all which says a lot for the charges the farmer has attempted to implement and the non welcoming signs on the way in. We went to the area we used to camp when in this area and noted the ducks and egrets on the lake. It is still a pleasant place to visit and relax though the shortage of pelicans etc is noticeable especially with the Lake so full.
We were to see an old bull seeking shade under one of the trees and then we went back to camp and after lunch we decided to read our books and just relax until happy hour and then another chimney fire for the night. Wood seems to be short so tomorrow we will need to search for some our for our camp and to take away with us when we leave.

Monday the 29th
The the nights are getting warmer for we had to shed a blanket last night and this morning the temperature was a warm 14 degrees rising later in the day to a warm 26 degrees. We hopped out of bed a little later this morning at 8.30am. Off for our walk and once again those small birds were flittering from tree to tree and I think I captured a few on one tree with the camera. We shortened the walk this morning due to the warmth of the morning and when back in camp we had our breakfast and cleaned away. All the happy campers on the hill left this morning with the exception of one. We were to read for awhile and then decided to go and cut wood for our firepot for later in the trip. We only have one chimney log left and that will be burnt tonight. Strapped the wood down and then it was time for lunch, it is so relaxing here that time seems to fly. After lunch and we drove up to the butchers and bought more crumbed steak and three of those we had cryovaced for later in the trip. We said our farewells to the butcher and indicated we may see them again next year who knows. Then into the Library which was unfortunately closed so we will go there in the morning. We then went to the Quilpie War Memorial Building which had excellent displays of items from all the world wars and it included also the Iraqi war where one of the townsfolk was killed whilst serving in the Army. On the way back to camp we decided to look at the Balloo River and the River walk. We walked most of the tracks and looked at the information boards along the way with some showing what type of berries and pods that the aborigine tribes ate along the way as well as kangaroo etc. When taking a photo of the river it was noted the gum tree hanging on for dear life with most of it roots exposed due to washout in flood time. Back in camp and we relaxed in the sunshine and read our books again and then had a cappuccino before we went off to light the fire and have our daily happy hour. Last night the mosquito's drove us inside around 7.30 though not many we do not want to contract any likely diseases. The fire appears to burn better after we go inside and our steel pole is sure bent with the heat of the fire. We will watch the Talking Football show tonight before going off to bed around 9pm.

Tuesday the 30th
Yet another fine morning though there was a little more traffic when we walked this morning. There was a bit of cloud cover early though this dissipated later in the day. We had our breakfast outside for the dreaded fly's have yet to arrive. After breakfast the usual cleanup and then we read our books for awhile then before we knew it lunch time had arrived. We were to go to the Bakery where we had a sausage roll for Liz and a mushy green pea pie for me, of course washed down with a cappuccino each. We were to say our farewells to the bakery owners for we are moving on in the morning. Mauri and Gwen are going east to Charleville and we are heading west. We will get a fresh loaf of bread in the morning before going to refuel with diesel. This will be dearest diesel we will have paid for since leaving home.
After lunch we went up the Bowls club for a few schooners and wine unfortunately they do not open on Monday or Tuesday. We then went into the Library and at the entrance we noted the large boulder Opal though it appeared to be a lot of Opal potch as well. We looked through the books for sale and nothing appealed to us and Liz was to buy a couple of music CD's. I spent a hour on the computers looking at a few web sites including our own. They have a large children's area with books and other entertaining material. We were to look at some of the displays that were really nice.
Then onto the newsagency to buy today's paper, the last for awhile, and then we were to dump the rubbish off and headed for home. Around 3pm we started to dismantle our camp and in came the awning and the other gas items etc were packed away. This will be our last happy hour with Mauri and Gwen and we are not sure whether we will meet up with them again on this trip. There are no chimney logs left so tonight it will be only a normal fire before we come in later for our evening meal which will be a light one. Another good day though a certain sadness as we move on again for other areas before we start heading for the coast.

Wednesday the 31st
We did not go for a walk this morning we decided to hop into the Terios and go and have a shower. After that we dropped into the Bakery and bought bread and rolls then a drovers pie and two vanilla slices for our lunch further down the road heading west,
Back in camp and we did our final packing and then said farewell to Mauri and Gwen who are heading to Charleville. We headed off to re-fuel at $1.59.9 per litre and we were on our way west to Yaraka for a few days.
The road was full bitumen for quite awhile and then onto single bitumen, We passed a turn off to many stations and then we saw small mobs of sheep with lambs and then two Brolga's by the side of the road.
We came across road works where they were grading the verges of the single bitumen and it left many small stones on the road. I said to Liz those stones look sharp and there is no way to avoid them. After we cleared that we saw in the distance a four wheel drive towing a campervan who headed into the stones on the side of the road and then we heard a crash of rocks on the windowscreen of the motorhome and then noticed a very big 25 mill star. Hopped on the UHF and thanked him for our windowscreen damage, there was no response.
Liz put on a CD and we were listening to the music and I said to Liz that is a strange sound they are using and after awhile I asked for the music to be turned off and lo and behold I recognised that sound so we pulled up. The front wheel on the Terios had a shredded tyre and the rim was worn down which made it unusable again. A happy camper pulled up and asked if we needed any help and and I replied we are ok. He stopped anyway and when I put the spare tyre on it only had 15 pound pressure so he lent us his compressor and all was well.
We decided that it was no good going on without a spare for we had gravel roads to travel on to get to Yaraka. So we turned around and drove back a 100 kilometres to Quilpie. Went to the tyre service and they had no rim or tyres to fit. So we stopped and had lunch and then we headed off into Charleville. We were using a lot of fuel for getting nowhere and we arrived in Charleville at around 4pm. We decided to go to the rest area on the way to Mitchell on the Warrego Highway.
We spotted a tyre service and dropped in and they had a 6 inch alloy rim that fitted though the Terios only has 5.5 inch rims. That solved one problem the other was that they had no tyres in stock to fit the car. We have to go back in the morning and order and the tyres will arrive on Friday morning hopefully. We drove out to Rock Pool rest area and there was Mauri and Gwen who we did not expect to see. Set up camp and then sat by the fire talking of our terrible day and then had a few frothy's and wine and then came inside a little despondent. However tomorrow is another day so we will see what happens.
Kilometres travelled 435

August