Saturday the 1st
We strolled over to the Mayfield Hotel last night and had a few frothy's and wine. Friday is a big night and plenty of people, mostly farm hands, and you could hear them comparing their work days. It would appear that they are full on sowing seed for both wheat and barley at the moment and some are fencing the properties. They have about five different beers on tap and the tap stand is completely frozen which augers for a nice cold beer. At 7 pm we went into the dining room and Liz ordered sausages and chips and salad and I ordered a fisherman's basket with salad. My fisherman's basket was actually on a plate. When the food arrived it was good wholesome country cooking and we both enjoyed our meal. We bought $10 worth of tickets in the meat raffle to no avail. We then went home a bit tipsy and watched the remainder of AFL football before retiring.
When we hopped out of bed at 7.30am we were surprised to note there was not a cloud in the sky and the sun was shining brightly. The temperature was 12 degrees and would rise to 19 degrees late in the afternoon. Off for our walk again and we were to walk past the Tullibegeal War Memorial which is very well maintained. There is not much action in the town this morning and even the Co-Op does not open on a Saturday only the cafe.
We walked past the many acres of ground that has been sown to both wheat and barley which means they must get a fair bit of rain for the crop to be so big and green. On one farm you could see plenty of silo's where they store there own grains until such times as the market is at a high price per bushel. If they sell into the market silo's they only get the price at the time which could be a lot less. We were to come across a very big tractor that had duel wheels front and back, it looked mean and to drive those wheels it must have plenty of horsepower. We could imagine the size of the plough disc's etc that it must pull.
Back and it was time for breakfast and it was time to have our Saturday morning special toasted McChallis egg, bacon and cheese muffins washed down with a large cup of tea. All very nice indeed.
As it was so sunny we sat outside and read our books and later in the morning we had a cappuccino. Liz had noticed that an earlier repair to the diesel drum holder had broken. So we drove up to the Mitre 11 to get some material for the repair. Of course we were to come across other items and sometimes we wonder why people throw away such good items. I took the battery operated grinder with us and was able to cut a suitable piece of steel plate instead of the aluminium that I had previously used.
Back to camp and I no sooner started the repair than a happy camper came over offering all sorts of advice on what to do. Needless to say I ignored him and it didn't take long for the repair to be made and the diesel drum placed back in the holder.
It was nearly 1.30 pm before we had our lunch and decided we would stay in camp today and soak up the warm weather and listen to the football on the radio even though it was on the television as well.
Tonight we will go inside and cook our meal for we have not bothered lighting the firepot even though we have plenty of wood and then will watch the AFL football before retiring. I have to look for another book for I have finished three so far on this journey.

Sunday the 2nd
We were late out of bed this morning it was 8.20 am before we hopped out. The temperature was a cool 8 degrees and warm up to 19 degrees later in the afternoon. It was a great morning with sunshine and no wind or clouds and we really enjoyed our walk this morning.
On the way back we took a photo of the Tullibegeal Co-Op and looked across the road at Pioneer Park at the information on its formation. Breakfast was late and then we sat outside in the sun reading our books. We then went across the road to the old Community Centre, which used to be the RSL before the numbers reduced and it was handed over to the community. They have a exchange book cupboard outside where we spent time exchanging books for later use.
It was lunch time before we knew it and then we decided to drive around the district for awhile this afternoon. I noted the solar power for the waeco fridge was not working so I checked all connections and they were ok so I would have a look again when we returned.
Well we drove up one road and for as far as you could see was farmland and crops. Now drove along that road for 17 kilometres before we made a turn where came across a lot of sheep in the paddocks and cattle as well. We noted the lack of wildlife both in birds and kangaroos etc. One side of the road had red dirt soil and the black soil. So we drove along that road for 9 kilometres and it was still cropping country one thing we did notice is that there is no irrigation in the paddocks so they must rely on rain to water their land and crops. We then drove 17 kilometres on the bitumen road to Lake Cargelligo and the took the turn into Tullibegeal which was another 13 kilometres to our camp. Again all the way was just crops of wheat and barley when we arrived back at camp I looked at the solar panel. I used my multi meter and that did not show any power at all at the solar panel though the battery registered power. I either have a bad regulator or the solar panels have had it. That should not be the case for they are only two year old. I will have to pull them off when we get to Condobolin tomorrow and see what I can do for you can guarantee there will not be a store that stocks what we require which is going to leave us in a quandary. We then had our showers and relaxed as much as we could. We will have our meal and then watch television for awhile tonight and move on tomorrow.

Monday the 3rd
Last night went went over to the hotel with our next door neighbour who had indicated that there would be a fellow there who could help us with our solar panel problem. We were to meet quite a few people who all wanted to know from whence we came and where we were going. We were to watch St Kilda get a thumping by Port Adelaide and we were enjoying the frothy's and wine before the fellow we were looking for came into the bar. When he did so it turned out that he was not able to help us. I had a few more frothy's while Liz walked back to the motorhome to prepare our evening meal. The girl behind the bar indicated that she and her husband run a business at Lake Cargelligo and they may be able to help. After our meal we were to watch the late movie before going off to bed. After the movie I decided to bring all the satellite gear in and pack it away given it was one chore that would not have to be carried in the morning.
We were awakened at 4.30 am by heavy rain on the roof of the motorhome soon after we dropped off to sleep and did not get out of bed until 8am. I had been thinking about what Liz had said to me the previous evening about the solar panel having a fuse and I had stated that no it did not. Then I remembered that I had put a fuse in line near the battery itself.
I waited to a break in the weather this morning for the now the rain was sleet driven by heavy wind and then went to check the fuse near the battery and lo and behold it was blown. Replaced it and all came on line thankfully for now we do not have to travel into Lake Cargelligo. We decided prior to breakfast not to go for a morning walk or move on this morning to Condobolin due to the weather and expected thunder storm.
Our neighbour next door is a fencing contractor and he decided against going to work this morning so we had a bit of a chat about this and that and he was happy to know that we had solved our solar panel problem.
We had our breakfast and cleaned up inside and then settled down to read our books, I thought that I may have put our satellite dish away a little earlier than I should for I did not feel like getting wet putting it back up. We decided if need be we will watch one the movies that we have on disc tonight to keep us occupied.
We went over to the Co-Op and bought a pizza for tonight and some dim sims to steam for lunch.
After lunch we were to read our books and listen to the rain for at 3pm the stated thunderstorms have not yet occurred. We are sure the farmers would be liking the rain on their crops today. All in all we did not do much and we did not go for a drive for it would have been wet and foggy in places. We will see what tomorrow brings before we come off power and move onto Condobolin.

Tuesday the 4th
The wind was really blowing when we hopped out of bed at 7.30 am and on going outside there was not a cloud in the sky though there was very cold south/south westerly wind blowing when we went for our walk this morning.
When we arrived back the happy camper next door that arrived last night indicated they were on their way to Cunnamulla today. I was somewhat taken back for he is travelling the same way we are going and I indicated that it would take us three weeks to reach Cunnamulla. Then our other neighbour that is the fencing contractor indicated that he went out to the job at 6am and it was so cold he came back to camp and decided to head home to Wylong for the day. He stated that he was wearing 2 singlet's 2 shirts 2 jumpers and a heavy coat and he stated the cold wind was cutting through the clothing. We bid him farewell and we will meet again on our way home in September. We had our breakfast and packed up and then hooked the Terios up behind the motorhome and drove over to the weighbridge to be weighed. The weighbridge attendant was on duty due the wheat trucks arriving and he stated all up we weighed in at 6.55 tonnes. Which is still within the GVM indicated on the plates.
We then headed out the road to Condobolin our next stop. All along the way we were to see grain crops growing some that had failed due to lack of rain and then we came into wooded areas and noted plenty of sheep in the paddocks.

We had three wheat trucks pass on the narrow road and due to the dangerous condition of the edges, which were bad, we would not go off the bitumen for fear of ripping the side walls out of tyres. The wind had been assisting us by blowing on our rear all the way which is good for a change. On the outskirts of Condobolin we were to see the display of artistic utes that once were in the paddock some 18 kilometres way, on the way to Forbes. Then we arrived at the round a bout and turned left to go to Gum Bend Lake. When we arrived we were surprised that there were only 8 happy campers set up.
We were able to get a spot by the fence which gives us good solar panel power for the bulk of the day. Two happy campers came over to talk to us even before we had a chance to set up. We spoke of the weather and they stated they had lots of rain yesterday and we were surprised how quickly the ground had dried. I started throwing the wood off the Terios and indicated we would see them at happy hour.
We then drove up into town and went first to the bakery where had our lunch. Liz had salad sandwich's and I opted for a pepper pie with huge chunks of beef then of course the mandatory cappuccino.
Went to the newsagents for the paper and then into the IGA for a few items for tonight plus savaloys for lunches. We went out to the fuel depot and Neville knew me from previous years and stated do not buy my fuel before Monday the price is dropping then by 5 cents a litre.
Then back to camp and we finished setting up and then sat out in the sun on the non windy side of the motorhome and read the newspaper and our books as yet we have not pulled the awning out even though we have set up the firepot and the table etc to cook our meal tonight and during the rest of our stay.
We had the caretaker come visit us and we had a good talk and found out the caravan in front of us the owner is currently in jail. We are getting television so we will not be setting up the satellite dish.

Wednesday the 5th
We awoke to a wonderful sunny morning with just a hint of frost in the shaded areas around the lake. Before we went for a walk we strolled up onto the bank of the lake and were blown away with the amount of bird life swimming around.
There were over a hundred Pelicans swimming about and they were swallowing down small fish. The caretaker informed us that if the Pelicans don't get them they will die for the lake is currently down 2 metres and dropping. Apparently their water allocation out of the Lachlan River has been used. The lake is man made and requires water from the river to keep it full. The Black Swans were not plentiful though they appeared to be feed off the weedy areas. It was strange to see no cormorants in the lake though the amount of water hens made up for them. It was a beautiful scene one that the camera can not catch as a whole picture.
When back in camp the firepot was lit and thee toast and kettle boiled for our breakfast. The sun was beaming down from cloudless sky and we were enjoying the surroundings for there was no wind, to speak of.
We read our books for awhile and then I had to do some small repair jobs. The negative terminal was a sloppy fit so had to take off three earth wires and then out came the battery operated grinder and widened the gap to get a better grip on the battery terminal. Of course this period of time meant that the computer had lost the correct time and date, so that was all reset and now things are normal. Liz was to remind of a few other small things that I had neglected so they were completed and then our happy campers neighbours came over and we had a chat for they have decided to stay a few more days while we are here. We seemed to have clicked with them for they are a nice couple.
They asked us to watch their camp whilst they went up into Condo and that wasn't a problem then we our lunch inside for the soap from our showers appeared to attract a few fly's.
On their return they gave us an IGA catalogue and we cast our eye over the specials. Then we drove to the dump point and then to the Post Office and then headed for home. On the way we drove off the road and found heaps of dry wood which we will cut later in the week. Oh well back to camp to have happy hour with our neighbours and then cook our meal on the firepot before going in to watch a bit of television or look at one of the movies we have on dvd's. It has been a wonderful relaxing day and I am up on the bank hooked into power to do this part of the diary and it is great glancing side ways watching the bird life looking for food on the lake. Those noisy Corella's are chewing the leaves off the gum trees and eventually the trees will die for the just chew the new growth.

Thursday the 6th
Last night the sunset was really great, though I wasn't quick enough to catch the best of it due to having a frothy or two. This morning the temperature was 0 degrees though the sun was shining brightly once again and luckily there was no wind. We went for a walk and went via the bank of the lake and once again the bird life was prolific and all feeding on fish or weeds or whatever they eat. Of course the noisy Corella's and crows were letting us know they are about, also there were a few butcher birds.
Back and the firepot was lit to cook our toast and enjoy the sunny day out of the breeze. We watched many happy campers fill with water and then they were on their way to wherever.
We cleaned up and our mates near us came over and we had a chat and they indicated that they enjoyed our company and would leave next Tuesday the same time we are leaving. They are going south and we are going north.
Cleaned up and had a chat to the council workers and then we decided to go into the Condo.

Our first stop was the RSL where we ordered the courtesy bus to pick us tomorrow night. Then onto the op shop and had a chat with the local ladies working at Vinnies and bought a few things like shorts for it appears that I have left my bathers and shorts home. Liz only bought a few books and the we went to the IGA to buy a couple of items like Tim Tams that are on special for $1.82 a packet, newspaper and stock up on wine for further up the road.
Then we went to the Bakery again for lunch and had a cappuccino each plus a toastie each. The toastie's are the biggest we have ever seen and in fact we could only eat half each and then we took the rest home for later.
We went out and had a look at the Utes in the Paddock and we noted there were a few new ones on display or course each depicted a different time in history and all very well done. By the time we looked at them all and took a few phot6's an hour and half had passed us by. It is a really good display and is set out a lot better than it was at its previous location.
We were to see a B/Double transporting cotton to places unknown to us. Then we went looking for a battery terminal in case the one in the motorhome fails us again. We went to three establishments before we found something similar to what we required.
On the way back to camp we stopped and cut two big chimney's for our fire for now or in the future. On arriving back at camp I stoked the fire up and we had a cup of tea and read our books until our neighbours visited, They offered to make us a loaf of bread and we declined for we have plenty now and another loaf would mean wastage.
Well it is time to go to happy hour again though it is getting cold so I doubt if we will be drinking much. We will watch the Marngrook Football Show and The Back Bar tonight before going off to bed.

Friday the 7th
Wasn't as cold this morning and we elected to walk part of the way around the lake. What a beautiful sight with the blue sky's reflecting down onto the water and as usual the Pelicans, Black Swans and water hens were feeding. The white Heron first of all was feeding close to shore and then it took off and headed for the middle of the lake. We were somewhat surprised to note that it was walking so the lake must only be very shallow in that section. No wonder the Pelicans are finding it easy to catch the fish that remain in the lake. We lost count of the amount of Pelicans there were on the lake at 103 so probably there would be probably be 150 or so. We were to see two cormorants though they did not stay long.
As we walking below the lake on the bitumen road we saw Corella's that had stripped the tree of its leaves and this will mean that old tree will eventually die for some reason the leaves do not grow back, Then we arrived on the top of the bank and noted the many palm trees that we were providing shade for the those that choose to picnic there.
Back in camp and lit the firepot and we elected to have toast once again. The happy camper near us, that we have befriended, gave us part loaf of bread that he made and cooked in his caravan. We toasted this on the firepot and it was really tasty washed down with a cup of tea.
We had our showers early today and then went into town first to the chemist and had some of Liz's scripts filled and then onto the IGA to buy two cartons of Great Northern 30 pack for $94 Normally our here they are $58 a carton. Then fly spray for the flies back at camp are driving us crazy, we noted again that the vegetables were dear for the broccoli was $9 a kilo so for vegetables we bought a cauliflower at $4.
We then drove around to the Foodland Supermarket for a look and they had broccoli for $1.99 a kilo so needless to say we purchased some plus carrots. We bought more fly spray at a cheaper price for later on.
Then we drove out to the road that we will be taking on Tuesday and had a look at the grain silo's and noted the huge mounds of wheat under blue tarps. The problem is that the Corella's bite through the blue tarps to get at the wheat thus the boom of sound now and again to drive them off.
Then to mitre 11 though we were not allowed to look at the tip so we then we went back to the chemist and then home for a late lunch. Out friends came over so we had an early happy hour.
Tonight the courtesy bus will pick us up at 6pm to take us to the RSL for the evening where we will down a few frothy's and wine and the buy some meat raffle tickets and then have a meal before coming back camp in the bus where we will watch the football before going off to bed.

McChallis egg,bacon and cheese muffin for our breakfast this morning.

Saturday the 8th
We had a good night at the RSL last night. The courtesy bus picked us up at 6pm and when we arrived there was a big group of people having a meal, they were seated at two long tables. We did not know at the time that it was a bus tour of people from Tasmania. We both had a fisherman's basket and a small dish of salad, it was all very nice and we both enjoyed it. We bought tickets in the meat raffle and there were 25 draws and we did not draw a number. Back on the bus and then home in time to catch the second quarter on of the Richmond Vs Geelong game which Geelong won convincingly.
This morning we hopped out of bed at 8.30 am and went for our walk where we were to see Major Mitchell Galahs for the first time and then we passed a gum tree that had a full burl at its base, its the largest we have ever seen.
Lit the firepot and cooked two McChallis egg, bacon and cheese muffins for our breakfast washed them down with a large cup of tea, very nice indeed Then sharpened the chain saw chain for further use later on and tidied up around the place.
We then decided to go to the supermarket to buy a chicken which we intend to cook for our lunch tomorrow plus a few other things and then we went down to the Lachlan River and took a couple of photo's unfortunately there had been a party or two for there were a dozen or more cans and empty food boxes laying around.
We sat down there for awhile and then decided to come back to camp where we placed one chicken in the waeco freezer and one in the fridge. Of course I have been a bad boy for I purchased more Tim Tams.
We had a cup of coffee and then drove around the bottom of the lake picking up lengths of wood for tonight when we visit our friends over yonder.
We then had visitors again so we chewed the fat so to speak and then relaxed for the rest of the afternoon. It has been cloudy for most of the day with the sun peeking through now and again, the bonus is that the fly's are staying away. From where I am sitting doing this diary near the barbecue area we can see the lake and it is sad to see it had dropped further again over night. This has meant that there are still plenty of the water hens though the number of Pelicans are diminishing. Well that's all for today hopefully we will have full sun tomorrow.

Sunday the 9th
We had a wonderful sunset last night and the reflections of it on the Lake were absolutely beautiful. Then we lit another fire and put a chimney log on and it sent out a lot of heat, on several occasions we had to move.
The morning started off well with plenty of sunshine and clear blue sky's. We went for our walk and then had breakfast in the warm morning sunshine and that is where the day turned sour when we were advised that our brother- in law had a massive heart attack and that luckily he was in spot where they could apply CPR. Then notify the family of the events which bought many tears of anguish which were to get worse for we were then advise that they had Kerry in hospital and that after around an hour we were advised that he had passed away.
Liz was very concerned for her sister for they had been a very close family and Julie relied on Kerry for almost everything. The phone calls and messages went over four hours and in the mean time I thought the best thing was to go ahead with the plan to cook a chicken for our lunch. I cooked this on the firepot in foil containers and it turned out to be be very good bake potatoes and pumpkin and Liz steaming beans, cauliflower and broccoli. Of course we had gravy and it was an excellent meal and then we reminisced about Kerry and Julie for they came down last Christmas to Tasmania to see their Son, Daughter and grand children and we were lucky enough to catch up with them as well.
At the moment we are in a morose mood so we drove up to the bank and then came back to camp and started packing up for it looks like rain and it is predicted for tomorrow. If it does that we only have to hook the car on the motorhome and we are away heading north,

Monday the 10th
We could tell it was not a good day before we hopped out of bed this morning. On going outside we were to see heavy clouds though it did not look like rain. The wind is still a nor/wester so it is just as well we are not leaving this morning or we would be pushing strong head winds. We went for our walk and along the way we discussed the unfortunate loss of our well liked brother in law. We went over what we would do if it occurred to either of us.
Back at the motorhome and due to the heavy wind we decided to have our breakfast inside. We then cleaned up and we are now getting small periods of sunshine which the solar battery's would like. We doubt if there will be enough to fully charge all the batteries.
We came outside and said good morning to our fellow campers near by and then we noted the strange looking caravan parked near us that came in late last night. It looks more like a gypsy wagon with wheels in the front. Talking to the owner he informed us that he designed and built the bottom chassis and his friend a cabinet maker designed and built the caravan part 24 years ago. He informed us that he has four large deep cycle batteries and eight solar panels. They used their electric stove to cook their lunch, they must have a large inverter.
We had our lunch for we are not doing anything today just talking to fellow campers and then we hooked up the Terios for the morning departure. We will have our last happy hour tonight with friends before going off to bed. We received calls from family during the day.

Tuesday the 11th
We were out of bed this morning at 7am and were able to catch the beautiful sunrise, it didn't last long with the clouds giving the effect quickly disappearing. We went for our walk this morning out to the entrance road and then back for breakfast. We packed away and then and went and said our farewells to those we had befriended whilst here at Gum Bend Lake, Condobolin.
It took awhile to get back to the motorhome and then checked to see brake lights etc were working and then we were on our way to the dump point.
Yesterday when hooking the Terios onto the motorhome the pin on the hayman Reece connection looked a bit suspect and on checking the locking mechanism came away in my hand and despite oiling and checking and rechecking the lock would not stay in place. So that had to be dealt with some time this morning before we left for Mt Hope.
Went to the dump point and then onto the fuel depot to refill with diesel at $1.38 cents a litre had a chat with Uncle, as he is known as, and then he sent us over to the Condo Steel Works where a high tensile bolt, washers and lock tight nut was fitted which gives me peace of mind, he also drilled the lockable pin and gave me an another pin to go through the drilled hole. The cost? nil he wished us happy travelling and said he was happy to do it for us. We thanked him very much and then we were on our way to the Foodland Supermarket to buy bread for our toast etc. Liz was also able to buy vegetables at a marked down price.
Then we were on way to Mt Hope our stop for the night before pushing onto Cobar tomorrow. We took the road leading to West Euabalong and along the way we were to see many bales of cotton in the paddocks and further on we saw the actual cotton growing no doubt waiting for harvest. We saw many huge water channels with water coming from the Lachlan River to feed the cotton crop. Their was also wheat being grown along the way though it would appear that a lot of the crop had failed and they turned cattle and sheep onto it.
We finally arrived at West Euabalong and noted that it was a dying town with many derelict buildings in the town. They had large grain sheds and that appeared to be the staple work of the town.

Around 20 kilometres further along the wheat crops appeared to be healthier and when we came off the plateau we could see mountains and wheat crops on the flat lands. These crops were growing for at least 20 kilometres along the road. We had to stop at a railway crossing for train was passing through with ore wagons from either Cobar or Broken Hill. Once underway we were to see many Cyprus Pines each side of the road and again farmland. We finally arrived at Mt Hope and drove down to the community centre and parked up and went onto power. We were the first there and around 3pm they started to arrive and as there were only two power points most of them moved on. Tonight we will go up to the hotel for a few frothy's and wine and possibly have a meal if they are serving them.
Kilometres travelled 151

Wednesday the 12th
Last night we walked up to the hotel for a meal and a few drinks and that was to no avail for the hotel was closed even though the sign said open and the meal menu board was outside. Liz knocked on the door and a young girl indicated that the hotel was not open.
We went back to our camp with another couple and on the way we spoke to a young girl who indicated they were a bit strange in that they only opened the hotel when they felt like it. We sat near our camp with two other happy campers and had a late happy hour and then all we had for our evening meal was a cup of noodles each, then we watched a movie on the television from a memory stick.
This morning we awoke to a very windy morning and we decided to walk up to the pub and back. We were to see several large loads or hay going north no doubt to the drought areas. Had our breakfast said farewell to the couple we had happy hour with last night and we were on our way.
The highway was now undulating and we had a heavy wind on our nose and due to this you could see the extra fuel we were burning. I was to note that the outside temperature at 9.30am was 19 degrees which would rise to 25 degrees in the afternoon at Cobar.
There a lot of large paddocks where the grain crops had failed due to lack of rain, we were to see many goats along the way. Then a Wide load was coming towards us which had us having to leave the highway. It was huge bulldozer, it took up nearly all of the width of the highway.
We are yet to see any kangaroos though we did see a bit of road kill along the way there were plenty of goats along the way, as I write this there is a road train of goats next to us in the rest area and they are a bit smelly thankfully it pulled out after ten minutes.

There were plenty of road trains heading south and a few heading north and again we had two Trucks loaded with hay pass us along the way. The highway became hilly and before we knew we were to see our first Mine Winder close to the highway and then the welcome to Cobar sign. A little further and we stopped in the Cobar truck and rest area and took the Terios off the motorhome. We then drove in the Terios out to the old Cobar water supply where we noted that there was a lot more water in it this year. Back to the motorhome and walked into the town centre and went into Subway where Liz had a 6 inch and I had a 12 inch washed down with a mug of cappuccino for our lunch, it was all very nice and it made up for the meal we missed last night that was planned. Picked up a IGA catalogue and then went down to Vinnies and bought another pair of shorts and Liz bought a few things and then we checked out the rest area behind the RSL. We noted that everyone was parked very close to each other so we decided against going there. Back to the rest area and we opted to stay the night here and then move out to the old water supply tomorrow for a few days where the washing machine will come out.
It has been an un eventual day with the exception of the high wind. Tonight we will watch a bit of tellie before going off to bed and read our books for awhile. We have built up quite a few books from book exchanges and Op Shops.
Kilometres traveled 164

Thursday the 13th
During the early hours of this morning we were to hear rain falling on the roof. Our decision to stop in the truck stop/rest area was proven to be the correct decision. This morning when we hopped out of bed it was very overcast and looked like it would rain. The forecast was for rain and thunderstorms which did not occur. We were to get small intermittent sprinkles. Gerhard and his 40 foot Denning bus Motorhome came in and as we had not seen him since may last year at Mildura we had a good old chat and then we hopped into the Terios and went out to the Lake area for a look see. We were surprised that the road in was still very firm and no mud at all and where I suggested we should camp was good as well.
Back to the motorhome and then I indicated to Gerhard that we needed to do a few things before we went down, however if the rain returned we would be stopping here for another night. He elected to head down to the new campsite.
First we went to the chemist for get scripts filled for the next month and then onto IGA to get a few supplies and then we drove up to the service station and compared prices and then back to the rest area.
We decided due to there being sunshine in between the scudding clouds we would also head out to the ex water supply. Charlie who we met last night also elected to follow us out.
We set up with the awning out and were surprised by the amount of fly's there were many so we hung some sticky fly catcher. We then had our lunch and the sun was now shining which made us happy for we were now getting plenty of charge from solar panels. After lunch with Gerhard we drove down to collect wood and we dragged back a very large log which we cut with the chainsaw.
Boy was the wood dry and tough it did not take long to blunt two chains with the chainsaw really was working hard so much so that I abandoned the log for someone else at a later date to cut if they have a large chainsaw not a small one that we are travelling with.
The fire is lit now for tonight, first to cook our meal and then to build further up to sit out and enjoy the heat.
Then we just sat around chewing the fat and catching up news from over the last 12 months.
We were here last year and you could drive across the ex water supply now the the area would be about three quarters full. We drove around the area in the now brilliant sunshine and tomorrow the weather is supposed to be on the warm side so Liz has indicated that the washing machine will come out. Liz has a big load off washing so tonight we will come in to watch the football Richmond V Adelaide before going off to bed. We will not be hearing the noisy trucks coming and going. Another good day.

Friday the 14th
It was a top game off football last night and in the third quarter you would have thought Richmond had the game won, though Adelaide had different thoughts and won by 31 points in an exciting last quarter.
This morning we hopped out of bed at 7.30 am and on going outside noted the thin white cloud that was to persist all day, though it did not block the sun completely. The fire was lit and then Gerhard looked after it whilst Liz and I went for a walk around the lake.
There was no wind so it was great walking in the sunshine and still there is no bird life here at all, which we find strange not even a kangaroo coming for water. It looked good with the reflections of the gum trees and the stillness of the water. Back in camp and I went looking for small wood to go with the thick logs that were cut yesterday. We boiled the kettle on the fire and then cooked our toast and settled in to eat before the fly's went on their crusade to annoy us again today. Out with the chainsaw and then sharpened the chain and cut the small wood into suitable lengths. After that we sat around talking to Charley and Gerhard and the little girl from a nearby camp came to visit us. We were going into Cobar town centre to pick up tablets etc from the chemist. We took our shower gear with us and drove up to the truck service station and put petrol into the Terios and then had showers which were great especially that we did not have to use our own water in the motorhome. I have to say their showers were the cleanest and best maintained that we have seen for awhile. Down to the chemist and picked up our product and then we walked down to the library to look to see what books were available for purchase.
The entrance to the library has a beautiful Ceramic Mural depicting the township of Cobar and its early copper mines. Today all the mining is looking for Gold and there appears to be about 6 different mines in the area.
We bought a few books to add to our collection and then we drove down to the IGA around the corner. This is different to the one in the main street and in previous years we have found some specials that the other supermarket does not appear to have. We bought hash browns to go with our honeyed chicken kebabs and friday night drinks. Near out of date Cadbury's chocolates and a few other items. When I checked the docket outside I found we had been overcharged for one product $4.50 instead of $2. Back in and pointed out the discrepancy and was refunded the $4.50 and the product was now free, that was a bonus.
We drove out to Fort Bourke which is a good place to get a perspective of Cobar for it stands on a very high hill. We could see the old tailings from the old copper mine which is virtually in the town centre and then we waited for action from the decline of the gold mine and even though we waited 15 minutes it was all quiet. We could see the small tunnels from past era's that were at differing levels of the new open cut mine before it went underground. We could see the town nestled amongst a lot of gum trees which looked great. Today's forecast was for the day to be 19 degrees only and that was reached at 3pm. Back in camp we had toastie's cooked on the camp fire and they were very nice. For the rest of the afternoon we are going sit in the sun and read our books before happy hour arrives and tonight watch the AFL football again before going of to bed another good day.

Saturday the 15th
A really cold night and when we hopped out of bed at 8am there was a heavy dew on the ground. The bonus was that the sun was shining brightly and there were no clouds at all. A very nice morning as we went for our walk around the lake. On returning to camp the fire was going and we boiled the kettle and cooked out normal Saturday morning breakfast of McChallis egg, bacon and cheese muffin. Very nice indeed this is the first time I have not taken a photo of the result, all I can say is that they were very nice indeed so much so that Gerhard opted for a second one.
Out came the generator and the washing machine and up went the clothes line and it was on full time. Once the washing was done we cleaned up the camp and then went and cut some more dry wood for our fire tonight and tomorrow.
Liz and I went into the town centre and to autopro to buy another chainsaw chain for the two old ones are really had it and will be put into the rubbish bin. The chain was half the price of the stihl chain which was good and hopefully now we can cut our wood easier further up the track. We had noticed a couple of old church's yesterday so we drove around to have a look at the Architecture. The first was a catholic church which had a convent attached and then onto the Anglican church that had nice architectural lines. We noted the Airport sign so we drove the eight kilometres out and there were two planes on the tarmac though it was hard taking photo's through the chain link fence and the same with the farewell sign.
Back to camp and had a cappuccino and then had to drive the hundreds of fly's away that were annoying us. We did not have lunch until 1.30pm and then took the washing in and packed the washing machine etc away.
Happy hour has arrived so we just relaxed with a few frothy's an wine and then we decided to cook our evening meal on the fire for the fly's disappear as the sun gets lower. We will watch the football again tonight before going off to bed. Another relaxing lake in the warmth of the day.

Sunday the 16th
Another cold morning so we did not arise until 8.30am. Stoked the fire up and then went for our walk around the lake, we could not believe it, for we had indicated previously the lack of bird life, well this morning was different. We were to see at least a dozen colourful Lorikeets that took to the trees. We stood still for awhile and they flew down to continue eating grass seed by the lake waters. Very beautiful indeed and then we were to see two pink galahs though they were to fast to get a photo. We walked past a caravan with its door open and I said good morning and when the woman turned around she was in the process of putting on her bra, very busty indeed.
As we walked along the track we were to see a few bush pigeons before we arriving back in camp.
We then had crumpets cooked breakfast on the fire for the clouds were hiding the sun. Of course it was a bit chilly for the fly's to come to annoy us, though would change later in the day.
We cleaned up and then decided to go to the service station once again to have our showers once again saving our water, very hot and great to stand under.

We then drove to the caravan park for a gas bottle refill. In Melbourne $16 in Cobar $23 just a little difference. Then down to the supermarket, first we thought we would go over to Subway to have a cappuccino and whilst there we also had a foot long made to take away for our lunch later on.
So back to the Terios to put the subway in before going to the supermarket. Oh! locked the keys in and then I asked Liz for her spare set and guess what they were in the locked Terios. Well as a sign of an ill spent youth came to the fore, went into the supermarket and sought a piece of binding plastic tape and then a local bloke lent me a screwdriver and in 1 minute flat I had the door open and the bloke said " You have done this before" I feigned ignorance, though I thanked him for the lend of the screwdriver.
Into the supermarket and bought a roast chicken which we will have for our meal tonight and tomorrow night at Bourke. We noted the fine old hotel across the road and given it has an old fashioned balcony all round we figure it must be very old.
We filled two water drums and then had a look in the memorial park dedicated to past mining and miners all very well done given the winder on display is from the original copper mine and it is standing up well to the rigours of the weather.
We then left and went out to Devils Rock where the rock formation is natural and the local aboriginals believe it is a place of evil and wont go near it at all. There was a large hole and they have filled it in.
Back to camp for a late lunch and we had to eat inside for the fly's have arrived with the sun and are very annoying.
After lunch we started to dismantle our camp and then put the A-frame on the Terios for tomorrow when we hook up out at the main road.
Oh well it is happy hour once again so we will have a farewell drink with Charlie from Canberra and Gerhard who is travelling with us to Bourke. Another good day especially when the sun arrived and sent the temperature up to 22 degrees.

Monday the 17th
As we are leaving Cobar this morning we were out of bed at 7am and went for a shorter walk. The sun was just rising on a cloudless blue sky though it was a bit chilly. Back at camp and we had our breakfast and then said our farewell to Charlie who is on the way back to Canberra, we swapped phone numbers to keep in touch in the future. We then headed into Cobar to the dump point and then topped up with water and up to the service station to refuel at $1.50.9. per litre. By the amount of fuel we took on we certainly used a lot of fuel on that trip from Condobolin to Cobar.
Then it was on the road towards Bourke. There was no wind at all and the consumption of fuel appeared to be low. The sides of the highway was green so there must have been rain though here recently we did not see any wildlife along the way until some 90 kilometres out when we saw our first Emu for the trip. We were see plenty of wild goats along the way and when we came down onto the plains country there were plenty of cattle which appeared to be surviving on the mulga bush. We came across the sign that indicated that we were about enter the Bourke Shire which they claim to be the gateway to the real outback. We pulled into a rest area where we met up with Gerhard and then another Tassie happy campers pulled in and indicated they had left Tassie three days ago. Well I ask you all we would be seeing was highway.

We were just about to pull out of the rest area when we saw a wide load coming so we waited and sure enough it took up the full width of the highway with farm equipment. We gave them five minutes and then we pulled back onto the highway.
We were to see more wild goats and a bit of road kill though not a lot. Before we knew it we had arrived at Bourke and we drove down the main street in the shopping centre and pulled up outside the IGA. We went into buy muffins for our usual saturday breakfast though to no avail they did not stock them so it will have to be toasted bread. We noted the main street had changed for they have put all types of barriers in at intervals and turned the street into one way only. It didn't look much at all. We noted the roller door shutters over the shop fronts along the street and that of course left no glass at night to be broken. We went into a cafe for lunch and I had a egg and bacon roll and Liz opted for toasted raisin bread washed down with a cappuccino of course.
Down to the Wharf precinct and noted the very old stationary engine was working and there were a lot of tourist watching and getting the spiel on the working from the volunteer engine drivers.
We walked over to the wharf and looked at the Darling River that is at least 6 metres lower than it should be. There is no way a paddle steamer could navigate or tie up to the wharf due to this. Speaking to a couple of locals they informed us that recent heavy rain had bought about a bit of flow for the river. On the way into town we noted the large water channels and the signs indicating a few cotton farms.
We thought we would top up the diesel tank at the depot for the fuel was $1.47.9 a litre versus $1.59.9 on the highway. We were then on the way for our camp for the next couple of days at May's corner on the Darling River. The current temperature is 20 degrees and we still have those clear blue sky's.
Kilometre travelled 182

Tuesday the 18th
We sat out by the fire for awhile last night and watched the full moon rise over the Darling River. It was warm when we came outside this morning and stoked the fire to life and there were no fly's as yet though the sun was low on the horizon.
We went for a walk up to the old wooden bridge across the Darling River and noted on the way an Egret and a Cormorant sunning itself on the river bank. They have now barricaded the bridge off to pedestrian traffic for it looks very wonky indeed. The wooden decking is all shapes and sizes though the bridge itself looks as if it has been recently painted.
Back in camp and we had our breakfast by the fire and just relaxed and after awhile we were to see the garbage truck come in and started emptying the bins. We had moved one over to our camp yesterday and then I moved it out to make it easy for the truck to pick it up. When it was finished the driver hopped out of the truck and came over and we had a good old chinwag about this and that. He indicated that where we had our lunch and cappuccino yesterday that cafe is owned by his daughter and of course he enticed us to go back again today.
We were sitting reading our books and Liz indicated that one of the rear tyres on the motorhome appeared flat. About an hour later I put the air gauge on the tyre and lo and behold no pressure.
Hopped underneath and there was the tyre with a big hole in it. Out came all the tools plus the new rattle gun and then jacked up the motorhome and pulled the tyres off and sure enough it was the inside tyre that was blown.
We unhooked the Terios and heaved the tyre up on the roof rack and tied it down. Then back to Bourke and the first tyre service we went to had no tyres to fit us and then to the other Tyre Service and luckily they had one which was fitted to the rim an unfortunately they were unable to balance it. Up on the roof rack after paying $275 and back to camp. We had to replace a tyre in Bourke two years ago and the cost then was only $200.
I wanted to put the new tyre on the outside and due to not being able to take the extension off to change over, the new tyre went to the inside. All fitted and then cleaned up and had a late lunch.
The rest of the afternoon was spent just relaxing around the camp and hooking the Terios on the motorhome for our departure in the morning. It has not been a good day.

Wednesday the 19th
A nice sunny morning greeted us though it was bit chilly with a southerly breeze, the fire was lit though it did not help much. I went for a stroll along the Darling River and noted the lone Pelican on the bank sunning itself. Back to camp and then Liz and I went for our morning walk up to the old Bourke Bridge. It was a beautiful day and would stay that way as we travelled.
We had our breakfast and then said our farewell to Gerhard who is staying put for awhile, once on the highway the going was easy with only small hills to contend with. We were to note the overnight road kill and the amount of crows feeding there must have been a dozen or so which took off before I could get a better photo.
We were to note the countryside is greening up and water holes were full of water though we were not to see any wildlife at all. There was a fair bit of traffic on the road and the amount of caravans heading south into the colder weather was amazing.
We finally drove through Enngonia where we had a cappuccino last time through though now the coffee cart no longer operates. After leaving Enngonia the countryside was really greening up so we suspect that there has been plenty of rain recently in this area.
We finally arrived at Barringun and decided to go into the road house for a cappuccino and since it was lunch time I also had an outback pie and Liz opted for a slice of cake. We enquired about a shower and the indicated that it would be $5 per head which we said no and then we enquired how much to stay in the unpowered area and the cost was $5 per person so we opted for that given it included all amenities. Needless to say later in the day we went to use their showers rather than our own, thus saving out water.
Boy the fly's are very bad here and we were happy to hop in the motorhome to get away from them. I had to put the satellite dish up and they annoyed me something fierce soon as I had the signal back inside and then we sprayed the cabin etc. Now we are fly free inside and there is a lot of people coming into stay for the night.
We will read our books this afternoon and then watch the Marngrook Football Show and then watch Behind the Bar and then off to bed
Kilometres travelled 133

Thursday the 20th
An excellent sleep last night we were not worried at all being so close to the highway and the noise of trucks going by. We did not hop out of bed until after 8am. We had a short walk and then stowed the satellite equipment away. As we were only going to the Tuen Waterhole today, which is only 48 kilometres away, we decided we have breakfast when we arrived. We said our farewells to Barringun and we were on our way.
On the highway and it wasn't long before we arrived at the Queensland border and there were the welcome signs including welcoming us to the Queensland Outback. Around twenty kilometres up the highway we encountered a traffic light which was red of course. We sat for nearly five minutes and so turned the engine off and another ten minutes later we received the green light and we were on our way again.
We noted how green the paddocks and roadside verges were and then we came across ground that looked really dry we can only assume that the rain must have come across in bands.
We arrived at the Tuan Waterhole and were somewhat surprised to see the greenery and the area we would normally stay at underwater and the adjoining two dams were full. We stayed for ten minutes contemplating camping on a dry spot closer to the road. We decided to move on and came across a dry patch of country two kilometres further on where we could pull off the road. Parked up I had my usual walk around the motorhome and the Terios checking tyres etc.
Wouldnt you know it the outside tyre on the back appeared to be flat. Checked it with the tyre gauge and sure enough there was little air in it. Now normally due to it being on the outside you would run the inside tyre up on a block and that would lift the outside tyre off the ground making it easier to change. No not on the Iveco for the wheel nuts hold both tyres in position, when you free the nuts both tyres come off. We had breakfast first and then out came the jack and timber to rest it on, then all the tools required to change the wheel. Getting at the spare tyre is not easy you have to lay under the motorhome to take it off the rack. Liz was to hold the tyre lever in place whilst the nuts where loosened on the offending tyre and then the rattle gun was used to take all the nuts off. Once the tyre was off checked the walls for damage and I could not find a fault no doubt tyre service will find the problem and hopefully not another new tyre. At home the new front tyres cost $195 each in the outback $275. Threw the flat tyre up onto the roof rack of the Terios and then used the tie down straps to hold it in place.
We have elected to stay now for the night and go into Cunnamulla tomorrow so after lunch set up the satellite dish and on connecting the satellite box it did not work. Checked the fuses and it was not that. Finally found that the 12 volt cord was not working luckily we had another so then all the systems were go. It is all these nigley little things that are going wrong other that the tyres. Watch tellie tonight and move on tomorrow.
Kilometres travelled 50

Friday the 21st
A very cold night down to 4 degrees when we hopped out of bed at 7.45am. Thus, when we went outside the sun was shining and in typical Queensland weather nice blue sky's. Only a short walk this morning and then were to say our farewells to two Tassie's who came in last night and stayed with us. They are on the way to the Kimberley's.
We had our breakfast and then we were on our way to Cunnamulla. Along the way we were to see two Emu's though only captured one on the camera. The grass in the paddocks and roadside verges were very green and the water holes were all full. They no doubt received the rain that came through last month in Queensland. There were a few caravans heading south and a few semi trailers though overall the highway was clear of a lot vehicles.
It wasn't long before we were approaching Cunnamulla first through the Bush lands and then the welcoming signs for Cunnamulla. We drove straight into the information centre and then took the tyre off the roof rack and placed in the motorhome. First went to refuel at $1.45 cents per litre which was great. Then to the tyre service who checked the tyre that had gone flat and they could find no leaks then they fitted the s extension and fitted the spare wheel back in position. We were pleased when they said no cost we thanked them very much. Then we went to our rest area for the night behind the Cunnamulla Hotel where tonight we will have a few frothy's and wine and a meal.
Into the IGA for a few tinned vegetables and a few other items and once again there were no muffins on sale so we thought we would have our special in hamburger buns to no avail. So we walked to the Bakery and they were sold out of rolls and bread so we purchased two large raisin buns for our lunch, which we had around 1.30pm.
We walked to the Post Office to top our funds for future use at Yowah. I couldn't believe it we thought we would give cappuccinos a miss today.
We hopped in the Terios and drove around to the Friendly Grocer and they had on rolls either.
Back to the motorhome for lunch and we spoke to Julie Liz's sister who appears to be coping with the loss of her husband. We then went for a walk and took a few photo's of the Cunnamulla Fellah and the roses this year are finished so gave those a miss.
Rest of the afternoon we used the showers in the hotel and then waited in the motorhome for happy hour in the pub and have a meal. Tonight we will watch the football again before going off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 75

Saturday the 22nd
We had an enjoyable meal and a few drinks last night in the hotel and then came home to watch the football. It was very cold again this morning with a heavy frost on the vehicles and a lazy southerly did not help. I walked around to the Bakery and purchased six hamburger buns which will replace our muffins for our McChallis's and a Boston Bun for smoko etc.
We had breakfast only toast and a cuppa and not our usual saturday morning fare and then said our farewells to the other happy campers who stayed alongside us last night and the onto the street to hook up the Terios. Once hooked up we were on our way towards Yowah. When we arrived at the Warrego River we had to stop for there were Geese who just waddled across the highway. Once they were gone we moved off again. We were to note that the countryside was green especially along the side of the road, locals told us that they had four inches of rain at Easter. This would account for lack of wildlife for they would be inland at water holes and the green countryside. We were to see no road kill. It was a bright sunny day with the sun beaming through the window warming us up.
We were to see a lone Bush Bustard alongside the road and it appeared in no hurry to walk away given that this part was brown with little green grass. We were meeting traffic coming towards us and luckily we are on the double lane highway, even a motorbike coming towards us. All were very friendly waving as we passed, nothing like good outback friendliness. It wasn't long before we arrived at Eulo and that strange creature that is a bronze statue. We stopped outside the police station for that was away from trees allowing full sunlight on the solar panels. We walked back to the shop and we had a mug of cappuccino and sat outside in the sunshine watching the many happy campers driving past. The price of diesel was $1.70 a litre and thankfully we did not require a top up.
We then walked down to the Opal shop for a look see and said hello to Gary who filled us in on what is happening in Eulo today.
They have a Polo Cross underway at the moment and we could hear the commentator calling the happenings of the event. We have decided to stay in Eulo tonight down by the bridge in the camping area. We were underway again and decided to park on the right hand side of the bridge and not in the camp area that had plenty of trees and shade which was not good for our solar panels to work.
Out came the satellite dish to watch the football tonight and then it was time for lunch. We had sandwiches and slices of the Boston Bun all very nice indeed.
There were a few come in for lunch and we had a chat with them and then settled down to read our books inside the motorhome for the fly's were bad today. Then later in the afternoon went and took photo's of the Paroo River both upstream and downstream from the weir. There is little water going over the weir. There was one bloke who was spinning for fish though he did not seem to have much luck.
Kilometres travelled 70

Sunday the 23rd
We had another frost this morning, covering the Motorhome and Terios and the temperature was only 3 degrees. I went for a walk along the river bank of the Paroo River and noted how the gum trees with plenty of roots were hanging on for dear life when the torrent of floodwater floods the river etc. We had our breakfast and battened down the hatch, so to speak, and then we pulled out on our way to our next stop Yowah. The computer was to warn us of the possibility of ice on the road which gave us a laugh. When the temperature of the motorhome reached operating temperature on came the heater and it did not take long to warm the cabin up.
We were still on double lane bitumen which was good with no wind which was great. There was not much traffic on the road until of course until we arrived at the turn off to Yowah. We arrived at the single lane bitumen which created a little angst with the amount of stones that were on the surface of the road. We were concerned that the Terios did not have a stone guard and the possibility of rrocks being thrown onto to the windowscreen etc. We were to come onto two caravans that were going slow along the road we had to back off and as there was not an opportunity to pass along the way.
We finally arrived at Yowah after countless cattle grids etc. Down to the camp area which is very large and with toilets, showers and plenty of parking areas, We parked up and strolled and renewed acquaintances with the people we met here last year and then we walked along to see Chris and Bron and then inspected the house that we have been offered for the next four weeks that we intend to stay here.
We thought is was a wonderful deed and we went and bought the motorhome up plus the Terios and parked in the driveway. We decided to take up the offer and sleep in our bed in the motorhome all else in the house or cook on the fire outside.
Later in the afternoon Chris took us out to get a wood supply for the wood heater and chimney logs for outside fires. Happy hour arrived and Liz Liz lit the outside fire and we had a good old chat. Gerhard arrived and he came and joined us and then we cooked our meal on the fire and enjoyed the company before going inside to watch television and the State of Origin rugby game and have our showers. It is very relaxing to be amongst friends and catching up with the news since last year.
Kilometres travelled 91

Monday the 24th
We were out of bed this morning at 7.30am and then went for a walk. We were to see many bush pidgeons on the ground and in the trees then we saw two kangaroos hopping along the street near the house we are staying in. We walked around past the caravan park and noted there were not a lot of happy campers there, then around past Jurassic Park which contained no monsters and then past Val's Park where we expected to see many kangaroos that Val feeds each morning and night. Val was to tell us later that most of the kangaroos and emus had died off during the hot summer. They had their first heavy rain in April which was 3 inches this is the first decent rain in 8 years. We stopped at the free camp and had a chat to those we knew from previous years.
Back home for breakfast and since we could not buy muffins we had McChallis cheese,bacon and egg roll. Washed down by a cuppa of course all very nice though I did burn my roll.
Liz was to do the washing and before we knew it lunch time arrived and we both had a cappuccino and the rest of our boston bun. Chris asked if I wanted to look at his mine which I quickly agreed to.
We drove out to the opal fields and there was mulloch heaps everywhere with some miners doing open cut and others underground mining. I was first a bit apprehensive at first going underground and when the generator and all the lights came on then going down into the bowels of the mine looked easy, it was mainly clay with layers of different layers which included the vein that contained the opal.
The different colours of the ground looked great and after awhile I was getting a bit anxious so it was decided that I should head to the surface. It wasn't hard to get out with all the different tunnels for they are all marked with exit signs. When I arrived at the surface sat on a tyre and nearly dropped off to sleep in the warm sunshine before Chris came to the surface. It is clearly something that I would not be interested in for I do not like going underground.
I was to see the mulloch come to the surface and dumped into a holding hole for later removal. Then we drove out to the area where wood is cut and I helped to roll some large logs into the trailer that were cut some days ago. Back home and it time to light the outside fire and have our happy hour etc. Then in later to cook our evening meal and watch tellie for awhile before going off to bed in the motorhome.

Tuesday the 25th
Out of bed at 8.30am and then went for our morning walk. Just outside the house we are staying in there Bush Pidgeons and Corella's enjoying the morning sun on the power lines. We were to note the amount of houses for sale in the area, though Liz and I are not interested due to the summer heat rising to as much as 50 degrees. They rely on the Great Artesian Bore for their household water.
We went down to see Gerhard at his camp and he indicated that he wanted a tree next to his camp cut down to burn in his camp fire. We arrived back home and we had our breakfast, had our showers and then we decided to go out to the Mitre 11 and we were surprised that there no pickings at all for the tip has been cleaned up in recent times.
Back home and Chris invited us to visit the Kaleidoscope Mine which we excepted, the owners are not there at the moment and a load of wood was dropped off for when they arrive. We were to see a very large pig and the bougainvilleas both white, pink and red all looked very nice. Then looked at the entrance to the mine which is currently closed, then inspected the tumbler where Liz was to find a very nice opal a few years back. Back for lunch and then down to Gerhard's camp where Chris cut down the tree and then cut it up for burning. I had a chance to use his new battery operated chainsaw. What an experience to use and it performed very well on the smaller branches not only being very quiet it was very light and easy to use with little noise unlike an engine powered chainsaw.
We then made arrangements for a happy hour and a chimney fire and to cook our evening meal. We were to have another excellent sunset and the pinks etc were good indeed. Hopefully there will be no clouds tomorrow for the solar panels lacked sunshine today to operate efficiently. I have to say there is nothing like potatoes and sweet potatoes plus pumpkin done in alfoil on the fire. Then out came the barbecue plate to cook our meats etc. We chose to eat inside and then after we adjourned to the chimney fire which was still burning then later in the night we came inside and had a cup of tea and settled in to watch a bit of tellie before going off to bed. Another good day with friends.

Wednesday the 26th
This morning the temperature was 10 degrees rising to 24 degrees later in the afternoon, very nice indeed. We went off on our walk and along the way we were to come across the new cafe named the "The Blue Wren Cafe" It is located in an existing house and was well sheltered from the hot sun in summertime. We walked past the caravan park and it was well patronised then onto the hot water bore where the water for all houses in Yowah originates. Outside the shop was a table set up for cakes to be sold to raise funds for Yomski and a Stihl battery operated chainsaw. The chainsaw was not as large as the Husqvarna battery operated chainsaw that I used yesterday, though I bought tickets in that raffle for the Fire Brigade. I did not have any money on me so they set aside two cakes until I came back. On the way home and then obtained money and then went back for the cakes and bought tickets in the raffle.
It was time for breakfast then cleaned up and then sat and read our books for awhile. Liz was to go off to Bingo at 10am and when arriving home had won two chocolates which we devoured
We had lunch consisting of a bread roll with ham off the bone which was very nice and the cuppa was fine. Then came the time to get water from the fresh water tank at the community centre and visit the dump point.
We then went along to the Library where they had books available for purchase or donation and we picked a few out for our future travels. Then we went for a drive out to the Opal Mine Leases for another look see, we were to see both open cut and underground mines though there appeared to be no action on the field today and then we returned back home.
We had invited Gerhard and Chris plus Bron over for afternoon tea and we consumed almost all the cake we had bought this morning, it was all very good and enjoyed by all. We bid our guests farewell and we have decided no fire tonight outside so we had our evening meal and then showered and then headed off to bed for tomorrow we are going with Chris and Bron to Quilpie for the day. The trip is around 390 kilometres for the round trip, we are looking forward to it. We were to note that daylight was still with us at 6pm.

Thursday the 27th
Out of bed at 6.30am for Chris and Bron had invited us to go to Quilpie for the day. We had our breakfast and then at 8am we were on the road. The road we travelled on is the same we will use at the end of July. There is no doubt this is beautiful rugged outback country that takes a certain type of person to live with the vagaries of climate and lack of rain. Without the use of the Great Artesian Bore, towns and farms in the outback would not survive. The countryside with its many colours of green and the land being devoid of grass with only weeds growing in some areas due to the rains that arrived here in April look great. Coming down off the plateau the landscape changed again with many Jump ups or Mesa's making for wonderful views. We were to go across many water courses, with no water of course, we were to see a small flock of sheep who were looking for food along the long paddock and there were some Aboriginal paintings along the way though we suspect they were done by others due to the lack of detail. When we turned onto to the road to Quilpie there were many water ways and dried up creeks until we arrived at Toompine. We intend to stop here on the way back. It wasn't long before we reached the outskirts of Quilpie. We stopped at the park on the way into town for awhile to get our legs working again. Then onto to the Bakery and renewed our acquaintances, whilst there we had a cup of cappuccino each and Chris and Bron had a pie. We bought a loaf of bread and then down to the grocery store where if you looked at the prices to hard you wouldnt buy anything, we purchased a frozen chicken and muffins for saturday breakfast then a few groceries to tide us over for the next month. Then onto the hardware store and the other grocer and then the butchery for their wonderful thick pork sausages and a few other items. Then it was time to head back to Yowah after filling up with diesel for 1.66.9 a litre the highest price we have seen for awhile.
We were to strike a fair bit of traffic on the way home. Chris would pull off the road to give them the full single bitumen road. We finally arrived at Toompine and went into the hotel and bought a frothy and wine for Liz and ginger beer for out driver and Bron. We ordered lunch and sat outside with the fly's and enjoyed what we had bought, back on the road and the traffic appeared to be getting heavier and then Chris pulled in off the road and showed me a new spot to place my yabby pots which I will set tomorrow afternoon. Back home,so to speak, and unpacked the groceries and froze meat down that we were not going to eat in the coming days and then stoked the fire up inside and then the outside fire to make coals for cooking and to place a chimney log later. It has been a very good day and tonight we will watch the football before going off to bed. I think that we will not take much rocking to go to sleep.

Friday the 28th
The nights are getting much warmer, in fact it was 14 degrees when we went to bed last night, this morning when we hopped out of bed it was still 14 degrees it would rise to 24 degrees at 3pm.
When we went for a walk again this morning it was bright sunshine, the only draw back was the amount of those pesky little black fly's. We were to walk past the old railway carriages that have been turned into a home along with other buildings. Due to lack of Opal being found on the mining leases we are a bit surprised with the amount of Opal dealers advertising their wares. We were to see a very early model Chevrolet car which would be good for restoration, it appears to be a coupe. Then past the caravan park once again there were many happy campers hooked up to power. Those in the non power area surprised up for the same facilities are available in the free camping area where all you have to do is leave a donation if you please. The free camp area has hot showers and toilets and plenty of area for camp fires if you wish and there is plenty of wood close by.
We were to walk past a large building which houses the coin operated Laundry, Cafe, Library and Information Centre. It is nice sitting out on the verandah having a cappuccino in the warm sunshine.
Then on the way home we dropped in and had a chat with Chris and Bron then home for breakfast. After breakfast we cleaned up and then Gerhard came around for a chat and before we knew it lunch time had arrived.

After lunch we just relaxed and set the inside fire for tonight and then read our books for awhile and then baited up the Yabby nets and strapped them to the roof rack on the Terios. Around 2pm we headed out to where we had been shown a spot which hasn't been over fished for yabby. When we arrived and hopped out of the Terios we were hit with heaps of fly's luckily we had bought our fly nets with us so it kept them of our faces etc.
The day was warm and rather put on the air conditioner we opened the windows and let the wind flow through. We were to see two Brolga's though we did not pull up quick enough to take a photo. There was no cattle close to the road today and again we have no idea how they survive in such desolate country. The Royal Flying Doctor services Yowah every Friday or earlier if there is an emergency. We dropped into the airport which is known as the Yowah International Airport and there was the RFDS Plane which has twin engines. Then back into Yowah and home where we had a cup of tea and then in awhile we will set the outside fire for cooking of our meal after happy hour today and then place another chimney log and that will keep us warm for the next couple of hours. Watch football again tonight and then off to bed after another good day in Yowah.

Saturday the 29th
Well we slept in until 8am and we had visitors coming for breakfast. So there was no walk this morning just getting prepared for our McChallis egg, bacon and cheese muffin.
This morning two fry pans were used for we are cooking for four persons. It turned out alright and we washed it all down with a cup tea, very nice indeed.
Then it was time to go and check the yabby traps and we only caught two, one being quite large and the other an average size. We reset the traps in the same place for the water may be a little cold yet for the yabby's move. On the way home we stopped and looked at another area that we will drop our yabby traps into tomorrow if the results tomorrow is the same.
Back home and cooked the two yabby's which we will add to our pea and ham soup we are having for our evening meal.
We received an invite for lunch today at 11.59 which we agreed to attend. Bron had baked a chicken along with baked vegetables all very nice and to follow was Lemon Meringue Pie again worth dying for, so to speak, then a cup of tea along with a chocolate mints to finish off. It was We were intrigued with the small finches flying in to eat the seed that Chris and Bron put out for them in containers off the ground, the Bush Pidgeons eat the husks off the ground and with a background of Bougainvillea it looks pretty. 2 pm before we left the table to come home. The sun was shining though there were a few clouds about and the temperature at 2.30 pm was a warm 24 degrees with plenty of fly's outside waiting for you
On arriving home and just relaxed reading our books and we as yet have not decided as to whether we will have a chimney fire in the backyard tonight it will depend on how many visitors we have. Again we will watch the football tonight and then off to bed and once again it has been a relaxing day and we have not done a lot at all.

Sunday the 30th
Beautiful sunset last night though it was getting a bit chilly. This morning we woke at 8am and only elected to go for a small walk, when we returned back we then decided to go to check the Yabby traps before breakfast. Though sunny it was a bit colder this morning at 9 degrees rising to a top of 21 degrees later in the day. The forecast for the next few days indicates the temperature overnight and during the day will be colder. We headed out to check the traps and when we arrived we could not believe the amount of fly's that awaited us. Pulling the traps yielded no Yabby's at all so we decided to move them closer to town.
We pulled into an area that had been suggested by Chris set them and then decided to return and have our breakfast. We couldn't believe the amount of outgoing traffic both cars and caravans plus one motorhome.
Had our breakfast and then cleaned up and Chris and Bron came over and we had a cuppa and chewed the fat for awhile. It was decided to go bush looking for chimney logs for our future fires. We received a call from Mauri and Gwen indicating that they had arrived in Yowah, we went and showed them the free camp area and for them to select an area to camp up. We showed them where we were housed and invited them to come along after they had set up.

We were to wind our way down through the bush for Chris and Bron know this area like the back of their hand, so to speak, though little greenery the area had a rugged beauty about it. Finally we arrived at a place that had a suitable dead Box Gum that it was believed would give us chimney logs for our fire. It is great to see a professional go about their work, with a face cut into the front and attacked from the rear and in no time the tree was on the ground. Chris had selected well for there were at least 15 chimney logs and a lot of other wood for us to burn in the coming weeks. I was to use the battery operated chainsaw on the small limbs whilst Chris used his large chainsaw on the main trunk of the tree. I am still amazed how the battery chainsaw performs. Bron and Liz was loading whilst we were cutting and then we loaded the big chimney logs and I was somewhat dumfounded that it all fitted onto the trailer. On the way back we were to see two Brolga's sauntering through the bush and it took the zoom on the camera to capture them. We were nearly back to camp when we saw Mauri and Gwen leave the house, we rang them and they returned and we introduced them to Chris and Bron and made arrangements to have a barbecue meal by the chimney fire we would light tonight.

Chris backed the trailer close to where we wanted the wood dumped and then we had a cup of tea and coffee and then Mauri and I unloaded the wood and then set the fire for tonight. We came inside and watched the football for awhile and then lit the fire and set up for our barbecue tonight. So there was Chris and Bron and Mauri and Gwen plus Liz and I then we had a happy hour. We placed a chimney log on the tri pole and this one had one entrance and two outlets it made for a spectacular fire. We cooked our barbecue and then it collapsed and still made a good fire. When we finished out meal we placed another chimney log on the fire and it also sent out a lot of heat. When everyone left we came inside and watched tellie for awhile until we went off to bed. Another good day though we all received plenty of exercise during the day so we should take no rocking to go off to sleep tonight.

July