Sunday the 1st
We awoke to another 7 degree morning though the extra blanket on the bed made it nice and cozy and warm last night. Well today is the first of the month and fathers day. We had our customary McChallis egg, bacon and cheese muffin washed down with a cuppa. We then prepared to travel and then had a talk with the other happy campers who are nearby. It was strange to see that all campers last night had motorhome's and not a caravan to be seen.
As we drove out of the camp area and past the Wallaroo Hotel we noted the for sale sign and it is still locked up and not trading. We were climbing and boy wasn't the road rough for a bitumen road. There were no signs indicating how rough the road was. As we drove along it was pitiful to see that the farms were very dry and no growth at all it was obvious that they had not sown wheat and other grain crops this year for it is so dry. Apparently they have not had decent rainfall for 7 years in this area.
We were to come across more cattle in the long paddock and really there appeared to be no feed other than very dry grass and the cattle were crossing from one side to the other which meant we had to slow to nothing for fear of hitting one or two. There was a lone woman on an ATV who was watching over them and she waved as we went past.
We arrived at Warialda and had to go through the town doing 50 kph and typical outback town it was closed on the Sunday so we did not bother to stop other than a pit stop at the other end of town. We had to turn to drive onto the highway towards our destination of Moree.
The farmland was again very dry with little cattle and definitely no crops of any description both Liz and I felt for them. We were to see three loads of hay going north on road trains. Given all this, the scenery was beautiful indeed. We came across another of those bridges with narrow lanes and this one had height restrictions and again we were lucky to be on the bridge before any traffic coming from the other direction. There were only two vehicles that waited for us to cross and they then were on their way.
We arrived at Gravesend and noted the dry ground once again and the farmers here had not planted their grain crops and it was terrible to see. There were huge grain silo's and sheds for storage of crops. As we were driving out we noted than in one particular area on the highway it was green and then we came across a Walnut grove which was quite large in size and numbers of trees. There was no growth as yet though the ground surrounding the trees was green. We take it they must have irrigation of some description though there were no divots in the paddocks.
We finally arrived on the outskirts of Moree and bought up fuel watch and it took us to the Puma Service Centre which is a truck stop and refueling station. We filled up with fuel at $1.41.9 a litre. Liz was to make enquiries and found we could camp here overnight as long as we were away from the truck bays, which suited us.
We parked up and then took the Terios off the back of the motorhome for we could not park long ways. We then went into the cafe and had a cappuccino and just relaxed and watched the trucks come and go to there destinations both north and south. No doubt tomorrow we will have streams of trucks to contend with for we have arrived at the Newell Highway heading south.
After our drink we went looking for an ATM for we were running short of cash. We found it in the middle of the Moree shopping precinct and noted the had a market underway in the local park. We decided to go for a look see and it was a big market selling all sorts of goods. Liz was to buy a few items and after a good look around we went back to the Terios. We were to miss the car show though we saw some beautiful old cars and utes mostly driven by older people leaving.
We headed back to the motorhome and then went into the shop and bought a humongous chilli chicken salad roll which was enough for the tow of us for our lunch. We established that the centre was open 24 hours a day and that we could come in for an evening meal and then have a shower later in the night which suits us fine. The temperature at the moment is a warm 22 degrees with a cloudless sky and just slightly muggy. We have seen some very nice scenery today though the dryness of the countryside must be a problem to the local population.
Kilometres travelled 123

Monday the 2nd
Last night we went and had a meal in the Puma Roadhouse. Liz opted for rissoles and veggies with gravy and I had T Bone steak with veggies and lashing's of pepper gravy. It was all very good with the steak cooked to perfection. When you ask for a medium rare you do not expect it to be like that in a road house. Given the menu they are serving a minimal amount of stodgy food is available for the truck drivers. My meal was that large I did not have room for Bananas and custard back at the motorhome. We came back and watched a movie until 9.15 pm and then went back over to have a shower each. It is obvious the complex is not that old for all the facilities are modern and well maintained.
We hopped out of bed this morning at 6.45pm and then had our breakfast then cleaned up and we were on our way towards our campsite for the night. There was not a cloud in the sky when we departed at 8.30am and there was not a lot of traffic heading south though it would be true to say there were plenty of Road Trains etc heading north. There was one Road Train pulled up in the centre and it was loaded with hay. We were to see many others heading north later in the day with plenty of hay on board.
We noted the very large grain silo's and sheds near the edge of Moree though there will not be much of crop to store for what we saw in the next 70 kilometres was either dead or not been planted.
Just before Narrabri we were to see plenty of wheat growing for there seemed to be a greenness of land in this area. Given this the crops did not look all that well no doubt due to lack of water or rain. The Canola we were to see though looking colourful did not look healthy at all due to the same reasons.
The Newell Highway itself was rough as, it was corrugated even though it was bitumen and as we drove along the road was very flat with no wind and at 10am the temperature was a warm 24 degrees. We were to see sheep in paddocks that was bare of any grass and they were being fed on pellets to keep them alive. We finally arrived at Narrabri and as we drove through the town centre we noted they had all the big grocery stores and when we turned to continue on the Newell we noted one side of the road was Kentucky fried chicken and on the other McDonalds. It was still early so we opted to go into McDonalds and get a take away of Cappuccino which we drank on the way. When we arrived at the spot we had chosen for the night it was only 10.15 am. We took a look and decided to go further today and that's what we did for the next two rest areas for we did no like them either.
We noted we were climbing now and at times I was back in fourth gear for there was now a strong head wind chewing up the diesel. We could see mountains in the distance and they looked a treat, very colourful indeed.
We were to drive through many small towns and they all had large grain silo's and sheds and at one town there was a train loading its carriages with grain to take elsewhere. In all the train and carriages would have been over two kilometres long with two large diesel locomotives doing the pulling work.
We finally arrived at Coonabarabran and drove slowly through the town with out stopping for the speed limit is 50kph. Once we had left we were really climbing up steep hills and the view in the distance was great.
We stopped and looked at other rest areas and none of them appealed for there were to many trees which would have effected the solar panels and it would have been difficult to get satellite coverage due to this.
We came across a lot of road works and finally we spotted a gravel heap so we went in there and found that it suited our needs and then we were parked up at 12.15 pm and the temperature had dropped to 17 degrees though sunny and windy. We had our lunch and enjoyed the views of the nearby mountains.
A little later in the day I will set up the satellite dish and we will watch among other things "Talking Footy" and then a movie and off to bed to read our books at around 9.30 pm. We have travelled a few kilometres today though it was worth it for we will not have to do a great deal tomorrow on our way to Gilgandra.
Kilometres travelled 266

Tuesday the 3rd
We had a good nights sleep even with the amount of trucks pulling up the hill during the night. They did not seem to annoy us. Our gravel heap rest area was situated half way down the hill and out the back window of the motorhome we had this excellent view of the countryside, very nice indeed.
We had our breakfast and packed away the satellite gear and we were on our way towards Gilgandra. We were to strike a lot of roadwork's where they are building a large amount of overtaking lanes. They went for around 7 kilometres and we had to stick to a speed of 40 kph for that period.
We were to note the paddocks along the highway were suffering and where there was wheat growing the crop appeared to be wilting through lack of rain etc. There were plenty of interstate trucks on the road both Road Trains and B-Doubles and luckily they were heading north.
It wasn't long before we arrived at Gilgandra and we went straight to the Caltex Service Centre and refueled at $1.48.9 a litre. We then drove into the town centre and parked up to go walkabout. We were surprised to see the river dried up to the extent it is. We then walked into the main street shopping centre and noted the amount of store closures. This is a town that is suffering due to the drought. The lack employment here must be the same as other small towns that are suffering due to drought. We were to find out that a supermarket had closed along with Targets which reduced the amount of employment not to mention employment in smaller shop closures. There still appeared to be an abundance of coffee shops so we selected one and had a cappuccino the dearest we have paid to date on this trip. Then over to the IGA to buy broccoli and whilst there we bought a cooked chook to have a salad with tonight. Into the newsagency and then back to the motorhome and as we were parked opposite the dump point we made use of that.
Outside the butchers shop there was a sign that said " We welcome caravaners to our town please enjoy your stay" we thought this was one way to drum up business and as in all drought stricken areas it is the grey nomads that are helping the economy of those towns. For instance we were to spend $135 all up and give that the multiplying effect and the towns like this must appreciate the spending.
We dropped around to see both Mick and Todd at the mechanical workshop. We have been stopping in and saying hello for the last ten years when they carried out a major works on the old motorhome. We had a good chat and then bid them farewell and we were on our to to our rest area stop tonight at Collie. There was not a cloud in the sky though a wind had sprung up that we were pushing into, though we didn't have far to go to today. Along the way the countryside again was dry as and you could not see a blade of grass. We were to come across a paddock where power line workers were near the electrical towers and the sheep had gathered around them no doubt thinking they were going to feed them for there is no grass at all let alone a weed.
We finally arrived and picked a spot and set up the satellite dish for tonight and strangely we have not had an outside fire for awhile and that will have to change soon. We had a late lunch and then settled in for the rest of the day to read our books. We were going to go outside in the sunshine to read until we noted the amount of fly's that are here.
Kilometres travelled 79

Wednesday the 4th
When we awoke this morning we found that two other happy campers must have arrived late last night though it would be true to say they were back on the road at 7.30 am. We had our breakfast and cleaned and readied for the days travel ahead. I was to feed in the Gum Bend Lake coordinates and found that we would need to do 250 kilometres today to arrive there.
We were on the road to Collie township at 9.10am which was some 13 kilometres from where we camped last night. Needless to say the countryside had not improved and at 10 am the outside temperature was a warm 23 degrees and at 12.30pm it would reach 28 degrees with a slight breeze.
We arrived at the turnoff and there was still no wind so the going was easy. Then the road narrowed and for the first 15 kilometres even though it was bitumen it was rough and we were bouncing along in some stages. We were to see the land had not been planted with grain and the soil looked like sand, boy they must be doing it tough.
We arrived at a small bridge across the Macquarie River which had next to no water in it. Then we were to see those dreaded water channels that must have cost millions to dig for they were going to crop cotton in the area. It would appear this never came to fruition for the drought had left the river and the Gin Gin Weir bereft of water. We have fond memories of the Gin Gin Weir for we stopped there on many occasions and enjoyed the solitude of the river and weir. In past years I had caught some very large Murray Cod and last year when we went there the camping area was non existent and the there was no water below the weir.
They have even built a large Cotton Gin for processing of the non existent crop. Well, we put the pain of that behind us and pushed on. Again we were to see failed crops and in one instance they have turned the cattle onto the remaining crop for feed purposes. The many farm dams that we passed along the road were dry and no growth nearby.
We eventually arrived at the small township of Trangie and it looked prosperous for a change with no shop closures. We decided to stop for a cappuccino and the newspaper. The parking was all angle and we had to drive a fair way out to get parking that suited the motorhome and the Terios.
We walked back and the first thing we noticed was the amount of people getting around on mopeds etc we have never seen so many in one spot. We went to the bakery and had a cappuccino and I had a pepper pie and Liz had a muffin. We sat outside and watched the people and traffic go by. We noted that across the road was an old building indicating that it was the home of the Trangie Bush Fire Brigade. It also had an old fire engine called the Garford Fire Engine from 1918 and an old hand wheeled fire hose plus a 1960's Bedford fire engine all looking in pristine condition.
On the way back to the motorhome we dropped into Vinnies and Liz was to buy new clothes for the great grand children we had a chat for awhile and then to some council workers who informed us that the green grass was due to the daily watering. I enquired where they drew the water from and they replied it is all bore water not river water. We said our farewells and then we were on our way.
I will not talk anymore about the condition of the land on the farms for it is likely we/you have a good idea what was coming. We finally arrived at Albert the home of the famous Rabbit Trap Hotel. We have decided to stay here the night for they have beautiful shower and toilet facilities which we will utilise leaving a donation before we depart.
First things first and we set up and then the satellite dish came out and in no time at all we pinned the satellite and then set up the gear for the television set and then had a late lunch one again. This afternoon for happy hour we will go over to the hotel and drop a few frothy's and Wine for Liz. Boy isn't it hot and as Liz has stated they are in for a very hot summer if this heat persists no wonder the farm land in in the condition it is. There is a lot of sheep and they are raising dust as they walk across the paddocks to look for feed.
Tonight we will watch the Marngrook Football Show and then the other show called Behind the Bar. Both these shows would normally be on tomorrow night though because of of the AFL Finals starting tomorrow night they have been moved back a day. 30 degrees at 3pm

Thursday the 5th
Awoke this morning in Albert the centre of NSW or so they say. The day was fine and warm with blue sky's and it was only when we decided to get on the road that the wind decided to appear on our nose of course. Though the going was easy with plenty of trucks on the road, mainly grain carriers. The countryside had not improved with the land very dry and failed crops. It wasn't long and we were turning to the right and venturing into Tullamore a small town that is dependant on farming and cropping.
We were enjoying the countryside for it is cropping land as far as you can see. We then turned left into Fifield and the onto the road that would take us into Condobolin. We started to note that the countryside was greening up and the sheep looked a bit healthier for they had grass to feed on.
We arrived at Condobolin and stopped to refuel at the depot just out of town where we paid $1.41.9 a litre when came through the town we noted that the diesel price was $1.56.9 a litre.
We then drove down to Gum Bend Lake our rest area for the next five days or so for we a just a bit ahead of ourselves in relation to last year. The spot we would normally pull into was occupied so we pulled up nearby to get the full sun for our solar panels. The people nearby were a bit aggressive stating we were parking on the road way which was not correct. After I had a discussion with them it was agreed that I would park where we were until the morning then we would move into their spot after they leave in the morning.
Tuned the television for tonight's footy and then had a drink and took the Terios off.
We walked up on to the bank near the lake and were staggered to find that there was no water other than a couple of puddles. There were dead fish and one Pelican who must have starved. The difference with the lake with all the bird life in May and now is absolutely shocking. This is caused by drought and the lack of a water allocation to top up the lake. Here it is lunch time and we are cooking a couple of toastie's on the barbecue plate and enjoying the cooling breeze. This afternoon we will sit in the shade and set up our camp tomorrow morning. We do not have to use the satellite dish for we have local digital television.
Kilometres travelled 123

Friday the 6th
We watched West Coast annihilate Essendon last night before we went off to bed. We did not know what to expect this morning for the weather forecast was for high winds and rain in our area of Condobolin.
We hopped out of bed at 7.30am this morning and then decided we should resume our walks again. We headed off around the lake and the wind was strong and the sky just looked turbulent. It is a sky we had not experienced in the past months.
When we arrived at the end of the walk we were still shocked at the Lake being bereft of water showing the island with no water around it. To make it worse there were schools of dead fish with crows eating their eyes out. I ventured out to have a look and one crow took off and you could see that all the fish had their eyes missing. They would have been four or five pounders though they were only carp so they were would not be missed. I spoke to a council worker on our way back to camp and he informed me that the Murray Cod had been netted before the lake went dry and they were returned to the Lachlan River.
Back in camp and we only had a cup of tea for the the fifth wheeler is leaving this morning and we wanted to take his spot for it is the best area for solar power. They were to say there farewells to us and indicated that they were off to Sandy Point at Hay another good camping spot. The total truck and fifth wheeler is their home full time. We then moved over and set up our camp with the side with the awning facing away from the strong wind that had sprung up.
All the wood was unloaded from the Terios and the firepot off the back of the motorhome, though it will be a few days before we use it if it rains. I covered the wood with a tarp and weighted it down.
We had our breakfast later this morning and then said farewell to another happy camper who we had met yesterday and they are bound for Mudgee for caravan repairs. Liz's tablet has run out of wi fi so we will have to find a Telstra agent to purchase more gigabytes for her. Since the new phone the only number appearing is the phone number where on the old one we had the three so we could keep a watch on their use and upgrade etc.
We then drove into the town centre and noted that there were no Telstra agents so went to the post office and they could not help us much other than give us a phone number to call. Of all places, we went over to the Vinnies shop and sat down in the book room and made the call and sure enough Liz's tablet now has been updated with more gigabytes.
We then went to the IGA and bought a few items and then around to the RSL to book for the bus to pick us up tonight for we are going out for a meal and hopefully win a meat tray. Down to the Mitre 10 to no avail and then back home for lunch.
The wind is really blustery now and we have decided to bring in the awning before it rips and put away the chairs etc. Off for our showers and put up with the weather for the barometer is quite low on stormy.
We will enjoy tonight and put up with the weather something that we have not experienced since we have been on the mainland, it is just terrible and we would not want to bet on the road today that's for sure.

Saturday the 7th
Boy did we cop it yesterday afternoon with high winds and a little rain. We were to see a dust storm pass close to us and with a little rain it dumped dust onto our solar panels and the the bodywork of the motorhome. The RSL bus picked us up at 5.30 pm and took us to the club for a meal and a few drinks. We were to buy tickets in the meat raffle and we were surprised when we had one of our numbers come out. First Liz was to choose the roast lamb and sausages pack and then another of our numbers came up and this time the Silverside and hamburgers was selected. To say we were happy was an understatement. When we arrived back at the motorhome on went the television and Liz was most happy to see that her beloved Collingwood defeated Geelong thus going into the prelimenary final.
This morning the weather was just as bad though we had passages of sun which helped the solar panels charge the house and waeco battery's. I took the camera and went for a walk up to the top of the bank around the lake and was surprised to see two Pelicans and Crows in a small water puddle there must have been a few small fish surviving. Did not bother going for a walk this morning for the weather was cold and blustery.
As we did not hop out of bed until 8.30am this morning we were to cook our breakfast inside due to the weather. The usual Saturday morning fare was cooked and that is a McChallis egg, bacon and cheese muffin each and washed down with a cup of tea, very nice indeed.
After breakfast cleaned up inside and as it was still cold being 10 degrees rising to only 14 degrees later in the day we opted to stay inside and read our books.
We were to have our lunch and then hop into the Terios and drive into town and around to the Food Works supermarket and bought a few items. We then drove around the town just looking at the housing etc. When we drove over the bridge there was a rugby game in progress though we did not bother going into watch. We drove out to where the Utes in the Paddock are and had a look without getting out of the car. Then went over the bridge and noted the Lachlan River had plenty of water in it.
We drove then back to camp and stayed inside and once again we were to see more dust storms luckily it did not come near us today for I had cleaned the solar panel on the Terios for I do not have a suitable ladder to do the panels on the motorhome.
The rest of the afternoon we read more of our books and hopefully the day will improve tomorrow for I wish to cook a chicken in the camp oven. Tonight we will watch the Brisbane Lions V Richmond which should be a good game. Other than the weather the day has been ok though we did not talk to other happy campers for they were inside their vehicles as well.

Sunday the 8th
We had a beautiful sunset last night and in fact it was that windy and cold I took the photo out of the back window of the motorhome. We slept in this morning until 8.30am and then went for a walk in the sunny conditions though the wind was cold once again. On our return I moved the firepot so it was not so affected by the wind and grabbed a sheet of roofing iron to further deflect the wind.
This morning we were to have toast and the kettle was boiled on the fire. After breakfast we decided to cook a chicken in the camp oven on the firepot. First we read our books until the wind became intolerable and then went inside and had a cappuccino. I decided to man up with an extra coat and started cooking the chicken and a little later added potatoes and pumpkin to roast. Liz was to steam corn, cauliflower and broccoli of course gravy as well.
It turned out a beautiful meal so we won't be having much for our meal tonight. We had a cup of tea and then washed up. We decided though we love this camp spot we are sick of the cold wind and lack of sun for our solar so we are moving on in the morning even though we will be pushing a head wind.
We pulled the camp down and packed it away and then hitched the Terios onto the motorhome so in the morning all we have to do is test the lights etc. I have to do the diary up on the top of the bank near the electric barbecues to get power for there is not enough power in the battery to do it. Boy isn't it cold it is 14 degrees though feels like 7 degrees thus we have not much to talk about other than we read our books again in the warmth of the motorhome.

Monday the 9th
A cold night with intermittent rain during the early hours this morning. We hopped out of bed at 6.45am in the hope of dodging a bit of the wind this morning by leaving early. The sky did not have a cloud to seen though by the time we finished breakfast the wind was back full force and cold as. We thought about staying another night and when we checked the weather forecast and the barometer which had dropped again we decided to head to Tullibegeal and hopefully there will be room for us to get onto power.
We left the camp area at Gum Bend Lake at 8.45 am and headed up to the dump point then we were crossing the bridge where we had to give way to horses if on the bridge. No horses so we continued on past the Utes in the Paddock. The wind was nearly head on and I could see by the fuel consumption that it was going to be a tough trip for the next 74 kilometres. The road was nice and straight with little traffic on the road and then we came across cattle in the long paddock feeding, there would have been over 100. luckily even they were close to the road they did not cross in front of us. It was only 7 degrees so we had the the heater in the motorhome going flat out for awhile.
We came across some paddocks where the crops had failed and when we turned onto the Lake Cargelligo road we came across road works which slowed us down. Then we were to see wheat crops for many kilometres along the road and going back towards the mountains, it looked healthier than what we had seen previously. Then along further the wheat in the paddock looked a little patchy. The farmers are hoping for spring rains to kick their crops along. It wasn't long before we were on the road into Tullibegeal and our camp site for the next couple of days.
We set up and out came the power cords and hooked into power and then set up the satellite dish which had to have pegs driven in the ground to stop the wind from blowing the dish over. Then we received a telephone call that advised us that we left our old phone at Vinnies at Condobolin and what a bugger we only left there this morning. After a lot of toing and froing it was decided that a woman from Tullibigeal will pick it up for us on wednesday and give it to us on Thursday morning which suits us fine for we have to bring the washing machine out and few other things to keep us occupied. Even though there is sunshine the wind is still a very cold sou/wester. We had our lunch and then settled inside and read our books. The bloke we met when we were here in May is still here in the district repairing and building new fences on the farms so we will catch up with him later in the day. Tonight we will watch the Talking Footy show before going off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 74

Tuesday the 10th
This morning was chilly, though on going outside the sun was shining with no clouds. We have resumed our morning walk and the breeze was a little cold. We walked up toward the showground and on the way we noted a Pepper Tree which was absolutely full of red peppercorns. We are not sure as to whether you could eat them or not.
When we arrived at the entrance to the showgrounds we noted the farmland next door and there was wheat growing as far as the eye could see and it did not look as if it has been starved of water unlike other areas. We took a short cut across the railway line and noted the huge concrete holding area for grains that would be the overflow from the silo's or shed.
The sheds and silo's are very large and must hold a lot of grains etc. We were to note the amount of trucks including cattle that run over their weighbridge during the day.
Back in camp and the workmen had been working installing fitness equipment since 6 am this morning. We have never seen workers hard at it as this lot they did not seem to stop for smoko or lunch.
We had our breakfast and then cleaned up and spoke to Billy the fencing contractor before he went off to work this morning, he is 82 years old. The happy camper next door to us hasn't spoken since we arrived yesterday and they left this morning without a word. After breakfast out came the washing machine plugged it into power and Liz did all the washing. We were to speak to Merle and Ray who have been cleaning the facilities for as long as we have been passing through here and they remember us from previous times, they are 81 and 83 years old and do a good job and they both appear to be agile.
Ray was to tell us that he still has a small farm where he runs sheep and a few other animals, his farm has not been hit by drought.
Come lunch time we decided to go over to the Tulli cafe for lunch where I had a hamburger with the lot and Liz had a normal hamburger washed down with a cup of tea. Very nice indeed and we were to speak to a few locals as they came in and most remembered us from previous years. We bought a paper and headed for our motorhome and for the rest to the afternoon we read our books out in the sunshine which was great. We have ordered fish and chips for our meal tomorrow night from the Tulli cafe.
Tonight we will have a happy hour and then settle in to watch television before going off to bed.

Wednesday the 11th
A warm night and a brilliant morning when we hopped out of bed, there was supposed to be a frost though that did not eventuate. It was 10 degrees when we went on our walk this morning climbing to 24 degrees later in the day with no wind.
We first passed the Tullibegeal Co/Op which was not open though as we passed the mechanical repair shop they were just opening up. Then past the Koala Petroleum depot where if you require fuel you go to the rural office and they then dispense the fuel, the woman that works there is also the owner of the hotel along with her husband.
We were to see the two school bus's taking the students off to school which is both primary and high school. The going was easy with no wind though there was a fair bit of traffic coming into the town both cars and trucks.
There were more fields of wheat again as far as the eyes could see and all looking healthy. On the way back we noticed the Racecourse/showgrounds with all the starting barriers and show equipment.
Back at the motorhome and we ate our breakfast outside in the nice warm sun and then had a chat to the workers that are completing the fitness equipment in the Pioneer Park. They indicated they would be departing back to Sydney soon leaving one behind for the surface they put on this morning requires six hours drying time. Then it will be opened for use.
We sat out in the sun reading our books for awhile and then we decided to go up to Mitre 11 for a look see. Took the Waeco of power and onto battery and we were on our way.
When we arrived there the main tip site had been burnt out so there was nothing there to salvage though I did pick up more strapping tape in case we lock our keys in the vehicles again. Even the fridges etc had been crushed and taken away though there are countless empty 20 litre drums that contained who knows what. We then drove down and turned into a side street and that is where the town comes alive with a primary and well as a modern high school all brick so there must be plenty of kids out on the farms for the town only boast 150 residents. The new brick community hall is very modern as well as the houses that you would not know where here if you didn't drive into the back streets off the highway.
We returned and plugged the Waeco back on power and this is allowing the Waeco Battery to recharge from the solar panel. Then it was decided to go over to the Co-Op for a look and to buy something for our lunches.
As soon as you walk through the door you are stepping back into another era in time. They have everything imaginable on sale from the basic groceries and veggies down to farm and auto parts not to mention the huge freezers they have some are fridges and the veggies are kept in them. We bought a few things and lunch ingredients and then we were off home for a late lunch.
Wow! when we arrived back there was a bag of mandarins waiting for us and a little later the cleaners Ray and Merle dropped by to make sure that we had them. They informed us that they had just been picked of the trees and were the sweet variety. We thanked them very much. I can't wait to jump on the exercise machines for the workers are doing the final packing up and they will be gone given the two trucks left four hours ago, I will have to wait until the morning.
We have to drive out to the Lake Cargelligo road later in the day to pick up our old phone that is coming from Condobolin and then it will be time to go over to the Tulli Cafe to pick up our fish and chips for our evening meal. We are really enjoying our time here especially now the sun is shining bright with no clouds or wind.

Thursday the 12th
Another good night though Liz felt a little unwell this morning so I went for a walk on my own. We are hoping that it wasn't the fish and chips we had for our meal last night that upset her, though as the day progressed she came right. After breakfast I was the first person to use the fitness equipment that had been installed yesterday. Later in the day the school kids gave it a go going over and they seemed to enjoy it.
We are doing very little this morning with the sun shining and a warm day we drove the Terios over to the showgrounds and in the horse pavilion we gave it a good wash for this is the first time its been washed since we left home. Back to camp and we read our books in the sunshine and then cleaned the inside of the Terios.
We decided to have a cooked lunch today instead of tonight and that is due to the fact that I am going over to the pub to have a few frothy's with Billy the fencing contractor. I couldn't believe it we have just been given another bag of mandarins by one of the locals who we thanked very much.
Liz was to have a sleep this afternoon for there is no doubt she needed it for she did not sleep well last night. Earlier in the day we went over and had a look at the War Memorial and this area supplied a lot of the troops that did not return from those two world wars. We were informed that the two bronze soldiers were done at a cost of $600 each paid for by the community council who uses the donations from the campers box for this and other purposes. This and other reasons is why we do not hesitate to leave a donation.
The afternoon became humid and the clouds and wind appeared we wouldnt be surprised if it rains. Hopefully the wind will drop off for we are leaving for Barallen in the morning. Just had a call from John and Rhonda who have just arrived in Coober Pedy for a few days before returning to the gold coast before heading for home to Tassie.
Well that's it off to the pub. Not much happened today

Friday the 13th
We hopped out of bed at 6.45 am this morning to say farewell to Billy who was going off to his fencing work, we had quite a few frothy's with him last night at the Mayfield Hotel at Tullibegeal. We decided against going for a walk this morning and opted for showers instead. When we finished our showers we had a talk to both Ray and Merle who came to clean the facilities. It was some time before we came inside to have our breakfast. After breakfast we cleaned up around our camp and then packed the dish etc away for our travels today. Down off the leveling blocks and then hooked up the Terios and we were on our way over to the weighbridge near the wheat silo's. The weight of the motorhome and Terios was lighter than when we weighed both in early june on our way north.
The sun was shining brightly and there was no wind when we pulled out of Tullibegeal bound for Barellan. Climbed the hill and then down to the turn off to Lake Cargelligo. We were to see plenty of stock turned into the crops of wheat etc for they had failed due to lack of rain. Plenty of sheep we saw along the way and then we turned off the highway bound for Weethalle. We were surprised to see we had to travel down single bitumen road again for we thought we had left this type of highway back in Queensland. Along the way there were crops of wheat and canola on both sides of the road and in the early stages the crops did not look very healthy at all. We noted that all along the road were Cyprus Pines. We were to go through one small town where the Silo's were the main feature of the town and then we swung again and we were going down another highway where the road went back to double lane though at times the road surface, even though it was bitumen,was rough with plenty of concrete spillways. We were to enter an area where the corners were very tight and indeed we had to slow to 60 kph to get around them.
We finally arrived at Weethalle NSW and pulled up to have a cappuccino at the Road Kill Grillz. From the time you walked through the door you recognised that this was not your normal roadhouse and the bloke behind the counter was a real jester. We had our cappuccino and then bid them farewell and then went into the secondhand shop for a look see and came away with a few items.
Back in the motorhome and we drove along a little to admire the art work on the Silo's very nice indeed and reflected the sheep growing area. We then made the turn towards Barellan and the road was wider again though in patches was rough. We noted the crops either side of the road were in better condition than those we saw back up the road. It is obvious that they have had good rain on their crops for the wheat and canola looked extremely vibrant.
It wasn't long before we arrived at the turn off to Barellan and then we pulled into Ian and Denise's place which will be our camp until Monday. They were to welcome us and helped us set up and then we went inside and had a cup of tea and a long conversation on all and sundry. We decided to go up into the town centre where we all had fish and chips and salad on a plate for our lunch along with a cappuccino, which was a lot better than the last one we had.
After that both Liz and Denise went to the hairdressers for a haircut and Ian and I just relaxed on a stool in the sun and watched the traffic go by. Then we had a look at the books and I picked out two that I will read down the track.
The rest of the afternoon we just relaxed and then carted the wood off the top of the Terios for we are going to burn it in the back yard when we have our friday night catch and kill your own on the barbecue.
Tonight we will watch the Football before going off to bed. I think we are going to drive into Griffith tomorrow which is only 52 kilometres away.
Kilometres travelled 111

Saturday the 14th
It was an excellent game of football last night with Geelong running out winners by 20 points over West Coast that means they will now move onto the preliminary finals. We had a good nights sleep and when we hopped out of bed we went for a walk up the main street of Barellan and we noted the amount of empty shops just like many small towns in the outback. The Hotel as in all areas appears to be prosperous. We noted the memorial to the conquests of Yvonne Goolagong who was born in this area before going on to be a Wimbleton Winner in Tennis. Apparently she returns here every year to conduct tennis clinics for the young ones of Barellan.
Back and we had our breakfast and then relaxed and read yesterdays paper before we were invited to go for a drive into Griffith by Ian and Denise. We readily accepted that offer and then we were on our way 53 kilometres to Griffith.
Along the way we were to see many differing crops of grain including Rice paddocks that are fed from the Murrumbidgee River in large water channels that go for many kilometres plus feeding the citrus fruit and the Prune Trees along the way. We were to drive through the small township of Yenda where we will check out the town centre on the way back.
We arrived at Griffith which was really bustling with traffic and people and we drove past the old spitfire aircraft which makes up part of the war memorial then we we turned into the town centre where the traffic was really thick found a parking spot and then off to the bank. After that we went around to Aldi and bought a few items before going off to the shopping centre where first visited the el cheapo and bought a few items and then into the coffee shop where we had a cappuccino and sausage rolls and raisin bread for our lunch.

We are not used to see so many people especially the amount of people from other country's. We sat out in the courtyard and watched the people and traffic go by and then bought a newspaper and we were on our way back via the back roads rather than the highway.
We were to see more irrigation channels and citrus fruit and rice paddocks. We noted the size of the houses that line the road among the orchards etc. We were to see the mountain where the Italian fellow hid during the war which we visited many years ago. We finally wound our way back into the town centre of Yenda and what a surprise to see so many old buildings not occupied and just deteriorating with age. Again the only building that looks prosperous is the hotel. Back on the highway and we again passed the huge winery that is Casella Wines who have enormous wine vats and Ian was to tell us that they export 20 containers of wine every day overseas. We noted the large amount of pallets of empty bottles in the yards and of course it is surrounded by many vineyards.
Coming in the opposite direction always seems to give you a different perspective of the countryside and the day was a warm 24 degrees and there was not a cloud in the sky. We arrived home and read today's paper and just rested up and like last night we are going to light the firepot in the backyard and cook our evening meal on that fire as if we were camped on a river bank somewhere. Then we will watch the Richmond V Brisbane tonight before going off to bed after a very good day thanks to Ian and Denise.

Sunday the 15th
Last night we cooked our meal on the camp fire in the back yard. We had chicken kebabs, hash browns and a salad it was all very nice. This morning we stayed in bed until 8am and then went for our walk again this morning it was warm and no clouds in the sky. That would change later in the day when we had a cloud cover though it did not cool the day down at all. We went for our walk through Barellan to the Hotel and then back again. We had our breakfast and this morning I am going to take off our jerry can holder and Ian is going to mig weld the breakages that we received last month. That was done and then we poured the last jerry can of diesel into the motorhome, whilst we were doing that we had Des come to visit we hadn't seen him for some four years and he hadn't changed a bit in that time. We had a cup of tea and chewed the fat for some two hours and Des indicated that he would like to go travelling again with us next year. Before we knew it lunch time had arrived and we had given Ian the silverside we won in the meat raffle at Condobolin RSL last week and he was to cook it overnight in his dreampot. We had all the usual veggies and with white sauce of course and it was very nice indeed, very tender.
We were then to have showers for we are on the road towards Narrandera in the morning. The rest of the afternoon was spent just resting up and tonight we will light the campfire again and will cook something for our evening meal though it won't be much given how much food we had for lunch. We will sit around the fire later tonight given there is no football now until next week when we will be in Melbourne. We may watch a bit of television later before going off to bed.

Monday the 16th
We hopped out of bed early this morning and went for our walk through Barellan, it was so early none of the shops were open and there were few people about. It was overcast and windy when we returned to have our breakfast. After breakfast we hooked the Terios to the motorhome and then said our farewells to Ian and Denise and thanked them for their hospitality over the weekend.
We pulled out onto the road adjoining their house and we were bound for Narrandera. The road was a rough bitumen most of the way and there were plenty of wheat and lucerne crops along the way all doing very well. It would appear they have had good rainfall in this area. In one section they were growing wheat right up to the farm house.
We were to come across plenty of crops and the they stretched for kilometres and then way back into the hilly country. The traffic was getting heavier with plenty of grain Road Trains using the road.
We came across Canola the best looking crop we have seen to date and even with the overcast weather the bright yellow was a sight to see. We are not travelling far today for our destination for the night is at Narrandera. Before we knew it we had arrived and then took the turn off down to the Old Brewery camp grounds. There have been major changes since we were here in May. For instance they have pulled down all the fencing around the old football ground and now happy campers are camping on that. We did likewise though if it rains, and it is threatening to do so, we may get a bogged who knows. At the moment it is overcast with the sun breaking out now and again and also a few heavy drops of rain.
We were to have a cappuccino and then unhooked the Terios and drove into the town centre first to the Chemist and then we walked around to the chainsaw people and after hearing the cost of a battery operated chainsaw we are having second thoughts. Then into Coles and bought some smoked cod and a few other items for the rest of our trip for we expect to be in Melbourne this Friday. Of course a trip to Vinnies was in order and we purchased a few items and had a chat to the ladies manning the centre.
Back to our camp and I fixed a cover that had come loose, with an electrical tie of course and I will do proper repairs when are arrive home. We had our lunch and as the weather does no look good we stayed inside and read our books and watched other happy campers arrive.
Hopefully tonight we can watch Talking Footy before going off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 59

Tuesday the 17th
We were to hear the pitter patter of rain on the roof of the motorhome last night and it was still going at 6am this morning. We were a bit worried that the ground may have become saturated and we may bog before getting onto the road.
We hopped out of bed at 7.30am and on going outside it was just a fine rain so I decided to put the A-Frame on the Terios and we would leave this morning for Tocumwal. We had our breakfast and whilst doing so we noted that many of the happy campers were pulling out and they were not having any trouble with the ground, though wet.
We packed up and then moved the motorhome over onto the road and then drove the Terios around to hook up, we did not look like bogging down. All hooked up and we were on our way onto the road and then took the turn out of Narrandera to the Newell Highway. We were to see the old wooden railway bridge that has survived all these years.
Once on the Newell Highway we were to note the amount of B-Double trucks that were coming up from the south. There were none coming behind in the first instance. We noted that the wheat and canola crops in this area looked really healthy. We were to leave the cropping country and came across plenty of cattle and sheep who looked in good condition with plenty of water in the dams. We were to see plenty of old hay sheds that all appeared to be falling down, most likely they were held up by the amount of feed in them.
We came across a wide load of 4.2 metres that was using part of our side of the road so we just pulled into the edge to let it go by and that was the only wide load we were to see. There were still plenty of truck loads of hay heading north and then just the cargo carrying B-Doubles in waves.
We finally arrived at Jerilderie and decided we would stop for a cappuccino. When we parked up in a back street we then went over to the Vinnies store where I bought a couple of old CD's and Liz bought an Elvis Presley Teddy Bear then into the newsagents so Liz could buy the paper that had a full glossy page of Collingwood Players for this week.
Then into the Bakery where we had a cappuccino each plus a sausage roll each I pigged out and had a pie as well all very nice. I doubt if we need any lunch today.
As we moved off we noted an old shed that advertised a blacksmith as well the undertaker quite unique we thought. Down a little further was the old Post Office complete with telephone box and letter box, very nice indeed. There were many fine old buildings as well, in previous years we have always drove straight through, though in future we will stop and have a good look at the town and what it has to offer.

The clouds had all disappeared and we were back in brilliant sunshine with no clouds which was great. By the look of the puddles by the side of the rain they must have had rain here as well. As we were driving along we were to see many small water channels and they were all through the rice paddocks and then we came across the main water channel full of water from the Murray River.
Before we knew it we were going through Finley and noted the trees along the main street were just starting to bud up and they will look a treat when they finally do. We left the town and all along the way were water channels and rice being grown as far as we could see. We then arrived a Tocumwal and we went across the bridge into Victoria and then down to one of our favourite spots on the Murray River.
We couldn't believe how many caravans were set up with no occupants as we are only staying two nights we parked in front of two unoccupied caravans after checking with a couple of happy campers nearby.
We recognised them from last year so we chatted about what we had been doing as well as them. They indicated that they had no rain here and it is not expected until friday after we leave. We set up and decided as we are here for only two nights that we would not use the awning or other camping gear as well as no firepot.
The Murray River has more water in it than when we came through here in May and we never tire of seeing it pass whist we are here. We have not seen any Koala's though we have been told there are a couple close to where we are camped, so we look forward to seeing them again. We will set up the satellite dish to watch television for the next two nights before going off to bed. Oh well time for happy hour on the Murray.
Kilometres travelled 169

Wednesday the 18th
A cool morning when we awoke though the sun was shining brightly with no clouds and no wind, It would warm the day nicely with the temperature around 4pm being 24 degrees.
We were to go on our walk again this morning and the Murray River was looking splendid with plenty of water flowing. When we were here in May the water was so low that you could walk from one side to the other. Of course those pesky Corella's were screeching once again along with Major Mitchell's doing the same. The latter when they screech we find that there is a Koala nearby and sure enough there were two, some kilometre apart. The first was sleeping and it would not open its eyes even when we were shouting though the little bugger did so when we turned the camera off and then it went back to sleep. We were to see the wood ducks eating grass beside the Murray and they are used to people for it did not faze them at all when we came close to them.
We were to see the second Koala well up a Murray Gum Tree and sure enough it was sleeping too. They look very good when in the wild and as the trees leaves are shooting we could expect a few to fall out of the tree for they get drunk on the new growth tips.
As we walked further around we could see Town Beach and they had a lot of happy campers at $10 per night and other than water we can see no use in staying there. They tend to park as if they are in a caravan park they are so close to each other.
There was one exception with a very large Denning Bus and a three axle trailer parking long ways. We walked up to the bridge and then back again. Liz was to find another small gas stove along the way and when we arrived back Liz checked it out by boiling the billy and cooking the crumpets and toast on it. It works a treat along with the other two she has found along the way on our trip this year. We will have to have a garage sale to sell the extra's off.
After breakfast we cleaned up and Liz was to clean the sand etc off the front cabin floor of the motorhome whilst I had a chat to a nearby happy camper. It was around 11.15 that we drove the Terios over the border into NSW and into Tocumwal. We first went to the information centre to check for a street plan for Shepparton for we still need to correct the problem with Liz's tablet at a Telstra store.
Then we went into Vinnies and bought a few items for the future grand child and then next door into the Anglican op shop and bought a few more items. Then walked back to the car and then into the newsagent for footy posters of Richmond and Collingwood and of course the newspaper.
Then into the IGA and bought a few biscuits etc and something for our meal tonight rather than use our frozen meat. Whilst there we bought four ice creams which we put promptly into the waeco to keep frozen.
We decided to go to the Bakery for lunch and ordered a cappuccino each and then a pie for me and a sausage roll for Liz. All were very good though we have to say in comparison to what we had in Jerilderie yesterday these were of a lesser standard.
After lunch we went around to Town Beach for a look see and noted all the happy campers and whilst there we swapped some books. There was no one we knew there so we filled a water bottle and headed back to camp on the Victorian side of the border. The border of course is the Murray River with NSW owning up the high water mark on both banks of the river.
We then had an ice cream each and then settled in to read our papers and books for the rest of the afternoon in the nice sunshine. Later this afternoon we will hook up the Terios to make sure we have an early start to our journey tomorrow. Along the way we will need to refuel to ensure we have enough fuel to get us to Melbourne on Friday.
Another nice day on the Murray its is so relaxing that you tend to drop off to sleep. We will watch a bit of television tonight and then off to bed around 9-10 o'clock.

Thursday the 19th
A sunny morning once again as we went on our walk, We were to see Wood Ducks roosting in the trees and a few noisy Cockatoo's, though no Koala's. The Murray River still looks a treat though it appears that the level has dropped about 200 mills. We had our breakfast and said our farewells to the happy campers nearby and then we were on our way.
The first stop was at Koonoomoo where we refueled at $1.44.9 cents a litre. We then moved onto the murray valley highway and when we reached Strathmerton we visited the dump point and then we took the opportunity to use their showers which was were quite good.
Back on the road and we were heading for Shepparton, along the way we were to see many crops looking very healthy more so than what we have seen to date up north. We were in dairy county and there were plenty of cows in the paddocks either been milked or about to be. Then we were to see many flocks of sheep along the way.
We were to come across plenty of roadwork's and we had detour away from the Taigh Bros where we buy our oil and filter for the Iveco. We eventually arrived there and made our purchases and then on our way into the city centre to the Telstra store. It was very difficult to find parking for our vehicles due to length we were close to the Mall when we came across a disabled parking spot and a spare parking spot behind it. We then walked the mall into the Telstra shop and after hearing our problems they assured us that Liz would be credited with the gigabytes that went into my account. They indicated that it would take 48 hours to complete. Then we drove around to Aldi to look for wine bottles for Jeanette to no avail they did not have the exact bottles she was looking for though we did purchase a decorative bottle which may do.
We then drove out of Shepparton on our way towards Nagambie to have lunch. Along the way there both wheat and canola crops and the canola was very yellow and about a metre high, it looked very healthy and we noted the nearby dams were full of water.
We turned off the highway and into Nagambie and arrived at around lunch time. Today we decided not to go to the bakery instead we went into the Nagambie Fish and Chippery for lunch. We had the fish and chips with no salad etc and it was very nice indeed freshly cooked, both the fish and chips. We then washed them down with a cup of cappuccino each. After that we walked down to the Bargain Shop and purchased a broom and dustpan. Liz then posted off Jeanette's birthday card and we then went and had a look at the lake and the Black Caviar monument and then we were back on the road towards our camp spot for the night. It will leave only 105 kilometres to Jen and Robs place in the morning.
When we arrived at our spot for the night I took the last two ice creams out of the waeco and they were most enjoyable. Tonight we will watch the Marngrook Football Show and then Behind the Bar before going off to bed. Tomorrow is forecast rain which we are no looking forward to. Finally I am not happy not being able to post photo's of today's travels.
Kilometres travelled 158

Friday the 20th
We were out of bed this morning at 7am and noted the high winds that would be on our tail into Melbourne. We had a fellow Tassie pull in last night and we had a good chat and they were from the north west coast, they are on the boat tomorrow bound for home. When I went outside this morning they had already left. We had our breakfast, cleaned up and then we were on our way. The morning was overcast and windy, when we left the rest area and entered the highway the traffic was flowing really fast and when we turned onto the Hume Highway the traffic level increased with plenty of interstate trucks. I was somewhat surprised the level of our fuel burning it was the lowest I have seen for awhile as a result of the heavy wind at our back. When one B-Double went past it seemed to drag us along for awhile in his slipstream our speed increased and the fuel use dropped again.
As we became close to Wallem the countryside including the hills were very picturesque, so very green and the sheep along the way looked healthy especially the lambs. The closer we came to Melbourne the heavier the traffic was and at one stage we could see the high rise buildings of Melbourne.
I disregarded the information from the GPS and missed our turn off and had to go down as far as Sydney road in Coburg and then turned and came through Preston and into Bell Street. We were coming into heavier traffic again and so many traffic lights most being red of course.
Then we came across a tram on the way and then we took the turn off into Swift Street. Where we would normally park was taken so we parked a little up the street from Jen and Robs house. We went inside and said our hello's and then once set up we went with Jens to the Northcote Plaza shopping complex and then into Aldi to complete our purchases for home. The downside is that the veggies are very cheap and we cannot bring them into Tassie, though we really stocked up with meat.
It was now lunch time so first we went into the K-mart complex and bought a couple of Cussler and Smith books and then down to Degani's and had our lunch and of course along with a cappuccino, all very good. Then it was time to go for Liz and Jen were getting into a shopping mood. Once home at Jen's we packed the meat into the fridge and the other groceries. While at Aldi I purchased a 5 litre barrel of beer to drink on grand final day next week. We will be in Launceston to look at that game and Liz is hoping that Collingwood makes the grand final.
We then went out to Dan Murphy's to check on the price of beer etc. Tonight we will watch the Richmond V Geelong Preliminary final.
Kilometres travelled 110

Saturday the 21st
It blew a gale all night though we were as snug as a bug in a rug, just the occasional shake of the motorhome. This morning it was totally overcast with a strong wind. We went for our walk up to the service station on station road. Where we passed the enormous full block of Grollo homes with different types of Mediterranean architecture plus we noted the amount of camera's surrounding the whole complex. After buying the paper we returned home to the family for our breakfast. We also noted that the price of unleaded fuel had dropped by 15 cents a litre from what I paid yesterday to put fuel in the Terios, We also noted that the had increased the price of diesel by 2 cents a litre.
It was good to among family and we had good discussion on the their planned trip into NSW for their holidays for a week of the school holidays.
I spent a fair while getting the motorhome ready for our voyage on the Spirit of Tasmania on Monday night just packing stacking and rearranging. We were then went back to Dan Murphy's for a restock after our few drinks last night whilst watching the Richmond side defeat Geelong.
Then the whole family went down to have a cappuccino down near the railway station at Thornbury. The range of cakes and slices were immense and talk about being decadent. We were to try many slices that we can not get at home and then washed it all down with a cappuccino. They even catered for breakfast and Pizza's is you wished in all we spent over an hour just enjoying what was happening around us. It had nothing to do with the heavy rain that was pouring down outside. When the rain stopped we headed back to the car and were lucky enough not to be caught in the rain. Even though we enjoyed the time in the place though the bill when it arrived surprised me as to what the costs of cakes and slices were. Everything on display does not have a price attached.
They also had a separate room where they had birthday Cakes and Wedding Cakes and if they were not what was wanted they would make it to your design once again there was no prices on the products. Of course the room was a private room away from the crowded restaurant.
The streets in this area have beautiful trees which cross from one side of the street to the other in summer they must look a treat as well as supply shade. We returned home and then just relaxed and Liz was to bring her Collingwood memorabilia and place it on the couch for the game this afternoon. If Collingwood win they will play Richmond next Saturday in the grand final. The sun is now shining and the wind has not dropped much and just a few non rain clouds about.
We have decided to have fish and chips for our meal tonight before going off to bed either happy or sad dependant on the winning footy team.

Sunday the 22nd
A cooler evening and this morning we did not climb our of bed until nearly 8am. The day was windy still with a smattering of clouds that the sun was trying to break through. We went for our walk again this morning and decided to go past the Grollo compound that has many houses and high brick fences. Some of the entrances have Italian features including many pictures of days gone by. The amazing thing is that this complex takes up a full block from one street to the other as well many camera's that cover the full length as well as the front and back of the complex's.
We found that the fuel had not altered from yesterday though the diesel was two cents a litre dearer. We purchased the paper and then walked along the front of the complex the only thing they do not own in the entire block is the service station where we get our paper and fuel. Another brother has a very large house across the road and it as well has very high fences and camera's.
Back and we had our breakfast and showers and then it was decided that Jen would take us up to the Northcote Plaza to purchase a few items from Aldi that we forgot yesterday. Of course we purchased more than we had in mind and then another 5 litre barrel of beer for home.
On returning we spent some time ensuring that things were packed away for our journey on the Spirit of Tasmania tomorrow. Then inside where we relaxed with a cuppa. We then hopped in the two cars and we were on our way to Essendon and a midday meal with Rob's mother. Along the way the traffic was heavy due to the Tullamarine Freeway carrying those who were going to depart from the Melbourne Airport. There were many interstate trucks making their way to the Hume Highway or going up country via Seymour.
When we arrived we were treated to a good welcome that we receive each year we come the Marcen household. Marinka was to welcome us and we talked about our travels for she follows us via our web page. The dinner was excellent and we were still eating at 2.30 pm and after that I fell asleep on the couch and then the ice cream and strudel appeared along with the anti pasta which means that we will not need to eat tonight. We were to say our farewells and indicated that we would see Marinka again next year.
Coming home in the dark the traffic was still heavy and when we arrived we went inside the house and relaxed and after having a cup of tea we watched television for awhile. Jen was buy packing their suitcases for they leave tomorrow to holiday at Byron Bay and whilst there will do a bit of whale watching etc. Another good day had by all.

Monday the 23rd
It rained all night and only cleared up at around 7.30 am this morning. We decided not to go for a walk and opted to have our breakfast in the house with the family. They are busily packing for their journey today to go whale watching among many other things. We were to say our farewells and indicated to the family that we should do it inside and not subject them to the chilly weather outside. We then hooked the Terios on behind the motorhome and we were on our way to the Ferry.
Our first stop was to refuel with diesel which cost $1.43.7 cents a litre. I pumped our destination into the GPS and of course it wanted to go a different way to what I had planned. Never the less we just continued to go the way we wanted with the GPS constantly readjusting to our driving. We were to note the trees along Station Road in Thornbury were in bud and they looked a treat, they would have looked better had they had sun to highlight their beauty. The traffic was good to this stage and then when we turned to go into the city the traffic became more dense. It was noticeable that there were no vehicles trying to jump in front of us in our lane which we could not understand maybe something to do with the school holidays and less traffic. In the distance we could see the high rise buildings of Melbourne and when we approached Spencer Street we noted that one high rise under construction which had three tower cranes in the sky. When we turned into Spencer Street we passed the railway station and there were people crossing the road in numbers. We were to see a very old building among the new high rises and we wondered how long that building would last before it was demolished. There were plenty of trams though they were no bother to us. We crossed the bridge and drove past the Crown Casino and then along to City Road where we turned right, the traffic was now thinning out though we had plenty of red lights slowing us down.
We then turned onto the Esplanade and sighted the Spirit of Tasmania 1 which we will board later in the day. We then drove around to Altona Beach where we parked up for the rest of the day. In all we travelled 20 kilometres and it took 90 minutes thankfully it wasn't peak hour traffic.
Once we settled in we thought we would go and have fish and chips for lunch. We walked along the esplanade beside the beach and there was a just a sprinkling of rain that did not cause us any drama. We decided to go into D'Lish Fish for our lunch and Liz ordered flake and I ordered blue grenadier they did not serve cappuccino's so Liz walked across the road and purchased them there and we had them after we had our meal which was nice and freshly cooked.
We then walked back the way we came and the wind and the rain had stopped the sun was beaming down making it a bit warmer. On the way back we could see the two boats that go to Tassie namely the Toll boat into Burnie and the Searoad Mersey that goes into Devonport.
We relaxed for the rest of the afternoon reading our books until it was time to go to the wharf for Quarantine inspection before boarding. Tonight we will have a light meal and then have a few Frothy's and Wine going down the Bay. This time tomorrow we will be in Launceston.

Tuesday the 24th
Once on board the Spirit of Tasmania we placed our luggage in our cabin and returned to the recreation centre where we elected to watch the AFL Brownlow medal count. Of course we were to have a few Frothy's and wine to assist us in that viewing. The ship was going through the heads when we were ready for our bed and it appeared that the sea was going to be kind to us. It certainly was smooth when we dropped off to sleep.
When we awoke at around 5.30am we were entering the Mersey River at Devonport in Tasmania. We hopped up and had our showers for we had plenty of time for the disembarkation would not commence until 6.30am.
We went out on deck and watched the sun rising in the east throwing a colourful dawn and then we went onto the other side of the ship and we could see the city of Devonport with shipping in port along with fishing boats etc.
We went down to the fifth level and we had time to hook up the Terios behind the motorhome and we were on our way out of the ship and down the ramp and into the marshalling yard and Quarantine centre where were some months ago.
It wasn't long before we were on the highway heading to toward Launceston our next stop for the next few days. We noted how green the countryside was and how the dams were full of water looking more like small lakes. It certainly looked a lot different to what we had seen in NSW and Queensland who are in drought.
As usual we stopped into my sisters place at Carrick and caught up with what had been happening in the state over the last few months. My niece had made a small meringue for me and it was great even if it was at the wrong end of the day.
We arrived in Launceston and spent the next few hours unloading all the camping gear and roof racks etc from the Terios. Then we had our lunch then went over to coles and bought vegetables for we had to surrender all fruit and vegetables in Melbourne. The first thing we noticed was that fuel was a lot dearer and the fruit and veggies were the same. Oh well we had better get used to it.
That's it the journey is over and we have to say that once again it has been wonderful to travel and meet up with so many people that we knew and the making of new friendships with others we had met for the first time. The downside was the two tyres on the motorhome and four plus a rim on the Terios, it doesn't matter for we survived the little set backs.
In all we travelled 6655 kilometres and used 1105.88 litres of diesel at a cost of $1620.43. We do not keep the cost of running the Terios other than keep the kilometres travelled for our private use which was 4231 kilometres. Understanding that whilst under tow the speedo being electronic does not record any kilometres only those we used to our travel purposes. Well that's it folks back to mow lawns and all that household chores before we get the travel bug again and tour our own state of Tasmania and again leave the state next year to continue our journeys.
Kilometres travelled 126