Thursday the 6th
We were on the road early and dropped in to see my sister at Carrick. Then back on the road heading for Devonport, when we arrived we bought a couple of Cappuccinos and headed out the headland to have a late lunch. Whilst there were to see a fishing boat entering the Mersey River and looking further out to sea we could see the sea was flat. When we parked up on the ship we then went to our cabin and then back to the bar area for refreshments. Whilst on the boat we had to wear masks at all times which made it interesting drinking our frothy and wine.
We then went back to the cabin for we had bought our own alcohol aboard, which was better than $15.50 a shout. The trip was great no movement at all then before we knew it we were called to depart the ship on the Saturday morning. We could see from the ship that the traffic in Melbourne at 6am was heavy. When we drove off the ship on the Saturday we were immediately into heavy traffic so we did not use the GPS in the first instance for we knew the way and only turned it on to travel to the next suburb.

Saturday the 8th
When we arrived at our daughter and son in laws place at Ivanhoe we were pleased to see the family again after two years and we chewed the fat for quite awhile.
Then we were off to do a bit of retail therapy first stop was Aldi where we purchased groceries and meat and then into the plaza for a latte and cappuccino. Back home we loaded the fridge and then went inside to watch football and then again in the evening after our meal.
Sunday the 9th
A good a good night's sleep and then we were up 7am to have breakfast and then off to watch our grandson Lucas play soccer which he does every sunday during the season. I was surprised at the skills he had acquired since we saw him play two years ago.
Then back home to do a few things and as it is Mothers Day Rob was cooking a slab of pork on the Webber for his sister and mother are coming for lunch today. There is not a lot to do today other than relax for we are back on the road tomorrow heading up country Victoria.

Monday the 10th
Awoke early for the grandkids were off to school and Jen and Rob were off to work, after our farewells we had our breakfast and showers and we were on our way. On this occasion we are taking a different route. In the first instance we did not use the GPS for I knew the roads to Bell Street that would take us onto the Calder Highway. First we stopped in Thornbury to fill with Diesel at $1.32.7 a Litre. Then up to Bell Street and into heavy morning traffic bound for the Calder.
We finally arrived and then luckily it was two lane so the going was easy with plenty of trucks on the road. We were to drive past many small villages and the further we went the steeper the hills were we had to climb. This accompanied by heavy wind and horizontal rain took the fuel consumption rate high.
I wasn't long before we were climbing the Great Dividing Range, which we will climb and descend many many times on this journey.
We finally arrived at our destination for the night at Kyneton at the Boggy Creek mineral water Rest Area.
We did not take the car off and during mid afternoon the rain stopped which allowed the sun to shine and this suited the solar panels. We readied ourselves for the night ahead and after our evening meal we settled in to watch the television. Then off to bed to read our books. The heavens opened up and the rain on the roof was very heavy.
Distance travelled 220 kilometres

Tuesday the 11th
We had a good nights sleep and awoke to sunshine, had our breakfast and then decided to go into the main shopping centre of Kyneton. We decided to walk into town for we thought it would not be far. Weren't we in for a surprise first we stopped to have a look at the mineral springs where there is a pump to draw the spring water. Whilst there a women pulled up to fill her bottles with the spring waters and we asked her how far into the city centre. That shocked us a bit and as she offered to give us a lift, we agreed to that. It turned out that the city centre was five kilometres away. There was no way we were going to walk back to our camp. There was very cold southerly wind blowing and it wasn't long before the sky became overcast again though there was no rain.
We had a walk around the streets in the town centre and not all shops were open, it appeared they are mainly open from Wednesday to Saturday this time of the year. What we saw of the buildings indicated they were very old and the War Memorial Building was built out of Bluestone Blocks and looked quite a treat.
We went into Woolworth's to get some salad things and a packet of dog biscuits for my Yabby traps. Then we walked around for awhile then opted to go into the Bakehouse/Cafe for a cappuccino and a toasted sandwich each, Which was nice. We then went into the Reject Shop and Liz bought a pair of slippers for she had left hers back in Melbourne. Then there was no way were we going to walk back to the camp so we rang for the Kyneton Ride Share and after 50 minutes they turned up and the ride back to camp cost $10.
Then I started up the generator to charge batteries etc which we would normally charge from solar power.
It was 3pm before we had a cuppa and slice of Liz's fruitcake and then we settled in to read and after our meal we will watch television and off to bed before getting back on the road tomorrow.

Wednesday 12th
Travelled along the Calder highway with no wind which was bonus after yesterday. The Calder was still a two lane highway which was a great for there were plenty of trucks on the road. We had nice blue sky's as were driving along which was a pleasure. Before we knew it we had a arrived at the Ravenswood Service Centre where were going to have a cappuccino. We decided to stay there the night so we parked around the back away from the trucks and then we went and had a cappuccino and fish and chips for lunch.
We were to do little after lunch and read our books watching the trucks stop for a meal and on their way again.
We were able to get television for tonight and then we decided to go into the truckies restaurant and have a meal later. We had Roast beef and it was cut thick and was very tender the vegetables had not been cooked so we opted for salad and chips. Hot roast beef and cold salad plus gravy a strange mixture though very enjoyable. We watched television for a while then retired to bed and read our books before dropping off to sleep.
Kilometres travelled 44

Thursday the 13th
We had a good nights sleep and were not worried at all by the amount of trucks coming and going. We had breakfast and we were on the road at 9.30am heading for Boort, our next stop. We were driving through farmland that had been cultivated for wheat, I hope we do not run into the mouse plague. We were to see many irrigation channels for their crops and we drove through many small towns. We turned off the Calder and headed inland and our next town was Bridgewater which had many old buildings and when we crossed the Loddon River we were to see and hear those dreaded Corella's who were stripping the gum tree's. Then before we knew we it took another turn and not long after we had a road sign greeting us into Boort. We did not see much of the town though we noticed Olive Groves coming into the town. We headed out to the Show Grounds we were intending to stay for three days to meet up with Ian. Ian is currently working 12 hour shifts on the Olive farm. We spoke to him and we will see him tomorrow.
We arrived at the showgrounds and there were no other happy campers though one came later in the day. Then we took the Terios off the motorhome and I noticed how the towing apparatus moved which didn't seem right. So after inspection part of the front chassis was broken. I didn't bother about lunch and spent the rest of the afternoon removing the front bumper etc so we could have a good look at the damage. It doesn't look good and hopefully we can get it re welded tomorrow for I don't think it prudent for Liz to drive it for the rest of our holidays.
We are a bit disappointed though we will see what tomorrow brings. At Least we are on power and it looks like rain is on the way way and we have the electric heater going. Oh well off for a frothy and wine to drown our sorrows,
Kilometres travelled 123

Friday the 14th
Never had a lot of sleep last night due to worrying about how we get the car fixed, at one stage we were talking about returning to Tasmania with Liz driving the Terios and that would have taken place if Liz was able to drive in Melbourne traffic. We had our breakfast and then Ian arrived which cheered us up a bit and soon after Brian arrived and then took us out to the workshop where we hoped the damage could be repaired. The bloke was not there for he was out on another job and wouldnt be back until 2.30pm. Lunch time arrived and we elected to buy fish and chips for our lunch and then we went back to camp and consumed the food, we then went back to Ian's camp to pick up the firepot for our fire tonight.
We took the Terios out and the bloke who indicated he would fix it and he started straight away and we left it with him.
We then set our camp further and then due to no television out came the satellite dish to watch the football tonight. Happy hour arrived and were joined by other happy campers and we chewed the fat until we came inside for our evening meal. Tomorrow we hope to do a tour of the district and Ian has indicated we will go to the Olive Oil plant and other attractions.
A good day considering though we will sleep well tonight.

Saturday the 15th
Ross came down and picked me up at 8am for he had finished repairing the damage on the tow gear of the Terios. He had put extra struts in to carry the load of towing. He just did a bit of tidy up work and then I paid him. I was somewhat surprised at the cost which I thought was quite low for the time and steel bolts etc.
Everyone in the camp was pleased to see the Terios and they did an inspection and commented how cheap it was. Ian was to come around and join us for our usual Saturday morning breakfast McChallis egg,bacon and cheese Muffin washed down with a cuppa.
We chewed the fat for awhile with the other happy campers and then decided to put the front of the Terios back together. All was going well and I did not have to cut the front to allow the front to fit, which was a bonus, then I thought did we connect the wires for the turning/park lights and sure enough I had forgotten so back off with the front to connect and then started all over again. We were having trouble remembering where the top brackets fitted and Terry came over and as quick as a flash worked it out. So between Ian and Terry I was very happy when it was all together finally at 2.30pm and then we put on the A-Frame and decided to lower the tow ball for a lower pulling action.
Then it was time to relax and Terry had cooked enough pumpkin soup for everyone so we had a big cup of that and it was delicious. We stoked the firepots up for Ian is cooking a shoulder of pork in his u buet cooker and we were to do the baked veggies in the camp oven and steamed veggies on the campfire.
The meal was great plenty of pork and crackling and way to many veggies and it very enjoyable and then we stoked the both fire pots and up and had a late happy hour. We were to have our second chimney fire on this trip and really heated up for were all sitting under a roof.
Ian was to leave around 8pm for he starts his shift roster on the Olives tomorrow though indicated we should come to the caravan park tomorrow morning for a cuppa.
We sat out talking to the other happy campers and came in around 9.30pm and watched a bit of football before going off to sleep.

Sunday the 16th
We had a wonderful nights sleep and never arose until 8am and on then coming outside stirred up the ash's from last night and put more wood on and in no time at all it burst into flames on with the kettle and in no time at all we had our cuppa and then cooked toast and crumpets for breakfast. It was very enjoyable and then the other happy campers came out and sat around the fire. Thankfully the Tassie jokes had run there course so the conversation was great.
We went down to the caravan park at 10am to have a cuppa and work out where we were going next. As we have decided to stay another day so we can get out the washing machine Ian has indicated that he will pick up the firepot Tuesday morning before we leave Boort.
Both Liz and Ian had their maps out and compared our track and we had decided to have a couple of Camps on the Mighty Murray and then head over to Jerilderie and then onto the Newell highway and then turn on to the Kidman Way and head for Mount Hope.
As Ian was off to his 12 hour shift on the olives we bid him farewell and then and had a look at the Lake and went to the IGA for a a few things and then we drove around for awhile though I did not take photo's of the empty buildings etc.
We went up to the lookout and all we could see was the back of the lake and roof tops and in the other direction the trees stopped you looking out to the country side so we decided to go back to camp.
Terry had made another huge pot of pumpkin soup and we were invited to join them which we did and then I run the Terios up on blocks to spray paint the new steel and welds before rust set in. Then it was a case of resting for the rest of the night having sausages and veggies for our meal tonight while the rest will have the left over's from last night. They are really a great group of people and the only live a 100 k's away.

Monday the 17th
Another good nights sleep and out of bed at 7.30am and stoked the fire to boil the billy etc for breakfast. All the happy campers sat around the fire and before long they had hitched up and on their way back home some 100 k's and others 250. They indicated that they would be back in a fortnight to enjoy each others company and Ian has indicated that they can borrow his fire pot on their return.
We said our farewell's and then out came the washing machine and Liz was busily doing that whilst I started to pack things away for we are moving on tomorrow and we hope we have no further drama's along the way.
Ian was to drop around for a cuppa before going off to work on the olives for the next 12 hours and then when the clothes were dry we put the awning away which is one less thing to do tomorrow and besides we are getting heavy dews of a morning though the days are good. Today it is expected to reach 20 degrees.
Another happy camper arrived and elected to put his caravan under the shed roof due his caravan having water leaks. Then we had our lunch in the sun even though we had stoked up the firepot.
We had noted that those from yesterday had little tables you placed on your chair to hold cups of tea etc. Liz was to take a photo so after lunch we drove up to the home hardware and unfortunately they did not stock them. Then went to the butcher to see if they had black pudding to no avail.
Then we decided to drive around Lake Boort which we discovered is man made; the original Lake is over the back of this and is pretty dry. During the summer months they hold many aquatic events on and off the lake, which would be good. We were to see the small beach and the canal that feeds this lake and is also used for irrigation for not only do they farm Olives they also have huge paddocks of wheat which is starting to grow. Then we came across an old wooden timber dray that had wooden wheels and in the sheds at the showground they have vintage tractors and farming equipment.
When we arrived back we hooked up the towing frame on the Terios for tomorrow and then sat in the late afternoon sun to read our books, we will cook our evening meal on the fire later. We will probably come in watch a bit of telly before going off to bed, the satellite dish etc will be packed away in the morning.

Tuesday the 18th
It was very overcast when hopped out of bed this morning. We had closed the fire down so we took the gas cooker onto the table and had toast and crumpets for breakfast. 2 happy campers joined us and we discussed where we were bound for today. They are staying another night so we gave them the wood that left over from the fires we had. First Brian came to visit and chewed the fat and when he left Ian arrived around 10.30 so we had morning tea. When he left we did our final packing and hooked the Terios up and said our final farewells to the happy campers. Our first stop was the service station to fuel up at $1.37.9 a litre. We then headed out onto the highway on the way to Kerang. First we were to see the silo that had burnt yesterday which destroyed the corn the farmer had stored and further along the road there were paddock after paddock of wheat sown. The going was pretty easy going with little wind though the highway was rough in places. We arrived in Kerang and decided to have a cappuccino though we could not find suitable parking within a kilometre of the town, so we pushed onto our camp on the Murray River.
We had to turn onto another highway and we were now heading to Koondrook and we were going to camp on the Murray for a few days. Just before Koondrook we arrived at the turnoff and lo and behold the roads were closed due to road works be carried out. We continued onto the town and pulled into the Wet Lands rest area. We looked at the map and decided to go over the into NSW and into the Barmah Forests. We were to drive though the township and passed huge heaps firewood on two occasions finally we arrived and to get to our destination we had to drive a further 3 kilometres on gravel roads. After1 kilometre it being so rough we elected to turn around and head back to the wet lands rest area for the night. So here we are back in Victoria and in the morning we shall move onto Deniliquin. We did not have lunch until nearly 2pm and have now settled into read our books for the rest of the afternoon. As we were able to receive television we will that tonight before going off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 102

Wednesday the 19th
Very cloudy this morning and this would persist for the main part of the day. After breakfast we drove over the Murray River once again and entered NSW, we decided to have a cappuccino even though it was early morning in Barmah.
We then drove back onto the highway and we were heading towards Deniliquin. We were to see many wheat or grain silos along the way and the cropping ground went for many kilometres. We were to see our first large windmill dragging water to the troughs for both sheep and cattle and there were plenty of them the sheep had many lambs. Then we came across cattle in the long paddock feeding and they were some way from the drovers camp. Then we came across cotton fields in full bloom. Though overcast the going was easy with little wind though in places the road though bitumen was rough.
Before we knew it we arrived at Deniliquin and first pulled up at the Mitre 10 hardware store, we purchased a couple of items that we needed and then onto to top up with fuel at $1.34.9 per litre. Back on the highway and we were heading for Conargo where we intended to stop for the night. Again the going was good though still cloudy which cleared away later in the afternoon giving a sunny day.
We finally arrived and found a camping area which we settled at the showgrounds so we had a late lunch and now are just relaxing and we will read our books tonight for we do not have television and we cant be bothered setting up the satellite dish. We were to have a look at the history of the area which is mainly grains and sheep.
Kilometres travelled 123

Thursday the 20th
This morning is a special day for us it being our 58th wedding anniversary. We decided to have another look at Conargo even if there is not a lot to see. First of all we checked out the notice board which details a lot of what is in the district. Then onto the hotel where we were expecting to have an anniversary dinner tomorrow, this was not to be for the hotel built in 1863 had burnt down. They have been able to save the front facade and another hotel is being built behind the facade. It would be interesting to see the old front and modern rear.
Back to the motorhome and did our final packing and we were on our way towards Jerilderie. With no wind the going was easy and we again were passing through cropping land as far as we could see. It is said that farmers are reluctant to sow down crops due to the current mouse plague. We were to see many sheep along the way.
We finally arrived at Jerilderie.
We drive down the main street which in effect is the Newell Highway and as it is early in the day we decided to push on. It wasn't long before we came across hundreds of cattle feeding in the long paddock alongside the highway and we travelled through them at 5 klm's per hour. The rest of the countryside is very dry indeed and we were not to see any water channels.
We arrived at the start of the Kidman Highway which we intended to take, though we were put off for we would be travelling into area's where the current mouse plaque is. We continued on the Newell highway towards Narrandera. It being the a main highway we were have many trucks pass us north bound, luckily we were not to hold any up, for which we were pleased.
We finally arrived at Narrandra and drove down to the old brewery camping site. There were many happy campers there though we were able to find a spot in sunshine which did not appear until late afternoon due to clouds.
We had our lunch and then went into town and our first stop was a vinnies store where I purchased another pullover for I did not pack a lot. Liz was to buy several DVD'S and then went to Mitre 10 to enquire about the seat tables to no avail. Then onto Coles for a few veggies etc.
We drove around to the Ex Serviceman's Club and Liz went in and enquired about a courtesy bus to bring us to our dinner celebration. Back in camp and we were to get ready for the courtesy bus is going to pick us up at 5.30pm.
Kilometres travelled 163

Friday the 21st
We had a wonderful wedding anniversary dinner last night we both ordered a chicken Parma with gravy and chips and salad. It was quite large and the cost was only $14 each. Liz was to buy tickets in the Thursday night raffles though we were not winners, we both enjoyed the meal and Liz was to buy and drink a bottle of wine and I had 6 schooners of beer, I think.
Around 9 we were to get the courtesy bus to take us back to camp after a wonderful meal and company of other people who were camping near us.
This morning we awoke to a clear blue sky though the temperature was only seven degrees, it would warm up later to 17 degrees late afternoon and no clouds. We had breakfast outside in the sun and then due to poor television last night we set up the satellite dish to watch the football tonight and tomorrow night for we are stopping here until Monday.
We went into the city centre and first stop was Coles wherein amongst many things we bought a cooked chicken for we are going to have a salad tonight.
Then over to the Narrandra Bakery where we had a cappuccino and I had a pepper steak Pie and Liz a sausage roll, both were great.
Then drove to the Wetlands Area and walked around the area though even stopping at the bird hide we were to see no birds on the water until we moved further around the area. We were to see a family of native hens swimming in and out of the rush's. The notice board indicated that the area had many types of Lizards and we did not see a solitary one.
We drove back to camp and had a late lunch and then sat out in the beautiful sunlight and read our books. After our meal tonight we will watch the football before going off to bed. We will see what tomorrow brings though the forecast looks good after a cold morning.

Saturday the 22nd
We were awoken this morning to the screeching of those noisy Corella's. We had our usual breakfast of McChallis muffins washed down with a cup of tea. We cleaned up the van and then sat outside in the brilliant sunshine talking to other happy campers who were leaving today. Then read our books for awhile and then drove to the dump point at the show grounds.
We decided to go for a drive around the road behind the camping area, thus not having to go up onto the highway. We were somewhat surprised to come across a sign indicating; Lake Talbot Water Park. We were to discover that it in fact there was a man made lake with water diverted from the Murrumbidgee River. Beside the lake was a swimming complex complete with two large pools and several water slides that would equal those in Queensland. What a beautiful setting and we thought it would get plenty of use during the summer months when the Temperature would be in the 40's.
We came back to camp for lunch and then Liz was to do a bit of hand washing and hang it out. Back in the Terios and into the town centre to go to the ATM for a refill of the wallet and then onto Coles for muffins and some ham for lunches.
Then we drove over to the information centre for a look see and then back to camp and settled in for the afternoon before going inside for evening meal and to watch St Kilda play the Bulldogs, hopefully we do not lose by to much. That's about it a lazy day in the sun.

Sunday the 23
Out of bed at 8.30am after a cold night and even worse my beloved St Kilda football team were thrashed by 111 points last night. I was so disappointed how they were playing I went off to bed at half time. This morning again was warm out in the sunshine and still no clouds in the sky. We had our breakfast and then packed up for we are moving onto Grong Grong this morning.
We were to say farewell to the happy campers that we had befriended and informed them that we would not be travelling far today. As we were leaving Narrandra we had to drive down through the avenue of Trees who are now changing colour before they drop their leaves, very pretty indeed. We were now back on the Newell Highway and the going was easy though the way ahead had a few inclines though our motorhome handled these easily. We were to drive past grain silo's and grain under huge tarps. We both wondered if the mice plaque had reached these areas.
Though we were climbing the land alongside appeared to be flat and stretched for many Kilometres, We were to pass a mob of sheep who were grazing and sitting around the dam that appeared to have plenty of water. Then we were to see the sign indicating Grong Grong ahead. We remembered Grong Grong well for the Newell used to come down past the town before the by-pass was built around the town.
We turned off the highway and came into the camp area where we intend to stop the night. The first stop was their beautiful showers that were free and saved us using ours and water. We were to stand under them for awhile with piping hot water which was great.
Liz was to do a bit of hand washing and it is hanging out in the garden area. They have a public garden where they invite you to do bit of weeding or pick what you like from the raised bed gardens. They even invite you to plant whatever plants you may have. Excellent facilities for a township of 150
We were debating whether to move on after our showers and we decided as the day was so good once again we would stay. We were to pick a couple of mandarins though they were not quite ready. We had a cappuccino and a few biscuits and then we noticed the happy campers that we were beside us at Narrandra had turned up and are only parked just up from us.
In the middle of the garden is a Pizza Oven and they supply the wood for you to use, we thought that not today. Lunch time arrived so we had a salad roll each and a cuppa and then sat out in the glorious sun for the rest of the afternoon. Whilst there the train went past though it had only empty carriages. Across the railway lines in the Royal Hotel and by looking at it we believe that it would be very old.
No television service so we will watch a DVD tonight
Kilometres travelled 24

Monday the 24th
We went with our happy camper neighbours across to the Royal Hotel for an evening meal last night. We had to walk across the railway lines and through a small paddock to arrive there. I had a few frothy's and Liz glasses of wine and we opted for a Supreme Pizza which we ate at the outside tables, it was very nice and it was large and we could not eat it so we took it home for lunch tomorrow.
Another good nights sleep and on going outside their was a bit of wind and clouds so it would appear our idyllic weather is changing. We had our breakfast and then packed and we were on the road at 9.30 am We left Grong Grong via the old highway and onto the Newell. Once on the Newell we seemed to be climbing with some big hills and the farmland was sown with crops. We were to come across roadwork's that had us down to 60 kph for the roadwork's were at least 3 klm's long. We appeared to have a side wind and only had one B-Double come up on us, we slowed to allow him to pass and then we came across another lot of roadwork's where were down to 40kph and it was just as long as the last one, we had an electronic sign thanking us for the speed we were doing.
It wasn't long before we turned off the highway and headed into Ardlethan, as we came around the corner there was a police block though they waved us through. Our first stop was to replenish the fuel and we paid $1.30.9 cents a litre. Then we drove up the main street and turned into the rest area. There were a few happy campers there so we waited for a couple to pull out and we went in and parked up for the night. We hooked into power which was $2 for 12 hours and I put in $4 to make sure we did not run out of power during the night.
Once we set up we then had cappuccino in the sunshine in the nice little park and spoke to a couple of happy campers who were on their way to Griffith's. It is a nice little park which includes a large barbecue area which we may use for our meal this evening.
We had our lunch of left over Pizza which was warmed in the microwave now we are on power. After lunch we went walkabout down the main street and checked out the times for the bowls club to open and they only open friday to sunday.
We walked past a small lake where when we arrived the geese were kicking up a racket and there must have been at least a hundred wood ducks swimming about. We came across the sprinter that is made out of old shearing tools and spanners and it is well made and the down past the display of old mine equipment and a stamp mill. Then we walked further and Liz was to pat the spanner kelpie. It is amazing how they use old tools to make these works of art.
Back up the main street and dropped into Foodworks and only purchased drum sticks which we ate two of in the park in the sunshine and the other two we found room in the freezer for tomorrow.
The rest of the afternoon will be spent just relaxing though Liz went over to the Community Shop for a look see, however they closed at 12 noon. Tonight we will watch another DVD after we have our meal. Tomorrow we are moving onto West Wylong.
Kilometres travelled 48

Tuesday the 25th
Another pleasant morning which was quite warm as to previous days. We had breakfast and then chatted to the happy campers nearby for awhile and we were on our way firstly back on the Newell Highway and then onto West Wylong.
Once on the highway I could tell we had a strong headwind the way the motorhome was reacting though at times it was on our side when following on the highway. We pulled up at one stage for the UHF came loose from its brackets through the vibration of the rough bitumen. We again were going through cropping land either side of the highway and the highway appeared to be climbing all the time with many big hills which the Iveco handled easily. I could see the fuel gauge going down due to the high winds. There were plenty of interstate B-Doubles going south with a few going north. The grain crops along the way were very green and appeared to be growing well, which is the opposite further south.
We finally arrived at West Wylong and decided to take a walk to the centre of town. First we had a look at the old DC2 aircraft they have in the rest area. Then we crossed over and had a look at the West Wylong Community Rose Garden. Not all roses were in bloom a few had run their race for this year though what was left especially the white roses looked a treat.
We strolled up the main street and as soon as we saw a Bakery we decided to have a cappuccino. We also had a pepper steak pie for me and Liz had a muffin all very nice. We had a look in the Art centre across the road. We wandered back to the motorhome and then we took a left turn towards Hay and then a right towards Lake Cargelligo. The wind had risen further and we were punching into it head on. We then arrived at Ungarie and noted the very large AFL Sherrin near the hotel. It a quaint little town relying on the grain industry for there were silo's nearby. We pushed on and then we arrived at the turnoff to Tullibegeal where we intend to stay for a couple of days to washing etc. We were surprised when we arrived at Pioneer Park for there were no happy campers only a caravan that was occupied by a person working locally.
We set up and hooked into power and this is the last time we will have this pleasure, As we could not get normal television after lunch I was to set up the satellite dish and after awhile it wouldnt work so traced the fault back to two faulty connectors and now these have been rectified.
We had nice hot showers and it was good to be able to stand under hot water for a long time whereas in the motorhome it is wet done soap up and then wash down due to lack of water.
The rest of the afternoon we just relaxed and will do the washing tomorrow in our washing machine and then do a few of the touristy things. Of course we will be going up to the Mitre 11 to check for we picked up a Ryobi battery operated drill a couple of years ago,which is s till working today.
Television to tonight and then off to bed.
Kilometres travelled 148

Wednesday the 26th
The pitter patter of rain on the roof of the motorhome was very soothing when we went off to bed last night. When we awoke this morning we were back to brilliant sunshine and very little wind. We had our breakfast and then went and said hello to our next door neighbours, there was a local visiting and he informed us that he emptied 8 mill out of the rain gauge this morning.
Out with the washing machine and as there was slight breeze it was good for drying. We were to do the lot including sheets for this is probably the last time on this trip we will get power. We were to see a couple of dead mice so I lifted the bonnet on the motorhome and placed rat sack in the engine compartment, we do not want our electrical wiring eaten by this vermin. I also placed a couple of packets around the motorhome so we will see what results we get in the morning.
It was sad to hear that the Tulli cafe is only selling papers and a few other items and no take away for we thought we would have fish and chips for our evening meal. Now we will cook our own tonight.
Liz noted that the co-op was now selling cappuccino so after the bed was made and washing finished we went over and was disappointed to see that it was only a press button machine and not the proper machine for making cappuccino so we opted out.
The Mayfield Hotel is still in operation and once again we were to note the amount of solar panels on its roof.
We came home for lunch and noted that it was becoming overcast with the forecast prediction a 5% chance of rain. So after lunch Liz was to bring in the washing of the rotary washing line and pack it away.
We decided to drive up to Mitre 11 looking for goodies. We were only able to find a few nuts and bolts and nothing of any value this year. We drove down past the school and the community hall which are both very modern. The bulk of the people live in this area and the most of the houses are modern. Then out to the race course for this is another area you can camp with power showers etc. There were no happy campers there so we came back to our camp mid afternoon. after looking at the wheat crop nearby, and just relaxed for the rest of the afternoon. Just a bit of television tonight and first thing in the morning dismantle the satellite dish and head off towards Condobilin.

Thursday the 27th
It was really cold when we hopped out of bed this morning, something like 2 degrees. The consolation was that the sky was blue, no clouds and no wind. We had our breakfast and then packed up then hooked up the car.
We said our farewells to the happy campers near us and we were on the road again heading for Condobolin. There was little traffic about and the going was easy. We were to see plenty of Cyprus Pines along the way. As we changed highways we came across a huge amount of water which obviously man made. There were a lot of trees dying due to all the water.
We were to pass many B-Doubles along the way, there was plenty of room on the highway for us to pass and then before knew it we arrived on the outskirts of Condobolin. There were no horses on the bridge so we came over it easily. We passed the colourful artistic Utes in the Paddock and then onto Blue Gum Lake.
When we arrived we were surprise to see so few people there and then we noted that the toilet and shower facilities no longer existed. They have a donga with Ladies and Men's toilets which is ok. We spent the next hour or so setting up for we intend staying until Monday, Awning out and secured, firepot set up and then unloaded the wood off the top of the Terios.
Lunch time arrived and we decided to go into the town centre and on to the bakery for lunch. I had a steak pie and Liz had a salad roll with both of us have a cappuccino. We drove out towards Forbes and dropped into Uncles fuel depot and made sure that we could get fuel on monday. Even though he hasn't seen us for 2 years he still remembered our names, he is going to sell us diesel at $1.25.9 a litre some 6 cents less than other stations.
We gathered a heap of sticks on the way back to camp to help light the fire. Then just relaxed for the rest of the afternoon after setting up satellite dish.
Kilometres travelled 74

Friday the 28th
We had a heavy dew this morning and luckily I had placed a tarp over the wood last night. Liz had already set the fire so in no time at it was ablaze. I went up to the lake for a look see and firstly you could hear the screeching of the Corella's in the trees, the photo I took also picked up by accident the moon setting in the background. The lake had a bit of a breeze rippling the surface and the only birds were cormorants sunning themselves on the rocks near shore.
The fire was really going well so placed the kettle on to first boil for a cuppa and then cooked our toast,The first lot of toast I burnt so I threw it out for the birds and in no time at all there were the family birds fighting over the toast. Two Minor birds were swoop in they carried the toast away I threw another piece of burnt toast the family birds protected this well while eating.
After breakfast our came the Baby Q and was set up for cooking our chicken for lunch on Sunday.
Then we drove into the township and first to the pharmacy and the electrical store. We went out and had another look at the Utes in the Paddock and they sure look good; each being decorated by a different artist.
Back into town and off to the IGA for a few items such as a chicken and more pears for our breakfast cereal. We then went around to the Foodworks supermarket. Up to the RSL to order the courtesy bus for tonight for we are going up for a meal and a few frothy's an wine and hopefully win a meat tray in the raffle.
Picked up our medication and then we arrived back at camp around 1pm. Stoked up the fire and boiled the kettle and had beautiful cheese and bacon rolls for lunch with ham and cheese slices.
The rest of the afternoon we relaxed and rang a few friends. Unfortunately we heard last night that borders between states were once again closed. We will still move on on Monday though we may not be able to cross into Queensland next week. We are not really concerned for we have plenty of food etc should we have to isolate.

Saturday the 29th
The courtesy bus from the RSL picked us up last night along with Maurie and Gwen. After the last post was played we ordered our meals and they were cheap. we had a seafood basket for $14 each and Liz ordered a bottle of wine and I stuck with schooners of beer. The schooners were only $4 a glass against $6.40 a glass in the hotel. The food was very good and then we bought tickets in the meat raffle and wouldnt you know it the first number called was Liz's so up she went and chose a nice big leg of lamb which will be cooked for lunch on Sunday. It was amazing the last draw for the night was won by Gwen and she chose the roast beef and sausages. We had entertainment and that was good before we hopped into the courtesy bus to take us back to camp. What a wonderful evening and then we put on the telly and watched the last half of Melbourne V Bulldogs and then off to bed.
This morning going outside it was cold and the fog was thick so much so I could not see the other caravans in the grounds. Lit the fire and then checked the kettle and the water was frozen I could not believe it. The Terios was frosted over and when the fire was underway we were able to warm up, we noted the sun trying to break through the fog and when it did we had a cloudless sky and no wind and it was to warm up quickly. We had our usual Saturday fare of Muffin, egg, bacon and cheese with black pudding for me all washed down with a nice cup of tea.
While Liz did a bit of hand washing in which her hands were to get cold I filled the main water tank. We then visited our neighbours and then settled in and had a Cappuccino before lunch. After lunch we went walkabout, in the car of course and first we drove over to the caravan park to see what they were charging. 35 dollars a night for unpowered site, we couldn't believe it.
Then onto Mitre 11 to check it out. We could not believe our eyes there was an electric four inch grinder that when checked on power later worked a treat and I found 4 metric spanners and a large oversees travel bag hardly used it was like brand new. We then drove out to the wheat silos and grain storage and noted the huge amount of grain stacked under tarps. We were to watch loads of Cyprus Pine being unloaded in the sawmill and then went and put fuel in the Terios for the trip ahead. We drove through the town centre which was dead as a door nail for the shops all close at Midday until Monday.
Back to the motorhome and Liz was to sit out listening to the Geelong V Collingwood game.
For our evening meal we are cooking a pizza on the Baby Q and then will go in later to watch the football, it has been another relaxing day and we hope that continues.

Sunday the 30th
Wow what a frost this morning much bigger than yesterday the bonus being no fog, just brilliant sunshine. Needless to say the water in the kettle was frozen. When going up onto the bank around the Lake again there was little bird life, so to speak, only those noisy Corela's and a few Minor birds. The reflections on the still water looked great. Lit the firepot and with the sun it didn't take long to thaw out. We had toast and cuppa for breakfast. We had a cappuccino for morning tea and then started to prepare for our Lunch today off roast lamb and roast veggies. We had a few happy campers come over attracted by the smell of the cooking and we had a good old chinwag. One of them caught 7 mice this morning in their outside traps and two others indicated they found mice in their engine bays. As yet we have had no mice attack the rat sack in the engine bay nor they did they come for the peanut butter in the outside traps. We can only hope that this is the same response in the morning for we are leaving for Mt Hope.
There have been plenty of parents and their kids come down for the excellent Play Equipment and of course they are using the barbecues. After lunch we started packing up in with the awning and putting away our camping gear. Tonight we will have little for our evening meal after we have been to our usual happy hour with other happy campers nearby.
So we have not been doing any touristy things today just getting ready for a departure around 9.30am in the morning all being well, if there is a heavy fog we will stay until that clears.

Monday the 31st
There was a very thick frost this morning though the sky was blue as, with no wind. We had our breakfast hooked up the Terios and then said farewell to the happy campers that we had befriended over the past few days.
Then we were off to the fuel depot the other side of the town. We were to pay $1.23 cents a litre for diesel which was great. We spent some time talking to uncle (as he prefers to be called) and he was to give us the instructions on the easy way to travel to Mount Hope.
Then we headed back into the town and took the road that goes to Cobar, as the road direct has large stretches of gravel we elected to stick to bitumen, thus going a different way. The going was easy with nice sunshine streaming through the window screen and no wind at all. We had to make three turns all up and those turns took us through farming country where in some places they were sowing their crops.
We were to see plenty of cotton along the way on the side of the road then we arrived at Euabalong West and they have huge silo sheds and heaps of grain under very large tarps. The countryside was still flat and we were coming across cattle grids and all them were below the road level which meant you hit them hard and soon or later something is going to break if this continues.
We were surprised at the lack of traffic and the outside temperature was showing 17 degrees. We were starting to gradually climb and then we were on top of a plateau. What a beautiful sight with mountains in the background with the various shades of green and of course we still had Cyprus trees growing as far as you could see along the way. We came across many sheep in paddocks and no cattle.
We finally arrived at Mount Hope and slowly drove past the hotel and noted that it is only opening wednesday to friday. We thought we would go up for a meal and few frothy's and wine though this not to be.
We drove down to the community hall and as we were the only ones here we were able to plug into power. We set up and then went and used their showers with the hot water by solar power. We went to early for the water was just warm, though no worries it was still ok.
It was mid afternoon before we had lunch and then we sat and read our books in the sunshine. We noted 3 B-Doubles full of cattle pull in and the drivers checked the cattle and they were on their way again. Whilst here the cattle were kicking the side of the trailers pretty hard. We have just had 4 caravans from Victoria pull in and they give us problems going into Queensland shortly.
Kilometres travelled 149

June