Date:- 31 March 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 859.9 Km
Start:- Narooma
Finish:- Narooma
Comment:- Working out my schedule it seems I have some time to kill and what better place than Narooma to stay. Up at 7.30am. Informed the park caretakers of my intention to stay another night. All ok.
Had breakfast at Michaels Café before heading down town. Bought some ear phones for my radio as the current ones seem to have a broken wire and work intermittently.
Organised a bus (yes I am cheating) to take my bike and equipment up to Braidwood. I have been told it would be suicidal to try and ride my bike up Clyde Mountain. I am travelling from Moruya to Braidwood on Good Friday
Back to camp for a quick spell before I set off for a walk around the shores of Wagonga Inlet and back around to Foresters Bay, and back to camp.
Tomorrow I will ride to Moruya to get there early enough to get a bike box from the local bike dealer so I can transport the bike on the bus.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Day 17
Date:- 30 March 2010
Distance:- 45.85 Km
Distance to Date:- 895.9 Km
Start:- Cobargo
Finish:- Narooma
Comment:- There was quite a lot of rain overnight and I was considering staying another night if it was still raining in the morning.
Up at 7am, no rain, so packed up and on the road by 8.15am (a record) Occasional misty rain through the day, nothing to worry about
I took the detour and it turned out quite a pleasant ride. Thanks Judy of Cobargo Information office. The road was wet and slippery but as the day progressed it dried out
My 20km break was the town of Beauty Point in the bus shelter. Rather comfortable. Arrived in Narooma and headed for the first caravan park I could find. Because I was riding for a charity I was given my site rent free. Again, very much appreciated.
My tent is perched on top of a small hill overlooking the sea. You cant get much better than this. It was nice to have a shave and a good hot shower. I feel human again.
I took a stroll down town before settling on the local RSL club for a lovely counter tea, back to camp and into bed.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Day 16
Date:- 29 March 2010
Distance:- 3.42 Km
Distance to Date:- 850 Km
Start:- Cobargo
Finish:- Cobargo
Comment:- REST DAY. Up and about by 7.30am. Had a good breakfast and then washed 3 sets of riding gear. Hope it dries ready for tomorrow. Rode into town and to the information office, where I met Judy. Not much to do in Cobargo today and that suits me fine.
Judy offered me a cup of coffee as we discussed my route tomorrow. She suggested going to Bermagui and then turn off to Tilba Tilba, its reasonably flatter and quieter and possible more scenic. I will take her advice.
Went to the hardware store to get some more “Metho”. The little stove seems to eat metho but at least I get a hot meal and a drink. Bought a paper (The Herald Sun) and it cost an extra 50c for freight
Had lunch at the bakery and then back to camp.
Read the paper and other literature I was given and then did some work on the bike. Cleaned and oiled the chain and gears and checked my 2 spares for punctures. All good
Went for a walk along the creek before preparing tea and retiring for the night
Narooma Tomorrow.
Distance:- 3.42 Km
Distance to Date:- 850 Km
Start:- Cobargo
Finish:- Cobargo
Comment:- REST DAY. Up and about by 7.30am. Had a good breakfast and then washed 3 sets of riding gear. Hope it dries ready for tomorrow. Rode into town and to the information office, where I met Judy. Not much to do in Cobargo today and that suits me fine.
Judy offered me a cup of coffee as we discussed my route tomorrow. She suggested going to Bermagui and then turn off to Tilba Tilba, its reasonably flatter and quieter and possible more scenic. I will take her advice.
Went to the hardware store to get some more “Metho”. The little stove seems to eat metho but at least I get a hot meal and a drink. Bought a paper (The Herald Sun) and it cost an extra 50c for freight
Had lunch at the bakery and then back to camp.
Read the paper and other literature I was given and then did some work on the bike. Cleaned and oiled the chain and gears and checked my 2 spares for punctures. All good
Went for a walk along the creek before preparing tea and retiring for the night
Narooma Tomorrow.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Day 15
Date:- 28 March 2010
Distance:- 45.44 Km
Distance to Date:- 846.50 Km
Start:- Bega
Finish:- Cobargo
Comment:- I was going to have a Rest day today, but the caravan park is out of town. It was a Sunday so all the shops are closed except for a couple of cafes.
Met David a young cyclist who is travelling Sydney to Hobart. I hope he can swim. I also met a lady who has a Winnebago and she is travelling around the country and cycling whenever she feels like it. She is going to ride from Cairns to Cape York with “All Trails”, a company that organises these types of trips.
After all the pleasantries I was on the road. Stopped at Woollies for some supplies and then a nasty little climb out of the Bega valley. What I have observed, generally you have a nice downhill into town and a nice big hill to get out.
More and more wildflowers seem to be appearing as well as Patisons Curse or Salvation Jane, a nice purple colour but it is a noxious weed. A few drops of rain about 11.30am, but nothing serious. There seems to be plenty of feed everywhere but not much stock in the way of sheep or cattle.
Took a detour into Quaama only to find the café opens 9 - 12 on Sundays, there goes lunch. There was an excellent Rest area at Quaama, toilets, water, BBQ, tables and chairs and well mown grass.
Arrived in Cobargo about 4pm and enquired on where to stay and the local showgrounds was suggested. SO I headed that way. On the way there was a man trimming the edges of the nature strip enquired about where I was going so I told him. Do you think it is safe enough there? I asked. You wont have any troubles there I am the local “Cop”
I continued on my way and found the Showgrounds and found the ideal spot. I am sitting in the Judges box typing this. I have a toilet, water and I also found a live power point. What more could you want, and it is free.
Not sure what I will do tomorrow either a Rest day here or head for Narooma which is 35 Kms away.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Day 14
Date:- 27 March 2010
Distance:- 55.57 Km
Distance to Date:- 802.0 Km
Start:- Eden
Finish:- Bega
Comment:- Up at 7am and out of camp by 9am. Big hill just out of Eden. Nice and cool, bit of traffic around. Top of hill by 10.15am
Travelled through Pambula Lakes, across the Yowaka river. Had my 20km break in Pambula.
Passed through Wolumla - not much there. I had some magic moments today:- long gentle down hills, beautiful scenery, breeze in my face and a good road. I am so enjoying this.
Arrived in Bega and went looking for the information office only to find it was at the Bega Cheese Factory about 2 Km. Being a weekend most places were shut so had trouble finding the caravan park. Eventually did, so booked in, set up camp, had a shower and then organized a courtesy bus to take me down town for a meal and then return
A generally good day all round. Need to work out my next few days camping etc.
Distance:- 55.57 Km
Distance to Date:- 802.0 Km
Start:- Eden
Finish:- Bega
Comment:- Up at 7am and out of camp by 9am. Big hill just out of Eden. Nice and cool, bit of traffic around. Top of hill by 10.15am
Travelled through Pambula Lakes, across the Yowaka river. Had my 20km break in Pambula.
Passed through Wolumla - not much there. I had some magic moments today:- long gentle down hills, beautiful scenery, breeze in my face and a good road. I am so enjoying this.
Arrived in Bega and went looking for the information office only to find it was at the Bega Cheese Factory about 2 Km. Being a weekend most places were shut so had trouble finding the caravan park. Eventually did, so booked in, set up camp, had a shower and then organized a courtesy bus to take me down town for a meal and then return
A generally good day all round. Need to work out my next few days camping etc.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Day 13
Date:- 26 March 2010
Distance:- 45.24 Km
Distance to Date:- 746.30 Km
Start:- Timbillica Rest Area
Finish:- Eden
Comment:- Up at 7am, breakfast and packed, then was offered a cuppa and a couple of vegemite sandwiches by Mal and Shirl who had stopped for their breakfast break. Thanks Mal and Shirl it was very much appreciated.
About to leave when another couple of travellers enquired about my venture, another 15 minutes and I was on my way.
Starting to head north east along the Princes Highway with light traffic in surges about every 10 minutes. Ran into very heavy smoke for the first 17 km, not good for my asthma.
Had my snack break at Scrubby Creek Picnic Area and lunch at Kiala where I had a pie and drink. Just a short way out of Kiala I stopped and spoke to a young Norwegian girl who was cycling from Sydney to Melbourne by herself. I suggested she turn around and join me. (Only Joking Dear)
Today was a bit tiring and my legs were starting to feel like lumps of lead so decided to stop and book into the Eden Caravan Park and make myself feel “Human” again.
Will sit down and work out my next few days with the objective of arriving in Canberra by Easter Tuesday
Day 12
Date:- 25 March 2010
Distance:- 64.80 Km
Distance to Date:- 701 Km
Start:- Cann River
Finish:- Timbillica
Comment:- Firstly about last night. I had just finished my reporting in and packing up and thinking about tea when someone came up to me with a plate of food. Scramble eggs on toast with bacon and tomatoes. It was gratefully received.
Up at 7am, packed and out of the caravan park by 8.45am Decided to check my tyre pressure at the local servo and found that the pump I carry had lost its valve nut rendering the pump useless. Finally made some repairs with the help of the local garage and I was on my way.
The first 17 kilometres was gradually up hill so:- ride 100 m, rest, ride 100 m, rest, walk a bit etc. I have got all day. Had my snack break at 23 km at 12.35pm
I was going to stop at the Genoa Caravan Park - no hot water, no water, no power so no go. The only place with a bit of activity was the pub. I stopped there and had a lemon squash with plenty of ice.
I decided to head for the Timbillica Rest Area 22 km down or up the road in New South Wales. Crossed the border about 5.30pm and into camp about 6pm.
There was a lot of smoke hanging around all day from all the controlled burning. There were signs on the road warning motorists of the existence of the smoke. There were quite a few areas where you could see the results of their burn offs.
Tomorrow I am aiming to get to Eden.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Day 11
Date:- 24 March 2010
Distance:- 58.22 Km
Distance to Date:- 636.10 Km
Start:- Murrungower
Finish:- Cann River
Comment:- Up about 7am and organised and on the road by8.40am. It was my first free camp and it went well. In bed early because of the mozzies. I don’t think the mozzies went to bed because they were waiting for me in the morning for a second “bite”
The day started off cool with a nice light tail wind on the Princes highway with my destination of Cann River. Stopped at the Cabbage Tree Store and was offered a free cup of tea. Very nice.
The shoulder of the road was littered with branches and bark, the result of some strong winds from previous days I presume. Along the road there were signs of where bush fires had been. The regrowth was quite evident.
Stopped at the Bellbird Hotel (My 20 km snack break) and enjoyed another mug of tea and some chips. The publican was very chattie and a wealth of local knowledge. He lost me when he said I have some “Big” hills ahead of me.
Unfortunately he was right but I had all day and we got there. Tomorrow I am not quite sure where I will stop. I will head out for about 60 km and see whats around.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Day 10
Date:- 23 March 2010
Distance:- 61.52 Km
Distance to Date:- 577.8 Km
Start:- Nowa Nowa
Finish:- Murrungower Rest Area
Comment:- Bit slow getting mobile this morning. Heavy dewy night so everything was wet. But after a good breakfast I was on my way by 9am. Found the Rail Trail which will take me to Orbost.
There were a couple of steep gullies to cross at the start and a bit further down the trail a couple of detours around the old trestle bridges. Generally the trail was pretty good.
The only sign of life was a small wallaby I saw about 4 km out of Nowa Nowa. Not one person either walker or cyclist did I see over the 40 Km stretch of the trail.
Had my routine snack break and then a light lunch in Orbost before heading out the Princes Highway to find a place to free camp for the night.
About 20 Km out of Orbost I decided to stop at the Murrungower Rest Area. A nice little place, but a little close to the the highway. I hope the traffic is not too heavy. Incidentally I think all the mozzies knew I was coming, they are here with avenges
Tomorrow I hope to get to Cann River
Distance:- 61.52 Km
Distance to Date:- 577.8 Km
Start:- Nowa Nowa
Finish:- Murrungower Rest Area
Comment:- Bit slow getting mobile this morning. Heavy dewy night so everything was wet. But after a good breakfast I was on my way by 9am. Found the Rail Trail which will take me to Orbost.
There were a couple of steep gullies to cross at the start and a bit further down the trail a couple of detours around the old trestle bridges. Generally the trail was pretty good.
The only sign of life was a small wallaby I saw about 4 km out of Nowa Nowa. Not one person either walker or cyclist did I see over the 40 Km stretch of the trail.
Had my routine snack break and then a light lunch in Orbost before heading out the Princes Highway to find a place to free camp for the night.
About 20 Km out of Orbost I decided to stop at the Murrungower Rest Area. A nice little place, but a little close to the the highway. I hope the traffic is not too heavy. Incidentally I think all the mozzies knew I was coming, they are here with avenges
Tomorrow I hope to get to Cann River
Monday, March 22, 2010
Day 9
Date:- 22 March 2010
Distance:- 61.28 Km
Distance to Date:- 516.20 Km
Start:- Bairnsdale
Finish:- Nowa Nowa
Comment:- Rest day yesterday and boy did I need it. Firstly I would like to thank Peter and Glenda for their generous hospitality and I look forward to returning the favour sometime. We enjoyed a BBQ with Mick and Joyce on Saturday night and Grant cooked a tremendous meal for us on Sunday night.
Got away from Bairnsdale about 9.15am, and found the start of the East Gippsland Rail Trail and set off for Nowa Nowa. The first 9 Km to Nicholson is sealed - very nice. My 20 km snack break was at Bumberrah Station site. A nice little information hut is set up there.
Then onto Bruthen. There were a number of ups and downs, a couple of tunnels and generally a pretty good surface. Overgrown in a few places through lack of use I would presume. Had a good lunch break in Bruthen (No Maccas) before setting off for my final destination.
Arrived in Nowa Nowa about 4pm and found the caravan park and booked in. Most expensive to date ($25.50 for unpowered tent site) It certainly wasn’t the most modern park and I will probably experience a lot worse further north. A nice grassed site overlooking a natural water way.
Heading for Orbost tomorrow which is about another 40 km along the rail trail
Distance:- 61.28 Km
Distance to Date:- 516.20 Km
Start:- Bairnsdale
Finish:- Nowa Nowa
Comment:- Rest day yesterday and boy did I need it. Firstly I would like to thank Peter and Glenda for their generous hospitality and I look forward to returning the favour sometime. We enjoyed a BBQ with Mick and Joyce on Saturday night and Grant cooked a tremendous meal for us on Sunday night.
Got away from Bairnsdale about 9.15am, and found the start of the East Gippsland Rail Trail and set off for Nowa Nowa. The first 9 Km to Nicholson is sealed - very nice. My 20 km snack break was at Bumberrah Station site. A nice little information hut is set up there.
Then onto Bruthen. There were a number of ups and downs, a couple of tunnels and generally a pretty good surface. Overgrown in a few places through lack of use I would presume. Had a good lunch break in Bruthen (No Maccas) before setting off for my final destination.
Arrived in Nowa Nowa about 4pm and found the caravan park and booked in. Most expensive to date ($25.50 for unpowered tent site) It certainly wasn’t the most modern park and I will probably experience a lot worse further north. A nice grassed site overlooking a natural water way.
Heading for Orbost tomorrow which is about another 40 km along the rail trail
Day 8
Date:-21 March 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 443.39 Km
Start:- Bairnsdale
Finish:- Bairnsdale
Comment:- REST DAY
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 443.39 Km
Start:- Bairnsdale
Finish:- Bairnsdale
Comment:- REST DAY
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Day 7
Date:- 20 March 2010
Distance:- 55.02 Km
Distance to Date:- 453.3 Km
Start:- Stratford
Finish:- Bairnsdale
Comment:- Had a wonderful nights sleep. Today was the opening of the duck season and from the sounds I heard the ducks didn’t have much of a chance.
Anyhow packed up had breakfast and on the road by 8.45am. Nice cool crisp morning and a good road all the way to Bairnsdale. Stopped about 20 km out for my routine snack break, and arrived in Bairnsdale about 12.30pm. Made contact with Peter Maddern as arranged and he directed in to their motel where we met.
Unpacked the bike and we headed by car to their home in Lakes Entrance . Met up with Glenda, had lunch, went down town with Peter to do some errands. Washing done and hung out and looking forward to a nice BBQ tonight
Rest Day tomorrow. So looking forward to relaxing and unwinding after the last few hot days.
Distance:- 55.02 Km
Distance to Date:- 453.3 Km
Start:- Stratford
Finish:- Bairnsdale
Comment:- Had a wonderful nights sleep. Today was the opening of the duck season and from the sounds I heard the ducks didn’t have much of a chance.
Anyhow packed up had breakfast and on the road by 8.45am. Nice cool crisp morning and a good road all the way to Bairnsdale. Stopped about 20 km out for my routine snack break, and arrived in Bairnsdale about 12.30pm. Made contact with Peter Maddern as arranged and he directed in to their motel where we met.
Unpacked the bike and we headed by car to their home in Lakes Entrance . Met up with Glenda, had lunch, went down town with Peter to do some errands. Washing done and hung out and looking forward to a nice BBQ tonight
Rest Day tomorrow. So looking forward to relaxing and unwinding after the last few hot days.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Day 6
Date:- 19 March 2010
Distance:- 69.36 Km
Distance to Date:- 398.30 Km
Start:- Woodside
Finish:- Stratford
Comment:- This morning I awoke to the sounds of kookaburras laughting and magpies chortling, better than listening to the radio. I arose about 7am, made for the toilet block washed and cooked breakfast. I have been enjoying 2 minute noodles and cup of tea the last few mornings. Struck up a conversation with my next door neighbour- an aeronautical engineer and consequently it was 9am before I hit the road.
Just outside Woodside stands a very big antennae - The omega navigation tower. About 20 kms down the road I had my snack break. A routine seems to be forming.
The road from Woodside to Sale was one of the better roads with decent shoulders all the way, light traffic, and a few undulations from Stradbroke to Sale. A north westerly wind came in about 11.15am didn’t have any real effect on me. Had a few spots of rain, nothing to worry about and you could see a smoke haze to the east of me. I believe waste reduction burning by the local authorities are responsible.
Finally into Sale where I had lunch, and sorry Bert, there was a Mcdonald there and I coudnt resist. It was about an hour before I started back on the Princes Highway to Stratford. Another road with generous shoulders and with the wind on my back I was in Stratford before I new it.
I have changed my route slightly. I was going from Woodside (Stradbroke) to Meerilieu, to Lake Entrance and then to Orbost. I have travelled fromWoodside to Stratford, then to Bairnsdale onto the rail trail to Orbost. I am having my first rest day in Bairnsdale.
Currently I am sitting on a veranda overlooking a river. It is very pleasant. I have bought a frozen meal which I will zap in the microwave. Have tea go for a short walk then into bed.
It is amazing, while I typing this two people have come up to me “I seen you on the road” One person had seen me 3 times over the last few days and if he sees me again he will stop and make me a cuppa. I said that would be much appreciated.
Distance:- 69.36 Km
Distance to Date:- 398.30 Km
Start:- Woodside
Finish:- Stratford
Comment:- This morning I awoke to the sounds of kookaburras laughting and magpies chortling, better than listening to the radio. I arose about 7am, made for the toilet block washed and cooked breakfast. I have been enjoying 2 minute noodles and cup of tea the last few mornings. Struck up a conversation with my next door neighbour- an aeronautical engineer and consequently it was 9am before I hit the road.
Just outside Woodside stands a very big antennae - The omega navigation tower. About 20 kms down the road I had my snack break. A routine seems to be forming.
The road from Woodside to Sale was one of the better roads with decent shoulders all the way, light traffic, and a few undulations from Stradbroke to Sale. A north westerly wind came in about 11.15am didn’t have any real effect on me. Had a few spots of rain, nothing to worry about and you could see a smoke haze to the east of me. I believe waste reduction burning by the local authorities are responsible.
Finally into Sale where I had lunch, and sorry Bert, there was a Mcdonald there and I coudnt resist. It was about an hour before I started back on the Princes Highway to Stratford. Another road with generous shoulders and with the wind on my back I was in Stratford before I new it.
I have changed my route slightly. I was going from Woodside (Stradbroke) to Meerilieu, to Lake Entrance and then to Orbost. I have travelled fromWoodside to Stratford, then to Bairnsdale onto the rail trail to Orbost. I am having my first rest day in Bairnsdale.
Currently I am sitting on a veranda overlooking a river. It is very pleasant. I have bought a frozen meal which I will zap in the microwave. Have tea go for a short walk then into bed.
It is amazing, while I typing this two people have come up to me “I seen you on the road” One person had seen me 3 times over the last few days and if he sees me again he will stop and make me a cuppa. I said that would be much appreciated.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Day 5
Date:- 18 March 2010
Distance:- 61.08 Km
Distance to Date:- 328.9 Km
Start:- Toora
Finish:- Woodside
Comment:- Departed caravan park about 8.15am and headed down the South Gippsland Highway. Nice flat road, slight head wind cool and very comfortable.
Stopped for a snack break about 20 km out, then proceeded onto Yarram. Been having trouble with my cluster gearing so decided to find a bike shop. Neil from Yarram Sports Store kindly had a look, made a few adjustments and improved their operation. Still needs more attention. Thanks Neil, your efforts were much appreciated.
Had lunch (ham sandwich and mug of tea) in Yarram. Stopped at the Tourist Information Office in Yarram inquiring about caravan parks between Yarram and Sale. Last caravan park was Woodside, nothing in between. So Woodside was my destination.
Usual routine book in tent up, head for shower then wonder down town. One service station and one Pub, so couldn’t get into too much trouble. Had a couple of lemon squashes at the pub, back to the tent to report in, then cook tea and off to bed.
Will probably head for Sale tomorrow
Distance:- 61.08 Km
Distance to Date:- 328.9 Km
Start:- Toora
Finish:- Woodside
Comment:- Departed caravan park about 8.15am and headed down the South Gippsland Highway. Nice flat road, slight head wind cool and very comfortable.
Stopped for a snack break about 20 km out, then proceeded onto Yarram. Been having trouble with my cluster gearing so decided to find a bike shop. Neil from Yarram Sports Store kindly had a look, made a few adjustments and improved their operation. Still needs more attention. Thanks Neil, your efforts were much appreciated.
Had lunch (ham sandwich and mug of tea) in Yarram. Stopped at the Tourist Information Office in Yarram inquiring about caravan parks between Yarram and Sale. Last caravan park was Woodside, nothing in between. So Woodside was my destination.
Usual routine book in tent up, head for shower then wonder down town. One service station and one Pub, so couldn’t get into too much trouble. Had a couple of lemon squashes at the pub, back to the tent to report in, then cook tea and off to bed.
Will probably head for Sale tomorrow
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Day 4
Date:- 17 March 2010
Distance:- 63.21 Km
Distance to Date:- 267.8 Km
Start:- Leongatha
Finish:- Toora
Comment:- Departed the caravan park this morning about 8.30 after doing an interview with a journalist from the local paper.
Thanks to the journalist I headed for the Great Southern Rail Trail, which I had forgotten about. It started just out of Leongatha, then onto Fish Creek (hydration break), onto Foster (a half hour break and more fluids.) The trail consisted of compacted sand and I really enjoyed the trip specially when I got a tail wind.
Headed for Toora by road from Foster, where I stopped at a very nice little Coffee shop and enjoyed a cup of tea. I enquired about a caravan park in Welshpool and was told there was not one. Decided to book in at Toora. At first I was told they were booked out, then took pity on me and found a patch of ground near a BBQ facility.
Tent up, head for the shower, have tea, wash clothes, wash dishes. then do my nightly report.
Distance:- 63.21 Km
Distance to Date:- 267.8 Km
Start:- Leongatha
Finish:- Toora
Comment:- Departed the caravan park this morning about 8.30 after doing an interview with a journalist from the local paper.
Thanks to the journalist I headed for the Great Southern Rail Trail, which I had forgotten about. It started just out of Leongatha, then onto Fish Creek (hydration break), onto Foster (a half hour break and more fluids.) The trail consisted of compacted sand and I really enjoyed the trip specially when I got a tail wind.
Headed for Toora by road from Foster, where I stopped at a very nice little Coffee shop and enjoyed a cup of tea. I enquired about a caravan park in Welshpool and was told there was not one. Decided to book in at Toora. At first I was told they were booked out, then took pity on me and found a patch of ground near a BBQ facility.
Tent up, head for the shower, have tea, wash clothes, wash dishes. then do my nightly report.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Day 3
Date:_16 March 2010
Distance:- 67.75 Km
Distance to Date:- 204.5 Km
Start:- Bayles
Finish:- Leongatha
Comment:- We enjoyed a very pleasant evening. AA well cooked BBQ, very nice salad all washed down with a nice red wine.
Departed Bayles about 8.15 this morning and headed back to the South Gippsland Highway. Very pleasant ride till I made a left turn to Leongatha. I ran into a few hills. So it was off the bike, off with the helmet, on with the hat and start walking. I reckon I walked about 3 Km in total.
Stopped in the small town of Lock where I enjoyed some munchies, etc and had a lay down for half an hour or so then on into Korumburra where I had another hydration stop. I have never consumed so much water on a daily basis in my life. It has been quite hot and you have to watch your hydration levels.
A mixed ride from Korumburra to Leongatha, generally down hill, but the shoulder of the road disappeared a number of times and with the heavy traffic I dismounted and walked again. There are no medals for bravery.
Arrived at the local caravan park about 4.30pm, booked in, set the tent up, locked up the bike and trailer and headed for the shower. Boy was that nice. Very nice clean amenities and roomy.
Up the street for some more rehydration at of all places McDonalds. I had a very large coke with plenty of ice.Had some chicken nuggets and an Iced Chocolate over a two hour period. Back to the tent and here I am.
While I was resting at Lock, my phone rang and it was a journalist from the local paper. We are meeting 8 am in the morning for an interview. More will be revealed tomorrow.
Distance:- 67.75 Km
Distance to Date:- 204.5 Km
Start:- Bayles
Finish:- Leongatha
Comment:- We enjoyed a very pleasant evening. AA well cooked BBQ, very nice salad all washed down with a nice red wine.
Departed Bayles about 8.15 this morning and headed back to the South Gippsland Highway. Very pleasant ride till I made a left turn to Leongatha. I ran into a few hills. So it was off the bike, off with the helmet, on with the hat and start walking. I reckon I walked about 3 Km in total.
Stopped in the small town of Lock where I enjoyed some munchies, etc and had a lay down for half an hour or so then on into Korumburra where I had another hydration stop. I have never consumed so much water on a daily basis in my life. It has been quite hot and you have to watch your hydration levels.
A mixed ride from Korumburra to Leongatha, generally down hill, but the shoulder of the road disappeared a number of times and with the heavy traffic I dismounted and walked again. There are no medals for bravery.
Arrived at the local caravan park about 4.30pm, booked in, set the tent up, locked up the bike and trailer and headed for the shower. Boy was that nice. Very nice clean amenities and roomy.
Up the street for some more rehydration at of all places McDonalds. I had a very large coke with plenty of ice.Had some chicken nuggets and an Iced Chocolate over a two hour period. Back to the tent and here I am.
While I was resting at Lock, my phone rang and it was a journalist from the local paper. We are meeting 8 am in the morning for an interview. More will be revealed tomorrow.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Day 2
Date:- 15 March 2010
Distance:- 82.79 Km
Start:- Mt Martha
Finish:- Bayles
Comment:- Took off about 10 to 8 this morning after thanking Bill and Judy for their fine hospitality. Unfortunitly it was their first day back at work after a 3 week holiday in New Zealand
Followed Bills instructions to a tee and found my way to the Baxter/Toradin road. Unfortunitly I got lost I took the route to Tyabb, found a fire track which turned into a nasty sand pit. I back tracked and found a nice place for lunch. The 9 hole golf course at Bembank where I paid $6.50 for 0ne ham sandwich and $2.50 for a cup of tea.
After my little detour, now back on track, arrived in Koo Wee Rup bought a cold drink and rang Margaret so inform her I was still coming.
Another side adventure was had when I travelled the full length of Backhouses Rd, Another phone call to Margaret and we finally arrived. It was a great reception:- Helen and Frank and Margaret and Latter by Elsie and Ian .
Helen and Frank departed early as Frank was expecting a hard day at work. Sorry Frank you missed a beautiful BBQ well cooked by our chef extraordinaire
I feel our family should get together more often. The stories and memories are something we should cultivate.
Distance:- 82.79 Km
Start:- Mt Martha
Finish:- Bayles
Comment:- Took off about 10 to 8 this morning after thanking Bill and Judy for their fine hospitality. Unfortunitly it was their first day back at work after a 3 week holiday in New Zealand
Followed Bills instructions to a tee and found my way to the Baxter/Toradin road. Unfortunitly I got lost I took the route to Tyabb, found a fire track which turned into a nasty sand pit. I back tracked and found a nice place for lunch. The 9 hole golf course at Bembank where I paid $6.50 for 0ne ham sandwich and $2.50 for a cup of tea.
After my little detour, now back on track, arrived in Koo Wee Rup bought a cold drink and rang Margaret so inform her I was still coming.
Another side adventure was had when I travelled the full length of Backhouses Rd, Another phone call to Margaret and we finally arrived. It was a great reception:- Helen and Frank and Margaret and Latter by Elsie and Ian .
Helen and Frank departed early as Frank was expecting a hard day at work. Sorry Frank you missed a beautiful BBQ well cooked by our chef extraordinaire
I feel our family should get together more often. The stories and memories are something we should cultivate.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Day 1
Date:- 14 March 2010
Distance:- 53.68 Km
Distance to Date:- 53.68 Km
Start:- Leopold
Finish:- Mt Martha
Comment:- Today was one the harder days in my life. Leaving my wife, Evon, my family, and friends to pursue an adventure which could be termed as selfish.
Thank you to everyone who came to see me off. Thankyou for all the good wishes etc.
I enjoyed the ride from Geelong to Queenscliff, a couple of little hills no wind and sunny. The ferry ride was as expected. Off the ferry and onto the bike again. I followed the road around the beach, had a detour at Rosebud and my first flat tyre at Safety Beach. I ran into some steep hills from Martha’s Point to where I am staying tonight. I walked about 3 kilometres up quite steep hills arriving at Bill and Judy’s place about 5.15pm.
I would like to thank Bill and Judy for their generous hospitality and friendship.
Tomorrow I head for Bayles where my sister Margaret and her husband Ian. Live. I believe Helen and Frank may come over, so I will have to watch myself and be careful.
Distance:- 53.68 Km
Distance to Date:- 53.68 Km
Start:- Leopold
Finish:- Mt Martha
Comment:- Today was one the harder days in my life. Leaving my wife, Evon, my family, and friends to pursue an adventure which could be termed as selfish.
Thank you to everyone who came to see me off. Thankyou for all the good wishes etc.
I enjoyed the ride from Geelong to Queenscliff, a couple of little hills no wind and sunny. The ferry ride was as expected. Off the ferry and onto the bike again. I followed the road around the beach, had a detour at Rosebud and my first flat tyre at Safety Beach. I ran into some steep hills from Martha’s Point to where I am staying tonight. I walked about 3 kilometres up quite steep hills arriving at Bill and Judy’s place about 5.15pm.
I would like to thank Bill and Judy for their generous hospitality and friendship.
Tomorrow I head for Bayles where my sister Margaret and her husband Ian. Live. I believe Helen and Frank may come over, so I will have to watch myself and be careful.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
One Day to Go
Date:- 13 March 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 0 Km
Start:- Geelong
Finish:- Geelong
Comment:- Rather pleasant night out with Marlene and Len. Went to the Tai Elephant.
Today has been quite busy Cameron and Nicole stopped in this morning on their way through and various other friends have dropped in through the day. Simone and Ian are coming for tea I believe
Last minute checking of gear, filling water bottles, etc A couple of phone calls then off to bed ready for a big day tomorrow.
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 0 Km
Start:- Geelong
Finish:- Geelong
Comment:- Rather pleasant night out with Marlene and Len. Went to the Tai Elephant.
Today has been quite busy Cameron and Nicole stopped in this morning on their way through and various other friends have dropped in through the day. Simone and Ian are coming for tea I believe
Last minute checking of gear, filling water bottles, etc A couple of phone calls then off to bed ready for a big day tomorrow.
Friday, March 12, 2010
2 Days to Go
Date:- 12 March 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 0 Km
Start:- Geelong
Finish:- Geelong
Comment:- Evon and I were invited to my brothers place for a farewell tea last night. A very pleasant evening with David, Robin and Mum.
Very busy day today. Made contact with the Asthma foundation with a particular problem I had, and once I made mention of what I was up to they were very keen to promote my cause. Hence a number of phone calls and Emails, etc were made. I should have made contact a lot earlier.
Another farewell tea tonight with Len and Marlene. I must also thank Lyn and Glen for the “Go Food” . Nice and light and plenty of energy
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 0 Km
Start:- Geelong
Finish:- Geelong
Comment:- Evon and I were invited to my brothers place for a farewell tea last night. A very pleasant evening with David, Robin and Mum.
Very busy day today. Made contact with the Asthma foundation with a particular problem I had, and once I made mention of what I was up to they were very keen to promote my cause. Hence a number of phone calls and Emails, etc were made. I should have made contact a lot earlier.
Another farewell tea tonight with Len and Marlene. I must also thank Lyn and Glen for the “Go Food” . Nice and light and plenty of energy
Thursday, March 11, 2010
3 Days to Go
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 0 Km
Start:- Geelong
Finish:- Geelong
Comment:- Finished work last night. I have a rather empty feeling at the moment. Thank you to all my work mates who wished me best wishes and good luck. To Jim and his Management team and to all the people on the work floor - Thank you. God willing, I will be back and hope to see you all in November/December this year.
Another packing and loading exercise today. I seem to remove 500 grams and end up adding a kilo. Once I get on the road I will soon work out what I need and don’t need
This is a picture of the bike and trailer fully loaded.
Distance to Date:- 0 Km
Start:- Geelong
Finish:- Geelong
Comment:- Finished work last night. I have a rather empty feeling at the moment. Thank you to all my work mates who wished me best wishes and good luck. To Jim and his Management team and to all the people on the work floor - Thank you. God willing, I will be back and hope to see you all in November/December this year.
Another packing and loading exercise today. I seem to remove 500 grams and end up adding a kilo. Once I get on the road I will soon work out what I need and don’t need
This is a picture of the bike and trailer fully loaded.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
4 Days to Go
Date:- 10 March 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 0 Km
Start:- Geelong
Finish:- Geelong
Comment:- Four days to go now. Getting a little nervous, excited, a little apprehensive - am I doing the right thing? A thousand thoughts are going through my head at the moment.
Have I covered all the situations I may encounter on my trip. Have I got all the appropriate gear. What if this happens? What if that happens? I wont know till it happens and my abilities will be tested.
Last day at work today. Will feel strange not having the security of a job, but have been assured by my current employer there will be something available on my return.
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 0 Km
Start:- Geelong
Finish:- Geelong
Comment:- Four days to go now. Getting a little nervous, excited, a little apprehensive - am I doing the right thing? A thousand thoughts are going through my head at the moment.
Have I covered all the situations I may encounter on my trip. Have I got all the appropriate gear. What if this happens? What if that happens? I wont know till it happens and my abilities will be tested.
Last day at work today. Will feel strange not having the security of a job, but have been assured by my current employer there will be something available on my return.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
7 Days to Go
Getting close now. Did a ride around the block fully laden this afternoon. Wasnt too bad. I felt a little uncomfortable to start with but soon settled down. I have decided to load up BOB with the heavy gear, and clothes and lighter gear up front.
I am a little worried about the excess water in eastern Victoria after the storms that battered the area in the last few days. I have a few alternatives to consider in the next few days. They are:-
(1)Leave on Sunday and hope I get a clear run
(2)Delay my departure for a few days
(3)Take a more direct route to Canberra.
(4)Drive to Canberra with Evon for Easter and start my ride from there.
All will be revealed as the time draws closer.
I am a little worried about the excess water in eastern Victoria after the storms that battered the area in the last few days. I have a few alternatives to consider in the next few days. They are:-
(1)Leave on Sunday and hope I get a clear run
(2)Delay my departure for a few days
(3)Take a more direct route to Canberra.
(4)Drive to Canberra with Evon for Easter and start my ride from there.
All will be revealed as the time draws closer.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
10 Days to Go
Not much to report this week. Having to deal with night shift at my current place of employ. It really messes with my routine. Looking forward to the long weekend and being human again.
Monday, March 1, 2010
13 Days to Go
Just a couple of loose ends to tie up. A bit worried about stray dog attacks. Someone suggested an electronic dog deterent. A device that emits a very high frequency signal Inaudable to the human ear but has been known to stop a dog in its tracks. Anyone got any other advice on the subject?
My other small problem is tyres. Should I carry a foldable spare tyre. I have heard of tyres shredding etc and if this happens in the middle of nowhere it could be a problem. Any advice?
My other small problem is tyres. Should I carry a foldable spare tyre. I have heard of tyres shredding etc and if this happens in the middle of nowhere it could be a problem. Any advice?
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