Date:- 31 May 10
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 4033.5 Km
Start:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Finish:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Comment:- I am really enjoying these few days off. Up about 8am then I had breakfast and planned the day.
I rode my bike down to the Bicycle Centre and booked it in for a No. 2 service and a new set of tyres. Discussed my problem with the trailer and I will try a different tyre which is a harder compound and I can run a higher pressure in it. I may even use green slime. Bike should be ready to pick up next Friday.
Mundi then took Evon and I into town where we wandered along the Esplanade, then the shops where we had a bit to eat. Found the Info office and picked up some brochures to plan the rest of our time here.
We were picked up at 3.30pm and went home and had afternoon tea. The girls then went out visiting and I stayed home to do my diary and then just read the papers
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Day 77
Date:- 30 May 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 4033.5 Km
Start:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Finish:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Comment:- News of the day. I received a phone call yesterday afternoon from a certain person who told me he had bought an engagement ring, and with my permission, he would like to give it to my daughter Simone.
Evon and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the happy couple and wish them well in their future endeavours together.
Evon arrived here safely and on time from Melbourne. And after a champagne or two to celebrate the engagement of our daughter Simone to Ian we had tea, a bit of a chat it was off to bed.
Today we were up about 8.30am and we have just had a very lazy day doing nothing. Sitting around reading, chatting, eating and generally relaxing. Grahame was working on his bikes, Mundi got stuck into her garden. I removed a few branches for her only to be bitten by green ants.
Tomorrow I hope to take my bike in for a service and maybe some new tyres. Fix the problem with BOB’s wheel etc
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 4033.5 Km
Start:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Finish:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Comment:- News of the day. I received a phone call yesterday afternoon from a certain person who told me he had bought an engagement ring, and with my permission, he would like to give it to my daughter Simone.
Evon and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the happy couple and wish them well in their future endeavours together.
Evon arrived here safely and on time from Melbourne. And after a champagne or two to celebrate the engagement of our daughter Simone to Ian we had tea, a bit of a chat it was off to bed.
Today we were up about 8.30am and we have just had a very lazy day doing nothing. Sitting around reading, chatting, eating and generally relaxing. Grahame was working on his bikes, Mundi got stuck into her garden. I removed a few branches for her only to be bitten by green ants.
Tomorrow I hope to take my bike in for a service and maybe some new tyres. Fix the problem with BOB’s wheel etc
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Day 76
Date:- 29 May 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 4033.5 Km
Start:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Finish:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Comment:- Another very pleasant nights sleep before getting up about 8.45am. Grahame went to work for the morning and I joined Mundi and her breakfast group for breakfast in town. Good company and a good feed.
Then Mundi took me on a tour of part of her area she covers for work. We headed out to Palm Cove turned around and came back slowly along the beach stopping for an iced chocolate at a café on the beach.
Back to check out an open house for sale before returning home to meet Grahame.
We then went into town to pick up some gear I wanted, also stopped at a supermarket to pick up some more supplies.
Back home for a quiet afternoon before we pick Evon up at the airport about 7.35pm.
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 4033.5 Km
Start:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Finish:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Comment:- Another very pleasant nights sleep before getting up about 8.45am. Grahame went to work for the morning and I joined Mundi and her breakfast group for breakfast in town. Good company and a good feed.
Then Mundi took me on a tour of part of her area she covers for work. We headed out to Palm Cove turned around and came back slowly along the beach stopping for an iced chocolate at a café on the beach.
Back to check out an open house for sale before returning home to meet Grahame.
We then went into town to pick up some gear I wanted, also stopped at a supermarket to pick up some more supplies.
Back home for a quiet afternoon before we pick Evon up at the airport about 7.35pm.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Day 75
Date:- 28 May 10
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 4033.5 Km
Start:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Finish:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Comment:- It is very nice to be back in civilization. Mundi has made me most welcome. I had a wonderful sleep and finally got up about 7.45am, just as Mundi was leaving for work.
I had a nice leisurely breakfast then set about doing some minor chores. Wash the bladder of my hydration pack and hang out to dry. Dry the ground sheet for my tent out, work out what to do with my small tent frame and various other little jobs.
Then I went for a walk. Back up to the top of the street you get views of Cairns and Trinity Bay. Then I walked down the street. Grahame warned me the street was very steep and he wasn’t joking. Anyhow got to the bottom and turned left in Irene street and followed that for about 2 km before turning right into McGregor where I found some shops. Had lunch there then headed back the way I had travelled. And yes that hill is very steep.
Back home and had a shave and shower, do my diary then just relax for the rest of the day.
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Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 4033.5 Km
Start:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Finish:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Comment:- It is very nice to be back in civilization. Mundi has made me most welcome. I had a wonderful sleep and finally got up about 7.45am, just as Mundi was leaving for work.
I had a nice leisurely breakfast then set about doing some minor chores. Wash the bladder of my hydration pack and hang out to dry. Dry the ground sheet for my tent out, work out what to do with my small tent frame and various other little jobs.
Then I went for a walk. Back up to the top of the street you get views of Cairns and Trinity Bay. Then I walked down the street. Grahame warned me the street was very steep and he wasn’t joking. Anyhow got to the bottom and turned left in Irene street and followed that for about 2 km before turning right into McGregor where I found some shops. Had lunch there then headed back the way I had travelled. And yes that hill is very steep.
Back home and had a shave and shower, do my diary then just relax for the rest of the day.
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Thursday, May 27, 2010
Day 74
Date:- 27 May 10
Distance:- 89.21 Km
Distance to Date:- 4033.5 Km
Start:- River Drive Van Park - Innisfail
Finish:- Grahame & Mundi - Cairns
Comment:- I reluctantly arose by 6.30am and on the road by 7.30am. I awoke sometime through the night and heard rain on the roof and thought I made the right decision staying in the Donga.
Had breakfast at McDonalds then I was ready to go. Very humid day when the sun came out but rather pleasant otherwise. Good road but quite a bit of traffic around.
Checked out the rest area 5 km out of Innisfail. it’s a Driver/Reviver Stop, close to the road, toilets, tables and chairs, kiddies playground, electric BBQ, drink machine and water.
Sugar cane and banana plantations very prevalent through this area. Arrived in Miriwinni after 3 to 4 km of gentle hills, narrow roads and no shoulders. Not much fun. Road was still wet from over overnight rain.
Travelled through to Babinda which was a busy little town with a sugar refinery and allied industries.
Another distance check on the road :- 0 km - 32.99
1 Km - 33.98
2 Km - 34.97
3 Km - 35.96
4 Km - 36.94
5 Km - 37.93
Stopped at Bellenden Ker for my snack break and enjoyed a Devonshire tea.
On the road again and passed through Deeral, a small rural town, then Fishers Falls where there’s a pub and tourist resort with all sorts of accommodation.
Turned over 4000 km today. Another milestone reached. It represents one quarter of the way around Australia. A little daunting.
Its quite pleasant cycling through the cloud covered ranges. The road took me around Gordonvale and then through to Edmonton. Had lunch at Hungry Jacks. Received a call from the local newspaper who said they are writing an article on me. That will take two lines.
Organised with Mundi on a meeting spot at a local shopping centre about 4pm. Met Mundi and loaded the bike and gear into her car and we headed off to their home. It will be very nice to spread out a bit. The house and the views they command are something else.
I will be taking the next few days off but hope to report on my daily activities as per usual.
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Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Day 73
Date:- 26 May 10
Distance:- 71.62 Km
Distance to Date:- 3944.3 Km
Start:- Bilyana Rest Area
Finish:- River Drive Van Park - Innisfail
Comment:- After tea last night I enjoyed a beer with 5 French boys who are working their way around Australia. Got to bed about 9.30pm. The nights are so warm up here so I am only using my silk sheet.
I had a bit of a disagreement with a frog last night. He wanted to get into my tent. He was very persistent but I won and sent him packing
Up at 5.45am and on the road by 7.30am. I didn’t want Grahame to catch me sleeping in. Grahame is travelling down to Townsville for a conference today.
About 2 km out from the rest area some “clown” in a Toyota 4 wheel drive ute tried to hit me with an empty plastic milk bottle.
An overcast and cool morning to start with, a good road and light traffic.
About 15 km out from Tully something wasn’t right so I stopped and checked. Low and behold BOB’s tyre was flat. Pumped it up and headed for Tully. Got to the Info office in Tully and BOB’s tyre was as flat as a tack. Repaired the puncture (removed a piece of glass from the tyre.) and ready to roll. The girls in the Info shop were very helpful.
Having not spotted Grahame on the road decided to ring him and as it turned out he was only 15 minutes away so we agreed to meet at the Info office were I was. He and his business partner, Linda, arrived and we had a drink and a chat before heading our separate ways.
Had my Snack break in the El Arish Ranges, then on down the road to Digger Creek Rest Area. Rather small rest area with table and chairs, toilet and a hot food stand there on a daily basis. A sign warning of crocodiles in the area maybe a good deterrent not to camp there.
Plenty of sugar cane around El Arish then crossed over the Liverpool Creek and we are in banana country. The last 30 km into Innisfail wound through both sugar cane and banana plantations on a average to good road.
A couple of km out from Innisfail a few drops of rain so I pulled a couple of covers out and kept going. Stopped at the Info office in Innisfail to enquire about caravan parks in the area, and while there, there was a cloud burst. I am glad I wasn’t on the road at the time.
Settled on a park on the highway. Enquired about a tent site and the caretaker strongly advised me to take a room. Tent site was $15 and a room with bed, fridge, air conditioner, table and a TV was $25. I accepted the room and settled in
Tomorrow I should make Cairns although people have suggested I should stay at the Boulders Rest area near Babinda
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Distance:- 71.62 Km
Distance to Date:- 3944.3 Km
Start:- Bilyana Rest Area
Finish:- River Drive Van Park - Innisfail
Comment:- After tea last night I enjoyed a beer with 5 French boys who are working their way around Australia. Got to bed about 9.30pm. The nights are so warm up here so I am only using my silk sheet.
I had a bit of a disagreement with a frog last night. He wanted to get into my tent. He was very persistent but I won and sent him packing
Up at 5.45am and on the road by 7.30am. I didn’t want Grahame to catch me sleeping in. Grahame is travelling down to Townsville for a conference today.
About 2 km out from the rest area some “clown” in a Toyota 4 wheel drive ute tried to hit me with an empty plastic milk bottle.
An overcast and cool morning to start with, a good road and light traffic.
About 15 km out from Tully something wasn’t right so I stopped and checked. Low and behold BOB’s tyre was flat. Pumped it up and headed for Tully. Got to the Info office in Tully and BOB’s tyre was as flat as a tack. Repaired the puncture (removed a piece of glass from the tyre.) and ready to roll. The girls in the Info shop were very helpful.
Having not spotted Grahame on the road decided to ring him and as it turned out he was only 15 minutes away so we agreed to meet at the Info office were I was. He and his business partner, Linda, arrived and we had a drink and a chat before heading our separate ways.
Had my Snack break in the El Arish Ranges, then on down the road to Digger Creek Rest Area. Rather small rest area with table and chairs, toilet and a hot food stand there on a daily basis. A sign warning of crocodiles in the area maybe a good deterrent not to camp there.
Plenty of sugar cane around El Arish then crossed over the Liverpool Creek and we are in banana country. The last 30 km into Innisfail wound through both sugar cane and banana plantations on a average to good road.
A couple of km out from Innisfail a few drops of rain so I pulled a couple of covers out and kept going. Stopped at the Info office in Innisfail to enquire about caravan parks in the area, and while there, there was a cloud burst. I am glad I wasn’t on the road at the time.
Settled on a park on the highway. Enquired about a tent site and the caretaker strongly advised me to take a room. Tent site was $15 and a room with bed, fridge, air conditioner, table and a TV was $25. I accepted the room and settled in
Tomorrow I should make Cairns although people have suggested I should stay at the Boulders Rest area near Babinda
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Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Day 72
Date:- 25 May 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 3872.6 Km
Start:- Bilyana Rest Area
Finish:- Bilyana Rest Area
Comment:- As you can see I decided to remain here for the day. I am only 160 km from Cairns and I’m not expected there till Thursday night or Friday and this is quite a pleasant little rest area.
I had a goods nights sleep. Last train I heard was 9.30pm. The highway traffic didn’t worry me either. Listened to the radio this morning - very depressing. Unsettled communities, stock market still sliding down. The only good thing was the weather. 20 degrees overnight and expected 29 degrees today. Very pleasant.
Out of bed about 7.45am and had breakfast and a quick chat with Les and Mary before they departed to go further north. Another overnight caravaner came up for a chat. Pastor George Porter and his wife are heading north as well to meet friends. After a chat and a prayer they were on their way.
Went for a stroll up the road for about 2 km then came back along the railway line which follows the road. Time for another cuppa as I watch a continuous line of travellers stopping for a break. Some stopping for a toilet break while others stopping for refreshments.
My morning was shattered by the noise of the contractor cutting the grass. It is good to see these rest areas are so well maintained. Even the toilet facilities are very clean and plenty of paper.
I will probably spend the rest of the afternoon just wandering around or doing my Sudoku puzzles or just watching people come and go.
Tomorrow I will head for Innsifail, or further, and Thursday onto Cairns. I hope you are ready for us Grahame and Mundi. Evon flies into Cairns on Saturday.
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 3872.6 Km
Start:- Bilyana Rest Area
Finish:- Bilyana Rest Area
Comment:- As you can see I decided to remain here for the day. I am only 160 km from Cairns and I’m not expected there till Thursday night or Friday and this is quite a pleasant little rest area.
I had a goods nights sleep. Last train I heard was 9.30pm. The highway traffic didn’t worry me either. Listened to the radio this morning - very depressing. Unsettled communities, stock market still sliding down. The only good thing was the weather. 20 degrees overnight and expected 29 degrees today. Very pleasant.
Out of bed about 7.45am and had breakfast and a quick chat with Les and Mary before they departed to go further north. Another overnight caravaner came up for a chat. Pastor George Porter and his wife are heading north as well to meet friends. After a chat and a prayer they were on their way.
Went for a stroll up the road for about 2 km then came back along the railway line which follows the road. Time for another cuppa as I watch a continuous line of travellers stopping for a break. Some stopping for a toilet break while others stopping for refreshments.
My morning was shattered by the noise of the contractor cutting the grass. It is good to see these rest areas are so well maintained. Even the toilet facilities are very clean and plenty of paper.
I will probably spend the rest of the afternoon just wandering around or doing my Sudoku puzzles or just watching people come and go.
Tomorrow I will head for Innsifail, or further, and Thursday onto Cairns. I hope you are ready for us Grahame and Mundi. Evon flies into Cairns on Saturday.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Day 71
Date:- 24 May 2010
Distance:- 77.27 Km
Distance to Date:- 3872.6 Km
Start:- Palm Tree Caravan Park - Ingham
Finish:- Bilyana Rest Area
Comment:- In bed by 9.30pm last night and had a really good nights sleep. Awoke about 5am but didn’t crawl out of bed till 6am. It was still dark. Days are getting shorter. Had breakfast, packed and on the road by 5 to 8.
Rode the 3 km into Ingham, then through the town and heading for Cardwell. It looked awfully dark up ahead in the Cardwell Ranges. It was a good road overcast weather and light traffic. A lot of sugar cane is grown north of Ingham right up to the foot of the ranges.
Another cyclist overtook me this morning but looked like he was too busy to stop and chat. I sometimes wonder about these people at times.
Just around the next corner the climb over the Cardwell Ranges started. (See Picture). Very light misty rain as I ascended . A Lookout at the top of the climb was spectacular I was told. Unfortunately it was covered in low cloud or fog. Descended the hill quite comfortable and back on the flat road again
The road ahead was very wet so I was lucky to have missed that shower as well. Had my snack break about 10am about 27 km out of Ingham, then onto Cardwell.
Arrived at Cardwell about 12.15pm, stopped and had a decent meal - roast beef and vegies and a cup of tea.
My destination for tonight was the Bilyana Rest Area about 20 km north of Cardwell. I arrived there about 2.30pm. Chose a site and set up camp. My next door neighbours Les and Mary from the previous night were there and offered me a most welcome cup of coffee. Then I did my diary for the day
Not sure what I will do tomorrow, maybe stay here another night.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Day 70
Date:- 23 May 10
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 3795.3 Km
Start:- Palm Tree Caravan Park - Ingham
Finish:- Palm Tree Caravan Park - Ingham
Comment:- Went to bed last night about 9.30pm and just dozed off to sleep when an almighty noise awoke me. It was a goods train which was only about 100 metres away. By the time I scraped myself off the ceiling of the tent it was gone. Another train went through early morning but I heard that one coming.
Not much to report today. Out of bed by 7.30am, had breakfast with real milk on my vita brits and some real toast and a nice cup of tea.
A phone call to a dear friend of ours whose birthday it is today. Happy 63 years……………..
Then I went over both the trailer and the bike, cleaning and checking nuts and bolts for tightness. Back wheel of bike has a bit of a wobble in it and the two small idler cogs are well worn. Will need to replace cogs and have wheel trued up. Everything else seems ok.
Wrote about 3 or 4 E- mails and then spoke to Les and Mary from Brisbane who are taking 6 weeks and heading up into the gulf country in their Combi-van.
Had lunch then retrieved my washing from the clothes line, folded it and packed it away. A tidy up of the tent and tried to fix the lower metal rib of my tent. Need some tools, so I will leave that job till I reach Cairns.
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Tomorrow I will be going onto Cardwell. I believe I may have a few hills to contend with so I probably make Cardwell my destination.
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 3795.3 Km
Start:- Palm Tree Caravan Park - Ingham
Finish:- Palm Tree Caravan Park - Ingham
Comment:- Went to bed last night about 9.30pm and just dozed off to sleep when an almighty noise awoke me. It was a goods train which was only about 100 metres away. By the time I scraped myself off the ceiling of the tent it was gone. Another train went through early morning but I heard that one coming.
Not much to report today. Out of bed by 7.30am, had breakfast with real milk on my vita brits and some real toast and a nice cup of tea.
A phone call to a dear friend of ours whose birthday it is today. Happy 63 years……………..
Then I went over both the trailer and the bike, cleaning and checking nuts and bolts for tightness. Back wheel of bike has a bit of a wobble in it and the two small idler cogs are well worn. Will need to replace cogs and have wheel trued up. Everything else seems ok.
Wrote about 3 or 4 E- mails and then spoke to Les and Mary from Brisbane who are taking 6 weeks and heading up into the gulf country in their Combi-van.
Had lunch then retrieved my washing from the clothes line, folded it and packed it away. A tidy up of the tent and tried to fix the lower metal rib of my tent. Need some tools, so I will leave that job till I reach Cairns.
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Tomorrow I will be going onto Cardwell. I believe I may have a few hills to contend with so I probably make Cardwell my destination.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Day 69
Date:- 22 May 10
Distance:- 85.28 Km
Distance to Date:- 3795.3 Km
Start:- Blue Water Rest Area
Finish:- Palm Tree Caravan Park - Ingham
Comment:- Last night at the rest area the local community opened the recreation hall and served hot food and cold drinks. Apparently they do this every Friday night. I wandered over top have a sticky beak and bought a drink.
I was actually up at 6am this morning after a goods nights sleep. Had breakfast, packed and on the road by 7.45 am.
Rode through to Rollingstone about 22 km, road very good and weather couldn’t be better. Stopped at the Frosty Mango and had raison toast and tea with mango jam.
Travelled through the Crystal Book National Park and onto Ingham. Cane fields, Mango groves various other crops, also paddocks prepared for sowing new crops.
A few more dead snakes on the road today. A couple of really big ones. A bit scary. “Beware of Crocodiles” signs are appearing as well
Met another cyclist heading south. Mark started in Cairns and is heading for Brisbane. That should be a good ride for him. We traded notes on the roads ahead and went our ways.
Stopped to check out the Francis Creek Rest Area about 5 km south of Ingham. Toilets, water, close to the road and is a Driver/Reviver stop when required.
Arrived at the Palm Tree Caravan Park, booked in, set up and put a load of washing in. Into town to organise my next few meals. Back to camp and have a shave and shower before doing my diary.
Tomorrow is a Rest Day. Check the bike and trailer over and recharge my batteries.
Distance:- 85.28 Km
Distance to Date:- 3795.3 Km
Start:- Blue Water Rest Area
Finish:- Palm Tree Caravan Park - Ingham
Comment:- Last night at the rest area the local community opened the recreation hall and served hot food and cold drinks. Apparently they do this every Friday night. I wandered over top have a sticky beak and bought a drink.
I was actually up at 6am this morning after a goods nights sleep. Had breakfast, packed and on the road by 7.45 am.
Rode through to Rollingstone about 22 km, road very good and weather couldn’t be better. Stopped at the Frosty Mango and had raison toast and tea with mango jam.
Travelled through the Crystal Book National Park and onto Ingham. Cane fields, Mango groves various other crops, also paddocks prepared for sowing new crops.
A few more dead snakes on the road today. A couple of really big ones. A bit scary. “Beware of Crocodiles” signs are appearing as well
Met another cyclist heading south. Mark started in Cairns and is heading for Brisbane. That should be a good ride for him. We traded notes on the roads ahead and went our ways.
Stopped to check out the Francis Creek Rest Area about 5 km south of Ingham. Toilets, water, close to the road and is a Driver/Reviver stop when required.
Arrived at the Palm Tree Caravan Park, booked in, set up and put a load of washing in. Into town to organise my next few meals. Back to camp and have a shave and shower before doing my diary.
Tomorrow is a Rest Day. Check the bike and trailer over and recharge my batteries.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Day 68
Date:- 21 May 2010
Distance:- 54.20 Km
Distance to Date:- 3710.0 Km
Start:- Magnetic Gateway Holiday Village Townsville
Finish:- Blue Water Rest Area
Comment:- Today I was going to Anaconda to pick up a couple of bargains so I could afford a sleep in. So I was up at 7am packed up and heading into Townsville.
Before I left the caravan park my next door caravaner came across to me and asked if I had anything stolen. Apparently, about 8.30pm someone crept up to their van and stole their new shoes, and someone else lost something as well.
It was about 12 km into town from the caravan park. Stopped at Hungry Jacks for breakfast before going to Anaconda. Found what I wanted and checked out then asked where the nearest supermarket was. They told me where but I couldn’t find it so turned around and headed foir the Bruce Highway via Ingam road.
Onto the Bruce Highway and heading north and I stopped at the first convenience store I could find and made my purchase and on the way again.
About 7 km down the road I came across a Woolworths Supermarket. I wanted some fresh fruit so in I went. Looked for my wallet and it wasn’t there. Help where could it be. I found my receipt from the convenience store but alas no phone number. After a quick assessment of the situation I unloaded the bike, asked a couple of people doing a sauage sizzle if they could keep an eye on my gear, and headed back 7 km to the convenience store. To my great relief the wallet was handed in and I got it back fully intact.
Back to Woolies, bought a couple of snags in appreciation of the people who looked after my gear, got my fruit and back on the road and settled for the first rest area that came my way
Blue Water Rest Area was about 12 km down the road and that’s where I stopped. it’s a 24 hour stop with toilets and a cold shower, if you are brave enough. There are about 30 vans and motor homes already in here and I pitched my tent on the nice green oval.
My new neighbour had the kettle on and offered me a cuppa. They are all very friendly around here. I had to attend to another flat tyre on BOB. Rather frustrating and will have to tackle the problem once I get to Cairns.
Tomorrow I should get to Ingham which is about 75 Km fom here.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Day 67
Date:- 20 May 2010
Distance:- 92.65 Km
Distance to Date:- 3655.8 Km
Start:- Michelles Caravan Park - Home Hill
Finish:- Magnetic Gateway Holiday Village Townsville
Comment:- On yesterdays blog I neglected to thank Coral for going to the trouble of finding a new flag for me. She took off on a bike ride into Bowen on Tuesday afternoon and came back with a new flag and cane. Thankyou Coral it is very much appreciated.
I am starting to get lazy because again I slept in till 6.30am and I was on the road by 8.30am. Bit of cloud around today but otherwise quite pleasant.
Just out of Home Hill I had to cross the Burdekin river. No mean feat. It was a long bridge and I assess that the road was not really wide enough for two cars and 1 bike to pass. Found the pedestrian footpath and was ok till I came to a set of stairs going down to a lower level. Got down ok, across the bridge to another set of stairs ascending to road level again. Disconnected the bike and trailer and carried each up the stairs, reassembled and continued on my way.
Arrived at Ayr and took the heavy vehicle bypass to avoid any temptation to stop at Maccas or similar. Then onto the town of Braddon. A lot of sugarcane around here. Next point of interest was the Sandy Corner Rest Area about 8 km north of Ayr. It was close to the road, there were toilets, covered tables and chairs. It is a designated Driver/Reviver stop
Stopped at Greenacres Roadhouse for my snack break and that was 40 km out at 11am. My next stop was the Alligator Service Centre another hour further on.
The road today was variable to say the least. Excellent road with 2 metre shoulders to rough road with no shoulders. I think I had everything except unsealed. Fortunately the traffic wasn’t too heavy.
I arrived in the outskirts of Townsville about 3pm found a caravan park and settled in. I am not sure what I will do tomorrow. I would like to get to Anaconda as they have a sale on and there are a couple of things that I would like.
I am a little disappointed at the number of comments I am getting and it is possibly due to the blog server I am using. I have been told to sign in anonymously and put your name in the body of the comment. For those of you who have commented, Thankyou.
Distance:- 92.65 Km
Distance to Date:- 3655.8 Km
Start:- Michelles Caravan Park - Home Hill
Finish:- Magnetic Gateway Holiday Village Townsville
Comment:- On yesterdays blog I neglected to thank Coral for going to the trouble of finding a new flag for me. She took off on a bike ride into Bowen on Tuesday afternoon and came back with a new flag and cane. Thankyou Coral it is very much appreciated.
I am starting to get lazy because again I slept in till 6.30am and I was on the road by 8.30am. Bit of cloud around today but otherwise quite pleasant.
Just out of Home Hill I had to cross the Burdekin river. No mean feat. It was a long bridge and I assess that the road was not really wide enough for two cars and 1 bike to pass. Found the pedestrian footpath and was ok till I came to a set of stairs going down to a lower level. Got down ok, across the bridge to another set of stairs ascending to road level again. Disconnected the bike and trailer and carried each up the stairs, reassembled and continued on my way.
Arrived at Ayr and took the heavy vehicle bypass to avoid any temptation to stop at Maccas or similar. Then onto the town of Braddon. A lot of sugarcane around here. Next point of interest was the Sandy Corner Rest Area about 8 km north of Ayr. It was close to the road, there were toilets, covered tables and chairs. It is a designated Driver/Reviver stop
Stopped at Greenacres Roadhouse for my snack break and that was 40 km out at 11am. My next stop was the Alligator Service Centre another hour further on.
The road today was variable to say the least. Excellent road with 2 metre shoulders to rough road with no shoulders. I think I had everything except unsealed. Fortunately the traffic wasn’t too heavy.
I arrived in the outskirts of Townsville about 3pm found a caravan park and settled in. I am not sure what I will do tomorrow. I would like to get to Anaconda as they have a sale on and there are a couple of things that I would like.
I am a little disappointed at the number of comments I am getting and it is possibly due to the blog server I am using. I have been told to sign in anonymously and put your name in the body of the comment. For those of you who have commented, Thankyou.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Day 66
Date:- 19 May 2010
Distance:- 104.65 Km
Distance to Date:- 3563.1 Km
Start:- Bowen Palms Caravan Park
Finish:- Michelles Caravan Park - Home Hill
Comment:- It was a rather cool night last night and enough traffic to use the ear plugs
This morning I slept in till 6.30am as I was considering an easy day to Gumlo. Had breakfast in the camp kitchen watching TV, packed up, said goodbye to Coral and on the road by 8.30am.
Not a cloud in the sky, sun shining, my usual SE tail wind, and light traffic. Another nice day in paradise
Market gardening seems to be the main activity around Bowen and the seasonal workers are expected in the area in the next few weeks.
Passed through the small town of Merinda then followed the road up in between a few hills then out on the flat again. A SE wind of about 5 - 10 knots has settled in. Back into cattle country again
Stopped at Guthalungra (Elliot Creek) Rest Area for my snack break. You are allowed to camp here for a maximum of 20 hours. Use the toilets at the service station across the road and pay $3 if you want a shower.
Back on the road and soon arrived at Gumlo and since it was only 11.30am I decided to keep travelling. A lot of citrus groves and market gardening around Gumlo.
I have decided to head for Home Hill where I have heard there is a comfort station with showers etc. I had a nice run into Home Hill with the exception of about 5 km of newly laid bitumen which was hard going. Arrived at Home Hill about 3.30pm
Found the comfort station, read the list of rules, and it said no tents. Caravans and motor homes can stay overnight. With that I had to find somewhere to stay and someone pointed me in the direction of the council park down near the swimming pool. Found the park and they only deal in cash. Not good.
Was told there was another park back on the Bruce Highway on the way to Ayr. Found the park and booked in and everyone is happy.
I have got to speak to my navigator about tomorrows destination. I could possibly get to Townsville.
Distance:- 104.65 Km
Distance to Date:- 3563.1 Km
Start:- Bowen Palms Caravan Park
Finish:- Michelles Caravan Park - Home Hill
Comment:- It was a rather cool night last night and enough traffic to use the ear plugs
This morning I slept in till 6.30am as I was considering an easy day to Gumlo. Had breakfast in the camp kitchen watching TV, packed up, said goodbye to Coral and on the road by 8.30am.
Not a cloud in the sky, sun shining, my usual SE tail wind, and light traffic. Another nice day in paradise
Market gardening seems to be the main activity around Bowen and the seasonal workers are expected in the area in the next few weeks.
Passed through the small town of Merinda then followed the road up in between a few hills then out on the flat again. A SE wind of about 5 - 10 knots has settled in. Back into cattle country again
Stopped at Guthalungra (Elliot Creek) Rest Area for my snack break. You are allowed to camp here for a maximum of 20 hours. Use the toilets at the service station across the road and pay $3 if you want a shower.
Back on the road and soon arrived at Gumlo and since it was only 11.30am I decided to keep travelling. A lot of citrus groves and market gardening around Gumlo.
I have decided to head for Home Hill where I have heard there is a comfort station with showers etc. I had a nice run into Home Hill with the exception of about 5 km of newly laid bitumen which was hard going. Arrived at Home Hill about 3.30pm
Found the comfort station, read the list of rules, and it said no tents. Caravans and motor homes can stay overnight. With that I had to find somewhere to stay and someone pointed me in the direction of the council park down near the swimming pool. Found the park and they only deal in cash. Not good.
Was told there was another park back on the Bruce Highway on the way to Ayr. Found the park and booked in and everyone is happy.
I have got to speak to my navigator about tomorrows destination. I could possibly get to Townsville.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Day 65
Date:- 18 May 2010
Distance:- 63.18 Km
Distance to Date:- 3458.4 Km
Start:- Proserpine Caravan Park
Finish:- Bowen Palms Caravan Park
Comment:- It seemed to drizzle all night and even at 6am when I got up it was still drizzling. Took my time having breakfast and then packing up in the rather salubrious camp kitchen.
A person I met back in Bega, Coral (I am bad with names) came to have a chat When I met her in Bega she was heading south to Wilsons Promontory then up through the centre of NSW and then heading to Cairns by early June to do the All Trails mountain bike ride to Cape York.
When I hit the road about 8.30am there was a light misty rain which soon cleared away. Wet roads, slush from passing cars and trucks - something different I suppose.
About 20km out of Proserpine the road started to dry out and the sun is trying to poke through. Makes for a more pleasant ride. Road is flat with a one metre shoulder and I am scooting along at about 20 kilometre per hour. It felt good.
Stopped for my snack break about 10.30am on the side of the road near an old abandoned rest area was situated. Back on the bike and charging into Bowen. Check out the rest area just south of Bowen only to find it was no overnight stays.
Found the caravan park I had decided on, booked in, and set up etc. Bought a couple of sausage rolls for lunch then set about doing my diary.
Hi light or should I say low light was that I lost the top section of my flag off my trailer somewhere between Bowen and my snack break. Decided it wasn’t worth backtracking to try and find it and will endeavour to find a piece of dowel from a hardware store and improvise.
My next few days should go something like this:-
Wednesday Bowen to Gumlo
Thursday Gumlo to Homehill
Friday Homehill to Townsville
Distance:- 63.18 Km
Distance to Date:- 3458.4 Km
Start:- Proserpine Caravan Park
Finish:- Bowen Palms Caravan Park
Comment:- It seemed to drizzle all night and even at 6am when I got up it was still drizzling. Took my time having breakfast and then packing up in the rather salubrious camp kitchen.
A person I met back in Bega, Coral (I am bad with names) came to have a chat When I met her in Bega she was heading south to Wilsons Promontory then up through the centre of NSW and then heading to Cairns by early June to do the All Trails mountain bike ride to Cape York.
When I hit the road about 8.30am there was a light misty rain which soon cleared away. Wet roads, slush from passing cars and trucks - something different I suppose.
About 20km out of Proserpine the road started to dry out and the sun is trying to poke through. Makes for a more pleasant ride. Road is flat with a one metre shoulder and I am scooting along at about 20 kilometre per hour. It felt good.
Stopped for my snack break about 10.30am on the side of the road near an old abandoned rest area was situated. Back on the bike and charging into Bowen. Check out the rest area just south of Bowen only to find it was no overnight stays.
Found the caravan park I had decided on, booked in, and set up etc. Bought a couple of sausage rolls for lunch then set about doing my diary.
Hi light or should I say low light was that I lost the top section of my flag off my trailer somewhere between Bowen and my snack break. Decided it wasn’t worth backtracking to try and find it and will endeavour to find a piece of dowel from a hardware store and improvise.
My next few days should go something like this:-
Wednesday Bowen to Gumlo
Thursday Gumlo to Homehill
Friday Homehill to Townsville
Monday, May 17, 2010
Day 64
Date:- 17 May 2010
Distance:- 5.74 Km
Distance to Date:- 3395.2 Km
Start:- Proserpine Caravan Park
Finish:- Proserpine Caravan Park
Comment:- Another Rest Day.
Last night just on dusk one of the locals from the caravan park strongly suggested I move my tent under the shelter of the camp kitchen as there was heavy rain approaching. I took his advice. The heavy rain didn’t eventuate but light showers persisted all night and up to lunch time today.
I took the liberty, of being slightly ahead of schedule, to take a rest day as I don’t like getting wet if I don’t have to. It has been quite a cool day. I wore my jumper most of the day.
I finally got out of bed about 7am and had a leisurely breakfast while watching TV. Had a bit of a tidy up before riding into town (between showers) and wandering around the shops. Back to camp and just had a lazy afternoon sometimes wishing I hadn’t decided to stay.
Tomorrow it will be Bowen or beyond. The weather seems to be breaking up and the sun has been shining. The radio forecast said showers clearing overnight.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Day 63
Date:- 16 May 2010
Distance:- 96.8 Km
Distance to Date:- 3389.4 Km
Start:- Palm Tree Creek Rest Area
Finish:- Proserpine Caravan Park
Comment:- I slept in this morning and eventually got up about 6.30am. I wasn’t the only person in a tent as overnight another 4 tents appeared as well as about 9 other types of vehicles.
Had breakfast, packed and about to hit the road when Celista, a visitor from the USA came over for a chat. On the road by 8.15am with a nice cool morning, another tail wind and a good road. Rain is forecast for latter in the day.
Passed through the little towns of Mt Ossa and Calen then Bloomsbury. I stopped for a snack break about 35 km out and had lunch at Bloomsbury about 12pm.
As Proserpine was only another 40 km up the road I decided that will be my aim for tonight. Had a very nice ride into Proserpine Found the Info office, alas only to find they were closed. It was Sunday, how silly of me. Everything is closed up here on a Sunday.
Found the Caravan Park booked in and set the tent up right outside the camp kitchen. It is very eerie around here at the moment looks like it could pour rain any minute. One of the locals just came in for a chat and told me to be aware of bandicoots and possums pinching food.
I have a correction to make. The caretaker of the rest area told me the tracks through the cane fields are called tramways as opposed to the commercial railways as we know them. I learnt quite a bit about the cane industry from him
Another thing I forgot to report on yesterday was the saga of the flat tyre on my trailer. I did have another flat tyre yesterday and on closer inspection I found tiny little thorns had penetrated the tyre. I pulled about 8 thorns out with the tweezers from the first aid kit. Patched up my new tube, and touch wood, we survived today.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Minn for the very generous donation to the Asthma Foundation, and hope that other people can find it in their heart to make a small contribution. There is a link on my Blog.
As I was riding along today I was thinking how good is this, how lucky am I, if only I could work out a way to make some real money out of what I am doing. Any suggestions? I was thinking of setting up Geoffs’ Benevolent Fund.
Tomorrow, if it is not raining, I will head for Bowen or beyond.
Distance:- 96.8 Km
Distance to Date:- 3389.4 Km
Start:- Palm Tree Creek Rest Area
Finish:- Proserpine Caravan Park
Comment:- I slept in this morning and eventually got up about 6.30am. I wasn’t the only person in a tent as overnight another 4 tents appeared as well as about 9 other types of vehicles.
Had breakfast, packed and about to hit the road when Celista, a visitor from the USA came over for a chat. On the road by 8.15am with a nice cool morning, another tail wind and a good road. Rain is forecast for latter in the day.
Passed through the little towns of Mt Ossa and Calen then Bloomsbury. I stopped for a snack break about 35 km out and had lunch at Bloomsbury about 12pm.
As Proserpine was only another 40 km up the road I decided that will be my aim for tonight. Had a very nice ride into Proserpine Found the Info office, alas only to find they were closed. It was Sunday, how silly of me. Everything is closed up here on a Sunday.
Found the Caravan Park booked in and set the tent up right outside the camp kitchen. It is very eerie around here at the moment looks like it could pour rain any minute. One of the locals just came in for a chat and told me to be aware of bandicoots and possums pinching food.
I have a correction to make. The caretaker of the rest area told me the tracks through the cane fields are called tramways as opposed to the commercial railways as we know them. I learnt quite a bit about the cane industry from him
Another thing I forgot to report on yesterday was the saga of the flat tyre on my trailer. I did have another flat tyre yesterday and on closer inspection I found tiny little thorns had penetrated the tyre. I pulled about 8 thorns out with the tweezers from the first aid kit. Patched up my new tube, and touch wood, we survived today.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Minn for the very generous donation to the Asthma Foundation, and hope that other people can find it in their heart to make a small contribution. There is a link on my Blog.
As I was riding along today I was thinking how good is this, how lucky am I, if only I could work out a way to make some real money out of what I am doing. Any suggestions? I was thinking of setting up Geoffs’ Benevolent Fund.
Tomorrow, if it is not raining, I will head for Bowen or beyond.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Day 62
Date:- 15 May 2010
Distance:- 69.30 Km
Distance to Date:- 3292.6 Km
Start:- Tropicana Caravan Park - Sarina
Finish:- Palm Tree Creek Rest Area
Comment:- Up at 6am and on the road by 7.30am. A nice cool crisp morning, light traffic and a reasonably good road. Sign as I entered the Bruce Highway said 36 km to Mackay. Had a very nice ride into Mackay and found the Info Office again to see if I can find out any more information of the road ahead.
Took the detour, as suggested by the lady in the Sarina Info Office, and bypassed Mackay city area then back to the Bruce Highway north of Mackay heading for Proserpine.
A few undulating hills is slowing my progress from Mackay. Stopped at a little Service Station at Millview for my snack break
There are lots of little railway tracks and crossings through this area. This place must be a hive of activity when cane harvesting is in full swing. Be a good place to keep away from.
Another strange observance today is the number of butterflies. A lot of small yellow butterflies as well as large black and blue butterflies and large black and orange butterflies. Quite unique.
Stopped at a rest area tonight, to save a quid, about 3 km north of Kuttabul and about 2 km short of the Jolimont Caravan Park
A typical rest area close to the road (ear plugs will be needed I think) There is water (need to boil of course), toilets and benches and tables so I am quite comfortable. There are however some small green ants which are harmless but can give you a nip if allowed.
Tomorrow I will aim for somewhere near Proserpine.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Day 61
Date:- 14 May 2010
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 3223.2 Km
Start:- Tropicana Caravan Park - Sarina
Finish:- Tropicana Caravan Park - Sarina
Comment:- Rest Day. I declared a Rest Day today so I can catch up on washing, servicing the bike and recharging my batteries.
Slept in till 7am this morning, up and hung the washing on the line. I was going to leave it hang overnight but someone informed me that things have been going missing. Like someone had a bike stolen a couple of days ago and someone else had some washing taken from the line, so I wasn’t going to take any chances.
Had a quiet breakfast before doing a little tidy up in the tent, then it was off down the street to Woolies and the Info office. Restocked my food reserves as well as bought something for lunch and tea tonight. Then off to the Info Office where I was offered a welcome cup of coffee. Picked up a little bit of info to cover me for the next couple of days.
My next port of call was the hospital to have my stitches removed. On the way there I spotted a Medical Centre and went in and enquired as to wether they would remove the stitches and they said yes.
With the stitches out I headed back to camp to tackle my next job of servicing the bike and trailer. Another flat tyre on the trailer and on further investigation I found a series of holes around the outer seam of the tube. Put the spare tube on the wheel and proceeded to repair the older tube. Five holes in total so I feel it may have been a faulty tube.
Oiled the chain on the bike, checked the brakes and checked for any loose screws, nuts etc. All good and ready for another few days on the road.
Retrieved my washing and sleeping bag from the clothes line and folded and packed them accordingly, then spent the rest of the day virtually doing nothing, just wishing I was on the road again.
To morrow I may aim for Kuttabul about 75kms up the road.
Another milestone, its been 2 months on the road today
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 3223.2 Km
Start:- Tropicana Caravan Park - Sarina
Finish:- Tropicana Caravan Park - Sarina
Comment:- Rest Day. I declared a Rest Day today so I can catch up on washing, servicing the bike and recharging my batteries.
Slept in till 7am this morning, up and hung the washing on the line. I was going to leave it hang overnight but someone informed me that things have been going missing. Like someone had a bike stolen a couple of days ago and someone else had some washing taken from the line, so I wasn’t going to take any chances.
Had a quiet breakfast before doing a little tidy up in the tent, then it was off down the street to Woolies and the Info office. Restocked my food reserves as well as bought something for lunch and tea tonight. Then off to the Info Office where I was offered a welcome cup of coffee. Picked up a little bit of info to cover me for the next couple of days.
My next port of call was the hospital to have my stitches removed. On the way there I spotted a Medical Centre and went in and enquired as to wether they would remove the stitches and they said yes.
With the stitches out I headed back to camp to tackle my next job of servicing the bike and trailer. Another flat tyre on the trailer and on further investigation I found a series of holes around the outer seam of the tube. Put the spare tube on the wheel and proceeded to repair the older tube. Five holes in total so I feel it may have been a faulty tube.
Oiled the chain on the bike, checked the brakes and checked for any loose screws, nuts etc. All good and ready for another few days on the road.
Retrieved my washing and sleeping bag from the clothes line and folded and packed them accordingly, then spent the rest of the day virtually doing nothing, just wishing I was on the road again.
To morrow I may aim for Kuttabul about 75kms up the road.
Another milestone, its been 2 months on the road today
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Day 60
Date:-13 May 10
Distance:- 71.50 Km
Distance to Date:- 3223.2 Km
Start:- Camila Beach Rest Area
Finish:- Tropicana Caravan Park - Sarina
Comment:- Up about 6am and had breakfast on the beach as the sun was rising. Makes you feel good to be alive. Packed and ready to roll. Started wheeling the bike and trailer out to the road and noticed something strange. My trailer had a flat tyre. That delayed my departure somewhat. Repaired the puncture and on the road by 8.15am
Rode the 6 km back to the Bruce Highway and headed off toward Sarina. Taking the detour was certainly out of character with me but it was certainly worth it.
About 20 km out of Camila I met an Englishman cycling the opposite direction. Vin Cox was from Cornwall in England and was cycling from Darwin to Sydney where he was flying to New Zealand to cycle there. Sounds like he was cycling around the world. Watch out dear I may get the same idea.
Stopped at a wayside stop near llbllie for my snack break, then had a cold drink at Koumala before proceding on to Sarina. Arrived in Sarina about 1.30pm and went looking for a caravan park. Found one, booked in set up camp and put a load of washing in. If it is a peaceful night here tonight I will have a Rest Day. Have my stitches removed at the local hospital. Service the bike and trailer and recharge my batteries. At this stage I am still 7 days ahead of schedule.
I meant to mention the road conditions yesterday. From the Waverley Creek Rest Area to Sarina I have had at least a metre shoulder all the way. Very nice I would like to think it will continue onto Cairns.
Distance:- 71.50 Km
Distance to Date:- 3223.2 Km
Start:- Camila Beach Rest Area
Finish:- Tropicana Caravan Park - Sarina
Comment:- Up about 6am and had breakfast on the beach as the sun was rising. Makes you feel good to be alive. Packed and ready to roll. Started wheeling the bike and trailer out to the road and noticed something strange. My trailer had a flat tyre. That delayed my departure somewhat. Repaired the puncture and on the road by 8.15am
Rode the 6 km back to the Bruce Highway and headed off toward Sarina. Taking the detour was certainly out of character with me but it was certainly worth it.
About 20 km out of Camila I met an Englishman cycling the opposite direction. Vin Cox was from Cornwall in England and was cycling from Darwin to Sydney where he was flying to New Zealand to cycle there. Sounds like he was cycling around the world. Watch out dear I may get the same idea.
Stopped at a wayside stop near llbllie for my snack break, then had a cold drink at Koumala before proceding on to Sarina. Arrived in Sarina about 1.30pm and went looking for a caravan park. Found one, booked in set up camp and put a load of washing in. If it is a peaceful night here tonight I will have a Rest Day. Have my stitches removed at the local hospital. Service the bike and trailer and recharge my batteries. At this stage I am still 7 days ahead of schedule.
I meant to mention the road conditions yesterday. From the Waverley Creek Rest Area to Sarina I have had at least a metre shoulder all the way. Very nice I would like to think it will continue onto Cairns.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Day 59
Date:- 12 May 2010
Distance:- 72.51 Km
Distance to Date:- 3151.7 Km
Start:- Waverley Creek Rest Area
Finish:- Camila Beach Rest Area
Comment:- Well I was up at 6am after an unsettled night, packed and on the road by 7am.Beautiful crisp morning with a light fog around the foot hills. Good flat road.
Stopped at Kalarka Service Station for breakfast (toast and tea)
At about 12 km from Kalarka Service Station I turned righto go to Clareview, as suggested by the lady at the service station. The Rest Area at Clareview was very well maintained. I had tea and cake from a couple of ladies who were holding a trash and treasure stall at the rest area for charity.
Back on the road again and back onto the Bruce highway again heading for Camila. First sugar cane crop I spotted was About10 km south of Camila. Arrived at Camila about 12.15pm and bought up some much needed groceries.
Enquired at the local caravan park about their tariffs and it was going to cost me $20 for a tent site for my tent and me. What about if I towed my caravan in with my wife, how much, $20. I said no thanks and went onto Camila beach Rest Area, about 6 km off the road.
I have pitched my tent on top of a ledge overlooking the beach and the ocean. Very peaceful.
Tomorrow I hope to get to Sarina and catch up on my washing, service the bike etc on a rest day.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Day 58
Date:- 11 May 2010
Distance:- 66.03 Km
Distance to Date:- 3079.1 Km
Start:- Marlborough Caravan Park
Finish:- Waverley Creek Rest Area
Comment:- Last night I had tea in the café across the road from the caravan park. Rissoles, chips and salad and a bottomless cup of tea or coffee for $12.50
Up at 6am in the morning after a very good nights sleep, packed up and over to the same café for Bacon and eggs for breakfast and again a bottomless cup of tea or coffee. Almost too much to eat. Very good.
On the road by 8.15am and heading for Waverley Creek Rest Area. Not too bad a road specially when the traffic is light. It was an overcast sought of day, when the sun breaks through its quite warm
Stopped on the side of the road for my half way snack break about 10.30am. Road has been generally flat so I have been able to cover a bit of ground.
About 7 km from my destination a car pulled up in front of me and a man jumped out and hailed me to stop. We chatted on the side of the road. He had just bought a trailer and was wondering what my thoughts were on trailers. He is hoping to embark on some long distance touring as well.
Shortly after we parted company it started RAINING. Nothing real serious. I put the cover on my handlebar bag and just kept going. Arrived at the rest area about 1.15pm, the rain had stopped. Selected a spot to pitch my tent and everything organised and down the rain came again. I have a table and chair under cover so I am quite comfortable. The smell of the rain is so sweet and refreshing.
I think tomorrow I will head for Camilla
Monday, May 10, 2010
Day 57
Date:- 10 May 2010
Distance:- 68.42 Km
Distance to Date:- 3013.10 Km
Start:- Yaamba Rest Area
Finish:- Marlborough Caravan Park
Comment:- After I had done my diary for the day I met a couple of men who were travelling the same direction as me. A man on a motor bike who left Adelaide the same time I left Geelong. He is travelling right around Australia and has given himself 3 months. The second man Rohan is from Tasmania. He is travelling the east coast up to Cairns or Port Douglas and his partner is meeting him there.
The kookaburras were a source of entertainment last night. There was a post with two bright street lights attached and the lights attracted the moths. Well the 3 or 4 kookaburras sat in a tree about 10 metres away, eyed off their prey and swooped on it landing in another tree about the same distance the other side. By the end of the night there were not too many moths left and I think the kookaburras were quite content.
On the subject of birds, while I was in Gin Gin, I walked into town, and there was a heavy shower of rain. I sheltered under a veranda, and while waiting for the rain to pass, I watched as a Galah (bird) land on the high tension line in the rain and quickly inverted himself so the rain was washing his belly. It wasn’t long before there were about 10 or so galahs doing the same thing. It was very unusual.
A rude wakening this morning with a crop duster aeroplane spraying a crop close to were we staying. He started about 5.30am. It was perfect conditions for him. I was up at 6am this morning, had breakfast, packed up and ready to hit the road but a number of people were in for a chat and I finally got away by 9am. It was a nice day to start and it got better. Sun was shining and it was a pleasant cool morning as I progressed further north it became overcast so I had a very pleasant ride.
The gentleman on the motorbike caught up with me about 15 km out from Yaamba, a quick chat and he was on his way, and about another 10 km down the road Rohan passed me and checked on my well being. Thanks fellas’
My bike started to feel a bit funny so I stopped and checked the tyres and found the rear tyre was quite soft. Pumped it up and away we go. Alls good, tyre stayed up for the rest of the trip.
Stopped at Kunwarara Day Stop Rest Area for my snack break about 37 km out of Yaamba about 11.30am.
Another mile stone or should I say kilometre stone was reached today. 3000 km registered on my bike computer. That’s as much as I was doing in a year and I have done it in less than two months.
Arrived in Marlborough about 2pm found the caravan park, booked in and set up. The park is virtually empty. Had a nice long hot shower before relaxing and doing my diary.
Waverley Rest Area maybe my destination tomorrow.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Day 56
Date:- 9 May 10
Distance:- 35.57 Km
Distance to Date:- 2944.6 Km
Start:- Rockhampton Caravan Park
Finish:- Yaamba Rest Area
Comment:- Up about 6am this morning and taking things quietly. I have planned to stop at Yaamba Rest Area which is only 35km north of here. Why? Because I felt the 104 Km to Marlborough was just a little much for one day, plus the fact I am about 8 days ahead of schedule.
Rang Mum about 8am to wish her happy Mothers Day, then out and on the road by 8.30am. Found my way back to the Bruce Highway and headed north. Rockhampton was bigger than I thought. From when I left the caravan park in North Rockhampton to the last set of traffic lights was about 12 km.
Very good road for the short distance I was on it. I hope it stays that way for tomorrow. A few steeper undulations today did slow me down a bit but that nice tail wind certainly helped.
Arrived at Yaamba about 11.30am and thought, should I keep going or not. As time was not an issue I decided to stay. Bit of a trap, there is a hotel on one side of the road and a café/ service station on the other.
Tomorrow Marlborough or a bit further.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Day 55
Date:- 8 May 2010
Distance:- 78.07 Km
Distance to Date:- 2909.0 Km
Start:- Mount Larcom Caravan Park
Finish:- Riverside Tourist Park - Rockhampton
Comment:- Up at 6am, breakfast, packup and on the road by 8.15am. Cooler day to start. Sign at Mount Larcom indicated 77 km to Rockhampton my destination for the day.
Good road all the way to Rockhampton with only a couple of small hills to break the monotony. In other words a good flat road with varying shoulders about 70% 2 metre wide, 20% 1 metre wide and 10% no shoulder.
Passed through the towns of Ambrose, Raglan and Marmo where I stopped for my break. Then passed through Banjol where they make some sort of explosive. Signs along the road warned us of trucks carrying explosives, etc.
I then had a straight run into Rockhampton. Rang my navigator (Evon) to find out where my caravan park was. Found the park, booked in set up camp and as I was about to head up town Mark rang and we organised a place to meet.
Met Mark and Tina at our agreed place and we enjoyed a drink together. They had had a long week and their two children were very tired so we called it a day and went our separate ways.
Being a weekend not much is open so just had to be satisfied with window shopping. Back to camp and do my diary before I go to the Bowling Club for tea.
Haven’t worked out tomorrows’ destination yet.
Distance:- 78.07 Km
Distance to Date:- 2909.0 Km
Start:- Mount Larcom Caravan Park
Finish:- Riverside Tourist Park - Rockhampton
Comment:- Up at 6am, breakfast, packup and on the road by 8.15am. Cooler day to start. Sign at Mount Larcom indicated 77 km to Rockhampton my destination for the day.
Good road all the way to Rockhampton with only a couple of small hills to break the monotony. In other words a good flat road with varying shoulders about 70% 2 metre wide, 20% 1 metre wide and 10% no shoulder.
Passed through the towns of Ambrose, Raglan and Marmo where I stopped for my break. Then passed through Banjol where they make some sort of explosive. Signs along the road warned us of trucks carrying explosives, etc.
I then had a straight run into Rockhampton. Rang my navigator (Evon) to find out where my caravan park was. Found the park, booked in set up camp and as I was about to head up town Mark rang and we organised a place to meet.
Met Mark and Tina at our agreed place and we enjoyed a drink together. They had had a long week and their two children were very tired so we called it a day and went our separate ways.
Being a weekend not much is open so just had to be satisfied with window shopping. Back to camp and do my diary before I go to the Bowling Club for tea.
Haven’t worked out tomorrows’ destination yet.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Day 54
Date:- 7 May 2010
Distance:- 80.03 Km
Distance to Date:- 2830.9 Km
Start:- Bororen Caravan Park
Finish:- Mount Larcom Caravan Park
Comment:- Up at 6am and feeling great. Usual procedure, breakfast, packup and on the road by 8am Very good road for the first 7km, cloudless sky and no wind. Just a little traffic to worry about.
A good 2 metre shoulder to start with, but after about 7 km we were down to 1metre. That’s OK but when they place the red reflectors right in the middle of the shoulder, its not nice. You have to keep an eye out for them because they hurt when the bike hits them.
Stopped at the Boyne River Rest Area. There were toilets and cold showers. It would be a good overnight spot to camp
About 10.30am a SW breeze came in which complimented my good run into Benanaby.
I had a couple of hills to contend with after Benanaby, then a few gentle rolling hills before a nice straight run into Mount Larcom. Came across a couple of small brown snakes on the road. I didn’t stop to check their well being. I presume they were dead.
I stopped at another rest area just north of Calliope. There was an historic village being set up. I laid down on one of the seats and promptly went to sleep. It must have only been 10 minutes or so but I felt lousy after that. It took me a few minutes to get back into gear.
Arrived at Mount Larcom, found the caravan, booked in set up camp, showered and down the street. Not much here, café, and a hotel and a couple of engineering businesses.
Back to do my diary, then I will head off down to the pub for a counter tea at 6pm.
Tomorrow I hope to get to Rockhampton. Rang Mark Cations last night but no reply. Will try again tonight. Mark and Tina live at Grassmere just out of Rocky. His parents are good friends of ours.
Distance:- 80.03 Km
Distance to Date:- 2830.9 Km
Start:- Bororen Caravan Park
Finish:- Mount Larcom Caravan Park
Comment:- Up at 6am and feeling great. Usual procedure, breakfast, packup and on the road by 8am Very good road for the first 7km, cloudless sky and no wind. Just a little traffic to worry about.
A good 2 metre shoulder to start with, but after about 7 km we were down to 1metre. That’s OK but when they place the red reflectors right in the middle of the shoulder, its not nice. You have to keep an eye out for them because they hurt when the bike hits them.
Stopped at the Boyne River Rest Area. There were toilets and cold showers. It would be a good overnight spot to camp
About 10.30am a SW breeze came in which complimented my good run into Benanaby.
I had a couple of hills to contend with after Benanaby, then a few gentle rolling hills before a nice straight run into Mount Larcom. Came across a couple of small brown snakes on the road. I didn’t stop to check their well being. I presume they were dead.
I stopped at another rest area just north of Calliope. There was an historic village being set up. I laid down on one of the seats and promptly went to sleep. It must have only been 10 minutes or so but I felt lousy after that. It took me a few minutes to get back into gear.
Arrived at Mount Larcom, found the caravan, booked in set up camp, showered and down the street. Not much here, café, and a hotel and a couple of engineering businesses.
Back to do my diary, then I will head off down to the pub for a counter tea at 6pm.
Tomorrow I hope to get to Rockhampton. Rang Mark Cations last night but no reply. Will try again tonight. Mark and Tina live at Grassmere just out of Rocky. His parents are good friends of ours.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Day 53
Date:- 6 May 2010
Distance:- 48.88 Km
Distance to Date:- 2750.8 Km
Start:- Granite Creek Rest Area
Finish:- Bororen Caravan Park
Comment:- A lot of traffic, mainly trucks I think, avoiding the caravans on the road, by travelling at night. The Rest Area was a bit of a sound shell. Sounded like trucks were about to run over you although they were 300 metres away.
Despite the noise I had a reasonable nights sleep. I was awoken by kookaburras in the tree directly above me about 5.30am Crawled out of bed about 6am, had breakfast, packed up and on the road by7.45am. Not a cloud in the sky, not a breath of wind about 18’. Not bad to start a day on.
The road varied like yesterday, some bad sections and some excellent sections, and I would have to say Victorian and New Souith Wales roads leave Queensland roads for dead.
About 15 km out from the rest area a man on a two wheel recumbent caught up to me, had a quick chat and he was on his way, a man of very few words. Wanted to know if I had a joining link for a SRAM chain as he was breaking chains this morning.
Had my snack break in another truck stop about 10.30am and after a couple more hills I rode into Miriam Vale. A reasonable sized town and quite busy. I didn’t stop here because my destination was only another 15 km down the road.
A slow climb out of Miriam Vale then the road flattened out and I arrived in Bororen and found the caravan park and booked in. First thing I did was gather all my washing including what I wore today and put them in the washing machine. Pitched my tent, had a shower, dressed my wound from the other day, hung my washing out to dry then down to the shops. Lunch and tea organised. Back to camp, do my diary and generally take it easy.
I found today not as taxing as yesterday. I placed a folded handkerchief inside my right hand glove and that certainly eased the pain, still had a little problem of downshifting. I must have pulled a muscle in my upper right chest as it was hurting today. Took my Hydration pack off and that certainly eased the pain. It also hurts if I cough.
Tomorrow is another short day as I head for Mount Larcom.
Distance:- 48.88 Km
Distance to Date:- 2750.8 Km
Start:- Granite Creek Rest Area
Finish:- Bororen Caravan Park
Comment:- A lot of traffic, mainly trucks I think, avoiding the caravans on the road, by travelling at night. The Rest Area was a bit of a sound shell. Sounded like trucks were about to run over you although they were 300 metres away.
Despite the noise I had a reasonable nights sleep. I was awoken by kookaburras in the tree directly above me about 5.30am Crawled out of bed about 6am, had breakfast, packed up and on the road by7.45am. Not a cloud in the sky, not a breath of wind about 18’. Not bad to start a day on.
The road varied like yesterday, some bad sections and some excellent sections, and I would have to say Victorian and New Souith Wales roads leave Queensland roads for dead.
About 15 km out from the rest area a man on a two wheel recumbent caught up to me, had a quick chat and he was on his way, a man of very few words. Wanted to know if I had a joining link for a SRAM chain as he was breaking chains this morning.
Had my snack break in another truck stop about 10.30am and after a couple more hills I rode into Miriam Vale. A reasonable sized town and quite busy. I didn’t stop here because my destination was only another 15 km down the road.
A slow climb out of Miriam Vale then the road flattened out and I arrived in Bororen and found the caravan park and booked in. First thing I did was gather all my washing including what I wore today and put them in the washing machine. Pitched my tent, had a shower, dressed my wound from the other day, hung my washing out to dry then down to the shops. Lunch and tea organised. Back to camp, do my diary and generally take it easy.
I found today not as taxing as yesterday. I placed a folded handkerchief inside my right hand glove and that certainly eased the pain, still had a little problem of downshifting. I must have pulled a muscle in my upper right chest as it was hurting today. Took my Hydration pack off and that certainly eased the pain. It also hurts if I cough.
Tomorrow is another short day as I head for Mount Larcom.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Day 52
Date:- 5 May 2010
Distance:- 61.62 Km
Distance to Date:- 2701.9 Km
Start:- Gin Gin Caravan Park
Finish:- Granite Rock Rest Area
Comment:- Big test day today. Up about 6am, put the computer and phone on charge while I had breakfast. Packed up and on the road by 8.15am.
Reasonable road as far as Queensland go. Sometimes you have a shoulder to ride on and sometimes you didn’t, but the traffic was medium to light although there were quite a few escorted (Oversize) trucks and a couple with police escorts.
Rolling hills for the first part of the journey and a couple of hills that needed special attention. The road seemed to flatten out for the last 15km into the rest area.
Met a younger couple who were cycling from Cairns to Melbourne. We had a bit of a yarn about each of our endeavours. I think they said they had been on the road about 18 months including riding around, Argentina. We hope to communicate via blogs and Emails. I feel they have a wealth of experience about travelling across the top.
I feel I am back to normal except for my right hand where I had the three stitches. It didn’t seem to matter how I held the handle bar it was quite uncomfortable. Braking, fortunately the front brake which I don’t use much, but changing down gears on the cluster was difficult.
I had my riding gloves on but I think some extra padding may alleviate the discomfort so I will try that tomorrow. It can only get better.
Stopped for my snack break about 12.15pm at a truck stop about 38 km from Gin Gin. Back on the road and heading for the Granite Rock Rest Area. Arrived at the rest area about 3pm, chose a spot and put my tent up and organised myself for the night. Still have a problem with the lower frame on the tent and can survive without it. I just had to shift my “office” to under cover as a shower of rain hit. Quite refreshing actually. We may have a few showers overnight as forecast.
I haven’t spoken to the navigator (Evon) yet but the Boyne River Rest Area (84 km) or Calliope (104 km) are two alternatives or any where in between. I will need to do a wash up so the caravan park at Calliope may be the destination of choice.
Distance:- 61.62 Km
Distance to Date:- 2701.9 Km
Start:- Gin Gin Caravan Park
Finish:- Granite Rock Rest Area
Comment:- Big test day today. Up about 6am, put the computer and phone on charge while I had breakfast. Packed up and on the road by 8.15am.
Reasonable road as far as Queensland go. Sometimes you have a shoulder to ride on and sometimes you didn’t, but the traffic was medium to light although there were quite a few escorted (Oversize) trucks and a couple with police escorts.
Rolling hills for the first part of the journey and a couple of hills that needed special attention. The road seemed to flatten out for the last 15km into the rest area.
Met a younger couple who were cycling from Cairns to Melbourne. We had a bit of a yarn about each of our endeavours. I think they said they had been on the road about 18 months including riding around, Argentina. We hope to communicate via blogs and Emails. I feel they have a wealth of experience about travelling across the top.
I feel I am back to normal except for my right hand where I had the three stitches. It didn’t seem to matter how I held the handle bar it was quite uncomfortable. Braking, fortunately the front brake which I don’t use much, but changing down gears on the cluster was difficult.
I had my riding gloves on but I think some extra padding may alleviate the discomfort so I will try that tomorrow. It can only get better.
Stopped for my snack break about 12.15pm at a truck stop about 38 km from Gin Gin. Back on the road and heading for the Granite Rock Rest Area. Arrived at the rest area about 3pm, chose a spot and put my tent up and organised myself for the night. Still have a problem with the lower frame on the tent and can survive without it. I just had to shift my “office” to under cover as a shower of rain hit. Quite refreshing actually. We may have a few showers overnight as forecast.
I haven’t spoken to the navigator (Evon) yet but the Boyne River Rest Area (84 km) or Calliope (104 km) are two alternatives or any where in between. I will need to do a wash up so the caravan park at Calliope may be the destination of choice.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Day 51
Date:- 4 May 10
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 2640.2 Km
Start:- Gin Gin Caravan Park
Finish:- Gin Gin Caravan Park
Comment:- I called a rest day today to resurrect myself and repair the various problems I have.
Got to bed about 9.45pm, laid down and couldn’t get to sleep as my hand was really throbbing after the anaesthetic wore off. A couple of Panadol and I was out like a light.
Woke up about 6.45am, got dressed, had a wash and off to buy breakfast at the local café. Back to camp to gather the bits I wanted to replace or fix, then down the street
Found the first hardware store and she was able to give me some bolts to replace the couple I had lost, but couldn’t come up with a solution for the tent pole and suggested I try the other hardware store. I thought Gin Gin was only a spot on the map you pass through, but to have two hardware stores, a hospital, ambulance station, a couple of pubs, a bakery and a number of cafes, not to mention the servos it is big.
Down to the second hardware store and still no solution so I enquired about the where abouts of a motor mechanic or engineering store and I was directed to a motor mechanic who was able to fix my problem.
Wandered back to camp after getting some lunch from the local IGA supermarket. Reassemble the bits and pieces and we are ready to go.
Oh and incidentally as I was going down the street it started raining and it rained most of the morning with a couple of heavy showers so I was glad I was not on the road.
Had a rather lazy afternoon
Looking at maps, working out where I should be aiming for, but its hard to work out the distances as there is so much information covering each map. Just do my 60 to 70 km and call it a day.
There is a rest area about 60 km from here, I will make that my goal for tomorrow night.
Distance:- 0 Km
Distance to Date:- 2640.2 Km
Start:- Gin Gin Caravan Park
Finish:- Gin Gin Caravan Park
Comment:- I called a rest day today to resurrect myself and repair the various problems I have.
Got to bed about 9.45pm, laid down and couldn’t get to sleep as my hand was really throbbing after the anaesthetic wore off. A couple of Panadol and I was out like a light.
Woke up about 6.45am, got dressed, had a wash and off to buy breakfast at the local café. Back to camp to gather the bits I wanted to replace or fix, then down the street
Found the first hardware store and she was able to give me some bolts to replace the couple I had lost, but couldn’t come up with a solution for the tent pole and suggested I try the other hardware store. I thought Gin Gin was only a spot on the map you pass through, but to have two hardware stores, a hospital, ambulance station, a couple of pubs, a bakery and a number of cafes, not to mention the servos it is big.
Down to the second hardware store and still no solution so I enquired about the where abouts of a motor mechanic or engineering store and I was directed to a motor mechanic who was able to fix my problem.
Wandered back to camp after getting some lunch from the local IGA supermarket. Reassemble the bits and pieces and we are ready to go.
Oh and incidentally as I was going down the street it started raining and it rained most of the morning with a couple of heavy showers so I was glad I was not on the road.
Had a rather lazy afternoon
Looking at maps, working out where I should be aiming for, but its hard to work out the distances as there is so much information covering each map. Just do my 60 to 70 km and call it a day.
There is a rest area about 60 km from here, I will make that my goal for tomorrow night.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Day 50
Date:- 3 May 2010
Distance:- 90.09 Km
Distance to Date:- 2640.2 Km
Start:- Burrum River Caravan Park - Howard
Finish:- Gin Gin Caravan Park
Comment:- Awoke this morning to kookaburras laughing and roosters crowing. Had breakfast, then packed up. I was then invited to have a cup of tea and a couple of slices of toast with a couple who had spent the long weekend in Howard.
The Day I Would Like to Forget
As I was packing up one of my aluminium tent poles broke. I will try to fix it tonight.
On the road by 8.15am and rode about 8oo metres back to the Bruce Highway and turned right and off to Childers. Good road, sun shining, some cloud cover and little or no breeze. I wasn’t really with it today. My legs felt heavy and I didn’t feel I was travelling very well.
About 5 km from Childers the wind picked up to about 5 knots from the SE. Fields of sugar cane and some citrus orchards were evident. About 2 km from Childers were a couple of small hills and the shoulder of the road had disappeared. Not nice. Really made my day.
Stopped at Childers for my snack break and purchased a sleeve for my tent pole. Back on the road again and heading for Gin Gin. There was a very nice Rest Area about 5 km north of Childers called Apple Tree Creek Rest Area.
I had ridden about 20 km when the next incident happened. Riding down a hill doing about 25 km an hour in the narrow break down lane, when a bulge in the bitumen appeared. I steered to the left of it but unfortunately hit some loose gravel and lost control and over the handlebars I went. Both panniers came off, the handle bar bag and three water bottles dislodged themselves, and my rear vision mirror snapped off. I received abrasions to my lower left jaw and upper right chest and a rather sore right hand. Well I shook myself off, replaced all my gear, checked the bike and every thing seemed to be in order and set off again.
Struggled through another 10 km when I looked behind and some dark clouds were fast approaching and sure enough it started raining. I spotted a bus shelter at a school nearby and sheltered there till the rain passed. While there I checked myself out in particular the palm of my right hand and there was a nasty gash about 20mm long and deep. I applied antiseptic cream and dressings to it and when the rain had stopped set off again.
Another 5 km down the road I detected something loose on the bike, so stopped and had a look and I had lost a screw out of the luggage rack behind my seat. That was quickly rectified with a temporary cable tie.
Finally got into town about 5.15pm and found a Caravan Park. Booked in and set myself up and off to the shower. After my shower I was concerned about the injury to my right hand so off to the Causality Section of the local hospital. To cut the story short the duty doctor inserted 3 stitches into the wound and sent me on my way.
Walking back to camp I stopped for tea at a local café then continued back. Now I am doing my diary before I forget although I would prefer to forget.
Not sure what I will do tomorrow at this stage.
Distance:- 90.09 Km
Distance to Date:- 2640.2 Km
Start:- Burrum River Caravan Park - Howard
Finish:- Gin Gin Caravan Park
Comment:- Awoke this morning to kookaburras laughing and roosters crowing. Had breakfast, then packed up. I was then invited to have a cup of tea and a couple of slices of toast with a couple who had spent the long weekend in Howard.
The Day I Would Like to Forget
As I was packing up one of my aluminium tent poles broke. I will try to fix it tonight.
On the road by 8.15am and rode about 8oo metres back to the Bruce Highway and turned right and off to Childers. Good road, sun shining, some cloud cover and little or no breeze. I wasn’t really with it today. My legs felt heavy and I didn’t feel I was travelling very well.
About 5 km from Childers the wind picked up to about 5 knots from the SE. Fields of sugar cane and some citrus orchards were evident. About 2 km from Childers were a couple of small hills and the shoulder of the road had disappeared. Not nice. Really made my day.
Stopped at Childers for my snack break and purchased a sleeve for my tent pole. Back on the road again and heading for Gin Gin. There was a very nice Rest Area about 5 km north of Childers called Apple Tree Creek Rest Area.
I had ridden about 20 km when the next incident happened. Riding down a hill doing about 25 km an hour in the narrow break down lane, when a bulge in the bitumen appeared. I steered to the left of it but unfortunately hit some loose gravel and lost control and over the handlebars I went. Both panniers came off, the handle bar bag and three water bottles dislodged themselves, and my rear vision mirror snapped off. I received abrasions to my lower left jaw and upper right chest and a rather sore right hand. Well I shook myself off, replaced all my gear, checked the bike and every thing seemed to be in order and set off again.
Struggled through another 10 km when I looked behind and some dark clouds were fast approaching and sure enough it started raining. I spotted a bus shelter at a school nearby and sheltered there till the rain passed. While there I checked myself out in particular the palm of my right hand and there was a nasty gash about 20mm long and deep. I applied antiseptic cream and dressings to it and when the rain had stopped set off again.
Another 5 km down the road I detected something loose on the bike, so stopped and had a look and I had lost a screw out of the luggage rack behind my seat. That was quickly rectified with a temporary cable tie.
Finally got into town about 5.15pm and found a Caravan Park. Booked in and set myself up and off to the shower. After my shower I was concerned about the injury to my right hand so off to the Causality Section of the local hospital. To cut the story short the duty doctor inserted 3 stitches into the wound and sent me on my way.
Walking back to camp I stopped for tea at a local café then continued back. Now I am doing my diary before I forget although I would prefer to forget.
Not sure what I will do tomorrow at this stage.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Day 49
Date:- 2 May 2010
Distance:- 81.54 Km
Distance to Date:- 2550.0 Km
Start:- Gunulda Rest Area
Finish:- Burrum River Caravan Park - Howard
Comment:- Awoke this morning and looked across the hills and there was a fog settled in the valley. You could see the tree tops and that was all Quite eerie.
Out of bed by 6am, organised breakfast, had a cup of tea courtesy of the Driver Reviver people who open at 7am. Also got some hot water off them so I could do my washing up.
On the road by 8am and heading for Maryborough. Very good road, light traffic, light SW breeze, but a few threatening clouds in the distance.
Once through Glenwood the road deterioted, shoulder had disappeared I was sharing the traffic lanes. The majority of vehicles gave me plenty of room but there is always the odd one that doesn’t like to share.
Stopped at Tiaro for my snack break. Bought a cold drink to supplement my snack.
There have been quite a few Army Personnel vehicles around today, as there were yesterday. I forgot to mention that yesterday. The fields of sugar cane increased as I approached Maryborough. Stopped at another Driver/Reviver site just before Maryborough and had another couple of cups of tea. A good way to rehydrate
Back on the Bruce Highway (I have been on it all day) and around Maryborough and on my way to Howard. The road from Maryborough was very good, except for a couple of places where the shoulder disappeared. The road was wet. I have been very lucky avoiding the rain. It can’t last although I can only hope.
Another distance check set up for the next 5 km. I couldn’t help myself:- Start 68.94
1 Km 69.93
2 Km 70.92
3 Km 71.91
4 Km 72.90
5 Km 73.90
Not too bad really
Arrived at the caravan park about 2.45pm and booked in, set up camp, had a beautiful hot shower and now doing my diary.
Will use the courtesy bus to go to the local pub for tea. Being a public holiday everything is closed or closes early.
I am about 30 km south of Childers and with another 54 to Gin Gin, it looks like Gin Gin tomorrow night
Distance:- 81.54 Km
Distance to Date:- 2550.0 Km
Start:- Gunulda Rest Area
Finish:- Burrum River Caravan Park - Howard
Comment:- Awoke this morning and looked across the hills and there was a fog settled in the valley. You could see the tree tops and that was all Quite eerie.
Out of bed by 6am, organised breakfast, had a cup of tea courtesy of the Driver Reviver people who open at 7am. Also got some hot water off them so I could do my washing up.
On the road by 8am and heading for Maryborough. Very good road, light traffic, light SW breeze, but a few threatening clouds in the distance.
Once through Glenwood the road deterioted, shoulder had disappeared I was sharing the traffic lanes. The majority of vehicles gave me plenty of room but there is always the odd one that doesn’t like to share.
Stopped at Tiaro for my snack break. Bought a cold drink to supplement my snack.
There have been quite a few Army Personnel vehicles around today, as there were yesterday. I forgot to mention that yesterday. The fields of sugar cane increased as I approached Maryborough. Stopped at another Driver/Reviver site just before Maryborough and had another couple of cups of tea. A good way to rehydrate
Back on the Bruce Highway (I have been on it all day) and around Maryborough and on my way to Howard. The road from Maryborough was very good, except for a couple of places where the shoulder disappeared. The road was wet. I have been very lucky avoiding the rain. It can’t last although I can only hope.
Another distance check set up for the next 5 km. I couldn’t help myself:- Start 68.94
1 Km 69.93
2 Km 70.92
3 Km 71.91
4 Km 72.90
5 Km 73.90
Not too bad really
Arrived at the caravan park about 2.45pm and booked in, set up camp, had a beautiful hot shower and now doing my diary.
Will use the courtesy bus to go to the local pub for tea. Being a public holiday everything is closed or closes early.
I am about 30 km south of Childers and with another 54 to Gin Gin, it looks like Gin Gin tomorrow night
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Day 48
Date:- 1 May 10
Distance:- 98.68 Km
Distance to Date:- 2468.4 Km
Start:- Nambour Rainforest Holiday Village
Finish:- Gunalda Rest Area
Comment:- Up at 5.30am and on the road by 7am. Rode the 2 km into Nambour where I withdrew some cash from at ATM, then continued onto Yandina. Just before Yandina a sign pointed to Gympie via the M1, and that’s where I headed.
Stopped on the side of the road just after Cooroy for my snack break. That was about 10am. Back on the road and we were back to 2 way traffic but I still had my 2 metre shoulder.
Arrived in Gympie about 1.30pm and had lunch. (I’m not saying where but it wasn’t the golden arches.) I was contemplating what to do. Find a Caravan park for the night or try and get a bit further down the road. As you can see I opted for the second alternative.
Came across a rest area just out of Gympie that looked very nice, but no I wanted to get a bit further and a sign a bit further down the road indicated another rest area 23 km ahead. That was my destination.
Had a good run to the rest area although the old legs were getting a bit tired. Arrived at the Gunalda Rest Area about 4am. It was a Driver, Reviver Stop (Open from 7am to 7pm) There’s my cup of coffee for the night. Set up camp and did my diary.
Destination tomorrow Maryborough or beyond.
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