tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10864430005808714422024-03-18T20:48:54.214+11:00Robbiebago AdventuresA blog covering our trips around Australia. It also covers our bus to motor home conversion, recipes and random bits.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.comBlogger500125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-35308985432045482602019-06-18T18:48:00.000+10:002019-06-18T18:48:46.672+10:00Age of Dinosaur meets Jurassic Park<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Forget whatever you learn from the Jurassic Park movie, most of it is pure fiction and a terrific movie on its own but people and dinosaurs did not ever coexist. Also some of the dinosaurs mentioned are not even part of the Jurassic period. eg the Triceratops lived during the Cretaceous period not the Jurassic period.<br />
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So get real and get yourself off to the Australian Age of Dinosaur to learn the truth and while you are at it bring the kids and grand kids, they will have an absolute blast.<br />
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The road is now bitumen all the way and you turn off and are greeted with a short climb to the top of what the locals call a "Jump Up". Back home around Sydney we would call it a table top and another term is a mesa. Whatever you call it, it truly stands out and later you'll see what a fantastic idea it was to locate this museum on one. The
views from the top are spectacular. I'd love to be here at sunset or dawn, but sadly that's only available to staff and volunteers.<br />
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Your first glimpse of the
Age of Dinosaurs building shows you a modern angular building that is just as stark just as the landscape in which it sits which you can glimpse in the photo above.<br />
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Now if you are expecting a normal dry dusty museum, then you couldn't be further from the truth here.<br />
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<span class="ILfuVd"><span class="e24Kjd">The </span></span><span class="ILfuVd"><span class="e24Kjd">Australian Age of Dinosaur is home to the largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils in the world and we have some very unique specimens here that are world exclusive. The Museum is split between different sections. </span></span><br />
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<span class="ILfuVd"><span class="e24Kjd">We started with a tour of the Laboratory which includes the collection room and where they spend hours with the most delicate tools searching for bones and other matter. We also did a guided tour/video presentation of the dinosaurs named Banjo, Matilda and what makes them so unique and how they were discovered nearby.</span></span><br />
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<span class="ILfuVd"><span class="e24Kjd">After a short break in the </span></span><span class="ILfuVd"><span class="e24Kjd">Cretaceous Cafe which sadly we didn't appreciate the soggy pastry of our </span></span><span class="ILfuVd"><span class="e24Kjd"><span class="ILfuVd"><span class="e24Kjd">microwaved </span></span> sausage roll. We soon were off on a people mover to see the magnificent Dinosaur Canyon. This is probably my favourite part. Where the sculptures and such bring the dinosaur period to life for me.</span></span><br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-69942432909263672082019-06-11T11:06:00.000+10:002019-06-11T23:12:59.348+10:00Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Out from a little outback town of Aramac in western Queensland, Australia, is a fantastic outdoor Sculpture trail. It is about 70km west of Balcaldine. It is comes as a complete surprise if you didn't know it was going to be there and you might not know that there are over 30 sculptures, many of them larger than life size, to be found on the 200+km round trip. Fortunately there is a guide of sorts you can pick up from the local Tourist Information Centre and you still have to keep your eagle eye out as some are harder to find than others. We managed to miss one (the fish) and upon asking about it we were questioned "How did you miss that? As it is some 2-3 metres long!"<br />
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Don't forget you can click on any of the photos to get a larger image. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">General Map</td></tr>
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Originally these handcrafted sculptures were springing up from an unknown source and placed prominently on alongside the road to Lake Dunn. A local lass, Milynda Rogers from one of the adjoining grazing properties is the artist behind the work. Her aim was to bring a smile to people as they drove by. It is now the largest outdoor sculpture museum in the world.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of sculptures but there are 2 additions and 1 sculpture has been moved</td></tr>
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Her amazing sculptures are uniquely Australian depicting an animal or aspect of Outback life. She makes the sculptures from recycling and upcycling rusty odds and ends of metals generally sourced from the local area. It is amazing to see her use of old farm equipment, rusty barb wire, nuts and bolts, kerosine tins, odd motorbike & car parts and goodness knows what else. It keeps you entertained figuring out what parts of the sculpture this or that used to be.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pushbike with goanna and kangaroos</td></tr>
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Together with friends, we each took the trail in a clockwise direction to Lake Dunn, taking the easy bitumen route first. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Merino</td></tr>
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The dirt part of the trail is some 160km long but the road is well graded mostly but certainly very dusty. We were lucky that there wern't many travellers on the road on the same day as ourselves and Thierry and Juliana wisely did not follow too closely and eat our dust. We offered to swap at times but they were happy for us to be the hunters.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pdvS1eEbAzo/XP74A_3t3BI/AAAAAAAALeg/LbTKxoV2fJco4ePuXF3tflMUQlaLOHs_QCLcBGAs/s1600/Harry%2BRedford%2Band%2Bdog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="960" height="235" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pdvS1eEbAzo/XP74A_3t3BI/AAAAAAAALeg/LbTKxoV2fJco4ePuXF3tflMUQlaLOHs_QCLcBGAs/s320/Harry%2BRedford%2Band%2Bdog.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harry Redford and dog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And if that wasn't enough you can entertain yourself with trying to find Where's Wally. (Hint: He's there but you might be better off to hop out of your car to find him when you see a hand.)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-scnKzP8NSoo/XP75QC6Kv0I/AAAAAAAALes/otUO37OWcMA3ICza7vIWysVCtDLfC4bpACLcBGAs/s1600/Plains%2BTurkeys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-scnKzP8NSoo/XP75QC6Kv0I/AAAAAAAALes/otUO37OWcMA3ICza7vIWysVCtDLfC4bpACLcBGAs/s320/Plains%2BTurkeys.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plains Turkeys</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-GGtHh1XG8/XP75W-ETxOI/AAAAAAAALew/8shmo7VGQNEQZUL5bBqaxOKH1fmqlSrWACLcBGAs/s1600/Jabirus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-GGtHh1XG8/XP75W-ETxOI/AAAAAAAALew/8shmo7VGQNEQZUL5bBqaxOKH1fmqlSrWACLcBGAs/s320/Jabirus.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jabirus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVCFzETAcjU/XP75aHbPcsI/AAAAAAAALe0/ku7xedFjyTAkuFizWIWnn3kod_BBVzKVQCLcBGAs/s1600/Rainbow%2BSerpent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVCFzETAcjU/XP75aHbPcsI/AAAAAAAALe0/ku7xedFjyTAkuFizWIWnn3kod_BBVzKVQCLcBGAs/s320/Rainbow%2BSerpent.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rainbow Serpent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RJAnCdc41Mg/XP75dZlS4JI/AAAAAAAALe4/2WZsuUfvaaQ9uCKakgxJrFrELlfF72crwCLcBGAs/s1600/Echidna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RJAnCdc41Mg/XP75dZlS4JI/AAAAAAAALe4/2WZsuUfvaaQ9uCKakgxJrFrELlfF72crwCLcBGAs/s320/Echidna.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Echidna</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-33dZ2xWoCjk/XP75gb8U4sI/AAAAAAAALfA/L-F53fCbNswRH8KvHoGGnWwubWugTnF3gCLcBGAs/s1600/Emu%2Band%2Bher%2Bchicks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-33dZ2xWoCjk/XP75gb8U4sI/AAAAAAAALfA/L-F53fCbNswRH8KvHoGGnWwubWugTnF3gCLcBGAs/s320/Emu%2Band%2Bher%2Bchicks.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emu and her chicks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ohvRK0IN0XY/XP75jFvwEeI/AAAAAAAALfE/hsMDUJtcVvUyyZfLXGePDtHe_t2q7-_9gCLcBGAs/s1600/crayfish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ohvRK0IN0XY/XP75jFvwEeI/AAAAAAAALfE/hsMDUJtcVvUyyZfLXGePDtHe_t2q7-_9gCLcBGAs/s320/crayfish.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crayfish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This concludes the first part of the trip to Lake Dunn where we stopped for a picnic lunch. Lake Dunn, is a freshwater lake
where you can camp alongside the lake and even do a spot of fishing or
crayfishing (yabbying). We asked some local campers about the yabbying, but they
reported no luck with either sport but they weren't giving up nor were
they bothered by their lack of success. They were relaxing with mates
and enjoying the view and laid back life.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Yl0B1cYbEM/XP76zDakPgI/AAAAAAAALfY/GPu0gvW9VAIMDKHujpyNZmTYhHaXzHUGQCLcBGAs/s1600/Dunn%2BLake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="1600" height="102" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Yl0B1cYbEM/XP76zDakPgI/AAAAAAAALfY/GPu0gvW9VAIMDKHujpyNZmTYhHaXzHUGQCLcBGAs/s320/Dunn%2BLake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Dunn's tranquility</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sYNYI0v2MU/XP7625mhDTI/AAAAAAAALfc/jQjPPJgJ-qElVfsDGMKlZgoPHMHp_elYgCLcBGAs/s1600/Picnic%2Blunch%2Bat%2BLake%2BDunn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sYNYI0v2MU/XP7625mhDTI/AAAAAAAALfc/jQjPPJgJ-qElVfsDGMKlZgoPHMHp_elYgCLcBGAs/s320/Picnic%2Blunch%2Bat%2BLake%2BDunn.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch in the picnic shed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ng9D3I-JvxA/XP76_3kZ-nI/AAAAAAAALfg/CKmZgJXTHRYIf6Ggpv2FktUn6nAxxlI3wCLcBGAs/s1600/Balleynetty%2BRodeo%2BBronco%2Brider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ng9D3I-JvxA/XP76_3kZ-nI/AAAAAAAALfg/CKmZgJXTHRYIf6Ggpv2FktUn6nAxxlI3wCLcBGAs/s320/Balleynetty%2BRodeo%2BBronco%2Brider.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bronc at Balleyneety</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15JALV2q_yA/XP77DIsRexI/AAAAAAAALfk/X48HvICPllcyI6EPtDJBIxhXVHS00kllwCLcBGAs/s1600/Cutting%2BHorse%2BCowgirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15JALV2q_yA/XP77DIsRexI/AAAAAAAALfk/X48HvICPllcyI6EPtDJBIxhXVHS00kllwCLcBGAs/s320/Cutting%2BHorse%2BCowgirl.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutting Horse Cowgirl</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JRtIuxa7OfQ/XP77GW75FeI/AAAAAAAALfs/KqAQfITFH3khK5S-LliihMXxSGGXKUGNwCLcBGAs/s1600/bull.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="701" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JRtIuxa7OfQ/XP77GW75FeI/AAAAAAAALfs/KqAQfITFH3khK5S-LliihMXxSGGXKUGNwCLcBGAs/s320/bull.jpg" width="233" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close up of the cow from the Cowgirl's collection</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8GU-DQGE89k/XP77XjtwUJI/AAAAAAAALf8/TgQgvOHuHucseUmKsB78pMKpryLcNvdgACLcBGAs/s1600/Curious%2Bcattle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8GU-DQGE89k/XP77XjtwUJI/AAAAAAAALf8/TgQgvOHuHucseUmKsB78pMKpryLcNvdgACLcBGAs/s320/Curious%2Bcattle.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some curious locals - maybe one of them was the model?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iqkfXytasCg/XP77flbQ89I/AAAAAAAALgA/COp6g6gsFnEvU8_wR54ippYIuLlWIALTQCLcBGAs/s1600/Helicopter%2Bat%2BClare%2BStation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iqkfXytasCg/XP77flbQ89I/AAAAAAAALgA/COp6g6gsFnEvU8_wR54ippYIuLlWIALTQCLcBGAs/s320/Helicopter%2Bat%2BClare%2BStation.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chopper</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFD-Tfb7dKQ/XP77jWY6WeI/AAAAAAAALgE/XpSctKAS8_gkR87RvhSVkzPKIcZ2h9kgACLcBGAs/s1600/Butterflies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFD-Tfb7dKQ/XP77jWY6WeI/AAAAAAAALgE/XpSctKAS8_gkR87RvhSVkzPKIcZ2h9kgACLcBGAs/s320/Butterflies.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butterflies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MB-mD8RUdhM/XP77tyifUMI/AAAAAAAALgI/Iu6YdMqgXAYK5b-0DnXeF4kRnJQljJk0ACLcBGAs/s1600/Where%2527s%2BWally.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MB-mD8RUdhM/XP77tyifUMI/AAAAAAAALgI/Iu6YdMqgXAYK5b-0DnXeF4kRnJQljJk0ACLcBGAs/s320/Where%2527s%2BWally.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where's Wally?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fNqHmLdJNEc/XP77wRO7hKI/AAAAAAAALgQ/weUclkv_JxgOkjFFr66gK-njLtrqEwMIQCLcBGAs/s1600/Here%2527s%2BWally.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="672" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fNqHmLdJNEc/XP77wRO7hKI/AAAAAAAALgQ/weUclkv_JxgOkjFFr66gK-njLtrqEwMIQCLcBGAs/s320/Here%2527s%2BWally.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh Here he is - a bit faded though</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LGre-pOWl0U/XP77zNl2y1I/AAAAAAAALgU/t8J23cStJ4scDgHqUSCSV97nAxpAiIr6QCLcBGAs/s1600/Bush%2Bspider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LGre-pOWl0U/XP77zNl2y1I/AAAAAAAALgU/t8J23cStJ4scDgHqUSCSV97nAxpAiIr6QCLcBGAs/s320/Bush%2Bspider.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bush Spider - I'm glad they're not this big in real life</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g3fQVBOOG6g/XP773OA2xSI/AAAAAAAALgY/TeAeHH1DbecIF0Uhpo1vZDbOhCw2mxYGwCLcBGAs/s1600/Goanna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g3fQVBOOG6g/XP773OA2xSI/AAAAAAAALgY/TeAeHH1DbecIF0Uhpo1vZDbOhCw2mxYGwCLcBGAs/s320/Goanna.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goanna on the gum tree</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PRgTfOYNpTk/XP77-L78roI/AAAAAAAALgg/ryf9GrdJzPoqCAw8F-5NSvWDroTmj1S0QCLcBGAs/s1600/Plane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PRgTfOYNpTk/XP77-L78roI/AAAAAAAALgg/ryf9GrdJzPoqCAw8F-5NSvWDroTmj1S0QCLcBGAs/s320/Plane.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plane</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NU0P3gt_kJs/XP78AwI-zLI/AAAAAAAALgk/miy52F4HD2YlREzAGqHsCKgZpFk-DaYCQCLcBGAs/s1600/Koala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NU0P3gt_kJs/XP78AwI-zLI/AAAAAAAALgk/miy52F4HD2YlREzAGqHsCKgZpFk-DaYCQCLcBGAs/s320/Koala.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koala - at least he's not a drop bear</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9S0Ld63Bp_U/XP78E15zWFI/AAAAAAAALgs/ylvFA0ZvvX0P9sqnXthTpleBsEq0rjiPQCLcBGAs/s1600/Side%2BShow%2BBob.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9S0Ld63Bp_U/XP78E15zWFI/AAAAAAAALgs/ylvFA0ZvvX0P9sqnXthTpleBsEq0rjiPQCLcBGAs/s320/Side%2BShow%2BBob.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sideshow Bob</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g5itxRjapLI/XP78NoH6hnI/AAAAAAAALgw/-KrswqC64MkmBAGoGomuEM_OZmPQxdbYACLcBGAs/s1600/Dingo%2BStump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g5itxRjapLI/XP78NoH6hnI/AAAAAAAALgw/-KrswqC64MkmBAGoGomuEM_OZmPQxdbYACLcBGAs/s320/Dingo%2BStump.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dingo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aqdoZPmt4TE/XP78PSwTUFI/AAAAAAAALg4/A9tDXsL3Y6gpHioNQqn42494wg5jnYO5QCLcBGAs/s1600/Boar%2BPig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aqdoZPmt4TE/XP78PSwTUFI/AAAAAAAALg4/A9tDXsL3Y6gpHioNQqn42494wg5jnYO5QCLcBGAs/s320/Boar%2BPig.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild Boar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VfgVdan2Jh8/XP78TcCEyII/AAAAAAAALg8/vG_ihBi9WI0BUppGjy0jNA1xbjeMk2kwACLcBGAs/s1600/Kookaburra%2BIn%2Bthe%2Btree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VfgVdan2Jh8/XP78TcCEyII/AAAAAAAALg8/vG_ihBi9WI0BUppGjy0jNA1xbjeMk2kwACLcBGAs/s320/Kookaburra%2BIn%2Bthe%2Btree.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you see the Kookaburra?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B4dSVDWNi-g/XP78VMXDM0I/AAAAAAAALhE/RcDp4vc2l2EKu2yES4FcI202XV59LfZMQCLcBGAs/s1600/Kookaburra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B4dSVDWNi-g/XP78VMXDM0I/AAAAAAAALhE/RcDp4vc2l2EKu2yES4FcI202XV59LfZMQCLcBGAs/s320/Kookaburra.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up close with the Kookaburra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HzYR-RRZg5I/XP78pYe8UQI/AAAAAAAALhQ/PrQSXjNTcKwUHKcF8-XWUwO2TefEljyrwCLcBGAs/s1600/Jonathan%2BThurston%2Band%2Bcockatoos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HzYR-RRZg5I/XP78pYe8UQI/AAAAAAAALhQ/PrQSXjNTcKwUHKcF8-XWUwO2TefEljyrwCLcBGAs/s320/Jonathan%2BThurston%2Band%2Bcockatoos.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="st">Johnathan Thurston decided to move closer to these cockatoos</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NlZRSmvZapo/XP78rU362cI/AAAAAAAALhU/RNVQbsFNFkQxixZIlhQil8XJDxlLvP5mACLcBGAs/s1600/Bottle%2BTree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NlZRSmvZapo/XP78rU362cI/AAAAAAAALhU/RNVQbsFNFkQxixZIlhQil8XJDxlLvP5mACLcBGAs/s320/Bottle%2BTree.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bottle Tree, the 'flowers' are cattle ear markers </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XtcO4TazYQ4/XP78yCO8xpI/AAAAAAAALhY/--WX33RHWcEEMVrCBUydXUMDVOTM69J7ACLcBGAs/s1600/Eagle%2Band%2Bsnake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XtcO4TazYQ4/XP78yCO8xpI/AAAAAAAALhY/--WX33RHWcEEMVrCBUydXUMDVOTM69J7ACLcBGAs/s320/Eagle%2Band%2Bsnake.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eagle bringing home a snake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This brings us to the next 'corner' where we sought a little shade for a quick cuppa with our friends<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4xQfvZ4e9qM/XP781-FD05I/AAAAAAAALhc/YMmbL1xIUj8VpaJEMIbKOTY3FHjx66QcwCLcBGAs/s1600/Afternoon%2Btea%2Bin%2Bscant%2Bshade%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4xQfvZ4e9qM/XP781-FD05I/AAAAAAAALhc/YMmbL1xIUj8VpaJEMIbKOTY3FHjx66QcwCLcBGAs/s320/Afternoon%2Btea%2Bin%2Bscant%2Bshade%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's time for a smoko in the scant shade - only we don't smoke but a cold drink goes down well</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0g7nycD5-w/XP79WCPNbBI/AAAAAAAALhw/y1lX2gdDJX4b910G_59QnHfAmiOCm-gKQCLcBGAs/s1600/Motorbike%2BMusterer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0g7nycD5-w/XP79WCPNbBI/AAAAAAAALhw/y1lX2gdDJX4b910G_59QnHfAmiOCm-gKQCLcBGAs/s320/Motorbike%2BMusterer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Motorbike Musterer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BpbGh5j5mAI/XP79hey6LmI/AAAAAAAALh0/Qpe1eOQ-ru8sQm9y7_7UXe_B06nvpz1UwCLcBGAs/s1600/Termite%2Bcountry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BpbGh5j5mAI/XP79hey6LmI/AAAAAAAALh0/Qpe1eOQ-ru8sQm9y7_7UXe_B06nvpz1UwCLcBGAs/s320/Termite%2Bcountry.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Driving through some termite country</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zjyeee90L7Q/XP79sM2XrMI/AAAAAAAALh8/2xSCabGxpdYaL1_P7_ExeNacSHDy7aCwQCLcBGAs/s1600/thirsty%2Bblack%2Bcockatoos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zjyeee90L7Q/XP79sM2XrMI/AAAAAAAALh8/2xSCabGxpdYaL1_P7_ExeNacSHDy7aCwQCLcBGAs/s320/thirsty%2Bblack%2Bcockatoos.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Cockatoos get rather thirsty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w9AeUxGdMPg/XP79wMvD2SI/AAAAAAAALiA/waYsbk388Es4zITyt2D3MmihDl-9agy3gCLcBGAs/s1600/Deer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w9AeUxGdMPg/XP79wMvD2SI/AAAAAAAALiA/waYsbk388Es4zITyt2D3MmihDl-9agy3gCLcBGAs/s320/Deer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U7he88Mhx5c/XP79yeaRoBI/AAAAAAAALiI/XpTbJu3pu74U_JgVjhd7gPM-snpLzvjuwCLcBGAs/s1600/Possum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U7he88Mhx5c/XP79yeaRoBI/AAAAAAAALiI/XpTbJu3pu74U_JgVjhd7gPM-snpLzvjuwCLcBGAs/s320/Possum.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Possum in the gum tree</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qST6WhyYCY/XP792SLQLhI/AAAAAAAALiM/83zqjV0Sy8QIHGAC7H0hkACnt0NQFU0gQCLcBGAs/s1600/Frog%2Band%2Bdragonflies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qST6WhyYCY/XP792SLQLhI/AAAAAAAALiM/83zqjV0Sy8QIHGAC7H0hkACnt0NQFU0gQCLcBGAs/s320/Frog%2Band%2Bdragonflies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frog going after 2 dragonflies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3xEKencgt84/XP799RfZHdI/AAAAAAAALiU/g6tyfeWnYZcWR_xp_ZBV9e1I-4ApFgfSgCLcBGAs/s1600/Dog%2BRanger%2BValley1%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3xEKencgt84/XP799RfZHdI/AAAAAAAALiU/g6tyfeWnYZcWR_xp_ZBV9e1I-4ApFgfSgCLcBGAs/s320/Dog%2BRanger%2BValley1%2B.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dog taking a leak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kyqVfGoVvlM/XP7-Cf6BNaI/AAAAAAAALic/9-6A58DXKAYk-iq7gRuUnTwhHTFfqm2AwCLcBGAs/s1600/returned%2Bsoldier%2Bon%2Bcliff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kyqVfGoVvlM/XP7-Cf6BNaI/AAAAAAAALic/9-6A58DXKAYk-iq7gRuUnTwhHTFfqm2AwCLcBGAs/s320/returned%2Bsoldier%2Bon%2Bcliff.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calvary Soldier returns</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LLOhtYW69oc/XP7-EiVo8QI/AAAAAAAALik/e9Z2pT7C7pc5n70dMxp85Oy7jmhqYSHxQCLcBGAs/s1600/returned%2Bsoldier%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LLOhtYW69oc/XP7-EiVo8QI/AAAAAAAALik/e9Z2pT7C7pc5n70dMxp85Oy7jmhqYSHxQCLcBGAs/s320/returned%2Bsoldier%2B2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the Returned Soldier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVQvp9sWF6g/XP7-KMS986I/AAAAAAAALio/bifSi9Ljk2E3LltODYM6HnFfYFG5U1QEQCLcBGAs/s1600/Eagle%2Band%2Bchicks%2Bon%2Bnest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVQvp9sWF6g/XP7-KMS986I/AAAAAAAALio/bifSi9Ljk2E3LltODYM6HnFfYFG5U1QEQCLcBGAs/s320/Eagle%2Band%2Bchicks%2Bon%2Bnest.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Eagle and her chicks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rr-uypOaI84/XP7-NWI4VdI/AAAAAAAALis/3GftDuzxNqQ3we75_pa3BlIVWVTJ1GPMwCLcBGAs/s1600/Broglas%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rr-uypOaI84/XP7-NWI4VdI/AAAAAAAALis/3GftDuzxNqQ3we75_pa3BlIVWVTJ1GPMwCLcBGAs/s320/Broglas%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Its a bit dry for the Brolgas, they usually prefer swampy areas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I am guessing by the addition of a couple that are not on the brochure that the occasional sculpture is being added that you might be lucky enough to find some extras from time to time.<br />
<br />
Oh we also saw the physical evidence of a giant feral "cat". It's no domestic gone feral in my opinion, but what else can it be? I mean it was huge!!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3hwzNvDsWEE/XP-nmnu5icI/AAAAAAAALjI/i98rNF1Kop4OAKz662TAabPjcukleNstQCLcBGAs/s1600/HUGE%2BFeral%2BCat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3hwzNvDsWEE/XP-nmnu5icI/AAAAAAAALjI/i98rNF1Kop4OAKz662TAabPjcukleNstQCLcBGAs/s320/HUGE%2BFeral%2BCat.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The remains of a huge feral 'cat'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Back in town there's a giant Red Kangaroo to be found.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOyG5-YmAH0/XP-nKJxjMAI/AAAAAAAALjA/MBlhODt0ggolO-DAdb1P327dtOOE_W13wCLcBGAs/s1600/Red%2Bkangaroo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOyG5-YmAH0/XP-nKJxjMAI/AAAAAAAALjA/MBlhODt0ggolO-DAdb1P327dtOOE_W13wCLcBGAs/s320/Red%2Bkangaroo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Kangaroo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I am sure you will have as much fun as we did on this trail.</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-32535166362373113432019-06-08T14:19:00.001+10:002019-06-08T14:19:23.864+10:00The Longest Line - World Record attempt<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
All motorhomes, caravans and some other RV vehicles were invited to participate in the<a href="https://amlc.org.au/" target="_blank"> Australian Motorhome Lions Club (AMLC)</a> attempt to set new world records ie <a href="http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/" target="_blank">Guinness Book of Records.</a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BxQM7efTR1k/XPsxwJjubRI/AAAAAAAALag/6pL466k-N6sK_DBI-qvyWsG_VVGIqyxrgCLcBGAs/s1600/AMLC%2BAerial%2Bview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BxQM7efTR1k/XPsxwJjubRI/AAAAAAAALag/6pL466k-N6sK_DBI-qvyWsG_VVGIqyxrgCLcBGAs/s320/AMLC%2BAerial%2Bview.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AMLC organized this huge event</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="https://thelongestline.net.au/" target="_blank">The Longest Line</a> was a wonderful chance to join in something much bigger than ourselves. Many of us arrived in Barcaldine a few days before the event, camping at
the Barcaldine Showgrounds. It was smooth going because it was well
organized by the Motorhome Lions Club.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V0aSFct8Mdk/XPsy2wnrlPI/AAAAAAAALas/_FXoT4Je490G5BDgfzwcsdnkGhukA8GSwCLcBGAs/s1600/Barcaldine%2BShowground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V0aSFct8Mdk/XPsy2wnrlPI/AAAAAAAALas/_FXoT4Je490G5BDgfzwcsdnkGhukA8GSwCLcBGAs/s320/Barcaldine%2BShowground.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balcaldine Showground - photo credit: AMLCWorldRecordAttempts2019</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The longest line of RVs Guinness World record attempt brought over 2000 extra people to the town of Barcaldine, bringing a huge financial boost into the town.
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gLPoPkCnk2c/XPszbhe5zGI/AAAAAAAALa0/TttyrqqRKfEHTq89qI056r5wuhQJscGzQCLcBGAs/s1600/So%2Bmany%2BRVs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gLPoPkCnk2c/XPszbhe5zGI/AAAAAAAALa0/TttyrqqRKfEHTq89qI056r5wuhQJscGzQCLcBGAs/s320/So%2Bmany%2BRVs.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over 9km of campers waiting to join in the Longest Line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I reckon we've smashed the record over taking the previous record of 672, with around 900 RVs of all shapes and sizes have now taken part but sadly the official results won't be known for almost three months due to a number of criteria & technicalities that must be met.
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fu6fp1RLVIc/XPsz6Jc14SI/AAAAAAAALbA/Ew82ENdm2WockJ2vasUOBs33eeq0UnU6gCLcBGAs/s1600/Longest%2BLine%2Blineup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="292" data-original-width="480" height="194" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fu6fp1RLVIc/XPsz6Jc14SI/AAAAAAAALbA/Ew82ENdm2WockJ2vasUOBs33eeq0UnU6gCLcBGAs/s320/Longest%2BLine%2Blineup.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slowly does it. Those on the right are parked, watching the vast numbers of RVs still rolling in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
On the Saturday just prior to the main event, we all lined up and camped overnight alongside this country road. There was some 9.3km of vehicles. There's a wonderful party atmosphere. Those that were partcipating the the longest line of LED lights were at
the front of the line and the rest of us were further back. We ourselves
were in the last 20 or so vehicles in the line.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H2PcAkLcHKs/XPs0L4Sa4cI/AAAAAAAALbI/kt1m_QZbBDIscQXfhtjI9A4buJuIMe7FACLcBGAs/s1600/Happy%2Bhour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="960" height="196" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H2PcAkLcHKs/XPs0L4Sa4cI/AAAAAAAALbI/kt1m_QZbBDIscQXfhtjI9A4buJuIMe7FACLcBGAs/s320/Happy%2Bhour.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Hour might have started a little earlier on this day!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The longest
line of LED lights, now stands at a world record of 6.2km due the efforts of many RVers participating.
(Sadly the Robbiebago didn't participate in the LED lights as we didn't get our
lights in time before we left home. 😞).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ylpTcBj100o/XPs0X5knO1I/AAAAAAAALbM/mUkeKgG-EdI2NN5FlVK-cLoDuCQkxGcQQCLcBGAs/s1600/Robbiebago.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ylpTcBj100o/XPs0X5knO1I/AAAAAAAALbM/mUkeKgG-EdI2NN5FlVK-cLoDuCQkxGcQQCLcBGAs/s320/Robbiebago.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here we are</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Eventually the Lions Club had a mini bus transporting those of us that wanted to see the whole ine. Some RVs were decked out in additional LED lights, fairy lights, buntings, balloons etc. It was fabulous to see them
all. One of the prettiest motorhomes was our neighbour at the back though she didn't participate in the LED line up.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nVzi-lMv1_4/XPs0xlDe-dI/AAAAAAAALbc/4VUo8DBE0hkPnL8-md7hguHAmWnSv23CgCLcBGAs/s1600/So%2Bmany%2Bflies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nVzi-lMv1_4/XPs0xlDe-dI/AAAAAAAALbc/4VUo8DBE0hkPnL8-md7hguHAmWnSv23CgCLcBGAs/s320/So%2Bmany%2Bflies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Michelle wisely covered in a fly net due to huge number of flies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Back to the main record breaking event, we definitely had the numbers to beat the existing record, but there were also a few technical requirements that had to be met. All RVs had to be continuously moving over the 3km course, with no more than a two-car gap between them. This was something that was not generally known to all participants.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ayszlxIGl1Y/XPs0iF-mRsI/AAAAAAAALbU/mCUdeluqOKcHYE5WL7oKdvKjnUFXYP3AwCLcBGAs/s1600/Sunset%2Bover%2Bthe%2Btrees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ayszlxIGl1Y/XPs0iF-mRsI/AAAAAAAALbU/mCUdeluqOKcHYE5WL7oKdvKjnUFXYP3AwCLcBGAs/s320/Sunset%2Bover%2Bthe%2Btrees.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset was glorious</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This last photo is a Panaramic shot with our motorhome pointed out for you. Click on it to enlarge it. Obviously it is only a tiny fraction of the whole line. Truely if you were able to see the whole photo, the line of RV extends all the way to the left of the photo and beyond.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6IztY7AQOx8/XPs080eoSXI/AAAAAAAALbk/0OvC-h8pl20gLGYVjmuphhTBbvCWhj9TACLcBGAs/s1600/There%2Bwe%2Bare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="1600" height="107" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6IztY7AQOx8/XPs080eoSXI/AAAAAAAALbk/0OvC-h8pl20gLGYVjmuphhTBbvCWhj9TACLcBGAs/s400/There%2Bwe%2Bare.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you see us on the right? Under the arrow. Click to enlarge </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Some of these photos here are not my own. I don't know who to credit for them. Please advise if you know who I should communicate with for proper acknowledgement.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O5Gt8nJ6Dx4/XPs1XiEsQXI/AAAAAAAALbs/oHWp0-MTJeAPcSvL-G-Q2FYFNjki-KxMQCLcBGAs/s1600/Sunrise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O5Gt8nJ6Dx4/XPs1XiEsQXI/AAAAAAAALbs/oHWp0-MTJeAPcSvL-G-Q2FYFNjki-KxMQCLcBGAs/s320/Sunrise.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't resist a sunrise photo catching the reflection of the dawn on the sides of the RVs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-81474291803389728682019-05-18T08:00:00.000+10:002019-05-18T08:00:03.429+10:00How to choose a free camping spot<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Free camping and low cost sites can be a good way to avoid busy crowds and packed sites, as well as assist you with your budgets. First thing though, especially if you are new to this, is that you really need to think some things through.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Do your research</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: orange;">What do you need from your site?</span></h4>
Think things through, don't leave it until the last minute especially so if you are new to camping or are planing to go to busy places or during busy times such as the Christmas School holiday break. Each one of us have different needs and desires. They are different. What I consider important you might consider as irrelevant and vice versa.<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Access for transport and accommodation</li>
<li>Minimum size needed</li>
<li>Level sites</li>
<li>Fire or no fire</li>
<li>Shade or sun</li>
<li>Access to services such as toilet, potable shower, power.</li>
<li>Are Pets allowed </li>
</ul>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Aspirations</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: orange;">What do you desire in your campsite? </span></h4>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Setting: bush, river, lake, scenic etc</li>
<li>Proximity to neighbours</li>
<li>Swimming/Fishing/Boating</li>
</ul>
<br />
When
you know what it is that you need and what you would like to have in a
campsite, then you are much more able to find satisfaction and enjoy
your holiday experience whether it be for a day or two or for an
extended lifestyle. Sometimes you won’t be able to achieve all of the
above factors in a campsite. However if you are free camping, then you
have the <u>freedom</u> to stay put or move on. This is why I much prefer the term <span style="color: red;">Freedom Camping</span> as to the more negative connotation that seems to accompany the term "free camping". <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgXAujDAexo/XNzubWSD1HI/AAAAAAAALYU/WuLEcrOzSbwlJLGzcgYj1sbUV9ge_kpFgCLcBGAs/s1600/2696%2BMouldy%2527s%2Bfree%2Bcamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="374" height="236" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgXAujDAexo/XNzubWSD1HI/AAAAAAAALYU/WuLEcrOzSbwlJLGzcgYj1sbUV9ge_kpFgCLcBGAs/s320/2696%2BMouldy%2527s%2Bfree%2Bcamp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As free camping sites are typically found in more remote and untouched areas, frequently you might be able to select a spot as far away from others as you would like. The remote locations of the campsite also mean that you really should <i><b>try to be as self-sufficient as possible</b></i>. This is in regards to providing your own food, water and power where needed. It is also necessary to consider how self contained you are. You need to give some thought to how you are going to dispose of grey water and of course your black water (toilet waste). Ideally you should be able to carry both until you can reach a certified dump point. It is acceptable in some locations to allow your grey water to be discharged onto the ground but do ensure it is free from waste food that can attract unwanted attention form animals or insects and could possibly harm them. Also take into considerations the detergents that you use are environmental friendly, ie no harsh chemicals. We also need to ensure that it can not run into any creeks or water supplies. In emergency situations you could bury the food waste away from where people or animals can not come upon it or dig it up. It is <b>NEVER</b> acceptable to dispose of your black water anywhere other than at designated Dump Points.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G3lPRCztvG4/XNzwY0kfeOI/AAAAAAAALYg/k7NWjWELYbAAnaX8s2l4hYQUNOFVCk-GgCLcBGAs/s1600/black%2Bwater%2Btank%2Band%2Bgrey%2Bwater%2Btank%2Binstalled%2B13414d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="1024" height="179" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G3lPRCztvG4/XNzwY0kfeOI/AAAAAAAALYg/k7NWjWELYbAAnaX8s2l4hYQUNOFVCk-GgCLcBGAs/s320/black%2Bwater%2Btank%2Band%2Bgrey%2Bwater%2Btank%2Binstalled%2B13414d.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Robbiebago has a large capacity black water tank and a smaller grey water tank.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Guides and Apps</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: orange;">Do your research </span></h4>
When looking for camping spots, it always helps to do your research. In general, the more remote the area the more likely it is that it’s free or very low cost. We tend to research this online using a travel app such as <a href="http://www.wikicamps.com.au/" target="_blank">Wikicamps</a> or <a href="https://members.cmca.net.au/content/gwfaq" target="_blank">GeoWiki</a>. Both of these are online storage "library" of nearly all the free camping
sites, campgrounds, caravan parks, national parks, dump points and many other points of interest useful for travelling around Australia. Both Apps have a comment section which is a handy way of gauging how busy a campsite might
be at a particular time of year, and any other useful tidbits that
might help fellow campers, e.g. pub happy hour is at 4 pm! GeoWiki is only available as a member benefit of the <a href="https://www.cmca.net.au/" target="_blank">Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia</a> (CMCA). It is a very reliable resource and it is 100% verified and moderated by trusted members of the club. If you are not tech savvy, then Camps Australia Wide is a great resource. There are other books and talking to other travellers and the local Tourist Information Centres are for gathering information. Especially on the Apps, do read the reviews of a good half a dozen people as we all have different expectations. I have heard that some caravan park owners are likely to rubbish a nearby free camping ground as they mistakenly believe that it 'robs' them of potential customers, not recognizing that the vast majority of free campers would much rather move on to the next free camp site than stay in a caravan park. There will always be people that want or need a caravan park at times. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h_tKNkODMXA/XNzwtvorE-I/AAAAAAAALYo/-9wGrC7Ti50FEj1rLlDdmp0QN7-h3-kCwCLcBGAs/s1600/Camps%2BAustralia%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="176" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h_tKNkODMXA/XNzwtvorE-I/AAAAAAAALYo/-9wGrC7Ti50FEj1rLlDdmp0QN7-h3-kCwCLcBGAs/s1600/Camps%2BAustralia%2B6.jpg" /><span id="goog_84588972"></span><span id="goog_84588973"></span></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8rYJSZxjlII/XNzxnML2AtI/AAAAAAAALY0/fOK5BKZ6Uc4ACUmAABC5MYoTOIjfs35NACLcBGAs/s1600/wikicamps.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="800" height="160" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8rYJSZxjlII/XNzxnML2AtI/AAAAAAAALY0/fOK5BKZ6Uc4ACUmAABC5MYoTOIjfs35NACLcBGAs/s200/wikicamps.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uF7Kd8BJ5lc/XNz1TBxIHWI/AAAAAAAALZA/TONAX0M7i84OyVXBE4L_IgBU-uYm-b5nQCLcBGAs/s1600/WikiCamps-Australia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uF7Kd8BJ5lc/XNz1TBxIHWI/AAAAAAAALZA/TONAX0M7i84OyVXBE4L_IgBU-uYm-b5nQCLcBGAs/s320/WikiCamps-Australia.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are lots of additional information you can check out on the apps.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Out Back Out Bush</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: orange;">Keep it legal</span></h4>
When you spot a secluded area where you are keen to set up camp, whether it be for one night or much longer, be sure to check first whether it is legal for you to camp there. It could be a private property, council or shire land or crown land. It can also be helpful to be aware of any restrictions before you set up camp esp in regards to fire regulations and animal control.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mF_0inW4yE/XNz1kcClsvI/AAAAAAAALZI/d61wG14kZnwJYB4ntr1AGtLvXF8xJbAhwCLcBGAs/s1600/tent%2Bcamping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mF_0inW4yE/XNz1kcClsvI/AAAAAAAALZI/d61wG14kZnwJYB4ntr1AGtLvXF8xJbAhwCLcBGAs/s320/tent%2Bcamping.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
National Parks</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: orange;">One Pass doesn't cover all of the National Parks </span></h4>
I know it seems silly but National Parks are not so National... they are administered by states and as such one pass will not cover across borders. Heck, some don't even cover all the National Parks within the same state.<br />
Most of the time now, you need to book your National Park campsite, even during school terms and during off season, let alone during peak holiday times. This can make it harder to choose just where to camp as most of the time you have to go where you are allocated to you. This might not be
the sort of campsite you want or need. So make sure to research as much as possible and in our experience, don't bother to ask over the phone when booking as most of the time the staff is a long way away in a city office with no intimate knowledge that the site is great for pitching a tent but impossible for a RV or vice versa which has happened to us on a few occasions.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iR0zRhW7Bgc/XNz2rUPulqI/AAAAAAAALZU/c3m6E9xMIsUHf7vrlct7BkwN7IwdtOlRACLcBGAs/s1600/0372%2B%2BCape%2BLe%2BGrande%2BNational%2BPark%2BLand%2BCruiser%2Bon%2Bthe%2Bbeach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iR0zRhW7Bgc/XNz2rUPulqI/AAAAAAAALZU/c3m6E9xMIsUHf7vrlct7BkwN7IwdtOlRACLcBGAs/s320/0372%2B%2BCape%2BLe%2BGrande%2BNational%2BPark%2BLand%2BCruiser%2Bon%2Bthe%2Bbeach.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Driving on the beach at Cape Le Grand National Park WA.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Camping Etiquette</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: orange;">How to make friends not enemies</span></h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once you have chosen your destination there are a few polite things you can do to help ensure the pleasure of camping for yourself as well as your neighbours. I might even write up a separate post covering this in more detail. But for now consider these points.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Arrive (and depart) at the camp site at a reasonable hour so as to minimize disturbing your neighbours</li>
<li>Don't camp too close. 5m is too close for some. Unless it is very crowded, try to leave a fair amount of space between you and your nearest neighbour. If in doubt ask them if they mind.</li>
<li>Don't block access for other vehicles coming or leaving.</li>
<li>Consider noise whether it be your music or TV or the doors on your vehicle.</li>
<li>Don't not leave any toilet waste above ground whether it be paper or worst! Dig it in if you must go outside. No one wants to stumble upon someone's feces/faeces. Don't knock off the toilet paper in toilets either.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BqZKPs3W00Q/XNz7Hp0VjtI/AAAAAAAALZs/0IFabjIbpYomjMKfkJa_vjEjhmHulhi0QCLcBGAs/s1600/toilet-paper-thief-grave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BqZKPs3W00Q/XNz7Hp0VjtI/AAAAAAAALZs/0IFabjIbpYomjMKfkJa_vjEjhmHulhi0QCLcBGAs/s1600/toilet-paper-thief-grave.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't steal the toilet paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-86951756999153537322019-05-16T13:42:00.000+10:002019-05-16T13:42:42.430+10:00Stop and look, don't just drive through<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We love to stop in towns rather than just pass through. You just never know what gems you will find.<br />
<br />
It might be a terrific little park, or a vintage wares shop. Maybe there's a unique historical museum. Here's a a few gems we noticed recently.<br />
<br />
Here’s the Train Park in Dimboola, Victoria.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t2Pz-L42CHI/XNzWNPBgAlI/AAAAAAAALXA/HvdyeM-RooI-LXSv6yZX3MgKeWHhiv0UwCLcBGAs/s1600/dimboola%2Bpicnic%2Btrain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t2Pz-L42CHI/XNzWNPBgAlI/AAAAAAAALXA/HvdyeM-RooI-LXSv6yZX3MgKeWHhiv0UwCLcBGAs/s320/dimboola%2Bpicnic%2Btrain.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QIXDDUkduJ0/XNzWPNLwnNI/AAAAAAAALXE/i87EQeiZgS85AwPXfeQgNBsKNhPVC5icACLcBGAs/s1600/dimboola%2Btrain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QIXDDUkduJ0/XNzWPNLwnNI/AAAAAAAALXE/i87EQeiZgS85AwPXfeQgNBsKNhPVC5icACLcBGAs/s320/dimboola%2Btrain.jpg" width="320" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rob standing at the cab.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
How's this for a quaint coffee shop. A vintage caravan has been set up permanently in the Kangaroo Valley as a coffee shop. By the way there's a terrific free camp in Kangaroo Valley too right on the river and you'll see dozens of wombats and wallabies esp at dusk almost every night.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UNsMWcNG1LA/XNzXgvKs1FI/AAAAAAAALXU/BgmQn_4DQgIXb6D5yeNEvHIWjwmfJkhxQCLcBGAs/s1600/vintage%2Bcamper%2Bcome%2BCoffee%2Bshop%2Bin%2BKangaroo%2BValley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UNsMWcNG1LA/XNzXgvKs1FI/AAAAAAAALXU/BgmQn_4DQgIXb6D5yeNEvHIWjwmfJkhxQCLcBGAs/s320/vintage%2Bcamper%2Bcome%2BCoffee%2Bshop%2Bin%2BKangaroo%2BValley.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quaint coffee shop in Kangaroo Valley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We enjoyed the Easter Festival in Warracknabeal. There was a great little street parade
followed by a busking competition in the riverside park complete with
Lions BBQ, emus and other bird life <span class="_5mfr"><span class="_6qdm" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/te/1/16/1f985.png"); font-size: 16px; height: 16px; width: 16px;">🦅</span></span> .<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hJIPgbkGVEk/XNzZSzUl9jI/AAAAAAAALXg/VWmUZvIgPYUSRmcII1B4qrYjnuOFS8hUwCLcBGAs/s1600/warracknabeal%2BEaster%2BFloat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hJIPgbkGVEk/XNzZSzUl9jI/AAAAAAAALXg/VWmUZvIgPYUSRmcII1B4qrYjnuOFS8hUwCLcBGAs/s320/warracknabeal%2BEaster%2BFloat.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The true message of Easter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9pJpWuXOO8E/XNzZVSCXp0I/AAAAAAAALXk/wJGIv7yjT_Eu5RhKAXFzcIC1RPuvKQZfwCLcBGAs/s1600/Warracknabeal%2BEaster%2BParade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9pJpWuXOO8E/XNzZVSCXp0I/AAAAAAAALXk/wJGIv7yjT_Eu5RhKAXFzcIC1RPuvKQZfwCLcBGAs/s320/Warracknabeal%2BEaster%2BParade.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A vintage fire truck was part of the many vintage cars in the parade</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-asopadWds6I/XNzZV7p3nbI/AAAAAAAALXo/NPjBdV4drSMZAN6j2uHfmph-JYax3H1JwCLcBGAs/s1600/warracknabeal%2BEaster%2Bfestival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-asopadWds6I/XNzZV7p3nbI/AAAAAAAALXo/NPjBdV4drSMZAN6j2uHfmph-JYax3H1JwCLcBGAs/s320/warracknabeal%2BEaster%2Bfestival.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relaxing with some great music and a sausage sizzle</td></tr>
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In the town of Koondrook you will find many wood carvings as you meander along one of the walks<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lq62Z9rAldk/XNzaxIGur4I/AAAAAAAALX4/kqlBEUxJ4WA0juWioIiOXbfuGWVeSi6NwCLcBGAs/s1600/Koondrook%2Bwood%2Bcarvings%2Brob%2Bloves%2Bto%2Bpose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lq62Z9rAldk/XNzaxIGur4I/AAAAAAAALX4/kqlBEUxJ4WA0juWioIiOXbfuGWVeSi6NwCLcBGAs/s320/Koondrook%2Bwood%2Bcarvings%2Brob%2Bloves%2Bto%2Bpose.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rob loves to pose</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qQQ-WHWlVAg/XNzayQvhcBI/AAAAAAAALX8/_iVByD4yf_c7BOzHBsxbRPeIfz2cAqDVgCLcBGAs/s1600/Koondrook%2Bwood%2Bcarvings%2Bkeeping%2Ban%2Beye%2Bon%2Byou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qQQ-WHWlVAg/XNzayQvhcBI/AAAAAAAALX8/_iVByD4yf_c7BOzHBsxbRPeIfz2cAqDVgCLcBGAs/s320/Koondrook%2Bwood%2Bcarvings%2Bkeeping%2Ban%2Beye%2Bon%2Byou.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keeping an eye on you</td></tr>
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Sometimes there's beauty in the night lights such as from the free camp grounds looking across the waters to the town of Cohuna.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tTMQ8qeJ7iM/XNzbOhnTiaI/AAAAAAAALYI/nFMvH0fIiFwu3zH0-JmSC6tUiojaSfwvgCLcBGAs/s1600/Cohuna%2Bnight%2Blights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tTMQ8qeJ7iM/XNzbOhnTiaI/AAAAAAAALYI/nFMvH0fIiFwu3zH0-JmSC6tUiojaSfwvgCLcBGAs/s320/Cohuna%2Bnight%2Blights.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The town lights reflect on the waters </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So there's beauty in many unexpected places. Slow down, even better stop a while and discover what makes a town unique.<br />
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Enjoy your travels, the slow living way!</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-48502446791028392002018-11-23T01:13:00.000+11:002018-11-23T01:13:01.360+11:00Self guided Victorian Painted Silo Trial <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span class="st">Sorry about being so long since the last bog post. It just became too much for a while and I needed some time out from blogging, esp since I don't seem to be able to do it on a iPad. COME ON APPLE, pull your finger out and make it accessible for bloggers.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">Also we had to be home based for 6 months whilst Rob underwent a medical trial and some rehab, which sadly was unsuccessful</span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">But I am back now with one of the best self guided tours for you to do in western Victoria. Yes, the original Victorian Painted Silo Tour. It really is worth making the trip. Chuck in a few camps a long the majestic Murray River like we did when we started at <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com/2018/04/riverside-free-camping-near-rutherglen.html" target="_blank">Riverglen</a> or a cruise on the same river and you've got yourself in for a real treat.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R2ZDDPpwz5M/W-ODIvr1quI/AAAAAAAALTQ/KCDRG2_XMPgdtw2cwqIZSkenpU5VdfvPACLcBGAs/s1600/Silo%2B%2526%2BRobbiebago%2BII.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="694" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R2ZDDPpwz5M/W-ODIvr1quI/AAAAAAAALTQ/KCDRG2_XMPgdtw2cwqIZSkenpU5VdfvPACLcBGAs/s320/Silo%2B%2526%2BRobbiebago%2BII.JPG" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robbiebago in front of one of the painted silos</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">What are the Painted Silos? </span></h3>
<span class="st"><span class="st">We first heard of the painted silos through Rob's
weekly watching of the ABC show Landline. From this I researched it a
bit on Google and found<a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2016-01-07/brim-grain-silos-guido-van-helten-art-wimmera-victoria/7072768" target="_blank"> this page</a> to give an excellent background to this story.</span></span><br />
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<span class="st">Silos have been an integral part of the countryside since time immortal. However changes occur and many are now standing defunct with no real purpose, just a reminder of days gone by. The Painted Silos are a fairly recent phenomenon bringing in tourists to see these decommissioned</span><span class="st"> wheat silos that have been transformed by artists. The original one was in Brim, Victoria. </span><span class="st">Each artist paints a story about the people of the region. Set on such a large scale and in such unique rural settings, they are just mind blowing. Painted silos are now popping up across several states and I am sure they are all great. We hope to get to see them all in good time.</span><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st"><span class="st">Australia's largest outdoor gallery</span></span></h3>
<span class="st">You could do the <a href="https://beyondthehorizon1.wordpress.com/2017/10/03/victorias-silo-art-trail/" target="_blank">200km trip in one day</a> like Dawn did only she started from the south at Ararat. But hey, if you've been following us for any length of time, you would know that we like the slow living approach and we like to take advantage of freedom camping along the way. We don't mind paying for accommodation but the freedom to come and go at whim without pre-planned booking is just the way we like to live. </span><br />
<span class="st"> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zXi9Pq1rUog/W-Nl9jG19GI/AAAAAAAALRU/N38asoq_8cIGLxnOYdaAgujmoaIGkkNLQCLcBGAs/s1600/silo-map1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="888" height="223" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zXi9Pq1rUog/W-Nl9jG19GI/AAAAAAAALRU/N38asoq_8cIGLxnOYdaAgujmoaIGkkNLQCLcBGAs/s320/silo-map1.jpg" width="320" /> </a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map From Beyond The Horizon's blog shows where the silos are in Victoria</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
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<span class="st">We have come in from the north and east having spent a couple of nights freedom camping at <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com/2018/04/free-camping-at-woomelang.html" target="_blank">Woomelang</a> before camping right on the water's edge at <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com/2018/06/lake-lascelles-is-top-spot.html" target="_blank">Lake Lascelles</a> at Hopetoun where we met up again with our friends, Gary and Joy.</span><br />
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<h3>
Where is the Silo Art Trail?</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In a nutshell, the Painted Silo are in the Wimmera Mallee region of Western Victoria, Australia. Eh? Head 140km almost directly south from Mildura on the Murray River and you arrive at Patchewollock which is the northernmost of the Victorian silos at the time of writing (2018).</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rMf7KL7JOP4/W-Njl8KOdiI/AAAAAAAALRI/sqa08y8e2sojUmIxEJHH7eStg_fhx_qCwCLcBGAs/s1600/silo%2Bmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rMf7KL7JOP4/W-Njl8KOdiI/AAAAAAAALRI/sqa08y8e2sojUmIxEJHH7eStg_fhx_qCwCLcBGAs/s320/silo%2Bmap.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detailed Map of where we went to view the silos</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">A: The Northernmost Silo at Patchewollock</span></h3>
<span class="st">As mentioned above we were camping at Lake Lascelles so we car pooled with Gary and made the 30km trip north to Patchewollock. Here you see the gigantic work of </span><span class="st">Brisbane-based artist Fintan Magee of a local lanky sheep farmer.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nr2myN7o3fE/W-NqIG7zq2I/AAAAAAAALRs/XawTnK0fdIEy40qqutvTkW32EopCtb7agCLcBGAs/s1600/Patchewollock%2Bsilo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nr2myN7o3fE/W-NqIG7zq2I/AAAAAAAALRs/XawTnK0fdIEy40qqutvTkW32EopCtb7agCLcBGAs/s320/Patchewollock%2Bsilo.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Right next to the magnificent painted silos is the wonderful corrugated Mallee Fowls. What a wonderful added bonus.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-86KrHOLx308/W-NqNct_fmI/AAAAAAAALRw/8sB8AizUVdMd49NCN7Z9NptOZCOxSARGwCLcBGAs/s1600/Patchewollock%2Bcorregated%2Bbird.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-86KrHOLx308/W-NqNct_fmI/AAAAAAAALRw/8sB8AizUVdMd49NCN7Z9NptOZCOxSARGwCLcBGAs/s320/Patchewollock%2Bcorregated%2Bbird.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rob & Michelle in front of one of the Mallee Fowls</td></tr>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">B: Lascelles</span></h3>
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<span class="st">This painted silo was completed by Rone who wanted to capture the essence of a couple whose family have farmed the land for 4 generations. Though they are on the same silo, you can't get both images on the same photo.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFHBXSZHryg/W-N2PND-gSI/AAAAAAAALSc/EODvboquczEdixxvLRVOzMcb1W14DMZNgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_E2035%2Blascelles%2Bsilo%2Bfemale.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFHBXSZHryg/W-N2PND-gSI/AAAAAAAALSc/EODvboquczEdixxvLRVOzMcb1W14DMZNgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_E2035%2Blascelles%2Bsilo%2Bfemale.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kudP9UT-KYc/W-N2TIHj-0I/AAAAAAAALSg/wFBcT3y7vxYTAylJy1HVKwZvq7g6C8MgACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_E2033%2Blascelles%2Bsilo%2Bmale.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kudP9UT-KYc/W-N2TIHj-0I/AAAAAAAALSg/wFBcT3y7vxYTAylJy1HVKwZvq7g6C8MgACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_E2033%2Blascelles%2Bsilo%2Bmale.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="st"><br /></span>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">C: Roseberry</span></h3>
The silo art work here depicts a young woman with a sheep and a horseman with his steed.<br />
<span class="st"><span class="st">Painted by Kaff-<wbr></wbr>eine a former lawyer now full time street artist wanted to capture the relationship between the people and their animals.</span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTvRAmlEHdA/W-OLY3DCcSI/AAAAAAAALTg/copBxdAuOa4jyy6OkGJc4Awxx7IwOWlcgCLcBGAs/s1600/Roseberry%2Bsilo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="767" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTvRAmlEHdA/W-OLY3DCcSI/AAAAAAAALTg/copBxdAuOa4jyy6OkGJc4Awxx7IwOWlcgCLcBGAs/s320/Roseberry%2Bsilo.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span class="st"><span class="st"> </span></span>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">D: Brim</span></h3>
<span class="st">Guido van Helten has started something with his 30metre tall silo sepia painting of 4 'typical' local male residents painted across the 6 cylinders of the silos. Though its not meant to be a painting of specific people but a representation of the people in the Brim district.The <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2016-01-07/brim-grain-silos-guido-van-helten-art-wimmera-victoria/7072768" target="_blank">ABC</a> link goes into a lot more detail. To get the best lighting on the silos for your photo is just before sunset when the sun is full on the silos casting virtually no shade. Just as well there is a camp ground right on the lake there. It is not free camping but it is so cheap that it is awfully close to it.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UXIia1AlMy8/W-Nsgp92paI/AAAAAAAALSE/uq7mGyKMF6cTvSAbnQ_LuH8fQ2QBxkAegCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UXIia1AlMy8/W-Nsgp92paI/AAAAAAAALSE/uq7mGyKMF6cTvSAbnQ_LuH8fQ2QBxkAegCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_2127.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">E: Sheep Hills</span></h3>
<span class="st"></span><br />
<span class="st">This would certainly be the most colourful of the Victorian Silos on this trip and as such would probably be my favourite. It depicts 4 indigenous people against a starry sky. This silo was painted by Matt Adnate.</span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-50cj5P9rBkM/W-N4Hxt6XhI/AAAAAAAALSw/pDrOZOCoyLMcLSw4idIPtWLh2qFqs-okACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2328d%2BSilo%2BSheep%2BHills.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-50cj5P9rBkM/W-N4Hxt6XhI/AAAAAAAALSw/pDrOZOCoyLMcLSw4idIPtWLh2qFqs-okACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_2328d%2BSilo%2BSheep%2BHills.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The magnificence of this cant be captured on photo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IL3xGd9GqCE/W-N4Po5wBHI/AAAAAAAALS0/r750Bwr7sfMxqojukVcDEof7QtVqb019QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2329d%2BSilo%2BSheep%2BHills.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IL3xGd9GqCE/W-N4Po5wBHI/AAAAAAAALS0/r750Bwr7sfMxqojukVcDEof7QtVqb019QCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_2329d%2BSilo%2BSheep%2BHills.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at the reflection in the eye.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st">I'm totally blown away by the detailing Matt has put into these paintings. Just look at the reflection of the landscape within this boy's eye. </span><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">F: Southernmost of the Painted Silos is at Rapanyup</span></h3>
<span class="st">Last but by no means least. These ones are on a huge steel silo which is different to the previous concrete ones. The artist, </span><span class="st">Julia Volchkova, chose to paint 2 young sporting kids from the district.</span><br />
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<span class="st">Well that concludes an epic trip around the Victorian Painted Silos. It is certainly something to add to your bucket list.</span><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span class="st">But Wait! There's more! </span></h3>
<span class="st">Now there are more cropping up around Australia and I hope we will get to see them all but I doubt that anything will beat seeing these the first time. We did however see one more at Coonalpyn in South Australia, but I will leave that for a future post!</span></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-49035535233384849272018-06-02T07:46:00.000+10:002018-06-02T07:46:06.475+10:00Lake Lascelles is a top spot<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Lake Lascelles in Hopetoun is an absolute oasis in the Mallee country. Parts of the foreshore, closest to the town is for paid camping with power and even quirky cabins which I will cover a bit later in this post.<br />
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We free camped on the eastern side of the lake, which is the free camping area and within metres of the lake's edge. We met up again with our friends, Gary and Joy here. They have a huge 30ft bus style motorhome, towing a large trailer and they can easily fit here.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: blue;">Room enough for big rigs as well as medium ones like ours on the right :)</span></i></td></tr>
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Hopetoun is about 400km (5 hours) from Melbourne and 200km south of Mildura. It is only a small community with about 600 people, but it has everything you need as far as supplies go: an IGA, a service station, pub, butcher, bakery, pharmacy and a decent cafe. The people of this town are very friendly and welcome visitors into their small community with open arms.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: blue;">Lake Lascelles</span></i></td></tr>
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The day before we turned up, our friends who had arrived before us, witnessed a wedding being held on the other side of the lake to them. Even the water skiers stopped their pleasure craft out of respect for the actual ceremony. Yep water sport is a popular activity there but it never became a noise issue while we were there for which we are grateful. Instead it provided light visual entertainment. The bird life is abundant as would be expected near permanent water. There is also a permanent Black Swan in resident who might visit your site.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: blue;">Michelle with our visitor</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"><i>The Black Swan wanted to enter Gary"s Joy</i></span></td></tr>
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We used this camp site as a base and from here we went for a drive to Patchewollock where we saw our next painted silos. We were also pleasantly surprised to see lovely corrugated birds there too. Our trip took in approx 140km round trip.<br />
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I mentioned earlier that there is a powered camping area. It is relatively low cost being $15 dollars per night and are based on an honesty system with random checks, as is the hot water for showers. One also has the Mallee Bush Retreat accommodation area. What a fabulous place for group camps. The buildings are built from local materials like wood, stone and corrugated iron and have a marvellous rustic feel. It is a fantastic complex and offers unique accommodation for a very moderate prices. They also have shimmering Silo Cabins up on stilts, with wooden windows. If I lived in Victoria and wanted to take a group of kids or young adults camping then this would definitely be a high contender.<br />
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All in all we only spent 3 nights here at Lake Lascelles and we thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing time here. It is definitely a place I would visit again next time we are in the area. Thank you Hopetoun.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"><i>I'm standing at the water's edge to take this photo</i></span></td></tr>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-54782262624450791242018-05-25T12:07:00.003+10:002018-05-25T12:07:40.287+10:00You’ve aced it Cohuna<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Cohuna would have to be one of the best town based free camp sites anywhere. Well that's my opinion of course. So exactly where is Cohuna? It is situated on the banks of Gunbower Creek, n important branch of the Murray River just 65km north west of Echuca on the Murray Valley Highway.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>The lovely water fountain and if you look at the enlarge image you can see the fish sculpture behind it</i></span></td></tr>
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Obviously it really depends upon what you are looking for from your free camp of course.<br />
Some might prefer the peace and quiet of the open country with hardly a soul in sight. Others want a busy little town with a half decent shopping centre.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>Looking from the town side across the river at the free campers on Flora Park</i></span></td></tr>
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At the moment this little town has grass underfoot which we have found to be rather rare on this trip.
We also have water views from our doorway as we are alongside the weir which directs water up the various irrigation channels.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WnFdN0bOoFI/WwdYcLCEi1I/AAAAAAAALKo/P6vmVEJxm1QvulXuv3ue526cx1FOcdC9wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1872%2Bcohuna.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WnFdN0bOoFI/WwdYcLCEi1I/AAAAAAAALKo/P6vmVEJxm1QvulXuv3ue526cx1FOcdC9wCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1872%2Bcohuna.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>Grass not quite so green but still it is grass and that is the town across the water</i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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All this is within walking distance to the town shops. So how’s that for a free camp?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>Sunset across the Gunbower Creek from the campsite</i></span></td></tr>
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A very generous 72 hours stay allows us plenty of time to relax and explore the town and surrounding area. We believe towns would benefit a lot more by allowing longer stop overs. See our post on this topic <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com.au/2018/04/is-24-hours-stay-enough.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N3MDoIFEZlE/WwdZJR3HGeI/AAAAAAAALK0/-tjS_3HIG38YkytIH4IEj0Ll3P2AHLTmgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1905%2Bcohuna.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N3MDoIFEZlE/WwdZJR3HGeI/AAAAAAAALK0/-tjS_3HIG38YkytIH4IEj0Ll3P2AHLTmgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1905%2Bcohuna.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>A short drive takes you to many areas</i></span></td></tr>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">So what is there to see in the area? </span></h3>
Well the camp ground itself is located on a separate island, Gunbower Island which is claimed to be Australia's largest inland island. It has a water frontage of 130 kilometres and is mostly covered by native forests and wetlands. Tent camping, picnics, fishing, boating, birdwatching & bush walking are all common activities on the island.<br />
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Along with some friends, we went for a long drive around the island. We didn't really appreciate the island though as it was very dry. It is hard to imagine it as a wetlands from our drive around the area. It is just so dry here as just about everywhere around western Victoria is at the moment. We could see that we really could get bogged during the wet season, however a bit more green colour to be seen would have been appreciated.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j5GniaTXdZ0/Wwduf_8xgeI/AAAAAAAALLQ/DYSMHUVZJIMJuR1iBlytUVJCYWNmF-7BQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_E1910%2Bcohuna.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j5GniaTXdZ0/Wwduf_8xgeI/AAAAAAAALLQ/DYSMHUVZJIMJuR1iBlytUVJCYWNmF-7BQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_E1910%2Bcohuna.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #3d85c6;">A pelican is one of the birds found in the wooden statues</span></i></td></tr>
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Another thing we did was to use Cohuna as a base and go for a pleasant drive through the countryside and we ended up at Koondrook where we were pleasantly surprised my the wood carving trial we discovered. Timber was a important industry in this area and the town recognizes this through the wood carvings depicting important people and the bird life in the area.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>Just one of the many wood carved statues around.nearby Koondrook</i></span></td></tr>
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Cohuna, Victoria, in my book you’ve aced it! I will be back time and time again when we pass through this way.</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-72991376395261019902018-04-24T06:30:00.000+10:002018-05-25T12:08:50.597+10:00Free camping at Woomelang<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
One of the beauties of free camping is that you might be stopping in an area you might otherwise skip. If it is adjacent to a town or village then it is quite likely to be an important aid to its survival. Please don't forget to the locals and visit the local shops and businesses. <br />
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There’s a free camp here that asks for donation for clean toilets, with a hot shower and powered sites available. A nice bricked fire pit with seats is on site too. It is a small park only suitable for maybe 4 vans providing the drivers are considerate. Any large rigs eg 12m long bus types can easily park on the street frontage in front of the toilet block. You can still hook up to a water tap. The power might be more difficult as the power is close to the centre of the parking/camping area. <br />
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Here this town is doing is quite tough with the general store, the
petrol station, as well as the usual fire brigade and op shops are
manned by volunteers. What an awesome community spirit this town has.
They were so very friendly too as I found on my walks around this little town.<br />
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We’ll stay put a couple of nights and enjoy a brief respite from our travels.. It is also a good place to be based for reaching the northern end of the Victorian Painted Silos Trails, which we'll showcase in a separate post just on the painted silos soon.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #351c75;"><i>The first of the silos from the northern end</i></span></td></tr>
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I love the opportunity to sit back and relax whether it be doing some crafts, reading a book or catching up on my internet and blogs. What was a delightful joy was to meet a fellow crafter who camped there on our 2nd night. She creates hand felted fabrics and showed me the divine jacket she had made. She also crochets whilst
her husband drives. A pity I didn't get any photos.(It was too dark for my photographic skills)</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-83831806536196498062018-04-23T11:28:00.001+10:002018-04-23T12:02:25.609+10:00Free camping at the historic river town of Echuca<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We rocked up to the Rotary Park on the Campaspe River in Echuca just before the hot winds came. It’s sad as it is so dry and dusty everywhere for hundreds of kilometres even along the river. The whole region needs a good steady down pour of gentle rains that can soak in rather than flood or famine which seems to be more the norm these last 10 or so years.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Campaspe River runs alongside the free camp at Rotary Park</i></td></tr>
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We had visited Echuca late in 2014 but just as day visitors and we went to a few of the museums in the town. We covered these in <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com.au/2014/12/in-and-around-deniliquin.html" target="_blank">this earlier post</a> of our visit there.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>One of the other campers were flying a kite up near the horse paddocks</i></td></tr>
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We are starting to notice that Autumn has arrived at last. It was a cool to cold night but the days are absolutely lovely, reaching a comfortably warm 25 or so which is just perfect in my book.<br />
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Echuca was an important river port town in it's heyday with paddle steamers plying their trade up and down the river. It was also a major crossing point for transport over the border into NSW esp for stock.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Paddle wheelers still go up and down the Murray River</i></td></tr>
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We enjoyed a walk along the esplanade at the historic Port Echuca. I love seeing the old time crafts and machinery.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Old style sits alongside more modern style woodworks</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Old steam engine</i></td></tr>
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I was also beguiled once again by the mini port barrels (fortified wine variety). I wanted one the last time we were here and I still yearn for one but my blasted practical financial sensibility just couldn't justify spending that much money for a barrel. It's one of those things that to me makes for a terrific birthday present: something you really want but for whatever reason you wont or dont buy it for yourself.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Port barrels available right on the wharf at St Anne's Wine Cellar.</i></td></tr>
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On a previous visit we had chips in the lovely park adorning the port. This time we visited a award winning fish and chip place for our light meal but we were sadly disappointed with our fare. Don't get me wrong, it was OK, ordinary even certainly nothing spectacular. Sometimes it is better not to have any expectations and then be surprised when it is fabulous, no matter whether we are talking about food, experiences or even people.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A panoramic shot of the Murray River (dble click to enlarge)</i></td></tr>
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Click on any of the photos to enlarge the images if you're interested esp the last one - the panoramic photo.<br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-51342469996119037582018-04-12T12:35:00.000+10:002018-04-13T15:55:19.977+10:00Tocumwal<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Tocumwal is a town in the southern Riverina region of New South Wales, Australia, right near the Victorian border. The town is situated on the banks of the Murray River which is why we visited it.<br />
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Tocumwal Town Beach Campground offers low cost camping right on the sandy banks of Murray River with basic facilities including toilets (BYO paper) and cold showers and potable water. A caretaker comes around each evening to collect the small $5pp fees. The site is reasonably flat and accessible to caravans, motorhomes, campers, and big rigs with area suitable for tents. It is a dusty ground which when we visited was a bit of a bother when the wind popped up or a inconsiderate driver drives past too fast.<br />
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Town Beach is less than 1km walking distance of the small shopping area. A small monthly Farmer's Market is held in the town park.<br />
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Whilst there we called our fellow motorhome friends, Wayne and Nini who live nearby to come and join us for morning tea. We introduced them to Gary and Joy who are traveling to the Painted Silos Trail with us.<br />
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Each evening we were entertained by the noisy Corellas. This video is not even a quarter of the show. Enjoy! 🍷<br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-34956654478470802742018-04-04T10:59:00.000+10:002018-04-04T10:59:05.360+10:00Riverside Free Camping near Rutherglen and it's Wineries<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
About 7km west past Rutherglen or 70km west of Albury, is Stantons' Bend. It is a fabulous free camping area that is certainly very popular on long weekends. As it happened there was a state side long weekend the weekend we were there.<br />
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It's a big area with lots of riverside camping spots though understandably these were mostly gone by the time we rolled in. Stanton’s Bend is a large reserve accessed via Moodemere Road off the Murray Valley Highway.(Its mostly a dirt with a bit of corrugation but at about 4km of dirt road, it's not that long or bad if you go slow and our friends in "Gary's Joy" a 30ft bus with a huge trailer could gain access.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gary's Joy is some 18m long (38ft?)</td></tr>
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I wouldn't try going there in wet weather as the roads would be quite muddy and thus potentially boggy also it is well known to flood in heavy rains. Once in through the gate, follow the main track which loops around the river with dispersed bush camping along the river. It is grassier about 700m further west but it is also more overhanging trees and more populated as the 'beach' area offers easier foot access for people esp those with kiddies. We choose a mostly sunny spot a bit further away from other campers and thus about 30m from the river which we could still walk into.<br />
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On the Monday we drove with our friends into Corowa where we saw a few vintage hot rods that had come up for some rally but we missed the majority much to Gary's disappointment.<br />
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We couldn't leaver Rutherglen without visiting at least a couple of wineries. I opted for 2 that also did fortified wines as I just love a good port. We tried some of the other wines, with all of us having different preferences as to which type of wines we liked best. I came away with a White Fortified Wine from Stanton and Killeen for something different to 'just' Port. I also picked up a gift for our son whose birthday was approaching. If you're reading this Allan, its not a bottle so don't get your hopes up, but Happy Birthday anyway!<br />
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The days are pleasantly warm to hot and happy hours shared with our friends were a part of every pre-dinner ritual with a couple of games of Sequence following dinner a lovely way to welcome the evenings. I also got to spend some time in "my outdoors crafts room". Meaning I love to craft under the shade of the gum trees. To have a view of the famous Murray River is just an added bonus.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: magenta;">Sock Monkeys & Dolls</span></h3>
My Sock monkeys and dolls are available through my facebook page <a href="http://www.facebook.com/platypuscreations1">www.facebook.com/platypuscreations1</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just one of my sock monkeys</td></tr>
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50% of all sales go to a Rare Cancer charity called <a href="http://www.withoutaribbon.org/" target="_blank">Without a Ribbon Inc</a></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-42122779735326807432018-04-03T14:03:00.001+10:002018-04-03T14:03:33.033+10:00Is a 24 hours stay enough?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We have been free camping a lot since we were introduced to this lifestyle some 7 years ago and we love the freedom it gives us to come and go without have to plan and book days and weeks in advance. We would love councils and shires to consider longer free camping for the reasons we listed below. We recognize that businesses aka caravan parks need to have people pay to stay in their parks. However this post isn't about supporting free camping verses caravan parks. Maybe we will do a post in the future about our take on this part of the debate. However this post is limited to the recognition shown by some shires and councils to allow limited free overnight stops. <br />
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We felt strong enough about to this topic to send a much shorter letter to the editor of Australia's largest motorhome & RV club (CMCA) magazine, The Wanderer, which was subsequently published in the March 2018 edition (Vol 33 no 3)<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: red;">Our original unedited letter</span></h3>
<span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I am writing in regard to free camping and how many towns and regions are offering places to camp for free or at low cost. I am especially grateful for these camps that offer 48-96 hours stay. Frankly I am puzzled by towns and councils putting in only 20-24 hour stays. By the time we arrive, settle down after the drive, cook, sleep, it is time to move on again, leaving no time to explore and look around your town, do some shopping and visit a restaurant or club etc.</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Personally for my wife and I, we tend to move onto an area where we can stay a minimum 48 hours as we feel it is just not worth the effort of stopping for just one night. <br />
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I would like to suggest a minimum 48 hour stop would benefit your town so much more. Let's face it, every RV, if given enough time will spend more dollars at a more relaxed pace. We are not the group that just need a quick stop for break and to get a few basic supplies before moving on to our destination. For many of us, it is a lifestyle thing, where we are not necessarily on a tight time frame. We would like to experience what your region has to offer and we would like more time to do this.<br /> </span></i></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Sure I can understand that a 24 hours limit is easier to control for councils, but at the same time it makes it easier for RVs who are self sufficient to not stop for long if at all.
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There will always be a certain group that will only stop and stay within a caravan park. There is another group that can only free camp for a limited time often 2 or 3 nights before they need power etc. There is a growing number of dedicated free campers who can and do travel long term (and a small but growing percentage that chose to live in their RV permanently). </span></i></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br />
By catering for longer stays you will attract more spending across a broader spectrum of businesses. I am reasonably sure the CMCA (Campervan and Motorhome Assoc) will have proof of how much spending occurs in towns if you need to back up what I say with proof.</span></i></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free camping at Joe O'Connor Park within walking distance of Yass where we often stop and relax & shop.</td></tr>
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I am also very grateful for these free camps, not just because it is just that, free, but because it attracts a totally different sub culture of travellers whom we enjoy the company of and the second vitally important reason is because of the freedom it gives us when travelling. We do not have to plan ahead just where and when we are going to be at a certain place. If we like a place or meet wonderful people then we are very likely to extend our stay on the spur of the moment. We can't do this if we are restricted to caravan parks.<br />
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We all need fuel, food, water on a regular basis. Then there are miscellaneous expenditures from restaurants, pubs and clubs, motor vehicle maintenance and repairs, laundromats, camping and fishing supplies, hairdressers, pharmacies &/or doctors, books, magazines, etc. It is up to each council to decide how much they desire to attract such people, many of whom are baby boomers with the majority of debts paid off and now reaping the benefits of hard work by relaxing and buying things they couldn't or wouldn't spend in their earlier years. </span></i></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free camp within walking distance of Hopetoun, Vic</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Just as an example: On this trip to Adelaide we decided to see some of the painted silos. Because we were able to free camp at Lake Lascelles, we ended up staying and enjoying there 3 days using this place as a base to go sight seeing and visiting nearby silos. We also went into Hopetoun several times. We used the laundromat, bought lunch one day and a dinner another day there, visited the garage (for advice as they were unable to assist us at that time) and bought some groceries at the local IGA. Had we not been able to stay the 3 nights, we may have bought 1 meal there at the most but I doubt it.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our lovely panoramic view from our motor home free camping at Lake Lascelles</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></i></span><br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-91678510033765888592018-03-20T02:30:00.002+11:002018-03-20T02:32:06.768+11:00Stopping by Albury for a few days<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We rocked up to Albury to stay at a fellow MSO. Alan and Mary have a 50m acre farm they deem as small (after previously having a farm of some 1000 acres). They have generously opened up their place to fellow club members to stay over for a few days if they wish to sight see around the Albury/Wodonga area.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #007670;"><i><span style="color: blue;">Our home for a few days near Albury</span></i></span></td></tr>
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We were encouraged to join them for happy hours on the back verandah amidst the abundant bird life.<br />
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On our first day there we went into town and checked out one of the shopping centres as well as the Information Centre near the beautifully maintained train station. It is a grand old Victorian building,
and possibly one of the most beautiful railway stations outside of Melbourne and Sydney.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="color: #b01100;"><span style="color: blue;">Albury Railway Station is beautiful</span></span></i></span></td></tr>
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On our second day there we went for a drive around a suggested tourist loop taking in the Hume Dam and The Bonegilla Migrant Museum. <br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
The Hume Dam</h4>
Hume Dam is a major dam across the Murray River and is a part of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme. We were told that one could walk across the dam but we found that the top of the dam was closed to the public though there were viewing platforms that were open. To give you an idea of the capacity of the Lake Hume that is formed, it holds around six times the amount of water as Sydney Harbour. I am not sure about the general recreational use of the dam as to swimming and fish, but there is a sailing club on the southern borders of the lake and we could see at least one sailing boat on the lake.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #007600;"><i><span style="color: blue;">The Hume Dam wall</span></i></span></td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
The Bonegilla Migrant Museum</h4>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="color: #b00000;"><span style="color: blue;">Rob at the entry</span></span></i></span></td></tr>
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Australia’s largest and longest operating migrant centre opening for displaced men in particular in 1947 and soon to include families. It housed migrants up until 1971. Some 300,000 people passed through this centre, mostly from Europe. It is now listed as a significant heritage site and one can visit the many restored buildings and learn of the lives and deprivations people went through before arriving in Australia.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: blue;">Somehow this appreciation seems to be lacking in many of today's migrants</span></span></i></span></td></tr>
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It was interesting to note that those who came with nothing appreciated what Australia tried to do for them. The migrants that arrived under an assistant scheme were generally speaking a lot more critical. They might comment on the boredom of the food even as they acknowledged that there was plenty of it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"><i>There were many informative, visual displays and memorabilia</i> </span></td></tr>
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Though I think it would have been hard to adjust to a new culture, different food and separation from family support, amongst other difficulties, for many it was a chance to start over. I haven't a clue what goes on in such migrant placement centres today, but I expect that the same frustrations exists with some appreciating the possibility of being able to start over in a new country and others expecting more than is being done for them/<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Sumsion Gardens, Wodonga </h4>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"><i>Sumsion Gardens</i></span></td></tr>
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We would have visited the Huon Lookout, but it is poorly marked as in NO signs on the main road and it is a dirt track which we ignored expecting it to be bitumen. By the time we realized it we used Google Maps and found a track further ahead that appeared to go up to the look out only to find that after a little bit, the track was barred closed by a gate allowing no vehicular access. So we gave up and went on ahead to Wodonga and had a lovely picnic lunch on the water's edge at the delightful Sumsion Gardens with all manner of ducks, geese and other birds for company.<br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-3211354718652902312018-03-08T20:47:00.001+11:002018-03-08T20:47:20.717+11:00On our way at last. First stop: Yass<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We finally left home after a 2 week delay due to a seized ball bearing in the gear box. We recognized a motorhome trying to turn onto the highway and to our delight we find our friends Gary & Joy were just leaving Wollongong at the same time. We both stopped at the Mt Ousley rest stop for one last chin wag. Hopefully we’ll meet up again in South Australia.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Mt Ousley Rest Stop (Photo from Roads and Maritime Services)</i></td></tr>
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We were being cautious and stopped at Sutton Forest to check our gear box temperature as well as it was time to have a break anyway. The temperature is still a little concern being 100 degrees but that's heaps better than the 180 degrees it was the last time we were here. We will talk to our mechanic tomorrow but being Sunday we will continue on carefully.
By the way we have a Raytek laser temperature gauge which is a left over from our business days. It has been an invaluable tool many times over checking various elements from tyres, brakes etc.<br />
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For our first night away, we chose to stay at the free camp at Joe O’Connor Park, Yass. It is a free camp area on the western side of the town. A lovely spot on the bank of the Yass River less than a kilometre west of the shops. An exercise bar area has been added to the park recently, sadly right where we frequently stay as it’s flat, grassy and in mostly full sun but close to trees for sitting in the shade. Oh well, we still managed to get close to it without any real hassles. We chose not to go down to the river bank as rain is predicted and the track looks a little slippery if wet. Anyway we intended to only stay the one night, leaving after Michelle’s morning tea visit to her aunt in Canberra. We had a neighbour with a lovely colourful pet bird but after the initial contact, she chose not to interact anymore. It didn’t matter, there will be others another time.<br />
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As is our common practice for first nights, dinner was a simple but delicious meal consisting of leftovers of a previous roast beef & vegetables with Potato au gratin.<br />
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Michelle left Rob sleeping in and went off on a 50km visit to see her Aunty in Canberra. Rob later decided to walk into town and pick up a few hardware bits ‘n pieces. He wanted to grab a cuppa in town but found the coffee shop staff was very slow to serve him preferring to natter away with another client, so he ended up walking home and brewing up his own coffee. Michelle arrives back just after 1pm hoping Rob had made lunch, but he was enjoying his morning off reading too much. A quick ham & salad fixed us both up for lunch.<br />
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We decided there’s no rush to move on, so we decided to stay put & relax for another day here. Several more RVs came in and some owners wandered by and stop to chat. We tried to encourage a couple to come by for happy hour but it was not to be. Still we enjoyed a glass on own own.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Rob made us this folding wine table.</i></td></tr>
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We tend not to leave a site until mid mornings usually about 10ish. We like to relax, sleep in and take our time getting going in the mornings. Michelle is usually up much earlier and is happy to be sewing or making her way around on the internet.<br />
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Our lunch stop was at a road side rest area about 10km south of Gundagai. Salad again. We are finding it easier to be stricter with healthier eating & dieting when on the road. After a while we don’t even miss the bakery delights. We are not overly strict but we are both carrying excess weight and we find the low carb/high fat (protein) diet suits us best. We are relaxed enough to join others for dinners whether it be communal or at the local club. We want to enjoy life too! We both lost more than 8kg on the last winter trip though unsurprisingly we put on 2kg over Christmas.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ham and Cheese Salad</td></tr>
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We continue on to our next stop, Albury. <br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-88608606746276658762018-02-23T16:00:00.000+11:002018-02-23T16:00:27.577+11:00Gin Gin Free Camp<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Gin Gin would have to be the most RV friendly town in Australia even though it officially isn't recognized as such. Gin Gin is <span class="st">a small town in
the Bundaberg Region, Queensland, roughly 50 kilometres inland from Bundaberg on the Bruce Highway.</span><br />
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They have a 48 hour free camping on north end of town right on the main highway about 350km from Brisbane. There are also two toilet blocks. There's lots of grass and trees, and a covered picnic area with tables and seating. You are within walking
distance of the shopping facilities in Gin Gin, which Rob took advantage of as he needed to suss out some information regarding satellite TV antennas, so he walked into town, it was that close!<br />
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The town is fantastic for RVers of all sorts. There are two caravan parks and you can also camp at the showgrounds. Gin Gin is an extremely traveller friendly town with a good
variety of shops, pubs, amenities, an information centre and more. The have lots and lots of caravan and big rig parking right in the middle of town (close to the IGA) with the huge park like divided road.<br />
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Around Gin Gin the country is very pretty. You will see lots of sugar cane fields, although there
were also orchards as well as farms growing various fruits including pineapples, citrus, mangoes and macadamias.</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-64411024897318169222018-02-20T09:29:00.001+11:002018-02-20T09:29:44.389+11:0025 things to do before you leave<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We are about to embark on another trip. I find it is always helpful to have a checklist of things to do before leaving on a trip or holiday. Our motorhome is kept in basic readiness nearly all the time, however there are certain things that I need to do at home and put in the motorhome before we can actually leave and others that I'd like to achieve if time allows. My desires and your would differ because of personalities let alone factors such as pets, house or pet sitters coming in and the priorities you give to such things such as a garden. There is a list at the bottom of the post if you want to skip the chatter!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpO66tHoPd4/WotLIqhckCI/AAAAAAAAK9k/QK4UuNurG7IFB-Qjpq-Ppq2Bo5gwleEugCEwYBhgL/s1600/housework.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="159" data-original-width="160" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpO66tHoPd4/WotLIqhckCI/AAAAAAAAK9k/QK4UuNurG7IFB-Qjpq-Ppq2Bo5gwleEugCEwYBhgL/s1600/housework.jpg" /></a>For the first time we will be having a house sitter come and stay. She can look after the bins and the mail for us. Though we have arranged as much as possible for all mail to be electronic, some still comes through. Also I have most of my bills paid electronically too. This is handy for when we are home too!<br />
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During the week before we leave, I prefer to run down the stock of food in the fridge and freezer before we go for a couple of reasons, more room for house sitter's own foods and less wastage esp if there is a power cut (if place is vacant for any length of time). If I didn’t have a house sitter, I would like to turn off the fridge and freezer while we were away. I transfer a lot of the food into the motorhome for your trip.<br />
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I like to ensure all the washing is done. I hate the idea of coming home to lots of washing nor would I like anything ruined because of mould or stains etc.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aqO1p5p0Y8U/WotKsiDWRyI/AAAAAAAAK9c/j5XpsWSdmlcRqia5lL5ZcSHSrmFj9j6SQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1032w%2Bhouse%2Bgarden.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="448" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aqO1p5p0Y8U/WotKsiDWRyI/AAAAAAAAK9c/j5XpsWSdmlcRqia5lL5ZcSHSrmFj9j6SQCLcBGAs/s200/IMG_1032w%2Bhouse%2Bgarden.JPG" width="200" /></a>I would like to have the gardens weeded as much as possible especially
before a long trip as I find the weeds seem to grow at a much faster
rate than the rest of the garden. I like to whipper snip the edges and
picking up the twigs and bark is another not so necessary chore that I
would like done as it just never stops and there would just be even more
to pick up.<br />
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We are fortunate to have a friend who loves to mow the lawns while we are away and who are we to deny him his pleasure.<br />
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Obviously one should remove all rubbish and compost before locking up. <br />
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Jump in your motorhome or RV and take off, knowing that you have done everything you should have.<br />
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: red;">THINGS TO DO BEFORE LEAVING LIST </span></h2>
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I’m a list person so here is the list in point form. The order may change according to your priorities but I’m sure it will help you to set up a list that is perfect for you.<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Book house sitter/pet sitter.</li>
<li>Book any accomodation or festival tickets if needed.</li>
<li>Is there anyone you want to visit or meet up with on your trip, then make your arrangements as appropriate and ensure you have your contact lists with you preferable in 2 different locations eg your phone and a hard copy.</li>
<li>I’ve taken to taking photos (or scans) of all sorts of things, my tickets, my drivers license, my other important cards eg my Visa cards, my meds even a copy of my medical report summary from my doctor. It’s ideal to leave a copy with a trusted family or friend too.</li>
<li>Set it up that your regular bills are paid automatically by your bank or pay them in advance.</li>
<li>Ensure all vehicle maintenance is done.</li>
<li>Fuel up your vehicle esp if cheaper at home.</li>
<li>Notify friend to mow lawns</li>
<li>Fuel up lawn mower</li>
<li>Weed your gardens</li>
<li>Pick up bark and twigs</li>
<li>Whipper snip the edges</li>
<li>Run down food in fridge and freezer by using up what you can and not buying anything unless it’s for your trip.</li>
<li>Check out your packing list to ensure you have everything you need in the motorhome, eg your favourite pillow, pantry and fridge stocked. (There's another post coming re a check list for stocking your RV)</li>
<li>Ensure all washing is done. Wear only the clothes you are not taking with you in those last few days.</li>
<li>Don’t forget phone camera chargers for each etc.</li>
<li>Set timers if you don’t have a house sitter, for lights in rooms, preferably to stagger in various rooms through the first part of the evening, like it would if you’re home.</li>
<li>Cancel or redirect mail if you don’t have a house sitter.</li>
<li>Depending on time frame away and if you don’t have a house sitter, turn off power to fridge, freezer, air con and the water to washing machine and dishwasher.</li>
<li>Remove plugs from all appliances including fans, electric blankets, toasters, coffee machine etc</li>
<li>Remove all unnecessary cards including loyalty cards from your wallet or purse.</li>
<li>Last minute: empty any rubbish and compost. (Dont forget to leave note as to when garbage collection occurs for your house sitter)</li>
<li>Ensure all doors and windows are locked if house sitter is yet to arrive.</li>
<li>Take one last walk through the house that everything is switched off, packed, closed or whatever it should be.</li>
<li>Close the door, and set off for a wonderful time away. You’ve done everything you can think of, so take off and enjoy yourself. You deserve it! </li>
</ol>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-68749374144322202202017-10-06T19:41:00.004+11:002017-10-06T19:41:37.443+11:00Text as Art<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A brief montage</i></td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
</h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
What is Text as Art?</h4>
The Text as Art is a curated short term outdoor exhibition that celebrates the written word. 10 writers have been commissioned to create short written works in response to 10 locations in Bourbong Street which is the main street of Bundaberg.<br />
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10 visual artists have been commissioned to produce short term artworks in response to these written works.
The result adds a vibrant festival vibe to Bundaberg’s CBD and throughout the Crush Festival, which is a 10-day program of arts and cultural experiences.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Family and friends</h4>
It just so happens that we are here in Bundaberg visiting Michelle's sister once again and waiting for the CMCA's annual rally (Australia wide motorhome club). What a delight to find that it coincides with the Crush Festival.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8safFKpUpOs/Wdb-DywM8aI/AAAAAAAAK4Y/gsxTrBWS0io8joGqjwsHGNuJ_lt8gEI-gCLcBGAs/s1600/kat%2Bapel%2Bbully%2Bon%2Bthe%2Bbus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="309" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8safFKpUpOs/Wdb-DywM8aI/AAAAAAAAK4Y/gsxTrBWS0io8joGqjwsHGNuJ_lt8gEI-gCLcBGAs/s200/kat%2Bapel%2Bbully%2Bon%2Bthe%2Bbus.jpg" width="130" /></a>I mentioned that these artworks are linked to writers. Well we were blessed to meet one of these writers on our travels, <a href="https://katswhiskers.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Kat Apel</a>. She is a published poet with one of her books, Bully on the Bus, being used in Qld schools to help stem the tide of bullying. This chance meeting has herald the start of a friendship and I sent her a message that I was in Bundy and we arranged to view the Text as Art together.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
A fun morning looking around.</h4>
We had a great morning together viewing all 10 exhibits and the corresponding stories/poetry. I must have taken 50 or so photos, (who's counting). So rather than bore you with all of them I will just present the best of the 10 writings along with their artistic representations.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><i>It all starts at The National Bank on the corner of Maryborough St & Bourbong St</i></span></td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Text as Art</h4>
We'll start with #1 of course and it just happens to be the one inspired by my friend Kat and her poem about the piggy bank. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This tardis is part of #10 too! I had to put it in esp for my friend Joh!</i></td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Hurry up and get here!</h4>
Do get to Bundaberg as soon as possible to view them in person if you are close enough. For the rest of us there is these photos. Click on the images and you will get a larger image which you can read or see more details.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Copyright ownership</h4>
The subject - <span style="color: red;">the writer</span> then <span style="color: blue;">the artist</span><br />
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1. National Australia Bank – <span style="color: red;">Kat Apel</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Adrienne Williams</span><br />
2. School of Arts – <span style="color: red;">Lonnie Toy</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Marlies Oakley</span><br />
3. Brick wall adjacent to School of Arts/driveway – <span style="color: red;">Sam Ephraims</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Jay Feather</span><br />
4. Bundaberg Regional Council – <span style="color: red;">Jake Thompson</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Taylor Klassen</span><br />
5. Civic Centre fronting Buss Park – <span style="color: red;">Jo Williams</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Judith Bohm-Parr</span><br />
6. Tree located in nature strip in front of Buss Park – <span style="color: red;">Jassy Watson</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Lynda Vertigan</span><br />
7. Burnett Mary Regional Group – <span style="color: red;">Annette Tyson</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Paul Perry</span><br />
8. Moncrieff Entertainment Centre – <span style="color: red;">Wendy Davis</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Michelle Pacey</span><br />
9. Civic Arcade floor (157 Bourbong St) – <span style="color: red;">Cheryl Ratcliffe</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Jeremy Kiraly</span><br />
10. Telstra Exchange – <span style="color: red;">Jenny Gilbertson</span> & <span style="color: blue;">Julie Hylands </span><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Post Script</h4>
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Kat took some photos of me during the morning. Sometimes this is what I have to do to give you a decent shot! LOL </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>What I have to do to get a good photo for my friends!!!</i></td></tr>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com5105 Bourbong St, Bundaberg Central QLD 4670, Australia-24.865727625243927 152.34994143173822-24.872931125243927 152.33985643173821 -24.858524125243928 152.36002643173822tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-51068796036967119832017-09-19T12:51:00.003+10:002017-09-19T13:24:57.733+10:00Bush Camping at Deepwater<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nice spot for a bit of R&R</td></tr>
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After time in Bundaberg with my sister, we headed north towards 1770 and Agnes Waters right next to the Deepwater National Park.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f64Jd6Ja89U/WcCDIyZrl9I/AAAAAAAAK28/Rv5NntHtcOkmjGOtuOS5tF-0Te8QXnm7gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3456%2BHappy%2BHours%2Bat%2BDeepwater%2Bwith%2BEric%2Band%2BMarion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="960" height="238" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f64Jd6Ja89U/WcCDIyZrl9I/AAAAAAAAK28/Rv5NntHtcOkmjGOtuOS5tF-0Te8QXnm7gCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_3456%2BHappy%2BHours%2Bat%2BDeepwater%2Bwith%2BEric%2Band%2BMarion.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eric, Marion & Rob sit around the campfire every evening</td></tr>
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When we free camped or rather bush camped at <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com.au/2017/07/free-camping-at-victoria-lake.html" target="_blank">Victoria Lake</a>, we met this lovely couple, Barry and Lyn and they invited us to camp on their private property near 1770 at Deepwater when we were in the area. We took them up on the offer. The property has a couple of sheds and caravans with lean-to type sheds on it for various family members as their extended family come and go frequently using the property too. It is an open forest with a big clearing, ideal for camping. They gave us limited access to tank water, a toilet and some electricity for the lights in the large undercover area with a table around which to sit, socialize and craft. There's a nearby camp fire area and there's lots of firewood to be scrounged from the surrounding bushland.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IborNJNwKoQ/WcCKrPB8NAI/AAAAAAAAK3k/XLnZyyZW-gcDfzgojfNfyAPhPzcWZYyCgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3455%2BDeepwater%2Bkangaroo%2Bvisits.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IborNJNwKoQ/WcCKrPB8NAI/AAAAAAAAK3k/XLnZyyZW-gcDfzgojfNfyAPhPzcWZYyCgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_3455%2BDeepwater%2Bkangaroo%2Bvisits.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A visiting wallaby gets curious. And yes a tiny little bit of rain fell during our stay.</td></tr>
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It was a very quiet spot with wallabies and lots of birds visiting. The property is also alongside a swampy river which you can see but really couldn't get into at all. I certainly wouldn't want to swim in it but it might be good for fishing. We didn't try.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marion and I stroll along Wreck Bay</td></tr>
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We really appreciated this offer and we stayed at Deepwater for a week with a blessed nothing to do except relax and craft. Thankfully for Rob, who doesn't like to sit and do absolutely nothing, his brother, Eric and his wife were on their way home after spending a month or so caravanning further north. They came and stayed 5 days with us. It was wonderful to catch up with them and hopefully now that Eric has retired we may have a few more trips together.<br />
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During their time with us, we did a day trip up to 1770. As the crow flies, it is not far but one can't drive directly from their
place to 1770, instead you have to go about 70km in a round trip. We visited many of the lovely beaches in this area where Captain Cook was possibly the first white man to ever land in this area.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Michelle and Rob at Agnes Waters</td></tr>
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We also did a few short drives to look at the local area - Baffle Creek, Rules Beach and a very short drive on the beach before deciding it was a bit too soft sand. We had a night out at only place in the area - bistro at Baffle Creek tavern. It was a freezing cold evening that night and with the poor service and the food taking so long to arrive, we decided to move inside the bar.
We said goodbye to Eric and Marion and enjoyed a few more days before Rob was itching to move on again. I'd love to go back there again in another trip to this area!</div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-27564756448690527472017-09-19T11:50:00.002+10:002017-09-19T11:50:21.069+10:00Family time at Bundaberg<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Rob and I had a week spent in Bundaberg with family. There's nothing exciting really to report. We have been here many times and since this was principally to catch up with family and be of assistance to my brother in law as he recovers from hip surgery, we stayed home mostly.<br />
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I enjoy spending time with my niece. She's a gorgeous 7 year old. Though not actually shy, she is a quiet one who loves reading and watching the TV. She's happy playing outside once she gets it into her head that technology is off limits for a while. I had a go showing her how to make a tied fleecy blanket and she did about half the fringe with me. I think this may be the beginning of craft time together! Her bike skills and road sense needs working on so we frequently went around the neighbourhood with her riding and me walking. It was great to watch her interact at her school carnival. She did very well in her first race. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My niece and her blanket she helped make.</td></tr>
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Oh well after about 10 days we were ready to move on (The best way to remain friends with family is not to stay too long in one go! LOL<br />
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We are travelling with a loose plan. We had already decided that we were not going to do a lot of travelling this winter. Just sticking within a smaller area closer to the coast with Gladstone as our northern most town with Biloela and Tara being as west as we planned. ie 550 x 300km sq or 340m x 190miles sq)<br />
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We enjoy winging it as we go. We have a general idea where to go but are more than willing to change course as we meet people and listen to what they have to recommend. We are quite happy with this loose planing and it has worked out exceptionally well this winter with some unexpected invitations thrown in. It has certainly has worked out well with no regrets.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Robbiebago on the road through a forest</td></tr>
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The Robbiebago motorhome has performed magnificently with no real dramas which we really appreciate. </div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-84709943573361906922017-08-03T10:10:00.002+10:002017-08-03T10:10:28.087+10:00Free camping at Calliope<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Free camping at Calliope Rest area is wonderful. There are places on both sides of the river with most being reasonably level and grassy with toilet blocks on both sides. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Campers on the southern bank</i></td></tr>
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There is a 48 hour maximum stay. We missed the turn off on the northern side. As it turned out, we are glad as we preferred the southern bank, not that we knew that at the time. That was just a happy coincidence. The southern side gives easier access to the boat ramp and swimming too if that's important to you.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A closer view</i></td></tr>
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There is plenty of room for large rigs as well as caravans, and often plenty of sites but it was rather busy with the north side being almost crowded during our winter time stop. The temperatures are very warm this year, so much so, that some braver people than I were swimming. I guess there is fishing. It would be an ideal place for canoeing and kayaking too.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A boat ramp on the southern bank for water sports and fishing</i></td></tr>
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There is an old bridge that has be closed to road traffic but you can walk from one side to the other.
Being so close to Gladstone, it is a popular spot on weekends.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Michelle standing on the old bridge with the new one in the background</i></td></tr>
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We took a walk to the north bank which is much higher above the river thus looking down. It is also more bitumen with grassy verge for parking but it is much more crowded. It is also closer to the museum and little takeaway shop which we enjoyed our chips there. We intend to come back another time for the museum when the markets are on as well.
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-55170623402462104212017-07-17T06:30:00.000+10:002017-07-17T06:30:07.320+10:00Low cost camping at Dululu<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Our stay in Dululu (pronounced Do Loo Loo!) was not planned however our stay at <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com.au/2017/07/free-camping-at-victoria-lake.html" target="_blank">Lake Victoria</a> was cut short due to heavy cloud cover heralding rain. <br />
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The campsite at Dululu is OK. We have <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/free-camping-at-dululu-weruma-dam.html" target="_blank">stayed here back in 2012</a> and not much has changed since. It is a flat area with some concrete pads but mostly it is grassed except on the tracks or heavy camped spots. Powered sites are available for an extra cost. There is a portable building serving as a shower unit but it is cold water only, the hot water appears not to be working anymore. It is a clean site and there is a good covered BBQ with tables and nearby is a well serviced and clean toilet block. It is a 48 hour stop.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sunset at Dululu</i></td></tr>
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The pub is within walking distance but was closed at the time of our visit due to <a href="https://www.themorningbulletin.com.au/news/family-feels-loss-after-fire-guts-hotel/2783812/" target="_blank">a fire in 2015</a> that gutted a lot of it. One of the locals tells me it is under new ownership who hopes to have it up and running again within 12 months. Extensive renovations is obviously needed there, so maybe next year.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Morning Mist at Dululu</i></td></tr>
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Sadly the town is dying especially without the pub as it's social hub nor are there any other shops in town. No work, people can't afford to stay.<br />
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One of the campers entertained himself by building this miniature model camp site and then setting the perimeter alight. I love the caravan with the solar panels on the roof and the portable ones on the ground!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Close up of the miniature model caravan with its solar panels</i></td></tr>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-33843231086350967082017-07-16T09:05:00.001+10:002017-07-16T09:05:18.377+10:00The murals of Biloela<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We stopped in Biloela principally to do some shopping.<br />
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A couple of lovely things fell into place for us here. First off was the happy coincidence of friends, Peter and Sue driving through and they recognized our bus and rang up to see where we were. As we were in the shops having lunch, they happily joined us as we spent a good hour or so chatting. Pity they had to keep on rolling further south, but still it was good to see them. They used to live in Wollongong too but moved up the coast many years back. We had happily met up with them in Rockhampton around this time last year too!<br />
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Since we had stopped longer having caught up with Peter and Sue, we decided to stay over at the Federation Park RV Stop. It is not a free camp but the low cost included admittance to the museums on site. I can not say that I enjoyed the museums in fact The first one was so crappy in my opinion that I didn't even bother with the engine one. Still we made our own fun. Another great aspect of our staying over was that we met up with some Highway Wanderer friends from the <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com.au/2017/07/monto-birthday-celebrations.html" target="_blank">Monto rally</a>. Of course we enjoyed another Happy Hour with them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of our HHW buddies</td></tr>
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On our way out we decided to pop past the murals were painted on the big water tank<span class="st"> depicting principally the stories of women from two cultures from before white man invasion until the present time.</span><br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-17266152682040336002017-07-14T10:28:00.001+10:002017-07-14T10:28:14.071+10:00Free camping at Victoria Lake<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Victoria Lake was recommended to us and we probably wouldn't have thought to go there otherwise. This is what I like about chatting with other RVer's at free camps. They can be a wealth of information that you would not necessarily find at the information centres or even on the internet.<br />
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The fact that there are no facilities at Victoria Lake is part of the charm for many people - a true getting back to nature type of break. There's a fine line between bush camping and free camping. I am not sure
where the differences are. It is a quiet spot and it seems as though not many people know of it.<br />
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It is about 20 kilometres south of Dululu along a dirt road. We came up from Biloela which is a much longer dirt road. Next time I think we'll come up the Burnett Highway and turn south from there and just travel a much shorter dirt road to the road leading into the lake.
The campsite is about one kilometre from the gate, but there are many locations along the lake you can choose.<br />
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Being a dirt road in a black soil area, the track into and around the lake can be quite rutted. You will need to take care. Watch also for the many low branches of trees too. We took a short trip to look at a couple of spots in the car, but choose a spot right at the first sighting of the lake as it was reasonably level there and there was a lot more open area for the sun to charge up our <a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com.au/2013/09/lithium-batteries.html" target="_blank">solar panels</a><a href="http://robbiebago.blogspot.com.au/2013/09/lithium-batteries.html" target="_blank">/lithium batteries</a> we need.<br />
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There was one couple camping not far away and we asked them out of courtesy if they'd mind if we park within 20m of them. They were fine with that. As it sometimes happens, we became quite good friends. Barry and Lyn live not too far away and like to come here for breaks. They had some family camping in a different area around the lake. We enjoyed our happy hours together with Barry and Lyn.<br />
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There was supposed to be some red claw(freshwater crayfish) in the lake and Rob got out some traps but we didn't have much success, just caught the one. Still we live in hope and set the traps again. I did some hand washing and Rob cut up some fire wood for happy hour.<br />
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We caught some lovely sunsets over the water and I even got a decent photo of the moon where you can even see the craters.<br />
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<span class="st">We enjoyed a lovely quiet couple of days here but we cut our time sort here as there was threats of rain and this is a notorious black soil which would bog a vehicle in no time at all, even Barry cut his time short too for the same reason. We'll leave it for the 4WD enthusiasts that will undoubtedly come a churn up the grounds even more. Still it would be nice to come back another time.</span><br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1086443000580871442.post-84166608602401511552017-07-11T17:31:00.000+10:002017-07-11T17:31:10.077+10:00Just a little drive around Cania Gorge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Cania Gorge National Park and all the walking tracks within the National Park are just a short 35km out of Monto. On the way out we were stopped by road maintenance team cutting down a huge tree. It was interesting watching the work. It only held us up for about 15 minutes and we certainly didn't mind at all.<br />
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Cania Gorge has fabulous sandstone cliffs and a multitude of weathered caves of vivid yellow and red ochres. We opted out of walking today and just drove around and had a picnic down at the lake. As you drive you can see the dry rain forest that is typical of this area. Apparently there are some wonderful flora to be seen if you were to take to any of the myriads of bush tracks in the area.<br />
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I particularly liked the scenic Lake Cania which apparently has been stocked with Australian Bass, Yellowbelly, Silver Perch and
the highly-prized Saratoga. We spoke to one local who comes in regularly to fish. He was just getting back with his catch.<br />
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There's a memorial to the pioneers of the valley esp the ones buried in the cemetery that is under all that water.<br />
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On the way out we decided to check out the Big 4 caravan park as one of our dear friends worked here for a year or three.<br />
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I generally don't like caravan parks and Big 4 in particular but I must say I do like this one, or at least the bush camping part out the back away from the inevitable cabins, pool and jumping pillow. Out there, they didn't really try to stick people into little boxed areas or at least not in the quieter time we saw.<br />
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All in all it was a lovely easy day's outing. </div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08043171190520380845noreply@blogger.com1