Broome2Perth 2011

Day 29 Guilderton to Perth- Planned 105 kms Reality 127 kms

2011-10-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

Nearly home

The rain stopped for the final day. We could not have asked for better riding weather. It was suggested that the riders travel in as a group along the bike path but it turns out we would plan to go in by road next time. The ride was estimated to be 105 kms but turned out to be 127kms plus 3 kms to the restaurant & 3 kms back !!!

I don't think we should ride this way.

Won't use the bike path next time.

The end in sight

The usual groups of riders rode together up to morning tea & were then going to go from there as one big group.

Coffee break waiting for Mark & Richard to catch up.

Yes!!

We seemed to be waiting for ages at the Bell Tower & then we spotted them. Alf & Debra ended up coming in early on their own.

Still had the energy to jump for joy.

Late lunch.

Collis & I would like to thank all the riders and our support team for a great trip & look forward to seeing them again somewhere out on the road around Australia.

Thank you to Anna

and Norm (with Sheila's directions)

Still smiling!and planning the next trip.

Day 28 Cervantes to Guilderton 115 kms

2011-10-27T15:11:00.000-07:00

Most riders made the trip out to the Pinnacles before riding today and found it worth the effort. Collis took me up to the admissions gate but backed up when there was the thought of a cost involved. It turned out there was no-one on the gate anyway & we could've got in for free. We saw some small pinnacles.

The Pinnacles

Jerry trying to look like a pinnacle.

Spot the animal that doesn't belong.

Sandhills & black boys were the decorations for the day and lots of both. I have never seen so many black boy ferns and couldn't work out which were the male or the female- apparently big difference. All I could think of was how much these plants cost back home.
The wind had turned and everyone was struggling today but no-one as much as Rob. We were getting a bit concerned at morning tea & was just heading back to look for him when he rolled in. He just needed to eat to get his energy levels up and then did the rest of the day with ease.
The rain was on & off all day & was pretty steady by the time we got to Guilderton. This was a shame but we had to expect it eventually. Not nice riding when you are wet & nothing worse than a wet tent. Quite a few riders upgraded to cabins tonight & tried to dry out a bit.
Big day ahead tomorrow!

Fields of black boys.

Mark & Woody

Richard & his moulton.

The natives are watching us-gang gangs?

Rob exhausted- thought we had lost him on the road.

Jacquei with another native.

Day 27 Dongara to Cervantes 145 kms

2011-10-27T14:47:00.000-07:00

One of the many sandhills following us today.

The original plan for today was to ride to Jurien Bay and then a longer day tomorrow. The wind was pushing the riders down the road and they did not need to work all that hard but it had been predicted that tomorrow the wind was going to turn. At morning tea time we discussed traveling further with all but 3 of the riders while they had the favorable winds. Collis & I decided not to make a decision until we caught up with the front runners which didn't occur until Jurien bay. It was decided to go on from there which was only another hour onto the day as the wind was still blowing. Arrived at Cervantes around 2.30 pm just dodging the rain. 40mm fell at Jurien Bay that night so it was a great decision all round.

Rare photo of Alf riding- he's just too fast.

Cervantes is a nice little town with some great seafood but don't buy fresh go to the club for a cheap seafood platter.

The clouds are building.

Day 26 Northampton to Dongara 125 kms

2011-10-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

The storms are coming!

HMAS Sydney memorial at Geraldton.

The Cecile sisters

The leaning tree or the bloody wind?

Which way does this go on?

Fund raising BBQ at the caravan park.

Today's model- Martin at Dongara

Day 25 Kalbarri to Northampton 110 kms

2011-10-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

The weather is starting to cool down. We are apparently being followed by a storm coming down the coast but we are still in front of it.

I've had enough- into the drink for the bike.

The wind has started to blow- I wonder in what direction?

The wind is picking up and some tough going on our way to Northampton. Visited a settlement of ruins where we had morning tea.

This guy got left behind on the last ride.

The whole town gets involved.

The Pink lake

The old convent- does has accommodation.

Peak hour.

Very quiet town as shown by the photos. Northampton had been a large bustling town in it's prime so lots of interesting buildings & railway stations. Was met by the manager at the caravan park & directed to our camping site (very close to a dry river bed). It rained most of the night (the weather had caught us) & the frogs woke & provided us with a chorus all night. I was worried about the river bed but no-one got washed away.

The lone moth- his whole family joined the party by the morning.

Now the directions are getting a bit complicated.

Day 24 Kalbarri Rest Day

2011-10-26T15:21:00.000-07:00

Time to contemplate how far they have ridden.

Today was a rest day. Most of the group had organised a canoe trip down the Murchison River. Fun was had by all although Tina was a little upset that her & her partner had trouble moving & steering the canoe. A great breakfast was provided.

All smiles on the drive out to the canoe ride.

Listening to safety procedures??

What a breakfast!!

Some went to the bird park instead.

Collis & I visited the bird park which was worth the visit. Some interesting birds.

Some just sat around camp waiting for dinner.

More time for contemplation but they just can't escape from each other.

Quite a few of the group went out for dinner at Finlay's restaurant- a must visit next time.

Great dinner had by all.

Day 23 Galena Bridge to Kalbarri 85 kms

2011-10-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

Packing up in the morning.

Everyone enjoyed this bush camp as the scenery was lovely. The toilet was a bit ordinary but at least there was one. The campsite ended up quite crowded with some arrivals in the early hours of the morning also. I think we were the earliest ones to leave the site.

Martin couldn't work out what was wrong with his bike and kept stopping. Debra eventually located the crack in the frame and Martin had no option but to hope on the moulton. He thought he was going to have to pedal harder because of the smaller wheels but this wasn't the case. I don't think he enjoyed the experience as he jumped on Alf's spare bike as soon as he got the chance.

Martin split his frame & had to ride the spare bike for awhile.

Pierre was into everything. I bet he was the one who kept eating all the morning tea supplies.

The flora was changing today & they had a lovely ride in with the wind behind them- or so it looked from where we were sitting (in the car).

The group visited Hawk's Head and explored some of the terrain. Leisurely day with lots of sight seeing.

Pierre found a little friend

Great downhill descent into Kalbarri with great scenery. Collis & I decided we needed a break from the cyclists (or they needed a break from us) so we left them at the caravan park to manage themselves.

Day 22- Billabong to Galena Bridge (on Murchison River) - 120 kms

2011-05-14T02:37:00.000-07:00

Quite a few riders had breakfast at the Roadhouse as everyone is starting to want cooked breakies. Also they are becoming more relaxed in the mornings on not in such a hurry these days.

The flies are still around.

The ride was very relaxed today and we arrived into the bush camp very, very early. This was very fortunate as it was a great campsite right on the river and was well known and well liked by half of Australia- by then end of the night the place was packed. Fortunately Cycle Across Oz got the best camp spots.

We got a huge camp fire going which was pumped by Norm & John with Gayle desperate to get involved but the boys were too strong for her. We were able to cook a very nice vegetable rissoto with Jacqui as the main stirrer and plenty for everyone with a large amount left over.

The sign was updated as we went.

I could not have coped without the help of my 2 stirrers- the rice would have burnt for sure!

Jacquei was the best help with the cooking. All riders liked to help out throughout the ride.

Roger & his damper.

We had a lovely night around the camp fire with 3 poets reading their poems after dinner. We had a new poet who presented his first poetic effort (see attached)

The Sisters of Cecil by Jerry Coll 1952- ?
One of them is not compliant
She rides an OCR by Giant
The other three push biking tgalkers
Are saddled up on Cecil Walkers
Within this group, there are no misters
They are the cycling Cecil sisters.

They start at dawn before the elves
These sisters are pedalling for themselves
They journey sharing private jokes
These nemeses of blokes on spokes
If you are chromosomes X & Y
You're sure to see them flying by
As you deal with sores & blisters
You eat the dust of the Cecil sisters
Only m en who are daft & keen
Attempt to catch this mean machine
Those who start off quite undaunted
Will end up forever haunted
It is clear there can come no good
From taking on the sisterhood.

Many men have faced the abyss
While chasing down the heels of Fliss
Face it guys, there's no disgracwe
In not keeping up with Carmen Pace
I've seen stubbled faces wrought with pain
From trying to overhaul Lorraine
Gents have to recognise that
They are no match for Audax Pat
So if you want wisdom, here's my pearl
Become an honourary girl

So take the word of one who's tried
It's the best way to enjoy your ride
It doesn't take alot of guts
They don't demand you foresake your nuts
You have it now on my authority
Hitch yourself to the sorority
Crossing Oz can get no happier
Than when drafting with the Cecilian Mafia.

Wooramel Departures by Theo Van Der Veen

Disembodies in the pre-dawn dark
Wraithlike, with cyclops centred eye;
Silently they greet, but do not ask
For now the wind is no more than a sigh.

And each a light emitting eye,
Not for blinding by Odyseus' eviles
Transformed by distance and the branches nigh
To interacting fireflies in the tented aisles

Now comes the purpling morning light
A glorious sunrise paints the Eastern sky
And wind arises as a blight
To challenge even the strongest riders by & by.

The earliest riders set themselves apart
With blinking R2/D2 Martian light
The silent cycle cavalades depart;
Our lycred, two wheeled riders glide from sight.

Day 21- Hamelin Pool to Billabong 85 kms

2011-05-14T01:37:00.000-07:00

Water- yes please!!

Usual morning departure today with no changes in the order of riders. We didn't have a morning tea break for the late runners today as it was such a short day. They were fine with this and carried extra food for themselves. Norm met up with the early runners before they rode into the Billabong Roadhouse.

We were staying at the caravan park which was behind the pub- I had told everyone that we would be staying at the roadhouse- OOPS!! Once again no grass to camp on but the park was under new management and they had only moved in 5 days prior our stay. The new manager knew about our booking- miracles of miracles- and told us we could use as much of the camp as we felt we needed.

Norm's flynet!!

Collis & I went for a lunch at the pub which was not all that successful as his hamburger was not cooked properly and was still partly frozen on the inside- we had to send it back and it was replaced with a slightly better hamburger- still not up to the standard we have come to expect.

These nests are still around.

John & Theo went to the pub for dinner and were sorely disappointed whereas all the other riders went to the roadhouse and had "the best meals for the ride". The usual riders cooked at camp with Collis & I among them. A small group went to the roadhouse to play cards after dinner but had to return when they shut their doors at 8 pm.

The night was quite noisey with all the trucks going down the highway most of the night- it felt like they were going to join us in the car.

Day 20 -Denham to Hamelin Pool 105 kms

2011-05-14T01:18:00.000-07:00

　

I rode again today after a bit of a break. The riders all said I should try the hills and see how far I can go. Well I ride through the town turn left and there is this huge hill- Collis said to change into 1st gear to get up the hills but I didn’t have my glasses and put it in 3^rd gear and it stopped. I had to walk it up the hill but that didn’t worry me as I was still getting the exercise but I turned around just as Carmen, Pat & Lorraine whizzed past me on their bikes- makes you feel so unfit watching them. I cannot see myself ever being able to ride like these women even though 2 of them are older than me. Anyway, I got to the top of the hill and jumped back on.

Without an odometer I decided to count the white reflective posts deciding 10 would equal 1 km- I had counted 5 kms before someone came past with an odometer and checked my mileage against theirs and I had actually done 18 kms- YES!!! Out of at least 30 hills I had to walk up two deciding it wasn’t worth me having a heart attack just to save face. ALL the riders passed me as if I was standing still but I kept plugging along until another hill and decided enough was enough & that Collis should soon be here. I waited 5 minutes before he appeared to announce that I had done 37 kms- if only I had done the other 3 kms as they were all down hill.

I was exhausted from those hills but have decided to look up a cycling club when I get home for the over 50's of course. How these riders do it day in & day out I don't know!!

Down hill from here- I should have kept going.

We all arrived safely back at Hamelin Pool in the early afternoon. Tonight we were cooking the chicken spaghetti dish but as there was quite awhile until dinner was required, I decided to have a little lie down (nanny nap) in the truck away from the flies. While I was resting Gayle had prepared the chicken & onions for dinner-very nice of her. We managed to get full use of the comercial kitchen again so Jacqui & I took the chicken & sauce & 5 packets of macaroni up there to cook. Mark actually bought us a beer each (with a little prompting) to drink whilst cooking. Once again dinner was a success with everyone really enjoying both the vegetarian & the chickens- Roger had 3 helpings & most everyone else came back for seconds.

The usual group headed off to bed straight after dinner (around 7 pm) and the other group of late owls sat around chatting until the late hour of around 9.30 pm. Quiet night in camp.　

Day 19- Denham - Mother’s Day

2011-05-14T00:54:00.000-07:00

Up early as a group of us were heading to Monkey Mia for the dolphin feeding which they will only guarantee for the 7.45 am appearance. Richard was supposed to come with us but he was still asleep at the departure time so Jerry jumped into his spot. I am sure the dolphins that we were waiting for were all women and I’m sure they stayed in bed for breakfast as they didn’t appear for nearly an hour past the allotted time. But when they came they all came to say hello. I think I counted around 12-14 dolphins. They were gorgeous and came all the way up the beach to look at us- they no longer let you touch the dolphins and only a certain number in the water when they are around.

I’ve got another 2 meals I have to cook for so we needed to do another big shop. The IGA at Denham wasn’t all that well stocked and made it difficult to decide just what to have on the menu. (I ended up deciding to do a spaghetti sauce with the chicken wings for the first night with same sauce minus the chicken and add beans for the vegetarian & then vegetable risotto for the bush camp which we will be unable to keep meat cold enough for. Hope I have enough food to feed the hungry hoards.

Went to the fish fiesta for tea again tonight but it was only Collis, Gayle & I that tried it this time and we were sorely disappointed with the portion size of the lamb roast provided. We keep meeting up with this Swiss couple everywhere we go- we originally met them in Coral bay and we had tea with them tonight. This is his 5th visit to Oz but her first. They are travelling around with their little boy who appears to have cerebral palsy. I’m sure we will run into them again soon.

Day 18-Hamlin Pool to Denham 105 kms

2011-05-09T23:18:00.000-07:00

Everyone enjoyed the riding today as the scenery was spectacular. The road was very undulating with lots of hills but some great valleys also. The road had narrowed some and the traffic has picked up leading into the weekend. More care was needed especially when 2 cars were passing in the opposite directions as this left little room for the cyclists. At nearly every hill and turn of the road there was a view of the Indian Ocean shimmering azure blue in the cloudless sky with the waves way out from shore crashing against the reef.

Arrived at Caravan park which was practically sitting on the beach and our allocated camp area was 200 metres from the waters edge-just perfect!! Collis & I got into camp earlier than usual and got a pick of the choice camp sites- nice change as we usually got just what space was left. It was early afternoon when we all arrived so everyone had time to explore the best eating spots, swimming spots and the best shops as well as shower & do some laundry before heading off for dinner.

Denham was holding their fish fiesta week so most of us went to a fish BBQ which provided a fish & prawn dinner for $12.50 a person. We took over 2 tables and Norm & Sheila provided us with some jiving demonstration after Collis requested. John & Pat provided air piano entertainment for everyone as well and the group playing asked us not to leave as we were such a good audience. Tina, Mark & Melanie looked like they wished they were somewhere else & Tina stated she felt she was out with her parents. A good night was had by all and a few videos of the night might just make their way onto u-tube.

Today we stopped at Shell Beach for morning tea which can be seen through the eyes of Pierre, our mascot, who joined us at Carnarvon and has been hogging some of the photographs.

Day 17 Wooramel to Hamlin Pool 110kms

2011-05-08T00:12:00.000-07:00

I decided today to get an early start to avoid the flies. To do this I had to pack the car before the sun came up and then I could sit quietly in the car or the roadhouse away from the flies whilst waiting for the last lot of riders to leave and get at least 20 kms down the road. This was a mistake obviously as it led to a series of outbursts and words spoken that probably was not needed to be said.

I had sent Collis to wake Gayle (as requested) but she does take a long time getting out of her tent before she goes off for her morning shower. While I was packing the car, Collis was enjoying his cups of tea and chatting with the cyclists- all good; I don’t mind packing the car on my own as I know where I want
everything to go! The car was packed and the flies were just starting to appear when Gayle appeared from her tent, carrying her mattress & luggage (which I had forgotten about & wondered where the hell I was going to fit this as it was no small bundle), Richard made a quiet remark about his food box was packed away before he had finished with it (this rubbed a little) and when I turned around Gayle had just left her belongings next to the car & went for her shower!!! I was still fine & decided to dress Norm’s leg so I had to remove the “nest” in the back seat before I could get to the first aid kit under the seat. Dressing done and put the kit back where Collis likes it to be kept when he explodes at me as he was wanting to try & fit the tool box under the seat, but then said “Why you have to pack up so early, I don’t know. I don’t know what’s up with you this morning, there is no need for this rush!” I saw red and exploded in front of the whole crew & Richard and I could not stop but at least it was only aimed at Collis. I had had enough and everyone knew about it, so I had to storm off. When I returned Gayle had decided to travel with Anna today and Collis & I managed to get some quiet time to talk things out.

Passed a few lone riders today- a swiss couple & a pomm

The colours today were great

Salmon gums

We can appear quite daunting when we pull up at a stop- so many bikes.

Once I apologised to those that witnessed my outburst I was able to look people in the eye again. Gayle appeared to have a lovely time with Anna except she kept losing the stone out of her ring and Anna had to drive over the same ground looking for it. The riders were enjoying the day & Collis & I were taking our time with meals at roadhouses & chatting with tourists. What started off as a terrible day ended much better (and with less flies).

Stromatalites

Bit of a motley crew

Gayle enjoyed arriving in the first car to snatch one of the dongers at the caravan park. There were only a few available and some of the riders are renowned for wanting a donger if available so it was ensured that the usual were catered for. There was great excitement over the availability as 2 dongers had air conditioning & a fridge. This all fell in a heap when the manageress came back to inform us that she had made a mistake and all dongers were taken back.

Everyone then had to pitch their tents before the manageress came back to say we could have 2 of the dongers- too late!!

Pierre what are you up to now??

1st public phone box on the whole trip.

I had to cook tonight and the stove in the camp kitchen was very small & was not going to fit the pots I needed. Trish, the manageress, offered us the use of her commercial sized kitchen- fantastic. Gayle, Jacqui, Melanie & I had a lovely time getting dinner ready and Collis carted us back to the campsite on the back of the truck- a bit like meals on wheels. Dinner was great- even if I say so myself- Pesto pasta a la Kathy- thanks to Jacqui for her suggestion and Fiona for teaching me her recipe and Gayle, Jacqui & Melanie for their assistance. Rob had the leftovers for lunch the next day- nothing wasted when Rob’s around.

Peter taught Gayle, Melanie & I the card game 500- I used to play as a teenager and it all came back quite quickly. Good night had by all.

Day 16 Carnarvon to Wooramel 119 kms

2011-05-07T02:48:00.000-07:00

We've had a really lovely stay here at Carnarvon especially considering that we all wanted to stay at Coral Bay for another night and weren't looking forward to moving on- this place was just perfect. It is always hard to get going after a rest day but the sun is rising a little later each morning so the riders are leaving a little later each day as well.

The scenery out of Carnarvon was pretty bland today and didn't change very much. We did follow a 25 km red sand dune for alot of the day. The flies were disgusting and caused us to cut the breaks very short as every time you stood still they were invading every exposed orifice available. The fly nets came out for nearly everyone and have become quite a fashion accessory in camp.

Once again we arrive at the booked roadhouse to be told that we had no booking- I don't know how these businesses keep going as I witnessed Collis ringing each and every booking to confirm the booking and numbers of cyclists. Anyway, she was able to accomodate us. The roadhouse looked ordinary but tidy and clean. The showers & the camp kitchen were a very pleasant surprise- both spotless & the manageress even popped in the toilets after we went to bed to clean them again before the morning.

Where to now Pierre?

She's not going to share it with you Norm so give her some peace.

Poetry time

It was fly heaven which drove us crazy in the evening when attempting to eat our dinners. The roadhouse closed at 5.30 pm and if you wanted to sit down to eat you had to order by 4.30 pm otherwise you had to eat in the camp (with the flies). Woody was determined he was not going to move until he had finished his dinner in his own time but the manageress won out and he was out of the roadhouse by 5.30 pm. The meals were pretty good though with the best hamburger around for $6.50 a pop. It is amazing how excited we get over some food & a cold drink.

We all sat around for awhile tonight and once again we were entertained by John & Theo with their poems- both very good. I will publish them when I can get hold of them. Jerry told us a little joke based around Woody (or a very similar American).

Day 15 Carnarvon- Rest Day

2011-05-07T02:11:00.000-07:00

One of the cleanest & friendliest caravan parks on the trip.

I had a great day today just resting around camp, catching up on the little chores that needed doing and spending some quality time with Collis without too much interference from the riders (I love them dearly but the demands can overwhelm you sometimes).

Don't buy cheap gloves when on one of our rides because we ride you hard.

Not sure what he is looking for.

We drove around town, went to the weather bureau and bought ourselves some crabs & prawns for dinner- Yum again!! We also had to do a big shop for the next dinner I had to cook which we decided would be Pesto Pasta. The riders spent the day shopping, sight seeing, some met up for a picnic lunch in the park and some hit the local Opp Shop ( for more junk)- we did end up with a mascot called Pierre who will travel with us to Perth (if he survives as Collis keeps trying to bin him).

Day 14 Minilya to Carnarvon 137kms

2011-05-07T02:08:00.000-07:00

I rode again today but only rode 28 kms before I was caught by Collis & Gayle. I was having a lovely time checking out the scenery, having little snack stops & little toilet stops, so much so that I lost track of the time. I started setting myself little challenges which was fun & a bit more exercise- every time I spotted a Floodway sign I would start peddling as fast as I could until I passed the sign and then slow down until the next time- there were a lot of Floodway signs! It is difficult peddling along on your own without an odometer as you depend on the road signs and they only come around every 10 kms- 10kms can take a long time & you can then convince yourself that you must have blinked and missed the next sign.

Working hard.

The riders are all settling into their little clichés & most have partnered up with someone for cycling. Robert usually heads off first with Roger not far behind; then the “Girls” take off and this usually includes Lorraine, Pat, Carmen & Fliss; depending on the day, Alf & Sheila will go pretty much not long after the girls. These are the usual front runners with some of the others joining the group if they are up early enough- this lot are usually gone & on the road between 5.30 am & 6.30 am. The middle runners include Jerry who seems to ride on his own but then will join up with John & Theo or Alf at times. John & Theo always load up the trailer before they take off & Peter helps as well if he is around at the time. Peter, Jacqui & Melanie, the Qld crew, usually ride together with Tina frequently joining them or just behind or in front of them. This group leave usually half hour later than the front group. The late runners usually include the overseas crew- Mark (South African), Woody (American), Martin & Debra & Richard (all from England & Scotland)- they obviously don’t like to rise early & have trouble comprehending why the others feel they have to.

We are happy to have a beer at the end of the day.

Norm going for his evening ride

Yes!! Cheap fruit.


This is a group of caterpillars head to bottom.

Day 13- Coral Bay to Minilya 91 kms.

2011-05-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

Again today we asked everyone to not leave until a little bit later as the backpackers kitchen was not opening until 0530 hrs. I rose at about 0630 hrs and I was the second last one to come out of their rooms; everyone else was dressed and fed & nearly ready to take off. They only had around 90 kms to ride today (one of their shortest days) but unfortunately there was going to be a headwind most of the way. Apparently, according to our wind experts, the wind would drop off around lunchtime so the later they go the better. This bit of information didn’t have the desired effect and the majority of riders were off & riding around 7 am, if not earlier. We were all in camp by 3.30 pm and looking for something to do at the roadhouse. The roadhouse stated we had to order dinner before 8.30 pm and we told them that would be no problem as we would all be heading for bed before then.

Most photographed sign ever.

A couple of dramas with Jacqui & Melanie both falling off their bikes. No injuries were received but Princess’s pride was slightly dented as she fell off in the middle of town. Morning tea was very nice today as John donated a fruit cake to the group- I have another one somewhere but am having trouble locating it. The supplies are dwindling and everyone is looking forward to a big food shop tomorrow when we get into Carnarvon.

Martin & Debra were seen cavorting at the Tropic of Capricorn and this may explain why they were the last ones in to camp. I did hear that Debra was playing in her tent nest tonight. Martin was looking slightly worried.

These were everywhere- does anyone know what lives inside?

It is sooo hard working for Cycle Across Oz.

Trying to write the blog

The most photographed termite mound ever also.

The word seems to have got around about our early risers as one of the grey nomads here in camp stated he had heard about us and we better not wake him up at 4 am or there will be trouble. Looks like we will be in for a good morning tomorrow as the riders won't change their habits this late in the ride.

Camp life

I'm sooooo happy!

Playing cards

Does anyone know how the grey nomads know about the early riders?

Collis & I went to the roadhouse for dinner with Richard & Mark with prices a reasonable rate. Collis wanted a mixed grill so we decided to split it & still ended up with a huge meal each with a sausage, a rissole, bacon, an egg, chips & salad - this is each. Pretty good deal!! Nice guy running the place.

Day 12 Coral Bay- Rest Day

2011-05-03T18:53:00.000-07:00

Theo very “subtlety” stated that the 10 bed dorm was maybe just too much with all the snorers in the one room. We had put all the males in one dorm & all the females in the other dorm with Sheila (with ear plugs), Norm (without his hearing aids)& Gayle were in the 4 bed dorm-perfect match. We had a big sleep in today and rose at about 6.30 am. Woody also felt there were too many in each room but I’m sure he wouldn’t have been interested in moving into the 4 bed dorm.

Whale watchers

Coral spawning

5 riders were booked in for the swimming with the whale sharks & had to be ready by 0745 hrs for pick up at backpackers. Some of the girls wanted to go snorkelling and as we only had 3 sets of fins, etc this had to be rostered out unless the riders wanted to hire their own equipment. So we snorkelled in groups throughout the day and we all got to spot the local stingray, coral & some lovely coloured fish. The boys that were going kayaking out to the turtles were delayed because of winds but managed to head off around lunchtime. Some of us also got to watch the fish feeding down at the beach. The rest of the group spent the day doing washing, shopping, reading & catching up on a well earned rest/sleep.

Unfortunately the whale watchers didn’t see any whales even though they were out there nearly all day long in a little boat bobbing away on the high seas. Robert was unable to hold onto his lunch and entertained all on board with his technicolour yawn. Deb & Martin also felt queasy but managed to hold on & Richard & Tina apparently spent the day chatting & socialising with everyone on board. Fun was not had by all and they received an unlimited voucher for there next visit to Coral Bay (3 of the riders are from England- who knows when/if they will ever be back).

Feeding the fish

Cleaning the catch

The kayak riders did not see any turtles either but they did have fun attempting to remain upright and then to climb back onto the kayak from the platform- although it depends on which cyclist you spoke to; Mark had a different story to Jerry in some of the detail. Anna & Alf actually saw a turtle while they were on the glass bottom boat- they enjoyed themselves.

Some of us played cards for a little while last night until the competitiveness got too fierce and Gayle spat the dummy when everyone was trying to tell her how to play her game of “JO”. We promised to resume play tomorrow night.

Day 11 Giralia to Coral Bay 110 kms (Into the wind)

2011-04-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

The riders were asked to wait until the sun came up before they hit the road today. As soon as the sun peeked it’s head up they were on the road - as pointed out by one of the late starters, they actually started 2 minutes earlier than the day before. Like I said no sleep in on this trip!!!

Packing up in the morning!!

The ride was lovely to commence with apparently but as soon as they hit some T intersection they had a full-on headwind. This made the short day into a medium long day & some unhappy riders. Even Jacqui (the most positive rider) was whinging today but soon got over it.

The front runners.

Not even any shade today!!

They were all so excited to see this sign until the wind turned on them.

The late runners.

Everyone was so happy to arrive at the beautiful seaside spot of Coral Bay by about 3pm. We are staying at a very expensive backpackers but this doesn’t affect the riders unless they wanted to upgrade. We have 2 x 10 bed dorms & a 4 bed dorm. Collis & I decided to take a 2 bed room for a little alone time. The bedrooms are very basic but there is a swimming pool, pool tables and a bar (with happy hour that goes on for 4 hours).

Some of us went snorkelling straight away & am looking forward to tomorrows full day of water activities. 5 of the riders have booked into a “Swimming with the whale sharks”, 2 have booked into a Kayak to the turtles tour, 2 into a glass bottom boat ride and the rest are just snorkelling and catching up on some well earned rest. Coral Bay shops are over the top expensive but the meal prices aren’t too bad at some café’s.
Jacqui, Tina, Melanie, Gayle & I went to the Pizza place for dinner and had a great time relaxing and getting to know some of the riders just that little bit more over a very nice dinner. I had seafood gnocchi followed by an Apple Gelati- very nice!!!. Gayle had some crocodile with a mustard sauce which she thoroughly enjoyed as well. I felt terrible when half way through the meal the girls remembered that Peter was going to join us but he disappeared just before we left & they thought he would follow us. He appeared a bit upset when we got back but he had eaten at one of the other cafes and said that he wasn’t planning on eating at the pizza place anyway.

Day 10 Nanutarra to Giralia Station 157 kms

2011-04-30T22:56:00.000-07:00

I was on the bike again this morning after offering to stay & assist the crew with the packing of the car & trailer but Gayle rose late & jokingly called Collis ”Darling” so I said “Love & Darling” could do it by themselves & off I took. The first 10 kms were “uphill” or so I thought, so I was a bit tired after just 10 but I kept peddling for another 10 kms before Anna arrived and provided encouragement. Then 5 kms later Norm came along & said I had to do 37 kms to improve my mileage- I became a little deflated as that meant I still had a little over 12 kms to do. Anyway I got back on the bike, sore tail & all, and started riding again until I came across a “real” hill which I managed to ride half the way up then sheepishly climbed off to walk the rest of the way. Guess who, of all people, came along just at that moment- Mark, who offered to ride the bike up for me but I declined stating my legs needed the exercise. I ended up doing 32 kms before Collis arrived to save the day.

Toilet stop??

Fun on the sand dunes that stayed with us most of the day.

When the 2 so-called crew arrived to pick me up I was informed of their gross water wasting episode back at Nanutarra. Because of the water shortage the roadhouse kept removing the top of the tap near the camping area & if you wanted water you had to ask for the top at the roadhouse- which they had done to fill the water containers.Gayle tried to remove the top but couldn't, so she asked Collis to remove the "tap". . He took her literally because he removed the top, no troubles. He removed the tap and they ended up with a water geyser that was shooting across the camping area. Collis couldn't stop laughing & Gayle was scared they were going to get caught.

Water on the road- not sure where this has come from but it was cooling.

The real riders were enjoying the ride until a little headwind when they turned into the road towards Coral Bay. A guy met the riders at the lunch break and provided the organiser (Collis) a t-shirt advertising his volunteer work travelling around Australia raising money for some sort of boulders to be collected for, I think, to be placed outside Parliament House.

Grasshoppers are EVERYWHERE. We think they are very big locusts but Rob, the country boy, states they are grasshoppers. The crew are sitting happily in the car wondering how the riders may be affected as they will fly into the car if the windows are open. They don’t seem to annoy them at all which is good. The grasshoppers are apparently having fun trying to jump through their spokes as they ride past- not into their mouth!

The scenery keeps changing (subtlety) each day, for a while we had an impressive range of “mountains” following us (these were my hills), then we had huge sandhills of the an amazing ochre colour (more hills), then flat, flat land with nothing in sight except scrub. The termite mounds are providing the crew with some entertainment with trying to see different shapes from most of them-we have buddas, old men, mother & child and some rude looking ones. We were all hoping to see some water today but it didn’t quite happen- still a little too far away-maybe tomorrow.

The riders had to ride on a dirt driveway into the property & Jerry came off his bike & broke his mirror- he is no longer legal for riding with Cycle Across Oz without his mirror- I’m sure he will improvise. The Giralia Station was very accommodating with cold beers & soft drinks for sale on the verandah of the homestead. A number of the riders upgraded into the dongers with air conditioning until 10 pm then the night breeze.

Collis learning new skills

Woody loves a donger!

Rob always made sure we had enough water!

I cooked a Japanese vegetable curry, with Carmen & Gayle assisting with the peeling of the vegetables, which filled the whole huge dutch oven but once again there were no leftovers for those wanting seconds but hopefully everyone got just enough. We had plenty of rice so they had the chance to fill up on that if needed. Great camp kitchen so no camp fire tonight but some of the boys sat around the table chatting for quite awhile, which was nice to see. Grasshoppers were constantly trying to join the dinner until a clever dick thought to shut the kitchen doors.

Day 9 Fortesque River to Nanutarra 157 kms

2011-04-30T22:43:00.000-07:00

Firing up the stove.

Best time of the day!

Up early again this morning but at least we weren’t disturbing anyone else except each other. Collis & I were first up around 0400 hrs- no sleep ins on this holiday or you may miss the riders. I also like to complete my ablutions when no-one else is about as it is much easier & you never know what animals you may come across although it was very quiet this morning- it was probably all the snoring coming from all the tents that scared off the animals.

Gayle complained she was disturbed most of the night by the frogs playing in her wash bowl outside her tent so she spent a lot of the night texting her family & friends. Jacqui & Peter complained that Gayle’s phone was bee\ping all night and probably needed to be charged- little did they know it was working perfectly. Sheila made herself a lovely cup of tea using a sugar sachet as a tea bag (accidental)- forgot to put her glasses on.

The early risers were on the road just before sunrise with the stragglers making a move around a hour or so later and then proceeding to eat a hot breakfast at the roadhouse down the road so once again we had a large gap between the front & tail of the pack. This makes it quite difficult to cater to the whole group but thank god for Norm & Anna who we could not have done this trip without. Anna does a water run first & goes picks out a morning tea spot then Norm follows up in the middle with more water and the tea supplies while Collis, Gayle & I finish packing up and meet the back half of the group and so the day progresses until we reach our destination.

I’m starting to feel slightly out of the picture in the Crew as Gayle & Collis are getting quite close. He is even calling her “Love” all the time when I am only getting “Kath”. I have decided to take a stand and telling him to get “Love” to help him as “Kath” is quite happy to sit back and watch. Although I did say when he started calling her “Dick” then I was leaving and heading home to Jack (Gayle’s husband).

Still looking happy!

Looked like rain but didn't happen.

Stayed tonight at the Nanutarra Roadhouse which had a lovely grass area with very welcome showers. The food area was very expensive with small packets of chips costing $5.00, and one beer, one lemonade & one meat pie costing $22.00. Needless to say most of us cooked our dinner but the ones made of money -Mark & Richard) ate in the diner. Best night sleep ever that night- did not hear any of the snoring. The group are working out who they can sleep next to & who they can’t. Tina & Woody took dongers for the night.

Are they watching their washing dry or the sun set?

Richard, where is your fly?

Day 8 Point Samson to Fortesque River Bush Camp 162 kms

2011-04-30T22:39:00.000-07:00

The scenery keeps changing even if it is subtle.

Jacquei loved the wide open spaces!

Watch those winds girls!

I woke to some man in a caravan muttering to himself about the noise that the cyclists are making walking around the camp. It is 0430 hrs and all I can hear are footsteps on the gravel- there is no talking, coughing or packing noises. Then the guy starts saying a little louder about the lights that the cyclists are shining in his annexe- they are wearing head torches. A couple of cars leave the park but he doesn’t seem to notice them, he is just concentrating on the cyclists but hiding in his annexe making his complaints but not loud enough that the cyclists will hear. I decide to climb out of the truck bed at about 0500 hrs and he has maintained a continual stream of complaints for the last half hour. He has opened & shut his annexe zip continually popping his head out every second zip. He spots me and starts to approach but changes his mind so I head off to the toilet. While I was gone he approached Fliss and started to complain but wouldn’t listen to her so she just walked off. When I came back he walks up in a very aggressive manner so I front him with my hands on my hips and ask if I can help him- he looks me up & down, mumbles something and walks off. Seems that is the end of his tirade. I was wrong, later while Collis gets in to move the van around to the kitchen the guy comes back and refuses to move out of the way of the van until Collis starts shooing him away the man slaps Collis twice & then Gayle starts to step in and he goes to approach her until Collis sends her away. Collis makes a parting comment that he should go and have a nanny nap before the man’s wife takes him down to the beach. Number plate was : ICDH 684

It was a long ride today with headwinds after lunch although these were probably the first lot of headwinds we have had so far. This just pulled the group closer supporting each other. Woody who usually rides on his own took on Tina to support her through the difficult parts & ensure she finishes the day (The oldest male & the youngest female).

Tonight is our first bush camp & we are camping by the Fortesque River. The river is full (or close to it) which is a pleasant surprise as all the photos I’ve seen of it on the internet shows it to be dry. Some complaints that the area was rocky and no where to put their tents but they soon organised themselves and camp was set. I had to cook again tonight and I made a chilli con carne for the normal eaters & a chilli con lentil for the vegetarian. I’m scared I won’t have enough food for the hungry hoards but again tonight I have catered to perfection with some leftovers. Apparently the Chilli con lentils was a bigger hit than the chilli con carne( go figure). Roger made damper for dessert but I hadn’t been able to get Gluten free wholemeal flour & he was disappointed in the results (everyone ate it).

Gayle set her tent up originally very close to the river until we mentioned crocodiles & she quickly moved her tent further away from water & closer to other people. She spent a lot of time digging a trench around the tent as we had our first few drops of rain while I was peeling the vegetables. Then she proceeded to make a little stone pathway to the river so she wouldn’t get muddy while I was stirring the pot over the camp fire. Gayle finished just in time to sit down to my scrumptious dinner.

John & then Theo read us their recent poems & ballads written whilst on the trip. The following is Theo’s ballad:
No! No Bloody way Whim CreekEarly morning drivers, dazzled by the rising sun
Barely spot the lycred, spectral riders
Chasing longer shadows down the way
And a humid wind half- heartedly rebuked us
For our eagerness to find an open hearted,
More embracing welcome
In this state where mining dollars still hold sway.

Sped on from dour, unwelcoming South Hedland,
Burned and drained by a relentless sun
We were buoyed in spirit
By a foolish, optimistic vision,
Of an open- hearted welcome, and ice cold beer to end the daily mission.
But, not for us the open-hearted welcome,
“That’s for guests & not for tourists,
For our guests are miners and they richly pay their way.”

We reply that we are hot and ask them,
“Can we swim your cooling pool?”
“No! No bloody way, they chorus.
That’s for guests & not for such as you.
But come & have a beer or soft drink,
We’ll sell them to you at inflated prices
While you savour all the niceness
Of our tastefully re-labelled reading room.”
With names like “Dunnies, blokes & sheilas,
See, we’ve made you welcome
Now there’s no confusion when you need to go.
What! You needed paper?
That’s for guests and not such as you,
Just bring your bloody own.”

We plead, we’ve travelled far & hunger
Will you cook for us when feeding guests?
We’ll pay you well, We also pay our way.”
“No! No bloody way,” they chorus,
“Feed yourselves as best you can,
We’ve food for guests, not tourists,
But come & have a beer or soft drink,
We’ll sell them to you at inflated prices
While we contemplate some other, anti- tourist vices.”

Early morning riders missed the mournful sounds,
Of farewell chorus as we left the grounds
But in our fever pitched imagination
We formulated answers to their yet unspoken questions:
“Did we treat you well?” and
“Would you recommend us to your friends?”
No! No bloody way- we chorus
We’re tourists and we also pay our way.

Day 7 Point Samson- Rest Day

2011-04-30T22:32:00.000-07:00

Lovely day at The Cove caravan park which again started at 0700 hours even though they had nowhere to ride to today. Everybody was excited about a day off and Melanie & Jacqui and Fliss & Carmen headed off snorkelling first thing. Collis & I, Anna & Alf and Sheila took a group to Cossack to check out the ghost town and it was well worth the visit. Gayle & Norm went fishing and were supposed to catch enough fish to feed the lot of us tonight-we were planning a fish BBQ but the fish shop closed down.

We were not confident in their fishing skills so decided to buy meat for the BBQ tonight. The shopping centre had bars on their windows but the service at the Woolworths was the best service I have ever experienced at a supermarket.

Everyone went for a swim down at Honeymoon cove and Martin ended up with a Irakanji sting which was well treated with vinegar. Gayle, Roger, Theo & John went to Wickham for lunch but nothing was open & when they asked where the nearest restaurant was they were directed back to Point Samson. The boys then had to drag Gayle out of the supermarket so they could get some lunch.

I spent most of the afternoon preparing salads and meat for the evening BBQ while Gayle made a cake in a microwave with apricots & fruit salad with a jam topping. Jacqui with Melanie’s assistance made a huge coleslaw & Pat & Lorraine made a potato salad- so I’m sure we had plenty of supplies for this meal.

During the afternoon we got the sad news that a very dear friend of ours died in the early hours of the morning over in Texas. This really upset Collis & I and we decided to devote the next days ride to Scrub Hawley. We met Scrub in 2002 when he and his wife Kaia arrived at our front door in Cheltenham Victoria and Scrub was wearing a 10 gallon hat that was taller than him. Scrub, at 71, was here to ride from Melbourne to Perth on our very first ride and Kaia was supposed to be in France with some girlfriends but plans were changed & she was Collis’ helper. Scrub brought me a present of a rattle snake tail that he had caught himself. Scrub didn’t finish the ride because he was blown off his bike by a truck that got a little too close & he ended up with a couple of broken ribs. Scrub had always wanted to get back to do one of the rides but it was never meant to be. He died of cancer at the age of 79. He was a short man but had a huge heart and will be sadly missed by so many people.


Scrub Hawley- we will miss you always. Thank you for your friendship.

The BBQ dinner was enjoyed by everyone and plenty of food was had by all with quite a bit left over. Everyone headed off to bed early except the usual late stayers.

So many beautiful sunsets!

So much meat!

Rob sewed a cover for Collis' sign out of a towel he found on the side of the road.

Dinner at the local diner (the previous night).

We had trouble with hermit crabs in the camp last night so I thought I would do a survey of them again tonight. There were a huge number of crabs hanging around Anna’s & Gayle’s tents & it was very tempting to put some on top of the tents but I thought better of it. Apparently I didn’t need to as Gayle reckons she could hear them serenading her most of the night.

Hermit crabs.

Day 6 Whim Creek to Point Samson- 110 kms

2011-04-26T06:02:00.001-07:00

Mark liked to soak his feet in every river.

The scarf across the mouth was to keep the flies out whilst riding.

Martin is trying to catch those riders up ahead.

My God this heat is terrible. I rode only 30 kms today & struggled most of the way- Collis said that’s because on previous days I had the tail wind but I think it was because there was a bit of alcohol drunk the night before. I did most of the packing before I took off today so the other 2 crew were able to finish off. The buggers then took their time at camp having a cup of tea & playing with the ice machine while I was waiting impatiently out on the hot road.

Signs we are getting closer to the coast.

Swans in the outback???

Everybody loves a full river.

They actually arrived with quite a bit of ice that was appreciated by all the riders. Gayle greets all riders at stops with a spray bottle & sprays everyone down- they love it!! Gayle is the gadget lady & Rob is the gadget guy- they both love gadgets & come up with all sorts of innovations. The back seat of the car looks a bit like an opp shop this trip & many an enjoyable hour is spent by Gayle sorting through her collection of bits & pieces.

Not much in Roebourne but the people were nice.

The boys were interested in how far we were riding.

Jerry was very upset after he was approached by a young 20 something aboriginal woman who asked- "Have you got $2.00 on ya POPs". The ego was slightly deflated.
We have reached a small paradise town (according to Martin) & we are staying in a great caravan park right on the beach. Tomorrow is a rest day.

Point Samson

Day 5 South Hedland to Whim Creek 136 kms

2011-04-26T06:00:00.003-07:00

Even the wild life were desperate for some liquid.

Great morning tea spot was found at the Peawah River rest area

The best white gum provided heaps of shade

The Cecile sisters riding off on their way to Whim Creek

Whinges:
Norm whinged that you can never find a torch when you need one but Norm had trouble finding all sorts of things if Sheila wasn't around to tell him where he put it.
Richard slept on a slope last night & whinged that camping grounds lack flat surfaces.
Jacquei was dying for a COLD drink.
Gayle was whinging that McDonalds charged for water.
Woody was whinging that he wasn't in the whinge book.

We had easter eggs for breakfast, morning tea & lunch. I didn’t get on the bike today as I was having trouble coping with the way Collis & Gayle were packing up the car so I had to stay and teach them again the best way to do it (not fussy just particular & I like to be able to find things when I need to- not 3 days later)
Hot again today & still playing havoc with the riders. The main problem is keeping the water cold so they are not always drinking warm bore water, which is really quite disgusting.

The colours in the scenery today was just beautiful today.

The riders were finding all sorts of things along the road, even this new hammer Peter found.

Another rider pulled up short at lunchtime & hitched a ride in to the camp due to an upset tummy- she seemed to pick up after a cold shower & a sleep in her tent that one of the riders put up for her. It’s great to see how the riders all pull together and look after each other- it doesn’t take long for them to become a little family, always looking out for each other. Robert is having troubles with his punctures today.

Nothing at Whim Creek except a copper mine & the pub behind which we were staying. The pub has had a change of management since we booked & the new management say they knew nothing about us coming. The girl behind the bar was quite hostile but kindly allowed us to camp on their grass area behind the pub for a $10 a head increase in the original quoted price. We had also arranged a buffet meal for the riders but this wasn’t going to happen either, so we all made pot luck meals & still managed to have a good night.

Not the friendliest place we've stayed at.

The stars are just amazing & Richard has an app on his iPad that tells us what we are looking at. Always learning something.

Day 4 Pardoo to South Hedland - 151 kms

2011-04-26T05:59:00.001-07:00

Drama started the day off again with the police turning up in camp with Sheila in the back seat. Collis’ face was priceless when he saw them. Sheila had had a flat tyre and was walking the bike back the 4.5 kms she had already ridden when the police offered her a lift.

Mark locked himself in the toilet and thinks he has broken 2 toes when he climbed over the toilet door. Jerry also locked himself in but was heard by someone and was let out. The riders were really starting to suffer from saddle sores & quite a bit of wound dressings & applying of creams occurring.

Another decent ride today with everyone looking forward to some civilisation (for most of them this seems to mean McDonalds). We could tell we were getting further into mining country by the signs & the type of trucks found on the road.

The group got to the caravan park and were extremely disappointed that the manager did not sell cold drinks- words were exchanged. Then because Collis had not arrived yet with their luggage they jumped into the pool with their cycling gear on which also upset the manager (even though they all wear lycra). When Collis & I arrived we told them they all had to take their gear off but no-one took us seriously!!!

Most of us went food shopping & had a very enjoyable night around the camp.
Another rider seems to be having a reaction to the heat & ? the bore water & was unable to complete today- the sag wagon has never had so much use before. Jerry had bike troubles today as well as Sheila.
I rode 36 kms today- they tell me I had a tail wind- sounds rude to me.

Day 3 Sandfire Flat to Pardoo- 140 kms

2011-04-26T05:58:00.001-07:00

The day started with drama. Collis rose early & couldn’t get the donger door to shut from the outside so he locked the door. I was left locked in the donger when I was desperate to get to the toilet. I kicked , knocked & yelled for at least half an hour before Woody heard my distress calls & let me out. Collis did not fair too well after this episode.

Everyone off early again today- Good Friday. I couldn’t find any hot cross buns for morning tea. Lots of signs along the road but nothing to go with them- we didn't see too many stray cows or even dead kangaroos. A couple of letter boxes were about the only signs of people living out here.

For morning tea today Norm made our own shade with his tarpaulin- appreciated by everyone. Lots of spiders around the trees today with lots of intricate spider webs- not sure if they were poisonous. Some wild flowers along the way which brightened up the scenery.

There was a bit of burning off today which stayed with us for quite a few hours. We were told it was a way to scare out the wild life but we didn't see any. Are we running out of kangaroos??? The 5 km sign to Pardoo was a welcome to all riders. They are getting pretty weary now following these three long days on the saddle.

Things are starting to go missing already- Lorraine & Richard both lost their mugs but they turned up before the day was over. I lost a couple of pairs of undies from the washing line- they must have been too sexy for the boys to leave alone.
One rider overheated today & got a lift in when he started to vomit.
I rode for the 1^{st time today- 32 kms before Collis picked me up.}

Day 2- Barn Hill to Sandfire Flat

2011-04-26T05:57:00.001-07:00

This is our biggest day of the trip with a ride of 195 kms in 35 to 40 degrees heat. Not good when it has been a long time since some of the riders had slept rough and their backs were a little stiff. But before they hit the road, Collis & his helpers had to cart all the riders & their bikes out onto the road which was 7 kms down a dirt track. First whinge for the day was Gayle complaining of being woken so early as the riders were wanting to get out there and finish it as soon as possible.

The riders were all in good spirits at the beginning of the day & all very willing to enjoy the ride & help & encourage each other along. Morning tea was find the shadiest spot & lunch was let's just drown each other with water. By afternoon tea time even the water container needed sunglasses.

But the heat for today was unbelievable and the riders started dropping like flies. Collis had to leave Gayle, myself & our water & drink supplies by the side of the road so he could go into camp, unload and come back with an empty truck to cart the riders in. 7 riders were unable to complete the day. Some had stomach upsets, some had sore bottoms, some had heat exhaustion but everyone was pleased to see the end of it no matter how they got there. Fliss reported at lunchtime that her thermometer on her bike was reading 45.2 degrees. The destination wasn't the greatest but to these riders it was heaven.

Some of the riders upgraded into dongers tonight & most ate at the roadhouse. The food was generous proportions & the staff very friendly. The dongers were pretty ordinary but comfortable. One problem- ladies underwear went missing from the clothesline- mine!!!! They must have been desperate!!

Day One: Broome to Barn Hill Station- 132kms

2011-04-26T05:56:00.001-07:00

Day One and we are off like Flynn. 20 riders & 5 support crew which should read 4:1 but it is really 10:1 as Collis & I are really the only ones responsible for the care of these cyclists, the others are just generous souls who like to help where possible.
We are away by 7.17 am and the first casualty occurs 2 minutes later when Richard runs into the photographer (yours truly) but causes no damage & luckily I didn’t knock him off his bike. Some weren't as worried as others about riding with the group.

We didn’t get far; just as far as morning tea when we had our first bike problem- Martin had broken a spoke. All I can say is thank god for Richard who fixed it for us but now the group has split up by quite a bit of time.

By the time we arrive at the lunch stop the location has been moved by Robert and some of the riders are starting to struggle as it was 5kms further than the original message. Those 5 kms make a big difference when you are riding in 30 odd degrees heat and not really used to these distances.
Everybody arrived safely for the first night at Barn Hill Station except for the occasional prickle when they sat on a prickly bush.

This accommodation was lovely except Collis, Anna & Norm had to cart all the riders in & out of a 8 km dirt driveway which took quite a while.

Gayle & I made a spaghetti bolognaise but not enough for second helpings (so next meal we will have to cater for more).

Not sure where Gayle got to when it came time to dish up to the hungry hoards. Maybe still trying to put her tent up (She should have practiced before we left home).

Broome arrivals

2011-04-16T17:26:00.000-07:00

Gayle and I survived the flight with her hogging the window seat and then falling asleep. I was getting a little claustrophobic but luckily we arrived an hour earlier than scheduled. We came out of the airport and there was Collis- going in the other direction. Gee it was hot!

So the riders here so far are: the mystery rider, Rob, Jerry, Woody, Tina, Alf and Anna.
Collis thought he was on to a good thing last night with 2 female back packers, Gayle & myself in the room with him but the 2 backpackers came in late then got up at about 3 am and left because of the noise coming from him & his friend Gayle.

Backpackers supplied breakfast for everyone.

The Chariot

2011-04-01T01:59:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of photos of the chariot you need to keep an eye out for in Broome. This is our new van and hopefully will be big enough to carry everyone's belongings over the 4 and a bit weeks.

This is also my bed for the next 5 weeks (so please keep the noise down when walking around us at night:)

Sight seeing opportunities

2011-03-29T23:43:00.000-07:00

I have just found an interesting spot we will need to visit while in Denham, on Day 20- it's called Shell Bay & there is no sand just shells. Should be interesting just to walk bare foot on it- reflexology- supposed to be good for us. I grabbed a picture off the net just to demonstrate. It's within riding distance along a quiet serene road by the looks of it.

Peter- This is his first ride with us & looks to be out on the road training- good on you Peter;looking forward to meeting you- thanks for the photo

We've received the travel details of about half the riders & it looks like 6 are arriving on the 16th, one on the 17th and 5 on the 19th. If anyone else is wanting Collis to pick them up from the airport then just email him with your details.

See you soon. Keep on riding!!!

More Repeat riders

2011-03-25T23:59:00.000-07:00

John- John is the one waving. This will be John's 2nd ride with us.

Theo- Theo the toad killer has ridden one ride with us before this one.

This is the mystery rider on one of our other rides.

So there you go, that's all the people I have photos of so far- if the new riders want to show their faces maybe they could email Collis with a current photo & then we can recognize each other when we get to Broome.

First official night will be the BBQ at Beaches of Broome on the Tuesday 19th April commencing around 7 pm, so we can get an early night, as the next couple of days are going to be pretty tough going with the mileage involved.

I've decided to keep a whinge log & run a competition on whinges eg the most common reason to whinge!! The first week while everyone is getting used to the conditions & mileage is when we get most of the complaining so I thought this year I would try and make the whinging a bit of fun instead- should be good to read back on at the end of the trip.

The Repeat Riders

2011-03-25T19:06:00.000-07:00

Mark- This is Mark's 5th ride with us- he must enjoy it but would never admit it!!

Sheila- The other bike should be for her husband Norm who will be joining us this trip except he will be driving, not riding. This is Sheila's 4th trip with us.

Woody- Our American contingent. This is his 4th ride with us over here & is best known for riding in the big gears.

Robert- or better known as Rob the whip & that's not his riding abilities. This will be his 4th trip with us.

Roger- Better known as the weatherman. He's up to trip number 3.

Fliss (left) & Alf (right)- Both are up to their 2nd ride with us. We had trouble getting a photo of Alf last trip as he is so fast.

Carmen- This is her 2nd trip & like Fliss hasn't developed a reputation for anything as yet. Although you should watch out for these 2 when they have a whip in their hands!!

Lorraine- 2nd trip & bringing her friend Pat with her this trip.

Jerry- This is his 2nd trip and he has volunteered to travel up with Collis & Rob in the car- brave man!!

Anna- Anna doesn't ride but she is Alf's better half & she provides vehicle backup. Glad to have you back this time Anna.

This is the last group- Rockhampton to Darwin, in Darwin. Roger & Rob are missing as they did not complete the whole course due to other commitments.

The first time riders with cycle across oz are Peter, Melanie, Jacquei, Tina, Martin, Debra & Pat (I mentioned before). This should bring us up to 20 courageous people who all like to exercise & live life to the fullest in some extreme conditions. Pray it stops raining up there soon!!!

The crew (or the Bosses)??

2011-03-25T17:18:00.000-07:00

The Crew

The Waterboy & owner & organiser

The Boss & chief bottle washer & nurse & cook

You name it she does it!!

And as I said a new crew member, who appears she doesn't like having her photo taken too often so we will have to get plenty of her on the trip.

Watch out for upcoming photos of repeat riders on previous rides.

Pre-ride March 2011

2011-03-25T00:25:00.000-07:00

3 weeks until the ride starts & everything is nearly ready.
The tour operator is Collis but the boss is really Kathy (the riders will learn that soon enough).

We have received most of the riders flight details & it looks like Kathy will be traveling up from Melbourne with some unsuspecting riders.

Collis, of course, has to drive up to Broome & is leaving 7/4/2011 with Rob the whip & Jerry, the CEO, in tow. Big gear Woody, is another possibility to drive up with them but he has to change his tickets to be able to do it. That should be an exciting trip- I'm glad I'm flying!!

Gayle, the chief cook, will be an new addition to our tour & she has so far tried to sneak in a pressure cooker, the biggest frypan you've ever seen, a bessemer & a bamix. Little does she know but the bamix is the only thing we will be able to fit in. There is no need for the riders to worry- we have 2 huge camp ovens, 3 frypans & 2 cookers.

I rode 20 kms today which was my target before the ride- so look out boys you will be eating my dust.