Xmas day Wycheproof 2014

As the sun rises over Wycheproof early Xmas morning I start to wonder what this day will yield, this is a very special day with the most wonderful family I have ever known. After kicking all the reindeer crap off the front lawn I am ready for this big day, yes this is Xmas . As the sleepy heads start to appear you can feel the  air start to thicken this day is brewing into another special event. As the morning wears on it seems like confusion but the plan slowly starts to unravel. With the furniture moved out of the way it's time to roll in the tables and chairs ,yes in a few hours rent crowd will be here to fill there empty stomachs with some of the finest food in the land. With feed time at the zoo well under way and our glasses full we all sit down as one big family...this is very special . After much merriment we retire to the back yard for more festive activities, time to hand out some gifts that Santa has left behind. Some gifts are big some are little but the spirit is still very strong, this family sure knows how to celebrate . The time to unwind is about to begin,with a cool drink in hand and  we start to mingle. As the afternoon drifts into evening and the crowd starts to thin the hardy stayers are still trying to run a race they just can't win. The time  has finally come for me the hang up my Christmas stocking for 2014 and head to my place of rest ,as the sun sets on this great great day, my dream is still alive.........WADDA

The Festive season has begun

The time has come for me to jingle my Xmas bell again, as usual this event will take place in the small town of Wycheproof  situated about halfway between Melbourne and Mildura. As I arrive in this small country town 2 days prior to the big day I reflect on my previous 40 odd festive seasons spent in this tiny community. Yes these times have been special to me ,the crowd will be slightly down this year numbering only 43. In the past we have had over 50 sit down for Mary's hot Christmas lunch, with people so busy nowadays it is almost impossible for everyone to make it to the same table on the same day. To those who don't make it there is always next year .........WADDA

WADDA has returned

Today I have returned to my blog site after a fairly long lay off, after my last trip to the wilds of this vast country a lot has happened. I have taken a early redundancy package and stopped to smell the roses.....HA HA. My life is still very busy and I am very happy to be off that dreaded Hume highway,so as I have had time on my hands to hatch a plan with my 2 daughters to do a 41 day trip to England....Europe and Dubai ,also in the tour party will be 2 of my grandchildren and my wife Denise. This grand plan will take place in September 2015 ,more details will be revealed as this plan slowly grabs a life of its own and starts to breath without life support. More details as time goes on ,anyway to all you people who follow this blog site have a very merry Xmas and a happy new year.         WADDA

Back at last

I suppose for those of you that don't know me you may have wondered where I have been and what I have been doing. A lot has happened in the last 10 weeks since our return from the outback adventure . Firstly I have retired to now enjoy a free a wheeling life  doing zip zero zilch ,yes the trains have been put back in the shed for the last time and my time is now my own. The new cycle of life has begun .......no shift work ,meals at the proper time , and going to bed at the proper time and no weekend work, my life just got a whole lot better . On the other 3 blokes who took part in this fabulous outback trip they have returned to the daily grind of a full time work . Anyway gotta go and do a few chores.           WADDA

Clare to Wycheproof

This is the last day in what has been an unforgettable journey through some of Australia's remotest country ,as we thundered through this desolate landscape at times with not a lot to take our interest .  I took many moments to reflect on just how lucky I have been travelling with these 3 wonderful brother in laws ,no bull s....t or bad manners just an all out great time was had by all. As we sit in the cabin here in Clare time is running out and the dream will soon be all over , life will resume some sort of normality at sunset tonight. Leaving Clare around 7.30am we are heading for Tanunda for our last big breakfast together,we filled our little bellies one last time then hit the road for home. With about 550 ks to go I sure that I will enjoy the remainder of this wonderful trip. We continue in a easterly direction cutting through the Mallee towns of Murrayville   Under bool    Patchewollck and Speed This country has gone from just so so 3 weeks ago to a green paradise since the good rains have gone through this area ,this is the Mallee at its best. We haven't eaten a lot of s..t today because  mother inlaw Mary has promised us a roast on our safe arrival into Wycheproof ,I hope she has peeled a bag of spuds because we have not had a decent roast for over 3weeks. We decide to have just one last drink at the Patchewollck pub but alas not opening till 4pm, one last chance for that elusive drink and the location is now set for the Minapere hotel at Lascelles . One quick pot and were off again ,Wycheproof here we come the smell of a roast is calling. Our arrival goes unnoticed in this small sleepy town but that's how we like ,no fanfare for this group of weary travellers . With the gear unpacked and sorted I think we can all smell that roast, better get to Mary's because we would hate to miss out on a good feed . Thanks to all our followers and I hope you enjoyed the trip as much as we did.............WADDA

Ceduna to location unknown

As we scratch around the cabin at some ungodly hour the decision has been made to alter our travel arrangements ,today we will head for a little known place called Lucky Bay where the touring party will board the  ferry to Wallaroo . As we check all the marine charts for wave heights and tidal flows i suggest sea sickness pills might be the order of the day for some . STOP PRESS the big Ford has just died from a mystery ailment ,with heads downs and bums up we are un able to locate the problem . 3hrs on every Tom Dick and Harry has probed the guts out of the Ford but no cure can be found,so the decision is made to leave our faithful friend in Ceduna. With our bums in a new set of wheels called a land cruiser we head out off town bound for home , today is day 21 of this fabulous trip so we have been lucky nothing happened at one of the many remote locations we visited . As we head back towards Port Auguasta passing through many small farming towns you can see life creeping back after the rain ,the paddocks are green and the crops are starting to come through ,the rain continues. The Agent has taken care of our last nights accomadation in the small country town called Clare , just another cabin and a long way out of town so taxi required to get a feed and return. Still raining so it's home to watch the footy on a very small TV. The excitement of a roast at Mary's is to much so it is early to bed for our big run home tomorrow..............WADDA

Cocklebiddy to Ceduna

We awaken to rain and more rain ,yes in the middle of the Nullarbor the rain is coming down, we have a quick breakfast then hit the road to Ceduna . The road home is still about 2500 ks long and care still needs to be taken , after stopping at Eucla for fuel and a quick look around we March across the  SA boarder .We manage to stay ahead of the rain but it looks gloomy up ahead , after the Nullarbor roadhouse we arrive at the head of the Bight so we detour down to view the coastline and try to spot some whales, no luck with the whales and the coastline was rugged . Another side trip to Fowlers Bay then we continue to push eastward ,we arrive on the scene of an accident where a small camper van has tried to force its way past some native fauna . The 2 young people from Holland have tried to park a kangaroo on their dashboard, with the wind screen broken the 4 Man Aussie assault team get to work and make it safe to drive this bongo van to the next town to have repairs done . With still along way to Ceduna we loosen the reigns on the big Ford, the Big4 will be our stopover point tonight and we can't wait. Just on dark we arrive at the Big 4 and check in to our 3 bedroom cabin, now it is off to the pub for a counter tea .The rain has finally caught up with us again so we grab a cab home for an early night ,there will be no nightcap tonight ,with 1 more night on the road with these 3 wonderful travelling companions just let me say how lucky I have been to have these 3 blokes      make my dream come true let's hope this trip meant as much to them as it did to me .........WADDA

Kalgoorlie to Cocklebiddy

Today we have lined up a fairly easy day, but not before we sus out a few sights around this very historical town. First on the list is the super pit and what a pit it is , it is impossible to explain the size of this hole in the ground it is so incredible . As we drive the streets viewing some very old buildings we come across the shady past of this old mining town, yes Hay street is alive and well . The worlds oldest profession is thriving in this old town. 0930 we had better fuel up our bodies before we hit the wide open spaces of the Nullarbor Plains . We will have all eyes focused on the road ahead today because Red and Blue lights scare the driver ,we will undertake this 700k journey with care and caution . These wide open plains don't have not much to offer the travelled hardened traveller but we manage to stay on the side of sanity till we reach our resting place tonight. COCKLEBIDDY . The evening meal was fine but the wine was harsh ,so we retire to have a night cap . Stingy people out here I tried to borrow 4 wine glasses to take back to our room ,but a solid NO so now we sit at this lonely desolate bit of space in the middle of nowhere drinking some $9.99special out of a vegemite jar. Well the lads have found another gear so I must stop blogging and take care of the next round of fun.....WADDA

Kalbarri to Kalgoorlie

To knackered to send a blog last night, what we set ourselves yesterday was just shy of 1200 ks to get to the mining town of  Kalgoorlie. On our departure from Kalbarri it was still raining and dark, with our arrival in Geraldton this will be our last look at the civilised world for about 10 hours. We turn the Ford to the east and off we go, the first small town we come to is Mullewa about 100 ks out of Geraldton. This place does not do much for us so we push on passing through small places like Pindar and  Yalgoo then arriving at Mt Magnet some 350ks east of Geraldton. This is the main stopover point for the transportation of mining equipment throughout this vast area, plenty of big rigs and big loads parked here. The tummy rumble is back for a couple of the travellers ,so 2big breckies coming up. With another 300 ks to Leinester we continue eastward arriving at Sandstone a small historic mining town about halfway to Leinster. My interest in this remote place is called London Bridge ,this is a sandstone natural formation in the form of an arch. My well laid plans are soon shattered due to heavy rain in the area ,yes the road is closed . Leinester will be our next stop some 600ks inland from Geraldton. To my surprise this well planned and well maintained place in the middle of nowhere is almost a ghost town. Able to house  4000 people this town is slowly dying ,as we fire up the jets and begin to head south the last 300 ks won't take long. The Ford has been making easy work of these huge mileages ,as the throttle is eased back we see flashing light approaching us from the other direction. This could be a ticket to the police mans ball, yes when they saw these 4 travellers get out of the car they knew we were harmless so we kicked into HAVA CHAT mode . No ticket so we head of to Leonora for a fuel stop ,this town has to much idle time as everybody seems to be doing nothing. Not far out of Leonora is GWALIA another mining town , but this one has a very deep hole called the pit . Very impressed with this operation ,this is the only place outside the USA to employ a future USA president ,his name was HUBERT HOVER. With time fast running out we head for Kalgoorie arriving just on dark, gotta eat again so hoo roo,,,,,,,,,,,,,WADDA

Denham to Kalbarri

With our arrival at Denham we are on the lookout for a good feed of seafood, after checking in to the Tradewinds apartments we head off in search of a small restaurant we have heard about. Not long and we turn up a place that should suit our needs, this small but tidy place had me just spellbound. What a quaint little place to spend an evening ,plenty of food and plenty of wine then retire to our gigs for the  night .With the last of our Mitchelton fine wine collection almost gone it is time to think about the times and places where we consumed this lovely wine. Exotic places like Port Augusta. ,Alice Springs ,Top Springs. ,Kununurra  ,Derby  ,Broome. ,Marble Bar  ,Point Samson. ,Exmouth  ,and  of course Denham yes this much travelled wine has been consumed as a part of our survival training in the harsh outback of Australia . Now back to today's blog ,up and off to Monkey Mia to see the dolphins and try out there big brecky  ,the weather has turned on me it is cool and wet . If you remember Fly left my only pair of jeans hanging behind the door at the Top Springs pub so I now have to battle the elements. The road to Kalbarri is long and lonely with a couple of roadhouses in between not much else. We arrive in Kalbarri  with the rain still falling gentely so we locate the Villa Reef  Resort ,with a bit of haggling we rent another room so now we can spread out a bit . With the foxtel on the go we intend watching the footy  before going out for tea ,,,,,AGAIN ,we all need a good home cooked roast very soon . Tomorrow if the rain stops it is off to wander through a few gorges ,so see ya tomorrow...........WADDA

Exmouth to Denham

As our journey continues to head south the temp starts to fall, gone are our 39c days we are now back to 30c days and going lower. The trip from Exmouth today we went through some of the harshest and driest country for the whole trip. Saw plenty of wild goats but not a lot of cattle ,it is just so dry and all the rivers and creeks are dry . After we left and called into Coral Bay wasn't that impressed with ,people jammed in everywhere ,won't hurry back. Many more hours of driving  we arrive at Carnarvon ,seems a fair size town so we go for a quick spin around and yes we are surprised . Bigger than we thought and very tidy, gotta go still 300 odd ks to go not much to see but sand and saltbush. As we near Denham things seem to get a bit better yes they have got a town right on the edge of the sea ,and what a tidy little place. Mrs Chatter box from the Motel gives us a full run down on the town and every location within a100ks ,just doing her job I suppose. We are going to dine out at a seafood place for tea tonight , just hope it's ok. Nothing else say to on what could only be described as a lack lustre day on the road..........WADDA

Hunters and gathers

No more wobbly legs or head for me and Paul , yes we stayed on dry land today while the other 2 went out hunting and gathering on the high seas . While we stuck to domestic duties the others decided it was their turn to bring something to the table. The agent has sent a text message telling of some monster fish and to and start getting ready for a feast. We'll we kept up our end of the deal so now we wait ,the waiting is over and there bus has just arrived back and the Agent is carrying what looks like a bag of fish. As we all sit around the fishing stories just keep on coming ,there is the one the shark took ,then the tangled line story the one that got away story but all in all the boys had a pretty good day. The Agent was declared the winner on the day, but just remember that the Barra king did not venture out on the high seas . Yesterday's whale shark watching and diving took it's toll on me and Paul so well done to the Agent. So sorry no photos to night just to busy eating today's catch ,so bye for now.........WADDA

Ningaloo Reef

Monsters at Ningaloo

As I said yesterday we are off to swim with the whale sharks today ,and this is it how it went. The 40 min bus journey out to where the boat is tethered we passed the joint US & AUS communications area which serves the whole Southern Hemisphere . There were 20 people on this tour and at $410.00 a pop not bad work if you can get it. Pretty soon I noticed a frown on the dive masters face ,what's wrong with him I thought . Maybe he lost his dog or just maybe he spotted me and Paul ,the latter I would say. Time to do some snorkelling ,instead of sucking air down we were sucking water, all right for awhile but very soon you start to flood .After spluttering my guts out I returned to the mother ship for further guidance, with my leaky mask and air vent fix I was ready to return . Pretty soon the the first sighting occurs,and we are armed with every instruction on shark safety and our own personal protection . My information overload kicks in and I just keep clear as this huge thing glides on past,taking on the monster in its own environment is a risky business . After 2 dives we call it quits and retire to the safety of the the main deck, food is mentioned and  our attention is soon off the sharks. I spend the rest of the day just grazing on anything they offered ,after falling asleep on the bow of the boat I begin the pass air out of my nostrils which sound like snoring . Paul soon has me awake before people start to laugh ,it is still only about 2pm. The Agent has been absent from this trip today, the car needs cleaning and washing also our washing needs to be done food to be brought and dinner to arrange ,yes we kept him busy all day. Tonight's meal will consist of takeaway Chinese well done Kev , Terry and Fly are on a fishing charter tomorrow ...bye.....WADDA .

More happy snaps

For some unknown reason the captions are not attaching to my photos

Road hazard on the Northern highway

WADDA and Red Dog

Point Samson to Exmouth via Dampier

Our journey continues south today to a very soggy Exmouth ,we are listening to radio reports of the damage done to this area and it does not sound good . Today we head to Karratha to catch up with a old workmate I know then on to Dampier to see the Red Dog statue, all these small jobs done we hit highway 1 and head south. As we continue  through this sparsely populated area we start to understand just how big the state of WA really is ,yes it is bigger than Texas . The agents IBS has come good so we are all happy little campers again, push on hard and within a few hours we finally arrive at Exmouth ,ops I almost forgot when we stopped at some out of the way place for a bite to eat ,I had a steak sandwich at $12.50 with no salad .As my lungs began to collect air the boys order a burger with the lot at $20.50 they are now on oxygen for the next 2hrs ,cans of Jimmy $12.50 no takers in this machine . The cabin for the next 3 days is a ripper ,and no bed sharing. We have a quick look around and then some shopping ,BBQ for tea tonight because tomorrow it's off to swim with the whale sharks. The night meal is complete so it's a early night for this adventurous crew, we decide our beautiful Mitchelton wine would be best left till our dice with death is over ,so bye for now...........WADDA

Marble Bar art and me

Marble Bar to Point Samson

Our great little stay in Marble Bar is over but not forgotten ,the great bloke named Kym Mackay who I had dealt with over the phone turned out to one of the nicest blokes I have met. The boys are keen to go but not before we fill our bellies and take in the sights at this very remote place. Tucker here rated at an honest 6 not high enough to challenge the leaders , with the sightseeing complete we head to to Port Headland for an early brunch. We named this the dirty town because the dust from the iron ore sticks to everything . Not much to see in this desolate country but still worth the price of the ticket to be here, we kick the Ford up a notch and make a beeline for Port Sampson . Our arrival time is about 3 pm so time to settle in and do a bit of exploring, due to the remoteness of this location this does not take long . At Wickham the look around take all of 10 min and we then head back to the coast . Stop the press the AGENT has gone down with what we suspect to be IBS yes we all know what that means to the touring party, we are on high alert . Time ticks by slowly,we hold our breath and wait for this to run its course. After  the waiting period is over the patient recovers well enough to take out for the night meal. No risks will be taken tonight he will be placed in isolation for the night ,as this was a short day there in not much to report ,except Point Samson is a nice place to stay but to quite for this group of tourists .Tomorrow we head to Exmouth for 3days with the whale sharks...........WADDA

The road to Marble Bar

What a road

More river crossings

Broome to Marble Bar via the Boreline road

The day got off to slow start with the Ford taken to the car doctor for some TLC , yes the rough roads and hard driving has taken it toll . With a couple of new tyres and a bit of under carriage repair work we hope to be on the road shortly. With no wheels to cruise to the shops for brecky we decide to hoof it some 800 mts away, some grumbling and some stumbling we track down the best breakfast bar in town. Fill up on plenty bacon eggs snags and hash browns ,with our wheels still in dock it's into the pool for 1 last dip . Finally we hit the road again we are heading for Marble Bar to stay at the Iron Clad Hotel ,I hear of a short cut via the Boreline Road to Shay Gap then onto Marbler Bar ,with the out side temp sitting on 38c we push on to this out of the way location hoping there is a pool . The need to watch out for mining trucks is a must if you don't get off the road when approaching these monsters ,they will hold their line then you are in the s... . The temp is now a constant 39 c this sure beats winter down south ,but alas no pool in this little country town. We arrive at Marble Bar and it is still 39c, I yelled and cursed at paying 400bucks a night to stay in a tin shed. On arrival the publican informed us we had been upgraded, I thought this will be good ,from the tin shed we were transferred to a house which was as good as it gets up here. After a bit of a scrub up it's off to meet the locals, it's not long before the hava chats boys are in thick as thieves with the locals either selling sheep or shoes . After having a feed we sit out the back of the pub to enjoy the company of a station foreman and his offsider ,later on we return to the house which is now like an icebox. Tomorrow brings great delight to some as we will be inspecting some of the local attractions EG racecourse ..footy ground and golf course ,what a bummer we will not be here for the billy cart racing next week end , but with a good feeling we will leave this town with fond memories of the people we met, gotta go with a nightcap waiting I will say goodnight.......WADDA

More sun more fun

What can I say on this beautiful place it's 630am  the sun has al ready got plenty of sting in it,with body cleaning done it's time for brecky alfresco style. Locate what is to be said the best feed in town and our info proved to be correct ,after stuffing down the BIG BREAKFAST we hit the town to track down the local market ,this is where we hope to see my nephew performing magic under the name JUST TRICKEN ,for a gold coin donation he struts his stuff. As I reach into my pocket for some money I feel the rustling of some folding stuff it's your lucky day Ned. Yes I flip the kid 10 bucks I think he likes me, after cruising the shops for a while it's off to Cable Beach the swim in the beautiful warm waters of the Indian Ocean . We rent some shade and chairs for the day ,we will be here for most of the day at this pristine beach, as the day wears on the boys just lap up this weather and show no signs of retreating to the comforts of our lodgings. After about 5hrs we head home to plunge in the pool provided an watch the footy. After a quick meeting it has been decided that we go to a local mini brewery called Matsos , with our bellies full and after $300.00 odd bucks later been remove from our wallet we call a cab and head home, no nightcaps tonight as the sun collected a few scalps today so this is good night........WADDA

Derby to Broome

Yesterday we travelled on down to Broome some 200 odd ks to the south ,with not a lot to take our interest the trip goes to plan. As Fly pulls the wounded Ford into this paradise ,we are on the lookout for a tyre replacement centre . Failing the secure a couple of new tyres we head for our motel, with a couple of hours before our check in time we decide to try our luck on a early check in and bingo . With a early check in complete at no extra cost we hit the laundry, while waiting for the 40 min cycle to finish we hit the pool. Soon we have s... everywhere hanging all over the place , looks a bit untidy but who cares cos where off to Cable Beach . As we sit in Zanders  pub over looking the sea we decide to have a cool drink and a light lunch ,Ouch the prices stun even us hardy travellers 30 bucks for 4 beers half a dozen oysters 24 bucks ,as I regain the oxygen supply to my lungs we decide to share to share 2 burgers another 47 bucks. Feeling ripped of I settle the bill not before they try to add 2extra drinks to this account, time to make a stand at this over priced beer hall ,tour director win the battle and where off to hit the water for a cool down. My sister is also in town to visit her daughter Zoe and Ed ,with a invitation to call around for tea we jump at a chance for some home cooking at the right price. As we sit around chatting Ned arrive home with some mud crabs ,pretty soon there is a pot of water boiling , crabs cooked now more talking . Tomorrow it is of too the local where Ned will perform in his magic show,,can't wait so hoo roo......WADDA

Bulk photos I hope

Halls Creek to Derby

Up early today to take part in the Halls Creek dawn service, with a5.45am start we began to prepare early. On arrival at the meeting point we soon fell into line and began to march with the rest of these early birds. When the job was done and dusted we had snags and bread and coffee with a dash of rum, not my favourite tipple at 7.00 am but you know how it is on this special day. Head to the airport looking for a flight out to Wolfe Creek crater but alas no flights today. The decision is made to head to Fitzroy Crossing for some fuel and food, with our minds made up it is off to Tunnel Creek  national park to do some exploring, what a place . Hope that I can send photos soon, this part of the Kimberly is so remote but the sheer beauty of this place makes the hard drive out here well worth it. Time to push on to our next place in the vast landscape is Winjana Gorge it loom after many more miles on this dusty dusty road. Here is another one of those places if you don't see in person photos do not do it justice . The sheer beauty of this place should only be etched into the minds of those who choose to visit this remote piece of paradise . If I dribble anymore on these special sites I will flood the ipad, now heading for the Gibb River Road some 70 ks to our north. Hitting the Gibb River Road means Fly can stretch the legs of the big Ford again. With about140 clicks to Derby and plenty of cattle to dodge we make it safely to our overnight stop. More hicups ,the sleeping arrangements are again geared for male to male in the same bed are they trying to tell me something. After a scub up it's off to see the sunset from the Derby pier, more barra for tea uncle Terry has nearly nailed the fish cooking . Early of to Broome tomorrow..........WADDA

Heading South

Today we leave our tropical paradise at Kununurra and start our journey south, tonight we shall stay at Halls Creek or should I say HELLS CRACK and the in between bit is still a bit of a mystery. After stopping at Warum and finding out the road out to the Bungle Bungles was opened we decided do the road trip to these beehive domes in the middle of nowhere. The track was rough but the driving fast as ,Fly put the Ford through its paces. 80ks later on this very rough track we arrive at the BUNGLE BUNGLES this is a  very special and I mean special place. The sheer size of this magical place words do not describe, with 4 grown men standing in 38c heat just spellbound ready to discover a place called the Catherderal. As we hike towards this special place I think of just how lucky we are , option 1 to get to this remote location was by chopper I am glad the boys wanted to drive. As we hike on up into the bowels of this huge cavern we came across a young family who had 5 young children in  tow, lucky buggers I thought to my self these little tackers are visiting some of our most treasured sites . While I think of some of the places I visited and how many I have missed out , these young kid will see it all . One last look over my shoulder at these beautiful domes I am sure glad we made the effort, 90 mins later we arrive back at the highway turn south for the 107 ks into Halls Creek.I thought there was no more surprises today ,how wrong was I . Maybe I have missed something in life but when you book accommodation for 4 blokes  in 2 rooms why do they assume we're gay and only supply a double bed only. Back to the front desk and got the problem solved . The food here was fine the beer was fine and so was the wine. Retiring to our rooms early the word nightcap was mentioned  pretty soon a bottle of our finest wine appeared, drinking this Mitchelton Shraz on the veranda of the Kimberly hotel thinking of our task tomorrow when we march in the Halls Creek ANZAC dawn service, so bye for now.....WADDA.........PS  Internet connection at this location S....t

Fishing Comp results

Fly the runner up 

Wadda the winner

A day with Hairy Dog

Where do I start , let's take it from 630 am out the front of the Discovery holiday park in Kununurra ,the touring party awaits out the front of this pristine holiday park for the arrival of the our guides .As we meet and greet 2 other blokes who shall also partake in this adventure the pick up drivers arrive in 2 four wheel drives . They introduce themselves as Colin & the other bloke was the famous Hairy Dog aka Greg  Harmond ,what luck we have the privilege of spending the day on the mighty Ord river with this local legend. On arrival at the camp sight we soon unloaded the gear onto the 2 boat that they were using today, as team selection took place Hairy Dog selected Wadda....Fly and Paul . I suspect as he cast his evil eye over the leftover, he knew he had made the right choice. As we boarded our boat we were given or first lesson in boat procedure ,this lesson was handy for the rest day on the Ord.We soon learnt Hairy Dog is a man of few words but when he speaks you listen ,after  a 25 km run down stream we arrive at the fishing spot, spotting the odd croc on the way. Hairy Dog has his No1 team ready to fish then the penny drops for this great man of fishing. Yes  he had the 3Stooges on board , i thought time will tell. It was not long before fish were jumping in the boat , I knew we were winners and so did he. After many hours in the hot hot sun we retire to the shade for a well earned rest and some lunch, the on boat competition was hotting up and after lunch break we head back to the water to find a winner . And all out effort after lunch the final result was to close to call, but on the count back system which the amount of fish gutted to be deemed the winner. As there was only 1winner, you guessed it sorry but WADDA is declared the over all champion. We return to the mooring  site followed by 4 crocs yes you heard 4crocs. Over a couple of cool drink we return home for a swim and another cool drink. With a glass of the beautiful Mitchelton Shiraz  in hand WADDA sit back and basks in all the glory. Thank to Hairy Dog and his team for making this such a wonderful day out on the mighty Ord River ........PS TERRY COOKED THIS PRIZED CATCH TO PERFECTION.........See photos hopefully......WADDA

Roadside hazards Top Springs to Kununurra

 

Road hazard on the road to Top Springs

Dashwood river crossing on the Buchanan highway 

Kununurra to Wyndham

With the Barra and Beef night behind us the day got off to a slow start ,swimming at 6am and the temp already sitting on 25c and rising you could tell it was going to be one of those days. With our day being planned the night before we will be on a very tight rein today. With the washing to be done a pan cakes at 10 am at the main building we will have to go like cut cats to achive our other aims for today. The good news is that the ones that were a bit shabby around the edges come good as the morning wore on, After a big brecky of snags bacon and tomatoes  and a belly full of pan cakes we set sail for Wyndham some 100 clicks away, what i should say I won't, so moving right along all was not lost . After spotting a sign to the 5 rivers lookout I said why not let's go and have look well to my surprise it was spectacular like nothing I had seen before . If you ever visit this location put it on your must see list, after a short lunch break it's on the road again ,don't know where and don't really care. As we continue south the tour director spots a sign saying Parrys Lagoon , yes folks the Welsh will live anywhere . Turning down this dusty road thinking what lays at the end of this crappy road ,well to my surprise there is now another special place in my life, the peace and quite of this place was unreal. After scones jam and cream at this fantastic location we turn down the same crappy road with a very outlook on dusty crappy roads . Lob back in town to hit the shops for more supplies ,this army will march on its stomach , head home to collect our washing a quick fold and back in the bag this house work is easy. Tonight we dine at the Pump House restaurant just down the road ,it cost Fly another bale of wool but we all enjoyed it, the night is still young but we are too old for another late night because at 630 am we head to Hairy Dogs fishing camp for a day chasing the very elusive barra . Gotta go be back tomorrow..........WADDA

Top Springs to Kununurra

With the night in Top Springs being wound up I will take the time to thanks to my 2 new mates from Rockhampton Downs also Pauline the publican who made us all feel welcome at this very remote location , with the the night over its lights out for the weary travellers. As we rally early for our last push towards the east Kimberly some 500 ks to our west . The road becomes rougher and the cattle wilder we tip toe our way to the WA boarder. The Victoria highway is still a long way off  when we arrive at the Dashwood river crossing the river is running at a quick pace. If unable to cross here it is a 160 k detour . As Wadda put his life on the line and wades into this fast flowing river,the current starts to pull at my legs from underneath me ,but I hang on and guide the big Ford through this dangerous situation ,disaster averted once again. Out of nowhere we arrive at VRD station which is a Heytsbury Holding owned property,what an impressive sight 5 choppers and a light plane in the front yard and miles and miles of well kept cattle. We continue on more rough road and dry river beds this is fast becoming a nightmare, with the fearsome team that we are there is no holding back .We continue through this tricky situation the road starts to improve and the highway is now not far away .  As we hit the Victoria highway we are now not far from Timber Creek ,food again claims our thoughts so we pull in to this remote roadhouse . Fly does a deal for a big feed and coffee for $15.00 ,with our bellies full we push on towards lake Argyle ,the sheer size of this lake is staggering we are all impressed push on to the Durack homestead we'll worth a look. The weather is hot and humid so we make a fast break to our lodging for the next 3 days. Settle into our 8 berth cabin and just kick back, now off to the shops for some food and drink supplies . Kununurra is a well presented town in the East Kimberly, we return to base to watch the Cats & the Hawks then off to the barra and beef night put on by the Big 4 park management ,at 5.30 pm the thermometer is still hovering around 38 c. As we wash the dust form the Buchanan Hwy we feel the need to settle back into our cabin a solve the problems of the world ,there were more problem than answers but we managed to survive . Time for a nightcap of the now we'll loved Mitchelton shriaz. STOP PRESS important text message 2 lots clothes have been left at the TOP SPRING pub words do not our disappointment..........WADDA

Alice Springs to Top Springs

Sorry for no blog yesterday due to very very limited internet coverage throughout the outback. So here is Sundays blog, with an early start after a late finish the night before we scramble back onto the Stuart highway and head north for a rapid run for the next 850 ks before we need a change in direction . Then it will be a 200 km turn due west to our nightime stopover at the Top Springs pub . The cruise is setfor a demanding speed of 135 ,when the hum of the the Ford is settled I call for a team meeting which we all attend. There is only 1 item to be discussed at this meeting regarding making a formal complaintS ,after Terry is placed I charge of the complaints department there has been no more complaints,,,,,problem solved. As we continue to charge ahead with no speed limit to worry about we so become hungry, this means we will have to vote in the best food competition again we will be judging our favourite food EGG& BACON ROLL. Tea Tree road house wins hands down for food and cleanliness yes the best so far.With the time a wasting we need to push on north , the small towns passing by very quickly. Wadda takes the wheel of the Ford for his turn ,after 250 ks his admin duties call.With Fly back at the controls I continue to try for my internet connection but alas the remoteness of the outback wins again . Turning west for our final lunge to Top Springs the complaints manager say the bar would open early today with cheers from the rest of the crew, as we push west the road turns to s..t with livestock and wildlife every where ,we ease off on the throttle and up the anti on our fluid intake . This move will ensure that everyone stays well hydrated for the final stages of today's trip. With our arrival at Top Springs the the mood of the crew is on a high as we will be well fed on a big NT steak and veg tonight. As we tuck into our feed from heaven we meet some local jackaroos who are worst for ware, soon they are told they would get no more service here tonight , drowned in disappointment they head home, I don't know how. Then 2 blokes from Rockhampton Downs some 600ks away arrive with a 1.2metre barra , what a fish . After ending the night with a beautiful Mitchelton Shiraz in a plastic cup we retire to fight another day. So far this trip has been just the best...........WADDA

The Alice assult

Howdy, after a quiet night in the ghost town of Port Augusta we are put to the test today with a1200 km run to Alice springs. After a night in a 4 berth cabin there were many complaints , mainly directed at myself and Paul . So we snored a bit is this a serious crime ,not in the big scheme of things ,maybe these other 2 blokes should drink more of the beautiful Mitchelton Shraz, that has been supplied by our sponsor. As we leave the comforts of civilisation around 6 20am our spirits are high ,the big ford heads north at a fairly rapid pace this will a fast trip to the Alice. Today we plan to stop at Glendambo for a egg and bacon roll to have a In car vote on our new found travel game called food voting. Yes Glendambo is now the new leader, next stop is Coober Pedy what can I say on this place of destruction . How to stuff up our country side , bring in more opal diggers ,this is a total discrace ,I will never comment on this hell hole again. We kick the big ford into gear and hit the mighty Stuart highway and p.. off out of here, the cruise is set at a steady 130 ks and the country is disappearing quicker than you want to know. With still 700 odd Ks to go we settle in for the long haul ahead, then noises start to come from the back seat ....yes you have guessed uncle Terry is cold and pulls on a jumper let me just tell the world ,the outside temp is hovering around 29 next thing the radio has run out of range and starts to go all static, can you fix he asks I tell there is no more footy today. As we arrive in Alice Springs around 6.30pm my trigger finger somehow interferes with the guidance system also known NAVMAN what a bummer now where lost , found our motel more bad news the motel has booked 4men into 3beds ,I question miss smarty pants on our suggested sleeping arrangements ,she shrugs her shoulders and just smiles. Did I give her the short shift , as I open my wallet to retrieve another big green one she just smiled and handed me another key.......thank Christ for that . With this problem now sorted out we head for Lasseters casino just to settle our nerves . Unable to send any pictures just yet my nerves are shot to bits maybe I will try tomorrow when I settle down a bit,as I am getting tired I think I will park the pen for the night.......WADDA ....your buggered tour director

Those who dare to dream

With the Thursday night antics wound up all focus is now on our early departure on Friday. The day has started early for Wadda up at 0430 with a quick splash through the dip then a quick cuppa it's off to rally the troops. Guess what the Thompson house is in darkness , no surprise to much red at the farewell party I think. After a lot door bashing and window knocking I manage to awaken the 2 sleepy heads inside, more fussing around we depart the still darkened town of Wycheproof around 620 am. With the load secured we point the Ford north,the epic journey has finally begun . I will now take the time to thank our sponsors Mitchelton winery for there wonderful support for this trip. Now back to the action ,as we travel through the low stunted mallee trees headed for Port Augusta we arrive in the small town of  Murrayville our stomachs are aching BINGO , time to fuel our bellies with coffee and egg and bacon rolls . We roll on towards theSA boarder headed for Morgan to check out Marrs bakery ,yes we hit pay dirt as I grab the last Kitchener cream roll and stuff it down my gob the others look dumbfounded at my greedy out look on food. Yes I am a guts ,as we continue to push on to our destination at Port Augusta stopping off at Burra for a quick fuel stop .Fly has settled to a steady pace at the wheel and as we all sit back feeling we are in safe hands.Digs at the big 4look  ok any way time to hit town for a sticky beak

What a great day

Today as I depart Seymour headed for Wycheproof to begin this great trip to far the reaches of our big country, I reflect upon the loved ones that I will be leaving behind, firstly my lovely wife and also my 3beautiful grand children . The ute is packed and fuelled and I hit the road around 9.30am and head for Bendigo for a quick trip to the back cracker. Josh soon has me upright and ready to roll thanks Josh, next port of call is the Bridgewater pub as a mate of 40 odd years has just taken over. After a quick howdy dody I hit the road again ,plenty of Easter traffic to contend with so I push towards  Wyche at a much reduced speed. Packing the ford territory takes some sorting out with the beer and wine secured safely we chuck in the rest and slam the lid down, yes we are packed. As we head to the in laws for our last wholesome meal for some time . As I sit here writing this blog I notice a few cars starting to roll up out front smells like the start of a long night ,they are either here to wish us good bye or maybe have a cool drink, I think the latter. More on that story tomorrow so stay tuned for the first official blog tomorrow............WADDA

Cabin boy swam here

Nearly time to go

With 7 days to the departure on the big trip to the wilds of outback Australia , the excitement is starting to build. Hopefully all the dots begin to join up so this adventure can begin without any fuss, with our motto of pack light and travel fast I see no problem at all . My next lot of blogs will start on Good Friday , with a steady supply of subject matter to write about over the 23 days of this trip .I am sure you will have a good insight into the comings and goings of this outback adventure. Again anybody who wishes to comment on my blog site please feel free to do so as your comments may also amuse my fellow travellers. See Ya...........WADDA

Cabin boy

Not here Jammie

Let's try again

Take 2 let me try again

Sun set in Melbourne

Goulburn river Nagambie

Photo school is over

After a1 hour lesson in photo placement to gmail this is my first attempt

Beach scene in Northern Tasmania

Mission complete

You gotta believe it ,our last booking for the great outback adventure took place today,at long last I have nailed down the last bit of the puzzle , where to stay in Marble Bar ,yes I have managed to secure 1 nights accommodation at the famous Iron Clad hotel .What a bargain ,for the princely sum of 400 bucks a night we get to stay in a tin shed,just joking.After ringing the tourist information centre and speaking to a great sounding bloke called Kym Mackay my decision was soon made. Armed with a lot of useful information from this very helpful bloke I have decided to meet him at the pub on our arrival.Hope he enjoys a cool drink because I will be buying the first of many rounds ,he told me the weather at the moment is HOT around 39 .I hope my fellow travellers are up to the task because this will be day 11 of the trip , and we don't want any shrinking violets with another 12 day to go, just hope we all survive so see ya later............WADDA

The pressure is building

What a salesman I turned out to be, you guessed  it I am the seller of dreams.With 3fellow dreamers we will begin our wander through some of Australia's harshest country on Good Friday all being well. To my fellow dreamers this will be a story that will be spoken about for years to come over a cool drink, some family members will get sick of all our B......t , and we the dreamers will have no problems recounting our stories to any who wants to listen. Some stories will gather traction and other will just be a memory.  Deep down this adventure should bond an already close family even closer . With just over 3 weeks to go there are still a few loose ends to tie this great trip together, my rules are simple pack light travel fast and the most important thing is for god sake have fun .With some high end adventure planned I think a lot of fun will be on the list, also throw in a bit of DANGER and you have got the recipe for a life on the edge holiday. Hoo Roo.................WADDA

The long weekend

This will be my last trip to Ocean Grove for awhile so hope to make the best of the long weekend. With the low 30s forecast it will be great to hit the water again, i will arrive a bit early to catch up on some area beautification but it should be fun thereafter. Maybe I will have a chat to one of the outback travellers who happen to reside in the area ,and maybe just let him know what he will be in store for. My arrival at Ocean Grove was a no fuss affair, with so much to do and the weather turning a bit sh...y was soon hitting my straps with some painting ,then on to a bit of drain cleaning .Later on the rest of the troops arrived which included my two lovely grand children also known as the tiddley winkers and their mutt called fluffy dog . As Saturday morning arrives everyone is up early to hit the shops in Geelong , no shopping for this crafty old man I am off to check out property prices ,with 2 property's for auction this morning I go along for a sticky beak. We'll no bargains in the housing market here in Ocean Grove today, best save my dough for a big trip to the outback .Gotta go and tidy myself up a bit ,visitors about to arrive for a couple cool drinks and some tucker ,bye for now........WADDA

Dicks demise

Waddas walkabout has claimed its first victim ,yes one of the major players namely Dick the business  man has withdrawn from this epic outback adventure due to the pressures of building a new house.Bad luck Dick but Wadda will be pressing on without you,this news hit the touring party hard as we scrambled to find a replacement the list was soon short listed to a one man contest,yes after some serious behind the scene talks I have managed to snare the ultimate out backer known in family circles as The Foot Farrier..cos he owns a shoe shop.This high end adventurer will sure add some extra zip to the trip,the name of this highly prized recruit is Uncle Terry. Hopefully now this tight knit team can stay together, we need no more disruptions as it is only 8 weeks till our departure .Thats it for the time ,more news to follow.
                                                       WADDA

                         

Little Jack pays a visit

As I ramp up for the Alternative Farming Expo news comes through that my grandson Jack is coming to sunny Seymour for a bit of a fun time with his pop.But first things first,putting together a show like this takes a lot of hard work and many long hours of walking and measuring over a 15 acre site.With map in hand and a measuring wheel the journey has begun,my mate Kiwi is keen to get started so here we go.The temperature is forecast for 40 plus over the next few days so we are in for a few tough times, it is hard to keep a couple of good men down so we press on with the task ahead,and after 5 day all the ground marking is complete, as the big boss glides through the park he seems to be impressed .As we pat ourselves on the back for a job well done ,all we need now is the site holders to roll up and settle in ,we now have a Expo. The 3 days of this event pass very quickly and trouble free ,what a great show for our town ,people come from all over to attend this event .Clean up begins on Monday and is a 2 day frenzy to get the park back into tip top shape ,mission complete.Now as I said before my grandson is here for a few days ,at the moment grandma has the inside running spoiling him rotten, my drill Sargent approach has not won him over yet so I might have to change my line and try the lollie method .As this day is almost over Jack has started to show signs that bed time beckons so I will also take the hint and also retire for night as we'll

                                                    WADDA

Wadda returns

Yes I am back,it has been awhile since my last blog so here goes anyway.After The Tassie trip I became a little bit slack keeping this blog page up to date .With my return to work for 1week and the sudden death of one of my work mates I became a bit down in the dumps .I am fine now and hope to use my blog page at least once a week,I am on a 7week break at the moment as part of my transition to retirement plan .To keep busy I am doing some work for the Seymour Alternitive farming  Expo.As the dogs body of the show ,I get some interesting jobs to attend to ,with the the thermometer climbing between the high30s and low 40s this sure has tested the the stamina of the fool hardy who dare to work under these conditions.Yes I am guilty of being one of fool hardy ones ,with line marking to take 3or4 days the heat really does take its toll but the show must go on .For those who may be at all interested the dates are as shown 14..15..and16th of Febuary so why not come to the best show in town next weekend there is something here for everyone.To the avid band of followers of this blog site there is only 68 days to go before the adventure of a life time begins.On Good Friday when we leave the comforts of urban living and head to some of Australia's remotest out posts ,this trip  will be remembered for years to come.With all the excitement and danger surrounding this I just hope we can cope with life on the edge

                                   WADDA

Terrific Tassie

As we begin to wind down on our trip to this small out crop of rock just south of the big island called Australia ,let me just remind some of you Tassie bashers out there this place is OK.Not one 2 headed local to be seen and no convicts roaming the streets.And to J S of Melbourne it should be safe for you to return ,your crimes have been forgotten and forgiven.As this holiday continues I sense a bit of lethargy starting to creep in,people sleeping in some going to bed early and some having there fair share of booze ,also the main offender could be old age ,as you know us mainlanders will go down kicking and screaming,and never admit defeat.After lunching in Evandale I steer the XR6 south to a place called ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, mental block at the moment.As the phone begins to ring ,sister in law Jane  starts squawking about a music festival taking place in George Town some 70 odd ks from our present location,with a blink of an eye the big ford is now heading north .You guessed it the boot scooters are keen to arrive at this festival that promises so much.On arrival at this remote location the hairs on the back of my neck begin to stand up,I quickly think out loud and say Rednecks ,soon after our arrival my fears we're put a ease when we were offered a spot in the Flamenco dancing class.I soon declined the offer from the hairy legged hostess as she looked a bit suspect to my trained eye.Th e day is almost over and with just one outing planned today ,we will draw stumps after a trip to the casino for a long awaited meal ,see ya later .................WADDA

The big day out inTassie

We'll the main reason we wandered over to this part of the world was to attend Sam & Courtney's wedding ,when the family gathers for a show of this nature it can only mean one thing FUN and Lots of it.As Friday arrived you could feel the excitement starting to stir, yes you get the feeling that this will be a special day .As the temperature slowly begins to rise looks like we will be in for a cracking day, First thing on the list of must do is a visit to the Cataract Gorge ,we'll strange as it may seem to organise a trip to the park take some serious planning.After a lot messing around the circus hits the road for this beautiful spot right on the edge of Launceston,some got lost others arrived ok and for others it was just to hard , but to those who did make it was well worth it.As AM creeps to PM there are bodies to be washed clothes to be ironed and for some makeup to be troweled on .As 3.45pm approaches people in all their finery start to gather to await the arrival of a couple large coaches to transport us to the Josef Chromy winery where this shin dig is going to take place. What a place ,I could not believe the setting could be so stunning ,with the slightly late arrival of the bride the show is about to start,pretty soon we have another MR &MRS in the family we done to Sam& Courtney. Now the food  ,beer & wine start  to appear and everybody start to hook in, for the next 5hrs we consume vast amounts of this wonderful spread.Like all good things it has to end sooner than later.After the many hours spent with my brother in laws and the company of others this great day draws to a close. As the bus winds it's way back to our lodgings I hear talk of another great day being planned for tomorrow, as my sun has set it is good night for now ..............WADDA

Up and about

Today is the day we head overseas to Sam and Courtney's wedding,sound good but really we only went toTassie.Up at sparrow fart to prepare for our trip,what will the next 4 day produce nobody knows and nobody really cares .As the commodore lands at Jetport parking we are greeted by a happy smiling soul who quickly directs to the front office for further instructions .The excitement has overtaken common sense ,yes I left the car with the happy smiling soul ,don't know his name don't know his number .I do hope my lovely red car is somewhere about on Monday evening or I will be in the sh.t .The bus soon arrives to take us to the launch pad at Tullamarine airport,with Miss Denny making all the arrangements over the internet this makes life a lot easier.Departure time is 0835 gate number 8 ,then the squawking information speaker says sorry folks cos we f... Up you will now depart gate  number 12 which you would think in not far past gate 8 ,sorry gate 12 is half way to Sunbury so on your bike and start the epic journey to the new departure gate 12.As we settle in at Sunbury end of the airport I notice 2 gents in uniform approaching ,must be the pilot and his offsider .Yes I think I am on the money as Captain Koala gets nearer my keen eye spots his wings he has got Tassie written all over his jowely face ,yes he is taking this precious cargo with him.As boarding time nears I say my prayers and scramble aboard, now I just hope that jowley face knows what he is doing.With the landing taken care of its of to collect our luggage grab a cab and hit the road to Launceston to pick up our hire car.Now at about this time the Tassie police enter the car,you guessed it Miss Denny has been made a part time member of the local police force she knows every rule and regulation regarding the road, what a bummer as I was about to thrash the guts out of this XR6 but my wings have been clipped for the time being anyway gotta go see you all later.........WADDA

It's gunna be hot today

Been a couple of weeks since my last blog ,mainly because I have been a little bit on the lazy side of life.Just an update on the pooches yes they survived only just,the owner of miss Bella returned home to collect one spoilt pooch farewell you little moccisan ,As the temp starts to climb to the mid 40s we sure know summer has arrived,with 4days in a row over 40 you could say that it is quite cosy in our part of the world.As I scramble out of bed early the temp is already in the low 30s and it is only 6.30am ,time to get the water going to keep our plants alive .Tomorrow it's off  to Tassie to a family wedding which should be fun ,as we do just love any occasion to get together and let off a bit of steam.Returning to the mainland on Monday so we will have time to explore this lovely location and  visit some of there historical sites.Gotta go Big Jack is undertaking some area beautification and needs some expert advise.And to those who care it is only 13weeks to the trip of a lifetime,but who is counting"....................WADDA

Gone to the dogs

Talk about a mans best friend A DOG well just to let everyone know I am the proud carer of 2 of these pooches ,what a pair of of scallywags ,their to the point of driving me batty with all there spoilt antics.Today I made a decision the head to Ocean Grove for the weekend with the 2 pooches in tow,what a joke by the time the seating arrangements were made and we were ready to depart little Miss Bella decides that she should not lower her position in life sitting the floor ,it is the main seat or she would make life difficult for me and Coco.Miss bustle bum hustled and cajoled poor old Coco to the point of no return ,the seating arrangements were soon reversed.When miss bossy boots bears her teeth at me she is saying turn the air conditioning on I quickly obey. On arrival things soon improved the pooches settle in ,pooch protector with beer in hand also settles in.Should be in for a good weekend.               WADDA