TOTALS: Distance 6705km. Donations $8570.09. Days remaining 46. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian, Little Sandy Desert, Great Sandy Desert. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road, Great Northern Highway.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 730pm on Sunday the 1 August 2021.
Another awesome day super yay!!! I woke with the sunrise and started packing up camp when Sam and Verrel invited me for a coffee. They’re just fun and we had belly laughs to kick the day off with a bang. Thanks ladies!!!
I got underway about 9am. The day was a bit headwindy to start so I chipped away at the kms doing 15km blocks. It worked a treat and I settled into the ride focused and relaxed.
At the first couple of breaks I had phone reception and was able to call Dawn and Mum and Dad to see how the family was going in lockdown.
The scenery was beautiful with flowering natives adding bursts of colour amongst the gums, anthills and grasses.
I found a great spot under a tree to take it all in when I called the folks.
We were 85km into the day when I passed the sign to Mary Pool Rest Area. It was 1km off the road but I was keen to check it out with the other caravans that were turning off. So glad I did!!! That was us for the day. The rest area is on a cattle property right on the river. There’s plenty of room to find a spot under the gums which line the river bank. The trees are full of birdlife and the water is fresh for swimming. Oh bliss!!!
I found my campsite and beelined it down to the water for a swim.
There’s 2 bars of 4G reception here and a great chance to upload some photos from the last 10 days. Videos eventually load standing on 1 leg with the phone held in the air so I kept them to a minimum 🤣
I settled in for the next 4 hours going back over the posts and reliving the last stint from Marble Bar.
I really appreciated going back over this time which felt a bit of a blur until now. Photos really help me to sequence events in my head especially when the days are so full of experience. I had planned to do this in Halls Creek so today was awesome time spent and a big job done in a beautiful place ✔️ It allows me to move forward now and concentrate on preparations for the Tanami.
I stopped to enjoy sunset o’clock with the corellas.
It’s another 110kms into Halls Creek which means an early start to arrive in time to find somewhere to stay that’s secure for Banjo. I plan to pop into the local police station to ask their advice and take it from there. For now it’s time for dinner and bed. Night and talk soon xx
TOTALS: Distance 6620km. Donations $8560.09. Days remaining 47. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian, Little Sandy Desert, Great Sandy Desert. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road, Great Northern Highway.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 6.30pm on Saturday the 31 July 2021
Wonderful day!!!! I set the intention early in the ride to genuinely wave unconditionally to all passing vehicles, a big ‘hello’ to oncoming traffic and a big ‘thank you’ to passing cars giving us a wide birth. It communicated respect and set a positive frame of reference for the day. The mindset was clear and open and the energy flowed for the 100kms. Every car waved back and I noticed how important it is to put out a way of being that I want to be part of. It sounds so small but the difference was felt deeply and equally appreciated. I love the learnings every day. It enables me to gain deeper insight into what sustains my mental health and well being. Boom!!! That counts!!!
What an amazing day that followed. It certainly helped that the countryside shifted as we entered Halls Creek Shire – The heart the Kimberly.
We said goodbye to the flat floodway plains and welcomed a world of red rocky ranges and outcrops. Spinifex lined the hills with desert oaks and flowering natives. The scenery announced its ancient past and the senses were awake and applauding the stark contrast and stunning beauty.
It was reminiscent of the Marble Bar scenery except more up close and personal. My responsiveness was so apparent in the photos and videos I took during the ride.
I loved looking back over the footage tonight. It was truly special to feel the hum of excitement we experienced. We’ve worked hard through the last weeks on our long haul from Wiluna to Halls Creek and the change of scenery as we enter the Kimberly is very appreciated.
I arrived at about 3.30pm and met Sam and Virell travelling the region in their camper van. The ladies are laid back and full of fun and naughtiness. We immediately clicked.
I also met Tim from Bundaberg who’s cycling around Australia. He’s a gentle man so into his adventure with humility and appreciation for the opportunity. He has a family back home and is sharing the adventure with his partner and son. I really like this guy. It’s the first time he’s done cycle touring and is also learning heaps every day. He heads into Fitzroy Crossing tomorrow and I’ve passed on Indigo’s details. The four of us chatted a while before I set up camp in time to enjoy sunset o’clock.
The ladies love photography and Sam suggested Tim and I go stand on an rocky boulder for a choice photo. She didn’t have to ask twice and we headed off down the cliff face through the spinifex. The scenery looks like a landscape garden and it was fun to share a bit of impulsive adventure with Tim. The ladies got some great shots that they will share when they have internet. A fella camping nearby also took some drone footage that he’ll share when he downloads. We’ve exchanged details and it will be wonderful to have copies from a perspective aside from selfies. 🤣
It’s a big sky night with a sky full of stars and crickets are partying. There’s a positive vibe in the rest area with everyone clearly appreciating the choice spot. Time now to think about dinner and bed! There’s a strong warm wind blowing across the plateau but we’re tied down under a shelter between tables with everything weighted down. So all good!!! Thanks for sharing the day. Night and talk soon xx
TOTALS: Distance 6627km. Donations $8060.09. Days remaining 47. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian, Little Sandy Desert, Great Sandy Desert. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road, Great Northern Highway.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 7.11am on Saturday the 31 July 2021
I needed to go offline for Friday. What an interesting human experience. The ride into Fitzroy Crossing on Thursday was plagued by a deep need. I wasn’t even aware of it earlier on during the day, just that the mood and energy was low.
The day started all good as I packed up camp and was waved off by the local cows happy to have their lakeside spot back 🤣
But by the time I was 25km out it was like hunger pains and I could feel a sense of ‘grasping.’ You know that feeling when your hungry that people call being ‘hangry.’ That’s the closest I can describe it. It didn’t help that Banjo got 2 flats in 25km, the last 1km out of town.
Into the story comes ‘Indigo.’ Indigos the manager at the community radio station in town who’s a host on ‘warm showers.’ I texted him to say I was going to be a bit late and he offered to come out and pick us up.
We’ve spent the last couple of days sharing company in between my jobs and his work at Wangki Yupurnanpurru Radio 936am. It was what I hungered for. Like hanging out with a mate. Being able to be myself and pay attention and gain an understanding about the way the world works from another’s perspective. Caring and sharing in proximity is when those social neurones remind me that we’re pack animals first.
Indigo took me out to dinner Thursday night then I cooked last night. He’s played guitar since he was 6 and shared his talent while I cooked last night. What we have shared is a blessing. I have better insight into myself and the human condition.
Mostly I have better insight into the essential need to care about our humanity and environment with commitment that’s unconditional. It’s a way of respectful being that I deeply need to be part of and a relational process. There is no clock in/out of this space. I either care or I don’t. ‘There is no try’ as Yoda would say !! 🤣
This is such a significant part of the challenge. What do I need to continue to care as a well being? I know I need a sense of side by side solidarity, genuiness, respect, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard, In hindsight, I share a lot of this dynamic with Banjo. Our relationship is a big part of our day to day and it’s important for me to understand more about the ‘relational’ processes and their significance.
Our relationship comes not with an expectation to be heard but with a responsibility to find the language to communicate what matters so I can be and be part of a nurturing Climate. It’s very humanistic with similarities to Carl Rogers ‘person centred’ perspectives.
I want to own our past and future and write the next chapters from what we’ve learnt. I know that cells cannot live without an environment and we humans are care takers of the our wonderful world. I share this outlook with my partner Dawn and we’re excited about building a day to day that encourages a hopeful perspective for Dylan.
TOTALS: Distance 6429km. Donations $8060.09. Days remaining 50. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian, Little Sandy Desert, Great Sandy Desert. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road, Great Northern Highway.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 7.12pm on Wednesday the 28 July 2021
It’s fire o’clock at The Lake Ellendale. It’s a beautiful night with the stars shining through the eucalyptus lining the waters edge. The crickets are happy and popping into my campsite to say hi. There’s ‘plops’ coming from the water and I’m tucked cosy in front of the fire savouring the light and red embers. I found a bunch of gum branches over twilight and the burning oils in eucalyptus smell wonderful. I haven’t had a fire for so long and am appreciating the chance to enjoy this space again. There’s one bar of 3G reception here so I called Dawn to share the moment and our day. Happy girl!!!!
The Lake is a free rest area on Wiki camps. It’s on private land and campers are welcome to enjoy the lakeside. There’s a number of people here but there’s plenty of room to find your own space. The waters reflecting the dotted camps and fires and there’s a relaxed feeling as folk settle into their night. It’s every bit worth the 138km ride today.
I arrived just before sunset having left later this morning. I had lots of visitors as I packed up camp with people curious and wanting to chat about Banjo and our challenge. He’s such a crowd pleaser bless him. I really enjoyed the contact and genuine conversations about mental health. Mental health touches all of us and it seems that people are wanting to talk about their personal experiences. Our challenge may give folk permission to open up and share a part of their story. It’s a real honour to be part of these conversations and a positive way to start the day.
I woke this morning to the sound of birds in the gumtrees around camp. They were so busy and in numbers chatting away and darting between branches. They looked like a type of fig bird, grey in colour with a black nose. I made a cuppa and enjoyed their morning orchestra. Bird o’clock is my favourite wake up call. I had a little grasshopper pop in who was also keeping a watchful eye on the birds but perhaps for different reasons 🤣
We got underway about 10am. I’m loving the scenery of boabs, desert oaks and anthills.
This is cattle farming country and the properties are unfenced in sections. Unfortunately there’s a lot of cow roadkill. Whenever I see cows by the roadside I give them a holler to encourage them back into the fields. It’s been working a treat. But today I tried with a couple of bulls and they just stood there looking at me like ‘you’re kidding right!!!’ Their horns were too big to argue the point.
I pulled up further down the road under the huge boab and appreciated it up close. The trees have new shoots for the season and oval shaped fruit like gourds. There were beep beep nests in the branches. What a wonderful home tree for my feathered favourites.
We had our first break with Owen who I met at one of the recent roadhouses when he was refuelling. He’s on holidays riding his KTM motorcycle. It’s such a handsome bike. It was fun to stop and share lunchtime with him. He’s travelling the Gibb River Raod with a group in a few days and filling in time enjoying some of the neighbouring tracks. He then heads down the Tanami the same time I’ll be travelling so we had a lot to talk about. He’s in Fitzroy Crossing for the next couple of days so we exchanged phone numbers to arrange a coffee date tomorrow. Really looking forward to talking more. He shared his bananas and protein snacks. Thanks mate and I look forward to catching up tomorrow if it works.
We had our afternoon break down a roadside track away from the road. It was a beautiful spot that would have made a great camp. The grasses were flowering purple amongst the natives and brown anthills and the colours were contrasting. I enjoyed taking some pickies in the afternoon light. The native with the red seed pods were also along the track so I tried to capture the iridescent effect to share.
We arrived at The Lake Ellendale later this afternoon and set up camp over sunset. I can see why it’s such a popular spot and highly rated on Wiki I’ll take some more photos in the morning to capture a feel of the place to share with you. There’s a warning on Wiki to be ‘croc aware’ camping here. That’s a different experience camping!!! I spoke to a local who camps here regularly and he said it’s been years since a ‘freshy’ has been spotted. He swims every day when he camps. While I won’t be swimming, it’s better peace of mind. I’m camped well back from the bank regardless.
For now it’s time to think about dinner. I’m looking forward to enjoying the sounds when I crawl into bed. My head torch is picking up a wading bird fishing along the waters edge how cool to watch. I’ve really taken to bugs in recent times. They fascinate me, the extraordinary extra ordinary detail of them. I can easily miss their presence in my day to day unless they’re bothering me. It’s cool to take the time to look closer at all the critters I share space with. I have my fair share to amuse myself with over dinner 🤣 Night and talk soon xx
TOTALS: Distance 6290km. Donations $8060.09. Days remaining 51. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian, Little Sandy Desert, Great Sandy Desert. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road, Great Northern Highway.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 7pm on Monday the 26 July 2021
Today started early to pick up my soup and bread from Val and Graham. They were already well underway packing up and we shared a big hug and handshake for our dinner tonight. They’re off to Broome now and Vals got my Internet address for the challenge to make a donation and follow our story. What a beautiful couple.
We woke to a foggy morning and everything was super damp. I ended up putting my clothes through the dryer to avoid them getting musty. I was doing the last of our packing up when I heard “hey you!!!!’ Oh my goodness I was so happy to see Justin and his family and Ian who I met in Warakurna at the start of the Great Central Road. We shared special time there at the roadhouse and it’s Ian who lent me his Leatherman to have a pair of pliers on board to remove Banjos core valve. We shared lots of hugs and stories about each other’s travels over the last month. That seems like such a long time ago but our connection is still genuine. What a great way to start the day reconnecting. They’ve been following our story and tracking us on Map share. So they knew we were at the campgrounds and made the effort to find us before getting underway. They’re on their way home now to Perth and a bit bottom lipped that their trip is ending. Be safe on the roads my dear friends and enjoy the homestretch stage in your travels. I’m very grateful to have met you all.
We got underway after thanking the staff at the roadhouse for our stay. It was great to have charged the battery packs and washed the gear for the next week to Halls Creek.
Today’s ride was varied and interesting. The vegetation has changed from desert reds to outback browns and cassia trees lined the road flowering yellow. Happy birds kept me company all day during the ride and on breaks.
I passed a team of workers painting lines on the road. I met Diesel who was stopped by the roadside. ‘Want a cold drink!!!!’ ‘Oh yes please.’ We got chatting about accomodation options in Fitzroy Crossing and Halls Creek. They’re on the way home now to Perth for a few days break so he was in high spirits and full of cheek. He shared two bottles of blue electrolyte and a tub of potato salad that’s also on the menu. Enjoy your days off mate. Thanks for your generosity and fun banter.
Further on I met two other cyclists travelling towards Broome. Kerrie and Scott are cycle touring around Australia. They call themselves, ‘Too old to die young’ and have a Facebook page to share their travels. Their set up was impressive and we exchanged cycling tips and tricks. They’re from NZ and have little kiwis swinging from their bike flags. They told me about a cycling site called ‘Warm Showers.’ It lists hosts around the country where cyclists can stay for free. They stayed with Indigo in Fitzroy Crossing and recommended him. I later sent him a text asking if I could stay. I now have a place to overnight in FC where Banjo will be safe. How good is that!!! Thanks Kerrie and Scott for your help and all the best as your journey continues.
The landscape changed to open floodways dotted with boabs and anthills. There was also a native that’s in seed. The seedpods are iridescent red in the sunlight and hang like Christmas decorations.
The next change of scenery was marked with a croc sign warning travellers about venturing too close to the rivers .
We’re in river country now and crossed a handful of single lane bridges in the last 5kms to Willare roadhouse.
What a day of contrasting countryside. I arrived at the roadhouse and met Kate and Anna doing research with the Nulungu Institute. They’re studying the impact of government COVID regulations on the aboriginal communities. How interesting. They were very helpful with ideas about accommodation in Halls Creek and contact persons on the Tanami. They have given me their numbers and will make some further enquires over the next days. I’ll speak to them further when I’m in Halls Creek. Looking forward to touching base with these ladies again.
While we were talking a police car pulled up with officers from the road crash investigation unit. One of the officers took an interest in our conversation and suggested to visit the local police station. He said it may be an option to house Banjo at the Police Station. Otherwise the campgrounds at Halls Creek are pretty safe to stay. It’s vehicles and bikes that draw the wrong attention. He said to mention his name when I’m speaking with the officers. Thanks Jeremy for taking the time to provide quality advice about safety options.
The roadhouse has let me stay for free and I set up camp in time to call the family over sunset. Tomorrow we head to ‘The Lake Ellendale’ which is on WikiCamps and been recommended by Linton, the roadworks fella I met the other day and also Kerrie and Scott today. It’s about 122km on route to Fitzroy Crossing.
Now it’s time to enjoy my soup and salad. Night and talk soon. Xx
TOTALS: Distance 6159km. Donations $8050.09. Days remaining 52. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian, Little Sandy Desert, Great Sandy Desert. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road, Great Northern Highway.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 7pm on Monday the 26 July 2021
We woke this morning looking out onto the glow of sunrise.
It was a moment to appreciate my caring decision to soak the soul in salt air and sand. I felt every bit charged and ready to tackle ‘come what may’ as we make our way to Halls Creek. There’s a handful of big unknowns coming up with border crossings and closuresas our routetoBirdsville travels NT, SA and QLD. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
The idea of diverting to the west coast came from my Dad. Thank you poppy for the inspiration. You know your daughter well. It was special to share that coast to coast connection. In his honour a bought a latte which is his coffee of choice and gave Mum and Dad a call before heading off.
I apologised for my skinny post the night before. Unfortunately I lost my first post when I tried to save it. Posting each day is a beloved ritual each night. It enables me to express the day. Rob, who I met back in Marble Bar, said it was like a ‘purge.’ I suppose it is in some ways.
Expressing the experience each day is an essential part of me staying in a good place generally and especially during this challenge. It lets me reflect on and appreciate the fullness in each day. This challenge is such an intense adventure. Theres highs and lows in every day and I love the richness. Finding language that captures the experiences embed memories that I treasure. It’s all in the sharing. I spend a couple of hours easy, each night, looking at my photos to recall the day and writing my post. I don’t think too much about it. It’s all felt and shared from a deep place and ‘as it is.’
Carl Rogers talks about the importance of being ‘congruent.’ This means being outwardly consistent with what’s inwardly gong on. This is such an important element in my healthy being. If I think about it too much ‘I’ get lost in the process. Freud calls it ‘free association.’ Expressing the experience is a freedom I can give myself. It lets me see and be seen genuinely. ‘To thyne own self be true’ as Shakespeare said. So I suppose it is a ‘purge’ Rob but with the intention of being human with honesty and integrity.
I’m my best self when I’m present and paying attention to whatever’s happening in the moment. When I’m in a good place I notice all the little things big. For example, I love noticing insects and taking care not to harm them mindlessly as I go about my day. I’m forever blowing insects out of the tent and checking my gear so I don’t take any away from their home. It’s an effort that comes naturally and I love taking this level of care. They’re all signs I’m in a good place. I noticed this morning the insects I crossed paths with and it was a sure sign that my stay at Barn hill Station was well worth the detour. We said our last farewells back at the main road and have a witchery grub a wide birth and we got underway 🤣
Our first break was at a truck stop where we met Colleen and her husband from Bunbury. They gave me a new 1.5 litre bottle of water which was awesome as the other was looking a bit worse for wear. It’s the perfect size bottle for the oversized cage I have on Banjo. I’ve popped an easy flow valve on it so I can drink on the go. Its working a treat especially in the warmer conditions as we head north. Coleen donated $10 before we got going. Thanks so much for your help and generosity fine folk and enjoy your stay with friends in Broome.
Our next stop was by a roadworks sign that warned motorists of the , ‘soft edges’ on the road shoulder. I was drawn to this sign and the different meanings it conjured up.
Roebuck Plains is a wide expanse of floodways for the last 30kms to the junction. It’s the narrowest point between the coastline and the Great Sandy Desert. The soft edges of beech and desert sands meet in this arid stretch. The wind was gusting from the coast and inland creating little sand whirls across the plains. The contrast of heat and coastal air was fascinating along the stretch of soft edges.
Soft edges also evoked the importance of caring habits especially during this challenge. It’s easy to get caught up in drive or survival modes and especially being pushed so out of my comfort zone for the most part of most days. When either of these modes get too inflated, I lose a sense of connection within myself and my environment. Caring habits bring a balance that let’s me stay calm and conscious and in sync with the day. Energy flows from this connected state and I’m energised for a full days ride. Paul Gilbert talks about the balance of survival, drive and caring modes. He refers to it as our human emotional regulatory system. Each mode triggers a range of intentions, focus, emotions, attentions, thoughts and images. It’s a dominos effect that can spiral without being aware and checking in regularly with how I’m going. Caring habits soften my edges so I can open up and connect with my surroundings. Noticing the bugs, flowers and birds when I have wee breaks is one of my favourite go tos to stay in a thumbs up state.
I arrived at Roebucks Station at about 3.30pm. I had heard from Klaus, a cyclist I met during the day, that the roadhouse was fully booked.
I was super keen to stay here as I needed to charge my electronics and wash my gear. At first the manager said ‘no’ as they only had powered sites and they were full. Basically I begged 🤣 She finally reconsidered and let me stay for free in the grassed area where folk can wash their cars. Oh yayaya!!! It’s usually $45 per night so that’s very generous and very appreciated.
I met a beautiful couple staying here, Val and Graham. They were so keen to know more about what we’re doing and are going to make a donation online when they’re in Broome. Val has offered me some frozen soup and bread for dinner tomorrow night. They leave at early o’clock so I need to collect it from them at 630am before they head off. On that note it’s time for dinner and bed so I can get up with the birds in the morning. Night and talk soon. Xxxx
TOTALS: Distance 6054km. Donations $8050.09. Days remaining 53. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian, Little Sandy Desert, Great Sandy Desert. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road, Great Northern Highway.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 7.00pm on Sunday the 25 July 2021
We didn’t get very far today. 2kms in fact before Banjo got a cut in his front tyre. Oh dear!!!! Sealant was hissing out and it was clear I needed to do a patch job. We turned on our heals and headed back to the campgrounds. I was pretty happy to have to spend another day here that’s for sure. I was also very happy that we have the gear now and more of an idea how to deal with tyre issues independently.
We had got up early and packed up camp in time for the Sunday Market goers that were busy setting up their stalls. I treated myself to a coffee and enjoyed the chilled atmosphere.
I visited the resident goats and they were full of cheekiness and bad manners. I adore goats!!! Their naughty spiritedness is contagious.
I sat with Banjo near the stalls and savoured the last of my cuppa. We attracted lots of attention from the campers mooching round the markets and ready for a chat. Chris and Gertrude and Michele made donations and are keen now to follow our challenge. Thanks kind folk for your genuine curiosity and generosity.
It would have been very easy to settle into the day. We dragged ourselves away at about 10am and headed off for ours days ride to Roebuck Roadhouse. I couldn’t believe it when I heard the hiss of sealant coming from his from his tyres. Plan B.
We paid for another’s night stay and set up camp right on the cliff face looking out over the water. It was a prized position to do our have tos over the next few hours. Our time was broken up with lots of folk popping in to say hi. We even spotted a few whales out further to sea.
Later in the afternoon we were ready for another fix of the beach. I wondered up the opposite direction for a different perspective. The contrast of the red cliffs and rocks are are a real spectacular especially in the afternoon light. The red rocks change to a mushroom pink colour as the sun sets and the shadows lengthen. I loved taking lots of photos and footage to share the experience.
We walked back to camp over twilight. This stretch of coast is a stones throw away from the Great Sandy Desert so it’s literally where the desert meets the sea.
Thanks Barnhill Station. I’ve so enjoyed my stay here and am ready now for this weeks ride to Halls Creek. All going well we plan to be there by next Sunday. I have a postal pack to pick up as part of my preps for the Tanami. But one step at a time and tomorrow it’s 104kms ish to Roebuck Station. Time for dinner and bed. Talk soon xx
TOTALS: Distance 6052km Donations $7965.09. Days remaining 55. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian, Little Sandy Desert. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 7.30pm on Saturday the 24 July 2021
Oh my goodness what a beautiful day! I’ve just shared sunset over the Indian Ocean with my partner, Dawn and the full moon rising with Mum and Dad.
Now I’m sitting at my camp at Barnhill Station under the moon and stars listening to the ocean and crickets posting to you fine folk. The soul is still, grounded and very very happy indeedy.
I was talking with Dawn about how fortunate we are living in Brisbane. Saturdays are our family day out. We can go to the beach, or do a rainforest walk or swim under a waterfall. The places we love are a short ride away and we love spending our days doing the little things big in nature. What a blessing 🙏 it was so special to share today. It’s all in the sharing that makes the memories embed in my heart as keepsake moments. How precious to feel every bit of that gratefulness.
Today started early because we had our sights on getting salt air under our wings. I went for a wee walk and the moon was saying goodnight on the horizon. He was ready for a rest before his full moon showing tonight!! See you soon handsome man. The sun rose with the punk pigeons busy finding my noodle crumbs from last night’s dinner. The morning light was highlighting the purple and green colours under their wings. Handsome quirky birds!!
I packed up camp in time for a visit from Cathy again. She was keen to get a photo of us all ready to head off for the day. I later got a satellite message from her “Good luck Maree. Enjoy the journey and the birds. You’re amazing.” Thanks Cathy it was special you meet you at Stanley Rest Area. All the best with your travels too.
I also got a satellite message from Wanju, who I met on the morning we left Yulara. “Hi Maree, just thinking of you. It’s Wanju. We met at the Uluru campgrounds. Thanks for the touching and powerful conversation and things you do for beyondblue.”
How wonderful is it to hear from people who have touched my heart in our brief meetings. Although they’re brief conversations, they’re moments of connection that I treasure. Thanks or reconnecting Wanju 🙏 and I hope you’re travelling well.
It was a windy day today. The ride was challenging and it was particularly tricky with the gusts that hit us head on with the passing traffic. The road trains were the trickiest. We got out of the saddle and peddled hard to tackle the blast as the past.
We had our first break at 40kms. It was time for the blue face paint to bring some fun attitude to the ride. I was all set to go with blue tiger stripes and heart on my chest. Look our headwind, hear we come with our own gale force 🤣
We stopped a further 10kms on to share the Speedo clicking over to 6000kms. Wooohoooo!!!! We’re well and truly over the halfway mark now and it was a milestone to celebrate and share. There’s heaps to go I know but little wins along the way all count big!!!
Our next stop was at roadworks. We met Linton. His first comment was… ‘Nice war paint.’ He asked if we wanted a cold drink. ‘Oh yes please!!’ I parked Banjo against his car and filled my water bottle up with icy water, how delish. He was keen for a chat and gave us some good tips about where to stay in Fitzroy Crossing and Halls Creek. He suggested we’re better off staying in a motel in these towns as they’re a bit rough and Banjo will likely get pinched. Cars and bikes are targeted by locals in particular. Great heads up mate thank you!!! He also mentioned a great swimming hole at a spring 88k east of Fitzroy Crossing. It’s one to look out for!!! He gave us a Buff bandanna to keep the dust out of the nostrils along the Tanami. Linton said our story sound like a book that even would read 🤣 That’s the plan!! He was so keen to help out and we had a big hug before I headed off. You’re a gentleman Linton xx
We had our sights on Barnhill Station and were very excited when we passed the sign for the turn off. It was another 10kms offroad. Both Banjo and I enjoyed the sandy track. I let his tyres down and he had fun showing off his 4.8inch tyres. The conditions were perfect for the boy.
It was thrilling to catch our first glimpse of the Indian Ocean.
The folk at the campgrounds were welcoming and offered half price for our charity ride.
I was keen to savour the rest of the day on the beach. I quickly found a camp and set up. The boy was happy to chill in the shade.
What can I say!! The beach was an expanse of red tainted sand and rocky outcrops and cliffs. The tide was out and there was an abundance of shells and rocks to mooch through. I went for a swim. Salt water on warm skin. Yum!! The perfect bath for the day.
The sun slowly set over the Indian Ocean. I walked around the headland had the beach to myself to savour every moment of the setting sun and twilight. It was so special to share the with family.
It’s been the best breaking up our desert challenge with a hit of ocean. It’s a perspective unplanned and perfect to shake the sense and wake the soul.
Thank you for sharing this time with me. Time for dinner. Barnhill is known for its wood fire pizzas and I have a take away to devour in bliss. Banjo and I are all smiles and ready to tackle tomorrow whatever’s around the corner. Bring it on!!! Night and talk soon x
TOTALS: Distance 5957km Donations $7840.09. Days remaining 55. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 6.15pm on Friday the 23 July 2021
I didn’t do a post last night as I had to draft an email to the WA G2G border department. There may be an issue with our original pass so I needed to send some further information in response to their enquiry. We crossed the WA border a month ago so it’s all a bit odd but COVID has flared up again and their administrative processes were updated on the 20/7/2021. Hopefully that will sort itself out when they get my email. To be continued.
Yesterday was a huge day to Sandfire Roadhouse. We did 142km in tricky heat and arrived in the long shadows before sunset.
I was also a bit distracted by the email in the morning so mentally it was a bit harder than usual. The morning was a headwind but by lunchtime it swung around on our tail. Thank you Mother Nature for the hand!!! 🙏
We got up early hoping to be on the road before the heat turned up. I woke to a heavy foggy and the sun glowed eerily as it rose.
I needed to make some calls and it was later by the time I finally packed up for the day. Before leaving we had a visit from Michelle and Jenny touring on their motor cycles. They’re mental health nurses from Perth and were full of cheekiness and fun. They’re keen to support our cause and got some photos to share with their colleagues and on socials. Thanks ladies!!!!
We were finally underway at 930am and it was already warm o’clock. I made sure I was sun-screened up and we tackled the open floodways for the morning. It was a bit of a slog until the wind turned. This lifted our spirits and speed and made for a way better afternoon. We said goodbye to the Pilbara Shire and hello to the Broome shire early on.
The low lying shrubs meant shady spots were few and far between to time our rest stops. We beelined to the first bit of shade and enjoyed a break from the sun and the breeze on our sweaty bits.
With 40kms to go I spotted a caravan stopped in a truck bay and had a break to say hi. The busy road means there’s little opportunity to meet folk and enjoy chats to break up the day. I jumped at the chance at joined them in the shade of their caravan. Jill and Trevor were good company. Trevor was cheeky and Jill was more reserved. Together they were interesting to talk with. We spoke about mental health challenges especially for men. They were very encouraging about our challenge and commitment to beyondblue.
I enjoyed the time spent and hit the road in good spirits for the last stint to Sandfire. We broke the last 40km up into 2 x 20km with minty rewards each 5kms. Minties always do the trick on tricky days!!! They’ve become a staple treat in my postal packs. Thanks Mum xxxx
The shadows were long as we rode into Sandfire. It made the desert colours pop in the afternoon light.
As we pulled in, Noreen and Dave from Mandra came up to say hi. What a darling couple. They spoke about their story; loosing their partners to cancer and coronary heart disease. They’re both from the same small country town and found their way back to each other being childhood sweethearts. Their so excited about the next stage in life. This is the first time they have travelled together as a couple. They’re next stop is Broome to share the stairway to heaven. I wish you both health and happiness as your journey in life and on the road continues.
After I did my have tos and showered it was time for dinner and bed. It was probably the best sleep I’ve had all trip yayayay xxxx
I woke this morning and was invited to share a cuppa with Rosie from Perth. She is travelling on her road trail bike to ride the tracks of Australia. What a positive lady!! She has exchanged the stress of corporate living for motor cross and loves it!! I always enjoy listening to people passionate about what they do. We talked about ninja camps and trails and it was big fun chats to start the day.
The roadhouse let me stay for free so I popped in to say thank you before hitting the road.
The roadhouse has a flock of resident peacocks. It was so cool to see them roosting up in the trees and on the the amenities block.
They’re crazy looking critters and very luxurious compared to the handful of native birds I’ve been hanging out with. That takes nothing away from my feathered desert friends including peewees, finches, pink pigeons and willy wagtails.
The road was floodways again so flat and sparse for 360 degrees at times.
I was feeling a bit weary from the ride yesterday but tried to work through by breaking the kms up with breaks and noticing what treats I could spot.
However by 50kms it was evident that the energy was low. So instead of the 145km I had planned, I settled for 108km to Stanley Rest Area. I could get my head and body round the lessor distance and immediately felt the body respond and energise up. It’s funny how the mind works sometimes hey!!! It was needing some kindness. Nice!!!
At one of our breaks a campervan stopped to check in we were okay. I met Pete from Victoria. He’s a keen enduro rider and loves his Surely touring bike. He’s in his 60s and started long distance cycling later in life. He has cycled many routes in Australia and New Zealand and was attempting a ride from Broome to Perth when the heat got too much. He hired a camper and is travelling slowly back to Perth enjoying some overnight spots along the way. He mentioned Barnhill Station as a great spot to stay. It’s a cattle station right on the west coast by the ocean that welcomes travellers.
Pete planted the seed for my next stopover. It’s 117km leaving 105km to Roebuck Roadhouse on Sunday. What a treat to stay by the ocean and get a fix of salt air before tackling the next desert tracks. Love it!!!! Thanks for the inspiration Pete and enjoy safe travels back to Perth.
I arrived at Stanley Rest Area and enjoyed some chats with other campers here. I met Cathy who had just finished reading her book and was out for some socialising over sunset 🤣
We’ve set up camp under one of the shelters. It’s a popular stop over and we’re tucked safe and sound for the night. It’s nice to catch up on my posts and now it’s time for dinner o’clock and a big sleep. I’m a bit excited to be seeing the ocean tomorrow. What a wonderful surprise. It’s nice to be flexible and I’m super excited!!!
TOTALS: Distance 5587km. Donations $7570.09. Days remaining 58. Deserts: Sturt Stony, Strzelecki, Tirari, Gibson, Great Victorian. Tracks: Birdsville Development Road, Birdsville Track, Oodnadatta Track, Red Centre Way, Great Central Road, Goldfields Highway, Wiluna North Road, Marble Bar Road.
Note to new readers: I am travelling with my bike who’s name is Banjo. I often refer to ‘we’ meaning Banjo and I. ‘We’ have an amazing support team of family, friends, sponsors and folk we meet each day. But it’s still up to ‘us’ to face the challenge and tackle each day one peddle at a time.
It’s 7pm on Tuesday the 20 July 2021
It’s a big sky bright night with the moon 3/4 on his way to being full. He’s commanding the sky with only a handful of stars able to compete with his shiny smile. The crickets are happy too, rubbing their legs in delight with the balmy conditions.
We’re camped amongst an array of large red rocks, spinifex and burr bushes. Talk about risk takers. I got the scissors out and trimmed the spinifex around Banjos tyres. It was an entertaining ordeal and they now have lovely haircuts 🤣 We spotted our campsite just after clocking over our kms for the day. There was a rocky mound with a small roadside track leading off. We carefully dodged the spiky bits and found a good spot behind the small outcrop for him and the tent out of sight from the passing traffic. Happy happy!!!
We set up camp just in time to enjoy the last of the sunset. The twilight colours highlighted the natural reds and greens and it’s a beautiful spot to enjoy our first ninja camp on route to Pardoo Roadhouse tomorrow all going well.
We got underway just before 9am after saying our goodbyes to Malcolm and his wife Sarah. He’s given me a stick of dry lube as a backup sweat man. He’s a cheeky soul and I’ve enjoyed our banter, camping next to them over the last couple of nights.
We popped into the office and thanked Steve, the manager for letting us stay the 3 nights. It was very generous and supportive and we’re feeling far more human than the weary, cranky souls that arrived Friday. It was an interesting few days to say the least but I gained a lot of insight which I value immensely. “If it doesn’t challenge you it doesn’t change you” after all 🤣 Love you Claudia and Lothar xx
The temperature today was early 30s and the wind was kinder than it has been. The body loves the warmer conditions and moving again. It didn’t take long to warm up the legs in time to cross over the western end of the Gorge Range. It was a great way to say goodbye to this stunning part of the Pilbara. I hope to return one day and take the time to explore it some more. It’s a hidden treasure that neighbours Karijini National Park that’s also on the bucket list.
By lunchtime we had clocked over 75km. We came across Des Streckfuss Rest Area where Rob was camped for the night. He’s taking his time, stopping at rest areas on his way to Port Hedland for a COVID jab. He’s being doing reviews on rest areas using a simple recipe of facts to help fellow travellers plan their trips. Whatever he’s doing it’s working with over 1 million views on google maps. His username is @itinerantozzie and you can find him on Facebook. He loves the focus it gives his own travels and spends a lot of time ensuring his reviews are helpful with quality images. His 1974 Bedford camper van is his pride and joy and very handsome indeedy. Him and Banjo hung out together over our lunch break chats.
We chipped away at the next 60kms for the afternoon. We passed a large section where one side of the road had been burnt and the other was green desert shrubbery. The con strays was striking. I could already see shiny spikes of green amongst the blackened remains. Isn’t Mother Nature amazing the way she regenerate especially in arid climates that thrive after fire.
The road crossed a number of rivers including Strelley East and West Rivers. The river beds are wide and dry and full of bird life amongst the bushes. At Strelley East we disturbed a mated pair of Jabirus which were spectacular to watch take off and soar overhead while we passed by. We had our afternoon break at Strelley West River to enjoy the banks closer up.
I had thought we may stop at a campsite on Wiki but spotted this camp just a few kms out. I’m glad we did. It’s a great wild camp. We had time before setting up camp to soak up some rays and the surroundings over bird o’clock.
Time now or dinner and bed. Pardoo Roadhouse is another 122kms tomorrow. We’ll try to start early to get there mid afternoon. Night and talk soon xx
The 10 desert challenge 