OzSTOC
OzSTOC Ride Reports, Pictures & Videos => RIDE REPORTS => Topic started by: on November 01, 2017, 08:32:29 PM
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Trip Report Day One
This morning I hit the road on a trip which eventually take to the Halls Gap RTE in two and a half weeks' time. I've decided to take the scenic route. I had already planned to go down Main North Road all the way to Gawler for a change before a facebook post alerted me to South Australia's newest suburb of Eyre. Half way down MNR I realized I was in the zone so I decided to check it out.. just because.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23032382_1150922578372650_8126507321043959495_n.jpg?oh=40386127cbcdf71b178c19e41d580807&oe=5AA17D6C)
From Gawler it was on to the Thiele Highway as I have done the Barrier Highway enough times this year. That seemed like a good place for a selfie. I've been taking a few selfies in recent times as opposed to my usual stand in front of the gopro and see what it spits out. Oh look, there was also a cap under the top box lid. Remember that jdbiker?
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/22853368_1150923838372524_7696248370219115845_n.jpg?oh=2a279657f911332fb992734f1e3b00b7&oe=5AAD0C22)
I was blessed with great weather all day with the one exception of Eudunda. It got clouldy real quick as I arrived and disappeared just as quickly when I left.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23031374_1150924765039098_6252119819724089791_n.jpg?oh=39d57cb1bc5d57188535a10badaacfea&oe=5A70DD33)
My planned course of Worlds End Highway was closed earlier in the week for bushfires but I didn't really give it a thought until I arrived at the said area this morning. It wasn't as widespread as what I saw in Pinery a few years ago but being just a few days old I could smell that burning smell.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23031702_1150925685039006_5686718225788700603_n.jpg?oh=10af8980da5df3749919ea73083be7ca&oe=5A6A45A5)
I refulled in Burra, changed the gopro sd cards and from there didn't stop until getting to Yunta. I covered that area before the Yongala RTE in may when I went to find the Big Dice at Winnininnie. I didn't really stop in Yunta either except to refuel. I was hungry but saw a news peice on ABC news a few weeks ago regarding the Cockburn hotel so decided the wait until I got to Cockburn. I did however take photos in Manna Hill.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23031708_1150926915038883_8765412475297282853_n.jpg?oh=013ad3a73dc35fbfc1c9569f3623c2fb&oe=5A76DC40)
When I rode to Broken Hill in 2015 I found a hills hoist that had been erected in the middle of nowhere in Outalpa/Wiawera and I'm guessing that every person who since drove past added a piece of clothing to it just for the hell of it. It's this sort of stuff I love about this country. Today I took an old item to hang and leave on it but alas it no longer is there.
The planned lunch at the Cockburn Hotel didn't happen because the only person there didn't know much about it or where the 'chef' was. I ended up going to the border cafe.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/22885979_1150932511704990_7888339675764962652_n.jpg?oh=b517aebd385218223e73a9bb093e94b7&oe=5AA4ECF8)
I saw heaps of wildlife after Oodla Wirra. Before the border I saw emus in several places. After the border it was goats and more goats. Then there were more goats. No kidding, there were a lot of goats. After dropping my stuff off at my accommodation I went for a ride to Fowlers Gap. I'd done Menindee and Silverton in 2015 so I just went for somewhere different.
I'll probably pass a few things that have appeared in the "where is this?" thread on this trip. Today it was alans110 entry:
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23032920_1150934938371414_8236689009287460015_n.jpg?oh=9324511995b5beeb68fbe88e64d9df16&oe=5ADCB770)
Spotwalla has been flawless.
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If you can spell out öldruckmesser (find a town,make a word) a froSTy pint will be yours at Mackay ;-*
http://ozstoc.com/index.php?topic=5610.msg1228975#new (http://ozstoc.com/index.php?topic=5610.msg1228975#new)
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Nice pics and words BG, but please no more selfies.
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Nice pics and words BG, but please no more selfies.
At leaST he's colour co-ordinated .... matching bike , jacket and hat !
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Even the Kapunda sign was orange. I've amassed half of oldtruckmesser on day one already.
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So much for oldtruckmesser... Stinky Pete completed it last night. Prick ! :nahnah
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The chances of you getting the word he nominates is very good.
Just no Pint reward in 10 months time :o
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Here's Bodo's SpotWalla link for his adventure.........
https://spotwalla.com/tripViewer.php?id=16e5c59f2f18c38b7a
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Here's Bodo's SpotWalla link for his adventure.........
https://spotwalla.com/tripViewer.php?id=16e5c59f2f18c38b7a
To me, it looks like he turned left at Broken Hill instead of going straight. I can see no reason to go around 100km north along the Silver City Highway, do a U-turn and head south. BG may let us know otherwise.
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Here's Bodo's SpotWalla link for his adventure.........
https://spotwalla.com/tripViewer.php?id=16e5c59f2f18c38b7a
To me, it looks like he turned left at Broken Hill instead of going straight. I can see no reason to go around 100km north along the Silver City Highway, do a U-turn and head south. BG may let us know otherwise.
He dropped his gear off at his overnight lodgings then headed out to check something out.
I was watching his spot yesterday then commented on his FB post with regard to the deviation.He is heading for Cobar tonight - currently in Wilcannia.
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He dropped his gear off at his overnight lodgings then headed out to check something out.
I was watching his spot yesterday then commented on his FB post with regard to the deviation.He is heading for Cobar tonight - currently in Wilcannia.
:thumbs
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What Stimpy said. Currently lunching at Cobar and then I have a sign to find.
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Did you refuel in Wilcannia?
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Yes. They didn't have 95 or 98 so I reluctantly put in 91 and refuelled to dilute it in Emmdale. I refuelled in Cobar and again in Bourke (my abode for the night). I had to go to three places here in Bourke to find a better fuel than 91. Tomorrow I enter Queensland.
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Day two trip report
I woke up at 0400 as normal. After a shower and some breakfast I packed the bike and waited for sunrise before I departed.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/22893981_1151482494983325_8047438703774630821_n.jpg?oh=2bfeae96c2ccf165e0c8923faa5e7f64&oe=5AAC84AB)
I'm on orders from Williamson not to post selfies so there will be none today. The times they are a changing.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23032494_1151482968316611_5919075941553118857_n.jpg?oh=3c907700a76187658f056884b48e7437&oe=5A6B1CAD)
To be honest, today I saw a lot of road, a lot of wildlife (a lot of roos until Wilcannia and goats all day), several rest areas and not much sightseeing.
Lionel asked me if I refuelled at Wilcannia but I am not sure why. I did reluctantly as all they had was 91 octane. Pissed off to the max.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/22886246_1151487398316168_1512959477728105315_n.jpg?oh=5682b879c857431817ad00ec4b4104a8&oe=5AA4F57B)
I did refuel at Emmdale predominately to dilute the 91 in the tanks. The English girl asked me about my bike and told me she was from Southampton. Apparently she rode when she was in England.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23032417_1151488291649412_3392908657080747885_n.jpg?oh=97c6a56151a76d2cbbbce1986f83fcfc&oe=5AA33838)
Lunch in Cobar and then it was to take on a task set for me to do by Stimpy.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23031378_1151488954982679_3690960072101134324_n.jpg?oh=73682d440a78b3ba20e74a4e53cb35ba&oe=5A65574D)
I liked the look of Cobar. It was a lot bigger than I expected. Should I ever come back this way I'd like to stay a night and have a good look.
By contrast Bourke, my abode for tonight is very small. When I arrived at my accommodation the manager was absent and I had to wait for twenty or so minutes before I could get into my room. After unloading the stuff I went to refuel so I could depart on a full tank in the morning. I had to go to three servos before finding something better than 91 octane. After parking the bike I then went for a walk around town. It was dead as a door nail and every shop has shutters.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/22894131_1151490021649239_947164823335377967_n.jpg?oh=3efda5d60102883630d09dbacbc28ae1&oe=5AAE726E)
I couldn't see any restaurants or the like near by so I think I shall be having Special K for dinner.
My room is much bigger than the cabin at Broken Hill and I am quite content with that.
Tomorrow I enter Queensland.
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What a fantastic ride, and I for one being an old Kawasaki man like your Versys! The memories come flooding back & whilst I in no way condone traversing our Queens highways at high velocities I recall a trip from my then home in West Lake Shores to the In Laws at Wynnum following pretty much the same route that was accomplished in 21 hours, 4 of those sleeping in Gilgandra!
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This is the furthest north I have taken the kwaka. Bourke is only slight north of the previous holder of that title, Farina in South Australia.
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:blk13 :dred11
" No kidding, there were a lot of goats"
so only adult goats, No Kids? :crackup
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..... He dropped his gear off at his overnight lodgings then headed out to check something out.
I was watching his spot yesterday then commented on his FB post with regard to the deviation....
:thumbs
Mmmmm ....... just re-read the post a bit more carefully, and noticed that explanation. But WHY Fowlers Gap? I went through the area around 40 years ago, it was desolate then, and looks like its gone backward ever since.
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When I went to Broken Hill in 2015 I did Menindee, Silverton and the dam just past it so just went and had a look at Fowlers Gap. Sometimes you never know what you find.
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Day three trip report
The day started off with leftovers from last night's dinner fro breakfast.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23032574_1152140391584202_5046892823437375919_n.jpg?oh=5d573226d4ff2160a15eed8f2eee044d&oe=5A70A1B1)
I'd only got as far as North Bourke when it started warming up.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/22894525_1152141158250792_1360413429719302476_n.jpg?oh=bd820015aed60a0e8b33840e0544e10f&oe=5A632276)
The day turned sour very early when about 45km north Bourke I got a puncture. I travel with an emergency repair kit for many years now and now I had to use it. That was no problem but I rode back to Bourke to get more air in the tyre and to make sure it was holding.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23031271_1152141528250755_5506520080497454465_n.jpg?oh=0bd839b7fd6a1803124484338b349648&oe=5A623EDE)
All was looking good so I made a second attempt for Queensland. Getting there meant that I had taken my kwaka to every mainland state this year. Having not adjusting the clock on my ride since departing Adelaide before crossing this line it was half an hour slow. Now it is half an hour fast.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23231559_1152142438250664_627890811940852799_n.jpg?oh=e1f540ef3a372bc6f6628077cdd0c774&oe=5AA79CCC)
Cunnamulla was bigger than I expected. It has only one bus stop but I manged to find it. The job does that to you.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23131999_1152143474917227_7327338418549030487_n.jpg?oh=ac862b0a2be4fd62a870540b7f710c2b&oe=5AA23CBE)
The road from Cunnamulla to Bollon reminded me of the road from Wilcannia to White Cliffs... no white lines had me wondering if I had made the right decision and as all the signs only mentioned St George I couldn't help wonder if there was fuel stops before then. There was one, but whilst the signs said open it was closed. There was a note to call this number for service but no optus coverage meant I couldn't make calls. Someone who drove past did on my behalf (unknown to me) and the operator did rock up.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23167767_1152144148250493_8840286425430247717_n.jpg?oh=b79206f04798da7bb91fcc0e2da1cd60&oe=5AA4617D)
Despite these delays I arrived at my destination of Saint George at a reasonable time. I went for a walk along the Balonne River and back though town before dropping in for a cheeky pint.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23032529_1152145698250338_890624064729883159_n.jpg?oh=aefcfc277224981cc13da643b69488e2&oe=5A638611)
Tomorrow... Brisbane here I come.
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(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23167767_1152144148250493_8840286425430247717_n.jpg?oh=b79206f04798da7bb91fcc0e2da1cd60&oe=5AA4617D)
$1.39 per litre, not too bad.
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I never look at the price.
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I never look at the price.
I never say never. I usually look at the price, but it doesn't worry me, you pay what you pay, it ain't gunna change.
Even when putting 80+ litres in my Ford Ranger, but that have something to do with work Caltex Card.
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"Bodø's Halls Gap Trip" sounds like a Tolkien book. :whistle
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Let me google Tolkien.
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Day Four Trip Report
Upon sunrise I departed Saint George and dropped into the local servo to check my tyre pressures. I thought overnight would test how well my plug was holding out. Seemed okay. I went inside to see if they sold emergency repair kits and was promply told "we're not open yet". The lights were on and the electric doors worked so why would I know that.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23244365_1153086254822949_6735466506518781669_n.jpg?oh=7a12bbfe8793bad590a6ba4117a6f9fc&oe=5A6C54C8)
Where the fucheng hell is Westmarr? Having lived in Japan for a long time and speaking Japanese this sign got my attention as I wizzed past. Okay, it's Chinese but I did major in Chinese at university.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23032715_1153088864822688_103582576601496678_n.jpg?oh=34619326014a640aadfdbaec83d2097c&oe=5A6BE6BD)
Having seen many of these I am beginning to think these are tyres in their natural habitat.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23172440_1153089264822648_4083919269191907106_n.jpg?oh=cb8f1548e5d245ed78a5a9f71c2a473c&oe=5AADC4E0)
In Dalby I saw my first traffic lights since leaving Cobar two days earlier or maybe it was Broken Hill the previous day. Nevertheless my first thought was I have returned to civilization. Dalby was pretty big. I wanted to have a look around but by the same token wanted to get to Toowoomba before bike shops closed to get an expert opinion on the tyre I punctured the previous day.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23244303_1153089791489262_9202464973364174774_n.jpg?oh=b191169588693c7daf3695682747ccf4&oe=5A9EBD6F)
In Charlton just east of Toowoomba I stopped to make another check of my tyre's pressures. All was well so I made the executve decision to skip looking for a bike shop and proceeded on to Brisbane.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23032925_1153091501489091_1547083368088148385_n.jpg?oh=6982d51cfa0b7d4a7de0a71a51bdcb9b&oe=5AA04051)
The heat was getting to me a little so I stopped at Haighleigh (Ipswich) for one final rest break and a caffeine boost) after which I was good as gold. Once I hit the Ipswich Road Cornwall street in intersetion all the old memories of living in Brisbane in the nineties came back to me so I turned up Cornwall street and followed that and subsequent roads to Carindale shops before checking out Carina bus depot where I used to work. I then checked out another one in Capalaba before heading off to my mate's place where I shall spend three nights (last night being the first).
I might go and have a look at North Stradbroke Island today but not decided on anything as yet.
Apologies for the boring photos. The better ones are in my digital camera and I shan't be going through them until I return to Adelaide in two weeks' time.
Spotwalla is doing a wonderful job.
https://spotwalla.com/tripViewer.php?id=16e5c59f2f18c38b7a
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23172836_1153104138154494_1226784390719318695_n.jpg?oh=c9731d3fb9074760d6ec2c5bde4876a4&oe=5A706BEE)
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You were a mere 900m away from Alternative medicine central :beer (https://image.ibb.co/foKhAw/IMG20170708120615.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/gqxG3G/am1.jpg)(https://image.ibb.co/ngATiG/IMG20170713155359.jpg)
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I didn't know it at the time. I'll be passing that way again shortly. We're on the ferry from North Stradbroke Island.
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They have a %1 bayside breeze thats not too bad.
I am off to work now otherwise i'd join you for a few :beer
Fear not i will be popping in for a few on Tuesday to watch the nags do laps.
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Day Five Trip Report
Yesterday we rode down to Cleveland and took the ferry across to North Stradbroke Island. Despite living in Brisbane for a big chunk of the nineties I had never gone to North Stradbroke Island before. Weather forecast was for possible rain but we never experienced any. The roads were wet until we got to Capalaba but they dried up after that. You could see coulds in the distance in this picture from Point Lookout but it was sunny for most of the day.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23172608_1153834671414774_3084829440323570402_n.jpg?oh=047e625d03d94ef38c165beceba66612&oe=5A6277AA)
Spot was running but I also had the other gps tracker running. It has its limitations but updates every fifteen seconds which lets Mrs Glimt know I am moving in real time.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23167750_1153837334747841_4158884150846696275_n.jpg?oh=0c0aca38193d021ff3c405a3b128e744&oe=5A9FAE7A)
I have no plans for today as yet.
Tomorrow I start heading south dropping into Wooli for a perve before settling into Grafton for the night. The furthest north I taken the kwaka is Dalby in Queensland and I can't see that changing for a while (unless I go somewhere today). The furthest east currently stands at Point Lookout on North Strabroke Island but tomorrow that will be replaced with Byron Bay.
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Sounds like you are having a great time up in my back yard :hatwave
Enjoy reading about your travels
:beer
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I was in your back yard when I said happy birthday to Kev Murphy, hence the comment in that thread. It's been great. I am surprised at how much of Brisbane I remember even after all these years.
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BG, keep the pics and words coming. If you feel the need for another selfie, please make sure it's in front of some iconic view or structure. In the meantime ......
Tomorrow I start heading south dropping into Wooli for a perve before settling into Grafton for the night....
If you are riding the freeways, highways and main roads, ignore my suggestions. On the other hand, if you don't mind some back roads and some rarely seen, spectacular views there are some worthwhile diversions through the hinterland. I'll see if I can whip-up some maps.
When you get to Grafton, the Great Northern Hotel at South Grafton is cheap and comfortable, and if you get there on the right (or that could be wrong) night, there is some free 'entertainment'. Let me put in this way, when Cookie ask how you want your meal served, "t!ts in" or "t!ts out", it's probably prudent to say, "in".
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Quick route:
(http://i643.photobucket.com/albums/uu159/williamson_photos/Forum%20Inserts/95D9BA32-6AE7-438B-A136-45C5477C5357_zps2rk0ltwn.jpg) (http://s643.photobucket.com/user/williamson_photos/media/Forum%20Inserts/95D9BA32-6AE7-438B-A136-45C5477C5357_zps2rk0ltwn.jpg.html)
Scenic route:
(http://i643.photobucket.com/albums/uu159/williamson_photos/Forum%20Inserts/5CE699B8-2625-496F-A04F-5FF42893E550_zpsf9j61rcs.jpg) (http://s643.photobucket.com/user/williamson_photos/media/Forum%20Inserts/5CE699B8-2625-496F-A04F-5FF42893E550_zpsf9j61rcs.jpg.html)
The scenic route is around 2hours 15minutes longer (according to Google Maps), but allow plenty of even more time for pics.
Enjoy .......
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Thanks for that. I plan to avoid the motorway and have mapped out a preferred course. I've done that for most of the trip.
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:think1 you are sitting in a park on Ipswich rd while the kwaka is getting a service or a new tyre :popcorn
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No. My mate needed to look at helmets so I went too, to replace the tyre repair kit stuff I used north of Bourke. We've not ridden at all today.
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Day Seven Trip Report
This morning I said goodbye to Queensland and began my descent south. My mate said he'd come part of the way and that he had things to do in Burleigh Heads so we went there via Beaudesert. Neither of us gave Gold Coast peak traffic a thought and payed the price for it. Fortunately he lived in Gold Coast in the past and a good knowledge of the local area otherwise it could have been worse.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23319541_1154653404666234_7787058237907464314_n.jpg?oh=68212dd8021d8370a1a5e627d5e87087&oe=5AAD691A)
I didn't plan on using the motorway but at point I wanted just get out of there so got on there to at least get to Coolangatta. I eventually got off it at Mullumbimby only to follow the road and some how end up back on the motorway. I did leave it again and head for Byron Bay. Despite saying $4 for motorcycles at the lighthouse when I asked where to pay the parking attendant said don't worry about it.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23172965_1154657824665792_5079919127464664051_n.jpg?oh=dbf0e69d3c683fa288d8c271d8d8ffbc&oe=5A61BBCB)
Although a couple of hours behind schedule I was off the motorway and on the course I had planned for the day before leaving Adelaide. Heading through the back way I spotted a shark that another Ozstoc forumite had posted on his facebook page and instantly recognised it. I had to get a snap of it for myself. :grin
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23172649_1154658844665690_8477463977183768031_n.jpg?oh=b6a285e4ea6d4bd580f93c2c8f3deb1a&oe=5AAEB6A0)
I took the ferry from West Ballina to South Ballina. At one point I thought I had missed the turnoff for it but was only metres before it when I opened google maps to check. On the other side I saw a very very small post office in Empire Vale. Post offices of this size are not uncommon in Japan but this is the first time I have seen one here.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23172905_1154660187998889_804094735361568638_n.jpg?oh=08addc10777901122d2f200155e4cc56&oe=5A68BD32)
A few miutes later I saw my first christmas decorations for this season. It was very close to the Empire Vale post office but facebook tells me it was Wardell. They may be right but they have been wrong before.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472251_1154662211332020_1381260596480846622_n.jpg?oh=d9715c2a077883f32fc18910d4c6308d&oe=5AA1111C)
I checked out Yamba before fulfilling my main task of the day... dropping into Wooli, albeit two and a bit two weeks too late. I can sort of justify having the shirt now.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23316515_1154663251331916_2115200906806479308_n.jpg?oh=5ce44249b3f6d437a47962a1e633c381&oe=5AA715D8)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23316695_1154664464665128_2057352096216472181_n.jpg?oh=7c8318d09cb918f81c546a23aa1c8a99&oe=5A68D94B)
I considered staying there a night but everythere was too pricey and I ended up booking a place in South Grafton.
Weather forecasts had be encountering thunderstorms so I was kit out accordingly, but in reality is I barely saw a drop. To take it off and repack everything would have been quite a task so I persevered with it. On the plus, I was completely oblivious to the melbourne cup.
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Day Eight Trip Report
The layout of my accommodation mean it was impossible to gauge how dark/light it was by looking out the window. Today would be the first day I encountered some serious rain on this trip. It meant another day in hi-vis orange.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23319380_1155192464612328_6973071810830659062_n.jpg?oh=eb7675fc3a0cc0e3c05308b542c8422e&oe=5AA03A24)
I came across a bin lid stand in Arrawarra Headland. To be honest I never paid attention to these until one of my workmates showed me a facebook page devoted to them. I don't look at that page but spot bins in that situation regularly since being told about.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23231460_1155196234611951_8322941148145762828_n.jpg?oh=10057e64298214038da3d84a1bab6010&oe=5A982DD2)
I passed the big banana at Coffs Harbour and as it was conveniently sign posted I could manoeuvre to pull into it before whizzing past, which often is the case. Due to the gloomy weather the picture was very dark but I did manage to manipulate it a bit. Those privy to my facebook page may spot the difference.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23316407_1155197841278457_4738557512625967641_n.jpg?oh=52c4d07a7d1e75ea712621408dd37aeb&oe=5A9AA0E7)
I popped into a few places like Nambucca Heads before being bombarded with rain.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23244388_1155199097944998_3413865302606974660_n.jpg?oh=fa88369db9b401aa575a08780010215d&oe=5AA4F180)
I saw signs for a tourist route leading back to the highway so I took up a challenge for a few of them. I know this picture was at a town called Bowraville but I don't actually know where it was on the map.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23231510_1155199874611587_2739972231984998760_n.jpg?oh=e71799ca660f3517025b29f4696821f2&oe=5AA9C39E)
Quite often something I see on my travels will have me singing some song in my head for the rest of the day. Yesterday a shark had me singing the Toy Dolls and today this innocuous sign had me singing Echo And The Bunnymen's "Way Out And Up We Go"
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23318969_1155200327944875_1387079821743481190_n.jpg?oh=15760810c0e10d23378fed9682f368cf&oe=5AA2FFAD)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLX7cEdO1w0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLX7cEdO1w0)
Not as exciting as the camel signs on the Nullabor but I saw a sign for horses and one for deer. Anything makes an exciting change from the usual kangaroos and koalas. I didn't snap the horse one because it was pouring and not safe to park.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23319396_1155201414611433_1243599173275222331_n.jpg?oh=7208072e360d7b8b475b7bb89ea9bffc&oe=5AA92755)
I don't know if this is on the list of Australia's big things but stop and snapped it anyway.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23376314_1155202517944656_247601054117893740_n.jpg?oh=84c2f1e6d451be43a32fa3f7c859d638&oe=5A6F4A73)
On the border run I clocked 40000km on the kwaka in Western Australia. I knew I would clock 50000km on this trip and was hoping it would be in Queensland but it was not to be. I was in Raymond Terrace, New South Wales when I clocked it today.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23435176_1155203091277932_8652240548091253827_n.jpg?oh=c5df98554a428c06720c0580cbbf17d4&oe=5A98D189)
Yesterday I noticed Spotwalla has started dropping some intermediate points in the earlier days of the trip. I am currently in Gosford. This is the closest I have ridden to Sydney.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23319142_1155205221277719_7911226498057107170_n.jpg?oh=ac686476d56ccf84a8ea5587e9071ba1&oe=5AAF31DF)
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Rain, don't ya just love it.
...... I don't know if this is on the list of Australia's big things but stop and snapped it anyway.
(https://scontent.fmel5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23376314_1155202517944656_247601054117893740_n.jpg?oh=84c2f1e6d451be43a32fa3f7c859d638&oe=5A6F4A73)
I think this is Leyland Brothers' World. Mike & Mal put some big $$ into it, had a falling-out, and went bust.
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I don't know the Leyland Brothers but you can find anything online these days. Rain has it's moments. Everywhere on tomorrow's course is forecast to be sunny.
Mrs Glimt will see the irony of the big banana as I am allergic to bananas.
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I don't know the Leyland Brothers but you can find anything online these days. Rain has it's moments. Everywhere on tomorrow's course is forecast to be sunny.
Mrs Glimt will see the irony of the big banana as I am allergic to bananas.
Time for a rest day.
Leyland Brothers - https://youtu.be/NXcFDdBxXFs
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Day Nine Trip Report
I already knew it before I hit the road but today would be the longest day I spent on the road on this trip. Upon leaving Gosford my first destination was Wisemans Ferry via Spencer.
(https://scontent.fsyd5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472930_1155811154550459_6039978152310526281_n.jpg?oh=8f30d14cdfab9a8163c2480796a718ab&oe=5AABF6E6)
The ride from Spencer to there was very similar to many trips I have done in Japan... a winding road running alongside a river. There quite a few nice sights there but very few places to take photos. The hill climb on the other side of Wisemans Farry too was very good. There is a lookout at the top which would have given a good view of the town but works in progress again meant I couldn't take photos.
I took three ferries today: Wisemans ferry, Sackville ferry and Lower Portland ferry.
(https://scontent.fsyd5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23379891_1155811984550376_4415077097585385364_n.jpg?oh=d4f09fdd1ea061664079d19eda95b740&oe=5AAA8E7D)
(https://scontent.fsyd5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472167_1155812331217008_8938431820788433187_n.jpg?oh=12a718bb87ef6e6ea989212ffb47074f&oe=5AA06DD9)
(https://scontent.fsyd5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23380044_1155812957883612_876091236452063516_n.jpg?oh=1ce7679d169fe7d5f543a84dc939200b&oe=5AAF0DA5)
From there is was off to the Blue Mountains and the Bells Line of Road. There was some awesome scenery to be seen there too but likewise there was very few places to park safely. Next time I go there I'll put the gopro facing sideways and cruise on through.
(https://scontent.fsyd5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23318959_1155813357883572_8795786899648669533_n.jpg?oh=071070982836f4ed2ff368d94c3d5bc9&oe=5AA11EE8)
(https://scontent.fsyd5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23380387_1155826241215617_5341247025409820604_n.jpg?oh=07b5bd36eb6acc97a03a65167fcf68c2&oe=5A9FC67B)
In Bathurst I dropped in the Mount Panorama and did two laps of the Bathurst circuit, once in each direction.
(https://scontent.fsyd5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23380075_1155828414548733_7569437316393022092_n.jpg?oh=2534856cffe499578d1b5e0477d0a3ef&oe=5AA21D48)
River punts, the Blue Mountains and Mount Panorama... I was very content with my days work and from there pretty much went straight to my abode for tonight, Wagga Wagga. I didn't stop for many photos in that time but I did when I spotted the tank that Williamson (or was it JD?) posted in the "where is this?" thread.
(https://scontent.fsyd5-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23244484_1155830384548536_2127936014028049470_n.jpg?oh=04ab738226476f032e90cc1e3aef6c5a&oe=5A65FFD7)
Tomorrow I enter Victoria. Somewhere along the line I'll have to buy another usb hdd for my gopro files as I have filled up the current one.
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...... I spotted the tank that Williamson (or was it JD?) posted in the "where is this?" thread.....
Not guilty your worship!
...... Tomorrow I enter Victoria.......
Geez, it'll be a slow ride to Halls Gap. Have you got plenty of things to do before HG? Need to see a friendly face? Someone to talk to, besides yourself?
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My original plan was to leave Adelaide tomorrow. Brisbane was tacked on afterward. I'm not going straight to Halls Gap. I'm meeting a friend in Melbourne on sunday, before doing the Great Ocean Road again. The weather wasn't very good when I did it in 2014.
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A great collection of road-trip photos Bodo. Good to be just rolling along, stopping for a pic whenever you see something that catches your eye. I'm usually on a mission and just tell myself I'll be back sometime to get the photo.
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I do that too. Especially if I've been going too fast to stop.
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...... I spotted the tank that Williamson (or was it JD?) posted in the "where is this?" thread.
Wasn’t me either 🤓
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On the way to Neville Sidings RTE :whistle
(https://image.ibb.co/kG68Nb/20160603_124616.jpg)
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It was Stimpy.
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A great collection of road-trip photos Bodo. Good to be just rolling along, stopping for a pic whenever you see something that catches your eye. I'm usually on a mission and just tell myself I'll be back sometime to get the photo.
These a pretty much the photos I have taken with my phone and uploaded to facebook at the time. I have taken more photos with my digital camera. I won't be going through those until I get back to Adelaide.
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Day Ten Trip Report
Knowing today would be relatively short I wasn't in a hurry to leave in the morning, plus I was downloading some Japanese television programs. Kev mentioned an earlier start in the spotwalla thread but by my standards was a late departure.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517679_1156356797829228_8761926721844467929_n.jpg?oh=dcf99cf41488a21a9f6cbd16ff17af7f&oe=5A96C32D)
It's been a while since I snapped a silo so here's one from Corobimilla. Most of my road trips have a silo, a level crossing, a disused railway and a salt lake. I came across an unusual disused railway at Morundah where the track just stopped and the the ground dropped a metre. Usually they go under the bushes/dirt and disappear. It's been a long time I saw a salt lake.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23376504_1156357084495866_2922694032170476860_n.jpg?oh=6e394cb4524021609e415aa3ef4a5c2d&oe=5AAF0669)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23319443_1156359761162265_7943104410885512082_n.jpg?oh=e90d09e97a0c1fa6ce64cbfd63b4bfee&oe=5A9AB19C)
I like the way many roadhouses and bakeries have their toilet key attached to some large object so you can't put it in your pocket and walk away with it. I'd like to photograph more of them but I don't have a habit of taking cameras into toilets. This one was at the Jilderie bakery.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23316443_1156360511162190_2181027860973698537_n.jpg?oh=334a499d924fbfd212e6c5f73fc5018d&oe=5A9EA992)
I think I just scraped under this weight limit.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472336_1156361384495436_4889559516855775831_n.jpg?oh=dea524bdc96751cdcb1752090cc527a7&oe=5A6550CE)
Kev Murphy picked it but I was going to enter Swan Hill via the Speewa ferry but the bike making a noise as I was taking off had me go straight to Swan Hill Kawasaki to get them to have a look. He said the chain just needs a spray and gave it a spray for me. It did the trick. Since I was here I went and bought a usb-hdd for my gopro files as the other one is now full. Then I went to Speewa (nsw) and did the ferry to Speewa (vic) before checking into my hotel.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23380065_1156361717828736_694274967463697019_n.jpg?oh=079ffe96f6c5559f86cc00706b18be57&oe=5AA619C1)
Tomorrow I make my way to Melbourne.
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++ looks like you need an ST. No need to oil a chain :Stirpot
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++ looks like you need an ST. No need to oil a chain :Stirpot
Haha... I did envisage that response.
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Day Eleven Trip Report
Warning: this report contains a selfie. If offended look away now.
Knowing today was a short trip I wasn't in a hurry to depart on sunrise like I usually do. The previous day I saw the Giant Murray Cod on the way to my hotel yesterday but as I was hot as hell and it was only a few hundred metres from the hotel I decided to wait until the morning to snap it.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23435090_1156993874432187_7349421359382800269_n.jpg?oh=11bf46063b84211aecc3b4e4b7821df4&oe=5A95C3C2)
Whilst doing this I spotted a train in the station.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23435018_1156997521098489_5572886865437611324_n.jpg?oh=6074f88debb6858464070f93b06e7990&oe=5A9DD423)
I thought the post office I saw in Empire Vale was small but the one I saw in Durhan Ox was nothing more than P.O. Boxes.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23519011_1156998281098413_3965438770607289434_n.jpg?oh=12d91dddc4204e55e5380a8dedbdc47d&oe=5AA10086)
Since Stimpy mentioned the name a town make a word thread I've been taking more photos of locality signs. Actually that's not entirely true. I have always taken them so I know where subsequent photos come from when processing them after I return home. They just have a second use now. This one however was facing sideways like they do on train platforms. I think the platform has been stolen.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23434865_1156998847765023_8901453084760164493_n.jpg?oh=31903517a590a3a77423dc41a5e4eee4&oe=5AA5ABB6)
Yesterday I had observed that the brake pads only had about 2000km left in them and I'll be doing that before I return to Adelaide so I contemplated dropping into the Kawasaki dealership in Bendigo to see if they could change them. Being a saturday I didn't like my chances but I thought the least I can do is ask. They said no problem so whilst that I went for a walk around the town. I saw bits of the Remembrance day event that was on
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23379863_1157000311098210_5334285029995433979_n.jpg?oh=00f6b175e1a6542a1e2dee1ed5638fe6&oe=5AAC4E68)
There were tram tracks along the one street so I asked someone about that. She said she wasn't 100% sure but she thought it only a tourist thing and may or may not operate on saturdays. I did see it as I was riding out of town about an hour later.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23473058_1157001931098048_2688267666356914031_n.jpg?oh=5ec8f2e491867f558d72458100a86e2f&oe=5A9DC645)
I believe Williamson is a fan of bridges so here's one from Castlemaine.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23319150_1157003037764604_3683438396769955717_n.jpg?oh=a16a07ca1f0869d544eef6a8020ea013&oe=5AA038A5)
Can't touch this:
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517694_1157003887764519_9096230307424984730_n.jpg?oh=4bd491619d02abd4927cb53f9fbd8499&oe=5AABC2BA)
I did my level best to stay off the freeway coming into Melbourne. One here I went to Fairfield to get my negajō photo for 2018 before coming to my accommodation in Preston. I shall be here two nights. I've had a few beers tonight.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472736_1157004631097778_2392988443528623998_n.jpg?oh=88f7954fbbb8dbed98107876bd071f15&oe=5AAC0739)
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Day Twelve Ride Report
In the spotwalla thread Kev Murphy referred to my morning outing as a ride around the block before lunch. That pretty much is it. I initially didn't plan to go anywhere but by 0530 I had been up for an hour and starting to get bored so I decided to go for a ride to Healesville.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472771_1157593794372195_4340744688557149047_n.jpg?oh=e75e5af9acce265b353fe652c9ce19ac&oe=5A66EAE0)
The plan was to go via Yarra Glen and return via Kinglake. I did neither. I ended up going via Whittlesea and Kinglake by mistake. It was pretty foggy.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23379875_1157595534372021_2147957210582960630_n.jpg?oh=1e5e7f61266932d93a2a9ed4eb06a13f&oe=5AA9E9A8)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23380164_1157596631038578_4490469545134907779_n.jpg?oh=a27eb93bced83997bdf638c5d6791e67&oe=5AAC2D1D)
It got really thick at one stage but cleared up at Kinglake Central
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472767_1157597367705171_1968840841608628104_n.jpg?oh=e8b6f79faa5b3ee960511ddfa7942ac3&oe=5A6823E5)
After going via Kinglake I had hoped to return via Yarra Glen but somehow ended up returning via Ringwood. Such is life.
Got to Epping in time for lunch and had Hog's Breath. I used to go there a lot when I lived in Cairns.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23435181_1157602101038031_9117232077935680865_n.jpg?oh=c8c040395e375ebcad9e1eb505ab1f43&oe=5AA03613)
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Can't wait to see the rest of pics after you finish the trip. A lot of memories in there.
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Day Thirteen Ride Report
Bar the day I left home to kick this trip off this morning was my earliest departure simply because I didn't want to waste good daylight on suburban streets. I was in Little River when the sun decided to poke its head out. There was plenty of fog about at the time. Glen Shorrock said it was passing through this town is how the Little River Band got its name.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517721_1158352237629684_6118795110744437851_n.jpg?oh=6bbb00c812ae773fb690101cbd9bdc6a&oe=5AA13197)
The sun was shining in Geelong but I could still see fog/cloud in the distance.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517850_1158354134296161_986344299773404073_n.jpg?oh=0bea3d51f60b392c7c1087b316d4592b&oe=5A9A5E6A)
I saw quite a few of these. If you have to be reminded then you probably shouldn't be operating a vehicle. I think most of them were before roundabouts.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23621541_1158354357629472_8304658542876166999_n.jpg?oh=f0fb509729e366f4a79e6561cdc5bb68&oe=5A698143)
The sun came out when I was in Angelsea so I was really pleased as my only other Great Ocean Road trip was besot with rain. That smile was soon taken from my face when I went to check tyres and the stand wasn't fully down. I dropped the bike and broke the left hand handle bar wind guard. The ducks are not related.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23435084_1158355030962738_1066901781911682817_n.jpg?oh=74404bef0d57866c5034c607981df3c6&oe=5A676099)
I think everyone takes a picture here, although I have been told I have to get the bike closer next time.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472113_1158356107629297_2229416852974643288_n.jpg?oh=6c49796ae2e4f1fae8b2c15f59986446&oe=5AA20F9E)
I gave Lorne the thumbs up.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472798_1158356424295932_6580714249075274205_n.jpg?oh=a8fd81fbacf9d9784553fd6df43226fb&oe=5A614766)
I know shop windows and advertising often use Chinese but I never expected to find road work signs in Chinese. I was also surprised they used traditional characters instead of simplified characters.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23559427_1158356934295881_6729523646921815494_n.jpg?oh=d0baf7b6fa1738ddb54e1ddd3330a401&oe=5AADEC1C)
Cape Otway was the land of the lost. I didn't see any of these creatures though.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517900_1158357697629138_3551036237009547146_n.jpg?oh=aaec20b029c2c8f900f159396e9e6646&oe=5A6592A3)
After dropping off my stuff at Port Campbell I headed out to complete the Great Ocean Road as there was no guarantee the weather would be as good tomorrow.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23471992_1158358780962363_8192613826359295471_n.jpg?oh=8c0a52994663168fae8dfc3270a4f2e5&oe=5A9520BC)
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It is bad luck about the damage to the bike. At least you can continue the trip. the GOR is a great ride. Great pub at Wye River.
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Fortunately it's only cosmetic damage. It'll be due for a service when I get back so they can replace that too. Annoying but I'd have been more annoyed had I broken the indicator or fog lights.
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Day Fourteen Ride Report
With another night in Port Campbell today's trip was to travel light and do a clockwise loop taking in Terang, Camperdown, Cressy, Inverleigh, Winchelsea, Colac, Chapple Vale and Simpson before returning via Princeton.
Even though I dropped into this lookout yesterday afternoon I did again this morning to wish all my fans a good morning.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23473033_1158882184243356_2770631738527819660_n.jpg?oh=1f8e1944bdd3ec84a1fb4fc863ee5272&oe=5AAB2A4B)
After a short ride around the township of Peterborough I headed north towards Temang. I spotted cattle crossing the road via an underpass in Curdievale. Japan has similar underpasses for tortoises to cross the road.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23519069_1158885470909694_5321677122543319665_n.jpg?oh=8ca03f6bf5defb2f8f40d409344ab700&oe=5A65046A)
Who says lightening doesn't strike twice? I've only ever had two flats on the kwaka and both have been on this trip. I was still in Curdievale when this happened. Again I tried plugging it but this time the plug wouldn't hold. I did manage to get it to Nullawarre (which I had no intentions of visiting today) before being able to contact a motorcycle shop in Warrnambool. They said it would be mid morning before they could get to me so I just had to sit and wait.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472047_1158886290909612_5059880766064555074_n.jpg?oh=f3219b55b60fc0aa129a053552d49879&oe=5A94DF34)
Fortunately it was day where I was as Kev Murphy puts it 'a ride around the block' as opposed to being on the move to somewhere. The bike would have been a lot heavier without it. The downside is that I had no bushman with me and the insects were annoying. There's not a lot to do in Nullawarre so I vegetated. A football forum I post on provided plenty of entertainment as italy failed to qualify for the world cup after losing on aggregate to East Norway.
When I got to the motorcycle shop it turned out to be a Suzuki dealership. They had a v-strom on display. I had already decided to buy a v-strom when I suddenly changed my mind and went for the kwaka, based purely on the location of the dealership. Ironically that dealership went under and as they also dealt with Honda their demise led me to this forum.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23473209_1158889707575937_63477237478703670_n.jpg?oh=1d485bb2817fe2c310bed272250db26b&oe=5AAFE4D7)
By the time I got to Terang I had lost over five hours so my lap was severely truncated.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23472944_1158891057575802_6934126220220637179_n.jpg?oh=ff0c40e17b499a361f1d0decd46c3016&oe=5AA98D6A)
Believe it on not, it's not on the coast.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23561415_1158891900909051_1850382099243369800_n.jpg?oh=541d34c1cdc56080960276a672857ca8&oe=5A93E9D2)
After Colac I pretty much headed home via Simpson, had a cold shower and now must think about what I am going to do for dinner.
Don't forget to put your pasta out for italy. (http://www.footballnews.com.au/forum/images/smilies/icon_lol.gif)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23658370_1158892760908965_6931678833174867791_n.jpg?oh=9bedafc135d4277a69949cad23187bb7&oe=5A65EC90)
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Day Fifteen trip report
With a long day planned and the threat of rain I departed in the dark. I was in Cobden by sunrise.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23559645_1159578200840421_1910855282535978707_n.jpg?oh=27717222d2e208fc7f19ba954a117b49&oe=5A941A12)
There's a causeway between two lakes on the way from Lelslie Manor to Foxhow.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23658651_1159579210840320_2772337476683534524_n.jpg?oh=ebc19e85ceb3e04f5b7606824a13c527&oe=5A63FF1B)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23518945_1159580777506830_5425852698892282031_n.jpg?oh=c6cc7d23e21dd3beac474f05c78548f8&oe=5AA94EA8)
I see Ballarat has a Toy Run as well. I wonder if any other states do.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23622239_1159581234173451_2882137186275317048_n.jpg?oh=03346c518381ff69522a5aecdf59fa6b&oe=5AA98ED4)
I had a smidsy moment in Dayelsford. Those were his exact words. The gopro footage should be interesting when I get around to viewing it.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23621608_1159582174173357_6482825097583585306_n.jpg?oh=5bef3ea47e070a0aaa48fa9d4d0a1503&oe=5A962CB9)
This was in Malmsbury. Personally I didn't think the road was that bad. The roads I encountered on my Horsham to Portland and back trip last year were way worse, and Langers also said something along those lines. Nevertheless, this sign did make me chuckle.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23518931_1159582994173275_3086410328446760884_n.jpg?oh=99a826bf38b383349c6c33b25c8cbc8d&oe=5A923AA1)
This trip I photographed more bridges than disused railways. Usually it's the latter.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517455_1159584297506478_1009194259507864001_n.jpg?oh=df490942d7aac28dbc51a1024e14b954&oe=5A98E982)
Guess what I found Williamson? Actually I have found a lot of things others have posted in the "where is this?" game thread.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23518921_1159584950839746_2240317817233055066_n.jpg?oh=4fd711ac600e53a2e14924d1d2be971a&oe=5AACFE51)
I felt a couple of drops of rain in Nagambie but nothing of note. I could count them on one hand.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23559867_1159585577506350_8653420275332220469_n.jpg?oh=ea14315c56d59f66dcc00c6bd58d28e3&oe=5AAABBB6)
After dropping off my gear at my room for the night I made my way to Hume Village and then to Granya to do the Wymah ferry. I have now done the Murray River ferries outside South Australia.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23621982_1159587524172822_8031732525975288297_n.jpg?oh=492a491d6c59ef931d3d115b98ab8bd0&oe=5A631E72)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23622017_1159587984172776_5667695623111367419_n.jpg?oh=f2ab5e6a0efbd3fd7b9a378108ee2abe&oe=5A6317C5)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23559575_1159588337506074_8257899393150996698_n.jpg?oh=d4653db7b77f920dc9ec1236d5b9b033&oe=5A99C975)
I had to push a button to get the ferryman to make his way down from his house. I couldn't believe how quiet it was.
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There's a causeway between two lakes on the way from Lelslie Manor to Foxhow.
Back in '88 or '89 I got myself jammed up with work commitments, had an 8:00am start at Camperdown, decided to leave home around 9:00pm the night before, stay in a motel at Camperdown. This resulted in me driving the Foxhow Road along that strip between the lakes (not actually a causeway, but as good as), had to make a pit stop so stopped on the narrowest point, the fog had settled-in, very spooky indeed.
Something moved in the bushes or reeds on the roadside, I packed me daks, put my gear away before I finished, just as well I had a change of clothes for the next morning's meeting.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517455_1159584297506478_1009194259507864001_n.jpg?oh=df490942d7aac28dbc51a1024e14b954&oe=5A98E982)
Here's one I prepared earlier:
(http://i643.photobucket.com/albums/uu159/williamson_photos/Black%20Dog%20Ride%20Bendigo%202016/IMG_0743_zpsplcfgqv2.jpg) (http://s643.photobucket.com/user/williamson_photos/media/Black%20Dog%20Ride%20Bendigo%202016/IMG_0743_zpsplcfgqv2.jpg.html)
Guess what I found Williamson? Actually I have found a lot of things others have posted in the "where is this?" game thread.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23518921_1159584950839746_2240317817233055066_n.jpg?oh=4fd711ac600e53a2e14924d1d2be971a&oe=5AACFE51)
:thumbs
Big day today, how many km?
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I'm not sure. I haven't kept track. I clocked 6000 for the trip yesterday but I didn't photograph the trip metre as I was having problems with a flat tyre at the time. It was 5993 when the tyre punctured.
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(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517455_1159584297506478_1009194259507864001_n.jpg?oh=df490942d7aac28dbc51a1024e14b954&oe=5A98E982)
Interesting story about that bridge, something along the lines of:
It was built in Scotland in the 1850's, shipped to Melbourne as ballast in the hull of a sailing boat, it was intended to be used to cross the Yarra River at Hawthorn, but someone miscalculated the width of the river and the bridge was too short. The Shire of Metcalfe bought it at a bargain basement price, and erected it over the Campaspe River.
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Day Sixteen Trip Report
I left Wodonga at about 0500 and crossed into New South Wales and hit the Riverina Highway in the opposite direction I had ridden it the day before. Weather meant photo opportunities were going to be few and far between. My first photo of the day was at a level crossing at Rennie.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23519334_1160287124102862_1017256836342135542_n.jpg?oh=a6be2fb523c93118af0f828ae42e6129&oe=5A94005B)
Upon my arrival at Berrigan the rain came. It was quite heavy so I was fortunate to pull into this place under a roof to change the mobius on the back of the bike for a gopro. The mobius takes better photos and when plugged to a powerbank will run all day without the need to change the sd card. Unfortunately though it is not waterproof so when the rain is out I swap it for a gopro.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23559429_1160288394102735_6437676958846412619_n.jpg?oh=0c9ce0fa437e0f2c7c52433ebecff3c5&oe=5A9C9B59)
The bridge connecting Barwon to Koondrook is currently getting a makeover. This is where I bid New South Wales goodbye.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23376601_1160289197435988_5772970555504886450_n.jpg?oh=96f01590b881514ba668a5d4dece99a6&oe=5AA51E5C)
I stopped in Donald for lunch before making my way to Halls Gap.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517803_1160289754102599_4363198428741013605_n.jpg?oh=349f8b272daf82d05fa583d744cff46b&oe=5AAC1D86)
The free wifi at the caravan park has a limit for the day so I was unsure if I could make this report. Other places I have stayed have also had limits but I could jump to my telstra mobile modem if need be. Here I can't get a signal. That may change if I go into town. After all the rain I had been content to stay inside.
I'll see everyone when they arrive on saturday. I'm in cabin 19.
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Another big day?
...... I stopped in Donald for lunch before making my way to Halls Gap.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517803_1160289754102599_4363198428741013605_n.jpg?oh=349f8b272daf82d05fa583d744cff46b&oe=5AAC1D86)
Here's a pic I prepared earlier:
(http://i643.photobucket.com/albums/uu159/williamson_photos/Ulysses%20Mildura%20AGM%202012/38550f92-8649-4a8b-ae13-be70319a9c21_zpsheup2exd.jpg) (http://s643.photobucket.com/user/williamson_photos/media/Ulysses%20Mildura%20AGM%202012/38550f92-8649-4a8b-ae13-be70319a9c21_zpsheup2exd.jpg.html)
I'll see everyone when they arrive on saturday.....
Yep! See you Saturdee.
:hatwave
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Here's a pic I prepared earlier:
([url]http://i643.photobucket.com/albums/uu159/williamson_photos/Ulysses%20Mildura%20AGM%202012/38550f92-8649-4a8b-ae13-be70319a9c21_zpsheup2exd.jpg[/url])
Yep! See you Saturdee.
:hatwave
I know that one. You posted it in the where is this thread.
See you saturday.
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I know that one. You posted it in the where is this thread.
See you saturday.
I reckon we stood in the same place, just angled the camera a bit different. Did you recognise the location from the "Where is this" thread, and thought, "I'll get a pic here?"
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Yes, although I already knew it because it's the view you get when you turn the corner. No motorcycles in that motorcycle shop.
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No motorcycles in that motorcycle shop.
Used to be a Yamaha dealer? I bought a new tyre for my Bol dor when passing thru there in 2010
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Day Seventeen Trip Report
The day started with Kev Murphy asking me how many kilometres I clocked up to get here so I consulted the kwaka. On a technicality there should be an extra 30 that got unrecorded sitting on the back of a trailer from Nullawarre to Warrnambool.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23561772_1160772070721034_5450114397518391182_n.jpg?oh=cddc26b31a3a63145c1e37365d1fe985&oe=5AA25F3F)
Despite the drizzle I decided to go for a leisurely ride around the Grampians this morning. It wasn't long before I spotted another location I have seen in the "where is this?" thread. Cue Williamson to respond with a "one I prepared earlier" reply.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/l/t1.0-9/23622346_1160772620720979_4115884808038888385_n.jpg?oh=d7e67fa98a3ac0553abb9a72e5723182&oe=5A9BBD57)
Fortunately the sun came out whilst climbing Mount William.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23559702_1160773214054253_6054507586774201711_n.jpg?oh=092ff5d4aec4065d850f1d969cb29b03&oe=5A9CAFA4)
At the top though it was thick cloud and I could see zilch. I did see a lot of kangaroos on the way down despite not seeing any on the way up. I also went and saw a waterfall, Silversands or something like that. To be honest it wasn't much chop but you have to do things.
From then there were roadworks on the way to Dunkeld so I took the opportunity to stand on the pegs. I was expecting the Dunkeld to be bigger, ie. have a Coles, woolies or an IGA but it had none of those. I went and had a look at the station which is currently being used as an art exhibition. Whilst I was in the general store a tractor pulled in and tried to lift up a car. You don't see that everyday. Eventually they worked out it wasn't going to happen and they ended up getting the tractor to tow it. I didn't know why they didn't do it in the first place. The gopro had captured all of it. I look forward to seeing that.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23622342_1160773914054183_3068638456658808560_n.jpg?oh=0bdb41ce6f0588700884f3ba5c1e5090&oe=5AAC652C)
Apparently the car was stolen and dumped there.
I went back and did the Victoria Valley road. A couple of nice views but nowhere to safely park. There was one lookout where you could see bugger all.
My second usb-hdd was now full so I had to go to buy a third one. I thought I'd get one in Dunkeld but I couldn't see anywhere they might sell one. Same for Stawell... I ended up going to Ararat.
Spot was late to update due to lack of telstra connectivity but Greenalp had no problems.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23621976_1160753037389604_8014366852204564547_n.jpg?oh=6d37b13c53ee845c9e83c93342f443c4&oe=5A9F0A7F)
So who else has already arrived in Halls Gap?
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:o last time I saw a car picked up by a forklift it crushed the exhaust and other bits and pieces. Great scenery in that part of world.
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That would be Silverband Falls.
Thick fog down this way at the moment, will be on the road shortly.
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Day Eighteen Trip Report
The purpose of this trip was the Halls Gap RTE this afternoon. Everything that came on before hand actually got tacked on later and the trip gradually got longer. Nevertheless, I have had a blast.
This morning I went for one last ride (excluding the return home tomorrow) and checked out the North Grampians Road. I had planned to do it tomorrow on the way home but am glad I got it out of the way today. That said I saw way too many skippies for my liking.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23621441_1161368180661423_6011943621401696547_n.jpg?oh=333b73802b025003f222ac5d2cab9abb&oe=5AAF1485)
I then rode on through places like Zumsteins. I had hoped to find a locality sign so that I'd have a Z up my sleeve for the "see a town make a word (something to that effect) thread should it be required. I didn't see one. From there I continued on the Drung before u-turning and heading back. On the return I popped into Roses Gap, Wartook Reservoir and the road that leads to Silverband Falls. I had noticed there was a one way street leading into it yesterday so sussed that out today. I can see why it's a one way street. On the way out I spotted a stop sign like the one I saw in Castlemaine last week. I didn't notice this yesterday.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23621387_1161375167327391_5605121241760337565_n.jpg?oh=da5ad3f7ab768297b6049ad78c5cbd0f&oe=5A97CAB1)
Due to connectivity issues spot and greenalp didn't update until I was back at the caravan park.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23559894_1161375707327337_3485872821779008965_n.jpg?oh=bdd486d262a27868cad2734c0299654e&oe=5A9B704C)
Kev Murphy was parked out the front when I rode in and Jdbiker rode in a few minutes later. After locking up the bike, having a quick shower is was time to make tracks for today's RTE. Apologies in advance... I have never been very photogenic.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23559938_1161380380660203_6620321564989345923_n.jpg?oh=c7d5b77b9301bc1bfc13dcc8fda61651&oe=5AA8578E)
Not the best of pictures but there was a good turnout. I probably have better snaps in the digital camera.
(https://scontent.fbne3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23658916_1161376637327244_6236079593153510283_n.jpg?oh=57bfac4f1d0b7e278f6e10c51bbcce10&oe=5A97F3CB)
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It was great to finally meet Kev, Jd and his better half, Williamson and his better half and Big Ted on his big lap.
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I thought you met JD & Chippy at Balranald this year :grin
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I thought you met JD & Chippy at Balranald this year :grin
They were there but I never actually spoke to them. You, Gadget and Johnyyted kept me entertianed.
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Location around 30 mins ago
(https://image.ibb.co/ec3QV6/Image3.jpg)
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Location as of 15 minutes ago
(https://image.ibb.co/buintR/Image4.jpg)
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Back in South Australia now.
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(https://image.ibb.co/jzm7tR/Image5.jpg)
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(https://image.ibb.co/bM7VDR/Image7.jpg)
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Day Nineteen Trip Report
Today would be my final day on the road for this trip. My computer at home feels really fast after three weeks with a small note book that has always been slow, but does what I want it to do... transfer gopro files and the like from sd cards to a usb-hdd.
After seeing what seemed like a billion skippies on the North Grampians road yesterday morning and a couple the previous day I left on sunrise taking my time until I hit the Western Highway and didn't see one. If you thought I'd take the Western Highway straight to Bordertown then you'd be wrong. I turned right on C210 and headed for Hopetoun. Painted silos would be the order of the day, but none of them compared to the one Alans1100 posted from Kimba a month or so ago.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23621974_1162193697245538_4251547168783564055_n.jpg?oh=5a4887252c8015770a34f15c42146260&oe=5A9EE791)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23659439_1162195483912026_5888108124626301966_n.jpg?oh=097a7d651e389b79a0f6d2cfbe08f0d3&oe=5AA1F140)
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23659496_1162201587244749_3694544544866944936_n.jpg?oh=76c43539e075df47e279747f833c42dd&oe=5AA73BDF)
I would go on to see (and photograph) a lot more of these but you get the picture.
This sends a shiver down my spine but for some reason the locality isn't showing in this picture. The sign clearly said Warracknabeal.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23722278_1162202807244627_7109098535830637671_n.jpg?oh=b3268c997336ac377dd8793204bd5df2&oe=5AAEB84E)
I am glad I found this in Rosebery because I was really busting for a piss.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23755635_1162203190577922_5776761842075470935_n.jpg?oh=cf066d5a4b946cc65e2a6aabea83a2a9&oe=5AACEC87)
It was about 1300 when I entered South Australia for the first time since departing on the 1st.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23658466_1162203553911219_825345386739914378_n.jpg?oh=80b68b110f80a38a70eace33d2ef18dc&oe=5AA40BE7)
Over the course of just under three weeks I did 8671km, more than 8000 of those interstate.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23659721_1162204167244491_2800937757295112464_n.jpg?oh=620303aaa5c18c8256c12f07f7ff46b1&oe=5A9022EC)
I trialled Spotwalla for the first time and have to say I was impressed with it. To think I almost gave up on it after struggling to get it to run before the trip started but now I'll have to dig up that donation thread and make a contribution.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23755574_1162204783911096_1542887462706015898_n.jpg?oh=a1deff31537e66faeb6085ed3525d892&oe=5AA2B047)
All in all, I went through 1 set of break pads, had 2 flat tyres, used up 3 usb hard drives, ate 3 boxes of special k, traversed 4 states, did 7 river ferries/punts, 2 proper ferries, had 19 days on the road, bar one and a half of them was blessed with fantastic weather, took over 1200 1371 photos on digital camera which I haven't even looked at yet, rode 8000+ km and had a fantasmagorical time. I met a lot of new people at the Halls Gap RTE and the three days in Halls Gap itself were also pretty awesome. I met and old friend in Melbourne and got my nengajō photo.
Langers asked me what was the highlight of the trip. It's really hard to say because bar the flat tyres it was all pretty good, but if I would have to choose a day I think it would be the day I road from Gosford to Wagga Wagga. The ride from Spencer to Wisemans Ferry was a windy road along a river very reminiscent of Japan, I did three river punts, saw some of the Blue Mountains along the Bells Line of Road and two laps of Bathurst (one in each direction) all in one day.
North Stradbroke Island was great to do considering I never went there once despite living in Brisbane for years. I got great weather on the Great Ocean Road after having my 2014 trip ruined with rain and a bit of a yarn with a Japanese tour guide at Halls Gap before going in for our meal.
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++ great reporting. It was great keeping up with you and the journey.
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Spotwalla has also taught me the furthest north I have ridden the kwaka is Dalby in Queensland and furthest south is Cape Otway in Victoria. The other extremes I already knew but furthest east is Cape Byron in New South Wales and furthest west is about four kilometres west of Eucla Pass in Western Australia.
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:clap. Great write up Bodo,I'm pretty jealous but really enjoyed it.
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You see, THIS is what happens when someone who is restricted to timetables destinations and prescribed routes takes a break from work, and all 'normal' transport rules are thrown out the window. :grin :rofl :thumb
A pleasure to follow your trip, and to meet with you, Bodø.
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But like work I didn't go the quickest possible route.
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Awesome ride reports mate, it has been great following the adventure, thanks for sharing :hatwave
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk
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At times I felt I was riding with you.
Great RR.
Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk
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At times I felt I was riding with you.
You got it in stereo. (http://www.footballnews.com.au/forum/images/smilies/icon_razz.gif)
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Awesome ride reports mate, it has been great following the adventure, thanks for sharing :hatwave
Cheers and likewise for you rally videos. I just watched them.
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I would like to wish everyone a happy new year. 2018 is the year of the dog.
(https://scontent-syd2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/26195549_1189996084465299_7882888876919579333_n.jpg?oh=f345e253db634976fa1e6942d710e9bd&oe=5AF299F6)
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All the best my friend, have a great year.
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Sounds like you are having a great time up in my back yard :hatwave
Enjoy reading about your travels :beer
Wish I could have said the same to you. Sorry to hear about your off and hope you have a speedy recovery.