I have sat at my computer on many occasions and thought I must write another entry but I am easily sidetracked.
Over the past couple of months I have traveled north to Hervey Bay with my family and enjoyed the time with my grandsons. We got to swim , play in the sand , fish and just have a great time. I left home carrying a heavy cold and hoping the warn Queensland climate would help me get rid of it but it turned into asthma and I am still having the after affects.
Our trip included several stops in free camps – Mirrool NSW , Forbes NSW, Mendooran NSW, Lake Broadwater Qld ($6 per person), They were all great stops and in a few cased a great meal at the local pub. I am certain that these free stops will increase the number of travellers on the road . It amazes me how many caravans pull into these sites about 3 pm. In my conversations with the fellow travellers it is obvious that many of them could not afford to stay at caravan parks . My van is almost self sufficient – 250 watt solar panels – full 12 volt system , gas heating and hot water, Fridge /freezer which is three way 12v , 240v and gas ,2 x 9 kg gas bottles, 2 x 80 litre water tanks and toilet /shower. I have not pushed to the limit but guess I could last about 5-7 days. Water would be the main concern.
When I am in a town overnight I always walk around and have a look, buy a coffee, groceries , a meal and usually strike up a conversation with a local and am amazed at the history about a region that you can learn. We also visited the Radio Telescope Dish at Parkes – Riley was interested in the huge dish and all the experiments that he could try. On the return trip I went to the open range zoo at Dubbo – we will need to take Riley and Lucas next year.
While in Hervey Bay I was able to visit some friends who suffer from MSA and spend some time. I am always careful especially when I have a cold. I had intended to visit a couple on the Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane but my health made me head for home. I have since been able to talk to them and will make a real effort next year.
I am expecting some visitors for the weekend as there is a public holiday for the Melbourne Cup. I haven’t had a bet on the race since Jill passed away. She would make certain that I made a bet for her – usually the favourite and an outsider. We never won enough to cover our bets but Jill enjoyed the day. A glass of wine and chicken salad and some excitement. It’s next Tuesday and I have no idea who is running.
As I have said time flies – no visitors – I have
The Dish at Parkes NSW
Lake Broadwater Qld
Building sand castles at Hervey Bay
Riley & Lucas on the bike at Fraser Lodge C/P
Lucas in the water
The fisherkids
had a great day watching the Melbourne Cup with my best friends & neighbours. I even picked the winner (100 to 1) based on Jill’s method – but as usual I didn’t put any money on for her.
I have had another visit to my boys got to watch them learning to swim and allowed Chris & Nicole another night out. I enjoy my time with the boys and I can brain wash them about their Grandma.
I have had another visit to Gentle Annie Caravan Park with my friends – 4 days enjoying their company and the peace and serenity of the King river. The park was very quiet only a few vans in – but that will change when the holidays come around.
Keiran , Louise & I went out to Keith’s clearing sale and hope that the farm is sold.
Back home to a green pool and a couple of trees down in the back yard looks like I will need to do some house keeping.
See you soon on the net
Keith’s Clearing Sale – Oxley Flats
King River at Gentle Annie Caravan Park
King River at Gentle Annie Caravan Park
Jillsgym at Gentle Annie Caravan park
Michael & Amanda of to the Melbourne Cup
My boys learning to swim
Another Coffee with Jill at Forbes NSW