Setting off

It always happens. No matter how hard I try to be efficient, organised and packed ready for a smooth departure, a gremlin wriggles into the system and wreaks havoc. As a result my carefully planned departure had to be postponed for 24 hours. I wasn’t unduly upset because I did have one day up my sleeve, but it would have been nice not to have to deal with 864kms on Day One. The dromedary, though, after huffing at Sunday’s -3C morning, soon lengthened her stride and the kilometres in front of us soon became kilometres behind us.

From mountains and pale winter grasses to lush, green pastures and cropping country. As the day wore on the countryside became quite soothing to the eyes. The canola hasn’t started to flower yet, but when it does it will transform the landscape completely.

Keeping stops to a minimum – no getting carried away with the camera, no matter how splendid the wattle – Camel and I completed the first day’s journey, Tenterfield to Koorawatha, in 11 hours. It’s extra good to visit family on a journey such as this, and what a great opportunity to air the usual complaint that we live much too far apart.

Day Two, though nippy, wasn’t so icy. After consulting those who drive for a living in the Cowra-Young area, the decision was made to alter the plan and drive to Adelaide via Narrandera and Tailem Bend instead of Balranald and Renmark – a sort of great circle route, I suppose. Measured out it proved to be 100kms shorter that way – or 7 to 8 litres of fuel less, as the Scotsman in my distant past is quick to point out – and consequently a money-saving move.

As the sun sets on Day Two, I think how clever I was to pack that thick, warm cardigan!

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