Hell has it been that long since I have updated the blog??
Well a lot has happened, not the least to mention that I now have a real job, No more playing with CROCODILES & TOURISTS,. I got me one of those jobs you hear about, quite well paid, air-conditioned work place,(about 25 inside) a good team to work with, coffee etc. Bloody great compared to working in the rain from 8 till 5 .
I left Hartley’s and now work for a firm called Norstate Gas, a welders warehouse sort of place, you know, a guy shop!!!
We are settling in to the van very nicely thank you, but I must admit I seem to be doing the lions share of the cooking etc but my beautiful “Fae” looks after the washing and cleaning etc. Fairs fair I suppose. We come home and usually start with a coffee, then move on to a wine with “ horse’s doovers!!” until after the news and a current affair. Very sophisticated Ha!! “Fae” has the annex all set up complete with reclining chairs, side board and a host of candles. Very homely.
As I said previously,
I am surprised at how easy it was to adapt to the van. Our annex is our living room and the van for cooking, sleeping ,washing etc. The boss admitted today that there are a lot of things in cupboards that have not been used yet but we saw them as “MUST HAVES” As for the Jayco, the only problem so far was a pump in the washing machine, replaced for $39, and works like new again. We are very happy with our Jayco and have yet to find any real problems with the van.We have had some bloody torrential down pours and nerry a leak.
The van park at Lake Placid has lived up to its expectations, during the busy period we were full of Grey Nomads,(Just like us) what a very friendly bunch of people, well mostly any way!! There seems to be a bit of a trend setters group occasionally that form a circle for drinks and then shun anyone else that is not seen to be in their sect!! Never mind their loss, by far the majority of vanners in the park are all very nice people who we like to keep in contact with if possible. I know some will be back next year and all being well we will still be here. Apart from Jules and Len who most of you would know, we met a couple with a love for two very small dogs, Paul and Lynne.(not the dogs names) We had some bad news with these two as Lynne had to undergo a bypass op during their trip. They were heading to their next stop when Lynne had a heart attack and had to be taken to Townsville for surgery.(get well soon)
The male half of the other couple, Len, is at it again as far as I know and Jules is flat out keeping him away from the nurses again.
It must run in circles you know, “Fae “ has had a cough and sniff for nearly twelve months now and finally our doctor got her to get a thourgh scan again to see what was happening. We the next day we had a call to say that there was something “Majorly wrong with the scan and we had to see the doctor immediately” We both said nothing but we both thought , “no not again, we have had our turn!” We had a shocking night as neither of us could sleep although neither one of us wanted to let the other know we were worried. The following morning off we went to the doc’s, I was very upset at this time and the doctor asked me how I was and seemed very jovial, even to the point of asking if a trainee doctor could sit in on the consult. What!! Did he want to show the new guy what people who were down looked like !!
. I was very pissed off at this point and the doc must have picked up on the vibe as he asked me what was wrong.?
I said we got the message and here we are!. You should have seen his face drop, classic, the message we were suppose to get was that there was something majorly wrong with her sinuses and we needed to get it fixed as soon as we could. What a relief, you have no idea! I broke down to tears as the relief flooded over me, my “Fae “was safe after all. When he said she needed to see a specialist to look at her nose etc. I could have kissed him.
That brings us to tonight, I am writing this after visiting my beautiful “Fae” in hospital, She is doing fine and will come home tomorrow. I believe she is going to support a couple of black eyes for a week so she will use that to her advantage to get the sympathy card!
So as of now you are up to date and I will try to be more dillegent and try to keep up to date. Thanks to you that have signed our guest book and please keep in touch.
To all our readers and friends please keep in contact and be safe for Xmas and the new year.
LOL Dreamcaster
Monday, December 15, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
The Dream has Started in Earnest
3rd Sept.
We have been in the van for a week or so now and we are starting to get every thing in order, you know every thing has a place etc.!! “put that back where you got it”
I have made mention of various people in previous pages and tonight we get to meet the couple from “shiela and willy makit” fame. I have followed their trip around the block with great delight and follow their position in the Camps 4 book. Reading between the lines I recon they have a wicked sense of humour. Shiela e-mailed and said when they arrive in Cairns they would bring Pizza and a bottle from Alice Springs. I said we would supply the beer. The time was set.
I was coming back from the shower block and noticed a green Patrol prowling around and thought I would take a punt. I stuck my head in the window and said “I hope you brought the bloody pizzas” The look on Jule’s face was worth the effort. What a great pair of down to earth people. We sat down to pizzas, bubbly and beer. What a night. Jules tells a bloody great yarn and had me in fits with some of their adventures, like going over a bridge made of logs and getting stuck to a certain cold seat!!!! Lenny sits and sips his beer and adds the appropriate bits that usually lay sh** on Jules,(nicely of course). You had to be here and I guarantee you would have almost wet yourself. We had a great night and we hope to keep in touch with these two and follow them around.They are obviously very much in love (lust in Lenny's place) Please take the time to read their story it is great. http://www.freewebs.com/sheila-willymakit/index.htm
We will continue to keep you informed of our Dream and please take the time to sign our Guest Book.
We have been in the van for a week or so now and we are starting to get every thing in order, you know every thing has a place etc.!! “put that back where you got it”
I have made mention of various people in previous pages and tonight we get to meet the couple from “shiela and willy makit” fame. I have followed their trip around the block with great delight and follow their position in the Camps 4 book. Reading between the lines I recon they have a wicked sense of humour. Shiela e-mailed and said when they arrive in Cairns they would bring Pizza and a bottle from Alice Springs. I said we would supply the beer. The time was set.
I was coming back from the shower block and noticed a green Patrol prowling around and thought I would take a punt. I stuck my head in the window and said “I hope you brought the bloody pizzas” The look on Jule’s face was worth the effort. What a great pair of down to earth people. We sat down to pizzas, bubbly and beer. What a night. Jules tells a bloody great yarn and had me in fits with some of their adventures, like going over a bridge made of logs and getting stuck to a certain cold seat!!!! Lenny sits and sips his beer and adds the appropriate bits that usually lay sh** on Jules,(nicely of course). You had to be here and I guarantee you would have almost wet yourself. We had a great night and we hope to keep in touch with these two and follow them around.They are obviously very much in love (lust in Lenny's place) Please take the time to read their story it is great. http://www.freewebs.com/sheila-willymakit/index.htm
We will continue to keep you informed of our Dream and please take the time to sign our Guest Book.
Finally the Van is Delivered
26th August
A day to remember, We had a big garage sale at our friends place two doors up as we were not allowed to do this in the unit complex. Jo and Darren are great mates and well appreciated. Hells bells, where does all that stuff come from. We had accumulated vast quantities of all sorts of junk and treasures etc. I had a brand new Sunlight genny 2800 watts for sale and one gent said he would take it off my hands for $50. Gees!! That was good of him NOT. we ended up having two guys arguing who was there first to buy it.
We had to be out of our unit by Sunday the 24th so the new tenants could move in, but as luck had it the van would not be here until the 26th.
We moved every thing into a small villa in the park. Luckily the unit had two bedrooms which we filled up with boxes. We finally got a ring from the towing company "Handy Tow" to say the van was at the depot. Bugger no electric brakes fitted to veh yet so explained that the van was to be delivered to site. Yeah! Right, for another $100 we can do that. It cost us $2650 to get the van up from Brisbane but they would not deliver it another 20 klms to the van park. Great service you think?, “Handy Tow” it ain’t! Why is it that every body wants to screw you? I would have sung their praises to all and sundry if they had offered a little bit of service and delivered the van. Ah! Well. Not to worry its here.
New day dawning and the big shift is on whilst Fae is at work, I think she got the better of this!! I loaded up the old Toyota and did several loads to the van. All the big stuff, side board, camphor wood box, etc all went up on the hand cart. You should have seen the look of disbelief on the faces of some of the residents’. One gent could not contain himself and asked if the wife was in the box!!!! It put a smile on my face that one. After all had been put in place Fae and I went out for dinner. According to our next door neighbour we had a constant parade of people going out of their way to walk their dog or just walking by straining to see what the hell was going on.
Had to laugh as it continued when we were at home later. We took a couple of days but Fae finally put the finishing touches on things and pronounced we were home at last. I took a couple of days off work to get the annex up and to set up the van, my boss was not happy and rang me to ask what the hell was going on. I explained that I could have just rang in sick but tried to tell the truth. (next time I will lie) I explained that I was casual and that my wife came above all else, hi then tried to explain that I was “permanent casual!!!” and needed to apply for leave, now that was funny.
A day to remember, We had a big garage sale at our friends place two doors up as we were not allowed to do this in the unit complex. Jo and Darren are great mates and well appreciated. Hells bells, where does all that stuff come from. We had accumulated vast quantities of all sorts of junk and treasures etc. I had a brand new Sunlight genny 2800 watts for sale and one gent said he would take it off my hands for $50. Gees!! That was good of him NOT. we ended up having two guys arguing who was there first to buy it.
We had to be out of our unit by Sunday the 24th so the new tenants could move in, but as luck had it the van would not be here until the 26th.
We moved every thing into a small villa in the park. Luckily the unit had two bedrooms which we filled up with boxes. We finally got a ring from the towing company "Handy Tow" to say the van was at the depot. Bugger no electric brakes fitted to veh yet so explained that the van was to be delivered to site. Yeah! Right, for another $100 we can do that. It cost us $2650 to get the van up from Brisbane but they would not deliver it another 20 klms to the van park. Great service you think?, “Handy Tow” it ain’t! Why is it that every body wants to screw you? I would have sung their praises to all and sundry if they had offered a little bit of service and delivered the van. Ah! Well. Not to worry its here.
New day dawning and the big shift is on whilst Fae is at work, I think she got the better of this!! I loaded up the old Toyota and did several loads to the van. All the big stuff, side board, camphor wood box, etc all went up on the hand cart. You should have seen the look of disbelief on the faces of some of the residents’. One gent could not contain himself and asked if the wife was in the box!!!! It put a smile on my face that one. After all had been put in place Fae and I went out for dinner. According to our next door neighbour we had a constant parade of people going out of their way to walk their dog or just walking by straining to see what the hell was going on.
Had to laugh as it continued when we were at home later. We took a couple of days but Fae finally put the finishing touches on things and pronounced we were home at last. I took a couple of days off work to get the annex up and to set up the van, my boss was not happy and rang me to ask what the hell was going on. I explained that I could have just rang in sick but tried to tell the truth. (next time I will lie) I explained that I was casual and that my wife came above all else, hi then tried to explain that I was “permanent casual!!!” and needed to apply for leave, now that was funny.
The New Tug Arrives
1st August,
Fae gets a call to go down and pick up the new vehicle. Yipee!!! At last. The sales man rang and asked her if was ok to pick up the Honda a little early as the plates etc needed to be done, all well. They had parked the new vehicle in pride of place in the showroom all ready for Fae to drive it out. I think she is very happy with the new machine but just a bit disappointed to have to say goodbye to her beloved Honda Euro. Never mind a new chapter is about to begin!
I must admit it is a very nice vehicle to drive, we weakened and had cruise fitted and all windows tinted so it looks very nice. (pics later) An ARB canopy was colour coded and fitted prior to hand over. It was the first colour coded canopy they had seen at the dealership and they were impressed. I like the twin locks on the tailgate and the smooth interior finish. The motor does seem to have a lot of get up and go even though we are taking it easy for the time being. Fae lets me drive it occasionally and I have to say “it ain’t bad”.
Fae gets a call to go down and pick up the new vehicle. Yipee!!! At last. The sales man rang and asked her if was ok to pick up the Honda a little early as the plates etc needed to be done, all well. They had parked the new vehicle in pride of place in the showroom all ready for Fae to drive it out. I think she is very happy with the new machine but just a bit disappointed to have to say goodbye to her beloved Honda Euro. Never mind a new chapter is about to begin!
I must admit it is a very nice vehicle to drive, we weakened and had cruise fitted and all windows tinted so it looks very nice. (pics later) An ARB canopy was colour coded and fitted prior to hand over. It was the first colour coded canopy they had seen at the dealership and they were impressed. I like the twin locks on the tailgate and the smooth interior finish. The motor does seem to have a lot of get up and go even though we are taking it easy for the time being. Fae lets me drive it occasionally and I have to say “it ain’t bad”.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Van Purchase
17th July
The finance came through yesterday and all was OK for us to start are looking in earnest. On checking a couple of sites I had studied before, I had found a van that would suit us down to the ground, but, wouldn’t you know it. They had a holding deposit on same. Well on looking this time it appeared to be on the market again. It is a Jayco 24ft6in Heritage 2005 Great news now that we had money lined up. E-mails were sent back and forth and it seemed as thought every thing was going very well. Unfortunately, when we took in to account that there was no annex walls and we had to get the van up to Cairns included in the loan, we found it was out of reach. I sent an e-mail to the sales guy Peter and explained that we had only X amount and thanked him for his efforts and help but Karma is Karma and we were not meant to have the van. To cut a long story short Peter spoke to his boss and they agreed to come to terms with us. All we had to do was have a look at the van.
Again to the rescue came our new friend Kym, from
“No Boundaries” ( http://www.noboundaries.com.au/ ). He agreed to go and have an unbiased inspection of the van on our behalf. This saved either Fae or myself the time and expense of a trip to Brisbane. The report came back favourable and honest, so the purchase is going ahead. I think Peter was a little taken aback by Kym’s professional approach, but after I spoke to him and told him of Kym’s report and that Kym found Peter quite a likable guy he changed his mind!
Well guys the deposit has been paid and the annex is in the process. It looks like we shall have the van up here with in four weeks. Yahooooo! I would like to highly recommend City RV Centre, Loganholme Q’ld. As a reputable dealer from the professional way they have helped and handled our purchase.
20th July
We went and said G’day to Maria at the beautiful Lake Placid caravan park to day. We were interested in the park for a while now as on every occasion we have visited it has seemed quite and friendly. Maria sent us on our way with a plan of the park and a texta pen to mark any site we may be interested in. There are several sites booked for years in advance (says volumes about the park) and Maria is very protective of her guests. We made a decision on our site and it was available. A large site with room to move, under nice shade trees Great! Fae was even starting to organise where things would go.
The van park is at the end of a small road to Lake Placid. A very leafy park with updated amenities and a beaut community kitchen and pool, the staff could not be friendlier or more helpful if they tried. Even putting your van on site for you if you don’t trust your self. That’s service with a smile.
http://www.lakeplacidtouristpark.com/index this link should get you there if you are up this way.
OK that’s all for today, I will update as it happens so you that are interested can “follow our story”.
The finance came through yesterday and all was OK for us to start are looking in earnest. On checking a couple of sites I had studied before, I had found a van that would suit us down to the ground, but, wouldn’t you know it. They had a holding deposit on same. Well on looking this time it appeared to be on the market again. It is a Jayco 24ft6in Heritage 2005 Great news now that we had money lined up. E-mails were sent back and forth and it seemed as thought every thing was going very well. Unfortunately, when we took in to account that there was no annex walls and we had to get the van up to Cairns included in the loan, we found it was out of reach. I sent an e-mail to the sales guy Peter and explained that we had only X amount and thanked him for his efforts and help but Karma is Karma and we were not meant to have the van. To cut a long story short Peter spoke to his boss and they agreed to come to terms with us. All we had to do was have a look at the van.
Again to the rescue came our new friend Kym, from
“No Boundaries” ( http://www.noboundaries.com.au/ ). He agreed to go and have an unbiased inspection of the van on our behalf. This saved either Fae or myself the time and expense of a trip to Brisbane. The report came back favourable and honest, so the purchase is going ahead. I think Peter was a little taken aback by Kym’s professional approach, but after I spoke to him and told him of Kym’s report and that Kym found Peter quite a likable guy he changed his mind!
Well guys the deposit has been paid and the annex is in the process. It looks like we shall have the van up here with in four weeks. Yahooooo! I would like to highly recommend City RV Centre, Loganholme Q’ld. As a reputable dealer from the professional way they have helped and handled our purchase.
20th July
We went and said G’day to Maria at the beautiful Lake Placid caravan park to day. We were interested in the park for a while now as on every occasion we have visited it has seemed quite and friendly. Maria sent us on our way with a plan of the park and a texta pen to mark any site we may be interested in. There are several sites booked for years in advance (says volumes about the park) and Maria is very protective of her guests. We made a decision on our site and it was available. A large site with room to move, under nice shade trees Great! Fae was even starting to organise where things would go.
The van park is at the end of a small road to Lake Placid. A very leafy park with updated amenities and a beaut community kitchen and pool, the staff could not be friendlier or more helpful if they tried. Even putting your van on site for you if you don’t trust your self. That’s service with a smile.
http://www.lakeplacidtouristpark.com/index this link should get you there if you are up this way.
OK that’s all for today, I will update as it happens so you that are interested can “follow our story”.
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Dream Continues
12th July
Hi everyone.
Well the dream continues, a lot of it is very up hill though. Fae’s out look on life keeps me on the straight and narrow. We had an accident, or rather incident, with our car the other day. We were on our way out to do a bit of window shopping, as you do. We were nearly hit by a bus coming out on our left. After a toot on the horn all was forgotten until a few minutes down the road when the same bus ran us off the road after colliding with the side of our car. Talk about road rage! At this point in time I believe the police are looking at charging him with dangerous driving. The big thing is we are both all right, not so for Fae’s pride and joy. It went into the repair shop today so all will be ready when our new vehicle finally arrives, yes we have been told a date. The end of the month for sure!!! I know we have been giving the sales guy a hard time but he has been very good to us.
We are still looking at vans and we finally came to the conclusion that we can not afford a new van. Bugger. We have seen a couple of very good second hand ones that will do nicely and we have applied to get a pre approved loan so we can be a little flexible. I can’t wait to get into the van and start our new adventure. I realise that not much will change as we still have to keep our positions for another couple of years whilst we pay off our car and van but I still can’t wait. We visited the van park we want to go into the other day to get an idea of how it will be during the busy period. We were very happy to see the very friendly people enjoying life. The vast majority of the people staying at the park were grey nomad types and very friendly and quick to say Hi or g’day. Nearly all were getting ready for an early dinner and the wine was out and the drinks flags up!!
Well this is all for now until we hear re finance, finger crossed everybody please!
Hi everyone.
Well the dream continues, a lot of it is very up hill though. Fae’s out look on life keeps me on the straight and narrow. We had an accident, or rather incident, with our car the other day. We were on our way out to do a bit of window shopping, as you do. We were nearly hit by a bus coming out on our left. After a toot on the horn all was forgotten until a few minutes down the road when the same bus ran us off the road after colliding with the side of our car. Talk about road rage! At this point in time I believe the police are looking at charging him with dangerous driving. The big thing is we are both all right, not so for Fae’s pride and joy. It went into the repair shop today so all will be ready when our new vehicle finally arrives, yes we have been told a date. The end of the month for sure!!! I know we have been giving the sales guy a hard time but he has been very good to us.
We are still looking at vans and we finally came to the conclusion that we can not afford a new van. Bugger. We have seen a couple of very good second hand ones that will do nicely and we have applied to get a pre approved loan so we can be a little flexible. I can’t wait to get into the van and start our new adventure. I realise that not much will change as we still have to keep our positions for another couple of years whilst we pay off our car and van but I still can’t wait. We visited the van park we want to go into the other day to get an idea of how it will be during the busy period. We were very happy to see the very friendly people enjoying life. The vast majority of the people staying at the park were grey nomad types and very friendly and quick to say Hi or g’day. Nearly all were getting ready for an early dinner and the wine was out and the drinks flags up!!
Well this is all for now until we hear re finance, finger crossed everybody please!
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Brisbane June 08
7th June 08
Well the big day is here and off we go to the airport. Great time of day to be travelling 10 o’clock in the morning (very civilized). Beaut flight arrived in Brisbane all OK. Air train to South bank and then bus to our accommodation. Not so fast, railway track works in the city, all off and board buses to Southbank. What a mix-up, many tourists just like us, not having a clue where we are going and the rail transit officers doing their very best. Finally got on the bus, I asked driver where we should get off to catch the bus out to Annerley?? The transit center, that’s where you need to go. Off the bus and cross road to transit center, nope no bus to Annerley from here!! Get the number *** to the Cultural Center and then catch your bus number something to Annerley. Not so simple! No staff at the center and if you don’t know your bus number or where you catch it bad luck. I asked two bus drivers before one looked the number up for me and told me where to catch the required bus. Great. Arrived at our accommodation Annerley B&B in good sprits. We were warmly welcomed by Peter one of the owners of the B&B. This place I can recommend for a quite weekend get away close to town but far enough away to be a quiet area. The proprietors Peter & Morna are a fantastic and caring couple, who will look after you with a big smile. A quick change and taxi to “Stone’s Corner” Yvonne’s favorite place in Brisbane. Chance of a bargain or two? She wanted some new bras, two sets and matching other things, two pairs of shoes (never can have enough shoes can you??) mandatory black jacket and a pair of beautiful tops finish it off. (I got out of that rather cheaply) Taxi back to the B&B, A nice meal at the local Thai Restraunt and on getting back to the B&B a nice bottle of white in the company of Wayne & Gabrielle Kelly ( B&B owners from Apollo Bay Vic). And so to bed!
8th June 08
We finally met Kym & Lyn from “No Boundaries” web site. What a terrific pair, they arranged to pick us up from Annerley as it was on their way to the Caravan Show. (I think they were just being very nice) They were attending the show to wave the flag and do a bit of net-working with the exhibitors.(once again check out their site in my links ) Lyn bravely allowed Kym to drive here car whilst she confidently navigated the various road works and detours. (Very glad I was not driving, too many bloody cars, taxis and trucks) The pair of them kept us in a very happy mood for the trip and it was obvious that they were very much soul mates, with constant jibing etc. (him not her). Well we arrived at the show and as Kym stated the car park was filling fast, although the show was not opened at this time. Just to show how organized Kym was, he opened the boot to get out HOT coffee and cake etc. How very civilized!! Many of the other show goers had done the same. After a coffee and chat Yvonne and I said our goodbyes and thanked Kym and Lyn for their hospitality to two complete strangers. It was great to meet these two and we look forward to keeping in contact with them as they too get ready to go “on the road” :
THE SHOW
We entered the show and were totally gob smacked by the amount of people and caravan products on display.
We were right to go to the show, as it was a great venue to get to see all the vans in one spot. This alone saved us many hours driving around the various agents. We were a bit disappointed with the “show specials” as the prices seemed to be inflated then reduced to what they were prior to the Caravan Show. I was given prices over the net only a couple of weeks before, they were cheaper. Some sales men really do need to do courses on how to sell with out needing to bag their opposition’s vans though. I guess they were all pretty busy but I recon we met only about four or five guys I would want to deal with. These professionals seemed only too keen to help and offer advice. Some of the vans, as I have said before, were priced way out of my league, even if they were offering much the same as lower priced ones. Some of the vans were still using door latches that were breaking down 20 years ago, when I was selling vans. (They were still sticking at the show).
Any way time for lunch!!! We eventually got through one queue to be greeted with “what do you want” A burger and chips please, and can I have a bottle of coke as well? The coke was $4.30 for a 600ml bottle. I know they have a captive audience but please! I did not want to contribute to his grandchildren’s education!!
Never mind we had a good look around and we are pleased with our original intention of buying a Jayco. (I can hear the tut tuts already)
Whilst looking through some vans, Yvonne and I were both taken aback by some comments made by a tribe of adults and kids (most of whom smelled & appeared not to have partaken of a shower or wash recently) coming out of a Jayco 25ft van. “How bloody lazy are some people, they even had a washing machine and a toilet in the van. I bet they don’t even get their hands dirty” This made me feel quite old !! perhaps not, just clean.
Just as we thought we had had enough and our feet were sore and tired we got a phone call. “ Hi guys we are heading for home, if you would like a lift meet us at the over pass.” Again it was Kym and Lyn offering us a lift to Annerley, we of course accepted and duly met the “clothes line” toting Kym at the meeting place. We decided that we had better have a quick ale at the local before saying our goodbyes. A grand little Irish pub it was too, except that you could not get anything to eat before six. Never mind, we had a couple of beers and again thanked the guys from “No Boundaries” for their help above and beyond. :-) Once home we had to make up our minds what to do for dinner, ummm, left over Thai sounds good to me. Another beautiful night’s sleep. Morning and the packing for home started. A quick taxi ride to the train station (bags in lockers) then into Queens Street Mall. What an eye opener, talk about spot the Aussie !!!. Hungry Jacks for lunch Yumm!! Then a quick sprint through David Jones and Meyers. (Damb, not quick enough) Some very nice stuff in these stores, according to the boss. Lol. More bags, no problems these will fit in the bag and the rest I will have as carry on luggage!!! Quite a nice trip home except for the go-around on approach, quite interesting really! Reality in the morning as we both have to go to work, ah! The curse of the working class.
Well we know what we now want; we will have to purchase the van by November so all should be well. No e-mail from the Ford salesman so the date of 1st August must still be on. (Bugger) oops! That’s Toyota’s thing
That’s us for now folks so keep an eye out for updates and please sign our guest book.
LOL
Well the big day is here and off we go to the airport. Great time of day to be travelling 10 o’clock in the morning (very civilized). Beaut flight arrived in Brisbane all OK. Air train to South bank and then bus to our accommodation. Not so fast, railway track works in the city, all off and board buses to Southbank. What a mix-up, many tourists just like us, not having a clue where we are going and the rail transit officers doing their very best. Finally got on the bus, I asked driver where we should get off to catch the bus out to Annerley?? The transit center, that’s where you need to go. Off the bus and cross road to transit center, nope no bus to Annerley from here!! Get the number *** to the Cultural Center and then catch your bus number something to Annerley. Not so simple! No staff at the center and if you don’t know your bus number or where you catch it bad luck. I asked two bus drivers before one looked the number up for me and told me where to catch the required bus. Great. Arrived at our accommodation Annerley B&B in good sprits. We were warmly welcomed by Peter one of the owners of the B&B. This place I can recommend for a quite weekend get away close to town but far enough away to be a quiet area. The proprietors Peter & Morna are a fantastic and caring couple, who will look after you with a big smile. A quick change and taxi to “Stone’s Corner” Yvonne’s favorite place in Brisbane. Chance of a bargain or two? She wanted some new bras, two sets and matching other things, two pairs of shoes (never can have enough shoes can you??) mandatory black jacket and a pair of beautiful tops finish it off. (I got out of that rather cheaply) Taxi back to the B&B, A nice meal at the local Thai Restraunt and on getting back to the B&B a nice bottle of white in the company of Wayne & Gabrielle Kelly ( B&B owners from Apollo Bay Vic). And so to bed!
8th June 08
We finally met Kym & Lyn from “No Boundaries” web site. What a terrific pair, they arranged to pick us up from Annerley as it was on their way to the Caravan Show. (I think they were just being very nice) They were attending the show to wave the flag and do a bit of net-working with the exhibitors.(once again check out their site in my links ) Lyn bravely allowed Kym to drive here car whilst she confidently navigated the various road works and detours. (Very glad I was not driving, too many bloody cars, taxis and trucks) The pair of them kept us in a very happy mood for the trip and it was obvious that they were very much soul mates, with constant jibing etc. (him not her). Well we arrived at the show and as Kym stated the car park was filling fast, although the show was not opened at this time. Just to show how organized Kym was, he opened the boot to get out HOT coffee and cake etc. How very civilized!! Many of the other show goers had done the same. After a coffee and chat Yvonne and I said our goodbyes and thanked Kym and Lyn for their hospitality to two complete strangers. It was great to meet these two and we look forward to keeping in contact with them as they too get ready to go “on the road” :
THE SHOW
We entered the show and were totally gob smacked by the amount of people and caravan products on display.
We were right to go to the show, as it was a great venue to get to see all the vans in one spot. This alone saved us many hours driving around the various agents. We were a bit disappointed with the “show specials” as the prices seemed to be inflated then reduced to what they were prior to the Caravan Show. I was given prices over the net only a couple of weeks before, they were cheaper. Some sales men really do need to do courses on how to sell with out needing to bag their opposition’s vans though. I guess they were all pretty busy but I recon we met only about four or five guys I would want to deal with. These professionals seemed only too keen to help and offer advice. Some of the vans, as I have said before, were priced way out of my league, even if they were offering much the same as lower priced ones. Some of the vans were still using door latches that were breaking down 20 years ago, when I was selling vans. (They were still sticking at the show).
Any way time for lunch!!! We eventually got through one queue to be greeted with “what do you want” A burger and chips please, and can I have a bottle of coke as well? The coke was $4.30 for a 600ml bottle. I know they have a captive audience but please! I did not want to contribute to his grandchildren’s education!!
Never mind we had a good look around and we are pleased with our original intention of buying a Jayco. (I can hear the tut tuts already)
Whilst looking through some vans, Yvonne and I were both taken aback by some comments made by a tribe of adults and kids (most of whom smelled & appeared not to have partaken of a shower or wash recently) coming out of a Jayco 25ft van. “How bloody lazy are some people, they even had a washing machine and a toilet in the van. I bet they don’t even get their hands dirty” This made me feel quite old !! perhaps not, just clean.
Just as we thought we had had enough and our feet were sore and tired we got a phone call. “ Hi guys we are heading for home, if you would like a lift meet us at the over pass.” Again it was Kym and Lyn offering us a lift to Annerley, we of course accepted and duly met the “clothes line” toting Kym at the meeting place. We decided that we had better have a quick ale at the local before saying our goodbyes. A grand little Irish pub it was too, except that you could not get anything to eat before six. Never mind, we had a couple of beers and again thanked the guys from “No Boundaries” for their help above and beyond. :-) Once home we had to make up our minds what to do for dinner, ummm, left over Thai sounds good to me. Another beautiful night’s sleep. Morning and the packing for home started. A quick taxi ride to the train station (bags in lockers) then into Queens Street Mall. What an eye opener, talk about spot the Aussie !!!. Hungry Jacks for lunch Yumm!! Then a quick sprint through David Jones and Meyers. (Damb, not quick enough) Some very nice stuff in these stores, according to the boss. Lol. More bags, no problems these will fit in the bag and the rest I will have as carry on luggage!!! Quite a nice trip home except for the go-around on approach, quite interesting really! Reality in the morning as we both have to go to work, ah! The curse of the working class.
Well we know what we now want; we will have to purchase the van by November so all should be well. No e-mail from the Ford salesman so the date of 1st August must still be on. (Bugger) oops! That’s Toyota’s thing
That’s us for now folks so keep an eye out for updates and please sign our guest book.
LOL
Monday, May 26, 2008
Brisbane Caravan show
22nd May
We booked our flights and accommodation in Brisbane to go and see the Caravan and Camping show. We are really looking forward to that weekend. It was our anniversary a couple of weeks ago, so we decided to go and have a weekend at a B&B in Annerley we had stayed at before.(link on the blogg)
I have contacted a few dealers about vans over the last few months and we (Fae & I) have both come up with the same van that suits us. It is a Jayco either 23ft or 25ft rear en-suite front end kitchen model. We want to take out the dinette and put in a couple of smaller arm chairs that we found in A-mart that are very comfortable. I know once again that no one agrees with us but there you are.
I sold and managed a caravan yard in Adelaide for over 6 years and I used to recon that Jayco built a reasonably good van. The prices of vans now are unbelievable, especially one like Baroma etc. The prices are amazing. Yes I know you get what you pay for but how they can justify some of the prices !!
I have got to tell you about an incident the other day. Went and had a look at the new Millard on show near home, 23ft , I could not get down the side of the N/S bed. The wheel arches were there plus only about 8 inches of room for legs. I lifted up the bed on the gas struts, to be pleasantly surprised by the amount of room under there. But the very first joint I looked at had four staples in about 20mm of wood and only two were holding. After talking to the sales man he asked what I was looking at in a van and I told him about the Jayco we liked. His reaction should have been “yes, a nice van but I believe ours are a bit better because of ……………..etc.” instead of that he said , you know what they say about Jayco? You only have one because they are crap. Guess I won’t be dealing with him or Millard. Never mind each to his own, that is why they are all in business, just as I said before about the Holden and ford drivers. Any way as I said we are both looking forward to a weekend in Brisbane. I don’t think we can afford a new van but it will be nice to dream and see what you can get.
We booked our flights and accommodation in Brisbane to go and see the Caravan and Camping show. We are really looking forward to that weekend. It was our anniversary a couple of weeks ago, so we decided to go and have a weekend at a B&B in Annerley we had stayed at before.(link on the blogg)
I have contacted a few dealers about vans over the last few months and we (Fae & I) have both come up with the same van that suits us. It is a Jayco either 23ft or 25ft rear en-suite front end kitchen model. We want to take out the dinette and put in a couple of smaller arm chairs that we found in A-mart that are very comfortable. I know once again that no one agrees with us but there you are.
I sold and managed a caravan yard in Adelaide for over 6 years and I used to recon that Jayco built a reasonably good van. The prices of vans now are unbelievable, especially one like Baroma etc. The prices are amazing. Yes I know you get what you pay for but how they can justify some of the prices !!
I have got to tell you about an incident the other day. Went and had a look at the new Millard on show near home, 23ft , I could not get down the side of the N/S bed. The wheel arches were there plus only about 8 inches of room for legs. I lifted up the bed on the gas struts, to be pleasantly surprised by the amount of room under there. But the very first joint I looked at had four staples in about 20mm of wood and only two were holding. After talking to the sales man he asked what I was looking at in a van and I told him about the Jayco we liked. His reaction should have been “yes, a nice van but I believe ours are a bit better because of ……………..etc.” instead of that he said , you know what they say about Jayco? You only have one because they are crap. Guess I won’t be dealing with him or Millard. Never mind each to his own, that is why they are all in business, just as I said before about the Holden and ford drivers. Any way as I said we are both looking forward to a weekend in Brisbane. I don’t think we can afford a new van but it will be nice to dream and see what you can get.
Spending day (again)
20th May
Hi all, we went to have a look at the shops today to see what we could see, you know, just a browse. We saw a brilliant price on a small combination convection oven for the van $156 for a 25 lt. microwave and convection oven combined. (most we have seen are $400 up) Yep! We will have one of those to replace the micro that comes with the van. No you wont, none in stock until next week, bugger again. Also found a four in one rice veg and slow cooker designed for two, also perfect for the van. Got one of those. The range of electric things that are made for a large family is overwhelming but try to get stuff for two or a caravan and it gets harder.
We have got together various things for our new life; some times we forget what we have bought. When we arrived home we found a turbo oven we had bought some months back tucked away at the back of the cupboard. (this will do instead of the convection oven) We have also got a new pie maker, toaster, electric jug, stainless steel steamer, cutlery set, dining setting etc. The idea was to have as much as we could new there fore giving us a good start. (must check the other cupboards and see what else we got)
Hi all, we went to have a look at the shops today to see what we could see, you know, just a browse. We saw a brilliant price on a small combination convection oven for the van $156 for a 25 lt. microwave and convection oven combined. (most we have seen are $400 up) Yep! We will have one of those to replace the micro that comes with the van. No you wont, none in stock until next week, bugger again. Also found a four in one rice veg and slow cooker designed for two, also perfect for the van. Got one of those. The range of electric things that are made for a large family is overwhelming but try to get stuff for two or a caravan and it gets harder.
We have got together various things for our new life; some times we forget what we have bought. When we arrived home we found a turbo oven we had bought some months back tucked away at the back of the cupboard. (this will do instead of the convection oven) We have also got a new pie maker, toaster, electric jug, stainless steel steamer, cutlery set, dining setting etc. The idea was to have as much as we could new there fore giving us a good start. (must check the other cupboards and see what else we got)
Bad news day
15th May
Whoops!! bad news from dealer. Appearently our new vehicle was taken off the truck and given to another dealer down south (someone is driving our new tug, bugger). I was advised by the guy that our ford will now be here by the end of July, I promptly handed him over to "she that shall be obeyed" so he could give her the good news personally. She took it fairly well and so we wait.! On the positive side I had a call from our son to advise he had a second hand honda EU20i just brought in and did we want it(hell yes). It has done one half hours work. We got it at cost so we are very happy. Tried it out as soon as we got home, boils the 2400watt jug so it's bloody great as far as i am concerned. Nice to win one now and again!
Whoops!! bad news from dealer. Appearently our new vehicle was taken off the truck and given to another dealer down south (someone is driving our new tug, bugger). I was advised by the guy that our ford will now be here by the end of July, I promptly handed him over to "she that shall be obeyed" so he could give her the good news personally. She took it fairly well and so we wait.! On the positive side I had a call from our son to advise he had a second hand honda EU20i just brought in and did we want it(hell yes). It has done one half hours work. We got it at cost so we are very happy. Tried it out as soon as we got home, boils the 2400watt jug so it's bloody great as far as i am concerned. Nice to win one now and again!
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Tug (which do we choose)
10th May
Well after much looking around at various vehicles we have decided on our new tug. I had an early diesel Patrol tray top I was going to do up but costs got pretty high, reliability raised its head and we though better of it. After doing a lot of home work we made the decision to go to a new vehicle. All of us have different needs and expectances, so one man's choice does not necessarily mean that it is right for everybody. I know of a couple of forums that will shout me down for not buying a Patrol or Toyota purely on their ideas.
For us, we plan on being on the road for several years and staying in one place for some months at a time if convenient. Therefore we needed a veh that was easy to drive as a daily transport and a bit better on fuel at this time. Sure, it will use more when we tow but that was our choice.
After comparing many tugs, and comparing towing capacities (doesn’t that vary) prices and ease of service etc we decided on a new Ford Ranger, Supercab Pickup, 5sp manual, with a 3lt common rail turbo & intercooled diesel motor. Braked towing capacity of 3000kgs. 115 kws of power and 380 Nm torque.( far exceeding my old 4.2lt Patrol) I can already hear the pundits now saying he will be sorry, but hey! That’s life ! I know work mates that truly believe a Ford will fail as you drive it from the yard (they drive a commodore) and visa versa. I must admit it is the first Ford we have owned. We are having an ARB canopy fitted before we pick it up and of course tinting all round and cruise control. (not to be used whilst towing)
Well after much looking around at various vehicles we have decided on our new tug. I had an early diesel Patrol tray top I was going to do up but costs got pretty high, reliability raised its head and we though better of it. After doing a lot of home work we made the decision to go to a new vehicle. All of us have different needs and expectances, so one man's choice does not necessarily mean that it is right for everybody. I know of a couple of forums that will shout me down for not buying a Patrol or Toyota purely on their ideas.
For us, we plan on being on the road for several years and staying in one place for some months at a time if convenient. Therefore we needed a veh that was easy to drive as a daily transport and a bit better on fuel at this time. Sure, it will use more when we tow but that was our choice.
After comparing many tugs, and comparing towing capacities (doesn’t that vary) prices and ease of service etc we decided on a new Ford Ranger, Supercab Pickup, 5sp manual, with a 3lt common rail turbo & intercooled diesel motor. Braked towing capacity of 3000kgs. 115 kws of power and 380 Nm torque.( far exceeding my old 4.2lt Patrol) I can already hear the pundits now saying he will be sorry, but hey! That’s life ! I know work mates that truly believe a Ford will fail as you drive it from the yard (they drive a commodore) and visa versa. I must admit it is the first Ford we have owned. We are having an ARB canopy fitted before we pick it up and of course tinting all round and cruise control. (not to be used whilst towing)
Faerie-trail
Hi from Dreamcaster and Fae, (names changed to protect the innocent)
This blog is being set up with the idea of telling "our story" from the get go.
When we had some very bad news six years ago, with reference to Fae’s health, life changed for us and we had to make some very hard decisions on what path our lives were to go on. My beautiful wife was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to go on with treatment urgently. She had her operation by a terrific and very supportive surgeon here in Cairns, she then had to go to Townsville for all of her other treatment like radiation etc. (unavailable in Cairns as yet). This was a biggy as I had to take extended unpaid leave from my job and we took out a loan to pay for our accommodation in Townsville and expenses both at home and away. The folk at Townsville hospital were terrific and looked after us very well. During this time my very supportive & caring sister, Sylvia flew up to Townsville to be with Fae so I could go back to work and pay some of the bills. We are both very grateful to Sylvia for giving up her own time so willingly, knowing that it cost her money as well. We have always been close to her and Tom (her husband who was lost at sea 2/7/94)
After our homecoming we had bills coming out of our ears and to top it off my boss put me off work because I no longer wanted to do the night shift, which left my Fae at home by herself. He could not understand and told me I was not the one that was sick, I tried to explain why I did not want to leave Fae at home nights but he would not try to understand.
After her ordeal my lovely lady went back to work as soon as she felt able and just got on with life looking after me and the household. She went back to uni and graduated with her Masters of Business Administration (mgnt). She left her position after 17 years with the govt. went back to school and graduated as a beauty consultant and opened her own successful Beauty Salon. This was something she had always wanted to do so got on with it. (very strong lady, mine)
I have always had the ambition to go on the road and enjoy life with my wife as much as I could, with this in mind I dropped several hints etc and waited to see if I would get a bite or not.
After loosing a couple of friends to various illnesses we both decided on a two or three year plan to get going, my wife’s boss of several years, never got the chance as he kept getting asked back to work, even though he had retired. Poor bugger went home for lunch one day and passed away with out ever enjoying a day.
So as I started out to say, this blog is starting out rather early, well before we get on the road or much less before we get a van.
I was asked to do this by Kym from “No Boundaries” a fantastic web site for those on the road. He advised that some people might like to hear of our experiences from the start of the plan and through to its inception and beyond.
Please read and enjoy our journey, with us, to our new life on the road.
This blog is being set up with the idea of telling "our story" from the get go.
When we had some very bad news six years ago, with reference to Fae’s health, life changed for us and we had to make some very hard decisions on what path our lives were to go on. My beautiful wife was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to go on with treatment urgently. She had her operation by a terrific and very supportive surgeon here in Cairns, she then had to go to Townsville for all of her other treatment like radiation etc. (unavailable in Cairns as yet). This was a biggy as I had to take extended unpaid leave from my job and we took out a loan to pay for our accommodation in Townsville and expenses both at home and away. The folk at Townsville hospital were terrific and looked after us very well. During this time my very supportive & caring sister, Sylvia flew up to Townsville to be with Fae so I could go back to work and pay some of the bills. We are both very grateful to Sylvia for giving up her own time so willingly, knowing that it cost her money as well. We have always been close to her and Tom (her husband who was lost at sea 2/7/94)
After our homecoming we had bills coming out of our ears and to top it off my boss put me off work because I no longer wanted to do the night shift, which left my Fae at home by herself. He could not understand and told me I was not the one that was sick, I tried to explain why I did not want to leave Fae at home nights but he would not try to understand.
After her ordeal my lovely lady went back to work as soon as she felt able and just got on with life looking after me and the household. She went back to uni and graduated with her Masters of Business Administration (mgnt). She left her position after 17 years with the govt. went back to school and graduated as a beauty consultant and opened her own successful Beauty Salon. This was something she had always wanted to do so got on with it. (very strong lady, mine)
I have always had the ambition to go on the road and enjoy life with my wife as much as I could, with this in mind I dropped several hints etc and waited to see if I would get a bite or not.
After loosing a couple of friends to various illnesses we both decided on a two or three year plan to get going, my wife’s boss of several years, never got the chance as he kept getting asked back to work, even though he had retired. Poor bugger went home for lunch one day and passed away with out ever enjoying a day.
So as I started out to say, this blog is starting out rather early, well before we get on the road or much less before we get a van.
I was asked to do this by Kym from “No Boundaries” a fantastic web site for those on the road. He advised that some people might like to hear of our experiences from the start of the plan and through to its inception and beyond.
Please read and enjoy our journey, with us, to our new life on the road.
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