Witchway

All Over

2012-01-23T12:21:00.000+10:00

Well folks, total change of plans, we caught up with our son and daughter in law and had a great time in Yeppoon. Very nice place, nice beach and they really cater for tourists. It was terrific to catch up with the boy, he looks very health and happy.
From there to our friends at Pine Creek to get the springs replaced in the awning. They have a nice spread out of Bundaberg a bit.
From there we went on to Barmera, our current location. Things changed on the way to SA in a big way. I have been having a lot of pain in my neck on this trip when I had to hook and unhook up the van. Every time I had to do something I was in quite a lot of distress so after talking it over, Fae and I made a big decision, the drier air was much better for her lungs and because I was having so much trouble we decided to call it quits and find a little place to settle, near to friends and rellatives.

We have a small unit in Barmera now, we sold the van and truck to a lovely couple from Adelaide who we getting ready to go on a bit longer trips than their smaller van allowed.
Fae and I then went and bought all new furniture and white goods and moved in. We also bought a new Getz auto, hell it's small out side but like a Tardis on the inside. The first thing we noticed was the fuel bill $60 to fill instead of the $180 we were used to, park any where in
the shade and rego and insurance is cheap also. All good so far.
So it's bye bye to the blog and all our friends we have met on the road. It was great while it lasted but we had to be honest about keeping going and perhaps doing some serious spinal damage. We will both miss traveling around and seeing all the little places that make up this big country. Best wishes to you all and above all keep safe.


On the Road Again

2011-11-01T20:31:00.000+10:00

Fae was given the all clear today after many rounds with specialists etc. She was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis, what a mouthful! It is the dilating of the airways in the lungs, caused in part from her radiation treatment a few years back. She was coughing and spluttering for some time and finally when we got home she went to see our doctor. After many rounds with antibiotics, various drugs and CT scans she was told she had the problem.
Any how, it is not curable but is treatable, so she is on drugs now leagaly. Hee! Hee!
We are going on to Prosserpine as Fae has her talks booked there first. We have allowed 5 days to get there from Cairns, a total of 630 odd klms. No too much of a rush.
From there we are going on to Laguna Quays and then to see the prodigal son in Yepoon, not sure after that but further south, may be the Great Ocean Rd.
Keep in contact and we might see you some where.

Back in Cairns

2011-08-06T08:50:00.001+10:00

Well you know what they say about the best laid plans we left CT and headed off for slow drive to Blue Waters free camp. We were not in a hurry as the traffic was quiet and a beautiful day for driving. We stopped at Kmart in Townsville to get Misty a new bed for the back seat, also to grab a bite to eat, still only 1pm. We did the last 40 klicks to Blue Water only to find the place totally full, not a parking space to be had, there must have been 50 vans there at 1:50pm  some folk had obviously been there for a couple of days as they were really set up with full annex, washing on lines etc. There is a 20 hr limit on this park but some over stay. Never mind we went on just out of Ingham to a free camp called Frenchmens Creek nice camp on the side of the road, toilets, plenty of parking for around 10-15 vans. One old couple were again set up for the long haul, genny in the bush, etc. They left their van and went shopping then returned late that afternoon. We had a reasonably quiet night, I slept like a log as usual.
Up in the morning and in to Ingham for Macca's Breakfast, Yeeeh! From there we decided we would go straight home, then the rain started, hell what was this? FNQ and cold rain, it poored down for ages.
On a very sad note we went through beautiful Cardwell, what a disaster area, all the beautiful shade trees along the beach were smashed to bits, houses were missing or had tarps on the roofs, we had totally forgotten about Yasi in Feb this year. I did not want to stop as I loved this place and to see it in such disrepair was upsetting. We drove through the rain all the way to Cairns. We are staying at a friends house in Kuranda, Lisa & Rick have 5 acres in the jungle, fantastic spot except for the narrow, gate entrance. We had a hell of a time getting in and into a spot. Nevermind, all set up now but not looking forward to getting it out again in a few weeks.
Well this closes this episode and blog so we will start a new one in October when we will be off again. To all who have followed us please sign the guest book and we will see you all later.
LOL
Dreamcaster, Fae & Misty

Charters Towers

2011-07-31T21:15:00.000+10:00

We left Clermont after a great week doing nothing but site seeing. We met lots of nice people there, most are regulars who come to fossick for a month or two then go home again.
The road up to CT is nowhere near as bad as we had before, not great, but not bad either. We had an uneventful trip just looking at the beautiful scenery as it went by, some startling cliff faces out of nowhere, miles of grass lands.
One thing that stood out all the way from Narribri up was the amount of cotton on the side of the roads from the passing trucks. There must be tons of it, one lady at Goondawindi Info center told us the local charity group built and paid for a small club hall from thr proceeds of picking up the spilt raw cotton from the sides of the road. We would not doubt it.
We finally made it to Charters Towers by three oclock after the caravan park told us if we were not on time they would give our site away.!! I have never had this problem before, never mind, quite a nice park, nice clean ammenities, camp kitchen is not too bad. We have got a BBQ in front of our site but it is wood fired and no wood present. The BBQ has not been used for a while as it is very rusty. They have various theme nights in the camp kitchen every second night or so which cost around $10 - $12 per head, not much I suppose but with two it makes it $20 odd dollars a night, not on my budget by having these nights earning money though it stops any one else using the Free camp kitchen at times. Bit of a bugger. They advertise Free Wi Fi but thats only for 30 mins then you have to pay.
Still never mind again we are close to home and looking forward to getting a few little things done on the van and tug. We will free camp at blue water for a couple of nights then on to Our starting point Cairns.

Emerald to Clermont

2011-07-31T20:50:00.000+10:00

We left Roma to head on to Clermont but we received a call as we left. The lions club at Emerald contacted Fae to do a talk that night! No problems, yeh right. No where to stay booked etc never mind, we ended up at a nice free camp by the botanic gardens under the bridge. We got in aroud 4 pm and the camp was almost full. The vans were from the entry to the park all the way down to the rail bridge. There must have been around 20 vans etc in the park. One thing I notice is that every body is friendly in these free camps, they all talk to each other.
Fae had a good night and was given a lift back to the bridge, we had a good nights sleep and off in the morning. We did not get away very early as we only had to go just over a hundred klicks to our next stop in Clearmont.
We had a full week off here, we found a beaut caravan park in the Clermont Caravan Park Haig st. What a pleasent place. The new managers Mort and Gayle were the most welcoming people in a park we have found, they went out of their way to help, offer advice and generaly make you feel special. They have only been there since. Nov last year and are slowly pulling a forgotten park back to its former glory, the amenities, though old are spotless, heaps of hot water, the sites are huge with all sites dead level, slabs and car parks for each site. There is heaps to do in and around town. The girls at the info center go above and beyond to help. The scenery around the area is beautiful as is the Theresas Dam. The camping out there is also mind blowing, $10 per night, showers and toilets, drinking water and open fire places. Heaps of fishing in the dam also red claw aplenty. This area is well worth another visit, albeit from a different direction.

What a Trip to Roma

2011-07-31T20:15:00.000+10:00

The road to Roma from Gundawindi was what is called hell on bitumen. I have often complained about the road from Cairns to Townsville, hell that is a super highway compared to the north road out of Goondi. It is one lane wide with a middle line, i am sure it was someones idea of a joke, you go up and down, down and up the poor suspension on the tug and van. I bent up my brand new Trail Mate jack as it bottomed out on the road. This has not even got close before. The sides of the bitumen were totally destroyed by the big rigs going up and down the road. The sides stood up around 30 -40 cms high leaving you only the center of the road in many places before a small place called The Gums. From there on it was just pure up and down with out the sides being trashed. I realise this sounds bad but take my word for it, do not do that trip.
On reaching Roma we stayed at the Big Rig Tourist Van Park. The park is taken over by the mine workers once again, i know you cant blame the owners but the touring vanners take second plsce. We were lucky to have a site with a slab, out the back people were just placed around the mud areas. There were no sealed roads out the back just a lot of single quarters. Pool was closed, water to doors of toilets when it rained. The managers were not that helpful either.
The one saving grace was the Bull Ring camp kitchen, right in the middle of the front park, it had every thing you would want. 2 BBQs, stove top, fridge freezer, microwave all stainless steel bench tops etc and lots of seating and room. Although you do have to get in early to beat the workers and truckies who live there. When we left they still had a couple of single mens quarters to open up. Forget trying to use the laundry, the workers leave their gear in machines and driers all day and night.
There were lots of things to do in Roma itself so you can still have fun. By the way the family park is owned by the same crowd so dont expect any better, oh dont forget to book. They were turning away 20 vans per day when we were there.

Goondawindi

2011-07-15T16:06:00.000+10:00

We left Narribri and drove out towards Roma via the Macka's for brekky, He! He!
First part of trip as far as Goondawindy was great. We ended up stopping, what a lovely little town, we ended up staying at the Goondawindi Tourist Park for three nights. The park was one of the best we have stayed in so far, clean, peaceful, great clean ammenities, camp kitchens (two) BBQ's about 4,did I mention Clean!!
The owner managers were teriffic, I was walking to the office, after I had stopped in the designated booking in area, and noticed a golf cart coming my way. Being stupid I stuck my thumb out and the cart stopped, the guy said I was a "lazy bastard" and to get in. He turned out to be the boss, what a pleasant way to be welcomed Ha!Ha! After booking in they show you where to park and escourt you just in case you have any trouble reversing etc. it was a drive through so that was OK but one gent did have to get help !! makes you wonder. The owners tell you about the parks facilities also what happening in and around in town.
There is a stocked billabong on the property complete with ducks etc. They have fish BBQ every second night and pancakes on Sundays. We did not do the BBQ's as $15 per head was out of our budget. For that though you got a fish fillet, coleslaw and a baked spud, choc pud for desert and bottomless tea and coffee, so not bad.
The place was very busy and full all the time, the only complaint was he told us we would have trouble with power, and he was right, every time you wanted a coffee you had to turn off HW and heater. On investigation I found that the part of the park we were in was supplied with 10 amp circuit breakers only, there were no exceptions to the complains about this but he said they are working on it, here's hoping.
Unfortunately it was time to go and head for Roma so on ward further north.

Narribri NSW

2011-07-15T15:47:00.000+10:00

Well we made a big mistake here. I booked on line after seeing the place on the web it looked OK. (Narribri Motel & Caravan Park) Wrong, getting in the dip of a drive way should have been a warning, went into the office, quite nice and friendly young girl. We paid straight up instead of having a look, The layout of the park looked good on paper, on paper every thing looks good!!
Drove through and around the first corner, very tight with a bigger van, where are all those sites??? Gone to make way for cabins, there were 10 van sites (drive through) in total, 3.4mts wide and suitable for an 18ft van only. Went back to office and said you have got to be kidding, they allowed me to take up half of one of three tent sites as well, that helped a bit. These tent sites were in the middle of the van sites.Power was a mile away, only taps for 8 sites!! It did not get any better from there. It was bloody freezing for the whole week we were there. Not the owners fault I know.
All the tiny cabins were booked out to mine workers, and this little park, which the owner emailed, was very quiet and peaseful, buzzed all night with the coming and going of the workers and taxis. Hell it was noisy, the toilet had not been cleaned for a week and the facilities, BBQ areas etc had not been cleaned for a year. The toilet block had raised panels off the floor separating the toilets and showers, ie when some one had a shower the spray would come under the wall, great again, wet pants. One good thing was Queensland winning the State of Origin again Yea!!
On a positive note the town was very friendly and clean, Fae did a couple of talks and was very warmly received. We had a wonder around the place and found some great shops and cafes.
I must admit that we could not wait to leave and head on to Roma.

Dubbo

2011-07-05T15:43:00.000+10:00

Arrived at Dubbo on Saturday afternoon as planned. We have stayed here before and had prebooked our site, near amenities. The people here are very friendly and welcomed us back again. Dubbo is a very busy place and again there is a lot to see with the western plains zoo etc. Night telescope viewing and shps galore. Plenty of places to test the budget. We stocked up on supplies and fuel. Very pissed off on that front. I wanted to do a fuel check so had to fill the empty tank up to full. 131ltrs. At $1.52 per litre. Averaged 15.4 liters per 100 klms. Very happy with that. Two days later fuel dropped 6cents a liter or 10 cents with fuel docket. Not happy jan. Never mind, Fae is doing two talks in town then we are off to Narribri thats further north so it has got to be a good thing
Bye for now

Spring Hill

2011-07-05T15:32:00.000+10:00

Free camp tonight on way to Dubbo. The free camp at spring hill is very nice. You know the thing that stood out most was as soon as we crossed the NSW border the road side stops had toilets. This one boasts, BBQ, fire pit, toilets, water & a fenced play ground. There was a very nice, clean table chair set up on three sides of a covered seating area. We met some nice fo.k there, George & Dot in their motorhome. Some other folk all came and said hi as well. Every one seems much friendlier in the free camps. We left the next day around 10:30 and headed to our next free camp at Meadow Glen. On the way we leapfrogged George & Dot at a couple of rest areas where they or us stopped for lunch or coffee. Again the areas were very well kept and clean. We went on arriving at Meadow Glen out of Cobar arond early afternoon. What a very busy place, by happy hour we had 16 vans and motorhomes pulled up in the various sites. The area was around 5 acres, toilets, fire pits, etc were all around, a great spot. George and co joined us for drinks, as it got colder we were invited in the motor home to sample a Webasto diesel heater at work. Got to get me one of those very toasty and warm. Bugger had to go back to our van to sleep
On to Dubbo tomorrow.

Peterbrough

2011-07-05T14:36:00.000+10:00

What a nice park. Sites are level, most drive through. Amenities very clean and well maintained. Soap and air driers supplied.
A very interesting town, based on the railway from years gone by, the East West still passes through. I guess i have not seen a town that caters so well for the traveller, there are parking areas a plenty set up for vans etc. A great info centre built in an old sleeper railcar. The volunters that opperate the info center are a very happy and knowledgeable group. There is much to do in town and see, from self guided walks to light shows, all free. Ther are four pubs in the msin street all offering cheap meals, so no need to go hungry. Some local drives were terrific too! Magnetic hill, does your car get pulled up the hill??
Also found a litt.e town called Terowie, this is where General MacCarthur uttered his famous 'I will return". I tjought he said that in Darwin, learning all the time i is

Whyalla

2011-07-03T17:57:00.000+10:00

We had booked into a park by the airport on the West side of Whyalla. We turned into the drive and pulled up to the office. Luckily for us no one was around, the place looked very sad and run down. We did a quick u turn and left.
Went in to the Forshore Park, this was left as it was supposed to be expensive. The staff were very friendly, asked if were sight seeing etc, gave us maps, pointed out local attractions, best eating places etc. Charged us the same rate as quoted by the other park, great! We were offered a seaside site but we asked if we could go up the back of the park amonst the cabins. Much quieter, less wind, that was the kicker as the wind was freezing on the water front. The amenities were great, soap, paper towel, air driers and shower mats. Great free BBQ and camp kitchen and as i said great staff could not do enough for you. We had a week there and did the touristy bit before heading off to Peterbrough.

We're back continued

2011-06-04T20:16:00.000+10:00

We Arrived back in Adelaide around 4pm, raining and cold, we rang the gent at the Airport Motel and he came and picked us up and took us to our vehicle. A quick trip (not, peak traffic) to Golden Grove to stay with Wolf & Merilyn again. What a beautiful hotel Wolf supplied a great dinner. (again) On Sunday we were taken for a drive to One Tree Hill area and we found a great old pub, it was raining and misty but inside we had a roaring fire, a band playing and quite a few ladies enjoying the music & well on the way to having a head ache. Wolf booked us into the dining area later in the evening and we had another very good meal. The atmosphere was terrific, we would love to go there again during the warmer months. Once again thanks to Wolf for picking up the tab.
On Monday I had booked the tug in for a service, $360 later, but much cheaper than Ford.
Tuesday morning found us on our way back to Port Lincoln, we went straight to RSPCA to pick up Misty. The guys at RSPCA Port Lincoln went above and beyond in their duties. They were well aware we were very worried about leaving Misty; whilst we were in Bali, on several occasions they sent us a text message complete with pics, from Misty of course, letting us know what fun she was having. Our very heartfelt thanks go to Narelle, Mel and Morris for looking after Misty so well ( sorry re name spelling, if I got it wrong) I would recommend this place to all who visit Port Lincoln, they were great and Misty was very well Looked after.
We had another couple of engagements in the area then off to Tumby Bay for a couple of hours for Fae to do another talk. We then went on to Lenny's place for a couple of days before heading north towards the elusive sun.

We're Back

2011-05-27T14:54:00.001+10:00

Wow it's cold in Port Lincoln We have just returned from our trip to Bali. I admit We do love that place. It was just like being home, weather wise that is. Beautiful days with warm barmy nights. Lots of Bintang ( the local beer, for the uninitiated) food & more food. The Balinese people are very friendly to Australians and love to practice their English with you. We struck one guy that had obviously been mixing with the wrong crowd. I had to explain that some of his language was wrong!!*****### you know what I mean.
We visited the Bali Safari park again, beautiful place to visit, the bird and reptile park were also on the agenda.
We had a very good friend with us for the first 5 days. I don't think Jo quite knew what to expect, it was her first trip to an Asian country, but she says she loved the place. She certainly got plenty of pics to show her friends
It was very quiet over there this time, probably tourists were scared off with the Bin Laden affair. You could get hit by a truck in Adelaide!!! I would recommend Bali to any one thinking of a break. Yes it is a bit basic, on the roads etc but our hotel was quite nice. Very clean, very friendly staff, right on the beach and safe. It was only three star, With three pools and two restaurants, you can go all out to 5 star, if you wanted but then you might as well go to Darwin.
Bali is, by nature, a slow place, it might not happen straight away, but it does happen. You just have to learn to Relax and chil out. Go with the flow and enjoy another culture, away from Kuta. try the highlands and northern parts of the island. Anyway back to reality.
We had to go via Melbourne then to Adelaide as there were no flights direct to Adelaide until the next day. I did not realize that Darwin is classed as a regional airport.

Still at Beautiful Port Lincoln

2011-05-07T16:47:00.000+10:00

Well not much has changed since last post. Still bloody cold etcThe last week was not too bad though, saw the sun on six out of seven days, a record I recon! Fae is still busy with her talks, and in the news again, it must be hell to be popular Hee! Hee!
They had a caravan show here and we went for a look see, they matched the Internet for a C-Mat ,I was very suprised, also purchased a Trail Mate jack set, again matched prices on the net. Good onya Port Lincoln Caravan Centre. Nice people to deal with as well. The water pump now lives under the van in a secure marine ally bracket, no more leaks in the van.
I should not have tempted fate and said that  Fae was in the shower when she heard a bang, bugger, hot water pipe at rear of shower gave way. Actually it was not the pipe at all but the plastic connector where pipe goes into. Either over tightened or just heat stress. Never mind went back to the caravan shop to get a JG fitting, but. There sitting on the shelf was a brand new tap set. Looked great so $53 later and about 20 minutes work, all fixed and working fine 
Sister Sylvia and The "Lady Annette" joined us in a cabin for a visit this week, champagne again any one!!!
We are off to Bali on Monday for our 40th wedding anniversary, my time with Fae just flies we are staying at Legian and really looking forward to the trip. We will store the van and fly from Adelaide. Misty is going to have a holiday with the RSPCA. I don't know who will miss who the most. I know I will worry about her until our return, I must be getting very soft
Ah well time for that champagne I was talking about, see ya all on our return lol

Port Lincoln

2011-04-14T17:56:00.000+10:00

Hi to all, here we are in Port Lincoln, we left here in 2000. We used to call Port Lincoln home for around 15years, Fae & I had a lovely home over looking the beautiful Boston Bay.
We are at the Port Lincoln caravan park at North Shields, around 12klms from the city. A very nice park, it was owned by some friends many years ago, they sold it after the big fire. The new owners let it run down as they wanted to build units here. Luckily for us the council stepped in and stopped the development. New owners again now and they are doing a wonderful job bringing it back up to scratch. The sites are generous and right on the ocean front. Would keep most fisherman happy, with beach and jetty fishing right at the park. There is a road house at the entrance, owned by the park that has everything you would need including groceries and cooked meals, yummy!
I must admit to feeling very comfortable here at present as we know a lot of people and places here. Just driving around brings back fond memories of years gone by. We are bumping into people who recognize us then walk by and you can almost hear their brains ticking over with 'I know them from somewhere'!! It's quite funny, as we do the same, trying to put names to faces.
One thing I had forgotten was the wind!!! Bloody he'll does it ever stop blowing? I remember now, it blows most of the time. The awning is up and down as the wind goes from fresh to strong, around 25 knots. We have caught up with my sister Wendy and her Husband Phil. We saw Wendy at my birthday but I have not seen Phil since we left. We also caught up with friends Dennis & Pat whom we last saw at Fae's birthday when we first moved to Cairns. Dennis built and owned a 33ft yatch called Free Spirit, so named in honor to a lost son, we have sailed quite a few miles in her including to Kangaroo Island for a weeks holiday. Dennis & Pat have moved into a beautiful home in a retirement village. Very swanky too I might add. It was great to catch up and will get together for a meal a bit later.
Fae is very busy with her talks and even made the local paper, she will want a rise soon!!
Did I mention the bloody wind? And the temperature, it has been averaging around 17 during the day and about 9 degrees, my fridge at home does not get that cold,buuurrrrrrrr!! Misty sleeps under the cover most nights, soft dog! OK this is week 3 and still not used to the wind and temp. Never mind we will head north in about 6 weeks, via Broken Hill, Longreach etc.
Well that's all for now as my fingers are bomb from the cold.

Arno Bay

2011-04-02T14:21:00.001+10:00

Here we are at beautiful Arno Bay, the caravan park is right on the ocean front, nice little beach and a jetty. Seems to be plenty of fish and squid around as well. The park is very friendly and they have a few social nights as well. Wednesday is cheap snitzels at the pub, right across the road. Thursday nights is sausage sizzle night, complete with fish and crabs some nights. We were very lucky as the both weeks we were there we had crabs (no not that type!!) and snapper cooked on the BBQ as well as the snags. Sunday morning is Pancakes for breaky cooked by the owners Steve & Belinda bloody great,!! together with a Coffee. Yummy!
The Arno Burgers from the cafe just outside the park at the jetty were Huge!! I could'nt even eat a whole one. They come cut in half for a reason, they were around 9inches across and about 5inches high. You must try one if you visit this area.
There is a beautiful park and play ground just newly completed at the end of the jetty & and overall there is a very pleasant atmosphere. I would stongly advise you to book at this park as during the two weeks we were there they were literally queued up at the enterance awaiting people to leave.
We met some lovely people at the park including Studs and Adele, Rick and Jen and another couple that we will catch up with in Port Lincoln, Martin & Gail, great folks all of them.
I forgot to mention the board walk.
There is a fantastic board walk just up the road complete with fishing alcoves within the walk. We actually saw the fish in the water. The walks are also wheelchair friendly and the water is crystal clear.
We are moving on to Port Lincoln tomorrow and we will call the Port Lincoln Caravan Park at North Shields home for around 8 weeks. Fae is busy with her talks and we are catching up with friends we have not seen for a few years.

Cowell

2011-03-26T16:03:00.002+10:00

We hooked up for the long trek (470klm) to Cowell to catch up with my old mate Lenny Sims. Lenny used to be a commercial diver on the tuna farms in Port Lincoln where I used to work for Lucky ‘S’ fishing.
I was bloody great to catch up; we were made very welcome and parked up in Lenny’s front yard over the long week end. We we hanging out for Pizza so asked Lenny if they made pizza in town, Yep was the reply, we ordered two large ones and went to pick them up. Next time I will ask Lenny if anyone in town made “good pizzas”. We were very disappointed as the pizzas left a lot to desire. Ah well we made good with a bottle of Chivas Regal and a two litre coke, yep! Slept well that night!. Lenny and I used to have a bottle of scotch and a two litre coke every Friday or Saturday and think nothing of it the next morning. Must have been something in the ice blocks!!!!One of the other guys from Port Lincoln was Schultz, another diver turned truckie. Both these guys are now driving road trains. Well as it turns out Schultz lives just up the road from Lenny and we were having a BBQ at his place the next night. There was more food than you could poke a stick at, and did I mention the scotch???
My turn to cook the next night. I did one of Wolfgang’s curries, turned out bloody beautiful, I did o small tame one for Fae at the same time, geeess I am getting good.
More food the next night with Lenny cooking a roast pork for us all, beautiful crackling as well as roast potatoes, carrots etc. Plus desert!!!! I got ta leave this place as I will soon be the size of a block of flats instead of a house!!
We left Cowell on Tuesday to head down the road to Arno Bay for a couple of weeks then on to Port Lincoln.

What happened to the Weather

2011-03-08T14:57:00.000+10:00

We ventured up to Wallaroo the other day and caught up to a very old friend in Max Walker (No! not that one!) We haven’t seen him or his lovely wife Rosie for a good few years. Max was in Port Lincoln when we were there but has since moved to Wallaroo into a beautiful new house on the banks of the new canal estate. Water at the front doorstep, The pontoon is already in place and just awaiting the boat!!!!(Just kidding Rosie) We had a lovely lunch and talked about old times over a few beers. They have got a dog called “Buddy”, he and Misty got on very well, they played for ages. You should have seen them running on the tiles in-between table legs etc. Very funny. Poor little Misty had to stop for a lay down and rest. Great she should sleep well tonight.
Hell it’s bloody blowing a gale and cold as all getup, my fridge in Cairns doesn’t get this cold. Double doonas tonight!
Never mind, we went for a trip to Marion Bay at the end of the Peninsula, very pretty spot. Beautiful coast line. Had a steak sandwich at a little service station, we were told about this place by someone in the park. They said the service was slow but worth the wait. “They we right” best sanga for a while, great fresh made chips as well. Even the sea gulls said so, I read once where hot potato chips were now recognised as being among the seagulls diet, unbelievable. That is until you open the paper around the chips and the sea gulls come from miles around, squawking and carrying on until you feed them. I had forgotten all about that, when we were kids we would tie cotton around two bits of crust and then feed the gulls, great fun watching them try to go in different directions. Ummm!! What a waste of child hood.
We are off this Friday to go and visit a mate in Cowell. (on the Eyre Peninsula) Long week end coming up so we don’t want to be in a park if we can help it. See you soon. :o)

Yorke Peninsula

2011-02-22T17:30:00.002+10:00

We hit the road for a short trip over to Yorke Peninsula, very dry around here. I forgot it is a very big grain area so all paddocks are just stubble now. Remember “sun on the stubble” from school???
We came across to a small place called Port Victoria on the coast. Nice little park, very full at present but will get quieter at the week end. We are at the rear of the park on the hill overlooking the sea when it is clear in front. Fae is doing talks about Register4 with National Breast Cancer at various clubs etc. It is about trying to get a data base of people willing to take place in research gathering from time to time. She is doing a gig at Wallaroo on Wednesday and we have decided to stay here for another two weeks to access other clubs and people in the area.
The manager, Jason, has given us a new site from tomorrow on the beach front; I can’t wait to have a wine or three looking over the ocean with an uninterrupted view from our awning. Whiting Caprice is on the menu tonight, I cooked a great curry last night, (a bit hot for Fae, but she ate up, good girl) there is some left over for me tomorrow night.
I had a Long Ranger fuel tank fitted at ARB in Adelaide; this should give us a better range for our trips north. Gee it costs a lot to fill it; 126lts at $1.40 per litre, fuel is pricey down here. The diesel is used to prop up the discount for unleaded which sells for around $1.21. Diesel is a far more unrefined product and should be cheaper!!!
The sun is shining and we are getting an average of 25 degrees this week so out comes the doona and electric heater, no matter we are having fun.

Adelaide

2011-02-22T17:13:00.001+10:00

Well we are in Adelaide now: we are staying with some very good friends who we have not seen for quite a while. Wolfgang & Merilyn were friends when we were first in Port Lincoln many, many years ago. They had the flat down stairs and we were constant companions and friends. Wolfgang is a chef and we had many a beautiful meal in those units with the little candles on a string burning as our only light.
They now live in a lovely house in Golden Grove, complete with swimming pool, hot spa, etc. A nice change from the van. We had our own room with our own bathroom and toilet, like staying in a very nice hotel really, complete with chef cooked cuisine. (Some of us have it good) Thanks a lot to Wolf & Merilyn for having us and making us feel very welcome.
We had a great time catching up and visiting some of our other friends around Adelaide. We have not seen Fred & Marg for years either and we got invited to have dinner with them at their beautiful home in Norwood, (a rather posh suburb of Adelaide) we learned that Fred had had bypass surgery a while ago, and has recovered well. He was looking great. Fred & Marg put on a super BBQ complete with flash deserts and wines. I have got to get back to the road or I will end up a bloody site bigger than I am. Fae was lapping it up and enjoyed seeing friends again.
We caught up with Brad & Brenda (Fae’s sister) for a nice lunch and a couple of wines!! At the Goodwood Hotel, very nice it was too. Brenda is on a health kick at present and goes to gym a couple of times a week. (Looking good girl). They both seem in the pink and Brad was with me in the food and wine stakes. (How come he is so slim!!!?)
Oh well
Off to the van tomorrow (Wednesday) a reality check.

What A Day

2011-02-04T14:23:00.001+10:00

What a fantastic surprise, my lovely sister Sylvia organised (and paid for I might add) a full day of celebrations. We started at the Cobdogla steam museum; Sylvia had hired the place for a ride on the train through the vine yards etc. What a great time, she again surprised me by getting a lot of rellies to come along. There were people I have not seen for years, Great nieces and nephews I have not seen or remembered. (craft) My nephews Patrick & Steven, nieces Belinda & Sally, sister Wendy just to name a few. There was champagne and “horses douvers” to be had on the train trip; we even got “mooned” by a young guy on the trip!!!!!
After our return to the museum we had a tour of the place including the “Humphrey Pump” and a huge steam tractor. We all moved to Sylvia’s place after that for more celebrating, eating and drinking. I think everyone had a great time, I know I did. We went on till well after dark so it was a very good day. I slept like a baby that night!!! Again a very big thank you to sister Sylvia, love ya heaps.

Cobdogla Station Caravan Park

2011-01-28T11:49:00.000+10:00

Cobdogla Station Caravan Park,
The park is home this week, we met up with sister Sylvia on the 25th , my birthday, it was a great afternoon, many champagnes and a nice dinner, more champagnes , and bugger it why not another champagne!!! Hell!!** The wind started, gusting around 30-40 knots came out of nowhere, trees blowing over etc . Just as well Sylvia only lives a couple of clicks from the park. Quick trip home to roll in awning and put chairs in etc. Back to sis’s place and did I mention the champagne!!! Mmmmmm!!
Got into bed and I must say the park is very noisy, kids everywhere on bikes at 10:30 at night, no lights or parents etc. Bloody noise!! People rolling up at this time to pitch tents etc. One thing that really stood out was the amount of kids; I mean 5yr to 7yr old type kids riding in the back of boats whilst being towed to and from the ramp, very dangerous practise, especially when kids are sitting on the edge of the boat. Still not my kids.
We have been into Berri and Renmark to have a walk round and see the river. It was good to see the mighty Murray flowing at last, not for the last two decades have the barrages at Goolwa been opened. In a couple of locks the river was almost the same level on both sides. In both cities the areas surrounding the river banks is very green and well looked after gardens, flowers everywhere, a change to the foliage colours in Cairns. Well my birthday party is tomorrow (Saturday) so I will update the blog later.

Hay Plains

2011-01-21T12:23:00.000+10:00

Well we made it across the Hay plains, very different county side, not many trees etc. We stopped at the fruit fly thing and unloaded our fruit, only a couple or oranges and an apple so Fae and I decided to eat it instead. Some people had just thrown their fruit at the bin or just in the bush. I can’t understand the attitude of some folks!!
We are staying at the Hay Caravan Park, virtually on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River; you can see where the flood was last week. About 10-12ft up the trees, it was very close to some houses. The park is not bad; amenities are very clean but no drier in the laundry. Sites are big and drive through, plenty of trees etc. The surrounding areas are very dry and although we are staying a week there is not much you can’t cover in a couple of days. The info centre is great and very friendly, even able to fill your tanks, free BBQ etc. We are moving on Monday to see my sister and celebrate my birthday, Yehhhh!!. So see you later and please don’t forget to sign our guest book.
Rgds Dreamcaster & Fae

Forbes

2011-01-21T12:05:00.001+10:00

Arrived at Forbes and checked out a couple of parks. We decided on the Country Club caravan Park. It is situated in a small industrial area but is very friendly and was recommended to us by Nigel & Lesley. What a nice place, only a few sites but they are very big around 9 X 9 meters of a fine grey stone and level. You then have lawn either side of the van site. There is a camp kitchen and BBQ in the middle, very convenient. The amenities are clean and there is even a dog bath in a separate room. There were even horses, a little pony and sulky to take the owners grand kids for a ride. Us too!! Forbes has some interesting history with Ben Hall leading the way. The info centre is run by volunteers and one of the ladies owns a Olive Plantation. I can vouch for the black ones with a wine or three for a very happy hour. The city centre was only five minutes walk away and there was an historic walk around town as well. You are only a short drive from Parkes if you want more selection of shops. There is a very pretty lake complete with fountains and park. I would recommend a stay just to relaxxx, I am sooo relaxed!!! :O)

Dubbo

2011-01-07T13:05:00.000+10:00

We left Celtic country on the 31st and headed to a free camp at Gunnedah (305) Red bank rest area. They have got very clean toilets here but no water. There is a BBQ but totally unusable as all the old ash has been placed on the BBQ plate. Too much for idiots to have done, the park is run by Rotary but there is virtually no upkeep as far as the rest of the stop goes. The tables are very rundown and the grass was at around 2ft high with very deep ruts to negotiate with the van. No matter the night was very quiet and only one camper trailer kept us company. We welcomed the New Year at around 9am the next day, very civilised, what!!
We moved off around 11am on to Dubbo for a week in the Westview caravan park. Quite clean amenities but nowhere to dry your hands ???? Both BBQs are US, and a lot of very noisy kids. Still the park is central and we have met some lovely new friends who are also travelling, Nigel & Leslie have been on the road for 7.5yrs and have really been around. That doesn’t sound good at all!! We had a great happy hour yesterday that just went on & on, you know what I mean……. We are moving off on Monday to hit up Forbes for a couple of days, see you all later

Broard Water & Beyond

2011-01-07T12:38:00.000+10:00

We left Broadwater Stop Over Caravan Park on the 29th ready to head west to Tenterfield via Casino. No way hojse!!! Road closed, bugger that was a waste of fifty kays. No mater, I have got to learn to relax and go with what life gives me.
We backtracked and went down to Grafton and west to Glen Innes, what a road!! Not. More pot holes than you can poke a stick at and a very steep climb to the top of the range too.**!!
On the top of the road is a beautiful look out over the valley and flats you have just come from, beautiful in deed. Another older couple stopped with their dog for a look see and a coffee break. We went on into Glen Innes and much to Fae’s delight we found the Australian Standing Stones ( the Ozy Stonehenge ) It was a beautiful park but it was right on closing time. We moved through town and free camped at (136) the Celtic rest area. Of course with our Wiccan beliefs we returned to town the next day and spent all day looking around and a treat of a Devon Shire tea at the stones. The whole town were a very friendly lot unable to do enough for you. We both decided we could settle there at a later date. We met many nice people who just wanted to have a chat. Back to the same camp tonight then onward

Burnett Heads

2010-12-15T11:48:00.000+10:00

Burnett Heads “Lighthouse” Holiday Park, we decided to stay in a park for the night to dry out the van and us. What a lovely little park on the ocean. We ended up staying for three nights as it was so peaceful sitting under the trees at sunset for happyhoursssss!!. We met a nice couple, Ian & Sandra, also with a Jayco, with whom we shared many a wine or GT. There were some very friendly Magpies in residence who insisted on being fed. Beautiful walks and scenery. Watching the wind surfers and the prolific bird life also took time. Fae got her hair cut and was offered a job teaching the hairdresser how to do waxing!!
I went in and sorted out the repairs on my port cask that we purchased 15 years ago from the same place. It will have to be posted to us when it is fixed."Bugger"
Time to leave came much too quickly and we left in the rain. The further south we went the worse the weather became, we stopped at Childers at a "day only" park and waited to see if the road was to be opened again. Both roads in and out of Childers were closed for a time. I heard on the radio (UHF) that the road was open again so we went for it. There was so much water over the roads and alongside of the highway. We were not game to stop any-where and get held up so we kept going to Broard Water Stopover Caravan park where we are staying for two weeks for our son’s wedding and Xmas. Again the people at this park are very friendly, a small park with all amenities, BBQ’s . Bart showed us to our spot and helped set up, Fae has got here home ready again, with things where they should be, even Misty is settled. And so life goes on, is it time for a beer yet????

The Sherriff Cometh

2010-12-15T11:26:00.000+10:00

We ended up staying seven nights at St. Lawrence free park. As I said it is a great place if you don’t upset the local “Sherriff”. A council guy came over to us on Tuesday and told us we were not allowed to run our generator where we were. The wrong side of the sign, I told him that the old couple next door to us were the only people in the whole park!!! We both had genies going and were not disturbing anybody but the birds. We could not park on the other side as it was too muddy from the six inches of rain we had over night. He said any one who came in would go straight to the council and complain!! Oh! Well OK then. I moved the genie 15 mts to the left of the sign and ran it as I needed to charge the batteries. He came past again, saw what I had done and just drove off. I think I inflamed the situation when I told him to go and get a plastic Sherriff’s badge. Never mind, my mate next door left the next day as he was a bit pissed off with the guy, we had both spent money in the town and liked the place.
We left on Monday to head further south, it rained all bloody day. We spent a night at Boyne River Free camp, not bad but the toilets were very dirty. From there to Gin Gin Rest Area where they were doing road works, we met a couple from earlier in the last two places, Rod & Terri were going to their mothers place for a few weeks R&R. Nice couple and a bit of fun, with a big dog too!!
The next port of call was to Bundaburg Caravan Repairs to get a leak fixed. We followed the mud map I had written down from Barry’s wife Kerry. We went over the Cedar Creek crossing, bloody hell !! the water was lapping at the edge of the concrete pathway, very narrow too. We finally arrived and had to negotiate the very muddy driveway.Barry and his wife looked after us very well indeed. We stayed at their mini park as they were all set up for visitors, power water etc. Misty loved the place, she had a hundred acres to explore with her new found friend “Bennie” the boarder collie pup, dad’s name is “Jack”. They played for hours, Misty saw her first chickens!!!! And tasted Chicken food and chicken droppings as well, Yummmmm!!! She was a mess, Fae got a bath ready for her , too bad little dog, she was not coming in like that.
The next morning Barry and Kerry came to say goodbye as they were off to Bundy for the day. See Ya Later we said, not knowing how soon that would be!!***###
We hooked up and headed off down the drive, dodged a couple of holes and slid a bit in the mud. Went off the very cut up track for a piece and ended up in a drain at the side of the drive, Tug down in the LH rear, van down RH both axels, Hopelessly bogged in Barry’s driveway. Shit ,Dam!!!***###
No phone reception, van looked as though it should have been in a cross country derby, mud every- where from the tugs spinning wheels. The tug was a complete mess. No phone coverage, hell what else could go wrong. We walked back to the house and Fae picked up one bar of signal on her mobile. We called Barry and asked when he was going to be home!!!!! How embarrassing.
Barry turned up with his Hyundia to provide the extra grunt I needed and we were out. He had a bore outlet about 50mtrs from where we were so the van and tug had a quick wash to get the very sticky mud off. Thanks again Barry Wells from Bundaberg Caravan Repairs 0408 757678

Further South

2010-12-02T16:32:00.000+10:00

Monday 29th we are travelling south still down to Jolimont Caravan Park, what a disappointment!! We did not even stay, the place looked a mess, I was greeted at the office door by a couple of children that looked unloved. The place was a mess as far as I could see and full of mud etc. I asked where we could turn around and leave. The lady stated that we would not get anything else in Mackay at this time of year!!! The place is almost deserted. We ended up at Sarina in a little park, quite old but the owner has tried and the amenities were very clean with piped music and fresh flowers arranged everywhere. The caretaker, Richard, showed us to our site in the rain and could not do enough for us. We only stayed the one night because we wanted to get further down the track but the park was a place we would return to. (Tropicana Caravan Park).
Next day on to our current position, St Lawrence, about half way between Mackay & Rockhampton. You turn left at the St Lawrence sign and on the left is the biggest free park we have seen, toilets, handicap toilets, hot showers, water, electric BBQ, more shaded tables and seats than you can shake a stick at, a beautiful walk around a wet area and plenty of wild life. It takes a bit of a look around to find a site that does not get too wet in the rain though. I set up at one point close to everything, just to step into a couple of inches of mud at the door after the rain that night. Bugger etc!!!***###
Never mind we shifted and have a good area now, we are here for o couple of nights more at this stage before we move on.
Fae has settled into a routine now and everything seems to be where it is suppossed to be and all clean, even in the wet. What would I do with out her, Well its time for happy hour so
Have a great day and we will see ya later.

On The Road

2010-12-02T16:13:00.002+10:00

On The road now, left Walkamin on the 26th and headed off south towards Townsville. We went down the Palmerston Range and came out on the main highway at Innisfail. Just as well too, as the radio told us the main road was cut at Derall overnight and closed. We overnighted at a free park called Bilyana (22) what a great little place, off the road and room for around eight large vans. Toilets and water available. This place had a blocked toilet in the men’s and I rang the number displayed, a lady in Townville answered and told me they would be on to it, Yeah! Right. There was a service vehicle there within the hour and all was fixed. The gent even apologised for the inconvenience, how’s that for service?? Go Qld Main Roads.
We left the next am to head to Blue Water (36) just out of Townsville, what a huge, beautiful rest area, Toilets, water, lawned areas and a nature outlook over a creek. The was even a cricket match to watch on the oval. A sign in the loos said not to be bashful as all were welcome at the sporting and social club for meals etc. There was a function on the first night and we heard nothing. We would recommend this area to everyone. It was spotless, as I said beautifully lawned and on the banks of a river where people we swimming. There is also a nature walk and fitness track around the site. Congratulations Townsville.

Walkamin Central

2010-11-05T21:29:00.000+10:00

Hi readers, We are at Walkamin Central Caravan Park, very sociable place this. We arrived on Wednesday afternoon and set up the van. Great site next to our friends, Ian & Desley, Ian came over and gave me a hand to set up and the first wine went down around 4:30 !!! Very nice. It has been a busy couple of days with Fae working hard to set up "Home". We had a beaut Haloween Night on Sat with lots of guests getting into the swing of things and dressing up as what they thought witches etc look like. See pics. We had a couple of hectic days doing stuff and having things ready for "Happy Hour" Gees doesn't that take time!! We had a great "Melbourne Cup" luncheon on Tuesday. As I said before it is a very good park. We have bumped into some people from Port Lincoln that we have not seen or heard from for over ten years. (small world I kid you not!!)
Our friends have set up for the wet season by puting in a false floor in the annex, coplete with vynal flooring, very posh.
I had a young guy fit my new wheel bearings today for $120, He did a great job and saved my knuckles etc! He goes by the name of "Priceless Automotive 0437 647977" he will travel up on the Tablelands around Mareeba if you are up this way.
Misty is finding it hard to settle in with people walking past "Her Van" and the owners dog has taken to walking past and barking now just to stir her up Heh! Heh! she will settle down.
Well as things happen I will update the blog so bear with us and have a great life.

It's Finally Happened

2010-10-22T16:52:00.001+10:00

I finally retired on the 15th of this month Yeahhhhhh!!!
It took a while to come around but finally we are on the home stretch, we have sorted out most of the stuff we are taking or leaving behind. I have my trusty scoot up for sale, as it won’t be able to go on the rear of the van. We have bought a Rhino Rack bike carrier to go over the spare wheel on the van to carry to push bikes (you really do have to peddel to make them go, bugger!!) Never mind, Fae’s is pink, naturally and mine is blue, we put a basket on each for Misty and stuff. We got two gel seats so as to be gentle on the behind.
I replaced the tyres on the van with new light truck ones as they have been standing for more than two years and I did not trust them anymore. I have four new wheel bearing sets as well so all should be OK with the rolling stock.
We have decieded to go up to the table lands to a place called Walkermin for around four weeks to get the feel of every-thing and to get away from this van park. I must admit to being a little cross with the managers again as they have closed one toilet block down even though there are around 30 people using them. (when it rains you have a good 200mts to get to a loo.) They do leave the handicap toilet open, but won’t clean it as they expect the users to do that, I recon that’s a bit off!!! So much for paying your rent (not cheap either)
Like I said we do love the place but because we have been here for just over two years and we feel as though we are not being treated like paying customers any more. Never mind it has now come to an end and Fae and I go on the road next week.
We are really looking forward to catching up with friends, Ian & Desley up there and love the park and the informal atmosphere. They have a big shed, closed in on the weather sides where they always have their communial happy hours etc. Bloody great!
The toilet blocks are beautiful inside complete with the little things like soap, tissues, flowers etc. you could eat off the floor as they are spotless, and that says volumes about the owners, Lucy and Husband.

The Wet Season Commeth

2010-10-05T13:19:00.000+10:00

As the title suggests the weather up here has turned rather early. Some suggest an early start to the wet! It has been fairly bad over the last couple of weeks, cold nights, rain all day and night. Nothing gets dry, towels etc, bloody awful.
Never mind, woke up with a heart beat so all is good. Poor Misty didn’t like Fae much last week, she took her to the vet to get desexed!! Bad day. I however got in her good books by rescuing her from the nasty vet the next day, Yeehh for dad!!!
Poor little thing, had half of her belly shaved and none to happy about it either. She would settle, only to leap into the air as the ends of the stiches jabbed on some thing or other. Still she will settle down and save us a bit of grief further down the track with the male dogs.
Slowly, very slowly we are getting down to the essentials we need to take, and working out still more weight savings on stuff we wont need.
Fae purchased a new Backarat pressure cooker the other day. Very good brand at a very good price too!. We had one when we first got married nearly 40 years ago, it did not last very long and I still remember the pea soup hanging from the ceiling in the kitchen! She vowed never to have another one until our friends had lunch prepared in around 30 mins with one the other day. Fae has used it a few times now and is sold on the fact you only need one pot and it is very fast. Corned Beef last night with veg in around 20 mins, not bad either.
Did I mention that there is only 5 ½ weeks to go :o)
Ok Folks stay safe

Eight Weeks To Go (who's counting)

2010-09-16T18:42:00.002+10:00

As the title says only eight weeks to go, Yippeeeee!!
Can’t get here bloody quick enough, as I said before we have been looking at a way to mount the new pushbikes on the rear of the van. I spoke to a knowledgeable gent the other day and he suggested a “Rhino Rack” seems they do just what I wanted. Hooks over the spare and locks on, then mount the bikes to the frame. It looks great in the pics so here’s hoping and at $156 it was easier than me trying to make one that would have weighed ten times as much ( being a boilermaker I tend to over engineer every thing)
We purchased a new 120amp hr battery the other day and fitted same in the van and the old van battery now lives in the tug to run the Engle. It is only a small battery but combined with the 80 watt solar panels it should, I have been told by Engle, run the fridge during the day and top up the battery enough to run it at night. There is always the genny and a C-TEK 25000 charger if it don’t work !!
The weather has been beautiful this last couple of weeks and it makes you wonder why you ever lived down south, that is until its 38 degrees and 110 % humidity !!! The park is thinning slowly but there is an increase in the child population, Hummm ! Grumpy old man walking here !!
As I have stated before we have had coloured strips put on the tug and names etc put on the van, looks a beaut. You will see us coming for miles (maybe meters) still looks great. We went to visit our friends at Walkamin the other day and made a booking to be in the park for two weeks before we set off. This time is just to relax and learn to slow down to a walk, also to get misty used to different surroundings. She has been great lately as she is still very young but she has not been on the lead for two days now and no running off to chase turkeys or kids ( fingers crossed) She comes to sit out side with me in the mornings for around five minutes then off back to bed with mum and another sleep till Fae kicks her off the bed. She would happily stay there all day.
We purchased two tub chairs the other day to replace the recliners that were too big for the van. These look great and are very comfy, Misty has hers picked out already. It will be nice to be able to relax inside out of the cold at nights as we travel around.
Ok folks please keep in touch through our email or this blog. Safe travels to you all.

Getting Closer

2010-08-26T13:11:00.000+10:00

The time is getting ni! (I think tha’t how you spell it)
Gees I can’t bloody wait to get going, a lot of vans are departing heading south yet others still are setting up. We wish we were on the road so bad we can taste it.
We were having a bit of trouble with the new BBQ burning anything you tried to roast. It seems that the tray is too close to the flame. I sent an e-mail to Marine BBQ’s Australia and a nice gent rang me to say he was very sorry about my problems (or my inability to cook). He sent me ,(at no charge,I might add) a new tray to sit in the bbq to keep the cooking tray further from the flame. I have yet to try this but there is a weekend coming up and Fae insists that she does not cookon weekends!! She has a good life.
Got some prices on tyres the other day, don’t they vary and for the same tyres too! Settled on some 225x70/R15 at $158.80 fitted and balanced, light truck with a load rating of 1150kg and speed rating of 180kph. Should just do the trick I recon. I will have to replace the bearings before we start off as the wheels have not turned for around two years (they might be stuck) Still it will be easier to replace them now than on the side of the road somewhere.
Take care all

Cold August

2010-08-07T10:51:00.002+10:00

August,
It’s getting closer !! We did a bit more changing last week. I have put the gas bottles back where they were when the van was new. i.e. In the front boot.
This allowed me to put a big tool box across the front of the van, the genny and new BBQ live there now. We got rid of the big electric frypan as it would not fit into any cupboard and the boss said it had to go. We also sold the Webber Q and three burner stove. Replaced all three with a small covered in rectangular type BBQ. This is working well and you can use it as a BBQ, oven or cook top.
There is a gent in the park at present that does vinyl signage so we got a quote to put the van’s name “Witch – Way” on the back of the van and some matching stipes on the side of the Tug, great price so that’s more money gone.
When we get going we plan to go up on the table lands to Walkamin for a couple of days to get things set up and to go into relax mode before setting of down south.
Fae is crook at present with the flu or such, but she is getting used to being at home now and coping quite well looking after Misty and me.
It has been very cold in the evenings up her (by our standards) although I hear the tourists saying the locals are soft. Bloody hell it is getting down to 15 degrees etc.
One of our dear friends that had a run in with their insurance company just got another replacement van lined up. We hope all goes very well for Jules & Len, they certainly deserve a break. We just went to renew our insurance and I asked the rep how much it was insured for, Market Value, was the reply, fine I said but how much would I get if it was written off today. The lass could not give me any idea and said that was the way it was. I got another quote and am about to change to this company with an Agreed Value policy as my previous company would not do it. I also found out that other companies will not insure if you are full time on the road, be aware, be very aware!!!

Happenings in Cairns

2010-07-08T16:01:00.000+10:00

Well let’s see what’s new.
I have been on workcover for three weeks as I seem to have RSI or the likes from the computer at work. But that stopped when they did x-rays on my neck and decided that there was more wrong than we thought.I was booked into a specialist surgeon yesterday and duly went to see same. A rather nice bloke actually, he asked when I was going into semi retirement and I said around mid October. He answered that that was a very good idea with what he saw on my X-rays?? He explained that I had Degenerative Arthritis of the spine and I was at my “use by date”. Nice! He explained that I should take it easy at least for the next three months whilst it settled down again. Then no undue heavy lifting, pushing etc.
So that settled it we are on the road mid October and we are counting the weeks.
We have spent more money in the form of a little electric heater, waterfilters, and a new solar panel set up for the fridge in the tug. I went with an 80 watt folding display which should be enough to run the Engle and keep the battery topped up for the evening run.
I selected the Platinum Plus filter set to filter all water coming into the van ,and we also have a carbon filter under the sink for drinking water. We hope to be able to pump water out of running creeks some times, just to top up the tanks, of course all the creek water will go through the twin filters before going into tanks.
I have to get a rack put in the back of the truck to put the table and chairs on above the fridge. That should be all for the tug. The next bit is a bike rack on the rear for two pushbikes, yep, finally got talked into it by the boss. She says it will help with the neck thing and keep us a bit fitter than I am at present,. LOL to all from Dreamcaster & Fae

Beautiful Day in Cairns

2010-05-12T11:30:00.000+10:00

Hi again from Lake Placid, well how things change. As was previously mentioned the site fees went up and the amenities block has still not been opened, Bah! I went to dry the washing the other day to find they have now put up the cost of washing and drying to $4 a go !! and still no toilet roll in the handicap loo !! Have to walk another 200 metres.
Still I guess the poor buggers have to make it whilst they can, as only full for four months of the year.
Last year we reported that we went to Bali, well I will post a couple of pics from there. We went to the new Bali Safari Park. I am telling you it was the best money we have spent over seas, we had an absolute ball at the park including the high lights of being able to cuddle the animals, including the Orana tang and big cats. If you would like to know more go to the guest book and leave me a note and I will contact you.
We finally found out how much we have to pay for Fae’s HECS bill before we head off, Ouch!! that is going to really hurt!!! Ow!! again, about 20 weeks of budget. Bugger.
The weather is just starting to promise what to expect, cool nights with sunny days, can’t wait as we are really over the rain. (yep heard you!!)
I have to do the jayco’s water again as we are having trouble with the pressure reduction valve getting stuck shut and no water. I have pulled it out and am going to the plumber for a replacement, I hope.
Have a great day folks

Update From Cairns

2010-04-27T18:45:00.002+10:00

Hi again from Cairns, I for one just can’t wait to get on the road so we have some thing exiting to put in the blog. We have had such a long run of rain up here every body is over it, yes I can hear you now, but please come and help yourselves,!!!
I just noted that we have done 30000klms on the Ford, it seems only a few months ago we bought it; it will be worn out before we start our adventure. Fae has had a big clear out of goods and chattels, the van should drop half a tonne at least. All those things we could not do with out!!! Suddenly we can. You don’t need 36 pairs of shoes! 10 will do, same with hand bags. Ouch!! Ouch again!!
We went in to Kmart today and they had some good specials on push bikes, we got two Cyclops ones, gel seats (a must have), two baskets (for Misty carrying) and of course two “hats ridicules”
I have to look at mounting a bracket on the rear bar to carry these.
I have upgraded the lights inside the van to LEDs, very easy to do and the savings on battery power will more that pay for it.
Having a look at a new 120amp hr AGM battery for the van, gees they are cheap !! not. I have purchased and fitted a nudge bar to the tug and it looks great, if I say so myself. I have to mount the radio now and all will be finished.
We changed over to the turbo wireless internet modem the other day, what a drama that was, Telstra is very helpful when you finally get to talk to someone in OZ not India. This set up will be much better that the old blue Toaster type.
The park is slowly starting to fill up now with the not so grey nomads and their million dollar rigs. Still they will move on shortly as the park is already nearly booked out for the rest of the year. The park manager has been able to keep one block (half) of the amenities closed as a cost saving to him, and an inconvenience to every body on the wrong side of the park!! Unfortunately the site fees went up by $10 a week from next month, and I still have to ask for a toilet roll to be put into the toilets!!! Maybe he is saving on that too.
OK folks that’s all for now, keep safe and well

Up date on Blog

2010-02-27T10:13:00.000+10:00

I have just had the finishing touches completed on the Ranger, new fridge plug and spare etc; the boys had to shift the Red Arc battery controller as I wanted to put in a cav type pre filter on the tug as it is a big job to change the standard fuel filter. The whole unit has to be taken out of the veh to access the filter, not a job to be done on the side of the road. I will put in the filter water trap (Cav type) before the main filter so I can drain the water and change pre filter every 5,000 klm or so. A much easier option!!
I must again sing the praises of the team at TJM Scott St Cairns, Jason and crew did a most professional job on the Ranger, you know, every thing was finished, no bits half done, insulation on all wires, kill rust and grommets on all holes etc, just a trade quality job. If any one up here needs any thing for their tug I would highly recommend them, Thanks again Guys.
The Mojo 150 scooter I bought is going great guns, very cheap to run and a whole lot of fun to ride, until it rains and you have a leak in your wet weather gear, right where you don’t want it. I got to work and had wet b***ls all day, bloody shit!**!!
It looks as thought we will be off in October now as we have a conference in Hervey bay then and a wedding in December in Mullumbimby!!! (hope I spelled that right). So we will have a month or so to do that short trip from Hervey to Byron Bay.
I am looking at a nudge bar for the Ranger so I can mount the UHF aerial on it, also for a little protection. Gee they are not cheap.$800 from Ford I might try ebay.
OK folks that’s all for now and a reminder please sign our guest book so we know someone is reading this
LOL Dreamcaster, Fae & Misty

Christmas has been and gone.

2010-02-27T09:50:00.000+10:00

Well x-mas has been and gone, as expected we had an absolutely brilliant x-mas lunch at Bella Baci the owners Sam & Christine were the fantastic hosts you would expect. The day went of very well with Sylvia and myself doing justice to 4 or so bottles of Jantz Champers !!!!!*********** Bloody great.
New years was spent at the same establishment with much the same results ***********

Sister Sylvia had a few problems with her van whilst she was here but all in all she now has a few ideas of what she wants to change or not with the van. It will be interesting to see it when she has finished with the rebuild. She had a good trip back to Barmera but had some bad news as two of her friends passed and so she had a couple of funerals to attend. Not a good way to start the year.
Fae has just started a part time job; she bought some new sheets and saw a note, wanting staff. She asked the lady and was told they really wanted a junior, no worries she said, paid for her purchase and was then asked if she would be interested?? Got the job nearly on the spot, works on three days a week and has a ball, no stress, aircond comfort. The place is Pure Zone in the DFO at Westcourt Cairns.
Well bye for now and we will keep you posted on our journey.

Chrismas is Nearly here

2009-12-12T11:38:00.002+10:00

Well Christmas is Nigh, Bah! Humbug!
Just got the tug back after being fitted out with Black Widow drawer system, Red Arc dual battery system, Anderson plug, aux plugs and second battery in the rear for fridge. The guys at TJM Cairns have done a beautiful job on the ford; it definitely gives you much more room and versatility in the back. The drawer system seems very strong and robust.
Sister Sylvia finally made it up from the deep south after an eventful trip. Flat tyres, running hot radiator in the Merc, Keys locked in van (yep twice ha! ha!) and a coming together with a kangaroo which tore out the trailer wiring from the van, bugger!!
That took a day out of her schedule awaiting an auto elec in West Wylong..
Still she is here now all safe and sound and trip number one under her belt, it will only get easier from here on. Healthy breakfast on the first day. (I saw her getting fresh mangoes for breaky from the tree.)Champagne etc for dinner tonight.
We have booked at our favourite restaurant for Xmas dinner and have just seen the menu, yummmm!! Looks great. This together with a champagne or three should just do the job, a nanna nap after will finish the day off just fine.
We installed a “doggie door” for Misty so she can please herself wether she goes in or out of the van, she picked it up quite quickly really, marvellous what a treat on the wrong side of the door will do!!
John and Sandy have left the park to drop their gear in to their new house before travelling south to be with family for Xmas, have a safe trip guys and we will look forward to your return in the New Year. These two are great people and we will miss the afternoon drinks etc with them. It is very quiet in the park as I said before but also it is very nice, we have more birds and wild life around this time of year. I planted a tomatoe plant and had a great first bunch, then the catapillars had a great second bunch between them!! Bugger again.
Just had a call from some very good and long time friends (way back when we first got hitched, loooong time ago) more later.
OK that’s all folks, to all our readers have a very happy and safe Xmas and new year and above all live life!!

November

2009-11-07T11:40:00.002+10:00

Well how things change, Fae has finished working full time and is going gently into retirement, (sound like we are putting her down!!!) She is only doing 10 hours per week now, just to help her old company out. I admit it is great to have her home when I arrive from work, meals cooked, van sparkling clean and every thing in its place. That is until I get home then it looks like a bomb hit, ha! ha!
Speaking of bombs, Misty is so very full of life. She was going to Pup Stars day care whilst we were both working, and at $95 per week it was like she was a star. The people there called her “energizer” as they would put her with various dogs during the day until she had run them all into the ground with her playing. She has grown up a bit now but is still in puppy mode while she plays, biting every thing, very sharp little fangs she has got as well.
She started in a bed along side ours, that lasted about 3-4 minutes then in to our bed, where she rules the roost. She has been sleeping right through the night now so it really is great.
Heard from sister Sylvia the other day and it looks like she will be joining us for Christmas, we will have a ball, she is getting her pop top fitted out with her stuff so it will be a good shake down trip for her. (a long way from Barmera S.A.)
The rains have just started to hit Cairns, not much really, just a promise of things to come. The park is almost empty now just a few of us left, our neighbors, Harold & Ann have had there house finished, a beautiful residence it is too! Our other friends John & Sandy are building at trinity and their house will be ready by Christmas, (may be!!!) so my lovely Fae and I will be alone for awhile I guess. Nice and quiet too!!
Well folks that wraps it up for today so drive safe and please keep in touch.

A VERY SAD AUGUST

2009-08-29T08:49:00.004+10:00

As you know by my last post, Fae and I had a holiday in Bali, more later. Unfortunately before we left one of our best friends lost his fight with the dreaded cancer. Darren was only 42 and married for just over two years to Jo. He was diagnosed with cancer shortly after they got married and was operated on very quickly, everything seemed to be going OK until a few short months ago. Darren left us on the 2nd August he was at home with family and friends as he wanted. He has left a very big void in our lives and all that had dealings with him, Darren was just one of those sorts of people, helped everyone and asked nothing in return.
He took all the photos at Fae and my recommitment ceremony on the 9th May and all was OK. So short a time, remember, do not take time or friends for granted they leave so suddenly. I don’t want to be morbid on this blog so I will leave it at that, Darren, you will be very sorely missed my friend RIP.

Fae and I left for Bali on the 7th August for a few days of r&r, we flew from Cairns to Darwin and then on to Denpasar, we flew with Jet star and were quite happy with the flight etc. We were picked up at the airport, after clearing customs and taken to our hotel in Seminyak. We stayed at the “Grand Bali Sani Suites” it was a beautiful hotel on the beach. It was listed as three stars but was in fact maybe 4 1/2 stars. Very clean and large rooms, fantastic service, great meals and views over the ocean. Yes it was a little away from the bustle of Kuta but great for what we wanted, just a quiet time. I will put a couple of pics on the site later. We were there for 4 nights then moved up to “the hotel from hell” in Ubud. It was called the Champ lung Sari resort, what a play on words, our room was very small, very dirty, the sheets were mouldy, the food was plain awful, and to top it off you had monkeys sitting on top of your food before you eat Yuk!!! I put a report on trip advisor for all to see.
Well I have never been so glad to be back in OZ, Fae liked it but this trip left a bad taste in the mouth. Never mind life goes on.
On our return I finally weakened and we purchased a very small pup.
Pomeranian, Chihuahua cross. See pic we named her “Misty”. You will probably hear a lot more of her over the rest of our saga.
Well that’s all for this month so stay safe and live life.

Paradise in July

2009-08-22T08:42:00.001+10:00

Hi all you good folk, well as I said in the last up date “Fae” had a birthday on the 7th July. Surrounded by friends we had a beautiful meal at our favourite restaurant in Palm Cove. Bella Baci is on the esplanade at Palm Cove north of Cairns, A provincial Italian Restaurant of the highest calibre. After a complementary bottle of one of the best French champagnes and some of our favourite meals we had a great night.
The park is still full and “happy hour” seems to be taking on a personality of itself. There are groups setting up all over the park and circling of the chairs is a requirement (just like the wagons of the wild west). It is great to see people enjoying them selves.
Just got our rego in for the Tug and My cruiser, christ they know how to charge, about $800 for the old cruiser and around $700 for the Ranger, this puts a hole in the budget I tell you. Never mind could be worse. We are off to Bali next month for a week, yeah I know but some one has to do it. !!!!

Beautiful in June

2009-07-06T12:02:00.001+10:00

Monthly Report

June has been a rather good month weather wise at least. Fae and I have both been very busy at work. At Norstate we have had the best month since I have been here, great for business.
Funny thing, one of my work mates was having trouble losing his chooks at home, he looked hi and low for the culprit and low and behold he found the trouble maker. A 3mt scrub python., said python must have been full from his last meal as he was no match for my mate, quick as lightning he is!!! (see Pic) Poor old bugger was very sedate (snake that is) so we held him up for a pic. I then phoned another guy who is with the wild life carers and he will look after the old fella until he is ready to be released in to the wild again. Hopefully not near anyone’s chook run??
The park is looking very busy and full of holiday makers and a few sundowners thrown in for good measure. Plenty of kids running and generally making noise!!!! (not too bad though) I did tell one gent that “did he realise that you can buy puppies now” you should have seen the dark look I got! Never mind he will age soon enough.
I was reading the Caravan & Motorhome Mag the other day, in it were some horror stories about van parks re pricing etc. We must be very lucky up here in Cairns. Lake Placid Van Park is one beautiful place; just far enough out of town to be quiet but only a few minutes from a large shopping center and some local “must do “ attractions. The amenities are great as are the various activities arranged by the staff. Asian night feeds, quiz nights and Saturday morning breakies!! Great.
We had an American naval vessel in for the 4th of July celebrations and the council did put on a great fireworks display for the 2800 service men and women from the USof A,
They seemed like a likeable lot of young people, very polite etc, good on em!
Have a very special day coming up on the 7th July, Fae’s birthday so we will have a special night out with some friends.
See you all later and stay safe

Full Moon ceremony

2009-06-13T14:17:00.000+10:00

Full moon on the 9th May, three days early (We were married on the 12th but because of moon) we had a recommitment ceremony, Yeh! I know, married again, and to the same Sheila!!!
It was great, very small with only our son and my sister from our family and close friends. As our readers know both Fae and I follow Wicca so our ceremony was done as a “hand fasting” (you can look that up if you want) It all went very well and some onlookers were a bit enlightened as to what was going on. No sacrifice, or nude debauchery (Bugger! She said that was in!!) Just a very nice gathering. My Fae looked beautiful, and almost brought a tear to my eye. We originally got married in a registry office sooooo long ago!. Fae has always wanted to do this so I just bought it up out of the blue. It was great and I should have done it many years ago. OK enough self flagellation, have a look at the pic and I will try to add a picture file later.
Have a great time dreaming or doing it. (Travelling I mean??)

The Sundowners Arrive

2009-06-13T13:44:00.004+10:00

Fae has gone down to Brisvagas for the day to attend a training session, not enough time to shop!! BUGGER says She!! Ha! Ha! Says I
Still it gives me some time to do the washing etc to surprise her, also to have a look at the water inlet. Jayco’s have a pressure reduction valve that keeps from blowing all the pipes off your van with high water pressure. A great thing but it seems to be playing up on me, when you get up in the am some times you can't get the water to run for some minutes, bugger if you are in the shower at 6am I tell you. Still I will have a look at same today, if any one knows any secrets feel free to drop us a line in the guest book!
On that subject I would appreciate some comments etc in same as we don’t seem to get many. I am starting to feel unloved, Yeh! Right.
We had some friends join us a few months back Paul and Lynne who I mentioned earlier had a bit of a set back. They too are a great couple and we saw quite a bit of them during the wet season. We have missed their company and seeing the dogs (Fae even bought dog chocs for Cindy & Honey) over the last few weeks. We came home the other day to find they had left with out saying good bye and wonder what we did? Still we hope they have good and safe travels where ever they go and some of you will meet up with them I am sure.
The park is really starting to fill up with lots of very nice people. There are still some kids, sorry ,I mean children about, running around and yelling. Hopefully they will go soon and I can pretent to be a "Sundowner" again for a few months.
Ok that’s all for today, have to fix that valve before the boss gets home, safe travels to you all.

The Waiting Goes On

2009-06-13T13:22:00.001+10:00

Ok so I have been very slack and some of our readers have said so.
I just checked the guest book and saw a message from Shiela&Willymakeit, I thought we had lost contact with those pair, as I have said before and for those of you who have been lucky enough to meet them, would agree, they are the salt of the earth, and a great couple. You can spend so quality time over the odd ale or three with them.
I & Fae have been working very hard and long hours for some time now and coming home to the van is very precious to us just to spend some time together and rest up. It seems as though I have got a thing called Lymph Oedema in my lower legs, (that sucks, when I get home I look like balloon man) There is no history of it in my family and I have had no trauma or ops so it is a bit unfair. I will find out on Monday the total verdict but looks like I will have to wear compression stockings on the lower leg to stop the swelling. As far as I can find out there is no cure and I am stuck with it. Ah! Well, I am still alive and have Fae with me.
Our son hit us with the news that he and his fiancé have split up after seven years of living together, he is shattered and just doesn’t know what to do at this stage, as I said life sucks some times.
The weather is getting much better but so bloody cold during the night, I try to cuddle up to Fae but she tells me I’m too cold and to keep on my side. 26 during the days though and plenty of sun, beautiful!!!!
Has anybody had any trouble with the top of the line Coleman reclining chairs?? We purchased two of the 130kg rated ones, (Fae stops the scales at 50kg if she is ringing wet) me well I am getting up there at 110kg. We have managed to break two arms and the seating on Fae’s tore at the seam. This all happened over a six month period. The guy where we got them replaced the first two with nary a problem, but when we took the latest one back he said he did not have stock and was not getting any in the near future. We asked if there was a problem with them to which he replied that they had a few returns!! After telling us to take them to some other shop who had stock to get them replaced, I asked if we could get our money back, no probs so long as we had receipt. Fae always keeps these things, typical female!!! (Ouch) But he would not return the one that was not broken saying there was nothing wrong with it. I said that he had just hinted that they have problems with that model and I would like a refund on that one also, no go. So guys just beware of the arms breaking on the adjustable Coleman 130 kg chairs.

Thar she blows (or breathes easier)

2009-05-25T15:21:00.000+10:00

December 20th

Well Fae came home and was looking pretty good in all. No black eyes or brusing. Very lucky girl mine. When you see the size of the splints they put up her nose it would bring tears to the eyes. She has stopped coughing a bit now and is well on the way to recovery.
We hope you all had a great xmas, we did nothing special but enjoyed the break and it gave Fae time to recover before going back to work.
We are having a very wet ,wet season. The park flooded in the worst of it (just the center bit) the drains had a lot of trouble keeping up a flow away from the roadway. We had some terrific down pours like you wouldn’t believe. 200 mm in four hours, hell that’s wet I tell you, it don’t matter what you wear you got wet from the rain or humidity or both. Great fun though, I had a few wines late one afternoon and thought my eyes were playing tricks when Fae told me to look at the road, cripes it was going up and down, rolling around like me on a Saturday night. It was truly errie, the road finally gave way and burst upwards, spliting all the bitumen all the way down the hill in front of our van. In the morning it looked like a mini earthquake had struck. ( must check the date on that wine bottle!!)

Where does the Time Go

2008-12-15T22:07:00.005+10:00

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

The Dream has Started in Earnest

2008-09-15T12:13:00.003+10:00

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.

Finally the Van is Delivered

2008-09-15T12:02:00.001+10:00

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.

The New Tug Arrives

2008-09-15T12:00:00.001+10:00

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”.

Van Purchase

2008-07-21T09:56:00.004+10:00

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 23ft 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 Dream Continues

2008-07-14T12:36:00.001+10:00

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!

Brisbane June 08

2008-06-15T17:34:00.001+10:00

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

Brisbane Caravan show

2008-05-26T11:03:00.002+10:00

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.

Spending day (again)

2008-05-26T10:35:00.002+10:00

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)

Bad news day

2008-05-26T10:10:00.003+10:00

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!

Tug (which do we choose)

2008-05-25T17:56:00.000+10:00

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)

Faerie-trail

2008-05-25T16:55:00.002+10:00

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.