We are finding it hard to believe that we have been on the road for 10 days now. We are really into the bull dust and general grime of outback driving. Unfortunately the local dust has really put a nasty spin on the usual pristine cupcake outfits. Today we were into our white overalls due to heat and the fact that the overalls are now lasting only one day. Tonight we look just as dirty as the car.
This morning was breakfast at the Borroloola school where a young fellow with spina bifida was given a walking frame. Many other donations were given to the school - books colour copiers, digital cameras etc. It makes our schools look like palaces in comparison. It was nice to see so many children at school so early to meet us.
It was American Muscle Day. So all the American tanks lined up to leave first. We were sure that something on Candy must be American. They assured us not so we had to leave later in the pack. Many cars went black top today. We almost did because they said that the road would be the worst so far. However, after a good night sleep in the Ploice compound we kept with the pack.
We were glad we did as the roads seemed quite ok. We had no dramas at all. The terrain changed quite a bit today as it was undulating with many creek crossings. It was fun - we felt like seasoned rally drivers.
Today we both went for about a 10 minute spin in car number 007. These guys appear crazy. Eric is an ex Porche racing car man. He just threw the Holden into corners and through the creek crossings. We think that he only can drive with his foot nailed to the floor. He was constantly moving his hands and feet like you see on the web cams in racing cars. As navigator we did not have time to make the calls as he was up there overtaking etc. Also our hearts were beating so fast we were flatout keeping up.
Lunch was at Roper Bar where we paid $2 a litre for petrol, the most expensive yet.
We then headed to Katherine via Manaranka hot springs. What a treat. The water was warm and refreshing. It was the cleanest we had been all day. We went in with a dust tan and came out clean. We laid in the rapids and had a massage.
On the way into Katherine we passed amazing ant nests. They looked like grave yards on the side of the road.
Dinner tonight was outside in a park with lots of lights and candles. It was a beautiful setting. We caught up with many of the cars we had not seen all day.
We then towed some other Bashers to their motel and got into our homestay quite late. We don't have to do a big drive tomorrow but get to spend an extra day in Katherine. Another day of adventure in now over. We feel that we have beginners luck on our side as nothing major has happened to Candy.
4 comments:
Hi Robyn and Brenda,
Just want to say Hi before I go to school. The kids have been great Robyn!! and we have been having fun, but they all miss you and can't wait to have you back and hear all about your adventures!! we miss you too aroung the tea table!! Can't believe you are in Katherine already!! Have a great day. So glad Candy has been behaving.
Wednesday already!! you are nearly there!!!!! but we always knew you could do it!
Enjoy today, the heat and dust, and all the mischief you will get up too!!!
lotsa love, Sandy, Nigel, Toby and Tori xx
PS Mum and dad say Hi.. mum tried to send a messsage, but all this computer stuff is just a bit too much for her... but they are following your trip with interest and read your blog everyday too!!!
Hi Miss Cockburn hope you are having fun on the big varity bash and I want to tell you that is aint the same here without you.
From Brannon
Dear Miss Cockburn,
When you read Mrs Ackland message you will find that there is an mistake. She says that whoever spots it first and tells her will get a prize! I can't believe that it is the 10th day already!!
From Joshua Mason
Good to see ol' Candy is up to the task! Hope you gals are enjoying getting 'bash in the bush' out there. Remember to cheat if you have to. Winning is everything ! !
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