Well we got away yesterday (July 29), a little later than planned, but finally on the road. Spent time on Sunday afternoon with family and friends, and it was definitely a bit sad knowing that we would not see them all for maybe another 18-24 months. But all are welcomed to visit us at any time (we have packed an 8 man tent and an inflatable queen bed for your comfort), and we will probably pop home for a week or so here and there.

All went well one the first day, van towed well, no issue with the car and everything stayed were it was meat to – lets hope we have started the way we mean to continue.

Not something you see everyday at a rest stop – I think

Stayed at a Roadhouse in Clermont last night and currently parked up at the Botanical Gardens in Emerald. Tomorrow we are heading to Fairburn Dam to camp for about a week or so before moving on to the Gem fields. With a bit of luck it will be chilled red claw and salad for tea tomorrow night (and maybe a cold beer or two).

So far I have been able to find everything, although it is very early days. Of course Peter has to ask all the time – the price you pay for not doing the packing. I did mention that we were giving up smoking – well sort of so far. We have just had a few yesterday and today. Don’t want to kill one another so early into the trip!!

It just seems like we are on holidays at present. Maybe after a month or so when we don’t return home it will sink in that this is a pretty long-term adventure.

Ready to leave

Emerald Botanical Gardens

Dinner – who said there was no free camping