We hit the highway early the next day and counted off the miles - past Newcastle, past Gosford, then through the longest tunnel I have ever seen, it seemed to go on forever. Sydney is confusing, and we were following Google Maps as well as the GPS, trying to find the best way through. Although longer, both assured us the West Connex was the fastest way. There was also some confusion as to which roads were tolled and which weren't.

We finally got through to the other side, onto the A1 down the coast, heading towards Woolongong. We have never entered Sydney that way before, and the road took us by surprise. It is so hilly! And the entrance to Woolongong is so steep it rivals Toowoomba. By this time we were exhausted and wanted to stop somewhere for the night.

The first beach town south of Woolongong was Kiama, and we had heard good things about it. Driving in, the views were striking and dramatic. That's the advantage of being hilly. And the waves were wild and majestic. There was a lighthouse on the headland, and a blowhole close by formed by the wild surf.

We had travelled on a Saturday, which made Sydney better as far as traffic. However being a Saturday wasn't so good for a beach town. It was so busy. We finally found a place to park and I called the local caravan parks (no free camping around here.) They were all fully booked - apparently there was a special event - a concert on the next morning. Booked out for months.

Tried the next town down, Gerringong, also fully booked. But the one a few kilometres further down, Gerroa, could squeeze us in. Very happy to find a place to stop and relax. Long day!

Georgy's bit

Driving on Saturday might be helpful with less traffic but did not have any effect on both topography and the number of roundabouts to constantly negotiate.

SA and WA might have long travel times and distances but mostly level and relaxed. Road surfaces were not flash either. I was exhausted and do not wish to further comment.

At the start of the trip I discovered that the battery lid on the camera has lost bits of plastic that hold it close and was slightly gaping. I eventually gave it a great permanent fix, and it has worked perfectly since. Sadly I can not take a picture of my fix using the camera to photograph itself. I can use a mirror but could not be bothered after the dreaded drive.