When I woke up this morning I had no idea what was in store for us. I knew Baz had organised an "excursion" (trial 4WD river crossing and then perhaps some lunch at Nerriga Pub), but what unfolded was thrill, adrenalin and a little bit of anxiety on my part.

A wrong turn off the highway led us down to Granite Falls, Morton National Park. We decided not to turn back but continue along the 4WD trail which would eventually spit us out at Nerriga.

Not long after Granite Falls our nicely groomed trail turned, rough, hilly, muddy and wet. Our first water crossing was successful and quite exciting. Max and Archie said "lucky we have the snorkel dad". They were also quite happy to see the "big bumper car" finally on the dirt.

The next challenge was a steep muddy uphill (with huge ruts). It looked so ugly I didn't think the boys were going to have a go at it. But after a few attempts and plenty of wheel spinning and mud flying both our Prado and Baz's Troopy made it to the top. We all cheered.

After this I was ready to call it a day. Unfortunately it wasn't the case. The road got worse and worse and eventually we ended up on a "permit only" fire trail. After Baz nearly disappeared into a bottomless puddle of water, it was time for lunch. I couldn't eat. I just wanted the safety of the bitumen. I had had my fun and now I was feeling anxious.

For the remainder of the trail I held my head down with my hand cupped around my forhead. I couldn't look. Roy asked if I was feeling car sick. If only!!! Max and Archie did remarkably well. They loved getting out and assessing all the watercrossing etc. Hands on hips Max would mimick "...I think we should take this line Dad..."

We finally made it to the bitumen and headed to the Pub as originally planned. I couldn't wait for a cold beer (not sure why, I don't even drink beer). It seemed like the most appropriate drink to finish off our adventure.

Back at Sussex Inlet the cars got a well deserved wash down. At the end of the day I was surprised at how well the car handled and how capable the drivers were!!!