Well...what can be said? A hugely emotional day as I rolled on down the hill from the Marysville turnoff at Cumberland Junction. A day that would hold a relatively easy 60km or so ride down into Warburton and then on to home!! I had plenty of time as I rode to contemplate the trip. I've said it before this point but will again: the support of Sal, Sime, Mum, The Aherns, Brian, Grandma and Grandpa, all of you that have read and supported me on this blog has been immeasurable and has ensured that this has been a dream that has gone fulfilled. Huge effort on my part to make it happen, it must be said (my legs are telling me anyhow) but it would not have been completed without the ridiculously generous support of all the food droppers and logistically involved people mentioned above. I have come to realise that the AAWT is about doing it in a style that works for you. I ran into a Kiwi fella who mind-bogglingly was set to complete the full 670km walk from Walhalla to Tharwa in 14 days! I've met countless people who year after year complete a section of the track until it is ticked. The thing that binds all attempts it seems is commitment.

The moment captured in the attached photo is a small snippet of the assembled crowd at my front gate today. Sal had organised flags, baloons streamers and the like and there was even Martie face painting!! (thanks Treyvauds) In all I encountered an overwhelming welcome as I pulled in the gate, nearly 30 people here to congratulate my effort on the AAWT. Truly humbling and a true reflection of what a team effort the AAWT has been for me. And so further thanks must be extended to all those in attendance and eveyone else who could not be there but ensured they had their support heard!

And finally can I thank all of you who have followed this blog. You may be up to your third thank you by now, but I mean each of them! Thank you for your interest, it has been overwhelming and inspirational. Each comment reminds me of those following along at home and spured me on each day. So truly, from the bottom of my heart, thank you one and all for your support...I could not have completed the journey without it.

Martie Buckland signing off on an incredible journey...