19th August (Friday)

This photo is for the Grooms and anyone else who shares our love of puns. It's at the town of Nullarbour - imagine my joy at finding a Nullarbour plane!!

Today saw us crossing into South Australia at about 10.30 after a late start. Couldn't miss the chance to chat for a while in the camper's kitchen to some SA travelers.

Today's wake up bird was an anaemic-sounding rooster, with occasional goose chorus. One day we'll learn not to park near the campground owners' backyard ;).

We also detoured to the Eyre Telegraph Station. When we were here in 1994 it was covered in sand so we were thrilled to see it over 2/3 exposed - took lots of photos.

Then it was eastward ho, at least until we reached the turnoff for the Head of the Bight. Tim and I paid their perhaps extortionate fee of $17 to go whale watching - there were 184 Southern Wright Whales off shore. Tim was thrilled to see them blowing, rolling and floating on their backs. Photos won't do justice but will prompt the memory.

Now we're Ceduna bound - even though it's almost 6pm with over 100km to go.

Saw a dingo beside the road just after Head of the Bight turnoff - our first non-feathered wildlife. Austen also spotted a wombat and we turned back for a look but it scarpered off down its burrow.

Austen decided Ceduna too far. He pulled onto a track beside the road, drove until we were hidden from traffic noises. We set up camp, heated soup and ate that. About to make pasta for next course when a beaten up station wagon pulled in and the occupants set out swags. Felt really uncomfortable - decided we'd not get decent sleep, so we deconstructed tent and repacked the ute in stealth mode - all by the light of a tiny torch! Found a 'P' area further along with 4 or so caravans. Felt much happier. Fed and in bed by 10.00pm.

It has however made me think - by having all the 'stuff' we perceive as necessary do we create stress in our lives because we now have to worry about those without 'stuff' wanting our 'stuff'. Hmmm. It's also kind of sad that when we stop in roadside areas with lots of vans there is little if any interaction amongst the people who are there. Enough philosophy!

20th August (Saturday)

Up before dawn as usual (I have photos of the sunrise as proof). Dawn chorus today was Willy Wagtail and Magpie.

Added Australian Kestrels and Little Crow to bird list.

Handed over a manky apple and a tired tomato to the quarantine station at Ceduna. Pushing on. Lunched a bit before Poochera, which we're driving past as I type. I was thrilled to find strong phone signal at Ceduna. Guess our next connection won't be until Port Augusta …

Long stressful drive here, glad to stop. Passed Nat's dad. Now stopped at a Big 4 caravan park - off to have $46.51 worth of shower!!!