Sat 9th October, 2010 - Day 133 - Dubbo

Getting closer to home by the minute; thats how it was as we set off for Dubbo via Parkes. It was a clear day and it was nice to see that everything was green. We stopped just north of Parkes for our coffee break which would be the last on this 19,000 odd km trip. After the late morning tea we headed up the Newell Highway passing through Peak Hill & arriving at the Dubbo City Caravan Park at about 2.30pm.

After setting up & a late lunch we left the caravan & headed for Toni & Justin's property at Eumungerie. During lunch Grandee had phoned Toni , who, during the conversation had asked us if we would come out for dinner that night. We of course jumped at the opportunity, as we were very excited to see them all.

Arriving at the homestead, after the 50 minute trip from Dubbo, and driving to the house gate, we saw the back door of the house open & Will appeared. He looked stunned as he gazed at the Patrol for a few seconds before realizing it was us. Tony & Justin hadn't told him we were coming out & he wasn't expecting to see us until the next day, in Dubbo.

After many hugs & kisses for Grandee & myself, his mum, dad & Mitch appeared & the same happened again. It was really great to see them & we had been counting the sleeps, as had they. We spent the rest of the day catching up & me of course playing trains with Will & that little pest, one year old Mitchell, who should have been re-named "the demolition kid".

After a lovely dinner, prepared by Toni we said goodnight & headed back to our van in Dubbo.

Fri 8th October 2010 - Day 132 - Condobolin

Today was another travel day, with us leaving Hay at 9.00am and arriving at Condobolin at approx 2.00pm.

After selecting our site, another drive-through, so as Poppy does not have to unhook, we had lunch, then went for a walk into the town area and around the shops.

Then back to the caravan for some relaxation.

Thurs 7th Oct - Day 131 - Hay

Today was another travel day as we make our way home. We only travelled 215 klms to arrive in Hay for lunch, after checking into the Hay Plains Holiday Park which is a Big 4. We have a drive through site, which of course saves Poppy time in unhooking and then hitching up again in the morning.

This afternoon it was all about relaxing, relaxing, relaxing.

Wed 6th Oct - Day 130 - Swan Hill

Once again we had a sleep in. Time to wash and do some packing up ready to leave tomorrow.

As it is very overcast and showering on and off we have decided not to revisit the Pioneer Settlement, which is a shame as there is a lot we did not get to see & do, including a ride on a horse & cart and in a vintage car.

We had time to relax a little before making our way to Puddi's Bistro at the Federal Hotel, where we met Diane & John for dinner.

Tues 5th Oct, 2010 - Day 129 - Swan Hill

Both Rex and I slept in this morning. With such a late start it was 11.30am before we arrived at the Pioneer Settlement, which is situated on the Murray River here at Swan Hill. We paid our admission fee and also booked for the Pyap River Cruise, this is a 1 hour cruise along the Murray River.

We really enjoyed our tour around the Settlement, unfortunately as we got there so late we did not get to see everything before it was time for our cruise at 2.30pm.

As we were boarding the boat I heard this small voice saying 'hello Denise'. I looked around to see Diane & John from Taree. We met this couple at the Kings Park at Perth. Of course spent the remainder of the afternoon with them.

Our admission to the Pioneer Settlement allows us to go back tomorrow.

Mon 4th Oct 2010 - Day 128 - Swan Hill

Today we were on the road by 9.00am heading to Swan Hill. After checking into the Swan Hill Holiday Park and setting up we made our way into town. First to the Tourist Information Centre then to the Bakery to obtain a pie & pastie, apple slice & coffee scroll for a late lunch.

We are here for 3 nights.