tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62608554081917042132024-03-14T02:13:38.762-07:00Bits n Bobssimonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.comBlogger297125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-67691766044671576772018-11-07T15:46:00.000-08:002018-11-07T15:46:25.821-08:00New ProjectWell, Ive been silent for some time as I have found Twitter to be more "instant". However I thought I would just throw in a couple of new projects on the go.<br />
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The first one is the 1979 FJ45. Ive been looking for ages, for the right one. Finally its here.<br />
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This is a 6/1979 FJ45 with a genuine 105,000km on the clock. The previous owner bought it in 1980 to run from Sydney to their farm on the western slopes. They retired to the farm and, and the ute was put in a shed in 2006 where it remained until I purchased it 6 months ago.<br />
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Naturally, sitting so long meant that we had to remove the fuel tank, chemically clean it, replace fuel lines, brake master, wheel cyl, clutch master and slave. We turned the motor over by hand to be sure it wasn't seized and threw a battery in. Some fresh oil, and filters.. hey presto! away it went as if it never sat still for so long.<br />
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I think its very tidy for a vehicle that has been sitting for so long. There is only a few surface rust spots, (these were never rust proofed), and the farms location and shed was dry, with no stock feed in the shed. Stock feed is quite acidic and causes rust. The farm was not hard terrain and the cruiser drives tight, as its spent most on its life on the tar<br />
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Nice tidy, unmolested dash with radio cassette that still works!<br />
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It reminds me of my childhood in fact. when cars were simple. No airbags to kill you, and made almost completely of metal.<br />
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There is plenty to do, and it will spend its lif on our property in a shed and go and get the occasional bale of hay.<br />
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More to come...simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-42327278389542234012017-01-29T18:08:00.001-08:002017-01-29T18:10:26.162-08:00Kenworth Muster 2016Again I am sorry for the slack blogging!<br />
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Her are some photos of the 2016 Kenworth Muster that was held at Clarendon Showgrounds in September.<br />
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Unbelivable event, with trucks of all shapes and sizes. Its not just about one brand, there are all brands, tractors, steam engines, hobbies- you name it.<br />
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Its just like sand pit- only bigger.<br />
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Kenworth W900 Blue Circle Southern 179 being lined up.<br />
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Parked amongst some very well presented trucks!<br />
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And some very expensive ones!<br />
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179 is running on original engine, gearbox and diffs and fuels tanks. Even the muffler is original. Its a rare thing. Its a credit to those who drove her, and maintained her over the years.<br />
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Its as close as I remember when Kenworth 179 was Hauling the Hume.<br />
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Thats what truck shows are all about, the memories of the drivers, mechanics, and fleet managers that kept our freight rolling.<br />
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<br />simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-43399965687569890192016-04-28T17:51:00.001-07:002016-04-28T17:51:14.102-07:00Tooralie National Park And the trip that was.With the weather cooling and an opportunity to head west, I thought, "why not encompass a couple of National Parks that I love, some birding, and time spent in my favourite place, Hungerford.<br />
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The trip was simple- 7 hour drive to Willandra National Park with an over night stay. A relaxing drive to the Horse and Coach camp site beside the Darling River via Ivanhoe. A leisurely drive through Louth, across to Wandering and up to Hungerford then back to the new national park Tooralie, and finally Gundabooka.<br />
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The idea was to avoid the major towns, spend some time and money supporting the local businesses, (by paying a lot for fuel! lol!), and simply relaxing.<br />
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It was a journey that had its highs and lows and before I detail the trip, I really need to get a couple of things off my chest:-<br />
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National Parks NSW needs a better management plan. Advertised in their blurb is the latest National Park- Tooralie. Described as a place of camp sites, toilets, amenities...<br />
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Reality? Some nice signs, some stupid "copper art" thingos, a few park benches but no other facilities what so ever.<br />
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Now I will be clear- I can camp in the back of my land cruiser in a swag, dig a pit toilet and light a fire, however Nat Parks frown upon that sort of thing. So, when they say they have the facilities and don't, well its a stuff up. Simple.<br />
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The second thing is- no mention, what -so - ever, of Tooralies pastoral history. Are we ashamed of it?<br />
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Finally- It should never have become a national park- I have been to plenty and this one is a dud. Its a total contrast to the Horse and Coach which is in a beautiful location, the facilities are superb, theres plenty to see and soak up.<br />
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Tooralie has clearly been a highly productive cattle and sheep operation...and should have remained so. Its clearly a political purchase. Yes, its on the Darling and Warrago River, nice, but so what? The Looping drive is a drive to nowhere, and then you are out the back of the park. There is a small viewing platform on a hill at the south end of the park with lots of signs, but really?<br />
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We were the only people in the park, and we did not stay, We pushed on back to Louth.<br />
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<b>Vehicle observations.</b> GX/GXL land cruisers. I have always had land cruisers and they are best suited for me. This is the first one I have had with the Toyota alloy wheels, and I don't like them.<br />
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The wide wheels don't track on the roads in Western NSW as well as split rims do, and the amount of rock they throw up is huge. The V8 Cruisers one point of irritation is the track at the front is wider than the rear, and combined with a wide wheel pack, well, the front wheels sit well outside the original bodywork. It also exaggerates the "tram lining"effect. Whereby the front wheels struggle to track and the back tries to follow the front. If you are not used to it, it can be distracting.<br />
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I never had an issue with the previous models, i.e. those with split rims. So, the result is- the tray and back of cabin has been sand/rock blasted to the under coat.<br />
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Toyota convinced me to fit a genuine winch bar. Its no good for my application. The plastic inserts and buffers damage very easily, and the Toyota badges fall off. They are $80.00 each and the plastic inserts are$200-300.00 each. We hit an emu at Xmas, at moderate speed the bar pushed out of shape.<br />
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One thing I did do was Fit a Water Watch additional filter system to it. Common rail diesels don't cope with water or sludge and by the time the original filter warning goes off, it can be too late. The water watch system works a treat, and with an in cabin buzzer it gives you plenty of warning.<br />
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So, as a result of these observations I have ordered a new Workmate, with a TJM Outback Bar (no plastic bits). The new vehicle will have a heavy duty tray fitted as well, as the standard Toyota heavy duty tray is pretty ordinary and sits up too high.<br />
I want to stress its "Horses for courses" when it comes to vehicles and everything its a compromise.<br />
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<b>Now the trip! </b>We had a fantastic combination of staying in managers cottages, tents and the pub.<br />
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Arrival under the Pepper trees .<br />
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<b>Willandra</b> is looking dry and a bit run down, the bird life was low but we did get a good look at Mistletoe bird which was nice. Quite a showy little bird in the afternoon sun. The walks are great as too the pastoral history.<br />
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Our Accomodation.<br />
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I wonder if Nat Parks should re -stock with a small number of sheep to assist the Plains wanderers habitat? just a thought. They are doing it with success in other parks. The income off the sheep could go somewhat to pay for infrastructure upgrades, and maintenance.<br />
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Evening on the banks of the Darling river<br />
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<b>Horse and Coach</b>- On the banks of the Darling River, at a bend, its where the old Horse and Coach Inn was, and is a Cobb and Co stop over. About 50km North of Wilcannia on the eastern side of the River, its both beautiful peaceful and a credit to the National Parks. Great facilities for sure.<br />
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Camp site. The Oz tent screened enclosure was all we needed.<br />
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<b>Louth</b>- What a top spot to stop. Clean fuel, good food and cold beer. A good chat to the owners, and we realised they knew most of the people we know in the district, which was good. Here we chose to cross the river and head to Hungerford Via Wanaaring. A good choice albeit the road was rough in some sections.<br />
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Our accomodation at the Hungerford hotel! Quite luxurious in fact!<br />
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<b>Hungerford- </b>Population of about 7 and on the banks of the Paroo. The Royal Hotel has good food, cold beer and good company.<br />
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Some old vehicles on my cousins cattle station.<br />
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You can chat to the locals and I find it a really good spot to relax and see life from a different perspective.<br />
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<b>Tooralie</b>- ( not worth a photo). Save your fuel, time and effort. Its simply not worth the trip or detour.<br />
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Final camp site, and beer keg BBQ in use- clean, efficient.<br />
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<b>Gundabooka</b>- We had the park to ourselves, there are good facilities and the walks are fantastic. By this stage we had lost a rear number plate so a beer cartoon and a texta was used to get us home. I love the red soils and camping in amongst the mulga. This is one place where you can see just how the aboriginals used various trees for medicine, for food to make flour or to sleep on, etc. You will get a fine education if you put on your walking boots.<br />
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So, all up a fantastic trip.<br />
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Birds seen- ( to follow)<br />
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<br />simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-64942730586517864822016-02-04T19:17:00.000-08:002016-02-04T19:17:30.947-08:001985 Kenworth W model Blue Circle Southern 179 ContinuedSince the last post, there have been some considerable in-roads made to the truck. The interest in the truck has been quite high, and its been decided that, as a result, we won't be putting the truck into work, even lightly.<br />
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I have joined a local Antique Machinery club, and hopefully they will allow the Kenworth to be put on Club Plates and only used on club runs.<br />
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Since the last post in the truck we have:-<br />
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Rewired a new Diff lock Switch<br />
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Taken the Kenworth to a truck show where lots of people took lots of photos.<br />
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Fitted new hubcaps.<br />
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New Mirrors.<br />
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New Mudguards to lead drive wheels<br />
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Did a wedding!<br />
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Fitted new Muffler and pipes<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tlMGKIwrBzk/VrQSOA23oSI/AAAAAAAAER4/WXmXLLsMSNY/s1600/2015-12-04%2B12.26.07.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tlMGKIwrBzk/VrQSOA23oSI/AAAAAAAAER4/WXmXLLsMSNY/s320/2015-12-04%2B12.26.07.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Did a service and replaced dirty filters. (old on left)<br />
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The list continues. The truck is driving well, however the lack of use means its a little grumpy on start up if left alone too long. Trucks are built to work and pull loads, not sit in a shed.<br />
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With all the work we have done, 179 is looking more and more as it did back in 1985. We want the patina look but with a reliable chassis and running gear.<br />
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179's chassis was extended to fit the tipping body, and , as it will not be used for this again, we have decided to return the chassis to its original configuration. This will require some research and skill in the shed.<br />
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Stay tuned for the next "major" work in progress.<br />
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Meanwhile I will leave you with this picture.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FA8czTlvOCo/VrQTdIeSQwI/AAAAAAAAESI/Ykj28MlNFgE/s1600/2015-12-05%2B17.11.57.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FA8czTlvOCo/VrQTdIeSQwI/AAAAAAAAESI/Ykj28MlNFgE/s320/2015-12-05%2B17.11.57.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Kenworth W model pulling a McGrath Bogie Trailer.<br />
Australian Made-Australian Pride!simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-38839951464161088232016-01-27T16:25:00.002-08:002016-02-04T18:37:44.895-08:00Christmas AdventuresWell,<br />
<br />
Its a little late but better late then never. We decided to head out to Hungerford, at short notice, on Boxing Day.<br />
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In previous posts we have spent some time there and enjoyed the national parks as well as the cattle stations.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tsDHVM-fDN8/VqlYng0cFrI/AAAAAAAAEPI/Db8AtEsyTwc/s1600/2015-12-25%2B17.20.49%2BHDR.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tsDHVM-fDN8/VqlYng0cFrI/AAAAAAAAEPI/Db8AtEsyTwc/s320/2015-12-25%2B17.20.49%2BHDR.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
I am not sure what it was, but I have to say I was a little apprehensive as I packed the truck on Christmas day. My friends and family put in an order for Christmas of -10 cases of beer! lol! So by the time I had finished packing I had 700kg on the tray.<br />
<br />
We left at our customary 3am, and headed out. On a previous trip I had my earlier model Landcruiser play up as we got bad fuel. So since the purchase of the new one I have been particularly fussy with where I buy fuel from. To bore you- The land cruiser has 2 fuel tanks and now when I travel I keep the main task full with fuel from a trusted source, preferring to use the rear, ( sub), tank as we go. I fuel up at BP along the way.<br />
<br />
This was a trip to prove even the best laid plans of mice and men.....<br />
<br />
<br />
The trip was leisurely through Dubbo and onto Nyngan. I do like to stop at the the park by the river at Nyngan. the bird life there is really good. It has always been a favourite spot for a cuppa, and a spot of birding.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BqThRzwdLW0/VqlZsON0wGI/AAAAAAAAEPU/MDt8YFH3klw/s1600/2015-12-26%2B10.23.01.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BqThRzwdLW0/VqlZsON0wGI/AAAAAAAAEPU/MDt8YFH3klw/s320/2015-12-26%2B10.23.01.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Rain! Welcome sight on the way to Bourke.<br />
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After a short break, we pushed on to Bourke. 215km boring road. I reflected that, as I child I remember seeing the trains heading to Bourke, the Abattoir working and what I though were the largest ploughs working the soil beside the road.<br />
<br />
Today- nothing. The rail line is in ruins, as too the Abattoir, and I rarely see a tractor working.<br />
<br />
We fuelled up in Bourke at the BP, and hit the Dowling track. Passing through Fords Bridge, I recalled how my Pop would talk about having a few beers there after a hard day on Pirrilie Station<br />
<br />
It got me wondering just how tough the men and women were. My cousin, Roy Dunk rode his horse the entire length of the Dowling Track, carrying spare shoes etc.<br />
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The road was pleasant and not too rough and as rain began to fall, I hoped it would not turn the track into slush.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XERgmYFtk6c/VqlabMNIkeI/AAAAAAAAEPg/u5sdRL2EuOc/s1600/2015-12-26%2B14.12.49.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XERgmYFtk6c/VqlabMNIkeI/AAAAAAAAEPg/u5sdRL2EuOc/s320/2015-12-26%2B14.12.49.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The ruins at Yantabulla<br />
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Further along we stopped at Yantabulla. There are some swamps there and is good birding. Brolga particularly like it.<br />
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Sadly, Yantabulla is like a movie set from Mad Max. A ghost town, and there was no water to be seen.<br />
After a short break we were on our way, Past our cousins property "Warroo", and onto Hungerford<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dquuv53Ie7M/Vqla6Lr9-PI/AAAAAAAAEPs/i2RbReV66ys/s1600/2015-12-26%2B15.14.37.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dquuv53Ie7M/Vqla6Lr9-PI/AAAAAAAAEPs/i2RbReV66ys/s320/2015-12-26%2B15.14.37.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Hungerford show ground<br />
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The pub was closed for Christmas, so Dave and I had a Ginger beer on its cool verandah. I chose to show Dave the Hungerford Showgrounds and Dunk street. I confess I do like Hungerford and its people. They are just great.<br />
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We soon arrived at our destination, and stopped in the Shearers Quarters. All delightful.<br />
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First "Disaster"- I had not packed enough food. I had left half of it at home. David with all his motocross, and gym work is like a termite, and without snacks/drinks/bigbreakfast/lunch/dinner/morning tea/afternoon tea and a midnight snack.. he is just not himself.. I thought "mmmmnnn" I will just push on to Thargomindah and buy some groceries the following day"...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkH8amTaej0/Vqlb_iSKooI/AAAAAAAAEP4/S-EX7IxqQIc/s1600/2015-12-26%2B19.53.02.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkH8amTaej0/Vqlb_iSKooI/AAAAAAAAEP4/S-EX7IxqQIc/s320/2015-12-26%2B19.53.02.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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A welcome sleep was had by all.<br />
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The following day Dave and I drove around to Lake Wyara and Lake Numalla. After driving in Semi Arid conditions, avoiding boggy sections of track, we arrived at Numalla.<br />
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Its was extraordinary! A beautiful blue lake, with white sand and bird life in abundance. Australia always delights me. Just when you feel hot and bothered, up pops something you don't quite expect.<br />
After walking some distance and spotting quite a few new bird species, it was time to head back.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3u6A55ZzY-0/VqldtzntAOI/AAAAAAAAEQE/WtvmlUcX0as/s1600/2015-12-27%2B11.33.31.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3u6A55ZzY-0/VqldtzntAOI/AAAAAAAAEQE/WtvmlUcX0as/s320/2015-12-27%2B11.33.31.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The Lake! Brilliant!<br />
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A welcome evening meal was had on our return to the shed.<br />
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The following day, Dave and Greg headed out to do some fencing using the motorbikes this time for transport. I decided to head over and visit my cousin Frosty for the day, to have a cup of tea and a nag.<br />
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It still fascinates me every time I look at the fences, Pop always spoke of repairing and building the dingo ( wild dog fences). Sadly, much of the old fence lines are in ruins as the change from sheep to cattle has occurred.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_wMK2pth_08/Vqle4OWvtjI/AAAAAAAAEQQ/CnyGLj2gXic/s1600/2015-12-28%2B09.38.19.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_wMK2pth_08/Vqle4OWvtjI/AAAAAAAAEQQ/CnyGLj2gXic/s320/2015-12-28%2B09.38.19.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Old dog fence.<br />
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After some more birding, I headed back to the shearing quarters..<br />
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Disaster 2.. we were low on fuel, and discovered that the servo was not open between xmas and new year. Neither were the shops. With the Hungerford Hotel closed ( food/fuel etc) we were left with the prospect of being stuck. So, Dave and I made the call the head home. Yep.. after 2 days...<br />
<br />
<br />
Disaster3.. As we headed back, the cruiser went into limp mode... I quickly switched fuel tanks to the main which still had 1/4 left of city diesel. I could tell straight away that the motor had sucked up dirt and sure enough the warning light came on.<br />
<br />
Distaster 3...At 90kph, an emu, which was heading away from the road, decided to turn around and aim straight at us. I was on a particularly sandy section of track and at this speed had no prospect of slowing without risking a rollover. I hit the bird killing it instantly, but bending the bull bar.. and stoning the windscreen (how, I don't know).<br />
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We limped into Bourke, and limped back to Sydney.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myNw1ANlPu4/VqlfWYvEKeI/AAAAAAAAEQc/kAR3YeYLpYo/s1600/2015-12-28%2B11.21.35.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myNw1ANlPu4/VqlfWYvEKeI/AAAAAAAAEQc/kAR3YeYLpYo/s320/2015-12-28%2B11.21.35.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Cousins shearing shed<br />
<br />
Was the trip worth it? 100% yes.. The lakes are a "must see", and I saw two of my favourite birds- Brolga and Rainbow Bee Eater.<br />
<br />
Lesson learnt?-<br />
<br />
1. Must fit additional fuel filters to the V8 land cruiser, and carry spare ones.<br />
<br />
2. The genuine Toyota "bull bar" is almost pointless. The bar now has plastic inserts and buffers. Its too weak and the cost or replacing the broken plastic is hundreds of dollars. The bar is a nice city bar, but a 4 post TUFF bar will be the more suitable. I don't do "off road" stuff so approach and departure angle is not important. I do spend a lot of time on roads and cattle stations, and even to nudge cattle out of the way, well the toyota bar offers little protection in fact.<br />
<br />
3. Double check when packing! leaving food at home is pretty stupid!<br />
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Anyway, its always nice to share time with your son!<br />
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Happy new year all!<br />
<br />
Bird list:- Australian Magpie, Little Crow, Australian Raven, Pee Wee, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Galah, Little Corella, Dollarbird, Red-rumped Parrot, Eastern Rosella, Black-faced Cuckooshrike, Tree Martin, Willy Wagtail, Nankeen Kestrel, Black-shouldered Kite, Black Kite, Whistling Kite, Little Eagle, Straw-necked Ibis, White Faced Heron, PEACOCK! ( on road between Nyngan and Bourke!), Australian Pelican, Australian White Ibis, Silver-backed Gull, Rainbow Bee Eater, White plumed Honeyeater, Australian Pipit, Orange Chat, Gibber bird, Brolga, Black-tailed Native Hen, Inland Dotterel, Yellow-rumped Hornbill, Black Falcon, Red-winged Parrot, White-Browed Treecreeper, Restless Flycatcher, Diamond Dove,White-winged Chuff, Pied Butcherbird, Yellow throated Honeyeater, White-browed Wood Swallow, Pacific Black Duck, Australian Wood Duck, Pink-eared Duck, Red Kneed Dotterel, Black-winged Stilt, Yellow Billed Spoonbill, Welcome Swallow, Plover, Spotted Bowerbird, Major Mitchell, Crested Pigeon, Black-faced Woodswallow, Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater, Emu.<br />
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For me Highlights- Dollar Bird, Brolga, Rainbow Bee Eater. I note a lack of Wedge-tailed Eagles.<br />
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<br />simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-542562700042433012015-11-07T14:15:00.002-08:002015-11-07T14:37:31.444-08:00The work continuesWell, its been months! With working 3 jobs, and a truck to restore I have been flat out with little time to Blog. Twitter too, has become perhaps a preferred way of keeping in touch. So, this blog is really a record of events.<br />
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The work on 179 continues.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Chassis prepped for painting. Years of road grime and oil made this task difficult.</span><br />
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Electrical work to the cabin completed, and now I have an interior light, a blinker lever that works, and the exterior reverse spot light working. I am told this light is rare as most fall apart over time.<br />
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The chassis was acid washed and prepared for painting, in its original "cement grey" colour.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Cement grey paint as ordered when new in 1985</span><br />
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<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">A new battery box was made,</span> painted and then scrolled and pin striped in exactly the original way. Old battery box is sitting on the top of the new. Years and millions of kms reduced the old one, literally!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">New mudflaps and tail light rubbers fitted.</span><br />
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179 had an air leak in one of the valves and, as such, a replacement valve was purchased and installed. This meant it could get air up and hold it much better.<br />
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<br />
<span style="color: blue;">New steer tyres purchased and fitted.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
The condition of steer tyres is critical, especially with a loss of traction equals a loss of steering and almost impossible to recover from, with potentially awful results.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">A ball race turntable lifted on and installed.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
Whilst this is not an original, the original being a "Compensator", it will do for the purpose of making the truck complete, until a compensator can be found.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XffZiRpblSM/VhbqOOCs7UI/AAAAAAAAEOc/eUQsq-klEUE/s1600/2015-09-11%2B12.20.54%2BHDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XffZiRpblSM/VhbqOOCs7UI/AAAAAAAAEOc/eUQsq-klEUE/s320/2015-09-11%2B12.20.54%2BHDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">The turntable was painted the same colour as the chassis.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Shiny new hubcaps fitted, as they were in 1985</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
I did not think hubcaps were fitted to fleet trucks in 1985, however I did meet "Red" who was the mechanic at Blue Circle Southern, and he assured me that 179 was indeed fitted with them, so I was delighted to buy a set and fit them.<br />
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More to come soon. ...Kenworth W900 is an on-going story which is keeping me busy and I hope to spend more time here on the blog.simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-55537544113354497792015-07-01T18:55:00.000-07:002015-07-01T18:55:55.559-07:00Blue Circle Southern 1985 Kenworth W model 179The next phase of the work continued as I removed the mudflaps ready for replacements to go on., purchased a new blinker switch and labelled the toggle switches on the cab, (mainly for my own benefit).<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Into the workshop</span><br />
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<span id="goog_10227889"></span><span id="goog_10227890"><br /></span>
I did purchase new rear hubcaps but have decided not to fit them as I don't think the truck had these when ordered, and they are a pain to fit.<br />
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So, the list of things "to do" continues- New clutch pedal rubber, seats re-upholstered, the floor covering replaced, (as it has a hole in it from the heel of a boot), Some original fog lights for the front bar. 2x new steer tyres. tacho, and repair fuel gauge.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">There are quite a few toggle switches.</span><br />
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All these are relatively minor items and can be done over time.<br />
We have replaced the interior light, and the window winders which were worn simply from use, and we need to grease, oil change and replace the glycol in the radiator.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">The new backing plate for interior light</span><br />
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I am leaving the body original, as its patina look keeps the truck 100% original.<br />
The rear of the chassis has been modified from the dove tail of a prime mover to re-enforced for the tipper, however I will keep that approach as we still have the pump and controls for the tipper and dog trailer.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Some new mudflaps ready to be installed</span><br />
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We have done a cold pressure wash just to see how the chassis cleaned up and its going to be very good.<br />
All in all a great hobby ( well, if you like big sandpits! lol!).<br />
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<br />simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-52788947011864535082015-05-14T19:25:00.001-07:002015-05-14T19:25:48.224-07:00Kenworth 179 work continues<br />
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The work continues on Blue Circle Southern 1985 Kenworth W model fleet number 179.<br />
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The lads have removed the Bin, it has been sold and is heading to QLD. <br />
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We are searching for a tray to suit, and the truck will go over the pit to have the chassis steam and acid washed.<br />
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This will remove most of the dirt and any surface rust. Surprisingly the chassis and under carriage is very good. The rails are all original with no "after market" hole drilled in it. It was a relief as we bought the truck based on word of mouth and good will.<br />
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Once the chassis is cleaned and dried it will be painted its original colour (which it already is)- a 'cement" grey.<br />
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My thanks to Johnson Transport for all the work they are putting in.<br />
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<br />simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-55899659699197964592015-05-02T21:05:00.003-07:002015-05-02T21:05:31.300-07:00Everyone needs a Kenworth W model.When I was a kid I had a real desire to own a Kenworth W Model truck. I would spend hours looking at posters, writing to Kenilworth to get stickers, and stare as they headed down the Hume Highway.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Picking up the Kenworth in the Hunter Valley (as well as some hay!)</span><br />
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Trucks fascinated me. I am lucky that, as an auctioneer and valuer, I can spend a lot of time with them as part of my job. However, I always wanted to "own one".<br />
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Well, 4 weeks ago I got one! Its another tick on the bucket list. So, here are the Stats-<br />
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1985 built Kenworth W model prime mover. Day cab. Ex Blue Circle Southern Dubbo truck. Fitted with Cummins 400 horse power big cam engine, running through a 15 speed Road Ranger Gearbox, and sitting on torsion bar suspension. Yes, I know- some will not like that suspension spec, however, it does give you 12 inches of travel, a softer ride and is perfect for rougher road conditions.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Just arrived at the depot. The truck drove faultlessly.</span><br />
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Its described as a "mid wheel base" which makes it look great in my opinion. The interior and the truck overall still has its original features, as well as original fleet paintwork. Its been well looked after too. Being a highway truck its not worn out or loose.<br />
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I am not after a "blingy" hot rod truck, and don't have then money for that. I prefer the truck to remain as it was-a "working truck." With a history of millions of miles...<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">View from drivers seat</span><br />
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Our plan is- to sell the "bin", (thats the tipper part), off the back and return it to a prime mover spec. <br />
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Paint the chassis the original colour (grey), fit rear guards and do some minor electrical/mechanical work to ensure its safe and road worthy.<br />
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Kenworth W179 in workshop.<br />
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Work done so far- Headlights repaired and replaced (as necessary).<br />
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Batteries replaced and rewired.<br />
Jakes brake adjusted and rewired.<br />
All clearance lights, roof lights checked for operation.<br />
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I want to say a big thank you to Bert, the previous owner of the truck, for allowing me to buy it. I would also like to that Ross from Johnson Transport for organising the sale, as well as the delivery.<br />
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More to come!<br />
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simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-35482892863661442422015-01-07T18:33:00.002-08:002015-01-07T18:33:46.243-08:002015 first rideAs many of my friends know I had surgery on an ankle in 2011, and despite a lot of rest, it has proved to be a problem, often "clicking out" when I least expect it.<br />
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As such the bikes have sat in the shed pretty much since then.<br />
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Well, I went over to my UK friends blog " No Hidden Lycra", and became inspired to give it a crack.<br />
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The tried and true Cannonade Prophet turns 10 years old this year!<br />
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So, today I took the Cannonade Prophet down to the polo fields simply to "spin" along the flats and see how I shape up.<br />
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Needless to say, I am unfit. Too much Christmas pudding, beer and wine have seen to that, and I am a long way off doing 200km a week.<br />
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Today was warm, and the fields looked good with horses and cattle. I set off and kept the gearing up so that I had to really spin ( i.e. get the revolutions rocketing).<br />
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The ride was short 15km. However I was breathing quite hard when I returned to the truck.<br />
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The plan of action is- one month 3 days a week at this distance, increasing to 25km the following month, then introducing some hilly terrain. <br />
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Overall I felt good, no ankle soreness and I am keen to get back out!simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-18934541288260192992015-01-04T16:14:00.002-08:002015-01-04T16:14:24.395-08:00Innaminka Station and the year that was.Innaminka Station is located in the north east corner of South Australia. Its a total in excess of 2 million acres and carries about 13,000 head of cattle.<br />
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It is part of the Sir Sidney Kidman dynasty and my daughter works there. Just before Christmas I drove up to collect her and back again. Its about 3400km round trip.<br />
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The new 2014 Landcruiser.<br />
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Seeing that I seem to be spending more time in the outback, it made sense to buy a new land cruiser and get it kitted with a few essentials- bull bar, side rails, UHF radio etc.<br />
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The trip involves familiar territory- Kurrajong-Bourke-Hungerford-Thargomindah-Innaminka and return.<br />
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Small strip of tar in Ghost Town of Yantabulla.<br />
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The road heading from Bourke to Thargomindah is called the Dowling track. essentially following the Cobb and Co coach route it heads North west to the dingo fence and the township of Hungerford, then onto Thargo.<br />
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The track from Yantabulla.<br />
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The track from Bourke varies in condition a great deal, and in some sections can be hard on a vehicle and its tyres. I strongly advise to carry 2 spares, extra jacks and wooden chocks, and run your tyre pressure at 50psi at least.<br />
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Fords bridge is the first town- More just a great pub and history. Yantabulla has a rural fire shed, public phone and looks like a scene from Mad Max- as if people just left yesterday.<br />
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Hungerford is my favourite spot. Population of 7, with a police station, a brilliant pub run by Grahame, and friendly locals. Its always a good place to stop for lunch and a beer. Its even better to spend the night.<br />
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The next 210km the road improves greatly as the Bullo shire are constantly working on it. However the numbers of emus, kangaroos, wild horses and cattle also increases, and keeping a vigilant eye open as well as keeping the speed down are essential. Its not a track I would recommend to drive on at night, regardless of how much money you spend on driving lights.<br />
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Thargomindah is a tidy town. There is a Toyota dealer, caravan park and general store as well as fuel.<br />
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I pulled in and topped the cruisers tank up and headed towards South Australia.<br />
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Innaminka on the horizon.<br />
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The road to Innaminka is called "Adventure Way". In the peak tourist season it looks like a conveyor belt with white goods on it- being caravaners. Its mostly a single strip of tar, with heavy rocky edges. The "Way" climbs through the Grey Range and it really does remind me of travelling on the bottom of a dry ocean bed.<br />
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My advise to travellers on this section is-tune your UHF to channel 40. Road trains ( trucks with 3 or more trailers), mining vehicles and nut jobs towing camper trailers too fast are a constant.<br />
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Communicate with on coming traffic, and get off the road. Simply sitting on 100kph and passing another vehicle showers stones everywhere. Road train drivers cannot stop, or pull over as their rig can become twisted.. so be courteous and pull over.<br />
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The final section of road is dirt and in poor condition on the South Australian side.<br />
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Innaminka, frankly, does nothing for me. There is a nice Pub, and a general store but thats it. I pulled in for a beer before driving the 3 km to the Cattle station.<br />
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The front lawn is a stark contrast to the desert just metres away.<br />
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Innaminka Station is at the pointy end of the cattle production in Australia. well run, well managed, it represents to best of the best and carries on a tradition spanning over 100 years. My daughters home is neat and tidy. The lawns are constantly watered. One day without and it dies. With temperatures in the high 40's the cool of the verandah was most welcome.<br />
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The South Australian road.<br />
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A stay over night, and an early start back to Sydney was in order. So I hit the hay early and the following day, repeated the trip back.<br />
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Vehicle report:- I meet a lot of tourists in my travels, and they all want to talk about vehicles and whats best. Many are critical of the Landcruisers, as they talk number of airbags, KW, NM of torque etc. Everyone is welcome to an opinion, and I am yet to meet someone who has invested in $50-$100,000 tell me they "got it wrong".<br />
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I like my Landcruisers. They are tough. The front end, with live axle needs little or no repair, ( i.e. bushes) for 100,000km at least. The V8 is lazy, good on fuel and the truck is happy to sit on 120kph all day with a load on the back.<br />
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There is no doubt that the V8 is not as good in the bush, as it has too much power for idling without wheel spinning, and I am not too sure the airbag dash board will last like the old steel one.<br />
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My daughters working dog- A Cooley. Smart and tough.<br />
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The wider tack at the front does make for interesting handling in sand.<br />
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However, it suits me. It has a big clutch, big gearbox and big diffs, and that is a formula for getting 400,000km out of it. Yes, you do have to keep onto the oil changes, and be sure the fuel is clean more than an older one. Sure, statistically an Amerok/Ranger/BT50 produces as much power and are more comfortable. But they are not for me. The front ends fail, ( as it did in my 2011 FJ cruiser twice!), and as an auctioneer in the fleet industry I see it first hand. The trim and fittings cannot stand the constant punishment of a life off road. Yes, I know mines are moving away from Landcruisers- But those who don't use roads ( Surveyors, cattlemen etc), still use the Landcruiser. And whats this business of having to change the oil in a BT50/Ranger 3.2 litre diesel in under 20 minutes or you stuff the motor?<br />
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So, I am delighted with my purchase, and look forward to many more travels!<br />
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Happy 2015 to all my readers.<br />
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<br />simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-14534164538145751272014-11-07T14:45:00.002-08:002014-11-07T14:45:22.577-08:00Boorara 2014 Having spoken to family and friends, I have decided to add some more photos and comments on Boorara.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Verandah along the old shearers quarters.</span><br />
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David and I went over a few months back to see what, if any, work the National Parks have done to improve the place.<br />
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The bore has been repaired and the grass was freshly mown. Some of the older vehicles had been moved to one location opposite the fibro dwelling that was the Boodgerie out station.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">The workshop area.</span><br />
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I was disappointed to see the Boorara sign had been removed from the properties gate, and in wandering around found that all the roses has been taken.<br />
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Mrs MaGrath had award winning roses and they were quite a feature of homestead life.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Steam Tractor lies in ruins beside the road to Boorara.</span></div>
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Dave and I reluctantly decided to enter some of the buildings to see what condition they were in. Sadly, the main home has solid evidence of termite activity and water damage. The recent extensions, look poor as a result, but in no way as bad as the main home who's pise structure has really suffered.</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Not much to say here...</span></div>
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Some of the out buildings were worse, as you can see by the photos. The managers cottage bathroom was in bad shape, as the shower head was running which has rusted to old bath tub out. Try as we might we could not turn it off.</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">The rusted out bath tube in the managers home.</span></div>
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We walked about, had a look at the workshop, and other buildings.</div>
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There is no power, as the 90 year old Lister generator was sold off at the clearing sale, and the National Parks rightly don't want to add power if its going cause a fire, until its tested, and here is the concern-</div>
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Will National Parks restore Boorara to its former glory? Its history as a Kidman property then purchased in 1930 by William MaGrath, and from that time, uncle Jim was overseer until his retirement. Its history is rich.</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Uncle Jim Cotter Standing on top of one of the mud springs, with his Harley Davidson, at the entrance to Boorara</span></div>
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Or will Nat Parks do what they did to Caiwarro? Just allow it all to decay. Something Nat Parks are excellent at- measuring decay and decline. It remains to be seen.</div>
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Here in Australia we have a cringe mentality towards our pastoral history. Those in politics who lean to the left, would want to wipe it from our countries story.</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Emu Hall. The late William Magraths Penrith residence.</span></div>
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Perhaps we can all sit in the dirt and weave baskets?</div>
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Dave and I left Boorara silently, wondering what Jim Cotter and William MaGrath would be thinking.</div>
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I bet both are turning in their graves.</div>
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simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-58392100358804107292014-06-04T18:27:00.000-07:002014-06-04T18:27:16.386-07:00Birding and walking the outbackWith a day off I decided to pack the truck and really explore the country west of Lake Wyalla. I wanted to get a feel for the terrain, see what birds were about as well as any other wildlife.<br />
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One of the many creek beds.<br />
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The trip would take me into gullies, across the top of hills and into far corners. The contrasts in Australia are immense. I always get the feeling of being so small and insignificant.<br />
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Rustlers roost.<br />
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At Rustlers roost I found a wallaroo. For my overseas readers this is like a Kangaroo, only darker and much more solidly built. Their eating patterns are different to that of the Kangaroo as well. He was enjoying the shelter and shade of the cliff face.<br />
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Lunch was had at a dry creek crossing. A humble sandwich and a thermos of coffee was the order of the day.<br />
The birding was solid, albeit the numbers were down. Blue Bonnet, Yellow-throated honeyeater, and White-browed tree creeper were just a few I spotted.<br />
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Some of the features of this place are the rocky rises. I took the time to climb this one, and I am glad I did. From here you could see the lakes, the creeks, areas of green contrasting with dry colours. You can see where thunder storms have rained in some places and not others.<br />
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From the top the view was simply stunning as wedge-tailed eagles and whistling kites soared over head<br />
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By late afternoon I had returned to a glorious sunset.<br />
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Birds seen:- Boobook Owl, Australian Magpie, Australian raven, Little Raven, White-winged Chuffs, Apostlebird, Blue Bonnet, Pee wee, Yellow-throated Honeyeater, whistling Kite, Black Shouldered Kite, nankeen Kestrel, Emu, Galah, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Cockateil, White-necked Heron, Pacific Black Duck, Pied Butcher Bird, White-browed Babbler, White-browed Treecreeper, Chestnut-rumped Thronbill, Rufus whistler, Hooded robin, Spiny-cheecked Honeyeater, Peaceful Dove, Black Swan, Swamp Harrier, Brown Falcon, Little Eagle, White-broed Wood Swallow, Little Corella, Zebra Finch, Australian pipit, Welcome Swallow, Wedge-tailed eagle, White-faced heron, Pink-eared duck, Black falcon, Black Fronted Dotterill, Crested Pigeon, Diamond Dove, Hoary-headed Grebe, Australian Pelican, Black winged Stilt, Budgerigar, Major Mitchell, Chestnut -breasted Quail Thrush, Willy Wagtail, Australasian Shoveller, Pied Cormorant, Yellow Spoonbill, Royal Spoonbill, Splendid Fairy Wren, JackyWinter, Laughing Kookaburrasimonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-57016401887172236852014-05-18T02:22:00.001-07:002014-05-18T02:22:22.622-07:00Endos!Yes, I know the next post will be about more life on a cattle station.. but Dave has been doing this trick on his motocross bike- ENDOS!<br />
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Basically, what you do is this-<br />
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ride like mad….<br />
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Then, when you have won/impressed/ or simply been happy with your performance,<br />
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you can wow the viewer with this-<br />
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And .. no… this is not photo shopped…. after this you carry on..<br />
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I think its cool…. others think its mad….simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-13365355237758005012014-05-13T18:14:00.001-07:002014-05-13T18:14:19.516-07:00Outback fencing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Evening on the banks of Red Hole.<br />
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Recently we went back to our favourite spot, Kilcowera, to lend a hand and generally enjoy life on a cattle station.<br />
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I have always enjoyed fencing for some reason. It must be the pace. You cannot work any harder, or faster than the fence and terrain will allow.<br />
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The fence with a lean to it.<br />
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The fence line here is about 200km, and was erected many years ago to be rabbit proof, and dog proof. It makes it a lot of work to maintain, and frankly would not keep either out.<br />
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David and Greg straining the fence.<br />
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The terrain is tough and its a credit to Toyota that "old Whitey" still gets through with a full load of posts and wire. Greg puts it into all manner of wash-outs, and pushes scrub over with ease.<br />
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Sand Monitor.<br />
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Whilst working this chap walked up to us as bold as brass and spent the entire time supervising our progress. Chestnut-breasted Quail Thrush were also a delight to see.<br />
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A couple of sandwiches and a hot cross bun washed down with a cup of tea was the order of the day, as we progressed along the line.<br />
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I must confess I love the contrast of colours.<br />
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The red, green, blue and mauve of an evening as we returned to the shearers quarters was a constant delight "I felt nature had let me intrude"* (* quote from the song Droving Woman).<br />
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By evening a couple of beers and a meal with friends brings a contentment city folk seldom obtain.<br />
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Next Post- birds seen, and some old properties that are in the first stages of neglect.simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-81374449330273176122014-04-12T20:54:00.001-07:002014-04-12T21:00:03.194-07:00Anzac DayI am getting in a little early, as we will be away mustering in QLD.<br />
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Anzac day, (for my friends overseas), is on the 25th of April, whereby we remember those who gave up their lives, and fought for our country.<br />
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I am honoured to have family members who served in both WW1 and WW2, and recently Afghanistan.<br />
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Here is a photo of Sergeant Guy Hamilton Cotter, who was killed in action on the 3rd of May at Villiers-Bretonneux, France. He serve in the 23rd Battalion of the Australian Army.<br />
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They recently found him, after excavating the battle ground. He was blown to pieces whilst charging the german lines.<br />
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I often think about this. Why? It seemed so pointless, and I am certain that the majority of the French people don't give a "shit."<br />
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Guy was from Caiwarro originally, but grew up later in Melbourne Australia.<br />
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I also think fondly of Roy Dunk- another relative, from the station Warroo, who fought in the last charge of the Light Horse at Beersheeba. I had the privilege of meeting Roy some years ago. His biography make compelling reading, and of course Tibby Cotter who was there as well.<br />
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Finally, I remember my uncle Ken Cotter who served most of WW2 as a forward scout/surveyor for the artillery in the Australian army. His stories also were compelling.<br />
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I still remember him when there were thunderstorms and he would retire and lie on his bed with his arm over his face. I have his medals.<br />
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I have a brother in law who has done a number of tours in Afghanistan. On the other side of my family are Desert Rats from Tabrook as well.<br />
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Again why? That area is such a stupid place, as is the rest of the middle east.<br />
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These were brave men. Naive perhaps by todays standards. But prepared to lay down their lives for a friend.<br />
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Its a message that we all need to remember.<br />
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"They shall not grow old as we are who are left to grow old.<br />
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Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.<br />
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At the going down of the sun, and in th morning.<br />
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We shall remember them."<br />
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I shall be mustering near Warroo and Caiwarro on Anzac day, and I will remember my brave uncles and cousins.<br />
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<br />simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-41935975630732716112014-03-30T17:28:00.000-07:002014-03-30T17:28:07.652-07:00MX CrashThis You tube video shows David at training, and his friend filming. David is the bike out front, and is pulling away from the group, when his front tyre scrubs out and he crashes.<br />
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We are fortunate that no one was injured. His bike is a "write -off," and other bikes sustained damage as well.<br />
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Rider 55, who's Yamaha flies through the air, is not happy that David passed him earlier and lets him know in no uncertain terms!<br />
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Clearly, he should join a pensioner team or watch television.<br />
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David is very upset that he has ruined a bike that we have just spent thousands on.<br />
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I am just happy he, and everyone else walked away. I am also happy that rider 55 did not "go on" with it, as the outcome would have been poor for him.<br />
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If you are offended by bad language ( swearing) then don't watch.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/dHTEuN2M8KU" width="560"></iframe>simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-87673516041973986612014-03-12T22:57:00.002-07:002014-03-30T17:28:38.884-07:00What have we done?Well, the first national East Coast Series race Dave did was in Canberrra on an overcast drizzly day. The track has received 30mm of rain and was an utter bog. The junior riders had certainly churned the track up the day before, and even with the tractor out, the race was borderline cancelled.<br />
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Eeeek! Just look at that track<br />
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Experienced contenders, (read- with plenty of money too), had pressure cleaners, changes of clothes, and some even had two bikes. The idea being that, once covered in mud the rider simply got into clean, dry outfits, on a clean and dry bike. Pit crews in the meantime cleaned the bike just ridden ready for the next race.<br />
We are not in that position and so Dave spent the day covered in mud and we did our best to remove any mud from the radiators and drive train.<br />
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Dave looking clean.. but not for long!<br />
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Basically ridding in these conditions is a bit of a lottery, especially with the inexperienced and there were plenty of falls/crashes to see. The good news is- its a soft landing. The bad news is- as the bikes go around they collect mud at such a rate they get heavier and heavier, so if you crash late in the race its very difficult to even pick the bike up.<br />
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Mud monster!<br />
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Overall, we had an enjoyable day albeit a tiring one. Dave raced in Senior Lites for 3 races and came 6th overall. A great result as there were about 30 other rider in his class.<br />
The bike? Well, you can see the result. Mud gets into everything. We have to rebuild the rear swing arm and wheel axle bearings need to be removed and re-packed. The bikes really suffer. However, that's racing.<br />
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Grub!<br />
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We are looking forward to the next round!simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-40736739131095387012014-02-02T19:09:00.000-08:002014-02-02T19:09:48.118-08:00Selfies!What on earth are they?? Well, with the race season about to start, and the race bike fully prepared below are some "selfies" Dave, Nip and our new addition to the place…Chrissy Carol- a red cattle dog I got at christmas…hence her name…<br />
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So….here are the selfies guys….<br />
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The race bike all dress up and ready to race next week!<br />
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Selfie king Nip with Dave...<br />
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And introducing the new selfie! Chrissy Carols! Both very cool dogs!simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-5514949390797678402014-01-31T22:28:00.004-08:002014-01-31T22:30:20.908-08:00Semi-arid break Pt2So, where does your meat come from?<br />
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Chances are, if you are looking for best quality, it comes from here. North western NSW or south western Queensland.<br />
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Nothing would survive out here if it was not for bore water and the best 2 inventions in addition to water for outback cattle stations are- the UHF radio and poly pipe.<br />
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My uncle, Jim Cotter, on Boorara (now Kilcowera) at a cave near the Murders bore<br />
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When my grandfather worked these properties, bore water flowed across open "table drains". This is much less efficient than using pipe to run the water to water troughs.<br />
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Its a primary function of cattle production to keep these troughs clean. Cattle don't drink from dirty troughs, and in drought, the troughs become focal points for native wildlife, stock, was well as ferals.<br />
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Later Harley Davidsons with side cars replaced horses- Jim Cotter on rocky rise Boorara<br />
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Pigs, for example, will have a swim and sometimes their young will too. Sadly unable to get back our they can drown. I need not tell you what that results in.<br />
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Rounds troughs are not as good as long troughs, as they are more like a swimming pool. Longer troughs reduce the number of animals that choose to swim.<br />
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Dave checking the well being of the cattle dogs whilst the Cruiser idles in the heat… the terrain not much different to 60+ years ago...<br />
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So, Dave and myself spent the day with my cousin Frosty, driving across a couple of hundred thousand acres, cleaning troughs. Its simple enough- a scrubbing brush, pull the plug and let the water out. Some of the troughs were ok- just. Others, on a neighbouring property were utterly putrid and stank.<br />
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Its hot work.. You count even risk turning off the land cruiser in the heat..as it may not start, and it can be 80km to walk back. Impossible in 50c heat.<br />
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Frosty giving the dogs a swim in 50c heat as we clean the trough<br />
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Again, like the day before by 2pm its just too hot to continue, so an ice cold beer and a chat were the order of the afternoon.<br />
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How can you tell a good cattleman? By how clean his troughs are. Frosty's are very clean!simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-26957506602760039622013-12-31T16:53:00.004-08:002013-12-31T16:53:48.835-08:00A semi-arid break pt1.I must admit I have enjoyed many great locations at this time of year. I particularly remember Paris and I particularly remember the Lakes District in Cumbria UK. Both beautiful, both wonderfully memorable.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Dave driving the cruiser</span><br />
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However, I do love the stark contrast of the semi-arid regions of Australia. Again, in the pursuit of history we found ourselves back along the Dowling track, and again to visit my cousin "Frosty" on his property called "Boodgherree"( pronounced boo-gerry).<br />
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The area is about to be drought declared, and I was curious to see the stark contrast with the past 2 years, and as recently as April 2013. We stayed at the wonderful shearers quarters on Kilcowera and enjoyed the hospitality of the Sherwins. Geoffs property is next door and a "short" 15klm drive door to door.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Sun up and about the ride off to Lake Wyara. ( looong shadows!)</span><br />
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The following day, dave and I got up at first light, and prepared our motorbikes for the 70-80km ride through the properties to Lake Wyara. The contrast against previous seasons was never more apparent.<br />
There were few birds, all water holes had dried up, and starving emus, could only walk a few paces before collapsing from starvation.<br />
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The track was dry, dusty and even in the early morning waves of heated air washed over us. It was going to be hot. 47c. The tracks are a mixture of sand, rocky outcrops and creek wash outs. You have to have your wits about you, watching out for kangaroos, emus as well as charging cattle. All can knock you off your bike in an instant. There is just no chance, being over 30km from help, that you could simply walk back with a shrug of your shoulders.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Finding shade where we could to have a drink and a short rest.</span><br />
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Our riding was easy on the bikes, easy on ourselves. There is no room to risk losing a chain, or any breakdown for that matter.<br />
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The lake itself was 2 klm further away than it was back in April. I was amazing at just how unforgiving outback Australia is.<br />
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We returned via the Murderers Bore and I was quick excited to find some of the landscape that my family had photographed in the 1940s, when this was part of Boorara. I find linking evidence of old photos with today, exciting. "Forensic", history research is what I like. Sadly our pastoral history will be lost.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Arrival at Lake Wyara. Hot dry dusty, and the lakes water on the horizon.</span><br />
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It was several hours before we returned to the shearers quarters., Hot, covered in red dust, and thirsty. In that heat the air acts like a hair drying, and it seems you cannot get as much water in as the air is drying our of you.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">A chair set up under the Pepper tree</span><br />
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A rest for 40 winks was in order before a late afternoon of bird watching. The shade of the Pepper tree and the green grass that surrounds the shearers quarters a refreshing contrast to the death of drought.<br />
Here I set up my camera, bird book and binoculars to try and capture photos of the birds coming to drink from a small puddle of water leaking from the tap. When we packed to leave I stumbled on a cap that my old friend, Jim, left here in 2011. I thought that with Christmas being a time to share with friends and remember those gone, I should take his cap with us when we are birding, simply to remember great friendships, which only ever seem to last a short time. I am sure Jim would have got a laugh.<br />
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Pt2 Working on Boodgherree. Cleaning water troughs, and checking stock…birds seen..simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-69361932718865584802013-12-25T21:59:00.001-08:002013-12-25T22:03:08.920-08:00Well deserved rest!Well, its time I had a well deserved rest, and having loaded the Cruiser with 2 bikes, camping equipment, we are heading towards Hungerford/Thargomindah at 2am tonight.<br />
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My new motorbike<br />
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Temperatures will be 40c+. However we are well prepared with icy cold beer, bird books, binoculars, water, breakdown equipment, extra spare wheels, food….you name it! We are quite independent and capable.<br />
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Above is my new bike… its set up for mustering /droving, as well as birding. Bikes are great for sneaking up on game.<br />
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Looks a mess but it will not be once tied down<br />
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The canvas covers on the seat and tank protect the bike from the scratches from dogs and general wear and tear.<br />
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Today I found a cap worn by Jim when he was here in 2011. For the sake of nostalgia I will bring it to our favourite birding spots. I hope my UK and Austrian friends will enjoy that!<br />
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This is a semi arid trip in drought conditions and requires real focus!<br />
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Well- See you all soon in Lamington land!simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-70725775596282672512013-12-22T19:49:00.000-08:002013-12-22T19:50:25.037-08:00Merry Christmas!I would like to wish any one reading this a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!<br />
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Merry Christmas from the crew!<br />
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Yesterday we spent time practising "whips". This is where you approach a motocross jump, angle the bike on the up ramp and "whip" it across the table top section.<br />
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It was really very hot at 42c, and the guys needed a lot of water after each session.<br />
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Davids friend Gareth is perhaps the best rider I have seen, and below is a series of photos on how just to whip it good!<br />
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Gareth "mid whip"<br />
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Bringing the nose down for the landing...<br />
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Another perspective….<br />
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..then once landed, hard left turn and into the straight!<br />
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A great lesson in how to do it right.<br />
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Merry Christmas!simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-71144003986874795782013-12-01T00:22:00.002-08:002013-12-20T23:17:56.429-08:00Droving WomenIn researching my families pastoral history, the one thing that really sits in my mind is the life the women had. Every bit as tough and as hard as the men, only different.<br />
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I really would like to make their story heard as well as it is in this song.simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6260855408191704213.post-62196326789174810792013-11-16T15:00:00.002-08:002013-11-18T13:48:56.866-08:00Boorara. The final chapter.I have just heard that Boorara Station has been sold to the QLD government and will become part of a larger Currawinya national park.<br />
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I have some mixed feelings about this. Certainly, something had to be done, and in terms of the environment, I guess the outcome is good. However, a well managed property can be better maintained that a national park. Sadly, the "lock it and leave it" mentality of governments rarely produces a good result. By switching off the bores, the certainty of watering points for native wildlife becomes an issue.<br />
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The fact remains that the land is altered permanently from its original state, and careful management to prevent weed infestations, as well as predatory animals (I saw feral cats on the lake shores there), is vital.<br />
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The old bull catcher.<br />
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Can the QLD government do it? I don't know. I would like the pioneers, and specifically the MaGrath family to be recognised. Its the hard work of these families that gave us the wealth we have today.<br />
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The good news is, I can visit as often as I like.simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17329985554257923069noreply@blogger.com1