CANUNGRA, QUEENSLAND - APRIL WITH COVID-19

As of today, May 1st. I have been in government-enforced lockdown at my daughter's property near Canungra for five weeks and three days, so there's not a lot to write about from a travel perspective.

Having said that, the 'stay at home' rule does have some exceptions. We can go out for essential shopping, medical appointments, education, work or exercise. My son in law Adam, who is a tradesman, still goes out to work although he is not doing the number of hours he normally would. My daughter Shelley is a saddle-maker who specializes in custom hand-made bridles. She has a workshop on the property and is surprisingly busy. They both leave home to ride their bikes, shop or do work-related travel. Grandson Lachy is remote schooling under the daily direction of his classroom teacher via a web link. Shelley and Adam oversee that in the home.

As for me I have managed to keep pretty busy. I'm doing lots of chipping and putting practice, going on 8-10 km walks, working out on the rowing machine or doing Pilates on my yoga mat. I've started a new 'paint by numbers', done a few jigsaws, I'm knitting a jumper, reading, learning macrame, spending a lot of time on the internet and watching more 'catch up TV' than I have ever done in my entire life. Every now and then I make myself a gourmet lunch, pour a glass of wine and pretend I am sharing it with a friend, as I have so often done in the past.

My big outing is a fortnightly trip to Robina, some 30 km away, to attend the blood bank and give plasma. Woohoo! That's except for today. My appointment was canceled due to the blood bank running out of some pieces of equipment, necessary to the collection, that come from overseas. That's a worry for those who need blood products. Could it be the shape of things to come I wonder...shortages of imported goods!

The weather has been stunning. High 20's cooling just enough in the evening to warrant a daily campfire. That's the best part of my day. I collect and split the wood before lighting the fire around 5. Shelley joins me for a drink and a chat beside it - Adam as well sometimes. Even Lachy (who is umbilically attached to his computer) comes over and toasts the odd marshmallow from time to time.

  

I have lots of long phone calls with daughters Emma and Fiona in Victoria, as well as staying in touch with my sisters and a handful of close friends. Everyone seems to be making more of an effort to connect. That's an upside to this devastating pandemic.

We are all exercising 'social distancing' here at my new home as required but we have shared a few meals both beside the fire and in the house. Lachlan's 11th birthday was a special event celebrated by just the four of us with pizza and ice-cream cake. I reckon he'll remember it as his Covid Birthday.

Lachy and I did share another special time on Anzac Day when he came with me into Canungra to get take away coffee and brunch. We walked across to the park in the centre of town and were fortunate enough to share, inadvertently,  in the 11am Ceremony. It was very moving with an old bugler playing the Last Post. I did shed a tear or two.

I'm loving the wildlife and the King Parrots are now so cheeky they fly into my van in the morning to sit on the back of my seat and look at me working on my laptop in bed! Clearly they want some sunflower seeds.

Yesterday Shelley and I flauted the rules and went for a drive to a nearby lookout where we shared a couple of glasses of bubbles. I have been missing my outback pub visits, so Shell took me out. That was a lovely treat. Big (distance) hugs for number one daughter!

There's no doubt I'm one of the lucky ones. I have a safe and beautiful space to sit out this absolutely weird time of Covid-19, I have family to interact with, we're all well and Australia is in a better position health-wise than pretty much any other country in the world. I know there are some of my fellow OZ travelers out there who live permanently on the road and are locked down in some not-so-nice spaces and circumstances. That could have been me! Lucky me!

APRIL 2020 COVID-19 STATISTICS & SITUATION

1/3/20

Global Infections:  86,604              Australian Infections:  25

Global Deaths:   2977                  Australian Deaths:   0   

1/4/20

Global Infections:  871,371            Australian Infections:  4763

Global Deaths:   42,107         Australian Deaths:  20

1/5/20

Global Infections:  3,322,966            Australian Infections:  6766

Global Deaths:  234,408         Australian Deaths:  93

In Australia restrictions have remained in place, with plans to start easing some state-imposed restrictions as I write.

The world is heading toward recession, if not depression, due to job losses, business closures and the economic consequences. Trillions of dollars are being spent by governments world wide to support individuals and businesses, and to prop up their economies.

Global debt is unprecedented.

Not only have we all lost many of our fundamental freedoms, but our future generation will be hamstrung by debt for many years to come.

The upside for our earthly environment is that because there are very few factories operating, almost no planes flying, a fraction of cars on the road and a huge drop in air pollution generally, the world can breathe again. The skies over China are blue and dolphins are swimming in the canals in Vienna.

There's always a silver lining.... 

COVID-19. REALITY BITES IN MARCH 2020

My decision on Thursday, March 18 to do an about face on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia and head to my daughter's place in southern Queensland instead of to Western Australia proved to be a timely one. Every day Coronavirus cases were growing across the country. Federal and State governments were starting to talk about border closures and travel restrictions, making it apparent that changes would happen rapidly and with little advance warning.

I felt an urgency building as I headed toward the new place I would call home for months to come, so left Wilcannia where I had overnighted the following Saturday night intending to put as many kilometers under my belt for the day as possible. It was amazing driving through central NSW to see the difference rain had made compared to four or five months previous when much of the area had been in the grip of drought.

I had earmarked a few potential spots to prop some 400 to 600 kilometers on my track, but with a few short breaks I was feeling good so kept driving until just before dusk. That was later than I like to be on the road, however in the end I didn't feel l had much choice as some of the options were just shitful, so I kept going until I drove into the showgrounds at Coonamble. It was a huge complex, well off the highway, and even though I was the only one overnighting I did feel completely safe. I picked a grassy spot before enjoying a balmy sunset stroll with little mate James.

COONAMBLE SHOWGROUNDS is a pretty good overnighter. I stayed on the grassy area which is probably out of bounds - but there was no-one around to make me shift. Aside from that there is a spacious, flat gravel/dirt area with toilets nearby and shade. It's fairly close into town, so has TV and phone reception. Apparently you you are supposed to leave a donation of $5, but I didn't see a box. It gets 3 out of 5 stars from me.

From Coonamble I headed northwest fairly early next morning. It was an easy run on narrow country roads with barely another motorist in sight for hour after hour. Google maps sent us on a direct route through Pilliga, Wee Waa and across to Bellata where we picked up the Newell highway. The last hour was interesting to say the least. We ended up on a dirt track that Google found god knows where, navigating our way over creek crossings and along roads that would have been impassable in the event of rain. I was very glad the sky was blue! I was somewhat relieved when I spotted cars and trucks in the distance and we eventually hit the bitumen!

From there it was not far to the Queensland border. I had only 24 hours up my sleeve before anyone entering the north eastern state would be required to self-quarantine for 14 days and to cap that off there was lots of advice from governments to stop unnecessary traveling and "go home". It was a relief to actually get across the border at Goondoowindi around midday. From there it was just over 100 km to Lake Coolmunda where I planned to spend a few nights before going on to Shelley and Adam's.

Lake Coolmunda was lovely. It only cost $10 per night to camp beside the lake, the weather was perfect, there were only three other vans in and I felt the need to just relax a bit having just covered more than 2200 km in four days. I paid for two nights and found myself a great spot looking out over the beautiful water views. I couldn't be bothered unhitching by the time I arrived, so just had a chilled evening enjoying the serenity.

LAKE COOLMUNDA is a fantastic spot that is a destination in its own right. The lake is large with a boat ramp so is a popular fishing spot. The lakeside camp area is massive. You pay $10 pp per night at the caravan park up the road, then open the boom gate with the card supplied. You can pick any spot in the open grassland area beside the lake. Amenities include showers, toilets, water, dump point, bbq's, fire pits, laundry, bins, tables, some shade and great scenery. It's a few kilometers out of the quaint little town of Inglewood so has full mobile and TV coverage. I rate it a full 5 *****!

I was fluffing around late next morning watching the latest Covid-19 news live on my tablet when the Premier of Queensland gave a press conference announcing that their borders would be completely closed to non-residents the following day. Mmm....time to get to Shelley's methinks! In less than an hour I was back on the road, very nervous every time I passed a police car (which I did three times), that I would be intercepted and told to go back to my home state of Victoria (where my home was being lived in by my friend Dot until the coming September). But fortunately that didn't happen and I arrived in Canungra around 2pm Tuesday, March 24.

After greeting Shelley and grandson Lachy (who was remote tele-schooling due to the pandemic) making sure to maintain "social distancing" as now required, I set up the van in the back corner of the property adjacent to Shell's saddlery workshop where I had access to power and water. In no time at all I was feeling very much at home and truly happy to be in a safe place that was also a beautiful environment. How lucky am I!

Since arriving nine days ago I haven't left the property bar going for a couple of walks. My days have been surprisingly full. My caravan received a much needed thorough wash, as did my laundry. I have developed a daily exercise regimen, set up my putting practice mat, encouraged the local wildlife to visit, and light my fire late each afternoon. I love it when the family come and enjoy it with me.

I make sure I have plenty of different things I can do to keep myself occupied and entertained, including giving myself a number 6 haircut!

The parrots are becoming friendlier each day. It is just such a beautiful space to spend in semi-isolation.

And it is amazing to see my grandson growing and learning new skills from his dad.

MARCH 2020 COVID-19 STATISTICS & SITUATION

1/3/20

Global Infections:  86,604              Australian Infections:  25

Global Deaths:   2977                  Australian Deaths:   0   

1/4/20

Global Infections:  871,371            Australian Infections:  4763

Global Deaths:   42,107         Australian Deaths:  20

Coronavirus was first reported by China on December 31, 2019 where it spread rapidly. The first confirmed death was in Wuhan, China on January 9. The first reported case outside China was from Thailand on January 13, followed by small numbers of cases in USA, Nepal, France, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan soon after. 

Australia's first case was reported on January 25. 

On February 27 Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison announced the activation of the Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for Novel Coronavirus.

Australia's first reported death was March 1st.

On March 11 WHO (World Health Organisation) declared COVID-19 a pandemic. It was spreading rapidly across the globe and death rates were on the rise with Europe becoming the new epicentre of the outbreak.

 A National Cabinet was formed to deal with the crisis on March 13 and immediately announced gatherings of 500 or more people should be cancelled from 15 March. From midnight that day all inbound travelers were told to self-isolate for fourteen days.

In Australia a "human bio-security emergency" was declared on March 18 and on March 20 Australia closed it's borders to non residents. On March 21 a Social Distancing Rule of 4 square meters in any enclosed space was imposed. 

On March 23 all places of social gathering in Australia were closed - clubs, pubs, bars, entertainment venues, cinemas, casinos, nightclubs and places of worship. Cafes and restaurants could only serve takeaway.

As of the end of March there are border closures and/or strict travel restrictions in all Australian states and territories. Social groups are limited to two people unless living in the same house. All organised sport has been cancelled. Returning residents from overseas are held in strict quarantine for 14 days.

All Australians are being told to stay at home unless they have to go out for work, essential shopping, medical appointments, school or solo exercise.

Hundreds of thousands of Australians are now unemployed and virtually confined to their homes.

Multi-billion dollar packages have been announced by the government to stimulate the economy, provide relief and support for individuals, workers and businesses affected by the pandemic as well as massive funding tipped into various areas of health and welfare.

What a difference a month has made to this world in which we all live.

COWELL, PORT GIBBON, CLEVE, PETERBOROUGH, BROKEN HILL & WILCANNIA - COVID-19

Covid-19 (aka Corona Virus) now rules the world - for the time being at least. So much is changing so fast! Every day the global panic is accelerating and the Australian government has now placed certain bans on non-essential gatherings among other things. Countries across around the world are closing their borders and confining their citizens to their homes. Global share markets are crashing. The RBA have cut interest rates and economic stimulus/survival packages have been announced by leaders all round the world to try and prop up economies, businesses and individuals. It's all so surreal....and scary.

I'm thinking I'm in a better position than most. I operate pretty much solo anyway, so placing myself in virtual self isolation is relatively easy. I have stocked the van with non-perishable essentials, lots of dog food, enough toilet paper and sufficient cask wine. As I sit in my van on a beautiful, fairly remote beach on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, I feel safe.

When I left Whyalla l made sure to top up my fuel tank (95 litres), my water (200 litres) and my gas (18 kg). The beaches on the Eyre Peninsula are renown for their beauty, so I made my way south along the coast to check them out. Cowell, just 106 km down the Lincoln Highway was my first stop. Arriving early afternoon I pulled over to photograph the local silo art, then did a brief recce of the town in the car before settling into a posse at the local RV Park. I left the van hitched as I was only overnighting to sit out forecast gale force winds. I figured it would be more sheltered on Franklin Harbour, which is where Cowell is located, than right on the open beach front a little further south. There were quite a lot of vans already in the park - mostly fishermen as there were lots of tinnies too!

With antibiotics kicking in and James well on the way to recovery from his bout of gastro, we headed back into town on foot to explore more thoroughly. Not surprisingly we came across the pub. Ah well....guess we have to follow protocol!

The main street of the popular fishing village is rather pretty with magnificent old buildings dating back to the 1800's. At the end of the street is a long jetty and boat ramp that services the needs of the many keen fishermen who travel from far and wide. Apparently it's one of the best fishing and crabbing spots in SA.

The surrounding area, however, is pretty bland and flat, the RV Park included. The view across the stubbly, low vegetation to the bay was less than spectacular. And the March flies are the size of bombers!

By early evening the wind was howling so I hunkered down in the van and cooked myself a yummy dinner.

COWELL RV PARK doesn't offer much. There's space for maybe 30 vans closely spaced on flat gravel. The only amenities are a tap for drinking water, a fire pit, a book swap cabinet and an undercover seating area. You need to put $5 per day in an envelope in a box nearby. You wouldn't stay more than one night unless you fished. My rating - 2.5.

About 20km south of Cowell there are multiple small beachfront camps that can be accessed from a gravel track that runs along the coastline, ending at Port Gibbon. I drove slowly, checking out a couple of options before deciding on Port Gibbon Beach Camp 2. As the only camper there, l positioned the van in the best spot right on the edge of the beach. OMG - it was stunning! The views, the water, sand, sunshine and privacy were perfect. As soon as l was set up James and I hit the beach and had a swim. It was perfect!

Next afternoon we went exploring the tiny settlement of Port Gibbon and some of the nearby coastal attractions.

By late Tuesday, however, I was starting to realize there were imperfections in my utopia. Four in fact. Wind, flies, sandflies and March flies. Bugger! Late each day and sometimes night l thought the van was going to blow over, and going onto the beach was not an option due to the sandblasting effect. It was an ongoing job keeping surfaces inside the van free of airborne grit and there was no way I could be outside without a fly net. The attack from flies and March flies was relentless. But the real joy killer was that when I woke up Wednesday, I was going insane with dozens and dozens of midge bites on every piece of flesh, exposed or not!

My plan had been to continue south along the coastline slowly while I waited for Karen from Melbourne to join me. From the Eyre Peninsula we were heading to WA in convoy, with another Roller, Anna, coming along in her motorhome. Given, however, Karen wanted to meet at Port Lincoln just 145 km away and wasn't due to catch up with me for a week, l decided to head a little inland to the township of Cleve, not only to claim respite from the deadly four but also get to a chemist for some midge bite relief beyond a dab of boiling water on each bite.

By the time I had hooked up Wednesday afternoon in 40 degree heat, buzzing flies and a howling gale, I was possibly suffering from a bit of heat exhaustion and more than a little over it! My online research that morning had been somewhat disturbing. Covid-19 was starting to get VFR (very fucking real). There were rapidly increasing infection and death rates globally and in Australian resulting in even tougher restrictions on travel, panic buying from supermarkets (particularly toilet paper of all things!) and the likelihood of recession not far away. It was all starting to make me feel more than a tad uncomfortable about heading in the opposite direction to home by a further 2300 kilometers. I needed to do some thinking and perhaps 'phone a friend' or two to bounce some ideas around.

It was an easy drive to Cleve RV Park taking less than an hour. It's a typical little country town - friendly people, clean, all the services you need - and a pub! In normal circumstances I would have been in like Flynn, but the growing advice from health authorities to keep away from others, particularly for oldies like me, had me spooked. A trip to the chemist yielded a tube of cortisone cream which I slathered all over myself before settling down with a glass of wine in the van to explore my travel options.

CLEVE RV PARK scores a 4. It's right in town so has all the services as well as water hook up, toilets, showers and bins. Sites are flat offering shade and plenty of space. It's quiet. I didn't bother to tether James so he was very relaxed. I would happily stay there for a few days and explore the area. Cost is a $10 donation into the box on the amenities wall. 

By Thursday morning following updated Covid-19 advice along with multiple conversations with family and friends, I decided to do an about face. I came to the conclusion that my best option was to head northeast some 2200 km to Canungra in southern Queensland where my daughter lives on acreage. My rationale was that in the event of internal border closures l would be in a warm climate for the winter, still in my van with the option to travel around Queensland and, in worse case scenario, close to family in the event of a lockdown (as was happening globally), or illness.

So that morning I headed west, stopping at Kimba to get some more silo art photos before pulling into the Peterborough RV Park to overnight.

PETERBOROUGH RV PARK is a safe, quiet, flat, expansive, free overnighter. It's close to town so has mobile and TV reception. There is shade around the outside perimeter of the disused sports field. There are no amenities bar bins. I give it a 3.

I continued west Friday, crossing the border into NSW late afternoon and arriving at Broken Hill Racecourse RV Park around 5pm. I wanted to stay hitched and was fortunate enough to snag the last site, albeit unpowered and on dirt. Fine by me!

The sunrise next morning was stunning!

After a restless night (the norm for me since Pete's death a month before), filling up with diesel ($129.9  ltr - bargain), and a $120 grocery shop, it was 10.30 before I was heading along the flat, rather barren Barrier Hwy. With weariness kicking in some 230 km later when approaching Wilcannia, l decided to see if the caravan park by the Darling river held any appeal....and indeed it did! Wilcannia is not the nicest or safest place in the world (all the buildings are shuttered), but the tiny, basic park looked lovely after a recent drop of rain and there were several other vans already in, so it felt safe. I backed onto a site (quite expertly now I must say!) and had a relaxing glass of wine followed by a much needed nanna nap. Nice!