Daily Journal: DAY 1. Sunday 26th July, 2009: Nunawading to Beechworth.

We started the journey at Nunawading, served and hosted by the PCCV - looking at the map shown there, Bob and I felt we'd bitten off more than we could chew.
With the journey under way we passed the turn off to the bushfire affected Kinglake and Hurstville - it was amazing to see the bush springing back into life and some homesteads that had survived, which were easily seen through the naked bush.
Barry Powers, the bushrangers lookout, was well worth stopping at for its spectacular views of the KIng River Valley and to the snow covered mountains of the Australian Alps in the distance.
We enjoyed a welcome cuppa and warm fire in the shed of Doug Brockfield and Chris Powell for afternoon tea, where we were able to meet and chat with our fellow travellers.
Coming from Tassie , it was great to meet everyone and are looking forward to the companionship and fun of this trip....if only I could get Bob to put his stickers on the car!
Please note too we are the ONLY ones camping tonight at Beechworth.

Leonie and Bob Donaghue

Daily Journal: Day 2 Monday 27th July, 2009: Beechworth to Tumut.

We departed a foggy Beechworth at 8.30a.m. for Yackandandah where the Group witnessed a “flat white” and had our coffee. It was then on to Tallangatta where we were struck by the lack of water in the Lake Hume. The fog lifted as we approached the scenic valley of Bullioh and visibility improved markedly, We was a police radar at the Granya turnoff and trust that all our fellow travellers saw it too! Hopefully, none will receive unwanted mail on their return home.
As we headed into the High Country, we saw a fox on the run into some of the greenest country we are likely to see during the next 6 weeks. The Group stopped in Tumbarumba for lunch and some visited the local museum which was small, but well organised and interesting. On through apple country (Batlow) to our day 2 destination, Tumut and dinner at the Woolpack Hotel for Allan Parker's birthday, Day 2 has been uneventful, although we did observe a huge timber truck slip-streaming Hank and Jo in the Bread Van as we were coming into Tumut!

Geoff Rose and Morrie Barrett

Daily Journal: DAY 3. Tuesday 28th July, 2009: Tumut to Orange.

After Rob Payne from Wagga organised our breakfast in the camp kitchen, we all set off at our own pace from Tumut, a High Country town and one of the Gateways to The Snowy Mountains - The Roof Top of Australia. The road out of Tumut soon climbed up through pasture land into forestry when we saw a sign saying “Not Suitable for Caravans” by the roadside - this being the truest sign I have ever seen. Rain during the night turned most of the road to Wee Jasper greasy and with the many narrow one-way bridges to negotiate, gave everyone an opportunity to show off their driving skills. Another scary sign, considering the narrow, winding, greasy road - “Beware of Logging Trucks” - I just prayed that none were operating today.
Everyone enjoyed the challenge of country road driving that Peugeots excel in and I managed to see a LIVE fox, a wallaby and many crimson rosellas on the way through to Wee Jasper. Just after we crossed the Murrumbidgee River, several of our group spent time walking through the Japanese Memorial Gardens at Cowra and I also visited the old P.O.W. site where only base ruins are visible.

Gordon Hort

Daily Journal: DAY 4. Wednesday 29th July, 2009: Orange to Muswellbrook.

It was good to meet up with everyone this morning, after missing the start in Melbourne. We headed off from Orange at 8.30am en route to Hill End via Sofala. Both historic towns are very interesting and well worth visiting. Itʼs hard to believe that in the late 1800ʼs, Hill End was the largest inland town in NSW following the gold boom, now just 100 people call it home.
Then off to Mudgee for lunch an on to Muswellbrook via Bylong, over the Great Dividing Range and through the Upper Hunter Wine Region. All in all, a very enjoyable day, a mix of good and gravel roads, beautiful scenery and friendly faces.

Ros and Don Pearson.

Daily Journal: DAY 5. Thursday 30th July, 2009: Muswellbrook to Glen Innes.

We all awoke to the coldest morning yet; my red car was white and looked quite clean.
We drove through Scottish Aberdeen and ʻhorseyʼ Scone - the drive through the Liverpool Range was very scenic with the valley full of horse studs and stables - on to see the Burning Mountain. An energetic group walked to the top of this underground Coal Seam that has been smouldering for about 5 or 6 thousand years - well worth the mainly up-hill walk to get there.
The sunset was lovely as we arrived at Glen Innes which had -4 degrees last night - another very cold morning tomorrow, I think!

Joan Hoey.

Daily Journal: DAY 6. Friday 31st July, 2009: Glen Innes to Toowoomba.

A frosty start to the day in Glen Innes. The Hallʼs saw it from their motel window!
Campers claim it was thick. All to be expected from the highest town on the New England Plateau where it regularly snows. Walking around the town we met may of Glennʼs relations in Glen Innes - Glen Haven, Glen Rule, Glen Craigie. Many visited the Celtic Standing Stones without going to England or Scotland.
Hankʼs option for the back roads was popular. Loved the golden wattle and colour of the red mistletoe on the grey gum leaves. Lunch at Texas with the four and five metre flood signs. Teddy had a swing with Brian on the kidʼs playground. On to Stanthorpe where the Monkey sings soprano in July. Mike would like a dollar for every road advisory sign.
Many old shearing sheds indicate the history of the area which is now heading to more wine production. The Hallʼs found a bottle to try.
Arrived at Toowoomba and met up with John and Trish, one of our support teams, who had come the short way and seen none of the group. Anyone would think the Peugeot people like the back roads!

Carol and Glenn Hall.

Daily Journal: DAY 7. Saturday 1st August, 2009: Toowoomba

Today USED to be Wattle Day (now moved to Sep 1 for unfathomable reasons) when Australian schoolchildren sang “The bush was grey a week today … flowing wattle”. Most of us spent the day, not admiring wattles in the bush, but resting shopping & washing washing washing (cars and clothes). High points: John & Trish have welcomed into their stable (free to good home) a licenced, going 504. Morrie & Geoff visited Kingaroy and returned to Toowoomba through Yarraman where they viewed a stack of French (& other) vehicles, amongst them a Simca 8, one of only 4 known to exist in the world. Various walks and expeditions around Toowoomba, notably to Picnic Point with its many walking tracks. Someof us visited the Caravan & Camping Show in Toowoomba, in case there was something there we needed!?! Back on the road again tomorrow, heading inexorably west!

Louise Fountain and Nigel Nash

Daily Journal: DAY 8. Sunday 2nd August, 2009: Toowoomba to Roma.

Another sunny start to the day for the trip to Roma. Brianʼs health improved today, but not enough to stop Merrilyn driving! The hills around Toowoomba turned into flat plains country as we travelled westward. The sun was belting in through the car windows and most of us started stripping down to ʻsummerʼ clothes. But only Bob braved the shorts and thongs. A few of us stopped at Dalby for mmoring brew. Don and Ros travelled via Condamine, we presume to pay condolences to the broken windscreen he had there in the 2004 Ampol rerun. This is Don and Rosʼ last day on the trip before heading home.
We had lunch outside the Miles Pioneer Village Museum. Another tourist farewelled us with ʻmay your frogs keep croakingʼ. We arrived at Roma about 2.15pm after a very leisurely dayʼs drive where we met Leon and Kerrie, who have joined us for the rest of the trip.

Merrilyn and Brian Ward.

Daily Journal: DAY 9. Monday 3rd August, 2009: Roma to Blackall.

Today Don and Roslyn Pearson leave for home, Leon and Kerrie, Annie and Tony joined us. Fine weather, not a cloud in the sky, green wheat fields and very dry country.
Morning tea at Morven, John checked out the Museum and kerosene tin hut. At Augathella the Warrego River bed was very dry, even though a levy bank surrounds the town. There were some great murals painted on town buildings. Lunch stop along the road, some of the crew stopped at Augathella.
At Mitchell we saved a pop-top caravan from blowing its top, took us a few kilometres to run them down to tell them - rather scarey. A random survey of roadkill averaged 5 per klm over 10 klms. An 8 hour day covering 482 klms with no known problems.

Jan and John Brumby.

Daily Journal: Day 10. Tuesday 4th August, 2009: Blackall to Winton

Blackall is where the taps run hot water all the time straight out of the Artesian Basin. The local swimming pool has a spa at 36 degrees and the olympic size pool is 32 degrees. Annie and Tony joined us last night travelling in their 404 'Albury Flier' and will stay for the rest of the run.
Large groups of emus roam the edges of the road and unlike kangaroos seem to have some sort of road sense and do not add to the roadkill count.
Several people found their "townie digital" did not work outside the country towns.
Barcaldine, pronounced bar-col-din by most but some of the group referred to it as barkle-dine just to confuse thingsis the site of the new 'artie' version of the Tree of Knowledge. It is an intriguing sculpture with built in bird deterrents.
First time visitors to Longreach had plenty to see with most concentrating on Qantas Founders Outlook Museum and The Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame. Winton, home of Waltzing Matilda has plenty of hot soft water on tap again from the Artesian Basin.

by Max O'Connor Car 10

Daily Journal: Day 11. Wednesday 5th August, 2009: Winton to Tobermorey Station

Tight squeeze at the Winton CP - all fitted in.
Morning start 7am - long day coming up.
At Boulia, Nev and Alan departed for home.
From Boulia the rough track started - with punctures on Tony's ute and Leonie and Bob's 504.
Rob Trembath had a lot of trouble with engine and rear shockies resulting in a tow into Tobermorey.
First bush camp site was great - stars and campfire with plenty of chatter. Good end to a hard day.

by Laurie Jones Car 15

Daily Journal: Day 12. Thursday 6th August, 2009: Tobermorey Station to Alice Springs

We awoke to a crisp winter morning at our campsite at Tobermorey. Some of the Peugeot experts were already huddled under the bonnet of Rob's 404, searching for clues as to why it had been cutting out yesterday. Eventually, the aftermarket distributor was suspected, so it was replaced with an original Peugeot one. Not long after, the 404 spluttered back to life. Attention then shifted to Bob's 504 that was having its rear suspension attended to. Apparently, the rear stabiliser bar mount had broken, which was allowing the tyre to rub on the fuel tank. This would've gone unnoticed had it not been for a puncture yesterday that highlighted the problem.
We headed back onto the Plenty Highway to continue the rest of the dirt journey, hoping the road conditions would be a little kinder to us today. Initially, the road seemed more bearable than yesterday, but it wasn't long before the long stretches of corrugations returned. Most drivers found travelling at 85-90 km/h was the best compromise. Later in the journey, we heard over the CB that Rob's 404 was overheating, suffered a punctured fuel tank and was cutting out again. In order to keep the convoy moving, the 404 was hitched up to one of the support vehicle 4x4's and towed into Alice Springs. Chris had some electrical problems with the 505 wagon, but this was sorted out quickly. Lunch and refuel was at Jervois, and a short well deserved ice cream stop at Gemtree was enjoyed by some. Some even devoured two ice creams, but I guess tall people need more ice cream. Kerrie, on the other hand showed great self control and resisted the temptation. We were all pleased to return to the bitumen and I'm sure we all slept well that night.

by Leon & Kerrie de Waard Car 16

Daily Journal: Day 13. Friday 7th August, 2009: Alice Springs rest day

And did some of need the rest!! Rob and Glenys had spent many hours on the end of a solid tow over some unforgiving country arriving after dark. Today Tony and Gordon purchased new tyres, Bob visited a friend's work shop to repair his anti sway bar, Chris solved some electrical problems and Geoff visited the dentist. The rest of us checked over vehicles, visited local attractions and replenished supplies for the upcoming leg on the Tanami track.

by Hank & Jo Verwoert by Car 13

Daily Journal: DAY 14. Saturday 8th August, 2009: Alice Springs to Bush Camp on Tanami Track

We said goodbye to Jenny this morning, she is flying home. Rob & Glenys were at the gate to wave us off. Sadly we leave them here - their broken Pug is being trucked home. Leon & Kerrie, Bob & Leonie, Graham & the boys are taking a detour to test the waters at Mataranka & will catch up in Kununurra. 20kms north of Alice we turned onto the Tanami Track. Scenic drive following the McDonnell ranges. Bitumen all the way to our fuel & morning tea stop - Tilworth Well Roadhouse. Stunning aboriginal paintings in the gallery & frozen kangaroo tails for sale. Jo was offered a job by the owner (staff being hard to come by out here) when it was discovered that Hank had made a quick getaway!! Jo declined and travelled along with Joan. Then the dirt started - a very wide road and so far, in better condition than the Plenty Highway.

Late afternoon we discovered from a passing 4WD that Chris & Max had trouble. Later we found out that they had broken the spring base on the front strut which let the base slide down the strut and chop the tyre out. They patched it up and were were limping back towards Tilworth Roadhouse. John & Trish Brockman had driven back to Yuendumu to advise the Police what had happened, so they were very late arriving at our the camp site.

We had a great camp fire enjoyed by all. Much banter and yarns being told. Tony & Annie took the prize for their gourmet dinner - camel and date sausages! Not everyone's cup of tea but then it could have been kangaroo tail!!

by Tina Mouritz Car 3

Daily Journal: DAY 15. Sunday 9th August, 2009: Alice Springs to Tanami Track near 'Flood Out Creek'

A baker's dozen camped overnight after Chris and Max were forced to return to Tilmouth Well to await spare parts for their 505.Another beautiful dawn seeing the full moon setting as the sparkling sun rose in the east. Tents were packed away, we breakfasted and departed by 8.30am.

As Mike and John helped Gordon with a faulty condenser Trish and Lesley went for a walk up the track. The early morning brought out the Major Mitchell cockatoos and flocks of brilliant green budgies - we also followed some camel tracks but alas no camel was to be seen.Rabbit Flat , an outback experience for many, fell short of expectations. Basically a fuel stop only ($2.20 per litre) with the fuel pumped by a grey bearded fella and a french lady serving in the shop behind a fully barred counter, only space to hand the money through.

As we crossed into WA, Gordon (From Perth) was heard to remark "You Victorians are confused because we're in real time." After a hard drive and many kms more than our itinerary stated on very corrugated, stoney and dusty road with good parts and very very bad parts we camped at Sturt Creek, a beautiful setting with water, trees and great company - we were also treated to a visit by the local bush poet!

by Lesley and Mike Jolley - Support vehicle Car 18

Daily Journal: DAY 16. Monday 10th August, 2009: Tanami Bush Camp to Halls Creek

As we left our beautiful campsite at Sturt Creek, a kite landed in one of the flooded gums and two crows turned up to see if we had left them any treats. As soon as we were on the road there was a very melodious chorus of Happy Birthday to Lesley over the 2 way radios.Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater was our major interest point for the morning. Most climbed to the rim which was fairly easy. Some walked down and some slid down the inside and walked right across the crater. An intrepid few walked right around the rim.

Road conditions today were mixed some good and then not so good with the road into the crater the worst. It was good to see some new road works in progress.

The country side kept changing from spinifex plains to rocky hills and creeks. There was quite a lot of bush in flower in pink, mauve, purple and yellow colours. The flooded gums at creek crossings are always beautiful. Animals spotted were cattle of the boss indicus type, feral goats, a red kangaroo and a red lizard. There were also eagles, kites, major mitchells, finches an owl with a few birds (species unknown) harassing him.

All cars safely in camp at Halls Creek. Gordon is working on fixing a head gasket and Hank had minor problems with front brakes which was fixed with fencing wire!!!

Cake and drinks around the table for Lesley - its a party!!!

Trish & John Brockman - Support vehicle Car 19

Daily Journal: DAY 17: Tuesday 11th August, 2009: Halls Creek to Kununurra

The sun was up just after 5:30am and so were all the troops. Gordon completed the final stages of replacing the head gasket and everyone was on the road before the appointed start time. After the flat featureless final day of the Tanami Track, the run north-west from Halls Creek was varied and scenic featuring large craggy red hillsand areas of spinifex and boab trees. Warnum (Turkey Creek) was an ideal morning tea and ice cream stop. Some ventured past the Kununurra turn off to Wyndham. The town looked very tired but an outdoor corner shop provided an excellent lunch of barramundi and chips after which spectacular views were seen following a long winding climb up to Five Rivers Lookout.
We even went through a speed camera where the friendly policeman told the bad car who was only a couple of kms over the 40kph limit to slow down a little and then let us know the condition of Gibb River Rd, next on our agenda. The camping in Kununurra was shady tropical and luxuriant, just what we needed on a 35 degree day and after the dust and heat of the Tanami.

Hank & Jo Verwoert, Car 13

Daily Journal: DAY 18: Wednesday 12th August, 2009: Kununurra rest day

Today is Annie Brown's birthday. Avery early start saw Annie and Tony take off on a 2 hour flight at sunrise over Lake Argyle and the Bungle Bungles. Chris and Max rejoined us today after vehicle repairs at Alice Springs, including 1700 kms in 2 days and removal of his front spoiler by a determined kangaroo. Graham joined in again from Darwin so the crew is back together in readiness for Gibb River Rd. At 5:04 everyone gathered for nibbles and drinks to celebrate Annie's birthday.

Hank & Jo Verwoert, Car 13

Daily Journal: DAY 19: Thursday 13th August, 2009: Kununurra to Gibb River Rd to Ellenbrae

Our first day on the Gibb River Road began on leaving Kununurra with 3 more of our friends rejoining us. First stop after driving the bumpy, dusty road was the beautiful El Questro run Emma Gorge Resort. Many chose to walk the 2 hour round trek to the gorge and some swam in the crystal clear, very cool water at the base of a fabulous waterfall.
Then it was off down the GRR to our first test; crossing the Pentecost River. The support vehicles earned their keep but everyone made it over without too much difficulty.
Our night camp at Durack River was aborted and we continued to Ellenbrae Station. The 'bush camp' was superb with showers heated by lighting a fire under a tank of water and a composting toilet. Definitely not the rugged start we had all expected on the notorious Gibb River Road.

Geoff Rose & Morrie Barrett, Car 4

Daily Journal: DAY 20: Friday 14th August, 2009: Ellenbrae to Mt Elizabeth

Everyone packed and went to Ellenbrae homestead for another look with some replenishing their drinking water supplies with water being of top quality. A cup of tea/coffee with fresh scones, jam and cream was more than most of us could resist. While enjoying scones on the cool verandah, local birds, double bars and crimson finches flew around the bird seed feeders.
During our overnight stay the more adventuress went swimming in a large pool in the creek that runs past the homestead.On the Gibb River Road heading for Mt Elizabeth station, we came upon a man going north with a contrivance made out of a Japanese mini van adapted to be drawn by 2 camels, accompanied by his dog. Originally of dutch nationality and having lived in South Africa recognized the peugeots and picked Barry and Tina's Mollie as a 1962 403.

Gordon Hort, Car 5

Daily Journal: DAY 21: Saturday 15th August, 2009: Mt Elizabeth to Manning Gorge

Woken at 4am by very noisy peacocks and crows, up at 6am breakfast and pack up, left at 8am and by 9am heading into Mt Barnett Gorge - a very challenging drive (approx 5-10kph) with large wash aways and eroded gullies. Certainly a 4WD track but not too difficult for the peugeots. A moderate to tough walk to a magnificent view of Mt Barnett Gorge and walk back to a morning tea at the shady car park and more 4WDriving out of the gorge.
Arrived at Mt Barnett Roadhouse at 11.30am, fuelled up ($1.95 per ltr), enjoyed an ice cream, drove in 7kms to set up camp at Manning Gorge where a beautiful swimming pool was enjoyed by all. The water was so enticing that even our fearless leader, Hank and Brumby braved the water on rubber tyres (no crocs spotted).Some of the crew ventured on the 45 minute walk to the waterfalls and that evening some went croc spotting by touch light. Graham and Wayne are now slumming again with us after their 7 star stints at celubrious cabins along the way.

Joan Hoey, Car 6 and Jan Brumby Car 12

Daily Journal: DAY 22: Sunday 16th August, 2009: Manning Gorge to Windjana Gorge

We like starting early with several campers up and about before 6am. Assemble at Mt Barnett Roadhouse for 8am departure. Time for coffe, icecream and fuel. First stop Galvans Gorge for a short walk to another pool and aboriginal art.
On the road we meet rutts and several creek crossings with deep water. Some forget to slow down for water crossings with wet ignition results!!
Stunning scenery in the King Leopold Range, winding roads and hills are a real charge.
Across the Lennard River and into Windjana Gorge NP for lunch and set up camp. Hank and Jo, Brian and Merrilyn watch a whirlwind cross the campsite and move directly through their camps. We were told there were $100 notes floating in the wind!
Some ventured to the gorge to a large shady, sandy patch where they took in the magnificence of the surrounding large red cliffs while watching the crocs lazing in the creek.
The night camp was interrupted by a serious tent fire for a family of Victorian campers - Barry raced over with a fire extinguisher along with others but it was all too late and the family lost their camper trailer but were lucky enough to get the 4WD out of the way. No one was hurt. The ranger came with the water tanker to quelch the flames and Jo gave the kids some pug frogs!!

Glenn and Carol Hall Car 8

Daily Journal: DAY 23: Monday 17th August, 2009: Windjana Gorge rest day

It was lovely not to have to pack everything up this morning. Trish and John headed off to Broome to catch up with relatives and took a shopping list for tyres and a few car parts, if available, from Kerry Torpy (Peugeot Car Club of WA). Graham and Wayne have gone to Derby and will see us in Broome. Morrie and Geoff went for an enjoyable day trip to Derby. After the excitement of last night (which we could have done without) it has been a rather low key day. Many of us went on the 7km return gorge walk early morning. Very pleasant, but no great surprise at the halfway point, just an 'end of the track' marker! Rather a hot return trip despite mainly being in the shade. Plenty of crocodile sightings on the sandy banks and in the water. Luckily there weren't any where Tony and Barry decided to take a quick dip!
There was a bit of 'bonnets up' and tinkering of cars throughout the day. As per our illustrious leaders' suggestion, headlights were refitted to Joan and John Brumby's 505. A watchful eye was needed in case the resident Bower Bird took a fancy to any shiny bits for his love nest.
Nigel said it was 36 degrees at 3.30, no wonder we have been chasing the shade. Ice-creams would have gone down very well today! Apparently The Peugeots are the talk of the Gibb River Road at the moment. On this road we have seen only one other two wheel drive.Evening saw a few of the group armed with torches venture up the gorge to check out the red eyes of the crocs, we saw plenty. Back on the bitumen tomorrow - Broome here we come!

Tina and Barry Mouritz Car 3

Daily Journal: Day 24: Tuesday 18th August, 2009: Windjana Gorge NP to Roebuck Plains Roadhouse (34km west of Broome)

After a warm 22 degree night, we rose early for departure to Tunnel Creek NP and places further west. After jump starts for some people as a consequence of running fridges in the 35 + heat, and some serious radiator repairs to the Wards’ 504, we were on the road again. We travelled the dirt to Tunnel Creek, a spectacular 750m limestone cave ending with a collapsed roof at the end of the tunnel. It impressed the intrepid amongst us who paddled the dark, maybe eel and crocodile infested creek to view it.

We completed 100km of arguably the worst of all the dirt roads travelled so far (with the possible exception of the Wolfe Creek Crater track!) to reach the Great Northern Highway. Six days of dirt road which all remaining runners navigated without major mishap. When we reached the bitumen, things really took a turn for the worse. First Joan’s 505 lost all transmission fluid, and appears to have a cracked gearbox casing; then Tina and Barry’s 403 “Mollie” came limping into camp on a tow rope after major engine failure. Both to be further investigated.

Tonight we’re all eating out in the Roadhouse Bistro (with bar!) following 5 nights of bush camping.

Nigel Nash and Louise Fountain Car 9

Daily Journal: Day 25: Wednesday 19th August, 2009: Roebuck Plains Roadhouse to Broome

Tony's ute towed Tina and Barry's 'Mollie' into Broome.
Washing was the order of the day for most!
John and Laurie worked on Joan's gearbox housing in the maintenance area of the Cable Beach Caravan Park while the big end bearing was changed in Mollie. Geoff organized for those requiring any servicing to be done at the maintenance area of the Hovercraft Depot in Broome.
3 couples went to the open air movie theatre, Brian and Merrilyn saw Harry Potter, Kerry and Leon saw Hangover, Joan, Brumby's and Laurie had chinese and took in a movie afterwards. John Brumby bought a bag of lollies and passed them round, his didn't taste the best as he omitted to take off the wrapper!!!
Various site seeing was done by others and Kerry and Leon took a camel ride. Peter and Carol Wilson from QLD called in to say g'day and we will see them along our trip south. They are towing their 205 behind their Winnebago.

Chris Bengtson and Max O'Connor, Car 10

Daily Journal: Day 26: Thursday 20th August, 2009: Broome rest day

The Sun open air picture theatre is a special experience, particularly being under the airport flight path, that was enjoyed by some of the group last night.
It was an early start for some who were servicing their cars at Geoffs' friends hovercraft shed.
An early morning walk on Cable Beach followed by cappuccinos started this rest day well. On her walk to the beach, Kerrie was goggle eyed and lost for words at what she saw and needed that cappuccino and to tell her story to all who would listen.
The adventurous Morrie, Margaret, their daughter, Kerrie and Leon took a hovercraft ride. Many explored Broome and surrounds and shopped for souvenirs and supplies.
Barry and Tina got Molly mobile again having replaced a bearing and regained oil pressure. Joan's gearbox was reglued again.Brian repaired the radiator again and a new water pump and a set of rear and front coil springs were freighted into the caravan park by courier from Sydney. We are ready for any eventuality !!!
Today was a day of repairs, rest, relaxation and rejuvenation for people and their cars.

Brian and Merrilyn Ward, Car 11

Day 27: Broome to 80 Mile Beach.

8am Pack up and leave beautiful Broome. All vehicles going after repairs and servicing. Scenery varies from open plains to think scrub, heaps of 4WDS with caravans on the road. We passed a completely wrecked caravan on the side of the road, it looked like it had exploded. Apparently a passing vehicle that was overtaking it forced it into the gravel the driver lost control and flipped both car and van, lucky no one was hurt.

We arrived at 80 Mile Beach caravan park and beach in time for lunch; a raffle and concert was held in the afternoon to aid the Flying Doctors Service. We gathered for happy hour at the Breadvan at 5:04 for a meeting to decide tomorrows route. We had one casualty today, Tony & Annie 404 Ute has tail shaft problems, they were towed into Port Hedland. We welcomed Malcolm to joined Graham (boy he goes through friends). Peter & Carol Wilson, Peugeot enthusiasts from Queensland are joining with us for a few days. All gathered to watch and take photos of a spectacular sunset.

Janet & John Brumby Car 12

Left Broome this morning, stopped to pick up last minute supplies from Coles, called in to Roebuck RH to return key and pick up $10 deposit from 2 nights before. About 150kms out of Broome there was an almighty EEEEEEERRRRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII sound. Tony said "We're ##$##$#$#@ed!!! Its the diff!
Our radio had not been working very well, we were able to hear others but they could not always hear us. I called for any peugeot travellers in earshot, not expecting to get a reply but there it was, John and Trish Brockman, one of our wonderful support vehicles had dawdled out of Broome and were just a few hundred metres behind.
It was very hot on the side of the road but we couldn't go anywhere.John and Tony discussed the car problem and different methods of towing and wether we should go to 80 Mile Beach or straight through to Port Hedland. Fortunately, John had his own backup man in Perth, Kerry Torpy, who he rang immediately and who just happened to have a 504 tailshaft in his shed. Kerry organized transport of the tailshaft and a place in Port Hedland for Tony to fix things along with a boilermaker to help out.
The ute was tied up to the hard tow and we followed John and Trish's Mitsubishi Pajero for the next 500kms with a bush camp stop over at De Grey's River for the night. Day 22 - By 3pm Tony and Barry (who had come to help out) had replaced the tailshaft and we were back on the road. We headed off and spent a night camping in a roadside rest area about 60kms from Port Hedland. While pitching camp, an Argentinian family of 6 called in for a break on their mad 6 year trip around the world in a vintage Graham Paige. I thought our trip was hard!!!
We would like to thank the Brockmans, Kerry Torpy and the Mouritzs for their marvellous patience and assisstance with our broken pug.

Annie Brown, Car 7

Day 28: Eighty Mile Beach to Auski Roadhouse.

Awoke to a sea mist at sunrise – a great photographic opportunity. Some took a last chance to visit the beach with the tide unusually high. Kerrie wrestled with a collapsed stretcher.

On the road; a boring stretch to Port Hedland. Extensive road works ensured long delays and red mud over the cars again. Tony & Annie were waiting for a tail shaft from Perth for their 404 Ute, after being towed in by John's 4WD. Barry & Tina stayed to help. Gordon left to visit friends at Newman. Wild Brumbies on the side of the road – not John & Janet this time.

Some of the group headed for Millstream National Park on their way to Karijini and others stayed at Auski Roadhouse. Leon rewired Nigels CB aerial three times. It was an incredible sight to see Lesley carrying a fully erected tent around the toilet block. Just under 500 kms completed for the day. Day 28 and still not a drop of rain for the whole trip.

Hank & Jo Car 13

Day 29: Auski Roadhouse to Karijini National Park

The Peugeots lined up at the Auski Roadhouse beside a 3 road train unit. We fitted well within the 53.5 metre train length. The trip to Karijini N.P. Was easy (90km) with spectacular views of the Hammersley range.

Nigel was very pleased to receive & transmit on his 2 way after Leon repaired the aerial the previous day. We booked into the parks info centre – a creative BHP steel building ( resembling a lizard from the air).

Our campsite named galah loop (appropriate name according to our leader) is a read gravel/dirt tight site. We managed to all squeeze into camp compact. Leon & Kerrie headed off for a marathon trek (many k's) & came back buggered. Most of us headed for the easier walk to Fern Pool. With Jan being coached by John & Laurie to venture down the rocky steps to the pool. It was worth the walk. Tony & Barry finally arrived at the park after their trepidations fixing the cars at Port Hedland.

Graham was very disappointed in the no camp fires allowed policy (gas BBQ only). He wanted to cook his last big steak before the can food.

Glen, Brian, Geoff & navigators tripped to Millstream N.P. As per the originial route and finally made it to Karijini. Brian & Merrilyn had a personalised tour of Millstream N.P. With the head ranger – trust them to be in the right place at the right time.

After camp dinner the cold started to set in. Nigel wrapped himself in his bath towel to keep warm. His jumper was too difficult to locate.

Laurie Jones. Car 15

Day 30: Karijini Rest Day

Another perfect Pilbara morning, cool, cloudless and sunny. The campsite was so quiet just prior to sunrise that the Fortesque falls could be heard in the distance. As sunrise approached, the native birdlife became more vocal, but as the sun came over the horizon the feint sound of a radio could be heard as Nigel was getting his early morning “cricket fix”. Soon most of us were standing in the sunlight that filtered through the trees eating our breakfast. Hank called us all together so he could read a funny poem about travelling in this great country of ours. Most of us thought it was quite relevant to our trip and thought Hank had actually written it! It turned out to be from a book that Peter had.

I think we all forgot it was a “rest day” today, as most of us headed out to visit some of the many spectacular gorges Karijini has to offer. On the way out, Barry was spotted wearing his white overalls, no doubt tinkering with Mollie after her bearing transplant the other day. We spent most of the morning walking and admiring Weano Gorge. The views were absolutely fantastic and well worth the walk.

Some of us headed to Tom Price for lunch and a look around, although some thought we were going to Tom Piper! Maybe the tin food diet is starting to take its toll..We expected to see a dirty mining town, but were pleasantly surprised to find a clean tidy town. Morrie & Geoff had already spent most of the day there and Morrie told us of a challenging 4WD only dirt hill climb up to one of the highest peaks in Western Australia. Mike, Hank & us couldn't resist the challenge. Mike in the Jackaroo 4x4 had no trouble as expected, as did our 505 and Hank & Jo's 404. The 360 degree view was well worth the effort. Even the CB radio range was incredible. Brian told us later back at camp that he could hear Hank on the CB from the Karijini visitors centre some 80 km's away.. We were a little concerned though when Hank informed us his brakes weren't working too well. Consequently, on the way back, we let Hank go first.

Back at camp after dinner, Chris & Max looked quite clean & refreshed, as did their dishes. They'd found the showers at the Tom Price information centre, and Max found a novel way to do the dishes at the same time.

Leon & Kerrie Car 16

Daily Journal: DAY 31: 25th August, 2009 Karijini NP to Kumarina Roadhouse

For 30 days I have had blind faith in our leader Hank, imagine my surprise when after hearing him say at last nights briefing, "Tomorrow we will start at at 8am." to find out that he actually bolted like a South African Trotting Duck at 7.10 next morning. Here we were with our tents around our knees and the bread van, our fearless leader and one or two others shot off into the morning mist. No doubt Max and Chris wanted to get to the Kumarina Roadhouse early to beat everyone to the showers so Max could do the dishes from the night before whilst he showered. This appears to either be a new custom for Max, if not, he could have a problem.
Being left to our own devices to find our way to our overnight stopover, Malcolm and I made what could have been a tragic mistake. Half a kilometre from our campsite, after much debate and after Malcolm had turned the map around three times we turned left instead of right and headed back to the camp we had just come from just two minutes before. We had failed the basic test of navigation.But enough of that.
Today we said goodbye to Peter and Carol Wilson who had joined us three days before.
Todays run to the Kumarina Roadhouse was on bitumen with smoko at Newman where we all took in the views of the town and the open cut mine from Radio Hill.
Newman is Gordon's home town and he proudly explained the history of the town and the region to his fellow Puggers.
All cars are travelling well and we look forward to the remainder of this wonderful experience.
In other breaking news!
John and Jan Brumby received the wonderful news that their Sienna arrived safely weighing in at 9 odd pounds. Another proud moment for them celebrated by a few drinks this afternoon.Leon claims he lost Kerri in the toilets at the Newman shopping centre. This would explain why he was seen approaching ladies as they entered the facilities asking them to see if Kerri was stranded inside. Turns out she was never in the toilets but was in the Pharmacy buying presents for absent family members. Good one Leon.
Toilets appear to have been a major problem today. Tina was stuck in the toilets and shower cubicle at the Roadhouse for quite sometime and when she finally was set free she was remarkably clean, if not a little distressed.
Not to be left out Kerrie then decided to test out the dodgy lock in cubicle 10 and she too got stuck.
Neither of these ladies was rescued by Leon our resident toilet watcher.

Graham McVean, Car 17

Daily Journal: DAY 32 Wednesday 26th August, 2009: Kumarina RH to Meekatharra

If Boulia has the Min Min Light the Kumarina has the Nocturnal Black Cow - Kerrie saw it and was spooked by it.
The convoy began heading south to Meekatharra between 7am and 9am. Tony and Annie did their second tailshaft in five days, however on this occasion it didn't fail. They merely left the old one leaning against a tree at Kumarina. The last of the convoy met Tony and Annie heading back to rescue their tailshaft. The support vehicles already had rescued it!!!
The straight ribbon of road to "Meeka" was cut through red earth dotted with sage green saltbush. Not many highlights other than a wonderful display of Meekas' past 'gold bearing' days (now a sleepy town of 2000 inhabitants) and some patches of wildflowers in a parched landscape.

Lesley and Mike Jolley, Car 18

Daily Journal: DAY 33: Thursday 27th August, 2009: Meekatharra to Sandstone


On another warm sunny day 6 vehicles took a shorter run direct to Sandstone along a well maintained gravel road. This is probably because it does not get a lot of traffic; no other vehicles were seen for the whole journey.
The other travellers had an enjoyable visit to the old gold mining towns of Cue and Mt Magnet. Shopping in Cue was part of the day with many of our crew purchasing (and ordering) specially made shirts branded "Camelman". Both routes saw wildflowers including some patches of everlastings, a lovely ground cover in the mulga trees.Sandstone was impressive with a park with shade for morning tea and a well watered lush green grassed area at the caravan park. Graham and Malcolm made good use of the lawn to catch up on some sleep.Places to visit included a Museum, Old Post Office and National Hotel. There was a short trail to historical sites and an eroded rock formation named London Bridge.
The National Hotel provided us with dinner. Those who enjoy coffee were the first customers to use the new coffee machine.

Trish and John Brockman, Car 19

Daily Journal: DAY 34, 28th August, 2009 Sandstone to Kalgoorlie

After a great meal last night at The National Hotel in Sandstone it was a brisk start before a photo lineup in front of said pub.Max and Chris needed an early wake up call and this was achieved through a vigorous rocking of the penthouse suite.
Wildflowers of many colours lined the road as we left Sandstone.Leinster, a BHP gold and nickel mining town was small, neat and tidy with modern facilities.
Spinifex and low stunted shrubs were in evidence predominantly on the road to Leonora.
Just out of Leonora we visited Gwalia, still a working mine but with an historic village surrounding depicticting the tough lives the old miners led.
Fueled up at Menzies at the roadhouse where the entire outside wall was covered in number plates. It was enclosed by a cyclone fence and all the pumps were kept locked.
Chris and Max and Annie and Tony went to visit Antony Gormly's statues, "Inside Australia" placed in Lake Ballard.
John Brumby found a new place to keep his petrol cap. Day 34 and still no RAIN!!!

Hank and Jo Verwoert, Car 13

Daily Journal: DAY 35: Saturday 29th August, 2009: Kalgoorlie rest day

After waking to a real chill in the air after overnight rain, the day was spent in museums and the Super Pit, generally.Malcolm and Graham visited a certain red building for a "photo opportunity" and apparently declined a seniors discount!Laurie met a friend who lent his workshop to Laurie and John to repair Joan's transmission extension housing which unbelievably had broken into two halves. Joan had a grin from ear to ear last night.Hank checked out the railway line track and after a "dance with the sugar plumb fairy" decided to head to Fraser Range Station instead of Kitchener.
Leon and Kerry raced down to see Esperence to view a different part of the world and will meet up with us at Cocklebiddy.Laurie had such a successful day he decided to text his son, Hayden, 3,000 kms away on Phillip Island in Victoria. "Hayden" was close to "Hank" in his phone contacts and he successfully sent his first text 30 cm to the man sitting beside him!
A real thank you to Malcolm Garrow of Highway Tilt & Towing for the use of their workshop.

Bob and Leonie Donaghue, Car 2 - and we are certainly enjoying being back

Daily Journal:
DAY 36: Sunday 30th August, 2009: Kalgoorlie to Fraser Range Station

The frosty morning commenced with a gathering of 13 pugs and loyal hardworking support 4 WDs. Leon and Kerry de Waard on hols in Esperance were replaced in the starting lineup with the welcome return of Bob and Leonie Donaghue. They had overcome earlier mechanical problems to rejoin the group.
Prior to departure, leader Hank had made the decision to change the route from the Trans Continental railway service track to a trip east on the bitumen.
John and Trish Brockman with Gordon Hoort decided to try the original route. Rain which had fallen in the area earlier may not have allowed all of us to make it to Kitchener. Hopefully a 4WD and 1 pug will make it and we will all meet again in Cocklebiddy.
Hank thanked the Brockmans for their magnificent support and presented them with a signed card on behalf of us all.At 8.30am we departed for a leisurely trip down the highway via Norseman for an evening at the very picturesque Fraser Range Sheep Station. An "oasis on the Nullabor", it has excellent facilities. It was first settled in 1872 by the Dempster Brothers.
The station boasts Hole No 6 or 13 of the Nullabor Golf Course (6 from Kalgoorlie; 13 from Ceduna). A group of enthusiasts enjoyed 9 holes (at the 1 hole) before dinner in the most spacious, warm and well stocked camp kitchen.

Geoff Rose and Morrie Barrett, Car 4

DAY 36 Sunday 30th August, 2009: Kalgoorlie to Rawlinna

John and Trish Brockman and I departed Kalgoorlie with good wishes from the rest of the crew to travel into the unknown road conditions along the Trans Continental railway line towards Rawlinna. Initially the road was very good but tapered off the further east we got with patches of rock half submerged in the road surface.
Along the line we saw 8 freight trains going west and 2 during the night but of unknown direction.
We stopped at Curtin, Chifley, Coonana and Zanthus sidings, all ruins except Zanthus. At Coonana we found a 15mph road sign warning of children but little else.
Zanthus appears to be a maintenance depot used at times but vacant when we called, a comprehensive siding and would have been a water filling spot for the steam train era. There was also a wrecked modern carriage lying on its side left from a previous rail crash. We topped up with fresh water here.
Wild life was the usual kangaroos, goats and emus.
Somewhere in the trees beside the rail line we passed Kitchener, not a sign anywhere. A little later the trees disappeared leaving a flat landscape similar to the Nullabor plain with a lot more wildflowers which had been very sparse. We found a spot 10 kms west of Rawlinna for our night camp - had the only wood for miles and were able to
have a handsome campfire. At least 2 more trains passed during the night and have no idea which way they were headed.
We noted there is full mobile coverage all along the Trans Continental. There is also a large assortment of spare parts for Falcons, Holdens and some Jap stuff.

Daily Journal:
DAY 37: Monday 31st August, 2009: Fraser Range Station to Eucla

Breakfast in the warm camp kitchen after a brisk night with most leaving camp just after 7.30am.
A small group headed for Cocklebiddy. The main group had 604 kms ahead of them to get to Eucla, site of the old Telegraph Station.Shortly after Balladonia we entered Australia's longest section of straight road, stretching in front of us for 146 kms to Caiguna.The spindly eucalypts of the western end of the Nullabor gradually gave way to the more typical Nullabor vegetation of grasses and low stunted shrubs.
Leon and Kerry joined us at Eucla after a long haul from Esperance.Some visited the Telegraph Station while we continued a further kilometre over the dunes to the jetty which was originally used to service the Telegraph Station. We had photographed it in 1981 so it will be interesting to compare with today's photos.
We received word that John, Trish and Gordon had got through to Cocklebiddy after following the original itinerary along the Trans Continental railway line. The last 100 kms had taken them 5 hours. This vindicated the decision to not all try to get through on this route.
As most of us are a day ahead of schedule, tomorrow will be an easy day with a relaxing overnight at Fowlers Bay.

Jo and Hank Verwoert, Car 13

Day 37 Monday 31st August, 2009: Rawlinna to Cocklebiddy

We awoke to a light frost this morning , a good excuse to stir up the last night's campfire. We saw 3 freight trains between our campsite and abandoned siding, Haig, where we were to head south to Eyre Highway and Cocklebiddy. This time the trains were all headed east and I paced the last one along the road at about 100kph.
The first stop was Rawlinna, once a thriving station but now mostly deserted. The railway station, primary school and houses of that era are abandoned. Rawlinna appears to be still a railway maintenance depot, being used as necessary. There are also some newer houses here that appear to be lived in and at one of these John and Trish found a fellow to ask about the track to Eyre Hwy because we could not find any definite sign or road. He told us to continue onto Haig and that we would find a sign pointing to Eyre Hwy and that it would take about 4 hours, which it did. The other road we were looking for he said would take much longer and did not advise taking it.
We drove on to Haig which is now just a sign post and turned down the track covering 26 kms in the first hour. The track got rough reminding me of driving up a rocky creek bed with lots of rocks many small and a lot very large.
Then there was the boggy water sections with by passes around them and some to "tippy toe" through. There were 9 gates to open and close. Flocks of sheep to drive through a lot with lambs, some with twins. Plus 4 large kangaroos charging through the landscape.
All in all an interesting drive requiring much manoeuvring arriving at Cocklebiddy at 4pm to a grand welcome from those who stayed to see us come in.
Footnote: Around 9pm the ambulance station at Cocklebiddy took a man to the RFD landing strip suffering a suspect heart attack. It was said he heard about a 2 wheel drive car coming down from Haig "Not on that road!" he said then collapsed.

From Gordon Hoort, Car 5

Daily Journal: DAY 38: Tuesday, 1st September, 2009 Eucla to Fowlers Bay

This day was meant to be Eucla to Cocklebiddy but due to weather conditions we added on some more kilometres. On the way many stopped to watch whales at the Great Australian Bight. There were at least 20 whales and calves with spectacular views of the coastline with great photo opportunities.
The road into Fowlers Bay was very good gravel with the entrance to the bay across claypan edged by huge sand hills.
We read up on the history from the interpretive panels around the small town and walked out on the 500 metre long jetty, speaking to several fishermen who weren't catching anything. Some walked to the top of the sand hill that appears at the edge of the town and has covered over the original main street.
Most of the gang ordered hamburgers for dinner from the only shop in town that closed at 6pm. I picked up 2 extras for Kerry and Leon but the shop owner turned up on a 4 wheel bike to recover them as they were actually ordered for someone else!!
There was a gathering around the fire while many stories were told.

Joan Hoey, Car 6

Daily Journal: DAY 39: Wednesday, 2nd September, 2009 Fowlers Bay to Ceduna

An early start to the day with Jan cooking pancakes for the travellers.Tony wanted to relive his surfing youth and led us to Cactus Beach and Point Sinclair - disappointing he did not have his surfboard this time. It was a great spot for morning tea.
Brian wanted to find more dirt tracks to the back ways to Ceduna are discovered. Missed Point Bell but found Rocky Point for lunch. The target was to stay on dirt tracks to get into Ceduna but Carol lead us onto the asphalt past Denial Bay.
It is a lovely, attractive drive into Ceduna - a completely different perspective to the dead straight highway.
We did however still have to go through the fruit and vegetable Quarantine Control Point.
Met up with the travellers who have either driven the Trans Continental section or stayed in Cocklebiddy as overnight planned.
Everyone gathered around the fire at the caravan park to catch up.

Carol and Glenn Hall, Car 8

Daily Journal: DAY 40 Thursday 3rd September, 2009: Ceduna to Glendambo

Farewell to Ceduna in a brief shower of rain (and mozzies!). Eventually Hank resolved his high fuel consumption in the 404 Bread Van when he realised he was confusing miles with kilometres! Our entire remaining party, 14 Peugeots and 2 4WDs, is now back together again. We mustered at Wirrulla to drive our final dirt track for L’Aventure Peugeot 2009 in convoy, 275km to Glendambo.

After a good run on a sandy clay track to morning tea, with cultivated green fields in abundance, we continued through a landscape of salt lakes. The landscape became drier and vegetation sparser as we went north, but the flowers, including Sturt’s Desert Pea and the purple ground cover were glorious. A brief lunch stop near Lake Everard, then the track became stony and rough with corrugations (shades of the Tanami). The only pub in Kingoonya provided afternoon tea: XXXX’s for the Brockmans and a South Australian delicacy for the rest of us, North Star Giant Twin icecreams. Kingoonya was the town where once the route to Alice Springs turned north and contained a number of hotels and motels. The pub’s proprietor told us that 8 to 10 trains A DAY pass through Kingoonya – none of them while we were there, though!

We said goodbye to the dirt tracks when we hit the Stuart Highway and turned into Glendambo for a night’s rest before Port Augusta.

Nigel Nash and Louise Fountain, Car 9

Daily Journal: DAY 41 Friday 4th September, 2009: Glendambo to Port Augusta

It was a slow and lazy start to the day at Glendambo for most. Joan slept in the latest of her whole trip.
Graham and Malcolm left early so that Malcolm could catch a flight
home to Queensland for his daughter's wedding on Saturday and Graham was picking up his wife to travel back home with him.
The sign said "Rain water available, do not drink this water". There were stalagmite formations on the airconditioning ducts in the pub that revealed the truth of this statement.
Amazingly, a back yard next to the caravan park had two Peugeots among other broken down and abandoned cars and wrecks, a complete late model 404 and a reasonable looking 505 STI which groups of boys would eagerly peer at over the fence.
The drive to Pimba and Woomera was long, straight, flat and included a stop at Lake Hart for photos and obligatory under bonnet check for the blokes (any bonnet will do so long as it happens every day).
Woomera was a very welcome coffee stop with planes, rockets and mechanical gizmos displayed around town for more photos.
A number of pugs were 'accidently' parked illegally near a school crossing - I think some may have forgotten which day of the week it was!
Carol confessed she had been 'educated' by Glenn at the Mount Panorama, Bathurst car races in 1970.
The landscapes between Woomera and Port Augusta were spectacular with views to salt pans, extensive undulating treeless plains, Spencer Gulf to the west and Flinders Ranges to the east.
We stopped at the Australian Arid Lands Botanical Gardens where garden ideas were absorbed and souvenirs purchased.
The last day and the end of the trip was celebrated with and enjoyable meal, drinks, speeches, stories, laughter, sad goddbyes and promises of meeting again on future trips were exchanged.
This was a true adventure thanks to Hank and Jo.

Brian and Merrilyn Ward, Car 11

What a Mixture by Jan Brumby, Car 12

We have 8 teachers, Hank & Jo, Glenn & Carol, Mike & Lesley, Bob and Merrilyn - they have kept us on our toes.
Then we have our quiet ones, Morrie a communications cop, Chris who works for the Department of Housing and Brian our environmentalist.
Then we have our administration and secretaries, lovely Joan, pink Kerrie, Annie (also great photographer) and Jan also a proud nanny.Next comes Geoff our sailor boy, Laurie our spare parts expert and Tom our plumber.
We have a swag of IT specialists - I don't know what they do exactly - in Leon, Nigel & Louise.
Then comes Graham an entrepeneur with many male friends.
Max the fittest taxi driver you would ever find and Malcolm the expectant and nervous father of the bride on Saturday.
We also have Tony an old surfer and professional photographer.
We have the farmer, John and his wife and right hand, Trish, Gordon the miner and peugeot expert and John the only fair dinkum mechanic.
Last of all nurse Leonie, had we known earlier we would not have had the "zip zip" through the night, aged care nurse Leonie could have delivered pans to our tents!
Put them all together and it makes a great crew.