We travelled a hefty 92 kilometres this week with a total of 2 stops. Let’s face it the fuel account could do with a reprieve for a bit.
Our first stop was Bridgetown. A lovely little town with heaps of character. We took a walk around and capitalised on them having an IGA where I stocked up on groceries. Our night was spent camped in the allocated RV area near the railway station. It was a very hilly drive in and the town is famous for it jarrah forests, WA’s longest flowing river, the Blackwood, and wonderful rolling hillsides, not what we expected considering it is only 157m above sea level.
We then headed back to Greenbushes, where we camped for the rest of the week. Only 20kms away but as mentioned above, very hilly. We spent the day doing a few chores and Fred even helped out another couple who were on their trial run leading info full time travel at the end of the year, by troubleshooting some diesel heater and stereo questions. You’re a good man Freddy.
We got in a few rides over the days, checking out the nature trails and the town. It’s claim to fame is the huge Lithium mine on the edge of town and of course the timber industry being in jarrah country. They boast a natural swimming pool, which, when it is warmer, would be lovely for a dip. I dipped a toe only.
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The history of the town is prominently displayed all round the small town, with information signs set up outside many of the houses and shops, showcasing the past. The town was formed thanks to tin mining. One story I particularly liked was that the blacksmith was making and selling sifting screens for 16 pounds each while the Government was offering land for 10 pounds to 25 pounds. Let me think, do I want a screen or a house block? Guess it’s all relative to the situation at the time.
We had a day of rain and this meant a quiet day inside with computers, puzzle books and movies. It did however, allow us to discover that the trailer has 3 small leaks which we were able to sort before moving on.
We finished our visit here with a final ride to the next town over, Balingup. What a fantastic ride, it was only 36kms in total, but featured cows, sheep, olive trees, man made beach and palm trees, a topiary horse and plenty of hills. This was even before we reached the town. The town was also lovely with plenty of quirky bits, including a very impressive looking tavern. We finished it off by going back through the forest on a trail which provided another adventure, riding a narrow trail, visiting a dam and climbing over fallen trees. An excellent last day before it was time to move on once more.
Stay tuned…….