Thursday 3 Jan 2019

After having a toast + Vegemite and fresh brewed coffee breakfast, we headed out.

First a bit of road and then the Golden Fleece Trail. Ashley rode along for the first 17k, then we said our goodbyes as he turned around while I went on. The road turned into a narrower track, became a 4WD track and just before Musket Flat a small double track. There was a short 10 minute shower which instantly turned the tracks into mud paradise, and bike, trailer and I got thoroughly covered. At one one point I heard a screaming pig and lo and behold there were two dingos attacking a wild pig, with a cow watching it all from just meters away. I suppose a full grown cow doesn’t have much to fear from a couple of dingos. Just as I tried to take a picture one of the dogs noticed me and the two quickly ran off. The pig was probably quite injured and stayed behind. I’m sure the dingos will be back not long after I ride on.

There is a nice little camping area in Musket Flat now and the people who live across the street were instrumental in getting that built. I had a nice little visit there with Darryl and Leigh. Many BNT travellers stop by their place and sign their guestbook.

After washing off at the rain tank and having a cup of soup there was another little downpour which blew in horizontally and the covered shelter does nothing to protect you in that case. But I could clearly see where the rain puddled and where not, so I now know where to set up the tent. Sunny again after that but there will likely be another or several more showers.

One other resident came by for a yarn a come of times, but otherwise I was left undisturbed.

Total: 44k (+7k) 4:30h 650m+ 700m-

The extra 7k was because I’d left my Swiss Army knife at a log where I had smoko. Good thing I discovered it so soon.