FOG BLOG

Water, water everywhere...

2012-03-04T20:06:00.000-08:00

Finally- we took the new boat out to Atkinson's Dam over the weekend.
Friday was magnificent (albeit 34 degrees!) with a stunning sunset.

Magnificent day on the dam.

Beautiful end to a great day.

However, waking on Saturday bought a whole different scenario, and it rained and rained. By the time we left of Sunday, the van was almost floating! Never the less, a great time was had by all and the boat passed with flying colours (but the fishing gear and the Yabbie pots are a another story!)

View looking back to the campsite

Great White Hunters...

Alan and Trish - lookin' good!

2012-02-21T23:01:00.001-08:00

Here's the latest, hot off the FS press.
Alan and Trish in their brand spanking new Free Spirit...
Lookin' good you two (and the van 'aint bad either!) FB

Oldies and Newbies!

2012-02-12T21:30:00.000-08:00

Just received an email from the lovely Elaine at Free Spirit....Alan and Trish drove away on Friday with their brand new 19 footer! Congratulations Al and Trish, we look forward to catching up in the not too distant future. Photo still to come-watch this space.

Meanwhile here's a photo of Jill and Steve (who shall be known as Jeeves). One of the originals, it was their rig at the Caravan and Camping show a few years ago that inspired us... the FS family grows...
FB

I can see clearly now....

2012-02-06T20:10:00.000-08:00

For a while I have been meaning to mention the Clearview mirrors that we've put on the Toy.
EXCELLENT idea this! Tired of 'attaching' towing mirrors (even though our last ones were very good) and after the usual research, we decided that Clearview mirrors were the way to go. No sooner had we made this decision, our friends at Free Spirit let us know that they were now stockists- it was meant to be!
They are terrific, easy to install and make a HUGE difference to the viewing range, as they have 'two' mirrors in one. They also 'fold in' if you are concerned about parking etc...
They do extend out further than standard mirrors, but the benefits far outweigh this.
Check 'em out...
Clearview Mirrors

Fold in neatly..

Out with the old...

In with the new...

The 'top' mirror is electronically adjustable.

Convert!

2012-02-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

I received this email and photos from our newest member, Al (and Linda) from Gatton.
They are Bushtracker converts and are eagerly awaiting their new Free Spirit (and new car!)...great to hear from you Al and welcome to the FOG's. FB

'I'm sorry this is a competitor van, of which will change shortly when my Free Spirit Van is ready, but I thought I'd ask you to out this on the blog for one reason, that being this trip was from the top of WA down the Borderline Road. Went down the centre of WA from Broome to Barn Hill Station. Down to Newman then 60k's to the east of Norsman (breakfast seeing the sun rising in the background). Just to show... a few days earlier we were in shorts in the heat. This spot found off road by GPS. Just goes to show how quickly climates change. It was bloody freezing! But great spot. To all travellers: if you don't get up very early sometimes, and go for a quiet walk you will miss so much!"Al

'Miles of nothing to some, but my life to me"

"Next will be NEW car, NEW van (Free Spirit) and NEW friends! And hopefully winning lotto to travel???? One thing I have worked out is it is a lot better travelling with companions (with some miles by yourself as a break) but you enjoy life better with the memories shared with a travelling companion. Especially if things go wrong, as are the life blood of good mermories. And sometimes take that little track off the road to see where it goes. I have plenty of photos but waiting for my Free Spirit now to show better. " Alan and Linda.

Yarrie Station WA. Bore Water - very nice!

2012...

2012-02-02T23:41:00.000-08:00

Greetings FOG's and Friends,
Can't believe we are already in February! 2011 was a fabulous year, we did some great trips and are looking forward to what 2012 may bring. We are thinking of doing the 'Bass to Barra Trail' (the lakes of SE QLD). Our 'DRR' friends have recently bought a 'Porta Boat' and are keen to go fishing (hopefully to catch more than Carp this time!)
What are your plans for the year, any trips organised? All comments are welcome!
Happy travels,
FB x

So many trips, so little time!

2012-01-22T22:24:00.000-08:00

It's been a big trip- The van near Neptune!

Hard to know where to begin! It's been a busy November/ December/ January with lots of trips, some short, some long, but all enjoyable! We surprised ourselves heading out while the school holidays were still on (which we vowed never to do!) However, we found that the traffic and the camp spots were not as crowded as we expected, and we had a ball.

Since my last (Naranderra) blog, we've been to Parkes (did you know that apart from having the famous telescope, Parkes is the 'Elvis' capital of Australia?), Dubbo, Gilgandra, Narrabri, Yarrie Lake (what a magic spot that is!) Bingara, Inverell, Glen Innes, over the Great Dividing Range to Grafton, Red Rock and Ballina South before heading home for a break! Whew! Take a breath...

Next was Tamborine, Larnook (between Kyogle and Nimbin), Woodgate Beach , Bundaberg and Elliott Heads. Rather than bore you with the details, I'll just post some photos. Enjoy!

Magical Yarrie Lake, near Narrabri.

Parkes, 'The Dish'

Parkes, Elvis and friend.

Grafton, late October.

The van towed beautifully up Tamborine

Free camping (on a friends property) Happy New Year!

Elliott Heads Holiday Park- highly recommended!

Elliott Heads in January(first time we have used the air con- BLISS!)

The foot shot!

Did I mention FISHING? Lake Monduran Barra Charters...

We're Baaa-ack!!

2012-01-20T01:40:00.000-08:00

Try to look past the rather fetching fishing ensemble and concentrate on the FISH!

Apologies for the long pause...we've been on the road again and I will endeavour to update over the weekend. Been driving for five hours today from Elliot Heads...my NEW favourite place! Thanks to Al for his comments while we were away (click on 'comments' in last 'Tis the Season' post). Oh, and did I mention that as we were so close, we just had to spend a day fishing at Lake Monduran, with Jamie of course, from Lake Monduran Barra Charters... (evidence attached ..he he heee...)

501mm...Had to throw him back as they need to be 510 to keep :(

'Tis the Season....

2011-12-21T00:40:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!
Wishing you and yours a very happy Christmas and a healthy and safe New Year

Na na na na....

2011-12-05T03:12:00.000-08:00

After we left lovely Robinvale (and vowed to return!) we headed towards Parkes to rendezvous with our travelling companions.We were going to stop at one of the many free caps along the Murrumbidgee river, we picked what we thought looked like a good spot (nice photo in "Camps 6") and only a couple of kilometeres off the main road. Through the gate we went, the track became rougher and the grass grew higher. After what seemed like a couple of kilometers, the 'other half' decided that I should get out and walk the track to see how far it went.

I should get out?

I don't think so!

So, as he walked along the track and I drove behind in the 'Toy and Chateau Relaxo', the grass became so high I couldn't see over the bonnet! Suffice to say I stopped where I was and waited. A few minutes later I got the 'all clear' and drove to a lovely spot by the river. Well, this was starting to look good. That was, until I opened the car door and took a step outside and stood on a couple of empty shotgun bullets! I looked around and saw quite a few more. I didn't need to stay any longer and decided that a caravan park in Narrandera was looking better by the minute! My adventurous spirit took a bit of a beating that afternoon, and the 'free camps' along the Murrumbidgee no longer hold the romantic ideal that they did when I set out.

Oh yes, it all looks 'pretty and peaceful' until the shooting starts!

Narrandera (via Hay) is a very pretty place.

It's called the 'Town of Trees' and it's not hard to see why. Most of the streets look like this (see below) and the houses have beautiful gardens.

There's a lovely little lane way just off the main road (you would miss it if you blinked) which had dozens of these 'story boards' sponsored by local businesses. It was really interesting and a bit of an eye opener to the local area! The main part of town is a step back in time with it's beautiful old buildings, I could have stayed there all day.

We only had one night in night in Narrandera, but it was time well spent, soon we were on the road again.... note the name of the shire as we left... HARDLY!!

South of the Border...down Mexico way...

2011-11-28T02:06:00.000-08:00

Next stop...Robinvale, VIC.
Robinvale had been recommended to us a very pretty place to stop, and with just an 'overnight' in mind, we crossed the bridge from NSW in to Victoria. Robinvale sits right on the banks of the Murray River on the Victorian side. However, if you intend to fish from there, you had better have a NSW fishing licence! Apparently even though the park sits on the river, technically the river is 'in NSW' hence the need for a NSW fishing licence.

Looking across the river (from the NSW side) to Robinvale Riverside Caravan Park in Victoria

Robinvale Riverside Caravan Park absolutely lived up to it's recommendation- so much so that we kept extending stayed for 4 nights! We met a great couple (hi N&N!) and we fished, played Boules, ate, drank, ate, fished, drank, ate and fished. We would still be there (truth be known) but we had to catch up with our travelling companions in a few days.
If you are anywhere in the vicinity (near Mildura) Robinvale Riverside Caravan Park is a must. Great spot and WONDERFUL hosts. Who knows, you may even run into us there! It's the bees knees...

Just as we arrived...

Shortly after we arrived (Free Spirit's easy set up!)

'Fivesy' on the riverbank, view from our annexe

Paddle boats sailed past...

Fishing on the bank in VIC (with NSW fishing license)

Catch of the day- N's not ours!

The 'signature' shot

But wait... there's more!

2011-11-24T23:22:00.000-08:00

So much to see and do in Wentworth.

There's a wonderful story about the "Fergie" the tractor and it has it's own statue in town! "In 1956 The Murray and The Darling were in flood and low lying Wentworth was in grave danger of being washed away. Residents. aided by an army of volunteers from nearby towns, battled night and day to erect earthen levee banks and walls made of hessian bags filled with sand against flood waters running 4 metres above normal levels. Throughout this epic struggle their greatest ally was the humble GREY FERGUSON TE20 TRACTOR. Used as a workhorse on the district's vine and citrus properties, the 'FIGHTING FERGIE' proved to be the difference in the effort to save the town, writing itself into the annals of local history."

Doesn't that make you proud to be an Aussie?

And yet more tales of old...The legendary story of 'The Possum" (that's not the four legged type!)
Apparently during the depression David James Jones became so disillusioned by his fellow man that he 'took to the bush' (where he lived for 54 years) and was rarely seen again except for a few nocturnal sightings which led someone to utter the famous phrase (something to the effect of) "he comes out at night like a possum" henceforth he was forever known as 'The Possum'.

The Two Legged Possum

The Four Legged Possum (plenty of those at Willow Bend!)

We left Wentworth well rested and after a lot of laughs and a lot of learning, we head off towards our next (highly recommended) destination....Robinvale, VIC.

Mungo National Park to Wentworth...

2011-11-24T02:07:00.000-08:00

The weather was with us when we left Mungo and we made good time to our next port of call- Wentworth.
Wentworth is where the Darling and the Murray rivers meet and there is an excellent viewing point (albeit up a long and winding staircase!) Take a walk up to the top and call out "hello Darling"! Wentworth is a great little town with lots to see and do. We stayed for a few days to get our bearings and make the most of the sightseeing.

Quaint old sign in an old Laundromat of all places!

Old Wentworth gaol is a must see. Fascinating and informative with lots of 'Kodak moment' opportunities!

We stayed at the Willow Bend Caravan Park (to do some washing after all that dust!). It's right on the river and seems to be a regular meeting spot for a group of 'vanners' from Victoria and South Australia. After spending a few days with them, it was clear that they had been doing this for a long time. Great bunch, great fishermen and real wags as is demonstrated by looking at sign behind the tree that Sturt had been anchored to on his travels in the area.

The sign on the FRONT of Sturt's tree...

..and the sign on the other side!

Paddle boats chug past your campsite.

Another 'must do' while you are in Wentworth is to take a drive to the Perry Sandhills. Truly amazing red sand dunes that have literally swallowed huge gum trees. You can stand at the top of the sand hills and be in the canopy of an old gum.

In the mean time...

2011-11-22T02:30:00.000-08:00

Cute as a button inside and out

This one was my favourite...

Vicky the Van

Jelly Bean!


A real vintage bird?

I'll catch up with the DDR trip shortly, but in the meantime, we have just come back from 4 days near Tamborine for my other passion which is vintage caravans! (Well, anything vintage really, which is probably why I adore HWMBO?)
Great time had by all -who are now converts?

Hot off the press...

2011-11-14T22:01:00.000-08:00

Woo Hoo! Check out the new FSC videos...

Free Spirit Caravans R&D

Mungo National Park and the 'Walls of China'

2011-11-12T23:09:00.000-08:00

Did I mention dust?
I 'sealed' (plastic bag and tape) the door vent and none managed to get in to the van- bliss!

The road to Mungo National Park surprised me with the variety of landscape. One minute you were driving through 'bush and emus' the next, it was flat as the eye could see. We stopped to help a couple of locals, who had car trouble along the way.

Where are the 'Bush Mechanics' when you need them?

Mungo National Park is an absolute 'must do' if you are anywhere in the area. Spectacular landscapes including 'The Great Wall' and incredibly ancient Indigenous artifacts. The story of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady is fascinating.

The story of Mungo Lady

The 'lunarscape' of the 'Walls of China'

We stayed at 'Main Camp' which is 5 minutes drive from the tourist centre, plenty of room even though there were quite a number of campers!

More of the eerie but beautiful landscape of the 'Walls of China'. Hard to believe this was once a great lake.

The story of Mungo Man

Menindee to Pooncarie and beyond...

2011-11-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

Leaving Menindee we took the dirt road to Pooncarie. We must have been one of the last through, as by the time we got there the 'wet road' sign was up and we weren't surprised as we encountered a few 'puddles' along the way. Apparently you do not want to get stuck on black dirt if it's wet. Here's the story of the drive:
Black dirt, red dirt, black dirt, wet spot, black dirt, black dirt.

HWMBO getting tyres ready for the trip

Black dirt....

A few wet spots...

As far as the eye could see....

Red or Black-Dirt not a problem for the Toy and Free Spirit
(we got some dirt in the car but none in the van!)

Last out? This sign as we exited from Menindee to Pooncarie

Pooncarie was a delightful little town. The locals obviously take great pride in it. The gardens and houses were well kept. The local 'info' store has a fabulous display of woodwork and other souvenirs which can be purchased. What ever you do, make sure you purchase lunch, they make a delicious steak sandwich!

The man at the info/ store was very helpful. He gave us the 'best' route (i.e. the long way) in to the Mungo National Park (our overnight destination).

Still at Menindee...

2011-11-06T23:56:00.000-08:00

A bit of history...

One of the camping spots of the Bourke and Wills expedition

Time to leave our lovely spot :(

Aussie Traveller

2011-11-06T20:27:00.000-08:00

The Menindee storm story reminded me that I want to put in a big plug for Aussie Traveller Awnings. During the storm when most other people's awnings were headed to New Zealand, our awning withstood it all without budging an inch! I am confident enough to say that we probably could have sat out the storm (even in '80 knot winds') in the annexe!
We have an Aussie Traveller Coolibah and it's terrific. We never have to worry about being woken at 2am by strong winds etc... once up it's up until we take it down.
Aussie Traveller Awnings

Menindee Lakes

2011-11-06T01:42:00.000-07:00

After the disappointment of not being able to do the top half of the DRR, including Louth and other spots that we had been looking forward to, it was a great relief to arrive at Menindee.

Well worth a visit, lots of places to free camp. We stayed for a few days right at the edge of Pamamaroo Lake. The finger points to the spot:

Lake Pamamaroo (near the Main Weir) in the Menindee Lakes region

Great place to put your feet up, fish (if you like catching Carp!) and explore the local area.

Fishing anyone? No need to leave your annexe!

This was our camping spot!

Just the place to put your feet up for a few days...

Just when we started to relax, the lake went from this (above)

To this!

and this...! (Not our annexe)

and this!!!

Just as I started to say "gee it's getting a bit dark over there"... all hell broke loose! 80 knot winds (it is at this point that HWMBO would say that I am a bit prone to exaggeration but I will let the photos back me up!) an unbelievable storm hit within minutes. We had no time to do anything except throw (literally) everything that could have become airborne in to the van. We then jumped in ourselves (along with our travelling companions, who had a camper trailer) and sat out the storm with a bottle of port.

The storm left as quickly as it arrived and soon we were back to this...

Magic sunsets and not so much as a breeze over the next few days!

Who's been driving their Free Spirit near Holland Park in Brisbane?

2011-11-02T23:53:00.000-07:00

We just got an email from good friends who said we 'ignored' them while driving past them near Holland Park (Brisbane). It wasn't us, honest! They assured us it was a 'Free Spirit' being driven by a silver 4WD...any takers out there FOG's?
FB

Bourke and onwards...

2011-11-02T23:49:00.000-07:00

Bourke marks the beginning of the Darling River Run. We stayed at the 'Back o' Bourke' at Kidman's Camp. Terrific spot, excellent amenities and we would definitely go there again (it was a little oasis after previous places we had been!) It's a great place to base yourself and check out the local sights.
Check it out:
Kidmans Camp

We took a paddle boat ride on the Darling in the 'Jandra'. I would also highly recommend it. The captain is full of information (and has a good sense of humour to go with it). We came away with lots of new information and facts about the local area and the Darling.

Alas, by the time we were ready to head off, the rain had not subsided. We were forced to renegotiate our route and headed towards our next destination of Menindee Lakes via Cobar, Wilcannia and Broken Hill on the blacktop.

Just in case you forget where you are....

Mooree to Bourke (via Walgett and Brewarrina)

2011-10-31T01:09:00.000-07:00

Day 3: We left Moree and headed along the Gwydir Hwy to Walgett. It was a quick stop for a cuppa and a look around town. Very neat. We shall let the photo tell it all.

A very welcoming sign, the park and gardens were very neat and well kept. A good spot to stop for a break.

We left Walgett heading along the Kamilaroi to Brewarrina. We were well and truly ready for lunch by the time we got there. Here is where I could insert a very LONG and scary/ funny story, but it's one that can only be told over a roaring campfire and a cheeky bottle of red. Suffice to say that there is a great coffee shop in town called "Muddy Waters" and we highly recommend it. Great food, great people and great coffee. Please be sure to park out front. And if you see me one day, don't forget to ask me to tell you that story (you bring the cheeky bottle of red).
After being fed and watered, we headed off towards Bourke, our next port of call. We were getting excited, as Bourke marks the beginning of our Darling River Run.
FB

Millmerran to Moree

2011-10-31T00:43:00.000-07:00

Day 2: We left Milmerran after one of Roy's hearty country breakfasts (YUM!) and headed off to Moree via Goondiwindi etc (for lunch and a stop to check out the Victoria Hotel) where 'somebody we know' had once been the publicans. We had a recommendation to stay at the Gwydir Carapark on the Newell Highway. They have the fabulous Artesian Thermal Pools ( 4 of them each at a different temperature). Seems it's the Grey Nomads cure for all ailments. One woman we spoke to said that she goes there for 6 weeks and that 'fixes' her arthritis for the rest of the year! All we can say is it was very refreshing, and very different (if not a bit crowded). Pets are allowed for a maximum of 3 nights (not that we had any!)
Check it out:
Gwydir Carapark (Thermal pools)

First stop/ first fright...

2011-10-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

Day 1: We started early on a Sunday morning, first stop being Millmerran to catch up with some friends of the Nobby's and have the first of many great BBQ's. It was a blustery day and as we headed up and over the Toowoomba range (the 'Toy' lapped up the steep hills, with the van fully loaded and all) we noticed that the 'Adria' van in front of us was starting to sway ever so slightly.
Picture this:

ADRIA: 'Swaying left, swaying right'
FB: "OMG!"
HWMBO: "Don't brake mate, put your foot down" (like he can hear him)
ADRIA: 'Swaying violently to the left, swaying violently to the right'
FB: 'EEK!!!' (Hands over eyes)
HWMBO: "He's going to go, he's going to GO"
ADRIA: Tilting on one wheel, then to the other....
FB: "OMG!!" EEK! $@$#@^$@^#@!!!" (Hands still over eyes)
WHMBO: "HE"S GONNA GO....!"

But it didn't.
Somehow he managed to right the van, slow down and pull over. I don't know how he did it (obviously because I had my hands over my eyes) I was sure we were going to see a nasty accident. Obviously he didn't have anti sway bars attached. The wind was still pretty strong and the traffic had started to build up, so with a quick check that the 'Adria' was OK, we continued on our way. A very eventful start to our trip and we only been travelling a short time! Soon we were in Millmerran, a very pretty little country town (and the egg capital of Queensland, I am led to believe!) Thank you to Roy and Mary Anne for their hospitality and a great stopover on their beautiful property.

We missed out on the great campfire as it was far too windy :(

Country Humour- Maryanne's fabulous wine glasses!

Back to reality....

2011-10-27T22:51:00.000-07:00

We're baaack...
Greeting FOG's and others. Well we are back from our DRR trip and I've taken 501 photo's (don't worry, they won't all be published!)
Watch this space and I'll update over the next few days. Suffice to say it was FANTASTIC. The new car and the van performed superbly (and believe me, we gave them a good workout!)
Feels good to be back, but I'm already planning the next trip...

Somewhere in the Outback

Factory Visit...

2011-09-29T14:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went up to the Free Spirit factory to have the new 'Hitch-Ezy' fitted prior to our DRR trip. It's a brilliant piece of 'machinery'. No dust or grime can get in to the coupling (perfect for where we are going). Rated to 5 tonne- not that you need THAT on a Free Spirit!
Check it out:
Hitch-Ezy
While we were there we ran in to G&T and I must say they are looking fabulous! That's what life on the road for four months can do...

Hitch Ezy

Vernon on top of 'Mount Caloundra West'

The new 'Toy' attached to the van. Almost ready to hit the road (or dirt, as the case may be)

EASY Cake Recipe

2011-09-26T21:23:00.000-07:00

Almost forgot to add this great recipe from 'T'!
I picked up this recipe on our travels you may like to post it the blog.
3 Ingredient Fruit Cake

1 Kilo mixed dried fruit
600 mls orange juice
2 cups SR flour

Soak fruit in the juice overnight, or a couple of hours will do
Add flour and bake.
Makes a lovely moist cake and lasts for ages (so I’m told but we eat it very quickly)
Too easy.

Variations

Use mango or any other sort of juice ( I used 300 OJ and 300 red wine)

600gm of black coffee & 150 gms of grated dark chocolate (plus fruit and flour of course) I haven’t made this one but sounds yummy

I don’t have an oven and I used my Cob cooker and it turned out well.

Yummmmmmmmmmmm...FB

The Home Run...

2011-09-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness for G&T as I was running out of 'Fog Fodder' this week (too busy getting ready for the DRR!)
'T' writes that they are on their way home after 4 months on the road. They are currently at Rainbow Beach, which is (relatively) close to the Free Spirit factory, so they popped in last week. As it happens so did 'Caravan World' magazine- so guess who's modelling in the Jan/ Feb edition? Keep an eye out!
Some more beautiful photos and advice from their travels as well...

One of the beautiful beaches at Cape Tribulation

Fishing on the Endeavour River- note the croc barriers

Bush Camp on the Endeavour River

Free Spirit on top of Isobella Falls. G&T say it's a good spot for a bush camp an no crocs!

New TOY(ota)

2011-09-23T02:01:00.000-07:00

Well, we've bit the bullet and sold the Merc and bought a Toyota Land Cruiser VX!
Not that the Merc didn't do the job, it did, and then some.
However as we are about to head off to do a bit of 'bush bashing' we decided that 'spares and fixes' (should the need arise) for Merc's are few and far between in the middle of nowhere!
No photos yet as it's 'in the shop' getting bull bar, winch, UHF radio, suspension upgrade etc... (HWMBO wants all the bits for his new Toy).

We are heading off with the Nobby's to do the Darling River Run next week. Watch this space in about 4 weeks for posts and pics! We've done our research, but any update/ info/ feedback on DRR is welcome...
It's easy....just hit Comments :)

Thanks for the memories...

STOP PRESS! (AGAIN)!

2011-09-12T00:47:00.000-07:00

You wouldn't read about it! (Well, actually you would if you read the FOG Blog!)
Just got a SCOOP from G&T who are heading to Cooktown. I'll let 'T' tell the story:

We have been in the bush around Cooktown for the last week or so without any communication so this is my first opportunity to send you a scoop for the FOG Blog.
A week or so back we called into Rifle Creek road side camp (just out of MT Molloy) and by chance ran into Mike and Helen (of 'The Big Lap' fame -Mike and Helen bought the first ever Free Spirit from a French couple who were the original owners). Will attach the first history making pic of two Free Spirits on the road. Mike and Helen were preparing to go to the Cape and we were on our way to Cooktown so we were not able to travel together but we did spent a morning with them over a cup of coffee sharing travel tips and comparing vans. It was great to meet them and I am sure that we will see them again on their way down south.

So here are the (history-making) photos...

Compare and Contrast...

Mike and 'G' solving the World's problems...

Generations of Free Spirit

Helen and Mike and 'G' and 'T' and pooch

STOP PRESS! Free Spirit Open Day!

2011-09-11T18:41:00.000-07:00

Yes it's on again!
Free Spirit Caravans are having an open day this Saturday 17th October. Be there between 10am and 2pm for barbie and drinks, oh and of course to view and take a factory tour (HIGHLY recommended!) All going well, HWMBO and I will be there with 'Chateau Relaxo'. See you on Saturday!

Free Spirit Caravans

Getting in to Hot Water...

2011-09-10T23:54:00.000-07:00

I just had a phone call from Allan and Pat. Their Free Spirit is due out soon! They were asking about our Webasto combined heater and hot water, which has prompted this post.
The BEST thing we ever did! All our heating and hot water needs are taken care of by this compact, quick, efficient and economical (Diesel) heater. Like Allan, I am "allergic to the cold".
The diesel heating has been a life saver (and a marriage saver) over the winter months. The whole van is toasty and it doesn't take long. Once turned on, the water is hot and constant (for as long as the water supply lasts!) LOVELY hot showers and plenty more hot water to do the washing up. We highly recommend it (and it's a space saver too).
Check out:
Webasto Combined Hot Water and Heating

The Fish are biting in 'Mondy'!

2011-09-04T14:29:00.000-07:00

A beautiful Lake Monduran specimen (and the fish 'aint bad either!)

All that blood- I think Allan must have shot this one.

I had an email from Jamie at lake Monduran Barra Charters today (see favourites).
We may have to go back sooner than later.
Seems the weather is warming and the fish are biting! Allan was on a charter last week and caught these two beauties.

Update from G&T

2011-08-30T21:45:00.000-07:00

'G' working hard at Bramston Beach- NOT!

G&T are on their way to Port Douglas 'as we speak', but here's an update from our last correspondence...

It seems that Bramston Beach is the place to be. G&T haven't quite been able to bring themselves to leave and have been there for 2 weeks! Judging by the photos that they have sent, I don't blame them.

'T' says: "It’s another beautiful morning here at Bramston Beach, we have been here 2 weeks and really must move on if we are to get to Cooktown before the wet starts.
It has been very relaxing here beautiful beach, friendly neighbours all within 45min drive of Cairns and Atherton areas. We are really enjoying this slow travel. I know what you mean about Hideaway Bay we called in there on our way north, it is on our “must return to” list also. We still plan to get to Cooktown, however the advice we have been getting is that the Bloomfield is far too rough, still hasn’t been repaired since the cyclones earlier this year. 'G' has been working hard at catching a fish but has not had much luck. (Don't worry G- you can swap stories about the 'one that got away' with HWMBO next time you catch up!)
Our van has been getting plenty of attention, I think a few people are going to call into the factory on their way home to Vic.
Give our regards to everyone on the blog.
”living the dream”

Seems G & T are as camera shy as us!

Magic spot!

Sunset at Bramston Beach

Does 'Lunch' get any better?

2011-08-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

Airlie Beach was great fun as we met up with old friends and HWMBO got his 'fix' of yacht racing in the regatta. Our 'Land Yacht' as it was becoming known by the boaties, was a great place to base ourselves, as we had the best of both worlds. We asked locally about where to go for a day drive, and we were recommended Dingo Beach, about 45 mins drive from Airlie. However on the way the passed a sign towards Hydeaway Bay, and spontaneous as always, I said let's explore...

Hydeaway Bay was a beautiful, quiet little beach side village. The end of the bitumen road has a little picnic table and chairs and track leading down to the crystal clear waters of the Whitsundays. When we had finished walking along this pristine beach, we headed back to the car and decided to further explore a dirt road with signage inviting us towards Monty's and an Eco Lodge.

The view from the top of the track

HWMBO heading down the track to the beach at Hideaway Bay

The dirt road is very rough and would pop out your false teeth if you had any. About 10 minutes in to the 'drive' and just when I thought we were in the middle of nowhere, we came across a sign inviting us to Monty's
I know I say this about everywhere I go, but this really is my new favourite place! (No, really!)
What a magnificent spot! Words do not really do it justice, so I'll just show the photos.

Does lunch get any better?

We did a quick trip to Dingo Beach on the way home, but in my mind, nothing compares to Hydeaway Bay. This place is definitely on our 'to do again' list.
Here's a tip (you can't say I don't share any secret spots with you!)
Hydeaway Bay Caravan and Camping

Onward and Upward...

2011-08-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

We left Lake Monduran, along with new fishing gear and a promise to return soon. We tried to get in to Emu Park but the Nomads are out in force, and it was booked out . So next stop was Yepoon (actually Kinka Beach as recommended by G&T). It was a well needed rest and after unhooking we took in the sights surrounding, including the yacht club and the best coffee we could find uptown! Kinka Beach was just and 'overnighter'. Next was Sarina then finally we made Airlie where we set up camp for a week.
Just when we thought it was safe to have a 'sleep in', we found out that they did bird feeding at 8am, Big 4 Airlie Cove. Reminded me of my childhood and Currumbin Bird Sanctuary (when it was free and just birds!) HWMBO had his first experience at hand feeding Lorikeets.

Not HWMBO (you know we are camera shy!)

Greetings FOG's and Friends!

2011-08-25T00:52:00.000-07:00

Oops! has it been that long?
As the song goes...we've been "On the road again..." and I've got lots of lovely new photos and stories to tell, which I will be doing over the next few days. So bear with me and apologies for the late postings!
We started out at Spring Gully and had a lovely few days relaxing and getting ready to head north.
Spring Gully Stays is still one of my favourite places to chill out.

The third creek crossing in to Spring Gully

A couple of Tawny Frogmouth's above the Nobby's camp!

Next we headed up towards Gin Gin and my new favourite place, Lake Monduran. Approx 19km north of Gin Gin take a right to the Lake Monduran Holiday Park. Beautifully maintained and LOADS of space, we also found the dam and lake where the Monduran Anglers have a fish nursery and stock the lake with Barramundi fingerlings. Obviously we had to spend a day on the lake! The only thing that HWMBO managed to catch was 'the fishing bug' and we are now the proud owners of a couple of brand new fishing rods, reels and various lures! I 'caught' some great photos. If you are headed up that way and want a GREAT day fishing for Barra on the lake, be sure to contact Jamie Bein of Lake Monduran Barra Charters. Jamie is a wonderfully skilled and knowledgable host and we will definitely be paying him another visit, he could not be more helpful. Lake Monduran Barra Charters By the way, the WORLD RECORD Barra was caught there recently 44.6kg! Check it out:
World Record Barra

Lily Pads and wildlife galore on the lake. We saw big Grey Kangaroos, Black Swans, Sea Eagles and even some Barramundi!

Jamie fishing in one of 'his spots'

An eerie, but beautiful, sun setting over a bush burn off.

We were sorry to leave but were on a mission to get to Airlie Beach for the racing regatta. So we made a booking to return to the Lake for a few days on our return.

Happy Birthday Indya!

2011-08-01T19:44:00.000-07:00

Our 'NT' comrades recently sent these photos. Suffice to say, we still think that their rig is one of the best off road combos that we have ever seen (Free Spirit of course)! Happy 9th birthday Indya...
Jamie says:
Some pics attached from our trip to Gunn Point.
We had a ball, the van performed beautifully.
Towed on soft sand at a crawl (without letting tyres down).

Does the Northern Territory have some of the best sunsets - or what?!

Fresh from the Factory...

2011-07-23T23:37:00.000-07:00

Les and Karen have finally taken possession of their brand new 18 footer!
'The 'Shakedown' is at beautiful Cotton Tree (close to Free Spirit)
We took a Sunday drive up there to check it out and just as we suspected- it's FAB!

Les and Karen (proud parents!)

Cotton Tree

Camping with Modern Comforts

2011-07-19T20:58:00.000-07:00

Wonderful friends of ours own 150 acres of pristine Australian bush. Last time we went camping there it was Easter, when it rained most of the time and was a bit 'rough'. However lately they have been doing a bit of clearing and building. Here is a picture of the newest 'ensuite' in the camping area:

It's moments like these I am glad I have one in the van.

Post Script to "Year of the Rabbit"

2011-07-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

My 'teapot' won 1st prize!!
(I take back all that stuff I said about my sister)

The Big Lap

2011-07-18T00:07:00.000-07:00

Now THIS is a serious blog!
Fabulous stories and even more fabulous photos...
M&H have just completed the GRR (Gibb River Road) in their Free Spirit.
Check out Mike n' Helen's Big Lap (JEALOUS! we can't wait to do it ourselves)
The Big Lap

Weekend Reconnaissance

2011-07-10T23:39:00.000-07:00

Are you always looking for a new place to visit?
As Sunday was such a lovely sunny day (albeit chilly) we decided to head off for a drive with a couple of friends to check out some new campsites.
South East QLD suffered from the devastating floods earlier in the year, so we decided to go back and check out how they were doing. One such place is Murphy's Creek, where we found Murphy's Creek Escape. Apart from a low bridge (3.5m) and a bit of a hike (drive) to get there, it was well worth the visit. It is privately owned, has excellent facilities, and a range of camping options (there's even a secluded '4WD access only' secret spot- just ask them!) It's only about 1.5- 2hours hours from Bris Vegas.
If you are in the vicinity, check it out:
Murphy's Creek Escape

Instructions- 'How to leave a comment' and life's other mysteries...

2011-07-10T23:21:00.000-07:00

Hello campers, it's not you- it's me!

I have now 'turned on' the ability for you to make comment anonymously or put in your name (had to refer to my 'peeps' for this one!) Thanks for all the phone calls, here's the fix:

1. Just click on 'comments'

2. Make a comment (be nice)

3. Click on 'name' and enter name OR click on 'anonymous'

4. Bob's your uncle...

(Life's other mysteries can wait)

Kinka Beach

2011-07-06T16:16:00.000-07:00

I'm 'holidaying' vicariously through G&T who are near Yeppoon at Kinka Beach. What a life...

They have only been there since Friday and have already managed to fit in Pilates, Aqua aerobics and Tai Chi not to mention Golf.
Sorry, I really wasn't supposed to mention the Golf!

G&T you do know that you are supposed to be on holidays?

Year of the Rabbit...

2011-07-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a bit of a slow week.
The REDS game on Saturday night was the highlight! I lost my voice (and my weekend).

As a quiet day was required on Sunday, I ventured in to a little project that I call "Tea for Two (plus two, plus two)". My sister (who will pay for doing this to me) has entered me in to the Darwin Royal Show craft section. The theme being 'Year of the Rabbit' so here it is:

What hobbies do you like to take camping? Tell us!

Bovines, Birds and Bush...

2011-06-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

We've been away for a week in the beautiful mid-north coast of NSW...
On the farm at Bonville to be precise. Did you miss me?

Got a favourite part of the country? Tell us!

Charter Boat? What Charter Boat?

2011-06-14T00:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Camper’s know that when reverse parking into that tight spot or negotiating a tricky off-road track, communication between the DRIVER (DR) and the DIRECTOR (DI) is paramount. In my endeavour to make things easier for us all out there, let me reiterate the fundamental communication signals for harmonious relationships and safe camping.

The ‘DR’ in this case is HWMBO (that is 'He Who Must Be Obeyed' for the uninitiated) and the ‘DI’ is Moi.

DR: if you are in audible range of the DI, please ensure you can clearly hear or lip-read the following important signals:

1. “S-T-O-P” (This means stop.)

2. “ F-#-@-$-*-N-G S-T-O-P” (This means stop. Now.)

3. Also listen for unfamiliar sounds such as “scra-aape” or “ka-thunk”.

DR: If you are not in audible range of the DI, please ensure you understand the following hand signals:

1. 1. Hands, palm up and facing towards you. (This means stop.)

2. 2. Hands, palms up and facing towards you either waving frantically or jerking towards you. (This means stop. Now.)

The consequences of failure to recognise and respond to these signals can, in a number of circumstances, range from certain death to the lesser withdrawal of conjugal privileges for a period of time.

Be safe out there!

Meet the FOGGERS!

2011-06-11T23:56:00.000-07:00

Well the FOG family just grows and grows, and what a great bunch (even if I say so myself!)
Meet the latest FOG's...

Gary and Trish in their very sexy new 19 footer!

Allan popped in to say "Hi" and make awning decisions!

Annette and David- can't wait!

Trish and Maria discussing 'Suspension' or 'Soft Furnishings'?

Pat (Allan's better half) and Mona. But where's BOB? (Someone has to work!)

Karen and Les- Hang in there! Not long to go!

More of my favourite things...

2011-06-11T04:10:00.000-07:00

Ok. So there a a couple of important things you need to consider when RV-ing.
1. Space. 2 Weight.
Oh, and of course the old rule "if it doesn't have two uses...."
Well here's another weight/ space/ time saver:
Space saver storage
I have eight of these in my wardrobe cupboard (count 'em- eight)
Like shoe boxes but with a velcro flap/ opening on one side and a zip on the other.
I fill half with socks and the other with jocks. No weight. LOTS fit in. Easy to access and open.
'Socks and Jocks' sorted...and T shirts, and hats, and jim jams and ...
ALSO...they are in different shapes and sizes. So of course I have three small square ones in the bathroom cupboard. My Stuff. HWMBO'd stuff. 'Medicational' stuff. Sorted.
Really, no need to thank me.

A few of my favourite things...

2011-06-11T01:40:00.000-07:00

You may notice from time to time that I make mention of some nifty gadgets or products that I file under 'My Favourite Things' file! Well ladies and gents, especially the ladies who will really appreciate this, check out the 'Happy Bowl Liners'. Throw out those smelly toilet brushes, and say hello to a 'skid free' toilet bowl! HBL's come in packets of 50. They look like a 'drip coffee filter paper' and sit in the bowl of the toilet. You make your 'deposit' and the whole thing flushes leaving your bowl clean and it's completely bio-degradable and eco friendly! You can buy them online or get them from Coast to Coast. They are $15 for a pack of 50. (No need to thank me)
Happy Bowl Liners

Free Spirit

2011-06-10T02:09:00.000-07:00

Had a great day at the Brisbane Caravan and Camping show today.
Sunshine and happy campers galore.
My van is on display at the Free Spirit 'Stand'.
Lots and LOTS of interest (and why shouldn't there be-
it is a sexy beast!)
Starting to meet other FOG's face to face, which is great.

Soon it will be time for a rally...

Free Spirit Caravans

Rain Catcher

2011-06-09T02:30:00.000-07:00

We (FOGs) like to go off the beaten track and be self sufficient. So when HWMBO (He Who Must Be Obeyed) and I were recently at 1770 and saw this on a van, we thought it was a great idea and investigated further.
Turns out that the Caravan Rain Catcher is made on the Sunshine Coast. You simply attach it to your awning, with the hose positioned in to your water tank or collection bucket. The fine mesh netting filters out any 'bits' and the catcher fills your tank with fresh clean water.
As it rained every night when we were up north, there would have been no water shortage!

Check out the website and pics from the link...

Caravan Rain Catcher

Not Planking...

2011-06-08T04:02:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine has invented a new craze. It's called 'Plonking' (not to be confused with the other current craze). You 'plonk' yourself down in a chair with a glass of plonk and get someone to take your photograph. Apparently it's a real hit with the over 50's. (I'm very advanced I've been practicing for years)

Brisbane Caravan and Camping Show

2011-06-08T03:47:00.000-07:00

Greetings FOGs and friends!
Day one of the FOG BLOG and it is also day one of the Brisbane Caravan and Camping Show.
Lots of gadgets and good ideas, not to mention rigs of all shapes and sizes. What a friendly lot the camping fraternity is! A conversation can be started anywhere from the train during the ride in, or the queue waiting to get through the gates. I love hearing peoples stories of their favourite places to travel, or a description of their RV. Do you have a story to tell? Sign up and blog it!