I would like to acknowledge the contribution of Rex Hobson, who travelled with me over many of these journeys, and in particular, the more remote areas. He trusted that I knew where I needed to go, and why, (perhaps a little naïve on both of our parts).
Little dog, Annie, was such a delight to travel with. She shared a caravan over many thousands of kilometres with Rex and myself and enjoyed her little mini holidays at outback kennels when the need arose. She left this world in 2013 at the age of 16, and has left behind many memories.
June and I shared a 4WD journey from Cairns to Central Australia and return in 2012, a distance of over 6,000 kilometres. With limited knowledge of distances and conditions, she trusted me to spirit her away from suburban Melbourne into the outback. For two women in their retirement years a great adventure was the outcome, and a good time was had by all.
June, Pat, Carole, Judy, Wilma, Barbara and Jill have shared trips to the Outback with me at various times over the years, and their friendship and companionship have made exploring Australia such a joy. On our recent trip to the Flinders Ranges, Jill and I shared responsibility for Florrie. Florrie, following Annie's passing, is now 10, and she still comes with me whenever I venture further afield, although my trips have become less arduous as of recent years, with my 4WD and caravan being replaced by my comfortable sedan, and overnight pet-friendly cabins along the way.
Carole, leaving the helicopter after our flight over Mitchell Falls in the far north west corner of Western Australia ("Where are the doors?"), as part of a camping trip across The Kimberley. We shared also the tour of the North West Silos in Victoria.
Judy, at Millstream in the Pilbara, also capturing the unforgettable images along the way in this remote area of Australia. Judy also has shared a journey up the West Coast of Australia and as in August 2023, our visit to Coober Pedy (with our small dogs)!
June, having a well earned wine after watching the sunset over Karumba, during our 6000 kilometre 4WD journey in my Landcruiser from Cairns to Central Australia and return. We traveled to Canada together. She has also shared with me journeys up the west coast of Australia, Monkey Mia, And more recently, Mallacoota. Vale June. Thank you for a wonderful friendship and many special memories and for your trust.
Pat, finding a shady spot at Nudey Beach (oops), on Fitzroy Island. Pat has also shared with me trips to Kangaroo Island and Mount Buffalo, and The Great Alpine Road across the Victorian Alps as well as various corners of Cairns and Green Island.
Barbara, enjoying the hot springs at Mataranka. Barb's deal was, include the Balloon Flight over Alice Springs (with chicken and champagne breakfast in the desert after the flight) and she would come on the trip (Darwin, Kakadu and Central Australia). Up at 4.00 am to meet the Balloon truck for the dawn flight! Vale Barb. You have left me with many special memories of a great friendship.
Wilma, shared our Heron Island trip, and is pictured here at Malmsbury Botanical Gardens in regional Victoria.
Jill, at Wirrabara Silo on return from our shared journey to The Flinders Ranges.