Day 70 - Echuca

The health is back on track, the morning was a little overcast and no Gail. She arrived safely back in Perth much to Bri’s absolute delight.

Gail called to let me know Bri had her blood pressure checked again on Friday night. We agreed I needed to get back as well.

The remaining 6 of us did the usual. Headed into town for brekkie.

Once again some amazing architecture to be seen, along with the view and activity on the mighty Murray River.

We even stumbled across St Anne’s Winery, which of course required a mandatory photo opportunity.

Yesterday’s sojourn into town whilst I was delivering Gail to Melbourne airport identified a very suitable bakery, so that’s where we headed. I do love a good pepper pie and have sampled many on this journey. Today, amongst us there were toasties, cinnamon scrolls and a party pie flight. I’ve had beer, whiskey, gin and even cider flights before but never party pies. The photos will explain.

We strolled the streets for a while, while also navigating to the Saturday Farmers Markets. These were quite small but still attracted an eager crowd wanting to sample the many items for sale.

From there we made our way to one of the many eating establishments in town for a spot of lunch.

Peter, Julie, Graham, Karen and Anne hadn’t finished perusing the town so headed off for some more retail therapy while I went back to the van to prepare for my imminent departure.

I managed to contact all bar 1 pre-booked accommodation location and either got credits back or my deposit would be split amongst the fantastic 5.

Another of yesterday’s discoveries was The Shamrock Hotel, so after establishing their doggo friendliness we booked for my last supper.

Lucky we did, it was overflowing with testosterone and progesterone rampant football teams. A brief chat with the coach of one such team advised me Echuca is famed for hosting many teams as far away as Melbourne, for their end of year gig.

As well as Guinness being an attraction to this establishment, it is highly regarded for its 101 variety’s of schnitzel. Not sure about the dessert schnitzels though. Having had a few more Guinness’s in the latter part of our journey, my attempt at the G is improving.

I made the mistake of leaving my phone on the table when nature called. Needless to say I had additional photos to peruse.

So, tomorrow sees me depart for home, leaving a wonderful group of people we (Gail and I) have shared many, many special moments with over the past 10 weeks. Thank you so much Anne, Peter, Julie, Graham and Karen.

A special thanks to Karen for all the research, planning, re-research and re-planning as and when needed. It would not have happened with that effort.

Sleep for me now, ready for the long journey home. 3,319 kms according to Apple Maps.

But…….fear not, by hook or by crook this travel log will continue.Read more