Summer Escape 2024

A 110-day adventure by Dream Doers Read more

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Trip start
November 17, 2024
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Day 1
Sunday, November 17, 2024 at 8:00 AM
☁️ 27 °C
Altitude: 59 m
Australia Pacific Heights -23.101452, 150.73893223°6’5” S 150°44’20” E
Departure Home
November 17, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C
Starting out
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Day 1
Sunday, November 17, 2024 at 2:39 PM
☁️ 33 °C
Altitude: 293 m
Australia Roma -26.558184, 148.78629926°33’29” S 148°47’11” E
Roma, Qld
November 17, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 33 °C
After an early start, we had breakfast at Dululu , coffee break Taroom and after 500 klms we pulled up for an overnight caravan park stop. 31 degrees on arrival. Caravan park had a pool so dip was the order of the arvoRead more
Kym TreacySafe travels
11/19/24Reply
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Day 2
Monday, November 18, 2024 at 2:33 PM
🌬 29 °C
Altitude: 138 m
Australia Goodooga -29.110019, 147.45741429°6’36” S 147°27’27” E
Brewarrina
November 18, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 29 °C
Another 500 klms day, yet today Joanne got some retail therapy, no bags today. It was 30 degrees as we crossed the border in NSW. But you would not believe our luck as we arrived at Goodooga it dropped to 23 degrees, so we got into the artesian pool at 40 degrees water temp.

Today on our drive it was if Noah ark had landed. Over 100 emus, many chick, goats, beef cattle sheep, pigs and snakes in the paddocks along our way. The bird life was incredible, from white cockatoo, major Mitchells, cocktails, budgerigar s, finches peewees and crows.

And it's just after 8 pm and the sun is just setting. Daylight has been saved again.Read more
TravelerSome big driving. Enjoy the cooler weather. Stay safe.
11/18/24Reply
Kym TreacyHow lucky to have some cooler weather
11/19/24Reply
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Day 3
Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 7:38 PM
☀️ 24 °C
Altitude: 311 m
Australia Broken Hill -31.957342, 141.46784531°57’26” S 141°28’4” E
Broken Hill
November 19, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C
What a boring drive today, 750klm. 9 hours. We are overnight and lovely dinner out. Prawn linguine.
TravelerIs it dry out there? Hope the weather is being kind. Just think of those oysters and the km will fly by.
11/19/24Reply
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Day 5
Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 4:23 PM
⛅ 29 °C
Altitude: 12 m
Australia Tumby Bay -34.385762, 136.10489734°23’9” S 136°6’18” E
Tumby Bay
November 21, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C
After an overnight and groceries shop at Port Augusta. We travel south along the Ayre peninsula. Had lunch at Port Neill

Just a short jump and we are set up at Tumby Bay for a couple of nights.

We went to port Lincoln and grabbed some pastries and had breakfast. Joanne and I walk the jetty and looked at the ocean pool.

We returned to Port Neill for Sunday session live music and some wine, the view out to the jetty into Spencer Gulf is so pretty.Read more
TravelerLovely spot. Enjoy the relax after some big drives.
11/21/24Reply
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Day 9
Monday, November 25, 2024 at 1:10 PM
☁️ 24 °C
Altitude: 5 m
Australia Little Islands -32.74803, 134.24276932°44’53” S 134°14’34” E
Streaky Bay
November 25, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C
We booked to stay here 14 days. Ocean front site. Day 2 we explored the whistling rocks, when the wave crashes into the cliffs it pushed air out of the holes that had been eroded through.
Day 3 we got into some indoor bowls, with the locals, Joanne team won so we got some chocolates.
Day 4 a short drive to Haslem as the jetty at streaky Bay was under repair, got 2 squid and a Tommy rough, Kel cooked them up salt and pepper style, yum. Dinner and raffles at the pub great view from the deck.
Day 5, at last Kel had a little hit of pickleball with some of the locals from indoor bowls.
Day 11 Thursday we managed to catch some blue swimmers crabs before the arvo temps hit sweltering 40 degrees, refuge in the van aircon, until the storms hit early evening. Windy, lightning and rain, woke Friday morning still light rain.Read more
Kym TreacyLooks beautiful. Well done Joanne for winning indoor bowls with the locals.
11/30/24Reply
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Day 23
Monday, December 9, 2024 at 1:21 PM
☁️ 24 °C
Altitude: 15 m
Australia Fowlers Bay -31.988697, 132.43714131°59’19” S 132°26’14” E
Fowlers Bay
December 9, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C
2 night stop here, we are on the edge of the lonely, isolated flatlands of the Nullarbor It is at the eastern extremity of the Great Australian Bight ,it's a lovely bay with big jetty where we hope to catch a squid, whiting or Tommy rough. The wing blew up, could not fish off the jetty, bugger. So movie and coffee on bed.

As we left the navigation system in the car screen was refreshed, 2740klm from home 1 day 6 hours driveRead more
Kym TreacyBeautiful area. The photo is amazing.
12/11/24Reply
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Day 25
Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 1:30 PM
🌬 22 °C
Altitude: 75 m
Australia Maralinga Tjarutja -31.622721, 129.53000131°37’22” S 129°31’48” E
Bunda Cliff
December 11, 2024 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 22 °C
A bit windy here today, we had some lunch, decided to stay the night re orientation of the van and set up.

Got a walk along the cliffs stunning today.

Sunrise, the wind had settled.
Kym TreacyGorgeous photos.
12/19/24Reply
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Day 28
Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 9:16 AM
☁️ 21 °C
Altitude: 4 m
Australia Museum Park -33.857864, 121.89539433°51’28” S 121°53’43” E
Esperance WA
December 14, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C
After 3 overnight camps to cross the Nullarbor we have arrived at our Christmas destination.

On arrival it was cool and overcast, yet the forecast is beautiful. We grabbed some breakfast with a different menu. And quite pricey.

Day 2 Got the bikes off , and rode to West beach, did the markets, and later in the day went to Lucky Bay brewing for an arvo session.

A 2 week stay, many beaches, bike rides and ocean plunges.Read more
Kym TreacyVery interesting menu. Happy to hear you have made it and can now relax for Christmas.
12/19/24Reply
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Day 44
Monday, December 30, 2024 at 12:15 PM
☀️ 21 °C
Altitude: 12 m
Australia Grace Darling Park -33.949112, 120.12037833°56’57” S 120°7’13” E
Hopetoun
December 30, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C
Beach side village alo inng the great southern ocean, Base camp to explore Fitzgerald River NP

On arrival we set up camp and explored the town, information centre to plan our stay, freezing cold tonight Kel isa bit crook, like his asthma has taken hold again, so early bed it was.

Day 2 explore the NP, stopped at Barrens beach lookout, onto the feature that is Cave point lookout.

Then our Camino challenge day, a 5 klm circuit walk down to Hamersley inlet and beach. An undulating sandy track . Upon our arrival at the beach we experienced the inshore reef lagoon pools for a natural swim.Read more
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Day 47
Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 12:11 PM
☁️ 32 °C
Altitude: 35 m
Australia Tooleburrup Hill -34.426693, 119.37448834°25’36” S 119°22’28” E
Bremmer Bay
January 2 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 32 °C
A couple of nights stay, exploring more stunning beaches, overcast weather after a 40 degree day on our arrival which was cooled when the wind returned from a northerly to the South . We had a swim at main beach, bike ride the native snail trail and walked the short beach.Read more
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Day 49
Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 12:16 PM
☁️ 20 °C
Altitude: 17 m
Australia Willyung Creek -34.935056, 117.90101434°56’6” S 117°54’4” E
Albany
January 4 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 20 °C
The Granite Skywalk at Castle Rock offers stunning views of Albany, Mount Gardner, Mount Manypeaks, and the Stirling Range. Starting from Bremer Bay, we drove 260 km to the Castle Rock picnic area. The 2 km hike, with a 450 m elevation gain, took an hour through jarrah, marri, and karri forests. Highlights included the Balancing Rock, the lower lookout, and a climb through rocks and up a 6 m ladder to the upper lookout. The effort was well worth the incredible views!

Off early this morning, The Gap, Natural Bridge, whale station and misery beach, the boat harbour markets and Kel finally got some pickleball, with a gelato waffle on our way back to our van, Joanne is still fatigued from the castle rock walk.Read more
TravelerLooks fabulous, great views. Pleased you got a Pickleball fix Kel.
1/5/25Reply
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Day 52
Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 6:51 PM
🌬 21 °C
Altitude: 66 m
Australia Gracetown -33.856849, 115.01763433°51’25” S 115°1’3” E
Gracetown
January 7 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 21 °C
Today, we embarked on a memorable journey from Albany, Western Australia, under warm and cloudy skies with temperatures reaching up to 29°C. Our first destination was the serene Greens Pool in William Bay National Park near Denmark. This picturesque spot is renowned for its turquoise waters and large granite boulders that shelter the beach from the Southern Ocean, creating a tranquil swimming area.

Adjacent to Greens Pool lies Elephant Rocks, aptly named for the massive boulders that resemble a herd of elephants wading in the shallow waters. The unique rock formations and clear waters made it a delightful spot for a refreshing swim.

After our ocean dip, we visited Duckett's Mill Wines and Denmark Farmhouse Cheese, a charming establishment nestled in the picturesque Scotsdale Valley. We savored a delightful lunch on the verandah, enjoying a breaky burger accompanied by their renowned cheeses. The combination of delicious food and serene surroundings provided a perfect midday respite.

Continuing our journey towards Gracetown, we made a couple of noteworthy stops. First, we visited the Four Aces, a natural attraction near Manjimup featuring four magnificent karri trees standing proudly in a straight line. These towering giants, over 400 years old and standing 75 meters tall, offered a remarkable view and a memorable experience.

Next, we explored the One Tree Bridge area, where an old bridge made from a single karri tree once spanned the Donnelly River. This site provided a glimpse into the region's history and was linked to the Four Aces by a 2km return walk trail through tranquil karri and marri forests.

As we approached Gracetown, the weather remained pleasant with a high of 29°C, accompanied by a mix of clouds and sunshine. The scenic drive, combined with our enriching stops, made for an unforgettable day exploring the natural beauty and culinary delights of Western Australia's southern region.Read more
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Day 53
Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at 8:51 AM
⛅ 20 °C
Altitude: 9 m
Australia Cowaramup Point -33.877596, 114.98170133°52’39” S 114°58’54” E
Margaret River
January 8 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C
Gracetown was the perfect base for our Margaret River adventure. Each morning started with walks and refreshing swims, setting the tone for days filled with discovery.

We explored the region’s renowned wineries and indulged in incredible food, each meal showcasing the rich flavors of the area. The stunning coastline took our breath away, with highlights like the famous Busselton Jetty offering unforgettable views.Read more
TravelerWe're heading for the West Coast in May….looks amazing!
1/10/25Reply
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Day 56
Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 4:38 PM
☀️ 23 °C
Altitude: 64 m
Australia Gracetown -33.856888, 115.01770133°51’25” S 115°1’4” E
Hamelin Bay to the Underground
January 11 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C
At Hamelin Bay, gentle stingrays glide gracefully through the shallow waters, often approaching the shore to interact. The clear waters provide an incredible opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close, creating a serene and unforgettable coastal experience.

Not far from Hamelin Bay lies the enchanting Lake Cave, a breathtaking underground treasure. We descended some 300 stairs, equivalent to 18 stories into this magical world to discover a still, reflective lake surrounded by intricate limestone formations. The cave’s famous "Suspended Table," a massive stalactite seemingly floating above the water, is a natural masterpiece.Read more
Kym TreacyThe cave is stunning. Well worth the 300 steps.
1/12/25Reply
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Day 64
Sunday, January 19, 2025 at 4:08 PM
🌬 33 °C
Altitude: 14 m
Australia Catherine Point -32.080838, 115.76033532°4’51” S 115°45’37” E
Fremantle
January 19 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 33 °C
We’ve had a wonderful week in Fremantle, soaking up the beautiful coastal vibe and reconnecting with family and friends. The highlight, of course, was catching up with our daughter and grandkids. From lazy days at the beach to exploring parks and even a few thrilling amusement rides, it was such a joy to make more memories with them.

Kel managed to squeeze in some pickleball with his mate John, whom he first met in Yeppoon a few years ago. It’s always great to see the pickleball community bringing people together across the miles.

We also spent quality time with Fi and Peter, our dear friends we first met on a cruise back in 2016. Every time we’re in the west, catching up with them is a must—it’s like no time has passed at all. Tried to recreate our photo from last meet up.

Our daily routine in Fremantle was all about staying active and enjoying the outdoors. Morning ocean swims, bike rides along the coastline, and walks on the beach became part of our rhythm. It’s such a refreshing way to start the day.

As always, Fremantle has left us with full hearts and a sense of gratitude for these connections and the simple joys of life. Until next time, WA!Read more
TravelerSounds like a fabulous time. Glad Kel got in some Pickleball. Enjoy
1/20/25Reply
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Day 68
Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 5:38 PM
Altitude: 268 m
Australia Centennial Park Oval -34.466558, 139.00499834°27’60” S 139°0’18” E
Nuriootpa
January 23 in Australia
Blog Entry: Journey Across the Nullarbor to the Barossa Valley

After three long but rewarding days on the road, punctuated by memorable overnight camps, we’ve finally arrived in the Barossa Valley. The journey has been an adventure in itself, marked by vast landscapes, extreme temperatures, and breathtaking scenery.

Day 1: Norseman Caravan Park

Our first stop was at the Norseman Caravan Park, where we encountered a searing 40-degree heat. The desert sun was relentless, but the caravan park offered a much-needed rest stop. It was the start of our Nullarbor crossing—a region where isolation and raw beauty come together.

Day 2: Bunda Cliffs on the Great Australian Bight

From Norseman, we pressed on to one of the most iconic spots of the journey: the Bunda Cliffs. These towering cliffs offered a view of the vast Southern Ocean, a sight so grand it made the long drive worthwhile. Camping here under the stars, with the sound of the waves crashing below, was an experience we’ll never forget.

Day 3: Bush Camp at Minnipa

After soaking in the views, we continued our journey and set up camp in a remote bush setting at Minnipa apex bush camp. The solitude was broken by the road trains but humbling, a reminder of how vast and untouched parts of Australia truly are. We pushed through.

Arrival in Nuriootpa, Barossa Valley

Finally, we arrived in Nuriootpa, the heart of the Barossa Valley, ready to indulge in its culinary and cultural delights. After days of minimalist living on the road, the idea of a warm, fulfilling meal and a glass of fine wine felt like pure luxury.

Maggie Beer’s Farm: Lunch here was a feast for the senses, offering fresh, local flavors that perfectly captured the essence of the region.

Wine Tasting: Of course, no visit to the Barossa is complete without sampling some of its world-famous wines. Each sip was a reminder of the rich winemaking heritage that defines this area.

Retail Therapy: A bit of shopping rounded off the day, allowing us to bring a piece of the Barossa back home.

Rest and Recharge

More than anything, this stop is about taking a break from the relentless drive, allowing us to recharge and prepare for the next leg of our journey. The Barossa Valley has welcomed us with open arms, providing the perfect mix of relaxation, indulgence, and beauty.

Next Stop: Geelong

On Saturday, we’ll pack up and head toward Geelong, ready for the adventures and discoveries that await us there. For now, we’re soaking in every moment of our time in this stunning region.

Stay tuned for the next chapter of our journey!Read more
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Day 69
Friday, January 24, 2025 at 1:12 PM
☀️ 25 °C
Altitude: 260 m
Australia Tanunda Recreation Park -34.525128, 138.95862234°31’30” S 138°57’31” E
Day in the Barossa Valley: Wine, Food, a
January 24 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C
Our day began in the charming town of Nooriupata with a much-needed coffee to kick things off. The Barossa Valley morning was crisp, and the caffeine hit the spot, setting the tone for what we hoped would be a day of indulgence and discovery.

From there, we made our way to Angerston for a delightful breakfast. While we enjoyed our meal, Joanne indulged in some retail therapy and snagged herself a pair of jeans – a little treat to remember the trip by.

The highlight of the morning came with a visit to Schubert’s Wines. Kell couldn’t resist diving into a tasting of their Shiraz collection. It was an enjoyable experience, and naturally, we ended up splurging on a few bottles to be shipped home. After all, the Barossa Shiraz is hard to resist.

The midday cravings kicked in, and we found ourselves in Tanunda for cake and coffee. I tried a Portuguese cake, while Joanne opted for a lemon poppy seed slice. While the cakes were decent, neither really stood out. Still, the café’s ambiance made for a pleasant break.

Next up was Maggie Beer’s Farm, where we indulged in a three-course lunch. While the dishes were certainly creative and imaginative, they didn’t quite live up to our expectations. Despite spending over $200, the meal left us disappointed, as the flavors didn’t quite align with our palate. It’s safe to say the hype didn’t match our experience.

In an effort to lift our spirits, we ventured into the hills to visit some scenic lookouts. The panoramic views of the Barossa Valley were breathtaking, with rolling vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see. It was the perfect reminder of why this region holds such a special place in our hearts.

We ended our day at Lambert’s Wines, where Kell had a tasting of their chocolate port. While intriguing, it didn’t quite make the cut for our collection. Nevertheless, the experience was a nice way to round out the day.

The Barossa Valley offered its usual mix of memorable wine tastings, charming towns, and stunning landscapes. While there were a few culinary disappointments along the way, the day was still a beautiful reminder of the region’s unique charm and the joy of exploring it at our own pace.Read more
TravelerI was disappointed with my Maggie Beer experience a few years ago too. Beautiful area though. Enjoy what's left.
1/24/25Reply
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Day 75
Thursday, January 30, 2025 at 6:45 PM
☀️ 21 °C
Altitude: 11 m
Australia South Wharf -37.828854, 144.95351137°49’44” S 144°57’13” E
Melbourne
January 30 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C
Here's a polished version of your travel blog entry:

Melbourne & Geelong Adventure: Pickleball, Friends & Chilly Swims

After four long days on the road from Fremantle, Joanne and I arrived in Geelong absolutely exhausted. We took some time to settle in, rest, and catch up with friends before the action really kicked off.

Kel wasted no time and got into some pickleball at Drysdale before we headed into Melbourne for the Pro Pickleball Tournament at the Exhibition Centre. It was a fantastic experience, especially catching up with our fellow ballers—particularly the crew from Yeppoon. Kel teamed up with Robyn and made it all the way to the bronze medal match—a great effort!

Outside of pickleball, we enjoyed some lovely dinners and even managed a swim together at St Kilda Beach—though the water was definitely on the chilly side!

Joanne then flew home to spend time with her granddaughter, celebrate her son's birthday, and catch up with a few friends. Meanwhile, Kel stayed on to watch the Pro Pickleball finals on Sunday before moving over to East Melbourne for more pickleball action.

Now, as Kel makes his way toward the Northern Rivers, NSW, to reunite with Joanne, we reflect on what has been a fabulous trip. Until the next adventure.Read more
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Day 97
Friday, February 21, 2025 at 8:00 AM
☀️ 12 °C
Altitude: 572 m
Australia West Lake -35.282295, 149.10731335°16’56” S 149°6’26” E
Canberra
February 21 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 12 °C
Joanne fly home from Melbourne, I have started my pickleball trip homewards
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Day 104
Friday, February 28, 2025 at 8:03 AM
☀️ 22 °C
Altitude: 13 m
Australia Jubilee Park -33.348231, 151.48928933°20’54” S 151°29’21” E
The Entrance
February 28 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C
The east coast at last,
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Day 105
Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 8:04 AM
☁️ 24 °C
Altitude: 14 m
Australia Park Beach -30.282681, 153.13617630°16’58” S 153°8’10” E
Moonee Beach
March 1 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C
Catch up with Dave and Anna, and more pickleball.
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Day 107
Monday, March 3, 2025 at 8:06 AM
🌬 24 °C
Altitude: 7 m
Australia Hampton Park -28.863037, 153.56055728°51’47” S 153°33’38” E
Ballina
March 3 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 24 °C
Planned to stay a few days, cyclone Alfred said no, moved towards home.
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Day 108
Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 8:07 AM
☀️ 25 °C
Altitude: 20 m
Australia Burnett River -24.865924, 152.3508924°51’57” S 152°21’3” E
Bundaberg
March 4 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C
Overnight, played with the Bundy power , head for home tomorrow.
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Day 110
Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 8:09 AM
☀️ 28 °C
Altitude: 22 m
Australia Wreck Point -23.148287, 150.76149123°8’54” S 150°45’41” E
Yeppoon
March 6 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
Home.
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Trip end
March 6, 2025