Forcett, Farms & Farewell

Bidding farewell to the tranquil idyll of Penstock Lagoon, we steered the bus towards Hobart. As the afternoon sun dipped below the horizon, casting long, ethereal shadows, we arrived at a charming farmstead nestled in Forcett, a mere stone's throw from the city and conveniently situated a 20-minute drive from Anth's flight the following day.

Michael, the proprietor, greeted us with a warm handshake and a smile that exuded genuine Kiwi warmth. A seasoned dairy farmer who had retired from the trade, he had become an integral part of the Tasmanian tapestry for over two decades. Tess, his magnificent canine companion, with her impeccable training, padded over to offer her own furry welcome. A virtuoso of the canine art of "speak," she regaled us with her enthusiastic pronouncements.

Sal, accustomed to the passenger's seat, surprised even herself by bravely taking the wheel to transport Anth to the airport. His 30-hour mainland sojourn presented her with an unexpected opportunity for solitude – the first since departing Queensland. Embracing this unforeseen "me time," she embarked on a television marathon, indulging in the guilty pleasure of staying up far past her usual bedtime. The following morning, she succumbed to the allure of a rare sleep-in, stretching her slumber into the late hours.

The day unfolded with leisurely strolls through the expansive paddocks, reconnecting with loved ones through heartfelt phone conversations, culminating in another short drive to retrieve Anth. In a fortnight, Sal would embark on another solo expedition. What adventures awaited her on this upcoming escapade?Read more