Bittersweet Farewells and New Beginnings

With Anth set to take flight late in the afternoon, we lingered in Gordon, reluctant to bid farewell to its serene embrace. The drive back to Hobart was laced with a bittersweet melancholy, each mile a reminder of the end of this chapter. But our spirits were buoyed by the prospect of staying at the Forcett Inn HipCamp, a place that held the warmth of fond memories from Sal's last visit when Anth had ventured to the mainland.

We meandered through Hobart, the Tasman Bridge arching like a guardian over the shimmering waters below, leading us back into familiar territory. Our first stop was in the charming town of Sorell, where we mailed back the awning shade and Camps Australia book Grammy had lent us. When she handed them over, she believed her traveling days were behind her. Yet, inspired by three magical weeks with us at 74, she decided to buy another van and rekindle her adventures, proving that wanderlust knows no age.

After the post office, we indulged in a quick shopping spree and a leisurely bite to eat, savoring the simple joys of our journey. As the afternoon sun began its descent, casting golden hues across the sky, we headed to the airport. There, we exchanged heartfelt farewells with Anth as he embarked on his flight to Melbourne. Jack, our young friend who had celebrated Christmas with us in Queensland, awaited him with open arms. Sal, on the other hand, made the short drive to the Forcett Inn, a place that felt like a cozy refuge.

Setting up camp at the back of the property, Sal found peace in the tranquil evening, working on our latest YouTube video. This new creative outlet had become a source of joy and connection for us. Meanwhile, in Melbourne, Jack and Anth spent the evening reminiscing, their laughter a testament to enduring friendship. Anth's return flight brought him back to Hobart, where an Uber swiftly reunited him with Sal, his presence bringing our little family together again.

Our days at the Forcett Inn became a blend of warm hospitality and new friendships. Michael, the generous host of the HipCamp, welcomed us like old friends. His offer to move our bus closer to his house and stay indefinitely was a gesture of kindness that deeply touched us. The harsh Tasmanian winter meant our battery system would need a boost within a week, and Michael's hospitality once again proved invaluable.

Together with Michael and his partner Amanda, we shared countless moments that felt like family gatherings. One evening, they invited us to the local pub, where we savoured the renowned Jack Daniels marinated steak, a culinary masterpiece. Over dinner, we met Ian, a charismatic cowboy with a wealth of stories, making the evening vibrant and memorable.

Our adventures with Michael and Amanda continued as they took us to the famous Salamanca Markets in Hobart. The market's lively atmosphere was enriched by a stop at a friend's bar, where we enjoyed live music that added a magical touch to our visit.

On our final night in Forcett, we gathered under the chilly Tasmanian sky for a feast. The aroma of roasted lamb and pork filled the air, mingling with the laughter and camaraderie shared with Michael, Amanda, Ian, Liz, and ourselves. We played a few games of pool, graciously accepting our hosts' victory, and then sat down to a bountiful country feast. The warmth and generosity we experienced were overwhelming, forging bonds that felt like family.

As we prepared to leave the next day, our hearts were full. The friendships we had made here would last a lifetime. With Hobart once again on our horizon and no set plans, our adventure continued, each day a blank canvas awaiting the vibrant strokes of our journey.Read more