The Last Leg

Although I had reached Singapore, and thus avoided the plethora of current World War III potential starting points. I was still a long way from home. I can never understand those who complain about "what a long flight it is to Brisbane", when only those who have made the journey to Europe or Canada know what long flights really are. They are certainly NOT for the feint hearted (nor apparently for anyone over 70).

Although I was already operating on no cylinders, I still had to strap myself into yet another plane seat for the final flight back to Melbourne. At least I could take some consolation from the fact that the longest flight was now behind me. At only 7 hours duration, this one would be a walk in the proverbial park by comparison.

By noon Singapore time I was seated in seat 33A, had exchanged a brief greeting with my next door seat occupant, and was ready to have another attempt at getting some sleep. I am happy to share that this time I had more success. In fact, I was asleep before the plane had left the runway.

I did manage to stir myself on a couple of occasions, mainly due to the smell of nearby food, but most of the flight was spent in that blissful Land of Nod.

At about 11 pm Melbourne time, I heard the announcement that we were descending to land. As I glanced out the window, I could see the welcoming lights of the western suburbs. I was (almost) home.

After exiting the plane and going through the robotic immigration process, I found myself waiting at the luggage carousel to be reacquainted with my familiar blue bag. To my relief (and surprise) it turned out to be the first luggage through the mysterious birthing canal. It was a happy ending to another amazing adventure.

Six weeks ago I was at the same airport, with the same luggage, anticipating the ride ahead with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. After two years of planning, preparation and execution, it will take some getting used to the knowledge that it is now all over.

The next few days will be spent resting and trying to readjust to a new time zone. I am looking forward to resuming my rides with my good friends in the Ghostriders, but will also need to turn my attention to our New Zealand rides which are now only 5 months away. I guess it's true when they say that there is no rest for the wicked.Read more