We are on the road...

[dmdigital]

Hi all, well we've left Gove and are heading towards Townsville. In Camooweal tonight.

Blog has started here: ag110.wordpress.com
No pic's yet - haven't uploaded anything.

Can thoroughly recommend Banka Banka as a place to say.

Will simply say that when in Mataranka, don't stay at the thermal springs, go to the NP instead it would be hard pressed to be any worse.

Puma's running well apart from a few issues with things loosening on the Bullman track - like the bonnet hinges and the mirrors! Lost 1 bolt and 3 nuts of the bonnet:mad: I don't believe Solihull has heard of locktite either!

Other than that I left home with a very, very minor leaking pinion seal which has now got a lot worse. So routinely checking the diff oil and will get it fixed in Townsville as intended.

Whill check back when next able. Cheers, hope to see you on the road!

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Thanks for the update,,

Hope all goes well in Townsville,,,

:D

[dullbird]

Hahahahah we lost our door handle on the passenger side just rattled loose.... also we had issues with the doors starting to squeak and vibrate but they are all sorted now. we had mirror falling down too actually everything that happened was mainly on the passenger door as the striker fell off too.:lol2:

must of had an aprentice on that door when it was built :d

[Bundalene]

One of our tail lights became the victim of the Bullman Track a couple of years ago. That road can be VERY unforgiving.

You're correct about both the camping spots you mentioned. The NP camp at Mataranka is much nicer (and quieter) than the Thermal Pool one, and Banka Banka is excellent. They put on a very informative video for those interested as well.

We have stayed there on our last 2 trips up north and would definitely stay there again. We saw some really interesting (and expensive looking) camping rigs at Banka Banka last time we were there in May.

Never stayed overnight at Camooweal though....but there is a good butcher there..

We usually find ourselves near Cloncurry at camp time and stay in a cabin...and have a GREAT meal at the Wagon Wheel Hotel (highly recommended):D

Safe travelling.

[dullbird]

We were going to stay in Camooweal.....we pulled in and thought jesus this looks ropey so we decided to carry on :D

[dmdigital]

Slide night at Banka Banka is definitely a must.

As for the expensive rigs... It was funny to see a guy with a Suzuki and an Oz Tent nestled in between four 5th wheeler's that could have each held several Suzuki's inside them.

[Stepho_62]

Hi all, well we've left Gove and are heading towards Townsville. In Camooweal tonight.

Blog has started here: ag110.wordpress.com
No pic's yet - haven't uploaded anything.

Can thoroughly recommend Banka Banka as a place to say.

Will simply say that when in Mataranka, don't stay at the thermal springs, go to the NP instead it would be hard pressed to be any worse.

Puma's running well apart from a few issues with things loosening on the Bullman track - like the bonnet hinges and the mirrors! Lost 1 bolt and 3 nuts of the bonnet:mad: I don't believe Solihull has heard of locktite either!

Other than that I left home with a very, very minor leaking pinion seal which has now got a lot worse. So routinely checking the diff oil and will get it fixed in Townsville as intended.

Whill check back when next able. Cheers, hope to see you on the road!

Mate, if u need anything in TSV give me a yell. Enjoy your time on the road.

[justinc]

We were going to stay in Camooweal.....we pulled in and thought jesus this looks ropey so we decided to carry on :D

Same same DB! We ended up going north from Cammooweal and almost got to Adels grove before we had a flat on the camper and stopped at the O'shanneseys creek for the night!

Beautiful campsight! A Babbling brook all night and total tranquility:)

Love that part of QLD.

JC

[dmdigital]

In Richmond tonight. Hughenden tomorrow and then up the KDR to Porcupine Gorge and The Lynd if the road conditions are OK.

Adel's Grove is good but KFC is a fantastic place to camp. Did consider going there but decided against the gulf as the roads will be in a sorry state I suspect and this would have delayed the start of the trip.

Everything's covered in Townsville, thanks anyway. Lived there for 10 years once upon a time

[Bundalene]

If you're going down south via Rockhampton and you enjoy a really good steak, we would highly recommend you call in at "Wayne's World of Meats" in the Stockland Shopping Centre, North Rocky (you pass it on the Highway).

When we were in Rocky in May for the Beef Expo, Wayne was showing how to do carcase breakdowns at the Show. We got chatting to him afterwards and said we enjoyed a good steak and he reckoned his were pretty good.

So, when we were heading out of Rocky, we called in - it was fairly early but he opens at 6am - we bought a whole rib eye fillet and he cut it and cryovaced it for us as well. The whole piece cost about $70 from memory, but we got 14 steaks from it, which works out at just under $6 per steak. They would have to be the BEST tasting and most tender steaks we have ever had.

Mind you, if you can't get a decent piece of beef in Rockhampton it would be a worry, it is, after all the Beef Capital of Australia:D

[Captain_Rightfoot]

Mind you, if you can't get a decent piece of beef in Rockhampton it would be a worry, it is, after all the Beef Capital of Australia:D

Yes, the steaks are high! :wasntme: :D:D

[Bundalene]

Yes, the steaks are high! :wasntme: :D:D


:D:D:D

I normally don't like recommending food outlets, as such, as everyone's taste is different... but the steaks WERE bloody beautiful. Even SWIMBO reckons they were the best - and she normally isn't a big steak eater ...

...Mind you, she had hers with a few garlic prawns on top ...... :)

[Captain_Rightfoot]

I'm told that cryovaccing makes meat more tender. Do you think that would have helped?

[Bundalene]

Don't know if cryovaccing makes meat more tender.

We bought a few fresh rib eye steaks (from Wayne's) as a "taste test" and bar-b-q'd them straight away...before we purchased the whole fillet. They were beautiful. :D

We have just purchased a cryovaccer and will test it out in a few weeks on our next trip away.

Will let you know of the "pros" and "cons"

[dmdigital]

Well we made it to Townsville tonight. Were going to stop up Harveys Range but decided to do the extra 50km and get it over with.

The KDR was a breeze, if only the Barkly, Flinders or Stuart Hwy's could be as good. Only about 10km was in bad condition - about as bad as a good section on the Bullman Track:eek:

Noticed this morning I'd lost one of the Land Rover centres from the back left wheel:mad:

As for meats we will be heading down towards Longreach next and we have a Sunbeam Food Saver on board to vac-pack stuff. Great for the fresh coffee I ground before leaving and really improves a curry. We also Vac-pack our water filter cartridges between uses (refilling the camper tanks).

Tomorrow we will give the Puma a quick clean before it goes in for a service at Tony Ireland Land Rover on Monday.

Should give a gadget update:
TyreDog is performing well. It is definitely nothing flash but certainly cuts down on checking tyres pressures each morning.
Nuvi 760 - SatNav has been working well, did get lost on one section of the Barkly and a portion of the KDR, but has all the latest "motorway" info for Townsville (motorway :Rolling:)
Victorinox Rescue Tool - Good versatile knife.
MacBookPro - Has gone on to charge tonight as the battery was down to 28% after 7 days.
Iridium 9555 - Very good. Did get one guy come up to me and ask how come I can get mobile coverage and he couldn't. He'd seen me talking on my "mobile":D

[dmdigital]

Well today saw the Puma get a service at Tony Ireland Land Rover. Over all the Puma's running smoother again and they did manage to fix the two water leaks I had and find a third I didn't realise was there.

However two things were annoying:
* No courtesy car as it was still booked out, they had tried to contact me last week about this though
* No pinion seal to replace the weaping one. 6 weaks notice and "we sold the one in stock this morning" - I don't think so:mad: So hopefully they will get one tomorrow morning and fix it tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will stock, load up and leave for Longreach or somewhere thereabouts on Wednesday morning.

[Captain_Rightfoot]

Well today saw the Puma get a service at Tony Ireland Land Rover. Over all the Puma's running smoother again and they did manage to fix the two water leaks I had and find a third I didn't realise was there.

However two things were annoying:
* No courtesy car as it was still booked out, they had tried to contact me last week about this though
* No pinion seal to replace the weaping one. 6 weaks notice and "we sold the one in stock this morning" - I don't think so:mad: So hopefully they will get one tomorrow morning and fix it tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will stock, load up and leave for Longreach or somewhere thereabouts on Wednesday morning.
Not good about the repairs. :(

If you are a plane buff go to the qantas museum and do the wing walk and plane inspection of the 747 SP. Very interesting. :)

Also, there is a town on the way called Ilfracombe with a cool looking machinery display. (http://www.ilfracombe.qld.gov.au/visitors/heritageDisplay.shtml) We've never been able to stop there due to rushing but I would love to given time.

[Bundalene]

Ilfracombe is between Longreach & Barcaldine, and if you're into old machinery, it's excellent. Well worthwhile a look see....and a beer at the Wellshot Pub - if you're there at camp time there's a camping ground behind the pub and the meals are OK..good country stuff.

Another alternative is to go to Isisford. (yellow belly country!!)..take the triangular track which will take you from Longreach to Blackall via Isisford. On the way from Isisford to Blackall you will pass Isis Downs where you can have a look at one of the biggest shearing sheds in the country - no longer in use though.

There is also a free camp area just outside Isisford which is very nice - or you can stay at Clancy's Overflow Pub....
http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/6915/th83.jpg (http://img268.imageshack.us/i/th83.jpg/)

[Narangga]

Well today saw the Puma get a service at Tony Ireland Land Rover. Over all the Puma's running smoother again and they did manage to fix the two water leaks I had and find a third I didn't realise was there.

However two things were annoying:
* No courtesy car as it was still booked out, they had tried to contact me last week about this though
* No pinion seal to replace the weaping one. 6 weaks notice and "we sold the one in stock this morning" - I don't think so:mad: So hopefully they will get one tomorrow morning and fix it tomorrow.

Tomorrow we will stock, load up and leave for Longreach or somewhere thereabouts on Wednesday morning.

2002 when I was on the Gold Coast Bruce Lynton got one up overnight from Melb for the Defender so here's hoping Derek.

[dmdigital]

Like I said we are heading in the direction of Longreach. Definitely want a look at the air museum and stockman's hall. Also want to go out past Winton to the dinosaur footprints. Forgotten where that is but the info's in the car.

Diesel is actually 2c/L cheaper than ULP in Townsville and only $1.229 at one place. Cheapest we've seen it in a LONG time.

[dmdigital]

Well Pinion seal is fixed. Courier was late, but otherwise OK.

We leave for Winton direction tomorrow morning an will see how far we get.

Might be off the www for a few days.

[dmdigital]

Well actually made it to Winton today. Didn't plan to just happened that way. Off to look at footprints and fossils tomorrow.

Puma's running very nicely now after the service, sat on 100kph most of the way in 6th gear. Left a new dual cab 4WD Hilux behind going up the range on the way to Charters Towers. He wasn't even towing anything! I just dropped down to fifth and kept going up the hill past the caravan that had ground to a halt (why tow with a petrol:confused:) and so we went on up the range with a about 1.5 tonnes behind.

[one_iota]

Well Pinion seal is fixed. Courier was late, but otherwise OK.

We leave for Winton direction tomorrow morning an will see how far we get.

Might be off the www for a few days.

Be sure to see Matilda, Banjo and Clancy at Winton. ;)

Just noticed that my pinion seal has a slight weep...oh well.

[malleefowl]

Leaving Mildura Saturday morning=quite possibe we may pass on the way,
will keep an eye out and an ear on ch 40.heading broken Hill Cobar Bourke ,
Cunnamulla for a start.
Cheers,
Mary

[dmdigital]

Well we've been around Winton all day - Lark Quarry and then Age of Dinosaurs. Both very good. Had lunch at the Cafe at the information centre - excellent burgers:) Didn't go to the Waltzing Matilda Centre as we didn't have the time. Head for Longreach tomorrow.

[Captain_Rightfoot]

Well we've been around Winton all day - Lark Quarry and then Age of Dinosaurs. Both very good. Had lunch at the Cafe at the information centre - excellent burgers:) Didn't go to the Waltzing Matilda Centre as we didn't have the time. Head for Longreach tomorrow.

Are you going to do the wing walk? Take photos if you do! :)

[dullbird]

of the wings? I got a mate who runs a portion of heavy maintenance in BA if you want a pic of the wings that bad I'm sure we can get you some :lol2:

failing that I have pics of the qantas 707 and pics of the dc-3 from the Qantas museum if you really want them;)

[Captain_Rightfoot]

of the wings? I got a mate who runs a portion of heavy maintenance in BA if you want a pic of the wings that bad I'm sure we can get you some :lol2:

failing that I have pics of the qantas 707 and pics of the dc-3 from the Qantas museum if you really want them;)

:) I went there and did the tour inside the 747-sp and that was pretty cool. I reckon the wing walk would be good fun.

[dullbird]

yes we went in there also....nice carpets. mmmmmmmmmmm :D

747 is an everyday thing for Ian though so nothing really new there....and I reckon the way he craps on about them so much when he gets home from work I reckon I could get a casa licence :lol2:

[Captain_Rightfoot]

yes we went in there also....nice carpets. mmmmmmmmmmm :D

747 is an everyday thing for Ian though so nothing really new there....and I reckon the way he craps on about them so much when he gets home from work I reckon I could get a casa licence :lol2:

Yes, I thought as much. If you work in the industry it's blah blah blah but if it's an interest then it allows you to see stuff you wouldn't normally see.

[dullbird]

I have to say Derek As much as we did enjoy the qantas museum I much preferred the stockman museum they have a nice little coffee shop on it too that sell great cakes.

You will know doubt enjoy them both so I would make time to see them both if you can we did both of them in a day easy.....they are not that far from each other

[justinc]

yes we went in there also....nice carpets. mmmmmmmmmmm :D

747 is an everyday thing for Ian though so nothing really new there....and I reckon the way he craps on about them so much when he gets home from work I reckon I could get a casa licence :lol2:

:D:D:D
Sounds like home here! Her indoors will soon know how to replace Td5 injectors, and hook up Rovacom and diagnose an ABS fault the way I carry on sometimes:o

Oh the joy of enjoying ones work....:)

JC

[dmdigital]

Well did the SHOF today. We both really enjoyed it! Sorry to say Lou, the Coffee shop wasn't that great, so it may have changed since last year:(

Tomorrow we are going to the QANTAS museum and look at the planes before heading off towards Barcalden or somewhere.

Oh and if you've never been to Lark Quarry out of Winton, here's what the centre looks like from the lookout (360 degree Pano, click for bigger)
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/07/1124.jpg (http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2493/3703997188_20f36d92d8_o.jpg)

[Bundalene]

Great photo Derek.:D:D

Western Queensland has - IMHO - some of the most spectacular scenery ...and sunsets/sunrises....

[Grockle]

Can't say how much I envy you both !

[justinc]

Derek, Lark quarry was a fantastic walk too, we were there on a fantastic bright clear coolish day. Couldn't have asked for better weather:) I agree that these parts of qld have some beautiful and remote landscapes.

I remember in Winton asking the local mech workshop if the 60's split window Kombi wreck I spied in their yard was available, and was told it was sold a week previously:( A beautiful rust free example too:(

Enjoy the trip Derek!

JC

[dmdigital]

Forgot to mention there is a Series 2 (I think, didn't get a close look at it) red fire engine parked up and looking rather run down, just off the Flinders Hwy at Prairie.

[dullbird]

we passed an old series about 400meters of the roads edge cant remember where we were though, around that area somewhere.......

it was perfect sun was going down the car was all run down.....I screamed photo opportunity he heard me when we were about 1/2 a kilometre down the road and then said OH DID YOU WANT TO GO BACK! knowing full well I would say don't worry i think:(

[dmdigital]

Well got the 2nd battery replaced today and then spent about 5 or 6 hours at the QANTAS museum. Fantastic! Only took about 100 shots and still to go through them. I can see why Ian didn't want to go inside a plane Lou;) Must admit that 707 interior was pretty shmick though.

[dullbird]

Well got the 2nd battery replaced today and then spent about 5 or 6 hours at the QANTAS museum. Fantastic! Only took about 100 shots and still to go through them. I can see why Ian didn't want to go inside a plane Lou;) Must admit that 707 interior was pretty shmick though.

no you miss understood.....HE DID GO IN, :D....I dont know why he has seen it all before and looked totally uninterested:lol2:

[dmdigital]

OK, I remembered you guys commenting on the tour and everything but I was sure you said you didn't do the tour. Now why wasn't Ian interested:confused: That would be like me doing a refinery tour.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/07/1097.jpg

[dullbird]

sorry I think I'm getting myself and others all confused we did the 707 tour not the 747 because he has seen it all before......nice pic :)

[Narangga]

Can't see your reflection Derek. :o

Must be a good photo. :D

[dmdigital]

Well we are now in St George. Spent two night at Takarakka Resort at Carnavon Gorge. Fantastic! Only walked to the Amphitheatre and Moss Garden but would love to go back for a few more days.

Dual battery problems continue. We accidently left the Engel on for several hours yesterday whilst walking the gorge and didn't use the car. This afternoon when we stopped for lunch I noticed the trailer wasn't charging. The new second battery was down to 7.45V. Put a jumper lead across from the main and it brought the voltage up (thanks Tim!). Will see what happens tomorrow.

[Bundalene]

Nice to hear of your travels Derek & Brenda.

If you want an interesting side trip, Mt.Kaputar National Park is lovely. In between Moree & Narrabri. They reckon you can see one third of NSW from the top.

We will be here till Wednesday 22nd July and heading out after then. You are more than welcome to stay here if you want to within the next few days. Warm bed, lots of room and about 30ks to the city.


Travel safely,

Erich & Sheila

[Captain_Rightfoot]

I'm not sure if this helps but when I had dual battery problems, they were actually charging problems that were caused by LR not tightening the earth strap on the gearbox. I guess I'm saying to check that things are charging. You should be able to leave your engel on for days...

[dmdigital]

Nice to hear of your travels Derek & Brenda.

If you want an interesting side trip, Mt.Kaputar National Park is lovely. In between Moree & Narrabri. They reckon you can see one third of NSW from the top.

We will be here till Wednesday 22nd July and heading out after then. You are more than welcome to stay here if you want to within the next few days. Warm bed, lots of room and about 30ks to the city.


Travel safely,

Erich & Sheila
Thanks might check it out. Want to spend a day at the WP zoo so will see how things go.


I'm not sure if this helps but when I had dual battery problems, they were actually charging problems that were caused by LR not tightening the earth strap on the gearbox. I guess I'm saying to check that things are charging. You should be able to leave your engel on for days...
No the rest of the system is charging and when I by-pass the SC80 the battery charges OK. I know what you mean about the Engel - it was on for 6 hours yesterday without the vehicle being driven, the new battery is only 90Ah reserve (and its not a Deep Cycle), but that should be enough for at least 10 hours runtime.

[JamesH]

Ive had similar troubles. My system is much more basic than the SC80; mine is a manual switch which isolates the second battery. Well the switch wore out and one batttery got sick from being uncharged and took the other one out with it. So my very amateur advice is even when you located and rectified the issue check that your batteries are still in good nick.

You install a dual battery system so you can run your Engel 24/7, and a couple of hours of versa lite each night, and some nights you might run the shower pump too; and not worry about it turning over next morning. I'm a worrier and i hate worring about flat batteries.

Six hours goes nowhere near flattening a charged battery and an uncharged battery is suspect even if the cause is known.

[dmdigital]

Well we are in wet, cold Dubbo tonight. Our first damp day of the trip and I'm sure it won't be the last. After a couple of calls to drivesafe and a few checks with the multimeter it looks to be a problem with the SC80.

Can't thank drivesafe enough for his help, advice and organising a replacement.

We have a powered site for the next two nights and can run the Engel and the Camper (and all our gear) off the onboard batteries for about 3 days without recharging if it came down to it.

We are hoping to go to the WP zoo tomorrow and for a break in the weather.

[Captain_Rightfoot]

Well we are in wet, cold Dubbo tonight. Our first damp day of the trip and I'm sure it won't be the last. After a couple of calls to drivesafe and a few checks with the multimeter it looks to be a problem with the SC80.

Can't thank drivesafe enough for his help, advice and organising a replacement.

We have a powered site for the next two nights and can run the Engel and the Camper (and all our gear) off the onboard batteries for about 3 days without recharging if it came down to it.

We are hoping to go to the WP zoo tomorrow and for a break in the weather.

That's great news about the DBS being sorted.

I know it may be too late now but we went to the night safari. A bit expensive but they take you on 3 animal feeding tours, and put you up in a flash tent, and then feed you like a king. The audience you get with the animals makes they normal zoo experience all a bit remote.

[dmdigital]

Well spend a great day at WP Zoo. Got out just as it started to hail, been a great day up to that point. Only took 228 photos. Driving the Defender around in 1st siting easily on the 10kph speed limit really pinged off the car drivers. BM wouldn't let me drop it into low 1 and use the anti stall:twisted:

Here's the scene that never made it to either Madagascar movie...
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/07/816.jpg

[dullbird]

that monkey has a question mark hanging out of his butt:D

[drivesafe]

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/07/816.jpg

Toyota owners :angel:

[Captain_Rightfoot]

He's just looking to see what the other monkey had for lunch - yesterday! :o

[dmdigital]

Moving on from Lemurs...

We left Dubbo as the frost formed after sun up this morning. Woke up and though "great no frost", about 7:45 everything started to freeze over:mad:

Anyway drove on to Oberon tonight. Stopped in at the Dish in Parkes but didn't stay long as they were getting ready for the open weekend tomorrow and Sunday - 40th Anniversary of the Luna landing.

Saw our first other Puma too. Parked in the car park at the Dish was another silver Puma (09 model as it had convex mirrors), SA plates and Cape Jaffa stickers on each front door. Old bullbar from a previous Defender/County and also they'd added the two rear bench seats from an older 110 (that wouldn't be legal I would have thought). Didn't see them around so don't know who it was.

Anyway the first fault with the car is appearing:(

Can you guess what it is? Given its a Puma engine...

Anyway it's booked in to Trivetts for Monday (thanks Scott) and we will be heading straight to Sydney tomorrow.

[TimNZ]

Wouldn't be the vac pump by any chance??

Tim

[dmdigital]

Was I that obvious:p

Yes, it has a very, very slight weep around the base. So something to monitor whilst we drive to Sydney.

[Captain_Rightfoot]

Sorry to hear. :(

[dmdigital]

Well I've been slack and haven't done anything to the blog or this post since Friday.

We have spend yesterday and today with Bundalene and have been very well looked after. Had a great time on the night tour of Jubilee cave at Janolan on Friday night - drive in, in the dark from Oberon was a little terifying in the Puma though!

Anyway the Vacuum pump weep hasn't got any worse and tomorrow we are off to Trivetts for a replacment.

Saw a nice Defender, either blue or green, with a white roof and a D1 with some serious muddies give us a wave on the way down from Lithgow to Sydney.

[dmdigital]

Here's the hot lap we did at Bathurst! Notice we are off the sealed road, like a Defender should be;)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/10/1166.jpg

And here is the only other Puma we've seen on the trip (until we got to Lou and Ian's tonight).
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/07/616.jpg

Got the Vacuum pump replaced today with a nice shiny new one. Also an oil change as the Valvoline that they put in in Townsville had deteriorated in 3000km. Will have to see how well the Mobil that Trivett uses goes. Anyway Puma is purring again!

[LandyAndy]

Hey DM
Stoping there would normally invoke the safety car so the holdens can catch up:cool::cool::cool:
Enjoying the thread,keep it up.
Andrew

[dullbird]

DM & BM have just left the building and are on there way to Canberra:)

[dmdigital]

Well we made it to miserable, wet and cold Canberra. Will do the war memorial and few other bits tomorrow. For some reason - possibly the weather - we are in a motel for two nights and not the camper. Yeah we are being wooses:p

[Pedro_The_Swift]

The Memorial will keep you busy all day,,,;)

[Narangga]

Well we made it to miserable, wet and cold Canberra. Will do the war memorial and few other bits tomorrow. For some reason - possibly the weather - we are in a motel for two nights and not the camper. Yeah we are being wooses:p


The Memorial will keep you busy all day,,,;)

The Memorial I'm off to tomorrow will as well :D and it's nowhere near as cold or wet ;)

[Bundalene]

Stop teasing Dale:)

In Canberra... you are allowed to be Woosies....

It IS a cold place:(


....But has a lot of history. So enjoy it,:D:D

[Grockle]

Derek,what happened to the oil ?,glad your still having agood time.

[dmdigital]

Yes War Memorial will take up most of the day.

Thanks Dale, don't jump on a Croc tomorrow at Memorial:p

As for the oil... the Valvoline they use had obviously broken down as it went very black and was starting to be consumed (used about a litre). The Castrol I've used previously will do this to but in about twice to three times the mileage. See how the Mobil oil that Trivett put in goes.

[LandyAndy]

If its cold in Canberra the Pollies must be on holiday.They blech hot air all day!!!!
Andrew

[dmdigital]

Well we went to the war memorial and stayed about an hour. All the "new" exhibits are in darkened rooms and was very hard to see everything (especially the ME262 and Komet) and the WWI exhibits hadn't changed enough. Rather disappointed in it actually. Like Stockman's Hall of Fame lots to read but poor choice of font, colour and lighting made it very awkward. Went to the Glass Exhibition - not much to see and no artists working so headed of to Tidbinbilla and looked at space stuff.

Off to Albury tomorrow, doubt the weather will improve much. Did enquire about going via Cooma - Snowy Mtbn Hwy or Alpine Way - but camper trailer was the least of the issues as they were requiring chains to be fitted to all vehicles on both routes this morning. So it will be Hume Hwy again tomorrow:(

Did get a nice wave from a white Defender today:)

[Pedro_The_Swift]

I'd do a quick "lap" of the runway at cooma,,,:angel:
just because.

mate heading west over the Snowy Highway would be great untill near the end where you go downhill--:eek:

[dmdigital]

Well we're in Albury last night and tonight. Caught up with some old friends and got a wave from a tray back 110 coming in to Beechworth this morning. Did a few of the Rutherglen wineries today, bought a nice VERY old Muscut to enjoy on these cold evenings and a few bottles of Durif.

Things have sure changed in A/W in the last 11 years. Seems strange driving the roads without the trucks everywhere and I Have to admit they've done a good job of the infernal by-pass.

Roadworks from Yass to Albury were a pain but couldn't believe the work being done.

Off to Shepp tomorrow. Unsure which way we will go, may swing out to Corowa or may go down to Benalla. Got the day to drive there and its not that far.

Had a park light globe blow on the way down from Canberra but otherwise the Puma's going well.

[Grockle]

Derek,just a thought re bulb blowing,the side light wires can chafe on the wing hole and short or blow the bulb so have a look when you change the bulb.:BigThumb:

[dmdigital]

Thanks but already checked. Currently sitting outside a Maccas with free wifi at the Glenroen service centre

[Narangga]

Take your time and enjoy it and don't rush back. The road out as far as the jump up was horrendous yesterday and that's before Garma!

Good to hear you're enjoying the trip - if not the cold!

[DiscoMick]

Have been enjoying the reports. Keep it up.
A question about your Kimberley camper - it looks to have a lot of weight forward of the axle and on the tow hitch - is that right and is it a problem?

[dmdigital]

Well we've made it Maryborough in western Vic after a couple of nights in Albury and then Tatura. I'll update my blog over the coming days as I'll have internet access for a few days now.

Anyway all is going well, Puma is running well after the oil change by Trivett. Never did get out of Tony Ireland what type of Valvoline oil they put in, but I suspect it wasn't correct for the Puma.

As for the front weight on the Kimberley, the pic's I've posted had 40L of diesel and a Honda EU20 generator in the front bin along with the 2nd spare for the Puma and an extra 10L of ULP for the EU20 on top. This all does pull the nose weight up and I am now running with the diesel jerries empty which helps. The other thing is the rear water tank is used quicker than the front (something I need to re-plumb) and this also shifts the weight forward.

Anyway off to Melbourne Wednesday to drop the trailer off for some warranty work and then sail to Tassie on Sunday.

[dmdigital]

Well drove over to Ballarat today in my folks Merc Vito Van. Saw a white "Defender" with a lot of County stuff on it outside Aldi and passed a number of Disco's. First time I've driven a vehicle other than the Puma in 30 days. Not only that but this thing is an auto and almost turns in its own length! As expected it was a cold damp day in Ballarat.

Anyway off to Melbourne tomorrow for the day.

[bblaze]

May catch up with you on the boat Derek, are you doing the sunday night or day sailing
cheers
blaze

[Grockle]

Derek,are you out of the draft yet ?

[dmdigital]

May catch up with you on the boat Derek, are you doing the sunday night or day sailing
cheers
blaze
We are on the night sailing.

[bblaze]

We are on the night sailing.
I am booking the sunday night trip tommorrow (as long as they have a booking, never had a problem before) My mobile is 0419 588 633, send me a text if you want to catch up for a beer/ coffee.
cheers
blaze

[dmdigital]

Will keep it in mind.

[bblaze]

first time that I havnt been able to get my chosen day to do a crossing, seems that because there was no sailing on saturday that sunday was full. Now sailing Friday
cheers
blaze

[dmdigital]

We booked 6 months ago. Sorry to hear you won't be on the boat. Have a good voyage over.

[dmdigital]

Forgot to mention I exchanged a nice friendly wave with a green Defender with a white roof when passing through Chewton this afternoon. Was it anyone on here?

[Lionel]

first time that I havnt been able to get my chosen day to do a crossing, seems that because there was no sailing on saturday that sunday was full. Now sailing Friday
cheers
blaze

It probably doesn't help that they have "Spirit 1" in drydock for overhaul.

Cheers,

Lionel

[Lionel]

Anyway off to Melbourne Wednesday to drop the trailer off for some warranty work and then sail to Tassie on Sunday.

Hope you enjoy the Bass Strait crossing! Is it your first time?

The ships they have these days (though one is in dry dock for overhaul at the moment), are pretty fast. They can travel at 30 kts, and average 27, allowing a journey time of 9 1/2 to 10 hrs, compared with 13 hrs for the previous ships.

I was in Tassie last week, and, in spite of rough weather, the ride was pretty good. The ships have stabilisers, so there is very little roll.

Cheers,

Lionel

[dmdigital]

Thanks Lionel, I knew about the dry dock as they have scheduled no sail days listed even at the beginning of the year.

We actually lived in Tassie and crossed Bass Strait back in 92 and returned in 93. I'm sure this ship will be an improvement from 16 years ago. From memory it wasn't long after our return to the big island in 93 that new ships were introduced.

Anyway we are in cold Mooroolbark at present and doing a few things around Melbourne today and tomorrow as well as catching up with friends.

Exchanged a wave with the Defender in Castlemain yesterday pretty sure its the same one we passed the other day in Chewton - its blue, not green.

[dmdigital]

Well we are on the southern island. Off the boat less than 2 hours and it started to snow:)

Got some pics to post but little internet access at present. On our way to Stanley today staying the night near Boat Harbour. Head down the South West tomorrow.

[dmdigital]

Dove Lake
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/1794.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/08/982.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/1795.jpg

Guide Falls
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/1796.jpg

...and finally... why you should be very worried about the wild life in Tasmania:eek:
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/1797.jpg

[justinc]

Derek, great photos! When will you be in and around Hobart etc?

JC

[Chucaro]

Photos are missing :(
Enjoy your trip and be carefull with the Hobart mob :D

[Chucaro]

Ops now I can see them, beautiful photos.
How many gallons of brandy you have consumed in the last couple of days?
Come back to the XXXX country :D

[dmdigital]

Derek, great photos! When will you be in and around Hobart etc?

JC
All going well Friday or Saturday, can you PM me you number again, I think I've lost it:(

[muddymech]

that looks great, miss the white stuff

[DiscoMick]

How's the heater working?

[Grockle]

Brr,like Glossop in the High Peak.

[dmdigital]

How's the heater working?
Heater in the Puma works VERY well. Almost to well!

As an added bonus it also warms up the hand brake so you have a nice radiator to rest the left leg against after you've turned the foot outlet off.

[dmdigital]

What a night last night was on the NW coast. Thunder, heavy rains and cyclonic winds. We woke to a lovely blue sky though with a light but cold breeze. Now 12 hours later the weather's turned again. Mind you we are staying at Arthur River in a B&B about 50m from the west cost shore line.

Saw a very neat and original S1 being used as a work vehicle and a SIII as well today. There was also a Td5 Defender in Stanley.

Off to Strahan tomorrow.

Oh, almost forgot, nearly lost the driver's side, side step. The nyloc's had worked themselves very loose. All tightened and OK now. Strange as they were tight when I left Melbourne and the roads here are very good - even the dirt ones so far!

[bblaze]

Is the series 1 you seen on the side of the river near the Parks head quarters, theres one in behind the head quarters. Wish I had known you were down that way I would have slipped down and showed you some local sights.
cheers
blaze

[Jock The Rock]

Last time I was down that way there was a Puma in Strahn as well, white from memory :)

I'll be down in Hobart on Saturday so might catcha there

[dmdigital]

Is the series 1 you seen on the side of the river near the Parks head quarters, theres one in behind the head quarters. Wish I had known you were down that way I would have slipped down and showed you some local sights.
cheers
blaze
No this was near Smithton and the guy was gathering firewood (I think). Might have been his first vehicle too.

[dullbird]

What a night last night was on the NW coast. Thunder, heavy rains and cyclonic winds. We woke to a lovely blue sky though with a light but cold breeze. Now 12 hours later the weather's turned again. Mind you we are staying at Arthur River in a B&B about 50m from the west cost shore line.

Saw a very neat and original S1 being used as a work vehicle and a SIII as well today. There was also a Td5 Defender in Stanley.

Off to Strahan tomorrow.


Oh, almost forgot, nearly lost the driver's side, side step. The nyloc's had worked themselves very loose. All tightened and OK now. Strange as they were tight when I left Melbourne and the roads here are very good - even the dirt ones so far!

mmmmm how strange:angel:

perhaps keep your eye out for another Puma going around with the driver step missing:D

[dmdigital]

Well we are in Strahan tonight. Going on the Railway and the Cruise over the coming days. Also saw a white Puma parked down the road on the way in to town. Only the second one we've seen on the road in 5 weeks!

Had fun in Zeehan...

Will it fit?
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/1667.jpg

No problem (note the mirrors)!
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/1659.jpg

What else would you drive on the old Argent Railway but an Argent Defender!!:D

This is the Argent Tramway, Spray Tunnel at Zeehan, 2.20m wide and 3.00m high on the sign. Last time I drove through this was in a much smaller Subaru L series.

[Captain_Rightfoot]

Well we are in Strahan tonight. Going on the Railway and the Cruise over the coming days. Also saw a white Puma parked down the road on the way in to town. Only the second one we've seen on the road in 5 weeks!

Had fun in Zeehan...

Will it fit?

No problem (note the mirrors)!
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/1659.jpg

What else would you drive on the old Argent Railway but an Argent Defender!!:D

This is the Argent Tramway, Spray Tunnel at Zeehan, 2.20m wide and 3.00m high on the sign. Last time I drove through this was in a much smaller Subaru L series.

That's what we will call the tunnel of love!

[Narangga]

Well we are in Strahan tonight.

Best stay down that way for a while as Garma has started! :(

Having said that it was good to have Eric & Shiela here for dinner last (Wed) night. They only managed to hit on buff on the way in :eek:

[Cap]

Would like to say g'day if your in Hobart. Let me know, maybe we can coordinate something through Justin :)

[dmdigital]

Still in Strahan, did the river cruise today. Really good, despite the hale showers. Off to 'obart town tomorrow.

So far I have 28GB or 2129 pictures to sort through which I am doing as we go.


Best stay down that way for a while as Garma has started! :(

Having said that it was good to have Eric & Shiela here for dinner last (Wed) night. They only managed to hit on buff on the way in :eek:
They hit a buff:eek: Are they OK? How's the Defender?


Would like to say g'day if your in Hobart. Let me know, maybe we can coordinate something through Justin :)
Give Justin a call. We will only be there very briefly on Sat afternoon, Sunday morning.

[one_iota]

Last time I was down that way there was a Puma in Strahn as well, white from memory :)

I'll be down in Hobart on Saturday so might catcha there

How long ago was that Jock? I was there just after Christmas.

[dmdigital]

There was a white one on the side of the road on the way in from Zeehan. Only saw it the once though but definitely a Puma bonnet and post 07 Defender badge on rear.

Update: It's two doors down from where we are staying. Just hadn't noticed as it's parked undercover.

[Jock The Rock]

Thats the one, about 3 doors down from the roundabout?

Can't have been you mate :p

[Captain_Rightfoot]

So far I have 28GB or 2129 pictures to sort through which I am doing as we go.



WOW Shooting in the RAW hey?

[Piddler]

Well we are on the southern island. Off the boat less than 2 hours and it started to snow:)

Got some pics to post but little internet access at present. On our way to Stanley today staying the night near Boat Harbour. Head down the South West tomorrow.

We are at Sisters Beach nearby.

Bugger about the ordinary weather enjoy not

cheers

[dmdigital]

We drove around Sisters Beach the other morning. Nice little location!


Yes the Puma in Strahan is just down from the roundabout.


Of course I'm shooting in RAW... is there another setting:confused: Actually I shoot JPEG's for signs etc at locations, saves on carry around brochures of the places. Also the pano shots fill up some space every so often and a cheats way of long exposure (when not carrying the tripod) is to set the camera to 5fps and shoot of 10-20 shots then merge in photoshop to give the same effect as on shoot at 2".

[dmdigital]

Had a wet and rather ordinary trip from Strahan to Hobart today. Just said good-bye to JC and family who cooked us a great meal. Couple of bottles of Moorilla Estate helped too. Once again it was great to put faces to names and meet someone from the forum. Found out we were window shopping someone else from the forum's boutique in Cygnet today as well, if we had only known, ours was the silver Puma parked across the road from the shop.

Anyway tomorrow we will head up the east coast. My apologies to the rest of you from down here as we are very short on time and should have made a full 2 weeks in Tassie but unfortunately couldn't fit it in.:(

[LandyAndy]

I reckon you would have enjoyed company with JC,he called in here for a short time a few months ago,nice bloke:cool::cool::cool::cool:
Andrew

[justinc]

Derek and Brenda,

Time was too short:( Have HEAPS to talk about! You have been warned, when we are up your way, a few late nights are on the cards! Have a great trip you two!
Enjoyed the company, and great wine:cool:
Justin, Juliet, Rose and Beth
:):):):)

[Cap]

....Found out we were window shopping someone else from the forum's boutique in Cygnet today as well...(

Sorry missed out on meeting you guys, but due to circumstances couldnt. Next time eh ;)

At a guess, I recon that shop in Cygnet was DiscoPete :D

[dmdigital]

In Bicheno tonight.

Just to let you know JC I'm finishing off the Moo Brew as I type this:)

[justinc]

In Bicheno tonight.

Just to let you know JC I'm finishing off the Moo Brew as I type this:)

Ha! so, you have more stashed away then!!:D

I'm just snacking on some Bruny Island Cheese, a shiraz grape skin encrusted little number....aged nicely and goes well with a drop of red...:cool:

:):)

JC etc

[Narangga]

In Bicheno tonight.



And I thought it was cold ther in January :o

[dmdigital]

Well in Launceston for our last night in Tassie. Couple of pints of Moo Brew (on tap:)) with dinner tonight. Had a really wet start leaving Bicheno which meant we didn't spend as much time on the coast and Bay of Fires etc as we'd have liked.

Puma seems to have the EGR valve sticking open. Its OK in the morning but after a day's drive it stutters like crazy in 1st through 3rd if you are a little aggressive and the tail pipe is nice and sooty.

Hope to go to the Sea Horse Aquarium tomorrow and a few of the Tamar Wineries.

[LandyAndy]

Hey DM
Moo Brew,what is it???
Need as many good reasons to visit Tassie besides JC,the scenery and Targa Tasmania:cool::cool::cool::cool:
DERBY FIRST:cool::cool::cool:
Andrew

[dmdigital]

Moo Brew Beer (http://www.moobrew.com.au)

Also tried some Perry Cider yeterday. Bloody hell that'll knock your socks off!

[dmdigital]

Well sitting in Macca's in Devenport. There's a big red ferry across the estuary:D So tonight's good-bye to Tassie. Tomorrow we will be in Melbourne for a while, getting the car serviced and picking up the Kamper.

[Grockle]

How's the truck holding together Derek ?

[justinc]

Well sitting in Macca's in Devenport. There's a big red ferry across the estuary:D So tonight's good-bye to Tassie. Tomorrow we will be in Melbourne for a while, getting the car serviced and picking up the Kamper.

Goodbye:(, See you again you two!:)

Next time north of the 26th parrallel:D

JC and Family

[Narangga]

Goodbye:(, See you again you two!:)

Next time north of the 26th parrallel:D

JC and Family

13th actually (if it's here in Gove) :)

[justinc]

13th actually (if it's here in Gove) :)

Ooops:o

Yes, gove is where I meant:)

JC

[Narangga]

You're certainly welcome if you ever make it up this way.

[justinc]

DAle,

would really love to come for a look, that part of the country has always fascinated me. Soon, hopefully:D

JC

[Narangga]

Better be quick - your girls will soon be in to senior high school.

[justinc]

Better be quick - your girls will soon be in to senior high school.

One already is this coming year (yr 11). 4 years for the other. We'll pretty much have to wait until they are finished their education now, but who knows, 4 weeks to travel, with a week either side of the fortnight mid year break...?? Could still be a possibilty:)

JC

[dmdigital]

Dale, aren't we closer to the 12th parallel? The 13th is definitely to the south:confused:


Currently have the Puma in at MLR for a few things to be done and sitting in Macca's using the cheap WiFi. Luckily their coffee is OK or I might go elsewhere.

[Rugrat]

Currently have the Puma in at MLR for a few things to be done and sitting in Macca's using the cheap WiFi. Luckily their coffee is OK or I might go elsewhere.

Hmmm - maybe I can get John or Matt to steal your rear passanger side seat - my replacement (due to frame issues) is still on the slow boat from the Mother land.

Maccas coffees ok :) Brekkies are better than HJacks..

[miky]

Currently have the Puma in at MLR for a few things to be done and sitting in Macca's using the cheap WiFi. Luckily their coffee is OK or I might go elsewhere.

Free WiFi is good.
The Puma in again? Hope it's not major...

[dmdigital]

Hmmm - maybe I can get John or Matt to steal your rear passanger side seat - my replacement (due to frame issues) is still on the slow boat from the Mother land.

Maccas coffees ok :) Brekkies are better than HJacks..

As long as they leave the M&M seat cover behind I probably wouldn't notice at first. Unless you mean the very rear seats (6&7) in which case they are sitting back in Gove.

[Rugrat]

As long as they leave the M&M seat cover behind I probably wouldn't notice at first. Unless you mean the very rear seats (6&7) in which case they are sitting back in Gove.

No not 6&7 just no5.

as long as the M&Ms are the grey colour they;ll match mine :p and then i'd have a spare one...

Are they doing the ECU update to yours whilst they have it?

[dmdigital]

Grey... no mine are hot pink... honest:angel:

ECU upgrade:confused: Will have to check with them on that one!

[Rugrat]

Grey... no mine are hot pink... honest:angel:

ECU upgrade:confused: Will have to check with them on that one!


Yeah - Hot Pink - would fit in well :)

ECU was done on ours last week - its to do with the 'rough idle and limp mode' that occurs to us southerners... Either of the guys would be able to help. And yes it does make a difference to the power when its a cold start engine.

[dullbird]

Yeah - Hot Pink - would fit in well :)

ECU was done on ours last week - its to do with the 'rough idle and limp mode' that occurs to us southerners... Either of the guys would be able to help. And yes it does make a difference to the power when its a cold start engine.


Funny we have been waiting for ours to be done since July...however I have heard through other sources that there are problems with the new software upgrade. causing other issues...what issues I dont know yet

[Narangga]

Goodbye:(, See you again you two!:)

Next time north of the 26th parrallel:D

JC and Family


Dale, aren't we closer to the 12th parallel?

CORRECT


The 13th is definitely to the south:confused:

CORRECT - hence me saying NORTH of the 13th.

Too much MOO Brew eh????? ;)

[dmdigital]

Can't have too much Moo Brew... just have to find it now we're back on the big island:(

[Narangga]

More places to travel on the big one - probably better weather too :angel:

[Rugrat]

Funny we have been waiting for ours to be done since July...however I have heard through other sources that there are problems with the new software upgrade. causing other issues...what issues I dont know yet

:eek: Hope not - but then again we only had the software upgrade not the connectors 'played' with so can only see what happens. First impressions is that it has improved it - today was the first 'cold and damp' morning when i would have expected a possible shudder - nope drove beautiful.
Would love to know what issues may occur when / if you find out.

[dmdigital]

More places to travel on the big one - probably better weather too :angel:
Yes, it's cold, windy and foggy... just like it was in Tassie:p

[dullbird]

:eek: Hope not - but then again we only had the software upgrade not the connectors 'played' with so can only see what happens. First impressions is that it has improved it - today was the first 'cold and damp' morning when i would have expected a possible shudder - nope drove beautiful.
Would love to know what issues may occur when / if you find out.

If I hear I will let you know but as far as i'm aware the software upgrade has been quarantined.
I dont know what your referring to as the connectors being played with though:confused:...should only be a software upgrade to the ecu.

[dmdigital]

Got the Puma back today. Running a lot better. No ECU software to be applied as it is no longer being done. Also got the Kamper back too, needed the car to pick it up.


Aaaaaaaarrrrrgggghhhhh Melbourne traffic in a Defender with a large off road trailer behind it. Only bullied my way through traffic twice and came within millimetres of wiping out an idiot taxi driver. If I could have got the cab's number or rego I would have reported him. I think his passenger had gone white as a sheet though.

[Dinty]

G'day All, Melbourne traffic,, LOL I remember back in 1991, I went down there to pick up a diesel engine, this D/head in a car indicated that I should be going faster, when we stopped at some traffic lights ( dunno where) he got out of his car and started into me about my speed, I told to F*** off and have his heart attack somewhere else, I was doing approx 90K's per/H prior to this event, he is lucky I was feeling generous on the day otherwise I might have nudged him at the next set of lights, bloody d/head anyway mate you have a safe trip, luv the pix posted cheers Dennis:angel:

[Chucaro]

Cyclist are the nightmare for me when I have the motorhome.
With the Disco and trailer I did not care much.
Next time when I go back to Tasmania I will take the "short cut" and come to Melbourne by the Great Ocean Road 5am :D

[Rugrat]

If I hear I will let you know but as far as i'm aware the software upgrade has been quarantined.
I dont know what your referring to as the connectors being played with though:confused:...should only be a software upgrade to the ecu.

Double GULP!!!! :confused:
Ok the connectors were apparently all electrical connectors under the hood needed to be cleaned - it was going to take quite a few hours. Any idea when they canned the ECU upgrade? We only had it service on the Wednesday prior - so less than 10 days ago.
Oh well - hope she is issue free whlst out in the red centre next month :(


Aaaaaaaarrrrrgggghhhhh Melbourne traffic in a Defender with a large off road trailer behind it. Only bullied my way through traffic twice and came within millimetres of wiping out an idiot taxi driver.
LMAO - its fun especially in the peak along the Tulla or Ring road.. the 'idiot taxi driver' was probably to busy looking at his Tom Tom because IMHO 85% of them have no idea where they are or where they're going...

[dullbird]

i think it was put on hold something like 5/6 days after its release

[dmdigital]

Well we are moving west. Currently in McLaren Vale. We've decided to skip Kangaroo Island as it will cut 3 days off of the WA leg and we can come back to it easier on another trip. Shame though as the weather at present is fantastic.

Got a friendly wave from a white county on the road this morning.

Puma is running much better with the new clutch.

[dmdigital]

After the winds last night and all today driving westward I'm rather glad we skipped KI as it would have been a rather blowy stay. Like yesterday the weather has been good and we started the morning with a few wineries in the McLaren Vale district before finishing the day at Pt Germain.

Did the fuel calc's this evening :eek:
Distance travelled up to refuel in Adelaide: 12,899km
Fuel used: 1946L
Average consumption: 14.4L/100km (I'm towing about 1.5 tonnes of trailer)
Best consumption between fills: 9.7L/100km (in Tassie)
Worst consumption between fills: 17.6L/100km

[LandyAndy]

Hey DM
When you get over here let us WA AULROians know what you are up to.
If you get to Esperance,well worth looking CraigE and Jamo up.Nice people and Im sure they would take time out to spend some with you if they can afford it.
Andrew

[d2dave]

Got the Puma back today. Running a lot better. No ECU software to be applied as it is no longer being done. Also got the Kamper back too, needed the car to pick it up.


Aaaaaaaarrrrrgggghhhhh Melbourne traffic in a Defender with a large off road trailer behind it. Only bullied my way through traffic twice and came within millimetres of wiping out an idiot taxi driver. If I could have got the cab's number or rego I would have reported him. I think his passenger had gone white as a sheet though.

Derek,
After the story in the Herald Sun (last Sun I think) reporting the taxi driver would be a waste of time. Seems the authorities don't seem to care about what the taxis get up too or they don't have the resources.

Dave.

[dmdigital]

Well we are about to head off to WA. Should get past Streaky Bay tomorrow, but not sure how far. Will be going through Esperance so keep an eye out.


Snapped this shot at Robe the other day for those of you who still wondered what was at the end of the rainbow:D
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/03/1244.jpg

[Grockle]

Nice pic Derek

[dmdigital]

Left Elliston this morning after a wild and windy night. Everything survivied OK. I’m still glad we didn’t go to Kangaroo Island as they had gusts over 90kph last night!

First thing was a walk over the dunes to the Elliston beach and bay area where the wind was gale force. Then it was pack up the trailer and on to the Elliston tour drive along the foreshore. This too was spectacular and I got a few good shots. The drive is dotted with what can only be described as “interesting” sculptures.

After that it was off up the road to Streaky Bay. Anyway after about 40km the car started to develop an asthmatic wheeze when underload, definitely from the air intake, but where, about 2km after looking for it we lost all power and the Scangauge said no turbo boost and no mass air pressure. So it was out again as we obviously weren’t going to make Port Kenny (5km away) and check all the intercooler and turbo hoses for leaks again. Turn around and limp back to Port Lincoln where there is thankfully still a dealer. This was a distance of some 210km which we covered in a little over 6 hours. There is a large hole in the intercooler inlet hose so tomorrow morning we will get this repaired/replaced and be back on our way. Normally aspirated the Defender wouldn’t have been "too" bad, but add 1.5t of trailer behind it and several step hills... well it was very sluggish.

The IC hose has been worn through from the steering joint:mad: I remember checking this when we left home 53 days ago and there was no sign of rubbing after 12,000km but after 26,500km its a very different story. I'll get some pics tomorrow morning and post them up.

Thanks to MLR, JC and Port Lincoln LR for their help too.

If anyone still want's an SVX there's a shiny new one for sale in Port Lincoln.

[justinc]

Left Elliston this morning after a wild and windy night. Everything survivied OK. I’m still glad we didn’t go to Kangaroo Island as they had gusts over 90kph last night!

First thing was a walk over the dunes to the Elliston beach and bay area where the wind was gale force. Then it was pack up the trailer and on to the Elliston tour drive along the foreshore. This too was spectacular and I got a few good shots. The drive is dotted with what can only be described as “interesting” sculptures.

After that it was off up the road to Streaky Bay. Anyway after about 40km the car started to develop an asthmatic wheeze when underload, definitely from the air intake, but where, about 2km after looking for it we lost all power and the Scangauge said no turbo boost and no mass air pressure. So it was out again as we obviously weren’t going to make Port Kenny (5km away) and check all the intercooler and turbo hoses for leaks again. Turn around and limp back to Port Lincoln where there is thankfully still a dealer. This was a distance of some 210km which we covered in a little over 6 hours. There is a large hole in the intercooler inlet hose so tomorrow morning we will get this repaired/replaced and be back on our way. Normally aspirated the Defender wouldn’t have been "too" bad, but add 1.5t of trailer behind it and several step hills... well it was very sluggish.

The IC hose has been worn through from the steering joint:mad: I remember checking this when we left home 53 days ago and there was no sign of rubbing after 12,000km but after 26,500km its a very different story. I'll get some pics tomorrow morning and post them up.

Thanks to MLR, JC and Port Lincoln LR for their help too.

If anyone still want's an SVX there's a shiny new one for sale in Port Lincoln.

...Minus an intercooler hose...should make it a bit cheaper:p

Glad you guys are all sorted!:)

JC

[Chucaro]

I have to ask you a favor, as soon as you get back, have a rest and jump on the 1999 Tdi Dfe and do the same trip just to do a comparo between the 2 Defes.
It would not suprise me if the Tdi do the trip trouble free :)

Thank you for your reports

[Narangga]

Keep driving Derek. I need you to get home and program my new key so I don't get locked out again :eek:

[dmdigital]

Pic's of IC inlet hose where steering joint rubbed. It's been cut and a piece of metal pipe inserted and then calbe tied out of harms way. Puma's purring again:)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/735.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/736.jpg

[Chucaro]

Would be a better option in the future to fit a silicone hose if they are available?

[dmdigital]

Looking into that option. Still have to make sure it doesn't rub.

[dmdigital]

Can recommend Pt Lincoln Land Rover as very helpful and a Land Rover enthusiast.

Today, after getting the hose fixed, we got as far as Streaky Bay and called it quits. Let us catch up on washing and all the little things for travelling. As well as dry the canvas off from a very wet pack this morning in the rin at Pt Lincoln.

All going well expect to be in Esperence on Monday night.

Near Elliston:
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/663.jpg

Or slowed down to look calm...
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/664.jpg

[LandyAndy]

Do all Pumas breath that heavily????
If so a ProVent would be a good investment.
Andrew

[Grockle]

Can recommend Pt Lincoln Land Rover as very helpful and a Land Rover enthusiast.

Today, after getting the hose fixed, we got as far as Streaky Bay and called it quits. Let us catch up on washing and all the little things for travelling. As well as dry the canvas off from a very wet pack this morning in the rin at Pt Lincoln.

All going well expect to be in Esperence on Monday night.

Near Elliston:
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/663.jpg

Or slowed down to look calm...
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/664.jpg

Nice place to do the washing,should dry in the wind !

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Mate! time to replace that tyre!!
:p

[Tombie]

Can recommend Pt Lincoln Land Rover as very helpful and a Land Rover enthusiast.

You'd be in the minority there... :(

Especially in summer.... He tends to be rather agro working during the heat ;)

[BlueWagon]

You'd be in the minority there... :(

Especially in summer.... He tends to be rather agro working during the heat ;)

Sorry, I'd have to disagree. I've had excellent service and help from Port Lincoln Land Rover and would recommend them to anyone else with a Land Rover.

[dmdigital]

Well I can only call it as I found it and they were very helpful for me.

I know know why everyone say's its easier to leave WA than drive to it. The strong westerlies played havoc with the fuel economy today. Fortunately Defenders are so aerodynamic that they don't get knocked around to much;)

Stopping at one lookout I got the door wrenched out my hand as I tried to open it and then had to struggle to close the thing. Still, managed a few more pictures and put the roof rack to use once again as a photographic platform (when it wasn't blowing a gale).

[dmdigital]

Well the head wind died off just before Belladonia and we have made it to Norseman today. Must say it's better than I expected.

Fuel consumption in the Puma today was :eek: I think at one point we averaged about 21L/100km when we are normally getting 14-15L/100km. I was limited to about 80kph for a lot of the day. Chatter on CH40 from the trucks was along the lines of when will it ease off and having to go as low as 50kph.

Off to Esperance tomorrow.

[LandyAndy]

Another day Derek and you guys would have had a tail wind.Fair size High coming in.It blew its guts out here saturday and sunday.
Andrew

[Captain_Rightfoot]

Well the head wind died off just before Belladonia and we have made it to Norseman today. Must say it's better than I expected.

Fuel consumption in the Puma today was :eek: I think at one point we averaged about 21L/100km when we are normally getting 14-15L/100km. I was limited to about 80kph for a lot of the day. Chatter on CH40 from the trucks was along the lines of when will it ease off and having to go as low as 50kph.

Off to Esperance tomorrow.

Did you consider asking to change flight level? :D :eek:

[isuzurover]

Well the head wind died off just before Belladonia and we have made it to Norseman today. Must say it's better than I expected.

Fuel consumption in the Puma today was :eek: I think at one point we averaged about 21L/100km when we are normally getting 14-15L/100km. I was limited to about 80kph for a lot of the day. Chatter on CH40 from the trucks was along the lines of when will it ease off and having to go as low as 50kph.

Off to Esperance tomorrow.

Fortunately it has never been that bad when we have gone across!

[87County]

Can recommend Pt Lincoln Land Rover as very helpful and a Land Rover enthusiast.

Today, after getting the hose fixed, we got as far as Streaky Bay and called it quits. Let us catch up on washing and all the little things for travelling. As well as dry the canvas off from a very wet pack this morning in the rin at Pt Lincoln.

All going well expect to be in Esperence on Monday night.

Near Elliston:
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/663.jpg

Or slowed down to look calm...
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/664.jpg

thanks for all your informative posts Derek, especially about the Eyre pen and Nullabor... we plan to head down there next month after Lake Eyre
and the Warburton

[dmdigital]

Esperence today and high tea with Jamo and family. Thanks for making us welcome:D

Unfortunately haven't time left to spare sight seeing down here and will head off tomorrow.

Spotted another silver Puma today (standard except for a couple of roof bars) who waved back and a few other Defenders and Counties. Don't know if it was anyone off here though.

Yesterday and today I had tow vehicle envy as I spotted a dirty RRS towing a Kimberley Karavan today. Yesterday's was worse though as it was a nice shiney new RR TDV8, now that would cruise at a nice speed, it was towing a 6m caravan though.

[Jamo]

Thanks for dropping by Derek & Brenda!:D:D It was really nice to catch up!:D:D

[dmdigital]

We are here:
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/614.jpg

Did the fuel stats today. Going across the Nullarbor we actually only got as bad as 18.5L/100km but today between Esperance and Ravensthorpe I averaged 13.1L/100km.

Few other stats:
44.7GB of photos or
2791 pic's taken or
22 downloads of Compact Flash cards
9.2GB of Panoramas stitch together so far
Most used lens is 24-70 f/2.8

[Grockle]

We are here:
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/614.jpg

Did the fuel stats today. Going across the Nullarbor we actually only got as bad as 18.5L/100km but today between Esperance and Ravensthorpe I averaged 13.1L/100km.

Few other stats:
44.7GB of photos or
2791 pic's taken or
22 downloads of Compact Flash cards
9.2GB of Panoramas stitch together so far
Most used lens is 24-70 f/2.8

Derek am I missing something on the photo,can't make it out.

[Jamo]

Tilt your head 90deg to the left;)

[Grockle]

Tilt your head 90deg to the left;)

Cheers jamo.

[dmdigital]

Here's another pic (17 shots stitched together):

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/598.jpg

...and a more traditional one:
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/599.jpg

This is Wave Rock near Hyden in WA well worth spending a few hours here or camping overnght.

[Chucaro]

Which it is the orientation? Which will be the best option, sunrise or sunset light?

I have to hit the road soon :)

[dmdigital]

I suspect sunrise would have been be best. Couldn't tell though as it was very foggy the next morning. These shots were mid/late afternoon.

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Its well worth a visit Arthur:cool:

[Grockle]

I suspect sunrise would have been be best. Couldn't tell though as it was very foggy the next morning. These shots were mid/late afternoon.

Great photo's Derek

[dmdigital]

Well we are now in Geraldton and heading to Kalbarri tomorrow. Haven't done much as we both got a dose of the flu or something when in Bunbury and haven't been to good the last few days.

Went to the Pinnacles yesterday but we were both too stuffed to walk anywhere so it was just the circuit drive. Fantastic place and incredible geology. I did manage a few pic's so I'll try and post up some soon.

[Chucaro]

I hope that both of you get well very soon. Brandy is the best medicine in this cases :)
Take care

[Bundalene]

I hope that both of you get well very soon. Brandy is the best medicine in this cases :)
Take care

Yes...Agreed:):)

Seriously, hope you both get well quick and continue to enjoy your holiday.


Erich & Sheila

[dmdigital]

No brandy just 25 y.o. All Saints Muscat. Seems to work just as well:D

[Narangga]

No brandy just 25 y.o. All Saints Muscat. Seems to work just as well:D

Next thing you'll be back on the MOO Brew!

[Chucaro]

Yes and we have to start a new forum "Home Brew of Medicinal Waters" :D

[dmdigital]

What a day today has been:(

Left Geraldton for Kalbarri after filling up with diesel and doing a few things.

Saw a very new Zermat Silver 130 Puma in Northhampton with a nice boat behind it. Why is it every Puma we've seen on the road has been the same colour as ours:confused: Good taste I suppose;)

Got as far as 20km past Northampton and stopped to take some lovely wildflow shots, noticed the Defendoor wasn't there, that's OK I Have a spare in case I left it at the servo, but then I realised the fuel cap wasn't there either and I'd left both at the servo:(:(:(:(:(:(

Quick call and 70km back to Geraldton and retrieve them. I'll put it down to the cold I am suffering from.

Anyway did get some great wildflower shots which I'll post up when I get a chance.

[dmdigital]

Managed to get a few flower shots posted up. Best off looking here: Flickr: Wover's Photostream (http://www.flickr.com/dmdigital)

There's also some panoramas and a few odds and sods. We keep seeing a 2CV drivien by 2 young girls heading up the coast. Its LHD and a soft top but with WA plates.

Leave Kalbarri tomorrow and we are both almost over the flu or what ever we caught in SW WA.

Found a neat trick, go to IGA and buy food, get 4cpL discount docket, fill up with fuel at same IGA and get a 4cpL discount docket when you pay for the fuel as well as the discount on the fuel just bought:confused:

[Chucaro]

Very nice images, I love the 2CV looks soo small next to the Puma.:)
How it is performing the suspension of the camper? I belive that it have the Vehicles Components independant suspension on it. I am wrong?
Your trailer have the diesel cooker or was an optional extra on it?

Cheers

[dmdigital]

Kamper has independent swing arms and a diesel hot water service and gas cooker. The Karvan from Kimberley has the diesel stove inside.

Took more wildflower shots on the way out of Kalbarri this morning. Off to what the dolphin feeding tomorrow at Monkey Mia.

[JamesH]

I know (or knew) that 2CV. It is either a Dolly or a Charlston, can't recall but it was one of the last 2CVs ever built and was owned by a collector, it has (had) very very few kms on it.

[dmdigital]

Well made it to Point Sampson. Seems a lot nicer place to stay than Karratha.

We gave Exmouth a miss as we are both still getting over our colds and didn't think we could do it justice by going there and not doing some snorkelling or diving.

Had a nice overnighter at Robe River last night, well worth keeping in mind as a fee campsite.

Karratha is full of Defenders, first off saw 2 coming in on the highway, one acting as a pilot vehicle for a wide load. Then lots more around town, also a new Freelander an a few D3's. Didn't think much of the place otherwise and everything (except fuel) was expensive (and I comparing it to Gove prices:eek:).

[Chucaro]

For how long we have to wait for more photos :( ?

Thanks mate to keep us informed, take care and enjoy ;)

[dmdigital]

For how long we have to wait for more photos :( ?

Thanks mate to keep us informed, take care and enjoy ;)
Getting there, just haven't uploaded many to try and keep the data bill down on the NextG. Will see how I go over the next few days.

[Chucaro]

Getting there, just haven't uploaded many to try and keep the data bill down on the NextG. Will see how I go over the next few days.

Yes, cost money trough NextG and I guess that the chances to find an Internet Cafe are very limited, then again.......a computer shop or the local public library may be the shot.

[malleefowl]

Hi Derek,
I've made it back from Qld wanderings.The defer av was 12.8L/100k with the van on.I loved pt sampson last year got a great meal at the Trawlers tavern.
Just a little diversion-
how have you found the Hannibal awning/Do you use it much and how does it behave in windy situations.
Sounds like you are having a truly great trip,
Cheers,
Mary

[Chucaro]

Derek mentioned that the trailer is about 1.5 ton :eek:
That it is a lot of weight, how much is the trailer and accesories and how much weight is your personal gear?
Some vans weight that much, but I do not know if they will take the punishment of the bad roads.

Mary, which engine have your Defe? my Defe is a tdi300 and with 1 ton trailer uses about 10lt in 100 providing that I not go over 95kph

[dmdigital]

Yes, cost money trough NextG and I guess that the chances to find an Internet Cafe are very limited, then again.......a computer shop or the local public library may be the shot.
Don't forget the free WiFi at MacDonalds either:)


Hi Derek,
I've made it back from Qld wanderings.The defer av was 12.8L/100k with the van on.I loved pt sampson last year got a great meal at the Trawlers tavern.
Just a little diversion-
how have you found the Hannibal awning/Do you use it much and how does it behave in windy situations.
Sounds like you are having a truly great trip,
Cheers,
Mary
Hannibal awning is great, we didn't use it much down south but are using it now we are back north at lunch times. Like any awning you need to be careful in windy conditions but there's 2t of Defender holding it in place.


Derek mentioned that the trailer is about 1.5 ton :eek:
That it is a lot of weight, how much is the trailer and accesories and how much weight is your personal gear?
Some vans weight that much, but I do not know if they will take the punishment of the bad roads.

Mary, which engine have your Defe? my Defe is a tdi300 and with 1 ton trailer uses about 10lt in 100 providing that I not go over 95kph
Wish I got that:( The Puma is definitely more thirsty.

The trailer's basic weight with both water tanks is about 1.2t and a single spare tyre. Add a Honda EU20, 4 jerry cans of diesel and 2 more spare tyres plus about 50kg of other stuff. Round it up and its a bit less than the 1.5t. The ball weight is 125kg.

[malleefowl]

The defer is a 98 300TDI and the van runs over the weigh bridge at about 1350 loaded.
Incidently loved the airbags I added.Keeps the whole thing nice and level and without the van a little bit of playing with the pressures makes for a roll free really tight feel which is great on our local sandy corrugated surfaces.
The best figures were 10.1 down the Hume freeway with a tail wind!
Cheers,
Mary

[dmdigital]

I'll keep adding pic's to Flickr: Wover's Photostream (http://www.flickr.com/dmdigital)

[Grockle]

Derek, replied to your thread on D2,Iwould use then nearest grade g/b oil to Lr spec you can,no one will know when you get to the dealer,good luck.

[Chucaro]

Great series Derek they are all very nice.
I like the Sun Set @ Robo River and the wildflower 9
Wild flower7 is technically great but I would like to see a vertical crop on it, I bet that you are going to be pleased if you try.
Cheers

[dmdigital]

I agree a vertical crop would do it wonders. I haven't PP'd much of the pictures, just categorised them (with the exception of the pano's)

[Bundalene]

Brings back some great memories, I remember being stranded at the Murchison River years ago due to flooding, waited almost a week and finally having to go around the inland road to head on to Port Hedland.

Thanks and keep the pics coming,

Cheers, Erich & Sheila

[dmdigital]

Well we are as far as Broome now. Just topped the transfer case up with about 100mL of Syntrax so it looks like it is only the transfer case that is leaking and not the gearbox as I feared.

Spent last night at 80 mile beach, great spot to stay and fantastic beach.

Missed tonight's sunset but won't be too impressive as there's no clouds around to highlight. Off on tours tomorrow and Sunday - pearl farm, horizontal waterfalls and a bit more.

I know this will get lots of negative feed back but we've also decided Cape Laveque isn't worth the 400km trip. Looking at pictures of it and given a lot of people (and tours) go there we think we see better and more remote coastline of a similar nature closer to home.

[weeds]

I know this will get lots of negative feed back but we've also decided Cape Laveque isn't worth the 400km trip. Looking at pictures of it and given a lot of people (and tours) go there we think we see better and more remote coastline of a similar nature closer to home.

:D:D:D:whistling:

yep i kinda agree........yep its up there but it is a tad over rated

[dmdigital]

Broome, sunset, cliche I know.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/09/1056.jpg

Did the Willie Creek Pearl Farm and took a chopper flight this afternoon. Was really great.

[Chucaro]

Very nice image Derek, the 80 mile beach 2 is a very nice photo as well.
Crop it a bit on the top an bottom to convert it to a pano format and I beat that it will give a nice "punch" to the image.
You are building a nice album :)

[dmdigital]

Image count is now over 3,800 shots. Took almost 200 hundred today on the trip to the Horizontal Falls. Had a great day out and fun boat ride.

More images added to Flickr.


As for crops and straightening etc, etc. I'm leaving all that until I get home, at this stage I'm keywording, sorting and cataloguing the really good from the holiday snaps. My intention is to put it all together as a coffee table book when I'm done.

[Grockle]

Image count is now over 3,800 shots. Took almost 200 hundred today on the trip to the Horizontal Falls. Had a great day out and fun boat ride.

More images added to Flickr.


As for crops and straightening etc, etc. I'm leaving all that until I get home, at this stage I'm keywording, sorting and cataloguing the really good from the holiday snaps. My intention is to put it all together as a coffee table book when I'm done.

Sounds a great idea Derek.

[Chucaro]

Greta idea but when you are arriving home it will be very hot so it will be "Beer Table" instead

[dmdigital]

Well after watching the sunset yet again we accidentally caught up with Craig and family at Cable Beach which was good.

Also saw another silver Defender in town with a Defendoor on it and a roof top tent.

As for watching the sunset...
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2011/04/938.jpg

[Chucaro]

Nice photo and great theme and colors for the Australian flag ;)

[miky]

Nice photo and great theme and colors for the Australian flag ;)

Oh no... please, let's not go down that track.

[Tombie]

Oh no... please, let's not go down that track.

Agreed.....

[Chucaro]

I just was testing to see how long will take to have a reply :D:D
Bugger! was over a minute :D
I just woder why no one used the :rocket::censored: and other smiles :D
Ok, have a nice evening, I am happy with our flag.
Cheers

[dmdigital]

No let's not go down that track. I hadn't even realised there was any symbolism in the picture.

Did a quick detour into Derby for lunch and ran into another AULRO member who I have now, embarrassingly, forgotten their name. Anyway nice silver D1. I still can't get over the amount of friendship this forum has generated. We are a diverse bunch from a lot of locations:D

In Fitzroy Crossing tonight.

[dmdigital]

Well the external temperature in the shade hit 46C today at Fitzroy Crossing... it was HOT!

Did the Geike Gorge boat cruise. Well worth it very relaxing and peaceful. If you ever do it make sure to take a wide brimmed hat, sunscreen and a decent bottle of water as there is NO shade on the boat at all. We went early in the day would have hate to have done it this afternoon.

Off to the Bungle Bungles next...

Will load up a few more pic's to Flickr soon.

[Chucaro]

Bugger that it is hot,
What was the beers pere hour comsuption under this conditions :eek:
I hope tah the humidity was low.
keep safe

[TheLowRanger]

No let's not go down that track. I hadn't even realised there was any symbolism in the picture.

Did a quick detour into Derby for lunch and ran into another AULRO member who I have now, embarrassingly, forgotten their name. Anyway nice silver D1. I still can't get over the amount of friendship this forum has generated. We are a diverse bunch from a lot of locations:D

In Fitzroy Crossing tonight.
That was me!! Not to worry, I usually forget someones name within 30 seconds of meeting them anyway.

Cheers

Glen

[dmdigital]

Sorry Glen, I really am shocking with names, but I did remember yours started with a "G".

Just spent two nights at the Bungle Bungles... WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

We did the short walks and also took the 48 minute helicopter flight (or 165 pictures flight). The chopper flights now only run from the park and they have a 15, 30 or 48 minute one. I would thoroughly recommend it as a must do part of the visit. But you really do need to drive in to see them as well.

Anyway I only managed to take about 320 shots in the time there, so I have a few good keepers from this.

As for the track in, everyone warns that it is rough, slow, rocky and rutted. This is a pile of crock. It's slow, undulating, windy and terribly corrugated:mad::mad::mad::mad: I now have a nicely crakced wheel carrier which I will try to get fixed on Monday.
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/05/646.jpg

I also to help two (attractive:D) German girls change a flat today. They knew what to do (and being German had also read the manual in the Britz Troopy) but unfortunately the Toyota jack wasn't up to it. The car was too low to get to a suitable jack point and when we did get it raised, the jack didn't go high enough to fit the tyre on. Thus lots of digging and swearing in English and German.

On another note, got a nice Defender wave in Kununurra from an elderly Aboriginal guy in a Tdi:D

I've put a few un-PP'd picks up on Flickr.

[dmdigital]

Well better pictures today than broken wheel carriers...

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/09/619.jpg

Spent today on a Lake Argyle and Ord River Cruise. Very relaxing. Tomorrow we will see about getting the carrier fixed and take in the local sites.

Only got 12 days before we are home:(:(:(

[Chucaro]

Nice images mate. That wheel carrier must be made with a very thin tube :eek:
It will be good to make one the same using steam pipe for the next trip ;)
Cheers

[dmdigital]

Well wheel carrier all fixed up for $40. Can thoroughly recommend K T Weld in Kununurra. Did it on the spot and helped fit it back on.

Spotted a white Defender today with checker plate on the bonnet and had a nice chat with a couple from Victoria in a dark green 09 Puma who had done the Canning and a few other bits already.

Off easterly again tomorrow.

[dmdigital]

Well made it Katherine today. Wasn't intending to but Victoria River Roadhouse was a dusty mess due to road works and two other spots we'd planed to stay at work closed for "Feral Animal Eradication" (I think that usually involves a helicopter and a large rifle). Couldn't go over the old crossing of the Vic either as this was also closed off. Now have 3 days to get to Darwin for the weekend.

30-40km west of Katherine we drove through a fantastic and very heavy rain storm which was a welcome relief for about 10km. The inlet air temp on the Puma went from 47C down to 26C in about 3 minutes.

[Barra1]

Derek, as your wonderful journey draws to an end you must be experiencing that bitter but sweet feeling of relief to be home but yet the regret and realisation that home brings closure to your adventure.

I know this, for it is a feeling I have and dare I say, many members of the AULRO. We are feeling the same emotions as you.

You have not relayed tales of your adventures to us. You have done more. Derek, in your photos and the stories told, you have taken us on your journey. Every picture tells a story but your words have brought life to those photos.

Derek, you are nearly home. Take care and thank you for taking us to many parts of this land that until now I/we have not experienced.:)

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Yea, Onya Derek:BigThumb:

[dmdigital]

Well we are now sitting in Darwin, there is a cool breeze and we had an enjoyable couple of days in Litchfield. Can recommend the Litchfield Safari Lodge to camp - and not just because the owner has a 110 tray back and a 130 DC ute (both Tdi's).

We drove up from the (expensive) Douglas-Daly Tourist Park to Litchfield via the Day River track. Absolute doddle of a track except for two things. The galah in the Nissan ute that came flying towards us as if it was a WRC course.

The second was the Renolds River crossing. I had to winch myself up this, we had already been warned by two other vehicles about the norther side departure being chewed up. We got there as a family in a shiney new LC200 arrived on the northern side to survey if they should cross. We came through and despite the TC giving it everything it had, rearranging the logs in the holes it all came down to two things: I have the standard Genral Grabbers on the Puma and a 1.5 tonne boat anchor - I mean Trailer - behind it. It was easiest to winch out as the trailer was still on level ground in the river bed and the Puma was at about 30 degrees pointing up hill in a dusty washout. The LC200 owners parting comment was priceless: "Geeze if a your old Land Rover won't make it I'm not even going to try in this". :Rolling: :Rolling: :Rolling: :Rolling:

Today we left Litchfield via Berry Springs and ended up in Darwin. Now its stock up on things we can load the Puma down with that we need in Gove, get the car serviced, cinemas, markets and retail therapy before heading back to Katherine next Thursday and then in to Gove Friday.

Thanks all for your comments, I guess this is almost the end:( I'll have to look at doing a "Mutli-State" trip report when I get home. We have, in 3 months, managed to do 6 states and both mainland territories so I don't suppoes it belongs anywhere else;)

[dmdigital]

A few of my last images (I did't break the 5000 shot barrier)

Douglas River
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/09/312.jpg

Florence Falls
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/11/173.jpg

Both the abpve are with an ND10 filter in full daylight. The last is with a Sigma 150mm Macro.

Symmetry of nature
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/09/313.jpg


Most used lens on the trip was the 24-70mm f/2.8 Nikkor

[Bundalene]

Good One Derek & Brenda:arms:


Enjoyed your posts - only missed out when we were up in your area:D

Glad you have made it back to (almost) home without major incidents. Hope we can catch up next year (or maybe earlier if the 130 gets delivered to Gapuwiyak before the Wet...we'll see what eventuates).

Thanks for your company a couple of months ago, a great report and some really beautiful photographs.

Now....Back To Work...:(:(

Cheers, Erich & Sheila

[Chucaro]

Thank you Derek for sharing with us your wonderful trip and very nice photos.
One day I have to go north and see your beautiful country and take thousands shots ;)

[dullbird]

A few of my last images (I did't break the 5000 shot barrier)

Douglas River
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/09/312.jpg

Florence Falls
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/11/173.jpg

Both the abpve are with an ND10 filter in full daylight. The last is with a Sigma 150mm Macro.

Symmetry of nature
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/09/313.jpg


Most used lens on the trip was the 24-70mm f/2.8 Nikkor

That second pic is almost identical to mine except I managed to get people in mine....and lucky enough for them to stay still long enough I could blur the water:D

[dmdigital]

That second pic is almost identical to mine except I managed to get people in mine....and lucky enough for them to stay still long enough I could blur the water:D

OK here's one with people in it - kind of. This is using a B+W 110 ND (10 stop) like the others and is taken as a 30" exposure. We got to the falls early to be almost by ourselves, but by the time I'd clambered over the other side and taken 4 x 30" shots about 50 people had turned up:(

During this shot several of them dived in and swam around.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/09/304.jpg

[Captain_Rightfoot]

Are we missing a few people there?

[Narangga]

I was going to tell Derek that I had a photo of Florence with two people (known only as me and my wife) sitting on the rock just beneath the surface right in the middle of the pool.

Only thing is that it was taken in 1983 :eek2:

[dmdigital]

Are we missing a few people there?
No they are the blurs on the water surface.

[dmdigital]

Well we drive back in to Gove tomorrow. Left Darwin this morning and drove down to Katherine.

We did pass a dark green pre-2003 D2 heading north - yellow rego plates with black writing - at about midday just north of Emerald Springs. I am sure it had AULRO<something> on the rego but didn't have time read it fully. If so anyone know who this is?

Other than that I have filled the tank and 4 jerry cans and we hope to be back in tomorrow, late afternoon. Track conditions don't sound too bad but it will be dry, dusty and rough regardless.

On another note we got the car serviced by Darwin Mitsubishi yesterday. Despite my reservations I must say I was impressed by them. I'm not impressed by the oil change however as, like Tony Ireland in Townsville they use Valvoline and it already seems to be breaking down (400km later). However unlike Tony Ireland they had no issue explaining that LRA are OK with them using this oil and gave me the spec's. I think I'll be writing to LRA about though as I don't believe it is correct for the Puma, maybe OK in a Td5 though.

Also today I once again received the comment today: "That's in good nick for an old vehicle" :rolling:

[dullbird]

Well we drive back in to Gove tomorrow. Left Darwin this morning and drove down to Katherine.

We did pass a dark green pre-2003 D2 heading north - yellow rego plates with black writing - at about midday just north of Emerald Springs. I am sure it had AULRO<something> on the rego but didn't have time read it fully. If so anyone know who this is?

Other than that I have filled the tank and 4 jerry cans and we hope to be back in tomorrow, late afternoon. Track conditions don't sound too bad but it will be dry, dusty and rough regardless.

On another note we got the car serviced by Darwin Mitsubishi yesterday. Despite my reservations I must say I was impressed by them. I'm not impressed by the oil change however as, like Tony Ireland in Townsville they use Valvoline and it already seems to be breaking down (400km later). However unlike Tony Ireland they had no issue explaining that LRA are OK with them using this oil and gave me the spec's.
I think I'll be writing to LRA about though as I don't believe it is correct for the Puma, maybe OK in a Td5 though.

Also today I once again received the comment today: "That's in good nick for an old vehicle" :rolling:


The oil that they put in ours derek was 15/40.... which is the wrong oil. His reasoning was that this is the Oil that they use up in the hotter more humid climate...to which I replied we will be back in Sydney in 4 days:confused: so why is that relevant.

I can tell you why they use it I bet its because thats what they use in the mitsi's and they service so few landys its not worth them getting the oil in.

I would write to landrover just to see what they say...we didn't really mind as if anything went wrong due to the oil...then we know who to point the finger at and because its a land rover approve service centre they should be using the correct stuff...if they say its fine then on there head be it:angel:

[Grockle]

Well we drive back in to Gove tomorrow. Left Darwin this morning and drove down to Katherine.

We did pass a dark green pre-2003 D2 heading north - yellow rego plates with black writing - at about midday just north of Emerald Springs. I am sure it had AULRO<something> on the rego but didn't have time read it fully. If so anyone know who this is?

Other than that I have filled the tank and 4 jerry cans and we hope to be back in tomorrow, late afternoon. Track conditions don't sound too bad but it will be dry, dusty and rough regardless.

On another note we got the car serviced by Darwin Mitsubishi yesterday. Despite my reservations I must say I was impressed by them. I'm not impressed by the oil change however as, like Tony Ireland in Townsville they use Valvoline and it already seems to be breaking down (400km later). However unlike Tony Ireland they had no issue explaining that LRA are OK with them using this oil and gave me the spec's. I think I'll be writing to LRA about though as I don't believe it is correct for the Puma, maybe OK in a Td5 though.

Also today I once again received the comment today: "That's in good nick for an old vehicle" :rolling:

Hope you get home ok,then sounds like another oil change

[dmdigital]

The oil that they put in ours derek was 15/40.... which is the wrong oil. His reasoning was that this is the Oil that they use up in the hotter more humid climate...to which I replied we will be back in Sydney in 4 days:confused: so why is that relevant.

I can tell you why they use it I bet its because thats what they use in the mitsi's and they service so few landys its not worth them getting the oil in.

I would write to landrover just to see what they say...we didn't really mind as if anything went wrong due to the oil...then we know who to point the finger at and because its a land rover approve service centre they should be using the correct stuff...if they say its fine then on there head be it:angel:

Got it in one Lou! For what its worth I also think the Mobil oil that Trivett use is also not up to full spec. The only good oil changes I've had are from home and MLR which have both been correct spec Castrol. It worries me that the engine is so reliant on correct oil.

[dullbird]

Got it in one Lou! For what its worth I also think the
Mobil oil that Trivett use is also not up to full spec. The only good oil changes I've had are from home and MLR which have both been correct spec Castrol. It worries me that the engine is so reliant on correct oil.

why?