Kimmie Kares

Bit of a chilly morning and Kimmie had a rough night but still managed to put a smile on her face. A much easier pace today and we just cruised at the back…..my little ears got a bit chilly…. brrrr

A little bit up the road and I could sense something was up with Kimmie. Unfortunately, I am a constant reminder to her of the tragedy by bite can inflict. Our pace slowed but she pushed on like a champion til we met everyone at Gingers Creek. It was only then that I realised how upset Kimmie was. Memories last a lifetime but the pain the memories disturb take you by surprise. Luckily Kimmie has Karl and a bunch of wonderful friends and they supported her while taking in a little snapshot of what this ride means to her and for the Black Dog Institute.

The Thunderbolts Way is a road with a bit of everything, even slippery red mud…YUK. By the time we got to Gloucester for lunch all the bikes had this sticky red mud stuck to them. Thank goodness I managed to stay clean, well as clean as a dog gets anyways.

An easy trip to Heatherbrae where we say our farewells to the group and Kimmie, Karl and I head on home. We finally arrive home just after 5:30pm and happy to be home.

Kimmie’s trip and setup shake down ran to plan and I’m very proud of her.

I took this photo this morning of all Kimmie’s wonderful friends that I got to meet this weekend and I thank you all for embracing her when she needed it.

Kimmie’s friends

Oh boy, did I get some wind through my fur today or what…….I think or what – go Kimmie.

We were blessed today with bea-uti-ful weather. I could’ve just sat up there and happily barked while Kimmie cruised her way through those lovely bends. A bit of the way up Kimmie thought it would be nice to stop for a piccy and look at the lovely scenery. As she gave me a pat, I could see that she was alittle upset, I think she was remembering her friend who unfortunately my bite got to.

Pretty happy with the view

We meet up with everyone at Gingers Creek for a break before heading off again for our next stop in Walcha. Just as it opens up into “Big Sky Country”, Kimmie pulls over – what for, ahh she is thinking of her friend again and how she loved our beautiful country and wishes she could share the moment with her.

Big Sky Country – The Oxley Hway

Fuel at Walcha and off again we go, destination Bendemeer for lunch. You could tell Kimmie loves this bit of road and I must say I didn’t mind it myself…Woof Woof!! Think I got a bit of – or what stuck in my fur…..

Time goes too quick and we have to head back, back down those lovely roads…snigger snigger. Another stop at Gingers Creek, waiting for the group to get back together then off again.

We stop at Wauchope for Kimmie to change her visor (she was having trouble seeing as the sun had gone down) and remembered that her friend has other friends in this town that she would talk about. I think Kimmie is really missing her friend.

Don’t know what time we got back but it was dark and we were glad to be back at our digs. Kimmie said to me that “I am a constant reminder of the darkness that can overwhelm people and hopes that more people will become aware of The Black Dog and ask questions if they see me”.