FRN#1-Day 7 Daly Waters

We had a later start this morning but still, I couldn’t sleep in…..argh!! But nevermind, I got to watch the dawn of a new day!

Barkly at dawn

Half an hour later and the sun says “hello”!!

fabulous morning

A few locals come out to say “Good morning Kimmie”

local birds

Barkly, an outback oasis. If you are ever up this way, you HAVE TO visit here. The accommodation is $140 a night but everything is done on site and they generate their own power, so I can’t complain – I’m supporting a family business.

Good morning Barkly

We are on the road about 8:00am to get to our start point to gain that all important docket. Up the road is an old windmill. It’s nice riding this morning and even nicer to be riding with someone else. It’s times like this where I miss Karl ever so much – he is afterall my riding companion, the important person I ultimately would love to have here with me, by my side sharing this amazing journey.

Remnants of an old windmill

Check out the view. So vast, yet so beautiful.

Barkly Hway view

Termite mounts are everywhere (they have been since Longreach) and it’s quite amusing to see what people do to them. Here is a family from Finke QLD. But some are very elaborately decorated to look like Ned Kelly for example (sorry you just can’t always stop for the pic).

Finke Termite Mound Family…lol

Queen Jeannie sitting upon her chariot!! Now, where is the driver…….FRANS!!!! LOL

Queen Jeannie

Into Threeways at just after 10:00am to wait for the 12:01pm start docket.

Threeways Roadhouse

What a different place. I’d read reports on the internet advising not to stay or stop here, but really it’s not that bad. It’s a roadhouse – not the Hilton! Inside is neat and tidy. The restrooms are clean and the staff are friendly, so I don’t know what all the fuss is about.

Diesel Dave had set me a challenge to get a pic of the multiple signs here at Threeways. Unfortunately, I missed it – sorry mate.

Inside is a memorial to lost truckers that one can only assume called Threeways “home”.

Inside Memorial

And outside is a tribute to the “trucker” – this wonderful artwork.

Amazing Memorial Artwork – Threeways

Something else I’ve noticed is that 98% of all the truck parking/rest areas are named. I don’t know but can only also assume that each area is named after a trucker who has passed in the line of duty. The beautiful Australian outback. It may look as though there is nothing out there, but there is soo much. You really can’t appreciate it from any photo

another great view

I followed Frans and Jeannie all day and Frans sets a good pace and we cover miles with ease (as the day heats up).

Frans & Jeannie up front

I had the liner in the jacket today as there was a slight cool breeze this morning but by the time we got to Elliot I was regretting not taking it out at Threeways. Another rider pulled in, and surprise he’s heading to Daly Waters too (but is not a FarRider, we won’t hold that against him). Quick break and we are off again.

Elliot servo

Finally, the sign to Daly Waters – only 3kms to go.

turn off to Daly Waters

What a sight for sore eyes – I Made It!! Daly Waters Historical Pub. I didn’t even have the bike turned off and Lynne the Pillion was out with open arms to welcome me and take that arrival photo. Off the bike quick smart and a HUGE hug from Lynne – thanks hun…it’s just what I needed.