Hi All, Have just joined and am looking forward to getting to know some of you in cyberspace or on the road. Heading from Victoria to Flinders Ranges in October. Any tips on places to stay and things to see?
Hi Von, how are you getting along. I would like to hear from you ... Mon
nancyhector said
11:50 AM Oct 5, 2008
gap57 wrote:
Hi again, well I have 6 weeks to go and heading to Wa, so If any one wants to tag along or is going that way let me know .
I like any some females are a little anxious, so you arent alone when doing it alone.
Im always fearful of the unknown mainly because I suffer from bad panic attacks hence my fear.
Im in the SE o f Sa at the moment and only going by car and see what happens when i get there. I want to travel up the Wa coast for a look.
Any of you heard of wwoof then take a look at their site you have to buy the book to become a memmber then bobs your uncle. You get to travel around our amazing Australia get free food and a warmbed and showers in exchange for helping them out with odd jobs for male and female persons.
Some will keep you on if it works out and get a small wage.. Way to go
-- Edited by gap57 at 16:22, 2008-10-04
-- Edited by gap57 at 16:25, 2008-10-04
GOOD LUCK to you!. A lady of 70 was just here, staying in the caravan park. Her son brought her and her electric scooter the 350kls (each way). So many different ways to travel, with the main aim to see the country and meet new people.
Her and her family had lived here (Greenvale, Qld) in its hey-day (1970's) and is thrilled to see its rejuvenation as a grey-nomad hub.
Ain't life grand.
waltzing matilda said
05:00 PM Oct 5, 2008
I'm going fine thanks, Mon. Sitting in my little van in Heathcote Caravan Park at the moment taking a breather. Came up here for the wine and food festival.
Having a great time. Local market and art show plus the wine and food festival meant there was pleanty to see and do. I have an A Van, one of those little beauties with the peaky roofs - looks like a little chalet when it's up. Joined the A van club and this particular trip, thirty A vans came to Heathcote. Good fun, good company, good food and wine. Also got lots of tips from fellow seasoned A Van campers.
Aaaah. Life's good. I'm heading off to theFlinders Ranges in two weeks time.
What are you up to ?
waltzing matilda said
05:03 PM Oct 5, 2008
Fran wrote:
Is it realistic for a 50 something female to travel Australia on her own?
Hi Fran. It sure is a great way to travel. There are a lot of us doing it alone. give it a go. You'll wish you'd done it sooner.
NannyMon said
06:18 PM Oct 5, 2008
waltzing matilda wrote:
I'm going fine thanks, Mon. Sitting in my little van in Heathcote Caravan Park at the moment taking a breather. Came up here for the wine and food festival.
Having a great time. Local market and art show plus the wine and food festival meant there was pleanty to see and do. I have an A Van, one of those little beauties with the peaky roofs - looks like a little chalet when it's up. Joined the A van club and this particular trip, thirty A vans came to Heathcote. Good fun, good company, good food and wine. Also got lots of tips from fellow seasoned A Van campers.
Aaaah. Life's good. I'm heading off to theFlinders Ranges in two weeks time.
What are you up to ?
Sounds great Von. I don't know why but I already thought you were in the Flinders, don't forget to post and let us know how they are. I'm not doing much at the moment. My dad is sick so I have been visiting him (1700 kms round trip) but apart from that I've just been staying close to home. I plan on visiting my dad once a month or as he needs me, so I'm still out and about. Take care Von, keep in touch.
waltzing matilda said
01:33 PM Oct 6, 2008
Thanks MOn. Will keep in touch and let you know how the Flinders trip goes. Hope things go well with your Dad.
Bubs said
12:00 PM Oct 9, 2008
Hi Mon, Sorry it took me so long to reply, went back to NZ for my Grandsons 5th birthday. Back now, and yes, I have bought myself a little Winni Freeway! It's just getting it's road worthy cert thingy at the moment and I should collect it this w/end. Fingers crossed. I am thinking of heading up to North West Vic somewhere, in Nov, as a trial run. I don't want to venture too far as I want to be back here in Melbourne for Christmas. How far away are the Flinders from Melbourne? Intent heading to WA after Christmas. Cheers, Bubs
NannyMon said
03:42 PM Oct 9, 2008
Bubs wrote:
Hi Mon, Sorry it took me so long to reply, went back to NZ for my Grandsons 5th birthday. Back now, and yes, I have bought myself a little Winni Freeway! It's just getting it's road worthy cert thingy at the moment and I should collect it this w/end. Fingers crossed. I am thinking of heading up to North West Vic somewhere, in Nov, as a trial run. I don't want to venture too far as I want to be back here in Melbourne for Christmas. How far away are the Flinders from Melbourne? Intent heading to WA after Christmas. Cheers, Bubs
Hi Bubs,
Congruatluations on your new Winni, I hope you have picked it up by now. I bet your excited.
I'm not sure about the Flinders as I'm in NSW ... there is a great map thingie on here that I use all the time, try it and see how you go.
Hi there Bubs...Dave is the bloke to chat with re: Flinders, as it's right on his front doorstep. Sounds like a nice bloke to visit for a cuppa on your way thru. But I have read somewhere about his home movies escapade which he brings out if you stay too long..ha ha ha
Bubs said
11:16 AM Oct 10, 2008
Ok, now I have been caught out, because I have just found out that there are two places called Flinders!!
The Flinders I am going to head to is about 1-1/2 hrs sth of Melbourne, near Phillip Island, which is not The Flinders Ranges!! Oh dear!! I'll have to have a raincheck on that cuppa with Dave and co for now! LOL!!
I am just going to do short, hop, skip and jumps to get used to the Winni until after Christmas, then LOOK OUT, here I come!!
I haven't picked it up yet, as a tyre has to be replaced for the roadworthy. Prob Tues next week. And yes, totally stoked!!
dave06 said
12:19 PM Oct 10, 2008
Dave is severley dissapointed, and feeling dejected, all right!! all right!!! I'm leaving!!!
waltzing matilda said
02:00 PM Oct 11, 2008
Hi Bubs, Congratulations on the Winni. No wonder you're stoked. Good luck with the trial run to Flinders near Phillip Island.
I'm headed off to the Flinders Ranges next week. Will let you know what it's like. I got lots of good info from forum members particularly Dave. Was leaving at the beginning of the week but when I got the car serviced last week they informed me the clutch needed replacing! EEEEEk. I have been telling the service guys there was something wrong with it since February and they kept saying they couldn't find anything wrong and just keep monitoring it. Anyway, shorter version - I now won't be leaving till end of the week after the clutch has been seen to. I'll be heading back through north west Vic. May even see you on the track. I've got one of those cute little A Vans.
Good luck with it all.
Ole Grizzly said
06:20 PM Oct 16, 2008
Almost the end of the week Veronica, so I guess by now the clutch has been repaired and your busy with last minute preparations before you roll down that driveway..'lucky girl' Sure has been quiet in the forum...kind of wondering if Basil'n Dave are sharing a campfire out there somewhere. I'm still having a 'nightmare' about getting out there myself. Used to be 'dreams' once, but just seems I'm always needed by someone or something who has a small drama requiring assistance. Atleast I'm making deposits into my "Kama" bank for future use. Look after Winnie and she'll return the favor...happy days Veronica
waltzing matilda said
09:46 PM Oct 16, 2008
Thanks for your good wishes, Grizz, but I am still back at base. The clutch hasn't arrived. Have been waiting for a week and cannot believe it. Even if they get it in tomorrow (Friday) They won't install it till Monday so I won't be heading off till some time next week. My Subarua dealer keeps chasing it up and then calling me to say it still hasn't arrived. I reckon they've sent it to Darwin by mistake!!
You sure sound as though you're building up a lot of good Karma there. Hope it pays off in the not too distant future and you can hit the trail again.
Xtrail51 said
08:34 AM Oct 30, 2008
Hi Fran, I hope it is realistic to travel solo, I am about to head off, who cares, do what you want, you are dead a long time. Enjoy and stay safe. B.
Bubs said
08:55 AM Oct 30, 2008
Hi Xtrail I am another 50+ who will be travelling on my own. I have a Winne Freeway and am heading off straight after Christmas. I feel that as long as I do the best to keep myself safe, by not doing anything silly, then it is as safe as crossing the road. This website and forum has given me a lot of encouragement and has steadied the shakes and doubts I originally had when planning my trip. I have sold up everything I owned to do this, and intend to be on the road until not physically able to do it anymore. You go girl! There needs to be more of us out there. Good luck and keep in touch. Cheers, Dianne
Xtrail51 said
09:16 AM Oct 30, 2008
Hi Dianne, thanks for post and encouragement. I agree there should be more of us doing this! I have my little mate (Mollie) with me, she loves the car. My first destination is Newcastle to see daughter and then Vic. to see more relos. Then the big one, however long who knows, just going with the flow. Keep in touch Barb.
dave06 said
12:44 PM Oct 30, 2008
welcome to the forum barb. (ssshhhh!!!! dont tell anyone that I'm in here I'm not sposed to be, it's just that no-one has welcomed you yet) you asked WHO CARES!! I can answer that WE ALL DO!!! solo's and groupies, of course it's realistic to travel solo, why wouldnt it be, say gday to people on the road and you are not alone, you are with the NOMADS!!!, we all go with you on every trip, take us and our encouragement with you all the time, life is good, nothing scary, when von gets to an internet site she will tell you its more than ok to travel solo, shes doing it right now and loving every damn second of it, dianne is about to, all I say is fanbloodytastic and more power to you all!!!! you go get em!!! I think it is great, if I had my way no-one would be sitting at home alone, should be banned, say gday to a stranger and make a new freind!!!
waltzing matilda said
03:02 PM Oct 30, 2008
Here I am - right on schedule Dave.Finally got to an internet site. Have posted "Bound for South Australia" in the general forum. Hope any nervous solos out there find it a help to know there are others of us doing it. Have a read of my latest post. I'll keep adding to it. Even post some pics later. Great life. go for it.
dave06 said
03:31 PM Oct 30, 2008
as I have stated before "my hero"!!! I hold you and other solo travellers in extreme high regard, good on the lot of you
-- Edited by dave06 at 16:01, 2008-10-30
Bubs said
11:05 AM Oct 31, 2008
Hey Barb, I'm in Vic at the moment. When you are down this way, give me a yoo hoo (or is it 'coooeee' over here?) and maybe we can met up for coffee. I have ideas of heading to WA straight after Christmas, but no set plans, so we may be able some tagging along somewhere ....!! I'm getting new mattresses and cushions done at the moment, making Winne comfy, also getting a metal plate put along the rack on the back for the genni. It is all verrry exciting and I can't wait to hit the road! Dianne
Xtrail51 said
09:03 AM Nov 1, 2008
Thanks Dave, for the welcome, so nice to be welcomed. Friday is the big day, all my mates are going to be gathering in the steet, to make sure I go HEHE. Shall miss them, but I will not be lonely out there among the nomads. Cheers . Barb..........
Xtrail51 said
09:07 AM Nov 1, 2008
Hi Di, Vic a great place, I was born there. Will have to stay on East side until until march april, first grandchild making big entry into this world. Then WA here I come... Have fun.... Barb.
Bubs said
09:28 AM Nov 2, 2008
Hi Barb!
Oh understand totally on that one. I stayed back in NZ and waited until my only Grandson started school before doing this journey! Priorities! We are still best mates and keep in touch weekly, plus the odd flight back for birthdays etc.
Good luck with it, it is an exciting time.
Catch you somewhere on the road when you are ready.
D
Bubs said
04:56 PM Nov 2, 2008
Veteran Member now!!! Another promotion!!!
I should think so too .......!!
Makes me feel kinda old though .... 'veteran' .... I'll accept it with good grace!
twobob said
07:53 PM Nov 2, 2008
Hey Bubs You are only as old as who you are feeling - Veteran is better than Vintage
Bubs said
10:47 AM Nov 3, 2008
I'm no sissie and I don't mind growing old ........ and after all, the only alternative is to die young! I really don't think I will ever 'grow up'! Just a wee bit tooo crazy!
NannyMon said
01:40 PM Nov 3, 2008
Hi Barb, welcome to the forum, sorry I am late but I have been away visiting my father in Bathurst. It is a shame I didnt know you were in Newcastle as I came through there yesterday, we could have had coffee. I plan on been down that way again in about a month so if your still in the area let me know and we can have that coffee. I too have a little mate, his name is Max, he was suppose to be a Mollie but how can you call a male Mollie, just doesnt sound right does it. Well take care ..... Monica
Xtrail51 said
08:33 AM Nov 6, 2008
Hi Monica, just read your post. Thanks or welcome. I will be in Newcastle in a month too. Maybe a coffee eh. Do you have a problem travelling with your little bloke, caravan parks I mean, wold be interested to hear from you. Take care Barb.
NannyMon said
08:00 PM Nov 6, 2008
Hi Barb,
No I havent had any trouble with Max, I always tell the Caravan Park Managers I have him, I never try to hide him as he barks if anyone gets close to the van. If you go to your nearest information centre you can pick up a FREE Holiday & Touring Guide, it will tell you the best holiday and tourist parks for NSW I should image they have them in other states as well. Inside the guide you will find maps and guides to the caravan parks, it will also show the picture of a dog if he is allowed in the caravan park, you will always find one or two who will allow dogs. Our Dave in here has taught me to free camp, so I am doing a bit of that at the moment. Same thing, go to the information centre in the town you are staying at, they will tell you were you can free camp and if dogs are allowed. Also some showgrounds allows dogs as well. Hope this helps ... Monica
GOOD LUCK to you!. A lady of 70 was just here, staying in the caravan park. Her son brought her and her electric scooter the 350kls (each way). So many different ways to travel, with the main aim to see the country and meet new people. Her and her family had lived here (Greenvale, Qld) in its hey-day (1970's) and is thrilled to see its rejuvenation as a grey-nomad hub. Ain't life grand.
Having a great time. Local market and art show plus the wine and food festival meant there was pleanty to see and do. I have an A Van, one of those little beauties with the peaky roofs - looks like a little chalet when it's up. Joined the A van club and this particular trip, thirty A vans came to Heathcote. Good fun, good company, good food and wine. Also got lots of tips from fellow seasoned A Van campers.
Aaaah. Life's good. I'm heading off to theFlinders Ranges in two weeks time.
What are you up to ?
Hi Fran. It sure is a great way to travel. There are a lot of us doing it alone. give it a go. You'll wish you'd done it sooner.
Sorry it took me so long to reply, went back to NZ for my Grandsons 5th birthday.
Back now, and yes, I have bought myself a little Winni Freeway! It's just getting it's road worthy cert thingy at the moment and I should collect it this w/end. Fingers crossed.
I am thinking of heading up to North West Vic somewhere, in Nov, as a trial run. I don't want to venture too far as I want to be back here in Melbourne for Christmas. How far away are the Flinders from Melbourne? Intent heading to WA after Christmas.
Cheers, Bubs
Congratulations on the Winni. No wonder you're stoked. Good luck with the trial run to Flinders near Phillip Island.
I'm headed off to the Flinders Ranges next week. Will let you know what it's like. I got lots of good info from forum members particularly Dave. Was leaving at the beginning of the week but when I got the car serviced last week they informed me the clutch needed replacing! EEEEEk. I have been telling the service guys there was something wrong with it since February and they kept saying they couldn't find anything wrong and just keep monitoring it. Anyway, shorter version - I now won't be leaving till end of the week after the clutch has been seen to. I'll be heading back through north west Vic. May even see you on the track. I've got one of those cute little A Vans.
Good luck with it all.
Sure has been quiet in the forum...kind of wondering if Basil'n Dave are sharing a campfire out there somewhere.
I'm still having a 'nightmare' about getting out there myself. Used to be 'dreams' once, but just seems I'm always needed by someone or something who has a small drama requiring assistance.
Atleast I'm making deposits into my "Kama" bank for future use.
Look after Winnie and she'll return the favor...happy days Veronica
You sure sound as though you're building up a lot of good Karma there. Hope it pays off in the not too distant future and you can hit the trail again.
I am another 50+ who will be travelling on my own.
I have a Winne Freeway and am heading off straight after Christmas.
I feel that as long as I do the best to keep myself safe, by not doing anything silly, then it is as safe as crossing the road.
This website and forum has given me a lot of encouragement and has steadied the shakes and doubts I originally had when planning my trip. I have sold up everything I owned to do this, and intend to be on the road until not physically able to do it anymore.
You go girl! There needs to be more of us out there. Good luck and keep in touch.
Cheers,
Dianne
-- Edited by dave06 at 16:01, 2008-10-30
I'm getting new mattresses and cushions done at the moment, making Winne comfy, also getting a metal plate put along the rack on the back for the genni.
It is all verrry exciting and I can't wait to hit the road!
Dianne
Friday is the big day, all my mates are going to be gathering in the steet, to make sure I go HEHE. Shall miss them, but I will not be lonely out there among the nomads.
Cheers . Barb..........
Vic a great place, I was born there. Will have to stay on East side until until march april, first grandchild making big entry into this world.
Then WA here I come... Have fun.... Barb.
You are only as old as who you are feeling - Veteran is better than Vintage
I really don't think I will ever 'grow up'! Just a wee bit tooo crazy!
Take care Barb.
No I havent had any trouble with Max, I always tell the Caravan Park Managers I have him, I never try to hide him as he barks if anyone gets close to the van. If you go to your nearest information centre you can pick up a FREE Holiday & Touring Guide, it will tell you the best holiday and tourist parks for NSW I should image they have them in other states as well. Inside the guide you will find maps and guides to the caravan parks, it will also show the picture of a dog if he is allowed in the caravan park, you will always find one or two who will allow dogs. Our Dave in here has taught me to free camp, so I am doing a bit of that at the moment. Same thing, go to the information centre in the town you are staying at, they will tell you were you can free camp and if dogs are allowed. Also some showgrounds allows dogs as well. Hope this helps ... Monica