DreamTrip

Blue Mountains

          Day113
9 degrees, 07:30, we made a quick bfast cereal and started packing stuff on to the roofrack. Taking longer than we expected and to tie down all the stuff on the rack, we fried some leftover pasta at around 13:30 and ate an Anzac Biscuit dipped in milk. Tidying up and making sure we did not leave anything behind, we finally departed Avalon at 15:25!
Making our 125km way through Terry Hill, we stopped at North Ride giving the car some fuel, and after being stuck in traffic, caught the Western Motorway, M4 around 17:00. 43km and 55mins later, got on the A32 and spent another 35mins driving 37km to arrive to Wentworth Falls where we will be staying the night. Temperature is now 6degrees and will go down to 1degree tonight!
          Day114
4 degrees. 867m above sea level. 09:30 and hearing birds sing, we walked to the Jamison Lookout and enjoyed the breathtaking view of the mountains. We went to the Princes Rock Lookout, then caught the Undercliff Track to visit the Fletchers Lookout and crossing Wentworth Falls. Caught the Rocket Point Lookout Circuit, we then made our way to the Weeping Rock crossing the Jamison Creek.
11:30 Up to 7degrees. After eating some watermelon for brunch, made our way to Katoomba (1017m elevation) to try register the car. After being requested some docs which didn't have at hand, we went to Coles and bought some food. Arriving at the Three Sisters (parking $4 first hour, $4.80/hr after that), we got to know that the Aboriginal legend has it that the three sisters Meehni, Wimlah and Gunnedoo were turned to stone for their own protection after being forbidden to marry three brothers of different tribe. We walked some hundred metres through Silver Mist Reserve to view some lookouts, then went to Echo Point and Queen Elizabeth Lookout, watching the majestic mountains which stand 922m above sea level. After visiting the Info Point, we drove to Leura (Aboriginal for Lava) and walked 120steps down to watch another beautiful view at Gordon Falls Lookout along the Elysian Rock. 
14:40 Started cooking dinner at the Gordon Falls Reserve. Making Spaghetti with Carbonara Sauce and Bacon, we then ate Chocolate Lamingtons for Dessert.
16:25 Drove to the Leura Falls and Leura Cascades, passing through a 15minute rainforest-like path. Stopping at Honeymoon Lookout, it was getting dark and so looked for places where to sleep. Passing through the three sisters again, we stopped once more to take more picturesques photos differently this time with a floodlight pointing at them. 18:00, 6 degrees and the full moon seemed very close! We drove to Wentworth Falls again to spend the night and hopefully won't freeze in the car in -2degrees!
          Day115 
-3 degrees. Waking up to Aboriginal background music, 09:00 departed to Sublime Lookout. Walking 175m to a 270degrees panorama view of Mount Solitary, and according to Aboriginal legend this mountain seperates the masculine side from the feminine side of Blue Mountains. After a breathtaking view of the Southern part of Blue Mountains, we made our way along the BMD (Blue Mountain Drive) to Katoomba Falls. On our way, we saw the Dalai Lama who was making his visit to the Blue Mountains as well. Walking some hundred metres to get to the Katoomba Cascades, around 11:00 and 6degrees, drove 17km up to Blackheath (1065m elevation) and Mount Victoria. Driving on an unsealed road, we first arrived at Anvil Rock, and the Wind Eroded Cave, another breathtaking panoramic view. After stopping at Pulpit Rock, and Govetts Leap, we stopped at Sutton Park for lunch - Spaghetti in Carbonara and with bacon once more. 
14:42 Departed to Hargraves Lookout - now 17degrees. Walking amongst trees, rocks and bushes along the hanging rock to get to what we confirmed was the best view seen so far throughout the trip! Well worth the walk right till the very end, a breathtaking 300degree view of the Blue Mountains National Park. 
After visiting Evans Lookout, we drove back to Katoomba where at 19:00 met up with an old family friend at Station Bar. Having x2 Carlton Draught for $11, we spent an hour talking about good places where to go, and places not to miss for adventure. Being invited over at their home, we chilled hearing music in the background and exposing us to Australia's surroundings and situations. Andre, a bassist in a very amazing pos-rock and experimental band - Grün, and Emma, a wonderful artist and photographer, were an amazing talk all night along with Floyd their 15month old intelligent Samoi Dog. After sharing some similar bands music tastes, travelling experiences and more beer, we headed out and drove to Maple Grove at Katoomba Park to spend the night there.
          Day116
By 08:05 we departed to Jenolan Caves in the 2 degrees weather. Some hour and 74km later, we passed through a winding road down to the jaw-dropping town right through a huge cave. Buying tickets for the "Diamond Trail" for $38 each, we started our 1hr and 15min tour with Glan inside the Imperial Cave. Temperature rises by 15degrees and finally our noses not falling off, we got to the first cave, all dirty and dusty, due to car exhaust which the Caves breathe in. Making our way through 66steps to the river, these 430million year old caves with their imperial limestone and river flowing through the 368 Jenolan Caves were amazing. Microbats, crickets, worms, and micro organisms live here, and the depth of the lake is unknown as divers stopped at 90.2m. Evidence found were of the Tasmanian Devil, Tasmanian Tiger, and Diprotodon. In 1879, Jeremiah Wilson was the first to set eyes upon the Imperial Cave as while excavating, his hat fell and had to go down and fetch it using just a candle. Passing through The Sinkhole, Ridleys Shortcut, the crystal Lot's Wife, the Alabaster Column, Gem of the West, Crystal Cities and the Queen's Crystals formed in water. An hour tour of the caves filled with stalagmites and stalactites and helectites of crystals, the Aboriginal know these as Healing Caves.
After the tour, we wandered around the Nettle Cave (a huge open cave ground level), the Grand Arch, Devil's Coach House, Carlotta Arch, and walked next to Harrys River.
Around 12:30, the same way we came would be closed as it's a narrow winding road and possibly peak hours, so we made our way up through Oberon, seeing some snow and icy particles all over the side of the road and on the fields, passed right next to Hampton, and down to Katoomba. Driving around 100km and feeling hungry, we stopped at Coles, bought some bread and filled it with bacon, cheese and vegetables, then around 15:30 continued another 76km to Seven Hills.
Making our way inside an old family friend's house around 17:30, we were talking and sharing our memories, and before we knew it was 20:00. After buying some stuff from Coles in Seven Hills, we arrived at the house again and got served Bruschettas, Olives, Cheese, and Crackers, and after such a long drive, slammed ourselves in the cosy bed snuggling with Oscar, the Burmese cat.
          Day117
Waking up with Oscar walking all over our faces, we visited Blacktown Service Centre to transfer the car onto our name. Paying $91, we went to Coles at Seven Hills Plaza, bought some Custard Tart, Cookies and Ice-Cream and went back to the house. 21degrees. For lunch we got served a wonderful plate of meat, baked potatoes and baked vegetables with rice, which reminded us very much of Maltese cooking. Spending time discussing about Australia and Malta, we also shared and learned new things about Kirsten's grandparents back in the day when they were still young, and the day went past quite quickly.
Around 19:00, we had these wraps with tomato paste, mozzarella, ham and chilli olives just like a pizza. Deliciously appetizing! 
Watched 'The Fugitive' on TV, and before we knew it it was already 22:30, and headed to sleep for a long drive tomorrow, making our way up to Newcastle.
Funny Fact: Australia celebrate a "Christmas in July". As Xmas celebrations here are in Summer, there is the opportunity to celebrate Christmas in Winter -July. Certain hotels and villages decorate with trees, lights and full decorations, and can also enjoy a Xmas Dinner in the cold.
Central Coast
          Day118
Waking up and eating muffins for bfast, we started moving stuff back in the car to hit the road once more. Seeing Nat, Andrew and the kids one last time, we got back on the road at 12:32. 
Avoiding toll roads, we passed through North Rocks and saw an outdoor market. Stopping and seeing many old games and appliances for such cheap prices, we walked to Westfield and bought some stuff from K-Mart and Coles.
14:02 Drove along the A28 and Pacific Highway to Mooney Mooney. A beautiful warm 19degrees, what a difference than the Blue Mountains a few days ago!
14:32 Welcome to Central Coast! Drove up to Kariong Info Point and after given some lookouts, made our way. Stopped at Staples Lookout, a view of Brisbane Water National Park, 16,000+ km away from London. 
Passed Woy Woy, Daley's Point then on to Hardys Bay, Pretty Beach and Wagstaffe. Going back to Pretty Beach, we cooked some Penne Siciliana with Chicken. Sun setting, we drove through the Bouddi National Park along the Scenic Road up to Avoca Beach. Being just 17:45, we walked onto the beach, enjoyed a XXXX Gold underneath the starry sky and cool fresh sea air.
          Day119
Started by a good muffin for bfast and at 08:08 headed to Terrigal. Walked up to the Lookout and then walked along the Skillion, rock formations from the Middle Triassic Period. Driving to Crackneck Lookout at Bateau Bay, we later stopped at the Stockland Bay Village Plaza and went buying food from Coles, Wooly's and stopped by at the Dollar Shop.
10:40 Drove through The Entrance town and stopped at the Memorial Park to eat some cookies and milk for brunch. Walking along the Oceanfront along the markets and stalls and many pelicans, we drove all over to Catherine Hill Bay.
13:00 Welcome to Lake Macquarie and Newcastle. Making our way on the A43, we passed through Caves Beach and stopped at Reids Reserve in Swansea Heads. Cooking 600g of Peppered Rump Steak with Sausages, we stayed till 15:30 there, cleaning the car, relaxing and walking around the beach.
We drove up to Blacksmiths, and after confirming with locals if it is legal, put down the tyres from 40 to 18psi, and headed onto the beach 4wd-ing for the first time here. A few minutes, and the sand got to us and we got stuck. Being pulled by a Toyota Surf, we were advised the sand is soft and deep, so tyres need to go down to 8! Driving along up and down and not getting stuck one more time, we passed through Blacksmiths Beach, Belmont South Beach and Jewells Beach. Seeing other crazy 4wds, it was almost dusk, and started driving our way out. Finally we found a way out through Redhead, we pumped up the tyres and made our 47km way to Maitland. 
18:45 Trying to find somewhere to sleep, we fed the car some petrol and made our way to a Park right next to passing trains and getting ready for our first day of job of Yellow Pages at Newcastle tomorrow. 
Queens 'bday' was today, and even though her original bday is in April, it is celebrated usually 2nd Monday of June for families to have a long weekend and attend to recreational events or visit family. Be careful, fines are doubled if caught speeding or drinking under influence of alcohol this weekend!
          Day120
Making our way to Rutherford, we were greeted by Nancy, and after given work and routes, we made our way to Medowie. A 45km drive to a gorgeous big town with amazing huge houses, we distributed 310books finishing by 15:50. Getting rusty. We drove to Maitland and arrived at Nancy's apartment and cooked some dinner - Penne with Siciliana and Bolognese Sauce with Sausages. Watching some TV, we crashed at her place ready for an early start work tomorrow continuing Medowie.
          DAY121 (Temp unavailable)

          Day122
4months :)
Waking up with the good luck charm of Kookaburra droppings all over the car, no wonder their bird song sounds like laughter! 
We loaded 350 books, and drove to Medowie. Taking a mini break next to Wooly's around 12:00, we continued distributing the books and came across Will the postman for the third time. Offering a place to stay at his house if need be, we rushed distributing the last few books by 15:00, and made a quick run to the warehouse before they close. 
Cooking Gnocchi with Honey Sausages in Carbonara, we drove to Coles around 18:00, then fed the car some petrol and stopped at Hungry Jacks for the Cookies Storm we haven't had for ages! Eating two each to pay off, we drove back to the park to get a good nights sleep.
          Day123
Loading 350 books and up to Medowie. Taking mini breaks and visiting Wooly's, we distributed all exactly by 15:00, then drove down to Rutherford. Meeting Nancy at the hotel she's staying, we talked and chilled out at her place, then cooked some Rice with Coconut Yogurt, Silverside and Cantonese Paste. We continued talking till late on the balcony before we hit to bed. Bed... Getting all sofa cushions placed on the floor with blankets is our bed tonight!
          Day124
Eating Ham and Cheese Bfast take away from Maccas at the warehouse, and following Pancakes with Butter and Maple Syrup, we loaded 336books, and off to Medowie. Distributing all, we visited Wooly's around 15:00, and then cooked at the Medowie Community Centre Park some Spaghetti with Carbonara and Silverside.
Driving to Nancy's, we met up with the Canberra colleagues Lynden and Nash, Wollongong Sorcha, and a new friend Megan. Drinking Bourbon and Vodka and snacking on packets and dips, we caught up and then walked to Coach & Horses Hotel. Playing pool and drinking shots, it was an amazing and fun night. Bar closing at midnight, we visited a bar called 'Shenanigans' at The Imperial, and around 02:30 walked back to Nancy's and everyone crashed at her place and eventually slept around 04:00.
          Day125
A Sunday day in. Spent the day relaxed after a whole week of racing around town distributing Yellow Pages. Cooking Fusilli with Creamy Tomato and Silverside, we watched the Lost World on TV at 18:00 then crashed on the mattress on the floor preparing for a weeks work.
          Day126
Decided to start with breakfast by walking at Coles in Medowie. A shop assistant gave us a free salad (costing $6 usually) as they would throw them away as due date was today. Buying a tiger bread, we made a huge bread roll and started distributing by 11:00. 
Not managing to deliver all 380 books as planned due to rain, we drove back quickly to the warehouse, and off to Coles in Rutherford. We cooked x2 Supreme and BBQ Meat Lovers Pizza for $3 each, and sat down talking and watching TV with Nancy and her daughter, Angel till it was late and slept.
          Day127
Deciding to wake up earlier today, we spent an hour trying to look for Nancy's car keys and hotel key. Turning the place upside down, the keys were found in her own handbag! Both running late, we made it to work and loaded 400books and started distributing by 10:30. Buying x2 45c dips (Thai Carrot and Hummus - usually $3.75 each), we nibbled on carrots and packet for lunch. Raining all day, we finished all books by 16:00, and went to the hotel Quest at Nancy's. Being cooked Lasagna and Salad, we ate a Candy Floss Ice-Cream and chilled the night watching TV.
          Day128
As it was heavily raining, we decided to hit to Beresfield instead, working on businesses and industrial streets. Taking 288 large books and 156 ITC books, we delivered them all by around 17:00. Mini breaks in between, the rain would not stop pouring down. We drove back to the hotel, ate the leftover lasagna then watched some TV before hitting the bed.
          Day129
What a sunny 21degrees weather! Headed to Medowie to continue the big yellow pages, and finished off another route and started a new long one. Having a break dipping crisps in Thai Style Carrot Dip, we continued and finished all 402 books by 15:00.
Arriving at the hotel, we got paid for 2 cinema tickets by Nancy, and at 16.45 were sat down at 'Reading Cinema' watching Minions! (Tickets usually cost $20, but this one cinema sells cinema tickets for just $10!).
Back at the hotel, we cooked fusilli with Chicken and Creamy Tomato Sauce for everyone, then chilled on the sofa and hit to bed.
           Day130
Rainy day once again! After distributing 402 books all in the rain and getting soaked, we drove down to Maitland with a gorgeous sunset and a beautiful, fully coloured double rainbow. Arriving at the hotel around 17:00, we made home-made chicken breast with breadcrumbs and chips and salad for all, then after eating Fantagles ice cream for desert, relaxed on the mattress on the floor watching LoTR - Fellowship of the Rings.
           Day131
By 07:00, we were already at the warehouse, having Eric (the forklift operator) cooking us Bacon and Eggs, we got a lift on a Cherry Picker, then made our way to the last day at Medowie. An hour and half later we were done, and drove back slowly to Maitland, stopping at East Maitland and having a go on the swings. A beautiful Saturday afternoon, we went to Wooly's and SuperCheap Auto, then took a look around K-Mart. Back at the hotel, we made a 'Make Your Own Pizza' night, having salad, eggs, tomatoes and chicken chopped up and in plates, with Wraps as base. Babysitting for the night, while Nancy went out, we had a tea party with Angel, watched some movies then slept on the cosy 5 star double bed (all for free!).
          Day132
Doing some eggs for bfast, and washing laundry and cleaning till noon, we then drove to Rutherford and visited some shops for a new mattress. Also visiting BCF and Spotlight, we bought new material for the curtains then went to Maccas for internet and bought x4 small soft serve cones (50c each). After Woolworths, we went back to the hotel, and cooked some home-made Spaghetti Carbonara with Bacon, and passed out tired on the bed after a week's work.
          Day133
85% humid and so foggy, at 09:30 we packed 600 books in total (small and big) and headed to Beresfield working on residences. Around 13:00 we looked for a supermarket, and stopped at Coles in Thornton. Finding a park and only after getting there we realised it was a crematorium and burial site, we stopped at a closeby park and made a bread roll with bacon, and after an hour and 15mins we continued distributing.
Around 16:30 we got back to the hotel and started working on the curtains. Nancy bought us food from Domino's and we all shared Spicy Chicken Kicker Bites, Garlic Bread, BBQ Pulled Beef and Chicken and Feta and slept at around 23:30.
          Day134
Loading the car, we drove to Beresfield and did businesses for the day, and finally finished by around 15:30. Back at the hotel, we got changed and went in the car with Nancy to Molly Morgan Motor Inn to pick up Michael and drove to Outback Jacks - Maitland. A very atmospherical bar and grill restaurant, we ordered two 300g Rump Steaks (Sparrows) with Peppercorn and Mushroom Sauce $24.95 each and shared Corona Buckets (x4 for $25). Later walking back to the hotel around 21:00, we continued making the curtains for the car then hit to sleep.
          Day135
The weather is so funny! A beautiful hot warm day. Loaded the car and off to Beresfield. Finishing some 600 mixed books by 12:30, we drove to Supercheap Auto next to the hotel to buy break pads but had none. Back at the room, we warmed the leftover Dominos Pizza and Creamy Mushroom Pasta and drove to the warehouse. Going with the idea to get more books, we ended up driving around AutoPro and Autobarn to buy Brake Pads ($45), Snooze and other shops looking for mattresses and then to Spotlight to buy some clip fasteners for the curtains. Back at the hotel, continued making the curtains, and had chicken with bread and Ceasar Salad for dinner, watched some TV and hit to bed.
          Day136
Early morning to the warehouse to get our brake pads fixed. Meanwhile packing 350 big and 350 small books in the car, by 10:00 made it to Beresfield and distributed all by around 13:00. A hot and lovely day, we went back to the warehouse and packed more books. Getting to Beresfield, it rained heavily and hearing thunder! Distributed another 200 of each, we finished by 17:00, went to the hotel and enjoyed cooking some home made meatballs with minced meat, Spaghetti with Four Cheese, and a warm Quik Chocolate (what Ozzies call Nesquik) and a Fruit Cake.
          Day137
Fruit cake for bfast this morning, we got to the warehouse, loaded 300 of both books, and around 14:00 went back to the warehouse for more books. Eating a home-made chicken roll and meatballs roll, we delivered some 200 more books and finished by 17:00. Beautiful weather, we drove off to BWS and Wooly's at Maitland, and bought x6 James Squire Australian lager for $12 ($10 offer using Wooly's receipt).
Back at the hotel, we shared an SFC bucket, and a good Friday night relaxed drinking beer and watching LOTR - The Two Towers.
          Day138
Eating Maccas Ham and Cheese bought by Nancy, we took 250books to finish off Beresfield. Great News! We got accepted for volunteering at the Colour Run tomorrow, new change of plans! 
Finding a motel and wanting 175books on their own, we finished all the route, and went back to collect more books. Already 13:00, and the warehouse closes at noon, we passed for the key and opened up the warehouse ourselves. Loading some 130 books and having someone loading their car aswell, we finsihed by 15:00. 
Back at the hotel, Kirsten visited K Mart around the corner whilst Leon chilled and watched TV. Around 17:30, we cooked some Spagetti with Four Cheese and Minced Beef and an early night preparing for tomorrow!
          Day139
06:14 Driving to Newcastle. 7 degrees and 93% humidity. Could barely see road infront of us. Arrived at 06:50, we parked in the VIP parking and reported by 07:05. Signing our names and getting a free raspberry muffin, we got our free Tee, and were given an introduction where we were advised that we need to distribute some 11k colours in total. 
09:00 Race started. We already got ourselves covered with colours by this time, and enjoyed listening to the loud music and talking with other volunteers. Getting coloured after every 1km they walk/run, the runners pass through the finish line, we hand them a packet of colours and they throw the dust in air. A fun and amazing new experience, getting covered from head to toe in colours, we joined in the mass jumping and throwing colours all for free (entrance is $66 if not volunteering). After the race finished, we helped clear up some stuff and by 12 we were on our way out. After meeting 2 Kuwait students and a Pakistan and talking about our adventure so far, we walked out and had a guy use a leaf blower to remove all the colourful dust to be able to drive away. 
13:00 Arrived at Bennett Park in Lake Macquarie. Meeting up with the collegues, we ate some delicious bbq meat with sausages and potato salad and pesto pasta. Downing it with different beers, we met a british couple who have been here only 8 weeks and had a great talk and laughed till around 17:00. Watching a lovely sunset over Croudace Bay, we eventually drove back to the hotel with Leon driving our Pajero with Angel, and Kirsten driving Nancy's car - first time Kirsten driving on high ways and at night. An hour drive and we got home, still covered in colour, a well decent wash and groom and hit to bed for a week's work once more!
           Day140
New route - Bolwarra region. Arriving and distributing some 300 big and small books, we had a break at the Lookout and ate yesterday's Pesto for lunch. Finishing at 15:30, we drove to the hotel and had Lasagna and hit the bed early. It is getting very much routine lately due to work, however some new plans are due for a different week hopefully next week!
           Day141
A very foggy day indeed! Taking 300 of each books and left to Bolwarra late. Around 11:30 started distributing and around 14:00 ate leftover Lasagna! Very yummy! Gorgeous day and weather now, we finished around 16:00, went to Wooly's in Maitland, bought some groceries and back at the hotel cooked Butter Chicken and Rice, and hit to bed early once again.
           Day142
Heading to Bolwarra Heights and Largs, we finished all 300 books by 15:30, including eating bread rolls for lunch. We visited Clark Rubber to take a look at the mattresses in Maitland, and after some tries we bought a $199 foam mattress ($11 discounted) very much better than the air/foam old car mattress we had. 
Driving back to the warehouse and experienced a lovely full moon and very close, Nancy prepared a Fill-Up-Your-Own Tacos, Burritos and Nachos with Melted Cheese. Seriously what we needed after a tiring day!
          Day143
Freezing cold morning! 250 books, off to Bolwarra, and after all distribution went back to the warehouse for more 250 books. Eating bread rolls with leftover taco sauce, we finishing just while the sun was setting. What a lovely day it turned out, hot and sunny, the Winter here is amazing! After enjoying the lovely red sunset, off we went to Wooly's in Maitland buying groceries.
Food menu today - we cooked Fussilli with chicken and Basil Sauce and watched Despicable Me while eating Cadbury's Top Deck Ice-Cream.
          Day144
Early wake up call to get the books done and finish early! Leaving the warehouse with 250 bagged books once more by 09:30, we were on a roll today! 2 hours and we were done. Back at the warehouse we relaxed about an hour and ate bread with chicken and another with taco sauce - delicious. Having all next week's route booked - hiring a van and accomodation included - we bagged more books and off we left. We finished by 16:00, and still have 155books left to finish all Bolwarra routes. 
Back at the hotel we watched Despicable Me 2 whilst making Wraps with Butter Chicken and Chips. 
20:30 - Lord of the Rings - Return of the King, finishing at midnight, and knocked ourself out
          Day145
Saturday! But that doesn't mean we get the day off! Loading 200books just incase, we drove to Bolwarra for one last time. An hour and a half later, all books were done and decided to drive some 8km out of the way to Morpeth Boat Ramp to eat the delicious butter chicken wraps next to the Hunter River. 
13:00 We went back to the hotel and started working on next week's routes. Relaxing and nibbling on some vegetable and chicken small wraps, everyone was at the hotel by 19:00. A night full of fun, talking, getting our hair trimmed by Karen, eating SFC and Domino's, drinking shooters, beer and vodka, and we kept going until 04:00 - a very good excuse for a farewell and celebrating unemployment after the 13th July as the company PDC is closing down.
          Day146
4hours of sleep and got woken up by the hotel phone. Having everyone sleeping at the hotel, the manager advised that he had received complaints from neighbours due to loud talking on the balcony in the early morning. 
By 09:00 We departed to Walka Waters Works Picnic Reserve. Getting a warm coffee on a frisky day, we spent a day cooking and eating bbq chicken wings, sausages on toast, chicken kebabs and enjoying the beautiful day downing it with beer. We also rode on a miniature steam train, taking us around the lake.
By sunset we said our goodbyes, and departed with Nancy to Wooly's, bought some dessert, off to the hotel to relax preparing for a busy week ahead!
          Day147
At the warehouse, bfast Maccas wrap first, then we spent the first hour and half bagging a whole pellet (528books). Around 11:30 we drove to Cardiff MGA Packaging to get more bags for the books, a 41km drive to and from. 
Getting late, we quickly ate the chicken sandwich we made yday and started bagging another two pellets. Quickly trying our best to finish at 16:00, with help, we managed to bag half of what we needed for the next few days of work ahead. Arriving at the Quest Hotel, we washed all the things that needed washing, cleared up and packed our stuff to move out. Eating leftover from yesterday's bbq, we ate fried sausages with potato salad and all in sandwich ham, then got to bed early for tomorrow's adventure distributing phone books in Tea Gardens!
          Day148 
Off we packed, one last morning from the 'Quest', and drove to the warehouse. By 07:15 we were already on the way with Nancy to collect the hired van for the following few days in order to be able to work more books (our Pajero only takes up to 350books). Driving to Hamilton - 40km to arrive at 'Budget', we collected a Hyundai iLoad 4.2diesel maximum weight of 2tonnes.
08:50 Driving the automatic to Nash's station in Cardiff, we loaded 1056 big books and 1,066small books and drove to Warabrook to be delivered. 
Back at Nancy's warehouse in Rutherford, we started placing the books in the van and took around 700 books in total. Leaving our Pajero at the warehouse, we took off on an 81km drive to the Great Lakes for a few days distributing books.
Around 13:30 we arrived at Pindimar. After the 2nd road of distribution, it started raining heavily! Houses all huge and some were built on beaches & between bush, we lost alot of time, & after finishing off all route, drove to North Arm Cove. Not being able to finish the route due to the rain, we drove to Hawks Nest, & arrived at North Coast Beach Holiday Park around 17:40 & checked in our small budget cabin. Being advised it was Free Steak Night, we walked to the Golf Course up the road from the cabin and bought x2 XXXX Gold for $9.60, and x2 chips for $8, including a free 250g steak. 
Feeling very tired, by 20:30 we were already at the cabin relaxing before a big day tomorrow!
           Day149
Distributing from 06:30, we finished Pindimar and started off Tea Gardens. Working hard and fast, the books ran out around 15:15, and went to the cabin to eat leftover Pesto. Around 16:00 we left Hawks Nest to go to Rutherford warehouse to take more books. Spending an hour loading, we arrived back to Tea Gardens to distribute around 19:00. Catching up a fast pace, an hour into distributing, a woman came out and after asking Leon what we were doing, she told us we should consider ourselves very lucky she did not come out with a baseball bat! Talk about friendly locals! Finishing at 20:30, we visited Coles and to the cabin (on our way back saw the lady had an ambulance in her front garden!). Cooking some pasta for lunch tomorrow, as soon as we switched on the heater (after a cold and rainy day), the lights went out. Calling the night manager, after 20mins trying to look for the fuse, he (arrogantly enough) came and pointed it out and told us not to switch too many stuff on. Finished cooking all 500g Pasta with Caramelised Onion Sauce, we watched some TV and relaxed drinking milk with cookies.
          Day150
Not hearing the alarm, we woke up late around 07:45, quickly dressed and to our luck, the sun was out and not one single cloud! Distributing in Tea Gardens, books ran out by 13:30, and so we made our way to the warehouse in Cardiff. Feeling very tired, we ate the Pasta, and started saying goodbye for one last time to Nash. Not having any books bagged, we spent and hour and half bagging, then made our way to Tea Gardens. Stopping half way through to refuel ourselves with Sour Cream Coles Pringles and Monster, we arrived in the dark and finalised Tea Gardens and started Hawks Nest. By 20:00, we went to our cabin, ate the leftover Pasta and watched some TV before we snoozed off.
           Day151
What a lovely day once again! Having a refreshing shower and spending some time infront of the cabin eating cookies and milk, we packed and around 09:00 checked out. Driving up the road to Bennets Beach, we breathed the fresh air, and went to Tea Gardens to finish off one last road. Continuing Hawks Nest, around 11:30 stopped at Moira Parade Park just next to the Ferry Wharf and the Singing Bridge (we were told depending on the direction of the wind, the bridge does sound like it is singing). Cooking two sausages as a snack, some people came next to us and after talking for a few mins, offered us bread and bacon. Taking only the bread and making a sandwich, we continued distributing and by 13:30 we were done. Driving to Coles and bought some food, we made our way down to Mango Beach and enjoyed the scenery of the beautiful scenery from the sand-dunes. Making our way down and around Hawks Nest, we stopped at Jimmy's Beach in Wind Woppa Reserve along the Boulevard. Not having the utensils for bbq-ing, that still did not stop us. We cooked Spinach and Herb Wraps with Sausages, Baked Beans and salad - using the tin lid as a knife!
Getting dark at 17:00, we drove down to Cardiff warehouse. We met up with Mariella - a Dutch 24yo who previously spoke to us looking for work after we put an advert on fb that the company is looking for workers. Not having anything to do, we were invited over to Nancy's new apartment here in Cardiff, and after we bought some beer, spend the whole night laughing and drinking beer and home-made whiskey, before around 23:30 headed back to the warehouse to sleep in the van with just a mattress and a fleecy.
          Day152
Rest day today. We spent the morning and afternoon bagging books ready for Monday's Hawks Nest. Having a helping hand from Abraham - the Indian Loader, and Mandy - Nancy's assistant, time quickly went by and van sorted. Feeling tired, we ate Pasta Carbonara and Beef Ravioli ($6.20 each) for free from the 'Tasty Trucks' next door which every so often throw away reheated food which cannot be sold. 
Getting a lift with Nancy at 16:30 to Rutherford (45km) to get our car back from the old warehouse, we somehow took a detour and spent an hour and 15mins to arrive to what we saw a closed shutter. After 5 mins of thinking we had to go back to Cardiff, we managed to open the door, took our belongings and drove to the warehouse.
18:30, the party begins. Karen and Lynden bringing Dominos pizza, and Nancy getting the alcohol, we put on the car sound on blast, partied all night, cheers-ed for 5months being here, and built yellow pages thrones and drew all over the warehouse floor with chalk - PDC Tree, Butterflies, Fluffy Unicorns and Pikachu, before everyone tired out and had a major sleepover at the warehouse!
          Day153
Waking up late after a week's work and sleeping late, we waited for Meagan and her son to arrive and around 12:30 left with Nancy and Angel to Mayfield for an all-you-can-eat Buffett at the Star. Initially wanting to go to the Treetops Adventure, the wind was against us today. For just $24.95, we filled our plates with fish, seafood, chinese, lamb, beef and obviously ice-cream and cakes. An hour and a half later and barely moving, we walked out and after stopping at Cardiff Shopping Centre, went back to the warehouse. Having the warehouse all to ourselves, we relaxed watching Australia 4wd Action Dvd and could not wait to get back on the road. Relaxing and cleaning out the car, we loaded the van with 839 big books, 839 small books, and another 310big books and 91small books. The car would not move! Being 9 pellets short, we were told to move pellets from an abandoned section behind the warehouse inside. Doing this slowly and hoping not to get caught (even though they were thrown there and belong to no one, it us illegal to take the stuff), we took 6 in and called it a day, tucking ourselves in our cosy car mostly missed with new mattress, new curtains, and the lovely glow-in-dark stars newly stuck to the car tapestry ceiling for a better good night's sleep!
          Day154
Monday morning. Van filled with books and all ready to go. Saying our goodbye to Mandy as it was her last day, and goodbye to Nancy just incase we don't get to see her later on the day. Out of the blues, Nancy receives a call from Nash stating that Sensis will come confirm how many books are left! After confirming a lesser amount of books than what there originally is (this way Nash could go home as he was feeling home sick), if Sensis comes and sees 18pallets, the company would get sued. Closing all shutters, we left to Hawks Nest and Nancy closed down the warehouse so when Sensis come no one will be there to open.
Van shaking when reaching 100km in the rain on the highway, we made it by 10:15, and rain would not stop. Delivering the bulk stops first, by 12:00 the weather opened up and started on the houses and apartments. Ending the route by just one extra book (phew!) we made our way quickly to Newcastle Airport in Williamstown around 18:15. Parking in the silver ($2.50 under 30mins), we caught up with Nancy and said last few words before she flies to Perth. Giving us DonutKing Donuts, we left at 19:00 and went to Wooly's Cardiff to buy some food (we haven't eaten all day). Using the yellow pages as a table, we cooked Sausages, baked beans, vegetables and eggs in a Wrap in the warehouse, and started loading some books for tomorrow - teaming up with Mariella to hopefully finish these routes by Friday!
          Day155
08:00 - Abraham and Mariella came to the warehouse, bagged and loaded books in the van and by 10:00 we left to Wangi Wangi. Being three which makes it faster distributing, we finished the route by 13:15. Sightseeing at Wangi Point and eating lunch (egg and sausage sandwiches) at Wangi, we continued delivering the books in Arcadia Vale. A very hilly place, it took us longer than expected, and books ran out by 15:00. Back at the warehouse we bagged more books and by 16:00 we were alone at the warehouse. Feeling very lonely having no supervisors as they all left home, we watched Fraser Island 4wd Action and got us thinking in making a move rather than waiting till the job is completed. Eating leftover free food from the 'Tasty Trucks' next door, we decided for an early night sleep.
          Day156
Barely hearing the alarm and quickly getting ready before people walk in the warehouse, we got up at 07:45 and by 08:00 we already started bagging books. 15 more pellets came in from Rutherford's warehouse, we quickly felt very tired and eager to leave after Friday, and departed at 09:30 to continue yesterday's route. Finally finishing the uphills by 13:00, we drove to a gorgeous place to watch the whole Lake Macquarie at Coal Point Boat Ramp, and ate the free food Pasta Carbonara and Beef Ravioli. Watching the lovely sea mirroring the sky, we started a new route and finished the books we had by 15:30. Driving back to the warehouse, we bagged books, and after everyone left sat down to watch another episode of 4wd Action. Feeling very much routine and needing a break, we decided not to stay more than Friday and start making our way up north. Calling Nancy to update us on pays and routes and catching up, and eating the free Pork Finger Roll and Italian Meatballs Roll, we chilled till 22:30 then hit the bed, hoping tomorrow will not rain but be a beautiful day like today.
          Day157
Ugly weather this morning, we bagged another pallet and loaded into the van, by 09:15 we were out. Finishing off Coal Point, we started Warners Bay and had lunch by 12:30. Eating the free Peppered Steak Pie from Tasty Trucks at Lakelands Park, and eating Waffles and Dutch Liquorish, we made some calls for tomorrow's distribution in Port Stephens to calculate how many books to take. Continuing distributing around 14:15, we had a puncture on King Street main road. Turning around the corner, we found a mechanic who said it will cost $38 for a repair. Remembering this was a hired van and had insurance, all three of us changed the puncture and an hour later we were back on the road.
Back at the warehouse around 16:15, we said our goodbyes with Mariella, then headed off to Stockton to meet up with some family. On the way buying some mud cake and John Boston beer, we arrived at 17:50 and had a very warm welcoming. Snacking on cheese and beer, we were later served Veal with baked potatoes and salad, and spent till 00:45 chatting with Anthony and his wife Margaret in their cute cottage house and seeing Maltese photos before we slept in their spare room for the night.
          Day158
Waking up at 06:30, the wind was howling and very cloudy and chilly morning. Eating some toast with butter and vegemite, we said our goodbyes around 09:00 and headed to the warehouse. Cooking some frankfurters and eggs in a bread roll, we made our way to Nelson Bay to distribute the bulk drop offs. Being told by residents at retirement homes that books were already rec'd, we realised that the homes and hotels were already done by someone else. Touring around Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Salamander Bay and Port Stephens, the weather opened up and drove to Soldier's Point to watch the sunset and eat the bread rolls looking at the wonderful islands filled with trees and birds. 
19:00 Started making our 53km way back to the warehouse, now drizzling again, and enjoyed watching some TV before we slept, and getting ready for a relaxed day of work tomorrow.
          Day159
Waking up at 07:30, we chilled at the warehouse till 11:00 after scavenging for free food from the bin next to us. Distributing quickly around Awaba, we were done in two hours, and drove to Maccas Toronto to enjoy some free wifi and eating x2 soft serve cones each. Already 15:00, we drove to Aldi and Wooly's, bought some marinated chicken kebabs (95c each) and marinated chicken tighs, and off we drove back to the warehouse. Getting stuff ready to drive to an electric bbq somewhere and enjoy a relaxed night, it started pouring and would not stop, and as it was already dark and not knowing any bbq facilities, decided to cook at the warehouse. Drinking Fraser Briggs Beer, and a lovely plate of chicken, salad, eggs and toast later, we spent the night relaxed watching TV before we hit to bed and wondering what to do with so many books but so little time!
          Day160
Would not stop raining and heavy wind all night. By 11:30, the weather opened up, drove to Diggers in Mayfield and visited the All-You-Can-Eat Buffett one more time with just Lynden and Karen this time. Devouring as much food and dessert within 2 hours, we made our ways brainstorming how we can bulk distribute all the remaining books with no known destination. 
Driving around Awaba and Heaton State Forest for a nice drive, we arrived back at the warehouse, the rain catching up again and from 17:00 just enjoyed watching "The Voice" and seeing local talent before we hit to bed.
          Day161
Once again heavy rain during the night but weather opening up, around 10:30 Lynden and Karen came to the warehouse and helped us, including Abraham, unload books off the pallet for them to be empty. Sorting out a big bulk delivery, the books without an original destination now have a place where to go! Feeling very happy we have managed to sort out the destination, some arrangements will need to be made and Wednesday can start bulk distributing the 25pallets. Finishing off the curtains and fixing some other stuff, we had Rob, the guy from Cessnock, take a pallet, then we remained at the warehouse till Meagan showed up, and headed off to Hamilton to do some laundry! Paying just $6 for a 30min wash and $5 dry for 22mins, we left and headed to Mayfield, bought from Wooly's then a 21km drive to the warehouse. Cooking egg fried rice with Mongolian Lamb, we watched 'The Voice' then headed to sleep in the cosy car.
          Day162
Awake by 07:45, and what a lovely sunny day today! Having a guy coming to pick up 20 empty pallets, and another guy filling up the forklifter gas, we left the warehouse at around 10:15 and went for a day driving around. Trying to get to Stockton Beach, we passed through Williamtown, and learned that we had to walk 5km in order to see the Norwegian shipwreck (due to slipping clutch would not risk going by car on sand). Change of plans, we drove to Anna Bay, and walked along the beach. 19degrees, and a hot day. Carrying our shoes and walking along the shore, we had the beach on one side, and sand dunes on another. Seeing 4wds, dogs, coaches and horses on the beach sand, we spent an hour sulking the sun and enjoying a fresh sea breeze.
Making our way to Salamander Bay Shopping Centre, we bought good deals - x4 kebabs at 95c each, x4 sausages and 3 oyster steak for just $6, and x12 cinnamon donuts for just 80c. Whoever said Australia was expensive? Making our way to a busy bbq spot at Nelson Bay (also ticket machine at carpark), we kept on driving along the coast and arrived at Shoal Bay. Cooking the delicious bbq around 15:30, we walked along the beach overlooking Hawks Nest and having the sun setting on the left hand side. Quickly making the last few minutes memorable, we drove to the edge and enjoyed the sunset there along with the splashing of the waves. 
17:15 Made our 71km way back to the warehouse, and after arriving at 18:30, we had an early night for a big day and drive tomorrow.
          Day163
Having Lynden and Karen arrive at 09:00, we drove to Budget Hire in Hamilton to return our Hyundai van, then got a lift to Cardiff to another Rental place to pick up the 3-tonne Mitsubishi Truck. Driving Lynden's Pajero and having them driving the truck back to the warehouse, we loaded the truck and dropped off Karen at the place they were staying at in Kotara. 
12:00 Started our long drive. Swapping between Leon and Lynden to drive, we drove on the Golden Highway and through the Great Divide. Passing through 'Falling Rocks - Do not Stop' Signs, and some 300km later, we arrived at the destination, and such houses we passed through. 30 dead kangaroos and 7 dead wombats later, we arrived at 16:00 to this stonemaker who built his house and long drive in all out of stone. Meeting a guy completely 'in-the-bush', we dropped off the bulk delivery and 45mins later made our way out. 20km of unsealed road, we refuelled the truck (and at a reasonable price!), then started the 140km winding road onto the highway, and another 140km to the warehouse. 
20:50 Feeling too tired to cook, we ordered online at Domino's, and in 10minutes it was ready and were already eating a delicious $5 Beef and Onion and a $5 Amerikana at Glendale, then headed back to the warehouse and slammed onto the bed for Day2 tomorrow!
         Day164
Departing at 11:00, but had all morning heavy rain. Making the trip again, we skided twice on our way, and had the empty fuel light flashing. Managing to refuel just in time and arriving at 15:30, we unloaded the van, and left by 16:15. 
Passing through lovely hills, greenery, farms filled with cows and sheep, amazing creeks and gorgeous scenery, we passed through our first sighting if a live!! wombat eating grass. After a beautiful afternoon, the rain just kept pouring, but arrived at the warehouse by 20:15. Ordering from Domino's, we relaxed and ate a $5 Beef&Onion, and a $7.95 Deluxe before heading back to the warehouse for one last night.