DAY 2
FRIDAY
30 December 2016 –
Mandurah – Waroona – Harvey – Balingup - Bridgetown
Our first night under our belt, even if it was inside locked
gates and sitting on a driveway, we were ready and raring to go. With everyone
up eventually, it was time to get our morning walk in. We took the dogs and
headed to the beach. Yogi was in his element and just looking for an excuse to
go in. It was surprisingly busy. We let Charlotte lead the way around the
suburb, passing a juvenile dugite sunning itself in the sun, on to her school
and then doubling back to their home.
After our fruit platter, photos and packing away it was time
to say goodbye and begin our journey.
We drove to Waroona, where we stopped and had a quick walk
around, picking up some food before continuing the journey. We travelled
through Yarloop, which still appears devastated by the fires that roared
through last year. The bush is slowly regenerating while the town will take a
lot longer.
A little further down the road we stopped outside of Harvey
and had lunch, before walking across the road to Lockwood Falls and wandering
the gardens attached a cottage with links to the author of Snugglepot and
Cuddlepie. It was very green and lush and beautifully manicured. Paul was
peeved to see many golden carp and black carp in the Harvey River.
Our drive continued to wind through various country towns,
all quaint and picturesque in their own right. We eventually stopped at
Balingup to take in the Golden Valley Tree Park. At the right time of year, I
imagine this would be a spectacular spot, but the middle of summer probably
isn’t the best time. That said the walk was still lovely. We followed the Pear
Tree Trail amongst the trees from around the world and up the incline of the
hill for a view over the valley. As we made our way back, it began to rain,
back to the warmth of the van and onto visit friends in Bridgetown.
Mel and Lee met us in town and led the way to their property
on the banks of the Blackwood River. Unfortunately, the van wasn’t up to the
challenge of their driveway, with the car and trailer behind it, so we parked
on the street and walked. They have a lovely rammed earth home amongst the
trees . We stayed for drinks and nibbles, enjoying their company and views,
before heading 10km out of town to a rest spot by the highway and set up for
the evening, our first free camp for this trip. Ahhhh, how’s the serenity?
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