Roadworks have been a large feature of our trip so far. Sometimes the roadworks are longer than the non-roadwork part where it seems to be a giant yard of vehicles and machines. I was wondering in not one of my sanest moments, whether there was a town called ‘Roadworks’ because there was a lower town speed limit alongside it.
Lismore took us out once again into the huge big dipping hills, but this time the greenery was not so obvious but a lot of tall dry grass was, so I suspect there was a lot some weeks ago but the land has either been left unstocked or they have no money or will to restock. Along the backroads the blackened trees were getting plastic surgery, now being graced by many long green shoots, preparing for future battles or just happy to hide the evidence.
It’s difficult to tell whether towns are thriving or not. Cafes are thriving as we get to know with our own discussions on them. But apart from people purchasing necessities – milk, sugar, and groceries, there seems to be little movement.
Along the pretty backroads we passed closed up villages until we reached the relaxed town of Drake. Its ‘Lunatic Hotel’ was invaded by bikers who were staying over, large wagons and trucks. Across the road, there was our chosen and homely coffee place where we pulled up next to a 4-weel drive. The engine was running, a large black dog sat smiling behind the wheel, while a smaller dog ran round on the back seat, smiling at us in anticipation of some car movement.
Further on there was a closed general store, a few broken houses and a place selling everything. Walking the back streets I was greeted by a large quietly spoken dog, a Jack Russell running everywhere, and a three legged Scottie, while as I walked on the Lunatic side a large white dog shouted at me to stop or else. For a moment I thought the dogs were taking over or already had.
Then it was Tenterfield which apparently was greatly involved in the writing of Australia’s constitution. I’m not sure whether that was as successful as first thought to be. More exciting for me was the sight of Australia’s hugest ‘Cork Tree’. After seeing plantations in Europe which had their largest trees at about a fifth of the size, I wonder if they’ve compared it with the world. Our lunch by a small creek in a large park under a shady tree over a tiny beach was delightful.
Such a short trip to Glen Innes but such a huge drop in temperature; we’ve hit the minuses for the first time. We are camped in a bank (ex). It was a great investment with our large ensuite, a huge lounge room with a log fire, a good size kitchen, and no-one else – divine. And sitting on the couch with us is a quiet little dog called ‘Dandan’ whom we are minding while his mum and dad go out to celebrate his birthday.

Man’s best friend is tested
He shouted at his mate: “get here right now”
A leather lead hung long from his limp hand,
His mate lay scowling he would ot allow
His master to him drunkenly command.
He walked away so scared of being bitten
But soon returned for was his only fried,
A similar story often has been written
Uncertainty defines where it will end.
Determined as he was, he walked away
A grimace from the scowler as he rose,
An old dog’s limp toward his master’s sway
So off once more just following his nose.
To walk with him is better tha alone
He gets a drink – a times he gets a bone.