Ozzie Road Trip Blog

Day 34 Wed. 16th July Townsville (Rest Day)

2008-07-16T09:39:00.002+10:00

Day 34 Wed. 16th July Townsville (Rest Day)
Early start today, 7:00am appointment with ABC Radio Townsville with Michael Clark.

8:00am back to the Bulletin and Channel 7 to get some of the media footage and photos. Hoping to catch up with CCC Townsville today. Must admit it feels funny not to be on my bike, feeling a bit fidgity wanting to get on the road again!

I'll be heading to Mackay tomorrow to stay with "Mutley" and his wife, thanks for the accommodation mate - looking forward to meeting you!

Day 33 Tues. 15th July Townsville (Rest day)

2008-07-16T09:23:00.002+10:00

Day 33 Tues. 15th July Townsville (Rest day)

Busy day today, Channel 7 wanted to do a story on my quest. It never ceases to amaze me how much filming takes place for such a minimal outcome (ie the team were here for an hour and half to make less than 2 minutes of story). I must say great filming and great interviewing, the final news story made a statement but missed the point by not including any mention of of the inspire foundation or reach out program. However at least we got a TV station to cover the story, TV has been conspicuous by its absence from the ranks of the media prepared to touch this story up to now. I have had strong support and coverage from regional news papers and radio stations but the big Channels haven't wanted to know, with the exception of Channel 10 who filmed me leaving CCC Sydney on June 14 - thank you Channel 10 Sydney and thankyou Channel 7 Townsville.

Day 32 Mon. 14th July Hughenden and Townsville

2008-07-16T09:21:00.001+10:00

Day 32 Mon. 14th July Hughenden and Townsville

This section of road improved dramatically soon after Hughenden. Soon after Hughenden I crossed the Great Divide and was pleasantly greeted by fog, clouds and rain, after 14days of fine weather it was great to see that there were other weather conditions.

My daughter wanted to contribute to my ride and booked me into a great hotel, Seagulls Resort, thank you Lisa, nice to have a comfy bed and some where to do my washing!

Soon after arriving, 4BC radio Brisbane called for an interview. Later the Townsville Bulletin came around for a Photo Shoot and later an interview for a story for Tuesdays paper.

Day 31 Sun 13th July Mt Isa to Richamond Via Cloncurry

2008-07-16T09:17:00.002+10:00

Day 31 Sun. 13th July Mt. Isa to Richmond via Cloncurry

The plan today, Sunday was to ride to Richmond, however, there was minimal traffic and a clear warm day so I decided to head the extra 100km to Hughenden.

After to riding over 10,000km around Australia, the actual road conditions were by far the worst I had experienced especially the Cloncurry to Hughenden stretch. While there is some work being done, the temporary road is often better than some of the new sections of road, the undulations in the surface are horrific and rather jarring and given to the volume of Road Trains and tourists I have to wonder whether the poor road construction and poor condition generally of roads contribute to traffic accidents in Qld.

To give you soe idea of how bumpy it was I had to stop several times to rearrange my luggage because it kept shaking loose, so far this is the only time I've had to do this.

Day 27 10th July Kahterine to Mt Isa via Elliot and Barkly roadhousess 800Km

2008-07-09T17:57:00.002+10:00

Day 27-29 10th -12th July Katherine to Mt. Isa via Elliot & Barkly Roadhouses total distance 800km

This Blog will possibly not be updated during this time as you will find that I’m in transit from one place or the other of these destinations with no mobile contact/reception, however if you were after further info call my wife Cathy on 0400 411 508 she will be more than happy to chat with you. Hopefully I''l be online again in Mt Isa on the 12th of July!

Day 23-26 6th - 9th July Broome to Katherine

2008-07-09T17:49:00.003+10:00

Day 23 to 26 or 6th to 9th July Broome to Katherine

This part of the journey is very interesting to say the least; first stop was Fitzroy Crossing, followed by Warnum (Turkey Creek) via Halls Creek, then Timber Creek via Kunanarra, then onto Katherine via Victoria River.

Most of this country is considered the Kimberlys with the terrain being considerably varied from flat flood plains to magestic and colourful mountains and escarpments, from dry river beds to substantial flowing rivers.

This is a very colourful area in more ways than one and for those weary travelers who would like to have a beer after a hot day behind the wheel, be mindful that alcohol restrictions are in force in parts of this area.

The two areas that appealed to me were Victoria Creek and Turkey Creek.
If you are with Optus forget any phone connection until you get to Katherine.
Katherine has become a really nice town, I was last here about 15 years ago and it is now really well presented with great facilities catering for the large number of Babyboomers visiting the top end on their retirement trip around Australia.

Day 22 5th July Broome Another Day off!

2008-07-09T17:47:00.001+10:00

Day 22 5th July Broome Day Off

I had organised to have my rear tyre replaced here while I was in Port Hedland, tyres for Beemas generally need to be ordered 2-3 days in advance, fortunately they had one here.

I had an Interview with the Broome Advertiser.

I visited Cable Beach in the afternoon which was quite beautiful. Cable Beach for those in the East is a little like a smaller version of Cairns.

Day 21 4th July Port Hedland to Broom 600Km

2008-07-09T17:45:00.001+10:00

Day 21 4th July Port Hedland to Broome 600km

Today was a nice sunny day, forecast top temp 31degrees.

The biggest concern today was the 288km stretch between ‘Sandfire’ Roadhouse to ‘Roebuck’ Roadhouse with a load on. I had added the precaution of an extra 6litres (of petrol) in a Jerry Can, a good thing I did I came up a little short with fuel...

Surprise, surprise… School Holidays start in W.A., accommodation a little tricky.

Day 20 3rd July South Hedland A Day off!

2008-07-09T17:43:00.000+10:00

Day 20 3rd July South Hedland Day Off

I was fortunate to be invited to YIG ‘Youth Involvement Group’ this a community centre for young people however it is primarily frequented by young Aboriginal children. I met with Keisha the leader and was able to share my story with approx 8 children of various ages.
After the talk I was treated to a basket ball game. Most of the kids were barefooted. Have you ever tried this? I did once and couldn’t walk for several days.

Day 19 2nd July Karath - Port Hedland 250 km to date 7100km

2008-07-03T14:47:00.002+10:00

Day 19 2nd July Karatha/Port Hedland 250km, to date 7100km

Another short day. After talking to David Hooper from CCC Port Hedland I decided to bring this part of my trip forward by one day and spend the extra time in Port. David had made some plans with various people in the community to have a chat with.

David met up with me approx 60km out of town and escorted me in to his home. David owns a rather large Yamaha V Star.

After a beautifully prepared roast dinner (Thanks Lil), it was off to talk to approx 15 young people about my trip. I sat on the steps in the local church and Davids dog Harry (a small silky terrier) cosied up to me while I talked. I think my chat was well recieved and Harry liked the ear scratch and tummy rub...I understand from my wife that my dogs at home are missing me, especially Al the oldest, he's really my dog and Cath tells me he's a bit of basket case without me...

Day 18 Ist of July Fortesque - Karatha 150 Km

2008-07-03T14:42:00.002+10:00

Day 18 1st July Fortesque/Karatha 150km

This was a very easy ride, only one and a half hours and it was over. I rang my wige on arrival and she was surprised to hear from me so soon. We had been out of touch since I left Geraldton.

Karatha is a nice small town with all amenities.
One of the pre-requisites of living in Karatha is that you own a 4X4 Ute or Land Cruiser.
This is the peak tourist season and accommodation is very expensive so be careful. Getting accommodation can be very tricky. I did find somewhere to stay but it was a bit Xy. I attempted to catch up with fellow biker "Horse" from the Bike Riders Against Child Abuse, but it didn't quite work out, we hope to catch up when he and some mates goe to Brisbane later in the year.

Day 17 30th June Carnarvon to Fortesque

2008-07-03T14:39:00.001+10:00

Day 17 30th July Carnarvon/ Fortesque

Fine sunny and warming up, no thermals at all. This is becoming like a mobile strip show....I wouldn’t get too excited.

My original plan was to travel to a place called Nanutarra and stay the night a distance of approx 375km. Nanutarra is a roadhouse, a very ordinary roadhouse.... I had lunch and a drink, after one look at the accommodation I was rethinking my plans. As it was early afternoon I decided to ride another 150km to a place called Fortesque River.

Fortesque River is a more upmaket roadhouse if you can call it that. It had fuel, hotel, restaurant and most of all accommodation, basic but clean. They call the accom here ‘Dungas or Dongas’, I didn’t have the sense to ask why.

Day 16 29th June Gerldton - Carnarvon 460 km

2008-07-03T14:37:00.001+10:00

Day 16 29th June Geraldton/Carnarvon 460km

Finally I could start to get rid of the thermal underwear, the weather has started to warm up.

The trip to Carnarvon was flat and straight. There were some very pleasant country areas, in certain parts it looked like a continual golf course, no flags or sand bunkers though.

But apart from the above this is just a long haul.

Met with Tristan from Carnarvon News for a local news story.

The population of Carnarvon is approx 7000 people.

Day 15 28th June Perth - Geraldton 400 km

2008-07-01T10:03:00.001+10:00

Day 15 28th June Perth/Geraldton 400km

During the trip from Perth I experience intermittent showers, the cold weather that I had been experiencing was starting to be left behind.

The trip generally was relative flat with long periods of straight roads. There was a more rural feel about this section of the journey with some nice roling green hills and agriculture.

The entry into Geraldton was somewhat like a low valley, large sand dune to the left, farm land in the middle with low hills to the left.Geraldton township is small and very tidy. There is a lot of work being undertaken to the harbour foreshore and what looks like redevelopment of this area.

Day 14 27th June Perth - Day of Rest!

2008-07-01T10:02:00.000+10:00

Day 14 27th June Perth (a rest day)

Before leaving Sydney I booked the MC in for a service at Auto Classics the BMW dealers in Perth.

When I arrived I asked for them to give the bike the once over for me and went off to check out some of the sites of Perth City. I might add it was bucketing down with rain. This is a great city with a lot of development going on here.

On my return to pick up the bike, I was informed that the guys at BMW had checked it out, topped it up with oil, tested it, for which there was no charge. Thanks to the guys at Auto Classics BMW dealers in Perth.

DAy 13 26th June Kalgoolie - Perth 600km

2008-07-01T09:59:00.000+10:00

Day 13 26th June Kalgoolie/Perth 600km – 5000km down about 8500km to go, give or take.

The trip from Kalgoolie, Kal for short, to Perth was bitterly cold. A cold front had moved in through the night making this one of the coldest days of the trip.

This leg of the trip was similar in some respects to crossing the Nullabor, straight, flat and cold with possibly a little more vegetation.

After about seven and half hours of riding Perth was a welcome site (civilization).
Warm, Sleep.

Day 12 Wednesday 25th June Norseman - Kalgoolie

2008-06-25T11:51:00.001+10:00

Day 12 25th June Norseman/Kalgoolie

After a good nights sleep I was woken by one of my well intentioned mates calling from Sydney to see how I was traveling; he was just starting his 8:00am (Sydney Time) meeting and.wanted an update. Just a reminder there is a 2 hour time difference, so much for the sleep in, thanks Tony and Mark.

The plan today is to meet with one of the local newspapers to talk about Youth Mental Health and later attend a mens BBQ and pursue the awareness campaign…..

Stay tuned for an up-date

Joe

Day 11 Tuesday 24th June Madura - Norseman approx 520 kms

2008-06-25T11:48:00.002+10:00

Day 11 24th June Madura-Norseman approx 520 km

Set out at approx 7:30am, want to get to Cocklebiddy for Breakfast, helps break up the trip. The additional thermals helped keep out the ever present cold.

Today I had the pleasure of traveling along the straightest stretch of road in Australia, its called the 90 Mile or 144.4km in a straight line, what more can I say, its straight.

One hour and fifteen minutes later I was at the other end. Lunch at Belladonia then on to Norseman.

Norseman is the first or the last major town depending on which way your going before or after the Nullabor.

Day 10 Monday 23rd June Nundroo - Madura approx 520 kms

2008-06-25T11:44:00.002+10:00

Day 10 23rd June Nundroo/Madura approx 520km

I was rather keen to get moving today.

While I was getting fuel before leaving, the lady on duty hurried out of the shop and asked, “was I Joe Campbell in room 18”?, when I said yes she said that she had a message from my wife and handed me a piece of paper. It said that I was to have called my wife the previous night with further reference to ‘castration’. I think this was Fawlty Tower humour. Actually I'd tried to ring her but couldn't get near the only public phone in the place (no mobile connectivity out here), it was in constant use all evening. My wife, not having heard from me as promised, had called the hotel to check that I had arrived safely. She was relieved to know I was in one piece.

The trip to Madura was again cold, I decided to put thermal gloves on then my Winter Gloves my hands were still cold.

I had breakfast at Bordertown, as the name suggests this is the last Roadhouse before crossing the SA/WA border.

After checking through the border check point you travel down the road to Eucla, at Eucla the WA Police were conducting licence and breath testing, both Officers were nice guys and did not mind having a chat.

After this interlude you descend through the Eucla Pass off the escarpment onto the Bight, this part of the trip is 189km to Madura, this is where you rise up through the Madura Pass before arriving at the Madura Roadhouse.

This Roadhouse is well presented, rooms are clean, restaurant very good with staff pleasant and courteous.

Day 9 Sunday 22nd June Kimba - Nundroo Start of the Nullabor

2008-06-25T11:41:00.002+10:00

Day 9 22nd June Kimba-Nundroo

It was Sunday when I left, everything was closed, fuel up Kimba Road House. As it turns out Kimba is the half way point of SA.

The trip was cold, during this part of the trip saw frost build up on the leading edge of the bike. The fingers took a bit of a beating despite the BMW Winter Gloves.

Nundroo Roadhouse was like Fawlty Towers meets Deliverance… When I asked about cost of a room, $90 was the reply… A rather crappy room but you don’t have much choice, no competition.

Tomorrow I head onto the Nullabor, probably not the most interesting of roads, but at least I'll be able to say I've done it.

Day 8 Saturday 21st June Adelaide - Kimba

2008-06-25T11:39:00.001+10:00

Day 8 21st June Adelaide/Kimba
Rain was on the agenda for the start of my trip to Kimba. Adelaide is a wonderful City nice wide streets, clean and tidy.

One thing that I notced is that it is very easy to get in to the City but incredibly difficult to get out. There are no signs directing you to Port Augusta, fortunately I found a Road Assist fellow he just laughed when I said Port Augusta, it was almost like ‘no one ever goes to PA’. The weather cleared before PA and was able to remove the wets.

After lunch at PA I head off to Kimba. The landscape changes rapidly, flat country surrounded by hills, the wind also started blowing a gale, one of those lane changing experiences.

Kimba is a small township, however the Hotel/Motel/Coffee Shop/Restaurant is well appointed and the staff were very friendly.

Day 7 Friday 20th of June Murrary Bridge to Adelaide

2008-06-25T11:37:00.000+10:00

Day 7 20th June Murray Bridge-Adelaide
The 70km trip to Adelaide was uneventful, freeway conditions all the way to the City.Met with both the Adelaide and Murray Bridge Chapters of Longriders CMC a truly great bunch of fellows. Thanks for dinners guys.

Day 6 Thursday 19th June Murray bridge Update

2008-06-25T11:31:00.002+10:00

The remainder of the trip to Murray Bridge was flat, straight, wet and cold, what more could a Bloke on a Bike’ ask for.

I was greeted by the President of Murray Bridge Longriders along with a journalist from the Murray Bridge Standard, and met up with some of the club members before heading off for dinner. A convivial evening was had by all. I'd like to thank the Murray Bridge Riders and particularly Gus for his hospitality and warm welcome.

Day 6 Thursday 19th June Portland to Murray Bridge SA

2008-06-19T09:25:00.002+10:00

Day 6 19th Portland-Murray Bridge SA

I woke over night to that wonderful sound of rain, at 6:30am when I was writing this nothing had changed. Looks like it could be an interesting day.

I have been asked to stop at Mt. Gambier to meet up with a Youth Worker at 11.30, so its on with the thermals and rain gear and on the road. I'll be staying in Murray Bridge tonight. Post again soon

Cheers

Joe

Day 5 Wednesday 18th June - Off to Portland

2008-06-19T09:18:00.002+10:00

Day 5 18th June Melbourne-Portland 400kms today taking me to 1500kms since I left Sydney

I'm not too happy about heights, at the best of times, so the idea of riding over the West Gate bridge did not appeal to me one little bit.

8:00am peak hour see's me approach the bridge at low speed, the wind sock was horizontal, I felt if I didn't get over this bridge at a reasonable pace, so would I be horizontal! The run to Geelong although windy and overcast was uneventful, a six lane highway most of the way.

It was then on to Portland via the Great Ocean Road. This is a must see destination, it would be a lot better, I feel, in the summer. The road is a joy to ride with a lot of tight curves and 'S' bends to keep you occupied, especially when you are trying to take in the scenery at the same time, unfortunately you have to keep moving, not able to stop in a lot places. I kept seeing wonderful photo opportunities as I wizzed passed them.

The local paper came out to talk to me on arrival at Portland (Portland Observer). They were very keen to do a story, I understand that there is significant Youth Depression in this district with kids as young as 10 saying they are bored and considering life options. I am reminded even more strongly of why I'm doing this ride, its not about the scenery, its about the kids!

Joe

Day 4: 17th June - Melbourne A day off!

2008-06-19T09:17:00.001+10:00

Day 4 17th Melbourne
This was a day off, however on moving by motorcycle the previous night I noticed that I had a screw protruding from my rear tyre. So it was off to BMW City Road at South Bank. The guys had heard about my trip and got on to the job quickly, in and out in just over an hour. Well done guys, thanks!

Joe

Monday 16th June - Day 3 Another COOL day

2008-06-16T17:20:00.002+10:00

Short run today. Bairnsdale to Melbourne 275 Kms

Leaving Bairnsdale, I was bless with another beautiful clear day, however, if someone can calculate wind chill 4 degrees at 110 km/hr... When I arrived at Sale for fuel it took me 15minutes to warm up my hands enough so I could use the pump.

Victoria was true to form, 4 seasons in one day, clear sunny start, followed by bitter cold, followed by thick fog, followed by clear sunny skies, what more could a fella ask for.

Spoke at length on air to Jamie from 6PR radio in Perth. 6PR have expressed a strong interest in my trip and the message that I am presenting to people as I travel around Australia and contact me from time to time for an update.

Arrived in Melbourne jsut after 3.00 and to my abode for the night with a friend after getting a bit lost duie to the terrible directions the locals were giving. Fortunately my Blue tooth kicked in at the last and I was able to hear the instructions from my Navigator Phone - the wonders of modern technology! Great when it works.

I'm spending a day in Melbourne before heading West, nice to get a rest day before a couple of big ones to Adelaide.

All the best Joe

Day 2- Sunday 15th June Cool in more ways than one!

2008-06-16T17:10:00.004+10:00

Sunday 15th June

Canberra turned on what appeared to be a beautiful fine sunny day. I was flying solo today so I could pace myself to cover the 425 kms between Canberra and Barinsdale. I trundled out of Canberra around 9.30 am

As I was going to go through Cooma, I figured it would get a bit chilly so I decided to put on a double layer of thermals, long sleeve T shirt, Kevlar Pants and Leather Jacket. This was fortunate as not long afer leaving Canberra, the wind picked up and picked up and picked up, then the real wind chill factor kicked in, then the mist started. I pulled out my rain gear, then the rain came as I crossed the Victorian border - literally, funny about that.

Through the gail force winds I was presented with some wonderful country from the Alpine plains to Pine Forests and National Parks of the Gippsland Districts.

This was a beautiful ride, may have been better if undertaken in Summer.

Arrived at Bairnsdale safely around 4.00 in the afternoon, found a caravan park with all the comforts of home: bed shower, heater and TV. After a nosh of Chinese I settled down to a little televsion then packed it in for the night.

On to Melbourne in the morning.

Joe

We're Off and Running!

2008-06-15T08:59:00.004+10:00

Day One!

Depsite our fears of bad weather the morning was crisp and clear if a bit windy! Approximately 30 riders and a number of spectators assembled at Christian City Church grounds to see me off on my 13,000 km journey, among them my wife Cathy, my daughter Lisa, her husband John and his son 6 year old Jonny. Also there were friends and church members and of course the riders, most of whom were from the Northern Beaches Social Riders Club,my designated escort out of Sydney.

A short Ceremony MC'd by Jake Betlam of CCC included a speech by Lisa Taylor from the Inspire Foundation www.inspire.org.au (the group I am raising funds for, go to the site to donate), myself and Pastor Tony Moylan (also from CCC). Channel 10 turned up to film us leaving and we were escorted from the CCC grounds to Monavale road by the NSW police, whom I would like to thank for their assistance in getting us through several sets of traffic lights to ensure that we all stayed together.

The commencement of the ride was ably orchestrated by the NBSLRC under the direction of Glen Nicholls the Club President. I would like to thank Glen and the crew for their support throughout the preparation for the trip, their enthusiasm and support has been tremendous. I would also like to thank CCC for their emotional, financial and spiritual support, CCC truely walks the talk, and thats a major reason why I am a member of this great organisation.

We got under way just after 10.00 o'clock, the roar and rumble of 30+ bikes leaving the Church grounds was awesome. It took us about an hour and half to get to Mittagong, where we were joined by 12 riders from the Wollondilly Wanderers. The first part of the ride was certainly rugged, with almost gale force winds battering us, the temperature dropped five degrees just North of Mittagong, she was chilly I can tell you - however my draggin jeans, thermals and leather jacket kept the worst of it out!

We stopped at Goulburn for Lunch and collected 40 riders from the BMW Motorcycle Club, the Harley Riders of ACT and the Mortorcycle Association of ACT. At Goulburn I spoke briefly on the purpose of my ride and the need to raise awareness of the issues around Youth Mental Health and the fact their was help available www.reachout.com.au .

After leaving Goulburn the wind eased up and we had a pleasant ride via the scenic route into Canberra, arriving just after 4.00pm.

I stayed the night with two of my riding buddies from CCC Ps Tony Moylan (The Motorcycle Pastor he has now been dubbed!) and Kevin Reid. We watched the rugby over a quiet ale and had a early night.

I'm off this morning to Bairnsdale 425 Kms, flying solo on this leg.

Cheers

Talk to you tomorrow.

Joe Campbell

Participating Motorcyle Clubs

2008-05-19T16:42:00.006+10:00

The following is the list of participating MCC to join me on the ride so far.
To check out individual MCC's follow the links on the right of this page.
For trip itinerary go to: http://www.ozzieroadtrip.com/
This list is in trip sequence:

Northern Beaches Social Riders Club - Sydney - NSW
Easy Riders - Sydney - NSW
Ulysses Wollondilly Wonderers - Mittagong - NSW
BMW MCC ACT
Canberra Harley Owners Group - ACT
BMW MCC - Vic.
LONGRIDERS CMC - SA
BMW MCC - WA
Ulysses Joondalup - WA
Ulysses Capricornia - Qld
Easy Riders MCC - Qld
The Blackall Range Motorcycle Club - Qld
Christian Motorcyclist’s Association - Qld
ADVENTURE BEFORE DEMENTIA ab4d - Qld
Bikers Against Child Abuse - Nth NSW

If you or your club would like to participate send me an email to; joe@ozzieroadtrip.com

Starting Venue Confirmed!

2008-05-09T14:54:00.006+10:00

The Ride will start from the Carpark of Christian City Church Oxford Falls Cnr of Wakehurst Parkway and Dreadnought Road Oxford Falls at 10.00 am on Saturday 14th of June.

All rider should be at the start location by 9:30am at the latest.

Please note riders are expected to ride responsibly and safely in a group, if you want to join us please be aware that an appropriate code of behaviour will be expected of all riders.

Count Down to Saturday June 14th 2008

2008-05-07T20:19:00.011+10:00

15 days to go and counting! The itinerary is locked in, and the word is out! Its official, its happening!

I ride a BMW Cruiser. I will be leaving Sydney's Northern Beaches on Saturday 14th of June 2008 to ride around Ausralia in 42 days. My first stop will be Canberra via Goulburn.

I am inviting bike riders to ride with me for an hour, a day a week or the whole trip....if you want to join me go to the website and contact me.

If you can't ride but want to help, tell other people about the ride, get everyone involved in plugging Australia's youth back into the community. Let the media, business and government know that this is an issue that matters and shouldn't be swept under the carpet because people are afraid to even talk about it.

Don't back away, get involved, connect the community with our youth!