In the beginning....

     Well this is the start of what we hope will be many exciting and happy adventures.  We have recently upgraded to a new caravan, a Blue Sky Seaview.   Our previous van was an AVan pop top which served us very well. Once that we decided we enjoyed the caravanning lifestyle, and after a lot of research, we updated.

The new set-up...

     The new van came fully equipped with solar, house battery,  twin fresh water tanks,  and all the modern conveniences we have come to expect.  We did add a few extras to be included in the build - a grey water tank, power inverter, and rear view camera.   We have also included a generator, mounted in a box on the rear bumper of the van.  We intend including a mix of free-camping and parks,  depending on availability, length of stay and how much of each area we wish to explore.

The planned route.

     We have done a couple of "pre-trip" trips in the van,  just to be sure that all the equipment works as it should.   We have had no issues with any fittings or fixtures, hopefully this is a trend that will continue.

     For our first proper trip, we are heading north, the first portion of the trip will be through populated, even if only sparsely, areas of N.S.W and Qld.

     We'll visit Bourke, Longreach and Winton.  Our planned northernmost point is expected to be Burketown and from there to Lawn Hill National Park.  

     The southbound track will take us to Camooweal, Mt. Isa and then head down to Birdsville, Marree, Quorn, Waikerie, and back to Hamilton.  This part of the trip will take us through some of the more remote areas of our country, including the Birdsville Track. 

     We have previously travelled the Oodnadatta track, with the AVan, from Marree to William Creek, then across to Coober Pedy, so we know that travelling in remote areas, if well prepared and cautious,  can be completed quite safely.

     On paper the trip a minimum of 6,500 km, plus whatever additional side trips we find ourselves doing.   We expect to do it in 5 weeks, if all goes well.

     Our planned departure will be on the 20th of March, 2017.   Before leaving, the car and van will both have a service.    We will carry spare filters, hoses and belts, and the tools necessary to change them if required. 

      In the event of a breakdown, that cannot be rectified by ourselves, we will follow the "Outback Rules" and stay with the vehicle, and wait.   The van is well stocked food and water, and even though remote, it is surprising how many people travel in these areas.  Of course we will be in contact with family when communications permit, and will know of our whereabouts and immediate plans.

     So with four weeks to go plans are well advanced.   We have not booked accommodation along the way, as we do not want to tie ourselves to a set timetable.  We will need to book for places like Lawn Hill National park (or Adel's Grove on the edge of the park), but we will be able to do that on line, and we can do that when we get closer and surer of dates.

      In the mean time we are fine tuning, clothes, food, tools and equipment.  We are trying not to take too much stuff, but......    Anyway what we don't need, we will leave at home next time, and if we really need something......there are shops!

      Stay tuned for the next episode......