1ST Leg.
26 October 2002 Perth - Wubin.
Well it’s really begun today.
Up early and a few last minutes sorting out (what would any trip be without them) and a quick trip to see our dear friend Ken Ingram and then down to the causeway car park no 4. Here a very pleasant surprise awaited us in the form of well over a hundred well wishers, car enthusiastists both Citroen and Austin Seven, family and friends awaited us. It was a very moving and somewhat overwhelming experience for us both. Our very special thanks for the effort involved in making it so memorable.
On the dot of nine we were off. A long entourage of Austin Seven’s (which were due to be in Harvey) and Citroen.s followed us out, making a very pretty picture. The Austin’s peeled off on the other side of the causeway and then we and the Citroens, made our way out, through Guildford and then out onto the open highway and we were off.
Well I’m not too sure that our escort really thought we were off, they were champing at the bit and finally decided to go ahead and have a break whilst we carried on.
The morning’s travel went well with the only hiccup being a blocked jet just out of Bindoon. This had been caused by a little bug, which had decided to commit suicide in our petrol. This cleared, Matilda ran very well although our very top speed of 60 km/hr and cruising speed of 45-50 we had no problems with speed traps.
A lovely casual lunch was had at New Norcia and then, waving goodbye to our faithful friends from the ACE club, we were off on our own.
The countryside is very dry and we are very aware of the prevailing drought conditions. Especially I noticed the lack of stock in the paddocks. The farmers are really suffering in some of these more borderline wheat belt areas.
In spite of many dire predictions we have arrived safe and sound in the little town of Wubin. (By the way that’s way past New Norcia for those who thought we wouldn’t get any further). Here we have remembered what Australia is all about. Desperate for a shower I asked the service station attendant if I could pay for one but he waved my request away and just opened the facilities for us.
We then decided to go to the local pub for a cold beer to dampen the dust in our throats. Here we were welcomed like long lost friends. Mine hosts Fred, well supported by Kerry, made us feel like real locals. Having been so welcomed we decided to have a meal. The meal produced by the chef Clint equalled anything I’ve ever had. Again we have to thank the wonderful people we have met who have made us so welcome.