Thursday, July 13

Our grand-daughter, Madeleine, said goodbye to Tasmania on Tuesday, driving her car, laden to the gunwales, on to the Spirit of Tasmania to sail across Bass Strait to Melbourne, the first leg of an epic trek to Brisbane.  I use the word 'trek' advisedly because I was very much put in mind of the intrepid Boers as they prepared to face the savage jungles of Africa in search of a better life.

Her little red car was chock-a-block with partner, Josh, baby Macie, 2 dogs and all their worldly goods, with Madi driving.  On their way to the ferry terminal at Devonport, they called in to say farewell.  Marilyn thrust extra food upon them and room had to be found.  There was just a touch of hysteria but, eventually, they disappeared down the drive.

We've had regular updates as to their progress: they arrived in Melbourne yesterday morning and drove to Robinvale near Mildura, to visit her other grandfather (also John).  By lunchtime today, they were in Hay, heading for an oversight stop in West Wyalong (population 2600, 5 pubs and three licenced clubs).  I suspect they will keep heading  north on the Newell Highway, through Narrabri and Goondiwindi,before hitting Brisbane.

It hasn't been easy for them in Tasmania.  Josh has had trouble finding work and, now there is a baby demanding to be looked after, they think there will be more opportunity in a larger city.  Margaret, Madi's other grandmother, can offer them accommodation for a time and that will give them some breathing space to get organised.

This is a photo of Macie, in her travelling outfit.