Stray Tag-a-long Tales: Kalgoorlie - First Leg Down and Dusted.

We made it! The first major leg of the trip has been completed with all people completing it, albeit a bit sorry for themselves. The 'rest' day programmed for tomorrow is a welcome relief after 5 days solid riding, passing over 600+ kms (some more than others).
The ride started this morning from the camping experience we had last night with some interesting stories coming out of camp about sleeping habits of some of the members. Apparently Jesse thought there was a couple of walrus looking for mates from the sounds coming out of Frank and Darren respective tents. Frank assured us he doesn't normally snore and last night must have been an aberration!

I did ask Jesse how he actually knew what mating walrus sound like? He said he "had watched a lot of David Attenborough" and as he is a teacher I thought I'd allow that reason.
The film night went down well with all, although we did have an '80's music DVD going and nearly didn't get to the film except Shirley (a 'ring-in' camper next to us) paid good money for Red Dog, so we had to see it!
There were a few running repairs done to equipment today as Tim's ear-piece broke with Paul getting the SupaGlu out for a quick mend. Frank fell off his bike today and broke an arm on his mirror. (Lucky it wasn't the mirror or the Good Karma may have left us). We nearly had to do some running repairs to the last set of riders as their escort apparently fell asleep at the wheel. Those early mornings are obviously getting to Ray as well.

Dr Robin has had his first job, that of removing stitches from Col's back. Hope he was gentle Col; doctors don't always have the best reputation for that type of job. Maybe Nurse Mandy may have been a better option!
Tonight we celebrate at the local hotel to say well-done to all so far, but also to say farewell to Nick Stray who could only complete this first major leg. Not a bad effort for someone who has had basically no training leading up to the ride (due to a heavy cold affecting chest and sinuses) and very little experience in road riding. Well done Nick - proud of you - even if I am a biased Mum. (Thanks to all the riders for helping him along the way: whether it be advice or as a riding buddy - Barry and Simone particularly, I'm sure he has appreciated it all).
I do know for a fact he will miss the group but work calls and I'm sure he will find time somewhere in his life to see a bit more Australia - not sure if it will be by bike though!
Please check out the photos below and also on the next page (Photos Too) as I have uploaded relevant photos of the riders here and other interesting things on the other page.