Day 6 Wed 21st March
Balladonia to Cockelbiddy - distance 247 km
This morning great joy as Craig Lamond asked me to sit with him in his 1910 Brush for a couple of hours. I raced to find my uniform a pink McGrath reflective jacket. Then about 0800 we were away from our Balladonia Road House – the only Motel and Caravan Park. Still soft clouds abounding with showers in the distance. Quite cool too, only one sunny day Perth to York. Then Steve Roberts, Craig’s back up drove and then the last 80kms Craig’s brother took us to Cocklebiddy. The magic of the sweet song of a motor chugging along. The click of a pace-gear change. The careful watch of the oil drips. Then a truckie reported a “little red one” was approaching town with out lights at 6pm. Imagine the wonder and thrill of being thrust into the past history of the Brush Car. 100 years ago as Syd Ferguson and Francis Birtles and dog Rex made this same journey. Now as we follow their path 100 years ago I feel they are not now forgotten heroes.
As we checked into Cocklebiddy Roadhouse - Wedgetail Inn some of us went to sleep to the lullaby of mice running inside our walls – a little like a sound of wind and a very strange smell. However great hosts and we were given a warm welcome.
Judie Stephens OAM - Expedition Director