Day 19: Russ Creek to Kalumburu turn off

June 14, 2022

Start: 8:05 am
Distance: 31 km
Ride time: 2:26 hours
Average: 13 km/hr
Max: 54km/hr
Finish: 12 pm

It was a peaceful night with no traffic.

I love spots like this. 100kms from the nearest person. I think it was a full moon. And bird song woke me up.

It was a dewy night so some of my stuff got a little wet. I sleep with both of the outer tent doors open. This let in some of the dew.

This looks like a good place for crocs. Nevertheless I need to replenish my water supply. I took it from a shallow flowing section.

Whilst at my bike I noticed a front pannier bolt was loose. I checked all the pannier bolts and found 2 more loose ones on the front panniers. It's a concern that could have been avoided if only I had used some Locktite.

I will now check all the bolts every day while on the Gibb.

I then returned back to the rest area. On the way back I stopped to view some aboriginal rock art. This isn't signposted. I only knew about it from another traveller.

It was pretty cool.

Unfortunately there was no information board.

When I was at the rest area, I met Ian. He had 'crazy old bastard' embroidered on his shirt. He is cycling the Gibb in the opposite direction to me. He was a nice friendly fellow. He is 65.

He had done a lot of cycling in Australia. Including cycling from Hell's Gate to Borroloola. We both agreed it is the worst road we've ever seen.

We spoke about bikes and gear. I offered him some fruit that I got from Logan. He politely declined saying I'll need it more than him.

Ian said he sometimes barters with tourists. He tells them his story and they supply the cold beer.

After he left I cooked up some lunch. It was good although I am bored of dehydrated food.

Two cars pulled in and invited me to lunch. I had a delicious salad wrap and a cold soft drink. Amazing.

I know you've all seen mandarins before but these ones were given in kindness and gratefully received. I am so happy right now.

Paul also offered me accommodation in Broome. So generous of people to be so nice when they have only met me briefly.

After they left I returned to my picnic table. A small tour bus pulled in and I was soon surrounded by people asking the usual questions.

I think Paul was their guide. He used to work in a bike shop and was interested in touring. He was very keen that I could take whatever I required.

He gave me cold gatorade, 2 bananas, 2 apples, and 2 oranges.

He also offered me muesli bars and fresh vegetables. I declined as now I have plenty of fruit.

They were in a rush so I couldn't take their picture.

Later another tour bus pulled in and offered me fruit and water. I politely declined.

I hoped they would pass Ian and I was going to ask they give it to him. Alas they are going to Kalumburu and won't pass Ian.

Wow, what an amazing day!

I am having an easy day today and will enjoy the luxury of having a picnic table. I will camp here although there is a sign saying not to. I am assuming it doesn't apply to cyclists.

Today's ride: 31 km (19 miles)
Total: 901 km (560 miles)

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