SUNDAY 7 MARCH - HEADING FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIA

 

Another early departure, though at the end of the day we did not need to get away quite so early.

It being a Sunday, there was no traffic. We continued across the western side of the Hay Plain – still the same, flat, but at the same time amazing.

We crossed from NSW into Victoria at Tooleybuc where the Murray River provides the physical border between the two states. Expecting all manner of interrogation, because we had completed our border passes, we continued on our way unannounced. No border checks!

We were now in Mallee Country, travelling down the Mallee Highway, This is really an extension of the Hay Plain, but with a little more interest; more undulations and some salt flats to provide variety.

We had hoped that passing through Ouyen, a more substantial town, we could stop for a break and coffee. No such luck. Sunday, everything is closed! Everyone was either in church or at home with their feet up. Though passing by the IGA it looked like Sunday is a supermarket day – lots of cars outside.

So we continued on to South Australia without stopping in Victoria. Again, no border check BUT we were stopped at the quarantine station to check our car for fruit and vegetables. The vehicle in front had a load of material which was confiscated. I suppose some people are unaware of regulations.

We arrived in Murray Bridge with three hours to kill. Again, being Sunday, very little was open. We found where we were required to meet to board the boat then found the Community Club where we had a very welcome cup of tea.

Time passed and soon we were on board. We had been allocated a cabin on the top deck – joy! The best position. Very happy. This will be a good week.

The wetlands at Pinaroo just inside the SA border. A lovely lunch stop

The lake was chock full of turtles

Tried to capture the dragon fly - two for the price of one!!!

This spider was dragging the beetle across difficult terrain!

Not many birds out and about in the middle of a hot day

Very unusual wings on this insect

More Hay Plain-like country, but now in Mallee

Lots of these very fast birds around near a rest area above the River Murray, Murray Bridge

Thank you!

Rail bridge across the River Murray at Murray Bridge

Our home for the next five days!