We’re all packed up, hooked up and gone from the Gold Coast by 9:30am. Though our journey is south, our route takes us 50klm north, then due west and up the Great Dividing range to Toowoomba. Here we check with the local Tourist Information Centre regards the road conditions as we intend to leave the major highways now as we turn south west. The answer, mistakenly, is all clear.
Millmerran, about 90klm south of Toowoomba is our next junction, the road is excellent and quiet, perhaps too quiet! An advisory roadside display proudly advertises that the Millmerran to Goondiwindi road is closed, flooded, damn. An alternate route is via Inglewood, still south but 80klm west of our planned stop in Goondiwindi, on the Queensland and NSW border.
With no other option other than returning to Toowoomba, we turn left at Millmerran, new junction and lunch stop, Inglewood, a sleepy small town renowned for the Silo Artwork (ongoing). There is a history with the Richmond’s that “it’s not a trip until you’ve had a hamburger” and preferably one that drips down you arms. Thank you Cafe Inglewood, job done well.
Goondiwindi at last! Normally a 4 hour journey has taken us 5 1/2 hours due to floods. A quick setup at a caravan park and we embark on a walk around this lovely regional centre. The town has thrived and grown along the banks of the Macintyre River thanks to cattle grazing, sheep and agriculture, a true farming community township.
Next morning we stride out for a 6klm walk along the towns flood levees with a great view of the river 20 metres below, and the stately homes on the dry side of the levee bank. Then followed a walk along the Main Street looking in Real Estate windows for an investment opportunity….not likely without Evi’s blessing. Thanks Goondiwindi, especially the Gin & Tonic last evening at the Victoria Hotel.
Australia. Dust, Fire, Flood & Pandemic 