Sunday was getting a bit hotter so expected to be a little more relaxed. We could not have asked for a better day to visit the iconic Blue Rag Track. The weather was gorgeous. The sky could not have been bluer. The Mountains could not have been greener. The tracks could have been a little less dusty but I was not about to complain. For anyone that hasn’t done this track, do it! It’s an absolute ripper. Relatively easy for most 4wd vehicles although I would still recommend making sure you are amongst good company. Following the Blue Rag Track, we decided to visit ‘Tony’s secret swimming hole’. It seems however it was no longer such a secret. There were already some campers there who by the way were reminded by officials of the legalities regarding camping within 20m of any river. There were also some other groups including some from our own membership. Regardless, this swimming hole was definitely worth a visit. A lovely climb down to a gorgeous little waterfall. A great place for lunch and a cool down. Quite refreshed by the time we got back for ‘fivesies’ and our Australia Day celebrations. Followed by our communal dinner with I reckon around 20kgs of meat amongst other great dishes.
Monday was even more relaxed. Some may say a bit too relaxed. With 40+ degree weather expected, I at least decided this would be a good day for the local river. Again, relaxed with good company, plenty of laughs and a couple or so drinks. Both kids and adults had a ball.
Tuesday morning meant it was time to leave. I found the climb with the trailer a bit of a challenge and my auto trans started to overheat. Thankfully, by the time I made it to the top of the track, it had started to cool down again. By this time, I figured maybe I should not have loaded the excess firewood on to my trailer. Now before everyone starts with the ‘it’s a Challenger problem’, I assure you it was not. I realised when I got home that I hadn’t released the handbrake on the trailer so that considering, I reckon my car did quite well to get up that hill. Interestingly, the car handled especially well coming down Mt Hotham’s wet roads. Kind of makes sense now. So there is my friendly reminder to you all to do a quick walk around the trailer before leaving.
On that note, I want to give a massive thank you to all the trip leaders and organises of this trip. A big thanks also to the members who helped each other out when things didn’t quite go to plan. Not just for me but for others. Yes, not everything went to plan but that is what makes any trip an adventure. And what a great adventure this weekend was. There are no boring tracks around this part of the world. These mountains cater for all levels of drivers and vehicles. And the views just keep getting better the longer you drive. If you haven’t done this trip before, start planning now for the next one. Or better still, organise your own as a club trip. There are plenty of experienced members to guide you and no doubt some to even join you. Thanks for listening to my story. See you out on the mountains.