Nicks 40th On The 30th - Top End Style

The Party Day has arrived......

After a bit of a sleep in we were all up and the kids were eager to give Nick his presents and cards, even though he had ordered us not to buy him anything. From all over us Nick received a pair of hiking boots, and due to his failing eyesight, a pair of magnifying glasses, as well as some red wine and iTunes vouchers from Ian, Paul and Jerry, some duct tape from Mark and Lauren and binoculars from Jo & Pete, and Abbey and Freya had drawn some beautiful pictures. Nick was feeling incredibly spoilt indeed.

We headed into Darwin and spent the day at the wave pool. We all had a blast tubing, swimming and jumping in the waves, Abbey especially loving Uncle Jerry pulling her along on the boogy board and donut.

Time flew by and we didn't get back to tumbling waters until about 4pm and although the party was being catered for we still had a bit to prepare before the drinks and nibbles began, and before we knew it friends had started to arrive.

Sitting around our grassy camping area we enjoyed predinner drinks and nibbles with Paul, Ian, Jerry, Jo & Pete, Pete's parents, Kristy, Linda, Sharon, Paul & Caroline, Myles and Tim & Joy. And again Nick was spoilt with more presents including iTunes vouchers, wine, t-shirt and a voucher for a night out kid free. It was a lovely warm balmy evening, probably the warmest birthday Nick has ever celebrated. At 6pm we headed up to the restaurant to our candlelit outdoor tables, set amongst the palms with the sun slowly setting we found our seats.

Ben, the chef, came and announced the menu: Crumbed Crocodile with Aoli, Warm Bread and Dips for entree, followed by Bush Spiced Steak or Thai Influenced Barramundi finished with Chocolate Brownie or Lemon tart. With our taste buds watering we chatted amongst ourselves, laughing, sharing stories, and for some putting faces to names.

As the evening went on the kids disappeared to watch Mamma Mia at the open air cinema, and after dessert it was time for speeches. Unfortunately our friends The Backsons weren't able to come to the party as they were still on the Gibb River Rd, but Hamish did write a poem for Nick, which saved me from having to prepare a speech of my own. The poem is certainly "blog" worthy:

Nick Linton’s 40th Poem

It was a hot sunny day, out in Port Lincoln’s bay,
When we sailed out to swim with the tuna.
If we’d known who we’d meet, on that pride of the fleet,
We’d have booked another voyage sooner!

We’d noticed the Lintons as they sat in a line,
Politely at the back of the boat.
Our crew got there late, having made everyone wait,
And squabbled like a herd of old goats.

By the end of the cruise, with our fingers all bruised,
We were still moaning and shifting the blame,
When our noise was shattered, well, not that it mattered,
And a new voice was heard to exclaim.

“G’day there, I’m Nick”, and in half a tick,
We knew most of what there was to know.
Rosie spoke too, but before she could choose,
We’d been invited to their travelling show.

So to this hairy gents’ sprawling palace we went.
We were nervous but anxious to please.
We needn’t have worried, as our kids up and scurried,
And Nick poured red wine and served cheese.

He proudly displayed, the home gorilla tape made,
And the Jayco they’d bought for 8K.
As Nick pointed out all its sags, he burnt thirty snags
While telling tales of what they’d seen on their way.

“That’s interesting” he’d quote, “because we saw that boat,
But it was bigger, and faster, and better”
Now that we know Nick so well, we know the tales he tells,
Are usually true to the letter.

And they’re great stories too, because they are true.
He’s got a habit of taking some chances.
Liking seeing how far, he can get a van and a car,
With no coolant, petrol, or finances!

We thought we were special when Nick sought us out,
For a chat and then later a beer.
But it appears we’re not alone, for Nick’s most at home
When he’s talking and making good cheer.

And if you’re a Vic, well you won’t escape Nick.
He’ll scour the whole van park to find you.
It’s only Grey Nomads on farms, who are immune to his charms,
But that’s fine because they’ll all be dead soon!

A man of two faces, he prefers bush camping places,
But must always be close to a shower.
Once a high flying suit, he’s now tasting new fruit,
Ask Rosie, she’s got all the power.

When Nick got the can, he became a true family man,
Quickly shedding his corporate walks.
Now Josh teaches him fishing, and how to play cricket,
Whilst with Abbey he talks and he talks.

Matt takes him to watch birds, with feathers not skirts,
And he helps young Zach wrestle crocs.
Watching cloudy sunsets with Rosie, they get nice and cosy,
As they plan their next tour de force.

Who knows where they’ll stop, will they drive till they drop?
Though it’s likely the van will fail first.
One thing is for sure, if Nick’s got something to pour,
He’ll definitely not die of thirst.
So thanks Nick we say, for that hello on that day.
And the way that you laugh with such ease.
You’re a good friend and a mate; you make your own fate;
Happy 40th Nick and GO DEES!!

Thanks Hammer. Everyone had such a good laugh at the truth and humour of your piece.

Jo Leonard also saved the day for me having prepared a speech also. Although similar to Hamish's, Jo shared some very funny and special moments we've had together on the trip.

Happy 40th Birthday Nick!

Across the Nullabor towards the West
Was when we, the Leonard's, met you at your best.
Relaxed and on holiday around Australia's coast
At Cape Le Grand for Rosie's birthday, we did toast.

You thought us posh folk from Sydney with our fancy van
Compared to your Jayco Hawk 'Bob' which was part of your plan.
But you welcomed us with a smile and a cheeky little grin
Saying "... come over for drinks, we'll all pitch in".

You travelled with a miracle tape, gorilla was its name
To hold your tent together was where it found fame.
Now Nick uses gorilla tape for everything little thing
It's tough, and strong and covers every ripped thing!

Now it's been 4 months since we met that fateful day
And travelled together over corrugations, rivers and sand all the way.
Sandy Cape with the seals, Kalbarri on kayaks
Monkey Mia, Cape Range where we stared at sharks that looked like Salma Hayek.

Now Barn Hill was interesting, not just for sunsets and snakes
But ye cranky grey nomad whose van we did shake
With laughter, good old banter and political news
He got up your nose, I thought you'd give him a bruise!

We carried on, our lot, meeting in Broome for the moon
Where you got your car fixed, you terrible hoon.
Now Nick's no mechanic, we all know that,
So when asked "when did you last put oil in?" he choked and spat
"what on earth for!" was his reply
"Rosie, didn't you do that?",
"No Nick, you're the guy!"

But aside from being towed from Cape Leveque
He's had dear friends to fix things, and their labour was cheap!
Pete with the car and Mark with the zips
It all comes together Nick, as you sweet talk with those lips.

As we've grown to know and love Nick we see he's a marketing man
With hundreds of ideas, promotions and plans
He could sell you anything with a chink of his glass
Over fine cheap wine, "...camp and stay awhile on the grass".

Now Nick, I feel like I've known you all of my life,
Sharing family moments with you and your beautiful wife.
We've seen turtles and dolphins, sea lions and crocodiles
But I'm sorry, I stop there, loving the 'Demons' may take a while.


You're a teacher, father and husband with your family of six,
Travelling on a journey with no quick fix.
But you have taken the time to talk, play and explore
With your four beautiful children, whom I know you adore.

This journey is for all of you, and us as well,
For when we are old - past 40! - we'll have great stories to tell.
We've struck up a friendship which I hope will last
Cos with the Lintons, Baxtons, Virgonas, we've all had a blast!

Here's to you Nick, our great friend, you're 40 years old mate
But remember, it's the journey, no regrets, it's never too late!

Happy 40th Birthday Nick!

Well.... Nick was speechless, probably for the first time in his life. He was overcome with gratitude at the efforts his family and friends had made to come to his party, and the words expressed in the poems so funny, yet so true.

Words finally came to Nick, and he gave an emotional, sincere, short (yes I said short) speech conveying his gratitude, sharing thoughts and feelings about his life.

All too soon it was time to finish the evening with a toast.

Happy Birthday Nick. I hope it was one that will be remembered and treasured for many years to come.

Nicks 40th On The 30th - Top End Style

The Party Day has arrived......

After a bit of a sleep in we were all up and the kids were eager to give Nick his presents and cards, even though he had ordered us not to buy him anything. From all over us Nick received a pair of hiking boots, and due to his failing eyesight, a pair of magnifying glasses, as well as some red wine and iTunes vouchers from Ian, Paul and Jerry, some duct tape from Mark and Lauren and binoculars from Jo & Pete, and Abbey and Freya had drawn some beautiful pictures. Nick was feeling incredibly spoilt indeed.

We headed into Darwin and spent the day at the wave pool. We all had a blast tubing, swimming and jumping in the waves, Abbey especially loving Uncle Jerry pulling her along on the boogy board and donut.

Time flew by and we didn't get back to tumbling waters until about 4pm and although the party was being catered for we still had a bit to prepare before the drinks and nibbles began, and before we knew it friends had started to arrive.

Sitting around our grassy camping area we enjoyed predinner drinks and nibbles with Paul, Ian, Jerry, Jo & Pete, Pete's parents, Kristy, Linda, Sharon, Paul & Caroline, Myles and Tim & Joy. And again Nick was spoilt with more presents including iTunes vouchers, wine, t-shirt and a voucher for a night out kid free. It was a lovely warm balmy evening, probably the warmest birthday Nick has ever celebrated. At 6pm we headed up to the restaurant to our candlelit outdoor tables, set amongst the palms with the sun slowly setting we found our seats.

Ben, the chef, came and announced the menu: Crumbed Crocodile with Aoli, Warm Bread and Dips for entree, followed by Bush Spiced Steak or Thai Influenced Barramundi finished with Chocolate Brownie or Lemon tart. With our taste buds watering we chatted amongst ourselves, laughing, sharing stories, and for some putting faces to names.

As the evening went on the kids disappeared to watch Mamma Mia at the open air cinema, and after dessert it was time for speeches. Unfortunately our friends The Backsons weren't able to come to the party as they were still on the Gibb River Rd, but Hamish did write a poem for Nick, which saved me from having to prepare a speech of my own. The poem is certainly "blog" worthy:

Nick Linton’s 40th Poem

It was a hot sunny day, out in Port Lincoln’s bay,
When we sailed out to swim with the tuna.
If we’d known who we’d meet, on that pride of the fleet,
We’d have booked another voyage sooner!

We’d noticed the Lintons as they sat in a line,
Politely at the back of the boat.
Our crew got there late, having made everyone wait,
And squabbled like a herd of old goats.

By the end of the cruise, with our fingers all bruised,
We were still moaning and shifting the blame,
When our noise was shattered, well, not that it mattered,
And a new voice was heard to exclaim.

“G’day there, I’m Nick”, and in half a tick,
We knew most of what there was to know.
Rosie spoke too, but before she could choose,
We’d been invited to their travelling show.

So to this hairy gents’ sprawling palace we went.
We were nervous but anxious to please.
We needn’t have worried, as our kids up and scurried,
And Nick poured red wine and served cheese.

He proudly displayed, the home gorilla tape made,
And the Jayco they’d bought for 8K.
As Nick pointed out all its sags, he burnt thirty snags
While telling tales of what they’d seen on their way.

“That’s interesting” he’d quote, “because we saw that boat,
But it was bigger, and faster, and better”
Now that we know Nick so well, we know the tales he tells,
Are usually true to the letter.

And they’re great stories too, because they are true.
He’s got a habit of taking some chances.
Liking seeing how far, he can get a van and a car,
With no coolant, petrol, or finances!

We thought we were special when Nick sought us out,
For a chat and then later a beer.
But it appears we’re not alone, for Nick’s most at home
When he’s talking and making good cheer.

And if you’re a Vic, well you won’t escape Nick.
He’ll scour the whole van park to find you.
It’s only Grey Nomads on farms, who are immune to his charms,
But that’s fine because they’ll all be dead soon!

A man of two faces, he prefers bush camping places,
But must always be close to a shower.
Once a high flying suit, he’s now tasting new fruit,
Ask Rosie, she’s got all the power.

When Nick got the can, he became a true family man,
Quickly shedding his corporate walks.
Now Josh teaches him fishing, and how to play cricket,
Whilst with Abbey he talks and he talks.

Matt takes him to watch birds, with feathers not skirts,
And he helps young Zach wrestle crocs.
Watching cloudy sunsets with Rosie, they get nice and cosy,
As they plan their next tour de force.

Who knows where they’ll stop, will they drive till they drop?
Though it’s likely the van will fail first.
One thing is for sure, if Nick’s got something to pour,
He’ll definitely not die of thirst.
So thanks Nick we say, for that hello on that day.
And the way that you laugh with such ease.
You’re a good friend and a mate; you make your own fate;
Happy 40th Nick and GO DEES!!

Thanks Hammer. Everyone had such a good laugh at the truth and humour of your piece.

Jo Leonard also saved the day for me having prepared a speech also. Although similar to Hamish's, Jo shared some very funny and special moments we've had together on the trip.

Happy 40th Birthday Nick!

Across the Nullabor towards the West
Was when we, the Leonard's, met you at your best.
Relaxed and on holiday around Australia's coast
At Cape Le Grand for Rosie's birthday, we did toast.

You thought us posh folk from Sydney with our fancy van
Compared to your Jayco Hawk 'Bob' which was part of your plan.
But you welcomed us with a smile and a cheeky little grin
Saying "... come over for drinks, we'll all pitch in".

You travelled with a miracle tape, gorilla was its name
To hold your tent together was where it found fame.
Now Nick uses gorilla tape for everything little thing
It's tough, and strong and covers every ripped thing!

Now it's been 4 months since we met that fateful day
And travelled together over corrugations, rivers and sand all the way.
Sandy Cape with the seals, Kalbarri on kayaks
Monkey Mia, Cape Range where we stared at sharks that looked like Salma Hayek.

Now Barn Hill was interesting, not just for sunsets and snakes
But ye cranky grey nomad whose van we did shake
With laughter, good old banter and political news
He got up your nose, I thought you'd give him a bruise!

We carried on, our lot, meeting in Broome for the moon
Where you got your car fixed, you terrible hoon.
Now Nick's no mechanic, we all know that,
So when asked "when did you last put oil in?" he choked and spat
"what on earth for!" was his reply
"Rosie, didn't you do that?",
"No Nick, you're the guy!"

But aside from being towed from Cape Leveque
He's had dear friends to fix things, and their labour was cheap!
Pete with the car and Mark with the zips
It all comes together Nick, as you sweet talk with those lips.

As we've grown to know and love Nick we see he's a marketing man
With hundreds of ideas, promotions and plans
He could sell you anything with a chink of his glass
Over fine cheap wine, "...camp and stay awhile on the grass".

Now Nick, I feel like I've known you all of my life,
Sharing family moments with you and your beautiful wife.
We've seen turtles and dolphins, sea lions and crocodiles
But I'm sorry, I stop there, loving the 'Demons' may take a while.


You're a teacher, father and husband with your family of six,
Travelling on a journey with no quick fix.
But you have taken the time to talk, play and explore
With your four beautiful children, whom I know you adore.

This journey is for all of you, and us as well,
For when we are old - past 40! - we'll have great stories to tell.
We've struck up a friendship which I hope will last
Cos with the Lintons, Baxtons, Virgonas, we've all had a blast!

Here's to you Nick, our great friend, you're 40 years old mate
But remember, it's the journey, no regrets, it's never too late!

Happy 40th Birthday Nick!

Well.... Nick was speechless, probably for the first time in his life. He was overcome with gratitude at the efforts his family and friends had made to come to his party, and the words expressed in the poems so funny, yet so true.

Words finally came to Nick, and he gave an emotional, sincere, short (yes I said short) speech conveying his gratitude, sharing thoughts and feelings about his life.

All too soon it was time to finish the evening with a toast.

Happy Birthday Nick. I hope it was one that will be remembered and treasured for many years to come.

The Build Up...

"The Build Up" is usually to term used before the wet season begins up here in Darwin, but for us "The Build Up"'is about organising a 40th Birthday in 4 days.

As we hightailed our way towards Darwin we made contact with Nicks brother Tim and sister-in-law Joy. They were arriving in Darwin the following day and suggested we all stay at Berry Springs before they head out to Litchfield National Park. We found a delightful caravan park called Tumbling Waters. Although no powered sites were available we were able to set up in a bushy, grassy area with space all around us and a dry creek bed behind us. Zach was excited as there is a crocodile enclosure here with 12 fresh water crocs living in there, which are fed weekly, and he boldly announced to the owner, on arrival, "I'll look after your crocs for you."

And so the planning begins......the following day we drove into Darwin and checked out some options for a party venue. Some looked good but all would require a fair amount of set up, and were a distance from any caravan park. As we drove back towards Berry Springs we toyed with the idea of having the party at the restaurant at the caravan park. There were many questions to be asked, such as cost, menu, availability, the list goes on.

While we were discussing this, we received a message to say there was a road block and we couldn't get back. "There is a police manhunt for a guy who's done something really bad, can't get back to caravan park, come and join us at Noonamah Pub" the MSG from Kristy and Linda read. Wow (well actually I think I used another word). I googled news links in the hope of more information and yes this guy had done something bad - he had decapitated a man, was fully armed and had a background in military bush survival, his car had just been found on Cox Peninsula Rd (the road to our caravan park). So off to the Noonamah Pub it is to wait.

After a couple of cold drinks and a keen watch on any news updates we heard there maybe a back road we can reach the caravan park. The other option is staying at the local high school. We chose the back road and anxiously made our way back to the caravan.

Nick and I tried to mask our anxieties in front of the kids, but we did discuss staying together and all cramming into the van to sleep at night with the door locked, but we still went about organising Nicks Party and checking out the local sites.

Tim & Joy (Nicks brother and sister in law) arrived on the 26th and spent the day and night with us before heading out to Litchfield National Park. We all piled into the territory and drove out to Darwin Dam. Matt quickly spotted some Rainbow Beeaters and a Blue Winged Kookaburra, enjoying chatting to Aunty Joy about birds, while Abbey and Zach talked constantly to Uncle Tim. We walked across the dam wall and wandered down to the waters edge. There was a crocodile catching cage which enthralled Zach and Matt. Nick and Josh had a rock skimming contest. To set the scene, I have taken Abbey into the bush to do a bush wee, Matt was checking out the croc cage, Josh and Nick were skimming rocks, and Zach was sitting about 4 metres further around the water bank. All of a sudden Zach lets out a deathly scream. Running I wonder what has bitten him. He is holding his head unable to speak. Nick sheepishly comes over and I am still wondering what happened....... Nicks rock he was throwing to skim slipped as he threw it and hit Zach just behind the ear, leaving a small (2cm) split. Luckily we had two Dr's on hand (you are never off duty as a Dr) and I had some steri
Strips and some antiseptic. Zach recovered pretty quickly and turned to Nick (who was feeling pretty bad) and said "Dad you shouldn't throw stones it could hit someone. You say that all the time".

From Darwin Dam we went for a drive to Mandorah Jetty. Mandorah has some very high tides, and there is a ferry which travels between Darwin and Mandorah daily, so consequently the jetty has many levels, over half of which were covered in barnacles. There were quite a few people fishing, and we were intrigued with the way some were catching bait fish in a net. The only fish we saw caught was a sucker fish. It had a plate on the top of its head which is how it attaches to bigger fish and whales.

After farewelling Tim and Joy we continued organising Nicks party. If we were home I'm sure plans and details would have been able to be done over a period of time, organising the party and accommodation options for those coming up from interstate in 4 days was certainly a fun and interesting challenge.

Excitedly we await the arrival of our friends Ian Mason and Paul Schmidt (and Paul's daughter Freya). It will be really lovely to spend time with some friends, from home. (well technically Paul lives in Brisbane).

It's Thursday, my phone rings, "It's Jeremy" (Nicks brother) so Nick answers and a look of shock, excitement, appreciation, and astonishment is all over his face. After he hangs up Nick tells me Tim and Joy are flying Jerry up for the party. What an awesome surprise.

That evening, after wandering around the Mindal Markets, watching the sunset, enjoying chicken satays and noodles watching street performers, then visiting Jo and Pete Leonard (who had just got back from Bali, with lots of sunnies, clothes and jewelry for us) we headed out to the airport at 12:00 midnight to pick up Paul and Freya. By the time the plane landed, greetings, cuddles and kisses (mainly by Abbey and Freya) & baggage collected, we arrived home at about 2:15am. The Cox Peninsula Rd was not closed now but cars were all being stopped and searched. It was a bit daunting being confronted by a police officer with a semi automatic riffle ready to fire as they peer through the car, which has 8 passengers in a 7 seater car. After questioning why we were out at 2 am we were motioned on our way.

Ian arrived the next day, and hired a 4wd which proved to be very handy. Later that night Jerry arrived, and it was another 2am bedtime. At this rate we'll be asleep by party time tommorrow night.

The Build Up...

"The Build Up" is usually to term used before the wet season begins up here in Darwin, but for us "The Build Up"'is about organising a 40th Birthday in 4 days.

As we hightailed our way towards Darwin we made contact with Nicks brother Tim and sister-in-law Joy. They were arriving in Darwin the following day and suggested we all stay at Berry Springs before they head out to Litchfield National Park. We found a delightful caravan park called Tumbling Waters. Although no powered sites were available we were able to set up in a bushy, grassy area with space all around us and a dry creek bed behind us. Zach was excited as there is a crocodile enclosure here with 12 fresh water crocs living in there, which are fed weekly, and he boldly announced to the owner, on arrival, "I'll look after your crocs for you."

And so the planning begins......the following day we drove into Darwin and checked out some options for a party venue. Some looked good but all would require a fair amount of set up, and were a distance from any caravan park. As we drove back towards Berry Springs we toyed with the idea of having the party at the restaurant at the caravan park. There were many questions to be asked, such as cost, menu, availability, the list goes on.

While we were discussing this, we received a message to say there was a road block and we couldn't get back. "There is a police manhunt for a guy who's done something really bad, can't get back to caravan park, come and join us at Noonamah Pub" the MSG from Kristy and Linda read. Wow (well actually I think I used another word). I googled news links in the hope of more information and yes this guy had done something bad - he had decapitated a man, was fully armed and had a background in military bush survival, his car had just been found on Cox Peninsula Rd (the road to our caravan park). So off to the Noonamah Pub it is to wait.

After a couple of cold drinks and a keen watch on any news updates we heard there maybe a back road we can reach the caravan park. The other option is staying at the local high school. We chose the back road and anxiously made our way back to the caravan.

Nick and I tried to mask our anxieties in front of the kids, but we did discuss staying together and all cramming into the van to sleep at night with the door locked, but we still went about organising Nicks Party and checking out the local sites.

Tim & Joy (Nicks brother and sister in law) arrived on the 26th and spent the day and night with us before heading out to Litchfield National Park. We all piled into the territory and drove out to Darwin Dam. Matt quickly spotted some Rainbow Beeaters and a Blue Winged Kookaburra, enjoying chatting to Aunty Joy about birds, while Abbey and Zach talked constantly to Uncle Tim. We walked across the dam wall and wandered down to the waters edge. There was a crocodile catching cage which enthralled Zach and Matt. Nick and Josh had a rock skimming contest. To set the scene, I have taken Abbey into the bush to do a bush wee, Matt was checking out the croc cage, Josh and Nick were skimming rocks, and Zach was sitting about 4 metres further around the water bank. All of a sudden Zach lets out a deathly scream. Running I wonder what has bitten him. He is holding his head unable to speak. Nick sheepishly comes over and I am still wondering what happened....... Nicks rock he was throwing to skim slipped as he threw it and hit Zach just behind the ear, leaving a small (2cm) split. Luckily we had two Dr's on hand (you are never off duty as a Dr) and I had some steri
Strips and some antiseptic. Zach recovered pretty quickly and turned to Nick (who was feeling pretty bad) and said "Dad you shouldn't throw stones it could hit someone. You say that all the time".

From Darwin Dam we went for a drive to Mandorah Jetty. Mandorah has some very high tides, and there is a ferry which travels between Darwin and Mandorah daily, so consequently the jetty has many levels, over half of which were covered in barnacles. There were quite a few people fishing, and we were intrigued with the way some were catching bait fish in a net. The only fish we saw caught was a sucker fish. It had a plate on the top of its head which is how it attaches to bigger fish and whales.

After farewelling Tim and Joy we continued organising Nicks party. If we were home I'm sure plans and details would have been able to be done over a period of time, organising the party and accommodation options for those coming up from interstate in 4 days was certainly a fun and interesting challenge.

Excitedly we await the arrival of our friends Ian Mason and Paul Schmidt (and Paul's daughter Freya). It will be really lovely to spend time with some friends, from home. (well technically Paul lives in Brisbane).

It's Thursday, my phone rings, "It's Jeremy" (Nicks brother) so Nick answers and a look of shock, excitement, appreciation, and astonishment is all over his face. After he hangs up Nick tells me Tim and Joy are flying Jerry up for the party. What an awesome surprise.

That evening, after wandering around the Mindal Markets, watching the sunset, enjoying chicken satays and noodles watching street performers, then visiting Jo and Pete Leonard (who had just got back from Bali, with lots of sunnies, clothes and jewelry for us) we headed out to the airport at 12:00 midnight to pick up Paul and Freya. By the time the plane landed, greetings, cuddles and kisses (mainly by Abbey and Freya) & baggage collected, we arrived home at about 2:15am. The Cox Peninsula Rd was not closed now but cars were all being stopped and searched. It was a bit daunting being confronted by a police officer with a semi automatic riffle ready to fire as they peer through the car, which has 8 passengers in a 7 seater car. After questioning why we were out at 2 am we were motioned on our way.

Ian arrived the next day, and hired a 4wd which proved to be very handy. Later that night Jerry arrived, and it was another 2am bedtime. At this rate we'll be asleep by party time tommorrow night.