Wed, 12th Dec, 2018 10 Mile Outcamp, Tarmoola Station, 60km north of Leonora, WA

7.30am 25 degrees, cool SE breeze. Clear sky overhead with a band of cloud on the horizon in the east. This kept the sun hidden so we had a nice sleep in.

Breeze got stronger bringing the clouds over. Lots of beetles came in last night and hung on the awning where we have the outside light (trying to keep the little bugs out of the van). This morning there were heaps swimming in the rainwater we had collected.

We took down the small tarp we had over the pool and put up the shadecloth we bought. Much better. Used the silver tarp then as the cover on top of the pool to keep it cool. Put in a bit of chlorine to keep it clean.

Put the other bit of shadecloth over the front window to lessen the morning sun on us but still let in the breeze.

Steve worked on putting in the gas pipework for the stove while I sprayed the griller and oven with cleaner then sprayed the BBQ too which needed a good clean too.

Had lunch then I cleaned out the stove – over cleaner works well. Steve cleaned the BBQ and then connected up the stove. BBQ and stove both working well now.

We had picked up some leftover flyscreen from the homestead and replaced two windows but need more to do the doors. Also need a door for the kitchen so will put that on the next shopping list.

The sky has cleared and the wind has dropped off but not too hot today, 31 degrees.

Steve added another water tap to the cottage then replaced the cistern and seat on the second toilet. He managed to get the other one filling quicker so they are both good now. He then replaced tap washers etc in the shower block. I worked on my blog and other bits and pieces.

Getting the jobs done so he can go and try and find some gold when the ground dries out some more.

Jon texted saying they are expecting Cyclone Owen to arrive on the weekend.

Drinks in the shade of the cottage as the verandah gets too much afternoon sun. As the sun dropped Steve chopped up a fallen tree for firewood. I wheeled it back with my wheelbarrow then went for a walk around the area picking up rubbish. Slowly getting it cleaned up. Lovely cool SE breeze.

7pm 29 degrees with a clear sky.

Breeze getting stronger around 9pm so had to close the windows as it was quite chilly.