Wed, 2nd July, 2025 Malcolm Dam Reserve, east of Leonora to Bush camp on pending lease, east of Leonora, WA

8.7 degrees min as I got up and noticed the lovely sunrise colours over the water. I put the heater on then I went outside. It wasn’t too bad as there was no wind. Got the camera and watched the ducks and swans on the water as the colours changed and then the sun peeked up on the horizon.

The info board about the dam.

Back inside where it was nice and warm. The chill had just started to get to me outside.

Kaylene is having a nice holiday with her friend Janet - travelling down the coast to Bowen then into the Whitsundays. Glad she is having fun - lots of lovely photos too.

After breakfast we left and continued east to check out a couple of pending leases to take Rick and Co to. They are nearing Laverton so we will meet them on the road somewhere.

Mr and Mrs Bustard were out for a walk today.

Along the main road a bit to the Minara Road turn off and along to another lease which will be ok for Gavin’s van. Back out to the turn off to wait for them to arrive. We had lunch and were just packing up when we saw Rick go by. We called them up and they turned around and came in. Great to see Rick again. Met Rick’s sister, Donna and her husband, Gavin then showed them the way onto the pending lease. Chose our camp spot and set up.

Rick took his detector for a walk - in thongs and shorts but unfortunately only found rubbish.

Warmer afternoon in the sun as there is no wind. Camper got to 27 degrees with windows open.

Chatted the afternoon away then Steve built his fireplace and we chatted more over drinks by the fire. I brought out the laptop and played Len Beadell’s interview about building the road across the inland SA/WA deserts. They were all very interested and will try and get his books to read.

Cooked dinner on the fire and spotted a few stars appearing as the clouds thinned out.

Late night outside for a change, 10pm. It was down to 15 in the camper so it was chillier outside! Hot shower and into bed.

 

Tues, 1st July, 2025 Peter Denny Lookout, east of Sandstone to Malcolm Dam Reserve, east of Leonora, WA

9.2 degree, min, so on with the heater so it was a nice 20 degrees by breakfast time. A few thin clouds on the blue sky.

Packed up and continued east to Leinster. Stopped for a cuppa at the parking bay before the turn off onto the Goldfields Highway. We didn’t drive into Leinster but continued south towards Leonora.

An emu ventured out to the side of the bitumen but was wise and turned back into the bush when we came along.

Decided to check out 10 Mile Camp where we lived for 4 months doing the bore runs for Rob of Tarmoola Station early 2019 - great experience. He has sold it now. Sadly it hasn’t been maintained so the little cottage is looking forlorn and the water tank has fallen off the big frame. The old truck is still there - our garden ornament. We dragged it out from the dump further over with the help of Bob and Margaret. There is a new bore and water point so they are still using it for cattle.

Mr & Mrs Emu darted across the track then slowed to a wander so I could get a photo of them.

Back out to the highway again. The clouds are building in the south.

Into Leonora and down to the park on the other side of town for lunch. Topped up the water. I uploaded my blog and did the bank stuff on my laptop. I rang Uncle John - he is doing well and still enjoying life. Sent Chris a text and arranged to visit him for a drink after work this afternoon. Got a text from Rick, they had a brake line issue on Gavin’s car but have fixed it with some bush mechanicing and parts off an abandoned vehicle. We should see them tomorrow.

Chatted with some other travellers calling in for water too. The clouds have covered the sky now so it is getting cooler. Had a cuppa then around to the 24hr card depot to top up the diesel then around to Chris’ place to wait for him to come home.

Lovely to catch up with him again and Mickey rang too so had another chat with her. Great couple - we have made some wonderful friends as we travel.

Out to Malcolm Dam and onto the dam wall with some other travellers to park up for the night. No photo as it is too dark now. We can hear the ducks on the water then we put the diesel heater on!!

 

Mon, 30th June, 2025 Peace Gorge picnic ground, Meekatharra to Peter Denny Lookout rest area, east of Sandstone, WA

11 degrees, mostly clear sky and a breeze.

I did my computer stuff then booked a train ticket for Steve from Kalgoorlie to Perth in September so he can fly to Melbourne and meet Malcolm with the Buick. I have to wait 2 days to book mine as you can only do it 3 months out.

After a cuppa we packed up and headed into town. Swapped our books at the Library - they have a section to exchange books and there is a good selection so that will keep us going for a while.

Walked along the street and noticed a new Plaza. Inside is an art gallery, things for sale, information and book swap - got another good book. Met Sam who is one of the artists and working there. Very interesting chap. He was born in Babinda but grew up around Mt Isa. He told us of his family - mixture of aboriginal and European and the different places he lived and worked but art is is passion and he has some very nice traditional pieces on the wall.

Met Tom and Sandy at the Commercial Hotel for lunch. Their friend Pete joined us too and we all had yummy burgers with very nice hot crispy chips - Steve has been hanging out for the chips! Had a lovely time chatting then we said our goodbyes and headed south.

Down the gravel road to Sandstone - graded and smooth though you can see areas affected on the edges by the recent 2 inches of rain. Still a few pools of water off the side too.

Into Sandstone - not much has changed, lovely place but hardly anyone left now.

Onto the bitumen and turned east towards Leinster. Pulled into the rest area at the escarpment lookout just as the sun was setting.

A few other travellers are parked up too.

 

Sun, 29th June, 2025 Peace Gorge picnic ground, Meekatharra, WA

10.7 degrees, windy and a few clouds.

Rick posted photos on Facebook, ice on his windscreen, 2 degrees in Alice Springs.

Rochelle’s birthday so sent her a message. She replied, heading to Brisbane to see their grandson for his first birthday. She sent a photo of him too - adorable.

After morning tea I washed the sheets as clouds moved across the sky. The wind is still blowing hard and the dry air is drying my washing. Just need the sun to warm them so they feel dry when I take them off.

After lunch the sun shone and I got the washing in and beds remade. Steve then coloured my hair, he says the back of my head isn’t grey yet so we will keep colouring!! I then gave him a hair cut so the camper is clean and we are respectable again, haha.

I rang Mickey to see if she is in Leonora. No, now working a new job in Northampton but Chris is still in Leo so we will catch up with him for a drink. Had a lovely chat with her and heard about her new job at the aged care.

Lovely video chat with Dan, Fran and Sophia. She has grown so much and is now standing by herself and walking behind her push toy so won’t be long and she will be tottering around everywhere. So looking forward to playing with her and reading books to her in October.

Cards and drinks inside as it is still windy and without the sun the temperature drops off quickly.

 

Sat, 28th June, 2025 Bush camp on Killara Station, north of Meekatharra to Peace Gorge picnic ground, Meekatharra, WA

7.7 degree min, clear sky and no wind - as yet.

8.30am the wind is back.

Packed up and headed out to the track we came down on but continued south on it to get down to Quartz Well as Rob had said he came in that way. We found a track off to the east towards some hills so followed that and found a quartz blow hill and went for a wander. Only found one little bit of metal. Hard walking on the big quartz and ironstone rocks too.

Back to the well and continued west to the water point and back on the track out to the highway. Turned southward and headed to Meekatharra.

Around to the park where the water point is. I made lunch while Steve topped up the water tanks so I can do the washing.

Out to Peace Gorge where a lot of other travellers have set up for the night too. Big area in between all the big granite rocks. Found a spot with two trees to tie the clothes line too and got the washing done. Will do the sheets tomorrow. The wind is still cool and drying but the sun is warm which makes it good to know the washing is dry.

Steve got under the truck to try and sort out where a small oil leak is coming from but he can’t reach the bolts without taking the whole gearbox out!! He thinks the stuff he put on the bolts when he put the gearbox back in after the repair in Perth didn’t dry well and is letting a drop of oil come out. Not urgent but he will continue to keep and eye on it.

More travellers came in - safer out here then in town. Uploaded my blog.

Drinks and cards inside again then a delicious chicken in the oven which helped warmed the camper up. Put the heater on at 8pm though as the coolness is creeping in while we watch a movie.

 

Fri, 27th June, 2025 Bush camp on Killara Station, north of Meekatharra, WA

6.7 degree, min, clear sky and windy again. It took the heater an hour to warm us up to 19 degrees this morning!

I stayed inside though I did turn the heater off and worked on my cross-stitch - nearly done. Steve went wandering.

Got a text from Fran - she had a lovely day and dinner with her darlings.

After a cuppa we both headed off wandering. Wind still cool but the sun is nice and warm. 

Had a cuppa. Rick rang from Alice Springs. They are going to stay there tomorrow to look around - I suggested the Telegraph Station and ANZAC memorial lookout. They are staying at the Transport Museum which is very good.

Steve took the 6000 again, I continued with my cross-stitch. 

The sun dropped and so did the temperature as the wind is still blowing so we stayed inside for drinks, cards then dinner.

Thurs, 26th June, 2025 Bush camp on Killara Station, north of Meekatharra, WA (Fran’s birthday)

7.6 degrees, clear sky. The wind is back again.

I worked on my blog while the camper was still warm from the heater. Steve went wandering.

He came back with a nice little specie we will keep for a display and a story about one little nugget he found with a big brown nugget! Steve always puts his nuggets in his mouth to clean the dirt off but he said one he didn’t today as when he dug into the hole he uncovered someone’s ‘turd’ and the nugget was in the dirt below it! Yuck.

I rang Kaylene to wish her happy holidays but unfortunately it isn’t starting off well as she has been feeling ill. Her friend Janet is coming this weekend so hopefully she will be ok and enjoy the holidays with her while Ricks is over here with us.

While I was chatting with her a fairy wren flittered and hopped about under the tree in from of the truck. They are so cute.

I went for a wander and picked up a few bits. 

At lunch time the wind settled so it warmed up to 25 degrees again in the camper.

Packed up and followed the track north but didn’t see any ground worth detecting then we hit the creek so we turned around and headed back to where we were camped.

Tom rang to see when were going to be in Meekatharra so they can meet us for lunch. We agreed on Monday which will be go as we can go out to Peace Gorge and do our washing before heading down to meet Rick in a few days after that.

Followed the fence line back down to where we camped with Ray and Carol. The same chap has pegged a lease here too and it is still pending so we are good to explore.

Set up in a different spot from the last camp. One side is red and the other is white quartz rocks.

Had a cuppa then went wandering. A Willy Wagtail followed me about getting the bugs as I moved around. 

No fire tonight as it is still windy so we had drinks inside and played cards.

 

Wed, 25th June, 2025 Bush camp on Killara Station, north of Meekatharra, WA

6.6 degrees, clear sky and the cold wind is back giving the camper a rock now and then.

We went wandering. Steve found a nice crystal which we might put in the tumbler when we get back to Woodgate house.

Margaret’s birthday today so gave her a call and wished her all the best. Quite day at home - getting to the age of not wanting to remember the number!!

There is a bit of warmth in the sunshine but the wind is very cold. The camper got to 25 degrees with it closed up.

I found a hole filled with rubbish with sticks on it like they were going to burn it then left. I pulled out the rubbish so burn in our fire and the tins they left will go in our bin. Some people have no respect.

Sent a text off to Rick to see where he got to. He is in Boulia, travelling with his sister, Donna and her husband Gavin. Will head across the Plenty Highway and get to Alice Springs.

BBQ tea tonight and luckily the wind died down. I had dug out the big coats but it was quite pleasant by the fire without the wind tonight.

Spotted some satellites and realised there isn’t a white halo after the sun has set where we saw the ‘lights’. Must be something with being further south.

 

Tues, 24th June, 2025 Rest area 30km north of Kumarina Roadhouse to Bush camp on Killara Station, north of Meekatharra, WA

7 degrees, clear sky and the wind is still cold and blowing. Forecast for only 17 degrees today. Jeans and jumpers on.

Back onto the highway and south to the roadhouse to top up with diesel, only $2.16 here.

Continued southward. Lots of people heading north with their vans etc. What loyal friends we are heading south into the cold to meet up with Rick!

Lots of wedge-tailed eagles on road kill so we slow down as we approach as they are slow to take off and we would hate to hit one.

Pulled off into Karalundi Van Park to have a look and check out their cafe. Met the caretaker and heard about the history. It was set up as a 7^th Day Adventist School in 1953 to cater for the remote aboriginal children and ran for many years. Things changed and it closed for a while then reopened with a smaller number of high school students. They opened the cafe and van park as a way of teaching them business practices etc. Very interesting. The cafe was closed so we drove back out to the highway and had lunch by the road.

Back along the road a bit to the turn off into Killara Station to the crown land we camped on with Ray and Carol. Two small pending areas have been pegged since we were here so we followed the fence line to get to the north one. Obviously others have been before us as it is well worn track. Spotted a lot of kangaroos too which is unusual.

Pulled up and parked on area that has been chained so obviously they had found gold here. Set up camp. Steve made his usual campfire and collected firewood while I made a cuppa.

We have phone reception here with the aerial so sent off a happy birthday message to Jenny. She replied - they had a lovely morning tea at Tuckshop for Tracy, her and Rochelle’s birthdays. School holidays start on Friday.

Took our detectors for a wander. I went over where there were dig holes but no chaining and started picked up tiny little bits. Someone left a deep hole open and Steve got a signal in it. He pulled out two quartz specimens. I checked it and got a signal in the old dirt dug out off it and pulled out a prickly reef piece. Would be interesting to know what the chap got out of it before us. Most holes are filled in but one person obviously is too lazy so I filled them in for him as I passed over them.

Cold breeze still blowing so we huddled around the fire. Will be putting an extra layer under our shirts tomorrow and will dig out our big Bathurst coats.

Heater on for dinner and the hot water so we can be snug in our pjs while we watch a movie.

Mon, 23rd June, 2025 Roy Hill rest area, north of Newman to Rest area, 30km north of Kumarina Roadhouse, WA

3am it was down to 7 degrees and at 6am it was still only 7 degrees so I put the heater on. Clear sky.

Rick left Cairns this morning so we will see him in a week or so.

Packed up and headed down the highway towards Newman on the bitumen pushing into a strong head wind. Jumpers needed today.

Into Newman and around to get 2 gas bottles as we are about to run out completely. Topped up with fuel and water then around to Woolies to shop. I do it in stages so I can pack the first lot away before getting the next lot. Swapped a couple of books at the street library and got some more rum and vodka when the grog shop opened after lunch.

All packed away by 4pm so headed south across the Tropic of Capricorn. 

As the sun disappeared we pulled up on the rest area we stopped at on the way up and parked up. Straight into the camper to put the heater on and cook dinner.

Sun, 22nd June, 2025 Bush camp on pending lease near Nullagine to Roy Hill Rest Area, north of Newman, WA

13 degrees and still windy.

Rang Mal to check on camping details for Lake Perkolilli and caught up on his news too.

Into Nullagine for enough diesel to get us to Newman as it is $2.97 here and $2.21 in Newman. The corellas have taken over and are a rusty colour from all the dust. The new pool area is coming along. Once the bitumen is completed to here they might see a few more tourists - well the publican is hoping so I imagine. Topped up the water tanks too so we can do our washing before we get to Newman.

Onto the road south and into the roadworks.

Onto the bitumen as we pass the mine camp and then the processing plant and conveyor belts. Over the Fortesque River then into the rest area at the Roy Hill turn off. Big open area with tracks going off into the bush. We found a spot with good trees for our clothes line and set up.

After lunch I did the washing and Steve did his maintenance checks on the truck. The wind is cool but the sunshine is warm so the washing is drying quickly.

Got to 27 degrees max at 3pm.

Packed everything away. Another traveller pulled in and parked further over.

Played cards with our drinks as the sun dropped and so did the temperature.

Put the heater on after dinner as the chill was creeping in as we watched a movie.

 

Sat, 21st June, 2025 Bush camp on Valroc lease, east of Nullagine to Bush camp on pending lease near Nullagine, WA (Anthony’s birthday)

Our little son, Anthony, would have been 34 today.

13 degrees, clear sky. After breakfast we packed up and headed back out.

Stopped to take photos of Steve’s smiley face on the track on his phone. He likes having a phone to take photos with now and to track where he walks and finds targets.

Back to the main track and headed back out. Checked out a couple of other spots but decided to head back to Nullagine as we are getting low on fuel.

The Common has a pending lease over part of it so we found a track in from the east and parked up. Someone found an ounce of reef gold here recently which is amazing as this close to town you would think it would have been well and truly walked. The wind has picked up and rocks the camper. Puffy clouds are coming over.

Good phone reception here. After lunch we phoned Ray & Carol to see where they were. They didn’t have any joy in Halls Creek so continued on and are just across the NT border at the Saddleback Rest Area we have stayed at. Lots of people parked up so they had fun trying to find a spot. They are booked into Kurundi Station at the end of the month for 2 weeks to detect but there are new biosecurity rules so they have to have the truck and van clear of dirt before going in which is funny as you have to travel over so much dirt to get there.

Michael had rung too so Steve rang him back and they chatted away about the engine and his problems with getting his truck repainted.

Steve then went for a wander with the 6000 while I uploaded my blog etc. Wrote up my shopping list for Newman so we can stock up for a month again.

Rang Andrea to chat about her other 2 sons getting engaged. Nick’s wedding is in two weeks and Ben and Michael will marry Aug/Sept next year so a busy time for her and Alan.

Steve came back with nothing in his jar but rubbish. 

Rang Wendy and Dave and had a lovely long chat with them and caught up on what’s been happening in Cairns etc. Rang Rebecca and caught up on all their news too - had a great trip along the Ningaloo Reef and are heading off to NZ to celebrate her 70^th birthday with daughter Ingrid, as her birthday is soon too.

Today is the shortest day of the year for daylight and now it is over as the sun has set.

Forgot to go out and look for the ‘lights’ as it was a bit cool!

 

Fri, 20th June, 2025 Bush camp on Valroc lease, east of Nullagine, WA (Annalise's birthday)

16.1 degree min - much warmer night. Clear sky.

Annalise’s birthday - hope she has a wonderful time with her brothers in Brisbane.

Steve came with me back to where I found my treasure yesterday and we worked the area. 

Back to my patch again but didn’t find any more. Nothing for Steve either.

After lunch Steve took the 6000 for a wander while I did my cross-stitch. As the TV was set up I put Mumma Mia 2 on and listened to the great songs as the movie played. Warmer afternoon, 32 degrees.

Steve came back for a late cuppa with a grin on his face.

Another lovely afternoon outside for drinks by the fire with only a few flies as they don't seem to like the cold! Some Whistling Kites flew over us and there are some little birds making lovely calls as the sun sets. Spotted some satellites then headed inside for dinner.

 

Thurs, 19th June, 2025 Bush camp on Crown land, Mosquito Creek area, east of Nullagine to Bush camp on Valroc lease, east of Nullagine, WA

11 degrees, clear sky. The sun is shining in on the dining room window so it was 16 degrees by the time we got up for breakfast.

Packed up and headed back to the main track. Tooted goodbye to Max and Pauline. Pauline called up on UHF to say happy travels which was nice.

We headed back along the track and onto the track past Adam’s camp and the Valroc lease we visited before. We learnt that Adam isn’t using any more as he is working up Mt Elsey way so is hoping to sell his containers. Robert is looking to get one to park his machinery in.

Continued eastward to another Valroc lease where Ray found his lovely ‘rock’ a few years back. Continued into the hills to a spot we found some bits previously with his old detector and set up camp.

Plenty of firewood available here. Had a cuppa then went wandering. You can still see a few of Steve’s quartz markers but we did a good job back then as we didn’t leave any for the new technology to sniff out. Steve got 2 bits on the other side of the quartz blow..

A warmer day at lunch, 30 degrees with a light breeze that comes and goes.

I walked further up the valley and after a long walk got my first signal and it was a nice one. I made a smiley face and a big cairn.

No more so headed back to camp as I had run out of water. Steve came back with nothing but he saw his first snake who wasn’t happy at being disturbed.

I worked on my blog after a cuppa and Steve took the 6000 for a walk. He came back with one more bit.

Steve made the fireplace and we enjoyed our drinks outside. The sun set behind the mountain but the sunset colours were lovely up the valley. No ‘lights’ viewing tonight.

Spotted a few satellites and relaxed in our million star restaurant.

 

Wed, 18th June, 2025 Bush camp on Crown land, Mosquito Creek area, east of Nullagine, WA

11.9 degrees min. Didn’t put the heater on as we were slow getting up this morning so it was already 16 degrees by the time we had breakfast.

Clear sky and no wind. Max and Pauling called in. She had a recipe she meant to give me which was lovely of her. We chatted for a while and pointed out where to look for the lights and what time then they headed off.

We went wandering in the cool wind. Nothing for me this morning so I stayed and did our baking. Steve took the 6000 for a walk.

After a cuppa I rang Annalise to wish her a happy birthday for Friday as we won’t have reception then. She will be 30 and pregnant, just like I was with Jon except I had him 26 days after my birthday, she isn’t due till Oct. Bub is well and Beau is a very busy boy and was prattling away in the background. So looking forward to spending time with my grandchildren in October. Her mum, Lynda, is looking after Beau for the weekend so Annalise can got to Brisbane to see her brothers and sister-in-laws. Jon will be away working.

Cards and drinks inside again then sunset by the fire. After dinner inside we went out at 8pm to watch the ‘lights’ in the west. So many quick lines of light as the satellites catch the sun’s rays. Definitely aren’t Min Min lights as some are quite high and others are just along the horizon. The stars are so great at this time of night too and the Milky Way so full of twinkling stars etc - beautiful but a bit chilly if you don’t have the warmth of a fire. Watched for half an hour then we couldn’t see any more so inside to watch a movie.

 

Tues, 17th June, 2025 Bush camp on pending lease, Mosquito Creek area to Bush camp on Crown land, Mosquito Creek area, east of Nullagine, WA

10.5 degree min but it warmed up quickly with the sun on the side of the camper.

Packed up and headed back to the main track then back to Telstra hill to check my phone for messages etc. I also googled the lights and I think it is the Starlink ones but they are only showing in the small halo of the last of the sun’s rays. Otherwise they reckon it could be the gaseous Min Min lights - that might explain the ones on the video taken from the Shark Bay boat looking east as these lights are in the west.

We stopped to say hello to Dave’s brother, Max (86year) and his wife Pauline (from Esperance) that we met years ago here. Pauline remembers my Nuts & Bolts and Max remembered Steve liked to make big fireplaces with a small area beside to use for the camp oven etc - nothing wrong with their memories. Joined them for a cuppa in their roomy van and chatted for a while. Steve checked their fuses as they had lost the use of a few things and saw one was broken so they were very pleased that we visited.

We headed back over to our ‘patch’ area to see if we left anything behind.  The wind blows hard then just stops so it is a bit warm this afternoon.

Had a cuppa then headed back past Telstra hill then across the road and up the hill to get a better look at these lights tonight. This was the lease Barry dropped so it is white on our Trilobite app now meaning no one has a mining lease over it other than the pastoralist. Lots of people camped around here over the years as they could get phone signal but now you need my aerial to get it.

Found a nice spot with ready-made fireplace and set up.

Steve found some firewood after climbing through the spinifex. We played cards with our drinks then went out once the sun had set and got the fire going. I cooked dinner inside and we ate by the fire for a change as it was a nice temperature. Spotted more satellites zooming over us.

Back inside to start a movie till 8pm then we went out and I spotted a light straight away.

There is still a glow from the sun so I reckon they are the Starlink satellites catching the last of the sun’s rays. Amazing how many there are though and it does look strange as you only see them of a few seconds as they move in all directions. We watched for half hour and saw so many - should have counted. We have phone reception here so I googled up the distance from the earth that satellites go and how far out the atmosphere is too. Very interesting reading. We will keep an eye in the west when we can to see if they appear as we head south later on. The sun is setting at 5.20pm at the moment so I suppose we have to adjust the time as the sun set time changes. Mind you it will be a lot colder down south so will only be a quick look!!

 

Mon, 16th June, 2025 Bush camp on Crown land, east of Nullagine to Bush camp on pending lease, Mosquito Creek area, east of Nullagine, WA

The thermometer’s battery died so no min temp this morning but it was cold so on with the heater till we were warm again.

Packed up and headed back along the track to Robert & Robyn’s camp for a cuppa. Met their friends Mick and Vicki from Two Rocks - lovely couple. We chatted over a cuppa and a lovely cake that Vicki made. They have set themselves up well here for their 7 month stay to work their leases. Used their Starlink to update our Trilobite app so we know what is live and what isn’t. Will try and catch up with Robert & Robyn sometime at their home in Portland, Vic one day.

Robyn asked if we could drop off a blanket to Barry and Meta as we head back out. Through Dave & Sue’s camp but no one was home to so we continued on to Barry’s camp. Met Meta and handed over the blanket. They had friends from Arrowtown, NZ visiting who used to detect here 40 years ago so we didn’t stay long. Barry had a pending application over the Telstra hill area which was his old camp but has now dropped the application as the pastoralist was making crazy requests and they still needed to have the ‘TO’s approve it which could take till the end of the year. Barry said they saw the ‘lights’ on the west last night about 8.15pm so we will check it out tonight.

We continued along the track then back to a pending lease that got burnt when the chap burnt off around his camp - burnt a big area too!!

We parked up and set up for the night in an area across from the burnt area.

After lunch we went wandering. 

After a cuppa I worked on my cross-stitch - still a bit to do but will have it finished soon. Amazing how many hours go into something like this but I enjoy it and it is something I can give my grandchildren to keep - made with love from me.

Steve rounded up the firewood and made a nice fireplace so we had our drinks by the fire. Watched the sun set and stars appear. Counted 35 satellites - new record for me.

Inside for dinner then came back out at 8.10pm to look for the lights. We saw them in a small area about 2 inches above the horizon just left of where the sun had set. One must have been coming straight towards us as it grew into a very big light then just petered out. They did seem to move in different directions. Will have to google it up when I get reception.

 

Sun, 15th June, 2025 Bush camp on pending lease, north-east of Nullagine to Bush camp on Crown land, east of Nullagine, WA

What a change from yesterday morning. Down to 8 degrees under a clear sky. Love our diesel heater. Once it gets to 20 degrees we get up for breakfast!

Packed up and headed back. The wind is back.

Met Rob and his friend Mick on the track with their trailer - collecting firewood for their camp.

We continued on and took a different track into land that hasn’t any lease over it. With one of the big companies here going into receivership they have dropped a lot of their ‘extra’ leases. We tried one spot but only got rubbish.

Continued along the track through a wide valley till we met a creek which wasn’t suitable for us to go through. Turned around then pulled off the track on some ground that looked interesting and set up for the night.

I wandered up the slope of a small hill near the camper. Nothing for Steve after a big walk other than seeing someone else parked on the other side of the hill.

After lunch we only have a light breeze now so it is much warmer, 28 degree max. The vehicle Steve saw came towards us and stopped for a chat. Didn’t find anything up the gully.

Steve went wandering and I worked on my cross-stitch. Nothing for Steve unfortunately.

Cards and drinks inside then after the sun set we went out to enjoy the after sunset colours and the stars appearing. We didn’t have much wood either. It was a lovely afternoon temperature but then the chill arrived about 6.30pm.

Inside for dinner.

 

 

Sat, 14th June, 2025 Bush camp on pending lease, north-east of Nullagine, WA

Warmer night, 16.4 degree minimum and overcast.

The wind picked up as we went wandering. It blew the clouds away.

I cross-stitched after lunch. Steve kept wandering - should be a skinny as after all this walking. 

Clear sky for drinks by the fire. Spotted lots of satellites as we stayed out till 6.45pm then it got cool when we ran out of wood!

 

Fri, 13th June, 2025 Dave & Sue’s camp, Mosquito Creek area to Bush camp on pneing lease, north-east of Nullagine, WA (visited Robert & Robyn’s camp)

10.7 degree min - don’t envy Jamie and Shelley in their tent.

Mackerel clouds and gusty wind when we wandered over to say good morning to Dave & Sue. Barry and his dog arrived on a 4wheeler for a chat as he has 3 leases back along the track. Caught up on the local gossip too.

Said thanks and bye then continued along the track. Stopped to chat with a couple coming towards us - it was Robert & Robyn’s friends. Dave had rung them (they all have Starlink) to say we were heading their way. They were heading into Nullagine.

We continued on and found their new ‘home’. Well set up and they have been doing some scraping and detecting. Steve had wanted a lease up the Palmer but it was all too hard now.

Chatted the morning away then wandered around the hill to check out where they have been working. Very interesting. Had lunch then continued on but we will call back in and see them again before we head out.

Continued along a track but it ended at a creek so backed up and tried another one. Eventually we got around to the north end of the pending leases and set up for the night. The sky has cleared to lovely blue again.

Collected firewood for camp over dinner tonight.

Steve went for a wander while I worked on my blog. 

Drinks by the fire as the sun disappeared behind the hill.

The mackerel clouds are back on the south side of the sky as the sun set. Very pretty.

A few little clouds over the hill are reflecting rainbow colours.

The sunset colours went across the clouds to the east and the west was very pretty too.

The breeze has stopped so it was very pleasant by the fire watching the satellites zoom across through the clouds which are thinning out. We spotted the space station too but didn’t see the mysterious lights to the west. Will be looking out for them from now on.

Dinner was delicious.

 

Thurs, 12th June, 2025 Bush camp on pending lease, east of Nullagine to Dave & Sue’s camp, Mosquito Creek area, east of Nullagine, WA

9.6 degrees min, clear sky and windy. Nephew Tim’s birthday today, hope he has a good day.

We went wandering but only found a few bits of rubbish. Drove on into the lease and tried another spot where Steve managed to find a little bit.

After lunch we chatted with Margaret and Bob to let them know we will be going back to Leonora early July in case they were heading north. It is cold and raining at their place and they were starting to pack up the van but hadn’t decided where they were going yet.

We headed back out to the main road and went back to chat with the Karratha couple on the pending lease. They were still there but the track we had come in on didn’t take us to their camp. We called up on the UHF and they were at their camp so told us how to get to them. Got there eventually and met Cliff & Dee and John. Had a lovely chat about detecting around Karratha. John had found a 42g nugget before coming out here - we said why come! Change of scenery. We told them about Mosquito Creek detecting as they hadn’t been in there. They are heading home on Saturday so will save that for another visit. We headed back out then back into Mosquito Creek area again. Steve wanted to check out some pending leases further around which Ray wouldn’t have been able to get to van to so we will do that now.

As we made our way along we stopped as there was a car blocking the track. It was Dave & Sue. They were chatting with a couple, Jamie & Shelley, from Shark Bay so invited us all back to their camp for drinks. We will stay here tonight.

We had a lovely time chatting and exchanging stories as the sun set. They have a wonderful view over the valley from their camp. Jamie showed is a video taking by some fisherman out from Shark Bay, of lights darting around in the sky over the Pilbara. Dave said he has seen them from here - very busy around Easter time. Steve said he saw one the other night - it moved sidewards very quickly but we thought he just moved his head making a star look like it moved. Very interesting - secret military stuff maybe.

Dave said that Robert & Robyn have picked up two leases further along with their friends so will call in and see them tomorrow. Jamie and Shelley headed back to their tent as they will head back out tomorrow. We headed into the camper to cook dinner.

 

Wed, 11th June, 2025 Bush camp on Valroc lease, east of Nullagine to Bush camp on pending lease, east of Nullagine, WA

9.7 degrees min so on with the heater.

Clear sky and light breeze when we headed packed up and headed back to the main road. I got phone reception at the top of the hill so sent Ray & Carol a text to say we are moving on to another pending lease heading back to Nullagine.

Back on the main road we continued on a bit then found a track in and around to the pending area. We spotted a couple of big rigs over in the trees so others are detecting around here too. We came to the top of a rise and the track finished down at the creek so we parked up on the rise and got out the detectors for a wander.

I saw Ray & Carol drive past. I went back to the camper in case they came in but they didn’t. I sent them another text to say where we were. I heard a 4 wheeler approaching and waited to meet them. Nice couple from Karratha who pointed out where they had found a few bits and said to join them for drinks later. I said we will probably be heading into Nullagine to find our friends but might be back later.

I went for a wander where the chap suggested but no joy. Steve called up that he had found a bit in the creek and was following it down the hill.

Back to the camper. Ray had sent a text that they were getting water in Nullagine then heading to the pending leases 20km north on the Marble Bar Road.  Packed up and headed into town, I called the other couple up on the UHF to let them know we will call back later.

Into town and Steve filled up the tanks and buckets with water. I uploaded my blog and did the banking things. Rang Rick to discuss his trip across. We will head down to Leonora to meet him - good friends, we are as it will be freezing 5 - 14 degree days!!

After a late lunch we paid $2.97/L for diesel then headed up the Marble Bar Road. We found the turn off at an old well and followed the good track in. Steve could see Ray’s tyre treads so we kept going. Not looking very good ground - looked more like iron ore or copper. We went to the end of the pending and couldn’t find them so went back to the turn off to the mine which was a couple of shafts etc on a hill. Steve could still see their tracks so we continued on but got to the end of the pending lease and saw where they had turned around. Wasn’t good ground so they must have gone back out and continued on to Marble Bar.

We drove back out then stopped for a cuppa near the old well. Headed back to Nullagine and when I got reception I sent a text off to Ray saying we were sorry we missed them. A text came through - they had waited an hour and as it wasn’t good ground they decided to continue on so they could get to Marble Bar and set up for the night.

Into Nullagine. We stopped and rang Terry - he is ok and happy with his new chair and walker but he did have an accident a couple of weeks ago. He dropped the jocky wheel thing on his foot after coming home from a rally. He didn’t break any bones but tore off skin but has been getting his cleaned and dressed by his doctor. The doctor told him off for not calling an ambulance - I said that’s what the alarm watch is for too but in the end he is all good.

Ray rang. He asked a van going past them when they were stopped waiting and they said we were still at the water point hence then continued on. We said our goodbyes and wished them well in Halls Creek and Kurundi where they will have a detect too before heading home to Bribie Island. We will catch up with them at the end of the year when we are back in Qld.

Tried ringing Fran then Dan then Annalise - it is 6pm over there so probably busy with their babies. I got Jon - he was at home with Beau so we chatted and listened to Beau prattling away in the background. Annalise was at the hairdresser. Bubby is doing well too.

Headed back out Skull Springs Road as the sun was getting low in the sky. Annalise text saying she was sorry she missed our call. I text back wishing her a happy birthday for the 20^th in case we don’t have reception - she will be 30. I was pregnant with Jon when I was 30 too. Jon won’t be home so she is going down to celebrate with her brothers in Brisbane for the weekend so Lynda will be looking after Beau.

Dan then rang so we stopped for a chat. Poor Sophia had picked up a virus and now Fran had it but otherwise they are doing well.

We continued on the road then turned off to check out some pending area closer to town to park up for the night. Set up as the sun started to set and the full moon rose. Very pretty.

We had drinks inside though as it got chilly without having a fire to sit around. Played cards then enjoyed a Steve’s special pizza for dinner. Kept the camper closed up as it is quite cool now (16 degrees).

 

 

 

 

Tues, 10th June, 2025 Bush camp on Valroc leases, east of Nullagine, WA

11.7 degrees this morning so we put the heater on to keep us comfortable while we had breakfast. Ray and Carol were heading off early as usual - we were still in bed so we said bye through the window. Will catch up with them on one of the pending leases as we head back to Nullagine.

Clear sky and breezy as we headed back out to the main track then into the water point to get some water to do our washing at our next camp.

Nice smooth road - thanks Mr Grader Driver, as we drove back out to the main Nullagine/Woodie Woodie road then along a bit to a track into another one of the Valroc leases. Up and over a steep hill - I just close my eyes then the track petered out so Steve made his way through the spinifex to a clearing and we set up there.

Steve set up the washing machine and a clothes line - no trees here so he used a couple of poles and the camper. Nice warm sunshine and good breeze.

Steve went wandering.

After lunch Steve went for a big walk while I did my cross-stitch.

Max of 27 today and about 2pm the wind stopped.

Nice afternoon by the fire watching the stars appear then we spotted a couple of satellites before going inside to cook dinner.

 

7-9 June, 2025 Bush camp on Valroc lease, east of Nullagine, WA

Sat, 7^th

14.8 degrees, clear sky and the wind is back. Today is Mum & Dad’s wedding anniversary - they were such wonderful happy people.

Went wandering and the wind nearly blows you over. Steve got lots of exercise today - I got a lot of cross-stitching done and worked on my blog.

The breeze picked up again but wasn’t as strong as this morning so it was lovely sitting around the fire tonight. Only spotted two satellites - probably going in too early to cook dinner. The moon is getting fuller and brighter.

9pm and the wind is back.

 

Sun, 8^th

14.4 degrees min. The sun doesn’t get over the hill till 7.30am to warm things up. The wind is back but not as bad as yesterday.

We drove off and tried a few areas but no joy. All the spots we found gold before Adam has pushed with the dozer and then rehabilitated so you only get swarf.

Back to camp for drinks with Ray & Carol by the fire - the wind has settled. Max of 28 today.

 

Mon, 9^th

12.7 degrees this morning, clear sky and still windy.

We tried a few more places but not a single target to dig up.

We drove back to Linden’s 3 spot where we had got a few pieces, Adam had pushed here too but there is a section that had been burnt nearby so we went for a wander over that. Steve got a target then I got one at the same time and we both got a little bit of gold - yeah. Steve also found one of his smiley faces - Adam had just missed dozing it.

A cooler day - only got to 25, we are in for some cooler morning too when we checked the BOM.

Back to camp for drinks and see how Ray and Carol went today. Another good day for them with a gram nugget and a few bits.

We decided to head out tomorrow to try the other Valroc lease on the main road and to try and bush bash in to where Steve found some bits last year. Ray and Carol are staying to continue where they are finding their few bits.

 

 

Fri, 6th June, 2025 Bush camp, Mosquito Creek area, east of Nullagine to Bush camp on Valroc lease, east of Nullagine, WA

The wind picked up in the early hours and got stronger as we had breakfast. Min of 17 degrees and mostly clear sky. Ray and Carol had headed over to the Valroc leases we have permission to detect on at 7am. We don’t get moving till 8am.

Back out the main track then turned onto the road that heads east. We saw the grader driver’s sign further along the main track - must be getting it ready for mustering. At lease we will have a smoother drive when we head back into Nullagine next week for fresh water.

We continued onto the track into Adam’s camp which is on one of the Valroc leases that we have detected on before. No one about at Adam’s so we continued on trying to find Ray and Carol. Lost their track so turned onto a two-wheel track around the hill from Adam’s and pulled up to take our detectors for a wander.

After lunch we hopped in the trucks to go further along the track up the valley to see where it went when we heard Ray call on the UHF. They were at the start of the track so we went back to get them. They had gone up to the other lease for a look but no joy so came back. There is a clear area opposite where we found the nuggets on the other side of the creek so we left them to set up there. We continued on with our exploring up the track. We got to the end of the main track - it did continue across the creek but we stopped and wandered from here. Steve went for a very long walk and got a tiny bit (0.17g) at the very end.

Had a cuppa then headed back to Ray and Carol and set up our ‘home’.

Ray had the Starlink on and I checked my phone and saw we had missed a few calls from Malcolm. I rang him back and all was ok, he was just checking how we are going and to say he has booked the campsite for Steve at Lake Perkolilli. Also it was a chilly 5 degrees there!

Steve made a fireplace and got some timber for our drinks and we chatted the afternoon away. Ray & Carol said after they had come out this morning and checked the track in they went back to get the van. The grader driver had been working along the track and stopped at their camp for a chat. He was a bit lonely. Another two chaps pulled in to ask about camping there and getting some advice on where to detect so Ray helped them out but then explained he was packing up. He mentioned the burnt area they first went into and said if they find a pick with yellow handle it was theirs so the chap said he makes them and gave one to Ray to use. He is making them out of truck springs - bit heavy for Carol but Ray thought it was good.

 

1-5 June, 2025 Bush camps, Mosquito Creek area, east of Nullagine, WA

Sun, 1^st

First day of winter, 14 degree min, clear sky.

Ray and Carol headed off at 7am again, we don’t get moving till 8am.

Back along the main track then onto the track that runs down the side of the pending area. We continued on past where we turned around on the 2^nd day and found some old wheel tracks to follow. The area had been burnt off a few years back so there isn’t much growth which is good. Got to the south end of the lease and ran along the base of the hills. Steve remembered we came here years back and crossed over the saddle between two hills which we found and drove up. With the camper on I said we aren’t going down the other side like we did with ‘Pat’ our old Nissan. We went back and found a flat area to park up then started wandering.

No joy by morning tea so we walked up over the saddle and down the other side. Steve said he had found a couple of bits here and we met some others on a 4wheeler and in a ute who were trying to make their way to another area. Unfortunately the chap flipped the 4wheeler going up a gully and dumped his wife and broke his detector so that was the end of that trip as she was not very happy.

Steve found a little bit there then did a big walk around the hill. I walked back over the saddle and back to the camper for lunch. Eventually Steve turned up with a little sunbaker he found on the way back along the valley. Steve has his phone with him to track his walking etc and took a photo of the sunbaker.

After lunch we wove our way through the spinifex etc to where he got the sunbaker and set up for the night.

The Mulla Mulla are blooming now which is nice.

Warmer day, 32 degrees in the camper. Feels hotter in the sun so I put the silverside on for dinner then did our baking instead of wandering. I had bought ‘No Egg’ powder to use in the date slice and it works well. Eggs are still expensive over here and sometimes there haven’t been any on the shelves - something to do with a bird flu on the eastern states where they get their eggs from. I would have thought they had enough poultry farms over here.

Bit of cloud about as we watched for satellites around a lovely fire Steve built - plenty of firewood around this camp site.

Cooled down so inside for dinner.

 

Mon, 2^nd

16.6 degrees min, clear sky and no breeze.

We continued along the valley further into the lease. A creek stopped us in the end so we parked up and went wandering. Steve was trying to get to a spot where he found a nice nugget last year.

No joy for us but he did find his smiley face he left where he had found the nugget.

After a cuppa we headed back out.

Turned off the original track and headed back into the other end of the pending area. Another chap was detecting down by the creek so we turned up towards some little hills with quartz blows.

Another hot day with the light breeze coming on and off.

Had a cuppa then headed back to the bore to top up the back tank and buckets for shower water. Trying to get another 5 days or so from our drinking water before we have to go back into Nullagine to fill up.

Back to Telstra Hill to check any messages. Cute photos of Beau and Sophia on the family chat page. David put up a photo of Terry in his new Van Club uniform with all the members at a rally. So glad he is having a good time with them.

Back to camp for drinks with Ray & Carol. It was another 30 degree max day - what happened to winter.

Another still evening so left the windows open.

 

Tues, 3^rd

15.4 degrees min, clear sky and no breeze.

Some clouds are moving over and the wind picked up as we headed out to yesterday’s area but continued further into the hills.

Lots of exercise today! The clouds are getting darker but moving quickly along.

We got a heap of firewood for roast tonight and of course the breeze is still up!

Still a bit of moisture in the clouds to the south as we saw a wide strip of rainbow down there.

Cooked the lamb roast in the camp oven with veggies - very nice.

 

Wed, 4^th

18.8 degrees min, overcast. Forecast is for a few mls of rain today - possibly.

Ray and Carol are having a rest day as he checked the weather map and it looks like the rain will be coming in a couple of hours.

We headed back to our ‘patches’ area.

Still overcast with a good breeze but no rain as yet when we stopped for a cuppa.

Some more drops of rain as we had lunch.

Dark clouds are heading our way and we can see misty rain falling further over. The rain reached us so headed back to the camper and headed back out.

The misty rain stopped so we stopped at Telstra Hill again and Annalise had posted a photo of Beau after his hair cut. Very handsome - the baby has grown into the little boy. He was standing on a timber frame by the kitchen island bench so he can be involved in things when Annalise is preparing food etc. Good idea.

Back to camp as another misty shower of rain came over. Made a cuppa then played cards for a while. Joined Ray and Carol for drinks in their van.

No more rain though the forecast says there might be more to come overnight.

Back to our camper to cook pizza for dinner - Steve is getting very good at his creations after I chop up the ingredients!

 

Thurs, 5^th

18.8 degrees, blue sky with a few clouds and a dark band of clouds on the horizon in the west. No wind. No rain during the night which was good.

The wind picked up again as we headed back to our ‘patches’ area. The clouds are moving quickly across the sky.

After lunch we moved back along the track. Steve took the 6000 for a walk while I wrote up my blog.

White puffy clouds are dotting the sky and there is a nice breeze now.

Back to camp for drinks and chatting then dinner in the camper.