Homeward Bound

Along the estuary on the run into Mandurah

Keith and Sue McBurnie on the home leg

Hills turned to flats, forests became suburbia and 13 KPH averages became 21 KPH.

Kleber Claux once again demonstrated his passion and skill at putting together a memorable tour. Despite a barked shinbone and a bruised rib cage cyclists reached their destination safely. Smiles abounded, stories shared and friendships made.

Thanks Kleber, thanks friends old and new.

Kleber Claux at the final dinner - Silver Sands Tavern

Day 12 Prevelly to Dunsborough

Technology has changed a bit over 40 years.

Gone are the Sturmey Archer 3-speeders and panniers made from disused wheat bags. Now we have high tech disc brakes, computers and GPS navigation. Aluminium and carbon-fibre frames have replaced Reynolds 531 steel frames. Tony's new bike has done away with derailleur gears and sports an 18 speed German gearbox. He looks like he's driving a Big Mac truck.

I photographed for the morning and threw my leg over the saddle for the run into Dunsborough. It was all downhill, sunny with a  tail-wind that kept us pumping along at 30KPH. (Plus there was nobody shooting at us).

Marg Neill (centre) meets local ladies  Bobbie Micklejohn (L) and  Kerry King (R) in a Cowaramup coffee shop. (Paul Kelly above)

Just like 40 years ago I scanned the horizon for the three towering pines; a welcome landmark. I felt  like an old horse smelling the home water trough.