We set off too late again this morning from Bridport and as a result rode in the peak of the heat. We only did 20 kilometres to Scottsdale but there were lots of hills, trucks and no shade nor shoulder.
Scottsdale itself is atop a big hill. We rested, however temporarily, at a cemetery on the outskirts where a nice little park bench under a tree provided us shade. It was lovely.
We rode straight to the Lords Hotel and devoured two 300g scotch fillets and four pints of Boag’s Draught. We had a chat to the barmaid, who besides telling us of her love for Carlton Football Club, told us She was right, after Branxholm/Derby the trucks get far fewer between.
We called the Cherry Man from Tassie Tours & Transfers in hope of We’re falling a little behind in terms of ground covered if we are to make our booking at Freycinet Lodge in a few days’ time. It turns out his name was Adrian. I thanked him profusely for the cherries and he said he’d make enquiries about the ride.
We couldn’t find Perhaps a victim of the COVID years?, so rode downhill to the North East free camping ground and spent the rest of the afternoon resting in the shade. We spoke to Anneliese for well over an hour and ate veggie burgers and Thai salad for dinner.
Adrian called back to say he was unfortunately unable to help us. We have resolved to forge on ahead. We can do it. We’re going to set off at sunrise and take the rail trail some of the way. We’ll get to Derby then reassess. Fuck turning back.
An evening was spent in front of a duck pond whilst Danielle was mortified to witness these ducks all chasing the female and after fighting each other over who would get to mate with her, forcing their way. kept us company, no doubt in hopes of dropped chips.
We’ve turned in early to read and sleep.
Copyright mmxxiv Ryan Moore. All rights reserved unless otherwise specified.
