On the Farm
28 April 2008
John and Shauna
As we mentioned, Stephen Dews loaned us his car to drive up to the farm he and Louise have in the upper Hunter River Valley. It is a beautiful but rugged holding abutting on a vast National Park. Access is by dirt road (which was closed recently due to the heavy rains we have been having). Although it was still muddy and a bit tricky to negotiate, it was at least passable. It was worth the getting there, as the place is pretty spectacular - a huge mountain range behind, emerald green valleys and lots of flood-fuelled streams and dams overflowing. Grass up to your thighs. The cattle and horses are loving it.
Louise seemed to have one aim in mind - to ensure that we didn't go hungry, and we didn't! We roasted some local organic beef on the BBQ, and it was really superb (Louise farms organically and is active in the area LandCare group). Their farmhouse is very pretty and comfortable, well-decorated, and with Stephen's works slung around like confettti - quite a gallery.
While we were away they had 48 knots at Soldier's Point but Destiny was fine when we returned.
If the wind comes around to the South tomorrow we may head out and make for Coffs Harbour.... we'll see what tomorrow brings.