Day Six
After a leisurely breakfast, we rode out of Port Campbell this morning and continued on the last spectacular stretches of the Great Ocean Rd. We made a quick stop at London Bridge (which has fallen down ; ), then the Bay of Martyrs – a vista of dozens of sandstone pillars like the Twelve Apostles.
Our van drivers had their first experience of pillion riding today – Mee Yee, Donna Staib (the Don), and Peri Liddell. They rode on the back as far as our next stop, Warnambool, along the last stretch of coastline and through open farmland.
Once again we haven’t hit any significant traffic on our way, with no cars in front and very few occasionally coming up behind.
We stopped for lunch at Port Fairy, a beautiful little historic town full of old stone buildings, shops and cafes. Bad Aussie (aka Melbourne Donna)’s family came out to see her, and share some of the most amazing cakes we have ever seen from Rebecca’s Café.
Then it was back on the road heading for Portland and a media stop with the local paper. We filled up the bikes, rode down to the waterfront for a photo and quick interview and then were back on the road for the last 18km into Cape Bridgewater.
The Cape is very remote with only about 20 houses, one café and the Seaside Lodge – a large, two story, stone colonial style guest house, which we had completely taken over for the night. Because our group was so large, we had also taken over a couple of holiday houses next door, and every one had the most spectacular view of the ocean.
The beach here stretches unbroken for 20km with no sign of civilization, just white sand disappearing off into the sea haze.
We relaxed on the upper verandah of the Lodge with drinks and appetizers, thoughtfully bought and prepared by Mez and Peri. Denis the owner of the Lodge had organized for the local café to stay open for dinner just for us, and for live music.
We wandered over around 6.30pm and had a fantastic night with acoustic music from Dave, and a guest spot from local guide and didgeridoo player, Vinnie.
We sang along and danced, and a few of the girls took a turn at the microphone as well.
Vinnie offered to take the group out on a rubber ducky (boat) early the next morning before our departure to see the local seals. After a fantastic night, we all headed back through the quiet with just the sound of the surf to listen to as we went to sleep.
Thank you for today's report. This coastline is just so beautiful, and what a way to see it, with frequent stops and great accommodation, wow! The lodge at the cape and its remoteness would have made for a very magic experience I am sure. Great to hear about the singing and partying!!! I hope the girls enjoyed their "riding bitch" as much as i did last year! Continue safely girls, looking forward to the next instalment... the week will go too quickly!!
lol, Ruth
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Well Lizzie it looks like you're seeing some amazing countryside, no Government buildings though? It might help your cause and settle the Commissioner down. As part of your new training schedule he wants 2 phones put on your desk. We're missing our morning disturbance here, usually we're sitting at our desk and all of a sudden the desk and foyer starts to tremble and everything on the desk is sliding off, so we get ready to start emergency procedures when we hear this loud thumping coming up the driveway and look at eachother and say 'Oh, it's only Lizzie'.
Keep on keeping on. Lynne
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Hi Donna,
Ray and I are so jealous - sounds like you girls are having a ball - even though a bit wet. The photos are fantastic - can't wait to see you when you get home to find out all the "gorey" details. I hope you all keep safe and have a great time together.
Love
Babs and Ray
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Hi Girls Congrats on your journey to adelaide you made it!!!!You should all be so proud of yourselves!! Girls you all look hot on a harley but mum you look the hotest... Think Pink Luv Carlz(Jo's Daughter)
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