Day 65 - Chain reaction

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Inverell - Ashford 60km

As we are slowly approaching the QLD border and with it the 3000km milestone, we consolidate a mixed bag of thoughts and ideas on what direction Coddiwomple will take from here. This usually sets off a chain reaction and sometimes it's best to have faith and let the links fall into place. Talking chain, Louise's bicycle needs a new one. Dan, a fellow South Aussie, at Dan's Cycles generously let's Louise use his workshop and Bella gets to work:

Measure twice, cut once.

New pedals and a new chain deliver the desired relief in the soundeffects department and a bike mechanic's peace of mind we take on the rolling hills heading north to the tiny town of Ashford. 

The map study tells us there is not much in Ashford, other than a Caravan Park and a service station. Both very useful for bicycle travellers, though. En route we get passed by a number of caravans, which makes us think that there might be more to Ashford than we think. But then, with the Easter weekend just around the corner, the increase in traffic is not surprising. There is always a little bit of a thrill when rolling into an unknown place. It's like the opening scene of a movie you never knew you wanted to watch. You eagerly look for cues and some kind of evidence that this is a good place to stay. Humour is always a good sign. And the people of Ashford clearly display it in the slogan for their town: Cod's own country. I must admit, I take a moment to get it. But then I hear Louise giggling. And they sure follow it through...

 



While the town does have a prominent "once upon a time" theme and many buildings have seen better days, it is quite likeable. We get enthusiastic waving from the bowlers (they look slightly intoxicated) and the lady at the post office, where we pay the $13 camping fee, is probably still shaking her head... riding a bicycle from Melbourne, geez, you are keen. We set up camp in the most basic of caravan parks and chat to our camping neighbour, a guy who worked in the cotton fields of Moree. He is now heading for warmer weather and taking action to ensure better days to come. Like so many of us. 

A bit of news found us at the post office, while Louise enjoyed a retro drink that matched the town and I worked on the ice cream eating tally. It's a profound piece of news, and suits the chain reaction theme.  It deserves its own post, which will follow.  (But nothing that needs worrying about.)

Retro drink

Seen brighter days

Basic but the best shower




Location: 40 Bukkulla St, Ashford NSW 2361, Australia

Comments

  1. FrancieApril 13, 2022 at 5:54 PM

    Sometimes that's all you need - basic, but the best shower. Loved reading about your directed-to-new-found friends. Intrigued by the profound news but will wait till you are ready to share publicly or privately. Heading direct to Texas, bypassing Tenterfield, if I interpret correctly??
    Congrats on 3000 klms.

    ReplyDelete

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