Day  15:                                Cunnamulla to Charleville (241km)

Distance:                             201.32km

Av speed:                            15.7kmh

Total Elevation:                  190m

Calories:                              6569 per person

Weather:                             Warm (26*C) and cloudless, full moon

Despite yesterday’s late finish, we rose early for our date with John the bikeologist. Greeted with a smile and coffee, we set out about building the new wheel and taking the opportunity to fine tune our bikes – Chris also enjoyed the triathlon chit chat after a few weeks away from the sport. To Chris’ relief the wheel looks considerably stronger than the original and should see us to Cairns... at which time were considering getting ourselves some custom rear wheels made for the final leg of the journey. We can’t thank John and Kathy from Ashleys Sporting Goods enough for all the effort they went to, which was above and beyond our expectations... we hope our photo with John makes the front page of the local newspaper!

We finally set off from Cunnamulla a little after 10am, but were soon waylaid when Chris’ cleat broke. After a quick repair, we set off again for the 200km trip to Charleville.

Unfortunately the wind gods were not with us today and we spent the first 100km battling into a headwind. With Jon having knee issues, Chris was again stuck on the front fighting the inevitable losing battle. To add to the difficulty, the sun was out in full force and it turned into an even warmer day than yesterday. Chris must have been channelling his inner Thomas Voeckler as he has a sunburnt tongue... who knew you could even get such a thing!

With noses down battling the wind, there was little time for enjoying the view. However, interesting moments included the emu that decided to dodge across the road in front of Chris with only a few metres to spare and Jon taking a tumble when catching his front wheel on Chris’ yak wheel. Fortunately there were no major injuries, only a little bit of bark lost.

At the 100km mark we took a break at Wyandra for a steak sanga and refreshments. The locals and fellow travellers were great company and we were able to raise some donations whilst reenergising ourselves for the final 100km to Charleville.

Back on the road, the first hour was tough as the heat continued before the sun set and the temperatures cooled. It was once again a full moon and we enjoyed the somewhat warm ride into Charleville. Arriving at 9:50pm, we were met by the local constabulary who gave us directions to our accommodation and a tin of tuna for dinner. Fortunately, the tuna wasn’t needed as our wonderful hosts at the Bailey Bar Caravan Park were awaiting our arrival and cooked us up some ripper bacon and egg sandwiches.

Rest day tomorrow....  we’ve done 450km in the last two days, as well as 1258km since our last rest day in Shepparton which was 8 days ago... guess tomorrow we will have to try and think of a way to make sleep sound interesting for you.