Day  32                                  Hann River Crossing Campground to Musgrave Roadhouse (103m)

Distance:                             81.03km

Av speed:                            13.1km/h

Total Elevation:                 165m

Calories:                               2075 per person

Weather:                             Hot (41*C)

Having survived the river camping ground with no sightings or signs of crocodilians being present, we set off early 730am with the hope of having another short day, to give ourselves some time to unwind and relax in preparation for difficult days ahead of us.

Luck appeared to be on our side as the first 15km of the day were the subject of significant roadworks, meaning that what would usually be a big sandy mess was actually a nicely graded and compact ‘road’ for us to dart along.

However, with the mercury soon rising above 40, the riding difficulty increased as we headed into the Nifold Plains. Only 10km inland from the ocean (though you wouldn’t guess it), the Nifold is a vast grassland with a healthy splattering of termite mounds. If it wasn’t for its inhabitants, it would have been an enjoyable experience!

Ahhhh.... the inhabitants. First, Chris was riding along close to the shoulder to avoid the deeper corrugated sand, when he turned a corner and saw a Brown Snake, with upper body raised and about to head across his path. Too late to react, he wet himself and jerked his left foot to the top of the pedal stroke.... crossing paths within 1m of the snake, Chris was relieved to see the snake was as scared as he was and darted back into the grasslands. Then when Chris went to tell Jon about it, Jon ushered him to the side of the road, having seen another Brown on the opposite shoulder. Here’s hoping our snake charming days are behind us!

The rest of the day’s ride to the Musgrave Roadhouse was flat and gravelly.... in other words, nothing too exciting! With the warm temperatures and little shade, our Champion Systems summer clothes were perfect for protecting us from the harsh sun... the summer sleeves are brilliant for keeping your arms out of the sun, without finding yourself overheating!

We were pleased to arrive at the Roadhouse shortly after 130pm, giving us plenty of time to eat, rest out of the sun and relax. Chris spent the time watching Source Code (a pretty average movie), whilst Jon used it to call home.

Later in the afternoon we befriended four blokes who were also staying the night at Roadhouse – Jim, Alan, Zap and Butch. Four hours later we’d shared many beers and laughs, thoroughly enjoying being able to relax around new friends and not have to think or discuss our bloody bikes!l A true highlight of the trip... plus for those who’ve always said that XXXX is like drinking water, you might be onto something, as we woke up the least dehydrated we’ve been in days!