I awoke at 6am – others still peacefully sleeping. Spent the next hour or so in thought – about the Territory generally – and the fascination it has, one all of its own. Where else could one be in the middle of such an expanse of bush and feel its friendliness, or perhaps more a sense of ‘belonging’ – funny these early morning meditations. After a wonderful breakfast of fried egg on toast and luscious banana mango we set forth again. Next stop, Adelaide River for a refresher before lunch. Filled our thermos with iced water, took a few feet of film and then on to Robin Falls. First sign of trouble – small but nasty gutter – Grewar at the wheel – front wheels down and across, back wheels down but definitely not across. Alfred wouldn’t cooperate so Marye and Helen gave a helpful push. Unfortunately when we examined the tyres we discovered a cut in one of the rear ones – must have been a sharp stone when wheels spun in gutter. Lunch at Creek – first pineapple attacked.

Piles of washing all spread out to dry on the grass belonged to three B.M.R. lads, Bob, David and Jan, who offered a glass of beer which we accepted, also offered the use of their copper if we wished to wash any clothes – hope we didn’t really look as bad as that! Visited Falls, and after 2 hours set off once more, after refusing an offer to have tea at the boys’ camp. Decided we were already travelling at snail’s pace and any extra delays at this stage might be regretted. Read our third short story during the rest of the ride and had tea and cake at Hayes Creek. Alas! – a leak in the petrol tank! Poor Helen – on her back already. Patched up with chewing gum and plibond – what next?

Continuing rather hopefully we finally reached Pine Creek, and the rain! We headed straight for the shower room. Helen and I ceded first shower to Marye – only water which appeared was a tiny trickle from about 4 holes – not for me! I dressed again and decided the River was to be my bathing spot. A delighted scream from Marye rather astounded us – as she was turning off the tap it all but came out in her hand and a delightful gush of water issued forth – her showering difficulties were practically solved – well practically!

Having showered we decided to go in search of the bottle. Who should be in the bar but Poppy Secrett, looking very tired and rather sad in spite of her efforts to be her usual bright self.

Rain, rain, rain – on and off all the way from Pine Creek to Edith River which we made our next camp. Sat up to hot soup (all the way from Nightcliffe), afters of Thurza’s biscuits and an orange. Then to bed – Marye under the Bridge – Helen, after attempting the Bridge, returned to Alfred’s side – I’m not sure whether the rain was the deterrent or the thought of crocs! I bunked in the front of Alfred – why, oh why was I blessed with long legs? And so to rest!