The Strength of Together

My last blog consisted of a list of equipment needed. While the right gear is extremely important for any journey to be successful, there is something significant and powerful that cannot simply be put in a list. Nonetheless, here it is. Just some of the people who helped my complete this crazy adventure in their own special way. Both friends and strangers.

Ryan Corry. If you know Ryan, you know that he would give the shirt off his own back … and does. Ryan have a lot of similarities, including sharing the same birthday, height, bike setup, shoe size and love of coaching others. Ryan has given and lent me so much over the years including much of his own gear, new and much loved. On this trip Ryan offered his Ortelib Saddle Bag. This bag was a lifesaver as it had more storage space than the tardus and was designed so well that you wouldn’t know it was on the back of your bike.
Evan Corry. All my Bike Equipment is purchased through Corry Cycles and Ev manages to source what I need or offer a better product and a better price time and time again. He’s also able to perform the odd miracle and get obscure equipment delivery at extremely short notice in time to travel away to Race to take off on an adventure.
Dave Arnold. I don’t think I’ve ever cycled with Dave before, but he loves everything cycling and didn’t think twice about offering me his Bivy for the trip. I had no idea what a Bivy was at this stage but knew that if Dave swore but it, it was be good. Yes, it was hot, but it packed smaller than 2 tennis balls, kept the bugs and snakes out and I was very grateful for it when it rained at Elliott Falls.
Once I rolled into Bamaga, I was really looking forward to having a shower, sleeping in a real bed and eating real food again. I was so thankful that my good friends Robi & Mel Tamwoy (Sito, Santi & Eve) opened their home (and the best coffee shop in the Northern Peninsula Area!!!!). I always feel at home at their place and so enjoy their company and are always inspired by their commitment to strengthening Indigenous Communities.
When your doing it tough with hour upon hour suffering corrugations, dust or dead straight bitumen that goes as far as the eye can see, a “goodie bag” makes the world of difference. My good friends from the Mackay & District Mountain Bike Club, the Scoble’s, left 4 of these surprise parcels where I most needed them. Lollies, mandarins and water were never so well received!
Emma & Leon. When the ferry was booked out and I couldn’t get to my return flight from Horn Island they cruised over from POW Island and picked me up in the dinghy with bike. They also looked after my son with their family for the week.
The lovely caretaker lady at Moreton Telegraph Station who still served me dinner after they had closed for the day and brought out wheetbix for breakfast.
The woman camping at one of the creeks on the Southern Section of the OTL who filled both my Bidons.
The Catetaker lady at Hann River who upgraded my camping accomodation to a cabin. Very much appreciated as it allowed my an early start the next morning.
All those Facebook & Instagram Friends and Family who liked, shared and commented on my posts along the way. It was a great source of encouragement.
My wife Priscilla for giving me a leave pass for the week and not doubting my ability to make it. Also for allowing me to pursue this passion and purchase the equipment needed to compete the journey safety and enjoyably.
My good friend Lincoln Carolan and Family for hosting me in Cairns both pre and post trip, including meals, airport transfers and entertainment. Also for the encouragement pre and during the Tip. Much appreciated!
Frank Falappi and the Queensland Police Service for ensuring I made it to my start location at Lakeland’s safely and able to to reach the Tip by the week’s end.
Graeme and Charmaine Bourke in Coen for a bed, lovely dinner and big bowl of porridge in the morning. Loved catching up with them again.