Sandy and her sister Lauren entered the City to Freo walk just after we got home from Thailand. Laura, Jack (Lauren's children) and myself were the cheer squad in the car meeting up with them every 30 minutes or so.

Well after around a dozen auctions I finally managed to find and buy a new vehicle I was happy with. Being an ex Telstra worker how could I refuse an ex Telstra 4WD!

I have purchased a 2000 model Nissan Patrol 4.2 diesel with a Trademate all aluminium back on it. It has Old Man Emu springs and shockies all round. Roo and tow bar with spotlights on the front. I have removed the existing 8 inch rims and tyres and purchased 6 split rims and fitted Michelin XZY 14 ply exploration tyres. Hopefully these will not get destroyed like the Goodrich All Terrain did and last longer than 30,000 kms. The Cruiser sold the first day I advertised to a happy new owner from Geraldton.

I built a dismountable boat trailer, which is currently being galvanised and fits on the roof of the Patrol under the boat. I have fitted the two original 85 litre water tanks from the Landcruiser and added another one which with the 40 litre under tray tank allows me to now carry around 450 litres of water in the van and car.

I purchased a $98 Bunning's GMC generator and will try that out to see if they work OK. It is cheaper than getting the Honda serviced.

Sandy has been busy washing and polishing the van, repacking the interior and helping me when she can. It has been helpful staying with Sandy's parents as the van fits and the shed has plenty of tools.

Next month I will be checking the mechanicals of the van and car before heading off on the 27th of December. First stop will be Cape Riche, then Bremer Bay in January followed by Lucky Bay in February.

Peter and Sandy

In the Big Smoke.