A Road Less Travelled

Part 6

On the road again

We all got up at three in the morning, because it was an 80-kilometer drive back into the Northern Territory to meet our 'taxi' at the only loading ramp in the vicinity. We arrived just before 5am and there was no one in sight. I didn't know whether to feel relieved since I was anxious about crossing the river, or disappointed because I also really wanted to continue my journey. However, it wasn't long before we saw headlights approaching from the dark.
There was a sudden air of excitement in all the bustle of shuffling trailers around, backing them to the ramp and having one car after the other drive onto the decks. These weren't trailers designed to carry cars by the way, and the vehicles were just parked on there and not fixed to the trailers in any way ... that's scary...! The driver better takes it nice and slow on the way back to the river, since we all sat in our cars as well... I must stop thinking! I definitely worry too much at times. It ended up being a lot of fun sitting in my car, 'driving' along the road without having to drive – a strange and interesting sensation.
It was early lunchtime when we arrived back at the river. Our chauffeur and potential rescuer stopped at the bank. But he never even checked the water, tried to 'look' for the bridge, or made any attempt to hesitate or rethink his intention – no - he purely paused for dramatic effect. The press had heard of the attempt - probably informed as part of a publicity stunt by the trucking company - and was gathered there along with the whole town of Camooweal. No doubt, this will make the news.
There was still no bridge in sight, and to make matters worse, I was told that this bridge doesn't have a railing and takes a curve... Really...?! Arghhh...!!! What if the water is higher than the deck of the trailer and our 'light' cars will get washed away (with us in it...)? What if he also misses and tips off the bridge? But, it was too late to worry. The engine started up with a big roar and we were heading into the water. My heart was pounding in my throat but it was also extremely exhilarating at the same time. Everyone was cheering and clapping on the other side, while the road train inched his way further and further into the water and across the bridge. The water rose scary high until it was just a couple of inches under the decks and the drivers cabin was half submerged... I don't know how he did it, but he made it! He was applauded and greeted like a hero by everyone, and we all felt somewhat victorious – we had finally 'defeated' the river. Now I was so glad I took the risk, what an adventure! And the  journey could continue!
This event did in fact make the news – I still have the clipping to remind myself of this amazing adventure.

By the time all cars were unloaded and fueled up, phone calls made, lunch eaten, etc... it was late in the afternoon on the 31. December. Most of us, decided to drive to Mount Isa before dark and meet up again to celebrate New Year's Eve at the Irish Club. So after an uneventful two-hour drive and a lovely shower, we celebrated the start of a new exciting year together. It was a fun night! Never would I have guessed at that moment, that this town will become my home one day...
Most of us decided to travel together from now on, in case we encounter new obstacles, and because we enjoyed each other's company. Early next morning, we continued the trip on the Overlander's Way towards Townsville, following each other. It was a lovely drive for about 250 kilometers ...until we were cut off again(!) in Julia Creek. For a moment, I felt rather frustrated, and didn't feel like having any more adventures for a while. Can no one in this country build a decent bridge, really...? Really...?! We are stuck here again?! In hindsight of course, I am glad we did – we were about to take part in another unforgettable experience...

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