Well, after the rapid pace of Nullarbor driving (including a mammoth 930km jaunt between Eucla and Esperance) we decided to slow it down as we neared our destination. Enjoyable beach days, as documented in the last post, were supplemented by a 3 night stay on a small vineyard in Margaret River, courtesy of our friend Vicky. Aside from a few blustery beach swims, the main highlight was a day’s sampling of the local wares – wine, fancy snacks and tucker, and beer. Our little afternoon trip included the Margaret River Venison farm, Howard Park/Madfish Winery, Vasse Felix Winery, Providore (Deli and Winery), Woody Nook boutique winery, and Bootleg Brewery – with 7 beers fallen straight from heaven.

A final 300km drive north and we arrived in our final destination, Maddington W.A., ready to unload our poor car, eat some healthy food, and do some darn exercise. Finding an internet cafe has been a monumental undertaking in its own right; however, when we are firmly established in our new abode next week, that will be quickly rectified.

So far we’ve visited Storm’s campus which is quaint and pretty, eaten out in Northbridge (like Brisbane’s valley district), had coffee in Highgate (our new suburb, similar to New Farm), gone swimming at Cottesloe, been shopping in Maddington (Perth’s version of a Logan/Ipswich hybrid), and driven a good three quarters of the city and surrounds. Storm is in fact teaching her first classes, having been snaffled up by a dance school somewhere between Sydney and Wagga Wagga. Turns out, if you’re good enough, jobs will find you.

It is hot and very windy here, and staring down vast quantities of golden sunshine reflecting of the ocean of an afternoon will take some getting used to. We’re yet to glimpse the sun sink beyond the western ocean; however, there are three years for that.

There’ll be a new batch of travel pics up soon, but for now, after 6299.7km, sufficed to say we’ve arrived safely and happy.

Lots of Love, especially to Mum and Dad who are about to undertake an amazing 8 week adventure in South America and Ian, Michelle and Annabel, who will be indulging in the many delights of Buenos Aires with them. Travel safe guys and have fun!