Lee had been a source of wondrous advice. For example, the haemorrhoid cream Soov is known for its soothing of mozzie bites. As she handed me her spare tube, Lee assured me that the cream had been nowhere near her own bottom. Thank heavens for small mercies.
Another handy hint was mixing oxy action granules (she recommended the Coles brand) with eucalyptus oil to get rid of the urinal smell that emanated from the dunny when we used the approved chemical toilet sachets. She was on the money with this one.
Finally, she suggested we try Polaramine for the Problem Child's carsickness. If we can relieve the Beagle's intense reaction to car travel, there may be hope for the Canine Clowns to accompany us on further adventures in Digger.
Prior to leaving Emu Creek, we returned to the next ridge to liberate the discarded front of an ancient Metters stove. Armed with his portable grinder, Michael deftly separated the beautifully decorative pieces from the flaps of rusty metal. The two pieces fit together like a jigsaw. After loading them into Lily's boot, we were on our way. Continuing our journey ever north.
We chose to stop at Nanutarra roadhouse again for much-appreciated showers and clean clothes. Turning east toward Karijini, Mount Murray loomed above the Pilbara landscape like a silent juggernaut.
We arrived at the Beasley River right on sunset. The free campsite was packed with every manner of caravan, RV and tent. We ended up parking on a flattish corner opposite the loos. These did not impress. They were dark, dingy, smelly and had no toilet paper. I decided I would attend to further ablutions in the low bush outside Digger's door.
We retired early with yet another hysterical chapter of William MacInnes' book. True to my word, I ventured outside, rather than to the toilets, for any nocturnal calls of nature. However, the sky show than presented itself during my furtive expeditions was just spectacular. So many stars in such an inky blue-black backdrop.
Morning brought a cacophony of noises as busy travellers rose early to move onto Somewhere Else. Once most of the rigs had departed, I listened to the chatter of the birds just outside Digger's door. A far pleasanter symphony.
The toilets had not magically improved overnight. Clutching my roll of toilet paper. I went in and out as rapidly as possible. However, whilst seated on the less-than-ideal throne, I felt and heard the rumblings of a much larger vehicle. I emerged to discover the Parabadoo volunteer fire brigade was setting up a "Driver Revivor" station for the day - free tea, coffee, cakes, muffins and biscuits for all and sundry. What an awesome service for the motoring public.
All workers from the Parabadoo mine site, Cassie (support services), Megan (health and safety), Jamie (operator), Adam (electrician and rather the worse for wear) and Ben (operator) had spent the previous night in relative luxury camping at Cheela Plains Station. They had indulged in an excellent port around a roaring fire and Adam was suffering the consequences. Another note to self - stay at Cheela Plains rather than Beasley River next trip north.
After an excellent breakfast, we took our leave of this bunch of local heroes. We were headed for the civilisation of Tom Price for the excitement of clothes washing, bodies' washing and shopping. Look out, Tom Price...
Farewell, Emu Creek Station
On the road again
Pilbara dirt
Your doctor will be with you as soon as the plane lands
Mount Murray
The awesome Parabadoo volunteer fire brigade
Megan showing them all how it's done!
Digger's stabilisers going up
Shortcut to Tom Price
Accompanying vista
Minesite en-route
The minesite's neighbour!
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