 |
 |
 |
|
Date: Fri, 05 Sep 1997 14:01:47 +1000To: studio@toysatellite.org From: Don Pattenden <dpattenden@pegasus.com.au> Subject: Coffs Harbour; Banana Country Hello, Suddenly I'm in the tropics. Well, that's an exaggeration - the sub-tropics anyway. Travelling at my speed the changes in climate etc have been very gradual, but approaching Nambucca Heads a few days ago, suddenly I'm seeing banana farms everywhere, a surprise to me - til I found out that they've been growing them around Coffs Harbour since the 1880s. And mangroves too! There are mangrove walks you can go on in both Nambucca Heads and CH. Wish I knew more about vegetation etc. but to me it all looks and feels very sub-tropical. Mornings are milder too, now (at last!) Flashing back to Kempsey - one of those coincidences that the coldest mornings of my entire trip so far (down to 2 degs C) should coincide with the worst equipped caravan park by way of facilities for campers, not to mention the iciest wind I've had to endure so far. I froze!!! Anyway, this service is costing by the minute (again! The Happy Planet this time!) and I'm very broke so must be brief.
HALFWAY TO BRISBANE!!!
ANOTHER TRIP STANDOUT! In fact the ride from Kempsey through Hat Head, Trial Bay, Stuarts Point, Scotts Head was very enjoyable in gorgeous sunny weather, little traffic. A relaxed and easy ride through attractive coastal scenery & rich farming country. All had a good feel. Would like to return to this area. Until of course I rejoined my old friend Highway One. The friend I love to hate and escape from at every opportunity. This stretch particularly unpleasant - road narrow and lots of big trucks. A sigh of relief when I got to the turnoff to Sawtel; there's a bike path from there to CH city centre. I'll tell you moe about CH when there's time. Must end now. Has been an unsettled stay here and haven't seen much of the place. Pity. Money probs, tent pole probs and didn't like the hostel very much. Till next time. Don. |