The close of Chapter Two

I’ve imagined our trip would have quite distinct chapters.  Chapter One: Sight-seeing between home and Alice Springs.  Chapter Two:  Settling into RTHF and sight-seeing around Alice.  Chapter Three: Reunion Week.  Chapter Four: (the shortest of the lot) Head for home

Last night heralded the close of Chapter Two.  The last official volunteers’ function before the Reunion was held at Stuart’s Bush Kitchen; Fish and Chips and a little karaoke.  The men were asked to dress as roadhouse workers and the women as truckies.  The night was hilarious!! 

Will and Liz Martin CEO of NRTHF

Many women got in the spirit of the evening with blue singlets, flannelettes shirts and high vis vests over pot bellies abounding.  Not to be out done a dozen or so men got into the spirit of the night too!  We had waitresses with their aprons, cleaners with bows in their hair and she devils along with a few others.  It was lovely to hear the constant laughter, the cheeky jokes, the quick one liners and the fun had by all.

A highlight, not just of the evening, but of our trip will be my memory of Will and I singing ‘I’ve Got You Babe’ to a wildly applauding and laughing audience.  As I reached for Will’s hand singing “I’ve got you to hold my hand” I felt totally relaxed and in high spirits.  It was such a simple moment of joy and unexpected pleasure.  I'm so glad he suggested we sing something together.

Darling Noelene!!

We still can’t believe our good fortune at arriving to find such accepting, fun loving people who enjoy a laugh with you, not at you. And now, we have added another chapter to our itinerary - Chapter 5: Catching up with our Birdsville friends and what a treat that chapter will be.

Will and Kate

Some of the 'ladies'

The Birdsville Truckers