According to the TV and Radio, we are due rainfall of biblical proportions but as I looked out the window this morning and as I travelled further north east today, blue skies was all I could see.
It certainly wasnt clear skies as the farmers were still burning off their stubble and a smokey haze hugged the ground until I got to Parkes where it was greening up so there was nothing to burn.
Even though there was only 260 kilometres to travel today, it still took 6 hours due to the large amount of roadworks on the Newell Highway with long waits on the single lane bypass detours.
There was even a delay at Tomingley while they did a blast at the Tomingley Gold Mine which is divided by the Newell Highway.
Mind you I am not complaining as I was still making stops in all the little towns to do some exploring (read looking for Geocaches).
It is always amazing what gems you find when you have a look around these towns. The stop in Peak Hill (another gold mining town) revealed a long abandoned Holden Dealership complete with old cars and parts that have been rotting for years. Apparently the owner has no interest in selling anything much to the dismay of old Holden collectors and restorers.
I was expecting to see the “Dish” when visiting Parkes but was certainly not expecting Elvis, well Rhino Elvis. As well as Parkes being known for the “Dish”, it also has an annual Elvis Festival but you will have to wait until January next year for the next festival.
About 20 kilometres north of Parkes, look over to the right and there it is. It certainly stands out amongst the sheep paddocks although the trees around it are starting to get up to the same height. I am referring to “The Dish” or the CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope. Its claim to fame is bringing the Moon Landing of Apollo 11 to the world but most now remember it for the film, “The Dish“. It is an impressive structure but it is not working for the next couple of weeks.
Tonight’s digs is Dubbo and I will spend a day around here before moving on Saturday. Provided the weather remains clear and warm, I will visit the Dubbo Zoo. Looking at the radar, it appears that my travels have taken me in a gap between the 2 frontal systems. Not sure how long that will last.
