A New Continent, a Warm Welcome

Daily miles: 15.19 | Total miles 6002.04

From Brisbane Airport to Thorneside

After a few attempts at catching some rest overnight at Christchurch Airport, I dropped off my bags at 4am and passed through security. With my last 17 New Zealand dollars, I treated myself to a large almond croissant and a cappuccino—something I had apparently been dreaming of for a while. And wow, it was worth the wait.

I sat quietly until boarding, soaking up the final moments in Aotearoa, and then we were airborne—off to a whole new continent. Australia! The flight had its fair share of turbulence but was otherwise smooth. I’d pre-ordered a vegetarian meal and was pleasantly surprised with a hearty breakfast of chickpeas, potatoes, and spinach, plus a coffee and apple juice.

Despite being tired, I didn’t sleep during the four-hour flight. After landing, I made my way through biosecurity, had my visa checked, and stepped out into the arrivals hall in Brisbane. There, I found a quiet corner and began reassembling my buggy—folded down for the flight and now back in action. It took me about an hour, but with everything repacked and ready, I set out around 10:30am to begin this new chapter on Australian soil.

The first few miles took me past industrial zones, a prison, and then up a long bridge over the Brisbane River. The descent was steep, and with the heat rising, I welcomed the shady stretches and bike paths lined with palm trees and tropical plants. Bright, loud birds sang from the treetops, and I could feel the climate shift in every step.

Just before the final mile, I saw someone with an old-school camera at the corner—it was Vic, my host for the night, snapping pictures of my arrival. His neighbors were there too, giving me a warm welcome. We walked the last bit together to his beautiful home, surrounded by a huge garden and filled with charm.

Later, Vic’s friend Renee came by and we shared stories and lots of laughter. She drove me to the supermarket for groceries, and let's just say—it was an adventurous drive! For dinner, Vic prepared fresh papaya, I made a salad and scrambled some eggs, and we enjoyed a relaxed, nourishing meal.

Now, I'm exhausted, but full of gratitude.

A new country, a new path, and a new connection already made.

Good night from Queensland—and as always, don’t forget to dream big too.