Birdsong, Bush Wisdom & True Aussie Hospitality

Daily miles 31.09 | Total miles: 6,209.44

After falling into bed around 10pm last night—completely exhausted—I finally got the good night of sleep I truly needed. When I woke up this morning, I felt recharged and ready to take on the day. I left the hotel in Casino just after 7am, with a simple goal: run about 30 miles south to the next available stop—a general store where I hoped I could camp, since the next town is another 30 miles further.

The air was fresh, and I felt good. As I ran southbound, I was curious what kind of road conditions I’d be dealing with. The shoulder varied throughout the day—as expected—but overall it wasn’t bad. Most of the way, the road had those rumble strips along the edge to warn cars if they drift, but they were narrow enough that I could push the buggy over them without the constant shaking. A win!

I stopped a few times to eat and drink, but mostly kept a steady rhythm through the day. One of the highlights was the nature around me—especially the distinctive bird calls echoing every now and then and the chorus of frogs (I think!) coming from the water lining much of the roadside. That wild soundtrack kept me company.

After 31 miles, I arrived at the Whiporie General Store—greeted by bright sunshine, a loudly crowing rooster, and my own tired thirst and hunger. I grabbed an ice-cold Fanta from the fridge, ordered a cappuccino, and told Sarah, the owner, about my journey. With calm kindness, she replied, “Yes, of course you can camp here. There’s a toilet out back—no worries.” That simple generosity moved me. Aussies keep surprising me with their friendliness. No worries. Of course. That’s the least I can do for you. Beautiful.

I sat outside the store with my drink, coffee, and the sandwich I’d prepared earlier. Tanja joined me, and we had a really nice conversation. After that, I pitched my tent, and soon Barb and Bob stopped by to ask about my run. Later, I returned to the front of the store to catch up on my socials, and that’s when I met Chris, Sarah’s brother. He runs a glamping place nearby and totally fascinated me with his bush knowledge. Honestly, I’ve got to come back sometime and stay—he made it sound like a dream spot.

Now it’s getting dark, and I’ll grab some food from the store to mix with what I already have. It’ll be an early night in the tent, listening again to those frogs and birds that filled my day.

Thanks for checking in, and thank you, Australia, for your unshakable kindness. Andrea