From Frost to Warm Encounters
Daily miles: 41.76 | Total miles: 7,646.96
I got up at 5:30am—coffee, some cereal, packing—and set off by 6:30am. The morning was cold, but the promise of a warmer day was ahead. Back on the highway, I ran through the chill and noticed little hints of spring showing themselves.
About 10 miles in, I left the main road and turned onto the old Princess Highway, which meant crossing the Murray River once again—this time in the North, after having first crossed it a few days ago leaving New South Wales into Victoria in the South. The pedestrian path on the bridge was so narrow that my buggy just barely squeezed through. Midway across, I spotted a man coming toward me. I wondered how we would pass each other, but when we met, he hopped up onto the railing to let me by. “Be careful, don’t lean back!” I said immediately. His name was Peter, and in our brief exchange we laughed at ourselves, admitting we were both a little crazy—and perfectly okay with that.
As the day went on, the sun warmed things up, but the road began its slow climb into the hills. Somewhere along the way, I met Scott, who kindly refilled my water and shared a chat before I pressed on. Soon, I reached a peak and was rewarded with a stretch of downhill running and breathtaking views.
About 10 miles before Nairne, I came across an old general store. I stopped for a Fanta—so thirsty I nearly drank it in one gulp. Andrew, the owner, gave me some extra water for the road, we took a picture together, and I pushed on. I knew more hills awaited, and they did not disappoint—steep, demanding, and relentless.
By the time I arrived in Nairne, fatigue had set in. I bought groceries for today and tomorrow, but the real challenge was finding a place to sleep. I asked around in the store, but no one could help. At the town pub, I asked again, but everyone declined. I stepped outside, tired and a bit disheartened, but I reminded myself: just keep asking.
Not long after, I passed a man named Graeme. When I asked, he immediately called his wife, Elise. After a quick reassurance that I wasn’t some kind of menace, they offered me their address and a place to stay. Incredible kindness.
Their home turned out to be on the highest point in town, so that last mile nearly broke me—but once I arrived, I was welcomed warmly. Dinner together, a shower, and the comfort of a safe space to rest. Thank you, Graeme and Elise.
I’m warm, fed, and ready for sleep. Tomorrow is another day.
Good night, Andrea