Heading South

Saturday 8^th September

We rose very early on Thursday morning. The weather is beginning to change as we head into the ‘build up,’ which comes before ‘the wet’. It is gradually getting warmer. No longer do we wake to a cloudless blue sky. Instead the early mornings are shrouded in a misty fog, which clears into a hot, slightly humid day.

David was at school by 6am to help load the Troupie (the troop carrier). Departure day for the trip to Melbourne had finally arrived.  By 6.30am a small group had gathered and breakfast was being prepared. There was a distinct air of excitement around the school.

Several of the children wandered in carrying brand new shoes, a requirement for Melbourne, but not needed just yet.  Breakfast was served, fresh sandwiches, fruit and drinks were stacked into the icebox for a lunch ‘on the road’ and pillows were tossed into the back of the Troupie. Family members gathered around for photos and last minute good byes.

Into the back of the Troupie climbed the eight lucky Robinson River students and we all waved and shouted our good byes as they set off on their own unforgettable adventure.

 The two day road trip to Darwin will cover approximately 1,300 kms. I am again astounded at the resilience of these children, no comfortable seats in this car, no DVD’s to watch or music to play on this road trip. It is their reality and they have no sense that it could be better. This is a privilege earned for school attendance and good behaviour; they have nothing to complain about.  For some of them who have never been further than the next town this will change their view of the world forever.  

Next day, a phone call from Darwin,… all was well. They had arrived safely ( no flat tyres) and were waiting for their plane.

Then, a Saturday morning call from Melbourne,…. the children, although feeling the cold, were very excited and about to head off to the Queen Victoria market. They sounded very happy.

 I thought to myself, ‘that market is about the size of the whole of Robinson River, they are certainly in for a treat!’ We look forward to hearing more news from down south.