Nala Mia (Jarrahwood) to Donnelly River
Overcast day today.
Left at 6.36am on the old Vassy Highway bituman to the main Vassey road and head across to the Sidings Rail Line.
Fairly flat section but some bumps and great bridges to cross. It has a great downhill section where you can build up some speed for at least 10 minutes, then cross the main highway again to the other side still downhill but more flatter and natural forest across the bridge to the park, caravan park on the left and Nannup Totem Poles. Toilet stop there then off into town to stop for morning tea and drink, quiche and hot chocolate at Melo Velo.
Its a ride on bituman following a river or creek for most of the way uphill. It comes to a turn and over the crest with a hike bike then fast downhill. Its shortlived as it comes to a T junction and left turn onto dirt road.
Its a great road and forest returns and hit Willow Springs for lunch stop. I fill up with water and have a toilet stop. There is one lady camping and there a few tables to sit at.
A couple of cyclist arrive and sit at the next table, a girl and guy. I later find out she is travelling south and he is travelling north.
I hit Donnely River soon after and what a village it is. Its like a time warp back to the 50's with cottage houses in a row around a large park. The store has food and camping gear as well so feed up again and get a free gas canister in a free box.
I stay at the bunkhouse for dirt cheap $15 and there is a great kitchen there with the 70's furniture like I had at home in the 70's and I have a hot shower and get all electrical gear charged up.
The girl at Willow Springs has arrived after walking a few kilometres as she broke a chain but despite getting greasy I can't fix it with the tools I have. She manages to get a lift the following morning to the nearest main town.
She stays at the free open huts but cheeky Kangaroos get some of her food. There are Emus walking around the street and forest all around. Not much to see in town but an enjoyable village I could have spent a rest day there.
At the General Store bought up chicken and sweetcorn soup, two fruits, coke, and gatorade.
sleep at 8.00pm on a warm night.