SATURDAY 23 JANUARY      STANTHORPE

After breakfast, we went for a drive around the Pozieres/Amiens Roads areas, calling in at some farms with big packing sheds and signs of life, to see if there was work. There wasn’t. Some already have their full complement of workers; most say they are not starting for another couple of weeks.

Back at camp, chatted with the new people behind us. They do quite a bit of gemstone fossicking, and have been to Rubyvale and O’Briens Creek. The man gave us a handful of garnets someone had given him, that came from up Cloncurry way. There may even be the odd cutter amongst them. They are nice people.

After lunch, John went to bowls.

I read the Saturday papers. Did some knitting, finishing off three of the little jumpers and jackets that had needed sewing up and bands done. Quite often, I like to knit as we are driving distances – it helps me stay awake! There is no point in making things for John and me – we have ample clothing. So I decided that baby and young children’s items were manageable, not needing too much wool – and can be stored away for if there are grandchildren, further down the track. I now have four such items completed.

John returned happy with his bowling. He wants us to play in the morning!

Tea was soup, the leftover ham and cheese bake, which was alright cold. The fresh nectarines are wonderful.

We have decided to extend our stay here for a few extra days, to see if any work eventuates, and also because there are still places we want to see – well, I want to see.