Kalgoorlie & Margaret River

Day 4 and last day on the Indian Pacific.

The train moves rather slowly as we approach Perth, the end-point of this rail journey.   The terrain changes dramatically from the scrub grass of the Nullarbor to the rolling hills & parkland of Western Australia. It seems odd to actually see cars after a few days of nothing but bush!  During the morning and early afternoon, we spend conversing with our travel mates – all a good set of folk.

A short Uber ride from the train depot at East Perth Station takes us to Perth airport where we’ve arranged for a rental vehicle. I’ve been a little anxious about jumping into a rental car and driving on the ‘wrong side’ of the road through busy Perth but it’s a breeze.   There are two GPS units in the car – one, a Garmin, and the other, Mary, who does a great job reminding me how different driving here is while providing exceptional commentary on my performance.

The drive south to Margaret River takes about 3 hours along good roads. Our Australian friends were quick to remind us how dangerous (and unpredictable) kangaroos can be at twilight and early evening when driving so we take our time along the route. No worries!

Dick

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It was a very early rise after an incredibly late night, rare for me. The terrain changes are significant and give pause for reflection. I have been blessed to share this journey with a unique set of individuals. As we have spent the last four days moving past the initial impressions and really getting to know our fellow travelers, I am amazed at how we all come from different points, but are looking for the same things in the end.

We disembark at Perth and after a short wait for our luggage find ourselves collecting our car from the airport. Dick does a wonderful job adjusting to the difference in driving, although I do wonder if the person behind us understands that the windshield wipers really count as a turn signal – the wipers are on the opposite side here.

All trip so far, I have been waiting to see as many Roos as possible, however, as day approaches dusk on our drive to Margaret River, I am hoping to see no Roos at all.

When we arrive at our apartment in Margaret River we find a totally incredible space, I could stay here for some time.

We are not really hungry for a meal, but wander over to the Elkimo for snacks, some lovely fresh local oysters, a charcuterie platter and a blue cheese to finish off. Back at the apartment, process a couple of loads of laundry while enjoying some lovely McLaren Vale Rose.

Mary