Streaking to a halt.

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Planning prevents…poor performance. Despite our careful planning our trip is now in tatters. After almost two weeks the road to Perth is still cut by fires, so we embrace plan B with unexpected results.
Plan A was to pay Streaky Bay a passing visit and keep heading west, however the forced detention means a longer stay and time to really explore a fascinating part of Australia. 

Streaky Bay, on the west coast of the Eyre Peninsula, boasts an enticing mosaic of pristine natural wonders: shelly and occasionally sandy beaches, countless fishing spots and the spectacular southern Australian coastline. From Streaky Bay the coast is primarily accessed by two self-drive loop roads each of about 30-40km of dirt. Along these drives are numerous secluded free camping spots, an array of rocky, jagged and sharp cliff formations and remarkably beautiful beaches. With little breeze and brilliant sunshine, the water shimmers with crystal blues and iridescent greens more typical of the tropics. Today’s mild swell means the blow holes are silent, but there is evidence to suggest that when it blows, this peaceful sea has another more sinister face.
The Islands Caravan Park is only three years old and arguably boasts the best bathrooms in the caravan park world. Instead of your standard rows of tiny shower and toilet cubicles, the amenities block has individual bathrooms each with shower, toilet, basin and mirrors. Almost like home. How very civilised.
 
The caravan park is full of people ready to chat about our shared experience, waiting for the Eyre Highway to open. The banter is hopeful, with rumours circling that the road will reopen soon. Late in the day the caravan park rumour is supported by evidence from the West Australian Newspaper website, which predicts that the Eyre Highway will reopen within 48 hours. Those on a long slow trip around Australia are staying put, those on holiday are abandoning going west and making other plans, but those of us who need to start work in a few days are on the road early in the morning. We will either be first in the queue as the road reopens at the SA/WA border 600kms from Streaky Bay or we will be joining a Nullarbor refugee camp. Stay tuned for details.  

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