June 2020
Then, while digging not for gold but to dispose of the contents of Debbie’s throne, my back gave up. Jolts like what I would expect would be similar to 10,000 volts shooting through my lower spine meant that the trip was over. I did try for another day but it was hopeless and being as remote as we were, meant that it would be irresponsible to try and continue.
Packing up camp was a challenge and Debbie really had to work harder than she should have. For my part, getting the gear on the roof when I could hardly stand up was interesting. I managed to drive the car back the 200 klms back to the main road purely because it was a straight road and that we didn’t see another living soul, but as soon as I had to brake or turn the steering wheel I knew I would be unable to continue. Debbie drove our overladen car the remaining 800 klms home with an overnight stop at the road house at Payne’s Find.
Bush camping in winter was perfect for prospecting during the day but it is a bit chilly in the desert at night. We made good use of the hot water bottles Debbie was wise enough to take with us.
The remainder of my second week of my holiday was spent drugged up, flat in my back but even while lying there in pain, I was planning to get away again.