The run to Dubbo was uneventful. It took a while for the Warrumbungles to finally dip below the horizon but soon had the interior of the Jeep like a warm bath. I had a ‘to do’ list in Dubbo including the Western Plains Zoo that afternoon. However, I’d lost time and soon realized that Wellington would have to wait until tomorrow. Now, just to remind viewers, finding a 12 metre parking space in a city involves a degree of circling, doubling back and usually some walking. A one hour shop can easily become a two hour expedition, which added to the diminishing daylight available.
Just a heads up on refilling gas bottles. We had been doing the easy exchange at Bunnings and servos for months. I had to go to BCF for a new billy, and they refill your gas bottle direct from a large tank TO THE TOP!!! Also it costs over 20% less. My gas bottle has lasted twice as long as normal. Just sayin’ Jerry.
I thought I had escaped the cold, but another front was coming through that night and they were predicting minus 3. Sod it! I checked into the NRMA Holiday Park, plugged in the 240v and switched the aircon on. I didn’t even bothered to disconnect the van. At least the sun was out early the next morning and first stop was the zoo.
I thought it would be good idea to have a good look around and took the walking option. The meerkats were virtually first up and they are seriously as cute as they are on TV. Clearly a marketing tool encourage you to explore every exhibit..it worked. The best thing about western plains zoo as you probably know is no cages. Everything is open using mounds and water barriers (except for the lions…of course).
The walk was easy going and the the usual suspects were on display. Naturally there was a cafe about half way round and it didn’t miss.
Things got a little strange after that……..
It was a pleasant way to spend the morning and the zoo was terrific. On the road to Ponto Falls Reserve after lunch and arrived just 40 minutes later.