Gavan, heads back to Melbourne on Saturday after a few days in Alice Springs with my family and I. We have enjoyed a couple of leisurely bike rides around the town and nearby Ranges but nothing too strenuous.

The Finke Desert Race has captured our imagination and we will be attending the time trials (prologue) early tomorrow. The numerous drivers and riders showcased their motor bikes & dune buggies tonight as part of ’scrutineering’ where all the vehicles are presented and checked by officials. We enjoyed the event and of course thought about what it would be like to be participating in the two day 400+ kms off road race.

The words of encouragement and support continue to be filtered through via this website and Gavan and I continue to read them with amazement. We extend our thanks to all of you that have followed and supported our ride.

John Ruiz (Bea’s husband) phoned me on Monday and it was wonderful to speak with him again. We spoke about Bea’s birthday and how we nearly arrived at the Rock on the actual day! John was grateful we arrived safely which is so demonstrative of John’s character – always concerned about the well being of others.

Our fundraising objective has been surpassed due to your generosity. I still have a small fund raising initiative to complete on my return to Adelaide which should translate to some additional donations. Times are difficult and we all support our own chosen charities which makes the effort made to support us even more commendable.

A special thanks to Gav’s family and friends for encouraging and supporting him in the lead up to and during the ride. I know he is looking forward to returning home and I am glad he comes back to you in one piece not any worse off for the experience. A birthday beer with me in a pub in Port Germein after a day on the bike probably didn’t cut it so I am sure you will spoil him..

Shaun

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