Day 32 A practical decision made by the head had to be taken to override the desire of the heart to continue with the Round Australia Tour. 

Purring Pussy despite a few minor hiccups had performed brilliantly since leaving Sydney, but on the run into Alice on Sunday, had while filming, unrepentantly engulfed a couple of XK’s in great volumes of smoke, signalling she was a little distressed (at home found out no 6 injector faulty running cylinder mixture lean, burnt a hole in piston).

Australia's Great Train Journeys

Time to be practical and book a return trip from Alice to Sydney for us both on that magnificent train of decadence and comfort - The Ghan. 

All in all a wonderful trip to date, travelled fabulous roads, cruised comfortably at 120kmh returning 24mpg, viewed inspirational scenery, met inspiring people, covered long stretches at 240kmh and tried her out to 320kmh. What more could I ask, besides, this now gives me an excuse to finish the Round Australia Tour next year.

Spent the day organizing train trip, sightseeing within Alice Springs, Transport Museum, Panorama Guth, chatting with many friends made on the Commemorative Run.

Day 33 – 36 Before boarding The Ghan on Friday, took a number of 4 wheel drive tours around Alice to see all the wonderful places of interest and historical significance on offer, such as Flynn’s Memorial Grave (founder of Flying Doctor Service), Simpson Desert, Chambers Pillar, Rainbow Valley, Standley Chasm, McDonald Ranges and much much more. 

All this has just wetted the appetite, Ichi Mouse and Purring Pussy will return to complete the trip, with many more travelling adventures planned to come.

Ian Hissey

                         Carey Bay,

                         Lake Macquarie

                         NSW, Australia

Namitjira's Ghost Gums

Chambers Pillar