Tweed Shire and Mount Warning

Yesterday I drove from Brisbane along the Pacific Motorway to Nerang. I would not wish this drive on any motorcyclist! Too much straight, too much traffic...
But from Nerang to Matt's family's place I took the Hwy 90 to 97 through the Gold Coast Hinterland and across the QLD/NSW border, right at the top of a mountain range. Gorgeous rolling hills and twisting roads the whole way past Uki and to Midginbill. This was probably the most fun Gael Garcia and I have had, but I know there will be more great rides to come.

Upon my arrival I was greeted by Matthew, his brother Sam, and their mother Cherilynn. Later on Ron, Matt's father, returned. What a great family! They seem to be so positive and to get on with each other quite well. I can understand where Matt gets his wit and sarcasm from. Ron was quite fascinating. We had a few intriguing conversations about the mind and spirit, aging, and even touched on politics. This morning he drove me around Tweed Shire and explained a bit of the history. It was interesting to learn about the Cram family who have been farming in the area for generations, and who donated "heaps" of land to the Shire for a local dam.

Matt Skipping Rocks at Cedar Creek

Later on, when Matt and Sam awoke we went swimming at a few local swimming holes. Palmers Road (with a ropeswing!) and then Cedar Creek, with lots of rocks to and crevaces to explore. The boys are tons of fun; lots of climbing on rocks and jumping into natural pools and backflips off of ropeswings.

Matt and I plan to hike Mount Warning tomorrow, then I'll accompany the boys to their beach v-ball game in the evening. I suppose the following day i'll head off once again.

I will cherish this visit in my heart and I don't think I'll ever forget Ron singing "God Bless the Child" while playing the ivories in this beautiful, comforting home built in the hills of Midgenbill.