I was on the road at 6am as there was an estuary to cross about 4.5hours along the beach. I had to miss the high tide so arrived about 1.5 hours before. There was about 7km of road walking before heading onto the beach for the rest of the day.
I had planned on stopping at a couple of cafes and 4 Square to top up with fluids. However it was a public holiday so no one was open that early. So I started the beach section not fully hydrated and with a litre less water than I planned to have.
I didn’t have a tall young German in his undies this time to test the depth ( see Stillwater SOBO) so Kiwi Vaughan did the honors. It was only going to get to knickers level so I took off my shorts and went across. The temperature was already about 28 degrees so the water was very refreshing.
The rest of the day was one long, hot slog which made me question my sanity. Why was I putting myself through this torture?
I had to ration my water, even trying, unsuccessfully to get water from couple of cars on the beach. One guy had no water but offered me a beer, but it was too early!!
10.5 hours later, sporting a few blisters, after stopping for an icecream and a bottle of gateroade I was in the supermarket getting food for dinner and bottle of cider.
Tent is up, shower had and dinner eaten so I am feeling better. My sunscreen ran out at mid day so I am a bit burnt. I will get some more tomorrow before I leave for Colac Bay. Four of us NOBOS here tonight.
