Day 20 – Colignan to Mildura

Occasionally in life you come across people who you know are special in some way. We spent a lovely evening in the presence of a wonderful gentleman last night, Alan Erskine. Alan was an editor for Mildura Weekly who contacted me several weeks ago when at home to ask if he could write a story about our fundraiser. He informed me it was his last week at work before retiring after a 50 year career as a journalist. Not only did Alan write a story on my life he also offered a bed in his home for our crew when travelling through Colignan. We took him up on his generous offer as otherwise we would be free camping in the National Park for a second night. Thank goodness we did as it became obvious in the first hour that Alan was a very special soul who was the perfect host with many rich stories to share.

Alan’s hut – he salvaged and restored

We all had an amazing night being looked after with a wonderful dinner prepared by Alan and desert provided by his beautiful neighbour who also joined us for dinner along with her husband. We left this morning feeling blessed for the hospitality and warmth shown by Alan in opening his home and heart to us. We did not expect to find a new friend along the way and look forward to seeing Alan again after the trip.

McGraths Island, Colignan

Mallee Cliffs

The next highlight of the day was being reunited with our daughter Jasmine after Dad and Gil picked her up from Mildura airport while we were on the water. To have our baby with us again was thrilling as we now get to share the second part of our trip with her and all the wonders of the Murray.