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Day 22 Kenilworth to Maleny

Rick Faulks — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:56:00 GMT

Another morning of fog so it was about 9am or so when I left. Father Rob had driven the road the yesterday to see what we were in for so we knew that once we got into the hills we were still going to have some fog.

Once we did get started and into the ride today was a hard day with hills, I had to use Tony's mountain bike so it was the second time this bike got to touch the road so far!! I got to feel good on the start of the ride with over taking a local who was riding out of town at the same time. The rider was about 1 km ahead and I caught up to him on the hills courtesy of Tony's mtn and overtook, so this felt good intitially.

The hills were definately harder than what I anticipated today. Father Rob said to me before riding out 'you will be right the hills aren't too bad' I think he was trying to give me some positive encouragement and this was soon out the window when I encountered the first big hill. I soon began my own sign language after the first hill back to Father Rob with many different signals and I think Father Rob soon worked out that I was saying he was full of poop and I could also hear the giggling coming from the support car behind me.

No track or kilometer counter today being that I was on the mountain bike, but I rode for about 2 hrs and 58 minutes, and it felt a long time riding as the majority was up hill and the average speed is slow and feels like you are pedaling a heap and not getting anywhere. Thank goodness for Tony's bike though as I definately would have struggled more if I was riding my bike on these hills.

Support vehicle change over occurred with one hill to go, Father Rob was then trying to be funny saying there was 2 more hills to go when I got back on the bike I physced myself up for 2 hills and when I went down the first I knew that Father Rob was having a lend of me as I was coasting into town instead of climbing another hill and was releaved that it was only one hill.

Mum, Megs and the kids were waiting for me at the top of Maleny and I got to meet the local Sgt as he also came out as we were putting the bike up on the car and chatted for a while. After setting up camp we went back into town and had a great meal at the local cafe and the kids got spoilt and had a slurpee with their lunch, to no surprise the slurpee was gone before their meals. We also couldn't leave Maleny without having one of the well known homemade icecreams from the cheese shop - I wouldnn't have heard the end of it if Megs didn't have an icecream - she had been talking about it for days, the hardest part I think was just trying to get her to choose which one and being realistic with the size, cos I think she would have eaten a tub of it if I let her. Mind you after tasting the icecream I now know why she was raving about it, I ended up having about 2 spoons of my mango as Bella stole the rest of it. I am sure it will be a place that Bella and Griffin take us back to for an icecream as it is to die for and I think Megs might be in on it too if she has a say on it, mind you I won't fight it they were damn good icecreams.

We stayed the night at the Maleny showgrounds and were surprised when the Dunne Family drove into the showgrounds to meet us. Eamon, Wendy, Marie who is 9yrs and Katie who is 6yrs & fellow cycstic had tried to come into Maleny to meet me and even pulled the kids out of school early, but I got in a little earlier than expected so they missed me in the street and came to the showgrounds to see us instead, they did however wave their flags and wore their 'for the love of life' red cf tshirts so it was still a great cheer welcome to be woken up to (yep I was having a snooze when they arrived). It was great to meet them and talk with them about CF and what has happened to me over the years and hear some of the plans and dreams that they have for their Katie. The kids all had a ball climbing and playing on the skate ramps and using them like a slide.

A few disagreements family wise tonight after dinner, I guess being with each other all this time has started to press on each others nerves. It ended up being an emotional night and a late one, so by the end of it all I was very ready for bed and not really looking forward to tomorrow.... so close to home but still so far away.

At Kenilworth showgrounds giving the mountain bike a check over.

Griffin checking out what we are doing.

Bella showing off for the camera's again.

Griffin helping pump up the tyres.

Helping Griffin pump up the tyres.

Father Rob giving the bike a test run, just in case the hills get too much he might help out and do tag team and ride some for me.... well after seeing him do the test run I will have to ride the hills alone - he was lucky he didn't crash to get off the bike. The video is funny.

The kids watching Grandad ride the bike.....

Last preparations

Vesting up for the support crew.

Leaving the showgrounds.

Heading towards the hills.

On my way - only 41 k's to go today!!

Two little dickie birds - waiting for the camper to be packed up at the showgrounds.

Riding into Maleny.

Arriving in Maleny.

Arrived in Maleny and Phoenix radio called a few minutes after getting in - good timing.

Mum getting some footage.

The Dunne Family, from left to right (back row) Eamon, Wendy & Me.
Front row - Katie, Bella, Griffin and Marie.

Griffin and Marie having some fun on the skate ramp.

Bella and Katie also having some fun.

The kids all lining up at the top of the ramp, Bella, Marie, Katie and Griffin.

Later in the night I got on the ramp with the kids and did some sliding too - was great fun.
My head lamp light looks a little crazy in this pic.

More Dad - lets go again was all that was said when we got to the bottom.

Day 21 Gympie to Kenilworth

Rick Faulks — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:02:00 GMT

Again alot of fog this morning so we didn't kick off til about 8a, well got to the station about 8.10am (yep running late again) and left the station about 8.30am. We had to change the permit a little as the main bridge in town got hit by a truck a few days before us getting there and we couldn't go over it so a quick divert and on the road again to Kenilworth.

The roads started off pretty good but not much side road, then the hills hit and every time I rode another corner all I could see was more hills and oh crap was the thought process. The legs today were pretty good, energy was again flat but every time I came to a hill the legs must have sensed it and nearly striked and became real heavy real quick.

I ended up doing 57.5k's, 2hours 46 minutes, average speed was 20.76km's and max speed was 65.19km's - gotta love those down hill parts.

Some fantastic views going through the back of these places and some great set ups with houses to capture the best of the views, I created my own special view when I got to the top of the range today on the Gympie - Barooloo Rd, sweat pouring from my eyebrows creating this fresh salt water gorge across my face and plenty of coughing trying to grasp at any fresh air to create some sort of wind more than just a fart. Once I had gathered myself, my breath and some normal colour back to my face I got back on the bike dreading the hills ahead til my surprise they all went down for a change - yippee and if Griffin was with me on the bike he would have been yelling 'whaooo a roller coaster ride' as he does when we drive on any hills.

The kids drove past me on the flat and were cheering me on - I am actually a little buggered to yell anything back, but they are happy to get a smile and a wave and wait for me at the other end. Bella gets very excited when I ride into the towns, I don't know if she is happy to see me or the lycra nicks that I wear as she is quick to run up and start touching the bike pants when ever she gets the chance.

Getting set to leave Gympie and we had some police assistance which was great.

On the road.

Stopping at the top of one of the hills having a breather literally.

One of the many hills.

Arriving in Kenilworth.

Bella yet again touching the lycra - I think one of her favourite materials.

RD - GYMPIE

Rick Faulks — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 11:27:00 GMT

The day started very early and foggy with us taking the kids to Tin Can Bay to see the dolphins, I think Megs and I were more excited by this than what the kids were, the water was freezing cold so they weren't keen to get into the water. They were very happy to have a fish in their bucket for the dolphins but when it came time to actually feeding the dolphins they backed out real quick as they were scared that the dolphin was going to bite their fingers so Megs got the privelage to feed the dolphins twice. There were 2 dolphins at the bay today, Mystic and Harmony, father and son and it was just so graceful and gentle the way they move about and take the fish from people. It was great to see, definately go back again when a little warmer and give it another go.

We then come back to Shirley's house and I had a sleep whilst everyone did their own thing and then we all had lunch, which was nice as Shirley's mother Chris who is 98 came also to visit and she is in such good spirits and mind for someone of 98 years of age, and like she says her legs still carry her around after 97 years. Mind you it must run in their side of the family as Chris was telling me today that her mother lived to 99 and 8mths and was still active and able to look after herself.

After lunch Mum, Dad and I went over to Cliff and Faye's, Dad's Uncle and Aunty for a visit and catch up.

In the afternoon I had planned to have another snooze but the light and surrounds just got me and I had to get my camera out instead. I didn't realise how much I have been missing my camera and so I got to play for a bit and do some different pics.

Not really much happened today as such, but it is always good to have a rest day after the big rides. I did feel a little flat today and the legs were a little heavy, I think more sleep and rest will fix that.

Off to Kenilworth tomorrow so there will be some hills around the place - but only about 55k's so see how it goes. Should be kicking off at 7a depending on fog!!

Dolphins coming into the bay.

Bella with her fish - before going to feed the dolphins

Griffin with his - well you can just see it.

Waiting in line for their turn.

Megs feeding the dolphin, Bella thought it was going to bite her fingers.

Back at the farm Mum and Shirley chatting and admiring the horses.

Griffin playing soccer with Grandma.

Griffin playing soccer with Grandy.

Bella fell in love with the youngest farm dog, Jackie and gave her plenty of hugs and kisses.

Bella proud with Jackie girl as she was calling her.

Some of my pics that I was taking instead of resting - like I say I didn't realise how much I had missed my camera.

Day 20 - MARYBOROUGH TO GYMPIE

Rick Faulks — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Another early morning, and a gorgeous day. Got to ride with some of the team from strack attack triathlons - Kim Watkins, Angie and Hannah Black, Lauren Dixon, Gary Poppi and Allira Noonan rode with me to give me some support and break the winds.

Today was a big ride as we had 100 plus k's to do. For some of the girls this was the longest ride that they had done before and they did a great job, I wish I had half as much energy and stamina that they had today.

Throughout the ride some of the girls had to take a toilet break and it was funny cos they needed to go into the bush and were following each other so they could find a good spot to hide, they then quickly realised that they were all heading in the same direction and area and didn't want each other to be following, it was like seeing ants scattering when it rains.

On the ride I was being a bit silly and having some fun along the way, I had company so I had to entertain a little. I was singing songs, on the flats I sang Proclaimers 'I would ride one hundred miles' and on the hills, which there was plenty of I sang 'high on the hill is the lonely goater', from the sound of music. I made sure that everytime I rode past Kim I would sing!!

Riding with triathlon riders was a little hard for me today, I found that I rode some of the ride by myself and they naturally had a faster stride and pace than me and I couldn't keep up and they found it hard to also go at my slower pace. I seemed to catch up with the group and then they broke away from me and would wait for me to catch up and then when I did they would ride and just get way infront again without even trying - they make it look so easy and I felt as though I was trying to catch up. In some of those moments of just catching up I would break out in puffed song ' I have been everywhere man' so I also entertained myself too.

As we got closer to town we lost some of the group and got lost with where we needed to go, we ended up going down the main street of Gympie, which is one way and had to ride a hill up to the station instead of coming in the back roads and riding a hill down to the station. We all found each other in the end and it was a long hilly ride, I think it was a little bigger and harder than what my body was ready for today - but we all got there and had a good ride overall.

So in the end today we did 102 kms it took me 4hours and 36minutes (Gary and one of the girls got in a while before us, they ended up having an amazing race challenge and got in first and won as the rest of us where still lost and just trying to find our way) my average speed was 22.26kms and max was 63.04kms. Like I say it was a big day. After everyone packed up and headed off back to Maryborough we ducked into town and I had some Red rooster - I was that buggered that I was struggling to stay awake to eat it. So after eatting I went back to my Dad's second cousin, Shirley's farm and had a snooze.

Kids were excited to go to another farm with more animals. Very yum dinner with a a big serve of triffle to wash it down. Shirley put on a big spread of food and we were very spoilt. Tomorrow is a rest day so we may possibly take kids to Tin Can bay to feed dolphins in the morning, morning being leaving the farm before 7a. I am glad for a rest day tomorrow, bring it on and then some more snoozing in the arvo.

I must say a huge thank you to the Watkin family for letting us camp at their place, it was great to catch up and it was very much appreciated. Thanks also to Kim Watkins, Angie and Hannah Black, Lauren Dixon, Gary Poppi and Allira Noonan from Strack attack for riding with me and being part of this journey.

Some pics of the day.......

Allira, Lauren and Hannah getting ready.

Strack attack team, from the left Hannah Black, Allira Noonan, Lauren Dixon, Me, Kim Watkins,
Angie Black and Gary Poppi.

On the road - with Kim yelling no bum shots to Megs as we rode away.

Hannah Coming in with Allira not too far behind.

Allira coming in.

Angie, Kim and I riding the last hill in.

Feeling the last hill.

Everyone chatting and chilling

I think looking a little better than the legs felt after today's ride.

An after shot after the big ride - well done team and thanks again for your support.

Kim and I - Big thanks Kim for all your help & support.

Day 19 HERVEY BAY to MARYBOROUGH

Rick Faulks — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 01:19:00 GMT

I ended up kicking off about 8am today as there was a bit of smoke around from more sugar cane burn off so once it had lifted a little I jumped on the bike and set off to Maryborough. Only a 32 k ride today (according to the signs) and I felt like I had more energy today which was great.

Cos the ride was a shorter one I got into town before Megs had finished packing up, so we waited around a little whilst we worked out what was happening and while Megs and the kids travelled into town.

We ended up camping out on the Watkin's acreage as our prearranged accommodation with fellow CF didn't quite go to plan. The power and phone lines were down in the street where we were originally going to stay and when we were trying to ring no lines where working, but the phone our end still rings as if it was so we thought no one was home. We went over to check the house out and see what was happening and no one was home. When we spoke with Bouvea later, she had decided to go into town as she had no power and that is why the phone was not working. Our caravan's and campers would not have fitted so we ended up staying with Watkins.

While Megs was setting up I went back into town to catch up with Bouvea and to see if she had found her dog.... it had somehow got out during the day whilst she wasn't home.

Kids enjoyed the mini farm with the dogs, horses, cats and the man made dam that the dogs swam in. When the Watkins children come home from school our pair were very excited, poor things it was like they haven't seen kids for a very long time. All the kids played well together and had a good time. We had a beautiful stir fry that mum cooked up and by the time 9p came round I was zonked and well over due for bed.

Megs got to catch up on girlie gossip and the guys got to watch a bit of footy so all in all it was a great night. Early morning so off to bed.

Today's riding information stat's wise, 36.7km's ridden today, taking me 1 hour and 32 minutes, my average speed was 23.76kms and max was 49.31km's.

Some pics from the day....

Getting unpacked again and ready to leave Hervey bay.

On the road with Dad and Mum being the support vehicle for this leg.

Off I go......

In Maryborough - waiting for everyone else

Kids all playing a mini pool game - they had a ball.

My turn, Griffin very happy to play any game with a ball and stick!

There was many giggles with this one, Kim was showing me some of her protein powders and
when she picked it up from the pantry and gave it to me the lid fell off and everything went on the
floor. First thing Kim said giggling was 'don't tell Steve as he is always having a go about me not
doing the lids up properly'. 2 seconds later Steve walks into the kitchen with a grin and said to Kim
'told you'. Kim had to vaccum it off my legs so there was loads of loud laughter for a bit with
all of this...... it was funny at the time anyway.

Day 18 CHILDERS to HERVEY BAY

Rick Faulks — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 01:18:00 GMT

A little tired today, I could hear all the people walking up and down the street last night after them having a few drinks and having a good time. I was happy for another short day today until I saw the sign that said Hervey Bay was 71 k's - our calculations were a little out as we had it mapped for 58k's, it is amazing how much those extra k's can play mind games with you when riding along.

Again we were looked after by Staying at the Hervey Bay PCYC, they were doing some renovations so we stayed down the side, in sort of the car park area, but it worked out well. We got to go to the Pier for fish and chips, this was nice, a little windy and the kids really enjoyed the fish and chips as we ended up having to get two serves - you would think they hadn't eaten for the whole time we have been away. The Pier is quite pretty at night, there was a few people fishing. We didn't get to walk the whole of the pier the kids were getting tired by the time we finished eating and they actually feel asleep on the way there, so we were lucky that they were even interested in eating or checking out the pier while being so tired. Quick snooze in the car tied them over for a little bit I guess.

Whilst riding to Hervey bay, today was another day of having to poop whilst riding, this is such a challenge and I am so glad Megs isn't around with her camera when I am doing this as she would have no shame and take a pic, today was a little scary for anyone who saw or found me whilst pooping as I was completely in the nick this time as I had no leg warmers on.....

Today was the first time I had to get into the car and stop riding - the smoke from sugar cane burning off was that bad that I was finding it difficult to breathe and I could barely see a foot in front of me, so in the car for a bit of fresh air and safety and about a k or so later got back on the bike and pedal again.

The Hervey Bay Independent newspaper was waiting for me when I rode in and I found out that they are affiliated with the Ipswich Independent newspaper and Journo Brooke was going to send her article to Ipswich so they may do a write up in Ipswich also of where I am at (which she did so I featured in both newspapers).

A funny part of when I was riding today was when I had a Mickey bird swooping me, so to avoid getting swooped I had my hand on top of my head like a shark fin and after a few minutes I had people in the cars waving to me cos they thought my shark fin Mickey bird stopper was me waving at them, so when a few people started to wave at me I was wondering what the heck they were waving at, and then realised it was at me and my shark fin protector hand on top of my head!!

This is all good trying to stop the magpies and Mickey birds from swooping but when it is bumpy on the roads I found riding with one hand and shooing birds away a little hard. At least it entertained some passer-bys for a bit and I am sure that people were laughing at me with my hand on my head and getting swooped and then trying to stay on the bike one handed. I wish I had a video of some of today - cos I would have found the playback a bit of a giggle.

Even though the sign said 71k's I only ended up riding 69.9km's, this took me 3 hours and 6 minutes. Fastest speed today being 62.8km's and the average speed was 22.53km's.

Some pics from today..........................................................

Strike a pose

Some stretches - not really hurting, just entertaining kids.

Just a few gentle stretches

On my way and leaving Childers

Arriving into Harvey Bay

Kids are excited when I ride into town.

Brooke taking some details for the newspaper write up.

Brooke taking some pics for the newspaper

Day 17 BUNDABERG TO CHILDERS

Rick Faulks — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 01:09:00 GMT

Today was a very flat day for me energy wise today, the ride today took me half hour longer just because I lacked in energy. The legs and butt are going great and muscles aren't sore, just the lack of air and energy is doing my head in. Plenty of hills, hills and more hills again today, nothing like the Miriam Vale hills, but plenty again to know that I had ridden hills for the day.

Phoenix radio phoned and aired me again today, which is great. We stopped in one of the sugar canes whilst we did change over and radio chat today so this was good for the kids as they got to touch and taste sugar cane, so a real sugar rush today....

I rode 52.8ks today and this took me 2hrs 46minutes. My average speed was 19.08 and my maximum speed throughout the day was 55.84 (Yep down hill but I am claiming it!!)

I have ridden 1451 k's total so far and in doing this I have had 66.55 hours in the saddle.

Lucas popped in to see me at Childers on his was home from work (driving from Rocky) so that was a nice surprise. Lucas is a fellow CF friend who is back into work and working hard doing some big K's driving a truck. I think I like the idea of doing the k's on the bike instead.. Thanks Lucas for popping in and saying G'day, it was good to see a familiar face to visit the camp.

Getting set up for the days ride.

Bella putting some moisturiser cream on - just beautiful.

My mini cheer squad yelling as I ride away....

Change over - putting the sign up that Megs and Mum made - I think this is the first time that we are using it....

Chilling out before Phoenix radio rings.

Chatting on radio and stretching at the same time!!

Tasting sugar cane.

Getting organised to get back on the road again.

Go away Megs - One of the toilet stops along the way at the sugar cane.

Back on the road.

Arriving in Childers

Kids waiting for me at the Childers station.

Lucas Forrest visiting at the camp site, behind the old police station.

RD - Bundaberg

Rick Faulks — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:10:00 GMT

We started the morning off at 7a with meeting Billy at the local radio station. 93.9hitz fm morning radio had us in early to get us and the morning tea at the CFQ thrift shop promoted. Whilst talking with Billy we found out that a few years back he actually worked on our home local radio of 94.9 River FM back in Ipswich.

The kids were still sleeping when we left so they got to sleep in a little and stayed behind with Grandma and Granddad. After our air time on the radio we did a few things in town that needed to be done for the day before kicking back in to the swing of riding again tomorrow.

After getting some petrol and putting more air in the tyres, Megs and I headed to McDonalds for breakfast to fill in half hour whilst we waited for the Super Cycles shop to open so that we could collect my bike. Whilst we were at McDonald's we bumped into one of the ladies we meet at the Bundaberg bridal expo earlier in the year, so Teel and I got to catch up and made plans to talk photography after she finished work today. We then headed in to the Bundaberg Police station and did the office rounds and sold more raffle tickets, we had a good response, so thanks Bundy Police for your support.

By this time we were nearly running late for the morning tea, we rushed back to Mike and Lyn's to pick up the kids and head back into town for the morning tea. When we arrived in at the thrift shop all the store volunteers were there to cheer and support us. The bakery next door to the thrift shop donated some cakes and sandwiches and Lyn also took some food along. I got to talk with the majority of the volunteers and we had some families come in to visit me and talk with me about their Cystic children and siblings. Talking and listening to these parents is what this ride was about, the awareness - being able to share information and make things possibly better and easier for other cystic families.

LJ Hooker Bundaberg came along and donated money to my ride and also entertained us with Hooker bear. Mother Rob took many photos of Hooker bear - I think she may have forgotten that a person is actually in the costume!!! The kids were excited that a bear was there, but not real sure when they got closer to the bear, Bella ended up happy to have some pics with Hooker bear by the end of the morning tea.

We again got spoilt today by Mike and Lyn as they took us to 'Across the Waves Sports club' for lunch (Well once Megs and I found the club ). Whilst we were at lunch sports club managers Karen and Tony chatted with us and allowed us to sell tickets to patrons inside and we had a good response, it was funny trying to sell tickets to people playing pokie machines - some didn't find it funny when they said to Megs that they had no money as it was all in the machines and she said that she was happy to wait for their winnings so that they could buy a ticket or two.

After lunch we ducked into the shops for a quick top up of goods for tomorrows ride, my lollies and snacks of course. Teel came to visit in the later of the afternoon and we got to talk photo's or shop or some may call it and Teel took me out on the town for a tour of some great places where pics for weddings in Bundaberg could be done and we got to share tricks of the trade etc.

We had a very scrumptious dinner at Mike and Lyn's and tonight Mum and Dad and Nev and Chris stayed at Glenlodge caravan park, the park owners Brendan & Denise Haks were very generous and donated their sites for the vans whilst Mum and Dad and Nev and Chris stayed there.

For a rest day today went very quick and I didn't get to have a catch up sleep so very ready for bed tonight.

Some pics from our day....
Me in the radio station with Billy on air. (looks like I am picking my nose in this pic - good on ya Megs).

Talking on air.

Billy and I at the radio station.

Morning tea at the Thrift shop & the Hooker bear.

All of the volunteers in the Thrift shop who helped put the morning tea together and sell goods in the store.

Mike doing his bit at the stall out the front of the thrift shop

One of the volunteers dancing with Hooker bear out the front of the Thrift shop.

Father Rob and Hooker bear having a quiet word.

Volunteers and I outside the Thrift shop - thanks everyone for your support and help in Bundaberg.

DAY 16 GIN GIN to BUNDABERG

Rick Faulks — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:53:00 GMT

I don't know if my body is still in shock from riding all the hills yesterday but I have woken very flat and tired today, so I don't think my body and mind has recovered from the Miriam Vale hills.

We ended up leaving late due to fog lingering around, we also stayed at a caravan park about 20 k's out of town instead of a rest area for the night which was very nice. I got to talk with some back packers this morning and I guess this distracted me a little as I found it hard to get motivated again to get moving and back in the mind set of getting on the bike. It was great getting to talk with the back packers and listen to some of their experiences and stories whilst being in Australia.

As I was getting ready in town this morning to leave I thought I saw Nev and Chris's car coming towards us and being that Chris keeps on saying that she doesn't see me ride I quickly jumped out to the side of the road and pretended that I was riding my bike, my bike was still on top of the car and so I was walk pedaling. As I was doing all this the car went past and would you believe it wasn't Nev and Chris - but the people did look at me very strangely. I must have been pretty strange or entertaining as the same car with the couple that I didn't know went past again - perhaps to see if I would do it again or just to see if I was really some freak in bike gear pretending to ride an imaginary bike. It was very funny at the time - definitely one of those gotta be there moments.

After a bit of a giggle and getting all the gear ready I was back on the road with Father Rob kicking off in the support car, I had my first hill at about 6k's out of town and I felt it. The first hill was a very decent climb and my legs struggled so I got off the bike and walked the bike up the hill for a bit (100m's) and then got back onto the bike again. I was trying to do what Catriona and Mick had taught me with hard down the hill and hard on the flat and the hills would take care of themselves, minor problem though I didn't have Mick and Catriona to lead me out - I found that I had my heart beat racing too fast and running out of air and obviously went out way too hard too fast and couldn't pace myself today when I kicked off so I had to stop to get everything back in order and get the heart and lungs back to breathing easier. This was the first time that I have walked any of the ride.

Father Rob was waiting for me at the top of the hill - he asked how I was, whilst panting I think I got out that I was ok. He had a big smile on his face and a bit of chuckle asking was that one a bit big Rickie Dick. Just glad there wasn't too many hills after that first one.

When we arrived in Bundaberg we had Mike and Lyndall McKechnie arriving and waiting for us and it was nice to see some familiar and friendly faces ready to meet us. We are staying with Mike and Lyndall whilst we are in Bundy, so after a short catch up we waited for WIN Tv to arrive and do their story on us and then went to the local Super cycle store for some screws and very minor parts that I needed for my chain and wheels (Super Cycles 4 Powers St Bundaberg QLD 4670 (07) 4151 4111‎).

Once we were back at Mike and Lyndall's we had the local Guardian newspaper photographer come and take a heap of pics for their newspaper article. I think we are going to be spoilt at Mike and Lyndall's as they have already feed us well and tonight we will be getting to sleep in a real bed inside their house instead of the camper - which is luxury this far into the trip.

Tomorrow we have an early morning with the radio and then a morning tea at the CFQ Thrift shop - all welcome.

Getting ready at Gin Gin to get on the road, kids watching on.

Sunscreening up.

Some of the salt on my helmet strap from sweating!!

More salt on my straps - fish and chips anyone..........

On the road and on the way to Bundaberg.

In Bundaberg with Mike and Lyndall McKechnie

Photo time - Guardian Newspaper photographer.

DAY 15 MIRIAM VALE TO GIN GIN

Rick Faulks — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:40:00 GMT

Didn't get to set off today til close to 830am due to heavy fog lingering on the roads. Mick and Catriona Newell and Rebecca Mahy all came to Miriam Vale to help ride and guide me into Gin Gin. Before we took off Rebecca had received a call from work to see why she wasn't in doing overtime that she had put her hand up for - ooops, she had forgotten and of course going on a charity bike ride is way more fun than work on a day off I would expect.

Today was a daunting day that I wasn't looking forward to with all the hill climbs and what was a head of me. I woke up feeling not so bad today, I guess if I was home I would have opted not to go for a ride as I was feeling a little flat energy wise, but was keen on the other hand to still get in the saddle and ride with Mick, Catriona and Rebecca.

Started off with a leisurely stroll and as soon as we got onto the road way with the bikes the hills started rolling. Catriona and Mick rode with me first and at the 35k mark swapped over with Catriona and Rebecca, then later in the ride Catriona jumped back on the bike again.

Mick's average race speed is 42k's per hour and Catriona and Rebecca's are about 33k's - so todays ride at 23 k's was a ride in the park for these guys but a hell of a push for me. Catriona commented at one point that you are allowed to back off and you don't need to ride at the pace that we normally do, obviously my stubbornness kicked in and I was off and the rest was history.

Mick has a GPS device on his bike that he uses for training and this is quite advance compared to my trip odometer below is the graph showing the hills and terrain that we rode on this leg, and when looking at it no wonder I was stuffed at the end of it - I knew I had ridden all those damn hills. I felt as though I learnt heaps from the 3 of them with riding with them, from changing gears, when to ride hard and when to roll - wish I knew some of this a few days ago, there is still so much for me to learn, but thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and the briefing guys.

There wasn't much road kill today but poor Catriona seemed to think there was with riding behind me and copping all my stinky farts, it is either all the wind from Bowen finally coming out or too many apricot bars.

We rode 99.9 ks, travelled in 4 hrs and 10 minutes. Average speed was 23.72k max speed was 65k.

I have now ridden 1347k's on bike and had 61 hrs and 49minutes in saddle. Getting closer to the 1900 k's now.

Got to catch up with Junior Bullocks (aka John Bulowski from Hume doors) - JB was camping at 1770 for the weekend I got to catch up with him about 50k's out of Miriam Vale. It was a nice surprise to see him and I think I surprised him too with still being able to walk and he was quick to ask how my butt was - I do know that he has always been interested in that part of my body, today just gave him an excuse to ask out loud in front of people

In some parts today I was following close to Mick down hill and I felt I was going really well until another hill came again and I found it a little hard to go up hill and concentrate on breathing too, on one hill I think I was only travelling at about 6k and found it hard to keep the bike balanced and moving at that stage. My muscles were burning today and I think I felt every pedal rotation. I am wishing that I had a rest day now in Gin Gin but I am off to Bundaberg tomorrow and I will be taking Catriona's advice on taking things easy tomorrow with the ride into Bundy.

After the ride I feed up on steak burger and chips and feel asleep out front of the coffee shop that we were eating at and as usual Megs seemed to capture this with photos.

Farewell and big thanks to my support riders, THANKS so much for riding with me and giving me the tow rope to help along the way - I am now alone for riding until Maryborough. Thanks Mick, Catriona, Rebecca and Graham for riding, helping, supporting and the encouragement before during and after the rides, you have made this part of the journey so much easier and I think I would still be riding it now if you weren't there along side & in front of me!!! A Huge thank you.

Pics from the day......

Rebecca and Mick getting bikes and gear organised.

Everybody chatting whilst waiting for the fog to drop a bit.

Me now getting my bike and gear ready.

Mick Newell, Me and Catriona Newell - the serious pic (Rebecca was the car driver at this point)

The more casual and relaxed pic.

Saying some good-byes, Aunty Chris whispering in my ear that she will see me on the bike today

Walking out of the showgrounds out to the roadway.

In the midst of packing up Mother Rob falls in the car with the kids.

The sign midway through the hills - should be outlining more than 7k's.. cos the whole 99k's were hills!!

Just one of the many hills.

Coming into Gin Gin

Just after getting off the bike - It was a bloody big ride - felt every hill.

After hills pic - Rebecca, Mick, Me & Catriona.

This is the graph from Mick's GPS from his bike - just a few hills.

Resting up whilst waiting for a bit of food to be cooked - ready for a good feed.

mmmmmm - energy refuel.

Snoozing after the feed - yep fell asleep outside the cafe.

DAY 14 GLADSTONE to MIRIAM VALE

Rick Faulks — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 13:50:00 GMT

Another night of sleeping in the sprinklers, close to 11p the sprinklers started in the grassed area behind the PCYC Gladstone where we were set up in the camper I crapped myself as I didn't know what all the commotion was when some kids were screaming when they walked past and were getting wet. I didn't sleep too well and felt like crap with a headache and some pleurisy pain. In the middle of the night I also vomited from too much coughing and was not really looking forward to the day of riding with the night being so ordinary.

When I woke I felt a little better and was determined to get on my bike and do the ride for the day even though my body was really telling me that I shouldn't. I probably should be starting some inhalation antibiotics as I haven't been having my hypertonic saline (inhalation salt solution) as it makes me cough too much and I am wanting to get more sleep rather than cough all night. Out of all the days that we have had so far today has been my down day and whoa it was very ordinary for me well being wise - but I guess nothing a warm shower and determination and masking doesn't fix. Megs did ask me if I wanted to miss a day cos of how I was feeling, but my response was no way so pushed through it as I do with many things.

Both Mick and Catriona Newell were going to ride out of Gladstone with me, but Catriona had a race at Rocky that she was doing in the afternoon and didn't think she would be able to do both and be on time for her race so gave it a miss. Mick who is still recovering from his stack at some races in Toowoomba about 2 weeks ago did come out for a ride and all started well. Again another strong rider, Mick is very strong and I was glad that we were not racing as there would be no chance of me keeping up, mind you I did surprise him by pushing in front on the down hill runs... All was going well and then about 20kms into the ride I had some trouble with my front derailer and the chain wouldn't stay on. Mick made a few phone calls to Matt at M1 Cycles and ended up getting Catriona to come in and get me and my bike and take it to the bike shop to get fixed up.

I got back to Mick and Father Rob and explained that all was now fixed and jumped back on the bike and as soon as I put my shoe into the pedal the chain came off again, we were all puzzled for a bit and Mick made more phone calls to Matt. We ended up working out the problem and this time Megs had already caught up to us stopped on the side of the road and she took the bike back into the shop and got it fixed whilst I continued on my way on my back up bike (yep Tony McKechnie's bike got off the roof racks and got to touch the road, so lucky we had a spare bike). Mick and Catriona decided to head home at this stage as they would have been pushing time too much now with the delay of my bike, poor Mick was so itching to get in and have a good ride to test out his recovery and he didn't even really get to warm up.

Riding Tony's bike made me realise how good my carbon alloy trek road bike is I really felt that I was having to work the whole time with Tony's bike and this made the stopping and starting a little harder. Megs got the derailer/bike fixed and meet up with me for a change over and after swapping bikes I got into Miriam Vale about 1pm. I wasn't able to get all my stats for the ride as my trip meter doesn't fit Tony's bike so I wasn't able to get accurate details.

The trip is about 69k's and it took me a little over 3 hours, not including all the stopping time.

I got to have a good sleep when I got into the Miriam Vale show grounds and was very glad that my bike could be fixed up to get back on again. We are off to Gin Gin tomorrow which will be a hard slog, about 99km's with many hills so again I will have Mick and Catriona with me, lifesavers they are at this time to help me out on what will probably be the hardest leg on the whole trip. Hopefully tonight is a better sleep, as I am feeling better tonight than what I did last night - as Megs keeps nagging me, I think I need to get some more fluids in me but I just feel if I drink anymore I will pop or vomit - there is only so much fluid one can consume.

I do know one thing - we won't be surprised by any sprinklers tonight as Miriam Vale show grounds are very dry I don't think this town has seen any rain for a long time, the green frog in the loo made up for the sprinklers

Mick and I ready to go to Miriam Vale.

Leaving the PCYC

Back from Catriona taking me to M1Cycles after my chain kept falling off ............

Just about ready to take off again and one foot on the pedal and chain is off again - ARGH, looks like cog on back the front. Mick and Catriona end up having to say good bye here as more time was wasted than planned and Catriona had races on that she needed to be in Rocky for by the arvo. So will now see them tomorrow instead - Good luck Catriona.

Well with the chain off my bike Tony's bike has come down off the car and now having to go for a spin until my bike is fixed.

Me and Tony Mckechnie's bike - ready for take off!!

Back out on the road doing some hard k's on Tony's bike.

Megs caught up and did a change over of bikes once mine was fixed - thank god, felt like I wasn't getting too far with Tony's bike. I have been spoilt on my bike.

Back on the road on my bike - Miriam Vale again, here I come.

Wave good bye to kids and Megs.

Arriving into Miriam Vale.

Just about there.

I have arrived and been welcomed by Bella and her icy pole. She was very excited to show me here rainbow icy pole and ask if I wanted a lick.

Me now in Miriam Vale.

Rest Day GLADSTONE

Rick Faulks — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 13:03:00 GMT

For a rest day we had to kick it off early as we were booked in with Zinc radio at Gladstone with the breakfast host DREX at 7am, kids woke with our alarms so we decided to take them in for a look and they were up anyway. Radio interview went well and after we finished we went to the local McDonald's for some breaky and to give the kids some good play time having a run around in the McDonald's maze play area. They had a ball and ate plenty.

After Faye from the Gladstone weekly news contacted us with times for a photo shoot we went down to the Sunvalley Rd shopping complex where Mother and Father Rob were set up in between the Stephens super IGA store and Craig's Bakery selling merchandise and raffle tickets. The stall was in a good steady location and the community were generous with their donations and support.

Vicki Brown from the Tannum Sands LJ HOOKER real estate office came down to us also and presented me with a cheque and we got to talk for a bit in between photos and Faye doing her paper deals, Faye appears to be very good at her job and she impressed us with her support of going out of her way to help us in any way with fund raising suggestions, ideas and promotion. A very big Thank you to Vicki for LJ HOOKER's continued support and generosity with your donation.

Time went quite quickly today and I had planned to have a snooze when I got back to the PCYC. Sgt Mick Newell had collected my bike from M1 Cycles who did a service on my bike whilst in town and put on a new heavy duty chain (again Thank you Sgt Newell and the PCYC for helping out there) so more chatting and thanks were to be had and by the time I decided to go for a snooze I had some visitors from the community, Kristy and Kayla with their bubs and we got to talk about Kristy's brother who also has CF and provide a little insight further on CF and how it can affect each CF person differently. The girls were very interested and had a heap of questions, so hopefully I was able to answer their questions and help them more with a better understanding of CF.

I got a bit of a snooze in the later part of the afternoon, Mum and Dad had already done their stint at the stall and were back before I got a chance to put my head down. Today was a fast rest day and I am looking forward to having a shorter ride tomorrow to Miriam Vale and also have two support riders again with me, so will be good to have some company for talking. Mick and Catriona have spoilt us and been very good to us at the Gladstone PCYC.

Well off to bed for this little duck. Another early morning again and possibly fog on the horizon - Miriam Vale here we come!!

In at the Zinc Radio station with Drex and my family.

Father Rob & Mother Rob setting up the stall

Vicki Brown giving her donation cheque - photo taken by Gladstone weekly.

Photo taken by the Gladstone weekly newspaper

Mum, Dad & I at the stall

DAY 13 ROCKHAMPTON to GLADSTONE

Rick Faulks — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:43:00 GMT

Somehow we are getting up early but still seem to be late getting to the Police stations in the mornings to kick off. Today I rode my bike again to the Police station to kick off the ride, the Rockhampton PCYC is litterally only a bridge and 2 streets away so it was good to warm the legs and muscles after my big massage last night to get the body rolling again.

I had Rebecca and Graham from Gladstone Police ride with me today, they got dropped off by the Gladstone PCYC bus and were keen and ready for a nice big ride back home to Gladstone. (Thanks Joe for dropping them in & for Mick to help organise some other riders).

This was the first time I had meet Rebecca and Graham and as we got into things Rebecca somehow clipped my wheel and come a guttsa on her bike taking skin off her elbow. I felt bad for Rebecca but a bit of band aid spray and she seemed to be good as gold and right to get back on the bike and on the road again.

I had Phoenix Radio again phone in with me, they are doing coverage with me each week day which is fantastic. So when Phoenix phoned today we stopped and got a break before kicking off again to Gladstone.

We had Catriona Newell join us all at Mt Larcom to ride into Gladstone with us too so that was another stop to refuel the energy and drink levels as we went along. All three, Rebecca, Graham and Catriona are strong riders and they helped me out so much with coming along for the ride, giving me company and breaking the IPOD reliance.

Whilst riding we actually had a tail wind today so that was good for a change, this made the riding a little easier and I was able to sit on 26k's as my average and majority of the ride's speed.

When we arrived into town I soon realised that we pretty much bet Mum and the others to the station, we were riding up the hill when I saw our car overtake us and Nev & Chris on the side of the road. Mum was quickly trying to video and capture us riding in as she got out of the car and ran across the road at the same time.

After a short time at the station cooling down and taking a few pics, Mick Newell took me over to the local bike shop M1 Cycles where he arranged for my bike to get a service and check over. We then went back to the PCYC to shower, fuel up on food and rest up after the big ride. I was spoilt with a prawn sandwich from Aunty Chris - that we down perfectly.

The Gladstone observer newspaper phoned and took brief details for an article, we then later in the afternoon had Faye and Liz from the Gladstone weekly newspaper came to meet us at the PCYC where we were staying and after some time of chatting and getting some ideas of how to further benefit the fundraising Faye and Liz decided to do the photo shoot tomorrow.

Well today the k's travelled were 109.98k's and it took us 4hrs & 4 minutes to ride it. The average speed travelled was 27.02k's and
max speed was 56.88k's. Hot day overall but a good one - thanks again Rebecca, Graham, Catriona and Mick for helping out with todays ride - greatly appreciated.

Another thread - really.

PCYC bus - Graham and Rebecca getting off to get ready.

Rebecca, Graham and I just about ready to go.

On the road

In at Gladstone - just arrived.

After ride pic. Me, Graham and Rebecca.

REST DAY - ROCKHAMPTON

Rick Faulks — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 10:08:00 GMT

Our rest day began nice and early as we had to be ready for Rockhampton radio by 8am, we were introduced and on air at 990 4RO AM Prime radio with Breakfast host Michael J Bailey. Michael was great to chat with and had plenty of questions both off and on air. It was a good chat and promotion of the ride.

After our on air time Megs and I checked out the papers and TV whilst in town. We had a brief interview with the Morning bulletin and later in the day the photographer came to the PCYC to take some pics to go with the article.

When we had finished in town we headed back to the PCYC where we were all camping and had some food and chilled for a bit. I got to have a bit of a snooze in the down time and we even had some friends drop in on the camp. Tony McKechnie from Springfield and Mike McKechnie (Tony's Dad) from Bundaberg were up in Rocky doing a 'COMPLETE GYM SERVICES' job at the new Stocklands shopping centre and popped in to see us before they started their big drive home back to Bundy. It was a nice surprise to see them and have some visitors for a bit - thanks guys for dropping in.

Whilst we were just chilling out at the camp Father Rob got a hair cut from Megs, she isn't real flash with the clippers and he is a gamer and more trusting person than I when it comes to letting Megs cut hair, but in the end it turned out ok and Father Rob did need a hair cut (and eyebrow, but this didn't get done). The kids were very keen to want to help with the hair cut and then when they couldn't help they wanted the same haircut as Granddad, but neither Megs or I were keen for them both to have blade 3 hair cuts. So a bit of pretending with the clippers and kids were happy thinking that they too had haircuts. Bella and Griffin got to take some pics of Granddad getting his haircut - some not so flattering. Mother Rob also got her haircut - but by hairdressers so they were both refreshed and good to go again.

Griffin got to go to the skate park behind the PCYC today in the down time with Megs and also got to test out the children's road training area which is great for the kids to learn all the signs and road rules - one of the PCYC initiatives in conjunction with Main Roads. Griffin is very keen to do all the tricks on his scooter and enjoys watching the bigger kids on theirs doing all the aerial tricks.

I was keen for the afternoon to come as we booked in an massage at Len Bauer's massage and rejuvenation centre at 3pm, this massage centre came highly recommended by Sgt Greg Jones of the Rocky PCYC so I was ready and good to go for a rub down.

After riding 300 k's in 3 days and this being the biggest I have ever done I really was needing a good massage I can't say much more about this Massage apart from it was the best yet on the ride. I got a relaxation massage for half hour and then sat in this special massage water bed for half hour. I wish my bed at home was one of those water massage bed's I would never get out of bed!!

We had a very scrumptious meal for dinner - more Blue Salmon and again was divine - If I moved to Clareview I think I know what I will be eating every night. After dinner we relaxed a little with some games of Jenga , we were able to be loud this time without upsetting any other campers to it was good fun, Aunty Chris (my crazy loud but very funny Aunty) won 3 out of the 4 games, well really lost but she was claiming that she won.

Overall the day was pretty lax with not really much on - we didn't have any luck with shops to set up a stall, but all is good as we got to actually chill for a bit and have a semi real rest day. Off to Gladstone tomorrow and have a few other Police riders to come on board with me so will be good to again have company and some wind breakers.

Some pics from the day........... Just about to go on the radio.

In Studio with Michael J Bailey.

Danger - Megs with clippers and the hair cut for Father Rob has just begun.

Close shave!!

A Bella pic of Mum and Aunty Chris watching on.

Me with the newspaper photographer.

Griffin having a go on the road training centre out front of PCYC while Bella was snoozing.

New lease of life after snoozing, Bella getting Griffin to chase her in the skate bowl.

Trying some tricks in the bowl.

The Big Last Ride

Rick Faulks — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:47:00 GMT

I am behind on the blog so it will get updated over the next few days now that we have soooo much better net access.

The last leg - DAY 34 is happening 29th August from Prince Charles Hospital at 7a and I will be arriving in Ipswich at Queens park around the 1pm mark.

Please come and join me in celebrating my fundraising event of riding 34 days from Cairns through to Ipswich.

Sausage sizzle will be available - I am nearly home, this is exciting!!!!

DAY 12 MARLBOROUGH TO ROCKHAMPTON

Rick Faulks — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 23:18:00 GMT

Last night we had a good feed at the pub and whilst there we got to socialise and chat with some of the guys and gals from the Childrens Variety Bash. These guys were from Goodna and surrounds so it is a small world when you think about it.

There was many laughs and plenty of beers by the Variety crowd, and I think by the end of the night and a few beers later Uncle Nev bought himself a variety bash car without even knowing it. The variety bash team kicked off early on the road to continue their journey to Townsville and I think there will be plenty more beers and laughs for them all along the way. The variety in cars and air horns was great and they are a great bunch of people doing a great thing for all the kids.

Again a bit of fog lingering around today, so instead of leaving at 7a as planned we left closer to 8a if not a little after. S/C Neil Lloyd Jones from Marlborough Police rode with me today, again another strong rider. Neil is part of the Rocky cycling group and gets coaching for his riding and I can really understand how people can get right into the cycling - I am loving being on the bike and testing myself (and on the other hand wish I had a few more rest days in between the days and rides that we have coming up).

I am enjoying having company with me when riding. It makes it an easier ride and good to have some one to chat with and break the wind and set a rhythm. Neil was very easy to talk with and only being the new officer at the station I was very lucky to have him to ride with me and he was able to have days off so that he could ride - he was happy with this also as it had been a few weeks since he had been a bike himself due to moving stations.

Neil got a few work phone calls whilst we were travelling along, I think today was the busiest day that Marlborough has had since he has been there and he wasn't there to do the job and they had to get police in from other divisions to sort it all out.

Father Rob even got caught up in some of the excitement when he went back in the afternoon to get his caravan. He popped into the service station to get a sandwich before coming back and a man at the service station frisked him and started to ask a heap of questions and was causing a scene at the service station. Father Rob soon worked out that this guy had some sort of mental issues and knew that Neil wasn't in town so had to arrange with Neil's wife to get other police in town to get some help for this man. Father Rob kept talking with this man until police arrived and their discussions sound very interesting and strange also.

We thought Father Rob had got lost at the pub when he was collecting his van but no he was stuck helping out this mentally ill man and the Police.

The ride from Marlborough to Rocky was another long one with more head winds, it was a hard one, but again it seemed easier with Neil coming on board and riding with me.

The trip today was 106.9 k's in total and this took Neil and I about 5hrs and 6min. The average speed was 20.92k and the maximum speed was 45.61k's.

So far I have ridden 1091 k's in total so have ridden over half way now.

The Variety Bash team and I behind the Marlborough pub

Not a clear pic - but another of the variety bash group and I.

Neil and I getting ready.

Still checking over things, Neil and Uncle Nev watching on.

On the road at Marlborough to Rockhampton

Griffin again helping - this time to pack up, trying to pull the pegs out. This was the day that Grandma and Griffin pulled the pegs out before all the gear out of the camper. Fun way of Megs and Grandma getting all the stuff out of the camper.

I am having a stop along the ride (about half way through the ride to Rocky), on the phone with Phoenix radio.

No moment is private - this rest stop had no loo's. Go away Megs.

Getting ready to get back on the road, Aunty Chris waited for a bit before getting back on the road as everytime they drove past me I was off the bike and having a rest, so she wasn't real sure if I was actually riding or not!!

Neil back on the road.

And me getting back on the road.

As we rode along.

Uncle Nev waiting with the kids while I rode into town

Neil and I arriving into Rockhampton.

Mum just finishing some video footage and now time to relax and get some food and more drinks in - glucolyte by the gallons!!

Kids giving me stickers and telling me about their drive into Rockhampton.

A few stretches after 106.9 k's.

DAY 11 CLAREVIEW TO MARLBOROUGH

Rick Faulks — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 23:01:00 GMT

We had a nice stop over at Clareview, magic views with aqua waters and after meeting with locals from Caboolture we kicked off a little after 7a this morning and another morning that started with head winds. Today was cold and I started with the parker on and even after riding for a bit there was no rush for the parker to come off this morning.

Today was a big day in the saddle again with a total of 5 hrs riding, 107.5 ks travelled, average speed 21.43k, top speed was 57.95kms got a bit of a boogy on for a bit so took advantage of no winds for a little. I think Father Rob must have fallen asleep at one stage whilst being the safety escort as he had to do 65k's at one stage to catch up to me.

I had Mexican belly today with the road kill, the smell was disgusting and my belly didn't know if I was to keep my food down or not, there was plenty of road kill too......... so I just needed the sombre to keep up with my belly..... I guess I did get a little Mexican siesta too in the afternoon - might have to claim today as the Mexican theme day!!

I had the jack hammer effect happening again with the ripple strips today and it was a bugger as I couldn't get off the damn things and had to wait for the wind to kick me off them so I was seeing triple of the bike whilst on them and it made it harder to ride a bumpy track.

As I was coming close to Marlborough I saw this Black cab drive past and then past again, and I didn't really realise who it was until I heard the yelling from the driver. Barry and Julie Collins were on their way up North for their holidays and decided to pop in to say G'day. Barry had been texting me to see where I was at for the last few days and I thought nothing of it, just thought he was keen and interested on how I was going and where I was rather than trying to work out where he could catch up and meet with me. It was a great surprise, so two days of surprise visitors - will be great if these surprise visitors continues.

Getting ready for the big day of riding ahead.

Saying Goodbye to the Caboolture campers

Good byes with Griffin

Good Byes with Aunty Chris, and I am sure she is telling Megs to put that Bloody camera away

Bella's Goodbyes - I think she has found the camera!!

Last chats before getting on the road

The kids decorated my helmet with some of the stickers they got from Victoria Searle's birthday party.

On my way out of Clareview

Change over of support vehicles along the way.

Arriving in Marlborough

107.5k's later I have arrived in Marlborough

Everyone waiting for me, including my surprise vistors Barry and Julie Collins

Julie welcoming me into Marlborough

Our friends stopping in for a surprise visit on their way to Cook Town.
Julie Collins, Me and Barry Collins.

Julie, Megs, Me, Barry, Bella and Griffin.

Catching up at our camp area - the rest area behind the Marlborough pub (Good Meals there too I must add).

Me obviously telling one of my stories

Griffin helping Megs put the camping bunk beds together - kids beds.

Day 10 MACKAY to CLAIREVIEW

Rick Faulks — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:38:00 GMT

I ended up leaving around the 730a mark from the Mackay Police station as I had some trouble with my front hub and lost some time,
my understanding of bikes is slowly coming around. Things were travelling good and the wind decided to pay a visit and bloody stay from about 830a onwards.

We ended up doing the support crew change over at about the 60k mark and this change over seems to be working well, as usually Father Rob leads me out in the mornings whilst Dad takes his van to the next town and parks it, Dad then comes back to Father Rob and I on the roads and change over giving me a break too and then Father Rob goes off and gets his van from the last town and takes it to the next town so that at night we are still all together and get to know what is the go for the next day.

Average speed for the overall ride today was 17 k per hour. total k's ridden today was 127.

Today was the first time I was able to achieve the speed limit..... 20km corner proceed with caution and I am such a rebel I got to fly around it at 20k !!

This leg has been the biggest ride that I have done yet and also the longest that I have sat in the saddle as the HTM Brisbane to Gold coast was 100k's and that was 5 hrs or so, today was about 6 hrs and 8 minutes in the saddle. Winds died off later in the after noon, my knee hurt about 100k's out (into the ride) and I had to strap it and that supported it a bit and helped me get through it. Whilst riding I am listening to the ipod but I had to give it up in the later part of the ride as my ears where getting sore from the ear pieces pressing. (worse than the pain of Megs nagging in my ears - love you dear!!)

The ride was again hard , purely head winds, little tired today and I thought that I had the mind set to deal with doing the ride today, but I found that I kept having to keep focused as every time I went past the signs with the travel k's on them that I felt as though I was not actually getting anywhere.

I thought down hills were to gain speed but somehow today I was going down hill and found that I was going slower and I was trying to rest from peddling, I was at 26k's per hour and found that going down hill I was doing 24 cos of the hill. This was confusing and odd at first loosing speed down hill, but soon just took it easy and let the down hill be a relax and slow instead of trying to fight the wind.

Today was another hard day mentally, just trying to think about other things than how many k's left I had to do. When I came into Claireview I got a very nice surprise with my Aunty Chris and Uncle Nev waiting for me to welcome me in. I didn't know they were coming but supposidly mum and dad did and kept it as a surprise so they will be with us for the next few days to take on some of the Journey - Thanks Nev and Chris and welcome along on our bike riding journey.

We had fresh Blue salmon fish bbq'd for dinner and this was caught fresh today by one of the local's and was devine. I don't think I have tasted a fish so sweet and nice of recent and look forward to having more over the next few days.

Road surface today was also very ordinary, this made it again a little harder. About the last 5 k's of the road the road was like a big patch of ripple strips and pot holes, it either had not been maintained well or shabby job. I felt like I was trying to control a jack hammer instead of ride a bike for that part, all I could think of was my Uncle Grahme when we were giving him a head massage with a massage spider/octopus thing and him doing a jack hammer action and a dook, dook noise to go with.

All being said and done I do know that I have been in the saddle for 6 hours today, my butt is feeling a little sore, first time in the trip. We have another big day on the bike tomorrow with close to 100k's to Marlborough so early night, well after my machines anyway and hopefully I sleep well tonight - we don't have a talking unicorn in the camper tonight so that should make things a little quieter. (Bella borrowed one of the Searle girls talking unicorn stuffed toys last night and I crapped my pants when it first spoke in the night as didn't realise that it talked).

Whilst I was working hard on the tredley, Megs, Mother Rob and kids stayed behind for Victoria's 5th Birthday and got to share in her little party. Kids loved it and were very impressed by the icecream cake.

Today was 127.82kms, average speed was 20.72k's max being 50.23. I rode it in 6hours and 8minutes.

Currently I have ridden 876kms and been 41hrs ridding in the saddle - feels like over half way when we say it like that!!

Trying to work out what is wrong with hub?

Now sorted and about to get on my way.

These could be my back up bikes if all else fails - couldn't decide on colours, what the heck ride both!!

Now on the road and heading out of Mackay to Clareview.

The party - boys at the table feeding themselves in case they miss out on the good stuff.

Bella not too far behind the boys when it comes to food - just like her mother in that department.

The Birthday girl in yellow and cheeky sister next to her waiting for some games.

Victoria the Birthday girl.

Griffin very happy to be riding a bike.

Mick and Griffin playing footy

Enjoying the swing.

Polly pockets surprising Victoria, a little girl can never have enough of the polly pocket toys.

The gorgeous birthday icecream cake made by Cindy 'Mum' Searle.

Uncle Nev and Aunty Chris waiting for me to ride on in.

Arriving into Clareview

Dad, Mum and Aunty Chris eating blue salmon at Clareview

Mother Rob with the kids

Uncle Nev and Father Rob dinning out at Clareview

Aunty Chris - she just loves having her photo taken!!!

RD MACKAY

Rick Faulks — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:19:00 GMT

I got to relax a little today, a slight sleep in to 7am. We kicked off the day just trying to work out what we needed to do for the day. Both sets of parents again had arranged to go into the shops to sell raffle tickets and CF merchandise, the Cane Lands Central management was good to us and put the stall out the front of Big W and so Mackay community got to be exposed to the ride and the stall for the majority of the day.

In the morning the kids, Megs and I went to see Pierce play soccer and I took some pictures whilst Pierce was playing his game. We all missed the one goal that he got but it was a tough game with only about 4 boys available to play for the day. After the game the kids got snow cones and this was their first and they loved them. We then went and collected my bike from Bicycle Connection at 20 Victoria Street, Mackay where it was getting a service - they ended up doing the service for free being that I was doing the ride for charity. A big thank you to store for doing the service and donating their services and time, greatly appreciated.

We then went to the Cane land central shops to get some lunch and see the parents whilst doing the stall. It was interesting seeing the local community getting involved and being genuinely interested. A few people that did stop knew of someone who had CF so I was able to talk with people and there was a few questions pointed my way so it was good.

We then headed back to the Searle's house and started to get things ready for tomorrow. The kids all had fun playing on the swings, chasing each other and Mick chasing them so I got to take some good pics of the Searle kids and update their pics as it has been close to 16mths since I last did a family shoot for them.

We had a great big feed of spaghetti bol and it was delicious. With a full belly and no afternoon snooze I have opted for an early night tonight, off to Clare view tomorrow. A big day ahead and again hoping that the head wind doesn't decide to come out and if they do I hope that I have got a heap of k's already done by the time that it kicks in.

Bella getting stuck into her snowcone.

Griffin also enjoying his snowcone.

Mum and Dad at the Cane land central shops selling raffle tickets and Merchandise.

DAY 9 CALEN TO MACKAY

Rick Faulks — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:42:00 GMT

Whilst staying at Calen Caravan park, Griffin came a guttser on the dipper hill. He was scooting on the driveway hill and did it successfully for a few times and then got gamr and took the bigger option and went a sliding on the ashphalt driveway, skinning nearly every part of his body. Bella was very impressed by his injuries and as he was screaming in pain she was telling him to stand still so she could photograph it all. Griffin's screaming woke me and I actually thought that he had broken something, after some time he settled down and he did sleep well that night.

I kicked off from the caravan park today instead of the Police station which was only about 1 km away and today was a kick ass day, we left a little earlier. I think today was actually the only day that we have been on time let alone early, I rode well but I got head winds about 10k's into the ride so this made the ride hard. Riding with the head winds is like adding another 100k's to the ride for that leg. The ride doesn't go quick but the music seems to come around quickly with songs that I don't find good or easy to ride with, I need to upload more music for variety, especially being that I have a few k's still to do.

There was no roo's and hardly any road kill today on the roads today so my stomach stayed good - no mexican wave inside there today.

When I arrived at Mackay station Mick Searle and 3 of his children were there waiting for me. Mick had also arranged Win TV (Channel 9) and they did a great interview that was viewed to air that night. Whilst putting the bikes away and kids in the car a complete stranger came and gave us a generous donation on the streets - it surprises me that complete strangers approach me to support and give me their money when they see me in the street. Channel 7 was going to come down also but couldn't make it. The Newspaper also wasn't able to make it but the TV snipett from WIN was great.

Mick had to work that night but we had a great BBQ dinner and the kids had a great time playing with the Searle clan, all four of them.

Rode 56.1kms, 2 hours and 33minutes to ride it. Avg speed 21.97 & top speed was 45.56.

Getting ready to leave the Calen caravan park and ride begins for the day.

Goodbyes with Mum before getting on the road.

Leaving the caravan park - Glad Megs doesn't do much of the taking photos for our photography business

On the road and underway

Some of Griffin's injuries from the scooter fall

I have arrived in Mackay and Win TV were ready and waiting

The 4 of us for Win TV

Doing a mock ride for Win TV

Mick Searle and Father Rob chatting