VRT – Around Myrtleford

Around Myrtleford: Just a look around town before setting out back to Wangaratta

Thursday April 6, 2017, 11 km (7 miles) – Total so far: 567 km (352 miles)

A day to “kill” in Myrtleford. Going to the shops I met the cycling family again. They are off to Everton today and then Wangaratta where they also will be staying at Painters Island.

To explain, I called Painters Island this morning and booked 3 nights there. Although the park is busy they could fit in the booking – always easier when you don’t need a powered site. It is scheduled to be wet on Saturday and Sunday so at least I will have camp ready before the storm – at least, that’s the plan.

Cycling out of town I came across the “Loop” – a cycle and walking track running along the banks of the Ovens River down to Apex Park. It is very tidily done making an enjoyable outing.

Lunch at a bakery exposed my ears to one of the worst examples of “built to magnify clatter and shrill voices” cafe architecture on the trip. Others must like it as the place was really busy. The vanilla slice made it bearable!

I was interested to discuss with the manager of the Myrtleford Caravan Park why I had to book for 2 nights minimum. I asked because I was the only tent in the off-power section – indeed the only person in the area. Apparently he does this to keep out trailer campers. It’s his experience that the people who own them tend to turn up in groups. Then they make noise into the night and have been known to damage the park. Mandatory 2 – 3 nights bookings at a higher fee tends to discourage them.

I guess it’s the caravan park equivalent of the restaurant that charges like a wounded bull to filter it’s clientele!

I have experienced sharing a place with trailer campers. Some were pretty feral, others were knowledgeable and friendly so, like all categories of people, one size doesn’t fit all.

So, it’s off back to Everton tomorrow and tomorrow is likely to be my last day of good weather on the trip – if the weather report is accurate. I can’t complain though as generally the weather has been very good.

One good thing about the lack of people and a dry day is that I can charge my stuff from a choice of power poles!

I can feel the trip winding down. Only two more travel legs to Wangaratta to go then it’s hanging around until time to catch the train.