Weekly update: 26th September 2011.

Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

One of my famous mates from BMC.

So what's new?  Well I'm back on the bike and that's always a positive.  To cover a couple of points first, the cabins v tents on the tour.  Of the caravan parks we'll be staying in at leat 90% have cabins or lodges to stay in.  If you wish to stay in a cabin then this cost is your responsibility.  Remember we carry every bit of your gear.

Be prepared to camp out for a couple of nights in your tents as this will add to the experience on the holiday.  I have purposely chosen a couple of locations where there are no facilities other than the wet wipes you bring along with you.  You will camp out in the bush at least once, but this could be as high as 3 nights, so during this time, no shower, no toilet, other than the one you dig in the bush. Now that's living.

Due to the temperatures around this time of the year I would strongly recommend full cycling gloves aswell as cycing mitts.  Boot warmers, leg & arm warmers would be a good idea.  A wet weather jacket and winter sleeveless vest will help for those cold morning along the Nullarbor Plains.

A camp dinner set with a carry bag is required by each cyclist.  We do not supply your bowl, cup, plate, knife & fork on this tour.  We will supply enough food to feed a football team each day.  You will never go hungry.

One important item to put in your bag is butt cream to prevent those nasty sores, and high quality cycling shorts.  Not your $30 dollar pair from ebay.

When I did the TDA I brought all my gear in a duffle bag, 90X40X40cm.  It was perfect and I do recommend them for this trip as they'll be easy to store on the vehicle and will fit your tent, roll out matt, sleeping bag and your clothes in quite easy.  They are good because they cost around $50 and can roll away into your cycling box for the flight.  Everyone has their own preference, but don't prefer hard case bags because they won't be coming on the trip.

Safe riding and keep the questions coming.

Terry.