Day 51 – Wed 30 Jul 14, Brisbane to Hervey Bay to Hippo Farm

Forecast: 8-23 deg C, sunny

Due to the late arrival in Brisbane we had to contend with 3 other flight arrivals all trying to get through Immigration and Customs.  It was an absolute shocker and we missed our 8:20am connecting flight to Hervey Bay.  There was an 11:45am flight, however, there were no seats so we had no other option than to take the 4pm flight.  What's another 10 hours in an airport when you've been on the go for 36 hours already? The joys of international travel hey?  By the time we get home tonight (6pm Wed 30 Jul) we would have been traveling for 49 hours.  The Europe timings have blown out since Qantas climbed into bed with Emirates who have a 10 hour stopover in Dubai. We will seriously consider our flight options for next time.  

To rub salt into that, the baggage handlers somewhere absolutely destroyed Greg’s bike box.  We do not know how they managed that as we had them taped up really secure, however, we suspect a baggage train has run over it due to the distinct tyre patterns on the box.  Even the boss at the oversized luggage section could not believe it and took photos of the boxes for further investigation.  Greg has never had any problems on all the tours he has been on with his bikes.

Anyway, thank goodness for the Qantas Club.  We were able to have a shower, something to eat and an excellent flat white coffee, our first in almost 2 months.  We even managed a nap for at least an hour.  If we continue to travel, and with Qantas, Wendy reckons she will continue her club membership indefinitely, as it is times like these you truly appreciate it.  Wendy had a toasted cheese sandwich and a glass of wine for lunch, whilst Greg had a salad and cold meat. 

We were picked up at Hervey Bay airport by our good mate, Grahame Wheeler, who lent us his truck to take us and the bikes home.

Coming in to land at Brisbane airport
On the ground at Brisbane

Greg's bike can now ride corners wihtout being told to!


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