Forty Mile Scrub to Ravenshoe

Today Tom and sister Barb are heading for Ravenshoe, a distance of about 110k's.  Barb is a little concerned, as she is aware that there is to be a bit of climbing.  And so there is, and it isn't long before the two cyclists are again separated.

The support team again leaps into action, working to support the two cyclists.  Morning tea stop is planned for Mount Garnet, where we hope to buy some fresh food. After 4 days on the road, our supplies have become a little limited.   Mount Garnet doesn't disappoint, and the two cyclists are impressed by the food produced at the only cafe/supermarket in town.  Apparently cyclists are welcome here, and the ladies are aware that cyclists require big meals and plenty of carbs.  Huge sandwiches are made for them, and raisin toast and coffee/hot chocolate are also prepared.

One of the ladies advises that the road ahead will be quite hilly, and there will be a continuous climb into Ravenshoe, with a number of serious hills on the way.  Barb is concerned, Tom is excited!!

Support crew Barb does her own thing, and stops to take some arty photos (see below).

Termite mounds everywhere,

Grass

A stop is set for another 25 k's on, and although Tom shows, there is no sign of cyclist Barb.  Where is she?  We wait on the side of the road but still no sign.  Tom takes off for Ravenshoe, and the support crew are left wondering. Barb takes off to support Tom, and Terry waits for cyclist Barb.   Not for long thank goodness - Barb showed up soon after.  She had had a flat tyre, and had had to change it.  There was still a problem, however, as she had been unable to pump up the tyre properly.  Terry to the rescue and the problem is fixed.

We soon realise why there are so many hills - Ravenshoe  is Queensland's highest town, at an elevation of 930m, and this information is proudly displayed as we enter the town.

Camp is set up at the Ravenshoe Van Park, situated in the old railway station area (highest railway station in Australia), and we are greeted warmly by the residents.  The evening is cool, with altitude, and we feel colder than we have felt for quite a while.

Old Ravenshoe Station (now a van park)

Plans are made for the morrow, our final push into Mareeba.  Tom and sister Barb are happy because it is supposed to be mostly downhill tomorrow.  Dream on....

Click here for strava results.