Well, we're back home after the first longer trip in the new trailer. Barossa Valley to Tamworth via Broken Hill, Cobar, Nyngan, Dubbo and return via Gilgandra, Cobar and Broken Hill. (I think that's what we did...).

We had a few good frosts and heavy dew fall over the trip, with a downpour in Gil. The coldest it got in the trailer was -2°C but the bed was toasty warm and I am now second guessing myself about whether to bother installing a diesel heater. A lifetime of winter camping in tents, swags and trailers makes us doubt the need.

Good to sleep in our bed again last night. Although, I did miss sitting by the fire last night. We have a wood heater here at home but it's not the same.

The next day or two will be devoted to cleaning the camper trailer and all of the kit to remove, what appears to be, several tonnes of fine red dust.  😂

Woke up this morning to drizzle, however, the camper is set up inside the shed and is drying and airing regardless of the weather.

We did stop at a couple of van parks along the way - mostly to have showers and toilets and for water resup.

One thing I did notice that one of my childhood memories of night time while holidaying in van parks has been superseded. The ubiquitous hiss and splutter of gas lanterns has been replaced by the roar of air conditioners and diesel heaters.

As for recommendations for places to stay:

Narrabri Fish Farm, near Narrabri.
Very laid back with big fire pits at each site. Some sites have power and long drops. Camping by the fish ponds was just like camping by a billabong! The host, Rick, is a great guy and just wants you to feel like you are at home.

Meralda Station, near Cobar.

Great place. A little busy at the main camp but they do have secluded spots. The hosts are amazing and always come down for a chat in the afternoons. Showers and flushing toilets at the main camp. No power or water as it is off grid camping. We stayed there twice.

Hi Colin
Thanks for the report on your trip. Sounds like you had a great time.
It is always good to get on the road and do a bit of travelling
regards Kev ;)

Seems you had a good trip, just back from Melbourne and lowest was -2c. Was glad of the diesel heater just that bit extra comfort.cheers

What type of camper do you have Colin?

TBF wrote on Jun 30^th, 2025 at 12:06pm:

What type of camper do you have Colin?

It's a Jayco Penguin Outback.

Amazing trip.