Go West!

Just a quick one today friends...just a friendly reminder that school holidays are coming up.

Have you thought about going away?

If you are, please consider an out-of-the-box holiday destination - like Trangie? or Thallon? Maybe Tottenham or Terry Hie Hie? Um...where?

I get it... the call of the coast and the fresh sea air and the turquoise water and great food and shopping is mighty strong. Trust me, I could really do with a getaway like that away from the dust bowl for a while, so I really understand.

However, I am putting it to you - grab a map, close your eyes and point to a spot and drive there. Stop at those little two-bit towns on the way to get some fuel and a bite to eat, or even at a road side stall selling farm fresh produce, or a market selling handcrafts lovingly made from the local women. I can guarantee you, you will not receive better customer service than what you will find out here, based purely on the fact that we are just so excited and grateful that you have supported our local town, businesses and community. All from just staying a while.

Not to mention the MAGNIFICENT weather we have going on at the moment! (Apart from the fact that its not raining, but let not talk about that...)

To compliment the locals welcoming you with wide open arms, the scenery is equally warm and bedazzling. Do not let the stereotypical drought images fool you. Each of these towns are still little pockets of oasis tucked away in the barren harshness of the drought reality...you might even find some green grass in the local park and spring flowers in gardens. Head to the local pub, order a counter meal and chat with some locals (tip - publicans usually all know the best gossip and town secrets!). Ask questions - most people love the chance to share stories with someone new.

Go on a bush walk, take in the natural raw beauty of your surroundings, despite the dry. Marvel at the resilience of native plants who have managed to go months without water, and still manage to uncurl their green leaves in the sunlight. Go to the local museum and learn about where we have come from. Each town has little hidden treasures just waiting to be found - you just gotta go find them!

Once your holiday has ended, return back home and tell your friends about the great time you had out west and encourage them to do their own exploring.

We need them to come visit and help keep the bush communities alive.

Sam