Werribee 4wd club Sept2017 | Page 36

Our standout thrill was visiting the Farina underground bakery. It’s been in operation for only its 2 nd year, and only runs, by volunteers, for 1 month of the year, in July. The one regret I had about this entire trip was that we didn’t camp at Farina, as you need a whole day to just meander through all the ruins that are being brought back to life by volunteers. The bakery was unexpectedly one of the best I’ve ever had. The pastry was buttery, melt in your mouth flaky divineness, and the garlic, bacon and cheese pull aparts were to die for! Another stand out was soaking in the cool early part of the day, in the deliciously warm, 38 degree lake of Dalhousie Springs. Surrounded by lush trees, and floating on the inner tubes and pool noodles left for the visitors, you can easily lay back in the steamy water and think you’re in some tropical oasis on a quiet island somewhere. This was a truly magical experience and one that cannot be passed by if you’re going through the area. The biggest thrill of all, was crossing the mighty rugged and desolate Simpson Desert. We were so pleased to cross it, totally unscathed, without issue and that came down to preparation. I cannot stress enough the importance of preparation on a trip like this. We held 2 pre trip meetings to discuss planning, preparation and route/touring options. Of course not