Day 38 - Brisbane: Newmarket

Woke up early (I think there was a bit of wildlife around the camper) packed up and started the drive to Brisbane. I had arranged to meet someone whom I used to work with, Tara, in Brisbane later that day. She moved to Australia to work and travel in February and I (obviously) haven’t seen her since.

The drive to the city was only about an hour, but driving a camper around city roads, physically being unable to see in your blind spot, while avoiding Chinese tourists and toll roads was giving me a headache. Thankfully, Shirley wasn’t being too bossy today and we got to the campsite in a place called Newmarket, about 10 minutes on the bus from the city centre.

When I booked the site, I casually mentioned to Tara where I was staying, and I didn’t realise it was less than 5 minutes walking from her house. Scary how these things happen! Such a small world.

This campsite was different to any I’d stayed in before. It was full of hired campers, rather than Australians on holiday in the caravans. Most of the people staying here were young, mainly British and had all just arrived. It’s clearly the closest campsite to the airport (the planes go over head) so it must be the first step for many people.

Finally got out to see Tara and her friend that she lives with, Harriet, at about half three and we got the bus into the city. Naturally the conversation fell to Ragdale (where we used to work) and it was great to catch up. We walked over the river and past the main casino then onto what the Brissee’s call the South Bank. It’s a bit like London’s South Bank, except not shit.

There are cafes and restaurant and bars and shops, then a walkway covered in pink flowers, and then a small lagoon swimming pool with a fake beach, patrolled by actual life guards. It was very idyllic, but apparently it’s mainly a touristy place and not many Australians went there. We went for dinner in a restaurant called DM which only reminded me of Ragdale more (Duty Manager) and then to a chocolate shop for dessert.

As we walked in, there were two massive containers of melted chocolate being swirled around with a huge paddle. The temptation to dive is was too great. We ordered (chocolate sundae for me, brownie for Harriet and crepes for Tara). It was fantastic, if a little cold. Despite it being Australia (and it is hot in the day) it’s not warm at night. I was in shorts and a tee and the wind was blowing. Perhaps ice cream wasn’t a great idea. Either way, we headed back to Matilda for pleasant introductions.

It’s odd seeing someone from home, so far from home. It was great really. I’ve not felt lonely in the camper, I’ve felt alone, but that’s because I have been. It was nice to have some company for a change. Hopefully, we’re going to go to the beach later in the week which will be nice.

I shall try and keep you updated with more Olly fun filled adventures soon. Much love.