Central Highlands

Monday 13th February started in a relaxed way. We drove to Launceston via the scenic route through Interlaken.

We expected to see wallabies and kangaroos bounding over the countryside, and instead were treated to the sight of numerous echidna. Most unexpected and very cute. 

What was also unexpected was the lack of signposting of some interesting attractions. There's no doubt that a little local knowledge goes a long way. Fiona, our Launceston host, had advised us to keep an eye out for the Steppe Sculptures, which we almost missed entirely. Thankfully Mary was alert and noticed at the road junction the Steppes Homestead. Could that be the same place?

After wandering around the Homestead grounds absorbing all the history we saw a sign indicating the Sculptures were 900m down a track. 

First a toilet stop. All they had were 2 rudimentary long drops in ramshackle huts, and a certain unnamed person was very concerned about spiders lurking under the seat waiting to pounce. I was bravely volunteered to check the building and the toilet for hidden arachnids. 

Satisfied that she was not at immediate risk of venomous death, the facilities were duly used, and we then bounded off down the bush track, stopping to watch another echidna and to wonder at the burnt trees in some places. A large windfall tree required minor bush bashing, which added to the sense of adventure, and all in all a very pleasant walk. 

Once back at the Homestead another visitor suddenly called out to watch out for the snake. Snake? What snake? 

"That tiger snake just there" 

How poisonous are they, and how common? "

" One of the worst ones and very common around here ". Including on the trail along which we had been happily bush bashing.

Oops....

We had also been advised to stop at the Great Lakes Hotel for lunch, which we did. Unfortunately the kitchen had just closed for lunch service, and wouldn't reopen for several hours. The barman suggested we go to the petrol station in the car park. 

The menu at the petrol station was surprisingly comprehensive however none of the items were gluten free. Genius Mary remembered that we had a loaf of GF bread in the car, so asked the staff if we supplied the bread then would they make me a toasted sandwich. "Sure" they said. 

And the cost? Nothing. They figured they couldn't charge me as they should have had gluten free options available, and they assured me that they would do so in the future. 

True, we also bought coffee, a bottle of sparkling water and a pie, but that only came to $12.78

Amazing customer service and excellent value for money! 

Overall a very pleasant drive. We managed a 3 hour drive in only 6 hours by taking the scenic route. However I think the scenery and experiences certainly made it all worthwhile. 

A rest day tomorrow before heading up to the NW coast...