A Signboard to Say Thank You
On March 10, in Margaret River, I decided to bring something new into my journey—a signboard.
The idea came from a simple but constant feeling on the road. Drivers often pass by, giving me a wave or a word of encouragement. Yet, I could never respond properly, especially to cars approaching from behind. I always wanted to say “thank you,” but my voice couldn’t reach them.
So, I made a signboard to carry on my bicycle, a quiet but visible way to return their kindness. It felt good to finally have a way to express gratitude back to those who shared the road with me.
A Morning with Strawberries and Oatmeal
Before leaving the converted school bus, my host invited me for breakfast. They served homemade strawberries with oatmeal.
Oatmeal has been a common part of my meals while traveling, and many hosts also prepare it for breakfast. What makes it interesting is how different each bowl is. Some add fruit, some nuts, some honey. Seeing these variations reminded me how even a simple dish can reflect the personality of the person who prepares it.
With breakfast finished, I packed up and began my day’s ride. My destination was a campsite near the town of Karridale.
Roads of Margaret River
The road out of Margaret River was narrow, yet it carried a sense of openness that felt refreshing. There was no feeling of being trapped; instead, I could ride freely and comfortably.
On my right side, rows of grapevines stretched across the fields. Margaret River is famous for its wine, and the climate here explained why. The cool, dry air and lack of humidity make it an ideal environment for vineyards.
But as I got closer to the campsite, the easy road gave way to dust and slopes. Each passing car stirred up a cloud of dirt, making the climb tougher than it first appeared.
Meeting Fellow Cyclists
Along one of the steeper paths, I met two local cyclists. They told me they often ride in this area but rarely see someone carrying such heavy loads up the hill. We shared a brief laugh, exchanged a few words, and then parted ways.
Encounters like this, short yet warm, always bring extra energy into the ride.
Creativity at the Campsite
I reached the campsite around 2 p.m.—earlier than usual—so I had extra time on my hands. After setting up my tent, I turned my attention back to the signboard.
Wanting to make it sturdier and more creative, I bundled some weeds from around the site and wove them into the holes of the board. I wasn’t sure exactly what I was making, but the act of trying out ideas felt meaningful.
Too often, good ideas stay in our heads, forgotten before they’re ever brought into reality. This was my chance to test one on the spot, imperfect as it might be.
While working, a new camper arrived. We exchanged greetings, shared a conversation, and before long, he handed me a cold beer. It was the perfect end to a fulfilling day.
