Morning at Preston Beach
On March 1, I woke up at Preston Beach to find the wind so strong that it had blown my shade far away. Camping here meant keeping most of my essential gear inside the tent, though some larger items had to stay outside. I make sure that anything left outside is something I can afford to lose, just in case.
My shoes, however, are reaching the end of their life. They’ve been with me through many miles, and I know that at some point I’ll have to send them back to my family home as a keepsake.
Unexpected Kindness on the Road
Leaving Preston Beach, I spotted a car parked along the road. As I moved to pass on the right, the driver reached out and handed me something. It turned out he had seen me earlier, assumed I would continue straight, and had gone ahead just to buy me a bottle of Gatorade.
The day was sweltering, and that cold drink felt like a lifeline. It’s moments like these that remind me how strangers’ kindness can completely change the course of a day.
Further along, another couple stopped to chat with me. They told me they were heading to a tennis tournament. We laughed, shared a few stories, and I wished them luck. Being able to pause, talk, and connect without rushing—it’s one of the purest joys of travel.
Cycling Toward Busselton
After about an hour of pedaling along quiet back roads, I was thrilled to see a proper cycling lane again. South of Perth, they become less common, so finding one gave me a sense of both relief and joy.
On my right, the ocean stretched out beautifully, its calm horizon offering me peace. I stopped there for a while, opened a book, and even took a few minutes to meditate.
Looking back at my bicycle from a distance, I realized just how heavy and worn it appeared. Through the lens of a camera, it looked as if it were speaking to me—telling me how tough this journey really is. I thought to myself, perhaps I should reconsider how I load it to ease its burden.
Arrival in Busselton
After another hour of riding, I reached Busselton. The town immediately struck me with its beauty—quiet streets, small parks, and ponds that blended seamlessly with nature. The air itself seemed fresher here, and the calm atmosphere made me feel at ease.
When I arrived at my host’s house, I was greeted with a cold Japanese beer and a plate of snacks. After a long, hot ride, it was one of the best welcomes I could have imagined.
I plan to stay here for a few days, recharge, and gather strength before continuing on to the next stage of the journey.
