A Slow Morning with Rain in the Forecast
I woke around 7:00, but I was too sleepy and drifted back to bed, finally rising at 8:30. I didn’t feel much urgency. The forecast had warned of heavy rain from 11:00, so I thought I would take things slowly until then.
By midmorning, the rain hadn’t arrived. Looking outside, I felt it might be possible to ride after all. So I packed up and set off into the hills. Just as I reached a high point, I saw a small place called Sky Pies. At first, I rode past, but something made me turn back. It was the right choice—within two minutes of stepping inside, the sky opened and rain poured down.
Shelter and Warm Encounters
The storm kept me at the café for about an hour and a half. Two older men, Jim and another whose name I sadly forgot, were standing outside chatting. They asked about my journey, listened with interest, and encouraged me warmly.
When they left, I regretted not asking for a photo. But minutes later Jim returned, handed me his contact information, and told me to reach out if needed. That simple gesture lifted my spirits. The kindness of strangers often appears just when it’s needed most.
Bridges, Climbs, and Lessons from the Road
After the rain eased, I left around 12:30. The road turned downhill, but soon the map showed two more climbs. Crossing a 200-meter bridge, I admired its quiet beauty before facing the slope ahead.
I had expected it to be punishing, but compared to the steep ascent I had faced leaving Wollongong, it felt lighter. That earlier hardship had become a kind of training, making today’s climb more manageable.
Later the road merged toward the M1 highway. The roar of traffic was overwhelming, and I knew it wasn’t safe for me. Fortunately, I found an alternative route—Highway 83. A kind local confirmed, This way is better, and I followed the advice.
A Camp at Calga
By late afternoon, I reached Calga and found a quiet spot near the summit to camp. It wasn’t far from the road, but the view from the nearby cliffs was striking. I pitched my tent, ate some simple food, and listened to the evening settle in.
It may have been close to utility poles and not entirely hidden, but it felt safe enough. I reminded myself to leave early in the morning before workers might arrive. That night, surrounded by the scent of grass and the cool air of the bush, I felt grateful to pause in Calga.
