It was overcast when we awoke and it started to spit whilst we were sharing a continental breakfast with our fellow safarites. Our drive today was around the 270 kilometre mark so we decided to leave as soon as possible.
We were the fifth motor home to leave and by the time we arrived back on the main highway, rain had started.
We both commented on the amount of green in Moree and as we travelled through the outer part of the town, we agreed that it looked exactly like any leafy Sydney suburb. Moree obtains water from the Great Artisan Basin so there is always a plentiful supply. Another thing we noted about Moree was the set of traffic lights in the centre of the town.
We drove the 270 kilometre trip without stopping. The only place of real interest was the town of Collarenebri but there was nothing open. The majority of the trip was driven in rain and we were amazed with the amount of green and the number of wild flowers.
We were the first to arrive at Lightning Ridge and took the opportunity to refuel. Fuel consumption today was poor with the Iveco computer indicating consumption at 15.6 liters per 100 kilometres. Nevertheless, we had not really attempted to conserve fuel and we were happy to arrive and establish camp.
Over the next couple of hours the remained of our group arrive. We spent part of the afternoon in an opal shop where we purchased an opal pendant.
By the time we returned to the motor home, the caravan park was exceptionally wet and very muddy.
Happy hour took place in the adjacent hotel and we had our evening meal in the adjacent bistro. Tonight was a theme night with the majority of the party dressing as miners. Whilst we were in the hotel, we were actually mistaken for mine inspectors with our hard hats and reflective jackets. We had a fun night and were happy to retire for the night.