Monday, December 22, 2008

Adelaide to Renmark - week 1


Day 1 Adelaide (Victoria Sq) to Gawler 43 km
Started off with repacking my gear 3 or 4 times and putting things aside that I didn't really need?? extra clothes etc 1st stop post office to send that stuff back.

10am at Victoria Square, overcast day and standing there by the fountain on my own, remembering the last time I was here was with dad before he passed away.
The TV and newspapers didn't make it as must have been more trajic news to report on. Phil Tarrant & Craig Hunter appeared from nowhere to wish me good luck and to send me off on this little journey up the road. After some words of encouragement and a quick prayer the clock tower struck 10.30 and I was off. Making my way up through the city and onto main north road. It took me a while to realise I was actually doing this and it wasn't until a lovely couple asked me what I was doing that it really sank in .... Ive begun.
Not wanting to make this about me or the fundraising Ive decided not to tout for donations, but just meet people along the way that want to speak with me and hopefully donations for the Mcgarth Foundation will follow.

The rest of the day was walking up north Road with a few cars stopping to chat and give donations. Arrived in Gawler late and set up tent for the night.

Day 2- Gawler to Truro via the Barossa Valley 46km approx

Started off early after some weatbix and restocking water at the community fountain, nice water. Walk through Barossa vally was lovely, winding road with not much to walk on the side but just enough to stay on tarmac most of the time. As the day was overcast again the cool weather kept the pace up and the views were wonderful, grape vines all over the place, a few magpies and some sheep.
I kept thinking all the way how much Dad loved his wine and that I should stop in for a quick glass at one of the vinyards but I guess the idea of getting stuck into some wine so early on was probably not the best way to kick of the trip.
Intended to get to Nurioopta for the night but when I got there it was only 4.30pm and I was feeling good no pains so I stopped for a chicken roll and chips and then decided to carry on an extra 15km to Truro. Just afterNurioopta came the turn off onto the highway, Aghhhhh the 110km highway with the big trucks.... this was the start of the rest of the trip. everything else had been a little stroll on country roads. The trucks fly past and the wind that comes off blows your hat off if your too close. I soon developed a tecnique of moving to the side and giving the truckies a wave so I knew they had seen me. Came into Truro as the sun was setting and i had no idea what to to about accomdation after walking all the way through the town with no caravan park or motel I decided another tent night would be in order, the rest area just out of town gave me a nice lttle spot amongst the trees and so as the sun was almost down I quickly set up my tent threw all my gear in and collapsed into the self infalting mattress. with the sound of trees, sheep and birds I closed my eyes and couldn't belive I was actually doing this walk and now camped by the side of th road.

Day 3 Truro - Blanchtown 46km Approx

Had a call from Alex, Nari & leo - As they were in Barossa for a little break away they offered to meet for breakfast on the road. we met up at the next rest point which overlooked the plains a great spot. Sharing Breaky and camping stories with Alex,Nari and their little boy Leo was an amazing morning a little windy but all the same almost sureal.
Continued on down the road for my first real taste of the dry arid roadside, with the lack of rain over the year everything is very dry and yet the birds a chirping and the scenery is beautiful, I guess as Im walking I have been able to take in the sights and enjoy each tree or bush - getting into a rhythm of walking and side stepping the trucks has been my main entertainment, listening out for cars coming from behind and watching out for the vehicles in front keeps the walking interesting and I have not been bored or wanted to put on any music as yet.
Getting hotter, had a long rest under a tree, keeping my feet comfortable by channging or airing out socks every 3 hours, also helps with preventing blisters. Knock on wood no blisters yet.
with the setting behind me I was wondering if I would make the next town, then seeing lots of rabbits bouncing around everywhere I started thinking about where I would put up the tent amongst all these rabbits?? No one stopped all day - nice to be alone in my thoughts but started to wonder what am I doing!!!!
Aghhh the BP roadhouse in the distance, busting for the toilet I pulled in to use the facilities and grab a cold drink, then the ladies from the bistro offered me dinner on them - Scnitzel burger and chips with a five fruits juice. mmmm its tasted great after eating dust all day on the road. then one of the ladies came over with a donation of some money and said "weve just done a quick whip around for your efforts" then other people that were dining or at the service station started coming in to see me with donations, I was overwhelmed , literally couldn't speak from the emotion of their generosity. Thank you BP Blanchtown.
They suggested to head down to the river to the camp ground, walking in the dark I found my way down the hill, thinking bugger I have walk back up this tommorrow. Met the lovely lady owner, set up my tent, had a quick shower and crashed.

Day 4 Blanchtown to Waikerie 42.3km

After packing up the tent refilled my water bottles from the rainwater tank and I was off for another day of fun in the sun.
Ahead of schedule now I figured I could reach Waikerie, a long straight road a couple of small hills it was back into the rhythm of dodging, waveing and listening to the birds and taking in the scenery.

Coming into Waikerie was like an oasis after km's of dry brown land, some green fruit trees, oranges.....mmmmm would they miss one if I picked one of the tree, no I decided to keep walking and hope for a fruit stand to buy one. almost into town some men were having drinks on the balcony of a beatiful house, we exchanged waves and hello's, they asked what I was up too and then if I wanted a drink - a beer?? OK why not that would be great. and it was I can't remember if I just sculled it in one but it went down good. We talked some more and then I was asked to stay for a BBQ - An amazing family - I'll wright all your names soon Ive left my note book back at camp Dughhh!! Thank you for the BBQ dinner and inviting the local reporter, I hope the photo turned out OK in the end.

camped up for the night near the river.

Day 5 Waikerie to Cobdogla 42.3km
The next morning was still, woke early and packed tent up and headed up to tables by the river for some quiet time thinking about how much Brony would have loved this spot by the river had breaky (wheatbix) with the birds and the morning sun. continued out of town for another day on the road, one step at a time. its funny how many hours can pass by as you make your way along the road taking in all the scenery that is changing and yet doesn't really change. the sound of the birds and noise of wind through te tress is very threapuetic. kept a good pace along a straight road for most of the day stopping on the side of the road when things got a little too hot. not too many people stopping today. coming into Cobdogla along the river front is lovely and had wanted to just jump the guard rail to get down to the other road but was so tired i could lift the baby jogger over and there was no break in the barrier till town, tired hot and hungry I walked past the Club in town, a man was outside so i asked if the food was good?? he asked what i was doing and that was the start of a nice night, making my way in John put the word out as to what I was doing and all of a sudden people where coming over to say gday and offer donations, after a good feed from the bistro I asked about a place to camp and they said - its taken care off at the camp ground we have a spare cabin for you - no sheets but a bed and air con- I was blown away with the offer and the hospitatlity. Thank you to john and Pauline Gilbert, Helen and Dennis Britten, Im sorry i forgot your name the lovely lady that took me to the camp ground and looked after me, Thank you Cobdogla and really nice place to spend the night.

Day 6 Cobdogla to Berri 20km

After fixing a punctured tyre - got moving to Berri - should be easier day today. Thoughts of Brony are always at top of mind and feeling her missing at all these wonderful spots is agonising but I look at the Gum trees and know she is around. the road in was easy and scenic enough, was stopped afew times along the way by well wishers and some donations. The heat was getting to me as I slowed down, the motivation was starting to waver, then as I rested under the shade of a tree a lovely lady stopped and had a long chat with me and she envigerated me to keep going she also asked if it was OK for her to give my info to the local radio. As I pulled into the BP at Glossop to get a cold drink I was met by Angela and Jim they were so welcoming and offered to buy me lunch and a cold drink, they were wonderful, then Allen came in with lady from national foods and they had done a quick collection and he presented me with the donation and some fruit juice - such nice people I really enjoyed meeting them in Glossop. the rest of the way into Berri I wondered if I should take up an offer the I had met Nicoli with her kids in the car a couple of days ago and she mentioned if I wanted a place to stay in Berri to give her a call, so I did, she said stay at their place. I detoured to the Riverland cycles store to see if I could get help with the puncture met Neil - (motorised bike) that was so helpful, sorted out the tyres with heavy duty tubes and goo - Max & jennifer the owners were kind enough to donate all teh materials and labour - after some tears and a chat I headed off to find Nicoli's house. they found me wondering the streets of berri lost - gave me directions and went to there place had some great conversations with the kids Cody, Shaynee & Brett, really lovely family Im so glad you took me in and hope your xmas was wonderful.

Day 7 Berri to Renmark 20km

Left a little later after Breaky and made the road into renmark - had a radio interview on the way on the phone, lots of people stopping, tehn had local TV WIN news stop and do an interview for the news, also contacted by Renmark local paper teh Pioneer for a photo rendevous on the road outside town. A really full day of stuff going on. Met some wonderful people on the road and took my time getting into Renmark, then did some banking and internet stuff sat by the river and made my way down to the campground were Klaus greeted me with a crown lager and a lovely camp site on the rivers edge. Yep rest day here tommorrow 7 days on the road deserve a little break. jumped in the river and soaked the body for a long while. Met Alison and Maurice from Deniliquin and shared some quiet time by the river with them. was pretty shattered and hadn't had dinner yet so Klaus had mentioned a pub around the corner over the bridge about 500m so I walked over to find it closed, bugger, walked back and opened 3 cans mixed beans, tuna, corn - dinner sorted. asleep before head hit pillow (clothes stuffed in small bag).




Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Early Flight to Adelaide

No sleep ....2nd night in a row.... to many things to sort out.

Too much weight in bags ......arghh what do I ditch????

Things not done, Oh well I'll deal with the fall out on the road.

Virgin Blue were great, waived the excess luggage charge on checkin, a couple of people commented on my shirt and it was nice to board the flight talking about the walk. Met a wonderful man that arranged a collection on the flight via the cabin crew - so eveyone on board knows what Im up to now. Had a wonderful conversation the whole flight with him (sorry left your card in room and my head is terrible with names at the moment as you know ..... Thank you for your support.

Set up the gear at the airport and walked into town .... nice walk easy and no dramas. Booked into motel for tonight, arranged last minute bits and pieces had a sleep and a good feed at a corner pasts place - Very nice.

Will be at Victoria Square by 10am - possibly some media may turn up to cover the story - Mcgrath Foundation PR lady arranged.

realised Ive got too many clothes so will have to post some back to sydney tomorrow before I head off.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

3 days before departure

Ahhhhh the final panic!!!!

Firstly a big thank you to Joey Jennings from CBS and Daniel Ward from Ultimate Signs and Ultimate Safety Supplies for their generous support and donations towards the walk and the Charity. Also a big thank you to Jim and his team at Seagull Screenprinting for the logo printed polo shirts I'll be wearing on the trip.
The gear, the encouragement, the support you have offered is amazing and I appreciate and thank you for your kindness.

Its been an overwhelming weekend, had an amazing last game of Ice Hockey on Friday night, with wonderul support from the boys. My good friend Rod has been great, lending an ear, a shoulder and a positive attitude his home on the coast has been sanctuary for me to visit on Friday nights these last few months as Ive tried to take some time out of Sydney.
With so many little things still to be done and a brain that is not functioning too well, Im trying not to stress too much as I usually do and hope that Ive got enough things in place to leave and not worry too much.

The Rhythm Factory girls have been great now into the final week of term they are winding down for the year and we now look towards 2009 Holiday program and the start of a new term in early Feb - I'm scheduled to still be walking so they will have to kick of the term without me. Thank you and Good luck ladies.

Im abit overweight on the baggage front however VIRGIN BLUE have responded to my sponsorship request with an offer for some free additional luggage allowance. I hope we have no dramas at the airport tomorrow.

Walked only 10km on Sat and 15km on Sunday.

Km's plan for the trip is done, Ill attach it on the gadgets side. Also you can check out the map for more details.

Final packing tonight, write some lists for the girls while Im away, and then early flight .6.50am Tuesday.
Brony loved heading of to the airport didn't matter if we were coming, going or just picking up someone, she loved the atmosphere and the buzz of it, she'd always say "were should we go this time?" .........
"We are going to Adelaide baby and then going for a looooooong walk."

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

1 week out

Well, time flys and Im still walking in preparation for departure next week. Things have been more hectic with lots of things happening at Rhythm Factory for the final weeks of term and getting things sorted out for while Im away.


It's been difficult enough loosing Brony, but continuing her business has been a constant emotional rollercoaster as every phone call, email, song, dance, child, reminds me of her and the wonderful work she created and enjoyed so much. She was blessed to love little children so much and really loved working with them and teaching them fun dances, actions, moves and songs. I could not let her business and all that she worked for just disappear, and the teachers that are working with us have so fantastic keeping the classes running and the vision of Rhythm Factory alive. I hope that we can continue to move it forward in 2009 as Ive been just been so stuck since Brony passed that I haven't moved it forward more just kept things ticking over. I hope this journey will inspire me to carry on her vision or find someone that can help me with the business.


Walk preperation last week-

45km Sunday

10km monday night

20km tuesday afternoon

20km wed afternoon

15 km thur afternoon

Friday night - ICE HOCKEY ( oh Im going to miss the cold ice rink)


My legs are holding up at the moment no blisters just a niggle in the left knee and Im mostly feeling like I might be able to do this... yes I have a lot of self doubt but Im just going to deal with things week to week to get through.



Support the walk by donating to http://www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au/ quote "WALKA2B"

or contact me on 0425 706 093

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Preperation - MInd, Body, Soul

Its hard to be confronted with the fact that Brony is not here with me on a daily basis, I miss her smile, laughter, passion for life, energy for everything, its a feeling is compounded as I sit her and prepare for a trip that is as much hers as mine. We both enjoying walking together, running together, kyaking together, eating together. Things that can be taken for granted when everything is going OK in your world, we always said we were blessed that we learned to appreciate the little things and we gave thanks for that and being together everyday.

Walking from A to B, seems like a straight forward comment, if your talking about a simple stroll somewhere closeby. But Im realising that doing 35-40km perday is going to be a physically demanding task, although Ive been training daily ie walking 2-3 hours during the week and doing 7-8hrs on the weekend its already giving the old knees a little niggle that Im hoping will not cause anymore dramas.

Walking has been very threraputic for my mind and heart as journey through the grief process, allowing all the thoughts and emotions to roll in and out during a walk is good as it keeps it interesting, I'm definately don't get bored.

"The journey of life happens one moment at a time, we decide each moment and can create our individual journey as we want to experience it, there are too many things we have no control over, but we can control how we act upon these things that impact our journey."



Ok .. walk update... flight is booked so Im definately departing on this journey, my hope is to complete in 10weeks.

If you feel inspired to support this effort for a positive future with Breast Cancer, tax deductable donations can be made to the McGrath Foundation www.mcgrathfoundation.com , quote WalkA2B
or contact me directly if you want to help me actually get there (there is always stuff that Im going to be grateful for, happy to get any assistance) h@rhythmfactory.com.au

Thursday, November 27, 2008

First entry


2250km Solo journey, walking from Adelaide 2 Brisbane, in the middle of summer, in memory of his wife, carrying his own gear, unaided, to raise awareness for the McGrath Foundation.

“together we can make a Difference”

2250km – solo –distance walk
“Hope for a Positive Future”

Scheduled departure date:
December 17th 2008
10.30am Victoria Square, Adelaide
(Coincides with our 3 year wedding anniversary)




Raise funds on behalf of the McGrath Foundation

Any funds raised on behalf of the McGrath Foundation shall help fund breast care nurses. Breast Care Nurses are specially trained nurses who act as patient advocates co-ordinating care for women with breast cancer, their families and carers.

“Through my experience with cancer, I have felt first hand the difficulties faced during this unwanted journey; it can be relentless, with many ups and downs, unknown obstacles or just difficult roads to navigate.”

The work that the McGrath foundation is doing to provide practical support for women with breast cancer and advanced breast cancer is a blessing and truly can make the lives of so many more hopeful and enjoyable on this road.

Donations can be made in person directly during the walk or contact the foundation and quote Walk A2B. http://www.mcgrathfoundation.com/

“Together We Can Make a Difference”



The reason why…
In 2002 my partner aged 32 was diagnosed with Advanced Breast Cancer, 4 months later my father aged 55 was diagnosed with Advanced Lung Cancer, two of the most important people in my life were suddenly fighting for their lives far too early in our lives together. My father living in Ballina at the time was trying a trial treatment in Adelaide. On our drive from Ballina to Adelaide we joked that he would get so well that we would be able to walk back. My Dad was inspired by this and said when he got better he would walk from Adelaide to Brisbane. We used this as motivation and inspiration during his low days it would put a smile on his face when I would say were going to do it dad we will do the walk together. Unfortunately he passed away 4 months later.

I was unable to grieve for my Dad as my soon to be wife was going through so much also with cancer treatments and although still well was working hard on staying positive through building her wonderful children’s dance music and movement business “Rhythm Factory” which was exhausting but at the same time brought so much joy to the children and in return they gave her an overwhelming energy to fight the disease. We spoke many times of the idea of the walk and about doing the adventure together when she was feeling better. With a busy schedule of treatments and her decline in health there was no opportunity for an extended journey like this. Sadly she passed away in April 2008.

With my world devastated by cancer and only the pain of losing them to wake me in the morning – I wish to honour their memories and complete this 2250km journey.

My wife/friend/soulmate Bronwyn Meredith was the light in my day, my compass, my everything and the joy in so many people lives. She shared her happiness and smile with everyone and was a selfless, kind hearted and giving person. She was motivated to bring happiness and joy into the lives of children and especially wanted to return to Africa to help the orphaned Children. She also was passionate about the idea of giving people facing an Advanced Breast Cancer prognosis the dignity of hope for the future.
I will be collecting funds to go to the McGrath Foundation to help Breast Cancer patients in a practical way.

During this 2250km journey, I would also love to share a message of hope and healthy happy life habits to the communities I will pass through. Also visit hospitals and oncology patients facing the battle with cancer..

Scheduled departure date: December 17th 2008 our 3 year wedding anniversary.
More info at http://www.brony.info/


Program for the WALK
Personal details: Harald Ulriksen Age:37 Occupation: carer

17 December 2008
Depart Adelaide – Victoria Square 10.30am

Walk an average of 35 – 45km per day

Talk to as many people about Advanced Breast Cancer, raise awareness and accepting donations.

More walking…….. keep walking and talking……. Walk a bit more…….

The route passes through Berri, Mildura, Hay, Dubbo, Tamworth, Lismore, Tweed heads

Over 2200km later ….

Arrive Brisbane -


The main challenge will be doing this in the middle of summer with the heat being very intense. I will endeavour to walk in the early mornings and late afternoon when the sun is less intense.



WALKfromA2B Sponsorship opportunities

To complete this project will require dedication, perseverance, endurance, stamina, and a level of belief that will encourage the daily need to maintain focus.

If these qualities in any way ring true for you or your business and you would like to assist me in this endeavour, I would welcome your interest, support and assistance either financial or in kind.

This is a self funded project that welcomes the support of corporate or private partners.

Assistance in the areas of
Equipment ie shoes, socks, glasses, camp gear
Technology ie laptop, phone, internet, website,
Nourishment ie meals, beverage, supplements
Therapy ie massage, spa,
General ie financial, promotional

If you feel compelled to assist with this journey please contact me on h@rhythmfactory.com.au or 0425 706 093

Your support can be advertised in the following ways if you wish to be known.



Advertising

As this walk is being done on a budget, advertising will be done
via word of mouth,
direct email contact to business database of over 4000,
press releases to media,
banner signage on buggy
signage on clothing
website - http://www.brony.info/walk_from_A2B.htm



Special Thanks to Current Supporters

Rhythm Factory - Dance Music Movement classes – Brony founded
http://www.rhythmfactory.com.au/





Caffe Migliore -Suppliers of Fine Coffee supplied assistance
http://www.caffemigliore.com.au/





Chariot Buggy - Supplied by Simon and Lucy Wilkinson, THANKYOU. used to transport gear.
http://www.chariotcarriers.com/





Q Services - Supplied Assistance with training
http://www.q-services.com.au/





CBS - Complete Banner Services - signage
http://www.completebannerservices.com.au/