Day 18: Fri 13 May - Dalby to Howard

Day 18: Fri 13 May - Dalby to Howard

17 – 22°, We had steady rain throughout the night in Dalby. The flood alert for Myall Creek behind the caravan park had me on edge throughout the night, waking a few times to check the water levels, but each time seeming OK. We were up early, and with a short break from rain for about 30 minutes, took the opportunity to pack up and escape by 6:30am. Lucky we did get away early as the roads within 10km off Dalby already had a significant amount of water running across them, and I don't think they would have stayed open for long.  It was a slow and steady drive to Kingaroy in light rain (110km), but the roads weren't too bad considering all the rain we had.  After a coffee break in a rest stop outside Kingaroy, the rain started getting heavier and the road conditions also started to deteriorate (pot holes, wheel tracks holding water and just bumpy). By the time we reached the Bruce highway via Kilkivan, water was lapping the last bridge before turning onto the highway - I'm not sure it would have stayed open much longer. The last 100km along the Bruce highway to Howard was just horrible - heavier rain than we experienced yesterday, poorer visibility and much more traffic. After 320km and several stops, we finally reached our  destination at Greg and Wendy's property near Howard. After setting up the van in the heavy rain, it was time for a hot shower and a snooze.  Wendy cooked us a nice hearty dinner, and after a couple of glasses of wine, it's time to sleep. 

With many road closures to the north and surrounding areas we will reassess our plans over the next few of days. Unfortunately, La Niña doesn't appear to have run out of puff yet though.

Forecast rain this morning prompting an early departure


The roadside on the way out of Dalby

One of many water crossings along the main road out of Dalby to Kingaroy

Main road to Kingaroy from Dalby



A short rest stop in Goomeri before making our way across the hilly, bumpy and winding road to the Bruce Highway

Finally setup at Greg and Wendy's place. Somewhat of a relief watching the rain fall from inside the parked caravan rather than through the windscreen while towing




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