20 January 2000
Just back from drive to Umberumberka Reservoir (out past
Silverton) which supplies BH with its water. Really nice spot -
green, leafy, etc. in midst of arid surrounding desert area. Ute
went OK. Nothing untoward found on inspection (disappointing)
although front wheel bearings apparently lacking lubrication due
to grease being old. So front hubs lubed and wheel bearings
cleaned and repacked with fresh grease. Hasn't made any
difference - front hubs still hot on arrival at Umberumberka -
may be normal(?). "Experts" suspect possible intermittent fault
in fuel pump - will have replaced on suspicion. Fuel pressure
gauge has been installed temporarily to enable me to monitor
fuel pressure (particularly if problem recurs). In the meantime
will stay in area for a few days sightseeing and trying to induce
problem. Unless problem found, will be out of here Monday. Have
bought EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) to use
if really caught in a life-threatening situation. When activated,
these emit a radio signal to orbiting communications satellites
on constantly monitored distress frequencies and enable rescue
agencies to get a very accurate "fix" on your position. Distress
signal would be detected within 1 hour. Thought this was a better
option than VHF/UHF transceiver as was told these have a fairly
limited range (20-30 kms in some conditions).
Will go out to Menindee tomorrow (110 kms SE of "The Hill") and
check out the pub. Burke and Wills apparently called there on
their expedition. Also will visit the Menindee Lakes, Kinchega
National Park and the Darling River, plus a couple of spots on
the way which the service manager of the Mazda dealership here
says are worthwhile going to.
Went to a very interesting museum in town today which had a lot
of exhibits relating to the early (and not so early) days of rail
transport here. There was also an extensive exhibition of medical
and nursing paraphernalia housed in its own building. Patricia
would have very much enjoyed it.