Winging it into the new year: an epic roadtrip tale of adventure, lessons and kindness
The best way to kickstart a new year isn't through rest and relaxation; it's about embracing life's adventures and being grateful for the opportunities they bring.
Imagine a 16-day whirlwind road trip, a 'winging-it' escapade, with a 77-year-old dad, covering more than 7,500 kilometres, 21 places, and countless memories.
Buckle up as we take you on a journey from Melbourne to Nullarbor, Kalgoorlie, Wave Rock, Mandalay & Hush Hush beach, Bremer Bay, Cape Le Grand, Great Australian Bight cliff camping, and back home again.
Picture this: one car, two people, a handful of mishaps, and a plethora of unforgettable moments. The trip was not without its challenges, from a deceased bird to broken spotlights, a wild dog sighting to a sand dune bogging episode that tested our mettle in the vast Australian wilderness.
After two days of worrying about getting bogged, it happened – in the middle of nowhere, in the scorching heat, and with no water or beer in sight. Stuck deep in the sand, our anxiety turned to determination. Despite unsuccessful attempts to dig ourselves out, we embraced the unexpected challenge. Our bush mechanic skills, aided by branches, twigs, and a tarp, were put to the test. And while we might not have quite managed it, we gave it a red hot crack without cracking it ourselves.
Surprisingly, roadside assistance doesn't cover sand bogging miles away from civilization. But in our predicament, we discovered invaluable life lessons:
Face your fears: Sometimes, confronting your fears head-on leads to the most profound growth.
Just give it a crack: Life's adventures often unfold when you take risks and venture into the unknown.
Trust in the universe to deliver: Embrace the unpredictability of life; it might just surprise you in the most unexpected ways.
Life's short, and it's never too late: Age is just a number; seize the moment, regardless of your stage in life.
Your worst nightmare is where you maximise growth: Challenges are opportunities in disguise, pushing you beyond your comfort zone.
It's okay if you can't do it alone: There's always someone willing to lend a hand and share their knowledge.
The kindness of strangers: In our case, 4WD enthusiasts appeared like guardian angels, rescuing us from the sandy trap and restoring our faith in humanity.
Our road trip wasn't just about reaching destinations; it was a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the kindness of strangers. As we reflect on 16 days filled with laughter, near misses with kangaroos, and the breath-taking beauty of the Australian landscape, I encourage you to ask yourself >> What’s your next adventure?
Don't wait for the perfect moment – go out there, face the unknown, and create memories that will last a lifetime. 7After all, the best stories are born from the unplanned, the uncharted, and the wonderfully unpredictable.
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ABOUT Mel
Mel founded Change with Mel and is on a mission to help individuals, teams and organisations create positive, engaging & sustainable change that is embraced as an opportunity for growth and transformation.
