Photo collection update

Bash photos on the road now available


Hi there all you Bash Car 89 fans. Doctor Who (Russell) has finished selecting and editing a collection of photos taken on the Bash. Follow the link or use the link in the side bar. Enjoy

Busted Compass Award

We are now into the wash-up and there is a footnote to Day One. At the end of the Bash, the Doctors Who were given the 'Busted Compass Award' for navigation on the first day out. Congratulations, big smiles, high fives...


With the distraction of a busted axle and missing lunch amid the confusion of our virgins on their first day ever on the bash, the Doctors missed a turn somewhere near Barratta Homestead and ended up bamboozled. After encountering some shut gates and doubling back a few times, the 'Tardis' was switched to autopilot. With a little help from its friends, it naturally found the shortest route back to the bitumen and a more comfortable trip to Arkaroola via Hawker, Leigh Creek and Copley.


Just for fun, here is the GPS track plotted onto Google Earth (map view tilted).We are still trying to work out from the running sheet just where they went wrong. We have a very detailed .kml file the Doctors will be looking at later. The track the Bash used was on the Eastern side of the Flinders Ranges. On close inspection, there are many tracks in the area, so the mix up is not surprising.

Bash Start Video now available

The video of Bash Car 89 leaving Adelaide  is now on You Tube at long last!


The photos taken while on the track will be available soon.

That's all for now from those LUCKY LUCKY LUCKY Doctors!

Comment accepted now works

It should now be easier to add comments if you don't have an account - even anonymously, but they will be moderated. Please try the comments link below and leave your messages for the Doctors.


Also, for the confused, the date-time stamp on the blog entries has been fixed. Yes, we do sleep in the middle of the night at bashcar89 blog central.

Day 8 report

Final Touchdown - Alice Springs

.... zzzzzchng ... zzzzzchng ... zzzzchng.... the 'Tardis' materialized this morning in Alice Springs, the centre for tonight's 2009 'Bash Splash'. All interstate Variety Bashers have now converged and tonight It's PARTY TIME !!!! Our Doctors Who will be there, in the thick of it.

Doctor Who (Russell)

Tonight's input via Dr Who (Russ) with Dr Who (Chris) providing prompts and Dr Who (Dallas) providing static, came through loud and clear via mobile phone, (which was a great relief after having had sat phone for the past week). The boys were back at the motel, comfortably settled and getting ready for tonight's Bash Splash. They sounded pretty up-beat and revved up.

Doctor Who (Dallas)

Having raised in the order of $25,000 for the kids via SA Variety, the Doctors really deserve the chance to let their hair down tonight. (Those wigs must get awful uncomfortable).

Don't get a hair cut. You've done a real (good) job. You've hit the big time with your rock n' roll van.....

So, lets go back to last night at the Glen Helen Resort and take it from there.

The SA Basher's really made the most of the opportunity to celebrate their last experience together on the road in the 2009 Bash before making the Alice this morning and the big noise. With only a short trip into the Alice today, the Doctor's had a late one. They were up until 2:30 am.

Doctor Who (Chris)

The SA Basher's set up an orderly convoy into the Alice this morning and were in town in a little over one hour. They drove though downtown in order of funds raised, so the Doctors were somewhere in the middle of the parade with their 'Silver Door' award proudly showing. Some of the Bash convoy leaders had the chance to show off by driving through the Mall in the Alice this morning which would have been something.

The 2009 SA Bash convoy parked for the last time at the Henley On Todd. The Bashers were all treated to VIP Seating to watch the 'boat' races in the dry river bed (hilarious event - go Google it). It really was a chance for our Doctors to properly relax - yippeee yippeee eye yippeee eye yippeee yo yo!

Doctor Who (Russ) tells me they had an unexpected call over the Bash radio system this morning coming into the Alice to contact Josh Way from Mintabe. Apparently Josh was admited to the Alice Springs hospital with white ants in his wooden leg or something not so nice. Young Josh is a particularly big fan of the Doctors Who. He caught up with the Doctors at Mintabe a few days ago, and having since been medi-vacced to the Alice, he wasn't going to let the chance go by to say hello again to his hero's. In fact, such was his enthusiasm, Josh had his girl-friend push him in the wheel-chair down to the roadway to make sure he didn't miss them as they drove by. The Doctors then caught up with him later at the hospital.

Well Josh - you're a winner mate and that's the truth. The Doctors were really delighted to catch up and were impressed with your determination. They reckon you'll do OK and that's no lie, and they wish you the best for when you get back to Mintabie.

In fact, this is probably a good point to mention that the Doctors have already indicated their enthusiasm to do it all again, and that will impress the heck out of the fans and long suffering familes hahahaha. In no small part, their enthusiasm to give it a go again has come from the support shown by people like Josh, and the kids at Mulga Park.

So, the Doctors may be up for another Bash, but what about the poor old 'Tardis', Car 89? She's already had a bit of a hard life you know as a previous Bash vehicle and this trip has been tough on the old girl.

Well, I'm told that there is a good chance she still has another Bash left in her and following the afore-mentioned 'full-cycle docking' it's likely she will whirl and twirl across the outback again as the 'Tardis'.

The route this year was apparently one of the roughest and toughest for vehicle wear and tear, so to have come through as well as they have is a testimony to a well prepared car. (The damages log indicates one broken axle, one radiator leak, one lost external speaker, one broken dust flag, a blown audio amplifier, and a burnt out fuel tank switching system).

In so far as our heros and their compatriots have also come through pretty much unscathed is a testimony to a well run, coordinated and professionally managed Bash with a focus on safety as the number one priority.

So as the lights start to come on in the Alice tonight around the camp as 3,000 interestate Basher's, and their entourages start to unwind at a well deserved Bash Splash, its probably time to tie the ribbons....

• It turns out Dan (aka 'Muddy') Waters is not only associated with Les B. at the SACA, he is a cousin of the tall, skinny bloke in the 'Flying Scotsman' team. (Small world). Dan - you have to be in it next year.
• No wonder the 'Runaway Brides' all continued to look gorgeous - they each had 5 gowns for the trip. Strewth!
• Speaking of gorgeous, the Fairy Girls stayed gorgeous throughout. (According to Doctor Who, "They're also so cool").
• The 'Tardis' will be coming home by road with Dallas and Chris via Coober Pedy tomorrow night. Back in town on Monday evening.
• No Channel 10 video (that I could see anyways tonight). The focus was on the Crows big win over West Coast.
• Russ is planning to make all his photos available in the coming week. We will put them on Picasa Web and link them to this blog so everyone can enjoy the pix we have so badly wanted to see all this week.
• With Russ's help, we will get the edited video of the start, and all the video he has taken on to You Tube progressively and provide links.
• As for the future, we will keep this Blog up for a while and then make a decision on what to do as the effort shifts to gearing up for the next Bash.
• Thanks to all the readers out there who have enjoyed the Blog. Some even provided feedback which has been appreciated.

From the Doctors to all their supporters - stay safe, be happy and don't miss your next chance to do what you can for the kids through SA Variety.

(its been heaps of fun)

Nifty Nev Thomas

.... zzzzzchng ... zzzzzchng ... zzzzchng.... theme music fades out......

(Davos had fun too. He and his fiends will be back!)

Day 7 stop press

Steak 'Sangers' in a Creek Bed - luxury

Well I have just received a late bulletin from the Doctors this Friday evening. The Doctors 'Who' as was expected have been up and out and about a little later than usual. (This being the final evening on the track). (You nearly missed my 'fade out' time guys).

I'll keep it short, but the Doctor's enjoyed the short and comfortable run with Doctor Who (Chris) at the helm today, Dr Who (Russ) navigating and Dr Who (Dallas) nagging. They stopped for a pleasant steak sandwich luncheon enroute at a creek crossing on the way, and mid afternoon made it into Glen Helen. They had about 3 hours day light on arrival, indeed, there was enough time and light to enjoy a splash in the local water hole - cold, refreshing, revealing !!!(Ugly)

The route over to Glen Helen today was very scenic as you might expect from a scan of the route on Google Earth. They Doctors got away by about 08:30 and I'm told Doctor Who (Chris) drove like an .... .... (something something edited to avoid negative feedback). The road and driving conditions were however very safe and there were no dramas on the way. (For the benefit of the drama Queens).

Now, as the for 'Tardis', the PA finally separated at its P and N junctions and it no longer knows its transistors from its Diacs, Thermistors and Zener Diodes. The theme music has come to an end and the Doctors Who have had to resort to talking to their alter egos. OMG -- How Zen is that???

Dinner tonight was a really great smorgasborg and more fun under the stars. We don't know what happened to the 'Assassins' but today is a significant day on their calendar (look it up). I hear from Russ that Les has let slip, our Son-in-law Daniel is known as 'Muddy' down at the SACA. Now, I wonder where they might have gotten that from? BTW, for the record, 'Muddy' and I enjoyed the cricket from the Oval this evening (up to the rain interruption), while waiting for the Doctor to call in.

So, short and sweet tonight. (Hi Karen - all OK? Leave a comment!). I hear all the mods are AOK so thats good news. The weather this evening up at Glen Helen is on the plus side of perfect. Just this one last night under the stars before the big convoy down the main road to the Alice and a fun day at the 'Henley-on-Todd' and a comfy night in a real bed in a local hotel.

Oh, and BTW - the Doctors were given the "Compass Award" tonight for the best stuff-up in navigation. (Refer back to Day One and the crazy path they followed up to the Ark). Congratulations guys.

Uhoh.... zzzzchng, zzzzchng, zzzzchng, (oh dear, the 'Tardis' is fading out). Maybe some more tomorrow.

Day 7 report

Sorry guys - by 10:00 pm Adelaide time Friday, nothing further heard via the trans-galactic Darlek blaster and reverse EM radiation didn't twingle their twangle. Sooooo - no news this evening. Sorryyy, but being their last night on the track I can also imagine they Doctors are well and truely distracted.

I can say however Jane Rielly's Channel 10 transmission tonight was a comprehensive treatment of the fun and games at Kings Creek Station, the surrounding ranges and this evening with all the 'Bashers' lined up at Glen Helen Resort. Oh, and didn't they all look lovely in their fancy gear this evening.

Oh and BTW, the 'Tardis' will be spinning and twirling with ease tomorrow. Main roads all the way and just 126 km to go to the Alice. They have to muster with all the other 'Bashers' (South Aussies and interstaters) at the Alice by 10:30 am.

Check in tomorrow evening.

Day 8 route

Curtin Springs - Alice Springs

(Click to enlarge image)

Day 7 route

Kings Creek Station - Gosse Bluff - Glen Helen Resort

(Click image to enlarge)

Day 6 report

HELLO MULGA PARK - YOU'RE NUMBER ONE !

Hurrah for Doctor Who. He used the 'sonic screw-driver' and fixed his inter-gallactic mobile communicator to such good effect, this evening's report was received 100% in the clear. No sign of the Darleks (they were on a nearby shed roof - more about that later), and a no drama day (for the Doctors at least) made for a relaxing chat.


So what's up Doc?


Well, first up, Doctor Who (Russell), and Doctor Who (Dallas), and Doctor Who (Chris) would like to send a VERY BIG HELLO to their new friends at Mulga Park, NT. They told me tonight meeting you was just about the best part of their trip up from Adelaide. They were so impressed that you use the Internet for school work because Russell and Dallas are Internet specialists and Bash Car 89 is sponsored in the Bash by some Internet companies. They told me you were all so friendly, and will look at this Blog. They very much hope you will leave a comment.

Doctor Who (Dallas) says "Hello" to the kids Mulga Park

Doctor Who (Russell) says "G'day to the mob a Mulga Park"

Doctor Who (Chris) says "Hi-de-ho to all the girls and boys at Mulga Park"

Thanks again from the Doctors - Who, by the way (pun intended) reported they earned an extra 1000 'Bash Dollars' for their kind attention to the wonderful kids at Mulga Park where they handed out Frisbies and other memorabilia to the kids standing by the road watching the cars go by. I'm told the Doctors are now up to $250k in the bank after starting with $60k, so they must be getting a few things right and winning some hearts.


Go you Doctors!


By all accounts, the 'Tardis' whirled and twirled back down the 'bitumen' from Kulgera early this morning, and then across the bush track to Mulga Park, and up to Curtin Springs via the 'Gunbarrel' without any drama, not too much discomfort, and a very pleasant morning was enjoyed by the crew. Dr Who (Dallas) was at the helm.


They arrived for lunch (steak, onions and salad) at Curtin Springs in good time to avoid the traffic jam on the petrol pumps. The last of the Victorian Bashers had just about finished (they went up the bitumen from Kulgera and then down the bitumen on the Uluru Rd so they got to Curtin Springs first). Anyways, the 'Tardis' was among the first of the South Australian 'Bashers' to arrive. Jane Rielly reported this evening there was quite a delay later with over 100 bash vehicles lining up for fuel.


The 'Tardis' appears to be just about ready for 'full-cycle' docking when it gets back to Adelaide. Today the Doctors found the main/reserve fuel tank switching had completely given up the ghost. They had to resort to transferring fuel manually from to the main tank and that looks like it will be the case all the way home. (Although I understand the 'Tardis' is coming home by rail from the Alice.)


The 'dust light' (rotating yellow beacon) switch also failed today. The Doctors now give the light the required ergs by resorting to twisting and untwisting the appropriate wires when required - ahhh, bush technology.


It was a relatively short and pleasant run from Curtin Springs to Kings Creek Station and I'm told the Doctors were among the first vehicles to arrive this evening. It was a gorgeous late afternoon, sunset and evening and our heros had a chance to enjoy a quad bike ride up the range and back for cocktails before dinner and then tuck in to steak, spuds, "spag bol" and salads. Tonight they actually get to sleep on grass. (Luxury)


The 'Tardis' this evening has been set up in the middle of the camping-ground, replete with blue strobe light. (Not sure how long that will last). I'm told the dark agents of the Darleks attacked the 'Tardis' (vehicle) and snipped the wires to the remaining good speaker (silcence, gorgeous silence). Ahhhh, but that will be easily fixed with the sonic screw driver. In revenge, the anti-agents of the Darlek agents surreptitiously kidnapped the Darleks and hid them on a nearby shed roof. They could be heard wailing "exterminate, exterminate" from across the desert flat, and in a moment of compassion, the Doctors Who recovered their old fiends and placed them strategically around the 'Tardis' (call box) for the evening.


The Doctors report they continue to wear their accustomed regalia as do pretty much all the other 'bashers' and the competitive spirit remains high. Everyone, NOTE everyone still looks gorgeous after all this time!!!

It seems the Victorian's headed off this afternoon ex Curtin Springs into the sunset (West towards Uluru), leaving the SA Mob to do their own thing at Kings Creek Station tonight. While the SA Mob are bound to using vehciles built prior to December 1974, the Vics are using more modern, lighter vehicles not so suited for dirt roads. As a consequence they stick mostly to the bitumen while our heros do the really 'hard yards'. (True blue South Aussies...)


Jane put a really good TV bulletin to air tonight with the 'Assasins' in the back-ground teamed up with some of the local females (camels). So funny. I wish I could put the video clip on the blog, but the copyright barrier is a killer. Sorry guys.


As we rounded off the call this evening, Dr Who (Russ) assurred me he, Dr Who (Dallas) and Dr Who (Chris) are all doing just fine, are still enjoying the event so much, and yet they are thinking of folks at home and send their love. The evening at Kings Creek Station is pleasantly cool, perfect for a good nights sleeping in the swag on the grass under an awesome canopy of stars. It will be hot showers, a 'pan-galactic gargle-blaster (or two) with coffee and some good swapping of yarns tonight.


WHO would want to be anywhere else? (Again, please excuse the awful pun intended).

Day 6 route

Kulgera - Curtin Springs - King Creek Station

(Click image to zoom)

Day 5 report

Doctor Who fans at Mintabe welcome the 'Tardis'

This evening's bulletin from the Doctors' Who was launched into space a short while ago from sunny, downtown Kulgera, just North of the South Australia / Northern Territory border. This electronic missive was caught yet again as a staccato of bursts and interruptions but enough detail was gathered to suggest our heros have experienced yet another eventful day with breakdowns, getting bogged, faux pas, rescue missions, unexpected fans and feedback and a wine and cheese moment.

Ah - the fickle finger of fate has yet again fiendishly flicked our famous friends more misfortune as we have come to expect. The 'Tardis', (Bash Car 89) this time suffered a radiator leak. Fortunately the MW Team (mobile workshop) were able to get the radiator out, do a solder repair job and re-instal the radiator without too much drama or time lost. Also, the 'Tardis' is continuing to have problems with the main/reserve fuel tank switching with the change-over solenoid overheating. By the sound of things they have a work around. (Thank goodness for the 'sonic screw-driver'.)

Now, the Doctor's Who have asked (nay - implored) me to make a correction to an earlier bulletin regarding the Fairy Ladies who I described as looking fairly ragged (after a few days on the road). Shock, horror. How dare we say that! Assuming fair wear and tear was wrong. I am assurred that is not the case. The Doctor's tell me the fairies always looked gorgeous, and now they look quite gorgeous and are getting more gorgeous as time rolls by, so there! How silly of me - something must have been lost in translation with all the Darlek speak and crook comms. (Gee its good to know the blog actually has some readers)

It seems the present placings in the contest for the "Most Annoying Theme Tune" are, No. 1 'Jim's Mowing', No. 2 the 'Assasins', No. 3 'Doctor Who'. I am told the themes are played endlessly, and are mostly a self-inflicted penance, or a vain attempt to outdo the competition, or just to be corney.

Anyways, the 'Tardis' whirled and twirled its way acros the desert landscape today with the theme music really impressing the local kids at Mintabie. They all turned out to greet the Doctor Who's and were pleased to receive handout t-shirts, frisbies, some sweets and join in the general melee and photo opportunities. One local lad was such a big Doctor Who fan, an autographed photo was arranged and the Doctors handed over their carboard cutout K9. There will be a few nice, cheesey photos for the blog site next week.

We hear the track North of Mintabie was pretty bad with many cars getting bogged today in the bulldust. The Doctors were re-directed onto the Stuart Highway and were able to make Kulgera in relative comfort and could kick back and relax with a light repast of cheese, crackers and champagne. Earlier, they had rescued Car 888 (Barry and John Noble) from the dust and provided them with a 3km tow. Well done.

So, as our heros are probably relaxing with a coldie or two, and are enjoying the company of other 'bashers' (including the Victorian 'bashers' who are also in Kulgera tonight), let me assure you all is well, and the Doctors are enjoying the experience very much. And the faux pax - well not too much detail but I can say there is a certain Doctor Who with a red face today after giving (well intentioned) road safety advice to someone who turned out to be a senior bash official. hahahaha - isn't that the sort of thing Doctor Who always does, no respect for authority, rush in where angels fear to tread. Good on yer fellas.

ps. The TV clip has been removed - copyright is the killjoy

Day 5 route

Painted Desert - Cadney - Mintabie - Kulgera

Day 4 report

William Creek to Painted Desert via the Oodnadatta Track and Mt Margaret Station

The Doctors reported in on time this evening via their crappy communicator to reveal they have landed the 'Tardis' in the "Painted Desert" (just North of a particularly pretty rock). They are presently trying to sell the Sat Phone for a carton of Cooper's Pale Ale but nobody is interested because the phone is so crappy and the ale is so good. Anyways, that all to the good. The tip is the Bash controller's are pretty strict on any potential driving of "Tardis's" under the affluence of inkahole.

Where was I? Oh yes, after refuelling at William Creek, the 'Tardis' followed the old Ghan railway along the Oodnadatta track for most of the day with Dr Who (Chris) at the helm. (Dianne and I can remember doing that trip along that rail line back in 1970 with Russell, on board the actual Ghan train. Nearly 40 years ago. OMG!!!)

For the record, today's mechanical event (they had to have another) was the electrical selector for main and reserve fuel tanks burnt out. There was not so much excitement today with that event (as there might be if the 'Tardis' was truely airborne), but electrical repairs were necessary. With much dexterity, the Doctors were soon underway once more. (Electrical fire in the fuel system - now THAT would have had ME worried!)

A catered lunch was provided at Mt Margaret Station with ... hiss ... crackle .... click ... and orange juice. (We can only guess???)

On the up side, the Doctors arrived safely at the Painted Desert camp site this evening to a very welcome feed of fish, chips, salad and several cold beers.

Also on the up side, the Doctors noted they have been equipped with a new antenna (strangely similar to a wire coat-hangar supplied by the Jim's Mowing guys). Boy - will those Jims Mowing guys have something to answer for when they get home!

The Doctors really hope you happened to see the segment on Channel 10 this evening presented by Jane Rielly. They were really chuffed that it made it to air. It was of course taken yesterday morning when they set up the police box and handed out the Dr Tims. We all got quite a laugh to see Chris on TV this evening emerging from the 'Tardis' with quite a look of surprise on his face (you ham actor Chris!) I wonder if he knew we were able to see straight through the 'Tardis' to the distant horizon on the other side? Anyways, it was hysterical to see Dr Who (Russell) staggering across the landscape with a buxom wench, and of course seeing the lonely soul ('Where's Wally?') mooching along the distant horizon with the support of a Zimmer frame was truely Montypythonesque. Well done.

The GPS logging is no longer possible - the bag of cables really is missing apparently, so it can't be recharged. If you are passing by 15km North of Orroroo, would you mind keeping your eye open. (Now we will never know where they really went).

So there you are, the sun has gone down on Day 4. All is well on Planet Earth (well, Central Far North, South Australia anyways) and Dr Who is on holidays and having the time of his (their) life(s).

Oh - and B.T.W. all the commercial video and my own footage from Saturday has been edited and I am trying (desperately) to get it uploaded to You Tube or similar without the bloody Internet crashing mid stream - so hang in there guys.

ps. Dr Who (Russ) called back later this evening to say he has had positive feedback re this blog via Sat Phone! Well ain't that just magic! So, hows about leaving some comments on the blog site too for me and every one else if you don't mind - share it around!!!! Click on the Comments link. See you tomorrow with another update.

Day 4 Route

William Creek - Mt Barry Station - Painted Desert

(Click to enlarge image)

Day 3 report

Prawns, oysters and cool, crisp dry white wine in the desert

This Monday evening's blog from the 'Tardis' via Dr Who (Russell) and his trusty inter-gallactic communicator (Satphone) was a rather disjointed affair with many dropouts, callbacks and garbling of voices that sounded like the Darleks were on line. However, here is the news...

The three Doctors Who and their compatriots have made it safety in to William Creek and the Tardis is presently set down on the lush green (not) main straight of the Mt William race course. Russell reports his swag is immediately adjacent to the winning post - and to the devil with any dingo looking for a pole to pee on in that desolate landscape.

It has by all accounts been another fun day of voyaging, replete with unwanted excitement, technical hitches, media madness, and up market dining. Let me tell you more.

The Doctors got away from the front of the grid nice and early this morning in order to set up the 'Tardis' police box and Darleks ahead of their fellow bashers. This proved their true worth as Doctor's Who, and they waylaid each passing Bash vehicle and passed out cans of Dr Tims, provided courtesy of Coopers Brewery. (Love their work). Naturally, this generosity was well received - not withstanding the clouds of bulldust that enveloped our troopers.

This morning's driver was Dr Who (Dallas) and hooray for his steady hand, cool nerve and quick response at the helm. (He had his fellow crew members hearts a-pumping, just like as if Billy Piper suddenly appeared in the Tardis).

This evening's Channel 10 segment didn't come through (maybe the same satellite problem that we experienced) so no news from Jane Rielly. Russ did mention however that Jane and the camera crew did an interview with the Doctors out in the middle of the bush/desert and it probably would make for fun viewing. Apparently Jane's knowledge of Dr Who is next to zip, and she kept on referring to the Tardis as a phone box, and the Darleks as used vacuum cleaners. (Philistine). Anyways, even if we don't get to see it direct on TV, the video may become available later, and apparently a lot of the other bashers stopped to take photos. Stay tuned for updates to the blog after folks get back home.

The Bashers followed the dog fence for about 100k and Russ tells me they used the police siren most of the way which gave them a lot of fun. He said the Dr Who theme music has been playing all the way - on the advice of Peter Howle (strategist). (Russ has resigned to having it ringing in his head for the next three months) Playing the theme continuously worked pretty well until the left speaker fell off the Tardis (exhaustion) and has been lost forever. They persisted with the right speaker into the evening until Peter came over and turned it off. When questioned he muttered something about an old bushie and the chances of sticking a 6 inch speaker into someones fundamental orifice. Hmmmm....

Oh, and BTW, apropos maintaining the theme - yes, Jims Mowing (two cars) continue to play their theme. By God, they must be just about bonkers by now. The Fairy Ladies are still in costume, as are most others, but by golly they are looking fairly ragged. The brides are still in bridal gowns - they do have change out units, but they get to look pretty ratty fairly quickly (and rather orangey/ochre).

This afternoon's helmsman in the Tardis was Dr Who (of course), i.e. Chris and he navigated the team onto a desert landscape where everyone enjoyed prawns, oysters, and cool crisp wine at Anna Creek Station. I can bet that went down a treat.

While I don't have the details of this evenings repast and festivities, I can tell the boys are still in the groove and enjoying themselves immensely. The bash car is still holding together and despite swimming in bulldust at times, they're all comfortable, well, and send their love and greetings.

In closing, Russ reported a cool, still, clear and wonderous evening under the stars with the party going full belt and the beat of the bass rolling across the desert. Click, crackle..... hiss.... that's all folks

Day 3 route

Murnpeowie - Marree - William Creek

Day 2 report - AOK and having fun

Star log date 16 Aug 2008. 21:00 hours bulletin from the 4th Time Lord, Dr Who (Russell Thomas), via intergallactic interaction of electric and magnetic fields juxtaposed into intelligent patterns of digital information (aka Sat phone contact). Location Murnpeowie, South Australia.


The 'Tardis' launched at 09:05 out of Arkaroola with the 5th Time Lord, Dr Who (Chris Reynolds) at the helm. It was a short 75km drive to lunch at Mt Freeling Station, coming down out of the Northern Flinders Ranges. It was slow and steady as she goes, and Chris eased the 'Tardis' into Mt Freeling Station, on schedule and without mishap.


After a refreshing lunch break, the 'Tardis' launched again for Murnpeowie via devious routes including some of the Strzelecki Track. We are not sure but we believe the 9th Time Lord, Dr Who (Dallas Newton) was at the helm. Apparently the track was mostly bulldust and it took some good hard driving, but they arrived about 17:30 with enough light to set up camp, and join with everyone for a pasta dinner courtesty of 'Fasta Pasta'.


Unlike the wild weather being experienced in Adelaide today, they boys have enjoyed a fine and clear day, although it is still a bit windy with raised dust. The sky this evening at Murnpeowie is brilliantly clear and festooned with the stars that you can never see with the light pollution in the big cities. Entertainment tonight included presentation of 10 year awards - including Jane Rielly (Channel 10) and Karaoke. (OMG - out in the middle of the desert is probably a good place for that).


The beers were cold and welcome. They boys have some really good photos. They are looking forward to a refreshing shower and a reasonably early night, ready for an early start tomorrow. Russell reports he may have lost a bag of cables during the mishap yesterday with having to turn the car out to get to the spare axle, so that may put paid to being able to charge cameras, and the gps data logger, so fingers crossed that it turns up.


All in all, a very successful day by the sounds of things and they boys are now well and truely in the groove and enjoying the outing very much.

Day 2 - route

Arkaroola - Mt Freeling Station - Murnpeowie Station

(via Strzelecki Track)

(Click image to enlarge)

Message for Phoebe

The three Doctors Who left Adelaide with a special message for Phoebe who is in hospital right now. They especially asked this one be displayed for you Phoebe.

Day 1 report - turbulent voyage follows exciting start

The three Doctor's Who finally reported in this Sunday morning by Satphone after a tense wait at blog central in Adelaide. The short version is they successfully completed the first leg of their voyage across the South Australian outback, arriving late and somewhat exhausted in Arkaroola last night at about 9:00 pm after an eventful day.

Back at the start line, there were plenty of friends and family to see Bash Car 89 (the 'Tardis') off the start grid. It was a beautiful morning, warm, clear and everyone was wound up with the colour of the cars and costumes and the excitement of the moment. Car 89 cleared the starting gate at about 9:30 am, attended by dutiful 'Darleks' in tow under the watchful eye of Dr Who (Chris) with Dr Who (Russell) at the helm and Dr Who (Dallas) navigating.

A link to all the photos will be posted shortly and a video clip will be on Youtube later today.

On the road. Dr Who (Russell) reports the first stop was Mallala for a tank top up. Shortly after that there was a minor mishap when the height flag on the bow came adrift. (An omen). They missed going through Clare as the route through Armagh joins in Clare to the North of town, and this came as a disappointment to our hero's who hold Clare as their Xanadu of red-wine.

15km North of Orroroo they all got quite a fright when a rear axle snapped. The 'Tardis' threw quite a 'wobbly' and fish-tailed down the road at 100km/h before coming off the road backwards. In Dr Who parlance, the 'Tardis' hit unexpected turblence when the integrated ferric motion modulator experienced molecular separation causing the navigation system to lose lock in the 2nd dimension (only, fortunately). Three Dr's Who uttered explicatives not previously heard on the TV Series.

The support crew caught up with the Drs about 30 minutes later and a spare motion modulator (axle) was fitted. (Good thing they had a spare or it would have all been over there and then).

Much to their displeasure, the delay meant they missed out on lunch (Ye Gods, what these guys have to put up with).

During the afternoon Dr Who (Dallas) lost his intergallactic communications device (mobile phone) but the telepathic communication system continued to work well. (The other Dr's Who, knew his mood was not good). To everyones delight, said phone reappeared mysteriously wedged in a crevasse which turn out to be Dallas's ass. He had been sitting on the thing all the time. Shame someone didn't ring him up.

Midst the confusion of the moment, the 'Tardis' (Bash Car 89) entered into a time and space mix with the fleet of Victorian Bash Cars and the navigation system (2nd dimension again) was thrown into disarray. Tracks were followed that lead to locked gates, fraudulent Bash Cars from across the border laid smoke-screens of dust and the navigator was in a tizz trying to find the way to Arkaroola and a cold beer.

As the sun went down on our intrepid hero's, they rounded off the day finally on the right track but several hours behind. Amid turbulent weather, threatening rain, lots of lightning and thunder they arrived at the Ark around 9:00 pm and just in time for the last of the evening meal. The tent and swags were unpacked and they were finally able to collapse by about mid-night.

In true Dr Who fashion Russell, Chris and Dallas fought their way through thick and thin and finally won through at the end of the day to a heroic arrival to claim yet another drama filled stanza would work out for the best.

Day 1 - route 570km

Adelaide - Orroroo - Johnburg - Arkaroola

(Click map for a detailed view)

Car89 - alter ego "TARDIS"

Caught out during a momentary lapse of concentration last weekend. The Car89 crew allowed the true nature of their conveyance to be exposed. Yes, it REALLY IS a TARDIS. Although it was not possible to see inside, rumour has it the boys were entertaining the entire Adelaide Thunderbirds Netball team, complete with fully stocked bar and Jimmy Barnes band.

THANKS and INVITE

Supporters of Car i8i9 (1^st) and Variety SA (21^st),

Thanks for all your help, we achieved a Silver door Panel for raising over $22k for Variety SA – the Children‘s charity.

Come down to see ⁸91+ cars leave for Alice Springs this Saturday (15^th) at Victoria Square at around ishi8-ishi9 am

( the Car 89 one? For our ABC Shop and Radio (891) supporters) )

We are near the front and the back due to the amount raised, just after the ten Gold panel doors and a few silver,

Look out for three Dr Who’s ??? and 2 Daleks and 1 K-⁸9 dog collar ?

Many give-aways for the children and the famous Rotary Breakfast BBQ in the Vic Square plus entertainment and more , cars roll out over the hour.

If you can’t make it to Victoria Square we will be travelling north on King William Street onto Main North Road past Gepps Cross to Two Wells Turn right to Mallala left to Balaklava, Blyth, Clare, James Town, Orroroo right to Johnburg for lunch.

Staying at the All seasons Oasis Hotel 89 521 444 in Alice Springs on the Saturday, 22 August.2009, if we get there ?

Yoh Ho Silver and away ??? from Dr Who ( 4^th) Russell Thomas, Dr Who ( 5^th) Chris Reynolds, Dr Who ( 9^th) Dallas Newton.

(PS : the Doctor Who’s are not real Doctors only Associated by eating Subway together ?)

Regards,

Chris Reynolds.

CREST Constructions.

INVITATION to the Start Line - Victoria Square

You are invited!

The start of what is going to be a brilliant week away! Bashers will arrive between 6.45am and 7.15am to line up (our special Gold and Silvers will be there no later than 7.00am to ensure they can take their places at the front of the field). Car89 is one of the 'Silvers'.

Entrance to the startline

The entrance to the start line is from the Wakefield Street. Cars will arrive from the Pulteney Street end and turn left in to Victoria Square. This is the only access available.

Breakfast will be served from 7.00am. Rotary will be putting on a sausage sizzle for families for a $2 donation which will be available from 7.30am.

We have some fabulous entertainment lined up and a very special appeal presentation.

Friends and families are invited to come and see the Bash off or if they can’t make it to Victoria Square will be travelling north on King William Street onto Main North Road past Gepps Cross to Two Wells Turn right to Mallala left to Balaklava, Blyth, Clare, James Town, Orroroo right to Johnburg for lunch.

Other ways to keep track of the Bash

Hi all,

We are very fortunate to have ‘The Advertiser’ joining the SA Bash again this year. Together with the wonderful support of Channel 10, it will ensure family, friends & sponsors are able to keep track of the Bash and share in the many wonderful moments.

The Advertiser team will be sending stories through daily from the Bash track, with up to one page of Confidential devoted to the event. They will also be regularly uploading pictures from the bash to AdelaideNow and encouraging those bashers that have the necessary equipment, to upload some of their own photos (if you do choose to upload your own pictures can you please ensure alcohol and cigarettes do not feature). With two Advertiser photographers on the Bash this year we can expect more pictures to be included on the website and in the paper and extended galleries on the colourful bashers. Technology permitting, ‘The Advertiser’ is also hoping to upload snippets and scenery from the tracks to AdelaideNow to keep readers up to date on exactly what we are doing and where we are. There will also be pointers to the bash stories both online and in the paper leading readers to our variety feature page.

So please spread the word to family and friends and encourage them to check the paper and logo onto adelaidenow.com.au and to make sure they watch Jane Reilly’s weather segments on Channel 10 nightly.

Kind regards,

Nicole Haack

Chair Marketing & Communications Commitee

SA Variety

Bash Car 89 Profile

Car 89:
1971 XY Ford

Crew:

(Dr Now) Dallas Newton (Dr Who)

(Dr 70's) Russell Thomas (Dr What)

(Dr 80's) Chris Reynolds (Dr Where)

WHO may you ask is Car 89? Well our motto is "do not ask WHAT Variety can do for you but ask WHAT you can do for Variety". "WHERE may you find Car 89"?

Yes we are Who, What and Where, three VIRGIN Time Lords lost from the 70's, 80's and Now! Our normal mode of transport, the Tardis missed a turn on the galactic internet super highway and materialised as the Internode V8 Falcon, destined for the SA Variety Bash during a Global Financial Crisis.

The CAR 89 Team consists of :

Dr Now, Dallas Newton representing i8 & i9. He is an expat based in Melbourne and a company Director who "loves the Internet". He is used to travelling through multiple time zones, waking up in different locations and saving all manner of things? He is also called Dr WHO "Designated Morning Driver". He will make sure there is no dust in the car or sabotage from other Bashers (natives). Catch phrase "Who said I'm Dumb".

Next Dr 70's, Russell Thomas, a knock-about bloke from Adelaide, who represents a National retail chain as its Head Network Systems Manager. He's not your usual 'John Thomas' but the long drop type! Also known as Dr WHAT, "Designated Afternoon driver" - Car Ballast, head bottle opener and washer has limited tasks but won't bite. Catch phrase, "What's up Doc".

Finally Chris Reynolds, Dr 80's (because of his own wardrobe) the compliance officer, brains and looks. He is used to constructing roads, not destroying them! Also known as Dr WHERE, "Designated Captain", Navigator, skilled race driver and will keep the team steady during crisis's and will execute like a skilled surgeeon all the remaining ADULT tasks.

Thanks to all supporters of Variety, all other entrants and especially Car 89 supporters -

Internode ("We love the Internet"),

ABC Shops and Internet sales,

i8 & i9 (IT People Programmes and Projects),

Datatech Australia (Data Communication & Electrical Specialists),

CIRCOM (Voice & Data Specialists),

Wright Street Mechanical Repairs (Our Mechanics),

Signs Here (Signage),

Page Data (Network Solutions),

Yatala Prison (Food & Hospitality),

ADELIN (Property Development),

CROWNCO (Project Finance),

CREST (Civil Constructions),

Rainbow Heart-Sky Florist and Gifts (Hahndorf),

Divine Cupcakes (Hahndorf)