Water water everywhere!

Thursday Dec 4^th 1930;

Got the car all ready this morning but decided to wait another day. Plane started out west this morning but 60 miles out struck a big storm and had to return. Made another attempt this afternoon. Spent the afternoon and evening writing.

Friday Sept 5^th 1930:

Up early and all ready to leave when Wandangi mailman came back and said that no hope of getting far along the road. Thought even then I might try as the mailman makes a lot out of a little but eventually decided to wait another day. Did some writing. Visited the hospital.

Saturday Dec 6^th 1930:

Picked up a ‘gate-opener’ and ‘pusher’ this morning and set out. Called at the ‘Don’ selection 15 miles out and had smoko etc. Went on and found Weroona

Creek easily crossable. No trouble till came within 3 miles of Buckley River. Had to do some detours to miss boggy patches. Crossed the first 3 channels of the Buckley alright after a little bit of work on them and then came to the main channel. Terribly boggy here and the banks at the crossing silted up. River fairly high. We thought we could manage the crossing if we could first get through the 30 yards of bog that was knee deep. Cut down a tree and filled in with the branches one bad spot and then tried it. Got nearly through it all, the front wheels being on hard solid ground, when the back ones went down and buried themselves and the back axle. Tried to lever the wheels up but it was hard work and had to clean out all round first with our hands as the shovel was no good in the stocky mud. Got them up a bit and tried to drive out when something broke and we were done. Thought it was the clutch or the gears but could do nothing with the car where it was. Hoped the mailman would be along any minute, so washed as much mud off as possible and boiled the billy and ate and drank. No sign of any car so decided to walk back and see if anyone coming. Kept walking and a few miles came to where rain had fallen so had to go back barefooted. Walked back top Weroona Ck, 11 miles without a stop. ‘Red Dick’ camped here and so had a drink of tea and all he had to eat was damper and sugar and we made short work of it. A half a mile away a black and his gin and pic’s were camped so we went up to him and asked him to drive us another 11 to the Don selection. Said he would in the morning as it was then too late ( being 9 pm) so we made ready to camp with Dick and be eaten by mosquitoes. Were just settling down when up drove old Zulu and said he would take us there. Hopped on and had a great moonlight drive in a buggy and pair up to the ‘Don’. Roused them out of bed and Mr Campbell got his car out and drove us into town. Got in at 2 am and I was feeling very weary and tired and sore. Had a shower and turned in.

Sunday Dec 7^th 1930:

Up at daybreak and arranged for Jack Miller to take us down to the car in his buggy and pull us out. Had breakfast and left at 8 am. Mailman followed behind us. Got there without trouble amnd after an hour’s work got the car out. The mailman went through on our tracks then and eventually got over the river. Had a look at my bus then and after a while discovered the damage was in the back wheel where the key pin was broken. Took the w\heel off and made a job of it so as to get us home. Had some lunch and a clean up in the river and returned. Got changed and slept until late in the evening.

Monday Dec 8^th 1930:

Took the car to the river this morning and washed it. Did some writing. Sent away for a new part for the car. Did some reading.

Tuesday Dec 9^th 1930:

Weather terribly hot although no further rain. Lazed about doing a few odd jobs.

Wednesday Dec 10^th 1930:

Mail day. Ordinary and air. Spent most of the day reading letters and papers. Got the car ready for the road again. Called up at the hospital and saw the patients.

Wet season ?

Wednesday Nov 12^th 1930:

Put the car in dock this morning. Something is wrong inside with the clutch, so have started to take it to pieces and see what is the matter. It is rather a big job as all the back portion of undercarriage has to be first disconnected. Went up to the hospital this afternoon and performed a baptismal ceremony. Baptising Patrick Aloysius, the son of Paddy and Doris O’Reilly. Mrs O’Reilly has been very ill, being in hospital since the baby was born about 2 months ago. She seems to be improving now though. A.I.M plane came out today bringing Dr Rev Flynn. Met Flynn and had a yarn to him. Went to a meeting in the hall at night when Flynn put before the hospital committee a proposal that there should be cooperation between local Dr and A.I.M Dr and that local subscriptions should help pay for A.I.M doctor. All agreed that it would be a good thing to retain A.I.M plane and Dr but how it is to be worked is another question far from settled.

Thursday Nov 13^th 1930:

A.I.M plane returned this morning to Cloncurry. Had a full day myself on the car and got everything to pieces but found nothing wrong only plenty of dirt. Cleaned everything out well and started to put her together again. Went for a swim before tea and a school concert practice afterwards.

Friday Nov 14^th 1930:

Finished the car today and she goes. Not a screen or a bolt left over and the fault no longer exists. Very pleased with myself. Went for a swim to wash off all the dirt. Forgot the airmail closed this afternoon so got no letters away.

Saturday Nov 15^th 1930:

Did some writing and tidying up this morning. 5 of us in Synotts car went shooting this afternoon. Did better than last week bagging 15 ducks and 2 turkeys. Enjoyed the afternoon.

Sunday Nov 16^th 1930:

Had S.S with tte usual large number of children present. Did some visiting around the town and arranged for a service at night. A fair number out at the service, although many more could have been present. Weather hot and sultry. Black clouds hanging about. Went for a spin in Reilly’s car before retiring.

Monday Nov 17^th 1930:

Another hot day. Did some writing and reading and cleaning up. Went for a swim and it was great. Went up and saw the patients at the hospital. Found that Father O’Twomey had been up and had acted very despicably toward a sick patient whose baby I recently baptized and whose husband is nominally a R.C. All are up in arms as the woman could easily have been upset by what he said, which would have been very serous in her condition.

Tuesday Nov 18^th 1930:

Up before the sun this morning and greased and oiled the car and packed my port (?) before breakfast. Left straight afterwards with Dr Lawe for Mt Isa. A hot tiring trip. Stopped for a yarn with some drovers by the way. Put up at the hotel. Made the icecreams and squashes look silly. It is great to get a drink in Isa for 6 pence which costs 1 shilling in Camooweal. Wished I was a camel so as could have enough to do me for a few months.

Wednesday Nov 19^th 1930:

Got up this morning just soon enough to get down to the dining room before breakfast was off. Spent the morning in the purchasing of and being shown the workings of a Kodascope and Cine Kodak. Will be great doings out west now. Did some shopping and other business. At night went around to Sherman’s and baptized their infant son giving him the name of Geoffrey ‘Howard’. Hayes still in Isa but is looking for a transfer. Went to Synod and should not have, but letter did not reach Isa until after he had gone.

Thursday Nov 20^th 1930:

Up at 5 am and left Isa at 5.40 am. Had a hard job to awaken Doc. Called in at Yelvertoft station on the way out for a couple of hours. Went down to the yards and became interested in watching young horses being caught and branded. Had a clean up after getting home and went for a swim. Thought we were going to get a storm but although plenty all round, Camooweal missed. Went to an entertainment given by a traveling concert party, not too bad. Set up and tried the Kodascope in my room here and she went very well.

Friday Nov 21^st 1930:

Got on to some writing today and got several letters away by air mail. Went up to the school for religious intruction and called on the patients at the hospital. Went to a school practice at night and the kids are woeful, nearly as bad as the ones who are training them.

Saturday Nov 22^nd 1930:

Intended going to Wandangi today but storms threatening all round and the Buckley River being in flood put me off. A storm came up after lunch and after we had all been blinded with dust we had 75 points of rain. Cooled things off a bit. Larkins plane left this morning for Chrleville where a new plane from Melbourne will meet and be brought back. River is still good for swimming.

Sunday Nov 23^rd 1930:

A very lazy day. Had S.S this morning with a good muster but storms and storms threatening put out of mind a Church service. Of course had there been a dance on it would have been a different thing.

Monday Nov 24^th 1930:

A very hot day. Stormy looking. Busy day with the pen and finalizing accounts in connection with recent carnival. Had a kiddies concert practice at night.

Tuesday Nov 25^th 1930:

A hot muggy day, culminating in a cyclonic storm at night. Was over at children’s practice when storm worked up and all had to leave hurriedly and only got home when wind hit us with terrific force. Fortunately did not last long, although while it did last things were flying, only very little damage done. 80 points of rain fell. Wednesday

Nov 26^th 1930:

Still hot and close. Very steamy. Busy today getting ready for a 21^st birthday party.

Miss E Reilly’s. Nice party at night with plenty of good things to eat. Felt rather unwell at finish.

Thursday Nov 27^th 1930:

Spent the morning and part of the afternoon in erecting a stage at the hall for the concert. Weather still hot. Attended a meeting. Had a full dress rehearsal at night. Storms all round.

Friday Nov 28^th 1930:

Rain started this morning after breakfast and continued all day. Mud, glorious mud everywhere. No chance of holding school sports so were postponed. Everybody well indoors all day.

Saturday Nov 29^th 1930:

No rain today but still plenty mud. Sports put off another day. Rain not far away though. Quinn the ‘headman’ in the concert went off this morning and so left things in a mess. Got all the children together this afternoon and put them through everything with Miss Synnott at the piano. Decided to hold the concert as advertised and it went off remarkably well. A record crowd at the hall and everyone thoroughly enjoyed ecery item. ‘Soot and the Fairies’ broughtb great applause. We were all well satisfied with our efforts.

Sunday Nov 30^th 1930:

Had a full muster at S.S this morning but had to finish early as all the kiddies wante to go to the ‘drome to give a hearty send off to Mr Jensen who has been transferred to the Maryborough school. As it still looks like rain the folk decided to hold school sports this afternoon while it is dry, and they went alright. Had service at night but not a record attendance.

Moday Dec 1^st 1930:

Got to work this morning and dismantled stage and other hangings and carted timber back. Had a meeting at night to finalize concert.

Tuesday Dec 2^nd 1930:

Got to work on the car, changing wheels. Tyres and fixing brakes etc. If it does not rain will start for Wandangie on Thursday. Mailman who left last week for Wandangi returned today having only got 30 miles on the way. Had a meeting tonight in connection with farewell presentation to Mr Jensen. No rain as yet but by look of things it is not far away. Days and nights are fearfully hot.

Wednesday Dec 3^rd 1930:

Rain came on this morning and continued practically all day. No hope of getting away for a couple of days now. Mail got in at lunch time and also plane a little later. Spent the day reading and writing.

Thursday Dec 4^th 1930;

Got the car all ready this morning but decided to wait another day. Plane started out west this morning but 60 miles out struck a big storm and had to return. Made another attempt this afternoon. Spent the afternoon and evening writing.

Wednesday Nov 12^th 1930:

Put the car in dock this morning. Something is wrong inside with the clutch, so have started to take it to pieces and see what is the matter. It is rather a big job as all the back portion of undercarriage has to be first disconnected. Went up to the hospital this afternoon and performed a baptismal ceremony. Baptising Patrick Aloysius, the son of Paddy and Doris O’Reilly. Mrs O’Reilly has been very ill, being in hospital since the baby was born about 2 months ago. She seems to be improving now though. A.I.M plane came out today bringing Dr Rev Flynn. Met Flynn and had a yarn to him. Went to a meeting in the hall at night when Flynn put before the hospital committee a proposal that there should be cooperation between local Dr and A.I.M Dr and that local subscriptions should help pay for A.I.M doctor. All agreed that it would be a good thing to retain A.I.M plane and Dr but how it is to be worked is another question far from settled.

Thursday Nov 13^th 1930:

A.I.M plane returned this morning to Cloncurry. Had a full day myself on the car and got everything to pieces but found nothing wrong only plenty of dirt. Cleaned everything out well and started to put her together again. Went for a swim before tea and a school concert practice afterwards.

Friday Nov 14^th 1930:

Finished the car today and she goes. Not a screen or a bolt left over and the fault no longer exists. Very pleased with myself. Went for a swim to wash off all the dirt. Forgot the airmail closed this afternoon so got no letters away.

Saturday Nov 15^th 1930:

Did some writing and tidying up this morning. 5 of us in Synotts car went shooting this afternoon. Did better than last week bagging 15 ducks and 2 turkeys. Enjoyed the afternoon.

Sunday Nov 16^th 1930:

Had S.S with tte usual large number of children present. Did some visiting around the town and arranged for a service at night. A fair number out at the service, although many more could have been present. Weather hot and sultry. Black clouds hanging about. Went for a spin in Reilly’s car before retiring.

Monday Nov 17^th 1930:

Another hot day. Did some writing and reading and cleaning up. Went for a swim and it was great. Went up and saw the patients at the hospital. Found that Father O’Twomey had been up and had acted very despicably toward a sick patient whose baby I recently baptized and whose husband is nominally a R.C. All are up in arms as the woman could easily have been upset by what he said, which would have been very serous in her condition.

Tuesday Nov 18^th 1930:

Up before the sun this morning and greased and oiled the car and packed my port (?) before breakfast. Left straight afterwards with Dr Lawe for Mt Isa. A hot tiring trip. Stopped for a yarn with some drovers by the way. Put up at the hotel. Made the icecreams and squashes look silly. It is great to get a drink in Isa for 6 pence which costs 1 shilling in Camooweal. Wished I was a camel so as could have enough to do me for a few months.

Wednesday Nov 19^th 1930:

Got up this morning just soon enough to get down to the dining room before breakfast was off. Spent the morning in the purchasing of and being shown the workings of a Kodascope and Cine Kodak. Will be great doings out west now. Did some shopping and other business. At night went around to Sherman’s and baptized their infant son giving him the name of Geoffrey ‘Howard’. Hayes still in Isa but is looking for a transfer. Went to Synod and should not have, but letter did not reach Isa until after he had gone.

Thursday Nov 20^th 1930:

Up at 5 am and left Isa at 5.40 am. Had a hard job to awaken Doc. Called in at Yelvertoft station on the way out for a couple of hours. Went down to the yards and became interested in watching young horses being caught and branded. Had a clean up after getting home and went for a swim. Thought we were going to get a storm but although plenty all round, Camooweal missed. Went to an entertainment given by a traveling concert party, not too bad. Set up and tried the Kodascope in my room here and she went very well.

Friday Nov 21^st 1930:

Got on to some writing today and got several letters away by air mail. Went up to the school for religious intruction and called on the patients at the hospital. Went to a school practice at night and the kids are woeful, nearly as bad as the ones who are training them.

Saturday Nov 22^nd 1930:

Intended going to Wandangi today but storms threatening all round and the Buckley River being in flood put me off. A storm came up after lunch and after we had all been blinded with dust we had 75 points of rain. Cooled things off a bit. Larkins plane left this morning for Chrleville where a new plane from Melbourne will meet and be brought back. River is still good for swimming.

Sunday Nov 23^rd 1930:

A very lazy day. Had S.S this morning with a good muster but storms and storms threatening put out of mind a Church service. Of course had there been a dance on it would have been a different thing.

Monday Nov 24^th 1930:

A very hot day. Stormy looking. Busy day with the pen and finalizing accounts in connection with recent carnival. Had a kiddies concert practice at night.

Tuesday Nov 25^th 1930:

A hot muggy day, culminating in a cyclonic storm at night. Was over at children’s practice when storm worked up and all had to leave hurriedly and only got home when wind hit us with terrific force. Fortunately did not last long, although while it did last things were flying, only very little damage done. 80 points of rain fell. Wednesday

Nov 26^th 1930:

Still hot and close. Very steamy. Busy today getting ready for a 21^st birthday party.

Miss E Reilly’s. Nice party at night with plenty of good things to eat. Felt rather unwell at finish.

Thursday Nov 27^th 1930:

Spent the morning and part of the afternoon in erecting a stage at the hall for the concert. Weather still hot. Attended a meeting. Had a full dress rehearsal at night. Storms all round.

Friday Nov 28^th 1930:

Rain started this morning after breakfast and continued all day. Mud, glorious mud everywhere. No chance of holding school sports so were postponed. Everybody well indoors all day.

Saturday Nov 29^th 1930:

No rain today but still plenty mud. Sports put off another day. Rain not far away though. Quinn the ‘headman’ in the concert went off this morning and so left things in a mess. Got all the children together this afternoon and put them through everything with Miss Synnott at the piano. Decided to hold the concert as advertised and it went off remarkably well. A record crowd at the hall and everyone thoroughly enjoyed ecery item. ‘Soot and the Fairies’ broughtb great applause. We were all well satisfied with our efforts.

Sunday Nov 30^th 1930:

Had a full muster at S.S this morning but had to finish early as all the kiddies wante to go to the ‘drome to give a hearty send off to Mr Jensen who has been transferred to the Maryborough school. As it still looks like rain the folk decided to hold school sports this afternoon while it is dry, and they went alright. Had service at night but not a record attendance.

Moday Dec 1^st 1930:

Got to work this morning and dismantled stage and other hangings and carted timber back. Had a meeting at night to finalize concert.

Tuesday Dec 2^nd 1930:

Got to work on the car, changing wheels. Tyres and fixing brakes etc. If it does not rain will start for Wandangie on Thursday. Mailman who left last week for Wandangi returned today having only got 30 miles on the way. Had a meeting tonight in connection with farewell presentation to Mr Jensen. No rain as yet but by look of things it is not far away. Days and nights are fearfully hot.

Wednesday Dec 3^rd 1930:

Rain came on this morning and continued practically all day. No hope of getting away for a couple of days now. Mail got in at lunch time and also plane a little later. Spent the day reading and writing.

Thursday Dec 4^th 1930;

Got the car all ready this morning but decided to wait another day. Plane started out west this morning but 60 miles out struck a big storm and had to return. Made another attempt this afternoon. Spent the afternoon and evening writing.

Wednesday Nov 12^th 1930:

Put the car in dock this morning. Something is wrong inside with the clutch, so have started to take it to pieces and see what is the matter. It is rather a big job as all the back portion of undercarriage has to be first disconnected. Went up to the hospital this afternoon and performed a baptismal ceremony. Baptising Patrick Aloysius, the son of Paddy and Doris O’Reilly. Mrs O’Reilly has been very ill, being in hospital since the baby was born about 2 months ago. She seems to be improving now though. A.I.M plane came out today bringing Dr Rev Flynn. Met Flynn and had a yarn to him. Went to a meeting in the hall at night when Flynn put before the hospital committee a proposal that there should be cooperation between local Dr and A.I.M Dr and that local subscriptions should help pay for A.I.M doctor. All agreed that it would be a good thing to retain A.I.M plane and Dr but how it is to be worked is another question far from settled.

Thursday Nov 13^th 1930:

A.I.M plane returned this morning to Cloncurry. Had a full day myself on the car and got everything to pieces but found nothing wrong only plenty of dirt. Cleaned everything out well and started to put her together again. Went for a swim before tea and a school concert practice afterwards.

Friday Nov 14^th 1930:

Finished the car today and she goes. Not a screen or a bolt left over and the fault no longer exists. Very pleased with myself. Went for a swim to wash off all the dirt. Forgot the airmail closed this afternoon so got no letters away.

Saturday Nov 15^th 1930:

Did some writing and tidying up this morning. 5 of us in Synotts car went shooting this afternoon. Did better than last week bagging 15 ducks and 2 turkeys. Enjoyed the afternoon.

Sunday Nov 16^th 1930:

Had S.S with tte usual large number of children present. Did some visiting around the town and arranged for a service at night. A fair number out at the service, although many more could have been present. Weather hot and sultry. Black clouds hanging about. Went for a spin in Reilly’s car before retiring.

Monday Nov 17^th 1930:

Another hot day. Did some writing and reading and cleaning up. Went for a swim and it was great. Went up and saw the patients at the hospital. Found that Father O’Twomey had been up and had acted very despicably toward a sick patient whose baby I recently baptized and whose husband is nominally a R.C. All are up in arms as the woman could easily have been upset by what he said, which would have been very serous in her condition.

Tuesday Nov 18^th 1930:

Up before the sun this morning and greased and oiled the car and packed my port (?) before breakfast. Left straight afterwards with Dr Lawe for Mt Isa. A hot tiring trip. Stopped for a yarn with some drovers by the way. Put up at the hotel. Made the icecreams and squashes look silly. It is great to get a drink in Isa for 6 pence which costs 1 shilling in Camooweal. Wished I was a camel so as could have enough to do me for a few months.

Wednesday Nov 19^th 1930:

Got up this morning just soon enough to get down to the dining room before breakfast was off. Spent the morning in the purchasing of and being shown the workings of a Kodascope and Cine Kodak. Will be great doings out west now. Did some shopping and other business. At night went around to Sherman’s and baptized their infant son giving him the name of Geoffrey ‘Howard’. Hayes still in Isa but is looking for a transfer. Went to Synod and should not have, but letter did not reach Isa until after he had gone.

Thursday Nov 20^th 1930:

Up at 5 am and left Isa at 5.40 am. Had a hard job to awaken Doc. Called in at Yelvertoft station on the way out for a couple of hours. Went down to the yards and became interested in watching young horses being caught and branded. Had a clean up after getting home and went for a swim. Thought we were going to get a storm but although plenty all round, Camooweal missed. Went to an entertainment given by a traveling concert party, not too bad. Set up and tried the Kodascope in my room here and she went very well.

Friday Nov 21^st 1930:

Got on to some writing today and got several letters away by air mail. Went up to the school for religious intruction and called on the patients at the hospital. Went to a school practice at night and the kids are woeful, nearly as bad as the ones who are training them.

Saturday Nov 22^nd 1930:

Intended going to Wandangi today but storms threatening all round and the Buckley River being in flood put me off. A storm came up after lunch and after we had all been blinded with dust we had 75 points of rain. Cooled things off a bit. Larkins plane left this morning for Chrleville where a new plane from Melbourne will meet and be brought back. River is still good for swimming.

Sunday Nov 23^rd 1930:

A very lazy day. Had S.S this morning with a good muster but storms and storms threatening put out of mind a Church service. Of course had there been a dance on it would have been a different thing.

Monday Nov 24^th 1930:

A very hot day. Stormy looking. Busy day with the pen and finalizing accounts in connection with recent carnival. Had a kiddies concert practice at night.

Tuesday Nov 25^th 1930:

A hot muggy day, culminating in a cyclonic storm at night. Was over at children’s practice when storm worked up and all had to leave hurriedly and only got home when wind hit us with terrific force. Fortunately did not last long, although while it did last things were flying, only very little damage done. 80 points of rain fell. Wednesday

Nov 26^th 1930:

Still hot and close. Very steamy. Busy today getting ready for a 21^st birthday party.

Miss E Reilly’s. Nice party at night with plenty of good things to eat. Felt rather unwell at finish.

Thursday Nov 27^th 1930:

Spent the morning and part of the afternoon in erecting a stage at the hall for the concert. Weather still hot. Attended a meeting. Had a full dress rehearsal at night. Storms all round.

Friday Nov 28^th 1930:

Rain started this morning after breakfast and continued all day. Mud, glorious mud everywhere. No chance of holding school sports so were postponed. Everybody well indoors all day.

Saturday Nov 29^th 1930:

No rain today but still plenty mud. Sports put off another day. Rain not far away though. Quinn the ‘headman’ in the concert went off this morning and so left things in a mess. Got all the children together this afternoon and put them through everything with Miss Synnott at the piano. Decided to hold the concert as advertised and it went off remarkably well. A record crowd at the hall and everyone thoroughly enjoyed ecery item. ‘Soot and the Fairies’ broughtb great applause. We were all well satisfied with our efforts.

Sunday Nov 30^th 1930:

Had a full muster at S.S this morning but had to finish early as all the kiddies wante to go to the ‘drome to give a hearty send off to Mr Jensen who has been transferred to the Maryborough school. As it still looks like rain the folk decided to hold school sports this afternoon while it is dry, and they went alright. Had service at night but not a record attendance.

Moday Dec 1^st 1930:

Got to work this morning and dismantled stage and other hangings and carted timber back. Had a meeting at night to finalize concert.

Tuesday Dec 2^nd 1930:

Got to work on the car, changing wheels. Tyres and fixing brakes etc. If it does not rain will start for Wandangie on Thursday. Mailman who left last week for Wandangi returned today having only got 30 miles on the way. Had a meeting tonight in connection with farewell presentation to Mr Jensen. No rain as yet but by look of things it is not far away. Days and nights are fearfully hot.

Wednesday Dec 3^rd 1930:

Rain came on this morning and continued practically all day. No hope of getting away for a couple of days now. Mail got in at lunch time and also plane a little later. Spent the day reading and writing.

Thursday Dec 4^th 1930;

Got the car all ready this morning but decided to wait another day. Plane started out west this morning but 60 miles out struck a big storm and had to return. Made another attempt this afternoon. Spent the afternoon and evening writing.

Exams, races and other stuff

Saturday Oct 25^th 1930:

A final brush up at the books this morning and did my exam this afternoon. Should scrape a pass. A send off to Serg Geiss at night, took up some of my time and then went nearly all night writing a sermon and getting my book list out and ready for the mail at 7.30 in the morning.

Sunday Oct 26^th 1930:

Up early and posted mail. Had 35 out at Sunday School. All as keen as ever. Did some visiting around the town. Arranged for service at night but terrific wind and dust storm kept all but three away so did not keep them too long.

Monday Oct 27^th 1930:

Did some work at my dwelling, making shelves, book cases, tables etc. Kept going all day. Place much more convenient now.

Tuesday Oct 28^th 1930:

Pottered about doing odd jobs. Put in a pane of glass. Big storm worked up during the afternoon andrain came down in earnest, raining most of the night. Looks rather blue for the races on Thursday and Friday. Mail lorry got in very late in the middle of the storm.

Wednesday Oct 29^th 1930:

Put in another pane of glass this morning and did a few other small jobs about. Raining on and off all day. Races for tomorrow have been postponed for at least a day. Weather very hot.

Thursday Oct 30^th 1930:

Another hot day with storms about and some rain here. People from outside drifting in mostly well covered in mud. Races again put off for another day.

Friday Oct 31^st 1930:

No rain today but still hot and sultry. A crowd from the Territory arrived in this evening, taking them six hours to do the last 25 miles. A crowd of half castes in the town at present. There is a very evil-looking lot of all sorts about at present. Both hotels doing a good business.

Saturday Nov 1^st 1930:

Terribly hot weather. A crowd in the town today. All sorts. It is at these times that the bad element of the west comes to the limelight. Had the first days races today. People camped everywhere. A dance at night. Shire Hall now lit with electric light. Very conspicuous from a distance. The Larkin plane went west today doing the trip should have been done Thursday.

Sunday Nov 2^nd 1930:

Another hot day. Had S.S this morning and Church at night. Races, dances and Church however do not blend. Only about half the kiddies at S.S and a very poor attendance at Church. It is at these times that one realizes what he is up against.

Monday Nov 3^rd 1930:

A few more folk arrived in the town yesterday so things look very busy. 2^nd days races went off today. Still very hot but no rain. Another dance this evening. Folk all very gay. Have been keeping in background myself. Synnotts store broken into the other night by 2 halfcastes.

Tuesday Nov 4^th 1930:

The commencement of the Exodus. Hope that before long the town will be clean again. Too hot to do anything but lie about. Went for a swim in the river, but water nearly too hot although still running. Mail got in this morning.

Wednesday Nov 5^th 1930:

Rough element gradually leaving us in peace again. May they never return. Still terribly hot. Pottered about all day trying to get out of my own road.

Thursday Nov 6^th 1930:

Another scorcher. Cleaned and oiled up the car today. Went for a swim. A meeting at night.

Friday Nov 7^th 1930:

Weather still keeping very hot but no further rain. Went up to the school and had a talk to the children. Went for a swim. Did some writing.

Saturday Nov 8^th 1930:

Greased the car up this morning and put her in good running order. 3 of us went duck shooting this afternoon up the river. Did not do too well, only getting 5 ducks and a turkey. Had a good afternoon though.

Sunday Sept 9^th 1930:

Had S.S this morning with a good attendance. Had to go out to Gallipoli (60 miles) and take a chap out. Did not get back in time to hold a service at night. Weather very sultry and heavy black clouds about all day.

Monday Nov 10^th 1930:

Straightened up the home a bit and then put in a corner wardrobe for a couple of chaps in their room. Paid a visit to the patients in the hospital. Went to concert practice.

Tuesday Nov 11^th 1930:

Weather continuing very hot, well over 100o. Still no rain. Did a few jobs for different folk. Went for a swim.

Good and not so good.

Saturday Oct 18^th 1930:

Got loaded up this morning. Went up to the hospital and picked up a patient who has to go to Clomcurry for x-ray treatment. Put Daphne and Kath Reilly on board. Waited until 10 am for McMillan to come in from Herbertvale and then left without him. Road very much cut up after the rain and so traveling slow. Had lunch at Inca creek. Reached Mt Isa at 5 pm. Took Kath and Daphne to the hotel and went up to Church with patient and threw our swags off. Hayes in good spirits 0n account of his projected trip to Cairns, very much surprised when I told him I was not going. Looked up some of the boys. Very noticeable in the town now that the beer strike is off. Men 4 and 5 deep right around the bar.

Sunday October 19^th 1930:

An eventful day. Went to the hotel for breakfast and there witnessed the effect on a young man of strychnine poisoning. Alf Elwood, decided he had had enough of life and took the poison before coming into breakfast. Spent the morning in connection with the business and trying to get through to his people. Knew him well when he was at Alroy and Camooweal. Conducted the burial service in the afternoon. An enquiry into the whole business is on foot. Conducted the S.S anniversary service at night. A poor attendance, only a dozen children, special singing out of the question. Hayes does not seem to be making much headway at present.

Monday Oct 20^th 1930:

A rotten day. Took the car to the garage to have a couple of old bolts replaced by new and the mechanic by dropping one of the bolts into the flywheel casing, made a half hour’s job into an all day one. Did most of the work myself and only got away at 7 pm. had no supper. Everyone was out at 6.30 pm waiting for Kingsford Smith to come but he missed Isa and went straight to Cloncurry.

Tuesday Oct 21^st 1930:

A rather quiet day. Did some business and visiting. Went to the funeral of old dad Kayser. Thought I would have to conduct but Rev Mackey arrived just in time. Stan and self went to very good talkie program. Quite enjoyed it.

Wednesday Oct 22^nd 1930:

Up at 5.15 am, loaded up, went to the hotel and called the girls and left at 6 am. An uneventful trip, reaching Camooweal at 1 pm. Had a clean up and did some study.

Thursday Oct 23^rd 1930:

Received word that I had to do my written exam, and post it with my sermon and book list to Cairns. Thought I was going to get out of it until Conference but no luck. Means two days of hard study. No stopping.

Friday Oct 24^th 1930:

Studying all day and night. Forgot to write any mail.

Stormy weather

Monday Sept 29^th 1930:

Was up rather earlier than usual this morning and before breakfast filled the bus with benzine and greased her. After eating had a talk to the kiddies and left them some books and tickets. Picked up my passenger, an old chap walking around the country looking for work. Seems a decent chap, very well read. Mr Foster went out nmustering today. Mrs is home on her own with the kids. At the ‘Lily Lagoon’ stopped and crawled on my ‘bingy’ after ducks and got none. Stopped and had lunch in the bed of the Seymour river. Road terribly rough through here. Called at Findlay’s at Thorntonia and then non stop to Camooweal. Let te old chap off just outside the town and gave him the remains of the contents of my tucker box. Got my mail and had a good read.

Tuesday Sept 30^th 1930:

A day of writing mostly with a bit of study. The weather rather warm and stormy. Seems as if rain about.

Wednesday Oct 1^st 1930:

Intended to leaving to go west this afternoon but decided to leave it until the morning and so made out my monthly report and statement. Mail came in and I discovered that Synod is very close. Have started to study in earnest. Heavy clouds hanging around.

Thursday Oct 2^nd 1930:

Rain, glorious ran. In the words of the hotel keeper this morning ‘God is good.’ Started to rain at 6 am and has hardly stopped all day. Beautiful steady rain. All cars held up now. Ground nearly too boggy to walk. Cool weather now and great for study. Put in a very good day and evening at it. Will not be able to go west for a day or two now, although do not think they have had much out that way.

Friday Oct 3^rd 1930:

A few showers today but nothing to worry about. 3 inches yesterday and rain seems to have been general. Studied well again today. A couple of lorries started west this afternoon but they are still within sight of the town about 3 miles away.

Saturday Oct 4^th 1930:

Got the bus ready before breakfast and at 9.30 am was all set to start west. Was told I was a very stupid fellow to go out as rain is not far away, but decided I knew best. 4 miles out came up to the two lorries still in difficulties. Stayed with them for a while and then went on. Had with me two bagmen. Road very heavy in places and had to keep the chains on. Reached Avon and had lunch. Went on and had good going until 12 miles from Rankine and struck some muddy patches there. Got through alright. Lloyd’s car at Rankine was going across to Alroy but were afraid to tackle it on their own but when discovered I was going decided to go too. The first 10 miles was all second gear but after that the boggy places were patchy and we got through them safely. Reached Alroy at 7 pm, 160 miles from Camooweal. Had tea . Doug and Jo from Anthony’s were there, having arrived by plane. Played ping-pong until supper time.

Sunday Oct 5^th 1930:

Another very hot day. People from Alexandria and Brunette expected across but did not arrive. Evidentally afraid of the weather. Arranged for a service at night and got everyone on the station to roll up. The first time several had been since their childhood. Had 23 at the service which we had on the verandah. Retired after having a read.

Monday Oct 6^th 1930:

A broken main-leaf in the back spring and a broken shock absorber kept me going all day. Darkie and Sandy helped me. Got the spring fixed once but did not stand so put an old Ford main-leaf in. Had a read after tea.

Tuesday Oct 7^th 1930:

Spent the morning finishing the job on the car and then gave it a good wash. Alexandria car came across this morning and went straight back. Left for Alexandria myself after lunch taking Mrs Reilly and Miss Thyne with me. Left an hour too late as we were caught in a couple of storms before reaching our destination. Did not have the chains on and the car slipped all over the country. Crawled in at last though, without getting bogged, very annoyed though as the car is now dirtier than when I washed it this morning.

Wednesday Oct 8^th 1930:

Weather did not look too good this morning but we decided to set out for Camooweal. The road to Rankine was good, having missed all yesterday’s storms. Halfway from here to Avon was good too and then we came to where the storms had fallen last night. Had no trouble getting through and had lunch at Avon. Did not stay but went straight on and although going was very solid at times reached the ‘weal safely. Two lorries traveling the road yesterday and this morning were all out to get through. One had to be abandoned 15 miles out on account of running out of benzine. A social in the Hall at night in aid of Beauty and Bear carnival was well attended.

Thursday Oct 9^th 1930:

A very hot day, ending with half an inch of rain. A chap was brought in this morning from 90 miles out with snake-bite. Woke up in the night and found the snake in bed with him. Tried to study but found it too hot to concentrate.

Friday Oct 10^th 1930:

Rain nagain this morning but sun came out this afternoon. Made traveling impossible and several from the stations are held up in here. Went up to the school this afternoon. Did a little more swot.

Saturday Oct 11^th 1930:

Got results of Beauty and Tear Carnival today. Our pair lost by 100 votes. Cloncurry pair won with 4320 votes and we had 4220. The third pair had only 2600 and others were lower still. Still looks like rain although holding off. Played a cricket match this afternoon and had a win by 8 wickets. A storm came up late this evening and gave us 30 points.

Sunday Oct 12^th 1930:

Roads very boggy so not a full muster at S.S but were more out than I expected. No rain today. Had service at night but muggy weather and fear of storms kept a lot away.

Monday Oct 13^th 1930:

Weather warm but rain nowhere in sight today. Ambulance plane came out this morning bringing Dr for consultation. 3 others came out for the trip. One being Mrs Jackson from ……? Married daughter of W.E Reilly. Several car loads of those held up on account of the wet left today. Grass growing in abundance now. Country looking wonderful. First time rain has fallen in Camooweal in October for 34 years. Went out for a run in the car after tea but ‘bog’ soon made us turn back.

Tuesday Oct 14^th 1930:

Weather keeping a little cooler with a south-east wind blowing. Did some study during the day and had some cricket practice in the evening. Called at the hospital and inquired about a sick parishioner.

Wednesday Oct 15^th 1930:

Mail day. Both ordinary and air mail arrived. Ordinary mail a day late. Visited the patients at the hospital this afternoon. A ten-pounder came to light while I was there. ( Presumably in reference to a big baby. ) Went to meeting at night in connection with School concert.

Thursday Oct 16^th 1930:

A big day shifting camp. Was able to negotiate successfully to obtain a one roomed dwelling for a rental of 5 shillings a week and shifted in today. Was all out cleaning it. Had to hose it out, walls, ceiling and floor with disinfectant but it is very nice now. Much more comfortable and nicer being private. Shell Coy plane arrived today and went on west. Went to hospital again this evening.

Friday Oct 17^th 1930:

Up early and took car down to river and washed it. Spent the rest of the morning pottering about it. Went to school this afternoon and to an afternoon tea party given by Miss R Reilly. Wrote home and answered a host of impertinent questions asked byb sister. Hope the answers satisfied. Went up to the hospital and picked up a bagman and his baggage and shifted him down to Bagman’s Terrace where he is gouing to dwell for a while. Got sermons ready for Sunday for the S.S anniversary at Mt Isa.

Monday Sept 29^th 1930:

Was up rather earlier than usual this morning and before breakfast filled the bus with benzine and greased her. After eating had a talk to the kiddies and left them some books and tickets. Picked up my passenger, an old chap walking around the country looking for work. Seems a decent chap, very well read. Mr Foster went out nmustering today. Mrs is home on her own with the kids. At the ‘Lily Lagoon’ stopped and crawled on my ‘bingy’ after ducks and got none. Stopped and had lunch in the bed of the Seymour river. Road terribly rough through here. Called at Findlay’s at Thorntonia and then non stop to Camooweal. Let te old chap off just outside the town and gave him the remains of the contents of my tucker box. Got my mail and had a good read.

Tuesday Sept 30^th 1930:

A day of writing mostly with a bit of study. The weather rather warm and stormy. Seems as if rain about.

Wednesday Oct 1^st 1930:

Intended to leaving to go west this afternoon but decided to leave it until the morning and so made out my monthly report and statement. Mail came in and I discovered that Synod is very close. Have started to study in earnest. Heavy clouds hanging around.

Thursday Oct 2^nd 1930:

Rain, glorious ran. In the words of the hotel keeper this morning ‘God is good.’ Started to rain at 6 am and has hardly stopped all day. Beautiful steady rain. All cars held up now. Ground nearly too boggy to walk. Cool weather now and great for study. Put in a very good day and evening at it. Will not be able to go west for a day or two now, although do not think they have had much out that way.

Friday Oct 3^rd 1930:

A few showers today but nothing to worry about. 3 inches yesterday and rain seems to have been general. Studied well again today. A couple of lorries started west this afternoon but they are still within sight of the town about 3 miles away.

Saturday Oct 4^th 1930:

Got the bus ready before breakfast and at 9.30 am was all set to start west. Was told I was a very stupid fellow to go out as rain is not far away, but decided I knew best. 4 miles out came up to the two lorries still in difficulties. Stayed with them for a while and then went on. Had with me two bagmen. Road very heavy in places and had to keep the chains on. Reached Avon and had lunch. Went on and had good going until 12 miles from Rankine and struck some muddy patches there. Got through alright. Lloyd’s car at Rankine was going across to Alroy but were afraid to tackle it on their own but when discovered I was going decided to go too. The first 10 miles was all second gear but after that the boggy places were patchy and we got through them safely. Reached Alroy at 7 pm, 160 miles from Camooweal. Had tea . Doug and Jo from Anthony’s were there, having arrived by plane. Played ping-pong until supper time.

Sunday Oct 5^th 1930:

Another very hot day. People from Alexandria and Brunette expected across but did not arrive. Evidentally afraid of the weather. Arranged for a service at night and got everyone on the station to roll up. The first time several had been since their childhood. Had 23 at the service which we had on the verandah. Retired after having a read.

Monday Oct 6^th 1930:

A broken main-leaf in the back spring and a broken shock absorber kept me going all day. Darkie and Sandy helped me. Got the spring fixed once but did not stand so put an old Ford main-leaf in. Had a read after tea.

Tuesday Oct 7^th 1930:

Spent the morning finishing the job on the car and then gave it a good wash. Alexandria car came across this morning and went straight back. Left for Alexandria myself after lunch taking Mrs Reilly and Miss Thyne with me. Left an hour too late as we were caught in a couple of storms before reaching our destination. Did not have the chains on and the car slipped all over the country. Crawled in at last though, without getting bogged, very annoyed though as the car is now dirtier than when I washed it this morning.

Wednesday Oct 8^th 1930:

Weather did not look too good this morning but we decided to set out for Camooweal. The road to Rankine was good, having missed all yesterday’s storms. Halfway from here to Avon was good too and then we came to where the storms had fallen last night. Had no trouble getting through and had lunch at Avon. Did not stay but went straight on and although going was very solid at times reached the ‘weal safely. Two lorries traveling the road yesterday and this morning were all out to get through. One had to be abandoned 15 miles out on account of running out of benzine. A social in the Hall at night in aid of Beauty and Bear carnival was well attended.

Thursday Oct 9^th 1930:

A very hot day, ending with half an inch of rain. A chap was brought in this morning from 90 miles out with snake-bite. Woke up in the night and found the snake in bed with him. Tried to study but found it too hot to concentrate.

Friday Oct 10^th 1930:

Rain nagain this morning but sun came out this afternoon. Made traveling impossible and several from the stations are held up in here. Went up to the school this afternoon. Did a little more swot.

Saturday Oct 11^th 1930:

Got results of Beauty and Tear Carnival today. Our pair lost by 100 votes. Cloncurry pair won with 4320 votes and we had 4220. The third pair had only 2600 and others were lower still. Still looks like rain although holding off. Played a cricket match this afternoon and had a win by 8 wickets. A storm came up late this evening and gave us 30 points.

Sunday Oct 12^th 1930:

Roads very boggy so not a full muster at S.S but were more out than I expected. No rain today. Had service at night but muggy weather and fear of storms kept a lot away.

Monday Oct 13^th 1930:

Weather warm but rain nowhere in sight today. Ambulance plane came out this morning bringing Dr for consultation. 3 others came out for the trip. One being Mrs Jackson from ……? Married daughter of W.E Reilly. Several car loads of those held up on account of the wet left today. Grass growing in abundance now. Country looking wonderful. First time rain has fallen in Camooweal in October for 34 years. Went out for a run in the car after tea but ‘bog’ soon made us turn back.

Tuesday Oct 14^th 1930:

Weather keeping a little cooler with a south-east wind blowing. Did some study during the day and had some cricket practice in the evening. Called at the hospital and inquired about a sick parishioner.

Wednesday Oct 15^th 1930:

Mail day. Both ordinary and air mail arrived. Ordinary mail a day late. Visited the patients at the hospital this afternoon. A ten-pounder came to light while I was there. ( Presumably in reference to a big baby. ) Went to meeting at night in connection with School concert.

Thursday Oct 16^th 1930:

A big day shifting camp. Was able to negotiate successfully to obtain a one roomed dwelling for a rental of 5 shillings a week and shifted in today. Was all out cleaning it. Had to hose it out, walls, ceiling and floor with disinfectant but it is very nice now. Much more comfortable and nicer being private. Shell Coy plane arrived today and went on west. Went to hospital again this evening.

Friday Oct 17^th 1930:

Up early and took car down to river and washed it. Spent the rest of the morning pottering about it. Went to school this afternoon and to an afternoon tea party given by Miss R Reilly. Wrote home and answered a host of impertinent questions asked byb sister. Hope the answers satisfied. Went up to the hospital and picked up a bagman and his baggage and shifted him down to Bagman’s Terrace where he is gouing to dwell for a while. Got sermons ready for Sunday for the S.S anniversary at Mt Isa.