Cricket takes off!

Wednesday August 13^th 1930:

Had a clean up of myself and car and did some writing.

Thursday August 14^th 1930:

. Acted as chief navigator today on an air trip from here to Lawn Hill mines, 140 miles north. This will probably, later on, be a branch of service from here. The pilot, Tapp, did not know the country so took me to guide him. Enjoyed the trip in one way but was very sick, especially on the return. Was a terribly windy day and very bumpy.

Friday August 15^th 1930:

Spent the morning and most of the afternoon in writing. Went to the school for half an hour. Did some reading.

Saturday August 16^th 1930:

Reading this morning and cricket practice this afternoon. A cricket meeting at night when I was duly elected as ‘Hon Sec’.

Sunday August 17^th 1930:

Had a nice number at S.S this morning. Did some reading and went for half an hour to one of the kiddies birthday party. A fair number out at service at night. Most wonderful wether we are having. No wind, no flies and glorious sunshine with cool nights.

Monday August 18^th 1930:

Was up early and before breakfast did an hour’s work on the cricket pitch. Went ober again in the afternoon with a couple of others and tooko the roller over. Did some reading and study in between times.

Tuesday August 19^th 1930:

Over at the pitch before breakfast and rolled it. Carted a tank of water and with the other two chaps watered it. Went to roll it again this afternoon but too damp in spots. Had a couple of sets of tennis on the awful court.

Wednesday August 20^th 1930:

A little more to the pitch but all our previous work gone for nothing as the pitch is too badly out of repair for our work to be effective. Spent the rest of the day in getting the car ready for the road. A heavy storm came up this evening bringing clouds of dust and cool weather. Coming off rain somewhere inside.

Thursday August 21^st 1930:

Left this morning, going north, taking Glen, Mrs Wilmer and Reggie. Windy and cold. Called fopr a while at Findlay’s (R.C’s) on the way. Reached the Gregory late in the afternoon. A big crowd here attending the Annual Picnic Race meeting. A disgraceful number of halfcastes about. (I would like to ask my father the meaning of this comment as he was a person who accepted all people and showed every person respect. )

Had dinner at the hotel and then went on eleven miles to ‘Planet’ selection and stayed there.

Friday August 22^nd 1930:

Came back to the Gregory and wandered around among the people and their camps, mostly all of which are down on the river. Plenty of ideal spots for camping. A treat to be out here after the dry thirsty looking downs.

Saturday August 23^rd 1930:

Had a day mostly on my own when I went up the river fishing and swimming. Caught three fish and saw plenty more. Wonderful in swimming with clear running water. Went out to Planet again this evening.

Sunday August 24^th 1930:

Went across to Lawn Hills station this morning 50 miles west and had dinner with Gaydens. This is indeed a most wonderful place with its shrubs, creepers, flowers of all sorts and lawn and above all its ripe paw-paws. Met all the folk and loaded up with fruit. Went across to where the drills are working on the Silver King lease of the Lawn Hills mining trust. Had a look around and met the dozen men working there. Shot a 6 foot 6 inch brown snake at the mouth of one of the shafts. Went across to the H.Q, 6 miles away and then round by Sam ah Bow’s garden to Lilydale Springs and stayed here. Billy Walker has 3 bagmen residing with him. Got the gramaphone out and had a song service. The first hymns a couple of them had heard for many years.

Monday August 25^th 1930:

Went on this morning and had lunch with Mr McMillan on Herbertvale. Then on to Gallipoli and had a yarn to the men there. Called at No 7 bore and saw ‘Red Dick’, also at No 5 and saw big Dick Carter the Swede. Reached Camooweal at 4.30 pm. Did the various jobs commissioned by the men along the route.

Tuesday August 26^th 1930:

Reading and writing practically all day.

Wednesday August 27^th 1930:

Some study in the morning. Played tennis in the afternoon. Weather getting very hot. A party at Reilly’s at night.

Thursday August 28^th 1930:

Reading. Writing. Studying. A very warm day. Seems to be getting into summer once more. Town very quiet, noone about. A chap doing some building at the bottom hotel, fell and broke a couple of ribs. Mrs Schmidt and Trevor and Sandy Austin came in from Alroy Downs and went out taking Matron Fleming from the local hospital. Went around and collected a few subs for the cricket.

Friday August 29^th 1930:

Did a bit of work on the cricket pitch and then made a watering can out of a kerosene tin to water the pitch. Did some writing and reading.

Saturday August 30^th 1930:

Another hot day. Bill Jensen and self went out on lorry and carted 2 loads of ant bed for cricket pitch. Practiced in afternoon. Retired early.

Sunday August 31^st 1930:

S.S in the morning. Did some visiting. Reading in afternoon. Service at night, a helpful time. Nice crowd out. Few young men.

Monday September 1^st 1930:

At work on cricket pitch nearly all day. Mostly on my own. A couple came and helped this afternoon. Went to Church at night as Rev Norton of Bush Brotherhood was here.

Tuesday Sept 2^nd 1930:

Did another hour before breakfast and finished in the afternoon, the breaking up of the ant bed for the pitch. Rolled it and carted a load of water and soaked it well. Did some reading and study during intervals.

Wednesday Sept 3^rd 1930:

Rolled the pitch before breakfast with the help of Jensen. Rather pleased with result. Did some reading and attended to several cricket matters. Watered pitch again before tea.

Thursday Sept 4^th 1930:

Rolled out pitch. Carted remainder of ant bed to tennis court. Reading and studying.

Friday Sept 5^th 1930:

Went around the town visiting and making request for cakes etc for afternoon tea tomorrow. Went to the school; and instructed the children. Did some reading and studying. Cricketers arrived in this evening from the territory. C.W.A dance at night.

Saturday Sept 6^th 1930:

A busy morning getting everything in readiness for cricket match in afternoon.

Rankine District N.A v Camooweal. We batted first and were all out for 23, made 0 myself. Rankine batted, made 45. Took 7 wickets for 13 myself. We batted and made 46, made 26 myself. Rankine batted and were 5 for 25, wining by 5 wickets. Took 4 for 12 myself in their second innings. ‘Myself’ did not do too badly in comparison after the bad start. We gave the cricketers a dinner at the hotel to wind up the day. A very pleasant and successful day and evening was spent.

Sunday Sept 7^th 1930:

Had S.S this morning with a nice roll up. This afternoon ‘spelled’ and tried to recover after yesterday’s strenuous day. Could not hold service as R.C Bishop McGuire expected and the hall wanted. He did not turn up however. Coming tomorrow.

A regular taxi service!

Friday July 25^th 1930:

Was all ready at lunch time to set off and did so as soon as loaded myself up. Went north and north west through Rocklands country, passed the Homestead and onto Gallipoli or really Alexandria country 45 miles out. Left Queensland and entered N. A. Pulled up and stayed for a while at a bore where a chap was building a dam and pumping. Arranged to come back and get him when I go across to Alexandria. Reached Gallipoli homestead . A bachelors quarters. Cook, pumper and a couple of men hewre. Stock camp out. Left parcels and mail and went on to No 7 bore where found ‘Red Dick’ pumping and the stock camp. Went no further. When cow bell went announcing tea, lined up with the rest, with pannikin and tin plate for my stew and later, custard and prunes. All sat around anywhere to eat. Got the gramaphone out afterwards and played records for nearly four hours while the men in various attitudes of ease and comfort, either by the fire or on their swags, listened and talked. A wonderful night, something about the whole scene was very attractive and comforting, although in its naturalness, quite crude. The cold, at last, made us think of warmer places and drove us to the cover of our blankets.

Saturday July 26^th 1930:

Camp shifted this morning and after seeing them on the way returned to homestead and then back to No 5. Picked up Dick Carter and made for Alexandria. Called at 3 bores, had lunch at the first, where the pumper and his wife spend a very quiet time. Murphy the Scotchman was at the next and ‘Pretty Peter’ the …………was at the third. Reached Alexandria after a 90 miles run, in time for ‘smoko’. A shower, shave and a good clean up, a game of golf, a hit at cricket made it dinner time. Some gramaphone, wireless, and ping-pong filled in the first part of the evening, when I began my very cold and lonely vigl\il at the wireless placed outside. Stayed until 2 am when Aust were 345 and England 3 for 130. ( Cricket!) Slept soundly.

Sunday July 27^th 1930:

Went back to Gellipoli today with Bill Harvey in the Dodge, taking Dick Carter back. He came over for his bus but had to return without it. Did the 180 miles in good time. A bit tired when arrived back. Brought my records in and had some music before retiring. Weather very warm.

Monday July 28^th 1930:

Spent the morning up at yards where the horse breaker had a few young ones to handle. One horse, rushing blindly, stuck his head in the top rail and retired with a broken neck. Did some writing and reading this afternoon and evening.

Tuesday July 29^th 1930:

Spent a good part of the day on the car. Frank Neale and party arrived from Melbourne today in the Lasconder. ( an aircraft ) Had lunch and went on. Father Twomey arrived by car this evening.

Wednesday July 30^th m1930:

Left lexandri and continued west. Lunch at Brunette, played 5 sets of tennis and on again. Loaded up with ‘bagmen’. Reached Anthony’s Lagoon and had supper at Police station. Thursday July 31^st 1930:

A busy morning at Anthiny’s Lagoon. Ambulance plane arrived and then shortly afterwards the mail plane. 4 sick people here, nigger with a broken thigh, 2 sick and 1 broken ankle. All had to be taken to hospital. Plane took 3 and I left after lunch with the other. Came straight through and camped at midnight, 20 miles from Camooweal after a 250 mile run. A cold night. Picked up a bagman on the way.

Friday August 1^st 1930:

A day of rest. Feeling rather tired and weary. Did a bit of writing and reading.

Saturday August 2^nd 1930:

Greased and oiled the car and cleaned up a bit. Rested this afternoon. Retired early.

Sunday August 3^rd 1930:

Left Camooweal early and reached Rankine. Was going to hold a servive but unable. Crowd here. A cricket match on. In bed at 8.30 pm.

Monday August 4^th 1930:

Cunningham, another ‘crank’ airman flew over yesterday. Was talking to him in Camooweal. He is flying to England but I tip he will lose himself long before he reaches there. When he got here he had no idea which way to go to reach Wyndham, had no maps or atlas and we had to show him the way. Spent all today myself at the Rankine Police station, writing. Very quiet. Went up to the store and talked for a while.

Tuesday August 5^th 1930:

Left the Rankine and went across to Alroy, taking Mrs Lloyd with me. She wanted to go to Rockhampton on C.W.A business. Practically noone at home at Alroy so only stayed for a bite of lunch and went on. Reached ‘Rocky’ at 4 pm. This is practically the most isolated station in my area. The C.W.A are hoping to erect here a wireless set, receiving and transmitting which would be a very good thing. Had some gramaphone music at night.

Wednesday August 6^th 1930:

Mrs Lloyd found she could not stay so had to return this morning. Left books and papers and some cards for the kiddies and came back. Called in at a bore and had a yarn to the pumper and left him some books, also Froggie. Had a cup of tea at Alroy and reached Rankine at 8 pm. Stayed the night at the store.

Thursday August 7^th 1930:

Left Alroy and went across to Soudan stn. Found a few at home and had a baptismal service, the second son of the cook’s wife. Could not get the father or any of the men to be present. The father was in the next room baking bread. Seemed afraid to be present. Left after lunch, called at a bore, also at Avon for a while and reached Camooweal for tea.

Friday August 8^th 1930:

Did some writing and had a straighten up of everything. Went to the school for half an hour. A party at Reilly’s at night.

Saturday August 9^th 1930:

Writing and reading this morning and this afternoon. Took a party of ladies in Relly’s car to the ‘Don’.

Sunday August 10^th 1930:

Had Sunday School this morning with the now usual good attendance of kiddies. Got the car ready and set off for Mt Isa, taking Glen with me. Reached Isa at 6.30 pm and put up at the hotel. Got changed and cleaned and went to Church. Menear reaching as it was Anniversary service. Just 12 months since Gribble, Menear and I held the opening service of the Church. After Church Glen, Stan and I had some supper and home to bed.

Monday August 11^th 1930:

Spent most of the day at the dentist. Did a bit of shopping. Went over to the mines and called on Mrs Moores. After tea ran a couple to the hospital whose baby was rather ill. Dooley and the cook arrived on the train at 9 pm.

Tuesday August 12^th 1930:

Took us all the morning to get away and part of the afternoon. Women are frightful creatures to get away from a place. Was 2 pm before we left, well loaded up. Car gave a bit of trouble in a couple of places and we had a one puncture, but apart from that all went well and reached here at 9.30 pm, very dirty. Road is terribly dusty. The cook was sick on the way and fed the birds and beasts en route.

Here, there and every where...

Saturday July 5^th 1930:

Spent the morning in making a sand tray for the kiddies at Sunday School. Went out and had some cricket practice during the afternoon. A few of the men about the place are keen, and later we want to arrange an interstate match with N.A. (Northern Australia…..my father earned the nickname of Captain Kettle during his years based at Camooweal because of his enthusiasm in organizing sporting teams and activities.)

Sunday July 6^th 1930:

At S.S this morning instituted the sand tray for the smaller ones and it was very successful. Paid a visit to the patients in the hospital during the afternoon. Had more out at service than last Sunday night, although not a full muster.

Monday July 7^th 1930:

Made up my mind to start and study in earnest but did not make great headway. Went to sleep this afternoon in the midst of it all.

Tuesday July 8^th 1930:

A full day on the car. Up at 6.30 am. Changed tyres, put new ones on, put a new wheel on, oiled greased and cleaned it all over. In appearance a new bus.

Wednesday July 9^th 1930:

Had a social evening in hotel dining room, in aid of Beauty and Bear Carnival. Was practically all day in helping arrange and organize the thing. A very nice evening was enjoyed by the large number that gathered.

Thursday July 10^th 1930:

Spent the day in reading and writing. Tried to do a bit of study.

Friday July 11^th 1930:

Did some writing for the Air Mail. A bit of visiting and went to the school for religious instruction.

Saturday July 12^th 1930:

Some study. Went to cricket in afternoon. Had a grand match, O’Malley’s team v Kettle’s team. 8 a side. Kettle’s team won by one run., 32 runs to 31. Trying to find some talent for interstate match, Queensland v The Territory.

Sunday July 13^th 1930:

Had a good muster at S.S this morning. Went out in afternoon and called on one family and then across to another old couple. Stayed for tea. Returned late at night.

Monday July 14^th 1930:

Left this morning and went south. Travelled some terribly rough roads, all off the main roads. Called on several folk, talked and left literature and books. Reached Lake Nash at dusk. Bachelors quarters now. Mr Patch got a hot bath ready for me. Wonderful too. Had tea. Talked with Mr Patch and Spencer and retired.

Tuesday July 15^th 1930:

Went on to Wandangi. First went west 30 miles to see a family of Browns. Found them just shifting camp so did not stay. Returned to station. Called at Headingley Station. Reached Wandangi at 5 pm. A dead town. Had whole hotel to myself. Retired early.

Wednesday July 16^th 1930:

Spent most of the morning cleaning the carburetor and found it very dirty. Visited the school for religious instruction at 12 noon. Went around the few homes in the afternoon and arranged for a meeting at night. Before tea had three sets of tennis. Had a nice gathering at night and after a short talk, got on to the need of a regular S.S. Two of the bigger girls are going to have try and I am going to get the mail bag S.S to assist them.

Thursday July 17^th 1930:

Made a sand tray this morning and left it for the girls in their S.S work. Left at about 9.30 am. Called at Headingley, then on to Bellecourt. An old couple living there right off any main road and the old lady has not been out of the place for nearly two years. Very few call in and the road is terribly rough. They are busy when I get there as he is branding, so did not stay long. A rough 24 miles from here to Harris selection where I afternoon tea’d. On the way across shot two turkeys that would not get far enough away to be safe. Went on to Lake Nash and here looked up the Browns camped on the river. Stayed here for a while and before leaving left quite a lot of books, papers and magazines. Reached Austral station well after dark, but as they dine late was just in time to join them. Talked with them for a while and then started on the last 50 miles, reaching Camooweal about midnight.

Friday July 18^th 1930:

Had a full day in writing and getting away by the mail some S.S work for the girls at Wandangi. Expected a lot of mail here for myself when I got here but got nothing.

Saturday July 19^th 1930:

A bit of cleaning up in the morning and cricket practice in afternoon. Mr Quinn has taken charge of J.C.E here and went across myself to the first meeting this afternoon. ( J.C.E …?)

Went out to Rocklands station after tea as had to get naturalization papers of Kusta Willen put in order for him.

Sunday July 20^th 1930:

Had a full muster at S.S this morning, 33 all told. Took the photo of the whole school afterwards. Baptised an infant this afternoon. A very nice service held this evening. A good crowd out and very fine spirit all through. Had a yarn and supper at Reilly’s before retiring.

Monday July 21^st 1930:

Reading and writing practically all day.

Tuesday July 22^nd 1930:

Writing this morning. Did my ironing this afternoon and some reading at night.

Wednesday July 23^rd 1930:

Writing and reading put in practically the whole day. Do not know how I put in the rest of the time. Weather very hot and close. Storm clouds hanging very low. Mail day but not very interesting for me.

Thursday July 24^th 1930:

Miss Kettle’s birthday. ( His sister Olive ) All the morning and part of the afternoon on car. Getting ready for road again. Writing at night. Dance in hall tonight.

Much ado about nothing.

Friday June 20^th 1930:

Decided today to go to Wandangi, as a big crowd should be there over weekend on account of races tomorrow. Left after lunch, Glen accompanying me. Had a great run through. Road very good at the other end. Did not go bush this time. Reached the ‘dangi at 7 pm after a 140 miles run. Retired early.

Saturday June 21^st 1930:

A great crowd in the town today. Surprised that so many should gather at this place. Most of the folk strangers to me and I thought I knew nearly everone around here. Hard to get a bed at the hotel. Went across to the grounds for a while and had a sleep in a car. Weather terribly cold down here. Overcoats in great demand.

Sunday June 22^nd 1930:

The country is going to the dogs. Too many crooks about. My overcoat was taken off my bed last night while I slept but got it back. While at breakfast my swag cover was taken and have not seen it since. Did some visiting this morning. Had S.S this afternoon and a crowd of 18 turned up. Cannot get anyone to take on the regular working of a school here, so gave the children something to do for a few Sundays. Will try and arrange for a correspondence class to be started. Not a great many out at service at night. Not as many as I expected. Perhaps their celebrations were too much for them. The folk cannot sing down here.

Monmday June 23^rd 1930:

Was very cold turning out this morning. Left after breakfast on return trip. Called at several places on the way. Had lunch of corned beef and damper at No 6on Barclay. Reached Camooweal at 4 pm. Cleaned up and got right into writing.

Tuesday June 24^th 1930:

Spent the day in reading and writing. Quite a number in the town, gathering in readiness to move out to attend the Rankine race meeting.

Wednesday June 25^th 1930:

Town still quite lively and although several carloads left for the Rankine. Others have been arriving in all day. Should have a big crowd out there. Two C.W.A representatives arrived from south and went out after a meeting here. Ladics (?) Somers arrived in her plane but did not stay other than to fill up with benzine. The ambulance plane is also broken down here, and Doug Cotton and Wilson are here in their moth, so that for a while 5 planes at the ‘drome. Everybody will be gine tomorrow and the place will be dead again. Was at the Rankine last year myself but not attending this year.

Thursday June 26^th 1930:

A very quiet day. Practically noone about. Did some reading and writing.

Friday June 27^th Saturday June 28^th 1930 Same as previous days.

Sunday June 29^th 1930:

Had Sunday School this morning and except for a few wo were out at Rankine, had a full muster. Very few out at serv ice at night, nearly all kiddies. Had short service. Rankine races has affected the tone and temper of the population. All will be normal in a few days though.

Monday June 30^th 1930:

Dr did mot arrive back with Reilly’s car, so had to get my bus ready for a run into Isa. Left at 12.15, with a Mr Matherson, Kath and Betty. A good run. Reached Isa in time for tea. Met the train afterwards. Stayed the night at Smith’s hotel.

Tuesday July 1^st 1930:

Had a busy morning in Mt Isa and left with a good load, including 4 head of livestock. Had lunch along the road, reached the ‘weal at 6 pm. A fair crowd in the town. After tea had it put to me to return to Mt Isa with two C.W.A reps who had to catch the 5 am train. Left at 8.30 pm and reached Isa at 3.30 am. had fried eggs at Mrs Boyd’s and took them to the train which bore them off at 5.50 am. Turned in at 5 30 am.

Wednesday July 2^nd 1930:

Up at 8.30 am and did some business in the town and left at 11.30 am. 50 miles from home a wheel turned inside out and held me up for an hour. Reached home without further trouble. A bit tired and intended retiring early but was late when eventually did get in.

Thursday July 3^rd 1930:

Did not get up too early. Got mail and papers and read them. Washed 6 pairs of trousers. A few folk here at night. Played gramaphone for a while and retired.

Friday July 4^th 1930:

School inspector arrived today so was unable to pay my visit for religious instruction. Weather keeping very warm. C.W.A meeting and dance at night. Did not attend. Tried to do some study but not too successful.

The best laid plans...........oft do go astray.

Wednesday May 28^th 1930:

Two mails arrived today. Lorry and air. No tyres so sent an urgent wire, roaring, and soon had a reply. They would be here tomorrow. Built a cage for cocky this afternoon and then did some writing. After dinner this evening went out to Rocklands and had a yarn to Mr Little.

Thursday May 29^th 1930:

Got my tyres at last. Hope to be off tomorrow. Did a lot of writing this morning and getting things straightened up. Started to get things together ready for the trip. Town rather quiet, although a fair number about. Heavy clouds about and reports give information of rain in Mt Isa and Cloncurry.

Friday May 30^th 1930:

Changed tyres etc and got car in good going order. Left the ‘weal at 3 pm. Weather very unsettled, storms brewing all round. Rather windy. 40 miles out ran into a heavy storm. Rain poured down. Road soon running with water. Car slid and skidded and was soon cutting a deep track. Went through aboput 5 miles of this and then ran out of worst of it. Reached Gallipoli station in time to grab plate and pannikin and eat my fill. Only a couple of men at home. Started to have some gramaphone music, but another storm drove us all to camp. Rolled out my swag in the tent and slept with four dogs as foot warmers.

Saturday May 31^st 1930:

Went on this morning taking a companion with me. Froggie by name. A little bit nervous of the car but she will soon get used to that. Rather a decent dog of the cattle breed. Reached Herbertvale and was not allowed to proceed any further. McMillan’s, although R.C’s, make the Methodist parson very welcome. Changed some tyres on the car and had some music at night. Tried the wireless for a while but too much static.

Sunday june 1^st 1930:

Left this morning and had 40 miles of rotten road. Bumpy, rough, rocky, hilly, sandy, everything to make traveling uncomfortable. Reached ‘The Springs’, intending to stay, but Billy Walker was away so sent on another 15 miles to Riversleigh. Foster family scattered somewhat at present. A few home though. Had a song service after tea.

Monday June 2^nd 1930:

Went out with Mr Foster and kiddies to drag a couple of holes for fish, but either fish were too cute to be left when river went down or birds were there first. Spent the day at the station with the crowd.

Tuesday June 3^rd 1930:

Amnother day on Riversleigh, among the horses, being brought in and shod ready to go out into the camp. A few outlaws among the mob.

Wednesday June 4^th 1930:

Left Riversleigh this morning and continued along the Gregory River. Met a drovers camp along the road and stopped and talked for a while. One chap had a grouse on all existing conditions in every way. Reached Gregory hotel in the afternoon. Three buildings here. The station homestead across the ribver, police station and hotel this side. Called at all three and stayed at hotel. Before retiring gathered a few around and had some music.

Thursday June 5^th 1930:

Got the kiddies together this morning and had a talk and left them some cards and tickets etc and went on. Called at a couple of places en route and frightened numerous wallabies, as they dashed in front of the car. Pulled up at Brookdale and stayed the night.

Saturday June 7^th 1930:

Helped cut sandwiches this morning for a race meeting in aid of local hospital. Went out the road in the afternoon and shot a wallaby and got some meat for my dog. Had Jim Foster with me. Took a chap out home a few miles whose mother-in-law is very ill and who came in to send for aerial Dr.

Sunday June 8^th 1930:

Plane arrived this morning with Dr so went out and met it and took Dr to the patient. Turned the car into an ambulance then as patient had to be taken to Cloncurry for operation. Went back to plane and transferred the old lady from car to plane and off they went. Went round the folk this afternoon and arranged for service at which 30 gathered. Very encouraging as a sevice last week by a minister of another denomination comprised only 6 of a congregation.

Monday June 8^th 1930:

Did some more visiting today and some reading and writing and arranged for a social tomorrow night. A few spent the evening at the Post Office.

Tuesday June 10^th 1930:

Arranged this morning for the S.S to get into full swing again. This had lapsed on account of the previous teacher leaving and making no arrangements for anyone to take her place. Have a Methodist in charge now, the P.M’s wife, so no need to worry about it in future. Went to the school and walked to the kiddies. Got the hall ready. Went to tennis. Had a good evening. Practically everyone present. Young and old alike joined in the games and competitions. Ladies provided supper. Closed with Auld Lang Syne and then the crowd got the parson in the centre and sang ‘For he’s a jolly good fellow….’

Wednesday June 11^th 1930:

Left Burketown at 10.30 am. had a load up! Mr and Mrs Scholes for Punjaub and Miss Shadforth and Gladys Foster for Riversleigh. Rain had fallen at several places along the road making it heavy going. Had lunch at Punjaub and went on from there. Got on to some soft stuff at one place and had to unload and dig the car out. A chap ahead of us had been bogged just near and had stayed there all day. The same chap further on had to leave his car on account of some fault with the steering and we picked him up and took him on with us. Passed a couple of places but did not stay. Wanted to reach Riversleigh that night. Just after dark the lights failed so wen t opn with the spotlight. Road rough and many tracks. Got off the main road and on to am old road but all went well until in one place the tracks seemed to fade away into nothingness. For hours I went in all directions trying to pick up the road which, although I felt was not the right road, must lead somewhere and was not going to give in. Drove and walked about until 2 am but no luck so decided to wait until daylight. Fortunately the night was not very cold.

Thursday June 12^th 1930:

As soon as day broke looked for the road and found that a wash out had blocked the road, and the tracks of other cars had gone in all directions through the trees and long grass joining the road a couple of hundred yards further on. I nearly missed it this morning, si did not wonder at missing it in the dark. Went on and reached Riversleigh for lunch. Put in a bit of work on Mr Foster’s car in the afternoon, taking carburettor to pieces etc.

Friday June 13^th 1930:

Marked the tennis court today and played tennis most of the time. Christened the baby at night, Vera Alice Joan. Retired early as feeling a bit tired.

Saturday June 14^th 1930:

Was going to leave today but a chap walked in last night whose car had broken down so went out and towed him in and saw that he fixed the bus properly.

Sunday June 15^th 1930:

Got everything ready to leave today, had a talk to the kids and gave them some books and cards. Went out riding this morning and brought in some killers. Waited until they killed so as to take meat along to a couple by the way. Were late killing so did not finish tea until 8 pm so did not leave as intended.

Monday June 16^th 1930:

Left this morning and had lunch at Billy Walker’s. Gave him some music for a couple of hours. Joined with another car from here. Did not stop long anywhere on the way in and finally reached Camooweal at 8 pm. Weather turned terribly cold, wind blowing off rain somewhere away down south.

Tuesday June 17^th 1930:

Cold morning, wind has a real bite. Had a lazy day cleaning up and delivering a few parcels. Alf and I had a go for a couple of hours on the car and fixed the lights which now are good.

Wednesday June 18^th 1930:
Weather turned very cold. Did some writing, cleaning up and visiting.

Thursday June 19^th 1930:

Cleaned the car up this morning, writing and reading for rest of day.

Disappointment.

Friday My 16^th 1930:

Another day in the garage but finished the bus and got it out. Valves want grinding in but decided to do that myself. Went to see a couple knocking each other about and being the guest of Tim Doyle Esq.

Saturday May 17^th 1930:

Had a busy morning shopping and getting ready to return to Camooweal. Had a passenger, an ex gaol bird, who reckons he is trying to make good. Says he has no money and has nothing but what he stands up in, although well dressed. Had to pay for his dinner and lunch in Mt Isa but he slept at the Church. Says he wants work but has been unsuccessful in his search. I advised strongly against coming out here but he would not stay in Isa, so out he came. Could not lave him out in the cold all night so had to put him up at the hotel at my expense. While I was in Mt Isa, Pilot Scott and passengers arrived here on their record trip from Brisbane in one day.

Sunday May 18^th 1930:

Both S.S in the morning and service at night were well attended and very encouraging. Had a sleep in the afternoon.

Monday May 19^th 1930:

Got rid of my passenger out of the town today. Convinced him it was no use waiting here for work especially at my expense so sent him back to Mt Isa, where, if nothing else, he can get help registering as one of the unemployed. Had a good morning writing and settling accounts, seeing as how I received a long overdue cheque. Started in then car this afternoon to grind in the valves. Took it up to the hangar at the drome, where there is plenty of room.

Tuesday May 20^th 1930:

A real motor mechanic all day and made satisfactory progress on the job. After dinner at night went and called on a couple of sick folk at the hospital.

Wednesday May 21^st 1930:

Finished the car and gave it a good clean up and when the new tyres arrive it will be ready for the road and they should be here tomorrow. Everyone is now anxiously awaiting the arrival of ‘Amy’, so as she will receive a good welcome to Queensland. C.W.A intends to do something in the way of welcoming her. ( British aviator Amy Johnson’s solo flight between England and Australia, destination Brisbane.) The Qantas plane arrived this afternoon but was no good to me.

Thursday May 22^nd 1930:

Tyres did not arrive by lorry yesterday so sent a telegram and received word that they were leaving Isa today, so a further delay. Larkin plane left for Daly Waters today. Went up to the hospital this evening.

Friday May 23^rd 1930:

Did some washing this morning and got all clothes in order once more. Went to the school for religious instruction and then up to hospital. No sign of Amy yet. Larkin plane arrived back.

Saturday May 24^th 1930:

Lovely weather. Nights cold and days warm. Made a chicken run and then a rag hen for incubator chicks. Did some ironing this afternoon and then had a lie off and read.

Sunday May 25^th 1930:

Another pleasant day. Had a nice crowd of kiddies out at Sunday School. In the afternoon drove the Reilly family down to the selection, 10 miles distant, in their Buick and stayed to tea. Arrived home and got ready for Church. A fair number out. Good service. Retired early.

Monday May 26^th 1930:

‘Daylight’ ( the train I assume) brought me up 9 buderigars or love birds this morning. I want them for Tim Doyle in Mt Isa. Made a temporary dwelling for them. They are very frightened at present. All anxiously awaiting news of Amy.

Tuesday May 27^th 1930:

Amy reached and stayed at Alexandria last night and all expected her here this morning. Camooweal and its dog turned out to greet her. Heard by phone she passed overv Avon, a half hour’s fly from here. C.W.A made great and hurried preparation for reception, but she never came. Not a sign was seen, not a sound was heard. Evidentally a newspaper stunt, as to miss here they had to go well out of the recognised air route and over country where no landing possible. Everyone very disappointed and some angry as the plane had arranged to stop here to fill up at lunch time. The Shell plane arrived traveling behind Amy. Met Captain Jones and Owen who were on it. Did some reading and writing.

Delays Delays.

Saturday April 26^th 1930:

Spent the morning and a portion of the afternoon on the car, finishing by taking it to the river, washing and then polishing up. Reading and writing in my spare time.

Sunday April 27^th 1930:

Owing to a traveling dentist having possession of the hall we had to have Sunday School down at ‘The Cottage’ and had 30 out which was very fine. After lunch, taking Glen with me, went out to Avon, where after tea we had a baptismal service, baptising Ian Hugh, son of Mr and Mrs McDonald, Mr McD being the book-keeper on the station. Glen was godmother. Had a blow out on the way out but a good trip in, reaching here at 11.30 pm.

Monday April 28^th 1930:

Weather warming up again, although there is a decided nip in the atmosphere, just at daybreak. The town is very quiet. Reading, writing most of the day. Went to pay a visit but found noone home. Must have known the parson was going to call.

Tuesday April 29^th 1930:

Started wood-carting today. Felt I needed a little manual work, so went with Mr Reilly and brought in three loads. Brought a few muscles into play that for a long time had been resting. Paid a visit to the inmates of the hospital this evening.

Wednsday April 30^th 1930:

A full day on the wood, brought in six loads. The loafers about the place reckoned we could not do six loads but had the 6^th in by 5 o’clock. Had to go over 4 miles for it and brought about 2 ton on each load. Both My Reilly and self did not feel like going for the 7^th.

Thursday May 1^st 1930:

Finished the wood carting by bringing in 3 loads before lunch and then took the afternoon and evening to recover. Was a bit stale on it this morning and did not have the same relish for the job as yesterday. Think though I upheld the family tradition for wood carting.

Friday May 2^nd 1930:

Had a morning of writing and straightening things up a bit. Went up to the school after lunch and then over to the hospital and visited the sick.

Saturday May 3^rd 1930:

Did some reading and writing and rested for the remainder of the day.

Sunday May 4^th 1930:

Had a nice crowd of children out at Sunday School this morning and altered the proceedings somewhat so as to make things more interesting. Went up along the river during the afternoon and in the shade of a tree read a book. At service at night about 20 came out, after which four of us had a sing down at the Cottage before retiring.

Monday May 5^th to Saturday May 10th 1930:

A few quuiet days in Camooweal. Am waiting for new tyres before taking a trip up the gulf way. Thought they would have been here before this but am still waiting. Weather is still warm but winter is making several attempts to gain the supremacy. A crwod of ladies left by lorry yesterday to attend a C.W.A meeting at Rankine where at the same time the horses for the races are being paddocked. New school teacher arrived Wednesday. Too much to say. Did a bit of visiting during the week. Turned up in time for supper Wednesday night at an evening given in honor of Matron Martin who is leaving.

Sunday May 11^th 1930:

Sunday School is booming these days as have now a regular attendance of 30, and all quite interesting, especially as the kiddies are so interested. Mr Quinn the assistant school teacher came along and helped this morning and as he plays the piano his help is greatly appreciated. Had a nice crowd out at service at night, although it was b.lowing a gale and rather cold.

Monday May 12^th 1930:

Was up early and joined the crowd to go to the aerodrome and see the plane taking Matron, Mr Reilly and Daphne, piloted by Captain Neale, off to Melbourne. It was rather cold waiting in the wine but at 7.30 they took off. Shortly after the P.O opened a telegram came from Neale for him to delay his trip and this was sent on to Cloncurry with the result that all arrived back after lunch. Another telegram arrived saying proceed, but it was then too late for today.

Tuesday May 13^th 1930: (My father’s birthday!)

Up at the ‘drome again but this time after breakfast. After waiting, Neale discovered a faulty magneto so a new one had to be put in and so the trip further delayed another day. Got the new tyres for car today but the wrong size was sent so am still waiting for them. Terribly windy and rather cold.

Wednesday May 14^th 1930:

Up early again and saw the plane off at 7 am and this time they returned not. Left myself for Mt Isa at 10 am and reached there at 4 pm. A good run in. Road still very rough. Boarded myself at the Church and had a clean and brush up and went down the town and met one or two. After tea, met some of the boys and wandered around the town finishing up with a supper of hot pies and coffee.

Thursday May 15^th 1930:

Had a full day in the garage. The part for the gear box that they did not have when I was in before, having arrived, decided to get it put in. As they were rather busy I had to work at it myself so as to get the job done . Went out again with the boys in the evening.

Friday My 16^th 1930:

Another day in the garage but finished the bus and got it out. Valves want grinding in but decided to do that myself. Went to see a couple knocking each other about and being the guest of Tim Doyle Esq.