In May 2023, an unexpected opportunity arose for Shauna and me. Thanks to the generosity of Shauna’s parents, who offered to watch our three kids, we were gifted a week of freedom. Initially, I had my sights set on Melbourne, a city teeming with culture and coffee. However, Shauna had a different vision in mind—she yearned for the simplicity and tranquillity of camping. As fate would have it, a friend’s offer to use his caravan led us to Byron Bay, a destination that wasn’t on our original radar but would soon hold a special place in our hearts.
Our stay in Byron Bay was nothing short of transformative. It was there, amidst the serene beaches and laid-back lifestyle, that we realized the time was ripe for an adventure—a grand expedition around Australia. Fuelled by excitement and a bit of spontaneity, we dove into research, acquired a car and caravan, and by December, were ready to embark on a 14-month journey that would take us across the vast and diverse landscapes of Australia.
One of the biggest logistical hurdles of long-term travel is managing financial responsibilities, but we had that covered. We found someone to rent our home, ensuring a steady income to cover the mortgage. And with Cloud Clicks and my other projects, I’ve always been quite flexible. So with a little practise, I can get my work done while on the road. With this peace of mind, we could truly immerse ourselves in the nomadic lifestyle.
Planning such an extensive trip required thorough preparation, and for this, we turned to an unlikely assistant—ChatGPT. With its help, we mapped out a rough itinerary that promised to be as flexible as it was ambitious. Here’s a glimpse into our planned journey:
- 1 December 2023: Our adventure begins as we depart from the Sunshine Coast, filled with anticipation for the experiences ahead.
- Ballina, Coffs Harbour, Hunter Valley, Sydney: Our initial stops, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm.
- Blue Mountains, Canberra, Bega, Eden, Snowy Mountains, Melbourne: From the breathtaking vistas of the Blue Mountains to the cultural hub of Melbourne, we aimed to soak in the diversity of Australia’s landscapes and cities.
- Adelaide, Coober Pedy, Uluru, Darwin, Perth, Tasmania and beyond: Each destination promised new discoveries, from the urban delights of Adelaide to the mystical allure of Uluru.
Our itinerary spanned the entire continent, from the lush rainforests of Kakadu National Park to the remote beauty of Esperance and the cultural richness of Tasmania. This journey wasn’t just about ticking off destinations; it was about slowing down, being more intentional, and eliminating the hustle to truly enjoy time with our family.
As we venture on this journey, we invite you to join us. Follow our travels and share in our experiences through our stories and updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. This adventure is more than just a trip—it’s a quest for a deeper connection with each other, with nature, and with the essence of life itself.
Stay tuned, and let’s see how this grand adventure unfolds.
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