Stockton Lake

After returning to Perth we picked up the van and stayed with Tony another night before going to Bunbury to meet my brother Colin and Yolande.  Had an interesting drive through the small towns of Dwellingup, Pinjarra, Waroona ending up at Discovery Top Tourist Park in Bunbury where we caught up with Colin, Yolande and their dog Cindy.

Next day we travelled to Stockton Lake Camp approx. 8km east of Collie which was a lovely spot to camp.  Was entertained by skiers and even had view of the motor cross track for a Meeting on Saturday morning.  Stayed for 3 nights and was reluctant to leave.

The Stockton Mine was opened in 1927 and closed in 1960 producing 2,750,806 tonnes of coal valued at $7,198, 221.  Apparently the water ingress caused the mine to close and today the Lake has warning signs regarding swimming in the water.  This didn't seem to deter the water activities on the weekend.

Sunset over Stockton Lake

Happy hour with Colin & Yolande camping at Stockton Lake

The entrance to the Stockton Mine - Opened 1927 closed 1960. 

Early morning @ Stockton Lake - once was part of the mine

On the weekend the Lake become very busy, hardly enough room for a swim.

From here we continued east towards Norseman.

Adelaide for Luke & Rhi wedding

What a flying visit to Adelaide - arrived on Thursday evening and caught up with Briony, Todd & Tenelle at the "Maid" (Maiden Magpie Hotel) for a quick drink.  We hadn't see Briony and Todd since April and it was the first time Tenelle had to cope with the complete Hautop family! Hels had her 'Family Day' with the 'kids' on Friday which she had been so looking forward to, and I must admit I really enjoyed too.  The weekend was packed with catching up with friends/family and wedding celebrations.

On Saturday morning I picked up Todd and took him to Athelstone where the boys were getting ready for the wedding.  The wedding was 2 pm at Linde Reserve in Stepney, with great weather and the bride looking beautiful as only a bride can the ceremony was formal, with a relaxed atmosphere.

Luke waiting for Rhiannon to arrive - Todd, Nick and Mark offering support!!! 

The Wedding Vows - Rhiannon a beautiful bride.

Todd, pass me the rings

Tenelle, Briony, Hels & Alex at the start of the Reception - could not publish the ones at the end of the celebrations!!! (although there seems to be plenty on FB).

Hels and I treated ourselves to a night at the Mecure Grosvenor (where Reception was held) and after a big night was good to just push the elevator button to 3rd floor and we were home!  Sunday became a long day and the high energy of the night seemed to fade in the morning light - some members of the family were not feeling all that fresh!!  Dropped Briony off at airport, dropped Todd & Tenelle off at friends who will take them to Airport later that night, then headed to friends @ Coromandel Valley.

Also managed to catch up with the 'Cactus Cock' crew on Monday and thanks to P&P for arranging lunch.  Had good laughs and companionship which we have enjoyed for many, many years.  Hels brother Robert & Rhonda hosted us for Dinner with a surprise visit from Hels sister Glenda - was great to all catch up for a chat.

The "Cactus Cock" crew - we have been dining out annually now for more than 35 years, you can tell by the hair colour!!!

Tuesday was a hectic day, on the plane and back to Perth, leaving Adelaide at 10ish (daylight saving time) and arriving in Perth at 11.30am to pick up van, shopping, then head to Boddington.  Was much appreciated to have a lovely dinner prepared by Leanne after a looooong day travelling.