Wednesday 22nd December 2010 – Whyalla’s strapline is “Where the Outback Meets the Sea” and I’d say this is a pretty accurate description. At Port Wakefield (about 100km north of Adelaide) it suddenly becomes Road Train country. Dozens of 2 and 3 trailer trucks roar up and down the highway. Then, at Port Augusta, the road splits in two – one branch going to Darwin and the Northern Territories, the other heading west to Perth and Western Australia. I took the latter and as I cleared Port Augusta it really felt like I was entering very remote territory. After another 50km or so, the road split again – one branch continuing to WA, the other to Whyalla and the Eyre Penninsula. There is absolutely nothing between here and Whyalla.

Whyalla is a strange town. The first thing you see as you approach is the enormous steel works which extends right down to the sea. Then there is a small town centre which leads round to the marina/wharf area at the south eastern tip. The rest of the town spreads westwards in a large wedge-shape from this point. Its mostly houses, industrial estates and the odd shopping precinct. Its very spread out so having your own transport is essential for getting around. I wouldn’t even be able to go to the shops without my bike here!