During August 2009, I had planned to make the drive out to my parents place in Stanthorpe, Located in Queenslands Granite Belt. This was to be the first real test of the Machete the Rebuilt Eco bus. However due to running just a tad behind time, I still made the trip but instead with a car, and also as a chance for Rosanna to meet my Parents.
Everything turned out great as my Sister and Brother-in-law were out there too, which made for a very awesome eventful weekend. There are so many things to do out there that we had to choose a few places to visit this time round and leave the rest for next. So after arriving late Friday evening, and having a few wines with the family, we had to get some decent sleep for the awesome day ahead.
Saturday morning was FREEZING. typical Stanthorpe winter, Heavy Frost left the Dark Maroon car looking like a white blanket had been thrown over the top. We didnt even leave the house until around 11am, opting to relax and eat Breakfast by the Fire.
I had a huge day planned, so My Sister, Bro, Rosanna and I all jumped in the car and headed out to Girraween via Wineries and the Chocolate shop. First stop, Rumbalara Winery. However after coping a face full of unnecessary Attitude, we hightailed it to Ballendeen Estate. We didnt spend too much time here, being one of the most well known Wineries in the region, it was well packed. And for good reason. So being lunch time we headed to the local Ballendeen pub for lunch.
With a brief stop at my favorite multi award winning Wine producer, Robinsons Family Vineyard , it was time to hit the Wisteria Cottage Handmade Chocolate shop located on the out skirts of Girraween National Park. MY GOD. I love this place. I recommend the Extra Dark Hot Chocolate. Your life will be complete!
So after filling our selves with chocolate, it was time to walk it all off with the hike to the Pyramid summit. And yes, these huge lumps of solid granite are a hike and a half. Quite a short walk but somehow most of the massive climb had been erased from my memory. I had forgotten just how huge and strenuous this hike was, thus talking up how easy and short it was. Wow. I need more chocolate.
But by the time we reached the top just in time for the sun to tip into magic hour, all that effort was swept away. 360 views of the entire national park. An amazing place, and look forward to returning here. Saturday evening wound down nicely with BBQ and wine at the parents place in front of the fire. Ain’t life hard! 
Sunday was pretty much a day to relax with the family and gave us a chance to catch up. Living in the middle of a 350 acre plantation gave us the privilege of being able to pick some ultra fresh cauliflowers and Leaks left by the Pickers. These are still in great condition but not perfect enough of the markets, so are left behind and ploughed back into the field. By then it was time to head back to the city again, feeling revitalised and ready to take on the next step in lifes new adventures.
Within 2 weeks, Machete the Eco bus will have all her new parts installed, including a zinc plated 350 Holley Carbie and manifold, and ready to take on the country.
Life, is Awesome!
