Grey nomad, Paul Chater, recalls a series of chance meetings that made him realise that the Big Lap could actually be very small
Back in the late ’90s my wife, Heather, and I were crossing the Simpson from west to east, on our own, doing a recce for a future 4×4 tour.
We came across an older couple broken down and in a bit of strife, dead battery and unable to start the diesel engine.
The alternator was the problem. I repaired the alternator and got the vehicle started, charged the battery, made sure all was good and left them to it. I refused the offer of money for my labours.
Several days later we arrived in Birdsville in the middle of a huge dust storm and decided to stay in the hotel accommodation, so booked in and went to the bar to have a meal.
Paul and Heather (right) enjoy taking 4WD tracks in their off-road rig (left). PIC: Paul Chater
The dust was unbelievable, blowing under doors and managing to enter your mouth at every mouthful of beer!
After several beers the older couple appeared at the bar, wanting to book a room as camping was difficult in the wind and dust. They spotted us and came over, saying we were to dine together and they wanted to pay. Not being one to offend, I accepted their offer and we had a pleasant evening swapping stories about our travels.
A couple of years later, I was amazed to meet the same couple at a 4×4 open day at a shop local to them in New South Wales when they wanted to equip their new vehicle for some more adventures. They took my advice on board, and the vehicle was prepared for their next adventure.
A few more years after that I was having a lunch break near the Crocodile Tent on Cape Yorke, four of us in two vehicles. To my surprise, around the corner came a new 4×4 sporting the equipment I recommended years earlier, with the older couple waving like crazy.
We spent a couple of days enjoying their company and sightseeing across the Cape, including a boat trip to Horn Island.
So, three interactions, thousands of kilometres apart, by a handful of people, in a population of 25 million odd.
I guess it’s fate!
• Have you ever had a ‘wow, what a coincidence’ meeting with someone you had previously encountered? Comment below.
In 1983 as a young married couple, we did a 12 month Big Lap from Melbourne. Headed West in January. Met a lovely young man at Wave Rock WA and enjoyed chatting to him that night.
After many adventures and months, in October, we went to Cairns Post Office to pick up mail. Who should walk in at exactly the same time but this young man! Can’t remember his name but remember the coincidence.