Suzanne H (aka Red), 67, has been full-time on the road for four years … and is now ready to swap the bitumen for the tracks
What’s you rig?
I retired and bought a Travelhome 5th wheeler and Nissan 5506 V6 Diesel ute. I would like to downsize now so I can do the ‘tracks’ that I can’t do in my 5th wheeler. Last year I left my rig at Mt Carbine and swagged it right up the top and then over to Thursday Island.
How is solo travel?
I love the solo life. However, on long trips I use talking books, usually Australian history type stories. I can do minor repairs but can’t change tyres as I have a crook back, but rely on the (usual) wonderful truckies to keep an eye on me. I always put two chairs out when I free camp and a pair of size 14 men’s boots.
Any scary experiences?
I had one little scare with a sus bloke, but told him my husband had taken his rifle out to catch us dinner and he said: “Oh well, I better get some fish out of the freezer.”
Where do you camp?
I don’t like caravan parks as much, as being solo I still have to pay for two and the gives me the irks. Also, I find people more friendly in free camps as, in caravan parks, I find most women don’t really like their men helping out!
On the-road hobbies?
I read, do patchwork and card making and watch TV (I have a sat dish).
What don’t you like?
When caravanners travel together and don’t leave room for cars or trucks to pass which causes frustration and accidents! Also, stupid 4×4 drivers with no concept of driving on unmade roads who fly past without regard to others windscreens!
What wouldn’t you be without?
My baby Weber and my Engel fridge/freezer.
Favourite place to camp?
Without a doubt the Kimberley. I get such an emotional and spiritual contentment there and could easily live there, except my children and grandchildren would be horrified to know this. They think I am mad anyway. I have MS and they worry.
Advice for wannabe nomads?
Don’t leave it until tomorrow, get on the road today and enjoy. I never had a house, always rented, so I gave away all my furniture and the freedom is just wonderful. Just do it!
