We taxied to where a station truck and a couple of pickups were parked and placed our machine neatly alongside - you know, just visiting friends. I have been personally hosting and showing overseas visitors around Australia and New Zealand for some 20 years and, for those who can afford the time, an encounter with the people of the Outback is always one of the most memorable experiences. Frank and Mollie from small town West Virginia where they own and run a pretty successful catering operation which employs over 300 people. The four have been friends for years and often travel together for leisure. We are welcomed into their sprawling, low, homestead.
Summers here can be hot so the house is built with wide enclosed verandahs.
The construction is of cool white limestone and the place is comfortable and roomy - at the same time practical and gracious. Then there is still a walk-in cool room and store in an outbuilding. When the nearest supermarket is some 300 miles away one has to adapt. Though rooms brim with prized trophies and antiques, there is no such thing as formality out here. Because visits are private and by pre-arranged invitation only, it works well.