BALINGUP

TUES 7 - WED 8.1.2014: All packed up and ready to take off and we had an "incoming" caravan arrival. The fellow traveller asked where we were headed and we vaguely responded that we were not sure! Advised that we should spend some time at the Wright's Bridge Camping Area which was some 10kms out of Balingup. Four years ago a bush fire had torn through the area and the National Parks and Wildlife had just reopened it for camping. Few people knew that you were now allowed access so they had the camp area to themselves. Sounds like our type of spot! We set off down the ever so lengthy drive (2 kms), and before you knew it came upon the Balingup Tavern - tea break! 

VISTA FROM THE TAVERN

We had also been told that "The Old Cheese Factory" and the Furniture, Art and Antique Shop were must dos. As always, the thought of cheese prompted a positive response - another 2kms down the road and we had arrived. Discussions had taken place on the type and amount of cheese to be purchased  so we entered The Old Cheese Factory with great enthusiasm. There are some six rooms, plus a downstairs section absolutely packed to the rafters with bric-a-brac, antiques, souvenirs and possibly anything you would care to think of - EXCEPT C-H-E-E-S-E!

Departed the building with a few items, but needless to say, no cheese. No problem, further on is the Heritage Cheese Shop so that is probably where we should have visited. Park the motorhome and walk up to the door - CLOSED! Went back into Balingup proper and had coffee and a snack! Drove into Wright's Bridge Camping area - beautiful in every way! Designated camp sites have been cleared in amongst the natural forest. There are larger bays and some tent areas, but all have their own table sets, barbecues, communal toilet and garbage disposal point. The sites are well distanced from each other, with a resident Camp Manager that collects the $5.50 (Grey Nomads)/$7.50 (Less Grey Nomads) each evening - perfect!