22nd March
As we departed the Mt Somers Domain campground we took a moment to talk to Trevor. He was a motorhomer, resided in Whitford, had been a teacher and had worked for Young Farmers. His current work is a role in supporting farmers with their mental health. Amazing the people you meet by chance who have points of ‘commonality’.
As we crossed an RDR I was curious to know more. The letters stand for Rangitata Diversion Race. Its purpose is to divert water from the Rangitata River and irrigate a huge area of farmland. It was the first major river diversion of its kind in the country and is the largest. All Karl wanted to know was, could he swim in it? You can guess my response!
A large feed at Mayfield gave us the boost to walk a 20k straight stretch of road. By nightfall we made camp at a rest area on the southern side of the Rangitata River. This is the river that causes plenty of grief to TA walkers. It has taken lives in the past. The detour is 130k long so it’s no surprise some take the ultimate risk of crossing it. Karl and I looked down at the river, though not high in volume it still would be a challenge to cross. Thank you bridge.
A 35k above average distance walk for the day.
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