Only 10 sleeps to go before the start of the Blacktown to Batemans Bay Variety Bash and I am starting to get excited  It has taken 12 months to prepare the Austin (entrant number K9) for the Bash.

 Last year on the trip to Darwin we dusted the engine. The Bash travels over dirt roads wherever possible and dust if it gets into the engine acts like an abrasive on the cylinders. We started using a lot of oil and sent clouds and  clouds of smoke behind us. We managed to finish the last 2000k of the Bash by driving under 80 kph and stopping to top up the sump every 100k. We stopped the smoke by diverting the oil from the PCV valve into a catch can. 

This year we have reconditioned the engine, brakes, and front suspension and have added a spoiler on the back which unfortunately has been taken over by a flock of ducks. 

The car is almost ready, but this being my eleventh Variety Bash, I know it will never be finally finished.  There is always something to modify or make better.

Pommygran8 and I have been packing the giveaways for children on the trip thanks to UKTV for their generous donation of goods and sponsorship for the car.

Pommygran8 has excelled herself this year with her sewing skills. We have different costumes for every day of the Bash and our entry in the Bash Idol competition should bring some merriment to all. Our final night theme is astounding. Here we are rehearsing.

Watch this space.