The beginning . . .

I have always been fascinated by what lies at the end of our suburban train lines, what happens when the tram reaches the depot at the end of the night, or where the bus goes when it disappears around the corner after your stop.

I feel like there is a whole world of suburban travel out there, out into what used to be Zone 3 and beyond, and it’s just waiting to be explored. I feel slightly guilty for dreaming of overseas travels when I haven’t gone very far into my own backyard. I am trying to broaden my knowledge of local geography but, beyond reading the Melways, there’s not a lot I can do without a car.

Actually, it’s not just the lack of car that’s a problem, it’s more the lack of driving ability. I am without a license in a world that seems to depend on cars to get around, but so far public transport has served me well. I am used to allowing at least half an hour to get anywhere that is further than 5km away, and I’m certainly not afraid of using my own little legs to carry me wherever I need to go. I would like to explore further though.

It’s like the day that my friends decided to drop acid and go to Northcote Plaza. Except without the acid. And maybe not in Northcote. The idea was just to go somewhere different, relatively close by, but a world away in some respects because it’s unfamiliar territory. Even without the acid I find it strangely intriguing to see different shops, in a different setting – especially those with funny names. Like the ones at Brisbane airport where every food outlet has a punny name to do with flying.

But I’m getting off the subject. The point is I am about to embark on a local travel project of, well, local proportions. It’s not going to be mind-blowing, it’s probably not going to make me any more wordly, but – if nothing else – it should at least be fun.

I’m going to utilise the great value of a Sunday Saver ($2.90) to go as far as the transport will take me. I’ve even discovered a new ticket – a Weekend Saver that will allow the same reasonably priced transport on Saturdays as well! Just how far can you go for $2.90? I’m going to get my money’s worth, that’s for sure.

Following on from our recent conversation of industrial tourism and lack of vehicles/funding for such ventures, Doug has agreed to join me. It should be a lark! Now we just have to decide where to go . . .