When we moved in January 2019, it was during one of the dryest periods in living memory. Two months ago we experienced the huge devastating bushfires that are still raging across Australia. Our paddocks were brown, creeks had long since dried up and the river at the bottom of our driveway become stagnant pools of black water. The river was contaminated by a film of fire retardant which back washed from fire trucks hoses as they filled up their trucks. It couldn't be helped of course, the firies did an amazing job of bravely fighting the fires around the clock that raged in the hills.
Until now.
Coming from South Australia I have rarely seen such rain. We have had over 200mms in the past few days. The ground is soggy, the creeks are flowing for the first time since we have been here and the river at the bottom of our driveway is beautifully full and flowing fast.
The bush is alive with the sound of bugs, crickets, cicadas and frogs. The birds are still quiet though, I'm not sure when they will return. I gather they moved on in search of food and water when it was endlessly hot and dry.
The water in our creeks is crystal clear and icy cold. The boys are delighted to be able to freely play in the shallow sections and it's lovely to be able to cool off in the heat of the day. Even ancient old Tessa had a dip! Tessa being a labrador used to love swimming in her younger days, but these days the river is too steep and too deep for her to manage, the beach is too rough and due to some heart failure, she doesn't tolerate car travel so we avoid it unless absolutely necessary. But with the creeks running there is the perfect spot for her. It's a short 100m gentle walk and nice shallow water for her to lay in. She lay there for a good hour looking totally blissed out!
Tessa and Aggie happily cooling off.
We will be right for water now for the next while too which is a great relief. Although we are still awaiting delivery of our header tank, between being able to pump from the creek and rain we have peace of mind knowing there is good clean water nearby.
The pasture has instantly bounced back and seems to be growing before our eyes. This gives us relief and some protection from any future bushfires. Hopefully, we get some good follow up rain which will allow the pockets of rainforest on the farm to regenerate. So far the long-range forecast for the remainder of January and February is looking positive, and there is a good chance of an average rainfall season.
I dearly hope this rain is widespread across Australia and that the areas that truly need it receive much-needed relief.
Well, the sun is shining so I had best get some washing on while the solar is working at full capacity. All this rain means one thing - MUD! Which of course the boys love. Ha!
Much love,
Emma
xx
