Camels still on Anna Plains?
Temperature - Day (maximum):
Rain and snow
Germany – 15.03.2001 – 16.03.2001
In the meantime, word of the tragedy of our team loss has spread among our circle of friends. The phone keeps ringing and we are asked how we are going to continue with our Australia project. Even sponsors from whom I have not withheld the unpleasant news seem to be worried and offer their help.
When my thoughts wander to Australia during the busy days, I am overcome by a feeling of existential angst and emptiness. In the evening Tanja and I sit there and discuss what to do if David can’t find the camels. We all agree that we still don’t want to give up. Too much energy and money has gone into this Australian crossing and the worst thing would be to lose a lifelong dream. In one crisis meeting after another, it becomes increasingly clear which steps we will take. We will also scrape together the last of our money to buy new camels in an emergency. We realize that the possible loss of our beloved animals means we will have to invest another year of preparation and live on a remote farm again. “I am glad that we have come to this decision. Somehow I even feel relieved.” I say. “Me too,” Tanja replies with a smile. Once again, her confidence shows me that I would be lost without her and how wonderful it is to be able to share my life with her.
Around midday, I call David to ask for news. “Nothing new Denis, but I’m sure they’re still on Anna Plains. The rain has made the bush grow a lot. They must be hiding somewhere and having a good time. Apart from that, none of our neighbors have seen them yet. They must still be here. If only this damn rain would stop.”
After this information I call our mate Ken Rieck from Limestone Station to ask him if he would fly the three to four hundred kilometers to Anna Plains and take up the search for our animals from the air. “No worries Denis” (no problem) I hear his voice and I could hug him for joy. “My machine is currently in Port Headland for an overhaul. When I get it back I’ll go looking for it,” he says. I hang up the phone and cheer, because this news has greatly increased the chances of finding our crew again.
