G’day shedders! Rip Woodchip here — retired tool sharpener, full-time chinwag specialist, and part-time navigator of the open road.
JPY’s chat to David for On The Road just now, got me to thinkin’… there’s something about hittin’ the road that gets right into a bloke’s bones. Could be the hum of the tyres, the smell of fresh coffee at a servo, or the mystery meat pie that you hope is beef. Either way, getting out and about can do wonders for the head and the heart.
A lot of us shedders love a good road trip — whether it’s heading off to visit the grandkids, checking out another shed a few towns over, or loading up the caravan for a lap of the country. But as we get a bit older (and a bit creakier in the knees), travelling needs a bit more planning than it used to.
So here’s a few Rip Woodchip travel tips — learned the hard way, mostly on the side of the road with the bonnet up.
First up — don’t rush it. You’re not in a courier van. If it says eight hours on the map, make it ten and enjoy the ride. Stop, stretch, have a yarn. You’d be amazed what you can find in small towns — a good bakery, an even better shed, and maybe a story or two for your next smoko break.
Second — check your rig before you go. I don’t just mean the car. Check your own rig too! Medications packed, hearing aids charged, glasses, phone charger — all the essentials. Because nothing ruins a good road trip faster than realising you’ve left your blood pressure tablets on the kitchen bench.
Third — connect with other sheds. Wherever you go in Australia, chances are there’s a Men’s Shed not too far away. Drop in, introduce yourself, and say you’re part of the mob. You’ll be welcomed quicker than a bloke with a box of Tim Tams.
And while you’re at it — keep in touch. Let someone know where you’re headed, especially if you’re going bush or out of phone range. It’s not about fuss — it’s just smart travel.
Oh, and if you’re caravanning — do yourself a favour and join a few of the shedder forums or traveller groups online. Great for tips on camp spots, tool hacks, and what not to do with your awning in a windstorm. (Trust me, I know.)
So whether you’re heading to the next town, the next state, or just down the road for a yarn and a cuppa — take it easy, enjoy the journey, and remember: life’s too short to drive past a good bakery.
Alright, that’s enough outta me. I’m off to top up the thermos and find where I put the map… or was it my glasses?
Catch ya down the track, shedders.