Well John, you got about a quarter of the way around and you are correct it is a great drive. 1991 I was told I had to take long service leave but only went up the middle, across the top, down the west coast and back across the bottom. Thirteen thousand odd Kilometer from memory over the 10 week break.
Then because I still had too much leave left I worked a 4 day week for another 6 months. (I liked that.) Shame I had to go back full time for another 9 years.
Permanent holidays now, retired in 2000. Well, I became surplus to requirements so they gave me a package. Best move ever.
Glad you enjoyed your time here. Melbourne is about 70Km from home.
John B