First things first: no matter what the condition of the runners, the vehicles must look good!
The day started at St Joseph's Primary School, Taree ...
... with the students performing a traditional dance and “Welcome to Country” ceremony. The purpose of the assembly was to mark International Reconciliation Week.
The Peace Run visit was a feature of a packed program that included Bishop Bill Wright of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. Rob Douglas reported on the occasion for the Manning River Times.
The girls team left the assembly early to hit the road and cover the short distance to Forster.
At Forster we met with the younger students of Forster Public School ...
... and the Administrator of the Mid Coast Council, Mr John Turner.
Sophie and Jaiden received the Torch and Certificate of Appreciation.
The students have probably the most picturesque campus anywhere, being a stone's throw from the beautiful beach and rocky coastline.
Running on south from Forster, we enjoyed water views on both sides, with the Pacific on our left, and the Lakes stretching into the distance on our right.
As the clouds started to build up before the rain, we saw a glorious rainbow over the water.
The last of the running for the day saw us running into hilly tall timber country and past the road leading to the tallest tree in NSW.
Th boys team made it all the way TO the tallest tree, but not UP the tree.
When we had finished running, Daniel from the Myall Coast News came to interview the team ...
... and hold the Peace Torch.
We ended the day with wonderful comfy beds, in Bulahdelah at the Lady Jane Motor Inn ...
... where we had a warm welcome – ...
... including a plate of hot chips!
The owner's daughter Carol made a 12th birthday wish for peace as we sung her Happy Birthday and she then ran with the team.
Lots of folks came over the hold the Peace Torch.
Hello to Mongolia!
