The joys of walking

Saturday 25th Jul Cold toes couldn't stop me—yesterday's goal is officially in the bag! 💪 I am stepping out again today to keep the momentum going for Vision Australia. Every dollar gets me closer to my first fundraising target!" Share

Old Charleville Toad

Thursday 23rd Jul My journey continues walking along the old Charleville road near Morven. The red dirt, cattle grids, early morning sun, and kangaroos create a strong sense of place and history. This morning, as the early sun cast golden rays over the red dirt of the old Charleville road near Morven, I found myself surrounded by silence, broken only by the soft hopping of kangaroos crossing ahead. There must be hundreds of Eastern Grey and Red Kangaroos in these quiet hours—nature’s gentle reminder of life’s resilience. As I walk this 300 km challenge, every step takes me back to the rich history of this land. The old Charleville road wasn’t just a dusty track—it was a lifeline. Built by tough road gangs who braved harsh conditions, this road opened up vital opportunities for settlers and farmers. It connected remote grazing lands to markets and railway lines, making the movement of cattle and sheep possible across vast distances. After World War One, returning soldiers were given a chance at new beginnings through soldier settlement schemes. Roads like this one enabled them to access their land, supplies, and community. The cattle grids along the way mark the old stock routes where drovers drove cattle, carrying on a tradition essential to Australia’s rural heart. But my journey is about more than history. It’s about walking for those who need hope today—the little kids facing challenges every day, who need our support, and who truly matter. Your generosity helps bring comfort, care, and smiles to these children and their families through Red Nose Day. Join me by supporting the cause—every step I take is for them. https://www.rednoseday.org.au/fundraisers/jamesmcinnes Together, let’s make a difference. Share

Left, right or turn around.

Sunday 19th Jul I walked this morning. A Sunday morning along a never-ending gravel road, feeling the soul of the Australian outback beneath my feet. Out here, there is no communication with the outside world. Just the ultimate luxury of listening to the silence, peacefully interrupted by the sound of birds in the trees and the morning sun piercing through the crisp air. The cool breeze is a perfect companion today—gently pushing me along rather than blowing in my face.When you walk long distances alone, your mind starts to wander.I hit the 10 km mark, surrounded by scrub in the middle of nowhere, and my brain drifted back to suburban reality. I started picturing everyone back home waking up, checking Facebook, and lining up at their local coffee shop for Sunday morning coffee and cake.I had to chuckle thinking about the classic barista struggle. You know the routine: they call out "Jones" instead of "James." You sit there stubbornly refusing to make eye contact, making them bring it to the table just to see if they'll correct themselves. When they finally drop it off, you just smile and say, "Cheers, have a good day everyone!"It’s funny the things you think about when you're walking.Then, the outback snaps me right back to reality. The daydream fades, and suddenly I’m standing at the end of this incredibly long gravel road. I need direction. Do I turn left? Do I turn right? Or do I turn around and just keep continuing down the track?With 300 kilometres to conquer this month for Red Nose Day, the answer is always to keep moving forward. Every step on this gravel is to help save little lives and support grieving families.If you’d like to walk with me in spirit and support this wonderful cause, please consider donating through the link below. Every dollar helps! https://www.rednoseday.org.au/fundraisers/jamesmcinnes #RedNoseDay #300kmChallenge #OutbackWalking #GravelRoads #SupportRedNose Share

My big mistake..

Saturday 18th Jul

1. I’ll put my hand up.. I failed a golden rule of walking. Do not go out in uncomfortable shoes. Some slight discomfort at the beginning may develop into stinging pain over time and your stroll will be compromised. So continue to walk with me in comfort. 

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Morven town centre

Friday 17th Jul Enjoy a meander around this interesting township, discover its unique and interesting treasures. Walk with me through my journey to raise awareness to help save little lives. Share

The smell of fresh air and the occasional cattle truck.

Friday 17th Jul Cold brisk mornings In which ever way you turn seems to be a headwind. With freedom space and time to think what a way to start the day. Share

Walkingthe streets in Morven

Thursday 16th Jul Share