Yuk. The freeway to Sydney was a rude awakening as trucks thundered past inches from the bike. This was probably the most dangerous part of the journey!

After the freeway, a fitting end in such a maritime city. I put the sea kayak onto the murky Parramatta River but I soon hit the clearer waters of Sydney Harbour, perving at yachts and waterfront mansions. I floated on the water and reflected on the journey: mountains, rivers, forests, plains; laughs, hard times; snow, rain, sun, wind; grinding uphills in lowest gear, yahooing down singletrack, steep climbs in thigh deep snow, smooth turns on open slopes; wild rapids; hunger, thirst; aching muscles, feeling strong. Satisfaction. Total satisfaction.

First the city skyline, then the Harbour Bridge came into view. It was a stunning setting. The evening sun dipped behind the bridge, lighting up the sails of the Opera House with a warm orange glow. A tiny beach allowed a landing.