Page 7 of Andrew’s Outback Love

“It’s sad that some women have debilitating medical issues and can’t enjoy what should be a wonderful experience. Allison knew going in that it wouldn’t be easy but I don’t think she expected it to be this hard.” I felt sad for women like Ally who suffered, but knew once she held her bundle of joy it would all have been worth it.

“So, Cam tells me the new nurse is coming up with the flight that’s to take Ally home. We don’t get to meet her for another two weeks. Will she attend the gala? Tell us about her.”

I groaned at Viv’s reminder of the gala which was to be held in Melbourne next weekend. I detested these functions, but I was obligated to put in an appearance when invited. At least there were only two or three a year that I was specifically asked to attend and they did help to raise much needed money for our team and the RFDS. This one was focused on people from the health sector who gave their time and expertise to help residents in remote communities. It was hosted by the Vision of Light Humanitarian Organization. In Australia they worked alongside the RFDS. Overseas they coordinated with charity groups to bring medical help to those who needed it the most.

“Her name is Linda Freemont. She’s a qualified nurse and midwife and has been at RFDS in Broken Hill for eight years. She’s single, thirty-two years old and her parents live in Perth which is where she grew up. She has one brother. I was due to meet her next week so that’s about all I know. She probably won’t be at the gala. It looks like I’ll be solo because none of the team can make it. Can’t say I blame them. Given a choice, I wouldn’t be there either.”

“It helps fund your work so stop grouching about it.” Viv patted my arm.

“I know but this one has a zillion speeches and is as boring as shit. So many people out there are doing wonderful humanitarian work, why highlight only a few?”

“Are you nominated?” Darla asked.

“Fuck, no. Why would I be? No, I’m there as a guest only. To rub shoulders with society and hope they’ll give money to help with restoring eyesight to those who need it the most. So, I’ll get all decked out in a fucking penguin suit and play nice, knowing it helps to keep me out here.”

“You’re a good man, Drew and you don’t need awards for people to know that.” Viv patted my arm again and I smiled.

The rest of dinner was spent with Gary discussing the upcoming cattle sales and gossip about a few of their neighbors. Apparently, Joe and Edna Carmichael were about to put their two thousand-acre property, on the outskirts of town, up for sale and the talk caught my full attention.

“Bagaay Downs is up for sale?” I pushed my empty plate away, leaned forward and rested my arms on the table while I focused on Gary.

“Yep. Joe needs a new hip and the doctors said he’ll always have a slight limp even after surgery because of the damage to the tendons. He broke it falling out of his tractor a couple of years ago and it didn’t mend properly. Last time I ran into him in town, he said he’s had enough. He’s selling and moving into town near their daughter so Edna will have help with him. He was going to list it after the sales.”

“So, he’ll sell off all his cattle?”

“Yep, buyer still won’t get it cheap though. He backs onto the river and the rear half of the property is pretty lush. He’s got six dams and brand-new stables and stock yards. The house has been fully renovated back to original too. I think it was built in 1886. Is that right, Viv?”

“Yes, I’ve heard it’s a beautiful homestead.”

“How much do you think he’ll want?” My interest was piqued and I found myself desperately wanting this property.

“Around 1.4 to 1.6 million. He’ll be fussy about who he sells to though. He’s lived there all his life and he’ll want it to go to someone who fits with the area and respects the Aboriginal claims to the land. It’s a pity they didn’t have a son to take over. Their daughter has no interest in it at all. She headed into town as soon as she was old enough.”

“You interested?” Cam asked.

“Could be if I can organize finance.”

“Have you ever seen it?” Gary sat back in his chair and folded his arms across his chest.

“No. I’ve heard plenty about it though and certainly wouldn’t mind taking a look.”

“I can give Joe a call and ask him if you can swing round in the next day or so. I’m sure he’d be happy for you to take a look and have a chat.”

“That would be great, Gary. Thanks. How far from town is it?”

“Fifteen minutes or so. The road isn’t sealed so you need a four-wheel drive.”

“I’ll ask Barry if I can borrow his.”

“Mind if I tag along?” Cam asked.

“Not at all.” I felt excited. If I could swing a place so close to Bourke, I could set up my own clinic space instead of using Barry’s rooms all the time. I’d have a place of my own to come to when I had time off from Sydney. It would be a dream come true.

I couldn’t wait to get into Bourke, organize a vehicle and take a look at the place.

***

WE ARRIVED IN TOWN at around eleven and after thanking Gary for driving Cam and I in, we headed into the hospital. James had called earlier and informed us the flight from Dubbo was due in around midday. Allison would be transferred into their care and Ruby would be free to continue with us.