Erwin and Monique van Vliet always knew how to dream big. Their latest adventure might be the biggest one yet. They are attempting to travel all the way around Australia on horseback, at least that’s the ultimate goal. The couple say they are taking it one day at a time and leave timeframe and final destination open.

Being in the last year of Uni, Monique’s plan was to backpack around Australia. Meeting Erwin just a couple of months before departure didn’t defer the plan. He just went with her. Together they travelled in a Toyota Hiace van (not much bigger than a sardine can) all around the country, then New Zealand and Bali. The freedom, experiencing new countries, being together in close proximity and a mutual love for adventure laid a solid base for their relationship.

“What are we going to do with the rest of our lives?”

Back in the Netherlands they started their ‘proper’ life together. Beautiful 1930’s art deco home, new cars, well-paying jobs. Erwin as specialist engineer on digital printing presses and Monique as marketing- communications officer for different companies. Marriage was the logical next step, with a honeymoon (together with Erwin’s parents!) in Australia. Travel was aplenty for work (Erwin installing machines all over the world) and leisure. Kids were not in the cards, so although life was good, something was missing. Having reached common goals early, brings about the question: “what are we going to do with the rest of our lives?”

Monique wanted to travel again, go back to the backpack days and enjoy each others company without any responsibilities. This solution was not enough for Erwin to give up his horses and the Ranch they worked so hard for. To let go, he would need a new challenge, a new purpose in life.

And voila the latest dream was born; take the horses on a trip around Australia. Just start riding, enjoy the horses, the landscape and people at a leisurely pace. Read More

Source
Tales of the Trail