Ever been caravanning?... even if you haven't you've probably heard stories from those that have about all the trouble many people have while backing their caravans - especially in the smaller caravan parks. Well known Bush Poet Bob Pacey puts a 'spin' on what is a common, everyday problem - especially for newbies to the wonderful world of caravanning & camping :-)
Narrated Version - Text below...
BACKING THE VAN!
by Bob Pacey - © 2023
All around this wide brown country there are delights you all should know
and to see them all should be a lasting plan.
I’ve seen a few weird things myself but the best I’ve every seen
is when a poor old nomad tries to back his van.
No matter where you strike them from the Cape to Hobart town
this ceremony finds a special place.
It is like some secret ritual but some treat it like a joke
while others seem to think it is a race.
Those who have already settled will lounge back in their chairs
always an ice cold drink so close at hand.
For it should be such a simple thing to back onto a site
but it turns into an exhibition grand.
The waving of the hands comes first like a fighter pilots crew
trying to get the plane down safely on the deck.
but this pilots either blind or deaf and all communication fails
as the shrubs along the sites side does he wreck.
Then will come the yelling as she runs from side to side
then he hears a thud and on the brake does clap.
“Will you listen to what I’m saying you stupid deaf old fool”
He’s just wiped out the bloody water tap.
The neighbours are all laughing as the van sways too and fro
as he adjusts his line and runs up on the slab.
“Oh I give up Bill“ she screams in a state of pure frustration
and the bloke next door gives his mates ribs a jab.
Some will use a two way when the drivers hearings failing
but sometimes interference can cause grief.
With instructions coming thick and fast confusion reigns supreme
as all the neighbours shake their heads in disbelief.
Motor homes and buses or fifth wheelers matter not
the problems still the same and causes strife.
Cause left hand down still turns the rig when SWMBO* calls out right
and everyone still scurries for their life.
Well then finally they settle and the crowd all melts away
to the campfire to discuss the evening plan..
but as sure as day turns into night tomorrow they'll be back.
to witness another backing of the van.
*SWMBO ( She Who Must Be Obeyed )
_________________________________Text & Audio © 2023 Bob Pacey
Image:
Thanks to Kim Hannah - Camping For Foodies - Pinterest
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