I woke to an incredible sunrise glowing through the thin trees. Again, there was no condensation in the tent due to freezing temperatures overnight. I’d slept with my rain pants over my thermals, which kept me warm.

My ankle was still swollen, tender and bruised this morning, so I strapped it again and dosed up on pain killers.

From the camp, the trail soon joined a rough 4WD track which wound its way, up and down, through damp sub-tropical forest, then gums – all the while the rising sun filtered through with a magical glow.

I had to navigate around several large muddy pools of water on the track, sending me into the thick forest momentarily.

I arrived at Mt Skene (1,570m) at 8am. There was a lovely camp at the top. Strong winds kept up all morning, with gum trees creaking and groaning as I walked dubiously beneath them and past many fallen limbs

Every so often, mountain ranges would reveal themselves on either side of the track. There was a spring in my step this morning, despite the bruising, as I was on my way to see Jane, after 10 long days.

Before I knew it I had arrived at Rumpff Saddle, a large grassy camping area. From here, I made my way up the very steep Barkly River Jeep Track to its northern intersection with the Lincoln Licola Road – my meeting point with Jane.

I arrived an hour earlier than expected and waited nervously by the gravel road for her arrival – hoping she’d find her way to our obscure meet-up location.

Within about 30 minutes, I heard a few honks of the horn and saw the Hilux coming around the corner. It would be fair to say I had a smile from ear to ear.

We spent the next three hours together, Jane heating up pies she’d bought that morning from a bakery on her four-hour drive in. I was then treated to a vanilla slice, cold Coke, and a hot bird bath. I also sorted out my food drop supplies and slipped into some fresh underwear and socks.

It was so good seeing her after 10 long days apart. After a teary farewell, I headed to my campsite close by and enjoyed a freshly made silverside sandwich for afternoon tea, then heated up some home-made veggie curry, complete with rice, Tzatziki, chutney and pappadams – all compliments of my Trail Angel.

Needless to say, tonight I went to bed with a full stomach and heart.