Introduction

In this book review I discuss Rick Carey’s book “Muriel the Medicycle”. It takes us on a motorcycle journey across Australia from rural New South Wales to the Kimberly in Western Australia, and back. It’s a motorbike adventure like no other, with a story equally needing to be told.

What does an old Yorkshireman, Royal Enfield Pegasus motorcycle and an Aboriginal Community have in common? They all contribute to an amazing adventure full of compassion for those people who slip between the gaps of our society.

The story of Muriel begins….

The story begins at the end of Rick’s previous adventure around Australia, where he had identified a desperate need to provide basic medical treatment to Aboriginal people on the fringes of their communities.

Rick uses his medic skills gained in the Army and a packet of balloons and heads north to the Kimberly region of Australia.

Along the way he makes friends with other motor cycle travellers and shares his interactions with them. He also meets a number of Aboriginal elders and leaders who are trying to hold onto an old way of life on the fringes of modern society.

Controversial at times

Rick touches on the dichotomy of life in Australia, from the prejudice experienced in some of the most north western communities, to self funded retirees and other “Dreaded Grey Nomads”.

At times he is controversial commenting on politics and chastising the federal government for inaction, while at other times he provides a heart felt explanation of injustice in communities and the plight of those aboriginal people that try to live in between two cultures.

With balloons at the ready, he engages young and old in the development of balloon animals and other artistic creations. This simple act of providing joy and entertainment opens doors and helps build relationships with community members. He sits cross legged with elders and discusses the plight of Aboriginal people in this modern age.

His explanation of motorcycle touring, the people he meets and his respect for the sacrifice of soldiers is brought to the front as he journeys across the land, it provides a rich tapestry to his travels.

This descriptive narrative makes you feel the hot wind on his face, the wind shear that hits him as a truck passes by and the taste of dust in his mouth from the long dirt roads.

His strength of character shines through with a fearless approach to travel and wild camping, that should be an inspiration to all those dreaming of life on the road.

In this book review, I find Rick’s narrative of life on the road, camping in rest areas, camouflaging your tent and bike to draw less attention to yourself, brings back fond memories of a simple time where solo motorcycle riding allowed me to once again see awe in the world.

A time when after packing your gear for the 1000th time there is an exhilaration as you gun the engine and head to new adventures not knowing what new things you will find.

The book is an enjoyable read, but I felt from time to time that it didn’t take an objective view of the issues impacting Aboriginal people in remote communities and recognise the hard work of many health professionals that live and work in those communities.

It also felt like an attack on “Grey Nomads” who have worked all their lives and invested well to be able to afford to travel in their retirement, and not to be criticised for doing so. It is worth remembering many of these same people provide a financial lifeline to the communities they travel through.

The sentiment of genuine concern for the underdog is evident in this book, which at times is reflected in an anti establishment discourse.

Rick attempts to highlight the plight of these visible but forgotten people and put a spotlight on them so that we don’t forget they exist and that they need help as well. He tries to address some of the short falls in this area by lending his expertise to provide basic medical and first aid treatment where needed as he travels.

With his authentic engagement with the communities and his use of balloon art, Rick may have just uncovered a strategy to engage these people that if scaled up might actually help. Although we may need to find a more environmentally friendly ways of making balloons.

Conclusion

As a travel journal and adventure motorcycle story I would give this book a four out of five star rating, but as a social commentary, In my opinion a book review should not be negative. Rick has put a lot of effort into creating his story and it is an interesting read.

There is plenty of controversial discourse in this book, but that’s what makes it a good read. Read the book and make your own. I hope you enjoyed this book review. Please leave comments either way in the comments section below.

The book is published by Birlie Press in 2021, IBN 978-0-6451631-2-4 

Where to buy

This book can be purchased through Amazon at the link provided below. If you purchase through this link I will receive a small commission. This does not in anyway influence my comments or criticism of the book. I believe in trying to be objective so that you can rely on my evaluation when making a purchase.

Click here to buy – Muriel the Medicycle by Rick Carey