When most people think of companions, they usually think of other people. But for this Tasmanian native, there’s no one he’d rather share the road with than his beloved cat, Willow.
A man with a plan and a truck:
In 2015, Rich East knew his life had to change. He spent 10 years living the corporate lifestyle, and it really didn’t work for him. So Rich decided to do what many people dream of but few actually achieve. He bought a motorhome and started turning the interior into a small house. There is a bed, a kitchen, and small shelves everywhere.
The rich man sold his possessions. He sold his house. And he resigned from the position because the company could not bring him satisfaction. Finally, he is free.
He couldn’t bear to leave her. But can a cat become a tourist?
Rich started by taking the cat out for a few days. Eventually, days turn into weeks. He thought Willow might be sad if she couldn’t explore the places she frequented. Stressed cats are not happy cats, and he worries about his health.
But the Willow has not yet begun to wither; instead, she began to thrive. Rich wakes up to a cheerful, purring cat eagerly awaiting his next destination. With his worries eased, Rich embarks on his great adventure.
Willow’s Animal Tracker
Rich doesn’t want Willow to get lost in an unfamiliar place, so she wears an animal tracker around her neck. This GPS device helps Rich always know where Willow is. That said, Willow never got very far. She will explore the area outside the vehicle but always be in sight. When it was time for bed, Willow was there, waiting.
Chat Dashboard
The truck has many great places for a cat to hide and sleep. Willow can lie on the bed, rummage through the closet, or get into the storage compartment above the driver’s seat.
But Willow’s favorite seat is on the dashboard. She enjoys the beautiful scenery as Rich drives the truck to exciting new locations. Across Australia
Since 2015, Rich and Willow have traveled across mainland Australia. In 2018, they even returned home to Tasmania.
Rich volunteers run errands and hang out with other campers. Willow spends his time napping, exploring, and watching the world go by.
The travel duo loves camping in the desert. They see deep gorges, beautiful sunsets, and abandoned places with mysterious stories.
Where are they today?
At the end of 2019, Rich bought a new truck and sold the old one. He rebuilt his brand-new mobile home to accommodate one more person. Reason? Rich’s girlfriend, Steph, joins the team.
Rich and Willow have no intention of giving up their adventurous lifestyle. With a whole world ahead, it’s unclear where this unique travel duo will go next.
