Due to the mistake made with the dates for the hotel in Sydney, we arrived a day earlier than originally planned. This worked out quite well as we did not need 2 nights in Canberra as we managed to see all we wanted to in 1 afternoon!We were very lucky to get a fine afternoon to explore as the previous day Canberra had suffered from terrible storms.
The weather in Sydney has also been kind to us. Most of Australia seems to have had the worst start to summer than ever before. They now have full reservoirs for the 1st time in years.Sydney has suffered high winds and storms so the prospect of climbing the bridge was not something we were looking forward to. However from the time we drove into the city the sun shone and we were able to spend a couple of 'happy hour' sessions overlooking Darling Harbour and watching many groups celebrating their Christmas 'do's'. We used our time on Wednesday to work out how long it would take us to walk to the start of the bridge climb so that we could be sure to get there on time on Thursday. The rest of the day was spent doing things and seeing places that we had missed in October.
Thursday morning was just about as good as it could get - not too hot, not too cold, not too windy and no rain. We were in a group of 10 - all but 2 were from the UK. We were a bit apprehensive at first but once we had climbed the upright steps to get onto the arch, we felt completely safe and were able to enjoy the views. What an experience! (Brought to us courtesy of Ceri and Rich. We are really grateful to them for giving us the gift vouchers as a present for putting up with them - or should that have been putting them up - for 16 months.)We were at the front of the group so were able to ask many questions. It's unfortunate that no one is allowed to take a camera up but the group leader took several photos and we were given a complementary group photo with the certificate that we received at the end.
The climb was the last memorable thing we did in Australia.
Singapore tomorrow.
No more blogs for this trip.
BUT - WATCH THIS SPACE! We will return in April when we will be travelling to Chicago, San Antonio, the Grand Canyon (another dream place) and San Francisco.
Thursday 15 December 2011
Wednesday 14 December 2011
Friday 9 December 2011
Lakes Entrance
2 nights here before moving up to the mountains. Spending our last day by the sea - apart from the Harbours in Sydney. Weather is fine today although thunderstorms are forecast. Have not been able to get into Virgin Media recently so have not caught up on any emails.
Thursday 8 December 2011
Off Again
We are on the move again today. Leaving the Melbourne area and heading along the coast on our 4 day trip up to Sydney. 1st stop is on the coast at a place called Lakes Entrance. After that into the mountains to Jindabyne, then on to Canberra. My first 'cock-up' was realised yesterday when I was ringing all the motels to confirm our booking and discovered that I had given the very last hotel (and the most expensive) in Sydney the wrong dates. As I had already paid and part of the agreement was a no change, no cancellation, no money back deal, I had to frantically rethink the week. It was all sorted though as we had planned 2 nights in Canberra and were able to cancel one of them with no charge and then we found a chaeper hotel in Sydney for our last night - one near the airport. Bit of a palava but all sorted. Everything had been going so smoothly - the internet is a wonderful thing.
Penguin Parade
Yes - we did it - along with all the other weekend tourists. Our excuse was that we had to take Charlotte although I have to admit it was the one thing I really wanted to do on Phillip Island. We had already been to see some of the chicks in their nests in an area called The Nobbies (where we also saw our first snake. Anyway we dutifully joined the throngs and managed to get on the front row near the beach to await the arrival of the birds. It gradually got darker and colder, we took bets on what time they would actually set foot on the beach, and eventually they began to arrive in their hoards. What an amazing spectacle - a race for life up he beach with thousands of baby chicks croaking away to attract their attention. One chick near to us decided that he was fwd up with the nest and as soon as the parent birds arrived he was off down the beach - parents getting very frustrated trying to get him back to safety. He wasn't having it though. He was playing to the crowd and seemed to have no fear - possibly because his nest was so close to the audience every night.
We later walked up the boardwalks and many adult birds were being attacked by babies waiting for their own parents. The adults were well focussed though and only their own would do. Some of them walked a good 20 minutes off the beach. Their walkways were lit up so we could see them all the time. All this took about an hour before the wardens were ushering us off back to the car park. We were told that over a thousand penquins came in that night. Amazing how so many survive.
We later walked up the boardwalks and many adult birds were being attacked by babies waiting for their own parents. The adults were well focussed though and only their own would do. Some of them walked a good 20 minutes off the beach. Their walkways were lit up so we could see them all the time. All this took about an hour before the wardens were ushering us off back to the car park. We were told that over a thousand penquins came in that night. Amazing how so many survive.
Tuesday 6 December 2011
The Dongle is working again!!!
Well what more do you want from life than your dongle working!
After 20 minutes on the phone to someone who could not repeat back the numbers i was giving him correctly,and who could not understand that I did not want a permenant contract because I am only here for 2 more weeks, the $15 credit was eventually added on - however, it did not register properly for 24 hours. Why was I surprised considering the time it took the man on the 'help' line to understand what was needed. Anyway, all is well and we are back on line.
The weather at last has changed for the better and so we are no longer needing to wear a fleece. Ieuan has continued to wear his shorts throughout the whole holiday however.I understand we will be in for a bit of a shock when we get back to UK.
Two weeks today we wil be home.
After 20 minutes on the phone to someone who could not repeat back the numbers i was giving him correctly,and who could not understand that I did not want a permenant contract because I am only here for 2 more weeks, the $15 credit was eventually added on - however, it did not register properly for 24 hours. Why was I surprised considering the time it took the man on the 'help' line to understand what was needed. Anyway, all is well and we are back on line.
The weather at last has changed for the better and so we are no longer needing to wear a fleece. Ieuan has continued to wear his shorts throughout the whole holiday however.I understand we will be in for a bit of a shock when we get back to UK.
Two weeks today we wil be home.
Monday 5 December 2011
Melbourne
The dongle has run out and so far we have been unable to add more credit so we are now sitting in the local library using their wifi (free of course.) We are with the pre-school group and suspect that the lady reading the story is an 'x' headteacher as she read it loud enough for everyone in the library to hear. Needless to say, very few of the 3 year olds were listening.
We had a great itme with Nerae and Damian - they took us everywhere and showed us everything. They then joined us in our place on Phillip Island. We took charlotte to see the Penquin Parade on saturday night. It was really good.
The weather has been up and down - more down than up and we have had some cold and wet days. Today however, the wind has dropped and the sun is shining - hopefully from now until we leave Aus on the 16th
Ieuan is now getting very bored now - story time has finished!
Hope all at Edgware have recovered from OFSTED.
See you all soon
We had a great itme with Nerae and Damian - they took us everywhere and showed us everything. They then joined us in our place on Phillip Island. We took charlotte to see the Penquin Parade on saturday night. It was really good.
The weather has been up and down - more down than up and we have had some cold and wet days. Today however, the wind has dropped and the sun is shining - hopefully from now until we leave Aus on the 16th
Ieuan is now getting very bored now - story time has finished!
Hope all at Edgware have recovered from OFSTED.
See you all soon
Monday 28 November 2011
On Our Own - almost!
We took Stu and Pam to the airport on Friday and changed cars as Ieuan and I do not need a big 4WD for the next 3 weeks. We then headed off across country to Healesville. Damian had said it was a straight forward journey of about 90 mins. Hmmm!!! Straight-forward to Australians is a little bit different to ours but we made it here in 2 hours with a stop at a 'Bottle Shop' to stock up on supplies.
N and D now live in Chum Creek - a little way out of Healesville. This time Charlotte was not shy with us at all. She has had a little bit of trouble with Ieuan's name (doesn't everyone) and has somehow translated it to 'Carolion'. This is now his new nickname) We sat out on their balcony which is at least 2 metres wide around 3 sides of the house, and drank wine and beer. Damian reverted immediately to the role he had when they were living with us - he cooked a curry whilst Nerae and I sat and talked and drank wine. They have a fabulous house / bungalow with a small swimming pool and lovely grounds. I couldn't get over the number of parrots, cockatoos and other unusual birds(for us) that were just flying around the garden. Nerae and I went to the shop for a few forgotten ingredients and a kangaroo obligingly hopped out in front of the car.
Saturday it poured rain all day but they insisted on taking us out into the mountains along tracks we would never have found, to visit some beautiful waterfalls. We went to the township of Maryville which had been completely destroyed by the fires of February 2009. It was good to see the community getting back on it's feet with many places already rebuilt.
Later at the top of one of the highest local hills, we experienced almost sleety rain - something we had not expected to come across in Oz!
Sunday started wet but gradually cleared up so we went into Melbourne again. Had coffee in Pellegrinis, lunch in China Town, walked the lanes and saw many unusual shops, had huge ice-cream overlooking the flooded Yarra river and ended up in a pub with a roof garden that Nerae used to frequent as a student. On the way back, Damian drove past 'Ramsey Street' so that I could see where Neighbours is filmed.(It had to be done!)
Monday we went to the local Sanctuary and spent a very enjoyable few hours with animals. The best part of the day for Ieuan though was the visit to the Winnery where Damian works and where he was able to taste many very good wines as well as have the tour of the vineyard and the cellars - all for nothing. The day ended with a fabulous BBQ on the verandah.
Tuesday - rest day. Both Damian and Nerae working so we were left to our own devises. Explored Healesville and bought ingredients for thai curry which Ieuan is cooking for everyone. It is overcast and very muggy.
N and D now live in Chum Creek - a little way out of Healesville. This time Charlotte was not shy with us at all. She has had a little bit of trouble with Ieuan's name (doesn't everyone) and has somehow translated it to 'Carolion'. This is now his new nickname) We sat out on their balcony which is at least 2 metres wide around 3 sides of the house, and drank wine and beer. Damian reverted immediately to the role he had when they were living with us - he cooked a curry whilst Nerae and I sat and talked and drank wine. They have a fabulous house / bungalow with a small swimming pool and lovely grounds. I couldn't get over the number of parrots, cockatoos and other unusual birds(for us) that were just flying around the garden. Nerae and I went to the shop for a few forgotten ingredients and a kangaroo obligingly hopped out in front of the car.
Saturday it poured rain all day but they insisted on taking us out into the mountains along tracks we would never have found, to visit some beautiful waterfalls. We went to the township of Maryville which had been completely destroyed by the fires of February 2009. It was good to see the community getting back on it's feet with many places already rebuilt.
Later at the top of one of the highest local hills, we experienced almost sleety rain - something we had not expected to come across in Oz!
Sunday started wet but gradually cleared up so we went into Melbourne again. Had coffee in Pellegrinis, lunch in China Town, walked the lanes and saw many unusual shops, had huge ice-cream overlooking the flooded Yarra river and ended up in a pub with a roof garden that Nerae used to frequent as a student. On the way back, Damian drove past 'Ramsey Street' so that I could see where Neighbours is filmed.(It had to be done!)
Monday we went to the local Sanctuary and spent a very enjoyable few hours with animals. The best part of the day for Ieuan though was the visit to the Winnery where Damian works and where he was able to taste many very good wines as well as have the tour of the vineyard and the cellars - all for nothing. The day ended with a fabulous BBQ on the verandah.
Tuesday - rest day. Both Damian and Nerae working so we were left to our own devises. Explored Healesville and bought ingredients for thai curry which Ieuan is cooking for everyone. It is overcast and very muggy.
Tuesday 22 November 2011
The Great Ocean Road
The GOR was like living the dream. All I'd ever learned about in Physical Goegraphy, and only ever seen in books, was there in front of me. We stopped at every well known feature and more. It was like a Benny Hill sketch of a coach tour - in the car, drive to carpark, out of the car, race to viewing point, take photos,back to car, on to next place..... seeing the same people in every place, taking their photo etc We managed to fit in a late breakfast stop and a few toilet stops as well. All the time, the weather remained warm and sunny but we were being followed by black clouds and lightning the whole way. The storm finally hit us as we were waiting for the Queenscliffe - Sorrento ferry to take us to the Mornington Peninsular. Then the heavens opened and the thunder and lightning was overhead for most of the crossing which luckily, was not too rough.
The resort is small with a small swimming pool, jacuzzi and sauna. However, the beach is just across the road and is very safe for swimming as it is facing Phillip Bay. Unfortunately the weather has not been warm enough for swimming - Sauturday it rained all day. Nerae and Damian came down to visit us and took us to a lovely pub in the last place on the peninsular- Portsea. The tremendous views we were promised could not be seen through the mist and rain. They also took us to the ocean side of the peninsular where the waves were huge and crashing onto rocks. It was the first time the rain macs needed to come out of the suitcase.
Sunday saw a slight improvement in the weather - still a bit cloudy and windy but dry enough to sit facing the sea to have coffee and to be able to walk around the headland a bit. Later Ieuan and I went to Arthur's Seat - the highest viewing point in the area. It was originally an important meeting area for the local indiginous tribes and had an Aboriginal name. However, the settlers renamed it (as they have done to many places in the country)!!
Whilst at the top, we met a Scottish couple who have just emigated here from Glasgow.
Monday, Stu was not feeling too good, so Ieuan and I went off exploring again - this time to walk to the very last point on the peninsular. We were able to take the car quite a way but had to do lots of walking. Along the we visited what was the old Quarentine village -used for settlers before they were allowed into Melbourne. Further on were the WW1 and WW2 battlements and guns built there to prevent the Russians coming through the strait in WW! and the Japanese in WW2. The guns were only ever fired once.
We were expecting to be out about 2 hours but the whole visit took over 4.
Tuesday we went into Melbourne. We are a surprisingly long way out and it took nearly 2 hours to get there. We were a little disappointed with Melbourne although Nerae had warned us. We did a free bus tour of the city so have some idea of places of interest. Ieuan and I are hoping to return sometime after Stu and Pam have left so that I can meet up with my cousin.
Off for a pancake breakfast now.
The resort is small with a small swimming pool, jacuzzi and sauna. However, the beach is just across the road and is very safe for swimming as it is facing Phillip Bay. Unfortunately the weather has not been warm enough for swimming - Sauturday it rained all day. Nerae and Damian came down to visit us and took us to a lovely pub in the last place on the peninsular- Portsea. The tremendous views we were promised could not be seen through the mist and rain. They also took us to the ocean side of the peninsular where the waves were huge and crashing onto rocks. It was the first time the rain macs needed to come out of the suitcase.
Sunday saw a slight improvement in the weather - still a bit cloudy and windy but dry enough to sit facing the sea to have coffee and to be able to walk around the headland a bit. Later Ieuan and I went to Arthur's Seat - the highest viewing point in the area. It was originally an important meeting area for the local indiginous tribes and had an Aboriginal name. However, the settlers renamed it (as they have done to many places in the country)!!
Whilst at the top, we met a Scottish couple who have just emigated here from Glasgow.
Monday, Stu was not feeling too good, so Ieuan and I went off exploring again - this time to walk to the very last point on the peninsular. We were able to take the car quite a way but had to do lots of walking. Along the we visited what was the old Quarentine village -used for settlers before they were allowed into Melbourne. Further on were the WW1 and WW2 battlements and guns built there to prevent the Russians coming through the strait in WW! and the Japanese in WW2. The guns were only ever fired once.
We were expecting to be out about 2 hours but the whole visit took over 4.
Tuesday we went into Melbourne. We are a surprisingly long way out and it took nearly 2 hours to get there. We were a little disappointed with Melbourne although Nerae had warned us. We did a free bus tour of the city so have some idea of places of interest. Ieuan and I are hoping to return sometime after Stu and Pam have left so that I can meet up with my cousin.
Off for a pancake breakfast now.
Monday 21 November 2011
Living the Dream
Having had a lifetime of looking at pictures of geological features in a book and learning how they hhave been formed, at
Saturday 19 November 2011
Mt Gambia / Warrnambool
It was along drive and a pretty boring one too, to Mount Gambia. We still haven't seen any kangaroos apart from dead ones on the side of the road.
Mount Gambia Hotel was in the middle of the town with life all around - a total constrast to Tailem Bend. We had time to visit the information centre and find out about all the limestone features that the town has grown around. There were huge sink holes in the town, and underground cave system and beautiful crater lakes just outside. Chicken scnitzel was on offer and beer was cheaper than anywhere else. After an evening and the following morning of sightseeing, we set off for Warrnambool.
Not alot of time to see Warrnambool as we wanted an early start on Friday for the Great Ocean Road.
Mount Gambia Hotel was in the middle of the town with life all around - a total constrast to Tailem Bend. We had time to visit the information centre and find out about all the limestone features that the town has grown around. There were huge sink holes in the town, and underground cave system and beautiful crater lakes just outside. Chicken scnitzel was on offer and beer was cheaper than anywhere else. After an evening and the following morning of sightseeing, we set off for Warrnambool.
Not alot of time to see Warrnambool as we wanted an early start on Friday for the Great Ocean Road.
Talem Bend
This place ws chosen for a stop over because it was not far out of Adelaide, it was easy to get to the highway from our stop-over in Adelaide, it was on the Princes highway and near a ferry port across the Murray River. It also sounded an interesting name!
However, when we reached there, it was most definitely a one horse town. The ferry crossed the river to no-where - all fields beyond and not a building in sight. The motel, which was being used to film some new reality show for out here,was 2 rows of rooms outside in s stoney courtyard where we had to be careful walking because the noise was affecting the filming crew. Luckily they were just finishing for the day so we were able to sit outside for a drink. That was when we noticed that the rooms seems to have some sort of a box on the outside wall just above ground level. What could it be we wondered so being nosy we opened it to find that it opened through into the room with 2 shelves in it. We could only think that it was for breakfast to be passed in in the morning and the 'piss-pot' to be passed out. We didn't get to find out if it had once been a prison of some sort but it certainly looked like it.
We decided to explore the town. It took 5 minutes to do that as nearly everywhere was shut. One shop had a display of clothes that women would have worn in the 1950's we thought so we weren't disappointed at not being able to go in. We found the only bar / hotel in the town and went in. The barman was slightly above being 'frosty'and about the 1st Australian we have encountered who was less than friendly. As it was the only place open, we decided to eat there as well. The dining room had a birthday party going on as well a few other guests from the hotel so the cook was rushed off her feet - we don't think she was expecting to cook so many meals. Anyway the meal was very nice and our plates were whipped away as soon as we had finished - everyone else having already left the restaurant. We decided to take our drinks through to the bar to finish off and we had hardly stepped out of the restaurant when all the lights were switched off. We went into the bar to discover tha the lights were off there too and the barman was cashing up.IT WAS 8.30 PM!!!!. By this time were weak with laughing about everything especially when we walked further down the street to discover that the drive-through bottle shop had also just closed. We resigned ourselves to an early night.
As things turned out, it was just as well as not long after getting back to our 'cells', the heavens opened and there was a terrific storm with forked lightning filling up the sky.
We were up early to go and get breakfast in the local bakery and to start the next lap of our journey to Mount Gambia. The bakery was obviously the centre of activity for the town as just about everyone stopped there for a chat.
Tailem Bend - the place never to be forgotten and never to be visited again!
However, when we reached there, it was most definitely a one horse town. The ferry crossed the river to no-where - all fields beyond and not a building in sight. The motel, which was being used to film some new reality show for out here,was 2 rows of rooms outside in s stoney courtyard where we had to be careful walking because the noise was affecting the filming crew. Luckily they were just finishing for the day so we were able to sit outside for a drink. That was when we noticed that the rooms seems to have some sort of a box on the outside wall just above ground level. What could it be we wondered so being nosy we opened it to find that it opened through into the room with 2 shelves in it. We could only think that it was for breakfast to be passed in in the morning and the 'piss-pot' to be passed out. We didn't get to find out if it had once been a prison of some sort but it certainly looked like it.
We decided to explore the town. It took 5 minutes to do that as nearly everywhere was shut. One shop had a display of clothes that women would have worn in the 1950's we thought so we weren't disappointed at not being able to go in. We found the only bar / hotel in the town and went in. The barman was slightly above being 'frosty'and about the 1st Australian we have encountered who was less than friendly. As it was the only place open, we decided to eat there as well. The dining room had a birthday party going on as well a few other guests from the hotel so the cook was rushed off her feet - we don't think she was expecting to cook so many meals. Anyway the meal was very nice and our plates were whipped away as soon as we had finished - everyone else having already left the restaurant. We decided to take our drinks through to the bar to finish off and we had hardly stepped out of the restaurant when all the lights were switched off. We went into the bar to discover tha the lights were off there too and the barman was cashing up.IT WAS 8.30 PM!!!!. By this time were weak with laughing about everything especially when we walked further down the street to discover that the drive-through bottle shop had also just closed. We resigned ourselves to an early night.
As things turned out, it was just as well as not long after getting back to our 'cells', the heavens opened and there was a terrific storm with forked lightning filling up the sky.
We were up early to go and get breakfast in the local bakery and to start the next lap of our journey to Mount Gambia. The bakery was obviously the centre of activity for the town as just about everyone stopped there for a chat.
Tailem Bend - the place never to be forgotten and never to be visited again!
Wednesday 16 November 2011
Brisbane to Adelaide
Did a whistle stop tour of Brisbane using bus and boat trips. Met up with Nathan, Rich's friend from St Mary's School, and his girlfriend Melinda. He decided to show us the a livley pub which is well known for it's steaks - the Normanby. What he neglected to tell us was that it was very much a youngsters pub and also close to the football ground and there had been a match that afternoon! Not only did we we feel very old and over dressed, but we couldn't hear a word being said so converstaion was very limited. Melinda persuaded him to take us somewhere else so we all piled uncomfortably (and illegally) into his 4WD and went to the Regatta down near the river. It looked a bit of a dump at first but it turned out that it had been one of the pubs that had been affected by the floods that the city suffered in January. We were able to sit upstairs and had a very nice meal. Pam had also contacted an old school friend of hers who also came to meet us. Altogether a very enjoyable evening.
On to Adelaide where we quickly sussed out their transport system and made our way into the city. Not the most exciting place in the world but as we only had 1 night and a morning there we were able to see as much as we wanted to. We picked up a car and set off on the drive down the coast. We stayed overnight in a place called Tailem Bend. More to be written about that next time!! You had to see it to believe it!
On to Adelaide where we quickly sussed out their transport system and made our way into the city. Not the most exciting place in the world but as we only had 1 night and a morning there we were able to see as much as we wanted to. We picked up a car and set off on the drive down the coast. We stayed overnight in a place called Tailem Bend. More to be written about that next time!! You had to see it to believe it!
Sunday 13 November 2011
Magnetic Island to Brisbane
What a contrast again.
After our exciting night at the races, we were given a tour of the island with the manager of our resort. He was able to take us to places that other cars couldn't reach - so to speak. 70% of the island is a nature reserve so there's very little that can be explored anyway. We managed to see some turtles swimming in the bay - from a distance - fed some rock wallabies and saw a small shark grab some bread before the other fish (can't remember what he said they were) could get to them.
For our last night, Pam and I decided to go to the local market. We had been told that it wasn' t very big but probably worth a visit. So off we went with the intention of getting the bus there and then on the same bus as it returned from Horseshoe Bay 45 minutes later. Well we didn't really need 45 minutes. The market was the equivalent of a WI sale of work. The only good stall was the Thai food but we had arranged to meet the men for a Mexican meal and so couldn't even partake of that delight. We then went over the road opposite to where we had been dropped off to logically get the returning bus. However, no one had told us that the bus didn't stop there on the return journey so as it approached, we flagged it down and then watched it drive straight past us. So much for having been told that we could flag them down anywhere and they would stop! A different local person then told us tht they are only allowed to stop at regulation stops or they will get fined. So! There we are - in the dark - expected back by 7.45 and no menas of transport other than to call a taxi - a very expensive taxi s it turned out. We were in luck as one was bringing some other unsuspecting visitors to the market and he was able to take us to meet Stu and Ieuan. The dilemma was should we tell them what had happened and how useless the market had been or should we pretend everything had been great. We decided to be honest which of course gave them something to go on about for the rest of the night.
Anyway, we had a lovely mexican meal watched by several 'possums from the fence above us. If that had been a squirrel in my garden it would have been chased off but as it was a 'foreign' animal,( or am I the 'foreign' animal), everyone was ooing and ahing and taking photos - me included.
Early start on Friday in order to get the plane to Brisbane
After our exciting night at the races, we were given a tour of the island with the manager of our resort. He was able to take us to places that other cars couldn't reach - so to speak. 70% of the island is a nature reserve so there's very little that can be explored anyway. We managed to see some turtles swimming in the bay - from a distance - fed some rock wallabies and saw a small shark grab some bread before the other fish (can't remember what he said they were) could get to them.
For our last night, Pam and I decided to go to the local market. We had been told that it wasn' t very big but probably worth a visit. So off we went with the intention of getting the bus there and then on the same bus as it returned from Horseshoe Bay 45 minutes later. Well we didn't really need 45 minutes. The market was the equivalent of a WI sale of work. The only good stall was the Thai food but we had arranged to meet the men for a Mexican meal and so couldn't even partake of that delight. We then went over the road opposite to where we had been dropped off to logically get the returning bus. However, no one had told us that the bus didn't stop there on the return journey so as it approached, we flagged it down and then watched it drive straight past us. So much for having been told that we could flag them down anywhere and they would stop! A different local person then told us tht they are only allowed to stop at regulation stops or they will get fined. So! There we are - in the dark - expected back by 7.45 and no menas of transport other than to call a taxi - a very expensive taxi s it turned out. We were in luck as one was bringing some other unsuspecting visitors to the market and he was able to take us to meet Stu and Ieuan. The dilemma was should we tell them what had happened and how useless the market had been or should we pretend everything had been great. We decided to be honest which of course gave them something to go on about for the rest of the night.
Anyway, we had a lovely mexican meal watched by several 'possums from the fence above us. If that had been a squirrel in my garden it would have been chased off but as it was a 'foreign' animal,( or am I the 'foreign' animal), everyone was ooing and ahing and taking photos - me included.
Early start on Friday in order to get the plane to Brisbane
Saturday 12 November 2011
The Races
Our special night arrived. A number of other guests from the resort were also going to the Races but only the 4 of us were going by limousine - well open-top mini moke really. We got ourselves ready but luckily did not spend too much time on the hair as the open top moke put paid to any style other than a well laquered beehive or a bald head.
It took all of 5 minutes to get there by car, the bus journey would have been 20 minutes as all buses on the island are routed to include meeting every ferry that comes in and also to cater for almost every back-packer hostel.(Every time we did go on the bus, we always seemed to be the oldest on it!!!!)
We had decided to eat at 'the races' - we thought about the champagne hamper etc but decided that it was perhaps going over the top a bit. So we looked for the nearest restaurant walking around the tiny resort twice before we found the open hatch through which we had to put our order for food. We then found a table and waited until our buzzer sounded when we had to go to the hatch to collect the food. It was very nice but not quite what we expected for our night out.
We had just finished our meal - eating quite quickly as the people on the table next to us had been assisted with their meal by a very cheeky cockatoo who swooped in and stole chips from their plates - when the heavens opened. We swiftly moved inside and watched torrential rain bouncing off the patio. Oh no we thought, what will happen to the races?
However, as is the case in the tropics, the rain stopped as quickly as it had begun and just in time for the chairs outside to be dried off and preparations for the big event of the night to begin. For those of you who like me have been wondering how they get toads to run in straight lines, you'll be interested to know that all the toads are put into a special bottomless barrel in the centre of a circle which is about 2 metres in diameter, and they then have to race to the ouside of the ring. So simple really!
The toads, who all had different coloured ribbons around their middle, were then auctioned. The man doing it was quite difficult to understand - like most auctioneers I suppose. He must have been in his 80's and has been doing this activity for the last 22 years to raise money for the Young Surf Rescue Teams. The patter and the speel he was giving for each toad in turn is probably the same every week but for those of us who were there for the 1st time, he was very entertaining. Anyway, at last it was time for the race - he suggested that we should not blink as the race would take all of 2 seconds - he was not wrong. He lifted the barrel and all 8 toads scarpered in different directions with squealing from those in the 'supporters enclosure' who discovered that the toads did not realise they had to stop once they were over the line!
There was only 2 races this this time because of the weather so between races he called out quiz questions and gave out little prizes. Most of the questions were about the Melbourne cup but he did throw in a few for the 'visitors'. I won a Kangaroo keyring for knowing the 3 letter cathedral city in England.
The whole event from beginning to end took all of half an hour but it certainly was an entertaining evening. How many people can say that they have been to Toad Races and supported a local charity at the same time. Apparently the bloke doing the whole event is an x headteacher from the north of Queensland. He has been banned from all quiz shows because his general knowledge is so good that he always wins but he is allowed to set questions and be an ajudicator. He sometimes uses the money he raises to buy equipment for the local primary school.
Anyway a good time was had by all and it was a talking point around the swimming pool for the next few days.
It took all of 5 minutes to get there by car, the bus journey would have been 20 minutes as all buses on the island are routed to include meeting every ferry that comes in and also to cater for almost every back-packer hostel.(Every time we did go on the bus, we always seemed to be the oldest on it!!!!)
We had decided to eat at 'the races' - we thought about the champagne hamper etc but decided that it was perhaps going over the top a bit. So we looked for the nearest restaurant walking around the tiny resort twice before we found the open hatch through which we had to put our order for food. We then found a table and waited until our buzzer sounded when we had to go to the hatch to collect the food. It was very nice but not quite what we expected for our night out.
We had just finished our meal - eating quite quickly as the people on the table next to us had been assisted with their meal by a very cheeky cockatoo who swooped in and stole chips from their plates - when the heavens opened. We swiftly moved inside and watched torrential rain bouncing off the patio. Oh no we thought, what will happen to the races?
However, as is the case in the tropics, the rain stopped as quickly as it had begun and just in time for the chairs outside to be dried off and preparations for the big event of the night to begin. For those of you who like me have been wondering how they get toads to run in straight lines, you'll be interested to know that all the toads are put into a special bottomless barrel in the centre of a circle which is about 2 metres in diameter, and they then have to race to the ouside of the ring. So simple really!
The toads, who all had different coloured ribbons around their middle, were then auctioned. The man doing it was quite difficult to understand - like most auctioneers I suppose. He must have been in his 80's and has been doing this activity for the last 22 years to raise money for the Young Surf Rescue Teams. The patter and the speel he was giving for each toad in turn is probably the same every week but for those of us who were there for the 1st time, he was very entertaining. Anyway, at last it was time for the race - he suggested that we should not blink as the race would take all of 2 seconds - he was not wrong. He lifted the barrel and all 8 toads scarpered in different directions with squealing from those in the 'supporters enclosure' who discovered that the toads did not realise they had to stop once they were over the line!
There was only 2 races this this time because of the weather so between races he called out quiz questions and gave out little prizes. Most of the questions were about the Melbourne cup but he did throw in a few for the 'visitors'. I won a Kangaroo keyring for knowing the 3 letter cathedral city in England.
The whole event from beginning to end took all of half an hour but it certainly was an entertaining evening. How many people can say that they have been to Toad Races and supported a local charity at the same time. Apparently the bloke doing the whole event is an x headteacher from the north of Queensland. He has been banned from all quiz shows because his general knowledge is so good that he always wins but he is allowed to set questions and be an ajudicator. He sometimes uses the money he raises to buy equipment for the local primary school.
Anyway a good time was had by all and it was a talking point around the swimming pool for the next few days.
Wednesday 9 November 2011
A Bit of History
We could hardly contain ourselves all day in anticipation of the Toad Races. The day started with torrential rain. Stu had decided to hire an opentop buggy car for the day so we had to have the top on even though the sides of the 'car' were completely open. The 1st shower of the day was over by the time we reached our different destinations. Pam and Stu went for breakfast with the koalas and Ieuan and I to the WW2 Forts. We stayed dry until we reached the point where there was a koala and baby sitting on a branch near the pathway. Good chance for a pho-call except my glasses were steamed up on the inside and it started to rain again so there was raindrops on the outside and water dripping off the rim of my hat. Did manage a few good photos though.
The walk to the lookout posts and gunnery took about an hour and a half. The lookout was put there in 1942 to watch for Japanese ships coming down the strait possible to attack Townsville. However, the guns were only ever fired once and that turned out to be at an American ship.
The rest of the day was spent touring the island again only this time in the sun with the top down.
Have been tole that I have to go shopping now to get stuff for a BBQ later so the toad race event will be the next blog. Watch this space. If I can work out how to get photos onto the blog it will make it a lot more interesting!!
The walk to the lookout posts and gunnery took about an hour and a half. The lookout was put there in 1942 to watch for Japanese ships coming down the strait possible to attack Townsville. However, the guns were only ever fired once and that turned out to be at an American ship.
The rest of the day was spent touring the island again only this time in the sun with the top down.
Have been tole that I have to go shopping now to get stuff for a BBQ later so the toad race event will be the next blog. Watch this space. If I can work out how to get photos onto the blog it will make it a lot more interesting!!
Sunday 6 November 2011
Magnetic Island
We had 1 day in Townsville- walking along a great long man-made promenade called 'The Strand' where most of the beaches were being topped up with sand as the original sand had been blown or washed away in a cyclone in January, no one could swim or even paddle as there had been sightings of salt water crocodiles and stinger warnings up, and where the beer cost an arm and a leg. The town / city was a bit like a ghost town in the wild west apart from one small area where there was a fantastic water park for the kids. We noticed that it seemed to be the place where the mums congregated for a chat as the kids came out from school - much better than the school gate to catch up on the gossip.
We felt the need for an afternoon siesta due to the 3am start and when we finally went out to eat it was like being in a completely different place - suddenly the Friday night revellers were out in their hundreds and the place was alive. Perhaps everyone comes down from the hills and in from the suburbs to celebrate Friday night. There was even a parade of old jalopy 'kit' cars.
Saturday morning the place was deserted again! Ieuan and I went to TheTownsville Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre. We spent an enjoyable 2 hours there learning about what the Aboriginal people had done in the past, how they had been affected by Europeans and what they are trying to do now to retain some of their traditions. When we stopped to have a coffee, we got speaking to a white Australian who is part of a team helping to promote the traditions in the schools through programmes set up to link to the national curriculum. Indiginous Studies has only just been included in the curriculum in the last year. She was preparing for a festival on Sunday morning where all the arts and crafts were to be seen. She showed us how to make a fish out of palm leaves. Needless to say, Ieuan gave up on his very quickly and she had to come to his rescue - I think she thought his concentration was a bit like that of the 5 - 12 year olds that she usually did the activity with! It was a great way to spend the morning before having to go back to the hotel to get the luggage to then go for the ferry over to Magnetic Island.
The ferry was very bumpy!!!
Island Palms resort is beautiful . This SAGA way of backpacking is proving to be a great success for the retired sect. There are so many different birds again. We have a small swimming pool on site and we only have to walk over a road to be on the beach. Unfortunately we daren't risk swimming in the sea. We stocked up on food and drink and prepared for a lazy Sunday. We have decided that the highlight of the week will be the Toad Racing on Wednesday night. They certainly know how to have a good time here! Watch this space for more on Toad Racing!
We felt the need for an afternoon siesta due to the 3am start and when we finally went out to eat it was like being in a completely different place - suddenly the Friday night revellers were out in their hundreds and the place was alive. Perhaps everyone comes down from the hills and in from the suburbs to celebrate Friday night. There was even a parade of old jalopy 'kit' cars.
Saturday morning the place was deserted again! Ieuan and I went to TheTownsville Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre. We spent an enjoyable 2 hours there learning about what the Aboriginal people had done in the past, how they had been affected by Europeans and what they are trying to do now to retain some of their traditions. When we stopped to have a coffee, we got speaking to a white Australian who is part of a team helping to promote the traditions in the schools through programmes set up to link to the national curriculum. Indiginous Studies has only just been included in the curriculum in the last year. She was preparing for a festival on Sunday morning where all the arts and crafts were to be seen. She showed us how to make a fish out of palm leaves. Needless to say, Ieuan gave up on his very quickly and she had to come to his rescue - I think she thought his concentration was a bit like that of the 5 - 12 year olds that she usually did the activity with! It was a great way to spend the morning before having to go back to the hotel to get the luggage to then go for the ferry over to Magnetic Island.
The ferry was very bumpy!!!
Island Palms resort is beautiful . This SAGA way of backpacking is proving to be a great success for the retired sect. There are so many different birds again. We have a small swimming pool on site and we only have to walk over a road to be on the beach. Unfortunately we daren't risk swimming in the sea. We stocked up on food and drink and prepared for a lazy Sunday. We have decided that the highlight of the week will be the Toad Racing on Wednesday night. They certainly know how to have a good time here! Watch this space for more on Toad Racing!
Thursday 3 November 2011
Tamborine National Park
We have reached our last day in the mountain area so decided to go back to Tamborine Park, it is such a nice place with lots of walks as well as other activities. This time Pam and I visited the Glow Worm cave - a man-made cave which has been designed to breed glow worms that will eventually be returned to the wild. It was quite fascinating - not everyone's cup of tea I'm sure! We really liked the poem that was written up in the entrance
'I wish I was a glow worm
A glow worm's never glum
Cos how can you be grumpy
When the sun shines out your bum'.
Needless to say, Ieuan and Stu decided to visit a brewery instead - can't think why!
Although this state was under water for some time at the beginning of the year, the waterfalls at the moment are quite low. This is what Ieuan and I discovered after walking downhill for quite some time at The Knoll to see one of what was supposed to be quite a spectacular waterfall . The walk back up however was needed to walk off the pie we had eaten at lunchtime.
In the Gallery Walk shopping area - the most commercialised area in the National Park - we found a Celtic shop with a huge Welsh flag outside. The couple running it were from Pontypool originally and had only started the business up 7 weeks ago. I was the first to sign a Welsh visitors book that they decided to start up only after Ieuan had been into the shop earlier. They had already had quite a few 'x 'pat Welsh people into the shop. Needless to say we didn't buy anything. Why something here when we can get it in a local shop in Swansea. Apart from which, very little in the shop came from Wales, most of it was manufactured in USA or China.
We have got a change of flight to Townsville tomorrow. Instead of going at a reasonable time and straight to Townsville, we have to be at the airport for a 6 o'clock flight to Sydney where we change for a flight to Townsville. Bit of a beast as this means a very early start and having to drop off the car at the airport. Still it can't be helped - at least we are not being affected by Qantas.
We will be by the sea again tomorrow, travelling over to Magnetic Island on Saturday
'I wish I was a glow worm
A glow worm's never glum
Cos how can you be grumpy
When the sun shines out your bum'.
Needless to say, Ieuan and Stu decided to visit a brewery instead - can't think why!
Although this state was under water for some time at the beginning of the year, the waterfalls at the moment are quite low. This is what Ieuan and I discovered after walking downhill for quite some time at The Knoll to see one of what was supposed to be quite a spectacular waterfall . The walk back up however was needed to walk off the pie we had eaten at lunchtime.
In the Gallery Walk shopping area - the most commercialised area in the National Park - we found a Celtic shop with a huge Welsh flag outside. The couple running it were from Pontypool originally and had only started the business up 7 weeks ago. I was the first to sign a Welsh visitors book that they decided to start up only after Ieuan had been into the shop earlier. They had already had quite a few 'x 'pat Welsh people into the shop. Needless to say we didn't buy anything. Why something here when we can get it in a local shop in Swansea. Apart from which, very little in the shop came from Wales, most of it was manufactured in USA or China.
We have got a change of flight to Townsville tomorrow. Instead of going at a reasonable time and straight to Townsville, we have to be at the airport for a 6 o'clock flight to Sydney where we change for a flight to Townsville. Bit of a beast as this means a very early start and having to drop off the car at the airport. Still it can't be helped - at least we are not being affected by Qantas.
We will be by the sea again tomorrow, travelling over to Magnetic Island on Saturday
Wednesday 2 November 2011
Bloody Blogging!!!
Who thought this would be a good idea?
It has taken more time trying to to find a way to post a new blog than anything else. Hopefully it is sorted now. My next task is to find out how to attach photos. For the technically minded people out there, no doubt it is simple but watch this space as to whether I manage it before the end of the tour.
Sue
It has taken more time trying to to find a way to post a new blog than anything else. Hopefully it is sorted now. My next task is to find out how to attach photos. For the technically minded people out there, no doubt it is simple but watch this space as to whether I manage it before the end of the tour.
Sue
Monday 24 October 2011
Sydney
The plane arrived early but it took 2 hours to get through customs – what a system!! Even Edgware Junior School
Next we sorted out a rail ticket for a week – what a bargain as we can use any bus, train or ferry. A good deal as we have to take the ferry to and from Manley every day.
My first mouth dropping moment came as we came out onto Circular Quays and saw for the 1st time, the Harbour Bridge Australia
After dumping luggage in the apartments, we tried to find out where the best place would be to watch the rugby and what time it started. Couldn’t believe that the first 6 people we asked knew nothing about rugby and the 7th person worked in a sports bar and knew Wales was playing but couldn’t remember who else – true Aussie supporter there. Anyway, found a bar with Welsh as well as Aussie supporters, and a good time was had by all except the final result was a’ bit of a disappointment’ - to put it mildly!!!
The apartment is not brilliant, but as we only intend to be in it for breakfast and to sleep, then it is comfortable enough. We’ve got tea bags and coffee and a liquor store on the corner where we have been told where to look for the best and cheapest wines. What more do we need. One very kind local even bought us a bottle to welcome us to his country!
Saturday.
Up early for a walk onto Manly headland in the hope of seeing some whales but just missed a pod of 2 adults and 2 babies apparently. Back for breakfast and then on the ferry to Sydney
Sunday
Spotted some whales this morning – very exciting. Apparently whales are travelling south for the summer at the moment. There were quite a few swimming past the headland but they were not close enough to get a good view. Did manage 1 photo though.
Hong Kong
Day 1
After a good night’s sleep – catching up after a sleepless night on the plane – we hit the open top Big Bus Company hence enjoying the ‘sights, sounds and smells of this dynamic metropolis’. And how…….! 3 tours in 1 day which included the funicular railway up to The Peak, a sampan ride around Aberdeen harbour, a night route around Kowloon
Day 2
On a bus again – this time the No 6 from Central to Stanley Market. As stated in the Top 10 Guide Book – Stanley Market is not the best or the cheapest on the island – but it was worth a visit and the bus was certainly worth experiencing.
On returning to the hotel – we had about 10 minutes before our transfer coach appeared. We had yet another journey to the airport via a few hotels in Kowloon Hong Kong dollars to buy a cup of coffee each and a few little biscuits.
Tuesday 11 October 2011
Tuesday
Only 6 days to go. Will be in Hong Kong this time next week.
The list of things to do before we go is getting longer.
The list of things to do before we go is getting longer.
Friday 7 October 2011
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