Thursday, December 23, 2010

Happy Christmas!

Yes, I know I have been slack... part of the last few days we have been out of internet range. The other part, I have been lazy. Trial Bay continued to get better and became our favourite campsite. Amber’s friendships with the camp kids continued and over two days I don’t think I heard a cross word. There was Jasmine and Cody from Canberra, and whose parents were very warm and friendly. Then there was Sarah who Amber connected with straight away and Lane who is taking a year off starting in March and travelling around Australia with his parents.


Out second day at Trial Bay Amber played with these buddies until about 10am then we took off to investigate the gaol. Built in the late 1800s, it is the only Australia prison designed purely to built capital works... namely a seawall which self destructed shortly after it was finished. During WWI this gaol became an internment camp for German Australians who were considered a risk to the war effort. They had a live theatre, grew their own veggies and many learnt a trade. At the end of the war, instead of releasing these model citizens, most were shipped out to Germany which seems really strange.

Next stop was Smoky Cape lighthouse which is very pretty, but without the tour (these run only twice a week) it wasn’t particularly engaging because you can’t go in the lighthouse itself.

Back at camp, Amber played more and I relaxed. Then, around 3.30pm we put the kayak in the water and headed down the creek to a lake. Our new friends (Jas and Coby and parents) rented a canoe and joined us, but it wasn’t Jas’s scene and we found ourselves alone paddling across a wide expansive lake towards pelicans and black swans. How beautiful it was... even though the thick pond weed made the smell rather unsavoury.

That evening we headed back to gaol (do not pass go...). The Lion’s Club carols was on and the skies cleared for the event. The carol book didn’t have many that were actually sung, but the idea was good and one local primary school boy stole the show on stage. The sun set in a orange fire and the walls of the gaol changed from cold grey to warm amber.

It was hard to leave this place the next morning but we were heading to a place previously loved: Nymboida Canoe Centre. On the way we stopped at Nambucca heads, bought paints and left our mark on the Vee Wall! This was so much fun!! And hunger making so we ate at the RSL for lunch.

It took a couple of hours to get to our destination and we listened to the book on tape we bought with us as we drove. This has proved to be a very good activity which engages us both. Once arrived we went searching for Rob the manager and when we couldn’t find him we grabbed inner tubes, helmets and jackets and did a run down the river before it got too cold.

Next day (Dec 21) at 9am we met Dan from NRG Rafting, next door. He was going to take us on a half day white water paddle down Goolang Creek, starting just below the power station. After a brief and practice on dry land we were hurtling downstream trying to keep in time as we paddled. I think Amber is hooked since she squealed with excitement at every opportunity. Dan takes kids from six up on this river because it is pretty tame, but fun enough for parents to get a thrill too. Dan also runs platypus paddling tours further up river and guarantees a sighting.

Back at camp, and pretty tired, we had a rest before heading 4km up the road to the Coaching House Inn. Owned by Russel Crowe, this lovely old pub and quality accommodation place is also home to the Museum of Interesting Things... all from Russel’s collection. As you might imagine, there are numerous movie memorabilia and sporting souvenirs. This is such a kid-friendly museum because there is very little reading, it’s small, yet well organised and stroller-friendly. Quite a find.

Now, I sit tapping away at Woody Point in Bunjalung National Park near Iluka. This is a lovely campsite with beautiful sites, clean amenities, right on a beach (not particularly attractive because of green slime) and friendly staff. It’s quite expensive for a National Park, and you still have to pay extra for showers, but you get the impression many people book here and come back year after year. Just as the sun set Amber and I took a walk to the tide pools and watch the fishing fleet heading out to sea. We learnt about port and starboard lights...

This is our last night on this trip and I feel quite sad this evening. Off to the Goldie tomorrow for family Christmas. Merry Christmas everyone!

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Go to gaol... don't pass go

I think we have finally settled into holiday mode. Amber was up early and on the jumping pillow with the other camp kids. I got up more leisurely, made eggs for breaky, followed her into the pool to watch the kids swim, then relaxed with a cuppa.


At about 10am we took off to go see the Trial Bay Gaol which was fascinating. Not, in my opinion, as kid-friendly as Dubbo Gaol because there was no re-enactment component, but interesting buildings and a good self-guided tour brochure. This building was built to house prisoners who completed capital works, namely built a sea wall (which disintegrated in the first storm). It was later used to inter German Australians in WWI. They were allowed out during day hours to work (overseen) then back in at night. These ‘prisoners’ grew their own veggies, were paid for their skills and even had a very vibrant theatre company. Surprisingly, after the war, most of them were sent to Germany and only 300 managed to repeal this exportation.

Next stop was the Smoky Cape lighthouse. A beautiful structure which we wished we had been able to enter. Tours only depart twice a week and we hadn’t arrived on the right day. It was a lovely view from the point, however, and would be a magic spot when the whales pass through.

Amber was keen to get back to her new friends so we bought a couple of bread rolls and headed back for lunch and a play. I sneaked a little nap then, mid afternoon, we lifted the kayak off the roof and paddled along the creek and out to a very shallow lake. Our new friends hired a canoe and joined us, but one of their children got scared and they backed out. The lake was magical. A large expanse of water lined with native grasses, with fish jumping regularly. Before we got to the vast opening we saw an osprey, kingfisher and heron. Then, the lake revealed a huge flock of pelicans and black swans with cygnets. How wonderful it was to have this lake to ourselves. We could have been in a number of top wilderness areas in the world!

More playing... then dinner and back to the gaol for carols by candlelight. I have never sung in a gaol, so we couldn’t miss this opportunity. It would have been better if the songbooks given out had included songs that were actually sung by the choir, but that’s being picky. What had been a very ordinary weather day had turned into a spectacular evening and orange sunset.

Ah, the camping life for me... Amber is in bed, I can hear the wind in the trees, muffled voices across the campground. It takes me back to my own youth... the only thing missing is the hissing of the gas lantern!

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Wake to koalas

Amber woke me this morning at about 7.30 with “Mum, they are feeding the koalas at the hospital in half an hour, we have to go” so, hair and teeth tidied, we headed off. As we arrived, pandemonium had broken out, along with two koalas and the team were trying to capture them with long poles and rags on the end. Apparently, they don’t like something over their eyes and will climb down to get away from it. We watched an old koala getting her formula and Amber bought a book about these marsupials, vowing she would work at the hospital in the Sunshine Coast one day.


Since we were away from the tent we headed into town to the Pancake Place for an amazing (and completely calorie-free) breakfast of blueberry and banana pancakes. This restaurant caters to kids amazingly with their own menu, play area and movies.

On the drive north, we stopped at Richardoes Tomatoes where a passionate couple have turned their hydroponic farm into an award-winning tourist attraction. It has been said that kids these days don’t know where their food comes from, and this place is slowly changing that, one kid at a time. Picking strawberries here is easy because they are grown in terraces and kids and adults pick at different heights! They can pick their own lettuce too. We tasted tomato and passionfruit jam which was sensational, and we couldn’t resist a jar.

Next stop was an unusual stable... where rocking horses are born. 82 –year-old Mick Campbell has made exquisite horses for 30 years and it’s a delight to see old-fashioned craftsmanship.

Finally we arrived at Trial Bay where our caravan park was one of the best so far: Jumping pillow, playground with climbing wall, free internet, games room, lake, lovely grassy site and lots of kids for Amber to meet. I didn’t see her for the rest of the day and, as the sunset, she joined in on a four family game of backyard cricket. I watched with red wine in hand.

The weather is beautiful, the vine-ripened tomato bolognaise sauce was delicious and I am very content!

Trivia: Why is a tomato a fruit?
 
The tomato is technically a fruit because it develops from the ovary of the plant. Scientifically and botanically, the ovary, and its seeds, of a flowering plant are the fruit of the plant.

Friday, December 17, 2010

We LOVE Port Stephens!

Yes, I missed writing yesterday, but for the best reason possible... we were having too much fun experiencing Port Stephens and were WAY too tired to write in the evening! What a family-friendly mecca this is!


Our first day started with a boat tour with Imagine Cruises, a catamaran which does dolphin watches, whale watches and snorkelling cruises depending on the season. No whales are around at the moment so dolphins and snorkelling were the order of the day and owner/skipper Frank was in charge.

We spotted a pod of female and baby dolphins which was fantastic. Unfortunately they didn’t come too close, so it was on to Lighthouse Cove on Fingal Island for snorkelling. Amber was a little uncertain about this since Woebegone sharks were a probability, but she gave it a good go. I managed to find another buddy for a short snorkel and yes we DID see a shark which was very exciting.

Back onboard, Amber perched on the bowsprit above the nets and didn’t move from there for the remainder of the trip. Three and a half hours sped by and we arrived back in the harbour just after five and set up camp at Fingal Bay campground.

The next day was a mega activity day, arranged by our new friend Tars. It started with parasailing. I have done this before but Amber hasn’t. She was nervous, but it didn’t last and she wanted to go back up as soon as she got down! We rode tandem which is really great for kids, and even got to be partially dunked during our 10 min ride.

Next stop was Sahara Trail Rides where we joined a 1 hour walk through the casurina forest, following a creek on this private property. What a lovely spot and, unlike many other horse trails, the owners have created different trails for differing abilities. What this means is that the horses don’t rush off, thinking they have an expert on their backs, and it is therefore safer for kids.

After that to Oakvale Farm where we fed baby goats, milked a cow, patted a koala and fed kangaroos (and had lunch). After that it was off to the toboggan run where we zipped downhill on a silver track at about 50km per hour. A good adrenalin boost and also great for kids! Little ones ride with a parent and bigger kids control their own toboggan with an easy brake.

The evening ended with us hosting Tars and his son to a barbie in our tent. We were shopping at Coles when the heavens opened in a huge hail storm. By the time we got back to our tent we were met by our neighbours who had feared it was taking off, and tied it down. The trailer was half collapsed and bits were broken. Regardless we had almost cleaned up in time for our guests and shared the most wonderful evening of conversation. It ended all too soon.

This morning it was off to the famous sand dunes.... the largest moving sand area in the southern hemisphere. A chance meeting at the caravan park just before we left, had led to an invitation to go sand boarding, so we joined a tour and slid down a sand dune for about an hour. That was all our little legs could take (doing the uphill climb). What a wonderful family activity!

The drive to Port Macquarie took about three hours and it rained most of the way. Now camp is re-erected and the dryer is going in the laundry so we have something dry to wear tomorrow! I wonder what excitement tomorrow will bring?

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Sailing with dolphins

What a marvellous day! Before packing up the tent we took a walk on the beach, then, on the road, we headed for Port Stephens where a wonderful man called Tars had organised a few activities for us. He called us en route and arranged to meet and take us to Imagine which is a catamaran conducting dolphin and snorkel tours.


Nearly at Nelson Bay, we noticed an unusual attractionwhich advertised shark and ray feeding so we diverted off. What a wonderful kid-friendly attraction this is! Kids and adults alike were in pools where woebegone sharks and rays of various types lived. They feed them with shimp on a pole (attached by a clothes peg) and they can snorkel with the creatures if they wish. Maybe we will come back here on the way out of town...

We met Tars and Frank who was the owner of the boat (and Rodger his mate). Other passengers filed on and before too long we were off searching for dolphins and Amber was tentatively climbing in the net under the bowsprit. It didn’t take her long before she was bouncing around like a monkey with the other kids onboard. Then we spotted a pod of female dolphins with a few young ones and followed them for a while, as we headed for Fingal Island and Lighthouse Cove.

Frank used to be the lighthouse keeper here, so he had plenty of stories as we dropped anchor. The water was chilly, but we slid over the side with a mask. Amber was really tentative and didn’t make it past the stern, but she gave it a go. I got a little further and saw a pretty big woebegone (toothless) sharks which was a treat.

Back on board and we weighed anchor and motored out in near calm conditions. We did raise the sails for a short while, which was lovely (especially from the bowsprit where Amber and I perched). What a delightful trip for kids...

After saying our goodbyes we trundled off to Fingal Bay where we were camping, put the tent up in the heat and cooled off in the pool before dinner. Tired and happy!

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Back with Amber

Back on the road again, this time with Amber. We flew into Sydney on Sunday (just in time to avoid the circus surrounding Oprah who will have, by now, renamed the opera house). Yesterday we ticked off something that’s been on my bucket list for a while, and went to see the Terracotta Warriors, some of which are visiting the National Gallery. They have a great audio tour here for kids too, which engages kids in art.


Today we were on the road by about 9am and headed for the Australian Reptile Park (where we saw a baby Tassie Devil up close) then onto Penang Gardens to hug a boab tree.

From there it was to the treetops high ropes course in Ormiston which we absolutely loved. Kids from four can enjoy this adventure, but over ten is the best age because there are more suitable courses. Over 16 allows access to ALL courses. We spent a couple of hours in the tree tops balancing from tree to tree...

Then we drove to The Entrance just in time for Pelican feeding at the waterfront. What a wonderful attraction this is, and it takes place right beside a colourful waterpark... so we spent longer here than expected! We are staying at Toowoon Beach tonight, on a grassy cliff overlooking the beach where we played in the tide pools before dinner. Stirfry and games of Mastermind later, and we are ready for bed. Ahh, it’s good to be under canvas again!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Changes of plans

I was so excited when I woke... today I was going out to Montague Island. I called Amber in anticipation... and jinxed it! When I got to the dock, owner Daryl told me he had called the trip off due to weather.

The good news was, this gave me longer to meander towards Kiama so I stopped lots along the way and found Bodalla Dairy Shed, The Berry Treat Factory, the blow holes at Kiama (they weren’t blowing) and the Boneyard rocks... this is such a fascinating coast!

My campsite tonight is the best yet I am at East's in Kiama and I couldn’t get closer to the beach if I tried. There's even a palm tree just for effect. This caravan park has a pool, jumping pillow, kids wading area, lots of little bridges AND the beach. Now it’s a toss up...do I like Narooma best, or Kiama??? I think Narooma still take the cake... just. Tomorrow I drive to Sydney airport and leave the car there to fly home. I can’t wait to pick up Amber from school and start the next part of our journey! She is going to LOVE this!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

I've found heaven (at least the southern version)

I woke to sunshine for the first time since I left home and basked in it, only leaving the campsite at the allotted 10am. First stop was the info centre in Bateman’s Bay where I explained what I was doing and asked the lovely young lady if she could tell me about any low or no cost things to do with kids in her town. “Will it be published?”she asked. “Then I can’t talk to you, you will have to talk to the advertising department.” Was this an information centre? I thought. Was it a TOURISM information centre? I was so taken back that I told her not to bother and left.


I drove south, back to Mogo where people had been so welcoming yesterday. It hadn’t been a fluke. The goldmining reinactment town in Mogo welcomed me with open arms and I joined a very informative and kid-friendly tour. Even got to pan for gold, but if this is how slow it is to get rich, I think I had better stick to books. I stopped at the Mogo Ice Creamery felt like coming home. The tiramisu ice cream amazing, by the way.

It took about an hour to get to Narooma and I think I have discovered heaven. If it wasn’t in a cold climate, I would consider living here. Small, laid back, water everywhere, dolphins in the bay, bike trails and walking trails to suit even the novice rider and wonderfully friendly staff at the caravan park. Amber would LOVE it here and I am starting to miss her.

My campsite for the night is right on the water’s edge at East’s. In the morning I will walk 200m down the bike path to the wharf where I meet Daryl who will take me across to Montague Island. Hopefully we will see more dolphins, penguins and seals on the way. Keep your fingers crossed!

Monday, December 6, 2010

It's a zoo out there!

Today was better weather wise... first it threatened to rain while I packed the tent and didn’t, then the rain held off while I kayaked up the creek at Jervis Bay, it held off while I investigate Mogo Zoo and even held off when I put the tent back up in Batemans Bay. When did it rain? I hear you ask... while I was driving was pretty much it today... black clouds all around the rest of the time, but no rain...Yippee!


I put the kayak in at Huskisson boat ramp and headed downstream to the river mouth and Huskisson wharf. There I watched the tour boats going out which took me back to boat driving days. The water here is so clear that, on the paddle back I went right over the top of a huge black stingray. That was such a thrill.

Kayak back on the rooftop (I now have a pretty good routine to get it up there) I headed for Mogo where I had an appointment at 2pm to see the zoo. I nearly made it by the allotted time and chatted to GM John. This zoo was created by a woman with a vision. As you can imagine, I immediately connected with her journey. She knocked on doors until they gave her a permit then took the old and sick animals from other zoos until she proved herself. The zoo is now 20 years old and still owned by the same woman.


Unlike newer facilities, the enclosures aren’t huge or flash. This probably isn’t preferable for the animals, but they have been designed long and narrow so you get to see the animals up close and, I have to say, this makes for a better visitor experience than with the bigger safari zoos. Besides, it’s easy to walk around this one... even for little ones. Did you know that there are NO white lions left in the wild? They have several here. Not to mention these amazingly cute red pandas!

I ended up at the Big4 at Batemans Bay and erected the tent, taking no chances of leaks. Of course, this meant the weather hasn’t materialised, but I can cope with that. Just met some wonderful neighbours who are trying out their new caravan, got some laundry done, so my car doesn’t stink of wet towels anymore, and settled into chilli and rice for dinner. Ahh...life is good!

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Back to the coast

I was not happy when I woke: partly because the band had only stopped playing four hours before, partly because everything outside my tent flap was soggy and partly because the path to the toilet was deep with mud and reminded me of Woodford three years ago... come to think of it, the people wandering back and forth in a daze looked like they belonged in Woodford too!


It took me a while to get my act together and stumbled myself to the food tent where I offered another donation for a hot mug of chai. That drunk, I felt better and packed the tent slowly, attempting to leave as much of the mud behind as possible. Goodbyes to John and Kim later, and I was on the road for a long journey south: Jervis Bay the eventual destination.

I took the inland route past Putty, which was stunningly green and beautiful, explaining the weather. My only scheduled stop today was at the Illawarra Fly, a man-made tree-top walkway on the ridge overlooking the coast. Despite low clouds and rain I continued in that direction and, luckily, the clouds parted in time for my visit. The view was lovely and the cantilever platform swayed with the trees in an almost organic fashion. Not the attraction for the faint-hearted because it’s very high and you can see through the walkway. The signage was well designed and colourful for kids, but a little high for them and the walkway, while paved and stroller-friendly, would have been a hard slog heading back. A courtesy golf-buggy shuttle would be much appreciated then!

About 1.5 hours further down the road I reached Jervis Bay. My caravan park (White Sands) could not have been more perfect. I have a front row seat to the beach, the surf tinkling as I type. It feels like coming home and I didn’t realise how much I had missed proximity to the ocean. Right outside the park is a VERY kid-friendly walk and bike track, away from any danger, and it runs all the way to town. The beach right outside offers rock pools, the type of sea weed we don’t get in Queensland, and views of a white-cliffed island and lighthouse. Now that’s what a call a great place for a holiday!

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Activity and activists

I am sitting in my tent beside Lake Liddell, Musselbrooke after spending the last hour or so sharing conversation and vegetarian dinner with a buoyant group of activists as they prepare for a major action against the proposed construction of a new coal power plant across the water. We are surrounded by coal land: directly across, Liddell Plant puffs white smoke and a coal mine scars the land to the left. The proposed plant behind them will, apparently, take seven years to build and increase NSW emissions by 13%.

Tomorrow, these courageous folk will travel by bus to the plant and carry out a peaceful demonstration. I am amazed how well organised they are. They have thought of every contingency and have two lawyers on hand in case some are arrested. They have been here since Tuesday conducting and listening to workshops and reports on alternative options and they are all on the same page. Many of them are willing to spend the night in jail and submit to bail agreements in order to put forward alterative plans... and the evidence is strong. Apparently, renewable energy options would increase jobs in the area by eight times...

The manager of the campsite, and his chief helper both work in the plant... yet they see both sides of the issue. John took the Climate Camp program to work to show his collegues and show them the importance of the discussion. It is men like these who act as a go-between and increase the chance of society paying attention.

This has been a long day and this ending is one of two highlights. The other came early when I unhooked the trailer and drove 40km to Wollomombi Falls at about 6am. I was in awe of this amazing national park waterfall which was far more impressive than anything I saw in the Blue Mountains. NSW’s highest waterfall, it was shrouded in mist and the lookout was only 750m from the beautiful picnic area. I was the only person here and didn’t want to drag myself away. Amber would have LOVED this.

After breaking camp around 10am I headed south to Tamworth and here the day changed. When asked about things to do with kids in this famous town, the volunteer at the info centre said “we have ten pin bowling and a cinema...”. To his credit, he was over 60 and probably a long way from parenthood but his supervisor didn’t instill much more enthusiasm for the area. One thing grabbed my attention: a park where famous country singers had left handprints in the cement... so I rushed over, only to find the park overgrown and mildewed.

In frustration, I continued south and my faith was restored in a beautiful little town called (the name escapes me right now) where a beautiful monument garden to the First Fleet had been created. This unique garden included a weaving path between ‘gravestones’ for each of the ships and lists of every person on board. A final display included quotes from logs of those on board and bought this part of Australian history to life.

So, here I am... the tunes outside my tent were more mellow than those last night, but I am probably just as unlikely to get an early night because the heavens just opened and the lighteningshow is awesome! Like soldiers before a battle,my newfound friends are preparing for their adventures tomorrow, as must I. Tomorrow it’s on to Jervis Bay...


Friday, December 3, 2010

A long drive to Armidale

Yeah! I am on the road again, and it feels great. It was a big day today, starting at 6am for my long drive (8 hours) from the Sunshine Coast to Armidale. It rained on and off all day, but not so hard it hindered the journey and I have discovered a new way to travel: talking books! I got a couple out of the library before I departed and spent the day listening to Anita Shreve’s novel The Last Time They Met. I had used Roald Dahl recordings when Amber was with me, but today took that one step further. What a great way to pass the driving time!


I stopped at Glen Innes information Centre today. It was a nostalgic visit because this time last year I had been helped by a wonderful man Fred Blair. Fred is perhaps the best tourism ambassador to this area and last year he had made me want to stay in the small country town of Glen Innes for days! Low and behold, Fred was there, and just a helpful filling me in on changes. I learnt that Washpool National Park is a great place to spotlight for the spotted Quoll. I learnt of a few new fishing spots and all the best places to fossick for gems.

While in Glen Innes I stopped at the Celtic Standing Stones. This area was settled by tartan-clad immigrants and the town has marked this history with these Stone-Henge-like structures. There are 40 in all and they mark a 24 hour clock as well as indicate the summer and winter solstice. Every year, the Celtic festival is held at the stones and must be quite a site. What a great place for a picnic while travelling the New England Highway too.

About 25 km north of Armidale (and nearly to my destination) I detoured to Thunderbolt’s Cave. A notorious outlaw in these parts, Thunderbolt alluded authorities by hiding in this cave. It’s a strange attraction –not well marked and at the end of a 200m downward slope. Funnily enough, this actually adds to the appeal because it can’t have changed much since Thunderbolt himself hid here. The path is uneven and not very suitable for little legs (and totally unsuitable for strollers).

When I arrived at Pembroke Caravan Park I was just behind a huge old-car club who were already into the beer. I chose a site furthest away from the place they were said to be partying tonight, but the noise has been pretty consistent. Now, at 8pm they are reving their engines and I wonder if I will get any sleep tonight.

I chatted to one of the hot-rod’s wives tonight. About 60 years old, she had spent a lot of time on the Sunshine Coast 30 years ago, and had some wonderful tales to tell... when flying a kite with the kids at Mudjimba one day, the airport personnel asked her to take it in because it was interfering with the airport radar!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Nearly there again...

The time has arrived and I am packing the trailer (in the rain) and getting ready for my last research trip for Kids Welcome to New South Wales & ACT. There are sooo many things to do in these two states with kids and I really look forward to sharing my findings with you... so, keep checking in to see what Amber and I have been up to!

Happy travels! - Sarah

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

The last day... funny how it feels like we have been away forever AND that it has flown by!
I was woken from my Hogwart's dorm bed by two girls saying "come quick, a bird just slammed into the window". Before I was even awake, I was traipsing on the grass looking for a dead bird who, as it turned out, had only been stunned and flown away.


Badger and gone up to the kitchen to get ready and after packing bags, I joined him for a much appreiated half hour of sanity before the kids arrived for breakfast. The automated toaster and expansive counters made braekfast a breeze and we even managed to eat first!

Our drive this morning was through farms and fields on the way to Kaa's parent's farm. "I don't know the address," Kaa told us, looking at the map. "It's somewhere near the W in Toowoomba." What he failed to mention was it was also next door to a country pub, and right past a couple of huge silos, so he got the dunny brush for that one...

The welcome at the farm was nothing short of miraculous and Veera put mine and Badger's food efforts to shame. The table was set with every imaginable treat... one table for kids and one for adults. Around us ran black and white sheep and the kids got to tiptoe through the chook pen too. Their favourite passtime was picking wool off the fences and spinning it between their fingers. (Of course, this meant it was pretty essential to wash their hands before digging in the sweets!)

We shared stories of our adventures and took pictures at the farm before waddling back onto the bus and wondering if we should skip lunch as Kaa gave us a tour of his hometown. Amazingly, by the time we reached Kilcoy, there was enough space in our stomachs to stop at the Yowie statue and gobble up most of our remaining fresh food (squashed between slices of bread).


As we neared the Sunshine Coast, Kaa put Mama Mia on and the racket in the bus was extraordinary. Then, as we rounded the roundabout in Buderim, the backing track for the Buderim Cub Scouts song blared. We opened the windows and sang at the tops of our voices as startled parents looked on.


Hugs, kisses, stories, water buckets, dustpans, sponges, dishwashing and screwdrivers later, and the trailer as opened for bags to spill. A few more hugs, and we were all on our way back to our respsective homes, the web of connection temporarliy broken but the memories remaining.


Thanks so much to everyone who made this adventure possible... and of course, most importantly Kaa and Rikki who spent six months planning!




Monday, September 27, 2010

Day 8


5am came really early this morning... and by the time I stumbled into the kitchen, Badger had hash browns in the oven and the kettle boiled. We have worked so well together... one day I do more, and one day he does. The kids were wonderfully organised this morning and packed ready to go to the zoo. Once they were packed, we gave them two hash browns in a paper bag and they sat on the stoop, sun rising behind them, eating their breakfast. Western Plains Zoo was only about 10 minutes down the road and we were greeted at the gate by a uniformed staff member who motioned us to a second gate, past the waiting queue. In the parking lot we met our two guides and broke into groups. They led us on an hour and a half walk behind the scenes. We saw the hay barn, breeding enclosures, winter and summer grounds... and heard stories about all the creatures and programs as we went. Unfortunately, many of the animals were lethargic since it was a cool morning. (Must be rotten to be an African animal stuck in a cold climate!). The walk was fun, but probably not as suitable for young kids since the distances are long and the guides keep up a fast past... only one chance for a toilet stop on the walk too, and it’s not stroller or wheelchair friendly. Half our time was spent herding kids, and the other half trying to keep the pace fast so one of them would make it to the amenities. The good side was learning from a volunteer with a wealth of experience , and seeing parts of the zoo off limits to others. We saw some animals we never even knew existed too!



We ended up at the picnic area for a play on the playground... from flying foxes to safari vehicles, I think the kids enjoyed this bit just as much as the walk. Then, back on the bus, we drove round to see a few of the ‘top seven’ that we hadn’t seen: zebras, lions and elephants among them.

While the kids spent their cherished funds in the shop, Badger, Cyclone and I put out lunch, then it was off to Moree for the night. This was the first time we have driven in the dark and Chil found it quite a challenge in the bus. Tiredness set in with everyone today and a few spats between leaders or kids were to be expected (and we weren’t disappointed). The dummy seems to jump from one leader to another for a while, faster than you could say ‘dummy spit!’




First stop at Moree was Subway. We had called ahead and the manager Julie was so helpful... she gave us a special rate AND stopped planting trees to drive into the store to hand make our sandwiches. Topped up with food, we drove to Gywndir Caravan Park and were allocated our cabins. I was very pleased to be sharing a double with Amber tonight... things have been so busy I have missed her!


Bags unpacked, we met at the hot springs (in the caravan park) and steamed away our cares jumping from one pool to another. The water comes out of the ground at 39 degrees, then filters from one pool to another, loosing temperature as it goes. From 39 to 38,36, 35 and a large, cooler pool.


Ah, the luxury of a bed! And we were awarded a sleep in! We didn’t have to be packed and on the bus until 7.45 tomorrow morning...



Day 9


I don’t think I have slept so well on this holiday and woke refreshed. Rather than lie in, I sneaked off for a soak in the pools before departure. Kaa had hinted at a treat this morning and the kids were ecstatic when it ended up being Macca’s breakfast. We commandeered the outside area and, were so well behaved that, believe it or not, a truckie made a special trip over to Baggy to say “in thirty years of driving, those are the most well behaved kids I have come across”.


Today I was in the car with Rikki, Baggy and Badger and we raced ahead so we could get lunch ready. That’s when the fun began... we pulled over at a park in Glen Innes and Rikki drove off the road on the grass. Of course, it has been raining since we left Queensland and it was pretty boggy, so Baggy (not boggy) hoped out and suggested she pull forward out of the grass. Rikki floored it and covered Baggy with mud, which, of course, set us into fits of laughter which lasted through lunch. After lunch I drove and we settled into a recording of Harry Potter.


At Stanthorpe we stopped at the Maze with every intention of going in, but it started raining so we kept going to our evening stop at Warwick. Kaa had found a fantastic group facility which used to be a school. We had booked the dorm. The caretaker met us and showed us to rooms right out of Hogwart’s. The kitchen was a full commercial one which had me drooling, and the grounds made me think of St Trinian’s. The kids were in heaven. While Badger and I took off for some last minute shopping, they played.


Cooking in such a kitchen was a breeze and it wasn’t long before chicken wings, rice and corn were steaming, waiting for the kids to sit down. There were seconds... then thirds... then Rhys spoke up and thanked the leaders for all their effort and we bought out mud cake to celebrate our last night. It seemed like a fitting ending, in such a wonderful spot, even though we still have one day ahead.


After dinner Kaa laid on horse races followed by a movie (with accompanying popcorn). What a great evening!





Saturday, September 25, 2010

Day seven


This was perhaps the most full-on day so far... with activities packed from the moment we woke to right now (it’s 9.30 and the kids are all asleep!). The fire had disintegrated to ash and the air was nippy this morning. First task is proving to be putting the kettle on for the adults so we can face organising 20 kids... Then toast goes on, cereal goes in bowls, tables set and bags are ferried to the trailer.
Butterfly left early this morning to do the dreaded wash. She has been looking for a laundry for two days that fit our schedule, but to no avail. Turns out the one in Katoomba opens at 7am so off she and Rikki went. They returned in time to load the car and Badger(used to be Paul) and I joined them for the ride into Katoomba. Midway through folding laundry, the two women tried to find the cash they had bought with them. Each thought the other had it, and a brisk discussion ensued. Neither spat the dummy, but eventually the owner of the place referred to the security camera to prove where the money had gone!!(In Butterfly’s pocket!).
The morning was spent at Scenic World which is a wonderful and busy tourist attraction. We experienced all three of their modes of transport: the steepest railway in the world; the cableway and the cable car. All were magnificent in different ways and I think the kids rather preferred the railway. The view in the valley was spectacular with the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls clearly visible.
Badger and I went ahead on the last ride and set up lunch in a park near the bus... hot dogs cooked on our camp stove. It was a hit and the kids ran around climbing old machinery while ducks hung around waiting for scraps.
Next stop was Orange where we wolfed down a whole watermelon near the information centre before continuing on to Dubbo. Nearing town we panicked... this was shopping night and it was a weekend... would the Woolies close early? Badger and I were dropped at the shops and made it just before the chicken shop closed. By the time we got to the den, beds were out and they were setting up for a movie. With all hands on deck, we whipped up sausages, mash and peas and gravy which went down a treat. It was followed by ice cream to celebrate the birthday of one of the kids.
Showered and tucked up in their sleeping bags, the kids settled for a movie of Mr Bean while the adults cleared up. Now, as I tap away, there’s not a sound... I bet they will all sleep well tonight – we are up at 5.30 to get to the Zoo for the early morning walk. Hash browns are laid out ready to heat and morning tea brown bags are ready to go too...

Day six

What a fantastic day! We packed up at our den in Canberra and left on time.... we are getting very efficient! First stop was for morning tea at Goulburn, at the Big Marino, where Baggy decided no-one was allowed to buy souvenirs and then proceeded to buy something for his daughter... and Butterfly held the bus up while she shopped! Then it was off to Oberon for lunch and while we ate, some of the boys taught the rest of gang their rendition of ‘the toilet brush’ . It was such a wonderfully sunny day it was hard to drag ourselves off the grass and back to the bus. Especially since we hear it’s been raining at home since we left! What happened to cold southern weather?
We had booked a cave tour at Jenolan Caves for 2pm and after a winding road, and little misshap with the trailer, we arrived in plenty of time.
The cave tour to Lucas Cave was fantastic and all but one of our crew was excited. One, however, is scared of the dark and heights and was really not looking forward to this. What a trooper she was- holding hands and getting strength from her mates, and overcoming her fear. Isn’t this what cubs isa all about? After walking across a very thin bridge, about 50m in the air, she was estatic and well deserved too.
By about 5pm we reached the ‘den of the day’ and I popped dinner in the oven while Butterfly headed off to find a launder mat. No luck for her, unfortunately. But dinner was a success. With a pot belly stove sizzling away, we sang campfire songs at the top of our lungs before putting the beds out and snuggling in for the night.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

First five days of Canberra trip

Day one
What a wonderful day...
We left Buderim on time (believe it or not) with 25 in the bus and three in the support vehicle. The first miracle of the day was when all the bags fit in the trailer and we departed WITHOUT kids strapped to the roof. It started raining and the windowscreen wipers worked overtime as we made our way to Ipswich... me riding shot gun next to Kaa in the bus. The kids sang along to “Don’t worry be happy” and shared their excitement.
First stop was the botanical gardens at Ipswich and once the car caught up, we created a “make your own wraps” line with ham, cheese and salad. It went down well. The kids let off steam by running and screaming at the top of their lungs, then braved the log-drop toilets before loading up again.
Roald Dahl came to the rescue for the afternoon when we played The BFG audio book and kept them quiet. Some slept (including all adults) and the rain kept coming.
We called ahead to Stanthorpe den and the organiser dropped a bomb shell... “You don’t need the over, do you,” she said. “Because we just checked them out and they don’t work.”
Cold lasagne nightmares flashed before my eyes. Julie (from the visiting den) said she would think of something so we kept our fingers crossed.
We were planning to stop at the site of Thunderbolt’s hideout but both the Navman and Tom Tom led us astray and we passed on by. We arrived at about 4.30pm and handed over the lasagne trays for billeting at various parent’s ovens.
The den at Stanthorpe is at the end of a dirt road set in natural bush with huge welcoming grassy areas out front. It is a huge shed with exposed metal rafters and wide open spaces for running. Of course the kids did this, while Paul and I prepared salad...
By 7pm the lasagne had still not showed so the kids settled for a movie. Chil was convinced our lasagne was now on the menu at the local RSL, but it did eventually show up...

Day two
It rained hard all night on the tin roof which was surprisingly comforting and drowned out any sleeping noises as we lie top to tail around the den. Come dawn and it started to ease. I woke at about 5.30 and listened for the kids, then Amber came over and snuggled for a while. At 6am we were up and washed, and in the kitchen getting breakfast happening.
One by one, the kids shook themselves out of their sleeping bags and headed for the toilets. When the room was packed we settled down to cereal and toast, hot milo and juice. Unbelievably, by 8.15 we were loaded up and on the road, locking the gate behind us.
First planned stop was Bald Rock NP, but with slippery conditions and a dirt road ahead, the plan changed and we headed straight for Glen Ines for morning tea. Thanks to the talented parents we left behind, we enjoyed a wide range of slices.
The support vehicle (which I was driving today) went ahead to top up supplies for lunch and grab a few other necessities like ‘bone’ substitutes and chocolate bribes (prizes!). We also found a PA mic for Kaa so he could terrorize the kids on the bus as the tucked into their special workbooks.
By lunch were at the Golden Guitar which, I hate to say, was a little disappointing for me. It’s not very big and the gift shop next door didn’t include an info centre.... the kids loved the first chance to spend some of their pocket money, so that was good, and we made sure we took red shirt pictures en mass by the landmark.
Our evening stop was Armidale. Even with two GPS devices, we managed to get lost and follow a wonderful, unplanned tour of town! Eventually, on about the third time round, we realised the scout den was right opposite the girl guides hut we had starred at a few times...
The wonderful scouts of Armidale set to making us dinner while some of us went grocery shopping and our own team had showers and dressed in uniforms. We felt so welcome by this wonderful pack who cooked the most delicious spaghetti and sausages... and even topped it off with ice cream! By 8.30, when the held parade, our youngsters were tired and ready to unroll their swags. As I type now, they have five minutes before lights out and the last one in bed will have to carry the boobie prize all day tomorrow: the dreaded toilet brush!
Tomorrow on to Parkes and The Dish! Yippeee!

Day three
Roald Dahl has been a lifesaver on the bus... until today when the kids begged for the last chapter of Matilda and we realised we hadn’t bought it... Cest la vie, Butterfly had bought another book about a worm and it was just as successful. Along our route we passed the planetary models which are to scale, with the sun being the Observatory at Siding Springs.
The biggest challenge today was keeping the bus a car within 10k of each other and my GPS has been renamed Doris as she gets blamed for everything. Baggy was the first recipient of the toilet brush and clipped it onto his belt until the next person left something behind.
The planets had led us to Siding Springs where we climbed the hill and peered at the huge telescope then spent a while inside the visitor museum learning about the stars which was fascinating! From there we hot-footed it down to Parkes running an hour behind schedule. Unfortunately this meant the centre was closed by the time we got there, but I don’t think it really mattered to the kids. We played in the whisper dishes and took pictures of ourselves with the dish and even discussed what roll it had played in the moon landing.
Our night stop was only a short distance away at Parkes (named after the father of Federation himself). It was the same caravan park I had visited a year ago, on Boxing Day, and bought back memories. Here we had booked a few cabins and these were allocated to groups. The moon was nearly full, and it was this we credited with the following crazy behaviour by all... one cabin (full of boys) stank to high heaven... some of the boys planned midnight meetings with girls, a few tears were shed and countless other adventures ensued... all of which were stomped out quickly and it wasn’t long before lights out. What a day!

Day 4
After our regular breakfast we were on the road and heading towards morning tea at Cowra where we went to the visitors centre and watched the fascinating hologram story about Japanese prisoner escape at the end of the second world war. From there we stopped at the Peace Bell which was awarded to the town for the peaceful way they have embraced and educated about this tragedy.
Things must be getting desperate on the bus... we even broke out a karaoke ABBA tape and sang at the tops of our voices!
Just after lunch, we drove into the ACT and headed straight for Questacon – the capital’s science museum. The rest of the afternoon just flew by as we learned ways to make music, giggled at optical allusions and even some of us hurled ourselves down the giant drop. Heads spinning, we navigated the gift shop and headed for the German Scout den where we were sleeping. Spag bol later, our beds were lined up like a dorm room in Oliver with Kaa walking down the aisle checking for giggles. This den doubles as a child care centre and the furniture is all VERY small! It didn’t take long to fall asleep..

Day 5
This was the day we had been waiting for... Parliment! We arrived on the front steps at 9am and made contact with our guide for the day Nathan who was our member’s assistant until recently. What an amazing tour we were given, and most of if behind the scenes in areas the public are generally not permitted. We saw Julia’s offices, The House of Reps, Senate, the space in between where the bubbling water drowns secret conversations, and even held the whip (which is a symbol of Nathan’s office. It is his job to make sure all the members get to voting on time. Clocks throughout the building are synchronised and they are given four minutes to get to the chamber when needed for a vote. How exciting Parliment was. I certainly didn’t feel let down at all, and neither did three of our team who were awarded their Grey Wolf on the steps of this amazing building. What a memorable experience for them all.
Next stop was the Australia War memorial with rooms dedicated to each of the wars in which Australia has participated. We lunched on the lawns out front, then some of us went in while others had another sort of adventure: grocery shopping in Belconnen. If I never see Belconnen again, I will be happy. Road works ruled, and the shopping centre parking was the worst I have ever seen...
Miraculously, we finished and returned just in time to meet the bus at The Mint. I could have spent far longer here. What a fascinating history of coinage in Australia. Unfortunately, we didn’t realise this fantastic attraction closed at 4pm... so time was short, but I think we all enjoyed it anyway.

On the drive back to the scout den we drove by the Embassies. I hadn’t realised they were all next to each other, and it was marvellous to see the different architecture, levels of opulence and flags flying high. Definitely worth a detour for anyone visiting this area with kids. Back at base, we had one hour to clean up and change before our celebration dinner. Not only were we celebrating the Grey Wolves, but it was Butterfly’s birthday too. We had booked dinner at Zeffarelli’s restaurant and needed to pick up a cake for the event too...
Yet another adventure ensued with the cake... when we arrived to pick it up they couldn’t find the cake. Then, once the cake was located, we hunted for boxes... then the price... eventually Nicola turned into a cyclone (her new cub name) and eventually got it for free!
We are now back in the den. The kids are asleep and it’s time to catch up with the internet... we haven’t had connection for a few days and there has been lots to say! Good night...

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Off to Canberra

Well, the day is finally here...
Today Amber and I head off to Canberra with a bus full of other cub scouts and leaders. As always, the preparation has been half the battle and now the day has arrived, we are both itching with excitement.

Yesterday the other volunteer cook and I trolleyed our way through Woolies grabbing all the necessary provisions then stocked them in the den fridge to grab this morning. Let's hope we remember the bread sitting on its lonesome on the counter! Cordial has been mixed and frozen (yes even the red one which might be kept for special ocassions when we need them to bounce off the walls), and wonderful parents have been busily baking lasagne for our first night.

Three hours, with any luck, our band of merry kids will wave goodbye and drive off. For many, this is the first time they have been away from their parents, so it represents a huge milestone. Since she alternates between her parents, Amber is probably the expert among them in handling separation, so I hope she can offer support to her fellow explorers.

Tonight Stanthorpe. Weather looks good... getting colder as we go, and I have just chickened and thrown in a blanket... Wish us luck and read along as we go! Highlights will include The Dish, Parliment House, Dubbo Zoo, The Mint (just to name a few).

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Finally the pictures

Here you go... for those of you who would like to see what we looked like on Saturday night... eat your hearts out.

The last couple of days have passed in a blur with media calls and photo shoots. Now I know how princess Mary feels!

Sunday, August 15, 2010

And the winner is...

Wow! Last night will stick in my memory for quite some time...
In front of a crowd of 320 amazingly inspirational people, I was awarded Sunshine Coast Small Businesswoman of the Year. How that happened, I am still not quite sure, and I will be on a high for days!

Pictures are on their way, but I wanted to share my speech with you...


When I was 13, my parents had what can only be called a ‘serious mid-life crisis’.
They took my brother and me out of school and we spent the next five years sailing around the world on a 32ft ketch.

My ‘boat –schooling’ experience taught me many things:
I learnt that risks are worth taking.
I learnt that with the support of family I can do just about anything.
I discovered there is a vast difference between schooling and education.
And I learnt to rely on my own abilities.

About 4 years ago I decided I would like to encourage other parents to explore the world around them with THEIR kids. (It doesn’t have to be quite so extreme). I wanted to write guidebooks for travelling families. The only drawback was that I really didn’t know how to write.

So I enrolled in my Master’s degree at the University of the Sunshine Coast, and started on the bottom rung at The Sunshine Coast Daily. On weekends and holidays I would hook up my camper trailer and my daughter (and chief expert) Amber and I would travel around Queensland writing reviews as we went.

In October last year, my first book Kids Welcome to Queensland, was published. It includes over 1000 reviews of activities, attractions, tours, places to eat and places to stay throughout our state. Amber and I are now busy writing our next book: Kids Welcome to NSW.

I could not have reached this milestone without the tremendous support of many people: my graphic artist, proof-reader, distribution team, colleagues and friends. Especially my best friend Terri who nominated me for this award. On behalf of all of us, I thank the SCBWN and sponsors for this amazing honour.

But there are two people who deserve my thanks more than any others: my parents.
My Dad died in January and my Mum now lives in a nursing home so they couldn’t be here tonight, but I hope I can be as inspirational a parent to Amber, as they have been to me.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

A room of inspirational women

Last night the who's who of Sunshine Coast business women gathered for a cocktail party at the Hyatt Coolum. Coined 'The Purple Room' this event is specifically for finalists in the annual business awards and I felt amazed a proud to be among them.

Awards are a funny thing... on one hand I know they are a fantastic way to get the word out about your business... and on the other, I am never quite sure if I deserve to be in such company.

The entire process of being nominated (by my wonderful friend Terri), compliling a submission and going through the interview process has been a really good way to look back on the past year and take stock of what's to come. It is a process I would recommend to ANY business person. It has clarified my thoughts for the coming year, and giving me the opportunity to meet a range of inspirational women.

Not only that, but it has given me a renewed vigor to face challenges. After all, Tony and Maureen Wheeler (from Lonely Planet) started self publishing their first book from their Melbourne garage... from little things, big things grow!

Unlike other awards I have entered in the past, the process for this one includes such evenings as last night where you actually get to meet your 'competitors' and learn from them. Not only that, but business leaders spoke of their experiences in the past and shared tips on how to dress, what to say and how to deal with media if you win. Thanks to all the wonderful mentors I felt I had in that room!

Now the wait begins... the winner will be announced on August 14, also at the Hyatt.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Rainy day activities in SE Queensland with teens

Well, we've been back now a week... and the other day my friend asked me whatever she should do with her teenager during the school holiday. They had exhausted trips to the mall and were slowly going broke.

It's a problem many of you probably face: how to entertain your older kids without breaking the bank, and while keeping their online time down. (Yes, that's often the hard one!).

So, here are a few of my favourites in Southeast Queensand. Over the next few days I will expand on these and broaden the list to other geographic areas. Hopefully they will give you a few ideas outside of the normal range!

Sunshine Coast:
Peregian Originals is held every second Sunday at Peregian Beach just after the local market packs up shop. Kicking off around 1pm, bands travel from around the region for the priviledge of playing to this crowd. Music if varied, but always original and this is a place where families can take a picnic and spread out on the grass and teens will even be happy to be seen. Best of all it's free! Check out the website.

Gold Coast

Push teens physical boundaries at Thunderbird Park in the Gold Coast hinterland. The high ropes course here is challenging and a great way to bond with older kids. Spend around three hours swinging and pulling yourselves along cables, sliding down flying foxes and balancing on high beams without touching foot on the ground.




Kayak tour
Departing from Southport, Kyle and Mark from Balunjali Interpretive Cultural Tours lead kayak tours which include a wildlife and cultural (indigenous) element. It is not necessary to have kayak experience and this tour is suitable for kids over eight.

Brisbane

Ron Mueck Exhibition
Before it departs on August 1, I highly recommend taking teens to see the Ron Mueck exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art. These life-like sculptures seem to capture a moment which,if seen in real life, we would be embarrased by. They are confronting, very moving and are guarenteed to start a healthy discussion in the car! Cost is around $10 per person.


More to follow!!

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Back to Sydney

July 1

We hit a tennis ball around on the court this morning, delaying our exit, but by 9.30am we were on the road heading back to Sydney. First stop was the Snowy Mountain Hydro Scheme information centre in Cooma which was absolutely fascinating. I had no idea how many tunnels were running below the national park carrying water. Generators deep within the hills created sustainable and environmentally friendly electricity and the scheme lets the water go as determined by the government: into the Snowy River or the Murray.

The information centre was free to visit and included so much for kids that we spent over an hour: generating electricity on an exercise bike, pushing buttons to highlight tunnels on the 3D map, learning about seeding snow (which is done by shooting iodine into the atmosphere). We even came away with a pack of information suitable for an entire unit of education, including a DVD on the project. This is a “don’t miss” if you are passing this way.

Another place worth a stop is the Big Marino in Goulburn. Australia is good at creating BIG things and this is one to tick off the list. It is bigger than most and it is possible to walk up inside and learn a bit about the wool industry. Displays are static, however, and not particularly kid-friendly. The surrounding choice of restaurants make this a great lunch stop on the way to and from the snow: choose from major fast food restaurants, kebabs, a lovely award winning bakery and snacks at the fuel station. The shop which accompanies the Big Marino is a lovely one for souvenirs of the region too.

By midafternoon we were back in Sydney, navigating the one-way streets and looking forward to a Thai dinner…

Last day breakthrough

June 30

Boy did I sleep well. The annoying aches I had expected didn’t eventuate and I had the handle on the electric blanket. Amber didn’t even stir until after 7am! I boiled the kettle to throw on the frosted windscreen (I am finally getting the hang of this!). We would have been at the snow by 10am but I forgot to get fuel in Adaminaby and we needed to go on a bit further to Cabramurra, the highest village in Australia, to fuel up. We made it for our 11.30am lesson, but the booking had been lost. Turned out in our favour I think because we ended up with Pete as our teacher. Three runs with him and I was snaking around with ease and enjoying it enough that I didn’t want to leave the snow. We even graduated to the big slope and an even bigger chair lift with a scary exit!

By now it was snowing hard and our woolly hats were frosted just like the trees. The viz was down to a few metres and we felt like intrepid explorers. What a wonderful feeling to learn a new skill… I am so glad Amber wanted to snow board! Four times we traversed the big slope and would have done more if our legs weren’t dropping off. So, around 3.30pm we called it a day and took the small lift back to the lodge. We couldn’t resist one more slide down the bunny slope and did so with such ease our heads swelled.

A few obligatory souveniers in the shop and thankful goodbyes and we handed in our media passes and rental gear. The parking lot was white where once it was black and we carefully made our way back to San Michelle, dropping off the rented snow chains on the way. I was sorry we didn’t have another week because I feel we would be really proficient (if not dead!).

For the fourth night in a row we chatted to other guests over dinner and warmed our bones in front of the fire before stumbling back to our room in exhaustion. What a fantastic day… one I wouldn’t want to have missed for the world. Tomorrow we depart and head back to Sydney…

Sore on the snow

June 29

Day two on the snow and I was wondering how my body would fare this morning when I awoke. By 9am we were on the road heading towards the snow fields for a 10am lesson. It took longer to get there than the day before and our instructor, Tanya, was waiting for us as we rushed across the parking lot and to the school waiting area. Today our lesson was together since I had caught up enough to Amber to warrant this. Rather than the “falling leaf” we had learnt the day before, we now progressed on to “S” turns which were far more frightening because you had to go quickly downhill at one stage in the turn. Pivoting your hips in the direction you were going and pointing the way helped and after a few ups and downs (vertical on the lift AND on our bottoms) we got the hang of it. We high-fived Tanya and continued on our own after an hour learning.

Up and down we went, sliding off the ski lift, falling and getting up again. Before too long my legs were as sore as they are after an hour of rowing. The staff was kind enough to let us use their staff room to boil a kettle and cook our noodles and before too long our insides were warm and our legs rested enough to go out and do it again.