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Australia Feb 2018
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  • Ali Stretton

Australia Feb 2018

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    Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Last day in Oz

    4. maaliskuuta 2018, Wales ⋅ ⛅ 7 °C

    Sadly our last day of a fantastic month. Checked with Paul and all OK weather wise back home. Dave woke up to a bit of a work crisis but this was soon under control and we could start our final day. Took the tram to Pyrmont and took ferry to Luna Park an old 50's style fun fair. Walked past that on the boardwalk to Mrs Whitelys Garden.Mrs Whitely was the wife of an artist and in her younger days had quite a hedonistic existence. In later years she started cultivating the land outside her house. This belonged to the railway and over the years she has been allowed to continue her work to the extent that the gardens are now an established part of the Sydney experience. We had some lunch and then back to the flat to prepare for the long journey home. Said our tearful farewells at the airport and then through to departures. Not quite sure how we will cope with life after Oz so had a few drinks to numb the pain before boarding the big bird to Singapore and then onward to London. In the words of the great Soul II Soul "Back to life, back to reality !!!"Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Canberra / Sydney

    3. maaliskuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 27 °C

    Went and had Brekkie Jaffles up at a cafe on Redhill. Again spectacular views over Canberra a city of contrasts. Said our good byes to Bryony, Sarah and their cats Lexy and Paxel. Its been great meeting them and all of their Canberra crowd. A three hour drive back to Sydney followed by a meal in and a glass of wine having a final look at the city skyline and the Mardi Gras fireworks.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Enlighten

    2. maaliskuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    Every year in Canberra is the Enlighten Festival. A number of the major buildings are lit up and one is open to the public. Apart from being quite a spectical it is also a cleaver way to engage the younger generation into all things Australian, Art, Politics, History etc. Once again we arrive with impeccable timing. The Old Parliament Building was open to the public. This was the original seat of government until 1986. When they moved buildings rather than clear everything out they left all the contents behind, offices,chambers,desks even typewriters and fax machines giving a slightly eerie feel. We visited the Prime Ministers office and the main chamber. Then had a walk around the other buildings which were being illuminared. Then back to the flat for some yummy birthday cake.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Tipbinbilla

    2. maaliskuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 25 °C

    Tipbinbilla is a massive nature reserve. One of its roles is the protection of endangered species. Surprisingly Koalas are one such species. This is because they are quite picky eaters preferring only 3 types of Eucalyptus. They are also quite lazy, sleeping a lot and not finding the energy to procreate. The reserve had an enclosure and we must have timed our visit perfectly as they were out and about and put on a great show. We also saw plenty of Kangaroos, Wallabies, a Potteroo and even a deer.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Cotter Dam and NASA

    2. maaliskuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    After a nice chinese lunch we set off out of Canberra to Tipbinbilla National Park. On the way we stopped off at Cotter Dam providing Canberra with its water supply. Surprised to see the pipeline on the surface within easy reach of the public. Next stop was the NASA listening station with its massive dish antennas. It was here that the signals carrying the pictures of the first moon landing were received and broadcast.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Canberra - War Memorial

    2. maaliskuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    Picked up some pastries and a coffee and sat by the lake in Weston Park with a view of some of the key Canberra landmarks. We first visited the War Memorial, a beautiful tribute to those Australians who have given their lives in conflicts past and present. Very peaceful and moving. The Memorial also houses a huge underground museum. We didnt stay long but found the whole experience very thought provoking.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Canberra

    1. maaliskuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    After a late checkout and a last sit on the beach we made the 2.5 hour drive to Canberra. A very different experience. Many make the comparison with Milton Keynes but on a bigger scale. Arrived at Bryony and Sarahs flat which would be our base for the visit. They used to be L&Ds neighbours when they lived in Canberra. Went up Mt Ainslie for a panoramic view of the city and then a quick drive round spotting some kangeroos in Weston Park. Back to the flat to get changed and then off to the bar to meet some of their Canberra friends to celebrate Daves birthday. Had a lovely evening a really nice bunch and can see why L&D liked it here so much. On our return Bryony had decorated the flat to celebrate with a Lamingtons Birthday cake and some interesting balloons.
    Main sightseeing tomorrow.    Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    More photos of Jervis Bay

    28. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    1. Husky Pub
    2 / 3 Blenheim Beach
    4 / Murrays Beach

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Murrays Beach, Bluebottles & Blenheim

    28. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

    After a coffee at the local cafe we drove to Murrays Beach. This is part of Boodaree Nationał Park the only park run by Aborigines. The beach is fantastic, a long sweep of beech bounded by forest. We had aswim and then the first drama of the holiday. Lisa was stung by a jelly fish, known as a bluebottle this smałl jelly fish has a long bright blue tendril which wrapped its self around Lisas leg and foot. We needed to get some cream from a chemist so we went in to Husskisson for some lunch. The Husky pub is a lively pub overlooking the water. We had some food and a few drinks, that and the cream helping to aleviate Lisas pain. Then off to Blenheim Beach, another beautiful small beach with a rocky outcrop at each end. Stayed till late afternoon and then back to the house for more beer and some nice Sardines on the BBQ. Played cards, girls won again.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Fitzroy Falls, Hyams Beach

    27. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

    Left Sydney at about 8.20. As suspected slow traffic but we picked up a takeaway coffee and despite a few drops of rain the sky looked clearer so we were hopeful of some better weather. We headed south on our way to Jervis Bay for a two day stop before moving on to Canberra. On the way we stopped off at Fitzroy Falls about 2000 ft up with stunning views across the valley. Didnt realise how high up we were which accounted for the chilly temperature 16 degrees C (ok I know its not Siberia but its as cold as we have been for a month). From there we went to Kangaroo Valley a small town, strangely no Kangeroos but it did have an award winning pie shop. I was tempted with the cheese burger pie but instead went for the Steak and Peppercorn sauce pie, delicious. We carried on to Hyams Beach, found the property we were staying in which was stunning. Had a walk down to the beach. A real natural beauty with a long sweep of sand flanked by forest. The sand was so white you couldnt look at it without sunglasses. We decided to spend the rest of the day on the beach as it was so nice.We stayed until 5.30 and then back to the house.I set up the BBQ Ali made a salad and we had Prawns with a spicy dip, sausages and onions. A few glasses of wine and an early night as it is going to be another lovely day tomorow.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Shopping, Sushi and Scallops

    26. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    Went for a wander around the shops. Went to a shopping mall, it had all the usual things, clothes shops, food outlets and of course the flip flop vending machine !! Had some yummy sushi for lunch and then went to pick up stuff for the evening meal. I was cooking Scallops with cardamom carrot puree and pancetta crisp, good old Barramundi fillet (left over and frozen from the last time) with salsa verde, carrott and courgette ribbons lemon crushed potatoes and asparagus wrapped in pancetta. Dessert was a ginger cheesecake using some ingredients bought from the ginger factory. Played some cards, big win for the boys had a couple of drinks and then early night ready for early start tomorrow for our journey to Jervis Bay.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Kitty Flanagan

    25. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☁️ 20 °C

    Felt a bit delicate this morning, but weather not great so we had a quiet morning. Went to Darling Harbour and had some food and then on to the Roslyn Packer Theatre. L&D had got tickets to see stand up comedienne Kitty Flanagan. Very funny. Got an Uber home in the damp weather. Watched a movie and had an early night. Weather going to improve in time for our next trip. We will be going to Canberra and on the way stop off at Jervis Bay for a couple of days of sun. Its Daves birthday so they have arranged to get together with some of their old friends from when they used to live in Canberra so that should be very good.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Sunshine Coast to Sydney

    24. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 32 °C

    Woke up to brighter skies today, typical as we are leaving to go back to Sydney. Said our goodbyes to Jenny and Steve and set off to the airport. Dropped the car off and checked in early. Our purchases made our bags overweight and as Jenny had sent us away with a bottle of Bombay Sapphire we had to pay a bit of excess baggage. Had some breakfast and then sat and watched the planes enjoying some sunshine. Really humid but no complaints. Lisa and Dave met us at the airport and after a quick stop at Dan Murphys to top up on booze and then a stop for ice cream it was back to the flat where they had prepared a lovely meal. We had a good catch up and went through a few bottles of wine, fell asleep on the sofa.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Ginger Factory

    23. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☁️ 25 °C

    Weather not great again today so we decided against the Zoo and instead went to have a look at a local ginger factory. Buderim ginger is some of the finest in the world, grown locally they can usually get three harvests a year as the crop grows very quickly. The early crop produces the most tender ginger, less fibrous than the stuff we get in the uk and perfect for making confectionary ginger, cordials, crystalised, marmalade and marinades. We did a factory tour and then had a tasting, showing off the various uses for the product. We picked up a recipe card and will be having a go later. Had a little shop and then went for a walk through the rain forest garden. Then drove to Maloolabaa a smart coastal resort.We had some lunch and then had a drive round the coast stopping off at a number of view points. Went and picked up Izzy from school, very impressive facilities and took her to a weekend music camp where the various school orchestras and bands would reherse and then play a concert on Sunday. Came home, weather very wet so was surprised when Jenny suggested fish and chips by the river. Shouldnt have worried though, drove to Noosaville and picked up fish and chips, salt and pepper squid and potato scollaps from the Boathose and sat under cover next to the river with a lovely bottle of red. A nice way to end the day and our very adventurous if slightly damp visit to the Sunshine Coast.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Fraser Island

    22. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☁️ 22 °C

    Alarm at 4.45am ready for trip to Fraser Island. Drove to Noosa Marina and picked up the large converted truck that would take us on our adventure. We should have travelled along the beach but the high tides and strong winds had revealed rocks making the beach impassable. Took the inland road to Inskip to pick up the ferry. Once across onto the Island the rain stopped and we were able to enjoy most of the day in the dry. Fraser Island is the worlds largest sand island. It is amazing how it manages to support such a variety of plant life, rain forest, lakes, creeks and animals. It has been a world heritage site since 1992 one of only 400 in the world. Our vehicle took us up the beach at a speed of 80kph skirting the waters edge to find the firmest sand. After about 30mins we turned inland to our first stop, Birabeen Lake. A fresh water lake on perfect white sands. We went for a paddle and then were off to Central Station. This was the centre of the logging industry which survived until 1991.From here we had a walk through the rain forest where the creeks are so clear the sandy bottom gives the impression that there is a scum on the surface.We stayed there for a BBQ lunch and then went further north. We visited 3 locations. Firstly the wreck of the Maheno a WW1 hospital ship that was on its way to Japan to be scrapped when it came ashore in heavy winds in 1935. Not much left now but an interesting relic of the past. From there on to the Pinnacles a formation of coloured rocks. We then turned back to Eli Creek. This is the islands largest creek and pours between 80 - 100 million litres of water an hour into the sea. The area was full of back packers floating down the creek on rubber rings. We stopped for a walk and a cup of tea and a Lammington. A young Dingo came to see what was going on. The drive along the beach took an hour, 75km of white sand.Got the ferry back to the mainland, it started raining again. Because the tide was out we were able to get back to Noosa on the beach so made good time and were home by 6.15pm. Fell into bed at 9.30 knackered,Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Eumundi, Noosa, rain

    21. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ 🌧 23 °C

    Weather not looking good so we decided to stay local and went to Eumundi town where there is a massive market every wednesday and saturday. Loads of stalls selling craft goods. We had a walk round and got caught in a massive downpour. Had to go off and buy some plastic ponchos as we were not geared up for this. Bought some amazing swiss cheese and some rosemary and sea salt macadamias. Drove to Noosa and in between showers managed to get a walk along the beach and along Hastings St with its chic boutiques and french quarter restaurants. Had lunch in the Surf Club overlooking the beach and then went through Noosa woods to view the mountains shrouded in cloud. Had a walk to Tea Tree Bay and watched the surfers and then up to Laguna lookout for a panoramic view of the area. Back via the shops bought some Barramundi fillets and some other bits from Coles. I cooked in the evening and we finished off with the cheese and a very tasty red Chris Ringland Barossa / Shiraz 2014 delish.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Sunshine Coast ?

    20. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 25 °C

    Packed up and left Brisbane after a great few days. On the way up to Eumundi we stopped off at Caloundra . Reminded me of a british seaside resort with the sea fronted by holiday appartments and hotels. Had some coffee and breakfast in a cafe and a walk round the shops and then off to Jennys. The house is lovely set in lush green vegitation. I now know why the area is so green as it hasnt stopped raining since we got here. So much for Sunshine Coast. Still its not cold still low 20 degrees so we will still try and do some stuff. Booked a trip to Fraser Island on Thursday which should be good hopefully the weather will improve.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Mt Coot-tha, Saskia and Pizza

    19. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C

    Met Melissa at the lookout at the top of Mt Coot-tha with fantastic panoramic views across to Brisbane and beyond to the sea. Melissa brought a little friend James one of the children she looks after. We went to the Botanic Gardens and had a walk around, very peaceful. Dropped the car back at the hotel and then walked to the South Bank to look for a restaurant for the evening. Chose Italian. Went to the Beer Garden behind the City Beach where we were joined by Saskia (Alis friend Jennys daughter). Saskia said that her Dad David was in Brisbane and arranged for us to meet up. Ali last saw David 25 years ago when doing her around the world trip with Jenny. Met up at The Kitty Bar part of the Casino with great views over the harbour. After spending an hour or so reminiscing we went off for our meal. Had a lovely time and then back to the hotel for some tearful goodbyes. End of an amazing few days in Brisvegas.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    City Beach & Eat Street

    18. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 31 °C

    Ali and Melissa went shopping in the morning I stayed behind to catch up on my Find Penguins ramblings. Successful shopping trip was followed by a walk to the City Beach via a Suitcase Rummage (like a car boot sale but without the cars and boots). We went across to the South Bank and walked through the oriental gardens and then to a bar overlooking the man made beach. Sat on the beach for an hour or so and then back to the hotel to get changed. Took an Uber to Eat Street. This area has been developed in the dock area using cargo containers to form shops and food outlets from all around the world. We had some japanese noodles and then went to one of the two stages to listen to a live band. Eventually caught up with our elusive Uber driver and stopped off at a bar overlooking the harbour bridge for a night cap the girls had Espresso Martinis. Then back to the hotel. Made contact with Saskia (Jennys daughter) who is at Uni in Brisbane and she is going to be joining us for dinner tomorrow. Also exchanged texts with my Uncle. Helen and Michael are taking a cruise from Brisbane to Osaka but wont be arriving until the 28th so we shall miss them. Still hopefully catch up soon.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Brisbane day 1

    17. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C

    The journey into Brisbane was straight forward helped by the fact that our hotel is the tallest building in the City. Meriton Suites provide serviced appartments and as we have Melissa staying with us for a few days we got a 2 bedroom appartment on the 66th floor. The appartment is fantastic beaten only by the view over the City which is truly stunning. With Melissa as our guide we set off for a quick walk around the immediate area and then took a City Cat from North Quay to New Farm Park. Brisbane like Sydney is best seen from the water with its impressive corporate structures and exclusive waterside residences. North Farm Park you will be surprised to learn is a massive park looking back to the city and location of The Brisbane Power House a chic arts venue with 3 stages and an outdoor cinema. We had some drinks and nibbles on the terrace and then back to the hotel. We were going to go out but the exertions of the day got the betfer of us so we ordered in a mexican and got some more bubbles from the bottle shop. Chatted till late and crashed.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Kingscliff and Burleigh Heads

    17. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C

    Said goodbye to our amazing house and after breakfast at the bakery we headed north to Brisbane. As check in was not until 2.00pm we stopped off at a couple of places on the way. Kingscliff benefits from both a beach frontage and an estuary. The estuary is shallow and protected and perfect for families both human and feathered with pelicans swimming in amongst everyone.We walked along a pathway flanked by waterside appartments each with their own access to the water. Had a cooling drink and then went to Burleigh Heads. This area, the Gold Coast has a very different feel, almost American with its road names 1st Avenue 2nd Avenue etc and the built up coastline.From the beach you could look up to Surfers Paradise with its impressive highrise sky line.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    The Farm Bangalow and Lennox Head

    16. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C

    Went for a drive out into the Hinterland. First stop The Farm. Essentially a large restaurant in a farm setting with a walk round to see the animals up close. Saw one of the largest pigs I've ever seen. We had a coffee and then went to Bangalow a smart town with chic shops. We had a drink and then moved on to Lennox Head. A beautiful beach with breakers on the sand. Had a walk along the beach and then lunch at the Lennox Hotel. Back to Byron to pick up the hire car ready for our drive to Brisbane tomorrow. Started to pack and then out for fish and chips. End of a great week - whats next?Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Market Melissa and Muggy weather

    15. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 30 °C

    First cloudy day today but sunshine expected later as Melissa is coming down from Brisbane for the day. Visited the local farmers market and had a fresh juice. Market was quite small scale with a number of local producers selling meat, vegetables and fruit juices etc. Melissa arrived at about 12.30 and at the same time the clouds parted and the sun came out. We spent some time round the pool catching up on all the news. Later in the afternoon we had some bubbles and then went out for a nice meal. Then on to the Railway for a nightcap and to listen to some live music. The night was very humid so when we got back we switched the pool lights on and had a dip. Ended the day in extravagant style with a cup of tea and a McVities Ginger nut.Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Hanging out in Byron

    14. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C

    Surprised Ali with a Valentines card this morning on the 18th Anniversary of our engagement, which also took place on another continent South America. We've had quite a journey since then which would have been impossible without Alis support hard work and love. Met L&D at a bakery in town for excellent croissant and blueberry scone. We then split up I went looking for gift ideas and supper whilst Ali took L&D back for some Reflexology. Later Ali went off to town to buy a Bikini and L&D went boogie boarding. I stayed behind to read my book by the pool.
    Cooked dinner Duck salad with orange and beetroot and then played cards. Girls won again !!    Lue lisää

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  • Ali StrettonAustralia Feb 2018Matkaaja

    Wategos Beach and the Lighthouse

    13. helmikuuta 2018, Australia ⋅ ⛅ 30 °C

    Spent the morning around the pool and then went off to one of the smaller beaches Wategos. There was a bit of a breeze and Lisas sun shade blew away luckily caught by a nerby couple. A Turkey wandered around looking for scraps again totally unphased by the activity. Drove up the hill to the Lighthouse. This is close to the most easterly part of Australia and has amazing views. Back to the house and Lisa cooked dinner starting with some of the largest prawns I have ever seen. Clouded over at night and we saw some spectacular lightning from a distance but no rain this time. Early night.Lue lisää

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