Friday, 1 October
Today was sunny!!! All day!!!
We decided to visit the Melbourne Leisurefest, which is being held at Sandown Racecourse, only a short distance from where we are staying. This show was advertising caravans, motorhomes, tents and campers, 4 wheel drives and all associated accessories. We arrived at the opening time of 10.00 am and discovered that most of the car parks were full! We had a lovely time, looking at numerous caravans, deciding very quickly that some we didn’t like, others had features that we liked, and ended up deciding we were quite happy with our Jayco Sterling.
Despite spending all day at the show, were only looked at a small percentage of caravans (not even pop-tops!) and a limited number of brands. Kathryn was very intent on looking at Winnebagos and quickly became disillusioned! However, the Sunliners and Jaycos were more to her liking – and ours! If one was interested in motor homes, of course.
There were plenty of accessories to look at (no shortage of dream pot type appliances) and we actually purchased a shade screen for the awning. We also came home with a few pamphlets for other “good ideas.” It was while we were looking at accessories that we met a couple from Traralgon who we had spent time with last year in Cairns (and kept in touch with). I think we spent a good half hour talking madly!
It was a good day, although the feet are now rather tired. An email from TT Line has informed us we do not get a shorter trip tomorrow night because of Daylight Saving commencing, we simply will arrive an hour later.
Friday 1 October 2010
Thursday 30 September 2010
Thursday
Thursday, 30 September
Yesterday evening we joined Sue and Gary for dinner at a local Thai restaurant – an unpretentious place which served very nice food. Evidently, the place is frequented by Gary and Sue on a very regular basis.
Today was cool and cloudy, with the occasional bit of sunshine. First thing this morning we drove to the South Dandenong Cemetery and scattered my mother’s ashes on the grave of her mother, who died in 1934. We left some flowers for them both to share.
Then it was some retail therapy, first at Breakaway/Black Pepper (a first visit for Kathryn, who did seem rather excited) and then at Chadstone Shopping Centre. This centre now caters for two completely different elements, with establishments (definitely not “shops”) like Prada, Gucci, Burbery, Jimmy Choo and Tiffany on one level and shops like Priceline, Best & Less, Dotti, etc on another level. We spent a very pleasant few hours wandering around the more “normal” shops and dreaming as we walked slowly past the more exclusive!
Yesterday evening we joined Sue and Gary for dinner at a local Thai restaurant – an unpretentious place which served very nice food. Evidently, the place is frequented by Gary and Sue on a very regular basis.
Today was cool and cloudy, with the occasional bit of sunshine. First thing this morning we drove to the South Dandenong Cemetery and scattered my mother’s ashes on the grave of her mother, who died in 1934. We left some flowers for them both to share.
Then it was some retail therapy, first at Breakaway/Black Pepper (a first visit for Kathryn, who did seem rather excited) and then at Chadstone Shopping Centre. This centre now caters for two completely different elements, with establishments (definitely not “shops”) like Prada, Gucci, Burbery, Jimmy Choo and Tiffany on one level and shops like Priceline, Best & Less, Dotti, etc on another level. We spent a very pleasant few hours wandering around the more “normal” shops and dreaming as we walked slowly past the more exclusive!
Wednesday 29 September 2010
Wednesday in Melbourne
Wednesday, 29 September
We awoke to a very cold and wet morning, after a very cold and wet night!
Today we were to meet Kathryn at Tullamarine, after her flight from Launceston. As her flight was delayed at least twice, we discovered a couple of bathroom supplies companies nearby and spent a couple of hours browsing new showers, vanities and toilets (two bathrooms will need renovating when we return home). We now have a few ideas to work with – one young lady in particular was very helpful with information.
After eventually meeting Kathryn, we travelled to Cranbourne and spent a short time with Aunty Cath and Uncle Bill, whose condition has certainly deteriorated since we last saw him. It would have been nice to stay longer with Aunty Cath, but could see that 30 minutes was more than enough for Bill.
This evening we are going out for a meal with Sue and Gary, which should be interesting.
We awoke to a very cold and wet morning, after a very cold and wet night!
Today we were to meet Kathryn at Tullamarine, after her flight from Launceston. As her flight was delayed at least twice, we discovered a couple of bathroom supplies companies nearby and spent a couple of hours browsing new showers, vanities and toilets (two bathrooms will need renovating when we return home). We now have a few ideas to work with – one young lady in particular was very helpful with information.
After eventually meeting Kathryn, we travelled to Cranbourne and spent a short time with Aunty Cath and Uncle Bill, whose condition has certainly deteriorated since we last saw him. It would have been nice to stay longer with Aunty Cath, but could see that 30 minutes was more than enough for Bill.
This evening we are going out for a meal with Sue and Gary, which should be interesting.
Tuesday 28 September 2010
Melbourne
Tuesday, 28 September
Today we left Portarlington for the final leg to Melbourne. The weather was the usual, cold, cloudy and blustery conditions we have come to expect, with rain falling before we reached Melbourne. We didn’t have any trouble negotiating CityLink and were at Aunty Pat’s shortly after 11.00 am, after driving through an absolute downpour.
Not much else happened today, apart from catching up on family events and news.
Amazing how people perk up at the mention of presents!!!
Today we left Portarlington for the final leg to Melbourne. The weather was the usual, cold, cloudy and blustery conditions we have come to expect, with rain falling before we reached Melbourne. We didn’t have any trouble negotiating CityLink and were at Aunty Pat’s shortly after 11.00 am, after driving through an absolute downpour.
Not much else happened today, apart from catching up on family events and news.
Amazing how people perk up at the mention of presents!!!
Monday 27 September 2010
Monday at Portarlington
Monday, 27 September
Really, a nothing day today. The sun has disappeared again and the wind, cloud and rain returned. We were lucky enough to get in a quick walk to the shops for some bread and milk before the rain set in. The remainder of the morning was spent chasing washing from the clothes line to the dryer. We have been really fortunate in that today was been the only time we have needed to use a dryer.
This afternoon we had a visit from cousin Norm and we spent a very pleasant afternoon over a cup of coffee and some fruit cake.
We also had time today to sort out all the purchases that have simply been placed under the bed and now have goody bags ready for the children (big and small???).
Really, a nothing day today. The sun has disappeared again and the wind, cloud and rain returned. We were lucky enough to get in a quick walk to the shops for some bread and milk before the rain set in. The remainder of the morning was spent chasing washing from the clothes line to the dryer. We have been really fortunate in that today was been the only time we have needed to use a dryer.
This afternoon we had a visit from cousin Norm and we spent a very pleasant afternoon over a cup of coffee and some fruit cake.
We also had time today to sort out all the purchases that have simply been placed under the bed and now have goody bags ready for the children (big and small???).
You haven't had a flower for a while, either!
Sunday 26 September 2010
Sunshine!
Sunday, 26 September
It was the usual overcast, dreary morning with a very cool westerly breeze, so we decided on a walk along the foreshore – after all the necessary cleaning had been accomplished, of course. When we reached the pier, we noticed a large number of cars parked closer to the town and a few tents. We quickly discovered the monthly market was being held – and we had only brought enough money with us to buy a newspaper! It turned out to be quite a large market with a wide variety of stalls and produce, which made a nice change from beads, soap and candles.
We had previously arranged to meet cousins Norm, Milton and Milton’s wife, Margaret, for lunch today. Fortunately, the sun had appeared by this time, the clouds disappeared and the wind dropped. Lunch at the Clifton Springs Golf Club, overlooking the bay, extended well into the afternoon. The venue was just lovely, with large windows giving an uninterrupted view and an extensive menu to select from. Even better, Norm had a free meal voucher for two people and was kind enough to share this with me.
When we returned to the caravan, we found it in dense shade owing to the large pine trees, so a chair was very quickly carried across the walkway to the beach for the reading of the newspaper.
It was the usual overcast, dreary morning with a very cool westerly breeze, so we decided on a walk along the foreshore – after all the necessary cleaning had been accomplished, of course. When we reached the pier, we noticed a large number of cars parked closer to the town and a few tents. We quickly discovered the monthly market was being held – and we had only brought enough money with us to buy a newspaper! It turned out to be quite a large market with a wide variety of stalls and produce, which made a nice change from beads, soap and candles.
We had previously arranged to meet cousins Norm, Milton and Milton’s wife, Margaret, for lunch today. Fortunately, the sun had appeared by this time, the clouds disappeared and the wind dropped. Lunch at the Clifton Springs Golf Club, overlooking the bay, extended well into the afternoon. The venue was just lovely, with large windows giving an uninterrupted view and an extensive menu to select from. Even better, Norm had a free meal voucher for two people and was kind enough to share this with me.
When we returned to the caravan, we found it in dense shade owing to the large pine trees, so a chair was very quickly carried across the walkway to the beach for the reading of the newspaper.
Saturday 25 September 2010
Portarlington
Saturday, 25 September
We now have to wait for another week!
The sun was nearly shining when we left Warrnambool, but quickly disappeared before a bit of rain appeared. The road from Mt Gambier to Geelong would have to be the worst we have travelled on – the road surface was dreadful, very bumpy, patched and broken bitumen.
We stopped for morning tea at Pirron Yallock, spending some time with my Uncle Tom and Aunty Nita. We haven’t seen them for many years and it was good to catch up again.
We arrived at Portarlington Holiday Park shortly after 1.30 pm, checked in and then discovered our site had a large fire hydrant in the middle of it! Back to reception for another site, then a rush to get set up in time for the first bounce. This is the largest caravan park we have ever been in – it is absolutely enormous and situated right on the shores of Port Phillip Bay. We look out our front window and can see Melbourne in the distance across the water.
The sun actually shone for two whole hours this afternoon before the rain started again!
We now have to wait for another week!
The sun was nearly shining when we left Warrnambool, but quickly disappeared before a bit of rain appeared. The road from Mt Gambier to Geelong would have to be the worst we have travelled on – the road surface was dreadful, very bumpy, patched and broken bitumen.
We stopped for morning tea at Pirron Yallock, spending some time with my Uncle Tom and Aunty Nita. We haven’t seen them for many years and it was good to catch up again.
We arrived at Portarlington Holiday Park shortly after 1.30 pm, checked in and then discovered our site had a large fire hydrant in the middle of it! Back to reception for another site, then a rush to get set up in time for the first bounce. This is the largest caravan park we have ever been in – it is absolutely enormous and situated right on the shores of Port Phillip Bay. We look out our front window and can see Melbourne in the distance across the water.
The sun actually shone for two whole hours this afternoon before the rain started again!
Friday 24 September 2010
Warrnambool
Friday, 24 September
Weather still ditto, in fact, the scarf even came out of the cupboard today!
After leaving Naracoorte, we travelled through even more vineyards in the Coonawarra region before stopping for a quick look at some chainsaw carvings at Father Woods’ tree. Then it was a quick religious experience as we passed through Penola, the birthplace (I think) of Mary Mackillop.
It was from here onwards that the road deteriorated somewhat, becoming very bumpy. The large number of log trucks certainly would contribute to the breakup in the road surface. We had a short stop at Mt Gambier before continuing on to Port Fairy and Warrnambool. Being back in Victoria means that we are on Eastern Standard Time again – and the water is drinkable!
Following lunch, we did the tourist drive around town, stopping at the old Fletcher Jones factory (now virtually derelict but with a heritage listing), where the gardens have been maintained to their old standard, before having a look at the old boatshed, driving past the monument to the first white female to die in Warrnambool and then stopping at the breakwater. After looking at the rocks, it isn’t hard to believe that there really are 16 shipwrecks in the bay.
We are staying at the Discovery Caravan Park, which is located next to a 20 hectare children’s adventure playground, which looked a fabulous play to play if under the age of 12. The caravan park is predominantly cabins and ensuite sites, but the powered sites are plenty wide enough, grassy and have a concrete slab. This place would have the best campers’ kitchen we have seen.
Go the Saints!!!
Weather still ditto, in fact, the scarf even came out of the cupboard today!
After leaving Naracoorte, we travelled through even more vineyards in the Coonawarra region before stopping for a quick look at some chainsaw carvings at Father Woods’ tree. Then it was a quick religious experience as we passed through Penola, the birthplace (I think) of Mary Mackillop.
It was from here onwards that the road deteriorated somewhat, becoming very bumpy. The large number of log trucks certainly would contribute to the breakup in the road surface. We had a short stop at Mt Gambier before continuing on to Port Fairy and Warrnambool. Being back in Victoria means that we are on Eastern Standard Time again – and the water is drinkable!
Following lunch, we did the tourist drive around town, stopping at the old Fletcher Jones factory (now virtually derelict but with a heritage listing), where the gardens have been maintained to their old standard, before having a look at the old boatshed, driving past the monument to the first white female to die in Warrnambool and then stopping at the breakwater. After looking at the rocks, it isn’t hard to believe that there really are 16 shipwrecks in the bay.
We are staying at the Discovery Caravan Park, which is located next to a 20 hectare children’s adventure playground, which looked a fabulous play to play if under the age of 12. The caravan park is predominantly cabins and ensuite sites, but the powered sites are plenty wide enough, grassy and have a concrete slab. This place would have the best campers’ kitchen we have seen.
Go the Saints!!!
Thursday 23 September 2010
Hahndorf
Thursday, 23 September
We are beginning to think the sun is never going to shine! Such a cold, bleak and dreary day.
We left Adelaide this morning, heading for Naracoorte. Our route from the caravan park to the Princes Highway was via the ring road and we assumed (never assume!) that a ring road is just that. Not in Adelaide – it is simply a route through streets with dozens of traffic lights and packed with traffic. It took us an hour to travel 20 kms! After finally making the freeway, we then had the long, steep pull up through the Mt Lofty Ranges, watching in amazement at how quickly the fuel consumption increased. Of course, what goes up generally comes down, so we then watched the fuel consumption reading drop to a more acceptable level.
We stopped at the old German town of Hahndorf – such a beautiful spot which would have been even nicer if the sun was shining. Unfortunately, we discovered that, apart from a couple of coffee shops and the bakery, very little else opened before 10.30 or 11.00 am. We wandered up and down the main street (one of us nearly froze in his travelling clothes!) looking at the old buildings, before having a coffee at the German bakery. It was very disappointing not to be able to browse some of the interesting looking shops.
Onwards across the Murray River – lots of water flowing now – to Keith and our lunch stop on the side of the road. Then it was southwards through Padthaway, and its mighty huge vineyards until we reached Naracoorte. This was a rather pretty drive through the vineyards and canola fields.
We are staying overnight at the Naracoorte Big 4 Caravan Park, which has its own tiny train line (which only operates at weekends and peak season), large grass playing areas and a family of geese. The sites are very wide, grassy and shady and the amenities are certainly of a reasonable standard. The centre of town is only a short walk away, following the creek.
We are beginning to think the sun is never going to shine! Such a cold, bleak and dreary day.
We left Adelaide this morning, heading for Naracoorte. Our route from the caravan park to the Princes Highway was via the ring road and we assumed (never assume!) that a ring road is just that. Not in Adelaide – it is simply a route through streets with dozens of traffic lights and packed with traffic. It took us an hour to travel 20 kms! After finally making the freeway, we then had the long, steep pull up through the Mt Lofty Ranges, watching in amazement at how quickly the fuel consumption increased. Of course, what goes up generally comes down, so we then watched the fuel consumption reading drop to a more acceptable level.
We stopped at the old German town of Hahndorf – such a beautiful spot which would have been even nicer if the sun was shining. Unfortunately, we discovered that, apart from a couple of coffee shops and the bakery, very little else opened before 10.30 or 11.00 am. We wandered up and down the main street (one of us nearly froze in his travelling clothes!) looking at the old buildings, before having a coffee at the German bakery. It was very disappointing not to be able to browse some of the interesting looking shops.
Onwards across the Murray River – lots of water flowing now – to Keith and our lunch stop on the side of the road. Then it was southwards through Padthaway, and its mighty huge vineyards until we reached Naracoorte. This was a rather pretty drive through the vineyards and canola fields.
We are staying overnight at the Naracoorte Big 4 Caravan Park, which has its own tiny train line (which only operates at weekends and peak season), large grass playing areas and a family of geese. The sites are very wide, grassy and shady and the amenities are certainly of a reasonable standard. The centre of town is only a short walk away, following the creek.
Wednesday 22 September 2010
Wednesday in Adelaide
Wednesday, 22 September
Blue skies and sunshine this morning, for a couple of hours anyway, and some more wishy washy sun for a while this afternoon. At least the washing dried.
We had a fairly quiet day, with a wander along Jetty Street, Glenelg, before another wander around Harbour Town Outlet Centre – we discovered this is just round the corner from the caravan park. We didn’t buy anything, though – even the shirt collection was added to! These outlet centres are really all much of a muchness, okay for the young and trendy, but a lot of rather cheaper quality goods. Of course, there are always bargains if one is lucky to find what one needs – and the right size!
The caravan park is virtually at the southern end of the airport runway (we get to see, and hear, all the planes take off) and I can assure the authorities that no planes takes off before the lifting of the curfew at 6.00am. All the planes obviously line up on the runway before 6.00 and about ten will depart in the first 15 minutes!
Blue skies and sunshine this morning, for a couple of hours anyway, and some more wishy washy sun for a while this afternoon. At least the washing dried.
We had a fairly quiet day, with a wander along Jetty Street, Glenelg, before another wander around Harbour Town Outlet Centre – we discovered this is just round the corner from the caravan park. We didn’t buy anything, though – even the shirt collection was added to! These outlet centres are really all much of a muchness, okay for the young and trendy, but a lot of rather cheaper quality goods. Of course, there are always bargains if one is lucky to find what one needs – and the right size!
The caravan park is virtually at the southern end of the airport runway (we get to see, and hear, all the planes take off) and I can assure the authorities that no planes takes off before the lifting of the curfew at 6.00am. All the planes obviously line up on the runway before 6.00 and about ten will depart in the first 15 minutes!
Tuesday 21 September 2010
We're going to the zoo ...
Tuesday, 21 September
Weather still ditto, although the sun nearly shone!
Today we decided to visit Wang Wang and Funi at the Adelaide Zoo. We had no problems getting to the zoo or even finding a parking space. We then discovered that parking at the zoo costs money – quite a bit of money, in fact. It cost $9.60 for four hours and the machine only accepted coins! Fortunately, a New Zealand tourist had a large pocket full of $1 coins and was quite happy to exchange them for plastic notes.
After paying our admission, in which our concession cards were closely checked against a drivers’ licences (can’t be too careful, obviously), we were allocated a panda viewing time at 10.45 am. The number of viewers in the panda enclosure is very closely controlled, which makes sure that everyone gets a look. The enclosure has been very well designed, both pandas were awake, although Funi seemed to prefer stretching out on her back and having a good scratch.
Adelaide Zoo is a very old zoo and efforts are certainly being made to make the old enclosures much more animal friendly. We were present when the lions were released from their night cages into the daytime enclosure and when we visited the nocturnal house, the squirrel gliders and ringtail possums were being fed. We had some very expensive chips for lunch (cheapest item on the menu) but gave the $3.90 bottle of water a miss, deciding we could wait until we returned to the car and our own supply. Of course, there was the special panda gift shop as well as the normal zoo gift shop, just in case any of the visitors still had some money left! There were also lots of school groups visiting the zoo.
Weather still ditto, although the sun nearly shone!
Today we decided to visit Wang Wang and Funi at the Adelaide Zoo. We had no problems getting to the zoo or even finding a parking space. We then discovered that parking at the zoo costs money – quite a bit of money, in fact. It cost $9.60 for four hours and the machine only accepted coins! Fortunately, a New Zealand tourist had a large pocket full of $1 coins and was quite happy to exchange them for plastic notes.
After paying our admission, in which our concession cards were closely checked against a drivers’ licences (can’t be too careful, obviously), we were allocated a panda viewing time at 10.45 am. The number of viewers in the panda enclosure is very closely controlled, which makes sure that everyone gets a look. The enclosure has been very well designed, both pandas were awake, although Funi seemed to prefer stretching out on her back and having a good scratch.
Adelaide Zoo is a very old zoo and efforts are certainly being made to make the old enclosures much more animal friendly. We were present when the lions were released from their night cages into the daytime enclosure and when we visited the nocturnal house, the squirrel gliders and ringtail possums were being fed. We had some very expensive chips for lunch (cheapest item on the menu) but gave the $3.90 bottle of water a miss, deciding we could wait until we returned to the car and our own supply. Of course, there was the special panda gift shop as well as the normal zoo gift shop, just in case any of the visitors still had some money left! There were also lots of school groups visiting the zoo.
Monday 20 September 2010
Hairdressers
Monday, 20 September
Weather – ditto!
The morning was spent catching up on laundry as well as locating the local Woolworths and reprovisioning. The caravan park is right on the foreshore and there is a boardwalk immediately outside the fence. We had a nice walk and watched the big trucks carting sand from one end of the beach to the other in an effort to rebuild the dunes. There are also some very nice houses in the area.
This afternoon was the big hair event! On arrival, I was greeted by my stylist, given a cup of some type of tea (which I didn’t want), interviewed as to my expectations, shown to a chair (no benches in this place – armchairs, coffee tables and floor to ceiling mirrors!), had my hair played with for 15 minutes during further discussions before work actually commenced. While waiting for the colour to process, I received a cup of “real” coffee and was given a hand massage. The shampoo, of course, also included a very relaxing head massage. Then the styling (not cutting, thank you) commenced! I think each individual hair was examined before snipping and I was told that only part of my hair needed styling. I was shown a picture of what the stylist (Nathan) was working towards – 20 year old model with a weird haircut sticking out everywhere. Nathan very quickly returned to my wavelength! I have now had a styling experience – and we can have a sandwich this week as well as toast.
Weather – ditto!
The morning was spent catching up on laundry as well as locating the local Woolworths and reprovisioning. The caravan park is right on the foreshore and there is a boardwalk immediately outside the fence. We had a nice walk and watched the big trucks carting sand from one end of the beach to the other in an effort to rebuild the dunes. There are also some very nice houses in the area.
This afternoon was the big hair event! On arrival, I was greeted by my stylist, given a cup of some type of tea (which I didn’t want), interviewed as to my expectations, shown to a chair (no benches in this place – armchairs, coffee tables and floor to ceiling mirrors!), had my hair played with for 15 minutes during further discussions before work actually commenced. While waiting for the colour to process, I received a cup of “real” coffee and was given a hand massage. The shampoo, of course, also included a very relaxing head massage. Then the styling (not cutting, thank you) commenced! I think each individual hair was examined before snipping and I was told that only part of my hair needed styling. I was shown a picture of what the stylist (Nathan) was working towards – 20 year old model with a weird haircut sticking out everywhere. Nathan very quickly returned to my wavelength! I have now had a styling experience – and we can have a sandwich this week as well as toast.
Sunday 19 September 2010
Adelaide
Sunday, 19 September
We awoke to the same old same weather – it will be so nice to actually see some clear skies and sun again! We were on the road quite early today (7.30 am), but were certainly well behind quite a few others.
As we headed south, the green desert and beautiful green Flinders Ranges gave way to equally green grain and pastureland, which continued all the way to Adelaide. It was fairly easy driving, with very little traffic early in the morning. We came across a “pink: lake today, Lake Bumbunga at Lochiel, and it really did look pink. Salt is mined at the lake, which is divided up into “paddocks.”
Poor TomTom had a very traumatic morning with our transit of Adelaide. Unfortunately, a new road (which we needed to turn onto) wasn’t on her map and the street she tried to send us down had been closed to all traffic. After winding through some very narrow streets and junctions in Port Adelaide, it was decided to let her have a rest and we would navigate the old fashioned way. We ended up have to take an alternative route (not the shortest or easiest), but we did end up at the caravan park without drama.
We are staying at the Big 4 Shores Caravan Resort at West Beach, which isn’t very far from Glenelg. This is a lovely park, probably the best we have been in this year, and very similar to Maroochy Palms in Queensland. We have a large site with a double slab and grass, the amenities are good, the laundry is positively HUGE and there are heaps of activities to keep children amused. We will probably give the swimming pool at miss, though. At last we have all the digital television channels, as well as a trial 3D channel – all we need now is a new television!!!
Being very much in need of a visit to a hairdresser and given the difficulty of getting an appointment without notice, I decided last week to consult the Yellow Pages and selected a hairdresser at nearby Glenelg. Not a problem securing an appointment for tomorrow! We decided this afternoon to check out parking in the vicinity and also locate the actual salon. When we arrived at Glenelg, we discovered the annual City to Beach Fun Run was held this morning and streets were still blocked. Did a few blockies and found somewhere to park before walking up and down the street, forcing our way through the hordes of people. Shops were open, eating places were full, there were even a few specialty ice cream and chocolate shops, and the entire area had a real buzz to it. Back to the hairdresser – with my impeccable taste, I have managed with the aid of Yellow Pages, to select the poshest (and no doubt most expensive) hair salon in the street! Might be toast for tea for the next few weeks.
We awoke to the same old same weather – it will be so nice to actually see some clear skies and sun again! We were on the road quite early today (7.30 am), but were certainly well behind quite a few others.
As we headed south, the green desert and beautiful green Flinders Ranges gave way to equally green grain and pastureland, which continued all the way to Adelaide. It was fairly easy driving, with very little traffic early in the morning. We came across a “pink: lake today, Lake Bumbunga at Lochiel, and it really did look pink. Salt is mined at the lake, which is divided up into “paddocks.”
Poor TomTom had a very traumatic morning with our transit of Adelaide. Unfortunately, a new road (which we needed to turn onto) wasn’t on her map and the street she tried to send us down had been closed to all traffic. After winding through some very narrow streets and junctions in Port Adelaide, it was decided to let her have a rest and we would navigate the old fashioned way. We ended up have to take an alternative route (not the shortest or easiest), but we did end up at the caravan park without drama.
We are staying at the Big 4 Shores Caravan Resort at West Beach, which isn’t very far from Glenelg. This is a lovely park, probably the best we have been in this year, and very similar to Maroochy Palms in Queensland. We have a large site with a double slab and grass, the amenities are good, the laundry is positively HUGE and there are heaps of activities to keep children amused. We will probably give the swimming pool at miss, though. At last we have all the digital television channels, as well as a trial 3D channel – all we need now is a new television!!!
Being very much in need of a visit to a hairdresser and given the difficulty of getting an appointment without notice, I decided last week to consult the Yellow Pages and selected a hairdresser at nearby Glenelg. Not a problem securing an appointment for tomorrow! We decided this afternoon to check out parking in the vicinity and also locate the actual salon. When we arrived at Glenelg, we discovered the annual City to Beach Fun Run was held this morning and streets were still blocked. Did a few blockies and found somewhere to park before walking up and down the street, forcing our way through the hordes of people. Shops were open, eating places were full, there were even a few specialty ice cream and chocolate shops, and the entire area had a real buzz to it. Back to the hairdresser – with my impeccable taste, I have managed with the aid of Yellow Pages, to select the poshest (and no doubt most expensive) hair salon in the street! Might be toast for tea for the next few weeks.
Saturday 18 September 2010
Full Circle
Saturday, 18 September
Just like yesterday, this morning was a cold, dull, dreary and dismal day in Port Lincoln. It didn’t take long to pack up and head north for Port Augusta. The first part of the journey was along the coast, with its grain farms inland and tuna farms along the shore. As we neared Whyalla, and a rather large Onesteel mine, the desert reappeared, although with a very green covering. We scooted around the edge of Whyalla but did drive past the steel mills. We arrived at Port Augusta shortly after noon.
The circle has now been completed!
We are staying at the Port Augusta Big 4 Caravan Park with its very narrow, gravel sites (no option of putting out the awning here!) and very good amenities. We were officially put on our site, but I could probably have taught the man a bit about how to back a caravan – “go back and move over a bit” doesn’t really help the driver. However, he was very pleasant and tried to be helpful.
The sun short of shined this afternoon (for a little while, anyway) through the high haze, but the wind was straight from the South Pole.
Just like yesterday, this morning was a cold, dull, dreary and dismal day in Port Lincoln. It didn’t take long to pack up and head north for Port Augusta. The first part of the journey was along the coast, with its grain farms inland and tuna farms along the shore. As we neared Whyalla, and a rather large Onesteel mine, the desert reappeared, although with a very green covering. We scooted around the edge of Whyalla but did drive past the steel mills. We arrived at Port Augusta shortly after noon.
The circle has now been completed!
We are staying at the Port Augusta Big 4 Caravan Park with its very narrow, gravel sites (no option of putting out the awning here!) and very good amenities. We were officially put on our site, but I could probably have taught the man a bit about how to back a caravan – “go back and move over a bit” doesn’t really help the driver. However, he was very pleasant and tried to be helpful.
The sun short of shined this afternoon (for a little while, anyway) through the high haze, but the wind was straight from the South Pole.
Friday 17 September 2010
Port Lincoln
Friday, 17 September
Happy birthday to our youngest grandchild, Jack :-)
Happy birthday to our youngest grandchild, Jack :-)
Today was a dull, dreary and dismal day in Port Lincoln.
We haven’t done a great deal today, apart from a visit to the shop and service station this morning; after lunch we had a drive around the marina area with its large fleet of fishing boats and even larger houses with canal frontage. Of course, they had private jetties for the equally large pleasure boats!
Thursday 16 September 2010
Haystacks & Huntsmen
Thursday, 16 September
Late yesterday afternoon we met the resident pelicans – not at all worried by people, they are probably well fed at the fish cleaning stations
Heavy overnight rain left the site a bit muddy this morning for packing up. The clear blue sky at 7.45 am had become black clouds by 8.00 am! The drive from Streaky Bay to Port Lincoln was wet and windy – the headwind didn’t do much for our fuel economy, especially after the last few days. The afternoon was windy, cool and cloudy, so some improvement.
Shortly after leaving Streaky Bay, we stopped at an outcrop of rocks known as Murphy’s Haystacks (looked a bit like Stonehenge from the bottom of the hill). Although on private land, we were able to drive almost to them and then wander among the large rocks. However, with very dark clouds and rain closing in quickly, we didn’t stay too long.
We passed many old stone buildings, or parts thereof, with paddocks divided by dry stone fences (reminded us of Ireland). The early settlers certainly didn’t have a shortage of local building materials!
We are staying at the Port Lincoln Tourist Park, which is right on the bay and a couple of kilometres from the centre of town. The receptionist allocated us to a drive through site, with strict instructions we were not to change without permission. The sealed road quickly became a dirt track among the lovely grass sites and when we found our allocated site, discovered a great big gum tree fair in the middle of it! Receptionists should wander around the parks sometime. Fortunately, a groundsman was nearby and rang reception to say he was moving us. Unfortunately, the park is on the side of a hill and we slope both ways – the back of the caravan is nearly on the ground, we can’t get the jockey wheel up high enough, so consequently we are also sloping slightly both ways! There was a rather loud shout/gasp while Les was rolling out the awning and thinking of more back problems, dashed out to find him staring at a rather large huntsman which had dropped out of the awning. Needless to say, the spider was given the opportunity to frighten someone else in the row behind!
Television reception is virtually non-existent, once again. We are so looking forward to Adelaide and not having to look at squiggly lines and snow.
We will have two nights here before moving to Port Augusta and then Adelaide.
Late yesterday afternoon we met the resident pelicans – not at all worried by people, they are probably well fed at the fish cleaning stations
Heavy overnight rain left the site a bit muddy this morning for packing up. The clear blue sky at 7.45 am had become black clouds by 8.00 am! The drive from Streaky Bay to Port Lincoln was wet and windy – the headwind didn’t do much for our fuel economy, especially after the last few days. The afternoon was windy, cool and cloudy, so some improvement.
Shortly after leaving Streaky Bay, we stopped at an outcrop of rocks known as Murphy’s Haystacks (looked a bit like Stonehenge from the bottom of the hill). Although on private land, we were able to drive almost to them and then wander among the large rocks. However, with very dark clouds and rain closing in quickly, we didn’t stay too long.
We passed many old stone buildings, or parts thereof, with paddocks divided by dry stone fences (reminded us of Ireland). The early settlers certainly didn’t have a shortage of local building materials!
We are staying at the Port Lincoln Tourist Park, which is right on the bay and a couple of kilometres from the centre of town. The receptionist allocated us to a drive through site, with strict instructions we were not to change without permission. The sealed road quickly became a dirt track among the lovely grass sites and when we found our allocated site, discovered a great big gum tree fair in the middle of it! Receptionists should wander around the parks sometime. Fortunately, a groundsman was nearby and rang reception to say he was moving us. Unfortunately, the park is on the side of a hill and we slope both ways – the back of the caravan is nearly on the ground, we can’t get the jockey wheel up high enough, so consequently we are also sloping slightly both ways! There was a rather loud shout/gasp while Les was rolling out the awning and thinking of more back problems, dashed out to find him staring at a rather large huntsman which had dropped out of the awning. Needless to say, the spider was given the opportunity to frighten someone else in the row behind!
Television reception is virtually non-existent, once again. We are so looking forward to Adelaide and not having to look at squiggly lines and snow.
We will have two nights here before moving to Port Augusta and then Adelaide.
Wednesday 15 September 2010
Streaky Bay
Wednesday, 15 September
The weather today has been just like the previous couple of days We only travelled 112 kms today from Ceduna to Streaky Bay – good road and easy driving through grain farmland.
Streaky Bay is a nice little town which is probably very popular during the summer. The large, sheltered bay would be ideal for fishing – evidenced by the numerous fish cleaning stations in the caravan park. We are staying at the Foreshore Tourist Park and as the name suggests, it is absolute beachfront. The sites are dirt (not gravel) mainly due to the severe water restrictions. However, the amenities are good and the jury is out on the adjoining kiosk after they sold Les Monday’s paper this morning!!!
This afternoon we drove around Cape Bauer, again with large grain paddocks and some very pretty yellow flowers. Although they are most likely weeds, they did look pretty and make a nice change from the never ending cape week. We stopped for a look at the limestone cliffs, listened to the rocks whistle as the sea forced air up the chimneys in the cliff, waited (without success) for the blow holes to blow and walked on the Kevin Rudd Memorial Boardwalks.
This has been a nice little overnight stop and we are now starting to count the sleeps!
The weather today has been just like the previous couple of days We only travelled 112 kms today from Ceduna to Streaky Bay – good road and easy driving through grain farmland.
Streaky Bay is a nice little town which is probably very popular during the summer. The large, sheltered bay would be ideal for fishing – evidenced by the numerous fish cleaning stations in the caravan park. We are staying at the Foreshore Tourist Park and as the name suggests, it is absolute beachfront. The sites are dirt (not gravel) mainly due to the severe water restrictions. However, the amenities are good and the jury is out on the adjoining kiosk after they sold Les Monday’s paper this morning!!!
This afternoon we drove around Cape Bauer, again with large grain paddocks and some very pretty yellow flowers. Although they are most likely weeds, they did look pretty and make a nice change from the never ending cape week. We stopped for a look at the limestone cliffs, listened to the rocks whistle as the sea forced air up the chimneys in the cliff, waited (without success) for the blow holes to blow and walked on the Kevin Rudd Memorial Boardwalks.
This has been a nice little overnight stop and we are now starting to count the sleeps!
Tuesday 14 September 2010
Ceduna
Tuesday, 14 September
The strong westerlies continued to rock the caravan during the night but did abate somewhat this morning. We did have some sunshine and I was lucky enough to get the washing dry between showers!
Ceduna is a major port for the large amount of grain grown in the district. The grain silos at the wharf are enormous. Fishing and eating are really the sum total of the list of things to do in Ceduna, apart from walking along the foreshore, which is very nice. The supermarket has only been open for eight weeks and has the friendliest staff we have come across. Certainly different to the unhappy girl working at Woolworths in Esperance! Unfortunately, the shops in one particular area of town have bricked up windows or the glass has been covered with tin. Obviously there is a bit of anti-social behaviour among the locals.
Apart from a walk after lunch, washing, ironing, cleaning and some shopping, most of the day has been spent reading and relaxing outside in the sunshine (when it was out) or inside watching the new arrivals.
The strong westerlies continued to rock the caravan during the night but did abate somewhat this morning. We did have some sunshine and I was lucky enough to get the washing dry between showers!
Ceduna is a major port for the large amount of grain grown in the district. The grain silos at the wharf are enormous. Fishing and eating are really the sum total of the list of things to do in Ceduna, apart from walking along the foreshore, which is very nice. The supermarket has only been open for eight weeks and has the friendliest staff we have come across. Certainly different to the unhappy girl working at Woolworths in Esperance! Unfortunately, the shops in one particular area of town have bricked up windows or the glass has been covered with tin. Obviously there is a bit of anti-social behaviour among the locals.
Apart from a walk after lunch, washing, ironing, cleaning and some shopping, most of the day has been spent reading and relaxing outside in the sunshine (when it was out) or inside watching the new arrivals.
Monday 13 September 2010
Nullabor
Monday, 13 September
We left Eucla at 7.15 am – remaining hitched up, not extending the awning and not being connected to water or sullage certainly speeds the departure process. Yesterday’s strong westerly wind continued today and again the fuel consumption was fantastic, dropping below the magic 15 L/100km.
Shortly after leaving Eucla, we crossed the South Australian border without any indication as to local time. It wasn’t until we reached the Nullabor Roadhouse and received a Telstra signal on the phone that we actually knew what the time was! The road continued with the long straights and remained flat with stunted scrub. We didn’t see any wildlife (apart from a few crows) until after lunch when a few adventurous, and cold, blue tongue lizards ventured to the side of the road in an effort to warm up. A couple of snakes had also had the same idea, but were no longer feeling the cold.
After leaving the Nullabor Roadhouse we took the turnoff to the head of the Bight, but discovered after the 12 km drive that if we wanted to look at the view (apart from a small glimpse from the car park), it would cost us $10 each – and that was the concession price! We decided the glimpse from the car park would suffice.
It was also at this point that we actually crossed the treeless plain (or a small part of it, anyway). The plain quickly changed to mallee scrub and then to sheep and wheat country. The wind seemed to increase during the day and was decidedly unpleasant by the time we arrived in Ceduna, after passing through quarantine. The nice man was very complimentary of Tasmanians and our knowledge of quarantine issues.
We are staying at the Big 4 Ceduna Tourist Park, which is quite close to the centre of town. It is a small park with clean gravel sites and good amenities. Two nights here will give us a chance to catch up on laundry and have a rest after the last couple of very long days.
We left Eucla at 7.15 am – remaining hitched up, not extending the awning and not being connected to water or sullage certainly speeds the departure process. Yesterday’s strong westerly wind continued today and again the fuel consumption was fantastic, dropping below the magic 15 L/100km.
Shortly after leaving Eucla, we crossed the South Australian border without any indication as to local time. It wasn’t until we reached the Nullabor Roadhouse and received a Telstra signal on the phone that we actually knew what the time was! The road continued with the long straights and remained flat with stunted scrub. We didn’t see any wildlife (apart from a few crows) until after lunch when a few adventurous, and cold, blue tongue lizards ventured to the side of the road in an effort to warm up. A couple of snakes had also had the same idea, but were no longer feeling the cold.
After leaving the Nullabor Roadhouse we took the turnoff to the head of the Bight, but discovered after the 12 km drive that if we wanted to look at the view (apart from a small glimpse from the car park), it would cost us $10 each – and that was the concession price! We decided the glimpse from the car park would suffice.
It was also at this point that we actually crossed the treeless plain (or a small part of it, anyway). The plain quickly changed to mallee scrub and then to sheep and wheat country. The wind seemed to increase during the day and was decidedly unpleasant by the time we arrived in Ceduna, after passing through quarantine. The nice man was very complimentary of Tasmanians and our knowledge of quarantine issues.
We are staying at the Big 4 Ceduna Tourist Park, which is quite close to the centre of town. It is a small park with clean gravel sites and good amenities. Two nights here will give us a chance to catch up on laundry and have a rest after the last couple of very long days.
Sunday 12 September 2010
A Sunday Drive
Sunday, 12 September
Norseman birds wake up at 3.30 am! The first car left the caravan park at 4.30 am, with another two gone before 6.00! Needless to say, we were up bright and early and hitched up before 7.15 am.
Today we headed across the Nullabor – the first part of the journey was through forest with small trees and low scrub. This quickly changed to grass and low scrub and long, long straights. We started measuring the straights and after a 50 km stretch we came to a bendy bit (three bends in 10 kms) before the long straight of 90 miles or 146.6 kms in the old money.
We arrived at Caiguna (our intended overnight stop) before noon, had a quick discussion regarding sitting in a gravel yard behind a roadhouse for the afternoon or continuing on to Eucla and having an extra day on the Eyre Peninsula. The Eyre Peninsula won out, we had lunch and continued the drive. We ended up doing 710 kms today, although it was very easy driving, with both of us taking turns. Traffic wasn’t very heavy – mainly trucks and caravans with the occasional car.
There wasn’t really much wildlife about, apart from a few dead kangaroos, three eagles, three blue tongue lizards and a snake, plus another snake with a flat head which definitely looked most unwell! There were plenty of decorated trees, though, with bores travellers hanging various items of clothing (one guess what items!) and shoes on the trees. We even came across piles of rocks dressed in clothes.
Immediately after leaving Caiguna, we passed a sign informing us we had now entered Central Western Time and should put our clocks forward 45 minutes. Not an issue, except it has made life rather confusing – Telstra at Eucla is on Western Standard Time, as is the television.
We are staying at the Eucla Caravan Park, which is quite a surprise. Situated on top of the escarpment, we look over the Great Australian Bight. The caravan park is part of the motel complex, has gravel sites and a modern, excellent amenities block. Being off the highway, it should be much quieter than the rear of a roadhouse.
Norseman birds wake up at 3.30 am! The first car left the caravan park at 4.30 am, with another two gone before 6.00! Needless to say, we were up bright and early and hitched up before 7.15 am.
Today we headed across the Nullabor – the first part of the journey was through forest with small trees and low scrub. This quickly changed to grass and low scrub and long, long straights. We started measuring the straights and after a 50 km stretch we came to a bendy bit (three bends in 10 kms) before the long straight of 90 miles or 146.6 kms in the old money.
We arrived at Caiguna (our intended overnight stop) before noon, had a quick discussion regarding sitting in a gravel yard behind a roadhouse for the afternoon or continuing on to Eucla and having an extra day on the Eyre Peninsula. The Eyre Peninsula won out, we had lunch and continued the drive. We ended up doing 710 kms today, although it was very easy driving, with both of us taking turns. Traffic wasn’t very heavy – mainly trucks and caravans with the occasional car.
There wasn’t really much wildlife about, apart from a few dead kangaroos, three eagles, three blue tongue lizards and a snake, plus another snake with a flat head which definitely looked most unwell! There were plenty of decorated trees, though, with bores travellers hanging various items of clothing (one guess what items!) and shoes on the trees. We even came across piles of rocks dressed in clothes.
Immediately after leaving Caiguna, we passed a sign informing us we had now entered Central Western Time and should put our clocks forward 45 minutes. Not an issue, except it has made life rather confusing – Telstra at Eucla is on Western Standard Time, as is the television.
We are staying at the Eucla Caravan Park, which is quite a surprise. Situated on top of the escarpment, we look over the Great Australian Bight. The caravan park is part of the motel complex, has gravel sites and a modern, excellent amenities block. Being off the highway, it should be much quieter than the rear of a roadhouse.
Saturday 11 September 2010
Norseman
Saturday, 11 September
A glorious morning with no clouds and no wind, which meant a very enjoyable drive to Norseman. The road was very good, with long, long straights and very little traffic. However, it was noticeable that we were heading “up the map” again, as it was quite obvious that the road climbed gradually. The first two thirds of the journey was through the wheatbelt, with canola, wheat and lupins on either side and the occasional drying salt lake. This did give way eventually to mallee scrub before we reached Norseman.
Norseman was originally settled as a gold mining town and there is a large mine to the east of the township. The main features of the town are some corrugated camels on the main roundabout and a statue of a horse named Norseman. It is a small town with boarded up shop windows and probably not a place one would wander about after dark.
We are staying at the only caravan park – the Gateway – which is similar to most other caravan parks in the outback and is gravelled. It also charges outback prices! The amenities are okay, although obviously don’t get cleaned at weekends. With the temperature in the low twenties, we were able to get back into our t-shirts and enjoy some sun this afternoon.
A glorious morning with no clouds and no wind, which meant a very enjoyable drive to Norseman. The road was very good, with long, long straights and very little traffic. However, it was noticeable that we were heading “up the map” again, as it was quite obvious that the road climbed gradually. The first two thirds of the journey was through the wheatbelt, with canola, wheat and lupins on either side and the occasional drying salt lake. This did give way eventually to mallee scrub before we reached Norseman.
Norseman was originally settled as a gold mining town and there is a large mine to the east of the township. The main features of the town are some corrugated camels on the main roundabout and a statue of a horse named Norseman. It is a small town with boarded up shop windows and probably not a place one would wander about after dark.
We are staying at the only caravan park – the Gateway – which is similar to most other caravan parks in the outback and is gravelled. It also charges outback prices! The amenities are okay, although obviously don’t get cleaned at weekends. With the temperature in the low twenties, we were able to get back into our t-shirts and enjoy some sun this afternoon.
Friday 10 September 2010
Pink Lake
Friday, 10 September
At last the wind has dropped, the rain has stopped and the sun has appeared occasionally! We decided to take advantage of the weather and set out for the scenic tourist drive along the coast and cliffs. Even though the sky was still very overcast, the white sand beaches still made the sea, in close to shore, the most beautiful blue. The 20 km stretch of coastline was rather stunning, with white sandy beaches and granite outcrops and headlands. Of course, the low coast scrub was a mass of colour!
The road also took us past Pink Lake, which wasn’t actually pink. This lake has a very high salt concentration and the information sign let us know that at times a green algae actually made the water look pink.
Not far from the caravan park, there is an old taker jetty which extends over 700 metres into the bay. This is a favourite haunt for sea lions and we were lucky enough to spot one this afternoon.
Esperance is a nice town which would have been much more enjoyable if the weather had been kinder. At least today was a bit warmer, too!
At last the wind has dropped, the rain has stopped and the sun has appeared occasionally! We decided to take advantage of the weather and set out for the scenic tourist drive along the coast and cliffs. Even though the sky was still very overcast, the white sand beaches still made the sea, in close to shore, the most beautiful blue. The 20 km stretch of coastline was rather stunning, with white sandy beaches and granite outcrops and headlands. Of course, the low coast scrub was a mass of colour!
The road also took us past Pink Lake, which wasn’t actually pink. This lake has a very high salt concentration and the information sign let us know that at times a green algae actually made the water look pink.
Not far from the caravan park, there is an old taker jetty which extends over 700 metres into the bay. This is a favourite haunt for sea lions and we were lucky enough to spot one this afternoon.
Esperance is a nice town which would have been much more enjoyable if the weather had been kinder. At least today was a bit warmer, too!
Thursday 9 September 2010
Wet & Woolly
Thursday, 9 September
A very wild and windy night which continued into a wild, wet and windy day – fortunately, the rain became more infrequent as the morning wore on.
As a result of the weather, today was fairly quiet, with a visit to the police station for a signature on some legal documents and then a subsequent stop at the post office. As we will stay here until Saturday morning, we decided to leave the tourist drive until tomorrow – hopefully the weather will be better by then.
We did visit the local Anglican church’s wildflower show and spent a pleasant half hour looking at all the named variety of wildflowers from this area. We did manage to spot a couple we have seen on the side of the road!
A very wild and windy night which continued into a wild, wet and windy day – fortunately, the rain became more infrequent as the morning wore on.
As a result of the weather, today was fairly quiet, with a visit to the police station for a signature on some legal documents and then a subsequent stop at the post office. As we will stay here until Saturday morning, we decided to leave the tourist drive until tomorrow – hopefully the weather will be better by then.
We did visit the local Anglican church’s wildflower show and spent a pleasant half hour looking at all the named variety of wildflowers from this area. We did manage to spot a couple we have seen on the side of the road!
Wednesday 8 September 2010
Long Drive
Wednesday, 8 September
Yesterday evening was very wet and cold and shortly after we retired, it also became a tad windy – we stayed awake for some time being rocked and listening to the awning creak! The morning really brought home that there is no land between Albany and Antarctica. We didn’t really waste time packing up – there were some very black and ominous clouds building up to the west.
The first part of the road to Ravensthorpe was through eucalyptus plantations as far as the eye could see in both directions. As we neared Ravensthorpe, the plantations gave way to canola and grain farms. One good thing about the road – a wide ribbon of natural bush has been left on both sides, virtually all the way from Albany to Esperance. Needless to say, we had many, many stops to look at flowers. The bush is simply a mass of colour, from the hundreds of different varieties of wattles, the gums with their white or red flower, the deep rose colour of the coneflowers, lots of white and blue flowers, and numerous bushes of orange pea type flowers.
We had decided to overnight at Ravensthorpe, 300 kms east of Albany, but when we arrived at the caravan park Cat immediately said “No,” Pauline immediately said “No” and Leslie said “Mmm, perhaps it would be better if ….” A quick democratic vote and we were on the road again for the 200 km drive to Esperance!!!
We are at the Esperance Seafront Caravan Park, right on the beach, of course. This is a large park, sites either have slabs or shade cloth pads and are plenty big enough. We decided on a concrete slab, in view of the weather forecast, and then discovered that it was very tight to reverse into. Hopefully the people in the permanent cabin opposite wont notice the crack in their plastic pot plant for a couple of weeks.
Tuesday 7 September 2010
Big Waves and Wind
Tuesday, 7 September
The clear skies disappeared overnight and we woke to an overcast and blustery day. Even the whales, apart from three, decided life was probably more pleasant somewhere else.
This morning we headed to the whaling station, situated on the peninsula on the other side of the bay. The wild, windswept coastal scrub was alive with flowers, although neither of us was willing to actually walk into the scrub for a closer look – the edge of the road was near enough for photos!
The whaling station only ceased operations in 1978 and has now been preserved as a museum detailing the history of the whaling industry, including a whaling boat. We had a look around the souvenir shop but didn’t really feel like spending a couple of hours learning how whales had been killed and processed in years gone by! A cup of coffee in the café was a much more pleasant option, especially as we looked straight out across the bay.
After coffee, we first stopped at Cable Beach (no nudists here!), with its stunning scenery and waves crashing over rocks. Then it was only a short distance to the Natural Bridge and Gap – the strong northerly winds and swell made both of these very spectacular. Fortunately, there were guard rails at the lookouts, although some people didn’t seem to be too concerned about getting close to the edge (not us!!!).
The weather deteriorated quickly after lunch, with rain squalls and strong winds – more guy ropes were quickly attached to the awning!
Albany has been a very enjoyable place to spend a few days.
The clear skies disappeared overnight and we woke to an overcast and blustery day. Even the whales, apart from three, decided life was probably more pleasant somewhere else.
This morning we headed to the whaling station, situated on the peninsula on the other side of the bay. The wild, windswept coastal scrub was alive with flowers, although neither of us was willing to actually walk into the scrub for a closer look – the edge of the road was near enough for photos!
The whaling station only ceased operations in 1978 and has now been preserved as a museum detailing the history of the whaling industry, including a whaling boat. We had a look around the souvenir shop but didn’t really feel like spending a couple of hours learning how whales had been killed and processed in years gone by! A cup of coffee in the café was a much more pleasant option, especially as we looked straight out across the bay.
After coffee, we first stopped at Cable Beach (no nudists here!), with its stunning scenery and waves crashing over rocks. Then it was only a short distance to the Natural Bridge and Gap – the strong northerly winds and swell made both of these very spectacular. Fortunately, there were guard rails at the lookouts, although some people didn’t seem to be too concerned about getting close to the edge (not us!!!).
The weather deteriorated quickly after lunch, with rain squalls and strong winds – more guy ropes were quickly attached to the awning!
Albany has been a very enjoyable place to spend a few days.
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