It is very hot and humid this morning but I am able to sit outside and eat breakfast as it hasn't rained over night. I usually spend most of my mornings sitting outside the van while the family sleeps, it is such a beautiful time of the day and I am often joined but a variety of wild life. But so far this time it has been so wet sitting outside hasn't been an option.
This morning started with a trip to the othodontist as Tori had a wire that had come loose. We were very lucky to find an Orthodontist in Cessnock and even luckier that we were able to get her in at such short notice. Tori and I then head down the street to do a bit of shopping. Lunch time by the time we get back and the rain sets in again.
After lunch we went for one last drive through the Hunter. We returned to make some purchases after yesterday's tour and the kids had to make one more visit to the Chocolate Factory. There are some beautiful little shops here. Glen and I decide it would be a lovely place to come for a very relaxing get away. If you could afford it, booking into a cabin or a B and B for a weekend of wine, food, golf, shopping and walking through gardens, it would be just lovely.
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Monday, 30 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 17 - Wine Tour in the Hunter Valley
We decide to book ourselves on a wine tour today. Most tour buses were reasonably priced and we decide that some local knowledge and a chauffeur was worth the money. Not many wine tour companies are too excited about taking the kids, however, we found one that was quite happy a to take them for free so we couldn't pass up that opportunity. And as it turned out, we ended up having the bus to ourselves.
Before lunch we went to 3 0r 4 wineries. Each one completely different to the next. We are certainly getting more educated now and it was interesting to learn about the wines in this area which taste quite different to the ones in the Denmark region, that we did this time last year.
No, the kids didn't partake in the tasting. We went for lunch at the Potter Brewery which was just lovely. Glen tried some beer here also.
Then after this we did the Cheese factory, the Chocolate factory an ice-creamery then another winery before we headed home absolutely stuffed!!!
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| The kids were very prepared with books and drawings to do. |
We were very impessed by the Hunter Valley, it was so picturesque. There were 280 B and B's, some resorts and one of the wineries even had a nightclub!!!! If you are into wine and food and like the peace and tranquility, this is certainly the place to visit.
Sunday, 29 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 16 - The Hunter Valley
Today we had an easy 180km to Cessnock in the heart of the Hunter Valley. We are unable to check weather info this morming as we don't have tv reception, however, we don't have a desperate need either as we are far enough south now to be out of harm's way. So Glen and I feel much more relaxed.
The Pacific Hwy is very good, however, the minor roads taking us to the Hunter Valley are just shocking, particularly with the van on. We check in to our Big 4 Caravan park and spend the afternoon researching information, washing, getting photos developed, doing bookwork and off course, the children spend most of the arvo at the pool. The weather is overcast and we do get a couple of light showers, but we also see the sun for a short time today which is very exciting.
This evening we are excited about watching the tennis, what a marathon match. I woke up long enough to see the end of it as it was 2am over here when it finally finished.
The Pacific Hwy is very good, however, the minor roads taking us to the Hunter Valley are just shocking, particularly with the van on. We check in to our Big 4 Caravan park and spend the afternoon researching information, washing, getting photos developed, doing bookwork and off course, the children spend most of the arvo at the pool. The weather is overcast and we do get a couple of light showers, but we also see the sun for a short time today which is very exciting.
This evening we are excited about watching the tennis, what a marathon match. I woke up long enough to see the end of it as it was 2am over here when it finally finished.
Saturday, 28 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 15 - Shannae's early birthday present at the Pet Porpoise Pool
This morning was similar to the previous mornings. We are very conscious that flooding is still a risk in a lot of areas south of us. Heavy rains are forecast for the weekend so we decide to push on once again. This is a real shame as we were very excited about exploring Coffs and had planned to stay for at least 3 days, but the safety of our family has to come first and we are a bit nervous about staying any longer. When we step outside the van our thoughts are confirmed, as, the few people that are in the park all seem to have the same idea and have either left or are packing up.
However, we have one very important thing to do before we leave. With Shannae's birthday just around the corner, we had a very special birthday present planned for her that we decide to go ahead with before we leave. She is such and animal lover and a mermaid in the water so we thought it would be an awesome present for her to have the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. I had done some research long before we left and had discovered that in Coffs they have this Pet Porpoise Pool which is a mini Sea world where you can sign up for a special "dolphin encounter". So that is what we did for her. She got to have some one on one time with a 6 year old dolphin named Bella. It was a very rare opportunity and she just loved it. I'm sure it is something she will remember for a long time.
The Pet Porpoise Pool was great fun for the whole family. We watched a great dolphin and seal show and the kids got to feed the penguins and a seal. Glen and I both agreed that although much smaller and more run down than Sea World, it was so much better, as the kids were able to get up close to the animals, just awesome.
Afterwards we had to work out a plan as to where to go next, as we were at a bit of a loss. We contemplated heading to Tamworth but there had been a land slide on Waterfall way which was the main road through, so we canned that idea. The Hunter Valley was the next destination we were headed to, so we decided to head in that direction, but knew we wouldn't make it tonight. We both agreed that after Taree we would feel safe and could once again consider a rest stop for the night so that is what we did.
The journey south just blew us away. We couldn't belive the size of the rivers and how full they were and town after town just amazed us by the sites we saw. In some places the water was only metres from the highway, so we felt reassured we had made the right decision to keep going. We found a nice little rest stop on high ground!! at about 5:30. A small playground, some grass and toilets. Everything we needed for a game of cricket and somewhere to camp the night. We all love the freedom of no neighbours for a night and the fact that we don't have to unhook. We do get a couple of vans pull in during the night, but essentially we are on our own!!! Oh the serenity!!!!
However, we have one very important thing to do before we leave. With Shannae's birthday just around the corner, we had a very special birthday present planned for her that we decide to go ahead with before we leave. She is such and animal lover and a mermaid in the water so we thought it would be an awesome present for her to have the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. I had done some research long before we left and had discovered that in Coffs they have this Pet Porpoise Pool which is a mini Sea world where you can sign up for a special "dolphin encounter". So that is what we did for her. She got to have some one on one time with a 6 year old dolphin named Bella. It was a very rare opportunity and she just loved it. I'm sure it is something she will remember for a long time.
Afterwards we had to work out a plan as to where to go next, as we were at a bit of a loss. We contemplated heading to Tamworth but there had been a land slide on Waterfall way which was the main road through, so we canned that idea. The Hunter Valley was the next destination we were headed to, so we decided to head in that direction, but knew we wouldn't make it tonight. We both agreed that after Taree we would feel safe and could once again consider a rest stop for the night so that is what we did.
The journey south just blew us away. We couldn't belive the size of the rivers and how full they were and town after town just amazed us by the sites we saw. In some places the water was only metres from the highway, so we felt reassured we had made the right decision to keep going. We found a nice little rest stop on high ground!! at about 5:30. A small playground, some grass and toilets. Everything we needed for a game of cricket and somewhere to camp the night. We all love the freedom of no neighbours for a night and the fact that we don't have to unhook. We do get a couple of vans pull in during the night, but essentially we are on our own!!! Oh the serenity!!!!
Friday, 27 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 14 - Coffs Harbour
Once again we wake up to a light drizzle. Our morning routine these days is to check the radar, turn on the tv to watch the local news and weather and then decide whether to pack and up continue on or stay another day. This morning, there is more rain forecast for Byron and not so much at Coffs, so we decide to continue on as who knows what tonight will bring. The flood levels are steady or falling so we decide to move on while we can. We feel very glad to have seen Byron anyway, if only briefly.
We spend a bit of time down town before heading off after lunch. The drizzle is steady and it isn't long before we reach signs on the Pacific Hwy directing us on a detour inland due to the road flooding. It adds about 50km to the trip. We go to Lismore and Casino which makes me a bit nervous as Lismore had recently been on the news due it's flooding. What a beautiful place though. The country side out here is just amazing, the roads are shocking but we love the more open spaces and the rolling green hills and the cows and banana plantations.
The drive to Coffs is amazing. We have never seen so many flooded paddocks and washed out areas. As we go over the rivers we see the tops of playgrounds and picnic areas shelters. Luckily we are able to get through on the main roads.
Coffs Harbour is just lovely. We check in a the Top Tourist Park with the best pool, playground and ammenities we have had so far, and, the cheapest. The kids swim and we get a couple of heavy down pours but nothing too serious. We look at all the tourist brochures and make plans for the next couple of days, but once again, if rain is forecast we need to move on. We have been told that all the way to Taree, the rivers are on the brink of bursting, so after that point we know we can relax. So until tomorrow!!!
We spend a bit of time down town before heading off after lunch. The drizzle is steady and it isn't long before we reach signs on the Pacific Hwy directing us on a detour inland due to the road flooding. It adds about 50km to the trip. We go to Lismore and Casino which makes me a bit nervous as Lismore had recently been on the news due it's flooding. What a beautiful place though. The country side out here is just amazing, the roads are shocking but we love the more open spaces and the rolling green hills and the cows and banana plantations.
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| The Clarence river, one of many HUGE rivers we cross in the next 24 hours. |
Coffs Harbour is just lovely. We check in a the Top Tourist Park with the best pool, playground and ammenities we have had so far, and, the cheapest. The kids swim and we get a couple of heavy down pours but nothing too serious. We look at all the tourist brochures and make plans for the next couple of days, but once again, if rain is forecast we need to move on. We have been told that all the way to Taree, the rivers are on the brink of bursting, so after that point we know we can relax. So until tomorrow!!!
Thursday, 26 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 13 - Australia Day
I just added some photos to yesterday if you want to go back and have a look at thoughs!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BAILEY!!!!!
Well, I am afraid, that unlike last year, when we spent a relaxing day going from one beach to the next and watching dolphins, this year's Australia Day for us was all about the weather and deciding whether or not to move on. We woke to a fine day with little rain during the night, however, storms and heavy rain due for the next day at Surfers, the rain easing a little in the south and flood levels falling temporarily. So we decided it was time to make a move. Our instincts wanting to just drive all day and reach the southern part of the state, but we knew this type of driving just wasn't possible over here like it is in the West, so we decided to get to Byron Bay then make a decision from there.
So we arrive in Byron with a bit of drizzle around. Many roads are cut off further south due to flooding so we decide to stay put for the night as we did want to see Byron after all. Well, what an amazing place. It is crawling with people off course being Australia day, but I think it must have to be the "hippy" capital of Australia. It has some great little shops and we walked the streets for an hour or so just going into them all. The place is just buzzing and you could sit and watch the people go by all day. Some weird and wonderful people. We feel quite overdressed and "underinked". It really must be time we got a tattoo so we fit in!!!! Glen and I decide it is a bit like Margaret River before it became "yuppified" lots of combi's and tonnes of surfers!!! A great place to drink, chill and eat.
The kids all get an ice-cream from this devine ice-cream shop and we head up to the lighthouse to do the tourist thing. What a spectacular view of the bay. We also learn that it was once a whaling station and has a similar history to Albany. Such a beautiful spot.
We then head back to the van for some board games, a game of cricket and a walk down the beach. The weather is overcast and drizzly but we don't mind too much as it is warm enough to still go out. The beach is a good 10 minute walk so we decide to go and have a look before tea. It is really windy but the kids are having fun until Cody come running back to us screaming at the top of his lungs, he has been stung by a blue bottle!!!! Great!!!! How poisonous are they?? What first aid do we administer and how bloody far are we away from the van!!!!! I get back to the van as quickly as possible and administer the vinegar, some quick research on the faithful iphone reassures us that it isn't life threatening however, we phone the hospital just in case to learn it is normal for the pain to extend to lymph glands!!! Anyway, needless to say, the rest of the evening is very low key. The tv goes on, this always allows you to assess the extent of the pain!!! and we monitor him closely for the rest of the evening. Once the pain has gone he is fine.
Anyway, it is nice to be away from the rat race of the bigger cities. The park is pretty average but uncrowded and lots of space. Once again we are in daylight savings so we eat at about 7:30, don't go to bed until 11 and wake up at 8am!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BAILEY!!!!!
Well, I am afraid, that unlike last year, when we spent a relaxing day going from one beach to the next and watching dolphins, this year's Australia Day for us was all about the weather and deciding whether or not to move on. We woke to a fine day with little rain during the night, however, storms and heavy rain due for the next day at Surfers, the rain easing a little in the south and flood levels falling temporarily. So we decided it was time to make a move. Our instincts wanting to just drive all day and reach the southern part of the state, but we knew this type of driving just wasn't possible over here like it is in the West, so we decided to get to Byron Bay then make a decision from there.
So we arrive in Byron with a bit of drizzle around. Many roads are cut off further south due to flooding so we decide to stay put for the night as we did want to see Byron after all. Well, what an amazing place. It is crawling with people off course being Australia day, but I think it must have to be the "hippy" capital of Australia. It has some great little shops and we walked the streets for an hour or so just going into them all. The place is just buzzing and you could sit and watch the people go by all day. Some weird and wonderful people. We feel quite overdressed and "underinked". It really must be time we got a tattoo so we fit in!!!! Glen and I decide it is a bit like Margaret River before it became "yuppified" lots of combi's and tonnes of surfers!!! A great place to drink, chill and eat.
The kids all get an ice-cream from this devine ice-cream shop and we head up to the lighthouse to do the tourist thing. What a spectacular view of the bay. We also learn that it was once a whaling station and has a similar history to Albany. Such a beautiful spot.
We then head back to the van for some board games, a game of cricket and a walk down the beach. The weather is overcast and drizzly but we don't mind too much as it is warm enough to still go out. The beach is a good 10 minute walk so we decide to go and have a look before tea. It is really windy but the kids are having fun until Cody come running back to us screaming at the top of his lungs, he has been stung by a blue bottle!!!! Great!!!! How poisonous are they?? What first aid do we administer and how bloody far are we away from the van!!!!! I get back to the van as quickly as possible and administer the vinegar, some quick research on the faithful iphone reassures us that it isn't life threatening however, we phone the hospital just in case to learn it is normal for the pain to extend to lymph glands!!! Anyway, needless to say, the rest of the evening is very low key. The tv goes on, this always allows you to assess the extent of the pain!!! and we monitor him closely for the rest of the evening. Once the pain has gone he is fine.
Anyway, it is nice to be away from the rat race of the bigger cities. The park is pretty average but uncrowded and lots of space. Once again we are in daylight savings so we eat at about 7:30, don't go to bed until 11 and wake up at 8am!!!
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Pt2 - Day 12 - Do we stay or do we go!!!
Well, last night the rain continued. We just can't believe how much it can rain without stopping!!!! This morning there were reports of flooding in a lot of places and as we were supposed to be moving to Byron Bay today, we frantically research the weather for the rest of the day and week. Wild weather is forecast all around us it seems. Cyclones in the north and continued rain and flooding in the south. So this morning we have to make the decision, is it safe to hook up "Big Bertha" in the existing wild weather and continue on, or are we safer to stay put and risk the possibility of being stuck here for the rest of the week. We decide it is safer to stay put for the time being, but lets get out of this van as we are getting claustrophobic!!
We go for a drive into Surfers and decide that we should make the most of all these amazing cuisines on offer. After our Italian meal the other day, we decide to try mexican today and who can resist half price lunches at the Aztec mexican restaurant?? The kids are getting good at trying different things and it is fun to get a small taste of another culture. After lunch we drive up the coast a little further and we can't believe the number of tourist out an about with their cameras and in the water as the rain eases to a drizzle. Are they all mad???
We find an indoor mini - golf that has two 18 hole courses to choose from, one Jurassic Park and the other King Tutt's Egyptian Tombs. We go for the Egyptian one and it is great fun as it has some caves that we have to enter, the balls glow in the dark and the holes are fluroscent. So that killed a bit of time.
By the time we get back to the park, the weather has cleared....yay!!!! I jump at the chance to do some washing. I reluctantly use the drier as well, and by the time I have finished the rain has started again. The kids are still keen to go for a swim though, which they do while I do some more blogging and bookwork. We go to bed wondering what the next day will bring. We are hoping to go to Byron and Coffs in the next couple of days but they are getting more rain than here and are on flood alert, so each morning is an unknown at this point!!
We go for a drive into Surfers and decide that we should make the most of all these amazing cuisines on offer. After our Italian meal the other day, we decide to try mexican today and who can resist half price lunches at the Aztec mexican restaurant?? The kids are getting good at trying different things and it is fun to get a small taste of another culture. After lunch we drive up the coast a little further and we can't believe the number of tourist out an about with their cameras and in the water as the rain eases to a drizzle. Are they all mad???
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| Lunch at the Mexican restaurant. |
We find an indoor mini - golf that has two 18 hole courses to choose from, one Jurassic Park and the other King Tutt's Egyptian Tombs. We go for the Egyptian one and it is great fun as it has some caves that we have to enter, the balls glow in the dark and the holes are fluroscent. So that killed a bit of time.
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| Mummies in a tomb |
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| Golf in the dark, not that you can tell because of the flash!! |
By the time we get back to the park, the weather has cleared....yay!!!! I jump at the chance to do some washing. I reluctantly use the drier as well, and by the time I have finished the rain has started again. The kids are still keen to go for a swim though, which they do while I do some more blogging and bookwork. We go to bed wondering what the next day will bring. We are hoping to go to Byron and Coffs in the next couple of days but they are getting more rain than here and are on flood alert, so each morning is an unknown at this point!!
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 11 - Wet-n-Stupid
Well, last night we had torrential rainfall. As you may have seen on the news it just bucketed down all night. So we had a pretty bad start to the day. Not only did it rain all night, so loud we thought it was going to come through the roof, we were awoken at about 6:30am but an almighty crash outside which we soon discovered was our awning, giving way under the weight of the water.We had no idea it had been pooling all night and thought it was just running off like every other awning in the park, but no, not ours for some reason. So, it wasn't good!!! We managed to get it rolled back in enough for transport purposes until we can get it fixed at least.
Anyway, we had planned to split up today, half going back to Sea world and half to Movieworld, however, as it was so wet, Glen, in his wisdom, decides we are going to get wet anyway, so we might as well go to Wet-n-Wild, as there won't be many people so the lines will be short.....good theory!!! Last time we were there it was definitely great fun, but the length of the lines did take the fun out of it a bit. Well, I couldn't believe the number of people that still went along to Wet-n-wild in the rain, nothing like last time but still quite a few. Only half the rides were open, but the kids would have gone on more things in the three short hours we were there, than they did the whole day when we went in October. I was a real party pooper and just couldn't bare the thought of getting out of my wet weather jacket, so I drank coffee and followed them around the park. So funny to see everyone running around in the pouring rain in their bikinis!!!
In the arvo the rain continued to bucket down, so we had an afternoon of board games, card games and tv. Nice to stop for a minute anyway.
Anyway, we had planned to split up today, half going back to Sea world and half to Movieworld, however, as it was so wet, Glen, in his wisdom, decides we are going to get wet anyway, so we might as well go to Wet-n-Wild, as there won't be many people so the lines will be short.....good theory!!! Last time we were there it was definitely great fun, but the length of the lines did take the fun out of it a bit. Well, I couldn't believe the number of people that still went along to Wet-n-wild in the rain, nothing like last time but still quite a few. Only half the rides were open, but the kids would have gone on more things in the three short hours we were there, than they did the whole day when we went in October. I was a real party pooper and just couldn't bare the thought of getting out of my wet weather jacket, so I drank coffee and followed them around the park. So funny to see everyone running around in the pouring rain in their bikinis!!!
In the arvo the rain continued to bucket down, so we had an afternoon of board games, card games and tv. Nice to stop for a minute anyway.
Monday, 23 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 10 - Movieworld
After quite a few heavy showers over night, the rain had cleared a little by morning. So we filled the camelbaks with snacks and water, as you aren't allowed to take an esky here, and off we went. We thought there might not be too many people due to the unsettled weather but we thought wrong. Glen and Tori headed for the roller coasters straight away, Shannae, Cody and I were content to suss out the situation a little more first. The first one they went on was Lethal Weapon which is one that has you suspended underneath the rail with your legs dangling!!!! Fun for the whole family!!!!!!
After this we went to watch the stunt show which was more a show about comdey and precision driving than stunts, very funny the way they put it on and they made the driving they did, look so easy in such a confined space, one wrong move and they would have been a serious accident. So throughout the day we moved from one ride/show to the next. They have a smaller kids area too with a roller coaster in that which was a bit better for Shannae and Cody as they were a bit small for some of the big roller coasters.
One of the best things of the day I thought, was a 4 D movie, well it only went for about 20 minutes, but you went into like a movie theatre but your chairs actually moved as well, you got sprayed with water and had wind blown in your face and vines came out of the chair and touch your legs, so these effects combined with the 3D glasses, made you feel like you were right there. It was awesome!!!
At the end of the day, Glen had got the roller coaster bug and wanted to go on all the really scary ones before he left. First the Superman one which you can see here, a bit hard to get it all in a photo but it was not for the faint hearted. The Green Lantern was the hairiest of all, but the line was just huge for this one, thank goodness!!!
So we were all very excited after our day today and went home to discuss which theme park we should return back to the next day.
After this we went to watch the stunt show which was more a show about comdey and precision driving than stunts, very funny the way they put it on and they made the driving they did, look so easy in such a confined space, one wrong move and they would have been a serious accident. So throughout the day we moved from one ride/show to the next. They have a smaller kids area too with a roller coaster in that which was a bit better for Shannae and Cody as they were a bit small for some of the big roller coasters.
One of the best things of the day I thought, was a 4 D movie, well it only went for about 20 minutes, but you went into like a movie theatre but your chairs actually moved as well, you got sprayed with water and had wind blown in your face and vines came out of the chair and touch your legs, so these effects combined with the 3D glasses, made you feel like you were right there. It was awesome!!!
At the end of the day, Glen had got the roller coaster bug and wanted to go on all the really scary ones before he left. First the Superman one which you can see here, a bit hard to get it all in a photo but it was not for the faint hearted. The Green Lantern was the hairiest of all, but the line was just huge for this one, thank goodness!!!
So we were all very excited after our day today and went home to discuss which theme park we should return back to the next day.
Sunday, 22 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 9 - Nobby Beach
Today we hook up and get back on the road. After a last cuppa with Charles and Elizabeth and a final discussion about a route that will enable us to bypass the city with Big Bertha in tow, we are on our way again. It has rained a fair bit since we have arrived back in Brisbane, however, the humidity can still be felt. We make it through to our destination without any dramas as we only have about 110km to go, although the traffic means this takes a little longer than usual. We check into the Nobby Beach Village Holiday park which is much closer to the theme parks which is what we plan to do next. It doesn't take long to remember the old routine of setting everything up and the kids hit the pool straight away as the weather is fine for a short time.
This afternoon we catch up with our friends from Currumbin, who we met on the first half in Broome. It is so great to see Kirsten, Vivi and Alex, unfortunately, Tim is in Margaret River promoting his new book so we hope to catch up with him later in the week. The kids all start school tomorrow so they are all excited and nervous about their first day back.
This evening we cook the barbi while it rains, and during the night it rains and rains even more. It is going to be a wet day at Movie world tomorrow!!
This afternoon we catch up with our friends from Currumbin, who we met on the first half in Broome. It is so great to see Kirsten, Vivi and Alex, unfortunately, Tim is in Margaret River promoting his new book so we hope to catch up with him later in the week. The kids all start school tomorrow so they are all excited and nervous about their first day back.
This evening we cook the barbi while it rains, and during the night it rains and rains even more. It is going to be a wet day at Movie world tomorrow!!
Saturday, 21 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 8 - Brisbane
This morning we were very sad to say good-bye to our beautiful unit in Melbourne and a bit undecided about how we feel about heading back to the van!!!. We caught a cab to the airport and went through the process of checking in, which we are getting very good at. One small hiccup though. When we went through security with our hand luggage, our little boy got pulled up with his backpack, as he was carrying his hand cuffs in it. We had checked scissors in pencil cases and things like that, which we knew needed to go in the check in luggage, but we hadn't thought about the hand cuffs. The security guys did make comment that he thought they might have been ours!!!!! Anyway, Cody and I went back and checked his backpack on with the check-in luggage and it all turned up at the other end which was great.
Fortunately, because we came in on a Saturday, Charles was able to meet us at the airport with our Prado. There were cheers from the kids when they saw the car as we had all been so looking forward to getting back into our own car. It was great to get back to Charle's and Elizabeth's place. The caravan was just as we had left it, just like we had been there two days before. That night we took Charles and Elizabeth, Darcy and Eva out for dinner at their local, and Will and Rosey also came out so it was great to catch up with them again.
That night itt was really nice to be back in the van and to be thinking about our next move. We are really looking forward to hooking up and getting back on the road again tomorrow.
Fortunately, because we came in on a Saturday, Charles was able to meet us at the airport with our Prado. There were cheers from the kids when they saw the car as we had all been so looking forward to getting back into our own car. It was great to get back to Charle's and Elizabeth's place. The caravan was just as we had left it, just like we had been there two days before. That night we took Charles and Elizabeth, Darcy and Eva out for dinner at their local, and Will and Rosey also came out so it was great to catch up with them again.
That night itt was really nice to be back in the van and to be thinking about our next move. We are really looking forward to hooking up and getting back on the road again tomorrow.
Friday, 20 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 7 - Melbourne Gaol and Skydeck
Today we had a huge sleep in as we were at the tennis so late last night. Plus, they have daylight savings here, so we have been sleeping in anyway, as the sun doesn't go down until 9pm and we are still on WA time. We decided to do the Old Melbourne Gaol. A forecast of 24 today but I don't know if it reached 20. We were very unprepared for the weather and all froze. We caught a tram to Russell St and walked up to the gaol. The gaol is probably most famous for being the place were Ned Kelly was hung, it was very eerie walking around this building, especially at the gallows!!!
We went into the watch tower where you became and inmate and they role played taking a whole new group into their cells to be processed, us being the new prisoners. That was fun.
We also watched a reenactment of Ned Kelly's trial. This was interested but a bit boring for the kids. A lot of history here, I think Glen and I learnt more than the kids did. Cody was very excited about buying some handcuffs which he proceeded to use on the rest of the family for the remainder of the day.
Afterwards we were all starving as it was 3pm and we hadn't had lunch. With Ligon St just up the road we decided to go up there and find something warm to eat. We found a lovely little Italian restaurant which served massive children's meals. This just hit the spot, it was absolutely delicious and nice to go to a proper restaurant with the children for a change.
After this we decided to have a look at the Skydeck on the way home. This is an 88 storey building that is a look out for the city. The lift reaches the top in a matter of a few short second. Your ears popping on the way. At the top you can buy food and drinks and there are strategically placed binoculars in fixed positions so you can see different parts of the city. The kids loved this, Glen and I weren't too keen to stay up the top for very long as the top moved up to 600mm from one side to the other on a really windy day. It's always windy in Melbourne, so we were happy to get back in the lift and come back down.
On the way home we wandered through the Crown Casino. This place is awesome, one power ball!!! The kids were blown away by this place and they tried to work out how much it would cost to stay here for the night....in their dreams!!!!!
We went into the watch tower where you became and inmate and they role played taking a whole new group into their cells to be processed, us being the new prisoners. That was fun.
We also watched a reenactment of Ned Kelly's trial. This was interested but a bit boring for the kids. A lot of history here, I think Glen and I learnt more than the kids did. Cody was very excited about buying some handcuffs which he proceeded to use on the rest of the family for the remainder of the day.
Afterwards we were all starving as it was 3pm and we hadn't had lunch. With Ligon St just up the road we decided to go up there and find something warm to eat. We found a lovely little Italian restaurant which served massive children's meals. This just hit the spot, it was absolutely delicious and nice to go to a proper restaurant with the children for a change.After this we decided to have a look at the Skydeck on the way home. This is an 88 storey building that is a look out for the city. The lift reaches the top in a matter of a few short second. Your ears popping on the way. At the top you can buy food and drinks and there are strategically placed binoculars in fixed positions so you can see different parts of the city. The kids loved this, Glen and I weren't too keen to stay up the top for very long as the top moved up to 600mm from one side to the other on a really windy day. It's always windy in Melbourne, so we were happy to get back in the lift and come back down.
On the way home we wandered through the Crown Casino. This place is awesome, one power ball!!! The kids were blown away by this place and they tried to work out how much it would cost to stay here for the night....in their dreams!!!!!
Thursday, 19 January 2012
Pt2 - Day 6 - Rod Laver Arena
This morning I donned the sneakers and went for a walk around Melbourne along South Wharf and past the Crown Casino. Not the most pleasant environment for a bit of exercise that is for sure, lots of car exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke and you take your life into your own hands dodging the cyclists!!! I managed to make it home in one piece in time for breakfast at the eatery just outside our hotel. So many places to eat here and they all cater well for the children. Great not to have to cook for a change.
After this Glen went to Harbour town to do some shopping. Very sad I know, we have been in Melbourne all this time, I haven't hit one shop and Glen gets to go first. However, he is the one in the most need of clothes so off he went. He had a very successful shopping trip and the kids and I just stayed at the apartment and chilled.
In the afternoon we went into town and I took the girls to their first DFO, very exciting. Tori has just started to become interested in shopping and Shannae has always loved to spend money on clothes, so I am training them young in the art of bargain hunting!!!!
We got home with only enough time to get ready for the main event of the day which was heading to the Rod Laver arena. I had booked the tickets for this session months ago, not knowing who was playing, but luckily for us we managed to score Dokic and Hewitt on the one night. The arena was just awesome and we had such a good view of the game. Unfortunately, due to daylight savings, for the first hour we sat in the sun, but by 8:30pm we were able to take off our sunnies and put our jumpers on and enjoy the rest of the game. The kids were really good. We had them all geared up with books and stuff to do in case they got bored, but they really got into the game and the fanatics kept them entertained. It was a great experience for us all and I was so glad it all worked out the way it did.!!
After this Glen went to Harbour town to do some shopping. Very sad I know, we have been in Melbourne all this time, I haven't hit one shop and Glen gets to go first. However, he is the one in the most need of clothes so off he went. He had a very successful shopping trip and the kids and I just stayed at the apartment and chilled.
In the afternoon we went into town and I took the girls to their first DFO, very exciting. Tori has just started to become interested in shopping and Shannae has always loved to spend money on clothes, so I am training them young in the art of bargain hunting!!!!
We got home with only enough time to get ready for the main event of the day which was heading to the Rod Laver arena. I had booked the tickets for this session months ago, not knowing who was playing, but luckily for us we managed to score Dokic and Hewitt on the one night. The arena was just awesome and we had such a good view of the game. Unfortunately, due to daylight savings, for the first hour we sat in the sun, but by 8:30pm we were able to take off our sunnies and put our jumpers on and enjoy the rest of the game. The kids were really good. We had them all geared up with books and stuff to do in case they got bored, but they really got into the game and the fanatics kept them entertained. It was a great experience for us all and I was so glad it all worked out the way it did.!!
Wednesday, 18 January 2012
Pt2 - Day 5 - MCG Tour and Sports Museum
Today the weather is much more pleasant. Still a bit windy but the forecast top of 30 is reduced to 25 and we are almost looking for a jumper. We head to the MCG today to do the tour. And wouldn't you believe it, the first thing we see is Shane Warne and Liz Hurley, with a very unattractive blond wig on, filming Shane Warne's son in the practice nets. We couldn't believe it, but with a cricket game on tomorrow night, there were a lot of players wondering around. Okay, so this photo isn't so great, but believe me, they are there in the background!!!
The tour of the MCG is lead by an avid Melbourne Cricket Ground member who takes us down to the ground and explains to us about its history, which was once the Richmond police paddock. We see the coaches boxes and where the cricket teams sit and get to have a wander through the "long room" which is the member's dining room. We get to go to the top of the stands where you would get an amazing view of the game. All we need to do now is go when it is full of people. The atmosphere must be terrific!!
After the tour we go into the Sports Museum. Wow, this place is just amazing, for anyone interested in any sport from the Olympics, to horse racing, cycling, netball, footy, cricket there is something for everyone to see and such an extensive range of memorabilia. There are interactive displays for the kids and the adults and recorded information on a head set explains the displays in detail. There is a hologram of Shane Warne and James Hird who talk about their careers which is both informative and fun to watch. We stay here for a couple of hours but you could spend all day here if you wanted to look at everything thoroughly. A very informative day.
The tour of the MCG is lead by an avid Melbourne Cricket Ground member who takes us down to the ground and explains to us about its history, which was once the Richmond police paddock. We see the coaches boxes and where the cricket teams sit and get to have a wander through the "long room" which is the member's dining room. We get to go to the top of the stands where you would get an amazing view of the game. All we need to do now is go when it is full of people. The atmosphere must be terrific!!
After the tour we go into the Sports Museum. Wow, this place is just amazing, for anyone interested in any sport from the Olympics, to horse racing, cycling, netball, footy, cricket there is something for everyone to see and such an extensive range of memorabilia. There are interactive displays for the kids and the adults and recorded information on a head set explains the displays in detail. There is a hologram of Shane Warne and James Hird who talk about their careers which is both informative and fun to watch. We stay here for a couple of hours but you could spend all day here if you wanted to look at everything thoroughly. A very informative day.
Tuesday, 17 January 2012
Pt2 - Day 4 - Australian Open
Well, today is forecast to be the hottest day of the week and the windiest I believe.....and it is the day we have our "ground pass" for the open. A ground pass entititles you to get into the grounds and watch all the courts apart from the Rod Laver Arena and Hisense. We catch the tram to Melbourne Park where all the action is. We watch some tennis and are amazed at the speed at which they hit the ball. There are some colourful characters out and about and the kids are blown away by some of the sites we see. We head to the Grand Slam Oval where there are lots of activities for the kids and a lot of stuff to see and do. The event is sponsored by Jacobs Creek and Heinekin so there is a beautiful grassed area with deck chairs and big screens for people to sit back and relax and enjoy the tennis. I take Cody and Shannae on a "walk on water" ride which they just love and they also have a go at the "Hot shots" room with lots of kids activities.
Despite the heat, it is a really good day. It is great to see the Australian Open live for a change. We catch the tram home and go out for tea at Outback Jack's, complete with a crocodile hanging from the roof!!! The kids love it.
Monday, 16 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 3 - Uluru sunset/Melbourne
This morning I was determined to see Uluru at sunset, still a bit of cloud cover and a few drops of rain but I was awake at 4am so I was going with or without everyone. We decided the whole family should come for a look as we wouldn't be back for a while, so we piled them all in the car at about 5:15am. All roads lead to the rock, when we get out there there are people everywhere. At the first viewing area there were buses galore, we continued around to the other side where the sun was coming up. Well, I have never seen so many people at that hour of the day. Half of Japan was there all armed with at least one camera each and there was also half of Europe and a bit of America, I think we might have been the only Aussies there, the rest of them were still camped up in their beds!!!! Anyway, it was well worth it. A truly spectactular site as the sun came over the horizon, Uluru is just amazing really, I think because there is nothing else around it, apart from shrub, it just looks like someone has plonked this thing in the middle of nowhere, it just doesn't look real.
Anyway, after this, we went back to our "luxury accommodation" and packed up again ready to jump on the plane. Our bags are full so repacking is a fun task!!!
We had a short flight to Alice Springs were we swapped planes from a 717 to a 737, much to the joy of the family as the smaller planes don't have headphones. The flight to Melbourne was 2hours and 40 minutes and we arrived to a blustering wind and a very warm day.
We have booked an apartment in Docklands as it is very hard to find a hotel that caters for 5, the apartments cost the same and they are much nicer, so today we go from rags to riches. We have a beautiful 2 bed 2 bath apartment on the 14th floor of the water front overlooking Ethihad and the city. It is quite luxurious and very conveniently located with the free city circle tram just on our door step. This will be our break after harvest, before we truly hit the road again in the caravan
We had a short flight to Alice Springs were we swapped planes from a 717 to a 737, much to the joy of the family as the smaller planes don't have headphones. The flight to Melbourne was 2hours and 40 minutes and we arrived to a blustering wind and a very warm day.
We have booked an apartment in Docklands as it is very hard to find a hotel that caters for 5, the apartments cost the same and they are much nicer, so today we go from rags to riches. We have a beautiful 2 bed 2 bath apartment on the 14th floor of the water front overlooking Ethihad and the city. It is quite luxurious and very conveniently located with the free city circle tram just on our door step. This will be our break after harvest, before we truly hit the road again in the caravan
Sunday, 15 January 2012
Pt 2 - Day 2 - Uluru and the Olgas
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| Me - enjoying the peace and listening to the rock!! |
This evening we headed back to do the sunset viewing, however due to the overcast weather the rock didn't change colour much at all, but it was fun all the same!!!
Saturday, 14 January 2012
Pt2 - Day 1 - Uluru
Well, here we go, here we go, here we go.........again!!!! The time has gone so quickly, I can't believe we are back on the road again, or in the air I should say. Harvest finished well in the end, although what a stressful ending, it was certainly a long hard slog. Glen has been working so hard it seems like the only break he will get is off the farm. So today, we head to Perth and reach the airport by 8:30am. Glen drops me and the kids off to check in and get boarding passes while he runs the car around to our dear friends in Belmont who have kindly offered to help us sell it plus bring Glen back to the airport. He arrives with heaps of time to spare, but before long we are boarding the plane for Uluru.
The flight is only about 2 hours, so we just have time for lunch and a bit of a read and we are landing at Ayers Rock. It is about 2pm local time and very overcast and trying to rain. We pick up the hire car and check in to the Ayers Rock campground where we have booked a cabin. The cheapest accommodation I could find that has towels and sheets, and boy does it show!!! The cabin is made up of 3 rooms that are so small, not cat swinging allowed!!! Glen and I have to leave our bags in the kitchen as there is no room in the bedroom but the kids have two double bunks and they think it is the most fun ever !!! You have to unplug the tv to put the kettle on and the place looks like it hasn't had any work done to it for about 30 years, however, it has a pool and a playground and a barbi, what more could you want, especially considering our next option up was a $600 a night 2 bedroom 3 star apartment, ridiculous!!! Anyway, it drizzles on and off most of the arvo, so the kids play at the playground for a while and then we decide to go to the pub and head out to rock for the sunset. However, the rain gets heavier so we settle into the pub and play pool and have tea and decide the rock can wait until the morning!!!
The flight is only about 2 hours, so we just have time for lunch and a bit of a read and we are landing at Ayers Rock. It is about 2pm local time and very overcast and trying to rain. We pick up the hire car and check in to the Ayers Rock campground where we have booked a cabin. The cheapest accommodation I could find that has towels and sheets, and boy does it show!!! The cabin is made up of 3 rooms that are so small, not cat swinging allowed!!! Glen and I have to leave our bags in the kitchen as there is no room in the bedroom but the kids have two double bunks and they think it is the most fun ever !!! You have to unplug the tv to put the kettle on and the place looks like it hasn't had any work done to it for about 30 years, however, it has a pool and a playground and a barbi, what more could you want, especially considering our next option up was a $600 a night 2 bedroom 3 star apartment, ridiculous!!! Anyway, it drizzles on and off most of the arvo, so the kids play at the playground for a while and then we decide to go to the pub and head out to rock for the sunset. However, the rain gets heavier so we settle into the pub and play pool and have tea and decide the rock can wait until the morning!!!
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