Awesome Australia
Three weeks exploring the world's smallest continent is simply not enough. Covering just under 3 million square miles, distances between places are vast, roads are long but the scenery sublime.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to Roger, my cousin, and his wife, Cecily. Without their kindest generosity, patience and organisational skills, the trip would never have left Heathrow.
Roger and Cecily, we had a blast. Our thanks and love to you both, always.
Below is just a small selection of photos from our Australian adventure.
Sydney – the iconic city
Often mistaken for Australia's capital (it's actually Canberra) Sydney (New South Wales) lived up to its expectations, albeit a rather large construction site when we visited.
To ease congestion, tunnels are being bored on a gigantic scale for new roadways, but it only added to the holdups for the time being. As a tourist, I would complain wouldn't I!
Roadworks aside, the Opera House is a must see, the historic ferries are a must ride, the Botanical Gardens a nice walk and the Aboriginal Display in the NSW Art Gallery a must view; if it's still there.
The harbour itself is an energetic mix of ferries, private craft, sailing ships, flying boats, warships and pleasure seekers. A great lifestyle.
Bondi Beach
In my opinion rather disappointing to be honest. Over hyped, rundown and tacky. Here's what you do; stand on sand, take photo, buy fridge magnet, get a ferry to Manly. Much nicer.
Manly
A lovely beach side suburb of Sydney with pleasant eateries and comfy bars. If you fall in love with Manly, average house prices are 4.4 million Aussie dollars. Simply jump on a ferry from the Opera House to get here.
Just so you know. Australians don't actually drink lager. They drink craft beers. In a Manly bar, I asked for a lager thinking it was typically Aussie. The reply was 'what's a lager?' The power of advertising!
Pigeon House Mountain
Known by the Aboriginal people as Dithul, Pigeon House Mountain was so named by Captain James Cook in 1770 as he though it not dissimilar to a dovehouse.
720 meters high, you can find Dithul on the Bundawang Range which sits in the Morton National Park, NSW.
From the car park, it's a 3-4 hour return walk through the bush. Steep ladders take you to the summit from which the views are worth every step.
Harper's Mansion
A National Trust property in Australia? The Trust will own the world one day. Which might not be such a bad thing.
Harper's Mansion, built in 1834 in 100 acres of scrub, now stands in two acres of well kept gardens and a maze. The house has been subject to the usual NT restoration and contains fine examples of 19th century furniture. It's just like being back in the UK; except for the heat and the flies.
For an interesting story: Harper's Mansion
Retford Park
If I lived in Australia it would have to be at Retford Park, Bowral. The house and gardens are truly beautiful.
Built in 1887 then painstakingly restored and transformed in 1964 by a very wealthy chap, James Fairfax AC, Retford Park now houses some amazing artworks and collectibles. Child and dog friendly too.
Gifted to the National Trust in 2016. Flies are not allowed in.
Wildlife
Beaches
Apparently there's over 11,700 beaches along Australia's 31,000(ish) mile coastline. That's a lot of sand between your toes.
Of course, they are very busy near the main towns and cities but, travel a few miles and you'll be welcomed to gorgeous stretches of white and yellow sand, completely deserted and stretching further than the eye can see.
Rocky coves pounded by the relentless Pacific are also a plenty. The perfect picnic spot while watching the ospreys and sea eagles.
Cape St George Lightstation
The perfect spot for whale watching (we missed the migration), Cape St George Lightstation is now just sad, crumbling ruin.
A drive off the beaten track the area is a walker's paradise. Only use the public toilets if you are of a strong disposition.
For lots more information and some grizzly stories, visit: Cape St George Lightstation
Yalwal Historic Cemetery
Not easy to get to, Yalwal Historic Cemetery is a grim reminder of merciless conditions early settlers encountered in the pursuit of gold.
The township of Yalwal was abandoned in the 1920s when the last goldmines ceased production. It now lies under the Danjera Creek Dam which you can visit.
Harrowingly, several of the graves bear witness to the sad passing of very young children, possibly to diphtheria. 1854 was the oldest grave I could find.
This site has more details of the graves and how to get there: Yalwal Historic Cemetery
Newcastle
Newcastle or 'Newy' if you're a local, is undergoing a monumental overhaul. Several streets were lined with abandoned, graffiti adorned buildings with new constructions rising in between. Fortunately, many of the old buildings remain, a reminder of Australia's heritage.
The best way to see Newcastle is from the Christ Church Cathedral tower. The top gives 360 degree views of the developing city. Ask in the cathedral for the key to access the tower. There is a small fee, thoroughly worth it.
If time allows, Nelson Bay is a lovely spot. Drive up to Gan Gan Lookout for great views. If you like a walk Tomaree Head Summit offers superb panoramas. For beach lovers Birubi Point in the Worimi Regional Park has miles of glorious sand dunes and camel rides.
