Bits n Bobs

Cats!

2012-01-16T17:22:00.000-08:00

Me!

This is me, posing for a photo shoot. As you can see I am smiling. Do you think I have potential for movies?

My cousin Koko

One of my favorite movies is "Red Dog" which stars my cousin Koko a Red Cattle dog cross Kelpie. Based on a true story, and if you watch it you will see just how amazing we are as dogs and just how we make cats our friends.

He can ride motorbikes and I can bite them

Recently, we got a new cat called Sable. She looks very much like Midnight and I have tried my very best to get to know her. I have bent new security screens, jumped on tables to try and get through windows and even used my "super" bark to evoke fear and friendship.

He even like trucks as I do!

Still she sits right at the windows. Do you think she likes me? I think I am pretty good looking too, whilst I am not movies star I have a unique coat and colour. and it a double coat which means its water proof!

Do you like my smile? I have "choppy" jaws. they sound like two planks of wood clapping together when i am serious about issues. E.g. not being fed at exactly the same time, not going on walks, not being allowed to steal workshop tools.

Trout

2012-01-09T15:23:00.000-08:00

The Fish River crossing. Quite fast flowing and deeper than usual.

It was time to capitalise on the beautiful weather by getting out again, this time back to the Fish River at Tarana in search of rainbow trout. Again I was to drive, use the crutches a bit, but basically sit and continue reading a book whilst others enjoyed a stroll along the mountain stream.
The track beside the river where I got tangled in barbed wire

The wind had picked up and the temperature dropped a bit, but it was not too long before a line was wet and trout could be seen in pursuit of the lure. I sat and enjoyed the pine trees, the smell of bush honey and hay. I did have a go at a bit of "bush walking" but I got tangled in barbed wire within a few feet of the car...so we shall leave that for later.

Silvereye. (photo courtesy of Agmates).

Many of the usual bird were in the canopy. A little difficult to spot as the wind tossed the branches about, however I did get a brilliant look at a Silvereye. A charming little bird with a distinct white ring of feathers around the eye. Again the door configuration proved a valuable hide.

FJ door configuration.
As you can see from the photo above the door opening, whilst frustrating in a tight car park, proves a perfect "hide" for bird watching, with easy access to the binoculars, and camping equipment inside without spooking the wildlife.

All in all a nice way to spend an afternoon.

Penrith Lakes again

2012-01-06T17:46:00.000-08:00

Dusky Woodswallow. ( Courtesy of Canberra Birds)

Yesterday I picked up the 250. I must say just how helpful Hawkesbury Honda are. There was no charge for the repair to the bike and despite looking "major," it was, in fact just a tweek of a few bolts and all was well. Dave and I cleaned the bike, (well, I sat in the car while he steamed cleaned it), and then it was time to return the trailer to the hire centre.

This gave me the perfect excuse to try some birding around the Penrith Lakes. I have posted before about the lakes and the system. However, each time I go it just gets better. I was curious to see how I coped without the use of the right leg and what the bird life was like now some of the lakes had dropped in water level.

I had no expectations, (critical if you want to have a good time regardless of where you are and what you are doing), plenty of "boyish enthusiasm" , and a desire to enjoy the outdoors in peace and quiet.

The day was warm, golden and sunny, with a blue sky and gentle breeze. It was a brilliant summers day. On the breeze was the smell of Privet and even Wattle tree. Flowers still seem to be in bloom. This is the thing with Australia- give it water and it comes alive for months.

Brown Quail. (Courtesy of Birds in Back Yards)

I chose not to attempt to walk with the crutches as the risk of a fall in a paddock was there. Instead I chose to drive, park and open the doors, using the car as a "hide". I have to say this worked brilliantly! The FJ has the unusual door opening and it acted as a perfect hide. So good in fact that a Brown Quail wandered past my feet!! For any birders who read my blog, the concept of using the doors as the sides of the hide and draping a camouflage netting over the top with holes/windows for telescopes and binoculars is very very feasible in this vehicle, and when the roof rack is fitted I am going to do this. In the outback, where cover is limited, opening the doors, and throwing a cover over is perfect. Bird don't seem to get stressed with cars, but the minute they see people they are off.

I spent a good couple of hours enjoying the sun. The birds I enjoyed the most was the Brown Quail, (got a brilliant look), and Black winged Stilt ( one of the prettiest birds imo). Of course Wedged tailed Eagles soaring in a pair is always breathtaking. From the list you can see that I got very few "small brown flitty things", as you do need to move around a bit in the long grass and trees which I could not do. The Thornbills were good though.

Black-winged Stilt (not my photo).

All in all a great way to enjoy sunshine and fresh air.

Birds seen:-Wedged tail Eagle, Black-winged Stilt, White Winged Cough, Australian Magpie, Australian Raven, Yellow-Billed Spoonbill, Yellow Thornbill, Australian White Ibis,Great Egret, Australia Darter, Black Swan, Little-pied Cormorant, Purple Swamphen, Hoary-headed Grebe, Eurasian Coot, Pacific Black Duck, Little Black Cormorant, Little Egret, Noisy Miner, Australian Kookaburra, Grey Butcherbird, Yellow-faced Honeyeater, White Plumed Honeyeater, Dusky Wood Swallow, Fairy Martin, Magpie Lark, Australian Pipit, Brown Quail, Crested Pigeon, Great Cormorant, Welcome Swallow, Bul Bul, Australian Pelican, Galah, Short-billed Corella, Black-shouldered Kite, Masked Lapwing, Willy Wagtail, White-faced Heron, Common Starling, House Sparrow. 40.

Pacific Park.

2012-01-05T15:39:00.000-08:00

The three bikes. (L to R)- Honds Cr125 motocross, Honda Crf150F Trail, Honda Crf250xb Enduro and one FJ Landcruiser.

As per my previous post, I am finding it difficult to sit still. The boys are feeling the same. So, I thought it was time I took the boys to the motorbike park and see how I go driving the car. The weather was warm and humid but not as bad as the previous days 38c.

As best I try, I was not much help, and the boys loaded and unloaded the bikes for the afternoons activity. Upon arrival I simply got a chair and read yet another book. Both dust, noise and the smell of racing fuel filled the air..

Setting up camp. The unusual door configuration proved a useful change room

Needless to say, the boys rode with great gusto for 3 hours. David dropped the 250 and bent the forks, Logan's rear wheel nuts fell off and that caused a bit of drama as well. To top it off, Dave decided to ride to the shops on the 150 to get some drinks. When he got back he only had one... The look on his face when he realised he had dropped them was priceless. (The shop was a fair way away)

Dave.

After about 4 hours in total of riding we packed up. 3 clean bikes returned covered in mud and we were all covered in dust. We dropped the 250 off for repair... the mechanic was not happy at working on a dirty bike, ( I don't blame him and I felt guilty). The Cr 125 has new wheel nuts ordered.

Yours truly reading a book, waiting for the next dust cloud to fill my nostrils.

In retrospect, some serious damage could have occurred if the wheel just fell off and the 250 had a serious tank slap, ( handling problem), as a result of the twist in the forks. Before stopping home we went and had the remaining two bikes steam cleaned.

Despite taking my binoculars, there was very little chance of spotting anything. A few wood ducks flew past. Besides, standing with crutches looking though binoculars makes me giddy!

As for driving, well it was very, very tiring and made me sore today as I write (very in fact). So I am not ready to battle peak hour and return to work just yet. try as I might.

All in all a good day had by all!

Ankle Update

2012-01-01T15:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone.!

Just a brief update- The ankle is healing well. No pain whatsoever. I cannot put weight on it at all yet, so mobility is frustrating. I do have an ache that extends down the leg. I am assuming its as a result of lack of exercise of those leg muscles. Frankly, it does drive me nuts. I have had a go at driving the car and can do it but would prefer not to try heavy traffic. Its tiring as well.

I have not been visiting or writing much as the internet here is almost at a standstill and will be until the 8th Jan. So, feel like a stale bottle of drink at a BBQ- just hanging around reading, (what on earth do people find in reading??), sitting, researching, sleeping.... ARGH!!!!! I need a walk/fish/mow/bike ride/garden/travel/birdwatch.....

Cobb and Co and the Paroo People.

2011-12-19T16:40:00.000-08:00

Cobb and Co Coach crossing the flooded Paroo River.

In researching the history of the outback and my families place in it I stumbled on photos of family members standing in front of a Cobb and Co Stage coach at Wannaring. NSW. On the back of the photo is the writing of Eldred Barton addressed to Margaret Valentine Cotter and he refers the everyone as the "Paroo People"

Cobb and Co coach full gallop being chased by a dust storm

For my overseas readers the Paroo is one of the last free flowing rivers left in Australia and is a very significant river along with the Darling, as a place of Aboriginal history, Pastoral history and is very high in environmental significance. ( google it).

The Stage coaches of Australia were developed by Americans Freeman Cobb and George Mowton in answer to American company "Adams Express" desire to set up an international freight service here. Adams Express had profited greatly from the American gold rush and saw similar opportunities in moving freight here.

However, George Mowton returned to America as he felt the plan would not work- the country was too harsh. Cobb persisted and saw the need to move passengers as just important as freight.

Coach outside a hotel.

Whilst coaches had been used for many years in Australia they were crude and uncomfortable, often falling apart, or making passengers ill. The Cob and Co Coach was developed in answer to the need of covering vast distances over harsh terrain. The original coaches were built in America by Abbot- Downing coaches and used a simple leather strap system to suspend the the body and provide comfort for the passengers. They were a proven design and they worked. They were known as "Concord" coaches as this was the town where they were built.

However "comfort" is very subjective. Here is a quote from a passenger in 1870:-

“The coach starts ... with the passengers and mails over a road on which travelling in the daytime is wretched enough, but in the night is excruciating. The road has received very little attention in the way of making from anybody, and is just what a track over stony ground, cut up for a score of years, would be. For twenty or thirty miles it consists of sand and rocks intermingled, over which the coach is driven as fast as the horses can drag it. The result is a continuous series of jolts, which must be felt to be appreciated, and which in weak persons would likely cause internal injuries. During this period of suffering, if the wind follows the coach, there is a constant atmosphere of dust. The driver has shortcuts and paths of his own through the forest, and the passenger on the box seat is constantly engaged in a mental calculation of the odds in favour of running foul of innumerable stumps which he sees flying past, or dashing headlong against the trees through which he can see no road until in the midst of them. The leader of the team however, follows the twists and turns of the bush road with amazing accuracy and though we graze the very bark of the trees, still on we go, frequently at full gallop, and the driver is quite unconscious of doing anything wonderful”

Pulled by a team of 4-6 horses they carried their passengers, mail and luggage across the vast interiors of QLD, NSW and Victoria. As Cobb & Co developed so too did the Staging Posts- a place where the horses were changed and repairs made as needed. These too developed where passengers could receive a meal, drink and accommodation as required.

Cobb and Co Coach fully loaded ( dare I say "Overloaded"??)

To ensure the fastest time, a driver would use a bugle or a horn to announce the coaches imminent arrival. This gave the blacksmith and the stables time to prepare the exchange horse. Each drivers "call" was different and so the team of horses could be readied specifically for that driver and his coach. It was simple and brilliant. Horses were exchanged every 10 to 30 miles depending on terrain. The Cobb and Co coaches redefined travel for Australia from the 1850's through to the 1920's where cars, trucks and buses began to take over. In 1856 Mr Cobb returned to American having made a small fortune and changing the history of our nation.

The Cobb & Co Coach arrives for the Paroo people! Woman far right is Elen Fischer Cotter, and on her right Mrs Goodie ( Family photo circa 1910 at Wanaaring)

For me, I see in the family photos that the arrival of Cobb and Co coach was a great social event with everyone turning out to see it. I look at the people and see tough men and women. There are stories of a woman driver who would drive and if the coach was not full she would take her 13 children with her! Once she saw Bushrangers about to rob her coach and she beat them off ( not surprising if she has 13 kids... bush rangers would be a piece of cake!)

Its a sad thing that there is not more done to preserve Australian folk-lore. If you look at the wells Fargo site in the USA they are very proud of their stage coach history. I have to say that nowadays its fashionable to "bash " the USA however there are many great things they have done for us and our history

My family photo. Sent by Eldred Barton for Ms Margaret Cotter. The women to the left is Elen Fischer Cotter. (Circa 1910 at Wanaaring to be confirmed)

Below is a song that now makes sense to me after looking at the photos. I hope it makes sense to you.

Cobb and Co. Lionel Long

There's a hustle and a bustle in the old hotel tonight
The bar is over-bursting and the lights are gaining bright
They're waiting for the horses who have been through the night
And they're waiting for the coach of Cobb & Co
Cobb & Co, Cobb & Co
And they're waiting for the coach of Cobb & Co

There's Billy Jones the jackeroo still breathless from his ride
He bought a brand new sulky and he's standin' just outside
He's waiting for the pretty girl who's gonna be his bride
And she's coming on the coach of Cobb & Co
Cobb & Co, Cobb & Co
And she's coming on the coach of Cobb & Co

Now the horses hooves are drumming in the distance they're a coming
A far off land is booming, just a plain
The breakneck speed they're driving, pretty soon they'll be arriving
There'll be lots of cheer when old friends meet again

There's Dan the old prospecter and he's got a bag of gold
He made a lucky strike, about two thousand pounds I'm told
He's off to see the city lights before he gets too old
And he's leaving on the coach of Cobb & Co
Cobb & Co, Cobb & Co
And he's leaving on the coach of Cobb & Co

Jim Burke is mighty worried 'cause the drinks are running dry
Unless he gets some money soon he'll kiss his farm goodbye
His written to the bank and now he's waiting their reply
And he hopes it's on the coach of Cobb & Co
Cobb & Co, Cobb & Co
And he hopes it's on the coach of Cobb & Co

The driver's whips are cracking and the horses hooves are dragging
As across the red and dusty trail they race
There's a distant light a burning and the passengers are yearning
For the comfort of a warm and kindly place

And someone shouts they're coming and the door is open wide
There's a rattle and a clatter and the coach is there outside
With horses hot and steamy from their long and dusty ride
There's the coach that bears the name of Cobb & Co
Cobb & Co, Cobb & Co
With the coach that bears the name of Cobb & Co..

ankle update

2011-12-15T14:07:00.001-08:00

quick update.. Operation completed at stage 1. All went well, only concern was blood pressure at 200+ which has never happened before. So I will try to find out why.

I left early, no pain killers, (is there something wrong with me?), I had doctors and nurses questioning why. Well, I simply dont feel it and its no worse than the pain before anyway.

I have to be still for 4-6 weeks, return to have the foot inspected and stitches out. If there is no pain, then the job is done. If there is pain when foot is loaded, then they implant the cartilage and its another 6 weeks of waiting.

So, to all family and friends- I am fine, needing rest and In a few days I will back blogging and emailing etc.

See you all soon!

Dust Bowl Dance

2011-12-04T16:41:00.001-08:00

The Cotter boys circa 1906

The young man stands on the edge of his porch,
The days were short and the father was gone,
There was no one in the town and no one in the field,
This dusty barren land had given all it could yield.

I've been kicked off my land at the age of sixteen,
And I have no idea where else my heart could have been,
I placed all my trust at the foot of this hill,
And now I am sure my heart can never be still,
So collect your courage and collect your horse,
And pray you never feel this same kind of remorse.

Me on my stock horse.

Seal my heart and break my pride,
I've nowhere to stand and now nowhere to hide,
Align my heart, my body, my mind,
To face what I've done and do my time.

Well you are my accuser, now look in my face,
Your opression reeks of your greed and disgrace,
So one man has and another has not,
How can you love what it is you have got,
When you took it all from the weak hands of the poor?
Liars and thieves you know not what is in store.

Jim Cotter 1907

There will come a time I will look in your eye,
You will pray to the God that you always denied,
The I'll go out back and I'll get my gun,
I'll say, "You haven't met me, I am the only son".

Seal my heart and break my pride,
I've nowhere to stand and now nowhere to hide,
Align my heart, my body, my mind,
To face what I've done and do my time.

Clearing land by hand 1907

Seal my heart and break my pride,
I've nowhere to stand and now nowhere to hide,
Align my heart, my body, my mind,
To face what I've done and do my time.

Well yes sir, yes sir, yes it was me,
I know what I've done, cause I know what I've seen,
I went out back and I got my gun,
I said, "You haven't met me, I am the only son".

Song. Mumford and Son

Ankle update

2011-11-07T14:47:00.000-08:00

They are not going to fuse it (YAY!). However, on the 14th of December they are going to open up the ankle, remove what's left of the cartilage, then clean the damage out, take the cartilage away and grow it in a dish for 6 weeks.

They then put it back in the ankle. The upshot is an 80% chance of success and ankle movement without pain. The down side is 12 months before I can put weight on it. They will replace the hip in June whilst I am recovering from the ankle.

So there is a HUGE shift in my future coming up.

Perhaps its the drop kick I need. So- here's to sitting still for that time! Ouf!

Coke

2011-11-04T14:23:00.000-07:00

I have often seen myself like a bottle of coke. I can be a bit fizzy. Sometimes I can be flat. I can keep people up all night. I don't have much nutritional value. I do mix well, and can be handy to have around. I do get on well with other drinks and can be a bonus at parties. Too much of me is not good for you, yet i can remove grease from driveways, so I work hard. I have not changed much over the years and despite my age the bottle is still in good shape.

Now they have named their drink after me hahaha!! ( told you I needed a blogging break)

Yoma Sabina. The Lurcher

2011-10-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

The Lurcher!

(Photo Courtesy Stella Crosley)

With back burning operations occurring in the national park, Dave and I thought we would walk the fire trails before the fires reached our favorite spots. A beautiful warm day, with a light breeze, it was not too long before we spotted Lewins Honeyeater, Whip Bird and Eastern Spinebill. Last week I observed the Glossy Black Cockatoos feeding further down Wool Wash creek.

The Warratahs were in full bloom and they looked superb, as too were numerous other flowers. Butterflies were in abundance and we noted this one we had not seen before, looked it up and I thought "what a funny name for a butterfly"..so I posted it.

After a 2 hour walk talking about motorbikes, bushwalking, birds, we returned home hot, sweaty, and tired but all the better for it. I hope the birds and animals will be ok with the fires that will soon appear.

Later that afternoon we went for a motorbike ride. Heaps of fun and quite eerie with the fires burning alongside the track.

NOTE:- Full apology to SOSSA. I was booked to be on the boat today, and got the date mixed up with next Sunday. My own stupid fault. Worse still the boat sits in harbour and waits... So, to Lindsay Smith and the 12 or so people waiting for me .... I am utterly sorry.. I will gut fish, swab the decks, turn the sausages at the next meeting to make amends. Its the least I can do.

Birds seen- Crimson Rosella, Australian Magpie, Lewins Honeyeater, Eastern Spinebil, Whip Bird, Laughing Kookaburra, Galah, Noisy Miner, Red Wattlebird, Currawong.

First long ride

2011-10-20T15:32:00.000-07:00

I previously posted about my family history, and realised that one of the newspapers is doing the same and using some of the photos I had posted. This history will be published in "The Land" newspaper next month , so I thought it best to withdraw the post from my blog until after the article is published.

So, here is my first ride:-

Getting ready.

On Sunday, with the weather typically warm, sunny and with blue skies I chose to ride the bike to Mountain Lagoon. Its a particularly favorite spot of mine and it is a ride that, not to long ago, I did on my mountain bike.

The ride takes me through, and across Wheeny Creek before winding its way up into the mountains along a dirt road/firetrail.

I must confess that I had more confidence on the tar road as I have not done much dirt riding for many, many years.

Daves bike and my bike.

The bike performed really well for a 250, with a lot more power than the ones I rode as a kid. It was not too long before I was at the lagoon, with purple swamp hens enjoying the waters edge.

On the way back I spotted a dingo which was quite exciting and rare. The ride requires a degree of caution as the road is narrow with blind spots and hairpin bends, the risk of being hit by a 4wd is there.

The Lagoon

Later, I rode the firetrails which are quite rough and had to cross a fallen log. I had forgotten how to do that and got stuck halfway across before recalling what I had to do. Second time around was sucessful both ways.Then I rode through a creek and nealry swampped myself with mud....

After I returned I was really quite sore but satisfied with the way it went. The bike will now need its first service after 120km of travel.

Thurloo Downs

2011-10-16T15:14:00.000-07:00

Left to Right. Jim Cotter, Plummer Cotter,the owner of Thurloo Downs/Elsinora Station Mr Killen?,and Frank Cotter.

I have recently discovered and am researching my families pastoral history here in Australia and our links with the Darling River. My great grandfather, Plummer Cotter and his wife Mary, had three children born in a town called Wilcannia. For my overseas friends, the Darling River is one of the great rivers of the world and would be similar to the mighty Mississippi.

Darling River at Wilcannia in drought 2006

Wilcannia Is situated north of the Menindee Lakes and was Australias third largest port. Paddle steamers worked the Murray-Darling river, and with the boom in the wool trade, mining etc, Wilcannia thrived. Today Wilcannia is a shell of its former glory. Many of its old buildings remain,sadly many have become burnt out.

Darling River at Wilcannia with paddle steamer "Tolarno" circa 1906

The town itself is on the Barrier Highway east of Broken Hill. Many travellers refuse to stop in this town. There has been a history of riots and violence.
The three children were Margaret Valentine Cotter, James Cotter and Frank Cotter. Frank is my grandfather.

Plummer managed a station called Glenlyon. (Note- we call large farms "stations" here in Australia).

Sheep in the main street of Wilcannia circa 1900

The most significant piece of this history is the property called Thurloo Downs. Now a 1.3 million acre holding owned by Mr Peter Hughes. Plummer and his sons managed this property which included Elsinora Station until 1907. Set further north, between Wanaaring and Tibooburra in the States north west. The Paroo River features in my family history too, and it flows into the Darling river. I have recently discovered that Urisino was also incorporated with Thurloo and Elsinora. A huge area of land

Left to right Mr Killen?, Plummer Cotter, Frank Cotter

You can enlarge the historical photos and see the men and their work. My family worked for the Killens, Sir Sam Wilson, and the McGraths. I shall post more soon.

2011-10-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

This is the new bike. A Honda CRF250XB. I shall ride it where I used to ride the mountain bike. I guess its what they call "retail therapy" and being stubborn, is my way of Keeping moving!

First ride is planned for Sunday

Quarter Horses

2011-10-11T03:24:00.001-07:00

I have to admit I love quarter horses. This is Bella Donna. Just beautiful. My right hip is damaged because of a bad fall with a horse I was breaking in some 12 years ago. However, I still love horses. More horse photos soon

Pastoral History

2011-10-09T00:22:00.001-07:00

In the outback we crossed flooded roads...

...and travelled straight, rough tracks for hours and hours....

...to set up camp...

...and enjoy a walk with my family....

To defrost beer...

...and enjoy a fire...

As the moon becomes a ghostly galion tossed upon cloudy seas.......

Before returning through flood waters home.

Birds of significance. Brolga

( A walk in the footsteps of my grandfather...)

Mad world

2011-10-01T18:13:00.000-07:00

Down it comes!

I think Gulia Gillards carbon tax is working. Even before its got up in parliament, the weather seems to be in fear and retreat. ha ha.....

Ten days ago the bush had become power dry and a bush fire erupted in Leura, which is not too far from here. I got my house prepared for the fire season, (see previous posts), taking a day off to clean gutters and get the fire pump serviced. Then, within days, the temperature plummeted, and last week it rained and stormed. (See last weeks post on the Pelagic trip).

The snowman!

A few days ago we had a wind storm so violent it picked up our 13 foot trampoline and hurled it across the yard damaging the clothesline. It was lifted high enough to fly over some small shrubs and trees. Today we pulled the thing part and loaded it ready for the tip.

Then last night, the temperature dropped suddenly, the evening went white, then it hailed. Enough for Dave to make a snow man and for Nip to run around like a lunatic eating snow and ice. Both boys enjoying the weird weather! Nip ate the snowman. (Parts of it had turned yellow....Nip. woof!)

I like this set up and the retro van.

Again I went out to do the firetrail bird survey and again it was cold, windy and wet. The only bird was an Eastern Yellow Robin. All others were silent as they hunkered down in the wind and rain.

As I walked with Dave, I got to thinking about my mobility and the operation in about 12 weeks. I was really looking forward to getting the Fj Cruiser and setting it up like the one above but it looks as if production has been delayed, which is frustrating. So I got to thinking about other forms of transport. I decided not to buy a quad bike, as I thought, a few months back. The statistics of accident are startlingly high. Fatalities are also way above average. The college of surgeons here want the government to legislate to reduce the top speed and to provide roll over protection. I don't think it would suit me for that reason.

So, I decided to buy this. A Honda CRF250x. Similar to the Motocrosser but with electric start, and a wider ratio gearbox, it will be easier and more forgiving to ride. I am not sure how my hip will go but I am going to give it a try..Having ridden bikes all my life I will enjoy even one ride! It will motivate me to get well too and get out and enjoy the bush. Being registered should not cause drama when I ride along the roads in the National Parks. It arrives in a week. The best part is I got a $3000.00 discount for the last 2011 model and that makes it super cheap.

I am going to see if I can get a small rack to put my birding, camping equipment incl a small stove for a hot cup of coffee on the trail!

Birds seen today. Red Wattlebird, Eastern Yellow Robin.

photos

2011-09-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

Some blogger friends are posting about photo shop and I was thinking about some of the shots I like and how, what, where I took them.

This shot is one I really like. I took this at dawn, whilst sleeping in my swag, on a beach at Green Cape. Green Cape is a national park and is way down the South Coast of NSW. I must have looked like I was something that had been washed up!

It was raining yet I was pretty toasty inside the swag. The camera? An old Nokia phone. The photo reminds me of the smell of the sea, the calm water of the bay, the contrast with the boom of the waves breaking on the rocks on the horizon where the sun meets the ocean.

Like the previous post sometimes the worst camera can take an interesting shot.

It was all gone within a few minutes.

Pelagic trip

2011-09-25T16:01:00.000-07:00

Wollongong Harbour at about 6am. No, I am not using a blue filter!

With the weather forecast being "light occasional showers, south south easterly moderate winds and a one metre swell. Maximum temp 19, I thought it would be a near perfect day to go out and watch the scientists from SOSSA do their research.

The ocean a few minutes later.

I left home e at 4am for the 2 hour drive to Wollongong. As I approached the coast the weather set in and the rain and wind became heavier and stronger.
As dawn approached, the ocean, clouds, rain and land took on an eerie blue colour.

The calm shelter of the harbour.

Still undaunted I unloaded my kit and got into wet weather gear. Slowly others arrived and before too long we were aboard. Then the weather went "pear shaped."
As we sat idling the motors aboard the "Sandra K" The palms along the walkways began to blow sideways, the weather map beside the captains chair was show dreadful weather patterns.

Crested Tern

Still undaunted I stood on the deck as my boots filled with water, my pockets in my water proof filled with water and the rain began to run down the back of my neck, shoulders and into the back of my trousers.

The Sandra K. Sitting quietly

All whilst still in the shelter of harbour! 3o minutes later another trawler pulled in and our expedition leader and captain of the Sandra K decided discretion was the better part of valor, and we pulled the pin.

Sadly no Albatross this time, but I will say I got to talk to some of the SOSSA members, and a hot coffee and crumpet back at Lindsay's place was most welcome!

Crumpet and honey ( not my picture)

I was not disappointed with the weather. It brings its own type of beauty and reminded me so much of Shetland where it can be sunny one minute and a gale the next

Campbells Albatross. April 2011 trip

I am looking forward to the next trip on the 25th October. That afternoon with a hot shower and two jumpers and a roast, I thawed out!.

If you want to view some stunning photos of Pelagic trips and the beauty of the sea birds visit www.adarman.com Well worth a look.

Mountain Bikes

2011-09-20T15:42:00.000-07:00

There is nothing better than a mountain bike, and there is nothing better than a wheelie! (Dave is a lunatic! and the camera chord is annoying!!))

Birding and a good laugh!

2011-09-17T21:54:00.000-07:00

Lewins Honey Eater.(not my photo)

Sunday I did my usual 2-3 hour walk over the same ground I have for the past three weeks. I am surveying the area over the 4 weeks prior to the burn off.

Eastern Whipbird.(not my photo)

The day was warm, dry and a very warm westerly was blowing. I noted the ground has dried out substantially since last week and most of the regulars were in the canopy, or on the ground.

White-browed Scrub Wren.(not my photo)

I was delighted to spot the Eastern Whipbird, on previous occasions I have listed it by its call. Also spotted was the tiny White-browed Scrubwren. This tiny little bird forages in the ground litter, is quite plain, and only centimetres long.

Crimson Rosellas (click on photo and zoom in)

I returned home to find the Crimson Rosellas eating the flowers from my weeping cherry tree. I thought the contrast in colours was great.

Anyhow, I finished the walk and stumbled on this editorial in the Weekend Australian.. Sadly,(even though I am a few months off 50), it made me laugh a great deal!! (bird list is at the bottom), read on:-

YOU know you've turned 50 when: that person in the hat cannot possibly be a pilot.

Your voice starts to have a tone, perhaps only slight, but there none the less, of pompous authority.

Restaurants are suddenly very noisy.

You assess a good night's sleep according to how many times you got up.

You lust after the cars/guitars/clothes of your youth.

Today's sporting stars seem to lack the elan, the bravado, the derring-do of those of your day.

You start to say "in my day" - without any deprecating old man impression.

You remember school/university/first jobs with deep affection - no matter how much you hated it at the time.

You fall asleep during movies.

You start thinking of getting a home on one level.

When discussing politics you say things such as "the best lack all conviction, the worst are full of passionate intensity".

You find yourself telling a story you know you've told before, but you don't know if it was to these people. You continue. They let you.

Something you always hated starts to seem OK. Gardening. Musical theatre. Port. British detective dramas made by BBC Manchester.

Comfort over fashion. Every time.

You raise your optimum weight by 5kg.

You fall asleep reading the paper.

You feel unreasonably proud of being across a new technology: "There's this great app on the iPad!"

The city at night seems threatening. Footpads and ruffians lurk at every corner.

This seems like an excellent topic.

The first time you hear about a new recreational drug is on the ABC news.

You can't pronounce the name of the biggest pop star in the world.

Pop music seems vapid. Pornographic. Angry. Violent.

When you get out of bed, everything hurts.

You have a health issue that remains undiagnosed, chronic, and every few months you resolve to do something about it.

There are periods of your life you no longer remember.

You can't remember anyone's name any more.

You have no new friends.

You really must sort out the photos/clean the garage/turn that kid's bedroom into a study

Why not go on a cruise?

You can't believe you once smoked.

You try to tell young people things. No really, I know you won't listen, but if I knew this then, I think by 60 you stop that.

You've been to a 60th.

I presented these ideas on my radio show and, it being talk radio, a medium favoured by the mature, many shared accurate insights. You know you've turned 50 when:

The sharp and pungent music of your youth is now broadcast easy listening style in your supermarket - Ross.

You're drawn to golf courses - Nathalie.

You look in the mirror and see your mother - Virginia.

Quite interested in conversations about knee and hip replacements - Murray.

Waking up to Macca is a highlight of the weekend - Mark.

Before accepting an invitation to go out, you check the TV guide - Annette.

You look at your twin sister and think, God she's looking old - Amanda.

At school reunions you confuse teachers and students - Maurice.

Your back goes out more often than you do - Geoff.

Young men in shops start calling you "sir" instead of "mate".

In the shower you only wash down to your knees - Wal.

When the hairdresser inquires "Eyebrows, sir?"

Wombatisation - Ella.

When a man has to choose over or under, as in belt and navel - Gary.

When people stop telling you you're a hypochondriac - Peter.

You find yourself teaching previous students' offspring - Sally.

The only thing you put up your nose is Vicks inhaler - Mick.

You think Nirvana is new music - Carole.

Getting in or out of a chair requires vocalisation - Rob.

You feel you have wisdom that others need to hear - Kath.

When the young fellow at a drive-in bottle shop offers to carry your purchases to the car - Malcolm.

The twinkle in your eye is only the sun on your bifocals - Kamal.

You'd swap your broad mind for a narrow waist - Warwick.

If you are a woman you turn invisible - Mercedes.

You start to shout at the radio - Sue.

Everyone starts talking about their dogs - Del.

I'm not even sure politics would count. The now Prime Minister (as at the moment of writing, possibly at the time you're reading) is 50 on September 29.

And that's me. As if you hadn't figured that out.

Birds seen:- Red Wattlebird, Striated Thornbill, Grey fantail, Yellow Robin, Red-browed Finch, Eastern Spinebill, Golden Whistler, Lewins Honeyeater, Common Bronzewing, White Browed Scrub Wren.

Sunday morning

2011-09-11T16:16:00.000-07:00

Egg and bacon flowers

With the morning cold and crisp I thought it was a good time to go for a walk and explore more of the range in the national park. There was a blustery south westerly blowing which made the tree canopy dance around like the ocean, so I was not too confident of seeing many birds. When the canopy moves rapidly in the gusts the birds are much harder to spot.

However I did see our regulars and a new on for spring -a white cheeked honey eater. Again, another lovely bird which is quite curious.

White-cheeked Honeyeater. (Photo courtesy of Bird Forum)

The egg and bacon flowers were out in full bloom, and the air was filled with the sounds of Golden whistlers, Eastern Whipbird, and Grey Fantails.
After walking for 2 hours I startled a swamp wallaby which was asleep under a tree, or should I say it startled me.

Stinky swamp wallaby

Overall a nice way to spend a few hours before returning home. The fire brigade may burn off the area this week. I will be curious to see what effect this will have on nesting birds.

Birds seen:- Red Wattlebird, Golden Whistler, Yellow Thornbill, Striated Thornbill, Eastern Spinebill, Yellow faced Honeyeater, Grey fantail, Eastern Whipbird,Common Bronzewing, Laughing Kookaburra, Superb Fairywren, White cheeked Honeyeater.

Southern Ridge

2011-09-03T23:19:00.000-07:00

Dave pausing to listen to the sounds of the bush and a Golden Whistler.

On fathers day David and I got up early and chose to walk the fire trail which runs south from the house to the Grose River. Its about 7km. You can listen to a Golden Whistler by following this link and scroll down to the MP3
http://www.birdsinbackyards.net/species/Pachycephala-pectoralis

One of the fresh fire breaks put in place by the fire brigade

The day was warm at 20c, bright, light breeze, and plenty of trails to follow as the local fire brigade gets ready for a burn off. The morning was full of bird call, and brown flitty things making themselves busy amongst the growth. It was not too long before we were enjoying the sounds of whip birds in the valleys and golden whistlers enjoying the upper canopy.

Yellow Robin (click on picture and zoom in....)

The fire brigade will be burning off this week and I am curious to see the impact of this on the bird life as the birds are effectively in nest building and territorial establishment. I fear that this will have a negative impact if the fire reaches the canopy.

One of the many interesting trees.

One of the frustrating things however is the number of bottles we found. Clearly someone has driven the trails, and had quite a number of drinks. None of that concerns me but to simply throw the bottles into the bush is irresponsible. Bottles can start bush fires. Its that simple. Dave and I picked up all we could find and carried them out.

The superb view at the end of the trail. Looking west into the Grose River Gorge.

Oh- I want to apologise for the photos- I use an Olympus U770SW. Its one of those small waterproof/shock proof thingies and is basically lousy.
Birds seen:-

Golden Whistler, Eastern Spinebill, Red-browed Finch, Striated Thornbill, Yellow Rumped thornbill, Grey Fantail, Rufus Whistler, Grey Shrike-thrush, White throated tree creeper, Laughing Kookuburra, Crimson Rosella, Whipbird, Lyrebird, Common Bronzwing, Rainbow Lorekeet, King Parrot, Superb Fairywren

I'm a cheat

2011-09-01T20:11:00.000-07:00

There. I have said it. I have gone out and bought an I-pod and I have gone to I-tunes to download bird calls.

Yes I know I should just sit quietly waiting but sometimes I just cannot.....

Anyway

I witnessed a technique in Shetland whereby the scientists would set up their mist nests just before dawn, (which in July is about 1am), and "call" specific seabirds in. At that time is was a small tape player with 2 speakers and ran on batteries.
It worked a treat and saved a great deal of time in the research. In 2010 in Roudsea Woods we used the same method, but this time using an Mp3 player.

So, I have found a website that belongs to David Stewart, I can download, from I tunes, the bird calls I want, play them and hope to spot the more difficult birds along the way. The first bird I will try is a Eastern Whipbird and his mate, which lives in a rain forest water course behind our house, I hope to draw the male out with this technique. We shall see......I have placed a link to Davids Website.. he has recorded all sorts of bush sounds.. check it out.

Weekend Bike ride.

2011-08-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

Well, I dusted off my Cannondale Synapse with the attitude " Well, it hurts if I sit and do nothing, and it hurts if I do something...so better to do something!"

The bike was covered with dust, tyres flat, and it just looked awful. With a few squirts of WD40 and a rag I had it looking nice again. So I packed the car and took the bike to the "Lowlands" (which I have blogged about before).

Now, I have to admit that I was a little reluctant to push it, but I soon found my rhythm and was humming a long nicely, that was, until a young guy with legs like Cadel Evans shot past me like a car in the fast land on the motorway. It was only then I realised just how slow I had become in the 18 months since I have ridden.

This shook me out of my "Gee I am going well" thoughts, and I hit the gears up and tried to keep up. Well, I didn't.. Buuuut I think with continued effort I will give it a good crack.

The lowlands are beautiful- Polo fields, the river, hedges, turf farms and birds. Its a lot like riding along English country lanes.

After a short 25ks I returned home.

This morning I have woken up a bit sore but I am on a mission to get fit again and will be back Wednesday.

Melbourne

2011-08-17T16:16:00.000-07:00

Last week I sold my landcruiser. It felt as if it was part of the ending process that this year seems to have brought about. I will pick my new one up in a few weeks.

I hope to have it set up ready for more travel.

The apartment

Last week I was in Melbourne.

Black swans on the lawn of Albert Park lake.

Birding on the run can be a fun way of avoiding bordom. The trick is to identify without stopping or turning around. It can be frustrating too. I saw a beautiful bird of prey, thought I got all the markings down in my mind, but when I went to look it up, there were a few options. As a esult I cannot "tick it"

The letter winged kite looks almost the same as a black shouldered kite except for the marking under the "armpits". So I was very pleased with that one*. (* After consolation with Tony Dymond Vice president of the Cumberland Bird observers club, I am going to un-tick this. The behavior of the LWK is quite different to the BSK, and therefore I can no longer be certain)

Birds seen- Little Corella, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Galah, Red-rumped Parrot, Australian Raven, Litte Raven, Letter-winged kite, Australian Magpie, Australian Magpie, (White backed form), House Sparrow, Masked Lapwing, Australian Wood duck, Black Swan, Eastern Rosella, Crimson Rosella, Grey Butcherbird, Crested Pigeon, Common Bronzewing, Purple Swamp hen, Little Pied Cormorant, Intermediate Egret, Willy Wagtail, Magpie Lark, Silver Gull, White necked Heron, White winged Choughs, Pied Butcherbird, Welcome Swallow, Straw-necked Ibis. Black Shouldered Kite.

On returning I was pleased to see that the 2 bathroom renovation is complete and I can get a wheel chair into the main. which will be critical for a few weeks in December.

Weekend Birds

2011-08-14T16:09:00.001-07:00

Glossy Black Cockatoo. (Not my photo)

I saw 9 of these threatened species along the firetrail. Specialised feeders they make a nest in hollow tree trunks. The non native bee also use the same hollow and have been attributed to the decline in numbers of these amazing birds. Over several years I have witnessed the numbers increase in the area I walk.

Eastern Spinebill.(Not my photo)
A honeyeater and a good sign that spring is on its way. Melodious song.

Red Browed Firetail Finch. (Not my photo)

A very busy small bird, with the male brightly coloured, often seen flitting about the sides of the firetrails in groups.

Rainbow Lorekeet. (Not my photo).
A very smart bird that enjoys fruit and seeds and clowns around!

King Parrot.
Bright red and green and quite a regular in the feeder and fire trails.

Its clear that spring is certainly on its way

Meeting Badger

2011-08-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

It was some with some trepidation that I had agreed to meet Badger from "Vienna for Dummies" blog. I mean, meeting someone for real can be whole different experience than what your expectations might be based on their blog.

However, with our mutual friend, Jim's, departure, I thought "why not?" It will be interesting to see another persons perspective on all of this.

So, I met Badger and family in Blackheath, (Blue Mountains), on a stormy Sunday afternoon and had a wonderful few hours in front of the log fire with a beer, chatting about friendships and life's experiences.

So, Phillip-thanks mate. Great afternoon.

I look forward to catching up when overseas with them.

Check out Badgers Blog at http://phillipprideaux.blogspot.com/

Isn't she ugly?

2011-07-30T00:04:00.000-07:00

I mean really? What was Toyota thinking? The new Fj Landcruiser is Toyota's attempt at retro design. I hate it. Then some good reports started to filter through the fleets system. Despite its ugliness it was in fact great off road. Despite its ugliness it was in fact great on road. Despite its ugliness it had a washable interior. Despite its ugliness it was AUTOMATIC!

So- in view of my circumstances, I went out and ordered one. This will allow me to get around when I have my operations, and will replace the Toyota Landcruiser I currently have, which is a manual. It also has suicide doors, (now before you all start emailing me "Simon - dont.. I was think those thoughts......."), Suicide doors are doors that open backwards, so she looks like a 2 door but is in fact a four door. This makes access SUPER DOOPER EASY!

I could not order it in a "jelly bean colour," (I am too old for that), and they do come in bright colours for sure. So, I ordered it in "sandstorm" which is similar to the one I have and very similar to the colour they made in the 1970's.

I will be able to go outback, do birding, take the motor bikes, sleep in it and hose it out. I can even go and do real estate auctions in it.

Its sooooo practical but so ugly at the same time! That thats what I like. The beauty in its ugliness.

Hemochromatosis and the year so far

2011-07-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

My favorite artwork in Montparnasse cemetery, Paris.

What a year this has been. From the dizzy heights of my trip to Paris, the wonderful contrast by then returning and heading into the desert regions of Australia, to the passing away of a good friend. Adding to this being told I need a hip replacement, an ankle fusion, and that I have osteoporosis as well as arthritis. Its been a roller coaster ride that's for sure.

All of this got me thinking about the past 10 years. You see, I have always been very fit, had drive, worked two jobs, enjoyed my music and the environment. Ten years ago I fell in a heap. I had tuned a funny colour and had no energy. After months of tests I had been told I had hemochromatosis. In the average adult, normal ferritin, (oxidants or rust if you like), is between 50-300. Below 50 and you are anemic. Above 300 and you have flu like symptoms, and in some cases it can be an indicator that there are other things wrong, eg cancer.

My camping set up in 2006

I recall seeing my specialist, who said, (without looking up),- " Your ferrtin level is 4300". "What on earth were you thinking?" I replied, "Oh, every time I felt crook, I just rode my bike further". To which he said- " You are the worst case I have seen at 39 years of age, I will get you to 50 but after that is anyones guess."

My Beautiful Cannondale Mtn bike

I sat there, in his clinical office as he droned " You will never stop seeing me, and we have to start treatment right away."
I sat dumbstruck. This was not happening. I had a singing career I wanted to go on with , my work, my hobbies, my trip to the UK....fuck me. I did not have time for this.

I went home that day and read up about this blood disorder. I learned that raw seafood could kill me in a matter of minutes, that people complained of fatigue, pain, the inability to work, that there was different levels and it seemed to depend on the genetics. The list went on. I had the worst genetic combination and every bit of iron I had in my diet was absorbed and stored. It damages everything. Liver, heart, glands, even brain function.
It was killing me.

I went ahead with my trip to London and Shetland for a month despite doctors orders, (must be the Irish in me).

My magpie

I thought, "Self, don't hang around other sufferers because- if you hang around with cripples you learn to limp." So I did not join the society, and I refused to keep a record of the levels as I have treatment. What was the point?
I started the treatment and its simple - 500-600ml of blood is taken. This forces the body to use the iron to make new red blood cells. I had treatment every week for two years. Every two weeks for two years, every month for two years, every eight weeks since then. The doctors put me on steroids and anti inflammatory... Because I have small veins, I now have an arm that looks like a junkies.

Birding in the UK

I chose at the start to say "fuck it" and I kept riding my bikes, paddling my kayak working 6 days a week. I had a desire to travel and I have been to some amazing places as a result- in Shetland, the UK, France, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Spain and Japan. I spent time in a tiny Zodiac in the Atlantic off the coast of Shetland watching killer whales, I have climbed some mountains looking at Griffith Vultures in Spain. I have seen a ww2 Hurrcaine flying low through the valleys whilst on Skiddaw peak. I have had the most wonderful cheeses and wines and company,whilst looking out a window at the streets of Paris.

I have learned that you don't need much to have much. That good friends are everything.

But- slowly, like rust in a car, the disorder eats at you. My bones are now soft, as the body keeps reproducing so much blood. My joints are stiff and sore constantly. My right hip looks like it has holes in it and I am bone on bone in the right ankle. I am tired too, and often don't think straight, (some say I never did! lol!!!).

Without a wonderful boss here at the motor auctions I probably would not work. (and don't for one minute think I am having a "pity party" it's a fact). I have noticed that I don't like to spend much time with people face to face. Preferring the solitude of the mountain walks, bird watching or camping. I have no time for emotional blackmail either.

Later this year I will have my ankle fused. Its up to 16 weeks to recover and I may not be able to drive a manual car, (so they say but I know otherwise!! hahaha). The fusion is the only way as the bones are too soft and fragile forthe alternates. Next year I have to have the hip replaced- again the old fashioned way, so the pelvis does not shatter.

Kayaking on the Hwakesbury River

The doctor told me not to do anything to risk a fall- no walks which have steep descents, don't ride a push bike, don't ride a motor bike, (I did the other weekend and did a few jumps too)- stuff the doctors orders~

It's ten years next January, and I am not quite 50.

I need to write this- I have had a brilliant ten years, I have done, met and shared things I would not have done otherwise. I feel I have defied the disorder and am still planning to travel and see my friends overseas. I still love my fast cars, bikes and my bird watching and ballet, (mind you after seeing Guillem dance its hard to see others), and I am looking forward to getting back onto my Cannondale bikes.

Lakes District

But you know what? For me life is not about "things". It about moments- Sure seeing Guillem dance and talking to her in her dressing room is great- but seeing a friends ballet class is greater. Yes, seeing the Paris Opera is great, but walking into Dance Floor Cave in the blue mountains on a wet and rainy day, (see previous posts), is greater. That's what life is for me.

So- who knows what tomorrow may bring? Will I get another 10 years? I don't know or care. It's what I do today that counts, and I am going to do what I like. I guess I am learning to fall*.

*Learning to Fall is a book written by Philip Simmons. I read this book before being diagnosed. NO idea why someone gave it to me in 2001. Philip died in July 2002 the month I was in Shetland. (I only knew of this today). www.learningtofall.com have a look.

2011-07-20T18:54:00.000-07:00

Well folks today I:-

Opened a bag of fire wood and spread it all over the deck

Slept on Simons outside chair and then remodelled it.

Bit the end off a clay flower pot, which had strawberries in it and spread the dirt all over the deck.

Pulled the washing off the line and slept on it.

Opened the outside fireplace by removing the grill, and removing a burnt log, which I smeared all over the deck and ate the strawberries even though green.

Chewed the end off the hose.

Dropped a turd right in the middle of the pathway- just to test Simons reaction if he stepped in it.

Forced Simon to join Twitter for stress relief.

( I cannot understand why he gets stressed in wet weather?!!)

WOOOOF!

Rupert Murdoch

2011-07-19T15:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes in life you look at someone and think " How the heck did he/she get to where they are?"

If the world media is controlled by the likes of Murdoch and his son, then we get what we deserve- rubbish. But how did they get there? Both looked like fish out of water. Murdoch senior looked as if he was wheeled out of day care, and his son spoke as if he was a naughty school boy caught pissing up the wall in a toilet block...

Sigh.

While I am at it....

Australia is run by the most incompetent government in its history. Its leader, Julia Gillard, is also its most incompetent leader taking the crown from Rudd and Whitlam.

Gillard.

I could bore you all with the detail eg the billions Labor has wasted, the policy back flips and lies, and the fact they are linked to the greens who are like watermelons-green on the outside and red on the inside. The social engineering blah blah blah. (Sorry Bob but you are, and I ashamed I have a Kayak with a "No Dams" sticker and to think I supported you all those years ago)

But- for me- its this patronising way she places her hands on people when they speak to her. If I did that I would be up for harassment. Also- I was traumatised by a school teacher in kindergarten, and she spoke the same way as Gillard does, as if we are all idiots. No wonder I cannot spell..

Its proof perfect to me that life is not about what we are given but how we react to it. Some people are given much- when they least deserve it. Some are given so little, when they least deserve it. Maybe I am an idiot, but its my view if you have much then you need to be a good steward with what you are given, don't abuse your power or wealth.

If you are a leader and hard working people pay their taxes- don't spend it and waste it. Murdoch has abused his position- he is a micro manager- to say he had no idea is like trying to hide behind drooling his breakfast. His sons wafflings only dig a bigger hole.

As for Gillard- she is a thief, and a thief by the definition of stealing Australia prosperity and attempting to return us to the third world by making us sit in the dirt and weave baskets.

A country that does not grow something, make something, or mine something is a third world country. History will be the judge- previous governments have undone our manufacturing, have undone our farming (we used to be nett exporters we now are nett importers) And now for the final phase- the ruining of the mining industry under the cloak of "carbon." All whilst the western world burns under the level of debt.

Grumble... I think I will go to a national park and cool off, at least the birds and animals just do what they do.... grrrrrrrr. ( AND don't get me started on whats happening in the good ol' US of A...the very people who caused the financial crisis still hold positions of power and Obama, trying desperately to prevent bankruptcy is being held to ransom by loonies who would prefer to send the USA broke because they want him out.

You know the only people who pay for all of this waste? You and me babe...

I wish you were here

2011-07-12T23:43:00.000-07:00

My son "conducting" the ocean.

I dig my toes into the sand
The ocean looks like a thousand diamonds strewn
across a blue blanket
I lean against the wind, pretend that I am weightless
And in this moment I am happy
Happy

I wish you were here

Southern cross at night

I lay my head onto the sand
The sky resembles a back-lit canopy with holes punched in it
I'm counting UFO's, I signal them with my lighter
And in this moment I am happy
Happy

I wish you were here

The world's a rollercoaster
And I am not strapped in
Maybe I should hold with care
But my hands are busy in the air
Sayin

I wish you were here

Incubus

Motorbikes and birding.

2011-07-03T18:21:00.000-07:00

Dave ready to ride.

Can they co-exist? I mean birding is a quiet activity. Motorbikes, (especially 2-strokes), are noisy affairs. So this weekend we took to the bikes to 2 separate locations. one on the farm to a beautiful valley called Tarana, the other to Pacific Park, where the boys can let their hair down on a motocross track, enduro tracks and trial riding trails. All in the name of exhausting themselves.

The Bike trailer with cooking set up- ensures a nice cup of tea, hot lunch or cold can be available for hungry riders.

Well I can say bikes can certainly be an effective means of birding. I even had a ride, ( against doctors orders), and flushed out a pair of Stubble quail! When I was younger I enjoyed the motorbikes I had. There is a certain sense of freedom with them.
After hours of riding the boys were covered in mud from head to toe. Daves CRF150, and Logans new CR 125 motor cross bike performed well and both boys rode exceptionally well too. Both boys are growing so fast, its really difficult to keep up with their energy level.

The boys fueling up the Honda CR125 motorcross bike- this bike is seriously fast!

Whilst they spent 5 hours riding I went off for quieter walks amongst the woods, river and swamps and found:- Australian Magpie, Brown falcon, Eastern Rosella, Crimson Rosella,, Australian Wood Duck, Pied Currawong, Common Bronze wing, Red-rumped Parrot, Galah, Yellow Tailed Cockatoo, Eastern Yellow Robin, Flame Robin, Yellow-rumped Thornbill, Striated Thornbill, Willy Wagtail, Grey Fantail, Crested Pigeon, Superb fairy wren, Stubble Quail, Australian Pipit, Rufus Whistler, Sulfur-crested Cockatoo, Common Starling, Australian Raven, Little Raven, Australian Pelican, Pee Wee, Black Swan, Masked Lapwing, Pacific Black Duck, Hard head, Purple Swamp Hen, Noisy Miner, Mallard, Cattle Egret, White Faced Heron.

Flame Robin- Its "red breast" is more of a flame orange then red.

It was a great way to spend 2 days.

Splitscreen.

2011-06-30T21:10:00.000-07:00

This is exactly how I feel when I travel to Paris.

Splitscreen: A Love Story from JW Griffiths on Vimeo.

My thanks to Bricolage blog

I like this to howl to

2011-06-26T22:08:00.001-07:00

This is a great song to howl to on a full moon...Simon got me the whole CD 'cause I liked it that much, but then I found the singer sounds like he has a cold all the time, and so I chewed the CD up!! ( And I am Blue not yellow!!!!)

WOOF!

My friend Blue who is Red.

2011-06-23T20:51:00.001-07:00

My best friend is "Blue". He is a Red Cattle dog and lives across the road from me. We get into barking competitions, which drives Simon crazy. Here we call anyone with red hair "Blue."

This is Blue. One pup in a litter will be red, all others blue,(like me!)

Both Blue and I like legs because we are bred the bite them. That is why I am called Nip.

I like Sylvie Guillem. She has nice legs which move really well!

WOOF!

Quad Bike

2011-06-22T23:33:00.000-07:00

With the news that it will be some time before I can walk again, (4 months), once I have the ankle fusion, I thought what on earth am I going to do for all that time....So I decided I am going to buy this:-

This is a Can Am 650 Quad bike with a Rotax twin cylinder engine. Automatic, Power steering, and overall fabulous! It means I can still get along the fire trails, zip about when camping and get into the places I would normally walk.

It's even got a winch which means I can winch it onto the back of the landcruiser, (not that I will be allowed to drive it whilst in plaster), and it comes with lockers too. Having auto and no real need to use my feet, I can sit and cruise along. Best part? It sounds like a ducati.

Wheeny Creek.

2011-06-17T20:25:00.000-07:00

Down the bottom is Wheeny creek.

The week was a disaster. I have the flu, I have been told I have osteoporosis and the treatment to strengthen the bones "kills" the jaw bone, I have to have my ankle fused and a hip replacement (both on the right leg)- the ankle alone is 16 weeks to recover and I may have to swap pedals in the car. Stop work as I cannot drive too. I have a tumor and it needs to be removed and I have to send a camera down my throat to see why its sore- probably because I have been on anti- inflamitories for 10 years.

So, seeing that I am totally "fucked", I thought "self" " Will I sit here in the house and stare at the walls?" OR will I get out and go for a walk and say "Fuck the blood disorder." So I chose the latter.

Yellow Robin ( not my photo)

No contest- I went to Wheeny creek. A popular and lovely spot to the north of where I live. The creek flows into the Colo River and swamps and there is a good variety of birds and wildlife. In the past I have seen Rock Warbler here, as well as LyreBird. I have been told Brush turkey can be seen as well.

Spotted Quail Thrush (not my photo)

I was delighted to see a Spotted Quail-thrush. A shy bird that flies quickly away and hides in the lower growth , again a chance sighting. Also delightful was a Yellow Robin and a beautiful White-bellied Sea eagle. Probably the one I saw a week or so ago at the polo fields.

It was a nice sunny day, with a warm breeze although I got plenty of leeches on me in the three hours I was there. I think we are at a turning point in the midst of the winter solstice. I felt refreshed and relaxed after my time in the national park and all it has to offer.

Swampy bits..

Birds included:-Buff-rumped Thornbill, Grey Fantail, Laughing Kookabura, Wee bill, Lewins Honeyeater, Australian Magpie, Red-browed Finch, Bell Miner, Superb Fairy Wren, Yellow Robin, Masked Lapwing, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Royal Spoonbill, Welcome Swallow, Pied Currawong, Australian Black Swan, Eastern Rosella, Purple Swamp Hen, Pacific Black Duck, Willy Wagtail, Hard Head, Little Pied Cormorant, Crimson Rosella, Rufus Whistler, Spotted Quail-thrush, Cattle Egret.

Willandra and the Plains Wanderer.

2011-06-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

The Willandra Plains, Me, my truck and a sunset.. Photo Susanna Cotter
Willandra June 2011

Hi to all. My children suggested we return to Willandra, to light a candle and say goodbye to Jim in our own way, to bring closure to a remarkable friends life.

Willandra is home to the Plains Wanderer, a lovely small bird that looks like a quail but with yellow legs. It was great to see and rare. It requires very specific terrain to survive. The herbage must be sparce enough for it to wander. the soil must be red, and the height of the herbage must be high enough to provide shelter but not too high. Jim explained a few weeks ago that its unlikly we would see it. I also saw Spotted Bowerbird, again a great bird to see, that we did not see last time.

Plains Wanderer. Note the long yellow legs.

I not only enjoy the wildlife, but also its pastoral history. The park is about one eigth the size of the original station, and contains the original 1920's shearing 1/4s, the restored homestead and 1950s shearing 1/4s.

This weekend we stayed in the managers cottage which is small, comfortable and clean. The nights were cold , crisp and clear and the days were bright and sunny with a cold breeze from the south. At night we had a roaring log fire and played guitar.

The Restored Homestead, palm trees, tennis court and water views

With my new binoculars I recorded more than 50 species including the trip there and back, there are more but I do not have the exeprience yet to identify them. Duirng the day I walked and drove the tracks. At night David and I went looking for owls and wandered the shearing sheds, (thats interesting in the dark!! Let me tell you).
The park is looking healthy thanks to the rain and the salt bush is certanly in better contition than whats on the working Willandra Station which you have to drive about 30km through the staion to get to the national park. Cattle do a lot of damage.

Here is what I wrote in May:-

Willandra April 2011

Willandra sunset. ( photo Dr Jim Fowler)

Some posts ago I talked about Willandra. We have visited the park three times. It is a park of National significance as it was the home of some of Australias finest Marino Sheep. It was with pleasure that I took my mate, Jim and my family to experience the shearers quarters, and the grand homestead.

Dave Fishing. (photo Dr Jim Fowler)

Situated west of Hillston and east of Ivanhoe, Willandra is home to a wide variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles. With all the rain we have had the Willandra creek was full and home to a variety of fish too. The nice thing about this park is- you can stay in the shearers 1/4's or stay in the managers 1/4's or, ( if you prefer), use the camping grounds. Wood is provided and the amenities are clean and functional. The roads in are "dry weather" roads only and whilst the road will take an average sedan, there are rocks and corrugations that would test it. A four wheels drive is recommended. Once a centermetre of rain has fallen.. you must wait for the roads to dry.. or you will have to pay for the repairs!

The office.

A self guided tour of the grand homestead is recommended as too is use of the BBQ near the tennis court and grape vine. It is truly remarkable to cook and look at the beautiful surroundings whilst relaxing on the Buffalo grass lawn. In walking through the rooms of the homestead, with some of the furniture and photos still hanging, it was not hard to feel that the owners were still present. built in the shape of a 'U" the centre has a magnificent rose garden, cellar and the kitchen, whilst being under the same roof was away from the rest of the house so as to avoid the cooking smells. The womens lodgings was also at the other end- So as to avoid any runcible behaviour from the traveling wool buyers!

1920s Shearers 1/4s

About a km back along the main dirt road is the shearing shed and the early shearers quarters. It is easy to compare the conditions of the 1920's with the 1950's as both quarters remain. The boys did it tough as too the ladies in the kitchens.

Beautiful Galahs

A drive tour is also recommended taking you along the creek, and through the grasslands where, if you are lucky you will see a Plains Wanderer (we did not). Magnificent kangaroos, birds of prey, and sunsets are all on offer.

Western Red Kangaroo

This is an opportunity not to be missed, and one all of us will never forget.

Bird list ( please note this includes birds on the drive to and from Willandra):- Australian Pelican, Wedge tailed Eagle, Sulphur crested cockatoo, Galah, Australian Magpie, Pee Wee, White Winged coughs, Apostle Bird, Willy Wagtail, Grey fantail, White faced Heron, Australian Wood Duck, Pacific Black Duck, Plains Wanderer, Black Shouldered Kite, Black Kite, Whistling Kite, Spotted Harrier, Sacred Kingfisher, Barn Owl, Australasian Grebe, Mallie Ringneck, Red-rumped Parrot, Black faced Cuckoo-shrike, Red capped Robin, Superb Fairy Wren, Brown Thornbill, Rufus Whistler, Yellow Throated Miner, Richards Pipit, Little Eagle, Crested Pigeon, Blue Bonnet, Hard Head, White Necked Heron, Welcome Swallow, Swamp Harrier,Grey Butcherbird, Pied Butcherbird, Straw-necked Ibis, Pied Cormorant, Spotted Bowerbird, Silvereye, Australian Rave, Little Raven, Little Corella, White Ibis, Eastern Rosella, White Headed Pigeon, House sparrow, Red Wattlebird, Common Starling, Black native Hens, Yellow Tailed Cockatoos, Laughing Kookaburra, Owlet Nightjar

Willandra Station and the Plains wanderers

2011-06-13T00:42:00.000-07:00

I needed a well deserved weekend away in my favorite place- the outback. Details soon!

Pughs Lagoon

2011-06-08T18:17:00.000-07:00

White-bellied Sea Eagle (not my photo).

With the weather cold and crisp and a few hours to kill before a doctors appointment I decided to do some more birding. Pughs lagoon is located in the historic town of Richmond NSW. It is excellent habitat for birds. I also wandered down the lowlands roads to do some spotting there as well. The highlights for me were Azure Kingfisher and a really superb White Bellied Sea Eagle.

Azure Kingfisher.

These are tiny little birds that make a nest in the side of a river bank. Very effective at catching fish and their colours are stunning.

The Sea Eagle was mature and in excellent condition.

Other Birds spotted included:- Pacific Black Duck, Black Swan, Willy Wagtail, Dusky Moorhen, Eurasian Coot,Purple Swamphen, Mallard, Little Pied Cormorant, Red Browed Firetail,Rainbow Lorekeet, Red Wattlebird, Pee Wee, Hoary Headed Grebe, Masked Lapwing, Great Cormorant, Australasian Little Grebe, House Sparrow, Superb Fairy Wren, Azure Kingfisher, White Bellied Sea Eagle, Cattle Egret, Grey Fantail, Buff Rumped Thornbill, Chestnut Teal, White Faced Heron, Little Raven, Australian Raven, Welcome Swallow, Restless Flycatcher, Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike, Common Bronzewing, Spotted Turtledove, Bell Minor and Currawong.

Penrith Lakes

2011-06-04T22:23:00.000-07:00

I needed to get out of the house, so with new binoculars at hand, and a sunny winters day, it was time to head back to Penrith Lakes that we did 8 weeks ago.

Penrith lakes is a man made system of lakes, some still under construction. Earlier sections were used for our 2000 Olympics for rowing and kayaking. It is fast becoming a haven for water birds as well as others.

My binoculars certainly improve my ability to identify water birds. I found ducks difficult with the other pair as their range was not as good. what I did fine was, that you have to keep perfectly still. As some friends know I shake and this was evident using these bins. I had to concentrate very hard to try and relax and reduce it.

This is what I saw:- Hoary-headed Grebe, Australian Raven, Australian Magpie, Hard Head, (its a duck), Pacific Black Duck, Australian Wood Duck, Little Black Cormorant, Australian Black Swan, Purple Swamp hen, Australasian Grebe, White-faced heron, Cattle Egret, Intermediate Egret, Pee Wee, Willy Wagtail, Welcome Swallow, Black- Shouldered Kite, Crested Pigeon, Fan-Tailed Cuckoo, Superb Fairy Wren, White Plumed Honey Eater, Red Wattle Bird, House Sparrow, Australian Pelican, Common Starling, Indian Miner, Little Raven, Black-Faced Cuckoo Shrike, Bul Bul, Red Rumped Parrot, Masked Lapwing, Little pied Cormorant, Little Corella, Button Quail.

It was a pleasant walk in the countryside

New Binoculars

2011-05-30T23:58:00.000-07:00

"..Its axiomatic that all good things must come to an end" so said Maalie, and he is right. friendships are so brief, and you are a fool to think otherwise.

One of the parting things he said was " Mate, you are no longer and amateur, you need some good bins" ( said at 3 am at Sydney airport )

So I went out and bought these:-

Now before you experts out there go "Oh yes, that's OK but they are not Leicas". I know that. These Pentax are priced mid range, are rugged, and if I drop them, lose them, or they stop working I am not going to cry over a $3000.00 bill.

Today I went for a walk along the fire trail, in poor light, and enjoyed every minute even though the weather was wintery and dark. I saw Currawong, Yellow-rumped thornbill, Glossy black cockatoo, Satin Bower Bird and heard Bell Minor.

The new Bins are more direct, and will take a bit to get used but they are great. Thanks mate.

Dr Jim Fowler. A tribute to a friend.

2011-05-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

First meeting Dr Jim Fowler. 2002

What defines friendship? Is it a matter of convenience? Is is coincidence? Is it about "good times"? Its none of that for me. A good friend is about a link, a bond that cannot be defined in real terms. Its not about good times, its about being there for a mate, its about sharing and learning. Jim was a mate of mine, in that true Aussie sense.

Dr Fowlers first days work on Yell. Shetland. 2002.

Not always easy, not always "fun". But a mate is there for you, to lend a hand, to offer advice, to make you laugh and to cry. To share a "moment" that will live in you mind and heart forever. Someone who has made a difference to you.

Jim Talking evolution v's creationism with my son Tom. Kinchega national park 2003.

A true friend is gone too soon, (you did not say "goodbye" mate... fuck you...). Jim has gone too soon. I hope, as friends, you will take the time to read this post. Some will know him, others will not. He passed away doing what he loved- on his beloved lake, in a beautiful part of the world.

Jim with Landcruiser. Outback Australia 2004.

I had first contacted Jim by chance. I was looking to use a quote of Sylvie Guillems for a CD I was recording. " If you are afraid of losing something, then you are dependant on it. If you are not then you are free."

Jim, and my daughter with friend. Paris 2005

I had seen a web site called "A tribute to Sylvie Guillem" and assumed that Jim was the webmaster for Sylvies official site. It turned out he was not, and yet, he was gracious in assisting me search for permission. One thing leads to another, and in this I received permission from Sylvie directly to use her quote. Sylvie has become a friend.

Jim and my youngest son Dave in Willandra shearers quarters April 2011

I thanked Jim for his help and said jokingly " If you ever need a field assistant, I enjoy the outdoors mate." Jim advised me, (cautiously), that he had a research going ahead in Shetland and I was welcome to come.
Jim, my daughter and friends with Sylvie Guillem 2005.

I took up his offer. Also, at this time I had an audition with the Royal opera, and thought I could "kill two birds with one stone" and flights were booked for the UK. Weeks later I was diagnosed with my blood disorder and told I would not be travelling. I defied the doctors orders, postponed the treatment and went anyway. I am glad I did.

Jim enjoying a cool VB at Dunnes swamp campsite April 2011

I met Jim and his team in Aberdeen. I was nervous as I did not know what to expect and I am sure he and his team were the same. We hit it off. They loved the same music, and shared the same interests in cricket, rugby and the environment. Most of all we shared the same enthusiasm for ballet and Guillems dance.

Setting up mist nets Jim April 2010

I did not know a lot about birds, I was always too busy to stop and take the time to look. "Arrow mode" Jim called it. But there was one moment in time that changed everything. We were walking across the moors on the island of Yell. Jim stopped me and said- "Look at that!!" He had "boyish enthusiasm" for everything but mostly the birds. I said "What?" "Above us - THERE"!! He said.. All I could see was a speck rising and falling.

Jim Christmas 2007

We sat down and watched this for a few moments as the crisp Shetland winds blew across the island. "That my boy was a lark ascending" Jim said. We trudged silently back to the camp. Jim produced a few cans of Red Hot McEwans, (for my Aussie readers its a beer on par with VB and that's its real name!), and produced a lunch box which had 2 small speakers and a CD player in it. Jim flicked it on and we listened in silence to Vaughn Williams "Lark Ascending". It was then I knew the link...

Jim and Ken about to climb Skiddaw peak April 2010.

Suddenly I knew what was that drove him. The passionate link to the environment, music and dance- its the way a bird moves, like a ballet dancer and its beautiful if you take the time to look. After 10 days I caught the ferry back and was touched, almost in tears at leaving.

This moment in Shetland was the most memorable experience of my life- that moment of friendship. I was the last member of the Rumble club (email me if you want to know what it is), All of us would break into opera, or "Me and Bobby Mcgee" at the top of our lungs.
Jim still looking for that Albatross April 2010

I took up bird watching from that day on.

My friendship with Jim led me to other great people. Jill and Peter,(Jims sister and brother in law). (Ken and Linda, bird watchers & bird ringers) ,Pam, Big Dave, Worzel and Strudels ( Jims son and daughter in law). Just to name a few.These are more than friends- they are family.
Jim and Pam 2010

Every year Jim and I would get together- Spain, France, UK, Australia. We would spend a day fell walking, bush walking, bird watching. There was always something new to learn and discuss. Jim spent time with my children and had shown them things-David, (my youngest), bird watches and its a treat to share this with him. He took Jim on a walk and found Pilot bird. A lifer for Jim. He went fishing with Jim as well.
Jim was a mate who would be there for my entire family and friends. His home was our home, and the doors of Maalie court were open to all.

Jim Being "runcible" in search of that beer. Australian desert 2006

Was Jim "perfect"? LOL! Not on your life. We had some heated debates over cars, attitudes and he was without a doubt the most clumsy person I have ever met. Often losing equipment, or tripping over his feet. We drank too much together, often getting into massive debates and forgetting what we had.. All easily forgiven.

Me. bird watching in the Lakes district 2010

What he had was passion. Passion in bucket loads for those he cared about. It was a passion that was infectious. It came at a time in my life when my health had changed for the worst. I "lost" my music, but gained so much more. I would change nothing.

In 2007 he bought my daughter a bunch of flowers for her 16th birthday. Her first flowers.

Her flowers. nothing more to say.

Jim spent a great time with us here in Australia. From the outback, to 50 miles out to sea, a beer in a club, to a beer beside a fire in the bush. It was 4 weeks I shall cherish 100%.

A question for you mate:-

Jim, on the pelagic trip, you said to me you were so excited because it would be the last time you would see your favorite bird- Albatross. The other scientists let you ring one as their guest. You were not aware but you beamed as you did it. Such is your boyish enthusiasm. Did you know something was wrong? You touched on your fathers short life, and that the doctor put you on heart tablets...

Mate- If i could say one thing to you is "Thank you" for the gifts of birds,of slowing my pace down ( and not tail gating the car in front), but mostly the friendship. You are part of my family.

What is the measure? When someone has gone too soon.

You have gone too soon and I am grieving.

I am sure one day I will see you again, perhaps as your favorite bird the Albatross. Perhaps you are on the wing already. I will keep my binoculars out and look for you.

A mate, yes.. part of my family.

Goodbye old mate. This poem is for you:- Youth and Love. R.L. Stevenson.

To the heart of youth the world is a highway sign,
Passing forever he fairs and on either hand,
Deep in the gardens golden pavilions hide,
Nestled in orchards bloom,
And far on level land

Call him with lighted lamp in the eventide.

Thick as stars at night when the moon is down,
Pleasures asail him,
He to his nobler fate fairs,
And but waves a hand as he passes on.

Cries but a wayside word to her at the garden gate,
Sings but a boyish stave,
And his face is gone.
Is gone.

"Fowler" means bird catcher and friend. Bowen Mountain April 2011.

I will miss you mate.

Pelagic trip.

2011-05-04T19:39:00.000-07:00

With Dr Jim Fowler as my guest it was with some trepidation I agreed to head out to sea on a smallish fishing boat to look for sea birds. We joined the Southern Ocean Seabird Study Association at Wollongong Harbour at 7am on a bright autumn morning.

Why trepidation? I don't like boats. I tolerate them, but I find them too slow and, as a friend said "But Simon you are a Piscean and, as a fish, you would not like to be on a trawler!" I used to sail every Sunday on Sydney Harbour and out over the horizon. I loathed it, (Sorry uncle).

We met up with a group of 20 or so enthusiasts. Now- I like bird watching a lot but I am not a "twitcher". What is a twitcher? A person who gets SO nervous and excited about seeing a new bird they "twitch". I have heard of stories of a twitcher who left his wife on their wedding night simply to look at a rare bird....(I could go on about getting priorities right in the bird department but i digress).

So within a few minutes of departing the harbour, excited yelling became part of the days activities as each twitcher became increasingly excited (some hysterical) with being the first to spot a new bird.

However- I have never seen Albatross before so it was a life time event and one I would not miss. Below are the birds I saw. All photos by Dr Jim Fowler:-

Black Browed Albatross

Campbells Albatross

Bullers Albatross

Shy Albatross

Yellow Nosed Albatross

Crested Tern

Providence Petrel

The work Done by SOSSA is vital in monitoring the health and population of these magnificent birds. Long Line Tuna fishing kills Albatross at a huge rate and its important that all of us be aware that "dolphin safe" does not mean "wildlife safe".

After 9 hours at sea, and several moment where I wanted to return my breakfast to the deep we returned to Harbour. I have to confess- this was a life time moment. The birds are simply the most beautiful I have seen. The way they fly is magnificent. I am grateful for the experience.

NEXT:- Australia's Pastoral history..

Parisian Banana Smoothie

2011-05-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

This is how you make a SUPER tasting Banana Smoothie

Two cups of orange juice.(fresh squeezed)
Add:-
1 soja yoghurt tub- flavour almond
1 banana (large)

You can add some prunes (dry, the black ones), or use figs.
and Some maple syrup

Add ice cubes

Using a blender blend like crazy until smooth and drink.

DE-LI-CI-OUS!!!

( I was going to upload a video but the file was too large)

In Paris I enjoyed...

2011-04-17T23:41:00.000-07:00

Smoked Salmon and prawns

An 'Alice in Wonderland" window display

A very blue Brasserie in a wonderful street.

A very retro Moulinex juicer.

Most of all a beautiful artistic space for me to rest...

Paris Part 2. Food!

2011-04-10T20:04:00.001-07:00

In the Paris streets there were:-

Macarons!

Fresh Cheeses...

Bottles of fine wine..

More bottles of fine wine!

Fresh seafood!

And the best part? Returning to the apartment and all its beauty (more soon!)

Paris 2011

2011-04-06T19:33:00.000-07:00

So, this is what I did:-

Flew for 24 hours and arrived at Montparnasse...

To a beautiful view of Paris roof tops...

I caught the metro...

And bought food at the local supermarket...

And had a beef crepe with blue vein cheese and a jug of apple cider served in bowls...(part 2 soon)

Paris

2011-03-24T02:31:00.000-07:00

I have arrived!!!

spare a thought for q guy who sat beside a poor overweight guy who smoked and was very nervous. typing this on a french keyboard, so its a bit tricky.

Now, whats on the to do list?

Paris

2011-03-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

Here we come.... see you all soon with an update

Update

2011-03-12T14:23:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone- thanks for your emails. I have sold the Range rover! (boy and his toy). I could not fit it in the garage and its age would mean that, leaving it outside it would deteriorate. I nice profit too was tempting.

Anyhow- It seems that I have fractured my ankle some time back which did not heal properly,and this is causing the sensation of it dislocating, at the most awkward moments ( eg lifting foot off brake). I also have a hip that looks like Swiss cheese and other bone trouble. It appears I have early on set on Osteoporosis and in the words of my doctor " you are my most fascinating case". All of this is due to my blood disorder. I see a specialist in May to determine when I need to have the hip replaced and how to manage what is going on.

I am going to have a bike ride today and just see how I pull up. All in all its very frustrating, although I did my first artwork under the watchful eye of my son. A landscape. Its not finished but I am satisfied with it as a first attempt.

See? I can still get into my beautiful Blue Mountains and enjoy them. Its just a bit slower!!

New Project

2011-02-17T17:01:00.000-08:00

Bonnet has been buffed to a nice shine

Some of you might remember previous posts about my WW2 Jeep. I sold it last year as the project was just too big and frankly driving the Jeep was just too difficult, (read dangerous), in this modern world.
Well, a new project has arrived! Its a 1988 Range Rover. I am the third owner and can trace the vehicle back to the original owner in Monbulk Victoria. Its a base model, last of the "easy to work on" ones with a 3.5 litre V8 and manual transmission. All the gauges work, the carpet, trim , fit and finish is excellent.

Trim, carpets, dashboard etc are "as new"

There are some marks, (dents on the passenger doors), and the paint condition was just awful. I am not a fan of the colour but its about the condition of the vehicle overall so I can live with it. I even have its service history.

Drivers seat is in good order, as too is the steering wheel and dash.

This will be a project of sourcing some parts (eg the old fashioned fog lights and Range Rover mudflaps, floor maps etc as well as bringing the duco back to a mirror finish..
I am sure this will amuse me for a few months..I might even go down to the Polo fields with a picnic blanket, some chicken and champagne...

No wear to cargo area and all original tools are in their place.

These are quite amazing off road and in their day were superb on road as well with a plush ride. They can be let down by electrical faults and oil leaks, of which this has none.Models after this were a disaster.. Whats even better is.... it cost $2000.00!

Also- thank you to all of you for your support. I have had a difficult few weeks battling all sort of physical troubles but are beginning to feel a little better.
Thank you also for your nice comments to Nip. He is a top dog and very friendly.

A blog I like...

2011-02-10T17:01:00.000-08:00

As a working cattle dog I love the outback and the people. This is a link to a blog where the art and the people are superb!

Just click on this posts title and it will take you there!

Have a look! WOOF! ( I told you I am a great blogger)

on the weekend....

2011-02-06T20:40:00.000-08:00

I ran and leaped onto the leg of a pair of jeans drying on the clothesline, which then swung around until the clothesline collapsed which meant that my owner had to drive to the hardware and buy a new one!

Whilst he was installing the new one, I stole his icy cold can of beer, and tried to open it by biting it.....this had a profound effect on me and made me sheepish ( URGH!!!)

Nip

2011-02-03T14:58:00.000-08:00

Hello. My name is Nip. I am an Australian Blue Heeler cattle dog. We were bred in about 1840 by crossing Scottish blues with dingos to create a breed that can withstand the harsh Australian conditions. We are bred to nip at the back of the legs of stubborn cattle to keep them moving when droving and we have great stamina.

I am 11 months old and last Tuesday I was saved from the dog pound who were going to put me down the following day.

As you can see I am smiling, (click on my picture), because I am grateful. I do like to muck about and bark at things I don't understand but most of all I like to please.

I am a great blogger and I will be filling in for a few posts whilst my owner gets his shoulder back on track.

WOOF!

stop press

2011-01-31T13:52:00.001-08:00

With numerous recent events, (such as dislocating my shoulder), and a new dog, (a Blue Healer), as well as the Mac now almost jammed solid, I am having a blogging break for a short time. There are a lot of things to post about but I need time to get this shoulder better, and get the new dog settled in and get the computer fixed. See you all soon and sorry I have not visited as many as I would like.

Glen Davis, Birding and Motorbikes!

2011-01-16T13:51:00.000-08:00

The road to Glen Davis
With no auctions for the weekend, but with wet wether it was time to explore an old mining town called Glen Davis. There is a bird sanctuary there and the promise of 174 different species plus the drive through the old town made it for and interesting trip.

Some of the cliffs

Located about 45km in the beautiful Capertee Valley,(worlds widest canyon), Glen Davis was another old shale mine town, close to being abandoned apart from a few "die hard" home owners. The drive is also interesting as you border the Gardens of Stone National Park. I rather like the name, so a quick drive up some of the trails was in order. Whilst I did not see 174 species, there was still a nice view of Red-Rumped Parrot, Turquoise Parrot as well as Superb Fairy Wren. People with massive telescpoes and camera lined some part s of the road- a clear indication that the site is excellent for birding.

Abandoned shop

On Sunday I loaded the trailer with the motorbikes, esky, food , fuel, first aid kit and fishing equipement for the boys to enjoy a day on the farm. I sat under a tree by the beautiful fish river and red a book whilst the boys knocked themselves out for the day.

Ready to head out.

After many hours of riding and fishing it was time to head home.

Later that evening I kicked back with a beer and me old mate Midnight to watch some mindless DVDs.All in all a TOP weekend more than making up for the previous "fizzer" :o)

Fizzer

2011-01-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

Hartley Vale Valley.

Every now and then some things in life turn out to be fizzers, despite the best intentions and despite the "power of positive thinking". Last Sundays walk was exactly that (as too was Christmas and New year for that matter but that's another story for another time perhaps).

There is a sign in Hartley Vale that I have driven past for years, that indicates a walk along an old railway culvert leading to some historical ruins.
Hartley Vale is a very historic shale mining town with some great old buildings, the shale being mined to make kerosene, paraffin and candle wax.

It seemed to promise a great walk.

Well, it didn't. It was a road that leads to houses, and a HEAP of "keep out" signs, After 7kms of walking in the rain, not even the fresh air could revitalise my spirits. I simply walked back in the Cruiser and said "fizzer".

As for Christmas and New year. Lampoons Christmas is not far from the truth, and thats a story for another time.

Platypus!!!

2011-01-04T00:56:00.001-08:00

This blurred shot is a platypus that David found whilst fishing.
What is a Platypus? A.
"The Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a semi-aquatic mammal endemic to eastern Australia and Tasmania. Together with the short-beaked and long-beaked echidna, it is one of the three species of monotremes, the only mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young. Like placental mammals and marsupials, the young are suckled by the mother. It is the sole living representative of its family (Ornithorhynchidae) and genus (Ornithorhynchus), though a number of related species have been found in the fossil record."

"Platypuses live in burrows they dig in riverbanks, and hunt for their food in water. Their bills are equipped with very sensitive electro-receptors, with which they can sense the movements of tiny crustaceans and larvae on the bottom of rivers and creeks."

"Whilst some may say it has a unique appearance similar to that of a beaver with a duck's head, it really does not look like that at all. It is covered in fur, and its head is flat and streamlined for swimming under the water's surface. Its bill is different in shape to that of a duck, so even the term "duck-billed platypus" is a misnomer. It has webbed feet, claws and a flat tail, and lives in burrows in riverbanks."

"The bizarre appearance of this egg-laying, duck-billed mammal baffled naturalists when it was first discovered, with some considering it an elaborate fraud. It is one of the few venomous mammals; the male Platypus has a spur on the hind foot which delivers a poison capable of killing a small dog or causing severe pain to humans. The unique features of the Platypus make it an important subject in the study of biology."

Read more: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_a_platypus#ixzz1A6k0UYcG

It was with much excitement that David caught it and released it a little away from all the fishing equipment.

Here is the little fella exploring Davids fishing equipment

I have to say that its a privilege to live in and area surrounded by such things. Many boys grow up living their life behind a computer or X- box without experiencing the beauty of the real world, and as the world changes I fear that such oppertunities will decrese

Kinchega 2010

2010-12-30T20:10:00.000-08:00

The Darling River at Wilcannia.

It was with some excitement that I booked the shearers quarters for our traditional stay at this wonderful national park. It was with some sadness that some people who said "yes" really meant "no". Buuuut.. refusing to be disappointed I decided to go anyway, and so, David and I set of for the 2400km round trip - keen to see just how the rains and floods had affected the region.

BBQ area at the shearers quarters

The Darling River is like the grand Mississippi River- life to a region, flowing thousands of km providing the water for cotton farms, fruit growers, sheep and cattle stations along the way. It has been abused through ignorance and neglect, as well as deliberate acts of vandalasim. Can it survive?

Emu Lake. Full after being dry for man many years!

Well, I can say the results are amazing. New growth on old river gums, bird life and general wildlife abounds and there is a feeling of luxury about it. However, it is vital for all of us not to fall into a false sense of security. The river system has been abused for over 100 years, much has changed and will never be returned to how it was. We need to be proactive, and ensure the government puts in place legislation that protects, not only the river, but our food supply and the communities that live along its banks.

Emus! Yep- at Emu lake!

Dave and I enjoyed bird watching and fishing for perch. as well as walking through the semi desert conditions. At the end of the day enjoying a BBQ and a beer ( a lemonade for Dave of course!). There were many smaller birds too but we ran out of time

Me! At the ruins of the old homestead.

Happy NEW Year to all!!!

Birds seen:-Red-kneed Dotterel, Blue-winged Parrot, Budgerigar, (huge flock!!), Major Mitchell, Great Egret, Wedge-tailed Eagle, Australian Pelican, Splendid Wren, Emu, Silver Gull, Red-backed Kingfisher, Peaceful Dove, Little Corella, Singing Honey Eater, Cockatiel, Australian Pipit, Fairy Martin, House Sparrow, Welcome Swallow, Black-tailed Gallinules, Blue Bonnet Parrot, Sacred Kingfisher, Grey Shrike-thrush, Diamond Dove, Wattle bird, (Spiny-cheeked), Yellow-throated Miner, White-winged Triller, Willy Wagtail, Masked Lapwing, White-necked Heron, Pied Butcherbird, Australian White Ibis, Yellow-billed Spoonbill, Australasian Shoveler, Australian Grey Teal, Rainbow Bee-eater, Masked Wood Swallow, Australian Raven, Crested Pigeon, Apostle Bird, Satin Bower Bird, (spotted leaving home), White-winged Chough, Galah, Eastern Rosella, Hard Head, White-faced Heron, Australian Wood Duck, Square-tailed Falcon, Black Falcon, Black Kite, Black- shouldered kite, Nankeen Kestrel, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Yellow-tailed Cockatoo, Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike, Bell Miner, Noisy Miner, Pee Wee, Australian Magpie.

Whenever I fall

2010-12-25T20:48:00.000-08:00

a beautiful song....

Merry Christmas

2010-12-16T15:21:00.001-08:00

Fresh gum leaves
To all my friends I want to wish you all the very best for the season peace, joy and happiness too! I am on holidays for a few weeks so Bitsnbobs will be quiet. Here are some photos from the Australian outback at Christmas

Dry lake beds and

Golden Sunsets

Merry "Aussie" Christmas to you all!

Evans Crown

2010-12-05T15:13:00.001-08:00

The track.

With the end of year being hectic, it was time to get out, get some fresh air and do some walking. I have often driven past the sign saying "Evans Crown" and so with the weather closing in, I thought it's time to explore it.

Some of the Rock formations at the top

Situated in Honey Suckle Road,in the mountains near Tarana, this interesting rock formation was formed by an ancient volcano and is regarded by the Aboriginals as a sacred site. As we drove up to the car park the smell of honey filled the air- simply delightful. We parked the car, loaded our camel backs and set off.

A lizard ( yet to be identified)

It was not too long before we were greeted by Eastern Spinebills- delightful nectar birds with a sweet song, as well as Eastern and Crimson Rosellas.The air was filled with bird song and purfume. As we climbed the humidity began to give way and a cool breeze felt really good. We nearly stepped on the lizard that was none too happy to be disturbed.

Superb Views

As we reached the crown it is easy to see why the Aboriginals see this place a sacred- there are large caves, the "feeling" of the place is different to the surrounding country and the distant views are superb. I have only felt this in another place - Monolith Valley, where there is a sense of calm, rather like walking into a cathedral.

A turtle rescued.

Sadly my camera gave up the ghost and many of the good photos were "damaged". After lunch on top of the world we descended back to the car. A great way to spent a few hours.

Track notes- Described as difficult by Nat Parks, The walk is fine for the average person. 3- 6km depending on what you explore at the top. The only things to watch out for are water on rocks as they are like glass when wet. Also be aware of the edge of the boulders- Its a long way down! Oh, and watch out for snakes. Finally-respect the area. No fires and take your rubbish with you!

On the way to the Tarana pub we rescued a turtle.

Birds Seen:- Eastern Spinebill. Eastern Rosella, Crimson Rosella, Nakeen Kestrel, Whip Bird, Great Egret, Pacific Black Duck, Australian Wood Duck, Australian Magpie, Australian Raven, Little Raven, Noisy Miner, Starling, House Sparrow, Pee Wee, Bell Miner, Galah, Little Cormorant, Pied Cormorant, Black Faced Cuckoo-shrike. ( more to come..I left my list in the landcruiser...and I will try to identify the lizard lol)

UPDATE- Lizard is a Cunninghams Skink....they eat leaves, small shoots and eat insects when young.

Trout, Trails and Birding.

2010-11-21T14:57:00.000-08:00

The Fish River.

With the weekend weather perfect it was time to hitch the trailer, load the motorbike, pack the esky, bbq and head for Tarana. Set high in the mountains the Fish River is teaming with trout and bird life. We are privileged enough to have a friend who has a nice working farm with one kilometre of river front.

The campsite with motor bike,fly fishing rods and Binoculars at the ready!

With recent rains and warm sunshine the crops and grasses were as high as the landcruiser bonnet making for interesting, (read exciting), riding. Trout constantly leapt out of the water and a platypus swam to and fro. It was a classic spring day with everything in abundance.

Dollar Bird

David and I spent the day riding, fly fishing and bird watching. There were some interesting species- particularly the Dollar Bird which I have not seen for a number of years. Sitting under huge pines on the banks of a fast flowing river, trying our luck with fly fishing and lures is a top way to spend a weekend!

Small Rainbow Trout

We were invited back and look forward to spending more time there.

Birds seen:- Dollar Bird, Noisy Friar Bird, Brown Tree Creeper, Grey Fantail, Currawong, Red Rumped Parrot, Turquoise Parrot, Galah, Superb Fairy Wren, Willy Wagtail, Wedge Tailed Eagle, Pacific Black Duck, King Parrot,Bell Miner, Pee Wee, Australian Magpie, Laughing Kookaburra, Chrimson Rosella, Welcome Swallow, Restless Flycatcher.

Mountain Heath Dragons

2010-11-18T14:39:00.000-08:00

To the west of where I live is an area called the Devils Wilderness. There are numerous fire trails in this area for obvious reasons- being in the national park also means being in an extreme fire risk area. The last time a Bulldozer cleared the trails was about 2003. Here is a short clip of the trail which is now very overgrown. Lucky my Landcruiser has brush guards to protect the body work. There is one section where you can see the camera bounce a round a bit as a rock gives way under the tyres and rolled over the edge.

In the area at the end of the trail an interesting lizard can be found. These are called Mountain Heath Dragons, and are found usually where the heath meets the sandstone outcrops. Harmless and full of energy,(when its sunny),They add a bit of colour and action to the bush! They also change colour to blend in with the rocks and darker hues of burnt timber.

This is one David caught and is a larger example than most.

Satin Bower Birds

2010-11-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

Our 7 year old male Satin Bower bird.

We have a young Satin Bower bird which has made a bower to attract a mate right in our garden. Male Bower birds are green until they hit full maturity at about 7 years of age. At 5 years of age they begin to change from green to a dark blue. A 5 year old male will make a bower and collect blue items to attract a mate, and the 7 year old male will come through and destroy the bower. I have witness the building and rebuilding of this fellows bower time and time again. This is not my video, but it is a video of a Bower bird about the same age as ours and doing his dance. Enjoy

The Outback

2010-11-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

The shearing shed.
One of my favorite places to spend Christmas is Kinchega National Park. A former glorious sheep station (the largest in the world) it ran from the 1860's through to the 1960s. Situated along the might Darling river and the Menindee lake system. It has a fabulous history. The Wool shed is amazing, as too are the shearers quarters and kitchen.

The shearing stands- You can sense ghosts here.

There is ample to see and do with lots of wildlife, fishing and swimming. Yes it get hot, (in fact it was 50c last time we were there),but you know what I like the most? No Computers, no T.V., no Radio and no phone signal. Its a reminder of how it was 100 years ago. Its peaceful and so iconic Australian

The shearers accommodation

With the wide spread rain it will be very exciting to see all the dry lakes full of water and the bird life that they support.

A Goanna enjoying a sun bake on a table

I am also looking forward to the trip as my son has promised to teach me how to paint....

Emu on dry lake bed

So that will make the 12 hour drive even more worth while!!

Crook as Rookwood

2010-10-31T18:15:00.000-07:00

There an old term " As crook as Rookwood". Rookwood is a cemetery in Sydney. Today I confess I am very ill. I have caught a flu that has attacked my throat and voice. To a point where I have had a few days off work. And have mad coughing fits that turn me inside out!

I almost feel I should buy a plot in my favorite place Montparnasse Cemetery in Paris, but not before I had eaten at my favorite Brasserie La Rotonde....http://www.rotondemontparnasse.com/anglais.htm However, I am sure I will not become a bird that flew away too soon! ( if you look closely at the bottom of the 2nd photo....). There are some really beautiful sculptures in this place!

Sadly no adventure posts from me! I am off to bed with a cough syrup. See you soon.

English Shores and walks

2010-10-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

When I travel I think a lot. About why we do things, both simple and complex. Here are some photos of some places I walked whilst in England

It funny how just the simple act of "walking" can make you think....

Walking and bird watching are very popular in England for a number of reasons.

Its a great excuse for a walk and it makes you stop and search for birds, which means you have to really look at everything...

I makes you appreciate the environment, and leads to healthy discussion about global warming, manmade impacts and the like..

Sometimes it makes you appreciate the smell of salt air, of farmers ploughing fields, and of good friends

Who are always in search of that something over the horizon...

And coming back to the Black Dog Inn for a pint in front of the coal fire!

A sincere "thank you" to Jim, Pam and Ken who put up with me almost every year and show me sights I will never forget.
Pam has broken her knee cap in a fall and I wish her a speedy recovery. Also a HUGE "thank you" to Worzel and Trudy for providing accommodation during the volcanic eruption and getting me to the airport.
Lastly a BIG "thank you" to the people I met, will never know, yet extended me every courtesy at every opportunity.. from the best pies shop in the world- Mables Pies, to even the co-op staff.... Lets not forget the Black Dog Inn- superb food, the best ales and friendly service..I hope to get back to Shetland soon too!

Heres to the next beer on Askam Pier!

Scarpa

2010-10-25T15:58:00.000-07:00

These are my Scarpa Attack walking boots. I bought them 25-30 years ago and they have been a faithful, comfortable travel companion. They have covered many local and international national parks. Sadly, whilst in Cumbria, walking Skiddaw Peak, I ran out of traction and the descent was awkward. It was time to retire them. They cost me $300.00 all those years ago, that was a lot for a school boy.

These are my new Scarpa Walking boots! Amazing! they are ready for walking immediately,(no breaking in), and offer me more support for my ankles. Whilst I do not think they will last me 25-30 years, I am sure they will last a while with care! They cost me $350.00.

These are my new Black Diamond walking poles. Whilst ego prevented me from using these in the past, a purchase of a single pole in Cumbria taught me the benefits of using them, especially with the arthritis I have. They provide stability down hill and reduce fatigue by about 10%. They also fold up pretty small too!

This new equipment was tested on the weekend and will allow me to enjoy this....

And this, for many years to come! My only sadness is- the boots are no longer made in Italy but rather Romania. Still... better then being made in China IMO...

The short walk in the rain on the weekend proved the boots comfort and the poles improvement in stability, so I am a "happy camper"!

Yabbies!

2010-10-19T14:44:00.001-07:00

On the weekend David and his mate went into the "Devils Wilderness" to catch yabbies for their fish tanks. For my overseas friends, yabbies are a freshwater crayfish, like a lobster. They are generally blue or red in colour and vary in size. They have the capacity to live in water with very low oxygen, mud and can survive out of water as long as their gills are moist.

The yabbie in the tank. ( dreadful photo and will find another soon)

The boys brought home a very large one (about 25cm) and placed it in Dave's tank.

The following morning Dave had found it had got out of the tank and was climbing onto his bed! The nippers are strong enough to take a finger off!
I thought Dave looked a little "green"....

I don't think the yabbie was happy with its new accommodation so today we will return it to its water hole.....

Summer is Coming!

2010-10-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

I have posted this before but Matthew from "No visible Lycra" blog asked me about our Python. So I will tell the story:- Monty was discovered in our hedge by me, several years ago, and I was lucky not to have injured her. I called the National Parks to have her removed as I was concerned for her safety as well as the safety of my small dogs and cats. They came and took her away. 3 months later she was back.

I later learned that they are extremely territorial, stress when removed and unless you move them over 15km ( 10 miles) away they will make every effort to return "home". So- we have learned to live with her. She lives in the roof of the house, lifting a tile to enter and exit and she hibernates above my head in the TV room. Sometimes you can hear her moving about- she sounds like a heavy rope. I will often find her draped in a hedge, (of which i have heaps), or in the grape vine, or lounging in the gutters of the roof grabbing some sun. We live right on the edge of the National park, (called the Devils wilderness), and we had a major problem with possums, bush rats and mice. Not to mention poisonous snakes too.

Monty ( as we call her), cleans them out for us and has grown into a mature full size python that does not seem too worried by us or our dogs. I sometimes have to move her in order to trim a hedge- this she does not mind. Yesterday my eldest daughters boyfriend saw Monty- and jumped out of his skin...hahahaha! I hope Monty is with us for years to come.

2010-10-13T03:55:00.000-07:00

My truck in Australia at Webbs creek

Within the woodlands flowery gladed
By the oak tree's mossy moot,
The shining grass-blades, timber-shaded,
Now do quiver under foot;
And birds do whistle overhead,
And water's bubbling in its bed,
And there for me the apple tree
Do lean down low in Linden Lea.

Webbs creek itself.

When leaves that lately were a-springing
Now do fade within the copse,
And painted birds do hush their singing
Up upon the timber tops;
And brown-leaved fruit's a-turning red,
In cloudless sunshine, overhead,
With fruit for me, the apple tree
Do lean down low in Linden Lea.

Oops! Me in the Lakes district North England in winter...

Let other folk make money faster
In the air of dark-roomed towns,
I don't dread a peevish master;
Though no man do heed my frowns,
I be free to go abroad,
Or take again my homeward road
To where, for me, the apple tree
Do lean down low in Linden Lea.

Frankly, I love this poem. It is so much of who I am... ( yes I know thats my truck and I love it too!)

The week that was

2010-10-10T18:57:00.001-07:00

Dave preparing the mountain bikes before we set off.

Dave and I did a Mountain Bike ride through the Wollemi National Park, starting at Mountain Lagoon- a beautiful spot. Not a difficult ride, but a few hills to keep you on your toes and fresh mountain air to keep the lungs invigorated.
The Lagoon itself.

My Cannondale is going well, with the service on the front suspension making a real difference in rebound and dampening. Money well spent to make it a pleasure to ride once more.

Later on we went fishing along the Webb Creek, where a flat head was caught. A fraction undersized it was returned. A cup of billy tea boiled on the back of the landcruiser hit the spot at the conclusion of a top weekend

"Koala Bear Grilles"

2010-10-03T01:59:00.000-07:00

Well, its the long weekend and its pouring. So here was our choice- sit around, or get out and do a bush walk. No contest! Time for a bushwalk. Disclaimer:- The area we walked in is dangerous. People have died and have been lost in this area. Last year an English tourist did the walk we have done but ended up lost in Cedar Valley.Its important to:- 1. Plan your walk and never exceed your fitness level. 2. Tell people where you are going, including family, friends, the authorities eg police, national parks. 3. Walk with a minimum of 2- preferably 3 walkers. 4. Always carry water, enough food for emergencies, fire lighting abilities, first aid kit, and carry the correct clothing. 5. Never exceed your abilities and, if in a group, NEVER walk off, or get ahead of the slowest walker. 6. If you get lost- don't panic, rest, think and relax. The best outcome is one without panic. These basic skill will help you survive and enjoy our rugged wilderness. I hope you will take these following videos in the light they were made!

Our walk commenced at the Golden Stairs descending into the Jamison Valley, following the old railway track towards the 600m ascent to the Ruined Castle. What most people are unaware of is the history of this region and if you look carefully you can see the remains of buildings, fireplaces, and shale mines. There is even one mine you can crawl through from one side of the Narrow Neck cliff line to the other side emerging into the Megalong Valley, its hundreds of metres long and is for experienced cavers only!

It was not too long before we had reached the top with rain bucketing down, wind and clouds racing across the sky. A quick snack of oranges and an energy bar, and we were ready to return, all our clothes and belongings soaked and boots full of water. We picked off leeches when we got home. A top way to spend a few hours!

Skateboard cat

2010-09-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

Midnight likes to skateboard. As a 15 year old cat he seems obsessed with it. Here is a short video as a birthday present for fellow blogger Susan from Bricolage. Here Midnight is kicking back, but I have witnessed him on the move too.

The Garden from the window

2010-09-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

Life is good. I mean really good. To wake up to this view from my window is very special, sadly it will be gone in a week or two. ( well worth clicking on the photo for a better look)

So.. after having a week to recover from my treatment- Its time to get out and go for a ride before returning and spending some time keep the garden in shape... See you all in Blogging land.

My Garden on the weekend

2010-09-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Spring is here!

training

2010-09-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

My first Cannondale in 2000.

I like bikes. I like them for a lot of reasons. I like the exercise, I like the speed, I like the variety of terrain I can get to and I like the technology. I like Cannondales. They are beautifully made in the USA, they are quirky with interesting designs on front forks. They are reliable and a gem to ride.

My Synapse

Last year I let the training slip,but I have now got back into it and I am enjoying it a lot, but i am still having dramas with the Cannondale Prophet. A few weeks ago I had the front brake caliper replaced which prevented the front wheel binding (I had been riding with a partially jammed brake). Sadly, on Wednesday night I noticed the front wheel doing the same thing again. It now appears I have to send the entire front stem (fork), to Queensland for a rebuild. I guess after 5 years of pounding through the national parks its acceptable.

My Prophet

Soooo it's more time on my Cannondale Synapse. This is a very nice bike with a combination of carbon and alloy. The seat stays etc are curved for a more comfortable ride, and I had chosen a more laced front and rear rim ( more spokes). This is to prevent the bike becoming unrideable should I hit a pothole and damage the rims. Whilst less fashionable, its more reliable.

Bad Boy- note the small head shock and a more mountain bike style frame.

I am seriously considering buying another bike- called a Cannondale Bad Boy. This is a cyclo-cross bike. A cross over between a mountain bike and a road bike. With a small front head shock and triple front rings it can be used on mountain trails, (with the correct tyres fitted), or used as a trainer on the road.

Then I will have a bike for all seasons.

I have to confess though, I am tired- after 150km of training, then doing the gardens and then painting the deck I hit the wall! Still better to keep moving than sitting still in my opinion!

Stop Stoning Now!

2010-09-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

A woman is about to be stoned in Iran.

Its barbaric.

Please, please go to www.stopstonningnow.com and sign the petition.

flames at dawn

2010-09-05T18:57:00.001-07:00

One morning I awoke to witness a dawn as I had never seen. It was as if the entire world had caught on fire. As the mists rolled in and away, we were engulfed in a dramatic scene which only lasted a few moments.

The dawns begins like any other...

Then it just gets "hotter" and "hotter"

Even the trees leaves turn flame coloured.

I cannot even begin to describe the feeling of this. Everything turned flame coloured, even the clouds..

Mountain bike riding along spring time trails

2010-09-01T15:53:00.001-07:00

Grass trees line the track.

Well, It's now spring and rather than bore you with the details of the mid week ride I thought I would share some of the wild flowers that are scattered along the track.

Some interesting colours

The bush is now filled with the scent of wattle, gum leaf and honey. Its truly remarkable and makes a ride very pleasant. Also enjoyable is the subtle temperature differences and the trail rises and falls through creek beds, small rain forests to more open areas along the tops of ridges.

More..

The ride itself gets tricky as the sun sets. Lots of sand and small rocks make the trail interesting. Washed out rock ledges require good balance as an example. I did in fact crash on one faster down hill but no damage done.

A few weeks ago I had the bike serviced and a bindng front brake repaired/replaced. What a difference this has made! Better, smoother braking and no friction!! Seems I had been riding with a brake partially on......

The mighty Banksia

At the end- a superb view of the Blue Mountains, which look like the waves of an ocean as the sun sets.

View looking west.

Birding on the run and why I like blogging

2010-08-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

Black Kite. (Not my Photo).

Well, I am away for a few days and having to travel a couple of thousand kms, to stop boredom setting in I have decided to bird on the run. What it means is- I dont stop and if I cannot be sure, I dont list it. This is what I saw as I drove.

Great Egret, Intermediate Egret, Austrlian White Ibis, Little Pied Cormorant, Dusky Moorehen, Grey Butcherbird, Red Rumped Parrot, Purple Swamphen, Red Kneed Dotterel, Galah, Sulphur Crested Cockatoo, Black-shouldered Kite, Wedge-tailed Eagle, Australian Magpie, Australian Magpie ( White backed form), Australian Raven, Little Raven, Magpie Lark, Common Myna, Pied Cormorant, Little Black Cormorant, Great Cormorant, Willy Wagtail, Nankeen Kestrel, White-winged Chough, Straw-necked Ibis, Little Egret, Australian Wood Duck, Hardhead, Chestnut Teal, Black kite, Wattlebird, Noisy Miner.

Not a bad list at 120kph. As you can see- they are all big birds. Its too hard ,(and dangerous), to identify little brown flitty things. The ease of the water birds was as a result of the rain and all the dams, lakes and water courses were full, giving me an easy opportunity to see a "sitting duck."

Now here are some of the reasons why I like blogging.

1. Its a diary of sorts. Allowing me to record some of the things I like to do.
2. It keeps me in touch with my friends around the world.
3. It motivates me to take photographs and stuff like that.
4. I enjoy the bloggers that I have never met, yet there is a link with them.

An example of this is- today I stumble on a post where Sylvie Guillem is the title.. I did not search for it but its a "link" to a blog I have never read before.

5. By reading other blogs from around the world I learn things too and I find other bloggers encouraging ( as I hope I am as well)

I guess- at this point it fills the void that I would have filled with my music.

So- to my fellow blogger, Bricolage, here is a "Make My Day" award for your post on Guillem. (you may copy it from the side bar of my blog.. its right at the bottom)

Penrith Lakes

2010-08-07T22:54:00.001-07:00

Old farm house now almost surrounded by lakes

With the Mountain bikes in need of a service, we chose to drop them off at the bike shop and head out to the Penrith lakes to do some bird watching.

The Penrith Lake system is a series of man made lakes, that were the centre of rowing for the 2000 Olympics. My memories were of it being a sand quarry and my guess is- it has been developed for flood mitigation and storm water control.

I have seen the development of the lake system and an increase in bird activity, so time to take a look.

Some of the quieter sections of the lakes

Dave and I spotted- Great Egret, Intermediate Egret, White-faced Heron, Masked Lapwing, Tree Sparrow, Indian Miner, Common Starling, Black Swan, Willy Wagtail, Red-rumped Parrot, Welcome Swallow, Tree Martin, Brush Wattle bird, Black faced Cuckoo-shrike, Little Cormorant, Dusky Moorhen, Yellow-billed Spoonbill, Little Pied Cormorant, Australian Darter, Pacific Black Duck, Black-shouldered Kite, Nankeen Kestrel, Australian Wood Duck, Australian Hobby, Sacred Kingfisher,Yellow-faced Honey Eater.

Black-shouldered Kite. Photo courtesy of Wettropics.gov.au

A reasonable list, and a great way of spending a couple of hours.

2010-08-04T21:03:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I deleted my Facebook account. Last week I deleted my Linkedin account. Why? For those of you who have not used Linkedin- its a "professional" site where you are invited to share what you do, where you work, your resume and contact details with others. The positive side is, it allows you to network your business, and link with colleagues.

However, in recent months I have been receiving bizarre overseas calls from call centres with English accents, Indian accents and Asian accents. All trying to sell me shares and bonds. In the most recent they rang my work number, then when I hung up, rang my mobile with this line " Hi Simon thanks for getting back to us re your purchase of gas and oil shares. I will forward our account details sand you can deposit "x" amount."

This utterly floored me. I explained that I had never contacted anyone either locally or overseas with this sort of enquiry- to which they argued and said " you are Simon ... of...... and work at.... and also ......

I simply hung up.. they then phoned my mobile 3 times, with a further two calls from another centre a few days later.

I can only think they get details from the networking sites and try the "hard sell". So goodbye Linkedin. However if this does not work, I will start to remove other things such as my website, blog, and even change phone numbers.

I would not do this if I felt it was random but its certainly not. 6 calls in 2 days is enough.....

Sunday rides

2010-08-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

The XR250 and CRF150F

Whilst I did a 25km mountain bike ride to Wheeny Creek ( where I saw my first Rock Warbler), the boys went for a motor bike ride. David on his new CRF150F, and Davids mate, Logan, on his XR250. Thats Dave with the helmet on. Both bikes are full sized, althought the XR250 is massive, and Logans feet dont touch the ground. He is a very good rider and the boys have their Camel backs, helmets and other saftey equipment.

A much quieter and carbon neutral option....

We chose the CRF150 ahead of other bikes as its a great introduction to the fun aspects of riding as well as being whisper quiet. Whilst that may not appeal to some riders, it appeals to me and I am sure, the neighbours. After a few hours the boys came back with mud from head to toe and huge grins. A top day had by all!

NIght Rides

2010-07-27T17:36:00.001-07:00

My bike at night with the headlights on. Note only one front fork. (Can it still be called a fork??)

I have been inspired to increase my riding. Some of you know I have pretty bad arthritis and recently my ankle has suffered. This made me do less. Well I guess it hurts when I sit and do nothing, and it hurts when I do something. So- Better to do something.

As Maalie knows, the trails around my house are numerous and interesting. So, a night ride is in order!. The trails are steep, loose and rocky. It takes a great deal of care in picking the right line as you ride. Many of the trails have deep sandy washouts at the bottom of hills. The wrong line can flip you straight off the bike.

I had tried only one light- A Topeak. This has three settings with three different burn times. A brilliant light but "at speed" I needed more, so I added a Night Rider light. It seems "whiter" and gives a more specific beam. I can also be worn on the helmet- perfect for look around the next bend and focusing light on where your eyes are looking. For me it makes the helmet too heavy, so I fitted it to the bike. Now the bike looks like a rally car!

The other point of note is that shadows can make the terrain look different- Deep potholes look shallow and ledges can look deeper than the are. This means bouncing off ruts and tree roots more, all adding to the fun.

By the time I got home I was "rooted"!!

Richmond Polo fields ride

2010-07-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

The start of the ride. If you look carefully you can see my walking stick strapped to the front fork.

Well, having had a break and being inspired by Mathew Moggridge blogger from No Visible Lycra, I decided to dust off the bike and go for a ride. A short ride of 25km along some of the prettiest country lanes. Full of history, open fields, farms and Polo fields, its an excellent way to get fit, and to spot some interesting birds.

Looking across the fields towards the mountains

The ride takes you through the outskirts of town, past the RAAF base, to Windsor and back along the river passing polo fields and horse studs as we go. The ride reminds me a little of the English roads, passing hedges and fields

Dave looking for birds.

I have to confess I was struggling, but I discovered, at the end that, my front brake was binding yet again! This seems to be a common problem and is about the equivalent of riding into a head wind. Still, at the end of the ride I felt quite good. Its nice to be blogging again too!
Birds spotted on the day:-

House sparrow, Common Starling, Common Miner, Noisy Miner, Red Rumped Parrot, Yellow Thornbill, Australian Pelican, Dusky Moorhen, Coot, Pacific Black Duck, Nankeen Kestrel, Fire Tail Finch, Pee wee, Australian Raven, Black shouldered Kite, Crimson Rosella, Australian Magpie, Currawong, King Parrot, Grey Butcher bird, Satin Bower Bird, Galah, Peregrine Falcon, Brown Thornbill, Willy Wagtail, Bell Miner.
Superb Fairy Wren. Welcome Swallow

Blogging Break

2010-06-28T16:56:00.000-07:00

Its time for one. Back soon.

Goulburn River National Park

2010-06-15T00:24:00.000-07:00

On the weekend we...

drove past interesting formations....

...and passed historic homes....

Set up camp.. (please note the tea towel sunning)

To digispot birds (Jacky Winter in my sights)...

....whilst Dave went fishing.

That night we sat around a roaring fire, boiling the billy and telling tall stories...

Awoke the next day to -5c morning and a thick frost...

And walked along the Goulburn river in glorious sunshine.

The Goulburn River National Park is on my top 10 list. Excellent campsites, views and river make it a haven for wildlife. Cleverly laid out camping area means you are not in view of the next campers. Very cold at night and first thing in the morning, we were fortunate to have a roaring fire at all times.

White-bellied Sea Eagle ( Photo courtesy of www.birdphotos.com.au)

On this trip we saw:-Pee wee. Australian Magpie, Eastern Rosella, Crimson Rosella, King Parrot, Jacky Winter, Sulphur Crested Cockatoo, Galah, Nankeen Kestrel, Wedge tailed Eagle, Sea Eagle, Azure Kingfisher, Golden Whistler, Pied Butcher Bird, Australian Raven, Little Raven, Red Browed Finch, Common Starling,Striated Pardalote, White eared Honey eater, Noisey Miner, Bell Miner, Yellow Thornbill, White-throated Warbler, Variegated Wren, Grey Fantail, Willy Wagtail, Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike.

There were more birds in the canopy of the trees but were difficult to confirm as my binoculars kept freezing over!

Restless

2010-06-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

The Mangrove Creek

On Sunday morning, as promised I took Dave and his friend Fishing on the beautiful Hawkesbury river. The boys set up whilst I tended to morning tea.

Daves mate with the first catch of the day!

It was not too long before Daves mate hooked a small brim. Too small to keep it was nevertheless a good sign of things to come

Brush Turkey!

Out of the bush came an Australian Brush Turkey. An interesting bird about the size of a large chicken, I think they would make good eating.

Boiling the billy

As the boys fished I boiled the billy, made tea and relaxed as the water quietly rolled by. There were plenty of bites, and a large Mangrove Jack was hooked. Sadly too strong for the line it, got away!

When we got home I took the boys along the fire trail in the landcruiser. Whilst not difficult, the track has become very overgrown and with a couple of steep drop offs it is quite entertaining. At the end there is an old fire place I made 10 years ago.

Preparing the fire for the BBQ

I have a fantastic BBQ plate and it cooks better than the De Longhi BBQ I have at home. It was not too long before we had a roaring fire and cooked our lunch consisting of bacon, lamb chops and chicken sausages.

My famous BBQ plate
In the cold, damp conditions they went down like a treat. A couple of beers ( for me) and a few hours later we headed back. David felt the urge to jog the few Kms back and thats what he did.

View from the bbq plate

A top Sunday afternoon had by all!

Facebook

2010-05-26T20:26:00.000-07:00

It was with much pleasure that I dismantled my facebook account today.

I have felt for some time that I was not seeing much benefit from it, that its management concerned me, that younger peoples behavior on it was not too good.

With a recent murder of a young woman by someone she met on facebook, I am beginning to see more negatives than positives.

I wonder just how long I will keep blogging too, as the Google van drives past to take photos, and they ask if they can identify my location....

Perhaps the beginning of "Big Brother"? I wonder what your thoughts are on these "social" sites? Just how comfortable are you?

Snapshots of England

2010-05-18T23:46:00.000-07:00

It's been a hectic week, and frankly having had treatment for my blood, I did not feel like posting. However I hope you will enjoy these snapshots.

View from my window at night

The village where I stayed

Inside a pub

Outside a pub

I found this beaut Landrover sitting by this shed

Roudsea Woods and bird ringing

2010-05-09T00:51:00.000-07:00

We walked over mosses....

...passing reedbeds...

and Daffodils in bloom......

Walking under interesting trees....

To set up a ringing station....

...and mist nets....

To catch, record, measure, weigh.......

age, and ring....

A variety of birds. (tree creeper in my hand).

Another top day in Cumbria!

Tetrads

2010-05-02T03:11:00.000-07:00

A tetrad by definition is the cardinal number of 3 plus 1. For our purposes its the researh of bird populations, over a defined area, researched 4 times. In layman's terms it means identifying birds, their behavior in a given area to determine population, breeding etc. That way we can know if populations are static, on the rise or in decline. For me its a great excuse to see the english country side and to learn more about the wildlife of the UK.

Over the 3 weeks in England we identified 114 different species of birds. Pretty good eh?!

Some of the farmland would walk to identify birds and their behavior. We covered a specific area over a specific time of 2 hours.

I liked this tree! The lakes district is simply one of the most beautiful places I have been.

Dr Jim Fowler negotiating one of the many styles we have to climb.

And the roads we walked. This is what is so enchanting- you can walk across farmland and really see and appreciate what is on offer.

Below is my bird list, you will have to scoll down to see what was my favorite bird of the trip and why....:-

01. Dunnock
02. Herring Gull
03. Mallard
04. Pheasant
05. Rook
06. Mute Swan
07. Buzzard
08. Greenfinch
09. Chaffinch
10. Robin
11. Bullfinch
12. Marsh Tit
13. Blue Tit
14. Great Tit
15. Magpie
16. Coot
17. Lapwing
18. Black-headed Gull
19. Shoveler
20. Teal
21. Pochard
22. Canada Goose
23. Greylag Goose
24. Cormorant
25. Little Egret
26. Carrion Crow
27. Shelduck
28. Gadwall
29. Tufted Duck
30. Long-tailed Tit
31. Coal Tit
32. Kestrel
33. Great Black-backed Gull
34. Pied Wagtail
35. Marsh Harrier
36. Oystercatcher
37. Lesser Black-back Gull
38. Redshank
39. Curlew
40. Woodpigeon
41. Song Thrush
42. Woodcock
43. Goldfinch
44. Chiffchaff
45. Grey Wagtail
46. Dipper
47. Blackbird
48. Collared Dove
49. Jackdaw
50. Starling
51. Meadow Pipit
52. House Sparrow
53. Raven
54. Green Woodpecker
55. Reed Bunting
56. Wren
57. Grey Heron
58. Goldcrest
59. Goosander
60. Nuthatch
61. Treecreeper
62. Swallow
63. Red-breastd Merganser
64. Snipe
65. Eider
66. Sandwich Tern
67. Goldeneye
68. Sand Martin
69. Willow Warbler
70. Little Grebe
71. Moorhen
72. Black-tailed Godwit
73. Ringed Plover
74. Common Gull
75. Great Crested Grebe
76. Skylark
77. Turnstone
78. Purple Sandpiper
79. Knot
80. Linnet
81. Wigeon
82. Twite
83. Stonechat
84. Red-throated Diver
85. Yellowhammer
86. Tree Sparrow
87. Grey Partridge
88. Fulmar
89. Razobill
90. Guillemot
91. Black Guillemot
92. Kittiwake
93. Rock Pipit
94. Stock Dove
95. Jay
96. Siskin
97. Wheatear
98. Grey Plover
99. Pintail
100. Great Spotted Woodpecker
101. Tree Pipit
102. Blackcap
103. Black Grouse
104. Red Grouse
105. Avocet
106. Ruff
107. Whooper Swan
108. Redpoll
109. Osprey
110. Banacle Goose
111. Sparrowhawk
112. Dunlin
113. Sedge Warbler
114. Red-legged Partridge

Green Woodpecker! Why? Well these guys love to peck steel power poles and make enourmous sounds, each trying to outdo the other! Brilliant!

England. Skiddaw Peak

2010-04-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am back in the land of Aus! I thought I would start my trip notes with fantastic walk I did in the Lakes district with two mates Ken and Jim. Skiddaw peak is in Keswick- perhaps the most beautiful part of the lakes area and, at only just over 900 metres, seemed to be an "easy " climb. Rather than write too much I have posted some photos and videos of the walk. Needless to say, towards the summit it was a bit more difficult.

Jim and Ken preparing for the walk. A pleasant start to the day.

Stunning views towards Keswick. The walk is very different to the Blue Mountains. Very open, with a broad, easy path and a steady climb.

As we climb- snow! At an altitude where snow does not fall in the Blue Mountains and a dramatic shift in the wind and a sudden temperature drop make it interesting.

Jim and Ken disappear into the howling wind and sleet. The terrain shifts from heath to just slate underfoot...

He's alive! Scott of the Antarctic!!

Nah.. It's Simon of Skiddaw! By this point it is as cold as the Snowy Mountains in a storm.

The peak!

Here is a little video of the peak. That noise is the wind. Very very strong and cold. The only respite was to sit behind some rocks. After a quick lunch of banana, and a mint cake ( sugar covered in chocolate basically) we began to descend the steep but faster route. This proved difficult for me as my old Scarpa boots are almost out of tread and I spent a great deal of time sliding instead of stepping.

Ken looking at the descent below the cloud cover.

A beautiful view again as we descend.

This is one of the best walks I have done. Tremendous variation in terrain and weather plus a couple of pints in a Lakes disctrict pub with frinds made this the perfect day.

More posts on England to come!

Another flight cancelled

2010-04-20T23:30:00.000-07:00

Well, even with flights resuming I have had another flight cancelled, and am awaiting for some communication with the airline this morning.
,
I have moved from the lakes district to the south towards Portsmouth, staying with friends, as their home is closer to the aiport. They have been wonderful.

I dont' mind confessing I am frustrated. Its not so much the delay, as the uncertainty combined with my daughters 21st which i will miss, work responsabilities, and the fact that I am relying on others (something i find difficult).

See you all soon.

Stuck!

2010-04-15T09:46:00.001-07:00

Just a quick update:- I was due to depart England tomorrow but all planes have been grounded in the U.K. due to a volcanic eruption in Iceland. The bottom line is, that it could be days before I get a flight. Fortunatly I am still in the Lakes district, so I can stay here until the dust settles,(forgive the pun).

Basically- the volcano is covered by 200metres of ice. As the lava pushes upward the molten rock is quickly cooled and is reduceed to tiny shards of glass. This is pushed up to 30,000ft into the atmosphere. If a jet engine flies through the "dust" the particles reduce the engine/s to nothing, with obvious results. Just like a massive sand blaster.

Anyhow, I have some great photos, 113 birds species spotted, helped with bird ringing, and done a couple of tetrads ( more on that later). Even a mountain climb to brag about. Sorry no photos yet, as I am writing this on a small computer.

See you all soon!