So it's the last leg of my trip. The very last, in about half an hour I'm going to make my way to Brisbane International Airport and catch my plane to Singapore, and then another to Heathrow.
XD
Exciting!
Anyway, for the past week I have made the final little bit to the places I wanted to see on the East Coast of Australia. First, I visited Bundaberg, which is a little town famous for it's sugar and rum. I did a tour of the Rum Distillery and had free tastings and all kinds of goodness. I'm now a convert to 'Dark and Stormy' which is Bundaberg Rum and Ginger Beer. Hmmm...nice. It's good, trust me. I only stayed in Bundaberg for one night, as the distillery is the only thing to do there, and believe me, that's enough. The hostel I stayed at was dirty and smelly and the bar was situated on the other side of the window, which meant I got no sleep. It didn't help that Micheal Jackson died that day, and so all I could hear was drunk singing of 'Man in the Mirror' all night long. But yet, this wasn't the worst night's sleep I've had in a hostel... but I'll get to that later.
From Bundaberg I caught the bus down to Hervey Bay, which is one of the main gateways to Fraser Island, and that's exactly what it was for me. The next morning I hopped on a ferry and went across to Fraser Island and saw some BEAUTIFUL things. Fraser Island is the World's largest sand island, so all it seems to be is sand, but then along with that you get amazing sand blows, freshwater creeks and lakes that are so clear you can see all the fish underneath. The roads are just sand, and the main highway is on the beach. Fraser Island is unbelievably pretty, and completely awesome. I met some good people there also, which makes the whole trip more worthwhile.
From Fraser I went back to Hervey Bay and then down to Brisbane for my last few nights in Australia. Here, I went to Australia Zoo! Home of the late Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. Simply superb - you can get right up close to the animals, and the show was awesome. They explained the dangers of crocs and how to feed them and their general behaviour in different scenarios. though, it has to be said, the Irwin children, you just feel sorry for. It seems they don't go to school and just entertain at the Zoo. Poor kids. The Zoo itself though is awesome, very educational, worth $43 to get in (I claimed to be a student...which is half true...) However, I think it would have been even more awesome to go when Steve Irwin was there, that would have been incredible.
So, also in Brisbane I've done a little shopping and mainly relaxed ready for my looooooooooong plane journey ahead. However, going back to what I said before, I had one of the worst nights sleep here because - and I don't know if you would believe me when I say this - the guy, a nice guy called Toby, below me on the bunk one night decided to bring back a lady friend and well... you get the picture...
But anyway, my last few moments in Australia are disappearing quickly. But be ready for an immense post when I get home - which will be an overview of the whole five months.
Thanks for reading :)
Your Bundy friend,
Nic
xxx
Friday 3 July 2009
Wednesday 24 June 2009
Maggie Island, Airlie Beach and Agnes Water/1770
I type this from 1770. No, not the year, the Town of 1770. Named so because that was the year that Captain Cook first set down on the East Coast of Australia and claimed it to be British. :)
But first, I must tell you about Magnetic Island (so called because Captain Cook's compass messed up at this point of his journey and so thought the island to be magnetic) which is very pretty. I overcame my sea-sickness on the ferry over by the marvellous sight. Here, I stayed three nights in the only hostel on the Island and had a blast. On arrival, I made friends with two other girls, and we went on one of the walking tracks called 'The Forts Walk' as it has the foundations of WW2 defence positions. As a historian, I loved it, walking on little pieces of history. Also, I got out the child in me by saying 'I want to get to the top of that massive granite boulder' and then found a way to get to the top and then take pictures. Much to the fear of the girls I was doing the walk with, who after the fifth boulder or so, called me a nutter. Oh I don't think they realised just how close to the truth they were...
But then - BUT THEN - four of my most loveliest friends came to Magnetic Island. My many thanks to Sam, Shaggie, Becca and Graham for making one of my lonely days travelling impossibly amazing. Unfortunatley, due to the way our schedules are working, we only got to spend one afternoon together, but man, what an awesome day it was. Despite the fact that we only walked to the shop and back and made dinner. I was filled in on their travels (they've gone through Asia) and I filled them in on whats been happening with me. It was immense to see someone from home. Made one ginger ninja very happy indeed (I even cried when they first hugged me!)
Next, I got to Airlie Beach. One problem with the name though - THERE IS NO BEACH. It's a man-made lagoon. Honestly...bloody Australians. It's fairly nice there. I met a few nice girls in my dorm, one who showed me round and the best bookstore ever. It's second-hand, where you can buy, exchange and sell all your old books. The woman who owns it is such a dear, and knows every single book in the store, what she has and what she doesn't have. I bought two classics for me to read on the rest of my travels. But then, on the whole, Airlie Beach is a nice place to go, if you're going to do a Whitsunday sailing trip, which looks awesome. Unfortunatley, due to my sea-sickness as I found out on a fishing charter in Darwin, I wasn't going to spend $300 plus on three days vomming over the side of a boat.
I moved onto Agnes Waters/Town of 1770 now. They're two little towns on the East Coast of Australia, and they are AWESOME. I went kayaking yesterday in the sea and fell in a million times. Then had a barbie by the sea at sunset with a beer. Today, I went on a tour around the towns on a motorbike! Well, a little 50cc twist and go one, but it's simply superb. We travelled round zooming our way past beautiful scenery and kangaroos. I really recommend it, it's a pretty unique tour. We finish by sitting on the rocks on the coast, eating wedges from the local pub and watch the sunset. It's pretty awesome, because 1770 is one of two places to watch the sun set on the East Coast.
I'm here for another day, and then I head to Bundaberg - home of Australian's favourite rum. Now, prizes for who guesses correctly why I'm going there? :P
Love, as always,
Nic xxx
But first, I must tell you about Magnetic Island (so called because Captain Cook's compass messed up at this point of his journey and so thought the island to be magnetic) which is very pretty. I overcame my sea-sickness on the ferry over by the marvellous sight. Here, I stayed three nights in the only hostel on the Island and had a blast. On arrival, I made friends with two other girls, and we went on one of the walking tracks called 'The Forts Walk' as it has the foundations of WW2 defence positions. As a historian, I loved it, walking on little pieces of history. Also, I got out the child in me by saying 'I want to get to the top of that massive granite boulder' and then found a way to get to the top and then take pictures. Much to the fear of the girls I was doing the walk with, who after the fifth boulder or so, called me a nutter. Oh I don't think they realised just how close to the truth they were...
But then - BUT THEN - four of my most loveliest friends came to Magnetic Island. My many thanks to Sam, Shaggie, Becca and Graham for making one of my lonely days travelling impossibly amazing. Unfortunatley, due to the way our schedules are working, we only got to spend one afternoon together, but man, what an awesome day it was. Despite the fact that we only walked to the shop and back and made dinner. I was filled in on their travels (they've gone through Asia) and I filled them in on whats been happening with me. It was immense to see someone from home. Made one ginger ninja very happy indeed (I even cried when they first hugged me!)
Next, I got to Airlie Beach. One problem with the name though - THERE IS NO BEACH. It's a man-made lagoon. Honestly...bloody Australians. It's fairly nice there. I met a few nice girls in my dorm, one who showed me round and the best bookstore ever. It's second-hand, where you can buy, exchange and sell all your old books. The woman who owns it is such a dear, and knows every single book in the store, what she has and what she doesn't have. I bought two classics for me to read on the rest of my travels. But then, on the whole, Airlie Beach is a nice place to go, if you're going to do a Whitsunday sailing trip, which looks awesome. Unfortunatley, due to my sea-sickness as I found out on a fishing charter in Darwin, I wasn't going to spend $300 plus on three days vomming over the side of a boat.
I moved onto Agnes Waters/Town of 1770 now. They're two little towns on the East Coast of Australia, and they are AWESOME. I went kayaking yesterday in the sea and fell in a million times. Then had a barbie by the sea at sunset with a beer. Today, I went on a tour around the towns on a motorbike! Well, a little 50cc twist and go one, but it's simply superb. We travelled round zooming our way past beautiful scenery and kangaroos. I really recommend it, it's a pretty unique tour. We finish by sitting on the rocks on the coast, eating wedges from the local pub and watch the sunset. It's pretty awesome, because 1770 is one of two places to watch the sun set on the East Coast.
I'm here for another day, and then I head to Bundaberg - home of Australian's favourite rum. Now, prizes for who guesses correctly why I'm going there? :P
Love, as always,
Nic xxx
Tuesday 16 June 2009
Cairns to Darwin to Mission Beach
So a lot has happened since I last updated here. From Tasmania (still undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on God's earth) I flew to Cairns. Easy, you might think, but however I caught three planes to get there. THREE! Honestly, that was the cheapest way... bloody Australians. Gradually I got fed up and annoyed because I saw the same demonstration three times, and was sitting next to fat people three times. Though, there was one consolation that on the last flight (Sydney - Cairns) I was one of the winners of a game the air hostesses played. We had to guess collectively their ages, and subsequently I won some pringles.
Cairns is what can only be described as a tourist town, and for this reason I didn't really like it. It's all party party party, and it's practically man-made for backpackers. I did go bungy jumping though, which was incredible, despite the burst blood vessels around my eyes from the impact into the water. I'd definitley go again if I can. Two jumps from fifty metres and an open bar from nine in the morning. Now that was cool. I also visited Cape Tribulation, and the Daintree Rainforest. Saw lots of crocodiles and tree snakes, had billy tea and a tropical fruit session as well as a full on Aussie BBQ with massive steaks. Yum.
Next I went to Darwin, again. I met up with Lionel again and we spent our time watching all the new releases in the cinema (Terminator Salvation - Christian Bale. Yum) and visiting bars and steakhouses along the main drag. Lionel even ate a 1kg steak in 25 minutes along with veggies and chips as Outback Jack's 1kg challenge. My week was fun. :)
Straight from Darwin, I went to Mission Beach, which is south of Cairns by a two hour bus journey. I'm typing this here, on my last night. I've spent a good few days here. Relaxing, drinking goon and meeting some awesome new people. I relearned yactzee (spelling?). But the best bit of all is that I went SKYDIVING!
Truly, one of the BEST things I've ever done.
Tomorrow I'm off to Magnetic Island.
Catch you all soon.
Nic
xxx
Saturday 30 May 2009
Tasmania; one of God's best bits.
Oh my word - this place, state, little tiny island, is absolutely fabulous.
I landed in Hobart, the state capital, and wondered around for an afternoon taking in the sights of the tiny fishing city. Pretty little places, Georgian style sandstone buildings, fishing boats and unique cafes. I stayed in a nice, though a tad cold, hostel that night, before embarking upon my tour the next morning.
I was picked up at 7.30am on a cold and frosty morning and myself and 14 other people went to Freycinet National Park, which is famous for Wineglass Bay. I was told that it is called this because when whaling used to be occurring in this bay, the blood from the whales would seep down and into the sea and the bay would look like a giant glass of red wine. Of course, as sad as this is, I was more disappointed that we would be having no wine at Wineglass Bay. Anyway, also in this National Park we went to Sleepy Bay which is small and just granite boulders convered in orange lichen. You could get right up to the sea. Amazing. That night we stayed in the quiet town of Biceno in a nice hostel with a nice pub (as it's all about the pubs on tours) though, sadly, I left my glasses there... Ooops.
The next day was better then the one before. In the morning we visited Natureworld, where we fed kangaroos and wallabies, saw koalas and wombats being fed, many many birds and the feeding of the ever famous Tasmanian Devils. If this wasn't cool enough we then went on to the Bay of Fires, voted Lonely Planet's Tourist Destination of 2009. It's simply a strip along the East Coast with many B-E-A-Utiful beaches. One of which was called Cosy Cove, where you can camp for four weeks without any charges! And it's superb. We climbed all over the pink granite boulders and played like children, determined to get to the highest one and then best the others. Next, we visited Mt Columba's waterfall. One word: Stunning.
Our final day was Mount Cradle. We had the BEST weather, according to the Lonely Planet Guide, only one in ten days is sunny, and only 56 days in the year can you see Mount Cradle. Our day was one of this lucky days. Myself, the guide Ian (legend), and two others climbed to Marion's lookout, a fairly differcult climb (where chains are bolted into the rock to aid you) but a quick one, being half an hour. We didn't go to the summit (as much as I would have loved to) because that's a seven hour hike, and I have converse on, something that Ian kept teasing me about. It was beautiful, not a cloud in the sky. We then had Devonshire Tea (cream tea for us english folk) in a chateau, and drove back to Launcesten to go to the pub and get a chinese takeaway after finding four litres of 'wine' for ten bucks.
Oh, such good times. Met amazing people. Saw amazing sights. And would do it again in a heart beat.
Next stop - Cairns.
Nic
xxx
I landed in Hobart, the state capital, and wondered around for an afternoon taking in the sights of the tiny fishing city. Pretty little places, Georgian style sandstone buildings, fishing boats and unique cafes. I stayed in a nice, though a tad cold, hostel that night, before embarking upon my tour the next morning.
I was picked up at 7.30am on a cold and frosty morning and myself and 14 other people went to Freycinet National Park, which is famous for Wineglass Bay. I was told that it is called this because when whaling used to be occurring in this bay, the blood from the whales would seep down and into the sea and the bay would look like a giant glass of red wine. Of course, as sad as this is, I was more disappointed that we would be having no wine at Wineglass Bay. Anyway, also in this National Park we went to Sleepy Bay which is small and just granite boulders convered in orange lichen. You could get right up to the sea. Amazing. That night we stayed in the quiet town of Biceno in a nice hostel with a nice pub (as it's all about the pubs on tours) though, sadly, I left my glasses there... Ooops.
The next day was better then the one before. In the morning we visited Natureworld, where we fed kangaroos and wallabies, saw koalas and wombats being fed, many many birds and the feeding of the ever famous Tasmanian Devils. If this wasn't cool enough we then went on to the Bay of Fires, voted Lonely Planet's Tourist Destination of 2009. It's simply a strip along the East Coast with many B-E-A-Utiful beaches. One of which was called Cosy Cove, where you can camp for four weeks without any charges! And it's superb. We climbed all over the pink granite boulders and played like children, determined to get to the highest one and then best the others. Next, we visited Mt Columba's waterfall. One word: Stunning.
Our final day was Mount Cradle. We had the BEST weather, according to the Lonely Planet Guide, only one in ten days is sunny, and only 56 days in the year can you see Mount Cradle. Our day was one of this lucky days. Myself, the guide Ian (legend), and two others climbed to Marion's lookout, a fairly differcult climb (where chains are bolted into the rock to aid you) but a quick one, being half an hour. We didn't go to the summit (as much as I would have loved to) because that's a seven hour hike, and I have converse on, something that Ian kept teasing me about. It was beautiful, not a cloud in the sky. We then had Devonshire Tea (cream tea for us english folk) in a chateau, and drove back to Launcesten to go to the pub and get a chinese takeaway after finding four litres of 'wine' for ten bucks.
Oh, such good times. Met amazing people. Saw amazing sights. And would do it again in a heart beat.
Next stop - Cairns.
Nic
xxx
Tuesday 26 May 2009
Tasmania - The Holiday Isle
Looks like England - rolling lush green hills.
Feels like England - ten degrees!
Tour starts tomorrow morning - will write a longer post then.
Nic
xxx
Feels like England - ten degrees!
Tour starts tomorrow morning - will write a longer post then.
Nic
xxx
Monday 25 May 2009
The City of Sydney
Well - what can I say? Sydney is superb! It's my last day today, for tomorrow morning I'm catching a plane to Hobart, and I've had some good times here.
Although I haven't done much 'culture' stuff or any proper sightseeing, I've learnt the city by just walking around and taking in the city air and grabbing cups of discounted coffee (thank you Starbucks) occassionally sitting down on a bench and reading a book. Yesterday, for example, I was sitting on a bench in front of the Sydney Opera House with my book and then talking to Lionel. There's something liberating about it. I've gone to cafes and sat for over an hour with my notebook and the bible (again, the nickname for my Lonely Planet guide to Australia) figuring out my plans for the next month.
I've noticed, also, the contrast between the state captials. Melbourne was all go-go-go, and had an industrial feel to it. Canberra was pretty, small and had a suit-wearing thing for the people in it. Sydney is a mix between the old and the new. You walk down one street, where the Queen Victoria Building and the Town Hall is and the next thing you see is some bloody great big sky scrapers. The harbours are beautiful - though Sydney Harbour Bridge is a lot smaller then you would imagine - and I could sit there for hours, again reading.
Oh, and if anyone comes here - go to the Botanic Gardens - they're the best ones yet.
So Nic is now travelling on her own and has (sort of) figured out an itinerary for the next five weeks, and thought you might be interested to know where I am and where I'm going...
MAY: -
27th - Flying from Sydney to Hobart at a ridiculus hour in the morning.
28th, 29th, 30th - 3-day tour around Tasmania, including walking up Mount Cradle.
31st - A day in Hobart.
JUNE: -
1st - Flying to Cairns via three planes. *groan*
2nd, 3rd, 4th - Good times in Cairns (maybe including Bungy Jumping and a Rainforest tour)
5th - Flying to Darwin and meeting Lionel.
6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th - Good times in Darwin :) (and happy birthday Mum!)
12th - Flying to Cairns and getting a bus to Mission Beach.
13th - 4th - Sort of a haze at the moment. I'm buying a hop on hop off bus ticket for me to go from Cairns to Brisbane - so these three weeks will be filled with good beach times.
5th - Arriving back in England, jet-lagged and in love with Australia.
Hopefully this helps those curious minds out there :)
I have less then five minutes remaining on the internet now - so got to go...
Nic
xxx
Although I haven't done much 'culture' stuff or any proper sightseeing, I've learnt the city by just walking around and taking in the city air and grabbing cups of discounted coffee (thank you Starbucks) occassionally sitting down on a bench and reading a book. Yesterday, for example, I was sitting on a bench in front of the Sydney Opera House with my book and then talking to Lionel. There's something liberating about it. I've gone to cafes and sat for over an hour with my notebook and the bible (again, the nickname for my Lonely Planet guide to Australia) figuring out my plans for the next month.
I've noticed, also, the contrast between the state captials. Melbourne was all go-go-go, and had an industrial feel to it. Canberra was pretty, small and had a suit-wearing thing for the people in it. Sydney is a mix between the old and the new. You walk down one street, where the Queen Victoria Building and the Town Hall is and the next thing you see is some bloody great big sky scrapers. The harbours are beautiful - though Sydney Harbour Bridge is a lot smaller then you would imagine - and I could sit there for hours, again reading.
Oh, and if anyone comes here - go to the Botanic Gardens - they're the best ones yet.
So Nic is now travelling on her own and has (sort of) figured out an itinerary for the next five weeks, and thought you might be interested to know where I am and where I'm going...
MAY: -
27th - Flying from Sydney to Hobart at a ridiculus hour in the morning.
28th, 29th, 30th - 3-day tour around Tasmania, including walking up Mount Cradle.
31st - A day in Hobart.
JUNE: -
1st - Flying to Cairns via three planes. *groan*
2nd, 3rd, 4th - Good times in Cairns (maybe including Bungy Jumping and a Rainforest tour)
5th - Flying to Darwin and meeting Lionel.
6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th - Good times in Darwin :) (and happy birthday Mum!)
12th - Flying to Cairns and getting a bus to Mission Beach.
13th - 4th - Sort of a haze at the moment. I'm buying a hop on hop off bus ticket for me to go from Cairns to Brisbane - so these three weeks will be filled with good beach times.
5th - Arriving back in England, jet-lagged and in love with Australia.
Hopefully this helps those curious minds out there :)
I have less then five minutes remaining on the internet now - so got to go...
Nic
xxx
Thursday 21 May 2009
VIC and ACT
Two more states down - get in!
So, since my last post myself and Jenny have conquered the grand state of Victoria. We arrived in melbourne after a rather uncomfortable overnight bus from Adelaide in which two fellow backpackers in front of us reclined their seats all the way so my lanky legs got cramped and therefore I was not able to sleep very well. I was bitter about this for several days, as you are meant to look after your fellow backpacker...
Anyway, from the first few moments I was in Melbourne I loved it, it's a fantastic city. We checked into our hostel and wandered the city after booking two tours for the next few days. We pondered into a few museums and stood on gold ingots, rode trams, ate and longed for McCafe back in England...
Tours now - firstly we had a day on a coach down the Great Ocean Road, which is simply AMAZING. It was typically British weather; rainy, stormy and unpredictable but it only made it feel so much better. True nature, as it were. Myself and Jenny got extremely wet as we viewed the Twelve Apostles (though there are only seven now since many have fallen down) which are limestone stacks in the sea. We rekindled our love of OK! magazine and bought postcards and generally had just an brilliant day.
Another tour was Wilson's Promontory with a true bushman as our guide, named Andy. We made friends with a Canadian called Julie too and walked to the summit of Mount Oberon and then trailed the walk to Squeaky Beach. Simply beautiful.
On our other free day in Melbourne we went to the MCG and become true Melbourne Demons supporters, as Jenny lost her voice from calling the Western Bulldog players some rude names and I bought myself a Melbourne Demons beanie, which can be seen if you check out my pictures on facebook.
Next we hit Canberra, which compared to the busy and big city of Melbourne was actually really quiet. But it had some cool stuff. We hired bikes and I remembered how to ride one after so many months of driving. We cycled to the Australian War Memorial which was very interesting. I took the free tour whilst Jenny went to research her family history and then we met up and walked to the summit of Mount Ainslie. The view was the whole of Canberra, a sight definitley to be seen. Next we attempted to cylce round Lake Burley Griffin but got somewhat lost and ended up on two freeways and had to get out the bible (the nickanme of my lonley planet guide to Australia) to find our way back before the sun went down. In the end we worked out we cycled 16k, so there's the benefit.
Now, I'm currently aboding in Jenny's rellies place in Bulli (a suburb just outside Sydney) to which I feel very welcome. The Buchanans can only be described as a family like no other, and I'm having a chillaxing time here before starting the next leg of my trip, which consists of doing a tour around Tassie and then going up to Cairns and making my way down the coast from there, and maybe heading up to Darwin to have another sneaky peak at the city if I can fit it in.
So all is well with me - how about the rest of you?
Nic
xxx
So, since my last post myself and Jenny have conquered the grand state of Victoria. We arrived in melbourne after a rather uncomfortable overnight bus from Adelaide in which two fellow backpackers in front of us reclined their seats all the way so my lanky legs got cramped and therefore I was not able to sleep very well. I was bitter about this for several days, as you are meant to look after your fellow backpacker...
Anyway, from the first few moments I was in Melbourne I loved it, it's a fantastic city. We checked into our hostel and wandered the city after booking two tours for the next few days. We pondered into a few museums and stood on gold ingots, rode trams, ate and longed for McCafe back in England...
Tours now - firstly we had a day on a coach down the Great Ocean Road, which is simply AMAZING. It was typically British weather; rainy, stormy and unpredictable but it only made it feel so much better. True nature, as it were. Myself and Jenny got extremely wet as we viewed the Twelve Apostles (though there are only seven now since many have fallen down) which are limestone stacks in the sea. We rekindled our love of OK! magazine and bought postcards and generally had just an brilliant day.
Another tour was Wilson's Promontory with a true bushman as our guide, named Andy. We made friends with a Canadian called Julie too and walked to the summit of Mount Oberon and then trailed the walk to Squeaky Beach. Simply beautiful.
On our other free day in Melbourne we went to the MCG and become true Melbourne Demons supporters, as Jenny lost her voice from calling the Western Bulldog players some rude names and I bought myself a Melbourne Demons beanie, which can be seen if you check out my pictures on facebook.
Next we hit Canberra, which compared to the busy and big city of Melbourne was actually really quiet. But it had some cool stuff. We hired bikes and I remembered how to ride one after so many months of driving. We cycled to the Australian War Memorial which was very interesting. I took the free tour whilst Jenny went to research her family history and then we met up and walked to the summit of Mount Ainslie. The view was the whole of Canberra, a sight definitley to be seen. Next we attempted to cylce round Lake Burley Griffin but got somewhat lost and ended up on two freeways and had to get out the bible (the nickanme of my lonley planet guide to Australia) to find our way back before the sun went down. In the end we worked out we cycled 16k, so there's the benefit.
Now, I'm currently aboding in Jenny's rellies place in Bulli (a suburb just outside Sydney) to which I feel very welcome. The Buchanans can only be described as a family like no other, and I'm having a chillaxing time here before starting the next leg of my trip, which consists of doing a tour around Tassie and then going up to Cairns and making my way down the coast from there, and maybe heading up to Darwin to have another sneaky peak at the city if I can fit it in.
So all is well with me - how about the rest of you?
Nic
xxx
Wednesday 13 May 2009
Adelaide
I'm speaking to you all from a computer in Melbourne, however the subject of this marvellous piece is going to be Adelaide.
Yesterday, myself and a very very good friend of mine from home, Jenny, walked many kilometres to defeat the state capital of South Australia in 24 hours. We think we did this quite successfully as we shopped for necessities, saw the sights and gossiped about the past three months in which we haven't seen each other before the time where we caught our bus to Melbourne last night.
Adelaide, in conclusion, is a beautiful and quaint city. It many ways, it reminds me of Cambridge. Everywhere is a walkable distance, there are plenty of parks and the architecture is a mix between the old and the new. Furthermore, it was raining, and felt rather cold at nineteen degrees.
((Yes, nineteen degrees is COLD. I'm used to working in thirty degree heat, remember?))
We walked to the Haigh's chocolate museum, though didn't get to walk around since there was a tour in progress, but bought some chocolate frogs at a dollar each to console ourselves. Then moved onto the main shopping part of the city and window shopped and then did the walking tour in the Lonely Planet guide, walking along the river and getting attacked by black swans.
Our hostel was absolutely superb! Cheap and clean and a really nice guy called Malcolm runs it. If you ever go to Adelaide, stay at Hostel 109 on Carrington St.
Anyway, for those who want pictures go here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=9306&id=1612680176&l=ec1799f0ff
Now I have to shower and then hit Melbourne city! :)
Nic
xxx
Yesterday, myself and a very very good friend of mine from home, Jenny, walked many kilometres to defeat the state capital of South Australia in 24 hours. We think we did this quite successfully as we shopped for necessities, saw the sights and gossiped about the past three months in which we haven't seen each other before the time where we caught our bus to Melbourne last night.
Adelaide, in conclusion, is a beautiful and quaint city. It many ways, it reminds me of Cambridge. Everywhere is a walkable distance, there are plenty of parks and the architecture is a mix between the old and the new. Furthermore, it was raining, and felt rather cold at nineteen degrees.
((Yes, nineteen degrees is COLD. I'm used to working in thirty degree heat, remember?))
We walked to the Haigh's chocolate museum, though didn't get to walk around since there was a tour in progress, but bought some chocolate frogs at a dollar each to console ourselves. Then moved onto the main shopping part of the city and window shopped and then did the walking tour in the Lonely Planet guide, walking along the river and getting attacked by black swans.
Our hostel was absolutely superb! Cheap and clean and a really nice guy called Malcolm runs it. If you ever go to Adelaide, stay at Hostel 109 on Carrington St.
Anyway, for those who want pictures go here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=9306&id=1612680176&l=ec1799f0ff
Now I have to shower and then hit Melbourne city! :)
Nic
xxx
Saturday 9 May 2009
Farewell Northern Territory
It's nearing the end of my time at Buchanan Downs Station, and even my time in the Northern Territory, as from tomorrow I am making my way south to Adelaide to meet up with my best friend Jenny. There are going to be things I am going to miss here, and somethings I am definitley not going to miss, and so, I have decided to make two lists.
THINGS I AM GOING TO MISS:
THINGS I WON'T MISS:
That basically sums it up. I feel like I've changed in a way, I've gained more experience but I no more confident then when I was back home. I've been getting that friday feeling, when you know the break is coming up but it's just not coming along quick enough.
My time here wasn't what I expected. It was harder, tougher and physically enduring. But on the other hand, I don't think I would have given it up for anything.
Despite the boss being an absolute cow.
See you soon, when I'm in Adelaide, South Australia.
Nic
xxx
THINGS I AM GOING TO MISS:
- the people, to put it frankly. During the weekdays here working was fun. We got into a routine and became a unit who knew what each other was doing and what we were capable of. Even though plenty of people have passed through the gates of the station, the unit adapted and changed with it. I've learned so much from the people here, including how to cook and drive a car, which I know I would have had to probably pay for back home. It's been fun, and I'm going to miss them.
- Beef for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Toasted steak sandwichs with HP Sauce. Yum.
- Being called a useless pom everyday of my working life.
- Getting money and not having anywhere to spend it.
- Eric, the yellow Nissan.
- Lionel.
THINGS I WON'T MISS:
- Being so far from a pub/shop/civilisation.
- The weekends when the boss flys in and gives me bollockings.
- Having to clean the single's men's shithouse.
- Being so far away from friends and family.
- Getting up at 5am every morning.
That basically sums it up. I feel like I've changed in a way, I've gained more experience but I no more confident then when I was back home. I've been getting that friday feeling, when you know the break is coming up but it's just not coming along quick enough.
My time here wasn't what I expected. It was harder, tougher and physically enduring. But on the other hand, I don't think I would have given it up for anything.
Despite the boss being an absolute cow.
See you soon, when I'm in Adelaide, South Australia.
Nic
xxx
Sunday 26 April 2009
Bed 18, Children's Ward, Katherine Hospital
Yes, that's right folks, yours truly has spent the past five days admitted to Katherine Hospital. 'Why?' I hear you ask. Well that's a tale in itself...
It's mustering season, which is when all the cattle are pushed into the yards to be processed. Cows down one race, calves down another, weaners another etc etc. I was working on the calf cradle, which is a mechanism for catching the little buggers and clamps them in so we can brand and tag and and castrate and worm and, importantly, vaccinate them against botulism.
There is a needle on a gun for this vaccination, and after getting bollocked by my evil boss I was a bit flustered and somehow managed to jab myself with this needle. I thought nothing of it at the time. I had, in fact, jabbed myself the day before and I was fine. However, this particular jab must have gone deeper then the other, seen as that night my hand started to throb with pain and Lionel had to give me two nurofen to dull the pain and let me sleep. The next morning I told my boss that my wrist was the most painful thing I've had since I dislocated my knee and how it just couldn't move. She put me on anti-biotics and painkillers, hoping that would end the matter.
However, by lunchtime that day, it became apparent that the anti-biotics weren't working, and so she said that if tomorrow it was no better I would hitch a lift with Lionel (who was going into Katherine that day anyway) and go to hospital. Fun times.
So I get to hospital and go to A+E and they begin to think that it's septic arthritis and even called the infectious diseases doctor in Darwin for an opinion. I get admitted and put on a drip for the anti-biotics. The first day the Doctor said I was to get transferred to Darwin to have an operation, but they decided against that and kept me in for observation as it seemed apparent that it might not be septic arthritis. 24 more hours of observation turned out to be a lot longer, as I stayed in for a further three days. Then yesterday, the Doctor said that my wrist was a lot better and that I could be discharged. I was so happy to hear that. There's nothing worse then being on your own in hospital with the threat of an operation hanging on you then being on the other side of the world and being on your own in hospital and having the threat of an operation hanging on you.
It was better at times, I had lots of phone calls - some from the expected and some from the unexpected (thank you Grandma, Georgina and Tracey :D) I spoke to Lionel for more then two hours a day, and generally really wanted to get back to work.
Unfortunately, I've not been able to do so. The Australian hospital system is very different to the one in England, and I wasn't told how to handle the Australian one. Before I went to Katherine, I was told by my boss that I can claim the bill onto Worker's Compensation, which is a well known thing here, since it's a injury sustained in the workplace. Apparently, when I was discharged I was meant to be given a form to give to my boss claiming that I am fit to work again but I wasn't given this. So now, I have to chase it up and ask them to fax it over, otherwise I'm 'unfit' for working.
It's a load of annoying things. Hmph.
Anyway, I'm on oral anti-biotics now and painkillers for the next week, and am counting down the days until I leave here (14 today) and start travelling! xD
Your arthritic buddy,
Nic
xxx
It's mustering season, which is when all the cattle are pushed into the yards to be processed. Cows down one race, calves down another, weaners another etc etc. I was working on the calf cradle, which is a mechanism for catching the little buggers and clamps them in so we can brand and tag and and castrate and worm and, importantly, vaccinate them against botulism.
There is a needle on a gun for this vaccination, and after getting bollocked by my evil boss I was a bit flustered and somehow managed to jab myself with this needle. I thought nothing of it at the time. I had, in fact, jabbed myself the day before and I was fine. However, this particular jab must have gone deeper then the other, seen as that night my hand started to throb with pain and Lionel had to give me two nurofen to dull the pain and let me sleep. The next morning I told my boss that my wrist was the most painful thing I've had since I dislocated my knee and how it just couldn't move. She put me on anti-biotics and painkillers, hoping that would end the matter.
However, by lunchtime that day, it became apparent that the anti-biotics weren't working, and so she said that if tomorrow it was no better I would hitch a lift with Lionel (who was going into Katherine that day anyway) and go to hospital. Fun times.
So I get to hospital and go to A+E and they begin to think that it's septic arthritis and even called the infectious diseases doctor in Darwin for an opinion. I get admitted and put on a drip for the anti-biotics. The first day the Doctor said I was to get transferred to Darwin to have an operation, but they decided against that and kept me in for observation as it seemed apparent that it might not be septic arthritis. 24 more hours of observation turned out to be a lot longer, as I stayed in for a further three days. Then yesterday, the Doctor said that my wrist was a lot better and that I could be discharged. I was so happy to hear that. There's nothing worse then being on your own in hospital with the threat of an operation hanging on you then being on the other side of the world and being on your own in hospital and having the threat of an operation hanging on you.
It was better at times, I had lots of phone calls - some from the expected and some from the unexpected (thank you Grandma, Georgina and Tracey :D) I spoke to Lionel for more then two hours a day, and generally really wanted to get back to work.
Unfortunately, I've not been able to do so. The Australian hospital system is very different to the one in England, and I wasn't told how to handle the Australian one. Before I went to Katherine, I was told by my boss that I can claim the bill onto Worker's Compensation, which is a well known thing here, since it's a injury sustained in the workplace. Apparently, when I was discharged I was meant to be given a form to give to my boss claiming that I am fit to work again but I wasn't given this. So now, I have to chase it up and ask them to fax it over, otherwise I'm 'unfit' for working.
It's a load of annoying things. Hmph.
Anyway, I'm on oral anti-biotics now and painkillers for the next week, and am counting down the days until I leave here (14 today) and start travelling! xD
Your arthritic buddy,
Nic
xxx
Monday 13 April 2009
Gordons, Five Mile, Paradise, Schuberts and North, South and West Buchanan.
I last posted ages ago - right? I bet people, well one person (mentioning no names, Father) who is probably getting annoyed that I haven't. There is one simple reason for this. TIME.
I have almost none for myself, since the work here is getting intense in the lead up to mustering. It's really tiring, and most of the time I just want to sleep or get wired from caffeine so I can keep working. Today is my first day off after seven days solid physical work in the tropical sun, and if you can give me a buck for how many times I have overheated I'd be a millionaire by now.
However, we've done some fantastic work recently.
In one of the paddocks, we've placed in another trough for the cattle to drink from which is a hefty job which requires a lot of poly pipe, vehicles and muscle. On the first day when we were taking everything we needed out to the paddock (called Gordons) we had two utes with trailers, the front end loader and the truck all moving out there. A few days later the Grader was out there too. It took four people to plumb in the trough from the Turkey's Nest in Five Mile (which is a big mound with a dip in the middle for a pool of water in the next paddock. There are several of these on the station) Anyway, poly pipe fitting is the easiest thing in the world. If you played with Lego as a child, then you'll be able to do it like that *snaps fingers*
The title of this blog is all the paddock's names of which myself and two other new pommy backpackers have been sent round to check the fence lines of. One of which - North Buchanan - was where I perfected my 4x4 driving skills. The roads around the fence line were simply eroded during the wet season. It was all sand, and had produces dry canals that swooped from side to side. Checking the fence line was meant to take us three hours, we got back nearly five and a half hours later, and my hand prints are still on the steering wheel of Eric. Poor sod.
This was very similar when myself and Dan drove around Schuberts. Again, eroded fence lines and very hilly. Took us six and a half hours. And we did see a dead cow on the Northern Side with a frilled-necked lizard on top. That was a pleasant sight.
The two new backpackers are lovely guys and have made me feel better about being just a backpacker ho is here for experience, as they are too. Dan and Mark make me laugh and even help out with the cooking, and sometimes offer to do it all. They even let me watch movies on their laptop and Jeff Dunham's stand up. Makes me happy. (Ant - buy Jeff Dunham's Spark of Insanity. He's the guy who does Achmed the Terrorist)
It's strange how settled you can become. I remember my first day here, but it feels like a year ago instead of two months. I am really beginning to enjoy myself here, and that's what I intend to do, enjoy it whilst it lasts. I've given in my notice to the boss, and I leave Buchanan Downs on the morning of the 11th May, to go and meet up with Jenny in Sydney for some fun times. But part of me doesn't want it to end. I can see myself doing this for a much longer time. Then again, I have had some of the worst homesickness recently - so I know I couldn't stay out here forever. Plus, I simply just LOVE Marmite far too much.
I've got to love you and leave you now.
Nic
xxx
I have almost none for myself, since the work here is getting intense in the lead up to mustering. It's really tiring, and most of the time I just want to sleep or get wired from caffeine so I can keep working. Today is my first day off after seven days solid physical work in the tropical sun, and if you can give me a buck for how many times I have overheated I'd be a millionaire by now.
However, we've done some fantastic work recently.
In one of the paddocks, we've placed in another trough for the cattle to drink from which is a hefty job which requires a lot of poly pipe, vehicles and muscle. On the first day when we were taking everything we needed out to the paddock (called Gordons) we had two utes with trailers, the front end loader and the truck all moving out there. A few days later the Grader was out there too. It took four people to plumb in the trough from the Turkey's Nest in Five Mile (which is a big mound with a dip in the middle for a pool of water in the next paddock. There are several of these on the station) Anyway, poly pipe fitting is the easiest thing in the world. If you played with Lego as a child, then you'll be able to do it like that *snaps fingers*
The title of this blog is all the paddock's names of which myself and two other new pommy backpackers have been sent round to check the fence lines of. One of which - North Buchanan - was where I perfected my 4x4 driving skills. The roads around the fence line were simply eroded during the wet season. It was all sand, and had produces dry canals that swooped from side to side. Checking the fence line was meant to take us three hours, we got back nearly five and a half hours later, and my hand prints are still on the steering wheel of Eric. Poor sod.
This was very similar when myself and Dan drove around Schuberts. Again, eroded fence lines and very hilly. Took us six and a half hours. And we did see a dead cow on the Northern Side with a frilled-necked lizard on top. That was a pleasant sight.
The two new backpackers are lovely guys and have made me feel better about being just a backpacker ho is here for experience, as they are too. Dan and Mark make me laugh and even help out with the cooking, and sometimes offer to do it all. They even let me watch movies on their laptop and Jeff Dunham's stand up. Makes me happy. (Ant - buy Jeff Dunham's Spark of Insanity. He's the guy who does Achmed the Terrorist)
It's strange how settled you can become. I remember my first day here, but it feels like a year ago instead of two months. I am really beginning to enjoy myself here, and that's what I intend to do, enjoy it whilst it lasts. I've given in my notice to the boss, and I leave Buchanan Downs on the morning of the 11th May, to go and meet up with Jenny in Sydney for some fun times. But part of me doesn't want it to end. I can see myself doing this for a much longer time. Then again, I have had some of the worst homesickness recently - so I know I couldn't stay out here forever. Plus, I simply just LOVE Marmite far too much.
I've got to love you and leave you now.
Nic
xxx
Tuesday 31 March 2009
Katherine, NT
It was my day off yesterday, and so I joined Lionel on a trip to the local town, Katherine, as a lot of stuff was needed for the station to be picked up from various shops and stores. This meant an early start, one I haven't ever seen i my life before. 2.30am. I think I actually groaned as my alarm went off.
Anywho, by 3.30am we were on the red and dusty road listening to some weird Australian music on the tape player. Lionel was driving, as of course I can't, with a trailer, which meant we went slower then usual. By 8ish I think it was, we hit Makarankah and got some toasted sarnies for brekkie and kept moving onwards towards the town.
Our time in Katherine was limited, and with a trailer and an open ute back meant that only one of us could leave the car at a time to protect the goods from being stolen, which meant that more time was being used if we both needed to go into the same shop etc etc. Anyway, we managed good and obtained everything we needed, but here comes the best part...
I needed to buy another pair of jeans since my working pair had gotten covered in battery acid which eats your clothes (there was a growing hole in the crotch) and I as trying on my normal size. These were too big for me. Strange, I thought, I knew I had lost weight, but I didn't think a lot. So then, I go and try on the size smaller, and bloody hell - they fit perfectly!
I was on such a natural high after this, and even bought a salad for lunch. :)
Lionel was laughing at me because I was grinning so much.
Anywho, a bit of dietary advice for the rest of you - eat beef! It works wonders.
I've got to go to bed now. Night y'all.
xxx
Anywho, by 3.30am we were on the red and dusty road listening to some weird Australian music on the tape player. Lionel was driving, as of course I can't, with a trailer, which meant we went slower then usual. By 8ish I think it was, we hit Makarankah and got some toasted sarnies for brekkie and kept moving onwards towards the town.
Our time in Katherine was limited, and with a trailer and an open ute back meant that only one of us could leave the car at a time to protect the goods from being stolen, which meant that more time was being used if we both needed to go into the same shop etc etc. Anyway, we managed good and obtained everything we needed, but here comes the best part...
I needed to buy another pair of jeans since my working pair had gotten covered in battery acid which eats your clothes (there was a growing hole in the crotch) and I as trying on my normal size. These were too big for me. Strange, I thought, I knew I had lost weight, but I didn't think a lot. So then, I go and try on the size smaller, and bloody hell - they fit perfectly!
I was on such a natural high after this, and even bought a salad for lunch. :)
Lionel was laughing at me because I was grinning so much.
Anywho, a bit of dietary advice for the rest of you - eat beef! It works wonders.
I've got to go to bed now. Night y'all.
xxx
Thursday 26 March 2009
The Kitchen Sink
I cannot believe it has taken me this long to investigate the world wide phenomenon of which way does the water turn when you flush the toilet. Here I was on my day off happily talking to a bunch of lovely people on MSN Messanger and all of a sudden a crazy welsh lady asks me to find out.
And GUESS WHAT!
It goes ANTI-CLOCKWISE!
I first tried out the toilet, which was fairly annoying and goes straight down because that's how toilets work here. So then I was at the bathroom sink, which wasn't very clear. But then the kitchen sink. It went the other way around!
Blimey - I'm amused by the smallest of things.
xD
And GUESS WHAT!
It goes ANTI-CLOCKWISE!
I first tried out the toilet, which was fairly annoying and goes straight down because that's how toilets work here. So then I was at the bathroom sink, which wasn't very clear. But then the kitchen sink. It went the other way around!
Blimey - I'm amused by the smallest of things.
xD
Buchanan Love
It's strange here how you can adjust to the life. Getting up at five thirty am when in England - sod off. Australia - bring it on, as long as there is a hot billy and coffee available fairly soon. I'm finding things a lot easier now then I did before, despite the fact that I am still terrified of my boss. But I've gotten used to the life, the hard work. My body has toughened up. I've lost weight and gained muscle (seriously, you should see my guns - I think they put my rowing captain sister to shame :P)
I remember I used to complain at the burns and scorches I used to recieve from a milk steam wand and panini grill at Starbucks, saying how my hands hurt and were dry from the work. I think if I met that person who was doing that I would say 'Go build and strain four kilometres of barbed wire fence, then see what your hands look like' - mine, at the moment, are calice and feel like sandpaper. Furthermore, the barbed wire cuts like a *censored word* and then I cook and clean with these hands (because, as I have explained, I have breasts) which means washing up liquid, washing powder, potato juice and salt etc etc all land in them, as well as the dirt from the jobs I do in the day.
But then again, I wouldn't give up this experience for anything. For me, the glass is half full. I help build a four kilometre fence (which actually isn't that long in comparison the some of the others) and tear my hands, and clothes, apart - but I built a fence with barbed wire and strainers and everything. I know how to do it. Isn't that cool?
The people here I've grown close to as well (apart from my frightening boss) and Gordon makes a joke about us being like a family unit. We have the poms, who are brother - Paul - and sister - Me - as all aussies think England is inbred (I rolls my eyes everytime) and then Uncle Ray, which is what we actually call him behind his back. There's Gordon himself, who is like a grandad, and then Lionel, who is the 'alpha male' of us as it were. It's a strange collection of people, but I've grown to love it. They've also found out the fact that I'm easily cranked up, which they exploit every moment of my working life.
It's weird to think that I've settled, considering I haven't actually been here very long. I sort of know my place, know my way around and understand what were doing and why we're doing it. The fence, or example, was to enclose a paddock properly so when the mustering begins the cattle can go in that paddock as it's closer to the yards. I'm shovelling sand into the middle of the newly grown lawn to make it level and presentable. I'm killing weeds with poison because otherwise the plants the cattle do not eat will overgrow within the paddocks. It's all hard work, but that's what I am hired to do and what I'm paid for.
I'm grateful for the experiences I am collecting whilst I'm here. I cannot imagine a better place to learn all of this. Who else can say that they learned to drive in a twenty-one year old yellow ute in the Australian Bush?
I'm slightly worried though that I'm beginning to enjoy it too much. But never fear, my chumleys, the Nicholin Man will be back...she just might consider emigrating in the far future...
Lovage
xxx
I remember I used to complain at the burns and scorches I used to recieve from a milk steam wand and panini grill at Starbucks, saying how my hands hurt and were dry from the work. I think if I met that person who was doing that I would say 'Go build and strain four kilometres of barbed wire fence, then see what your hands look like' - mine, at the moment, are calice and feel like sandpaper. Furthermore, the barbed wire cuts like a *censored word* and then I cook and clean with these hands (because, as I have explained, I have breasts) which means washing up liquid, washing powder, potato juice and salt etc etc all land in them, as well as the dirt from the jobs I do in the day.
But then again, I wouldn't give up this experience for anything. For me, the glass is half full. I help build a four kilometre fence (which actually isn't that long in comparison the some of the others) and tear my hands, and clothes, apart - but I built a fence with barbed wire and strainers and everything. I know how to do it. Isn't that cool?
The people here I've grown close to as well (apart from my frightening boss) and Gordon makes a joke about us being like a family unit. We have the poms, who are brother - Paul - and sister - Me - as all aussies think England is inbred (I rolls my eyes everytime) and then Uncle Ray, which is what we actually call him behind his back. There's Gordon himself, who is like a grandad, and then Lionel, who is the 'alpha male' of us as it were. It's a strange collection of people, but I've grown to love it. They've also found out the fact that I'm easily cranked up, which they exploit every moment of my working life.
It's weird to think that I've settled, considering I haven't actually been here very long. I sort of know my place, know my way around and understand what were doing and why we're doing it. The fence, or example, was to enclose a paddock properly so when the mustering begins the cattle can go in that paddock as it's closer to the yards. I'm shovelling sand into the middle of the newly grown lawn to make it level and presentable. I'm killing weeds with poison because otherwise the plants the cattle do not eat will overgrow within the paddocks. It's all hard work, but that's what I am hired to do and what I'm paid for.
I'm grateful for the experiences I am collecting whilst I'm here. I cannot imagine a better place to learn all of this. Who else can say that they learned to drive in a twenty-one year old yellow ute in the Australian Bush?
I'm slightly worried though that I'm beginning to enjoy it too much. But never fear, my chumleys, the Nicholin Man will be back...she just might consider emigrating in the far future...
Lovage
xxx
Thursday 19 March 2009
Buchanan Downs Station #3
Hello there, my fellow chums.
Now this piece is going to be for my Father, who keeps nagging me about doing more blogs, when I blog when I have something to say he wants a daily update I think. So, as not a lot has happened in my daily routine I have found this to satisfy my father's blog-tastebuds.
Now this piece is going to be for my Father, who keeps nagging me about doing more blogs, when I blog when I have something to say he wants a daily update I think. So, as not a lot has happened in my daily routine I have found this to satisfy my father's blog-tastebuds.
1. My uncle once: had a go at clay pigeon shooting with me at the Kent County Fair.
2. Never in my life: will I become a vegetarian. It's true, I have become a beefaholic. I think it's the taste of steak which you killed, skinned and sliced up on the afternoon before you eat it that does it to you. (Apologies to my friends who are veggies/vegans)
3. When I was five: I drank watered down wine in a resturant in France.
4. High school was: an interesting experience. Especially as I think half the school didn't know my name but knew me as 'Mr Martin's Daughter' or 'Big T's lil' sis'
5. I will never forget: how to ride a motorbke, as I am definitley getting the license when I come back to Pommyland.
6. Once I met: Billy Ocean, my biggest claim to fame. He shook me by the hand and said "Hello Nichola," after my Dad introduced me.
7. There’s this boy I know: who is too pretty.
8. Once, at a bar: I put my bleeding toe on top to show the barman.
9. By noon, I’m usually: just going off for my three hour lunch break, since it just gets too hot during those hours.
10. Last night: I dreamed a fabulous dream.
11. If only I had: more strength, and previous mechanical knowledge.
12. Next time I go to church: will probably be Christmas - unless someone wants to get married?
13. What worries me most: is the thought of something serious happening back home, because it'll take me at least six days to get back.
14. When I turn my head left I see: sliding doors, the veranda, the house lawn and a gate.
15. When I turn my head right I see: a dining table, with plastic garden chairs on top with bedsheets drying.
16. You know I’m lying when: my stories don't match.
17. What I miss most about the Eighties is: being in the womb??
18. If I were a character in Shakespeare I’d be: Horatio, he doesn't get murdered.
19. By this time next year: I will have grown up so much, and be a student again.
20. A better name for me would be: Nicole the Uppity Pom, at least that's what I'm called here.
21. I have a hard time understanding: fencing.
22. If I ever go back to school, I’ll: play some rugby with the team.
23. You know I like you if: I want to talk to you all the time.
24. If I ever won an award, the first person I would thank would be: my Mum.
25. Take my advice, never: think that the British summer is hot. It's postively lukewarm.
26. My ideal breakfast is: Grandma's Christmas breakfast, but in bed with someone I love.
27. A song I love but do not have is: Jackson - Johnny Cash and June Carter.
28. If you visit my hometown, I suggest you: go punting, proper Cambridge style.
29. Why won’t people: stop buying and selling other human beings.
30. If you spend a night at my house: you'll be on the sofa. Fact. But it's a very comfortable one.
31. I’d stop my wedding for: David Tennant?
32. The world could do without: wars.
33. I’d rather lick the belly of a cockroach than: drive in the bush in the dark by myself.
34. My favourite blonde(s) is/are: *smirks* Now that's one I'm no answering at the moment.
35. Paper clips are more useful than: banks.
36. If I do anything well it’s: driving beautiful Eric around the station.
37. I can’t help but: be easily cranked up. Sadly, everyone else here has realised this.
38. I usually cry: at reality TV shows. Nicole winning Aussie Ladette to Lady!
39. My advice to my child/nephew/niece: 'Look to the future. The past will sort itself out'
40. And by the way: if you've read this far, you must really be bored.
Happy now Father?
xD
Thursday 12 March 2009
Darwin and Buchanan Downs Station #2
I had four days off after ten straight days of work, so I went to Darwin avec Paul, who is another backpacker at the station. We had only two full days there, as it takes nine and a half hours on a coach (which also costs a lot of money) to get there. Long time. Thank God for James (for those not in the know, James is my iPod. Yes, I am that weird) It was lots of fun, it was good to get out of the station for a while and actually lie in past 6am. We went to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory for a bit of culture, and then the pub, for a lot of drink. Speakng of which, can you, whoever is reading this, source out Coopers Beer in England for me. It's simply superb, and I am currently addicted. We did normal things, like shopping and going to the cinema and eating takeaway (that isn't beef)
Darwin is an awesome city, I highly recommend people to go there and see it. The crocodiles and the military history is so interesting. I advise you to visit.
So, now I've been back at work for five days now. Fun times have occured. Along with the general cooking and cleaning and basically doing the little jobs I have learned how to use an ancient front end loader, a grader and a Hino, which is a small truck. I've - I wonder how many people are going to laugh at this point - greased nipples on the grader and the front end loader as well. (Technical term - go here to see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grease_fitting) I laughed a lot, don't worry.
Furthermore, I've moved up in the world! To make room for the builders in the worker's quarters I've moved out of my room there and moved into the guest house, which is lovely with double beds, air conditioning and (this is the best part) no mosquitos!
[[For those not in the know, go to my facebook and see my mozzie bites. I had to go on anti-biotics to rid of the infection.]]
I live with Lionel, who is an awesome guy and my boss (sort of) He's really good because he understands that myself and Paul are just two pommy backbackers with no experience in this cattle station shizz and so explains and teaches, and doesn't get annoyed when you don't know what to do. It's rather cool. He also appreciates my 'I'll try anything' attitude.
A big shout out to my Mum, who is wonderful and lovely, because she posted a parcel containing two Cadbury chocolate bars (one Bournville - yum) because Cadburys does not taste the same here, a pot of Marmite because Vegemite is truly disgusting, and 80 PG Tips tea bags so I can have my builders tea! THANKS MUM!
Anyway, it's nearing 3pm, when I have to get back to work.
From your friend in the Southern Hemisphere,
Nic
xxx
Darwin is an awesome city, I highly recommend people to go there and see it. The crocodiles and the military history is so interesting. I advise you to visit.
So, now I've been back at work for five days now. Fun times have occured. Along with the general cooking and cleaning and basically doing the little jobs I have learned how to use an ancient front end loader, a grader and a Hino, which is a small truck. I've - I wonder how many people are going to laugh at this point - greased nipples on the grader and the front end loader as well. (Technical term - go here to see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grease_fitting) I laughed a lot, don't worry.
Furthermore, I've moved up in the world! To make room for the builders in the worker's quarters I've moved out of my room there and moved into the guest house, which is lovely with double beds, air conditioning and (this is the best part) no mosquitos!
[[For those not in the know, go to my facebook and see my mozzie bites. I had to go on anti-biotics to rid of the infection.]]
I live with Lionel, who is an awesome guy and my boss (sort of) He's really good because he understands that myself and Paul are just two pommy backbackers with no experience in this cattle station shizz and so explains and teaches, and doesn't get annoyed when you don't know what to do. It's rather cool. He also appreciates my 'I'll try anything' attitude.
A big shout out to my Mum, who is wonderful and lovely, because she posted a parcel containing two Cadbury chocolate bars (one Bournville - yum) because Cadburys does not taste the same here, a pot of Marmite because Vegemite is truly disgusting, and 80 PG Tips tea bags so I can have my builders tea! THANKS MUM!
Anyway, it's nearing 3pm, when I have to get back to work.
From your friend in the Southern Hemisphere,
Nic
xxx
Saturday 7 March 2009
Eric - The Ute
This is Eric.
He's 21 years old.
The door handles don't work. For the driver's door to open you reach inside and pull on a wire that's sticking out of the door.
He's three different shades of yellow.
I even told my boss that if she wants to sell him, I'll pay for the container to bring him to England.
I now understand the bond between a person and their first car.
Sunday 1 March 2009
Buchanan Downs Station, Northern Territory.
Hello again - have you missed me?
Now, this blog is going to be in three parts. You may wish to read them in any order you would like, seen as they aren't interlinked or in chronological order. To make this easier for your decision, I'm going to give you a table of contents.
1. A general summary of where I am and how come there hasn't been a blog in so long.
2. A day in the life of the 'Uppity Pom, Nicole'.
3. A few brief descriptions of my most exciting and scary jobs so far.
Hope this helps :D
1. A general summary of where I am and how come there hasn't been a blog in so long.
Ok, so here I am in the middle of the Northern Territory in Australia, and I mean in the middle. For those not in the know, NT is more or less a square wedged in between Queensland to the right, and Western Australia to the left. The nearest town to where I am is called Dunmarra, which isn't really a town at all. It's a service station on Highway 87, and that's it. That's about 50 kilometres east of here (google map it if you'd like) That's the next bit of civilisation around here. So to put into context about as far as Cambridge to London I should think (Don't quote me)
There's five people (at the moment) working on this farm full time, and these people you spend all your time with, as it's quite a trek to see a new face, especially if you are an unlicensed driver like me. There's no local supermarkets, shops, banks, general convience stores. The nearest 'proper' town is Katherine, three and a half hour drive away, and the Woolworths (which is a supermarket here, strangely) deliver food here about once every fortnight, and we only get post once a week.
As you can probably guess it's pretty hard to communicate with anyone outside the quarter of a million acre cattle station we have here. There is no mobile signal in Australia outside the cities. Don't try and call me or text me. I won't recieve it. We have a phone, which has limited use, due to the fact that I can't really give out this number or call from it. I have a phone card but it's quite expensive, and the parents are highest on the list to call once a week, sorry guys!
The internet has only just been set up here - so of course it makes it easier now - however the hours here are long and the work is tiresome so I'm not going to spend more then forty minutes on it at a time, because I need my sleep!
2. A day in the life of the 'Uppity Pom, Nicole'.
You start work at 7am here, so my alarm goes off at 5.30am for me to have my twenty minutes of waking up time and then get up throw on my work clothes and go have breakfast. We sit and talk whilst the sun rises and at 7am, when it's nice and cool (around 28 degrees) we start working. There's a range of stuff to be done. For example, feeding the horses etc. At the moment one horse has a gash on it's neck, so I catch him and clean his wound every morning. Furthermore, because I am the girl of this station I clean the homestead of dead mosquitos, grasshoppers, big flying bugs and of breakfast.
We work through to 9.30am, when we have 'Smoko' which is smoke hour and a cup of coffee and a bit of rest. So then, after that, we begin to work again, either continuing what we were doing before or something new. For instince, since I was named 'the better driver' out of the two young 'uns here - I've been entrusted with the runaround ute, which I have fallen in love with, so sometimes I pick up the rubbish from the shed and take it down the tip or go out a few kilometres and do some fencing. We stop work again at noon, simply because it's too hot to work from the hours of noon till three. The other day it was 37 degrees in the shade, and you do sweat out our own body weight every day. So from three till six, you do some more work and then you shower and get changed into some undirty clothes, and eat dinner, which I usually make as, again, I am the one with breasts in the homestead.
We watch some tv - have a chat and go to bed between eight - ten pm - and then get up the next day to do it all again. It's a good job. I'm learning new things everyday. For example today, I'm learning how to fix a lawnmower. Yesterday we put up guttering around the shed so it drains into a tank and I learned from that. Of course there are also things like cleaning out a caravan and basic things like that, but when you're in the shade and cleaning, you're happy.
Throughout the day, I am called Nicole, because Australians are strange and don't quite get the concept that Nic can be a shortened version of another name, and Gordon, the manager, made a joke about expecting Nicole Kidman to arrive. I also discovered that when on the phone, the boss thought I was 'uppity' compared to the other Pom here (who is a Geordie). I think it's the accent I have - so god only knows how Graham is going to be recieved with her posh accent here ;)
3. A few brief descriptions of my most exciting and scary jobs so far.
First of all - I did not make a very good impression on my boss. She comes to the farm on the weekends, as during the week she is a helidoc for WA. One of the other blokes, Ray, went out in the Toyota in the evening, and then didn't return for a few hours. Anthea, naturally, was a tad worried and asked me to drive up the access road to see if he had broken down. There was a bit of miscommunication on my part and I drove on the highway and it got dark really quickly. Now it was night time and I didn't find Ray so I was just driving back. Now this highway is a dirt road with bush either side, and the entrance to the farm is just a gate on the left hand side. For three hours I could not find said gate and was lost. Thankfully, I knew Ray was driving out later that evening so I sat and waited whilst the mosquitos bit the - pardon my french - shit out of me and waited for him to save me, which he did. I got back to the homestead at midnight and got a true and royal bollocking the next day. Looking back on it, it's quite rightly so that she did since I took an unregistered car on a public road and I'm an unlicensed driver. Luckily, I'm still here.
As I said before, I cook for the homestead on most days. The kitchen consists of a gas cooker a work table with a toaster, a kettle (more commonly known as a billy) and a couple of old paint tins for utenisils, and about five fridges. Each night, there's a different cut of beef. You look in the meat freezer here and it's different parts of beef. Those who know me very well know that I don't actually enjoy beef that much, but have know, weirdly, discovered a liking to it. Maybe it's because it's all we have. I've been here 16 days, and two of those days we've not had beef. Generally it's a meat and two veg sort of deal. There's fresh pumpkin though, which is gorgeous cooked any way, shape or form. I can now make corned beef from a brisket cut. See - learning eveyday. And I have had some of the best steaks I have ever eaten here. Seriously yummy tucker.
It's a very different way of life here. It's hard, and testing. You've got to have the endurance to keep going and the motivation to do sometimes what seems like a pointless job, because eventually, it will be of use to someone or something. Being so isolated was a down point, but you become used to it, and now - God forbid the feeling get stronger - going on the internet is a chore that I don't particually want to do because it seems a touch unnecessary. However, I shall never stop as I know that you lot want to know what I'm doing and where I'm going and what I'm seeing (Ha - as I type that four kangaroos appear in the garden) :D
Now - I have some requests for you people who are coming over the the land of Oz sometime soon - tell me when! So I can finish work, meet with you and tag along ;)
Furthermore, a thank you to my uncle Gary, who I have been told is printing this off and handing it to my Nanny to read :D Hello Nanny!!
I've got to go get some lunch now.
G'day from NT
xxx
Now, this blog is going to be in three parts. You may wish to read them in any order you would like, seen as they aren't interlinked or in chronological order. To make this easier for your decision, I'm going to give you a table of contents.
1. A general summary of where I am and how come there hasn't been a blog in so long.
2. A day in the life of the 'Uppity Pom, Nicole'.
3. A few brief descriptions of my most exciting and scary jobs so far.
Hope this helps :D
1. A general summary of where I am and how come there hasn't been a blog in so long.
Ok, so here I am in the middle of the Northern Territory in Australia, and I mean in the middle. For those not in the know, NT is more or less a square wedged in between Queensland to the right, and Western Australia to the left. The nearest town to where I am is called Dunmarra, which isn't really a town at all. It's a service station on Highway 87, and that's it. That's about 50 kilometres east of here (google map it if you'd like) That's the next bit of civilisation around here. So to put into context about as far as Cambridge to London I should think (Don't quote me)
There's five people (at the moment) working on this farm full time, and these people you spend all your time with, as it's quite a trek to see a new face, especially if you are an unlicensed driver like me. There's no local supermarkets, shops, banks, general convience stores. The nearest 'proper' town is Katherine, three and a half hour drive away, and the Woolworths (which is a supermarket here, strangely) deliver food here about once every fortnight, and we only get post once a week.
As you can probably guess it's pretty hard to communicate with anyone outside the quarter of a million acre cattle station we have here. There is no mobile signal in Australia outside the cities. Don't try and call me or text me. I won't recieve it. We have a phone, which has limited use, due to the fact that I can't really give out this number or call from it. I have a phone card but it's quite expensive, and the parents are highest on the list to call once a week, sorry guys!
The internet has only just been set up here - so of course it makes it easier now - however the hours here are long and the work is tiresome so I'm not going to spend more then forty minutes on it at a time, because I need my sleep!
2. A day in the life of the 'Uppity Pom, Nicole'.
You start work at 7am here, so my alarm goes off at 5.30am for me to have my twenty minutes of waking up time and then get up throw on my work clothes and go have breakfast. We sit and talk whilst the sun rises and at 7am, when it's nice and cool (around 28 degrees) we start working. There's a range of stuff to be done. For example, feeding the horses etc. At the moment one horse has a gash on it's neck, so I catch him and clean his wound every morning. Furthermore, because I am the girl of this station I clean the homestead of dead mosquitos, grasshoppers, big flying bugs and of breakfast.
We work through to 9.30am, when we have 'Smoko' which is smoke hour and a cup of coffee and a bit of rest. So then, after that, we begin to work again, either continuing what we were doing before or something new. For instince, since I was named 'the better driver' out of the two young 'uns here - I've been entrusted with the runaround ute, which I have fallen in love with, so sometimes I pick up the rubbish from the shed and take it down the tip or go out a few kilometres and do some fencing. We stop work again at noon, simply because it's too hot to work from the hours of noon till three. The other day it was 37 degrees in the shade, and you do sweat out our own body weight every day. So from three till six, you do some more work and then you shower and get changed into some undirty clothes, and eat dinner, which I usually make as, again, I am the one with breasts in the homestead.
We watch some tv - have a chat and go to bed between eight - ten pm - and then get up the next day to do it all again. It's a good job. I'm learning new things everyday. For example today, I'm learning how to fix a lawnmower. Yesterday we put up guttering around the shed so it drains into a tank and I learned from that. Of course there are also things like cleaning out a caravan and basic things like that, but when you're in the shade and cleaning, you're happy.
Throughout the day, I am called Nicole, because Australians are strange and don't quite get the concept that Nic can be a shortened version of another name, and Gordon, the manager, made a joke about expecting Nicole Kidman to arrive. I also discovered that when on the phone, the boss thought I was 'uppity' compared to the other Pom here (who is a Geordie). I think it's the accent I have - so god only knows how Graham is going to be recieved with her posh accent here ;)
3. A few brief descriptions of my most exciting and scary jobs so far.
First of all - I did not make a very good impression on my boss. She comes to the farm on the weekends, as during the week she is a helidoc for WA. One of the other blokes, Ray, went out in the Toyota in the evening, and then didn't return for a few hours. Anthea, naturally, was a tad worried and asked me to drive up the access road to see if he had broken down. There was a bit of miscommunication on my part and I drove on the highway and it got dark really quickly. Now it was night time and I didn't find Ray so I was just driving back. Now this highway is a dirt road with bush either side, and the entrance to the farm is just a gate on the left hand side. For three hours I could not find said gate and was lost. Thankfully, I knew Ray was driving out later that evening so I sat and waited whilst the mosquitos bit the - pardon my french - shit out of me and waited for him to save me, which he did. I got back to the homestead at midnight and got a true and royal bollocking the next day. Looking back on it, it's quite rightly so that she did since I took an unregistered car on a public road and I'm an unlicensed driver. Luckily, I'm still here.
As I said before, I cook for the homestead on most days. The kitchen consists of a gas cooker a work table with a toaster, a kettle (more commonly known as a billy) and a couple of old paint tins for utenisils, and about five fridges. Each night, there's a different cut of beef. You look in the meat freezer here and it's different parts of beef. Those who know me very well know that I don't actually enjoy beef that much, but have know, weirdly, discovered a liking to it. Maybe it's because it's all we have. I've been here 16 days, and two of those days we've not had beef. Generally it's a meat and two veg sort of deal. There's fresh pumpkin though, which is gorgeous cooked any way, shape or form. I can now make corned beef from a brisket cut. See - learning eveyday. And I have had some of the best steaks I have ever eaten here. Seriously yummy tucker.
It's a very different way of life here. It's hard, and testing. You've got to have the endurance to keep going and the motivation to do sometimes what seems like a pointless job, because eventually, it will be of use to someone or something. Being so isolated was a down point, but you become used to it, and now - God forbid the feeling get stronger - going on the internet is a chore that I don't particually want to do because it seems a touch unnecessary. However, I shall never stop as I know that you lot want to know what I'm doing and where I'm going and what I'm seeing (Ha - as I type that four kangaroos appear in the garden) :D
Now - I have some requests for you people who are coming over the the land of Oz sometime soon - tell me when! So I can finish work, meet with you and tag along ;)
Furthermore, a thank you to my uncle Gary, who I have been told is printing this off and handing it to my Nanny to read :D Hello Nanny!!
I've got to go get some lunch now.
G'day from NT
xxx
Saturday 14 February 2009
Alice Springs
You all know the film Australia right? Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman? Good. Well, I saw it a few months ago with my favouritest people back in the Bridge, and thought it was absolutley superb. Now, remember how stunning the setting was? The proper Australian outback when they were driving the cattle north to Darwin? I thought it must be enhanced or something just because it was that spectacular.
However, it really wasn't. Now I haven't seen a lot of the Northern Territory yet. I only landed in Alice Springs an hour and a half ago (where I got the fire exit seats so extra legroom with the window :D) but even the fifteen kilometre drive from the airport to the town centre I was simply in awe.
The rolling and rocky hills, the red dust, the amazingness of it all. I can't honestly say I've seen a prettier bit of God's earth. It's beautiful.
In my last blog, I emplored all you people who are coming to Australia to come inland and really see the country, as I have now, and I am emploring you a second time. The backbackers hostels and all the buses up and down the East Coast are full to the brim of every nationality, apart from Australian. I found myself getting frustrated at the fact that the usual question and beginning conversation of people you met in thes places are, "My name is Nic, I'm from England - Where are you from?"
Not that I mind meeting new people, I've met some fantastic people from all over the world (German, South African, Niambian, Dutch, Spanish, Irish, Canadian, American, English, New Zealanders) who are just willing to talk and help you out and things and give you advice, calm your nerves about the next part of your journey. But I found when I stayed in Brisbane last night that it wasn't what proper Australia is about, that's not the lifestyle that keeps the economy here going. The bushfires in Victoria nor the floods in Queensland affect the backpackers, where as for the Aussies, they do.
I love that I've fallen into what I'm doing. What other way to see the Northern Territory then to work the land there?
However, it really wasn't. Now I haven't seen a lot of the Northern Territory yet. I only landed in Alice Springs an hour and a half ago (where I got the fire exit seats so extra legroom with the window :D) but even the fifteen kilometre drive from the airport to the town centre I was simply in awe.
The rolling and rocky hills, the red dust, the amazingness of it all. I can't honestly say I've seen a prettier bit of God's earth. It's beautiful.
In my last blog, I emplored all you people who are coming to Australia to come inland and really see the country, as I have now, and I am emploring you a second time. The backbackers hostels and all the buses up and down the East Coast are full to the brim of every nationality, apart from Australian. I found myself getting frustrated at the fact that the usual question and beginning conversation of people you met in thes places are, "My name is Nic, I'm from England - Where are you from?"
Not that I mind meeting new people, I've met some fantastic people from all over the world (German, South African, Niambian, Dutch, Spanish, Irish, Canadian, American, English, New Zealanders) who are just willing to talk and help you out and things and give you advice, calm your nerves about the next part of your journey. But I found when I stayed in Brisbane last night that it wasn't what proper Australia is about, that's not the lifestyle that keeps the economy here going. The bushfires in Victoria nor the floods in Queensland affect the backpackers, where as for the Aussies, they do.
I love that I've fallen into what I'm doing. What other way to see the Northern Territory then to work the land there?
Friday 13 February 2009
Springbrook Farm, Goomeri
It's the end of the week and near the end of my time at Springbrook Farm here in Goomeri, an hours drive from Rainbow Beach. And it's been the most amazing week of my life.
At the beginning I wasn't too sure about all of it. The first evening, Monday, which we arrived here and settled in was an hour or so on the motorbikes. Now, the other four people here had already driven motorbikes before, and I had only been a passenger. So I was extremely nervous about it. As you friends in Cambridge will know, I am much more suited to a non-motored two wheeler. However, I was getting used to it, it was actually quite fun after a while. Though I stalled like a gazillion times and couldn't kick start it or drive off without releasing the clutch quickly and so it all went to pieces, by Wednesday, which was the second time we took the bikes out round the farm, I was flying about. Getting up to fourth gear, driving up steep hills and what not, I was absolutley loving it. So much so I am determined to get my motorbike license when I get home. Santo, the trainer here, was simply amazed when I misjudged a turn and went down a really steep hill and into a ditch with tall grass in (so you couldn't tell if there were logs or rocks in the bottom) and came out the other side ok. It was scary when it happened, but such a rollorcoaster thrill when I came out alright on the other side.
Now, moving on from the bikes, we go onto the chainsaw. Not quite as much fun as you may think. We were trimming down trees for room for a fence to go up and it's bloody hard work I can tell you, but good all the same. However, unlike the motorbikes, I'm not so much of a natural at it. Plus, it was absolutely tipping it down when we were doing it - so the moisture on my back was a mix of rainwater and sweat. (That's an attractive image for you just there ;) )
We also did many other activities, we did build build such fence that we were cutting down a tree for, which looked bloody good if I may say so myself. Basically, the wooden posts had to be alligned so we dug holes to adjust the posts already in place to make a straight line, as well as Santo pushing them with a tractor. The we pulled new barbed wire through the holes, in one hole we found a frog which made us laugh, and then strained the wire to make it tense. You feel such a sense of acheievement when you stand back and look at it and say 'I made that fence'
Ok, now we get onto the horses. We took them on two hacks in total, and the land and the sights and everything were simply gorgeous. I rode this beautiful lazy boy horse called Prince, who had two girlfriends named Duchness and Princess. People, I call out to you, come to Australia and do not only travel the East Coast. Go inwards and see the sights properly on horseback, it's simply superb, and this farm is only fifty acres and really hilly but oh my word, you cannot image it. When I nick some pictures from Veronika I'll show you. We also mustered the cattle on horseback too, which was fairly easy (I think the cattle know it's Thursday and so have to walk back to the yards) but it was fun all the same.
Now, the other motorised vehicles. Namely a tractor - so much fun on a tractor! We mowed the olive grove lawns in the tipping rain on a tractor and then with the bigger and older tractor we moved some hay bales with the front end forks. Also, I learned how to ride a quad bike, which is the easiest thing in the world as there's no clutch and you can't stall it (a winner for me, since that's my downfall) and good as I am going to be riding a tractor and a quad bike at my new job. But the final thing was that Santo allowed me to drive. He took us all onto a paddock a bit far out and allowed me to drive the ute. He sat in the front seat and taught me the basics of driving, though I can't brake and can't do smooth gear changes but still, I DROVE A CAR!
Furthermore, here is the best place in the world to live. All of our meals have been exceptional, thanks to Santo's wife, Jo, who has also been an amazing help in pushing us to call our perspective employers and making sure we are generally ok with ourselves and our wellbeing. She's an absolutely lovely woman who'll get along with anyone. Also, there are six absolutley gorgeous puppies here, which we can go and pet when we want. They're collie pups and I so want to take one home. Maybe a 50th birthday present for Dad eh?
We're all leaving tomorrow, and I'm actually quite sad to go. I really wouldn't mind staying here for a few more days with these people here. Not only the fantastic people who look after us and train us, but the people I've met and been trained with. There are five of us here. There's myself, and another english girl named Amber who is absolutley fan-bloody-tastic with horses, and is going to a horsing school in the Gold Coast to work. There's Veronika, a German girl, who's off to Alive Springs to work on a really big cattle station. Also, Pierre, a Niambian who's very lucky and had his job sorted by Monday and is going somewhere near the coast. And Dean, a South African who has his job in Western Australia in a few weeks and so is staying here to work and gain more experience until that time comes. After only five days of knowing each other we've become quite good friends and I hope we keep in contact! (*HINT HINT*) :P
As for my job, I'm going to a town near Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory, where I would probably die of the humidity, to work on quads and tractors cultivating and sowing seeds and what not. I think there's also work feeding horses and cleaning their stables. To be homest I'm not quite sure, because the job I was offered on Tuesday fell through today (which makes me what to slap the woman who offered it) so I was quite desperate for a new one, and this woman was keen for me to come on board also. I hope it'll all be ok.
I don't know when I'll next be able to come on tinternet - but don't forget to check this - you could be missing out on my new found amazing life.
Goodbye from Goomeri!
xxx
Anyway, it's our last night and we're watching a DVD.
At the beginning I wasn't too sure about all of it. The first evening, Monday, which we arrived here and settled in was an hour or so on the motorbikes. Now, the other four people here had already driven motorbikes before, and I had only been a passenger. So I was extremely nervous about it. As you friends in Cambridge will know, I am much more suited to a non-motored two wheeler. However, I was getting used to it, it was actually quite fun after a while. Though I stalled like a gazillion times and couldn't kick start it or drive off without releasing the clutch quickly and so it all went to pieces, by Wednesday, which was the second time we took the bikes out round the farm, I was flying about. Getting up to fourth gear, driving up steep hills and what not, I was absolutley loving it. So much so I am determined to get my motorbike license when I get home. Santo, the trainer here, was simply amazed when I misjudged a turn and went down a really steep hill and into a ditch with tall grass in (so you couldn't tell if there were logs or rocks in the bottom) and came out the other side ok. It was scary when it happened, but such a rollorcoaster thrill when I came out alright on the other side.
Now, moving on from the bikes, we go onto the chainsaw. Not quite as much fun as you may think. We were trimming down trees for room for a fence to go up and it's bloody hard work I can tell you, but good all the same. However, unlike the motorbikes, I'm not so much of a natural at it. Plus, it was absolutely tipping it down when we were doing it - so the moisture on my back was a mix of rainwater and sweat. (That's an attractive image for you just there ;) )
We also did many other activities, we did build build such fence that we were cutting down a tree for, which looked bloody good if I may say so myself. Basically, the wooden posts had to be alligned so we dug holes to adjust the posts already in place to make a straight line, as well as Santo pushing them with a tractor. The we pulled new barbed wire through the holes, in one hole we found a frog which made us laugh, and then strained the wire to make it tense. You feel such a sense of acheievement when you stand back and look at it and say 'I made that fence'
Ok, now we get onto the horses. We took them on two hacks in total, and the land and the sights and everything were simply gorgeous. I rode this beautiful lazy boy horse called Prince, who had two girlfriends named Duchness and Princess. People, I call out to you, come to Australia and do not only travel the East Coast. Go inwards and see the sights properly on horseback, it's simply superb, and this farm is only fifty acres and really hilly but oh my word, you cannot image it. When I nick some pictures from Veronika I'll show you. We also mustered the cattle on horseback too, which was fairly easy (I think the cattle know it's Thursday and so have to walk back to the yards) but it was fun all the same.
Now, the other motorised vehicles. Namely a tractor - so much fun on a tractor! We mowed the olive grove lawns in the tipping rain on a tractor and then with the bigger and older tractor we moved some hay bales with the front end forks. Also, I learned how to ride a quad bike, which is the easiest thing in the world as there's no clutch and you can't stall it (a winner for me, since that's my downfall) and good as I am going to be riding a tractor and a quad bike at my new job. But the final thing was that Santo allowed me to drive. He took us all onto a paddock a bit far out and allowed me to drive the ute. He sat in the front seat and taught me the basics of driving, though I can't brake and can't do smooth gear changes but still, I DROVE A CAR!
Furthermore, here is the best place in the world to live. All of our meals have been exceptional, thanks to Santo's wife, Jo, who has also been an amazing help in pushing us to call our perspective employers and making sure we are generally ok with ourselves and our wellbeing. She's an absolutely lovely woman who'll get along with anyone. Also, there are six absolutley gorgeous puppies here, which we can go and pet when we want. They're collie pups and I so want to take one home. Maybe a 50th birthday present for Dad eh?
We're all leaving tomorrow, and I'm actually quite sad to go. I really wouldn't mind staying here for a few more days with these people here. Not only the fantastic people who look after us and train us, but the people I've met and been trained with. There are five of us here. There's myself, and another english girl named Amber who is absolutley fan-bloody-tastic with horses, and is going to a horsing school in the Gold Coast to work. There's Veronika, a German girl, who's off to Alive Springs to work on a really big cattle station. Also, Pierre, a Niambian who's very lucky and had his job sorted by Monday and is going somewhere near the coast. And Dean, a South African who has his job in Western Australia in a few weeks and so is staying here to work and gain more experience until that time comes. After only five days of knowing each other we've become quite good friends and I hope we keep in contact! (*HINT HINT*) :P
As for my job, I'm going to a town near Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory, where I would probably die of the humidity, to work on quads and tractors cultivating and sowing seeds and what not. I think there's also work feeding horses and cleaning their stables. To be homest I'm not quite sure, because the job I was offered on Tuesday fell through today (which makes me what to slap the woman who offered it) so I was quite desperate for a new one, and this woman was keen for me to come on board also. I hope it'll all be ok.
I don't know when I'll next be able to come on tinternet - but don't forget to check this - you could be missing out on my new found amazing life.
Goodbye from Goomeri!
xxx
Anyway, it's our last night and we're watching a DVD.
Saturday 7 February 2009
Australian Sun
Now, being ginger and pale I knew that the sun would disagree with the exposure of my skin, it always has been. So, coming to the tropics I knew the sun would burn me without the use of sun cream - but come on?! This much pain is so ...painful! Wearing straps on my shoulders hurt, and my stomach is stinging with my t-shirt over the top. Oh well. Lesson learnt. REAPPLY EVERY HOUR.
:D
On another point - remember the arguement between me and the sea as to who owned my camera? Well, I'm afraid the sea most definitley won that one. So I'm afraid my skanky 8.2 megapixel samsung camera has died, encrusted with sand and sea water and my camera now is my 2.0 megapixel phone camera. I'll try my very best to recreate some of the best pictures that I took the other day down at the beach, though I'm not sure me heding down there is a good thing today considering what it did to me yesterday.
So yes, this is the story so far. Today is the last relaxing day before we go to Gympie and begin working.
TTYL
xxx
:D
On another point - remember the arguement between me and the sea as to who owned my camera? Well, I'm afraid the sea most definitley won that one. So I'm afraid my skanky 8.2 megapixel samsung camera has died, encrusted with sand and sea water and my camera now is my 2.0 megapixel phone camera. I'll try my very best to recreate some of the best pictures that I took the other day down at the beach, though I'm not sure me heding down there is a good thing today considering what it did to me yesterday.
So yes, this is the story so far. Today is the last relaxing day before we go to Gympie and begin working.
TTYL
xxx
Friday 6 February 2009
Rainbow Beach
After a five hour coach ride in the blistering 31 degree weather, we arrived at Rainbow Beach. One more person joined the VisitOz crew, another girl called Nic as it happens. Fraser Hostel is lovely, which is where I'm speaking to you now. Fraser Island is not so far away, can easily get a boat out (but not yet Sam G-B - will try that later on in the upcoming months) Such lovely people here, and last night we pretty much drank the bar dry, and for those condoning readers this is my relaxing time before I start working - getting over the jetlag etc etc. Drank Australian beer so that's Victoria Bitter, better known as VB, Coopers and Broegs. Coopers is one of the best beers I've drank in a long time. Then moved onto whiskey and such things.
Soon, at 11.30pm, the bar closed and a bunch of people at the hostel moved down to the beach where we lit a fire (a guy called Kenny with aborigini roots led us troops) we drank more wine and we stumbled back to our beds as the sight of daylight.
Unfortunatley, for me, something occured which isn't good. My camera was in my short pockets, which are baggy and it fell out. I spent a long time on my hands and knees looking for it, but it being very dark and all I couldn't find it. naturally I assumed someone had picked it up and taken it back to the hostel. However, when I asked this morning it was not anywhere. I jogged down to the beach and then found it in the surf. It's drying out now - so all you looking forward to pictures - watch this space. I took some beautiful pictures of the beach yesterday as well.
:(
Hopefully it'll be ok.
So - how I am feeling is fantastic. You meet some amazing people here. When I was eating discounted pancakes and a coffee for breakfast, Sammy, the chef, played his digeridoo for us. Last night round the fire we had Canadians, Aussies, Brits, Yanks etc etc. It was just good to exchange stories and everything.
So...that's all that's happened so far here. Today we hope to head to the beach, get some form of brown in my legs (even if I just rub sand in) and then Monday we're going to a place inland called Gympie which is where Springbrook farm is, where we start training.
All is fine and dandy here in Oz. Hope you're enjoying the snow back home. Make a snowman for me, I'll make a sandcastle for you.
To be continued.
xxx
Soon, at 11.30pm, the bar closed and a bunch of people at the hostel moved down to the beach where we lit a fire (a guy called Kenny with aborigini roots led us troops) we drank more wine and we stumbled back to our beds as the sight of daylight.
Unfortunatley, for me, something occured which isn't good. My camera was in my short pockets, which are baggy and it fell out. I spent a long time on my hands and knees looking for it, but it being very dark and all I couldn't find it. naturally I assumed someone had picked it up and taken it back to the hostel. However, when I asked this morning it was not anywhere. I jogged down to the beach and then found it in the surf. It's drying out now - so all you looking forward to pictures - watch this space. I took some beautiful pictures of the beach yesterday as well.
:(
Hopefully it'll be ok.
So - how I am feeling is fantastic. You meet some amazing people here. When I was eating discounted pancakes and a coffee for breakfast, Sammy, the chef, played his digeridoo for us. Last night round the fire we had Canadians, Aussies, Brits, Yanks etc etc. It was just good to exchange stories and everything.
So...that's all that's happened so far here. Today we hope to head to the beach, get some form of brown in my legs (even if I just rub sand in) and then Monday we're going to a place inland called Gympie which is where Springbrook farm is, where we start training.
All is fine and dandy here in Oz. Hope you're enjoying the snow back home. Make a snowman for me, I'll make a sandcastle for you.
To be continued.
xxx
Wednesday 4 February 2009
Queensland State Library
Blogging takes time, and for me on this computer, it is limited. You can probably tell by the title as to where I am. It's 4.41pm in Brisbane, and it all feels like a dream. Nothing is reality at the moment. It's not hit that I'm the other side of the world, on my own, doing my own thing - but yet here I am.
So, let's start from when I got through the passport control at Heathrow. I walked through, leaving the siblings and father behind to fend for themselves, and I wasn't sad (sorry folks) I felt good, I felt liberated. Something I had never felt before. No home-sickness. Nothing bad. Everything was just fine.
I found out the gate number (25 if you're interested) and wondered around for a bit. Looked in Harrods for bits and pieces, making a mental note to buy stuff when I come back through. (Georgina - maHOOSive bottles of Bombay Sapphire) Called a few people, texted a lot. Mustered all the strength I had to walk past a duty-free HMV. I then started to wonder to the gate, as it was nearly time for me to board. My stomach began to churn with nerves, like it does when major things have/are happened/happening. Called a few more people to calm me down, familier and lovely people. It was all a strange experience.
Now, the flights:
So, let's start from when I got through the passport control at Heathrow. I walked through, leaving the siblings and father behind to fend for themselves, and I wasn't sad (sorry folks) I felt good, I felt liberated. Something I had never felt before. No home-sickness. Nothing bad. Everything was just fine.
I found out the gate number (25 if you're interested) and wondered around for a bit. Looked in Harrods for bits and pieces, making a mental note to buy stuff when I come back through. (Georgina - maHOOSive bottles of Bombay Sapphire) Called a few people, texted a lot. Mustered all the strength I had to walk past a duty-free HMV. I then started to wonder to the gate, as it was nearly time for me to board. My stomach began to churn with nerves, like it does when major things have/are happened/happening. Called a few more people to calm me down, familier and lovely people. It was all a strange experience.
Now, the flights:
- Don't get a window seat in economy. You're boxed in by someone kicking your seat behind you and someone leaning back in their seat in front of you and a large smelly man to your left.
- It's so annoying that you have to walk through the better classes to get to yours - just to show you what you can't afford. Hmph.
- Aeroplane food - YUM. Seriously - give me more of that bad boy.
- Entertainment - there were good buits and bad bits. Finding Johnny Cash's Folsom Prison album was a winner - trying to watch Spiderman 3 was not. I had to turn it off when Peter Parker starts his emo-haired stance and dances down the road.
- Free alcohol - need I say more?
Everything was good overall - didn't get up as much as I wanted due to being boxed in but it was ok. I stupidly wore my contact lenses for the whole thing though, but my eyes feel fine now.
Tomorrow me and three other people are heading on a five hour coach journey to Rainbow Beach and hanging there for the weekend, which should be fun. I've met these other people. two girls, whom I share a room with tonight (at the Yellow Submarine, Corrina ;) ) called Lora and Amber and then a guy called Pierre.
So yes, this is my life in Australia so far. And it's dead exciting.
Oh - Woolworths is still live and kicking here - how cool is that?
Over and out from the land of Oz.
Nic xxx
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