Blogs from Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia, Oceania - page 2

September 3rd – The weather forecast was not promising, but David wanted some photos of the coast, so we rose at 4:45 a.m., and off to Newcastle we went. And – the forecast was right – rain, high winds, and terrific waves! David was in his element! Judy and I stayed dry in the car while Mal valiantly kept David company, even losing a hat in the process. After breakfast, the weather improved enough for us to visit the Shortland Wetlands Centre. Here we were introduced to more of the region’s flora and fauna including a poisonous Red-Bellied Black Snake that was warming itself beside the path. Our next stop was the Tomaree Lookout -- unfortunately, the weather had begun to deteriorate and the winds were very strong, so we had only a quick look and ... read more

Geo: -32.9272, 151.776We awoke to a beautiful day and the temperature 24o tops, relaxed and did washing before going to the Belmont Wharf. Robyn and Trev, I managed to get another photo of a Wharf on the Macquirie Lake, huge area and a pretty area, which was a block away from the Park we are staying at. We then went to a park along the edge further up where we could see people Kite Skiing, looked like they were having fun. The Caravan Park backs onto Belmont Lake so is surrounded by water except for a strip of Land were the Pacific Highway runs through, with land on either side one or two blocks deep. We did not bother to walk to the Belmont Lake after hearing a lady from the park, telling parents in a ... read more

75 days until departure! Getting so much stuff ready and organised for the trip.. still feel like there is a mammoth work load left to do though! We will get there :) Cannot wait until the 15th of June!!... read more

It was a long weekend, celebrating Australia Day, so with three days up my sleeve, I decided to get out of town. This time, I took the train up to Newcastle, on the promise of beautiful beaches and a laid back cafe culture - also known as my favourite things. Newcastle is not too far from Sydney, so an easy train trip. Given most of my other weekends away have been further afield and required a plane trip, being able to casually take whichever train took my fancy for the princely sum of $8.40, it felt ridiculously easy. I had spoken to several people about Newcastle, including one of my work friends, which is where she grew up and her family still lives. Like many former residents that I have talked to, she spoke of Newcastle ... read more

Today we picked up our travel documentation! Cash passports with $200 on them already, international student cards, travel insurance, confirmation of Naples accommodation and of course our flight tickets! Into London and out of Milan, with 5 weeks of travel across Europe in between! :) it is feeling so real now!! 152 days, but who is counting!?... read more