This year we decided not to venture out and instead invited friends and family to help celebrate the end of 2013 and the start of 2014.
I invited the Cheong's, Tham's and Li's and Lily invited the Chans, of which only Anne's family came. Of course, the Seeto's were invited, but only U. David, A. Cath and Evan showed up.
Starting at lunch time, we ate our way through the day. Everyone brought a dish of deliciousness and that was supplemented by our salads, Thai beef salad, potato salad, garden salad.
The Cheong's, Tham's and Li's left after lunch, with Marion coming back to join us for dinner.
Dinner was a continuation of lunch. The tennis was on, so that's what we were watching on TV, until the countdown to the 9pm fireworks which we watched on tv. There was suppose to be a special fireworks display at 10pm, but if you blinked you missed it...was over before you knew it. After watching the fireworks on tv, we had our own lighting of sparklers in the front yard. Woo Hoo.
Mar Mar, Lily, Anne and A. Catherine settled down for a game of mah jong after lunch and continued this after dinner.
To while away the time, Evan experimented with cocktail slushies using Janet's vitamix blender. Lucky we had a lot of ice left over.
When 12 midnight came around we counted down and took photos of Marion taking photos of the fireworks on the tv. I must say it went on for a while and was pretty spectacular, but it was good to be with family and friends and not have to fight the crowds to get into the train station.
We had our 12 midnight lighting of sparklers. They seem to go out pretty quickly, as soon as I lit one, it was time to light another and another, but we had fun..oh the simple pleasures one can get.
Anyway, HAPPY NEW YEAR and welcome to 2014!
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Christmas Day
The day started with Darren cooking up a big breakfast for the family, with lots of help from Megan. There was scrambled eggs, bacon, sauted mushrooms, fried tomatoes, hash browns, chipolate sausages and croissants. Fiona was the first to tuck in, as she was up at the crack of dawn. The rest of the family ate their share in dribs and drabs.
This Christmas we went to Carl and Joy's for lunch. Unfortunately the fine weather leading up to Christmas did not stick around and Christmas Day turned out to be wet and damp. There plans to have an outdoor barbie turned into everyone squeezing into their garage and kitchen. We took out family shots with their tree, then had our lunch before heading off to Uncle David's for afternoon tea and dinner.
The Seetos (Evan mainly, since Bindy had made lunch) made roast pork, with baked potato, sweet potato, carrots. Ken and Angel made roasted lamb shanks with steamed zuchinni and beans - both over cook, but the lamb shanks were perfect.
I supplied a lemon, strawberry cheesecake for dessert which we had with fruit.
This Christmas we went to Carl and Joy's for lunch. Unfortunately the fine weather leading up to Christmas did not stick around and Christmas Day turned out to be wet and damp. There plans to have an outdoor barbie turned into everyone squeezing into their garage and kitchen. We took out family shots with their tree, then had our lunch before heading off to Uncle David's for afternoon tea and dinner.
The Seetos (Evan mainly, since Bindy had made lunch) made roast pork, with baked potato, sweet potato, carrots. Ken and Angel made roasted lamb shanks with steamed zuchinni and beans - both over cook, but the lamb shanks were perfect.
I supplied a lemon, strawberry cheesecake for dessert which we had with fruit.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Christmas Lights
We took the train out to see the lights.
Got out at St James and enjoyed the animations on the St Mary's Cathedral, saw several loops and took lots of photos before heading back towards Town Hall station.
At Town Hall, we were taking photos of the light projections on the Town Hall facade, when we hear lots of police sirens, they start, they stop, then we see a taxi being pulled over by 2 police cars and stopped by at least 2 other police cars coming from the other direction. We're guessing they were after the passengers in the taxi and not the taxi driver - poor fellow.
Didn't stick around to watch what happened, but caught the train home.
Got out at St James and enjoyed the animations on the St Mary's Cathedral, saw several loops and took lots of photos before heading back towards Town Hall station.
At Town Hall, we were taking photos of the light projections on the Town Hall facade, when we hear lots of police sirens, they start, they stop, then we see a taxi being pulled over by 2 police cars and stopped by at least 2 other police cars coming from the other direction. We're guessing they were after the passengers in the taxi and not the taxi driver - poor fellow.
Didn't stick around to watch what happened, but caught the train home.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Darren's 23rd Birthday
Making up for the simple fare we had at Janet's birthday dinner, we went all out for Darren's birthday dinner with a seafood smorgasbord. Janet, Lily and Kaylene made a trip to the fishmarket as well as Costco, so we ended up with 2 seafood platters, bbq octopus, seafood salad, Costco prawns and oysters 2 ways.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Janet's 51st Birthday
Sunday 3 November
Just like any other day, Janet didn't want a big celebration, so I made dinner, Hainan Chicken with rice and vegies.
I baked an Adriano Zumbo packet cake : Mirror Mud Chocolate Cake - very rich, and slightly salty as I used salted butter (we didn't have unsalted butter in the fridge). Turned out pretty well, but after dinner, everyone disappeared and it was only Janet and I in the kitchen, so I lit the candles sang Happy Birthday to her and she cut the cake. Only later did everyone come down but by then it was too late. Janet said it was because she usually rounds up the family for singing and photos..oh well...we'll be celebrating again next weekend for Darren's Birthday so will combine it all then when Fiona also comes for a home visit.
Just like any other day, Janet didn't want a big celebration, so I made dinner, Hainan Chicken with rice and vegies.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Strathfield Food Festival 2013
On again this year, Kaylene, Janet and I walked down to the Strathfield square to check it out.
Janelle Bloom was demonstrating again, this time making wok fried beans in coconut sauce. Although they were handing out food, it was only to a select few and not the entire seated audience. Watched her for a while and then we went to check out the food stalls. Bought some Taiwanese chicken nuggets ($6) - hot, fried and spicy, but oh so good. Janet managed to find Linda, Tony and Jordan having their lunch on some seats closer to the railway station side. Apparently, Tony had gone to get his hair cut and called Linda to tell her the food fest was on, so she and Jordan caught the train to Strathfield. Talked for a while before going to Yogurtberry for frozen yogurt, a treat promised to Jordan, plus Linda wanted to sit on the swinging chairs. Unfortunately, Jordan wanted to sit on the normal chairs. Bought a taste selection of flavoured yogurts to try ($5.50) and sat and talked some more. Found out that Silvia was pregnant and expecting in January.
After the yogurt, we went to watch Amina demonstrate her dish of kimchi dumplings. Janet said she was a slow cooker...JT thought she was slow, but Amina was even slower. Then Linda and family left to go do some shopping. We went to Woollies to do some shopping and then saw Darren at the Hahn korean stall contemplating lunch. We bought some skewers of meat from the Hahn korean stall, some Sushi rice ballz and some Prawn 8 for $10 and Octopus balls 8 for $8, lime sugar cane drink ($4.50) to take home to eat. Late lunch, early dinner.
Janelle Bloom was demonstrating again, this time making wok fried beans in coconut sauce. Although they were handing out food, it was only to a select few and not the entire seated audience. Watched her for a while and then we went to check out the food stalls. Bought some Taiwanese chicken nuggets ($6) - hot, fried and spicy, but oh so good. Janet managed to find Linda, Tony and Jordan having their lunch on some seats closer to the railway station side. Apparently, Tony had gone to get his hair cut and called Linda to tell her the food fest was on, so she and Jordan caught the train to Strathfield. Talked for a while before going to Yogurtberry for frozen yogurt, a treat promised to Jordan, plus Linda wanted to sit on the swinging chairs. Unfortunately, Jordan wanted to sit on the normal chairs. Bought a taste selection of flavoured yogurts to try ($5.50) and sat and talked some more. Found out that Silvia was pregnant and expecting in January.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
PGHS 30 Year Reunion, Class of 1983
Saturday 26 October
After going to Sculptures, we drove back home, so that I could get ready to go out to attend my High School reunion in Oatley.
Held at the Oatley Hotel, Kerrie Butters had organised this get together. Expecting a big turnout, I was disappointed to see only a handful of girls, but at least it meant you could have a respectable conversation and catch up.
Who attended;
Kerrie Butters
Susan Geddes
Joanne Manuel (Chicco)
Ruth Erlik (Kennedy)
Eleanor Lind
Karen Mobbs
Sophia Livas
Martinne Dillon
Heather Noakes
Jenny Masuk
Vicki Presland
Susan Porter
Vicky Gilbert
Narelle Leach
Linda Ford
Michelle Anderson
We were seated outside and it was a pretty cool night, lucky I brought a cardi with me otherwise I would have been freezing.
We ate in the dark, don't know why there were no lights in our area. I ordered a Veal Schnitzel with mushroom sauce and vegetables - was nice, but so dark, I couldn't take a photo of what I was eating.
I didn't take as many photos as I would have liked, but never too sure whether people want to be photographed.
Caught up with Martinne who is now married with 1 child (boy) of their own and 3 other foster children. She is a computer programmer now and lives in Mumbil (where?? somewhere past Orange but before Wellington).
Heather Noakes is married, no kids. Just recently moved to Abbotsford and works as a graphic designer.
Susan Geddes is married, 2 kids, works as a Year 4 primary school teacher and still lives near Oatley, but far enough away so that the she doesn't bump into any of her kids from school. She definitely looks the same.
Ruth Erlik was married, now single, has 1 daughter who she is proud of. Besides working as a business analyst, she also does guidance counselling for a group, organising outings etc. She lives in Sutherland.
Joanne Manuel is married with 2 kids and works as a Data Quality Manager with the NSW Ministry of Health.
Sophia Livas is married with 3 kids and works 3 days for her husband. She is living in Blakehurst.
Kerrie Butters is single with 1 kid (boy), she works at the Taxation Office in Wollongong where she also lives.
Karen Mobbs is remarried to an architect, has 2 kids (2 boys - 1 in South Africa on school exchange) She lives in Collaroy and is still in the legal profession.
Michelle Anderson was married, now single with 2 kids (1 girl and 1 boy) living in Mortdale. Update: now has a boyfriend called Paul.
After going to Sculptures, we drove back home, so that I could get ready to go out to attend my High School reunion in Oatley.
Held at the Oatley Hotel, Kerrie Butters had organised this get together. Expecting a big turnout, I was disappointed to see only a handful of girls, but at least it meant you could have a respectable conversation and catch up.
Who attended;
Kerrie Butters
Susan Geddes
Joanne Manuel (Chicco)
Ruth Erlik (Kennedy)
Eleanor Lind
Karen Mobbs
Sophia Livas
Martinne Dillon
Heather Noakes
Jenny Masuk
Vicki Presland
Susan Porter
Vicky Gilbert
Narelle Leach
Linda Ford
Michelle Anderson
We were seated outside and it was a pretty cool night, lucky I brought a cardi with me otherwise I would have been freezing.
We ate in the dark, don't know why there were no lights in our area. I ordered a Veal Schnitzel with mushroom sauce and vegetables - was nice, but so dark, I couldn't take a photo of what I was eating.
I didn't take as many photos as I would have liked, but never too sure whether people want to be photographed.
Heather Noakes is married, no kids. Just recently moved to Abbotsford and works as a graphic designer.
Susan Geddes is married, 2 kids, works as a Year 4 primary school teacher and still lives near Oatley, but far enough away so that the she doesn't bump into any of her kids from school. She definitely looks the same.
Ruth Erlik was married, now single, has 1 daughter who she is proud of. Besides working as a business analyst, she also does guidance counselling for a group, organising outings etc. She lives in Sutherland.
Joanne Manuel is married with 2 kids and works as a Data Quality Manager with the NSW Ministry of Health.
Sophia Livas is married with 3 kids and works 3 days for her husband. She is living in Blakehurst.
Kerrie Butters is single with 1 kid (boy), she works at the Taxation Office in Wollongong where she also lives.
Karen Mobbs is remarried to an architect, has 2 kids (2 boys - 1 in South Africa on school exchange) She lives in Collaroy and is still in the legal profession.
Michelle Anderson was married, now single with 2 kids (1 girl and 1 boy) living in Mortdale. Update: now has a boyfriend called Paul.
Sculptures by the Sea 2013
Saturday 26 October
Evan came over around 11am, and then I drove our little Mazda (easier to park) with Kaylene to Bondi.
Traffic was so bad and the route I decided to take seemed not to be the quickest. Drove along Parramatta Road to the city and then along Cleveland Street to Moore Park, then along Anzac Parade which took us back to Moore Park Road then to Oxford Street and then along to Bondi Road. Traffic was crawling along Moore Park Road, and thinking Bondi Road would be the same, but surprisingly it was free flowing.
We managed to find a 2hr parking spot around 12.45pm. which meant we could walk until 2.35pm.
Not too many outstanding sculptures this year, but I did like the crystal ball and the floating cloud of plastic toys - very colourful. No time to stop for lunch, so we bought $4 sausage sizzle (1 bread slice, 1 small sausage, onions and sauce), cheaper that $7/8 which was offered elsewhere.
Evan came over around 11am, and then I drove our little Mazda (easier to park) with Kaylene to Bondi.
Not too many outstanding sculptures this year, but I did like the crystal ball and the floating cloud of plastic toys - very colourful. No time to stop for lunch, so we bought $4 sausage sizzle (1 bread slice, 1 small sausage, onions and sauce), cheaper that $7/8 which was offered elsewhere.
Not that many nice sculptures this year, but I did like the crystal ball. Bumped into Ken who was working that day, Kaylene and I did a quick trip to the start of the route and back, while Evan stayed up top taking photos of the crowds, although lucky for us not as crowded being the first weekend.
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Casey's 36th Birthday
Sunday 20th October
Shirley invited us over to help celebrate Casey's 36th Birthday. Not too sure what time we were suppose to be there so we arrived around 12.30pm. No one was home but at least the back gate was open and so Evan I and made ourselves at home in the back porch and waited for them to get home from church.
I had baked a orange chiffon cake as requested by Shirley and I gave Casey the Shutterfly Ski holiday album which I was planning on giving the family as a Christmas present.
Shirley had all the ingredients prepped for a stir fry noodle, so I helped her cook and mix the ingredients in the wok. Her mum had made a chicken curry, which just needed reheating and Casey's brother's wife had made a beef rendang. They also had rice, char siu and vegies to go with all the food.
Lynn and Mark supplied the cake which was a chocolate delight but proved a nightmare to cut for Shirley. Family photos taken outside by the professional, Evan. Then desserts, ice cream, fruit was served inside.
Shirley invited us over to help celebrate Casey's 36th Birthday. Not too sure what time we were suppose to be there so we arrived around 12.30pm. No one was home but at least the back gate was open and so Evan I and made ourselves at home in the back porch and waited for them to get home from church.
I had baked a orange chiffon cake as requested by Shirley and I gave Casey the Shutterfly Ski holiday album which I was planning on giving the family as a Christmas present.
Shirley had all the ingredients prepped for a stir fry noodle, so I helped her cook and mix the ingredients in the wok. Her mum had made a chicken curry, which just needed reheating and Casey's brother's wife had made a beef rendang. They also had rice, char siu and vegies to go with all the food.
Lynn and Mark supplied the cake which was a chocolate delight but proved a nightmare to cut for Shirley. Family photos taken outside by the professional, Evan. Then desserts, ice cream, fruit was served inside.
I also gave Bindy a belated birthday gift - a beaded springy bracelet ($18) I had bought at the Dreamers Market in Parramatta the day before with Marion.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Hearing Test
18/10/2013 Friday
Appointment to get hearing checked at AudioClinic, Burwood, located in the Murray Arcade.
Zara was the doctor who performed the hearing test on me.
Had to fill in a pre-interview form. Name, Age, Address and a couple of questions regarding difficulty in hearing in certain situations.
Asked me a few questions first, any problems with the ears, knocks on head, dizziness, vertigo, blocked ears, sinitus etc.
They got me to sit in a sound proof booth with ear phones on and a buzzer. I was to buzz whenever I heard a sound, could be high pitched or low pitched, but it's very faint. First the right ear and then the left. Thought it would be both ears but when I kept hearing the sound only in my right ear, I cottoned on.
Anyway, the results are the my hearing range is normal and I don't have any problems with my hearing...yet.
It's a free service, consultations are free to anyone over 21.
I asked her how come they called me to offer me the service and apparently they get mailing lists and cold call people. She said normally people over 55 ... I told her it was unusual as I wasn't over 55 and they rang my work number, not my mobile, I don't usually give out my work number.
At least I don't have to worry about my hearing for now. But Mark and Nathan should go get their hearing tested.
Appointment to get hearing checked at AudioClinic, Burwood, located in the Murray Arcade.
Zara was the doctor who performed the hearing test on me.
Had to fill in a pre-interview form. Name, Age, Address and a couple of questions regarding difficulty in hearing in certain situations.
Asked me a few questions first, any problems with the ears, knocks on head, dizziness, vertigo, blocked ears, sinitus etc.
They got me to sit in a sound proof booth with ear phones on and a buzzer. I was to buzz whenever I heard a sound, could be high pitched or low pitched, but it's very faint. First the right ear and then the left. Thought it would be both ears but when I kept hearing the sound only in my right ear, I cottoned on.
Anyway, the results are the my hearing range is normal and I don't have any problems with my hearing...yet.
It's a free service, consultations are free to anyone over 21.
I asked her how come they called me to offer me the service and apparently they get mailing lists and cold call people. She said normally people over 55 ... I told her it was unusual as I wasn't over 55 and they rang my work number, not my mobile, I don't usually give out my work number.
At least I don't have to worry about my hearing for now. But Mark and Nathan should go get their hearing tested.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
International Fleet Review - 100 Years of Navy in Australia
Friday 4th and Saturday 5th October
40 Warships, 16 Tall Ships, 8000 Sailors, 9 Days, 1 Harbour and 1 Prince Harry. Celebrating 100 years since the first Royal Australian Navy ships arrived in Sydney.
I took a flex day on Friday in order to head out to the city to see the International Fleet Review. On Thursday, the Tall Ships sailed into the harbour, but the weather was not ideal, it was windy and rainy. Lucky for us, Friday turned out to be sunny and perfect to see the 7 navy ships re-enact the arrival which took place 100 years ago.
We headed out at 9.30am, by train and got to the Sydney Opera House in time to see the helicopters fly by overhead and the ships motor in. Being a Friday it wasn't as crowded, which meant we could find a spot to sit and watch the ships come in past the opera house and under the harbour bridge, although they were closer to the northern side of the harbour. At 10am, they had the Ceremonial Fleet entry and 21 gun salute with HMA Ships Sydney, Darwin, Perth, Parramatta, Bundaberg, Diamantina and Huon.
After watching the ships come in, we checked out the band playing in the Opera House forecourt, before heading down towards Darling harbour and Chinatown. On the way, I wanted to go snail hunting, so we took photos of the snails at Customs House, Martin Place, Hyde Park Barracks, Hyde Park, Pitt Street Mall and QVB, because this took time, we didn't end up getting to Darling Harbour, instead we went to Chinatown to have lunch at the Sussex Centre food court. Lily wanted to have fried fish which she had eaten before with Mark, so Kaylene and I just followed. I ended up having chicken instead, but the plate of rice was big.
After lunch we shopped at Daiso before heading back home. I had a dental appointment at 4.30pm.
Then on Saturday we headed back out again, by train, but this time we went to Mrs Macquarie's point to bags a good spot for the IFR spectacular. Got off at Town Hall and went to Woollies to buy some bottles of water, and ended up also buying some cheese and bacon rolls, chips and a roast chicken. Walked to Mrs Macquarie's and queued to get in, went through the bag check without getting out bags checked - could have brought water from home after all (restrictions were: We ask you to remember the environment you are entering and consider the safety of other patrons. All patrons entering the site will be subject to security searches No BYO alcohol No glass No unsealed beverages, including water No pets No plastic sheeting/tarps No tents, pegs or shade structures No barbecues No bicycles No sharp or serrated knives No bean bags, mattresses or inflatable furniture No sparklers No footballs or frisbees).
Found a spot overlooking the harbour where you could see the Opera House and part of the Harbour Bridge. Lily wanted to sit close to the fence, but it was going to be a hot day and so we positioned ourselves further up but still with a view. If people stood in front of us, we would have to stand, but at least we could still see. By this time it was 11am. We'd take turns going for walks to cool down in the shady spots and on the other side of the point which was a lot cooler than where we were sitting. Temperatures got into the high 20's but it felt like 30's to us. Lots of sunscreen slapped on. I had brought along my bike jacket which I thought would be useful if it was windy, but came in handy for keeping the UV rays off me. Kaylene got a touch of the sun, and I got a nice sock mark, but otherwise we weren't burnt like lobsters.
The program for the day was:
10:45am Navy Helicopter Display Team
11:00am - 2:30pm Ceremonial Fleet Review
11:40am Formation Flypast
12:00noon -12:30pm Navy Helicopter Display Team
2:15pm - 5:30pm "Salute to Navy" Air Displays
2.15pm 'Huey'
The Navy Heritage Flight UH-1B Iroquois that served in Vietnam was flown by Australian Navy pilots in units alongside US Army and RAAF crews.
2.30pm F/A-18A Hornet
The RAAF's Hornet fighter also provides maritime defence, capable of anti-ship strike and fleet protection, it will demonstrate it's handling capabilities.
2.45pm Heritage Trainers
Before they graduate to operational aircraft, all naval aviators have to learn to fly starting in trainers, whether in the 'Tiger Moth' of the 1930s, the Winjeel of the 50s or the Airtrainer of the 70s. The venerable C-47 Dakota was used for transport and to train Australian Navy observers.
3.00pm Emergency Services
Whether during bushfires or rescues at sea the Navy works hand in hand with our emergency services to assist when disaster strikes. NSW Police, Westpac Rescue, Careflight, RAAF Rescue, NSW Ambulance and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority will parade their aircraft as a Navy Seahawk demonstrates the rescue of a survivor from a raft.
3.15pm Heritage Helicopters
Helicopters that have served the Navy over the last 40 years return briefly with the Vietnam Iroquois, an Army Kiowa which flew from the Navy's survey ships and the Careflight Agusta A109 that trained naval aviators.
3.30pm 'Embarkation'
Watch out for the 'Seahawk', 'Squirrel', 'Lynx', 'Panther', 'Taipan' and 'Seasprite' as they return for a mass landing onboard their parent ships anchored around the harbour.
3.45pm Modern Navy
Each current type of Navy helicopter (plus the 'Huey') will demonstrate their capabilities. The Seahawk, Taipan, Squirrel, Bell 429, together with the Heritage Iroquois, will each will take a turn in front of the crowds at 5 different locations (Farm Cove, Milson's Point, west of Cremorne Point, Athol Bay and near Clark Island).
4.15pm Fast Jet Formation
Pel-Air Westwinds and Learjets provide the Navy with high speed target aircraft and will fly down the Harbour in formation, an unusual sight for traditional business jets.
4.30pm Maritime Heritage
The Lockheed AP-3C Orion represents Australia's current maritime reconnaissance aircraft and the 1930's Catalina from HARS is one our earliest. The Caribou served for many years as a transport aircraft and also as the last sight a trainee parachutist saw before their first jump at the Parachute Training School based at the Naval Air Station Nowra.
4.45pm 'Connie'
The HARS Lockheed Super Constellation opened up Australia's first round the world airline service and provided global transport and weather aircraft for the US military.
5.00pm Roulettes
The RAAF's aerobatic team will perform a show specially designed for Sydney Harbour. All Navy pilots begin their career flying the Pilatus PC-9.
5.15pm Farewell
Navy Squirrel and Bell 429 helicopters will wave farewell to the spectators.
Kaylene and I had found a spot on the Garden Island side to watch the air displays. I wasn't sure when the Roulettes would be on, but we waited and waited, saw all the helicopters and some planes, but still no roulettes. Saw the passenger cruise liner Rhapsody of the Seas head out to the Heads, and thinking the air show was over, went back and headed to the ladies. Lucky for us, when we got back to our mat, we heard the roulettes fly by overhead. No time to go see them do their tricks over the water, by the time we walked there and it would have been over, so we just saw them as they flew around overhead.
Then it was a 2hour wait for the fireworks and light show. Had dinner while waiting and saw the area fill up. The footpath in front of us was now crowded and causing a pedestrian traffic jam. Lucky for us, the people seated in front of us (a group of young guys) started explaining to the people on the footpath that we, the crowd on the hill had been waiting all day to see the view and what gave them the right to stand and block the view. With a lot of chanting from the crowd on the hill, us included, of "Sit Down", the footpath crowd sat down and applause and cheers went up...a lot of happy people, including us. They remained seated all through the fireworks as well. I guess if they didn't they would have had an angry mob go after them.
7:40pm -8:10pm Fireworks and Lightshow Spectacular
The lightshow was projected on the sails of the Opera House and went through the history of the navy, showing the wars they had served in as well as the non-combat times, such as Cyclone Tracey. Fireworks accompanied the lightshow. There was an eerie silence as the last post was trumpeted and the names of the fallen scrolled through on the sails. Then the amazing finale of fireworks and explosions echoed around the harbour. Because it wasn't a windy day, smoke hung around the harbour and some of the fireworks got covered, but we got to see the amazing sight as the fireworks lit up the harbour bridge and the skies around.
At the end of the show, there was a mass exodus. We walked back to Town Hall Station, Lily leading the way and managed to get home by 9.30pm, catching the first train out and managing to get seats as well.
Janet had taped the show for us, so we sat and watched it from the point of view of the cameras, spectacular again, but the atmosphere is not the same as being right in the middle of it.
40 Warships, 16 Tall Ships, 8000 Sailors, 9 Days, 1 Harbour and 1 Prince Harry. Celebrating 100 years since the first Royal Australian Navy ships arrived in Sydney.
I took a flex day on Friday in order to head out to the city to see the International Fleet Review. On Thursday, the Tall Ships sailed into the harbour, but the weather was not ideal, it was windy and rainy. Lucky for us, Friday turned out to be sunny and perfect to see the 7 navy ships re-enact the arrival which took place 100 years ago.
We headed out at 9.30am, by train and got to the Sydney Opera House in time to see the helicopters fly by overhead and the ships motor in. Being a Friday it wasn't as crowded, which meant we could find a spot to sit and watch the ships come in past the opera house and under the harbour bridge, although they were closer to the northern side of the harbour. At 10am, they had the Ceremonial Fleet entry and 21 gun salute with HMA Ships Sydney, Darwin, Perth, Parramatta, Bundaberg, Diamantina and Huon.
After watching the ships come in, we checked out the band playing in the Opera House forecourt, before heading down towards Darling harbour and Chinatown. On the way, I wanted to go snail hunting, so we took photos of the snails at Customs House, Martin Place, Hyde Park Barracks, Hyde Park, Pitt Street Mall and QVB, because this took time, we didn't end up getting to Darling Harbour, instead we went to Chinatown to have lunch at the Sussex Centre food court. Lily wanted to have fried fish which she had eaten before with Mark, so Kaylene and I just followed. I ended up having chicken instead, but the plate of rice was big.
After lunch we shopped at Daiso before heading back home. I had a dental appointment at 4.30pm.
Then on Saturday we headed back out again, by train, but this time we went to Mrs Macquarie's point to bags a good spot for the IFR spectacular. Got off at Town Hall and went to Woollies to buy some bottles of water, and ended up also buying some cheese and bacon rolls, chips and a roast chicken. Walked to Mrs Macquarie's and queued to get in, went through the bag check without getting out bags checked - could have brought water from home after all (restrictions were: We ask you to remember the environment you are entering and consider the safety of other patrons. All patrons entering the site will be subject to security searches No BYO alcohol No glass No unsealed beverages, including water No pets No plastic sheeting/tarps No tents, pegs or shade structures No barbecues No bicycles No sharp or serrated knives No bean bags, mattresses or inflatable furniture No sparklers No footballs or frisbees).
Found a spot overlooking the harbour where you could see the Opera House and part of the Harbour Bridge. Lily wanted to sit close to the fence, but it was going to be a hot day and so we positioned ourselves further up but still with a view. If people stood in front of us, we would have to stand, but at least we could still see. By this time it was 11am. We'd take turns going for walks to cool down in the shady spots and on the other side of the point which was a lot cooler than where we were sitting. Temperatures got into the high 20's but it felt like 30's to us. Lots of sunscreen slapped on. I had brought along my bike jacket which I thought would be useful if it was windy, but came in handy for keeping the UV rays off me. Kaylene got a touch of the sun, and I got a nice sock mark, but otherwise we weren't burnt like lobsters.
10:45am Navy Helicopter Display Team
11:00am - 2:30pm Ceremonial Fleet Review
11:40am Formation Flypast
12:00noon -12:30pm Navy Helicopter Display Team
2:15pm - 5:30pm "Salute to Navy" Air Displays
2.15pm 'Huey'
The Navy Heritage Flight UH-1B Iroquois that served in Vietnam was flown by Australian Navy pilots in units alongside US Army and RAAF crews.
2.30pm F/A-18A Hornet
The RAAF's Hornet fighter also provides maritime defence, capable of anti-ship strike and fleet protection, it will demonstrate it's handling capabilities.
2.45pm Heritage Trainers
Before they graduate to operational aircraft, all naval aviators have to learn to fly starting in trainers, whether in the 'Tiger Moth' of the 1930s, the Winjeel of the 50s or the Airtrainer of the 70s. The venerable C-47 Dakota was used for transport and to train Australian Navy observers.
3.00pm Emergency Services
Whether during bushfires or rescues at sea the Navy works hand in hand with our emergency services to assist when disaster strikes. NSW Police, Westpac Rescue, Careflight, RAAF Rescue, NSW Ambulance and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority will parade their aircraft as a Navy Seahawk demonstrates the rescue of a survivor from a raft.
3.15pm Heritage Helicopters
Helicopters that have served the Navy over the last 40 years return briefly with the Vietnam Iroquois, an Army Kiowa which flew from the Navy's survey ships and the Careflight Agusta A109 that trained naval aviators.
3.30pm 'Embarkation'
Watch out for the 'Seahawk', 'Squirrel', 'Lynx', 'Panther', 'Taipan' and 'Seasprite' as they return for a mass landing onboard their parent ships anchored around the harbour.
3.45pm Modern Navy
Each current type of Navy helicopter (plus the 'Huey') will demonstrate their capabilities. The Seahawk, Taipan, Squirrel, Bell 429, together with the Heritage Iroquois, will each will take a turn in front of the crowds at 5 different locations (Farm Cove, Milson's Point, west of Cremorne Point, Athol Bay and near Clark Island).
4.15pm Fast Jet Formation
Pel-Air Westwinds and Learjets provide the Navy with high speed target aircraft and will fly down the Harbour in formation, an unusual sight for traditional business jets.
4.30pm Maritime Heritage
The Lockheed AP-3C Orion represents Australia's current maritime reconnaissance aircraft and the 1930's Catalina from HARS is one our earliest. The Caribou served for many years as a transport aircraft and also as the last sight a trainee parachutist saw before their first jump at the Parachute Training School based at the Naval Air Station Nowra.
4.45pm 'Connie'
The HARS Lockheed Super Constellation opened up Australia's first round the world airline service and provided global transport and weather aircraft for the US military.
5.00pm Roulettes
The RAAF's aerobatic team will perform a show specially designed for Sydney Harbour. All Navy pilots begin their career flying the Pilatus PC-9.
5.15pm Farewell
Navy Squirrel and Bell 429 helicopters will wave farewell to the spectators.
Kaylene and I had found a spot on the Garden Island side to watch the air displays. I wasn't sure when the Roulettes would be on, but we waited and waited, saw all the helicopters and some planes, but still no roulettes. Saw the passenger cruise liner Rhapsody of the Seas head out to the Heads, and thinking the air show was over, went back and headed to the ladies. Lucky for us, when we got back to our mat, we heard the roulettes fly by overhead. No time to go see them do their tricks over the water, by the time we walked there and it would have been over, so we just saw them as they flew around overhead.
Then it was a 2hour wait for the fireworks and light show. Had dinner while waiting and saw the area fill up. The footpath in front of us was now crowded and causing a pedestrian traffic jam. Lucky for us, the people seated in front of us (a group of young guys) started explaining to the people on the footpath that we, the crowd on the hill had been waiting all day to see the view and what gave them the right to stand and block the view. With a lot of chanting from the crowd on the hill, us included, of "Sit Down", the footpath crowd sat down and applause and cheers went up...a lot of happy people, including us. They remained seated all through the fireworks as well. I guess if they didn't they would have had an angry mob go after them.
The lightshow was projected on the sails of the Opera House and went through the history of the navy, showing the wars they had served in as well as the non-combat times, such as Cyclone Tracey. Fireworks accompanied the lightshow. There was an eerie silence as the last post was trumpeted and the names of the fallen scrolled through on the sails. Then the amazing finale of fireworks and explosions echoed around the harbour. Because it wasn't a windy day, smoke hung around the harbour and some of the fireworks got covered, but we got to see the amazing sight as the fireworks lit up the harbour bridge and the skies around.
At the end of the show, there was a mass exodus. We walked back to Town Hall Station, Lily leading the way and managed to get home by 9.30pm, catching the first train out and managing to get seats as well.
Janet had taped the show for us, so we sat and watched it from the point of view of the cameras, spectacular again, but the atmosphere is not the same as being right in the middle of it.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Lily's 55th Birthday
Wednesday 2 October
Lily's 55th Birthday, so we went to Hurstville RSL for dinner. Why go all the way over there, U.David and Angel were home alone, the Seeto's had gone to the States for Josaiah and Perrie's wedding and Ken was down in Nowra managing traffic for the fleet review, so as they we didn't want U. David to drive all the way to our neck of the woods, we went to Hurstville.
Janet and I took the silver car to go pick them up and meet the others at the RSL. Veronica and Mar Mar were also invited.
There were 13 of us, so we all squeezed onto one table.
Kaylene had bought her mum's cake from Hello Happy, so we had that after dinner.
Lily's 55th Birthday, so we went to Hurstville RSL for dinner. Why go all the way over there, U.David and Angel were home alone, the Seeto's had gone to the States for Josaiah and Perrie's wedding and Ken was down in Nowra managing traffic for the fleet review, so as they we didn't want U. David to drive all the way to our neck of the woods, we went to Hurstville.
Janet and I took the silver car to go pick them up and meet the others at the RSL. Veronica and Mar Mar were also invited.
There were 13 of us, so we all squeezed onto one table.
Kaylene had bought her mum's cake from Hello Happy, so we had that after dinner.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Possum Problem
Sunday 29 September
Marion came over to get her fringe trimmed and we presume she also bought a stowaway in the shape of a brush-tailed possum.
Why do we think that, well she parked in our driveway and Janet who was out front watering her garden, saw this bushy tail poke out from the corner of the brick wall. Thinking it was a cat from the neighbourhood she tried to shoo it, but it didn't go, so she went closer to have a look and got the shock of her life when she saw it was a possum.
I was in the kitchen, preparing lunch when I heard her shouting and running down the driveway, "there's a possum running down the driveway". I looked out the window and saw this pretty big possum with it's bushy tail and a huge bloody patch along it's back come running past, it saw Lily and Marion on the grass so it didn't run down the back, it ran straight past them heading for the side fence, tried to climb it but couldn't get a grip and landed in the birds nest fern. Because that corner is full of plants and the fern provided a hiding place, it stayed there for most of the afternoon.
I rang the people at WIRES and it took some time before they answered. When they did, they said they'd try and send someone around. They also asked if it was contained, I replied that we couldn't catch it and that it was resting in the fern. She said if we put out some apples, it might come out and we could then trap it in a big box. Marion also thought it could come out for apples. Dubious, but we cut up an old apple and placed a trail to a cardboard box.
Didn't think the possum was going to come out, but also didn't want it to go running over the fence to terrorise the neighbourhood or come back at another time, so we cleared the area of most of the plants we could and then put a huge net, which Janet had, over the fern, and surrounding plants. Marion left shortly after, I guess feeling a bit guilty, as we'd said she's driven it over from her place. She had a possum problem and this was her way of getting rid of it.
It wasn't until around 5pm that I got a call from a lady who lives in Croydon asking whether the possum was still ok. Told her that it was still in the fern and that it was injured, so after the looked up directions and I told her how to get to our place, we waited for her to arrive. In the middle of making dinner she arrives. Thank goodness it was before the sun went down otherwise it would have been too dark to see.
She arrived with 2 cages, some towels and a pillowcase. When she saw the possum and where it was, she said we did the right thing. So with the netting still over the area, she, tried to get the possum, using the towel to cover it and put it in the pillowcase, but it's not as easy as it seems and the possum got out of the fern and climbed the nectarine tree. Lily and I tried to help, but didn't want to get too close it case it scratched or bit us. Managed to chase it back into the fern and she tried again, this time instead of going up, it tried climbing down out of the fern, so Lily got the pillowcase and the lady positioned the possum so that it's head was in the pillowcase and then somehow maneuvered it into the pillowcase. It was a pretty strong possum.
She called the vet straight away to see whether she could bring it in to be seen, the first vet wasn't open, but the second one she tried was, so she said she would take it to be seen to. If they could save it they would, but otherwise, if not, they would put it down.
We were just glad it was caught and being taken away. Janet was not looking forward to having a possum living in her garden.
Then the following day, whilst walking home, I see a dead possum on the side of the footpath, spooky.
Marion came over to get her fringe trimmed and we presume she also bought a stowaway in the shape of a brush-tailed possum.
Why do we think that, well she parked in our driveway and Janet who was out front watering her garden, saw this bushy tail poke out from the corner of the brick wall. Thinking it was a cat from the neighbourhood she tried to shoo it, but it didn't go, so she went closer to have a look and got the shock of her life when she saw it was a possum.
I was in the kitchen, preparing lunch when I heard her shouting and running down the driveway, "there's a possum running down the driveway". I looked out the window and saw this pretty big possum with it's bushy tail and a huge bloody patch along it's back come running past, it saw Lily and Marion on the grass so it didn't run down the back, it ran straight past them heading for the side fence, tried to climb it but couldn't get a grip and landed in the birds nest fern. Because that corner is full of plants and the fern provided a hiding place, it stayed there for most of the afternoon.
I rang the people at WIRES and it took some time before they answered. When they did, they said they'd try and send someone around. They also asked if it was contained, I replied that we couldn't catch it and that it was resting in the fern. She said if we put out some apples, it might come out and we could then trap it in a big box. Marion also thought it could come out for apples. Dubious, but we cut up an old apple and placed a trail to a cardboard box.
Didn't think the possum was going to come out, but also didn't want it to go running over the fence to terrorise the neighbourhood or come back at another time, so we cleared the area of most of the plants we could and then put a huge net, which Janet had, over the fern, and surrounding plants. Marion left shortly after, I guess feeling a bit guilty, as we'd said she's driven it over from her place. She had a possum problem and this was her way of getting rid of it.
It wasn't until around 5pm that I got a call from a lady who lives in Croydon asking whether the possum was still ok. Told her that it was still in the fern and that it was injured, so after the looked up directions and I told her how to get to our place, we waited for her to arrive. In the middle of making dinner she arrives. Thank goodness it was before the sun went down otherwise it would have been too dark to see.
She arrived with 2 cages, some towels and a pillowcase. When she saw the possum and where it was, she said we did the right thing. So with the netting still over the area, she, tried to get the possum, using the towel to cover it and put it in the pillowcase, but it's not as easy as it seems and the possum got out of the fern and climbed the nectarine tree. Lily and I tried to help, but didn't want to get too close it case it scratched or bit us. Managed to chase it back into the fern and she tried again, this time instead of going up, it tried climbing down out of the fern, so Lily got the pillowcase and the lady positioned the possum so that it's head was in the pillowcase and then somehow maneuvered it into the pillowcase. It was a pretty strong possum.
She called the vet straight away to see whether she could bring it in to be seen, the first vet wasn't open, but the second one she tried was, so she said she would take it to be seen to. If they could save it they would, but otherwise, if not, they would put it down.
We were just glad it was caught and being taken away. Janet was not looking forward to having a possum living in her garden.
Then the following day, whilst walking home, I see a dead possum on the side of the footpath, spooky.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Floriade 2013
Floriade is in its 26th year, and this year, Janet and I, joined Marion and her relatives, (Uncle Stephen and Auntie Anne Ho, Auntie Julie Kwan, Cousin Linda Tsang). We offered the use of the Tarago and I drove us all there on Wednesday 25 September. I took a flex day. We left Strathfield at 8.30am and got to Canberra at 11.30am, no stops. Marion and the others paid for my lunch, dinner as well as petrol which was a bonus (lunch $9.50, petrol $135.00)
In tribute to Canberra's centenary, this year the garden beds have been inspired by the passion and creativity behind some of the capital's greatest national achievments, which are celebrated at our world-class national attractions.
Canberra Plan
This bed represents Walkter Burley Griffin's competition winning design for Canberra, with Capital Hill at the centre and bold, geometric shapes emerging from surrounding hills that were used to inform the main axis.
CSIRO
Technologies for fast wireless networks, which we know as Wi-Fi were invented at CSIRO. The iconic symbol for wireless is depicted in this floral display.
The Australian Institute of Sport produces some of the country’s finest athletes, symbolised in this bed by the hexagonal shape found in the internationally-renowned soccer ball.
The triangular geometry of the National Gallery of Australia building – reflected in the coffered ceiling grids, the principal floor tiles and echoed throughout the triangular stair towers – is replicated in this garden bed.
Museum of Australian Democracy
The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House brings the journey of our country’s democracy to life. Depicted in this bed are the Senate and House of Representatives – chambers where our past, present and possible futures were debated.
Australia’s experience of war and its enduring impact on society are recognised in this display, which is inspired by the Victoria Cross, the nation’s highest military award for valour, and the diverse colours used in campaign medal ribbons.
The Australian National Botanic Gardens features the world’s most comprehensive display of Australian flora. A significant new feature is the Red Centre Garden, showcasing the unique flora and landscapes of Central Australia. This Floriade display honours the abundance of stunning floral sequences found in botany.
Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre uses a hands-on approach to learning. Complex phenomena and theories – including the chain of DNA depicted in this flowerbed – are explored through interactive learning experiences.
The library offers unparalled access to material relating to Australia and the Australian people. This floral display is inspired by architect Walter Bunning’s design for the library building and by stacks of books.
The National Museum of Australia explores Australian history and culture. Indigenous history, landscape, people, and the journeys that connect us with the world, are represented in this garden bed by an interlocking, multi-coloured jigsaw puzzle.
National Portrait Gallery
The hundreds of portraits on display at the National Portrait Gallery – from contemporary digital works to photographs and 19th century paintings – have inspired this interactive display. Cleverly positioned mirrors reflect the flowers, inviting you to create beautiful, flower-framed portraits of your friends and family.
Royal Australian Mint
The Royal Australian Mint’s iconic one dollar and fifty cent coins are depicted among the blooms here with the bounding kangaroo seen on the one dollar coin emerging in a ghost-like image from the bed
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