The Smith's Australian Adventure

Love this Place!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 00:36:00 +0000

Pod of dolphins, Copacabana NSW

This morning, I dropped the kids to school in Copa then drove to the shops. When I pulled up, people were on the whale watching platform. Went to see what the locals were gathering to look at: A Dolphin Show! Apparently there were 50 - 100 members - several pods - all hanging out in the Copacabana/MacMasters Beach bay! When the locals say they've never seen anything like it, it's truly amazing!

MacMasters Beach Rockpool

It's been 5 years since we moved to Australia. As we prepare for a visit stateside (20 days and counting) to see family and friends, I have been thinking a lot about "was moving to Australia a wise decision?" I can honestly say I'm counting my Blessings this morning. Very few places on earth....

Wattle Flower in bloom
NSW state flower

Melbourne Getaway

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 12 May 2015 01:10:00 +0000

For our 17th wedding anniversary, Dave and I thought we'd have some time alone and explore Melbourne.

The night before our flights, we discovered we were flying in to Avalon airport, which is 50 minutes from Melbourne CBD. Our plan was to have a no car trip. So Dave found we could take the train to the city. Our flight arrived early, we took a cab over to Lara train station and rode the V-line to Southern Cross station.

Southern Cross Station

It was a gorgeous, sunny day so we walked from Southern Cross Station to our apartment in Melbourne's South Bank. Along the way, we spotted a sweet little church which I believe is the 2nd oldest church in Australia.

St Augustine's Church

Plaque for St Augustine's Church

Art on the South Bank walkway
(rescue helicopter in the oval)

Hosier Lane Street Art (Hosier Lane)

The one bedroom apartment we rented is on the 32nd floor. It had a small balcony and an amazing view. Busy streets below and looking into nearby apartments. Not our daily lifestyle. After settling in the apartment, we walked to Chin Chin's Thai restaurant which was recommended to me. I ordered BBQ Salmon wrapped in banana leaf - which was delicious. Dave was less happy with his meal.

Our view from 32nd floor

Pedestrian bridge across the Yarra River
The Lock Bridge

Dave picked our restaurant for breakfast as he wasn't thrilled with my choice from the night before. So we walked to Flinders street, caught a tram and rode for 40 minutes to Fitzroy. We walked a block to find the empty storefront which was the (former) restaurant. It had been drizzling and we were both hungry so I looked on Google maps for nearby restaurants and Dave checked Good Food. We both came up with Industrial Beans - which was nearby and totally awesome.

Dave's choice for Breakfast

They roast coffee in the warehouse so it was warm, dry and smelled amazing - we looked out to see the rain pour down outside. The food tasted as awesome as it looked.

Coconut Crusted Brioche

Compressed Watermelon
and Muesli

After breakfast and the rainstorm, we trammed back to Flinders Station and the National (Art) Gallery of Victoria, which was closed. (bummer) We decided to visit Federation Square and China Town, where we had lunch at a Noodle shop before walking back to our apartment. The wind had picked up and it was noticeably colder by this time.

Following a rest and a swim, we ventured back out for dinner at Om Vegetarian - with freshly made Indian Dahl and naan bread, rice and veggies, all you can eat.

Our flight was 9am at Avalon so we made a plan to take the airport bus directly from Southern Cross Station - departure time 7am. Overall, a short but enjoyable visit to Melbourne.

Skyline near Princess Bridge on St Kilda Road

Aftermath of SuperStorm

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 11 May 2015 21:42:00 +0000

Life is back to "normal" following the SuperStorm. Our high school kids went to school on Monday 27 April. School buses operated normally. Classes were in session.

Copacabana Primary school was partially operational on Wednesday, 29 April. There were several trees down on the school grounds, with barriers surrounding them. The back steps exit is closed due to downed trees. And the school was using a generator to power the classrooms (which is the noise reference on the sign).

Generator and Trees down at Copa School

Tree that washed up on the beach.
You can also see the lagoon let out naturally

The fallout from the Cyclone 2 Storm

Beach erosion

Trees uprooted

Sea life tossed to shore

Debris and octopus washed in

Super Storm of NSW

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 24 Apr 2015 10:55:00 +0000

Much of the beach was eroded away by the stormy sea

It had rained most of the day on Monday, 20 April, the last day of school holidays for our students. We didn't think anything of it, as that happens often here this time of year. Dave came home soaked so we set up the heater to dry his shoes and bag for the next day, before going to bed. We went to sleep with the sound of the rain and howl of the strong winds.

At 10:30pm, there was a sharp "snap" and the power went out. The wind continued to howl and the rain pour down. By 4:30 am, I woke up to find my mobile phone had no reception - SOS only. Right then, I knew Dave wasn't going to work on Tuesday. By 6am, we were up accessing the situation. There was enough hot water in the water heater for 2 showers (hot water heaters make hot water at night only). We decided to eat all the perishable food from our refrigerator. So Dave made hot chocolate on the camp stove and yeast pancakes using up our milk were next.

High Tides and Storm Surge resulted in Lochrane Lagoon
being naturally opened by the Ocean.

We had no power and no phone service all day Tuesday. We listened to the news in the car. We took a walk and saw the beach had been eroded from the shore. Also many trees were knocked down by the roots - the rain loosened the soil and the wind blew it over - in many instances on top of power lines. Some homes had trees fall on them. Several thousand calls for help were placed to State Emergency Services (SES). We discovered it was not possible to get out of MacMasters Beach as the roads were blocked in each direction by fallen trees.

The Scenic Road and Cullens Road were 2 roads closed because
of fallen trees and downed power lines

The forecast for Tuesday was "the worst is yet to come". More rain and high winds forecast. The meteorologist reported we had conditions equal to a Category 2 Cyclone. The ocean was removing the sand from the beach and pushing it to the shore. Cochrane Lagoon had been opened naturally by the extreme tides and storm surge.

Power lines cut by fallen trees

On Wednesday morning Dave stayed home from work again as the trains were still a mess and we weren't sure if the roads leading out of the Macs were passable. The meteorologist said the amount of rain received in 48 hours was 240mm with 14-40mm predicted to fall on Wednesday. The winds had died down by that point. The forecast also predicted sun on Thursday.

Wednesday morning we found we could get out, but finding petrol and open stores was a bit of a worry as many were without power so closed. Dave drove to Woy Woy found petrol and bought a few groceries. Dave was also able to get phone reception and sent a message to his work. Later, I ventured out in search of petrol for my car and butane for our camp stove. Filled the tank, but butane sold out.

Sand from the beach blown onto the road.

Because classes were scheduled to resume after the school holidays on Tuesday, Tristan's and Clara's schools were open for supervision only. Neither of the high schools our students attend nor the primary school had power on Tuesday. Tristan's school was running a generator. Clara's school was declared non-operational on Wednesday and Thursday. Tristan's school continued to be operational - but limited classroom instruction. We visited Tristan's HS on Thursday and saw many Seniors making the most of the time available to get work done on their projects. Power was restored to both high schools on Thursday. On Friday, both Clara's and Tristan's HS were open for teaching. The primary school had power restored on Thursday as well, however it has remained closed to students from Tuesday through Friday.

Downed trees prevented us from leaving MacMasters Beach

Thursday morning started with sunrise....a wonderful start to the day. Dave took a COLD shower and went to work. I told the kids we were going to the Peninsula Leisure Centre for a swim and hot showers. The older kids wanted to stay home and tried the shower in the kid condo - and were surprised to find HOT water. Following our swim and showers, we had breakfast at MacDonalds. While there, we received a message that power had been restored to a friend living on The Scenic road. We raced home, to find we were still without power.

More storms on Tuesday night.

Dave called suggesting we get a new cooker since it could be a while without power and we were down to our last butane canister. So Thursday night we used our new cooker to heat the water for dishes and cook our meal.

Our new cooker/firepit on Thursday.

Friday morning Dave took another COLD shower. Clara went to school. I predicted we would have power by 11. We went to a friend's house to help her since a tree had broken the roof over her daughter's bedroom. The carpet was soaked as was much of the room contents. We also moved tree limbs to the road for collection.

We took her out for coffee and a chat, while the boys bowled.

The power came on at noon! So So relieved!

Kids enjoying our firepit.

Chinese New Year Parade

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 19 Apr 2015 07:42:00 +0000

This year, Clara and I made it to China Town in Sydney for the Chinese New Year Parade. During the parade, fireworks went off on the building directly behind us, lighting the night sky. The particulate from the fireworks was heavy after a while.

To see over the crowd, Clara stood on a pole
(next to a passed out guy)

Fireworks (and smoke)

One of the longer Dragons in the Parade

Chinese New Year - Year of the Sheep
Which is perfect for the Sheep Shearers of Australia!

The parade was on a Sunday night in Sydney, so we had to hurry home to get ready for our week.

Great Barrier Reef - Naturally Amazing

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 08:38:00 +0000

This post is WAY overdue.

Our best excursion on our Hamilton Island trip was Great Barrier Reef with Cruise Whitsundays.

I really wanted a full snorkeling experience, so we decided to go to the Outer Great Barrier Reef. I had resisted going to Reefworld because it seemed so "packaged". It was the best trip we went on.

Going through the Whitsundays Passage to GBR

We were collected from Hamilton Island and went through the scenic Whit Sunday Islands - taking a different journey each way.

At Reefworld, Zoe, Clara, Neo and I put on complimentary wet suits, flippers, and our own masks and snorkels. Snorkels and masks were available, but we chose to bring our own. Neo and Zoe each grabbed a "noodle" to assist with swimming. I had my GoPro camera to film our underwater adventure (see You Tube videos). The snorkeling area was well marked with guide ropes to grab onto and rest areas to catch your breath.

Meanwhile, Tristan and Dave made their way over to the Helipad for an amazing Helicopter ride. Tristan made a video of his trip, including a view of the famous Heart Reef. Tristan was in the Co-pilot seat of the helicopter.

Neo decided not to go snorkeling at the last minute and spent a lot of time in the underwater observatory. We all went on the semi-submersible submarine - which was cool and a guided tour.

Clara snorkeling

Neo and Zoe in Underwater Viewing Area

Lunch was delicious and filling. An excellent day out - and really made the grade for snorkeling!

G20 Summit in Brisbane, Queensland Australia

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 06:06:00 +0000

Well, the G20 Summit is taking place this weekend in Brisbane, Queensland - just up the coast from us. It's been really interesting seeing the dignitaries arriving and the excitement building for this historic event. The entire city is in lock-down. Police from NZ, and every state and territory from Australia are on duty. The media centre that was built to house the incoming media is the size of 2 football fields.

Whether any agreements will be made is anyone's guess. What I do know for sure is it will be Hot! The forecast high for Brisbane on Saturday is 35C (95F) and 37C (99F) on Sunday.

Neo captures what will no doubt be going on @ the G20 Summit in his routine on the trampoline.

Whitehaven Beach and Chalkies

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 09:16:00 +0000

Water Sports boat holds 22 passengers

We joined Hamilton Island Water Sports for a boat ride tour of the Whitsunday Islands. It was a calm day, with mostly sunny skies - only about 20% clouds. Reef Ryder is a fast boat, and Neo was ducking under a towel to avoid the wind. I was in the front row with Zoe and Neo. Dave, Clara and Tristan were in the 2nd row of seats.

Kids ready to snorkel @ Chalkies Beach

We traveled around Hamilton Island from the Marina through the Whitsundays Channel. First we passed Dent Island, which is where the Hamilton Island Golf Club is located. The Captain informed us it's a world class golf course and no expense was spared to create it.

We have witnessed tidal rips from top of One Tree Hill. Today, we rode through the rip between Whitsunday Island and Fritzlan Island.

Fish on Chalkies. Visibility wasn't very good.

Whitsundays Island (L) Fitzalan Island (C) Hamilton Island (R) .

Rockface on Whitsunday Island.

Our first stop was Chalkies Beach on Haselwood Island. Chalkies Beach is just across from Whitehaven Beach. The fringing reef of the Great Barrier Reef is in the Whitsunday Islands. White sand of Chalkies Beach is the same as on Whitehaven Beach. Everyone went in for a snorkel, including Dave. The visibility wasn't very good. The Captain explained there had been recent storms that had stirred up the sediment. We had 45 minutes to snorkel, and the time was gone quickly. There were reports of a sea turtle.

Beautiful turquoise water of the Whitsunday Islands.

We were finally able to see Whitsunday Island upclose, after looking at it from Hamilton Island for this week. Whitehaven Beach is on Whitsunday Island.

Fish in feeding frenzy at Neo's feet on Whitehaven Beach.

Mom and Zoe on Whitehaven Beach

Hamilton Island Vacation

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 20:14:00 +0000

Resort Lookout is the 2nd tallest point on Hamilton Island. Clara took Neo to mini golf, while Zoe, Tristan, Dave and I trekked. It's a steep climb to the top, but well worth it. The views are spectacular. While we were standing at the top, we witnessed a plane coming in to land at the airport. The tallest point is Passage Peak, with many stairs straight up to the top. Clara climbed to Passage Peak later in the day.

We had opted to take the free shuttle from our holiday accommodation to the start of the trail.

Hamilton Island, Resort Lookout view

Dave and Zoe on Resort Lookout.

Past an 800m Steep Climb there's this sign.

Catherine enjoying a drink in the resort pool.

A cruise ship, with passengers from the US, Canada, and Australia, was visiting Hamilton Island for the day and riding the free shuttles. Which made our return trip home tricky. When the shuttle arrived, it was full, until 2 passengers got off then Dave and Tristan could get on and go home. Zoe and I explored on foot. We discovered the Resort Pools near Catseye Beach. We shopped at the General Store. We looked at other storefronts.

Sunset over Dent Island, as viewed from One Tree Hill.

Adorable Koala @ Wildlife Hamilton Island

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 17:23:00 +0000

Holiday to the Whitsunday Islands

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 17:15:00 +0000

The taxi collected us at 6:15am then train to Sydney Airport. Morning breakfast after our security clearance and our flight was boarding. Scheduled 9:50 departure time bacame 10:20 as we waited for connecting flight with 14 additional passengers.

As the plane came in to land, we could see the Whitsunday Island and the blue, blue ocean. Dylan greeted us at the airport with our golf buggy. Our luggage was stowed into a trailer attached to the golf buggy he drove.

Dylan @ our golf buggy

We're staying at Cooinda Gardens 1, a 4 bedroom townhouse on the North end of Hamilton Island. Our food order from Coles Online was waiting for us. By 1pm we were unpacked and in the pool. After lunch, I drove Tristan, Zoe and Neo in the buggy for a quick tour of the island. Meanwhile, Clara explored using the free island shuttles.

Early the next morning, Dave and I climbed One Tree Hill to view the sunrise. We saw a kangaroo dash away. We heard amazing bird songs we're unfamiliar with.

Sunrise. Dave @ One Tree Hill

Back at the house by 7am, the younger kids were up. Zoe, Tristan, Neo and I enjoyed a buffet breakfast with the koalas @ Wildlife. Tristan's breakfast sausage was snatched from his plate by a kookaburra in midflight! This little Koala was so adorable. He was one of 3 having his breakfast with us - and he was active.

Breakfast with this Adorable Koala

Stroms Lookout - Daley's Point - Tristan's 14th

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 09:41:00 +0000

Bouddi National Park
Rocky Point Trail
Stroms Lookout

Lighting Tristan's 14th Birthday Cake

I love these Spear Plants

During these school holidays, we bush walked on a couple of trails we haven't been on before. One of these was the Rocky Point Trail to Stroms Lookout.

Snake on Rocky Trail

Spring Flowers on way to
Stroms Lookout

Tristan and Zoe
Looking out over Brisbane Water
and Pretty Beach

Just as we started on the trail, there was a snake under our feet! It was traveling as quickly as possible across the path. By the time I had my camera out, it was moving into the grass. The picture above, left is blurry. The snake was a nice Rust color with good pattern. Clara thought the tail had been lost.

View from Stroms Lookout
Hardys Bay and Pretty Beach

Pretty Beach and Wagstaffe

Ettalong Beach (Right Point) by sandbar

Beautiful day, nice walk, awesome lookout. We enjoyed the time together and in nature.

Zoe with Flannel Flowers on path

Cool Notch in Tree

Heart-shaped bark

National Art School HSC Intensive - Clara's Paintings

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 14:48:00 +0000

Clara was selected for the National Art School's HSC (Higher School Certificate) Instensive class in Painting. Year 11 students from around NSW applied for the opportunity to participate.

Cell Block Theatre Sign

You can see the circular stairs and bars in
sandstone and bars on the windows of
Cell Block Theatre

Clara's Horse painting was displayed in the Cell Block Theatre. This theatre has an interesting history. The restoration project was officially announced in 1955 by Katharine Hepburn.

Originally built in 1836 as a prison block for female inmates, The theatre is a reminder of Sydney's dubious origins as a place for convicts to serve their terms. The original sandstone walls and bars on windows remain.

Clara's "translation" of Anna Vinogradova painting

The National Art School (University) in Sydney. Clara had to travel with Dave to the train station in the morning (6:45 am departure time) and returned home about about 6:45 pm - so a full 12 hour day.

The class ran over 9 days - 4 consecutive days in the school holidays after Term 2 and 5 consecutive days in the school holidays after Term 3. Clara just completed the course. In 9 days, she "transcribed" 5 paintings. She seemed to enjoy Anna Vinogradova's paintings. She learned a lot.

On Friday, there was a public Open House with the art from each Year 11 participant on display. I took Tristan, Zoe and Neo to the Open House.

Clara's "translation" of Anna Vinogradova painting

Spring Wildflowers on Daleys Point Fire Trail

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 00:53:00 +0000

Sign at the beginning of the Daleys Point Fire Trail

It's the school holidays here in New South Wales. The weather has been warm and sunny, perfect for bush walking. I've been wanting to walk the Daleys Point Fire Trail for some time. The Parks Department has been upgrading the car park, sparking more interest on my part. Finally walked it this week, and it was beautiful and enjoyable. The walk ends with views over the Brisbane Water. Here you'll find some of the Spring Wildflowers we encountered and a few views. Enjoy!

Wildflowers on the Daleys Point Fire Trail

Brothers on the Daleys Point Fire Trail Walk

White Flannel Flowers. These flowers are very soft and velvety.

View of Brisbane Water from The Daleys Fire Trail

Another view of Brisbane Water from Fire Trail

Small cave in the rock formation

Tristan thought this was a blood tree....
I don't think that's correct, but the sap is amazing

Google Trekker

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 22:24:00 +0000

Google Trekker (photo from Google Trekker webpage)

Google is continuing to map the world - now in hard to reach places. The Google Trekker will be carried by NSW Parks and Wildlife staff in Bouddi National Park. The street view camera system captures 360 degree views of some amazing walks and landscapes.

Coastal Walk in Bouddi National Park, NSW

The Coastal Walk in Bouddi National Park will be mapped. The World Heritage listed Old Great North Road will be mapped with the trekker as well.
Read the full article from the Express Adv ocate, Wednesday 10 September 2014. School Holidays are just around the corner (next week). Since it's spring, I think I'll take the kids for one or both of these walks - and add some more photos for a sneak peak of what the Google Trekker will display.

The Old Great North Walk trail sign

Wet & Wild August; End of Soccer

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 07 Sep 2014 08:27:00 +0000

This August has been extremely wet and cold. Meterologists confirmed Sydney had it's wettest and cloudiest August since 1998. The last 30 days have been the wettest in a long time. Usually winter is dry and sunny, so this weather is extreme.

The ocean has been very rough and stormy, making for dramatic views. On the day I took these photos, Dave and I were on our walk on the beach in the sun. The rain clouds moved inland and we were drenched before we arrived home.

Rain falling over the ocean

Dramatic rain clouds over rough sea

Blue skies with cloud cover overhead

Because of the big storms, the tidal lines along the beach have been especially heavy with washed up sea life, including these bluebottle (Portuguese Man of War) jellyfish.

Neo's team with Coach at Soccer Gala day

Zoe and Neo's soccer season ran for several months prior to this streak of wet weather. Fortunately, they were able to complete most of their games. Zoe's team did remarkably well this season - they made it into the Grand Final. It was an exciting season.

Zoe played goalie in one of the final games of the season (a first for her)

Zoe's soccer team took 2nd place in the Grand Finals for U11s

Flowers in Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 06 Aug 2014 04:43:00 +0000

It's winter in Australia. Record breaking snowfalls have been recorded in Victoria's Alpine Resorts. Canberra, just a few hours inland, recently recorded it's lowest temperatures in 20 years. And it's been really at night here by the temperature moderating ocean. Even still, the blooms have been really beautiful. Enjoy.

Little Tallow Beach - the "Secret Beach"

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 15 Jul 2014 07:52:00 +0000

On Friday, I took the kids to see if we could find the "secret beach". It's located in the Bouddi National Park, next to Tallow Beach, but the trail is not easy to find. The beach is very small. There is a small waterfall flowing down to the beach. The peace of the place was only interrupted by the whirring blades of a helicopter searching for the missing 5 year old boy, who was swept off Pearl Beach the day before.

Little Tallow Beach from above

Tristan near small waterfall

Waterfall on "secret beach"

View of Little Tallow Beach

View towards Pearl Beach where
5 year old boy was swept away on Thursday

Taronga Zoo on a Winter's Day July 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 08 Jul 2014 04:51:00 +0000

It's the NSW school holidays, so I took the younger children to the Taronga Zoo. My plans to go last week were put on hold do to illness in the household. First Zoe, then Tristan and finally Neo were each sick. Zoe required antibiotics and missed 3 days of school. Everyone has returned to health, thankfully.

We endeavored to see different displays, and we were successful. The highlight of the day was the QBE Free Flight Bird Show. The California Condor, with a wingspan of 3 metres, flew directly over our heads (and quite low). We also sat along the side where the white doves landed in the nearby tree. Lovely.

Tasmanian Devil

Bilbys

Victoria Crowned Pigeon.
This bird is both beautiful, and large.

Sydney Opera House
as seen from the Taronga Zoo Ferry

Sydney Harbour Bridge
as viewed from Taronga Zoo

Minke Whales migrating past Captain Cook Lookout

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 26 Jun 2014 01:50:00 +0000

Minke Whales in close

Minke whales close to shore in Copacabana bay motivated Dave and I to go up to Captain Cook Lookout with the binoculars this morning to get a better look. We saw 6-8 whales. Some were further out and more difficult to see/identify. They were traveling north swiftly on this brisk winter morning. The ones closest to the Lookout were Minke whales. They seemed to be traveling in pairs. I managed to get a couple of snaps with my Iphone camera.

The Rip Bridge over Brisbane Water

This picture shows the "blow" - which is what we look for

Five Lands Walk 2014 - Photography Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 10:56:00 +0000

5 Lands Walk Photography Contest
Secondary Student Winner
Clara Smith

Please allow me my bragging rights as I announce to the world that my daughter, Clara won the 5 Lands Walk photography competition in the Secondary School category. This year's theme was "Dreaming" which Clara's photo captured according to the judges.

Clara with Federal Senator Deborah O'Neill
& her photo

It was a stunner of a day for the annual Five Lands Walk on Saturday 21 June. Sunny winter day, perfect temperature. The walkers were energized and moving well from MacMasters Beach to Copcabana when Neo and I walked with them.

Neo with his Chinese fish

Copacabana Primary School students performing
at 5 Lands Walk

Neo found his art work on display along the way. Artwork created by students from Copacabana PS and Kincumber PS lined the beach walk.
There were 2 dance performances by students from Copacabana Primary School, and Neo took part in both. Zoe was at her soccer game so could not join in.

In addition to the photograph at MacMasters Beach surf club, Clara had artwork on display at both Copacabana Surf club and North Avoca surf club. Clara and her friends walked to North Avoca Beach (and back) to see her art. Along the way they enjoyed the beach art on display in Avoca Beach and the kites flying over North Avoca.

Breaching whale

In the water, moving along with the walkers, were numerous whales - at the height of their annual migration to warmer waters.

Kites over North Avoca

Blackwall Mountain Reserve Lookout

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 10 Jun 2014 01:53:00 +0000

On a gorgeous Saturday in autumn, the kids and I went to the top of Blackwall Mountain. It was a nice trek, and great views. Here's a panoramic video

Filtered views of Brisbane Water

The kids having a break

Towards Sydney with Lion Island in the foreground, and Ettalong Beach below.
Views of Lion Island from Mount Ettalong Lookout here.

Another view of Lion Island -
also check out Lion Island from the Box Head Trail off Sydney's Northern Beaches

The Rip Bridge over Brisbane Water

New School Year 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 13 Apr 2014 03:25:00 +0000

It's a new school year. Many changes from last school year.

Clara wearing her Senior Uniform
She's painting on the surfboard.

Evening of Excellence
for Top Ten Awards Night

Clara is in year 11 at Kincumber HS. She is considered a "senior" and there's a uniform change. Seniors wear white shirts (juniors wear blue shirts). Seniors have additional priviledges on the school grounds, including certain bathroom and break areas. In years 11 and 12, she begins preparing for the Higher School Certificate (HSC).
Clara was recognized as being one of the Top Ten GPA in her year from Year 10. I was proud to be in attendance in February when Clara received her certificate and award for this achievement.

Clara's award for Academic Achievement

Clara @ Central Coast VISION
with her Winning Artwork

Clara's skim board was also chosen for Central Coast VISION art competition which was held at Gosford Regional Art Gallery. It was a pleasure to attend the opening night with our artist.

Tristan started High School @ Gosford Selective. This school is open by invitation only, so we are very proud of Tristan. The commute is 45 minutes each way via bus plus 2 minute walk from the station to his school. He leaves each morning at 7:30 and returns at 4:30.

Tristan wearing his Gosford HS uniform

Tristan and the entire Year 7 went on a 3 day overnight camp to Morisset. It was a chance for the students to bond with each other and staff. Tristan went on the giant swing, ropes course, sailed, swam, hiked and more.

Tristan is taking English, Science (which he loves), Math, Woodworking, and Food Tech. He is happy and seems to be thriving.

Zoe and her class told "Survival" Stories

Zoe is our other "Senior" as a Year 5 student in Copacabana PS. She also has a uniform change from the full dress to a skirt. Zoe seems to be doing well in school. She is playing soccer with her team again this year and loving it.

Zoe entered a national art competition and was chosen as a finalist. Her entry is below - or this link.

Zoe's artwork was chosen as a Finalist in National Contest
http://www.aussievault.com.au/vault/entry/15397/australia-is-fun

Neo was chosen to Present
during school Assembly

Neo is a lively and happy boy. He is in Year 2 this year. He's an independent reader and reading chapter books. He is also playing soccer this year. He is on a new soccer team this year made up of Copa school friends.

Zoe and Neo walking home from school

Because we live in MacMasters Beach now, Zoe, Neo and I get to walk home across the beach some days. It's a nice way to walk home from school.

Zoe's bunny, Silver

Storm

Citizenship!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 05:24:00 +0000

A long awaited goal has been obtained, we're dual citizens, Australians and Americans.

September 11th was our test day in Sydney at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship. After all the documents were approved, the remaining hurdle was the ceremony. I had to make 3 applications: 2 online for Dave with kids and me; 1 via post because Clara had turned 16 and no online form is available.

Clara was fortunate to be called in for her citizenship ceremony in Sydney in December. There were 40 people at Clara's ceremony.

Clara with Citizenship Document

This worked well for her travel to the US as our Permanent Resident visa for re-entry into Australia had expired.

The other family members' citizenship ceremony happened on Australia Day, 26 January - the National holiday. It was held at Laycock Theatre in Gosford (our local council). There were 120 people from 21 different countries becoming Australians together. The gathering included several political representatives and the families and friends of those becoming citizens.

Each new citizen was called up on stage individually, children included. When a row of candidates were on stage, they said the oath together. Then each were given a Lilli Pilli tree and an Australian Flag.

The ceremony lasted 2 hours. Afterward, the enrollment board collected our registrations to vote (compulsory in Australia). Even Clara is registered to vote, even though she cannot vote until she's 18. There was a lovely reception.

With Gosford Mayor Lawrie McKinna

The local paper, The Express Advocate, interviewed me for an article - profile of a new citizen.

Later that evening, Zoe and Neo were in the Woy Woy lantern parade. Then we watched the fireworks to complete the celebrations.

Sydney North Athletics Carnival 2013 plus

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 08 Nov 2013 02:33:00 +0000

Tristan in the white & red race shirt walks to starting line

Tristan's time for the 100 metre race qualified him to run at the District level, Sydney North. It was held at the Sydney Olympic park. Tristan ran well. But it's all about the Hoodie. The line for the "jumper" snaked from the entrance gate and up the stairs.

Neo (center) in Red Vest, dancing

Neo was in the K-2 school musical "Giraffe's can't Dance" which is a book they put music and dances to. Well done, as usual. Neo had a great time performing.

Tristan's birthday was over the school holidays. He took his friend Ziggy along for go carting. Clara, Neo and I raced as well. We had a great time. Then sushi for lunch.

Ziggy & Tristan

At the end of October, we moved back to MacMaster's Beach. This house has 5 bedrooms. Each of the kids' rooms is larger then the house in Copa. We are tucked back in the trees. Large yard. Views of the lagoon and of course walking distance to the beach and school - if the kids are so inclined. So far I've been driving them to/from school each day. We did have a rare Long Billed Corrella visit at our new house. And King Parrots, Dave's favorite are a common sight.

Rare Long Billed Corrella

Clara & I following her Induction Ceremony

Clara was inducted into Student Representative Council last Friday. This is for 2014 and her Year 11. She will be attending functions as a representative of the school. She was chosen out of a field of applicants. Really proud of her hard work on the Year 10 exams. It used to be common for Year 10 students to receive a certificate from high school after year 10. That's mostly been phased out, but a Record of School Achievement (RoSA) is offered for those who complete year 10 and have full time employment or full time training course (apprentiship).

Special dessert Sushi