On Saturday morning we went on a bike ride that took about an hour on a track walkway an old railway track into Warburton. We had lunch there and met with Grace. Grace had the sense to book the wineries tour and was as dry as a bone, well in the rain sense at least! In all the years they have organised this weekend it had never rained like this.
There was only Sandy and Tracey cycling, both of whom work out and are sporty. Our host (Debby) had been coach to the Aussi Netball team so you can imagine who was keeping up the rear! That was bad enough but it was raining cats and dogs and we all got soaked. On the way back I decided to swallow my pride and go at my own pace. It was much more civilized. I did regret having desert for lunch though! When we got back to our starting point we were all soaking wet and had to change in the local pub before heading off on a tour of some wineries. Then it was back to Sherly’s for a BBQ. The fire was lit but we were unable to sit outside because, you have guessed it, it was pouring. Sheryl’s house was near the Upper Yarra Dam which supplies Melbourne with water. The dam was overflowing for the first time in about 20 years and we could hear the water being released from her house. We were all exhausted and grabbed an early night.
Next morning it was off to the world famous Healesville Sanctuary. I was not too pushed as we had seen so many this past few months but all have had something different. This was no exception. I had not seen Platypus, Goannas, Dingoes or Rock Wallabies
There was only Sandy and Tracey cycling, both of whom work out and are sporty. Our host (Debby) had been coach to the Aussi Netball team so you can imagine who was keeping up the rear! That was bad enough but it was raining cats and dogs and we all got soaked. On the way back I decided to swallow my pride and go at my own pace. It was much more civilized. I did regret having desert for lunch though! When we got back to our starting point we were all soaking wet and had to change in the local pub before heading off on a tour of some wineries. Then it was back to Sherly’s for a BBQ. The fire was lit but we were unable to sit outside because, you have guessed it, it was pouring. Sheryl’s house was near the Upper Yarra Dam which supplies Melbourne with water. The dam was overflowing for the first time in about 20 years and we could hear the water being released from her house. We were all exhausted and grabbed an early night.
Next morning it was off to the world famous Healesville Sanctuary. I was not too pushed as we had seen so many this past few months but all have had something different. This was no exception. I had not seen Platypus, Goannas, Dingoes or Rock Wallabies
before but the highlight of the day was the Birds of Prey Exhibition. This was a stunning display showcasing native Australian raptors. Set in the park’s outdoor amphitheatre, Birds of Prey was a thrilling aerial display demonstrating the magnificent flight and hunting skills of several iconic Australian species, such as the Peregrine Falcon, Black Breasted Buzzard, Barking Owl, and of course, the breathtaking Wedge-tailed Eagle. The show lasted about 45 minutes and was captivating.
Then our hosts had arranged a BBQ for us. I left shortly after on my journey that too seven and a half hours to get home. I had to get a lift to W train to Southern Cross, train to Geelong and finally a bus to Warrnambool. This is normally a train service and I had not noticed the change until I arrived in Melbourne. Still it was great not having to drive. It was too hours longer but I was bale to read my book. My ‘friends’ from the outward journey were not there so I had a peaceful, if uneventful journey. I think that my ears were still red two days later.
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