Bush pinstripes

Eight four-wheel drive vehicles met up at the Licola General store, the passengers grabbing for jumpers with the unexpected morning chill in the air as they got out and greeted their fellow adventurers. Saturday morning dawned overcast and provided a nice reprieve from the recent scorching temperatures. Drivers keen for a bit of road grunt, river crossings and dozer cuts, animatedly spoke of treks past and plans for the day ahead. Passengers feeling the green, from the windy roads leading into the meeting point, were pleased to stretch their legs and settle their revolving tummies. 

A Triton, Landcruiser, Hilux, Prado and four Nissan’s lined up in their designated places in the convoy, rules were explained to the maiden drivers and radios all checked into channel 21. With assorted supplies purchased from the local store, including fuel at $1.80 per litre (ouch), lollies, sausage rolls and questionable coffee, we were off. 

Daryl and I led the way. This day out was Daryl’s idea, an opportunity for our friend’s Carol and Zac to christen their newly acquired 4WD. Having never been off-road before, they were placed second last in the convoy immediately on front of Daryl’s brother, Steve. A seasoned off-roader Steve would ensure everyone was safe and could lend a hand if necessary to our newbies. Thankfully his services were not needed. Behind us travelled Daryl’s workmate Les, also relatively new to 4WDing. After initial issues with his radio, he soon blended into the group and was welcome by all who travelled together. Behind him were longtime friends Owen and Kate. All credit to Kate who joined under duress, going off road is not exactly her idea of a good time. Given the rest of her family were also attending she put on her big girl pants, gritted her teeth and clenched her fists as they traversed the mountainside. Daryl had assured Kate that the trek was rated easy to moderate, I’m not sure Kate believes him or forgives him, just yet. Owen, with the patience of a saint supported Kate in his humorous and generous manner ensuring she was as comfortable as possible. Entertaining us all, through their animated chatter via the radio, Owen and Kate’s offspring along with their respective partners and friends, filled the remaining three vehicles. Aged between 15 and 23 they were the ‘kids’ of the trip and reminded us all what it is like to be young and full of

vigour. Collectively they are a representation of all that is to be admired – considerate, polite, easy going, willing to chip in and lend a hand, family focused and fundamentally positive. They will be welcome on any future trips. 

Once the convoy arrived at the Macalister and Caledonia Junction with a final river crossing, we found a reasonable spot right next to the water and set ourselves up. In a matter of minutes, the fire was lit in preparation for a barbeque, chairs were set up and the fumes of fly repellent filled the immediate area. The little black, sticky winged devils remained friendly throughout the day. The only respite from them was in the river! Albeit lower than usual, due to this infernal drought, the river flowed easily, creating small rapids downstream and a tiny mini pool up stream, but it was a challenge to find swimming areas deep enough to cover your shoulders.

Those of us keen enough to brave the chill waded and enjoyed the freedom that river swimming generally allows. The rocky river bed and occasional tree trunk also posed a few challenges to our balance but in reality, inhibitions were thrown alongside our towels on the stony river edge and the sounds of friendly banter and cajoling could be heard by all around. Entertainment was also well provided by other off roaders and a group of campers, who challenged every dress code imaginable. Sporting an array of sun tan markings, it was clear that the use of shirts was limited. 

Despite the big dry, plenty of campers were scattered through the national park and outlying areas, some setting up camp on the roadside in rather precarious positions. If they didn’t get collected by wayward vehicles the dust and fumes would soon choke them up. The Australia Day long weekend certainly proved popular with campers, as well as ourselves, keen to enjoy as much of the outdoors as possible. As with all good things they must come to an end, and with little effort the fire was doused and we left nothing to indicate we had ever been to this location other than a very generous pile of wood, brought from the farm. 

The trip home was uneventful. This time Steve led the way and we took last place, eating everyone’s dust. With only a few bush pinstripes Carol and Zac’s Hilux returned to Licola unscathed. It’s maiden trip successfully completed. 

Escape to the High Country

Saturday morning: The addictive aroma of cooked bacon permeates the two-room hut and we have settled down in our respective chairs to let the feast settle in our tummies. Four friends have once again taken to escaping the rigors of the everyday and come to a place called “Anthony Higgins High Country Accommodation” north of Licola. 

The thermostat above the kitchen bench reads 18 degrees Celsius, balmy and toasty in comparison with the verandah thermostat which is currently hovering over zero degrees. An open fire provides warmth and the comforting crackle and pop is heard every few seconds. Its familiarity and predictability are soothing to the soul as much as the wind whipping around us outside. The cows came to greet us this morning as a dozen young calves romped along the front of the house while their mothers looked on in amusement. They frolic and run through the rolling paddocks, curious of the people who have moved into their area, they venture close to our back fence, noses checking out all and sundry.

We arrived yesterday afternoon after a leisurely road trip along the mountainous, windy roads. Coming off night shift, Daryl scored a few hours sleep while Carol, Zac and I worked the supermarkets, butchers and bottle shop to get our required supplies. After leaving numerous notes for the farm sitters to ensure our own livestock are well looked after, although this was done with some concern as we have a mumma cow showing shows of imminent birthing and a young calf looking weak and tired. Despite all this, we left strategies in place to deal with any animal welfare issues. So, with Carol rounding us all up with the determination of a school head mistress, we got on the road and sped our way to the Farmer’s Arm pub in Newry. I admit, an interesting choice of lunching venue but it was on our way, and as we had not been there, decided we should give it a try. Calling the publicans as we left, checking they would still be serving lunch, they kept the kitchen open for us and we were greeted with the best of old fashioned country hospitality. As the only patrons in the pub we turned down the tv, cranked up the juke box, and got the pool balls on the table. A few drinks (only one for me as the driver!) a lovely lunch and a lot of laughs provided the foundation for what we hope will be a weekend of recharging. 

The hut is rustic but a far cry from the dirt floors and grunge that usually greets you when you take up residence up the high country. It has a functional kitchen, plenty of chairs, reasonable beds and million-dollar views. Even the loo (situated a short stroll from the main residence) has magnificent views. Rolling hills, snowlines (yes there is snow) and rainbows are hard to beat. 

Our entertainment for the weekend is a mixture of card games, shooting practice, reading, crocheting and generally talking about a whole lot of everything – as the day progresses a few alcoholic beverages will be shared and feasting continues well into the night. 

There is only one bedroom consisting of a queen bed, six single bunks and a questionable fold out couch. So, if you’re after some privacy, this is not the place to come. It’s all about sharing in a place like this. Once you get passed the dust (there is plenty of cleaning equipment) and the massive deer head which seems to stare at you with its large, sad brown eyes as it stands guard over the fireplace, there really is nothing else to do but relax. No traffic, no street lights, no pollution – it’s magic. 

The owner of the property, Anthony, is a quiet, unassuming man, friendly and welcoming. He provides copious amounts of firewood for those of us crazy enough to stay during the winter season. The best thing about travelling during winter is the potential for snow, which we seldom, if ever, see in the lowlands along with the fact that few people will brave the conditions. And I must admit the less people around the better. Today is the first day I feel a bit rested following a mega busy few weeks at work. Long days including weekends, coming home in the dark after leaving in the dark for work, eventually take their toll. It’s like being constantly on fast forward, eventually you start to wear the tape out. My days at work rarely have time for lunch with conflicting demands, diverse personalities and escalating priorities causing a fair share of stress. Having moved into this role recently, the stakes for me are higher. I don’t cope with doing half a job and strive for excellence. Therefore, walking away when things are not working well or in the right place, is impossible, even if it means exceptionally long hours. With every new role the learning curve is steep and sometimes lonely. However, I must admit, in recent days I’ve discovered a new level of support from the staff around me, little things like offering to make me a cuppa, when they know I haven’t had time to drink the one I made on arrival hours earlier, putting equipment together for me, taking messages and in effect letting me know they care. This is what makes the difference between succeeding and not giving up. Team is a powerful potion. But this weekend is not about work, I promised Daryl I would not do anything work related, up here in the middle of nowhere we are back to basics – no Wi-Fi, no electricity, no microwave, no dishwasher and no tv. Blissful really!

Well it’s time for a my fourth cuppa this morning (it’s 10.30). I’ll be back to let you know about our adventures after this afternoon.

Saturday late afternoon: 

The sky is now clouded over with ominous black clouds, moving swiftly across the sky towards the snowline, soon we will not be able to see past our noses. It’s getting harder and harder to make our way to the outdoor toilet, where when you sit on the seat and recover from the chill against your bare skin, all you can see are the stunning views and your own breath, it’s that cold. Today reached a balmy 2 degrees. 

We filled the afternoon with a drive around the various tracks and checked out a range of camp sites with a view to warmer days and camping. We completed a baby river crossing, bringing back memories of grander treks many moments ago. We are now planning more in the future. A little rock climbing, admiration of the crystal-clear water running rapidly across the stones gave us all a reminder of the blessing we have on our doorstep. On the way 

home, we found a secure gully and set up some targets, the shotgun and rifle had a workout until we decided those dark clouds were too close, the temperature far too low, the lure of the warm fire and drinks called us home. 

After a game of cards, lunch and a nap, the boys have gone back out in the hope of claiming a fox or two. The girls are contented to stay indoors and man the fire. 

Sunday: A new day has dawned and it is perfect, sun is shining, through the whispers of clouds and no wind rustles the trees. We have decided to cook breakfast outdoors and Daryl is happily getting his inner hilbilly on show, sourcing dry kindling from the tree-line and lighting a fire fit for bacon, eggs, tomatoes and bread on the built in hot plate. After a very snuggling night, keeping warm from the chill in the air, a shower was in order. Unsure if hot water would be a modern convenience I braved the outdoor shower and found, to my delight steaming water and a relatively clean shower base. Heaven under the shower head. 

Our final evening here was well spent with multiple card games with the winning post shared amongst us, free flowing drinks and a feed fit to be seen on any reputable cooking show. We have depleted Anthony’s excellent firewood supply and I suspect he will spend the next few days restocking for the next lot of guests who choose to enter a remote spot of paradise. Anthony dropped in this morning on his way to feed his herd of cows. With his five cattle dogs in tow he accepted the offer of a coffee and chatted amiably for a while entertaining us with some of the stories of days gone by and the mischief and mayhem a younger Anthony created. Daryl and he exchanged a few tales as Daryl himself grew up exploring a large part of the high country during his youth and younger years.  

This afternoon we will meander to our respective homes and once again prepare for the working week ahead. During getaways such as this, I wonder what it might be like to live a different life. However, for now at our home, the cows are due to calve, the carport is being concreted next weekend, planned coffee catch ups are made and we have a new grandbaby due to join our family in a few weeks. 

We have no complaints.

Until next time,

N

When a loss makes a winning opportunity.

 I lost a bet a few weeks ago. Richmond versus Collingwood. Long time AFL rivals and a silent part of our marriage. You see, Daryl is a staunch Tigers fan and I have barracked for the Pies since forever, so when we wed the rivalry continued year in year out. This year, Daryl decided to sweeten the game and throw in the suggestion of a wager - the loser takes the winner out for tea. I suspect he knew he would win and planned something he would benefit from in no uncertain terms. For me, I wasn't too fussed, didn't even watch the game but noted the score with a little more interest than usual. As luck would have it, the Pies dive bombed and the Tigers roared, I was now responsible for a night out on the town. Having started a

new job at work, the last couple of weeks have been hectic and I have been fatigued and I suspect running on adrenaline. As such, planning dinners out was not on my priority list. But not to renege on a bet, the loss niggled at my subconscious. At some point during this last week I decided that this bet offered me an opportunity - a chance to create some "us time".  A short getaway, designed to recharge the batteries and enjoy some uninterrupted time away from the responsibilities of the farm. So in a few hours I had booked a night away, with views over the water, near the beach and a room with a spa. A combination of the things we both enjoy. The sounds of the sea, the taste of salt in the air, the clear blue sky dotted with seagulls in the air and the elegance of the swans in the lake create a backdrop of relaxation and romance. Dinner out at our favourite

restaurant along with a cocktail or two and a bottle of red, made a beautiful night seem magical. A late check out the next day afforded us a sleep in. At the end of a long week the timing was just perfect. My loss gave us the chance to talk, to laugh, to remember how much we care about each other, and our life as a whole. We talked about how fortunate we are to share common goals, dreams and aspirations, the joy we share with friends along with the struggles and frustrations that fracture our days. Seems to me my loss was definitely a win for us both. The Lakes Entrance economy also benefited from our presence!

Of course after all great retreats, reality returns wth bite. Today we spent the day catching up. The cows needed hay, the chooks needed their pens cleaned including removing all the old flooring and replacing it with new sawdust. The old stuff, will make the best fertiliser and is filled with enough chook manure to fill a very large trailer. The task took several hours. Wearing a dust mask and safety glasses we raked and shovelled and got covered in grime. The white masks ended up a putrid shade of black and my hair resembled dreadlocks gone very wrong (although personally I never think dreadlocks go right). In our down time, Daryl thought loading up

the bonfire pile with more random tree branches would be a fun filled activity! Following our morning adventures I spent the afternoon in the kitchen, cooking up a storm of soups ready for quick and easy meals, along with fritters and naturally everyone still wanted to eat dinner, so a main meal was also on the agenda.
Now, after a glass of wine, a delicious meal and all the jobs completed I am well and truly ready for a nap. Daryl is out walking his gun, I haven't heard any gunfire so I suspect he has not found any vermin to shoot, as yet. Another week of work looms ahead of me. Daryl's holidays are over and he returns on Tuesday. We look forward to our next retreat, whatever form that takes; maybe the next time the Tigers and the Pies line up I will be the one getting whisked away for some romantic rendezvous.

Until next time,
N

Mellow moments

It's a mellow Saturday here at Rivergum. On this rare occasion I am home alone, if you don't count the animals, and I'm not doing anything in a hurry today. After a full week navigating work commitments, health issues of my father, bureaucracy of corporate organisations and life in general I'm stretched and starting to twang. Enjoying a leisurely sleep-in (yes, 7am is a sleep-in) I didn't actually get up for a bit longer but I enjoyed the opportunity to read The Big Issue, surf the net, with no particular goal in mind, stare out the window and have a few conversations with my cat Meep, who seemed determined to get me out of bed to feed her, and her buddy, Lilly. Cup of green tea made, an essential each morning, I have pottered around the house noticing how neglected it has become in the rush of the week. The washing piles (yes plural!) are overflowing, the grass is long,  the dust is well settled on all the furniture. The washing will get my attention but the rest will have to wait. Today, I have other plans, well at least good intentions to complete some book work for my studies. However, before rushing to that task I have enjoyed a walk outside, with the three pooches in tow, fed the hens and given a cursory inspection of the cows, all very contended

Entertaining me

Mellow cat style

and relaxed in their paddocks. The sun is shining but the wind chill is crisp. Our newest trees, planted this week, are looking healthy despite the dry soil they have been planted in. We have experienced small spurts of rain, enough to keep the plants feet moist. We lost a dozen or so young sapling recently and its hard not to get frustrated at times. All that work gone in a matter of hours. But, dwelling on disasters is not productive and we can only move forward with each setback. Sitting here at my desk this morning,  I can appreciate the serenity, the view and the blessing it is to have such space around me. Chatting to my hairdresser last night, also a farmer, we both agreed that if you can't enjoy what we have, then farming is simply another anchor around your neck, weighing you down causing back ache beyond measure. So, a little down time and reflection is good for the soul and certainly good for my health. I have a condition which raises its ugly head as a warning, inflaming the muscles around my chest, it makes it hard for me to breathe and eventually it renders me useless until I remove the stress factors and rest. Recently, the chest is tightening again and I am heeding the warning signs to back off and stress less. Well, at least for

A distracting view

today anyway.

My workspace

Last night was whole different story. We received a call from my father's nursing home Thursday morning telling us he had "a turn" and wasn't very good. Naturally as luck would have it, I was working in Melbourne and Daryl in Traralgon. Having conversations with staff, the expectation is that sensible steps would be taken to ensure a diagnosis and then treatment, but its seems that in aged care that is not the case. I will not bore you with the details except to say, there followed numerous phone calls and lengthy visits to the facility, finally ending in terse words and subtle threats to take steps to a higher authority if the medical care was not forthcoming. Amazingly enough my father has finally been assessed and is being treated accordingly - more than 48 hours after the fact. This is what we have to look forward to, if we are unfortunate enough to end up in a nursing home. At ten o'clock last night after the final phone call ensuring my father was in a better state, I was even too tired to have a glass of wine. Today, he is stable and is expected to improve with each passing day. I'm not sure why it's all so hard, we pay a fortune for him reside in this facility and yet they are under resourced, and staff are stretched to capacity. It's just not ok. However, let's move on to nicer conversations, my chest is tightening just typing this portion.

Curious creatures

Happy hens

Rivergum update: We have finally decided on a label (pictured) for our egg cartons and I am so excited for the final product to arrive in our mail. After umming and ahhhing for some time, we have gone for simple and bright - much like our hens, who after weeks of feeding, they are starting to produce some eggs, albeit small in size for most of them, the eggs will no doubt increase in volume and quality over time. In the meantime they are being well guarded by our two alpacas who are also enjoying a feed of hay in their new hay feeder today. We have started to feed them pellets and they are slowly becoming more friendly. Ever curious, they are funny creatures who it seems can be easily trained. Maybe we could get a few more, to keep the foxes at bay and away from our calves.

Ready for a new home 

Ready for planting

Our most recent additions have settled in well into the farm. The 13 steers are keeping five heifers company as we need to keep them (the heifers) away from the bull who has come to play with the cows for a few months. The heifers, who are just gorgeous and fat, will go to a new home on Monday, having just sold them privately. We are contemplating changing from breeders to steers, maybe keeping a couple of cows, because I like having the little ones around.

Inspecting the work

Fattening steers can be less work and certainly less stressful without the complications of birthing. We are still in the research phase on this one. Despite some welcome rain, it is too little, too late and we will be unable to cut hay this year. The growth is sparse and not worth the expense of contractors. So we will be on the lookout for good quality pasture hay soon. Around the house the plumbing works, which of course became bigger than anticipated, are completed and Daryl can finally concentrate on the footings for the carport, which is how this whole plumbing project started. While hay is not a goer this year, the rain

Plumbing pain

has boosted our fruit trees and they are blooming and budding all over the place. We are slowly replacing the citrus that died in the frosts and it is inspiring to see the new green shoots on each plant. The same goes for our gum trees that are also rejuvenating after being hit hard in the recent frosts. Speaking of rejuvenating, the same cannot be said for our house windows which are in the throes of being scraped and sanded and painted to give them a new lease of life. Four have been completed but I still have nine windows and three door frames to go. Motivation come at me, because I can't find you!

New growth 

While I have been typing, my tea has gone cold and the sun has hidden behind the increasing cloud cover; the breeze floating through my window has chilled. It may be time to move onto my next project for the day.
Wishing you all a moment of serenity and time for reflection sometime today.

Until next time,

N

Crazy, windy, perfect

Today was a good day. 

Simple, uncomplicated and unplanned. It is a rarity.

Taking a small break from farm duties, that is after checking one of our cows who is showing all the signs of an impending birth but seems too busy eating to calve, tending to my little flock of hens and feeding the furballs and puppies, I decided to make an effort and take dad out for the day. Daryl and Bek were at work and I was left to my own adventures.

Crazy, windy, wonderful

With all the good intentions in the world, I messaged two of Dad’s friends and organised to bring him to visit, also organised some of the kids to meet us for lunch. Off I went, travelled for half an hour, only to be greeted by a cantankerous, surly, man who refused to get off the bed. He got a little mouthy, at the nurse, as she put his socks and shoes on. Insisting he was too sick to come out, in one breath, and in the other, proclaiming he did not need any medication as he wasn’t sick at all! I am told he has been refusing his medication, but he doesn’t remember that of course. Dementia is a bitch of an illness and plays cruel tricks on people. It is incredibly frustrating on the sufferer and equally challenging for family and friends trying to work through it. Dementia brings out the worst traits in people. With no filter in place any more, sufferers cannot hide behind the veil of correctness that the rest of us have mastered during our lifetime. Arguing with them is futile, and unfair. The best option is to wish them a speedy recovery, and walk away. Which is precisely what I did.

Despite dad’s refusal, we all decided to go ahead with lunch, so I quickly bolted back home, did a few more domestic tasks and dropped over to the neighbour, who was expecting dad for a cuppa. Explaining the change in plans, Bob and I chatted amicably for a few minutes and he handed me another couple of movies to watch. Our neighbours have an amazing collection of British tv series, movies and all manner of other shows. It’s like a dvd store but better!

Best of friends. Faithful companions. 

It was now time to shop. Arriving in Rosedale, with a voucher in hand, I went to the plant nursery and proceeded to wander, finally settling next door in the café with a cup of ‘real’ tea and the Sunday paper, while waiting for the young ones. Good music was playing in the background and the owners have created a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere. I found myself gazing out the window in-between reading snippets out of the paper, thoroughly enjoying my own company, at least for a few minutes. The kids arrived, chess was played, and colouring completed as we enjoyed delicious wood fired pizzas and a few drinks. Family news was exchanged as plans were made and before we expected, time had passed and it was mid-afternoon. 

Rounding off the afternoon I collected the dogs and ventured to the beach. Crazy windy, the beach was deserted for the most part and the waves were crashing. The pups just loved it and so did I. Peaceful and perfect already, it was improved by a surprise visit by a friend. We chatted, about nothing important, and simply enjoyed a moment. My friend is unwell, moments are fewer than they used to be and these days, more than ever, I cherish every memory we make. Today, as the wind whirled around our ears and the pups tangled in our toes, my heart was full and my soul sang a happy song.

Returning home, the pups and I checked that cow again, she was still eating, and so with the rain falling we finished the outside chores, soaked to my underwear it was time to call it quits and pick up Bek. Feeling generous we cleaned Daryl’s car (which I was driving) and Bek got to enjoy her favourite activity – going through the carwash!

My most favourite place in the world.

As darkness closed in and we were enjoying the warmth of the kitchen, our house phone rang, Bek and I both checked the number display and I answered knowing it would be relatives from England. The only other people who use that phone are salesman and my father-in-law. Fortunately, I had already enjoyed a kahlua and coke, because it was not the conversation I expected. In fact, I’m still processing it. Seems for more than 45 years they believed I was the biological child of my parents, so imagine the shock when they read a previous blog referring to my adoptive mother. 

Mmmmm the questions, so many questions.

Until next time,

N

Patch of paradise

Low cloud in the mountains

It's hard to resist the opportunity to get back to the wilderness.

So when the message came through that my father-in-law, Max, wanted to celebrate his birthday by heading up bush, we initially jumped at the chance. That was until the weather gods turned their wrath on us and decided to send showers of rain to most parts of our region and beyond. In the lead up to the birthday bush trip some words were exchanged between family members about cancelling the trip, rescheduling to a day with a more optimistic weather outlook or changing the location, preferably to indoors, with a fire. However, my 88-year-old father-in-law is not like most men his age and he was set to go regardless of the "100% percent chance of rain for Licola" according to the weather app. I have no doubt Max would have set off on his own if the family had abandoned him. 

So this morning, after seeing to the animals, and sending a message to our neighbour letting him know we would be out of phone service, in the unlikely event something happened, Daryl and I headed off for Licola, while the rain poured around us. A quick call to our brother-in-law, Tony, and he said the weather was fine at Toongabbie and that he and Geoff (another in-law) were on their way to light a fire and set up shelters in the Alpine National Park, Licola. We doubted Tony's weather report. 

Daryl and his father-in-law

En-route we picked up my father Guy, from his nursing home in Heyfield - it was still raining - quite heavily. My father has dementia and suffers further cognitive impairment following a stroke, 18 months ago. He talked alot about the weather. As I get nasty travel sickness I took over the driving from here and we ventured up and over the mountains, wipers swiping all the way. The rain kept us company and I wondered if the fire would cope with the continual soaking. We arrived at Red Box Camp ground on the Wellington River and drove into an oasis of dry skies, an established camp fire and familiar faces of family. The rain gods were clearly on Max's side! I'm not well versed in weather gods but my bit of research revealed some interesting results. 

A little slippery

There are four options when it comes to the divine power responsible for our fine weather:
The first could be Tlaloc, "He Who Makes Things Sprout" is the god of rain, lightning and thunder. He is a fertility god, but also a wrathful deity. He is responsible for both floods and droughts. Clearly today however, he was in fine mood and only sprinkled occasionally.
Or it could be Zeus, Ruler of Mount Olympus, known by many names, including Lord of the Sky,
Rain-God, Cloud-Gatherer, and Zeus of the Thunderbolt. 

Red Bluff

If Zeus and Tlaloc don't tickle your fancy, then how about CHAC the Mayan rain god, he is the god of agriculture, fertility, rain and lightning.
And finally, if none of these gods answered the call, then maybe the Christian deity did a good deed and blessed us with a small patch of paradise in the high country.

Regardless, those that made the effort to drive up enjoyed a perfect bush barbecue. A few of them even went fishing! Bush walks were enjoyed and the billy was boiling.

Always a fire

Birthday in the bush

Max's official birthday is Thursday, he will be 89 years young. He is such a gentleman, father of five, grandfather of  seven and great grandfather of four, step-grandfather of  six, step-great grandfather of one and a half. He still cooks a smashing roast for the family (up to 15 at any one time), drives independently, and is always keen to get up to our farm and lend a hand. Max exudes calmness and wisdom,- he has suffered great loss and experienced great love - he is a true role model. He loves the bush and has spent more than 50 years exploring and fishing the rivers of the high country. He raised his children to love the bush environment and now Max is returning to places filled with happy memories and  the sweet sounds of  natural bushland. We pray there are many more birthdays by the camp fire with Max.

No fish, still fabulous

Remember that text message we sent to our neighbour, the one just in case something happened while we were away?  Well something did go wrong! Nine of our calves went for a walk down Fisks Lane and thankfully Corey saved the day (again) and returned them to their rightful home. Little schmucks then played chasey with the 4WD as we tried to get them back into the right paddock. The Kelpie, Mia, escaped the house yard and before we found the calves she had bolted up the paddock to 'help' us. All this in darkness, I'm amazed I didn't go arse over in the slippery paddocks.  Maybe Tlolac or Chac were watching over us.

Always nice to be home :)

Until next time

N xx

Exploring childhood memories (Daryl)

Tetchy tales

Well it's been a while, nearly two weeks in fact since I've hit my keyboard, at least for this purpose. The problem is when you spend a large portion of your day in front of a computer screen for work, the enthusiasm to have more screen time at home is a trifle waned. I have a new job and while this is great, it means less time at the farm and another task to juggle.

I must admit I've also been struggling with what to share with you. Some days the farm is so busy that I could write everyday and then there seems to be a lull and it all presents as rather humdrum. This past couple of weeks have been  a mixture of the two.

We were fortunate to have a few days break and enjoyed some R&R with friends at Lakes Entrance. Sleeping in, playing cards, dining, wine-ing, fishing and shopping were luxuries we enjoyed and definitely no longer take for granted.

Hoping for some fish fillets

The farm was ably looked after by my daughters and all animals survived, despite the water being accidentally turned off to the trough!

Good friends, great times

The farm continues to improve, at a slower rate than we hoped. Daryl is trying to rebuild the place, mainly on his own and that is no mean feat. Complications from my hip replacement are rendering me useless for most outdoors work.

An old truck base ready for some remodeling

The frustration is immeasurable.

 But Daryl continues to cut trees and prepare posts for new fences, continues to ensure the cattle are well fed and moves them from paddock to paddock, using the portable fences to keep them in (which look electrified but are not, thankfully tricking the cattle).

With little grass growth hay is a welcome treat

He continues to salvage machinery and turn them from rusty wrecks to functional features.  Most recently he discovered more damaged water lines and found himself elbow deep in mud. Fortunately the repair work is reducing the flooding around the house. It seems the water pipes are riddled with joins that continue to leak underground. The pipelines are another job on the ever-growing list of things to be replaced and restructured.

Ick! The stench was just awful

Daryl did wonder why anyone would be a plumber!

Adding the cranky factor to frustration is the heat. With temperatures still soaring and humidity at an unusually high level,  I am wilting, while my grumpy-levels are rising. I cannot cope with the heat and 'tetchy' has become my new descriptor; Daryl relishes the heat and you can imagine the fireworks that follow us.

I say, bring on autumn ( the cool version) and winter - open fires, cool days, chilly nights and lots of chunky soup.

Until next time

N

Bring on winter