Rain, Rain And More Rain = Flood

It seems not that long ago that the attention was on the terrible drought that Australia was in yet this week we have witness what is definitely a break in any drought. We have waded our way through more water than I have seen in a very long time. We have sat and watched dark black cloud after dark black cloud roll in and burst.

Our week spent in Dubbo was eagerly anticipated as we had arranged a visit and interview with the keeper of the Black Rhino breeding program at the zoo, along with an interview with artist Bill O'Shea. Although it was not that long ago that we were in Dubbo we hoped to do a lot of sight seeing and pick up positive stories along the way. Instead we have soaked up water and dodged rain drops.

On Thursday evening we noticed that the caravan park we were staying in, which is luckily 5kms out of town, was filling up quickly. On Friday morning a permanent resident of the park approached me and asked if I was considering going into town. He stated that they had closed most of the street and that I may wish to leave early as traffic was chaotic. I had planned the day at the van in order to do a phone interview and organise articles so was not too concerned. What did concern me was the fact that the next day was the zoo visit...would we get through.

Forgetting about the warning of traffic we headed off for our zoo interview on Friday morning allowing ourselves the 15 minutes it would take. As I turned out of the caravan park I soon realised it was going to take a little longer as the traffic came to a roaring halt. Patiently we waited and 45 minutes later made it to our destination. With the sun trying to greet us with its presence, but black clouds lingering, we did manage to meet with the Black Rhino zoo keeper and have a wonderful interview ( The full story will be published in January Good Gabble).We enjoyed the zoo, bog and all, for a couple of hours before the lingering cloud burst, in a big way, and washed us out.

Saturday afternoon I received a call from a family member asking me if we were ok as they had heard a caravan park in Dubbo had been evacuated and was under water. I quickly looked it up on the internet to find that it was the park we usually stayed at and at the last minute I had changed my mind as it was $2 a night more expensive. At the time I wondered if I was being a penny pincher but am now glad I went with my gut feeling. 

A drive into town this afternoon showed just how bad things were. All roads leading into town are closed. We parked our car, along with all the other sightseer's, and walked along the bridge that goes over the Macquarie river. It is hard to believe that everything can just disappear under meters of water so quickly. The carpark, where Sam parked and I left her to sit with the others whilst I grabbed a few groceries just the day before, has been replaced by a river, right to the door of Coles. The cabins in the caravan park are nowhere to be seen, completely submerged along with the office where the owners of the park reside. Houses in the surrounding area have been evacuated, outside chairs and items placed on tables to get them up higher.

What amazes me is the risk that people put themselves at during this time when the SES are already stressed to the max. Teenagers, in particular, choose to swim in the flowing flood waters fully aware, due to media anouncements, that brown snakes are in the water and are deadly. Emergency crews can be seen everywhere. Police patrol every street, the fire brigade whizz past with sirens blaring, RTA monitors stand on the corner of the streets and SES trucks, with lights flashing, dodge the traffic. It may be acknowledged as a natural disaster but there is nothing natural about the feel and mood in the air. If it was not for the tireless work of these volunteers and paid men and women this situation would not be as under control as it is, yet individuals continue to play with their lives and risk the lives of others for a thrill and fun.

With further storms and a lot more rain expected over the next two days Dubbo is preparing themselves for further flooding due to the release of overflow from a dam upstream. Surrounding suburbs of Gilgandra, Coonamble and Dunedoo are also experiencing the worst flooding in a long time. We are meant to leave here on Tuesday and travel through Gilgandra but at this current time the highway is closed going in both directions so this may not be possible.

So how are we coping in all this rain and flood. As I write this on the Saturday we are to the point where we feel as though we may be going mad. The van has leaked in a few places due to the amount of rain and is starting to get the musty smell about it. The tent leaks at the front and back door and the mattresses need drying with the heater each day as the water seeps through the floor. I have run out of dry clean towels to soak up the water and the mud in the van. To wash clothes is impossible as to get a dryer to put them in is the challenge and at $3 a go, which does not dry the clothes so you need at least $6, who can afford it. Add the $3 a load to wash on top of that and it makes for very expensive clean clothes. The washing is what is annoying me the most as sheets, towels, you name it, become wet and soggy. With four people, a dog and a kitten in a 12 foot van you can imagine how we feel.

I no longer wear shoes as I walk around outside as they just become bogged with water as the ground squelches under your feet and you sink in ankle deep. The weather is very humid and to add to the feeling of being sticky we are never dry as a trip to the bathroom leads to a soaked body.

But above all who is complaining. We have not lost our home or items. We have not been evacuated and our lives uprooted. We are safe, mostly dry and we have plenty of food. A little inconvenienced yes, but nothing compared to what some are going through. Above all we are just embracing the experience knowing that it will eventually end for us, we will move onto another town and will take our story with us.

The affects of this flood are devastating, with the loss of money, livelihood and belongings evident. My heart goes out to the farmers who have already suffered enough yet now loose their crops. The NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally, has been reported as estimating that up to $500 million has been wiped off the value of crops already*. Luckily, so far, there have been no reports of loss of life. 

It will take the people of Dubbo months to repair the damage once the flood waters have gone down, right on top of the festive season, but with a motto of 'time to smile' I am sure they will unite, get behind each other and put it in their past.

I wish to take this moment to thank the SES, emergency services and volunteers who have worked around the clock making sure that everyone else is safe. They are all worth their weight in gold.

Take a pictorial journey of the flood at: http://samlophotography.blogspot.com

*SMH December 5, 2010

When Even The Frogs Want To Come Inside

Even the frogs want to come inside

The rain keeps pouring, wetting my hide

Puddles hug ankles, mud in the toes

Drains they run free, to China who knows?

The rain keeps on pouring, wetting my hide

The soil holds no more, my van my abode

Move on the lay man, frogs just ignore

Puddles hug ankles, hey that is all

The soil holds no more, my van my abode

Squelch can be heard as feet hit the ground

Puddles hug ankles, hey that is all

Where are the ants? I suppose they drowned

Squelch can be heard as feet hit the ground

The dog won't pee, the ground makes a sound

Where are the ants? I suppose they drowned

The washing piles up, nudity grand

The dog won't pee, the ground makes a sound

Stuck in the van with no where to go

The washing piles up, nudity grand

Send out the dove to search for dry land

Stuck in the van with nowhere to go

Coffee the plan so I don't go mad

Send out the dove to search for dry land

With floods all around, nowhere to go

Coffee the plan, so I don't go mad

The river has risen, move your van

with floods all around, nowhere to go

think I'm stuck in Dubbo, not my plan

© Jennifer Deaves

Inspired by and dedicated to my green froggy friend who I enjoyed a morning shower with during the floods in Dubb, December 2010.

view more frog photo's at http://samlophotography.blogspot.com

The Free Camping Experience

   As I've travelled over the years I have watched overseas backpackers travelling on next to no income and wondered how they did it. I  listened to their experiences with awe, wondering if I would ever be game enough to give it a go. As the years have gone on I have also noticed that 'free camping' has taken off with more and more travellers becoming self sufficient, choosing to keep their money in their own pocket.Well for five days we did just that - kept our money in our pockets and become an overseas backpacker for the week.

  For five days we went without paying for a camp site and without paying for power. We have kept our cost to the minimum, saving every cent possible. What an experience it was. It was uplifting and character building.......Do we really need to use power every day? Have we become to reliant on our mobile phone and creature comforts?

   As the years of travelling have passed I have seen backpackers pull into unpowered sites. which can save them more than $5 per night, and still take advantage of power to charge their electrical items. Visit any ammenities block in any caravan park and you are sure to find the mobile phones, ipods and lap tops of overseas tourists plugged into the power points, charging whilst they shower and attend to their needs. Have a meal at the camp kitchen and you are sure to find the same thing.

  There are many options for lighting, from that of gas lighting to taking advantage of the lights in the camp kitchen, around the park and at the barbeque area. Want to save even more money, wash by hand. Even better help the environment and save water by washing your clothes by hand whilst in the shower.

  Save even more money, stay away from caravan parks altogether, and take advantage of the many rest area's around Australia. Many times we have stopped in rest area's and had wonderful chats with overseas tourists as they light up the gas to boil the billy or cook up the 2 minute noodles. Grey Nomad's have now joined the party.

  So our goal for the five days.....do as others do......free camp all the way.

  We spent five days travelling from Mt Duneen Victoria to Dubbo NSW without spending any money on accomodation, showers, water, power or washing of clothes.

  Here is how we did it.

  Day one - Grass Tree Rest Area.

  The first night we were very lucky and fell upon a gold mine of a rest area on the highway outside Seymour which had two power points......and flushing clean toilets. We pulled in at lunch time with the plan for a break to eat and ended up staying the night.

  Whilst eating our lunch Alex pointed out that the man under the other barbeque shelter was using his lap top plugged into power. POWER! was my reply and the search for power under the shelter we were at began. With no luck I soon set of to have a chat with this lovely gentleman. There were two power points, which we later discovered were there to service the holiday stop revive survive lions club cuppa vans. The gentleman had his van plugged into one and his lap top into the other but was more than happy to give up a power point for us to use. His wife and himself had stayed the previous night and were enjoying the rest so had decided to stay another.

   I quickly moved the van so our power lead would reach, plugged in and then, using the external power socket on the outside of my van, ran another lead and power board into the sheltered area. We shared our power board with our new gentleman friend and we all had a wonder afternoon of computers. That evening we sat and talked of our travel experiences.

  With our van carrying enough water to last us a week and power to boil the kettle we had a comfortable night and  a good rest.  Free electric barbeques were provided at this rest area so it was a barbie for dinner. That evening we sat and talked of our travel experiences. The next morning as we said goodbye to our new friends, who had only just began their journeys having only been travelling 3 months, we were sure we would meet them somewhere down the road again.

    Free power and new friends.....what more could one ask for.



 Night two - No free power but plenty of light and a flushing toilet 20 km outside of Junee NSW. This is the second time we have stopped the night at this rest area. The ammenities are clean and well looked after and their is plenty of lighting to be taken advantage of and for security.

   We spent the afternoon laughing, sharing, drawing and cooking pasta on our gas cooker. We took photo's and shared memories of times past. With no power when it got dark we went to sleep. When the sun rose we awoke and pulled out the gas cooker again. For breakfast we served Semolina, hot chocolates and coffee, toast made on the frypan and fried eggs......a feast fit for a king.

    It is possible to stay clean without a shower. Each morning and each night during free camping we would boil the kettle on the gas cooker and fill the plastic wash basin. A good sponge down does just as well as a shower. Brush the teeth and you are feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the world.

  Day three and four -  The beginning of day three saw us drive to West Wyalong where we were lucky enough to get a free shower at the local road house. I was expecting to have to pay a few dollars, as most roadhouses charge around $2 a shower but when I enquired I found they were free. Like the overseas travellers we grabbed a power board and all of our rechargable items and made use of the power in the ammenities.

Later that afternoon we again fell upon a wonderful free short term stay spot along the river at Forbes NSW. This spot is a large grass area provided by the council. There is no power or ammenties as it is sign posted that all caravans and motorhomes must be self sufficient, but they do provide water and bins. We do not have ammenities within our van but did not find this an issue as it was only a short walk to the ammenities at the local lions club park.....forward planning was all that was required and exercise was an added reward......and when you leave it a little late Penelope Pee Bucket to the rescue.

   










  We loved this spot and the serenity it offered that we decided to stay two nights. We left the car and van at the free camp on the second day and took a walk across the other side of the river into town. We actually ended up doing this twice as we forgot an item the first time. Besides this we again took photo's, explored, wrote and did a lot of chatting. On the last afternoon we had a wonderful couple of hours decorating our car and van with the spirit of Christmas and laughing at the looks on the faces of passers by. Our car is now Rudolph with our van a sleigh full of positive cheer. We have since driven to Dubbo with our decorations and will continue to spread our Christmas cheer right up to Christmas day.

 Day five - A rest area 14 kilometres outside of Dubbo. By this time we had exhausted our battery life on our note books and our mobiles. The day was one of the wettest I have seen in a long time so we pulled over just after lunch.  What to do when 4 humans of various ages, a dog and a cat are stuck in a small 12 foot van for hours on end.......more laughter, chatting, sharing and fun. I completed a find a word, the first in many years and we all read books. I read to Celeste and we played match box cars. We played with the kitten and cuddled the dog. We cooked, ate and took the dog, and Celeste, for a run in between showers. Time soon went by and it was dark...no lights....goodnight.


   You may wonder how we coped without a fridge since we didn't have power. No problem. Milk comes in a powdered form that only need be made up in the amount required at the time. If you want to eat it then it probably can be found in a tin. Think about how hungry you are before you cook....cook only what you are going to eat......or  feed left overs to the dog. Only buy your fresh food as you are going to use it. We found that the only thing we missed having was a really cold drink as a couple of our free camp days were really hot but this was easy to overcome by a trip to the closest shop. Need be the old esky and ice will always do the trick.

  To me the most rewarding and fun part of our free camping were the ones where we did not have the power. No power really takes you back to basics. Without computers we definitely had to amuse ourselves and pull out all 'the old tricks' We spent heaps more quality time together and definitely laughed more, if that is possible in this family. Don't get me wrong, without my computer, technology and power this message I send to you would not be possible. Free camping helped me be more thankful for what I have and also made me realise that it can rule our lives and stand between us and our family and friends. Time away from it does not do us harm but enriches our lives.

Could I live without my computer? yes, I did not miss it one bit but of course would get not be able to complete Good Gabble without it. For me personally technology adds extra stress and takes me away from time I would like to spend with my kids....that is if they didn't have their heads in their technical world.

Could I live without power? Definitely. After a day or two you really just get into the swing of a different way of life and don't really notice it. You start to listen to your body and nature. We do not wear watches but rely on our mobiles and computers for the time. Without them we had no idea what the time was. Without power we had no lighting.....except the torch or candle.......so retired with nature and rose when she called.



  We had a great five days and hope to use free camping a lot more in our future travels. We helped do a little for the environment by using less power and resources and made some new friends. We experienced a new way of living.....one that was done long ago but has since been forgotten.

   If you ever get the chance leave the power and shower behind and get out there and be at one with nature....you will be suprised at the difference it makes to how you feel at the end of the day.

A week in Nelson Vic

   Tuesday saw us leave Nelson Victoria after a quiet week of work and relaxation. We had a lovely stay at RiverVu Caravan park which is situated overlooking the Glenelg river. Each morning as I stepped from my tent I was blessed with a view of water, fishing boats, pelican's and seagulls.

   Nelson is a lovely town that, although the caravan park is bustling with people, has a laid back fisherman feel to it. The town, consisting of a hotel and corner shop come post office, really does not have a lot to offer but draws the holiday makers just the same. Sitting on the border of SA and Vic, 34 kilometres from Mt Gambier, all that is required is a short drive away.

Nelson Hotel

  Although the weather was not good to us, with only one sunny day and six that were cold and wet, we enjoyed our stay all the same. We have been able to get the December issue of Good Gabble to near finish point putting us right on schedule after the previous month of computer malfunctions. We did manage to get a couple of hours of beach time in, were I wrapped the towel around myself and shivered whilst the children dug and dug. Although chilly there was still a lot of laughter. There has been plenty of walking the dog along the Glenelg river and time spent swinging in the park.

   Whilst at Nelson I had the pleasure of meeting Brenton Manser www.brentonmanser.com.au  and his son Jesh http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7_KYPcaRlk. Both are fine musicians with Brenton using music to tell stories of the past and Jesh playing the electric violin. Keep an eye on future issues of Good Gabble for articles on these very talented men.

   So this week we drive along the Great Ocean Road.....here's hoping for warmth and sunshine but regardless we will not let the weather dampen our spirit whilst on 'the road to positivity'

View Sam's photo's of Nelson at http://samlophotography.blogspot.com

Nabiac NSW - Where Modern Day Life Blends With The Past

* as published in Good Gabble Newzine, November 2010

   On the mid north coast of NSW, 24km south of Taree, there lies a little town called Nabiac. Bypassed by the Pacific Highway, the oasis that Nabiac provides is often overlooked. Those who stop find themselves welcomed in a town were retro is alive and the spirit of positivity has not been forgotten.

     With the first house being established in 1850, Nabiac, meaning “place of the wild figs”, is a town rich with history. Once inhabited by the Katang-speaking aboriginal people of the Worimi and Biripai tribes, Nabiac was first named Wollomba, changing to it's current name in 1908.

  With the Wallamba river running through town, Nabiac provides a place of rest and wonderment for tourists and travelers alike. Using Nabiac as our base we spent a week exploring the surrounding districts and found ourselves welcomed in a town that offers old style country hospitality with all the facilities of modern day life.

Greenhouse Cottage Cafe

   On our arrival at Nabiac I will be the first to admit that I did not initially fall in love with the town and actually wondered how anyone could live there. The saying 'looks can be deceiving' soon rang true. Although not visually appealing, the warmth, history and acceptance that is found in Nabiac surely makes one sure they will revisit. From those who serve you to those who you pass there was always a smile, a “How are you” and a moment to chat.

  All that is required, plus more, can be found in Nabiac, with an IGA providing for your daily grocery needs and a bakery to tempt your taste buds. There is a hair salon for a pamper and even a place for your tired weary dog to get that much needed shampoo. Whilst the living and breathing are being catered for there is also facilities to accommodate the mechanical and metal, with motor and caravan repair facilities. For the traveler there is plenty to eat, with the Nabiac Hotel providing cheap and delicious meals with a room to keep the kiddies amused. Having computer problems then your needs are catered for, along with an internet cafe allowing a place to contact loved ones. With plenty of rest rooms within town and a park for the kids to stretch their legs, Nabiac impressed me with its versatility and style.

   Being a lover of coffee I found myself in heaven as I sat and sipped at Greenhouse Cottage Cafe. Situated in the main street I visited this cafe on numerous occasions, building a loving relationship for their organic Merlo coffee. By far the best coffee I have ever had, Merlo is soft on the palette, not drying the mouth out like some coffee's. The atmosphere at Greenhouse Cottage is that with an Indonesian feel. As I sunk into the relaxing modern lounge chairs I could only dream of visiting places far away. With my little one amused with the toys provided I was able to spend time rebalancing my mind, body and soul. Opening at 7.30am Greenhouse Cafe is available for breakfast and lunch and also provides take away meals. With indoor and outdoor dining all weather is catered for.

  With bargain shopping being an important part of life and reusing and recycling a hot topic, Nabiac sure fits in with the times. This town may be small but there is certainly not a lack of second hand shops that cater for the needs of all. If it is a bargain or an antique you are looking for Nabiac is sure to be the place you will find it.

  Being one with a taste of the alternative I found myself not wanting to leave The Cool Look Shop which is situated in Nabiac Street. Vintage, retro, modern, preloved and new can all be found within the doors of this shop that had me walking down memory lane. The Cool Look Shop has everything girls, of all ages, could ever want. From homewares to clothing and fashion accessories I was in awe of the contents of the shop and could not believe that some of the items were still 'out there', actually circulating. With my children often hiding in embarrasment I went through the clothes racks laughing to myself and wondering what anyone was ever thinking all those years ago when they were fashionable.  I definitely showed my age as I walked the shop in excitement stating “I remember these” with a chorus following “ Are you for real?”

Did they really wear an outfit like this?

  The front of the brochure that sits next to me as I write this reads

'Nabiac. Stop, Shop, Come alive! You'll be surprised at what you find.......”

And that you will be!

Learn more about Nabiac at www.nabiac.com




More photo's of Nabiac can be viewed and purchased at http://samlophotography.blogspot.com

article: Jennifer Deaves

Computer problems slow us down

     Firstly I must apologize for the tardiness of blogging and letting everyone know what we are up to. There has been a good reason for this, as I will explain.

   Around a month to six weeks ago my computer caught a terrible virus that has caused me nothing but headaches. For weeks we worked into the small hours of the morning trying to kill the bug and fix the terrible problems it was causing my programs. All this had to be done whilst continuing to compile Good Gabble. Thank you to Michael Neary who spent many hours on Skype screen sharing with me and walking me through the in's and out's of my computer. With Mike located in New Zealand and a time difference of two and a half hours this often meant he saw the sun rise his end. I cannot thank him enough for his support and patience.

   Unfortunately no matter how many virus progams we ran, how many programs we isolated and no matter what we did the virus was smarter than us and last Friday Muse ( my computer ) could handle it no more. The blue screen of death overtook her and she was admitted to the local PC doctor. She was returned to me today with a new lease of life.

   I learnt a lot from this experience. Of course there is the obvious - back up everything important on your computer, make sure you have a great virus scan ( which I may add I had but this new virus was way more clever ) and do not take your computer for granted.

   I also learnt a lot about myself. I found that I do not understand the workings of a computer and never ever want to and that computers have a language of their own. I also found myself and my ability to cope in a situation that could have been fatal to my business. At no time did I stress or panic but work toward the goal of repairing and fixing the issue. I also learnt that nothing on my computer is as important as I think it is. It is only a piece of technology that I can survive without. Yes it makes life easier, at times, but can also make life harder. I am far too reliant on Muse, forgetting how it use to be done before the computer age.

   I do believe that Muse needed a rest and so did I. Without my computer I did no work on Good Gabble over the weekend, having a well earned break. At first I thought I would be at a loss but I actually enjoyed it. I regrouped with my family and grounded myself back to reality. I realised that I work far to many hours and vow to take at least one day off every weekend to spend time with my kids. I love the work I do with Good Gabble but working 13 hour days 7 days a week just has to stop. I spent the weekend relaxing, watching movies with the kids and reading ( of course I was reading to review the book for Good Gabble but we won't acknowledge this as work). Today I actually feel that my computer has become an intrusion on my family more than it is a blessing and vow to make this change.

   I ask all to be patient with us this month as your copy of Good Gabble may be a week later than usual. We hope you understand that this was an issue beyond our control. We are currently finalising the November issue and should have our November issue circulating by next Monday.

  Thanks for your patience and understanding.

  Have an absolutely amazing November........blogging more regularly from now on.

                                                               Jennifer.

Good Gabble Subscriptions Just Keep On Giving

* as published in October Good Gabble Newzine

 Making A Difference To Aussie Mick And His Koala Mates

 

 In 1973, Jean Starr from Port Macquarie became concerned at the heavy destruction of the habitat and began to care for Koala's she found sick and injured within the township. Other townsfolk joined her mission and the Port Macquarie Koala Preservation Society was founded. In 1986, this was changed to the Koala Preservation Society of NSW Inc.

  In 1975 a small Koala hospital was built at the Macquarie Nature Reserve site. Due to the demand of Koala patients a bigger hospital was soon required, being built in 1986. In 1990 the John Williamson wing was added. This was named after the Australian country singer who was so touched with the plight of the koala that he wrote the song  “Goodbye Blinky Bill”, with money from the sales of the record building the wing, a treatment ward, store rooms and an office.

    Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release are the 3R's on the minds of those who work at the Koala Hospital at Port Macquarie. Each year 200 – 300 Koala's find themselves resting in the peace and quiet of the John Williamson wing under the tender loving care of staff and volunteers. All this would not be possible without the sponsorship and donations of the community.

  Last month Good Gabble spent a day at the animal hospital and with the help of our subscribers has adopted Aussie Mick, an adorable white Koala.

   Aussie Mick is a mature 10 – 12 year old male Koala who first came to the hospital in August 2007 through a concerned police officer. When he arrived at the Koala Hospital staff found that he was suffering from the ocular form of chlamydial infection, a bacterium that can affect both the eyes and then urogenital tract of koalas.

   Named after the police offer who found him Mick is an angelic white Koala with a black nose, brown tips on his ears, brownish/grey tips on all his toes and soft brownish black pads on his feet. His coat has a waxy soft texture, unusual for a Koala, and is very thick. Although beautiful to touch and look at he certainly does not differ from any other male Koala were smell is concerned, having a strong pungent scent gland mixed with that lovely eucalypt aroma.

  When first admitted to the Koala Hospital both of Aussie Micks eyes were so bad that there was overgrowth of proliferative tissue that had actually covered both eyes. Surprisingly his body condition was very good so he had still been able to find food and remain as high in the trees as possible to prevent attack from wild dogs or dingos. Blinded by chlamydial infection, starvation and attack are the death of many of these Koalas.

  Once at the hospital Mick was placed in a high security enclosure to protect him and treated twice a day with antibiotic eye ointments. Mick then underwent eye surgery were the proliferative tissue from both eyes were removed. The transformation was immediate and it was discovered that Mick had the most beautiful pale yellow eyes, quiet different from the dark brown ones that normal Koalas have and very different to the red eyes of an albino.

   Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is open daily to the public free of charge. There is a daily tour at 3.00pm each day during which you can see Koalas being fed. We found this an amazing experience with our tour guide being very friendly, knowledgeable and more than willing to answer our questions. Our visit really opened our eyes to the plight of this native animal that is so very much taken for granted.

   For as little as $40 per year Good Gabble has been able to adopt Aussie Mick and help with his ongoing rehabilitation and care, and that of other Koalas. With our adoption we  received a certificate which we will continue to display with pride on behalf of all our subscribers. We also received a package of information on the care of Aussie Mick, a educational booklet on Koalas, a copy of the Koala Hospital Newsletter 'Gum tips', and stickers announcing our support. We will continue to receive updates on the health of Aussie Mick and the happenings at the hospital and will report this back to our readers as it arrives

  Without our subscribers this adoption would not have been possible. When you subscribe to Good Gabble you are doing more than supporting and receiving a Newzine that talks of positivity and hope, you are becoming part of a community that aims to make a change to the lives of many. As we travel we will continue to donate, sponsor and help as many organisations and individuals that we can.

 
  Further information on the Koala Hospital can be found at: www.koalahospital.org.au

article : Jennifer Deaves

Fresh air, fitness and a lot of fun

Centenary Tower Mt Gambier S.A

  0n 27 April 1904 Sir Samuel Way official opened Centenary Tower which is built on the highest point of Mt Gambier South Australia, 190 metres above sea level. Many years later, on 26 September 2010, the Good Gabble crew conquered the mountain to stand beside the tower and gaze at the amazing view.

   The wind blew, chilling the bones and the grey clouds rolled in but the sun teased us with a ray of hope. As we left the car park we did not have the idea of conquering a steep climb in our mind, instead we had decided to take the dog for a walk along the bush path that runs below the tower enjoying a little piece of nature. It was too rough to take the pram and at only three years of age we were sure little Celeste would not be able to manage the climb and I was definitely not going to carry her. How wrong we were. Our little trooper just kept going and going.

  Our walk started of at a gentle pace as we smelt the wild flowers, studied the trees and discovered bugs. We laughed, listened and shared as we took in the fresh air and the relaxing feel the bush has to offer. As the road turned the bend we looked up in awe at what lay ahead of us. If there is a road to heaven then this was it, all the way to the tip of the clouds. As I turned ready to call defeat, being sure Celeste would not manage the climb, I felt a little hand grab mine and a voice call out with a giggle "come on mum".

Wildflowers

  Off she went. Up the path at full speed with me shaking my head wondering how I was going to do it. With the kids in front leading the way, the climb getting steeper as we went along and the laughter between us making walking harder, Celeste never missed a beat. When the going got tough she took my hand and 'helped mum' achieve the climb. At last the top we thought as we had a rest with a bottle of water and an amazing view. Ha! how wrong we were. There in front of us was the tower......way, way, way up there.......peaking out of the clouds. The song Stairway To Heaven rang through my mind as I peered at the many stairs that lead upward.

No Joke!

The stairway to heaven

A short break in mum's arms

  No rest for the wicked, off went Celeste, one step after the other with a goal in her mind. The steps took every bit of energy she had as her knees lifted to her chin to make the step up. Oh the enthusiasm of the young! We stopped occasionally, more for mum, and at one stage she did weaken and mum carried her a short distance but then off she went again. She was such a trooper that a stamp on the hand from the tour guide at the tower, an icy pole ice block and a lot of cuddles and praise had a smile across her face that was priceless.  And of course Samantha was there with her camera to record the event.

Our super trooper

  So how did we all feel at the end. Invigorated and alive but tired and aching. It is amazing how a bit of fresh air, fitness and fun can brighten your day. We ended our afternoon with fresh vegetables and apple on the bbq back at the caravan park.

   To be amongst family and to share the little things in life is one of the biggest pleasures we can have. To achieve a small goal, even if it was not initially in our mind, can build such a sense of self achievement and self worth and leave you glowing for days afterward. As natural learning home schoolers we find these are the events that we learn the most from. We may not realise it at the time but the learning stays with us and is recalled for many years afterwards. Today we not only learnt about nature, our surroundings, Australian history and did some reading but we learnt a lot about ourselves, our health, our ability and what is important to us.

Plaque of commemoration situated on side of the tower

  What they were thinking back in 1900 when they decided to build a tower on the mountain to commemorate the centenary of the sighting and naming of Mount Shank and Gambier is beyond me. I thought of those poor drought horses and men who worked to build the tower which stands almost 10 metres high and is set on a cement foundation with 60cm thick walls.  The red dolomite was collected from the local area and a team of horses carted it to the summit. It would not of been as it was today. The bush would have been denser and the terrain rougher. Today the steep winding staircase of the tower can be climbed for a small fee and is used to spot fires in the summer months. I am sure the view would be spectacular but I do wonder how many people have the energy to climb the staircase once they reach it. We surely didn't....... a goal to be achieved another day.

Sundial ( at Centenary Tower )

Valley Lake Mount Gambier

Cobdogla S.A. - Where smiles are plenty and all are welcome

* As published in issue 8 September Good Gabble Newzine

The Road To Positivity

Cobdogla S.A. - Where smiles are plenty and all are welcome.

   Cobdogla is a small country town that lies 219km north-east of Adelaide. An Aboriginal word meaning "land of plenty" it has a fascinating history. Much of the land  - from west of Overland Corner right through into New South Wales - was taken up under a pastoral lease in 1846 by John Chambers, who raised purebred horses for the police and military.

  Within a short time Overland Corner, on Cobdogla Station, became an important camping place for other overlanders and their cattle. Drovers would rest their stock and let them graze on the extensive and lush river flats before continuing the journey to Adelaide. This welcome restful feeling still hangs over the town of 'Cobby' today.

   We enjoyed our stay at Cobdogla Station Caravan park which is on the grounds of the original Cobdogla Station, owned by John Chambers and his brother James, who also owned other nearby stations.

 Today the caravan park is situated on 30 acres of land nestled on the backwaters adjacent to  the Murray River.  It is very picturesque with plenty to do and see.

   The last surviving relic of the Cobdogla Station homestead complex can be seen within the caravan park. Preserved by the Barmera Branch of National Trust SA the chimney signifies  the land that was taken up in by John Chambers, who was granted an occupational licence, “ on the River Murray and Lake Bonney”, before official surveys had been made. The extent of the run took in all the land contained within the Great Southern Bend of the Murray   between Overland Corner and the state border of New South Wales.  Chambers never resided on the land but installed James Trussel as the manager who served until 1895.

The Cobdogla run became noted for its fine horses which were raised from bloodstock imported by James Chambers. These horses were used by John McDouall Stuart on his Trans-Continental  Expedition in 1861 and in the subsequent construction of the Overland telegraph line to Darwin. They were also the progenitors of the South Australian Police Greys.

Over the years portions of the property were transferred to other landholders, including the Chaffey Brothers Irrigation settlement of Renmark.  The station was completely resumed in 1910 for the Cobdogla irrigation scheme.

  The last station homestead was situated near the northern boundary of the present caravan park and was demolished after the 1956 flood.

  The feeling within the town of Cobdogla is that of  a hearty welcome.  At all times we were made feel one of the family – from my initial contact with Cindy at the caravan park via telephone to the warm welcome upon arrival, right down to the day of departure, there was nothing but a smile and a friendly chat.

  The park currently has 8 permanent residence with many others choosing to have their  vans situated on the premises for annual use. Many other families visit year after year using the venue as their annual getaway.  The locals who reside permanently within the park are always ready for a chat and love nothing better to share their park experience and show you around.

  There was plenty to do on our stay with the park keeping the 'Station' feel about it. Within the park you will find a pony, sheep, alpacas, chickens, roosters, geese, emus and a kangaroo. The children enjoyed being introduced to the animals, hand feeding the alpacas and patting the chickens.  There are kayaks to hire in the warmer months and a playground to explore. Each afternoon a walk down to the lake  saw us  sit on the pontoon and watch the sun set as the swans and their signets bobbed freely amongst the trees.

Our experience at Cobdogla did not start and finish at the caravan park. A visit to the Cobby Trading Post General store, which is open 7 days, lead to the opening of a door of friendliness and warmth. We were yet again welcomed with a smile a mile long and a chatty disposition. Whilst in the store waiting for our order it was noted that this relationship was carried through to everyone who entered, local or visitor. Even better was that the hot chips, pie and coffee were a warm welcome on a cold day and the best we have had in a long time, proving that service with a smile does make your meal taste better.

  Cobdogla is a town which oozes positivity and friendliness. If you are ever in the area drop in and spend a day or two. A town that could be easily bypassed Cobby is a credit to itself.

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A gift that touched the heart

    Some Good Gabble readers may be aware that at the end of July I celebrated a birthday. At 40+ this is really no big event but a day that I spent quietly with my children who spoilt me rotten. My day was made even more special by all the messages I received from Good Gabble readers and Facebook friends. Messages of well wishes and love came through my computer throughout the day touching my heart. To all I say thank you. You made my day special and one that I will always remember. You also gave me hope and showed me why Good Gabble Newzine is needed and helped me focus on the reason we are here. With these well wishes I saw a community that is growing and spreading the positivity and love that this world needs. This community is what Good Gabble is all about.You are the inspiration and hope that keeps us going.

   A week ago I received a card  that I was not expecting. This card came from a Good Gabble reader Kelly Azuma who has touched my heart in many ways since we met, she is truly an inspirational lady. It touched my heart in such a way that I felt a need to share it with all.

  The card Kelly sent was a lovely fun loving heart warming card with the quote "The most wasted of all days is that during which one has not laughed" Nicolas De Chamfort - simple, true and beautiful. Within the card Kelly had written me a message letting me know how much I mean to her, as she does to me. What touched me the most was the thought and time that had been put into this unexpected gift. Within the card were two coupons entitling me to a free coffee of my choice. Kelly had turned these coupons into small pockets which she had decorated with stickers. Within each pocket she had place enough money to cover a cup of coffee. Kelly, and most Good Gabble readers, would know I have a love ( or addiction as my kids say ) to coffee, this leading to me reviewing cafes as I travel. This gift was personal and touched my heart.

  Thank you Kelly, your friendship is cherished. You have shown all that such a simple gesture and a little of ones time and thought can touch another, making them smile and feel loved. I have shared my gift and story with many causing them to smile and spread the positivity.

A gift that touched the heart

Enjoying my coffee - thank you Kelly

Rows Upon Rows Of Strawberries

 


  There is something fulfilling and relaxing about walking down rows and rows of strawberries in a hot house. The smell tantalises your nose. The luscious red colour dances from the vines calling the taste buds.

  A visit to Ricardoe's Tomato's and Strawberries had us leaving with one and a half kilo's of strawberries picked by our own hands and a lot of photography. Suitable for the whole family Ricardoe's provides a bucket and a pair of scissors which creates an experience the kids will be talking about days later. It was nice to see families enjoying a day out together sharing a simple activity that is not only healthy for the body but also the mind.

   Ricardoe's boasts 5 varieties of strawberries that are grown using state of the art technology. With over 30'000 plants and 2 acres of greenhouses Ricardoe's pride themselves as being environmentally friendly. They also grow 8 varieties of tomatoes.

  The taste of Ricardoe's Strawberries is amazing. Luscious juicy and sweet, just the way nature intended. We purchased some of the gourmet chocolate dipping sauce from the Cafe Red that is on the premises and although this did take away the healthy aspect of our visit was absolutely divine and a great treat. Cafe Red not only provides visitors with the chance to purchase fresh produce, jams, chutneys and souvenirs but enhances the relaxed atmosphere with a chance to sit and enjoy a coffee, cake or meal.

  We enjoyed working our way along the rows and rows of strawberries, discussing how they are grown, the humidity factor and the experience. The plants are grown at various heights suitable for the young child and adult so there is no need to bend, great for the elderly.

  Entry to Ricardoe's is free with you only paying for what you pick or purchase at the Cafe. Situated 10 mins from the town centre of Port Macquarie NSW it is easy to find. We filled in a morning but your time at Ricardoe's can be as long or short as you wish to make it. Free guided farm tours are held 11am Monday to Friday.

  Voted Port Macquarie's 'Best Tourist Attraction', producing award winning preserve's and recommended by TV's Getaway we also highly recommend a visit to Ricardoe's.

  After leaving Ricardoe's we headed back toward town to the Sunday markets to pick up more local fresh produce and homemade cakes.

 

 

When The Old Becomes The New - Bordertown South Australia

The Road To Positivity

When The Old Becomes The New  - Bordertown South Australia

( as published in Good Gabble Newzine August 2010 )

  Today we live in a throw away world. As soon as we buy a piece of technology something better has replaced it so we throw it out and update. If something breaks we throw it out. When a building becomes outdated or no longer in use we knock it down, dump it to landfill and build another. 

  This was not the case in Bordertown South Australia in 1999 when the old police station was given a new lease of life as the Visitors Information Centre and Morning Loaf Bakery.

  You may wonder what is so unusual about taking an old building and using it for a different purpose. In Bordertown it is all about the way you do it.

  Standing in Tolmer Park looking across at the doorway of the Visitors Information Centre you look at what seems an ordinary modern building that is aesthetically pleasing, blending with the surrounding environment. It is not until you are inside and ‘really looking’ that you see how one piece of architecture blends into another.

  Chris Mackerel, of the Visitors Information Centre, soon pointed out that the centre I was standing in was the old police station that was closed in 1964. As she took me through the door into the bakery she suggested I turn around. It was only then I saw something that I had overlooked many times. In front of me was the entrance to the old police station in its original condition. The penny dropped, so to say, and I now looked at the large building from a different perspective. This was not two business's in one building but two buildings in one. A very old, standard built government building had been left as part of history but given a new lease of life.

Inside Morning Loaf Bakery - internal entry into Visitors Information Centre

  

  There was no need for landfill when developing the larger building as the old police station was left complete, with the new being built around it. Chris pointed out that the front counter of the information centre was the lounge room of the police house and that the bathroom is still used as the bathroom.

   When the police station closed a new, more modern building was erected across the road. The old police station was then used as housing for police officers until 1999. In 2000 the new building was officially opened as a bakery and visitors information centre. The bakery is privately owned with the visitors information centre being administered by council.

  Tolmer park, named after police inspector Alexander Tolmer who was in charge of the gold escorts from the Victorian Goldfields to Adelaide, has also been cleverly developed considering all aspects of the environment. A joint venture between local government, private enterprise and state government, the old police cells have been converted to the public toilets and recycled natural timber has been used for tables and chairs.

Old jail cells converted to public toilets

  Throughout the park old wares and bric-a-brac are given a new lease of life as they become pieces of artwork within the environment. The stream that runs through the land has been left and utilised adding appeal to the park. A bridge was built to allow access from a carpark to the information centre. Ducks happily swim about, as visitors enjoy the well needed break sitting on the provided bench seats.

 Bordertown is a town that seems to pride itself on history and its environment, caring for the old, looking after the new and protecting what they have. When the new highway was put through and a large hole was left in the ground, a dam was constructed to form a recreation lake. The Institute hall, built in 1909 was redeveloped in 1982 to form the library and theatre with the seats in the theatre being the original seats from Adelaide's Majestic Theatre. Historic Clayton Farm, 3 kms out of town, is the home of the Bordertown and District Agricultural Museum. Bordertown is also famous as the birthplace of Bob Hawke, former Australian Prime Minister. A bust of Bob Hawke can be seen outside the council offices. Venture indoors and you can view the Bob Hawke gallery.

  If ever in Bordertown I recommend you stop and look around at a town where everything old soon becomes new again.

article Jennifer Deaves

Bob Hawke - Former Australian Prime Minister

A Little Birdie Told Me So!

   Over the last few weeks we have been staying at Lake Bonney Caravan park, spending our days glancing across at the lake, watching the mist roll in of a morning and the sun set of an evening. The nights have been cool  and ,except for a few wet days, the days has been pleasant.

  As we sit and work, lolling our days writing articles, meeting people and making new friends, I have had the pleasure of a conversation with a newly made friend of the feathered variety. Each day we are visited, at no particular time and often on numerous occasions, by a beautiful wild bird who is never shy at coming forward. Each day he sits next to me and listens to what I have to say as I speak softly, asking his opinion on the daily happenings. He is willing to take bread and offerings out of my hand, flying off and returning when the supply runs dry. He sits upon the edge of the dogs water and happily drinks having not a care in the world. Of a morning I lay in bed and listen as he sings me his chorus whilst standing on the tent rope. I am never sure if this is a call of  "get up you lazy bugger I want to eat" or a call meant to calm me and help me start my day. Either way I have been pleased to have shared two weeks with my feathered friend and feel honoured to have been shown trust and companionship.

   His friendship has been one that will stay in all of our minds for a long time to come and has shown us that it is the little things in life that count.........even the feathered ones.