Tuesday, May 17, 2016

World Migratory Bird Day 2016

There is no better way to tell the story for the day than with this short video.


Sunday, May 8, 2016

Ballarat Heritage Weekend

Well ... life is busy and and the challenges varied and that's how I like it to be.
This weekend I headed up to Ballarat to deliver a story or two as part of the Ballarat Heritage Weekend. I love heading west out of town - it takes very little to persuade me.

There was a tweed thing happening as part of the celebrations, so I did my best to join in. Not hard to do. As I age, my wardrobe grows more brown and tweedy.

Arriving early, there was time to enjoy the action in the  Mining Exchange and and explore some of architecture; wonderful displays and performances inside buildings, along verandahs and in the streets.

The Old Colonist's Association of Ballarat building is a gem. However I have to admit I have an uneasy relationship with my settler/colonial past. That heart sinking feeling when I wonder what my ancestors may have done or chosen to ignore when Aboriginal country was stormed by gold seekers and sheep farmers. This building is evocative, it needs little explanation. The charming entrance is a delight - magical dimensions.
 
My task for the day (apart from enjoying the festivities) was to was to tell a few tales relevant to the Ballarart Heritage Weekend. I chose to share my story of the first of the large nuggets to be unearthed in Victoria in 1857. The new CAFS (Children and Family Services) premises has a fabulous new exhibition space and a spacious room, perfect for intimate presentations and performances. Many thanks to Neil Boyak and the staff who made it all happen and made me feel so welcome.

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