Exploring the region is made easy by the warmth and knowledge of the locals and the efforts of the various groups determined to keep alive and thriving the history and traditions of the small communities dotted along the rivers and ridges.
As well as the various comunity facilities in Khancoban itself, we explored Corryong and its jaw-dropping, and carefully preserved and captioned Man From Snowy River Museum. With its themed rooms and 9 out-buildings, we were granted a very detailed insight into the lives of Jack Riley, Banjo Patterson, James Orgill Simpson and the legends of the High Country. A different era, a different lifestyle and a different perspective. What a wonderful group of volunteers who keep this alive, and so beautifully presented.
As well as the Museum we found a very useful bike repair/ maintenance station and the town square full of service items in the park and the Davis Federation style hut now an art hub. Corryong has a great community feel, great facilities and a well-stocked IGA.
Then it was back to Khancoban, along the Alpine Way to Waterfall Farm Road and our search for Major Clews.
The displays of Snowy Hydro and the history of this amazing engineering and power system scheme produced the name of H.P.G. Clews. Unknown in our primary school social studies, I became extremely curious to know more about this surveyor who was responsible for the mapping of the terrain and planning access routes that allowed the scheme to become a reality. Finding his hut and learning more about him became a ‘must do’ on our final day. This was a highlight for me, thanks to the friendly locals, Cam, Dee and Andy; the National Parks Service maps and information Centre in Khancoban and the 4 x4 ably driven by T across Bones’ private property and up to the well-preserved hut on the walking trail circuit. Very special! LSM has agreed to delve deeper into researching the life and times of this amazing character with the aim of building more of a narrative around his achievements.
A visit to the area is enhanced by the history displayed at many different locations and real life look at the power station, and we were no different from the many other visitors to the area. Contemplation of the whole experience was easy because of the peace and quiet of the Boat Ramp area at the Pondage for lunch…the only other intrusions upon the serenity were the water birds and the cattle drinking along the edge.
And so to the salute to our trip at the Alpine Inn pub with a Batlow cider and a Pale Ale – long may the Snowy Mountain High Country and Khancoban prosper!
Excitement of being on the road again had built up after a long layoff, and it was with a buzzing feeling that we left Toowoomba and drove southwest through Milmerran and its tank/silo art, checking on the various inland rail protests and rail culverts, on our way to the High Country in southern New South Wales. This was a birthday trip for my LSM (Long Suffering Male), and a chance to explore a pocket of Australia we had not seen before.
Goondiwindi is a long-cherished border town on the MacIntyre River and always has something to marvel at. This time it was the tribute to the Murray Cod and one of the many park and rest stops which really cater well for intrepid, and often weary Aussie travellers.
Then we slipped into NSW past the now reimagined Wobbly Boot Hotel at Bogabilla and were buoyed by the happy smile from the friendly Servo attendant on the way to Mooree. It was great to see the green tinge on the grass and the grazing country along this stretch…..La Nina had done her best to drench and nourish the countryside over the past three years, but the forecast of impending Il Nino dry must be weighing on the minds of the primary producers.
Our standard travel lunch is corned meat, tomato, cheese and onion sandwiches, and this trip was no different. We have always rated our trips according to the rest stops along the way, and it has become a photographic amusement to track our route by the roadside facilities. Yes, small things do amuse on long distance road trips! 🤣
Along the road south are the various planet signs which herald the region’s Cosmos connections to the Observatories and the research at Parkes. Quite illuminating and certainly break the sameness of the rolling plains.
Our rather uneventful day ended at Coonabarabran at the Matthew Flinders Motel where we had brought three of our grandchildren a few years previously when down to the Dubbo Zoo. The swimming pool was very inviting and helped work out the kinks that 7 hours in the car had wrought on the ageing limbs. Chinese takeaway delivered to the door was just what LSM needed after so many hours of hands on the wheel….and so ended the first day.
Weather-wise we won the lottery. Day 2 was off on the Newell Highway driving down to Goulburn – again, easy highway driving enjoying the changing vegetation until we changed direction at Dubbo. Along the Mitchell Highway through Wellington with its caves and Lake Burrendong then to Bathurst which boasts the Mount Panorama Racing Car Circuit and the imposing Jail precinct. We then were entralled by the sculptural majesty of the numerous wind turbines around Crookwell and rated our rest stops along this section according to their cleanliness and toilet paper quality…..very good on our rating scale.
Crookwell to Goulburn was a slower drive due to the winding nature of the road and the numerous road repair sections after the earlier flooding – but glorious weather makes everything appear rosy, and we were indeed impressed by the majesty and obvious care given to the city of Goulburn. It was here we joined up with our long-time travel friends T & L who had driven down the coast road from Brisbane and skirted the Sydney traffic snarls on their alternative route. Much chatter was had over cricket and NRL viewing!
Day 3 – The early morning crispness was a portent of what was to come on the next leg from Goulburn to Gundagai (without patting the Dog on the Tuckerbox). There was very heavy fog for a long way on the highway, but lifted as we turned towards Tumut – a very pretty drive down the mountain to Batlow where common knowledge, so they say, tells us that it is a big centre for apple growing….and the extensive netting of the trees soon proved that correct. Curiosity about the many yellow painted push bikes adorning the shops and homes got the better of us and L later discovered that they are a local quirky indicator of the support for the Tumut to Batlow Rail Trail.
Tumbarumba was a high priority for stocking up with provisions for our few nights to come, and Tumba Meats was overflowing with those seeking quality local meats. The Park almost transported us to green English streams, but the memorial reminded us of the Australian sacrifices of so many, and brought us back to the Aussie landscape via a resounding historical note.
The Southern Cloud lookout was a beautiful rest stop where we contemplated the sad loss of this aircraft and also the beauty of the ranges and the valleys below the mountains -truly broad sweeping vistas and more solemn contemplation of loss. Then some four hours after leaving Goulburn we found ourselves about 350 metres above sea level in the heart of the Snowy Mountain High Country and pulling into our very comfortable Airbnb unit at Kosciuszko Base Camp in the serene village of Khancoban. A great spot to relax and explore for a few days.
Khancoban has a peaceful community feel and the walks around the village were both invigorating in the cooler air and the peace and quiet of a Sunday. Exploring was now our priority. Having recommendations from locals makes a genuine difference, and we can now recommend to others:-
. High Country Pizzeria. Thanks to Lynda and her gf bases we feasted on very delicious pizza
. Great wifi reception
. The Pickled Parrot Providore – heaps of local artisan products as well as grocery supplies and a well stocked coffee and cake selection in the cafe and the detailed and informative Snowy Mountain Scheme display and the history of Khancoban
. Our accommodation – very comfy and great location across the road from the Khancoban Rose Garden, next to the Police Station and just up the road from the Alpine Inn pub and the Servo – highly recommend!
. Visiting the Dam Spillway and Boat Ramp picnic area with its swimming in the cool water and very shady picnic spots – very peaceful even with the ski boats in action
. The impressive Murray 1 and Murray 2 Power Stations and seeing the power scheme jump off the display into real space and time was a definite highlight
. Scammell’s Lookout about 12 kms along the Alpine Way towards Jindabyne. Cloud formations were like cotton candy picture book illustrations and the view across to the High Country ranges was quite breath-taking
. An eclectic mix of small businesses in the Town Centre – Australia Post; Op Shop; Chemist; Council Office; Mobile Library; Community Hall; Pool; Children’s Park playground and Sporting complex; et al
. The Cemetery
. The Golf course and Country Club
. Walking tracks and it is bigger than you think, so pack your hiking boots
. Trout fishing and angling (next time)
Well, the High Country conjures up the legendary mountain men, wild brumby horses and feats of horsemanship, and we drove the 22 minutes to nearby Corryong to visit the Man from Snowy River Centre to refresh our primary school Banjo Patterson poetry memories and visit the High Country were the pounding of the horses’ hooves came alive – ably sustained by the leftovers of Lynda’s pizzas.
All good things come to an end and we have to return to the diary entries of the weeks to come. The chosen route this time will be the less winding one and we looked forward to more adventures driving northwards…..rating more rest areas and toilet paper quality along the way.
Khancoban – definitely add it to your bucket list!
The Cairns Tropical Writers Festival presented a spectacular program last weekend to compensate for the disappointing delays and rescheduling due to the pandemic. The team, the volunteers and the leadership of Jules Steer all combined to offer a diverse and exciting program to the eager local audiences and to the flyins like myself.
The allure of time in the tropical north Queensland region was strong and as you can see by the outstanding lineup of nationally recognised authors, there were not many who passed up the chance.
How do you choose? Between my community conscious host Anne, an ex-boss and previous Festival mover and shaker, Ross Clark, and a couple of local authors I had the pleasure of meeting and workshopping with on a previous visit, I had plenty of sound advice to help my choosing.
My respect for Anita Jacoby’s track record and expertise as a producer and tv current affairs initiator was increased after hearing her in conversation with Kirsty Nancarrow. It was great to start off the festival on such a high note – what inspiring women in their fields. The room soon filled up.
Then the wonderful disabilty advocates Carly Findlay and Dr Dinesh Palipana. Wow! What a privilege to be in the same room as them.
I absolutely love the tributes Carly gives to her angel of a mother and how close they are through thick and thin. The positive vibes in the room were electric……and the sales of their books I am sure would have soared!
Then it was good to see a few more men join Tony Park’s Session to hear about his writing journey and highlighting animal trafficking in Africa and travels around the world.
Alongside the sessions so beautifully manned by the volunteers in The Pullman Conference Centre rooms, were the author displays, book signing tables and the Cairns Independent Bookshop sales corner with its piles of the books of the visiting authors.
We needed time to process the first three sessions, so we headed over the road to the Casino for a quick bite and a natter…..always good to hear the perspectives of others who heard the same authors.
Then it was back for more. Sasha Sarago left an indelible impression on me from her shared story of beauty and the impact on women of colour in making their story a positive lived experience. Her inner beauty shone brightly. I am reconsidering the question of cultural appropriation in the world of fashion after listening to and hearing Sasha’s messages.
Yes, we are definitely in the Tropics!
Sasha Sarago and Jules Steer – Festival Team President
Then came Jane Caro in conversation with Nicole Aberdee……and a great yarn about Jane’s book The Mother. My gracious host, Anne had loaned me her copy of the book when I arrived in Cairns and I was able to finish it before I flew back to Brisbane on Monday. Delving into DV, the grief of loss of a life partner and the issues around mothering and being a mother stretched to breaking point. The Mother is an easy but thought-provoking read. Jane as always is an energised person to listen to.
What a delight to end the Saturday program with The First Nations panel and information session on The Voice and the Qld Treaty Bill which was presented in Parliament on the Wednesday. What a wonderful mix of youth with Samara Jose, lived political experience and current committee member of The Treaty, Sallyanne Atkinson, and National Proponent of The Voice, Thomas Mayo…..and it was exciting for me to have Joanne Schmeider chair the discussion – an education colleague from the 80s and 90s, it was great to see her continued involvement.
What a first day! And there was more to come. My activist hosts Anne and Ian champagned our way through the throng eagerly anticipating an entertaining night over dinner (very enjoyable) with great MC and muso David Hudson, a fabulous local Welcome to Country, and the ever popular Leigh Sales and Annabel Crabbe. Such a smile popping night! Those of us who had come a fair distance were certainly not disappointed – it was a totally engaging night of storytelling and fun.
And so to Sunday’s program.
A more subdued crowd, again predominantly women, gathered ready for a feast of storytelling on Sunday.
Anne and I headed in to the advertised session of Nikki Gammell with Jane Caro with an open mind. Not disappointed. Nikki tends to polarise readers, but this session gave an insight into her beyond her writing, and we both felt a different attitude by the end of the session – and perhaps Jane Caro’s praise and accommodating interviewing style had a lot to do with it.
The Green Team really did a great job, reflecting the tropics. Our Word Fest Toowoomba aprons are yellow….representing Sunshine on the Downs. Aprons are obviously the go-to festival attire.
Having thown a dart at the options for the next session, I was treated to the history of the law and law coutrs in Cairns by Bev Reaston, and the process of collaborating with an editor when Bev and Claire shared their journey in publishing the non-fiction work. This is a beautifully crafted work, designed for a specialist audience.
Then local author and distinguished Doctor, Caroline de Costa regaled us with tales of her diverse life advocating for women’s health and her murder mystery series featuring local tropical landscapes and an interesting detective who happens to be Aboriginal. Of course it was down to the bookshop to check these out! A fascinating woman who has made outstanding contributions in her field. Now a regal 80 year old, Caroline is a ball of energy as she continues to develop her series. She strikes me as a tropical Ann Cleeves. 😀
We replenished our fuel intake by slipping away to The Chambers Bistro……fittingly reflecting the previous session. Highly recommend the interesting menu choice and combinations of ingredients.
I was determined not to miss Chris Hammer’s session, as I have relinquished going to @Words Out West in Dalby where he is also appearing, and which is only an hour’s drive from home in Toowoomba, in favour of the considerable travel to get to Cairns. A one hour drive to Ipswich, then 1.5 hours of train travel to the domestic airport to the Jetstar Friday Frenzy cheap return deal 2 hour flight, then hosts driving 20 minutes from Smithfield to collect me from the airport, and the reverse to get home again. The inordinate amount of pleasure this Tropical Writers Festival has given me outweighs all the travel time…..hope Anne feels the same as my very much appreciated driver in Cairns.
Chris Hammer’s session was a ripper. What a phoenix to rise from so many journalistic and publishing setbacks. And his first novel Scrublands has just gone into screen production. Great news! I won’t need to go to Dalby now. I got a speeding ticket coming home from the last one, so a repeat of that has been averted.
Needing a bit of downtime I was walking up the stairs when who should be coming down were Sam Woodgarth and Mila Douglas – local debut authors and now friends after a previous editing workshop together. What a treat! Needless to say Sam attracted loads of attention. 😀 Happenstance is real! Best wishes for the success of both debut novels……..Dragon Skin 1 …. I have pre-ordered on Amazon. You can keep up with Sam on https://pagancatpublishing.com/ and Mila’s proof copy of Dancer at the End of His Bed is soon going to be a page turner.
And then suddenly it was the final session of the Festival.
Grace Tame – a very interesting ride through her life, her Autism and ADHD labels, her time as Australian of the Year and THAT famous facial expression standing beside PM Scott Morrison. A roller coaster ride for the audience as well.
So it was back to the bookshop to choose books for my family back home, filling my tote bag and trying to look hopeful at the airport weigh in. Only 1 kilo over. Thankfully the thoughts I was loaded with from such a well planned and presented festival didn’t count on the scales!
Congratulations to EVERYONE involved in such a successful festival. I have learnt lots and will take stock for our own festival to come. Thanks especially to Val Schier for her time and shared knowledge.
Keep an eye out for the next Cairns Tropical Writers festival in 2025.
The Cairns Tropical Writers Festival presented a spectacular program last weekend to compensate for the disappointing delays and rescheduling due to the pandemic. The team, the volunteers and the leadership of Jules Steer all combined to offer a diverse and exciting program to the eager local audiences and to the flyins like myself.
The allure of time in the tropical north Queensland region was strong and as you can see by the outstanding lineup of nationally recognised authors, there were not many who passed up the chance.
How do you choose? Between my community conscious host Anne, an ex-boss and previous Festival mover and shaker, Ross Clark, and a couple of local authors I had the pleasure of meeting and workshopping with on a previous visit, I had plenty of sound advice to help my choosing.
My respect for Anita Jacoby’s track record and expertise as a producer and tv current affairs initiator was increased after hearing her in conversation with Kirsty Nancarrow. It was great to start off the festival on such a high note – what inspiring women in their fields. The room soon filled up.
Then the wonderful disabilty advocates Carly Findlay and Dr Dinesh Palipana. Wow! What a privilege to be in the same room as them.
I absolutely love the tributes Carly gives to her angel of a mother and how close they are through thick and thin. The positive vibes in the room were electric……and the sales of their books I am sure would have soared!
Then it was good to see a few more men join Tony Park’s Session to hear about his writing journey and highlighting animal trafficking in Africa and travels around the world.
Alongside the sessions so beautifully manned by the volunteers in The Pullman Conference Centre rooms, were the author displays, book signing tables and the Cairns Independent Bookshop sales corner with its piles of the books of the visiting authors.
We needed time to process the first three sessions, so we headed over the road to the Casino for a quick bite and a natter…..always good to hear the perspectives of others who heard the same authors.
Then it was back for more. Sasha Sarago left an indelible impression on me from her shared story of beauty and the impact on women of colour in making their story a positive lived experience. Her inner beauty shone brightly. I am reconsidering the question of cultural appropriation in the world of fashion after listening to and hearing Sasha’s messages.
Yes, we are definitely in the Tropics!
Sasha Sarago and Jules Steer – Festival Team President
Then came Jane Caro in conversation with Nicole Aberdee……and a great yarn about Jane’s book The Mother. My gracious host, Anne had loaned me her copy of the book when I arrived in Cairns and I was able to finish it before I flew back to Brisbane on Monday. Delving into DV, the grief of loss of a life partner and the issues around mothering and being a mother stretched to breaking point. The Mother is an easy but thought-provoking read. Jane as always is an energised person to listen to.
What a delight to end the Saturday program with The First Nations panel and information session on The Voice and the Qld Treaty Bill which was presented in Parliament on the Wednesday. What a wonderful mix of youth with Samara Jose, lived political experience and current committee member of The Treaty, Sallyanne Atkinson, and National Proponent of The Voice, Thomas Mayo…..and it was exciting for me to have Joanne Schmeider chair the discussion – an education colleague from the 80s and 90s, it was great to see her continued involvement.
What a first day! And there was more to come. My activist hosts Anne and Ian champagned our way through the throng eagerly anticipating an entertaining night over dinner (very enjoyable) with great MC and muso David Hudson, a fabulous local Welcome to Country, and the ever popular Leigh Sales and Annabel Crabbe. Such a smile popping night! Those of us who had come a fair distance were certainly not disappointed – it was a totally engaging night of storytelling and fun.
And so to Sunday’s program.
A more subdued crowd, again predominantly women, gathered ready for a feast of storytelling on Sunday.
Anne and I headed in to the advertised session of Nikki Gammell with Jane Caro with an open mind. Not disappointed. Nikki tends to polarise readers, but this session gave an insight into her beyond her writing, and we both felt a different attitude by the end of the session – and perhaps Jane Caro’s praise and accommodating interviewing style had a lot to do with it.
The Green Team really did a great job, reflecting the tropics. Our Word Fest Toowoomba aprons are yellow….representing Sunshine on the Downs. Aprons are obviously the go-to festival attire.
Having thown a dart at the options for the next session, I was treated to the history of the law and law coutrs in Cairns by Bev Reaston, and the process of collaborating with an editor when Bev and Claire shared their journey in publishing the non-fiction work. This is a beautifully crafted work, designed for a specialist audience.
Then local author and distinguished Doctor, Caroline de Costa regaled us with tales of her diverse life advocating for women’s health and her murder mystery series featuring local tropical landscapes and an interesting detective who happens to be Aboriginal. Of course it was down to the bookshop to check these out! A fascinating woman who has made outstanding contributions in her field. Now a regal 80 year old, Caroline is a ball of energy as she continues to develop her series. She strikes me as a tropical Ann Cleeves. 😀
We replenished our fuel intake by slipping away to The Chambers Bistro……fittingly reflecting the previous session. Highly recommend the interesting menu choice and combinations of ingredients.
I was determined not to miss Chris Hammer’s session, as I have relinquished going to @Words Out West in Dalby where he is also appearing, and which is only an hour’s drive from home in Toowoomba, in favour of the considerable travel to get to Cairns. A one hour drive to Ipswich, then 1.5 hours of train travel to the domestic airport to the Jetstar Friday Frenzy cheap return deal 2 hour flight, then hosts driving 20 minutes from Smithfield to collect me from the airport, and the reverse to get home again. The inordinate amount of pleasure this Tropical Writers Festival has given me outweighs all the travel time…..hope Anne feels the same as my very much appreciated driver in Cairns.
Chris Hammer’s session was a ripper. What a phoenix to rise from so many journalistic and publishing setbacks. And his first novel Scrublands has just gone into screen production. Great news! I won’t need to go to Dalby now. I got a speeding ticket coming home from the last one, so a repeat of that has been averted.
Needing a bit of downtime I was walking up the stairs when who should be coming down were Sam Woodgarth and Mila Douglas – local debut authors and now friends after a previous editing workshop together. What a treat! Needless to say Sam attracted loads of attention. 😀 Happenstance is real! Best wishes for the success of both debut novels……..Dragon Skin 1 …. I have pre-ordered on Amazon. You can keep up with Sam on https://pagancatpublishing.com/ and Mila’s proof copy of Dancer at the End of His Bed is soon going to be a page turner.
And then suddenly it was the final session of the Festival.
Grace Tame – a very interesting ride through her life, her Autism and ADHD labels, her time as Australian of the Year and THAT famous facial expression standing beside PM Scott Morrison. A roller coaster ride for the audience as well.
So it was back to the bookshop to choose books for my family back home, filling my tote bag and trying to look hopeful at the airport weigh in. Only 1 kilo over. Thankfully the thoughts I was loaded with from such a well planned and presented festival didn’t count on the scales!
Congratulations to EVERYONE involved in such a successful festival. I have learnt lots and will take stock for our own festival to come. Thanks especially to Val Schier for her time and shared knowledge.
Keep an eye out for the next Cairns Tropical Writers festival in 2025.
The 100 eager patrons seated at the Long Table at the Windy Acres Lavender Farm at Westbrook south of Toowoomba certainly had to keep a firm hold on their hats and skirts. The name of this peaceful property 15 minutes from Toowoomba was definitely reflected in the weather. Yet it was a point of entertainment rather than frustration for those who had gathered to help raise funds for Hope Horizons Cancer Wellness Centre and its healing support programs.
Decked out in the colours matching the lavender plants, Windy Acres host family and friendly band of volunteers turned on a very special High Tea in the field. Country hospitality, supported by both country and city dwellers, many of whom have been touched by the insidious creep of cancer saw a mix of delicious afternoon treats, bottles of bubbly, lavender tea and gifts from the lavender farm, and many, many raffles with prizes generously donated.
The President of Hope Horizons Board, the always upbeat Jo Capp, reminded everyone of the comforting and often life-changing work being done, and the much anticipated new centre hopefully ready later in 2023, and thanked everyone who supports the various efforts to be able to provide free support services such as remedial massage to people during their journey of beating the cancer.
With the scent of the lavender gently wafting across the table and the scene of country colours and skies changing as the afternoon lengthened, it was a very relaxing atmosphere, and the announcement that $7000 had been raised was the icing on the cake for such a successful event.
So glad to know that we don’t have to wait for a High Tea event to visit Windy Acres. The gift shop and wandering through the lavender rows can be an experience anytime. Add it to your tripping bucket list and you won’t be disappointed.
Toowoomba has a host of hidden gems……..both natural and manmade. Mostly unseen by motorists, there are loads of plaques dotted around the city which savvy walkers and a few with eagle eyes are privileged to find.
A chestnut is a nut. It is a British favourite. It grows on a tree. It has a saying that identifies its longevity. There is a lovely chestnut tree right here. That old chestnut!
So this is a short tribute to Toowoomba’s chestnut tree.
One of the plaques which herald the history of the early years of Toowoomba’s settlement –
This Spanish Chestnut tree
Commemorates an avenue of these trees
Planted by John Handley
On Paradise Farm
In the years 1865-1875
This plaque unveiled by his descendants on 2-4-1983
Chestnuts- are cocooned in a spiky outer covering to protect the developing nut from the ravages of sharp-toothed hungry animals.
Traditionally roasted and often seen, and uplifted by the alluring aroma, on street corners in northern hemisphere countries, chestnuts have supplemented family food stock for generations. The taste is similar to roasted Bunya Nut.
If you are curious to see this particular Toowoomba relic of a pioneer generation, then head to the corner of West and Nelson streets past UniSQ.
Even after the tree becomes compost back into the Earth, there will remain its legacy through Paradise Park on the opposite corner. Happy Chestnut hunting!
What a trbute to the creators of this memorial site – an annual festival celebrating all things Celtic in the heart of the New England High Country overlooking the charming town of Glen Innes.
With a vision and community spirit, the plan, the design and the practical labour to establish the site a hardy band have created a site unique to the immigrants who were courageous enough to make a new life in an unknown land. The traditions and culture they transplanted on the landscape are alive and well, and the annual gathering of the Clans is testament to the generations who have gone before, and to the determination of those who want to see it continue into the future.
The site is set on the higher area where the sky meets the expanse of grass tough enough to withstand the tread of many feet over the years, and where the various stones pay tribute to many contributions. The picnic area, the delightful cafe, The Croft, with its incredible library, chess set of the Picts, and the delicious food offerings and the peaceful view are all excellent reasons to spend time here.
Central to the site are the memorials. The wall embedded with stones dedicated to clans, families, organisations and individuals entices people to wander, read and be awed by the various stones and their inspirational heritage.
Things of particular interest to me were the way of measuring with the Ogham Stone, the memorial walkway and stairs dedicated to Pipe Major Ferguson, and the stone highlighting the mythical King Arthur and the Sword Excalibur.
Looking out over the site, my imagination turned to the festival and what a difference the sounds of the pipers and the feats of strengths, the dancing and the general air of joy in all things Celtic must make when the Festival is on.
Am already looking forward to the 4-7th May 2023 when this site will ring out loud in tribute.
Left Toowoomba with a sense of expectation as we headed south past the tree-lined carpet of purple Jacaranda petals along Ruthven Street. Driving to Glen Innes to the High Country Writers Festival would take 4 hours, but the drive would take us through a few towns brimming with nostalgia, so it was with a sense of expectation about seeing the familiar sights but also anticipating the new. Very little traffic at 7 am on a Saturday morning, so it was a smooth getaway.
Waved to my birthplace of Warwick, then was a little saddened by the number of farms, orchards and businesses that looked decidedly like covid casualties as we travelled into Granite Belt country at Stanthorpe – five years after exchanging our hobby farm at Mt Tully for the suburban life of Toowoomba, I had very mixed emotions.
Wallangarra was little changed, and Tenterfield’s beautiful heritage architecture never fails to delight, so it was a very pleasant place to stop and stretch before continuing the next leg to Glen Innes. The countryside was green and the landscapes very appealing.
Glen Innes is obviously a popular stopping destination judging by the number of motels dotted along its highway entrance and exit, and the wide, wide main shopping street holds plenty of history in its sweep. My chauffeur and LSM (Long Suffering Male) mainstay support easily found our destination – The Book Market. With time to spare before the Festival began, I indulged my passion browsing the shelves and chatting with delightful, quirky owner, Badger, and enjoying the signage, the HUGE range of second-hand and the very reasonable prices. Managed to find Wicked London and Scottish Clans, both in great condition and with a0 nod to my recent overseas foray. On the ‘luring’ table outside I spotted a book I thought LSM would like to add to his family history research collection about the early Victorian goldfields and life for immigrant families such as his Simcocks line……so much for restraint…..and I hadn’t arrived at the festival yet!
Then it was on to The Makers Shed at the end of a quiet block in Grey Street. What a quality addition to the creative artisan scene in the region. Owned and operated by Michael Burge and husband Richard, this duo have created a space not only for showcasing beautiful wares from local artists and producers, including Richard’s beautiful silver jewellery, but also providing an intimate location for writers, book clubbing, a very elite book sales outlet for new releases, and a place for collaboration with the others in the regional writing, reading, storytelling, workshopping realm. It also provides an outlet for Richard’s delicious culinary delights which stem from his considerable chefing background. He was the perfect host…. and the gourmet sandwiches, jam drops and chocolate brownies were a treat.
Michael Burge’s repetoire is large, his influence in writing about homophobia and its impact is considerable and acknowledged by the writing fraternity, (Tank Water and Write Regardless) and his drive and discerning choices for the 4th year of the High Country Writers Festival are spot on. His easy manner and hands-on approach as the Festival Director have created a means of engaging with great presenters and moderators and bringing a regional audience on board. What a result!
It was wonderful to connect to the New England Writers Centre, and prolific children’s writer Sophie Masson (Inside Story) and Lyn from the centre, as well as Michael, are on the Word Fest Toowoomba collaboration radar for our 2023 program. It was also a chance to meet and chat with Ian Wynne about the influence of his South African journalist background on his writing. Was drawn to his work The Seventh Vial and its association with a Palm Island character-intriguing contemporary theme of genetic terrorism. Collaborative local support from the Council has really helped sustain the momentum of the Festival and The Makers Shed activities, and was roundly applauded.
So then it was on to the Community Hub at the other end of the block for the Festival sessions. A well-designed centre for many community activities, with technology on tap, meant the distances for authors from far away places was not an issue……and we, the audience, were entertained by great authors, themes, moderators, and q & a style opportunities. Well done Michael for the program design.
Matthew Condon’s experience as a journo and presenter showed as he moderated the CSI New England session. We heard from Emma Partridge (The Widow of Walcha) and Walkley Award Winner Kate Holden (The Winter Road) about the processes, and the extensive research that went into their work. Fascinating! Just as riveting was the session moderated by Kirsty Reading on the Historical Fiction and the Search for Home of Julie Janson (Benevolence), the counter Indigenous perspective to Kate Grenville’s The Secret River, and the prolific Nicole Alexander’s work on a grazier dynasty’s boom and bust as well as the history of the Murray River paddle steamers (The Last Station). Also fascinating!
The sun was shining on Glen Innes as we came out of the very cool air-conditioning in The Hub, and it was easy to see why so many creative souls enjoy being here.
Armed with a hugely generousal from the Noodle Bar, we hunkered down at the Glenn Innes Motel – LSM admiring the meticulous Pointilist style Emu Dreaming print he had found at the Gawuar Art Gallery and enjoying watching the cricket test. Me? My head was trying to process all that I had done during the day, and of course reading.😃
And so to Sunday – with a little bit of touring to the Standing Stones to stir my strong Celtic heritage, and stopping for cherries and apples at Stanthorpe, my weekend will feel like this burst of joy ……..
With barely twelve months of tribute gigs under the bling of his Elvis belt, Toowoomba go-getting performer, Tristan James is getting prepared for a trip to the UK in 2023 to compete in the European Elvis Championships against 40 other Elvis Tribute Artists (ETAs) for the honour and the next step in his increasingly familiar role of the King of Rock and Roll. Tristan has a background of local roles in many productions at the Empire Theatre, and is keen to represent his home town and make the most of his singing and acting talents and follow his dreams.
Oh Tilly Photography has captured Tristan’s essence andctribute to the King in this one image from the day…….great job Tilly!
Local Federal Member for Groom, Garth Hamilton, who is well-known for his attention to all that is going on in the community saw that Tristan was heading over to show the Brits what they were up against and suggested a opportunity for a creative activity by connecting music lovers to a burgeoning local talent. His guitar playing was ready and willing to be the background for a joint gig. Tristan turned to the very supportive local business network to make it a happening thing.
Another community-minded local identity, Kim Cahill from KC Strategic Media Services, a proud longtime advocate for local people, places, food, events and business through her well-established Toowoomba Darling Downs Community support platform, was inspired by Tristan’s story to arrange a gathering to get the story out to the Toowoomba community. With her Social Media contacts and her network through BNI The Range, Kim approached All Star Brokers and the delightful Sonia offered her Mt Kynoch home as a venue – with her beautifully decorated Christmas Tree as the backdrop.
Of course this brought to mind the Elvis seasonal song – Blue Christmas. Tristan was well and truly on board to practise the song in such a peaceful bushland setting and was especially pleased to be able to share with other media outlets organised through Kim. Garth was such a good sport to take time to strum, whistle and tap along.
Yum, Wow, All Stars
So, buoyed by Sonia and Kate’s All Star hospitality, and Sonia’s delicious Cypriot heritage pastries to boost his energy level, it was down to the professionals to set up the sound and camera gear – Tilly Mykat from Oh Tilly Photography, Clayton and his video angles from Little Pig Consulting and the super-chilled Channel 7 pro, Peter, with his relaxed interview style, and MollyB Blogging taking in the human aspects rather than the technical.
You can check out the great brandishots at Oh Tilly Photography ‘ Face Book page – til then you have my MollyB Blogging happy snaps.
The atmosphere was very Christmasy and Tristan and Garth sparred neatly off each other. Decked out in his identifiable red-spangled jumpsuit, the eagle insignia with the hair and sideburns refecting Elvis’ trademark, and warming up those distinctive flexible hips, Tristan effortlessly sang and wiggled a great rendition.
We know that the tribute artists are a friendly group, and we know that music reaches each and every one of us, so it will certainly be a fun time for Toowoombaites to get behind Tristan and support his journey as Elvis leaves the building here and enters the European arena.
Tristan is very much looking forward to the overseas experience. He will be travelling with his wife to the UK in 2023 to compete for the experience. He is expecting fierce competition, but judging by the impromptu promo efforts, he will be right at home doing his tribute to the King. Thanks to everyone involved in the fun.
A bus ride from Toowoomba gave a higher than normal view of the Lockyer Valley, the market garden farms and the increasing density of housing in the Plainlands atea. All under a bright November sky and some amazing cloud formations enjoyed through the windows, the trip was smooth and time efficient.
Then the changes to Brisbane hit home as we pulled in to Roma Street. The much anticipated Cross-River rail construction is extensive and hopefully it will deliver its targets and provide the Queensland capital with extended infratstructure to meet the anticipated needs of the 2032 Olympic City. The inconvenience of noise, dust and traffic detours now might pay off….one can but hope.
Playing tourist in the familiar city that saw my University studies and Teachers College days in the early 1970s was actually a strange feeling. Although I have visited regularly, being on foot and exploring the hidden gems was a luxury I had not allowed myself for many years. So the walk across the Kurilpa bridge with its unusual structure was a delight. Allowing great views of the muddy old Brisbane River in either direction from the bridge picked up the sense of a big country town turned global city with a contemporary flair. I loved what I saw, and enjoyed the winding loop along the river at the end of the bridge which snaked along the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and opened on to Montague Road.
I had a bit of time to kill, so explored Peel Street and its many theatrical outlets and the sprinkling of high rise apartments amidst the trendy coffee shops and interesting boutiques. The murals on the huge pylons of the Goodwill Bridge or was it the William Jolly Bridge were eyecatching. The Spring flowers made a fetching border along the bridge run.
My appetite was sated by the bacon and egg roll (gf toast for me) for a $3 bargain at Ripe Cafe where the staff knew and greeted every passer-by and every customer. Next door was Wyld Floral with its natural vibe, and lots of interesting businesses along just this one section up to Merivale Street.
The Queensland Theatre Company was my destination and the super pleasant and well-equipped bar and cafe was just the atmosphere needed to prepare for the matinee performance of the adaptation of author Kris Olsson’s poignant family story of Boy, Lost. It was a powerful portrayal of the conditions and injustices of societal dysfunction and cultural mismatch and the impact it has on so many. Wonderful stageing, minimal sets, multi-faceted actors and sustained performances. What a lucky audience we were. Coming back into the reality of Montague Road was a bit of an emotional shift.
So a visit to the contemporary exhibitions at GOMA was next. The new exhibit called Air was being installed…interesting balls in the air. Amazing Indigenous traditional bark paintings, totems and works on canvas as well as the interpretation of weaving with different, non-traditional materials were enthralling and culturally gifting us knowledge. Very special.
For years I had listened to the recommendations of visitors to the Museum of Brisbane – you must go and see it. So without being hampered by parking time limits, I was free to wander back across to Queen Street Mall and into King George Square and up to Level 3 of City Hall. Yes, it was well worth it! More treasures uncovered. I particularly liked the posters of the artist in residence (who wasn’t in residence ) and the Brissie…isms. I smiled at all of them. Very familiar and oh so typical of those of us who have grown with the city.
The final piece of my day in Brisbane was to meet my family at the Old Museum for my grandson’s Year 12 Graduation from the Music Industry College. Such a small high school with a big impact on its students. A short, sweet, individualised program with the highlights being the performance of the teacher lead band Double Happiness and the throwing of the mortar boards into the air……..now to see these talented young creative arts students take on the world.
It was a foot-weary Toowoomba tourist who finished that day tired by truly grateful for the sights and sounds of the River City. BrisVegas you rock!
Molly B travlyn 
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