Category Archives: Australia

Mooching with Mum in the Barossa Valley

Posted on 17 June 2013 by sheg4184

Despite my family’s tendency to avoid centre stage and keep every celebration low-key, my mother’s seventieth birthday earlier this year seems to have been  worthy of an unusual degree of fanfare. As I was up in Manila and missed the … Continue reading →

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Afternoon Tea on the Quay

Posted on 10 June 2013 by sheg4184

Anyone for scones? Yes, I do realize it is starting to look as my life is nothing but clotted cream and champagne, but there you are, that’s just the way it goes… for some! This tea was for a very … Continue reading →

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“The Grounds” in Rural Alexandria

Posted on 30 May 2013 by sheg4184

I hit ‘The Grounds’ running, straight off the plane from Manila, and was astounded, in my jet-lagged stupour, to discover this rustic café located in semi-industrial Alexandria, only minutes from the airport, the site startlingly at odds with its surroundings. … Continue reading →

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Of Fireworks and Aussie Icons…

Posted on 15 January 2013 by sheg4184

Sydney Harbour is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. Australian writer, Ruth Park, called it ‘beautiful as a dream, laid upon the map like a branch of blue coral.’ Taking full advantage of this enviable … Continue reading →

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Kingsbrook Wines and Moroccan Lamb

Posted on 1 January 2013 by sheg4184

It was an intensely hot day in December complete with north wind. My sister-in-law had sweetly suggested taking us out to her favourite restaurant at Currency Creek, on the Fleurieu Peninsula. It was a Christmas treat, so I insisted on … Continue reading →

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Of Birds and Beasts and Beaches

Posted on 30 December 2012 by sheg4184

My first morning back in Australia I woke up to the feel of a warm breeze on my skin, the sound of magpies warbling, the scent of eucalyptus on the air and the sight of the hazy purple of jacaranda … Continue reading →

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Sunday Markets: a new religion

Posted on 18 November 2012 by sheg4184

Weekend markets have long been popular sources of quality produce and family entertainment. In South Australia, the Sunday Farmer’s Market has become an almost religious experience, as pilgrims flock to meet the farmers, orchardists, fishermen, cheese-makers, bakers, and cooks who … Continue reading →

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The Burnt Offering

Posted on 29 October 2012 by sheg4184

“The smell of gas was there, and of burning chops when he opened the door. He said, “I’ve got some chops going.” ~ Patrick White, The Eye of the Storm. What do I miss most in Manila? From our 32 … Continue reading →

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Jacaranda

Posted on 14 August 2012 by sheg4184

My husband has been in Australia this week, visiting family. Daily texts and emails about walks in the parklands and along the beach were making me nostalgic and ever so slightly homesick. So when I had to do a writing … Continue reading →

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Abide With Me

Posted on 25 April 2012 by sheg4184

Wednesday 25th April, 2012. ANZAC Day.  The 2012 Commemorative Dawn Service. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Heritage Park, Manila  They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years … Continue reading →

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