Mark Smalley

Friday, 25 Mar - Melbourne
Our trip today, after a walk alongside the local wetlands, is to Geelong, about 50 km South-West of Melbourne. It's a coastal town and is supposed to be the place where rabbits were first brought in. Couldn't find a monument to the guy who did it though.

We had a long "eat all you want" buffet lunch at Smorgies, at the end of a pier. Fairly busy, with lots of families as it's Good Friday.

Geelong (www.geelongaustralia.com.au ) is decorated by a number of 2 meter tall wooden bollards, carved and painted to represent various historical figures associated with the town. Very colourfull.
On another pier there's rescued and restored 1890's carousel.
Further along a small helicopter is doing 5 min flight for $99 for 3 people.

We're approached by a heavily pregnant woman who wants to call her son Eden and wants to know how we think you spell it in order to prevent him always having to explain "That's Edan with an 'a' ".

The last stop is at the botanic gardens, tastefully done, where we also sit down for a picnic cup of coffee.

On the way back Pauline kindly drives us to the airport and at 1800 we're in plenty of time for our 2100 flight with Jetstar to Hobart, Tasmania. A meal at the noodle bar ($18) does us fine.

Our brief stay in Melbourne was an added bonus to our holiday, providing a different perspective on Australia than you'd get as an average tourist, and we're very grateful for both the opportunity and the hospitality we were given.

posted by Mark Smalley @ 5:23 PM