Australia Highlights

My adventure to the great continent of Australia was by far one of the best I have taken. There were so many different areas to visit and things to learn about. Here is a look back at some of my favorite moments.

The Outback

The vast open desert area and the long history of the Aboriginal people that have survived here for hundreds of years was amazing.

Kata Tjuta mountain 

Watching the sunset on Uluru "Ayers Rock"

Sunset watching party at Uluru complete with champagne.

Ancient hieroglyphic writings of Aboriginal people

The didgeridoo

Tribal dances and customs

Outback Barbecue 

Visiting an Outback ranch for an evening barbecue was very special. Especially seeing the stars and Southern Cross in the dark sky.

The art of throwing a boomerang 

Outback serenade 

Playing the string/box/broom handle bass in an Outback Band (one night stand)

The Flying Doctors

Learning how the dream of one man to serve the isolated families and Aboriginal villages with medical care came to fruition was inspirational.

The School of the Air

How do you reach all the isolated children scattered over miles and miles of territory? Through innovation and determination. School lessons are taught today via Internet but the service started out using radio broadcasts.

Communications 

The importance of developing a communication system across the vast territory with telegraph relay stations.

The Native Animals

Petting a Kola and feeding a kangaroo.

Cattle Ranch Visit

Learning about the evolving Australian beef market and having dinner in such a beautiful setting complete with a cowboy sing along.

The Great Barrier Reef

Going out to the reef to see first hand the beautiful coral and fascinating fish plus taking a helicopter ride out over the reef.

Skyrail Ride

Soaring over the tops of the rainforest trees and then getting out to walk among some of the oldest trees known.

Sydney 

There was so much to see and do in Sydney. Of course visiting the iconic Opera House and having the privilege to attend a performance by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra was phenomenal.

Sydney Harbor Cruise

Riding out into the harbor and looking back at the city offered some great views.

Sydney Sky Tower

Had lunch in the revolving restaurant high above the city for some great views and wonderful food.

Sydney Harbor Bridge 

Taking the train across and walking back on the harbor bridge offered a different perspective of the city.

There were many many more exciting and special moments as shown in my daily blog postings. These were just some of my favorite.