21/2/18 A brief illustrated account of the Adelaide and Canberra overland tour.

First of all, apologies for the delay writing an account of the above trip. Today, we are at sea, en route for Melbourne where we dock at around 8am tomorrow. It is dull outside, and thus, I am not distracted by such pleasures as deck walking, and lying in the sun!

Six days ago, on 16th February, we docked at Adelaide, our third Australian port of call. A small group of musicians serenaded our arrival in celebratory “Aussie” style.

Just seven of us made up the party on this two day visit to Adelaide and Canberra. We assembled at the appointed meeting place on Deck 2 at 08.50hrs, were guided off the vessel, through the usual disembarkation procedures, and on to the minibus which would be our transport for the day. We drove through “ordinary” Adelaide, our guide pointing out all interesting things to see along the way. Soon, we were climbing into the nearby hilly countryside which surrounds much of the city. Time was on our side and it was therefore possible to fit in an unscheduled stop at Mount Lofty, which afforded splendid views over Adelaide. This was a brief photo opportunity and soon, we were on our way to the Cleland Wildlife Park, a large area housing a great variety of birds and animals. Kangaroos were aplenty and appreciative of the special feed available to visitors to attract ducks, emus, and anything just wandering around this protected area. Plenty of time was allowed for this visit; I would like to return and perhaps, stay a little longer.

We continued, then, to Hahndorf, reputed to be the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia, a charming peaceful street lined with attractive shops and eateries. Colourful trees along the pavements added to the town’s appeal. Lunch at the Hahndorf Inn did NOT disappoint. It did overwhelm, however. Seven of us were presented with enough to eat for many times that number. Fabulous it was too, with different meats, vegetables, and for those not overly enthusiastic about shopping, apple pie, double cream and coffee. We all came away, most impressed, and replete.

Soon, we were at Adelaide Airport from where we would fly QANTAS to the capital. We didn’t have to wait for long periods of time, and our flight to the Canberra was speedy, comfortable and efficient. A one course hot meal with wine was served on board…all very impressive.

Another man with another van met us and after introductions, we, including our guide from Adelaide, were “whisked” to our hotel in the centre of Canberra.

Pictures to follow.