Ararat
In Ararat I visited the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, and Ararat Gaol J Ward.
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Ararat via Smythesdale and Skipton
Today I headed to Ararat, taking the “scenic route”. The weather was extremely variable, changing constantly from wet to sunny and back again.
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Nimmon’s Bridge, Ballarat Art Gallery
The weather was very wet again this morning, and as I was driving out to see an old railway bridge on the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail I was just hoping the rain would clear enough for me to have a look. Fortunately it did, although there was still a bit
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Central Ballarat
There are many beautiful historic buildings in the centre of Ballarat. I only walked around the main areas as the rain was starting to set in again. There is also a nice park area along the centre of Sturt Street, which includes a large number of statues.
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Ballarat Botanical Gardens & Lake Wendouree
I had intended to visit the Art Gallery in the afternoon, but gave up after discovering all the parking seemed to require coins (which I didn’t have). Instead I headed out to Lake Wendouree and the Botanical Gardens. I was fortunate that the weather remained dry enough that I could
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Ballarat Gold Museum
My drive to Ballarat was pretty miserable, with heavy rain and strong winds most of the way. When I reached my first stop, the Ballarat Gold Museum, the rain had eased slightly but it was still very cold and blustery. I would love to be able to say that the
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Making Dumplings
A very enjoyable couple of hours today learning to make dumplings at Otao Kitchen in Richmond. I got to eat lots, and brought home a couple more containers for dinner.
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Heathcote & Bendigo
I had a great day visiting various places around Heathcote and Bendigo, as well as visiting Shiraz Republic winery to press my wine, which has been fermenting for the last 10 days. I started out early and went to Heathcote Powder Magazine first – the sun was not fully up
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Lost Trades Fair Kyneton
A great day with lots of fabulous exhibitors sharing their knowledge. Pedal powered scroll saw being used to make wooden tulips. Vintage Jones brand sewing machines Wheel thrown pottery Large ceramic vase being formed over rope to create strength. Shoe making by hand. The first step in shoe making involves
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Sapa: town and handcraft
9 & 10 June Sapa township itself is a lovely town set around a lake, slowly being strangled by tourists. There is new construction everywhere, constant harrassment by local women and children wanting to sell things, and not really much to do. It is best to spend as much
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