# Paul Leonards Blog
> This is my life photo blog. Click the Subscribe button if you would like email notifications of new posts. No costs or obligations involved.↓
Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. This file includes a bounded export of public pages first, then recent public posts.
Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`).
## Pages
### About
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/about/
Last updated: 2026-09-03T06:07:12.000Z
This page contains bits and pieces of a personal nature.

### In the Beginning........

I was born during the WW ll Pacific War when Australia was under threat of invasion by the Japanese military, in St Lukes Anglican private hospital in Sydney's Kings Cross. My dad was a GP who became a pioneer anaesthetist and later an Honorary Fellow of the College of Surgeons in London. My mum was a nurse from St Vincents Hospital nearby. Her aunt (Sister of Charity) has a juvenile psychiatric facility at St Vincents named after her as she ran the St Vincent's Outpatients Dept for 40 years.

### Education

I have degrees from each of the 3 major Sydney CBD universities, all gained by part time study:

MA(Information) University of Technology. Did all my options in Computing Science.

B.Comm(Marketing) University of NSW. First Marketing course in Australia.

BA(Ecs/Psych) Sydney University. No Marketing courses available at the time.

MB.BS Sydney University (ended) The examiners mandated a career change.

Christian Brothers College, Rose Bay, Sydney (primary and secondary schooling) Leaving Certificate 1959.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/school-1.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Singleton-Cadet-camp-1959-Band.jpg)

### Work History

Self employed Marketing Consultant, Sydney, retired 2007 (20 years). Clients included NRMA, Lend Lease, AMP Shopping Centres, NSW Govt Small Business Agency, Carramar Smash Repairs (prestige vehicle repairer).

KFC Marketing Manager (last salaried job). I had an advertising budget of about $20m in today's money and made about 27 commercials. A lot of fun.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/super-chook_0001.jpg)

Superchook at our kid's birthday party.

ASRB (Market Research agency) part of the UK PE Consulting Group. Came in handy when later self employed.

British Petroleum, NSW Market Research Manager (there 8 years) A wonderful employer.

### aaa
### My Library
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/library/
Last updated: 2026-09-12T23:28:23.000Z
Click in the bottom right corner of images to make them smaller.

One of the best ways to keep your mind sharp in retirement is reading challenging books. You have to decide on a genre which interests you and find stimulating books by researching awards for that genre. My reading interest is mostly in award winning fictional crime novels. All of the books listed here have won awards or been short listed for an award. I find them by searching crime novel awards listings sometimes going back 30-40 years. Wikipedia is a good source for such lists.

**Authors A-B (14)**

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**Authors C-D (13)**

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**Authors E-F (7)**

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G-H (14)

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I-K (10)

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L-M-N (34)

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P-Q

R-S

T

U-Z
### Travel
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/
Last updated: 2026-10-09T21:52:11.000Z
## **Travel**

[Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

Since getting married in London in 1969, we have visited 27 countries together. Highlights have been Antarctica, South Korea and Cappadocia. From London we had an "East Only" Qantas ticket but we could get off anywhere as long as we kept going east to Australia. We are "adventurous" tourists not "adventure" tourists. Unfortunately all my pre-digital photos were 35mm slides. Many have deteriorated over the last 50 years so there are some gaps in this photo record. Enjoy.

[Antarctica](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#antarctica)

[Asia](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#asia)

[Europe](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#europe)

[Mediterranean](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#mediterranean)

[Alaska](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#alaska)

[Canada](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#canada)

[South America](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#south-america)

[Indo Pacific](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#indo-pacific)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/travel-index-23aug.jpg)

### [**Antarctica**](#antarctica)

We took a small ship the Sea Spirit (90 passengers) from Ushuaia at the bottom of Argentina to the Antarctic Peninsula, a sea trip across Drakes Passage of about 800km or two days sailing. This can be a very rough trip with 12m swells which is about 6 times a normal house ceiling. Antarctica is shaped like a stingray with the long Antarctic Peninsula, extending up towards Ushuaia . Antarctica is huge. With the ice and snow it is twice the size of Australia but when you get away from the coast with its prolific wildlife there is absolutely nothing except ice and snow no water nothing! The remoteness is daunting. Visitors need $100k extraction insurance in case of emergency.

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0:00 

/0:30 

1× 

We are reloading after landing on Deception Is inside the caldera of a still active volcano. Note the steam rising off the volcanic sand and the baby sea lion warming itself right side. Jude at rear.

[Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

### **Asia**

[South Korea](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#korea)

[China](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#china)

[Japan](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#japan)

### [**South Korea**](#korea)

Seoul is only 8okm from the North Korean border (which we visited. See top image). What must it do to your head living so close to a nuclear armed weird dictatorship fixed in the 1950s? All the historic buildings were destroyed during the Korean war and have been replicated with a vaguely Hollywood feel. The National War Museum has one whole gallery geared to childrens' entertainment including jumping castles. Unimaginable in the Australian War Memorial. There is a Toilet Theme Park and a house built like a toilet!

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### [**China**](#china)

We visited 5 Chinese cities on a 12 day tour. The people were friendly and took no notice of us when individually in the street. I thought they might have taken us for Americans. The primary school children clearly learn English because they were always asking "Where are you from?". I tried to learn some Mandarin but it is a phonetic language so I used my phone translator on local advice instead. Our hotel was running a conference on China's Belt and Road initiative so the government shut down a large shopping centre next door for security reasons (??). Wonder how Westfield would have reacted? In another Beijing shopping centre we had a chance meeting with Jude's niece "L" from Tweed Heads who was on a school excursion in China. Extraordinary! The city of Zhengzhou is the site of the Peoples' Liberation Army Hacker School. We didn't get a tour.

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### [**Japan**](#japan)

We visited Japan twice on our way to Europe. On the first trip we flew Japan Airlines business class. The food was to die for.

**Tokyo / Ueno**

 We stayed in Ueno which is located in the northeast of central Tokyo, sitting roughly 4 to 5 kilometres north-north-east of Tokyo Station as such it is a good location for getting around particularly as it is close the Tokyo circle train line.

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**Tokyo / Nerima City**

Our son was an exchange student in Nerima City in Tokyo for 12 months. The host father was a Buddhist priest. In Japanese culture the Buddhists do the funerals so the house was actually a 1000sq metre funeral home. This was no begging bowl Buddhist. The son studying to take over the family business drove a Porsche. The elderly grandmother had recently died so our son ended up with his own granny flat in Tokyo for the duration. The Buddhist cemetery from above looks like a car park (last pic).

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**Tokyo / City**

Tokyo is a massive, fast-paced metropolis blending ultra-modern skyscrapers with ancient temples, high-tech train systems, and rich food culture and a population of about 16m people. The people are very polite and there is no pushing and shoving unlike some places in Asia. I made a mistake in taking my own (French) wine to a restaurant. The owner was embarrassingly apologetic so I left a tip to cover corkage. We did a tour of the Emperor's Palace but he did not invite us for tea.

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**Nikko**

Nikko is a mountain city a couple of hours north of Tokyo. We went by train and accidentally got on the all stops coming back. It was interesting to see all the school kids going home. It was a refuge for the Shoguns to escape the summer heat and humidity of Tokyo. As Katoomba is to Sydney, Nikko is to Tokyo. It has a large number of exceptional buildings and is a must for anyone visiting Tokyo. Note the famous three wise monkeys facade carving.

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**Kyoto**

Kyoto served as the imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years from 794 to 1868\. Home to roughly 20 percent of Japan’s designated National Treasures and historic districts tied to the origins of tea ceremonies, geisha culture, and traditional theatre. We travelled there by Shinkansen (bullet train). The return journey to Tokyo was much more problematic after an "incident".

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**Himedji Castle**

The castle is regarded as the finest surviving example of prototypical Japanese castle architecture, comprising a network of 83 structures with advanced defensive systems from the feudal period. The castle has never been captured. The castle was first built in 1333 and later completely rebuilt in 1601-1609\. The first Queen Elizabeth died in 1603\. These time frames very hard for Australians to comprehend. 

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**Kyoto Parade**

These earnest people are moving a god from one shrine to another (as you do). Note the floats are all on wheels.

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**Kyoto Ryokan (Japanese "motel")**

We wanted to try the real Japanese experience. The expensive meal was special and stunning. The floor was surprisingly comfortable.

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**Mountain Fire Festival**

We went up into the nearby mountains from Kyoto by tiny mountain train to Karama village with thousands of others to a fire festival. How these pyromaniacs didn't burn the place down and us with them was a mystery. Unbelievable overcrowding on the train.

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 th

**Mt Fuji and Hakone**

The famous volcanic zone near Mt. Fuji is Hakone (specifically featuring the [Ōwakudani](https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5203.html?ref=paulleonardsblog.net) volcanic valley), and the entire area is part of the [Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park](https://www.japan.travel/national-parks/parks/fuji-hakone-izu/explore/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net). We took a very long day tour from Tokyo to do this one. It involved a commuter train ride across Tokyo during the rush hour. The famous passenger pushers are not there to cram passengers in but to stop people on the badly overcrowded trains putting their fingers in the door channels as the doors close.

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**Japanese Culture**

A metaphysical question. Can a fridge contain nothing? Note the geisha costumery.

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**Final Tokyo Hotel**

We finally arrived back in Tokyo at night after a stressful ride from Kyoto by Shinkansen (bullet train). Trains had been cancelled because of an "incident". At one stage when stopped two old ladies passed us on bicycles and our train could do 200kph. The problem was caused by the difficulty of clearing trains through stations after the system was interrupted.

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[Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

### [**Europe**](#europe)

[Holland](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#holland)

[France](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#france)

[Germany](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#germany)

[Austria](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#austria)

[Switzerland](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#switzerland)

[UK and Ireland](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#uk-and-ireland)

### [**Holland**](#holland)

Amsterdam is still my favourite world city with its unique canals and maritime history. No pics unfortunately.

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### [**France**](#france)

### [**Germany**](#germany)

 **East Berlin**

We visited East Berlin through Check Point Charley (first slide). It was disconcerting to see East German border guards using mirrors on wheels searching for people underneath departing vehicles. Some parts of the subway transited East Berlin. There were guards with sub machine guns on the East Berlin platforms despite the fact that the trains did not stop. It convinced me of the futility of Communism. The wall came down in November 1989, 20 years after our visit.

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**Munich**

I ticked off another item on my bucket list by visiting the Oktoberfest. They drink excellent beer in large steins. I much prefer their beer to Australian beer which has much higher carbonation. We went to Hitler's Eagle's Nest near Berchtesgaden in southeast Germany and the Dachau Concentration Camp in Munich.

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### [**Austria**](#austria)

We hitched from Munich to Austria with an American couple from Salt Lake City in a Kombi van. In Salzburg ("salz" in German means "salt") we had to wear special costumes (first pic) and slide down 30m wooden slippery slides underground to visit the remains of the salt mines. I ticked another item off my bucket list when I went up for a two seat glider joy ride. I stupidly asked the pilot who was sitting behind me "Can you stall this thing?"....."Ach! I will show you". Next thing the nose drops and we are falling straight down toward the cows in the fields. He pulled it out of the dive but I didn't ask any more stupid questions. Glider are surprisingly noisy due to wind noise like a car. The Kombi is paused at the Arlberg Pass which connects Austria and Switzerland.

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### [**Switzerland**](#switzerland)

We ascended in a cable car up a youth hostel in the tiny mountain village of Gimmelwald at an elevation of about 1400m. It is near huge mountains including the Eiger. It was breathtaking.....and we had the place to ourselves!

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### [UK and Ireland](#uk-and-ireland)

 **Wedding**

We were married in London in 1969 and had an amazing honeymoon in Paris in spring.

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**London**

I spent about 4 months in London having been married in Earl's Court. I got myself an interesting job with BP in the world wide aviation fuel sales section. They gave me the task of forecasting refueller personnel needs at Frankfurt airport into the future. We also travelled about quite a bit but most of these slides have deteriorated over nearly 60 years.

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**Ireland**

 **The Irish Republic (South) 1994**

We went orienteering in the Republic of Ireland in1994 near Cork before moving onto the Scottish highlands for more embarrassment.

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**Northern Island 2011**

We did a broad circular road trip from Kilkenny to Belfast via Derry in 2011 to attend our daughter's Civil Union (marriage) in Belfast City Hall. One Sunday morning in Belfast we walked down the Catholic Falls Rd through the "Peace Wall" and back down the Protestant Shankill Rd. After the ceremony the guests gathered near The Giant's causeway in the far north. Our daughter and partner subsequently adopted a little boy (3 yo) from Belfast.

We had a very special dinner on the way with several young farmers at our daughter-in-law's sister's farm near Durrow a former horse stud. Real "Pride and Prejudice" stuff. The farm is only 2km from Attanagh where my great grandfather and 7 children left for Brisbane in 1870\. We took a tour of the murals from "The Troubles" in Derry which was very moving.

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**Scottish Highlands 1994**

We went to the World Veterans' Orienteering Championships (as tourists) in the highlands near Aviemore in the Spey River valley near Inverness. Judy had picked up a tick in Ireland which was not responsive to my attempts to kill it with whiskey. I asked the St Johns' Ambulance first aid people for help at the event and their response was "What kind of tick is it?"...."An Irish tick".....They went into a huddle and then announced "We can only deal with Scottish ticks". They then all fell about laughing.

[To Europe](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#europe)

[Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

### [**Mediterranean**](#mediterranean)

[Cinque Terra](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#cinque-terra)

[Rome and Pisa](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#rome)

[Greece](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#greece)

[Crete](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#crete)

[Turkey](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#turkey)

### [**Cinque Terra**](#cinque-terra)

An amazingly picturesque place near Genoa in the north of Italy. There are a series of steep tough walking trails connecting the 5 villages which we walked, sustained by delicious lunches.

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[To Mediterranean](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#mediterranean)

### [Rome](#rome)

Unfortunately most of my slides from Italy have been lost. Note the people on the top of the Tower of Pisa. When we were there in 1969 you could still walk up the inside of the tower. It messed with your senses as the steps were alternately up and down on each revolution.

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[To Mediterranean](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#mediterranean)

### [**Greece** ](#greece)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/09/IMG_6171-3.JPG)

Again most of my 35mm slides from Greece, the Greek Islands and Crete in 1969 have been lost. We were fascinated by the myth of the Minotaur and bull jumping on Crete. I have had to borrow some pics from the Internet.

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[To Mediterranean](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#mediterranean)

### [**Crete**](#crete)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/09/Crete.jpg)

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The Palace of Knossos on Crete and the myth of the Minotaur.

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### Unearthing the tragic sacrifice of Australia’s lost platoon

Eighty-five years ago, 274 Australians gave their lives in the defence of Greece. One action during the Battle of Crete at Rethymno on 27 May 1941, reminds us of their heroism. Killed: 274 soldiers. Wounded**:** 507 soldiers. Prisoners of War: 3,102 soldiers captured or left behind.

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[To Mediterranean](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#mediterranean)

### [**Turkey**](#turkey)

 **Istanbul**

Amazing doesn't really apply to Istanbul. It has been the meeting point between east and west for centuries. It was the centre of the Byzantine Empire for centuries. Constantinople is still the "Rome" of the Greek Orthodox Christian church and the Dardanelles are Russia's outlet to the Mediterranean.

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**Cappadocia** 

Cappadocia is an ancient land more or less in the centre of Turkey or about a one hour flight from Istanbul. It was a religious refuge for Christians fleeing the Roman Empire. It has primitive cave dwellings and underground escape caves and strange suggestive eroded structures. I could imagine Roman legions tramping through these valleys. The area is not at all tourist oriented. There are no walking maps to buy. We had to hire a guide to explore the area.

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[To Mediterranean](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#mediterranean)

[Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

[Canada](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#canada)

[Alaska](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#alaska)

### [**Canada**](#canada)

 **Rock Mountaineer train \\ Banff \\ Lake Louise \\ Ice Field Park Way \\**

We travelled Gold Class on the Rocky Mountaineer train from Vancouver to Banff where our daughter once had an art residency. It took two days. Because this area is so stunning we splashed out $900 for a lake view room for one night at Lake Louise! The Ice Field Parkway is also stunning. This is normally about a one hour trip to from Banff to Jasper but we took an all day tourist trip because the area is so interesting. Jasper to Prince Rupert was another two day train trip north to the Canada \\ Alaska border to catch an Alaska Marine Highway ferry up the inside Passage off the west coast of Alaska. The Canadian V Rail train north was rather different to the Rocky Mountaineer Gold Class.

**Vancouver, Whistler & The Rocky Mountaineer**

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**Banff, Lake Louise and the Ice Field Parkway**

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**Jasper to Prince Rupert via the V Rail train**

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[Back to Canada](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#canada)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

### [**Alaska**](#alaska)

[Inside Passage](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#inside-passage)

[Glacier Bay](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#glacier-bay)

[Anchorage South](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#anchorage-south)

[Valdez](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#valdez)

I was a little disappointed with Alaska as I was hoping for a frontier experience. The huge cruise ships in Skagway and the large number of tourist coaches in Talkeetna were a shock. We got over this by taking light plane flights. From Juneau to Haines and Haines to Glacier Bay and thence back to Juneau. Float planes are a major means of transport in Alaska due to the large number of lakes. Juneau airport has a parallel water runway.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/10/100_7411.JPG)

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### [**Inside Passage** ](#inside-passage)

Prince Rupert / Wrangell / Petersburg / Juneau / Sitka / Haines / Skagway /

[Wrangell](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#wrangell)

[St Petersburg](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#st-petersburg)

[Sitka](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#sitka)

[Haines](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#haines)

[Skagway](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#skagway)

 Most of our travelling on the west coast of Alaska was via the [Alaska Marine Highway](https://dot.alaska.gov/amhs/index.shtml?ref=paulleonardsblog.net) – a vehicle ferry system spanning 3,500 miles of coastline with service to over 30 communities – is an essential part of Alaska’s transportation system as there are no roads to many destinations. Juneau the capital of Alaska has no road access (see map).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/10.JPG)

### [**Wrangell**](#wrangell)

We travelled up the Stikine River by jet boat. We had to wear full body harnesses in case we hit a sand bank and stopped suddenly.

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### [**St Petersburg**](#st-petersburg)

From Wrangell. Must be the shortest plane flight anywhere?

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### [**Sitka**](#sitka)

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### [**Haines**](#haines)

We flew from Juneau to Haines by light plane as we could not make the ferry timetables work for us.

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The historic U.S. Army installation in Haines, Alaska, was established in 1904 as Fort William H. Seward(later renamed Chilkoot Barracks in 1922). It was the only active U.S. military base in Alaska until prior to World War II and was deactivated in 1946.

While walking through some woods for a picnic we met some Alaskan locals one of whom was carrying the biggest hand gun I have ever seen. I asked him why he was carrying it and he said "in case of bears!". Then he asked what we were carrying for lunch. "Smoked fish". He said if you see a bear, put it on the ground and walk backwards very slowly.

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### [**Skagway**](#skagway)

Skagway was the gate way for the Yukon gold rush (into Canada). We travelled to Skagway from Haines by fast catamaran for the day rather than staying in touristy Skagway. There were four massive cruise ships in Skagway Harbour when we arrived. There was nobody around at 9:00am but by 12 noon the place was packed! They had been having their breakfasts on the ships. So much for a frontier experience! The original prospectors had to climb the extremely steep Chilkoot Trail (35km) but later a railway was built up to the Canadian border. Note the supplies that the prospectors must carry which was mandated by the Canadian government because they did not want to have to supply the miners.

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[Back to Alaska](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#alaska)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

### [**Glacier Bay**](#glacier-bay)

There was no ferry to Glacier Bay so we had to fly by light plane again. The pilot gave us the option of flying around the coast or going up and over the glaciers. No guessing which we choose. An utterly spectacular and out-world experience.

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Glacier Bay in Alaska is a 3.2-million-acre wilderness known for one of the fastest documented glacial retreats in history. It features over 1,000 glaciers. When James Cook sailed past here in May 1778 the bay was permanently frozen but is now accessible to large cruise ships. The last pic is a grizzly bear feeding on the carcass of a stranded whale. Note the intrepid campers. Bush walking with bears is a whole other experience!

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**Juneau**

We flew back again to Juneau by light plane.

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[Back to Alaska](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#alaska)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

### [Anchorage South](#anchorage-south)

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### [Seward](#seward)

Seward, south of Anchorage, is my favourite Alaskan town. It is named after William H Seward who negotiated the buying of Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, mocked at the time as "Seward's Folly". Start of the Alaska Rail Road line to Fairbanks. Jump off point for tours to the Kenai Fords NP and with an excellent aquarium. We caught the ferry from Valdez (east) to Whittier and drove down to Seward,

[Back to Alaska](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#alaska)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

### [Valdez](#valdez)

We drove the 300km east from Anchorage to Valdez to get an idea of the Alaskan countryside. Valdez has a real frontier town feeling. It is the end of the major Trans-Alaska pipeline. The [Exxon Valdez Oil Spill](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESbwHrOzAVJkZ0h5fWBon27tMs7wO-loAFJU4fS0%5FqkFDdm1-bc5B4lY2JBYnFdb1Gon1NwF9CU%5F7G55566iCQ5sgj9VqKd%5FPQB-Bn449BVdqTtM0%5FS6XXDp0P5mLu6Ntf9PZOjNoBll3VLMxuAAemlg&ref=paulleonardsblog.net) occurred on March 24, 1989, when the oil tanker *Exxon Valdez* from Valdez ran aground on Bligh Reef in Prince William Sound, Alaska, releasing approximately 11 million gallons (10.8 million US gallons) of crude oil into the marine environment. Bligh Reef was named after THE William Bligh. During Captain James Cook’s third and final voyage (1776–1780) to find the Northwest Passage, a 22-year-old William Bligh served as the sailing master aboard the flagship HMS *Resolution*. We took the Columbia Glacier Wildlife Tour. The sea otters relaxing were captivating!! We took the car ferry later, west to Whittier.

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### [South America](#south-america)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

South America is a huge continent so we could only visit Argentina, Chile and Patagonia with a "side trip" to Antarctica (see top) in one trip.

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 **Argentina**

The politics, economy and exchange rate in Argentina were a shock after good old stable Australia. We had to take $1000US each in cash in small bills for our tour guide to "facilitate" our journey. Much stress was involved in trying to change our other $US in a coffee shop at half the official rate.

**Buenos Aries**

Called "The Paris of the South" Buenos Aries had a vague decayed feel compounded by a poor economy.

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**el Calafate** (central Argentina)

We flew from Buenos Aries to el Calafate for the start of our 1000km off road walking tour bus trip to Ushuia at southernmost tip of South America, nicknamed the “End of the World.”

We visited The Perito Moreno Glacier a massive, advancing ice formation located in [Los Glaciares National Park](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/145/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net), about 80 km west of El Calafate. Measuring 30 km long and rising up to 74 meters above Lake Argentino, it is world-famous for dramatic ice-calving events.

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**Patagonia**

Patagonia is very windy, flat and boring. It is a lot like the Nullabor Plain in Australia. The AVERAGE daily wind speed is 60kph. My handkerchief once blew out of my pocket and flew 50m. At one stage a bus roof hatch was blown open. They have a big problem with bush fires because the vegetation is not fire adapted unlike Australia and takes a very long time to recover.

 The winds were ferocious and we camped in leaky tents for two nights. It was awful. The tour company doesn't do this any more. We later stayed at a proper hostel which was heaven.

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**Off Road Bus Walking Trip**

We took a 1000km walking tour from el Calafarte to Ushuia with a bunch of New Zealanders doing side day walks. We had to cross the Straits of Magellan which bisects the bottom of South America. There was a long line of trucks waiting to catch the ferry across but we went to the front of the queue. Probably where our $US cash contributions came in handy.

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**Chile**

We crossed in and out of Chile as we went south. Much time wasting and arguments at border crossings about our vehicle as you are not allowed to import vehicles into Chile.

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#top)

### [Indo-Pacific](#indo-pacific)

[India](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#india)

[Australia](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#aust)

[New Zealand](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#newzea)

[New Caledonia](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#newcal)

[India](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel/#india)

I had stopped in Delhi on the way to London to get married and went to Agra by hire car. On the way back we had very little money so we went 3rd class on the train. In under employed India it took half a day to buy a ticket. At lunch one of the Indians on the bus tour of Agra claimed the curry was too hot and the manager accused him of having western tastes. When we got back to Delhi that night the platform was covered in sleeping people. Unfortunately, most of my 35mm slides from New Delhi and Agra have been lost.

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### [**Australia** ](#aust)

Australia is a great country except it is a very long way from anywhere except New Zealand. We have to endure 20+ hour flights to Europe which are extremely uncomfortable and boring. As a sporting nation of less than 30m people, we punch well above our weight especially in swimming. I suspect our generally mild outdoor climate has a lot to do with this.

### [**New Zealand**](#nwezea)

New Zealand is totally different to Australia, geologically, culturally and accent. They speak a form of Scottish English where a "bag of chips" becomes a "puttle of chups". Kiwis often pronounce the short *e* (as in *get* or *pen*) closer to an *i* sound (*git* or *pin*). They have an especially annoying habit of beating Australia at rugby with a population about the size of Sydney!

### [**New Caledonia**](#newcal)

New Caledonia is a strange place, French but not really French but certainly tropically beautiful. A restaurant run by singing nuns was something different as was reef shark feeding.

 **Isle of Pines**

**Pirogues**

As a sailor I was fascinated by these ancient Polynesian sailing vessels.
### Retirement
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/retirement/
Last updated: 2026-09-11T02:44:52.000Z
For most people, a lot of their life social interaction revolves around work and work colleagues. Retirement comes as shock when that interaction is gone. It is critical to a happy and healthy retirement that pro-active steps are taken to create new social interactions. This takes a bit of effort. Options include volunteering, joining clubs which interest you, becoming a sporting club supporter, group travel, attending classes or talks in a subject of interest, public speaking etc. A bit of self analysis is needed.

If you are still at a loss, try court visits. Most courts are open to the public. I met a lady who goes to court three days a week. It gets her out, she meets like minded people and it gives her brain a circuit breaker to follow. Better than reading crime novels at home on your own! Do a little research first about do's and dont's.

If you have other ideas for retirement activities, please let me know:

leonxpaul1@gmail.com

**Volunteering**

I spent 2015-2018 volunteering with the Sydney Heritage Fleet (formerly the Sydney Maritime Museum) which specialises in restoring and operating historic vessels. During that time I crewed on the historic tall ship SV James Craig 1874 doing numerous offshore day cruises and short sea voyages to Jervis Bay and Broken Bay. A fantastic experience. For more see Sports/sailing and below.

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I met a guy on a walk who volunteers with the Australian Museum. He has become an expert on molluscs which includes oysters. If you have an interest in astronomy, NASA has a large group of volunteers helping with the analysis of their enormous volumes of space data. Then of course there is social volunteering like "Meals on Wheels" or volunteering in hospitals or patient transport. One of our neighbours is a rotating vessel guide volunteer at the National Maritime Museum. Another is a guide at the Sydney Opera House. A former advertising agency colleague runs Marine Rescue NSW at the Spit in Sydney [https://www.marinerescuensw.com.au/](https://www.marinerescuensw.com.au/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

To get started, find an organisation or institution you would be interested in joining and supply the with your interests, qualifications and abilities. Interested in helping your community? NRMA has an Australian Resilience Corps [https://tinyurl.com/yc3bbfh3](https://tinyurl.com/yc3bbfh3?ref=paulleonardsblog.net). Interested in gardening? Try a garden club [https://gardenclubs.org.au/locate-a-club/](https://gardenclubs.org.au/locate-a-club/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net) Do you read the papers at home? Why not read them at a community radio station and assist the visually impaired?

**Local Councils**

Contact your local council. The Northern Beaches Council, for example, provides several online resources to find community organisations, charities, and groups. You can locate specific services using the following Council directories:

- [**Community Directory**](https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/community/community-directory?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)**:** A comprehensive search tool to find nearby services, welfare assistance, and local non-profits.
- [**Registered Community Groups**](https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/registered-community-groups?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)**:** A maintained list of local associations, environmental initiatives, and neighbourhood groups, such as the Animal Welfare League.
- [**Community Volunteer Opportunities**](https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/volunteering/community-volunteer-opportunities?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)**:** A curated list of local organisations currently seeking community volunteers.

[Volunteer programs - City of SydneyThe City of Sydney encourages people to do something good for local communities by donating their time.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/CoS_RGB_ANCHOR_FAVICON_DARK-BLUE-32x32-ae3d6768-1030-4173-95e0-6c108719a493.png)City of Sydney![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/greensquarenewslettermay2018-highres-2736-8014829a-55b9-4c71-9677-8757b408b44c.jpg)](https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/volunteer-programs?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

[Volunteer opportunities in All Sydney, NSW | NSW VolunteeringFind volunteer opportunities at NSW Volunteering with 1820 opportunities found in All Sydney, NSW and the surrounding areas![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/coast-228x228-1efcd7d3-b56f-48d0-8a5a-6806bbadd817.png)NSW Volunteering![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/og-image-d7635f83-4126-4c17-a7ca-86052e780938.png)](https://makeadifference.volunteering.nsw.gov.au/volunteering/in-all-sydney-nsw?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

**Ask AI**

"What are the volunteering options in Sydney". If you tell me your **preferred suburb** or **area of interest** (such as animals, events, or helping the homeless), I can narrow down specific organisations for you.

**Conferences and Meetings**

I attended a conference at the National Maritime Museum about NSW Marine National Parks sussing out volunteering opportunities.

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**Franchising**

You can always buy a franchise and get someone to run it if it is any good. There are franchising consultants who might be able to help with this.

**Commercial Recruitment Services**

Some of the commercial recruitment services have specialised volunteering services [https://www.volunteer.com.au/](https://www.volunteer.com.au/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

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**Probus**

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A Probus Xmas lunch at Manly Golf Club

Probus is the retirement version of Rotary but you do not have to have been in Rotary to become a member of a Probus Club. Probus is a fantastic retirement option for creating new social contacts, meeting new friends and discovering new activities. My Probus club has recently introduced Pickle Ball which has become very popular. Probus is a large organisation with over 1400 clubs in Australia and NZ with 100,000+ members. It is celebrating its 50th anniversary in Australia this year (2026). [https://probussouthpacific.org/find-a-probus-club/](https://probussouthpacific.org/find-a-probus-club/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net) See the central column of this blog for current examples of my Probus club activities.

**Manly Probus Club (Sydney)**

I spent 18 wonderful years in Manly Probus Club, Guest Speaker 4 years, President (2010) when I drove the process for MPC to change from a Mens' club to a mixed club. I developed the club's first web site in 2008\. Many of our members were ex WW II war veterans. Our Treasurer was in the Australian Army Signals Corps and was one of the first Australians into Japan after the surrender. He went to Hiroshima one month after the bomb had been dropped. Another member was a navigator on the mosquito pathfinders leading the bomber fleets into Germany. Amazing welcoming people.

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**The State Emergency Service (SES)**

The State Emergency Service (SES) has no upper age limit and welcomes older or retired volunteers. Older members often contribute valuable life experience, daytime availability, and specialised skills to non-physical, operational support, and community education roles rather than heavy physical labour. [https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteer](https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteer?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

**Operational Support Roles** 

- **Communications and Dispatch:** Managing radios, taking calls, and logging incident data from base operations.
- **Incident Management:** Assisting in control centres with planning, logistics, administration, and record-keeping.
- **Fleet and Logistics:** Maintaining equipment, managing stores, and preparing supplies for deployment.

**Community Education and Engagement**

- **Public Awareness:** Visiting schools, community groups, and local events to teach flood and storm safety.
- **Media and Liaison:** Managing local public relations, social media, or community stakeholder networks.

**U3A University of the Third Age**

U3A branches have extensive lecture events. Gets you out of the house and exercises the mind.

[https://www.sydneyu3a.org/](https://www.sydneyu3a.org/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

**Sydney Heritage Fleet**

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As outlined at the top of this page my personal major volunteering experience was with with the Sydney Heritage Fleet which was the original Sydney Maritime Museum. They had to change their name after the Australian Government established the National Maritime Museum in Sydney. I volunteered from 2013-2018 and enjoyed some of the most amazing experiences of my life (69-75 years old) from climbing a tall mast at sea, which changes you psychologically, to various hands on-maintenance activities, to participating in rewarding youth activities.

I got into this by asking myself the fundamental retirement question "What do I like? What interests me?" I have been a sailor since I was 15 so the answer was obvious "boats and salt water". The Sydney Heritage Fleet fitted the bill. I could also have volunteered with one of the many sailing clubs around Sydney or Marine Rescue NSW etc.

I crewed on three historic vessels SV James Craig (1874 also see Sports page), gentleman's schooner Boomerang() and converted 40ft WW ll workboat ferry Harman(1943). They all provided very different experiences. There is a lot of information here mainly for my memories. Skip it if you are not interested in heritage vessels.

**SV James Craig 1874**

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### Sports
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/
Last updated: 2026-10-10T01:26:21.000Z
### [Top](#top)

I have been involved in five sports in adult life.

[Sailing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#sailing)

[Bush Sports](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#bush-sports)

[Tennis](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#tennis)

[Skiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#skiing)

### [Sailing](#sailing)

I have had a lifelong love of sailing which I passed onto my father and my son. My first experience of sailing at 15 was to find myself sitting on the bottom of an upturned small sailing boat, belonging to a son of one of my father's colleagues, in the middle of a large bay. He had no idea of what to do and neither did I but it was clearly unsatisfactory as he started crying for his mother! I convinced my father to stump up half the cost of my own boat. He had no idea about sailing but he came down to the harbour one Sunday morning and took the boat out for a sail ON HIS OWN! From then on he was hooked and owned a succession of small sailing boats. The last one was a 33ft trimaran called "Ricochet". From there, my father went on to own a 30 foot racing Yachting World keel boat which we raced, summer and winter, with the CYC in Rushcutters Bay, Sydney. My son is a Senior Leader with a sea scout troop having been a sea scout Venturer. My father was one of the pioneer anaesthetists in Australia with no real hobbies before sailing which became a great interest for him for the rest of his life. My dad and I built a 16ft Quickcat sailing catamaran together.

[James Craig 1874](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#james-craig)

[Small Boats](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#small-boats)

[Mates](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#mates)

[Adventures](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#adventures)

[Dad's Trimaran](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#dads-trimaran)

[Youth Programs](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#youth-programs)

### [Small Boats](#small-boats)

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**Mates**](#mates)

We had great fun as kids mucking around on small sailing boats on Sydney Harbour. We even had our own boat shed in the former bathing hut at the Hermitage Estate (pictured) on Rose Bay. The boats were unsinkable as long as we remembered to put the drain plugs in. Fortunately we were all good swimmers. I rigged up a lift system so we could get all our boats inside the shed. My first and last attempt at engineering.

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**Adventures**](#adventures)

My dad later bought a Compass 28\. Never did master windsurfing! In retirement, I spent many happy social sailing days with my Probus club from Middle Harbour Yacht Club on the very comfortable Zeston 35 Renada. I was volunteer crew on the Sydney Heritage Fleets' gentleman's schooner Boomerang. We led the season opening fleet sail past at the Sydney Yacht Squadron, Kirribilli each year. We hired a large catamaran on Pittwater and the Hawkesbury River.

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**Dad's Trimaran**](#dads-trimaran)

The trimaran "Ricochet" was a real fun boat. We trained our son from a very early age. The bow of the trimaran was the perfect spot to stash a baby in a bouncinette and who didn't mind anyone using the head. Sailing up the Myall River to the Myall Lakes. We had to lower the mast to get under the Hawks Nest bridge and an unfulfilled dream.

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**James Craig**](#james-craig)

The barque James Craig 1874 was rescued from Tasmania and restored to full operational capacity by the volunteers of the Sydney Heritage Fleet (formerly the Sydney Maritime Museum). They conduct regular offshore day sails, coastal cruises and bi-annual trips to Hobart for the Wooden Boats Festival.

I volunteered as climbing crew on "the Craig" for 4 years from 2015 to 2018 and it was the high point of my sailing career with many outstanding adventures. We conducted a youth activity called "The Helmsman Project"where we took 30 kids (boys OR girls never together) from disadvantaged schools in western Sydney on offshore adventures along the NSW coast. The changes in these kids was visible and extraordinary as a result of meeting seriously scary personal challenges. One girl gasped to her friends "I can't believe I've been up there!".

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Video: Hugh Cross on return from Jervis Bay.

**Climbing**

Until you get familiar with it, climbing up the mast was very scary. There are platforms on the masts about 10m off the deck called "the futtocks" . To get on to them you have to lean backwards at about 45 degrees, with the ship swinging through 30 degree arcs or more; then walk your legs up a rope ladder (the ratlines) underneath. All the time your brain is screaming at you "Stop this! You shouldn't be doing this!" (see the Quidditch pic).....and the futtocks are the easy part of mast climbing. Note the guy ascending the futtocks in the 6th image or the perspective above the deck in the last picture.

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**Below Decks**

Sleeping in hammocks at sea is a whole new other experience. You would swear it is the hammocks which are swinging but there is a pendulum effect and your brain can't recognise that it is "the room" which is swinging. You quickly do when you put a foot on the deck. The deck above also leaks so you need a shower curtain tent over your hammock. On short trips, watches are 4 hours on 4 hours off so you never get more than three hours sleep at a time! Very tiring.

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**Other Duties**

The volunteer crew also have many other duties during a 4 hour watch including ship fire inspections including the bilge and the engine room; steering the ship known as the Quartermaster; off ship sea boat rescue duties and forrard and stern look out duties. In the midst of all this you need to eat and sleep. Occasionally we get a bit of help from the passengers.

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**All Good Things.......Retirement**

Unfortunately, when I reached 75 I had to give up crewing. I could still do everything but I found my recovery time blew out with age. If you get too tired on a tall ship things become dangerous.

### [Youth Programs](#youth-programs)

**The Helmsman Project**

This project started with taking 14 year old kids from disadvantaged schools in the western suburbs sailing on yachts. We took a number of groups of kids (30 girls or 30 boys) out to sea and down to Jervis Bay or up to Broken Bay for 3-4 days. I know from my own experience with youth training at sea, on SV James Craig 1874, what an extraordinary difference overcoming personal fears and limitations can make to young Australians. It takes guts to become a Top Man. One 14 year old girl exclaimed to her friends "I can't believe I've been up there!". video: Hugh Cross.

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Bad weather activity: Find and restrain a "stowaway" in a funny hat. Great fun. Note:These pics were taken more than 8 years ago

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A long way from the western suburbs. Returning from Jervis Bay with 30 14 year old boys in a 40 knot southerly with 4m swells. One kissed the wharf on safe return. Video: Hugh Cross. 

**SV Young Endeavour**

The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy, provides young Australians with a unique, challenging and inspirational experience at sea on board the national sail training ship Young Endeavour. I know from my own experience with youth training at sea, on SV James Craig 1874, what an extraordinary difference overcoming personal fears and limitations can make to young Australians. It takes guts to become a Top Man. One 14 year old girl exclaimed to her friends "I can't believe I've been up there!". video: Hugh Cross.

PS: You are not supposed to sit on the foot ropes? Apart from anything else, it would hurt!

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### **Bush Sports** 

We were very involved in two bush competitive sports, Orienteering and Rogaining.

**Orienteering**

We were involved in Orienteering for over a decade. Orienteering is a cross country running sport. Course winning times were 45 to 60 minutes but in our case 1-3 hours. Neither of us were any good at it but it was a reason to go to places and do the tourist bit. We orienteered in the south of Ireland near Cork and in Scotland in highlands near Inverness. We went to Broken Hill orienteering, Wilpena Pound in South Australia and York near Perth in WA.

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**Rogaining**

Rogaining is a competitive bush walking sport involving endurance and pin point navigation day or night for teams of two to four people. Events are either 12 hour or 24 hours. It is similar to a Score event in Orienteering. There is a "hash house" providing 3 course hot meals. It was created by three Melbourne University students called Roger, Gail and Ian. It has become very popular and has spread around the world with regular world championships. I got a buzz from being able to navigate to fixed points in the bush which I felt was a defining Australian capability. The bush is a magic place in bright moonlight at night.

Chef Paul serving 80 lentil burgers volunteering in the hash house.

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We also went rogaining in central Australia and down the South Coast of NSW. At the central Australia rogaine a young European couple asked us if we were the rescue team? Appearance trumps substance. The beer before the event was definitely a mistake!

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**Joadga Rogaine 2010**

Joadga is an historic shale mining village about 30km NW of Mittagong in NSW. It was a hard rogaine because most of the controls were located on top of the escarpments surrounding a deep valley. A lot of teams lost points for being late to the finish.

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Joadja_0032-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Joadja_P5-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Joadga-2010---Copy-1.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Rog-9.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/rog-11.jpg)

### Tennis

We played Sunday morning social tennis for many years with our neighbours in Northbridge, Sydney.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/tennis-16july.jpg)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#sailing)

### [Skiing](#skiing)

[Relationships](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#relationships)

[Big Snow](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#big-snow)

[Competitive Skiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#competitive-skiing)

[Ski Touring](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#ski-touring)

[Mountains Fauna](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#mountains-fauna)

[Kalymaro Ski Lodge](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#kalymaro-ski-lodge)

[Mountains Transport](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#mountains-transport)

I must confess to being a lifelong ski tragic. We even went to the mountains when there was no snow in the hope that it might turn up! Note the fly veils! I first went skiing at the invitation of a school friend journo in about 1960\. We slept on the floor at a central Perisher Valley ski lodge called Munjara amongst a whole lot of attractive girls. Wow! This is for me! The reality was rather different.

I joined the new Kalymaro Ski Club in North Perisher in 1963 financed by selling the sailing catamaran my dad and I had built. I was on the Board for a number of years and 6 years as President. Kaly has become a beloved and exceptional part of all our lives.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/ski-11-1.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/ski-12.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/ski-13.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/skiing-5.jpg)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**Relationships**](#relationships)

Skiing was the beginnings of a life long relationship. 57 years of marriage in 2026.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/ski-31.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/15tn.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/J-400-1.JPG)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-1.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-7_0001-1.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-13_0001-1.jpg)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/P-100.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/P-5000.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/P-600.JPG)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Z-400---Copy---Copy.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/ski-32.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/P-14000.JPG)

[To Skiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#skiing)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [Big Snow](#big-snow)

Soon after I joined Kaly we had a very heavy dump of snow in 1964\. I was even able to ski on to the roof (as you do). The T-bars were getting buried so the Valley was offering free day tickets to anyone who would turn up early and help dig them out. There was a tunnel down to the door of The Man From Snowy River Hotel in the main valley and similarly to our ski door. It was a real chore trying to find our paper and cardboard incinerator. The snow plough is clearing the road up from Smiggins Holes.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/03tn.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/02tn.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/04tn.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/06tn.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/07tn.jpg)

[To Skiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#skiing)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**Competitive Skiing**](#competitive-skiing)

I only ever entered one ski competition, the end of season Inter Club Championships in Perisher Valley at the end of the season each year. We won the Perisher Pot for the Most Improved Team which was a bit of a steal as we had never entered before or since. Competitive skiing was left to our grand kids.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/21tn-1.jpg)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/MTS-ski-1-31july.JPG)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/KGS-ski-2-31july.JPG)

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0:00 

/0:23 

1× 

0:00 

/0:26 

1× 

[To Skiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#skiing)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**Ski Touring**](#ski-touring)

We didn't do a lot of ski touring as the Australian alps are very old and eroded and there is very little shelter on the Main Range in a blizzard. Four young boys once died of asphyxiation in a snow cave out back. We trekked to White's River Hut in winter and to Lake Albina Lodge deep in the Main Range. We got snowed in there in a blizzard much to the amusement of our work colleagues when we got back to Sydney. The hut was removed by NPWS later ostensibly for safety expectations reasons. We did a "snow skiing" day trip on the main range from Thredbo towed behind a snow mobile.

**Lake Albina Hut**

Notice the white out in the final picture which made it too dangerous for us to attempt to get back to the Thredbo chair lift until the weather improved!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/J-200.PNG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/J-300.JPG)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/J-100-Lake-Albina1951-Perisherr-Hist-Soc.jpg)

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**Whites River Hut**

We trekked up the track to Schlink Pass from the Guthega power station to White's River hut in 1966 expecting it to be empty but we met a party of about 10 Pittwater House Grammar school boys with two support teachers. We subsequently visited Whites River hut many times in summer.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-River-map.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-2.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_4272.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-13_0001.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-3.jpg)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-16_0001.jpg)

**School Boys**

It was pretty crowded with us, the boys and native rats known as "Muldoon the Glutton" and Mastacomys Fuscus in the hut. The boys quickly learnt you have to start small with igloos otherwise you need to stand on a chair to put in the cap stone. One of them slipped and slashed his hand on an open can lid. We had to ski out to Guthega power station with him to seek medical attention. They had arranged to have an air drop of food supplies. A 5kg bag of boiled sweets hit a rock and they had 5 kg of boiled "bread crumbs".

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-3---Copy.jpg)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-8_0001.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-9_0001.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/Whites-10_0001.jpg)

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**Blue Cow mountain**

I once langlauffed to Blue Cow mountain up behind Kaly when there was absolutely nothing there with member Ian McCrossin and friend Cheryl. Now there are multiple ski lifts and a train station. Ian decided to build a fire on the snow to soften the ski wax on his cross country skis. Not very practical? The fire melted the snow underneath and it went down its own hole and fizzled out.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_4387.JPG)

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**Snow Mobile Ski Touring**

We did a "snow" skiing day trip on the main range from Thredbo towed behind a snow mobile. Very politically incorrect these days especially the dog and definitely not allowed any more. Notice the falling snow cliff or cornice in my photo #3\. A falling cornice smashed an early ski lodge nearby off its foundations and Roslyn Wesche was thrown from her top bunk and killed. Cornices are a serious touring hazard for ski tourers in blizzards and white outs. It is the equivalent of skiing off a cliff! 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/P-700---Copy.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/18tn.jpg)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_4242.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_4238.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_4237.JPG)

[To Skiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#skiing)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**Mountains Fauna**](#mountains-fauna)

Wildlife, especially snakes, are very active in summer. We saw several near the Diamond Lake waters edge on a walk. We need better spider repellent. The native long nosed marsupial antechinus is common in the lodge and have to be relocated using a soft trap because they damage food supplies. The black snake was on the side of the road about 30m from the lodge. Note the snow snake and the feral cat trap provided by NPWS.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/515068513_10161443195756512_6632064740246902810_n.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/493936860_1525007442187110_8683945079212948135_n.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/antechinus-25july---Copy.jpg)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/snow-snake.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_8589.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Z-500.JPG)

[To Skiiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#skiing)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [Kalymaro Ski Lodge](#kalymaro-ski-lodge)

North Perisher Valley, Australia

[Kalymaro Alpine Sports ClubKalymaro Members Section![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/sites_2026_16dp-556a3d4a-d794-4b4b-a852-33e2d530428e.ico)![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/AMxu72srBLJDZmNDocuM9VqzEkN6xwR7yOQtu7nhqje77nst_ozCBv2J2jX4eQCWgrMsR0Bs3vTSxYRwdZbrGuXB4C9SsAaNOlIHVsME7pjt6GXNxk8ldzdd0A4CyOISBakxBauzkDDGULTvW6MNTfqj206kFUVE4wJowZgyIv4-w16383-5d23f712-8a6f-4ea9-8d21-67d3702f6843.png)](https://www.kalymaro.com/home?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

**The Kaly Magic**

Kaly has an extraordinary effect on visitors due to a combination of many factors such as the communal dining area, the comfortable lounge area (added later), the sauna, the views and the cosy isolating effect of the ice and snow and the continual inter mixing of residents. There is a "ski home" effect where everyone gets together at the end of the day to discuss the their runs. The large beam which had to be inserted after the roof sagged after the big snow of 1964 is visible above the deer pic. The kids love Kaly because they meet new friends and have the adults captive for games like Trivial Pursuit.

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**Early Lodge Members**

The founder and driver of the lodge was Don (John) Hendry at right. He was the Public Affairs Manager of Woolworths and the driver of the lodge in the beginning. Pic #2 is the McF and S families with Jan L. The Morris Minor was owned by John Greenland an accountant. It had a V6 modified engine and created astonishment on the Monaro Highway when he zoomed past other apparently more powerful cars.

**The Early Lodge 1960s**

The early lodge was extremely basic, 5 x 2 bed bunk rooms and one 3 bed bunk room all on one level. There was no supermarket in the valley in those days so we had an emergency self service food store where the sauna is now located. I once had to go to AJ Campbells Grocery Wholesalers in Sydney and buy a load of groceries and transport it to the lodge. 

The early lodge was very compact which forced residents to be sociable and created a great friendly atmosphere. The swinging 60s no less! The snow and ice effects give the lodge a safe cosy feel. Fortunately this was not lost in the later major building expansion and renovation.

Note the original the original kitchen which is now the air lock and the original drop down dining table underneath the window in pic#6.

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**Lodge Extensions and Repairs**

The mountain weather is extreme and punishes anything man made. With a lot of effort and cost Kalymaro is still in good shape after more the 60 years. I have often lain in bed listening to the howling blizzard and expecting the lodge to be blown off its foundations. The lodge underwent a major makeover in 1987 and major repairs in the early 2000s. 

**Roof Sag**

The first problem was the need to repair a lounge room roof sag after the heavy snow falls in 1964\. Note the new large beam to support the roof.

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**New Fire Escape**

Originally there was no fire escape at the north end of the lodge except through a bedroom window. At NPWS request a lot of thought went into somehow fitting in an actual fire escape.

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**1987 Major Lodge Makeover**

Driven by a member architect, there was a major makeover of the lodge in 1987 which involved moving 3 bed rooms downstairs, 2 new bath rooms downstairs, a new ski room and a new lounge plus a lot of cosmetic stone facing. If anyone has images from this period I would be very grateful.

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**Early 2000s Major Modifications**

Major modifications were triggered in the early 2000s by NPWS acting on the recommendations of the Year of the Disabled which involved building a ramp from the road to the lodge for wheelchair access and widening the upstairs hallway so a wheelchair could turn around. We complained about the ramp at first but it has been a major boon for luggage entry and exit. The lodge has become much warmer with wall and roof insulation and double glazing. Under floor heating in the bathrooms is a real luxury. Rather different from the original lodge.

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[To Skiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#skiing)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)

### [**Mountains Transport**](#mountains-transport)

Getting around in the Australian snow country has always been a big problem addressed by a wide array of transport solutions. Here we have everything from the through mountain Ski Tube train, to services like gas, garbage, fire and ambulance, to personal ski-doos and snow ploughs to over snow taxis.

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[To Skiing](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#skiing)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sports/#top)
### Hobbies
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/
Last updated: 2026-10-10T22:48:10.000Z
### [**Photography**](#photography)

I have had a lifelong interest in photography which has provided the rich material for blogging, my newest hobby. In 2010 a friend introduced us to day walking clubs which has been life changing. I am a member of the Sydney Ferry Appreciation group for photo opportunities as we travel on the ferries a lot. I read the Aust Financial Review every week day. I also read a lot of fictional crime novels (see Reading). I also "trade" the stock market on paper as my risk appetite has declined with age. This is documented in my web site [abuelosystem.net](https://www.abuelosystem.net/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net). We also enjoy BBQed trout at least once a week and meals at our local harbour front sailing club restaurant. I have been a member of The Wine Syndicate for many years.

[Photography](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)

[Reading](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#reading)

[Walks](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#walks)

[Clubs](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#clubs)

[Food & Wine](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#food-and-wine)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/09/hobbies-index-5sept.jpg)

Only the main headings are linked. Scroll down if needed.

### [**Photography**](#photography)

I have had a lifelong interest in photography. Bush walks provide many opportunities for stunning photography.

[Australian Wild Flowers](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#australian-wild-flowers)

[Moods of Sydney Harbour](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#moods-of-sydney-harbour)

[Memes](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#memes)

[Sydney Ferries](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#sydney-ferries)

### **Australian Wild Flowers**

We see many unique wild flowers on our bush walks. The worse the soil the better they seem to flourish. These photos were mostly taken by me.

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**Waratahs**

These are a real standout in the bush due to their baseball size and intense colour.

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Double click to enlarge images.

**Grevilleas**

aka Spider Flowers

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Double click to enlarge images.

 **Australian Native Orchids**

These are very small, with the exception of rock orchids, and hard to spot in the undergrowth.

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Double click to enlarge images.

**Rock Orchids**

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7255.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7264.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7267.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7269.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7263.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

**Flannel Flowers**

These are very common in Sydney coastal areas in season.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4637.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4627.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4626.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4625.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Z-800-1.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

Native Rose

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0343.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0342.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7275-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/X-8000-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0344.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Z-800-3.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

**Mountain Devil**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0924.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_3363.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/10/IMG_6198.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

Banksia

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Z-800-2.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_2713.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7271.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

There are too many wild flowers to post as categories so I have followed the arrangement in the Burnum Burnum book and classified the rest by colour. The book is available from email: geoff@saintly.com.au if you want to identify flowers.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Burnam_2026---Copy.jpg)

 **White Coloured Flowers**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5584.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Maltby-25jan.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_3730.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7170.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5578-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0350.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4636.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Z-700.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4454.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

**Yellow Coloured Flowers**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_3366.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/X-6000.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0314.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0335.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7272.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Z-6000.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7351.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7350.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

**Red Coloured Flowers**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4456-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_3413---Copy-2.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_3814.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4595.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_3363-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6795.JPG)

Australia has over 250 species of carnivorous plants. See Drosera Spatulata #6

**Pink Coloured Flowers**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7389-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7275.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7348.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_3393.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/X-7000.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/X-8000.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7274-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Maltby-25jan-1.jpg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_4634.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

**Berowra Wild Flowers Walk**

We did an 8km organised club walk from Berowra station and a bus to the start of the walk. The wild flowers were stunning. The narrow track is very rough underfoot with magnificent district views. As there are many tracks in the area it is only suitable for experienced bush walkers. It is remote and it would be very easy to get lost.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_1949.PNG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5962.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5964.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5965.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5973.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5975.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5991.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5985.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5988.JPG)

Double click to enlarge flowers.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5993.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_5994.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6003.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6005.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6006.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6008.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6011.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6015.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6016.JPG)

Double click to enlarge flowers.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6017.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6022.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6023-4.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6027-2.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6047.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_6037.JPG)

Double click to enlarge flowers.

 **Mt Annan Australian Botanic Gardens**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A-200.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A-300.JPG)

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![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A-500.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A-600.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A-700.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A-800.JPG)

Double click to enlarge images.

 **Pindar's Cave**

It is about 12km return to Pindar's Cave on the north side of the Hawkesbury River accessible via a steep climb from Wondaybne Station (Newcastle line), which features a platform around 15 metres long fitting only a single carriage door at the rear of the train. You have to specifically ask the guard to stop the train and disembark via the rear door. You have to flag down the Sydney train on the return trip. Rough track suitable for fit experienced bush walkers only. You can join established walking clubs like Ramblers or the National Parks Association bush walking group for a day in spring as a visitor after contacting them ......if you are fit enough! It is a rough 12km return with an initial steep climb from the station. These fit walking people walk faster than a stroll!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0407.PNG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A004.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A019.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7259-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A001.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A005.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A007.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/A011.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_9510.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7389-2.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7267-1.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7310.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7275-2.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_7243.JPG)

[To Australian Wild Flowers](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#australian-wild-flowers)

[Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#top)

### [**Moods of Sydney Harbour**](#moods-of-sydney-harbour)

There is extraordinary variation in the light on the harbour.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0244.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/IMG_0242.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_1888.PNG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_5425.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_1200.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_0009.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_1313.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_1252.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_3328.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_0026.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/IMG_6867.JPG)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)

### **Memes**

I also have fun with memes.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/funeral-humor-old-people-at-weddings---Copy.jpeg)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/meme-water-speed.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/meme-ship.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/meme-opera-house.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/meme-Manly-ferry.JPG)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/07/meme-organist.jpg)

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)

### **Sydney Ferries**

The Sydney Ferry Appreciation people are "ferry spotters" like train spotters. They get great fun out of spotting the different harbour ferries.

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**Ferries in a Different Light**

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)

### **Reading**

**Australian Financial Review**

I have a week day subscription to the AFR.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/09/AFR-4sept.jpg)

**Crime Novels**

I read award winning or short listed crime novels. These are listed in my Library <https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/library/>

**Share Trading**

I trade shares on paper as my risk appetite has declined with age.

[Home | The Abuelo System![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/pfavico-2ccf36b2-8b33-41f4-ab43-7a82dd3c8094.ico)The Abuelo System![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/abuelo-20pablo-2010dec-20--20Copy-c805058b-0704-4dff-a25d-c3a9b60ded81.jpg)](https://www.abuelosystem.net/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)

###   **Walks**

[Navigation Warning](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#navigation-warning)

[Iconic Walks](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#iconic-walks)

[Away Walks](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#away-walks)

[Probus $2.50 Day Out](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#day-out)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/09/cat.jpeg)

### **Navigation Warning**

The maps shown with these walks should not under any circumstances be used for navigation purposes. They are included for explanations only. Never rely on your phone for navigation. Your battery may go flat or you may be out of internet range. Always carry a phone recharger and download maps of where you are going so you are not reliant on the Internet.

### [**Iconic Walks**](#iconic-walks)

We have chosen 12 iconic walks in NSW 8 in Sydney.

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**North Head Walk**

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The walk around North Head from Manly Wharf is about 10km if you include the historic Quarantine Station. Catch a ferry to Manly from the north end of the CBD at Circular Quay. This walk provides one of the best views of the Sydney CBD. You can also catch a bus up the hill from the wharf.

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S**ydney Quarantine Station at North Head** 

The Sydney Quarantine Station at North Head was established in 1832\. It was later segregated into distinct precincts based on social class, race, and health or infection status. Third Class / Asiatic Quarters: Designated for steerage or non-European and Asian immigrants, who faced stricter confinement and more basic living conditions reflecting colonial racial hierarchies. Note the green carbolic acid showers which were believed to sanitise the skin as they produced an effect like sun burn!

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The Lusitania was later sunk by a German U boat in 1915 bringing the US into World War 1.

**Spit To Manly Walk**

Trip Advisor rates this the #2 walk in Sydney after the Opera House/Botanic Gardens. About 10km. Start from The Spit end and walk towards the views. Catch buses to The Spit from the CBD. Return by spectacular Manly Ferry to Circular Quay. There is a dangerous shallow submerged ancient crater rim (Crater Cove) which creates sudden large waves. One kayaker was overturned and had to be rescued by the water police. There are 1930s era fishing huts also in Crater Cove but access is difficult.

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**Sydney South Coast Walk**

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A spectacular walk from Bondi Beach south to Maroubra Beach about 10km. Catch the Bondi Beach bus #333 from east Circular Quay. Get off at the first stop at the south end of the beach. The walk starts just south of the Bondi Icebergs Swim Club. There are "drop out" city bus services at all the beaches along the way.

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Double click to enlarge images.

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Double click to enlarge images.

**3 Bridges Walk**

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Begin at Milson's Point Station. Walk Harbour Bridge / Pyrmont Bridge / ANZAC Bridge. End with city bus at west end of ANZAC Bridge or Jubilee Park light rail station at south end of Blackwattle Bay.

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3 bridges: Harbour Bridge, Pyrmont Bridge and ANZAC Bridge.

**Barrenjoey Light House**

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 **Barrenjoey Light House**

Built in 1881 Barrenjoey Lighthouse stands at Barrenjoey Head at Palm Beach on Sydney's northern beaches about 30km from CBD. Magnificent views up and down the coast. Film set for the popular TV series "Home and Away" on the beach. Very steep climb up to the lighthouse. Take your time. Walk up the road and down the rough smugglers track. It is also well worth the climb up to the Bible Garden at the south end of the beach. The views are the beyond spectacular. The garden is stocked with plants mentioned in the Bible. Catch Palm Beach bus from the CBD or drive. 

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Double click to enlarge images.

**Royal National Park - Sydney South**

There are two iconic day walks in the Royal National Park south of Sydney each involving a unique ride on an historic ferry from Cronulla to Bundeena. RNP is the second oldest National Park in the world (est 1879 vs Yellowstone 1872). The two walks are from Bundeena to Little Marley return and the Jibbon Head circuit both about 10km.

 Whale watching opportunities. June and July mark the peak for seeing fast-moving pods and high energy. September through November offers views of mothers swimming slowly with their new calves close to the shoreline back to Antarctica. A species recovery is a good news story after C19 whaling out of Eden on the south coast almost drove them to extinction.

 **Bundeena to Little Marley return circuit**

Out and back about 12km mostly on good tracks. Dramatic sea scapes and the beautiful but dangerous Wedding Cake Rock.

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**Blue Mountains** \- **Grand Canyon, Blackheath**

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A must see walk in Blackheath. Catch the Blackheath bus from outside the Carrington Hotel in Katoomba and alight on Evans Lookout Rd in Blackheath. Walk down to the Grand Canyon walk start or drive and park near the start on Evans Lookout Rd (brown line). Lots of steep steps and slippery. Only for the fit!

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Double click to enlarge images.

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Double click to enlarge images. Can be very wet. Care needed.

**Blue Mountains** \- "L**ost City" near Lithgow**

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This is not really a walk unless you park at the start of the access road and walk to the lookout which you might have to do anyway if the access road is too rough. This walk is about 20km north from the Zig Zag railway complex after you cross over the railway line. Car access only. These are logging roads so extra care needed. There are also much longer optional walking tracks near the Lost City.

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0:00 

/0:49 

1× 

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1× 

**Blue Mountains - Leura Grand Cliff Top Walk**

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Prince Henry Cliff walk, in Blue Mountains National Park follows the cliff edge from Katoomba Cascades to Gordon Falls, near Leura (about 10knm). This walking track boasts some of the best views in NSW. We started at the Gordon Falls end (east) after walking down from Leura Station. Stout shoes, sneakers or boots required. No open sandals. Walking pole recommended.

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### [**Away Walks**](#away-walks)

Every year our NPA #1 Walking Group puts on 3 days of walks in a regional area away from Sydney:

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/away-walks-31aug.jpg)

These are not linked yet. You have to scroll down.

 **Barrington Tops near Gloucester, NSW**

In April 2024 we spent three days walking with our National Parks Association bush walking group in the Barrington Tops rain forest national park. A fantastic experience apart from being constantly wet and assailed by leeches. The arctic beech forest was a standout. It is a forest remnant from Gondwana Land thousands of years old.

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Double click to enlarge images.

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Double click to enlarge images.

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Double click to enlarge images.

 **Merimbula, South Coast NSW**

Merimbula is on the far south coast of NSW. We did one "normal" walk from Kangarutha, one aborted walk at Deep Water creek after a challenging detour down a very rough fire trail when the weather went to the pack. It was a very stressful return drive to our journey break at Manyana as the highway was closed at Mogo by floodwaters.

**Kangarutha Walk**

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**Salt Water Creek**

We were slack in not paying attention to the directions at the walk briefing. When I saw a sign saying Salt Water Creek I naturally turned off. What I did not realise that the actual turn off was further along and we had embarked down a very rough and blocked fire trail. Fortunately, my rough orienteering driving experience came in handy and I was able to extricate us and two passengers with only a small amount of repairable trim damage! Most of us were not prepared to brave the creek crossing! Note the girl crossing with a baby on her back. The guys fishing caught some large native salmon.

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**Merimbula Return Journey**

We did not do the third day walk because the weather turned severely nasty with flood warnings for the Princes Highway. We were very relieved to get to our half way overnight stop at Manyana. We called into Green Patch to see our son who was camping in the wet.

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**Accommodation in Merimbula**

Our accommodation in Merimbula was comfortable but architecturally unusual cabins.

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 **Namadji National Park near Canberra**

We spent three days at the end of May 2026 walking with a group (N=20) in the Namadji National Park near Canberra. This koala enclosure is in the Eucalyptus Forest section. These koalas are as agile as monkeys in their tree environment.

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### [Day Out](#day-out)

Our Probus club has regular day out trips on public transport for $2.50 with lunch (cost ????).

**Kiama $2.50 Day Out**

Historic Kiama is about 90 minutes south from Sydney. It has an unique coastal charm as well as the Blow Hole. We had lunch at Diggies near the Blow Hole.

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[](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/iconic-walks-blue-mountains/)

**Penrith $2.50 Day Out**

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Our group had a Probus $2.50 day out by fast train and bus from Penrith Station to the Penrith Regional Art Gallery and lunch at the riverside "Cafe at Lewers" which was excellent. An interesting collection with local links.

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)

**Hobbies - Minor Walks**

[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)

### **Clubs**

I belong to five clubs. Clubs membership is a major retirement support activity.

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**Probus - Social Club**

[Probus Clubs Australia | Fun, Friendship & Retired LifeDiscover Probus Clubs across Australia and New Zealand - a social wellbeing network for retirees. 1400+ clubs, 90000 members. Find your local club now.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/favicon-6a1ca680-d267-49ab-a32c-d0c6bade34ee.png)Probus South PacificProbus Team![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/84909adbee794d32488876aae9d0ccb2f830d38d935e6f5a10edac6b56d5b15e-8320215f-f656-41f7-b4ef-3e63e5268f3f)](https://probussouthpacific.org/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

**NPA - Day Walking Club**

[Sydney RegionContact: David Stead (President) Website: Email: sydney@npansw.org.au![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/NPA-logo-8e970dbe-9fa5-4b8d-94fe-e42864fd33e1.jpg)National Parks Association of NSWSkip to content![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/rsz_whale_breaching_sydney_copyright_free-2357427220-1527568135190-26f3bf66-9353-4f9f-b7b0-a304f09baacf.jpg)](https://npansw.org.au/what-we-do/our-branches/sydney-region/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

**Ramblers - Day Walking Club**

[HomeWEA Ramblers Sydney, a WEA Sydney club![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/favicon-61a4a2f8-56f2-41f3-a9a3-d17409f29552.ico)WEA Ramblers Sydney![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/WEA-20Ramblers-20logo-202b-be33d4f0-7a96-4942-83db-a0c7102f9b0a.png)](https://www.wearamblers.org.au/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

**Kalymaro Alpine Sports Club - Snow Skiing Club**

[Kalymaro Alpine Sports ClubKalymaro Members Section![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/sites_2026_16dp-c2f0885f-bceb-4786-be72-d1f3d3dfb76b.ico)![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/AG8ngQUE1VVaoAGEZQzO6Qu5iA9Ok1K6I-u4r17ciVAwPfUD193xb_0dFMdkr8597oKv7r-VJm5gnEo1O23muIjvaEhhoxT1YXnkq-ah_slrcwS-T_TwWsAYIV9N1_fpAY3cVteO8j96TDKK1A7KyTXa2oq-w_QmynnQOPIeLNo-w16383-6db5077b-a330-4cce-8898-87985f939366)](https://www.kalymaro.com/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

**Manly 16ft Skiff Club - Food and Wine**

[Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club | Waterfront Dining & Sailing in ManlyManly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club — Waterfront dining, sailing & community on Manly Cove. Open 7 days. Book a table, view our menu, or host your next event.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/699d64f1a2323fcb6a25d639_Favicon-a42cb6dd-c95a-4f6f-bfe8-363b79468aeb.png)Waterfront Dining & Sailing in Manly![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/699c0cf63a3b1506aedb61df_logo-dark-D_MvDC_S-b746b1af-9a87-4008-bea9-2f9eb9a69348.png)](https://www.manlyskiff.com.au/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)

### **Food and Wine**

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**BBQing**

We enjoy BBQed trout at least once a week using a rotisserie rack for ease of turning. Maximum 6 min each side at 225 degrees in a Weber. We have a 14m balcony with 3 cardinal directions except west. With a balcony above I can BBQ in any weather. Improvised toasting!

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 **Food & Wine - Manly 16 Foot Sailing Club Restaurant**

This is our local. Arguably the most atmospheric harbour front restaurant in Sydney and a 10 minute walk form home. Excellent menu.

[Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club | Waterfront Dining & Sailing in ManlyManly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club — Waterfront dining, sailing & community on Manly Cove. Open 7 days. Book a table, view our menu, or host your next event.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/699d64f1a2323fcb6a25d639_Favicon-a42cb6dd-c95a-4f6f-bfe8-363b79468aeb.png)Waterfront Dining & Sailing in Manly![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/699c0cf63a3b1506aedb61df_logo-dark-D_MvDC_S-b746b1af-9a87-4008-bea9-2f9eb9a69348.png)](https://www.manlyskiff.com.au/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

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[To Top](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies/#photography)
### Index
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/index/
Last updated: 2026-08-20T02:14:42.000Z
This is a big project. Some of these categories may not have been fully populated yet. We travelled to about 27 countries so there are a lot of memories. Click on the subject you want by scrolling up to the site's top navigation bar above.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/site-chart-3-2aug.jpg)

Featured**:**

[A**ustralian Wild Flowers**](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/australian-native-wildflowers/)

**Travel Index** (incomplete)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/2026/08/Travel-index-4aug.jpg)
### Tests
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/tests/
Last updated: 2026-10-03T01:20:01.000Z
| Sailing |  
| Orienteering |  
| Rogaining |  
| Tennis |  
| Snow Skiing |  
| |  
| |  
| fred |  
| bill |  
| tom |  
| june |  
| hall |  
| |  
| jactom |

### [Food & Wine](#food&wine)

### 

[Antarctica](#antarctic-peninsula)

---

## **Antarctic peninsula**

##
## Posts
### Paul's Blog Accessibility
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/pauls-blog-accessibility/
Last updated: 2026-10-10T01:21:58.000Z
This is an example of the new navigation system in my blog which makes it much more accessible and entertaining. The image below is not linked. Go to Skiing under the Sports tab in the top navigation bar on all blog pages. 

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### Seward, Alaska 2011
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/seward-alaska-2011/
Last updated: 2026-10-08T03:50:53.000Z
Seward, south of Anchorage, is my favourite Alaskan town. It is named after William H Seward who negotiated the buying of Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, mocked at the time as "Seward's Folly". Start of the Alaska Rail Road line to Fairbanks. Jump off point for tours to the Kenai Fords NP and with an excellent aquarium. We caught the ferry from Valdez (east) to Whittier and drove down to Seward,

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0:00 

/0:15 

1× 

The Seaward Aquarium is first class.
### Minor Walk - Middle Harbour
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/minor-walk-middle-harbour/
Last updated: 2026-10-05T06:15:43.000Z
NPA 9km walk from Rawson Park, Mosman to Spit Hill south via the Spit, Middle Harbour and Beauty Point; 23 (I phone) floors climbed. 13 walkers. A good conditioning walk for next week's week of walks in the Blue Mountains with Ramblers.

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### Why Worry?
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/why-worry-2/
Last updated: 2026-10-01T22:56:27.000Z
Even Italy has 10x more diesel reserve than we do and they aren't dependent on mining!

[Australia’s biggest recession risk isn’t interest ratesThe interest rate futures market overwhelmingly expects the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to lift the official cash rate by 0.25% on Tuesday. The futures market has also priced in a high probability of two further rate hikes over the next six months, which would take the cash rate to 5.10%. Given that mortgage payments![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/icon/favicon-32x32-02e74810-cd1b-4b0c-98ac-f94a95989627.png)MacroBusinessUnconventional Economist![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/fc/eb/fceb7f4c-347c-42e9-9ff7-156bb2a5c713/content/images/thumbnail/Sorry-No-Diesel_large-69079c72-1174-4d4a-94ea-a0499c1c18a2.png)](https://www.macrobusiness.com.au/2026/09/australias-biggest-recession-risk-isnt-interest-rates/?ref=paulleonardsblog.net)

[Why Worry?](https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/why-worry)
### Turkey - Cappadocia
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/turkey-cappadocia/
Last updated: 2026-09-30T23:46:11.000Z
The second most amazing country (after Antarctica) we visited (out of 27) located in the centre of Turkey about 1 hour flying time from Istanbul. Surprisingly not tourist focused. We couldn't buy walk maps and had to hire a local guide.

Cappadocia is a semi-arid region in central Turkey famous for its surreal moon-like landscape, cone-shaped rock formations called "fairy chimneys," and extensive underground cities. The region gained global fame for its unique heritage and UNESCO World Heritage status in 1985.

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### Good Reads
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/good-reads-3/
Last updated: 2026-09-30T22:20:49.000Z
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### Central Coast Walk - Bateau Bay
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/central-coast-walk-bateau-bay/
Last updated: 2026-10-01T22:02:21.000Z
Out and back walk from Bateau Bay to Forrester's Beach lookout along the Wyrrabalong Coastal Walking Track. About 7km return along shady bush tracks. Stunning flannel flower displays at the end of September. Catch the #21 bus ("The Entrance") from Gosford Station and alight at the Bateau Bay stop.

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### Snowy Mountains Walks
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/snowy-mountains-walks/
Last updated: 2026-10-01T01:54:54.000Z
These are walks I have recorded. The maps shown with these walks should not under any circumstances be used for navigation purposes. They are included for explanations only. Never rely on your phone for navigation. Your battery may go flat or you may be out of Internet range. Always carry a phone recharger and download maps of where you are going so you are not reliant on the Internet. Be vary wary of sudden weather changes in mountain areas (e.g. cloud white outs). Always carry a compass and know your safety bearing.

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### Sydney CBD "Birds" walk
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sydney-cbd-birds-walk/
Last updated: 2026-09-28T07:00:47.000Z
A 9km NPA walk through the centre of Sydney checking out bird sculptures and other oddities.

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The model of the Sydney down town CBD is in the basement of the Sydney Town Hall.
### Travel 1969 - East Berlin
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel-1969-east-berlin/
Last updated: 2026-09-28T07:13:48.000Z
We spent a sobering day in East Berlin on 18 Sept 1969 after crossing through the US Check Point Charlie. East German border guards using mirrors on wheels to make sure none of their citizens were attempting to escape their socialist Utopia convinced me the system had no future although it was another 20 years before the wall finally came down. Shooting their own citizens for trying to leave didn't seem like much of a recommendation either.

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The Berlin Wall fell on the evening of November 9, 1989.

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### Cape Bailey Flannel Flowers
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/cape-bailey-flannel-flowers/
Last updated: 2026-09-27T03:11:45.000Z
Another great walk for spring flowers spotting is the Cape Bailey walk south from Kurnell (about 10km return on rough rock platforms). The flannel flowers are spectacular. Catch the Cronulla train to Cronulla and the #987 bus from the station to Kurnell and walk south along the cliffs. Whale spotting in season; north (Mar/Apr/May) south (Sept/Oct/Nov).

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### Beats a Wet Finger
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/beats-a-wet-finger/
Last updated: 2026-09-26T01:23:31.000Z
Our son is a Senior Scout Leader with a sea scout troop. He inherited a love of gadgets from his grandfather. This is a wind speed measuring device so he can call the kids in when the wind gets too strong.
### Recent Memes
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/recent-memes-2/
Last updated: 2026-09-25T02:30:19.000Z
I love memes.

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### ANZAC Memorial, Sydney
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/anzac-memorial-sydney/
Last updated: 2026-09-24T06:42:45.000Z
Guided tour of the ANZAC Memorial in Sydney's Hyde Park organised by Judy's Lyceum Club with lunch at the nearby Pullman Hotel. I was surprised that the memorial is predominantly focused on WW l but other conflicts are included in an extension.

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### Black Cockatoos on North Head
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/black-cockatoos-on-north-head/
Last updated: 2026-09-24T22:08:21.000Z
Unusual to see 5 black cockatoos up close and the first whales heading south for the summer.

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I wasn't able to time the shot to catch the whales' spouts.
### Travel 1969 - Greece and Crete
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/travel-1969-greece-and-crete/
Last updated: 2026-09-19T01:04:51.000Z
Again most of the 35mm slides from Greece, the Greek Islands and Crete have been lost. We were fascinated by the myth of the Minotaur and bull jumping on Crete. I have had to borrow some pics from the Internet.

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**Athens**

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**Peloponesse Tour**

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**Crete**

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### Unearthing the tragic sacrifice of Australia’s lost platoon

Eighty-five years ago, 274 Australians gave their lives in the defence of Greece. One action during the Battle of Crete at Rethymno on 27 May 1941, reminds us of their heroism. Killed: 274 soldiers. Wounded**:** 507 soldiers. Prisoners of War: 3,102 soldiers captured or left behind.

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### Why Worry
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/why-worry/
Last updated: 2026-09-15T10:21:11.000Z
There are only two things to worry about. You are either sick or you are well. If you are well, there is nothing to worry about.

If you are sick, there only two things to worry about. You will either get well or you will die. If you get well there is nothing to worry about.

If you die (as above) there are only two things to worry about. You will either go to heaven or hell. If you go to heaven there is nothing to worry about.

If you go to hell, you'll be so busy shaking hands with friends you won't have time to worry.
### Incat Factory Hobart
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/incat-factory-hobart/
Last updated: 2026-09-14T22:44:28.000Z
We had a private tour of the Incat factory for the crew of the SV James Craig which was in Hobart for the Wooden Boat festival. Incat built six [Emerald-class ferries](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESaQHrOzAVZ79QHFp8qwMALHRRf2fbFSPIZeZ1qczJI7dE2J%5FtBZa90zq-AlcGdwMRC6L42RKtkgnRN4RziWFoffwKbTyliLU0uuDhYvylCcWExYpmO0JEd8w8aYy2NoIIg5xFmuTyswWDKA&ref=paulleonardsblog.net) and several fast catamarans for Sydney Harbour services.

Clifford launched his first high-speed aluminium catamaran on the Derwent River in 1977 and formally established [Incat](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESUAHrOzAVtn0tG9LuWPlYBShiblFpNK41Pgb24HF6Sa7wh84p75JrX4QaII3rZZuBUzr2c%5F4WFS-UYDxvgHiA5YTm1th1%5F3I%5FftXx03D6ZKif&ref=paulleonardsblog.net) (International Catamarans) alongside naval architect Philip Hercus in 1978\. Incat ferries operate worldwide in over 24 countries, and specialised variants have been utilised by the Australian and US military. The company was named the 2026 Tasmanian Exporter of the Year for its groundbreaking work on large-scale electric ferries. Incat won the 2026 Shippax High-Speed Ferry Award awarded for *China Zorrilla* (Hull 096) recognised as the largest fully electric battery-powered ship built worldwide.

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**China Zorrilla* (Hull 096)
### Ferries in a Different Light
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/ferries-in-a-different-light/
Last updated: 2026-09-25T23:21:31.000Z
We travel a lot on Sydney Harbour ferries so there are lots of opportunities to see ferries in different light situations.

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### Good Reads
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/good-reads-2/
Last updated: 2026-09-12T06:28:33.000Z
These are my latest crime novel reads. Steve Cavanagh is my favourite crime novel writer for his ability to weave complex plots based on courtroom drama. Chris Brookmyre's "Quite Ugly One Evening" is an unique mystery based on family dysfunction, family business conflict, spies and a transatlantic theme cruise.

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### SV Young Endeavour
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/young-e/
Last updated: 2026-09-07T01:28:17.000Z
The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy, provides young Australians with a unique, challenging and inspirational experience at sea on board the national sail training ship Young Endeavour. I know from my own experience with youth training at sea, on SV James Craig 1874, what an extraordinary difference overcoming personal fears and limitations can make to young Australians. It takes guts to become a Top Man. One 14 year old girl exclaimed to her friends "I can't believe I've been up there!". video: Hugh Cross.

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Crew trying to do the impossible! Furl a sail full of wind!
### $2.50 Day Out - Watsons Bay
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/2-50-day-out-watsons-bay/
Last updated: 2026-09-05T22:34:26.000Z
One of the best Sydney outings you can do. Watsons Bay is near the south entrance to Sydney Harbour. We had lunch at Doyle's famous sea food restaurant (centre) so a $2.50 day out ended costing $130 for two. There are cheaper eating options at the Watsons Bay Hotel or on the wharf. Don't forget to walk up the hill opposite the wharf to the famous Gap or take the path around South Head.

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### Country of Month - South Korea
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/country-of-month-south-korea/
Last updated: 2026-09-02T01:04:29.000Z
Seoul is only 8okm from the North Korean border (which we visited. See top image). What must it do to your head living so close to a nuclear armed weird dictatorship fixed in the 1950s? All the historic buildings were destroyed during the Korean war and have been replicated with a vaguely Hollywood feel. The National War Museum has one whole gallery geared to childrens' entertainment including jumping castles. Unimaginable in the Australian War Memorial. There is a Toilet Theme Park and a house built like a toilet!

URL: paulleonardsblog.net/travel/

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The railway line descends into tunnels built under the border by the North Koreans. They painted the walls black claiming they were coal mines. They are intended for a future invasion of the south.
### Berowra Wild Flowers Walk
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/berowra-wild-flowers-walk/
Last updated: 2026-08-30T21:15:40.000Z
We did an 8km organised club walk from Berowra station and a bus to the start of the walk. The wild flowers were stunning. The track is very rough underfoot with magnificent district views. Suitable only for experienced bush walkers. There are many tracks in the area and it would be easy to get lost.

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### $2.50 Day Out - Kiama
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/2-50-day-out-kiama/
Last updated: 2026-08-30T21:17:18.000Z
Historic Kiama is about 90 minutes from Sydney. It has an unique coastal charm as well as the Blow Hole. We had lunch at Diggies near the Blow Hole.

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### Iconic Walks - Blue Mountains
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/iconic-walks-blue-mountains/
Last updated: 2026-08-24T22:14:51.000Z
The Prince Henry Cliff Walk spans roughly 8 kilometers, connecting Scenic World in Katoomba to Gordon Falls in Leura while remaining high on the plateau edge above the Jamison Valley. It is about 2 hours west of Sydney in the Blue Mountains listed World Heritage Area. Stout shoes or boots essential. No open sandals; walking pole recommended. We started from the Gordon Falls end, walking down from Leura train station.

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### Oops!
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/oops/
Last updated: 2026-08-22T00:37:04.000Z
Maybe there was a shortage of Flight Controllers?
### Good Reads
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/good-reads/
Last updated: 2026-08-21T06:32:57.000Z
These are my latest fictional crime novel reads, all excellent. "Killing Floor" is the first book in the famous Jack Reacher series and the story behind the new Amazon Prime show. "Killer Instinct" is a riveting tale of ambition, intrigue, and the price of success. Lee Child describes "Thirteen" as "Outstanding" and another famous writer says "Ingenious". A great read.

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### Iconic Walks - 3 Bridges
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/iconic-walks-3-bridges/
Last updated: 2026-08-18T01:34:24.000Z
Begin at Milson's Point Station. Walk Harbour Bridge / Pyrmont Bridge / ANZAC Bridge. End with city bus at west end of ANZAC Bridge or Jubilee Park light rail station at south end of Blackwattle Bay.

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### Australian Native Wildflowers
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/australian-native-wildflowers/
Last updated: 2026-08-30T21:18:20.000Z
Check out my native wildflowers collection from 16 years of bush walks.

Post this URL in your browser and scroll down:

**paulleonardsblog.net/hobbies**

Enjoy!
### Sydney- Things to Do
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/sydney-things-to-do/
Last updated: 2026-08-14T22:24:17.000Z
This is a new tour offered by the NPWS on South Head. There is a similar long standing tour on North Head (in background).
### Iconic Walks - North Head
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/iconic-walks-north-head/
Last updated: 2026-08-14T22:18:13.000Z
This is the view from the north headland at the entrance to Sydney Harbour. It is accessed from Manly wharf. You can also take a spectacular ferry ride from Circular Quay at the north end of the CBD and a bus up to the lookout. A North Head circuit walk from Manly wharf is about 10km and can also incorporate the historic Quarantine Station.

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The extra Sydney CBD perspective (2nd pic) is taken from Watson's Bay near South Head Sydney E
### Fam at Perisher
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/fam-at-perisher/
Last updated: 2026-08-09T01:21:44.000Z
Grandma started skiing at about 8 years old. The rest are later ski tragics.
### Schools' Choral Concert
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/schools-choral-concert/
Last updated: 2026-08-03T22:41:47.000Z
We attended the NSW Public High Schools' Choral Concert at the Sydney Opera House in June 2026 where our grandson was singing with a group from his high school. It was spine tingling to hear about 1000 young people singing together supported by their own symphony orchestra.

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### $2.50 Day Out
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/a-2-50-day-out/
Last updated: 2026-08-27T01:01:02.000Z
Our group had a Probus $2.50 day out by fast train and bus from Penrith Station to the Penrith Regional Art Gallery and lunch at the riverside "Cafe at Lewers" which was excellent. An interesting collection with local links.

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### Winter Feast
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/winter-feast/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T22:54:18.000Z
This was the annual winter feast of our Probus club at the Abbortsford Rowing Club on Sydney's Parramatta River. There was an impossible (for some) amount of food which was excellent as was the service. I even won the lucky door prize, a unique event. A wonderful ferry trip on a champagne Sydney winters day.

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### Wolverine
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/wolverine/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T22:08:09.000Z
The things you see on a Sydney ferry trip. This guy was shooting a video for his YouTube channel "Wolverine Does Sydney". He didn't really impress as a Super Hero and his "ears" kept falling down but good luck to him anyway.

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### Ski Club AGM 2026
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/ski-club-agm-2026/
Last updated: 2026-07-11T00:13:04.000Z
We had our club's 60th AGM late June 2026 at the historic village of Collector, NSW, about 40 min drive north from Canberra, to accommodate our Canberra members, with lunch in the Dome at the Lake George Winery. The acoustics in the Dome were amazing. You could hear someone on the other side of the table talking as if they were alongside you. 

The meeting was held in the Collector Community Hall. Our daughter-in -laws parents live in Collector and her mum raised nearly $1m in grants to upgrade the basic country hall to a Regional Emergency Evacuation Centre. It now has a full commercial kitchen, substantial bathrooms, fire resistant metal fly screens, window showers and extra water and fuel storage. 

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On the way home we stopped over night at colonial Berrima 1831, one of our favourite place in Australia. We stayed here a lot when orienteering in the nearby Belanglo State Forest. We woke up to a superb country autumn morning.

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### NPA club walk
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/npa-club-walk/
Last updated: 2026-07-22T22:02:45.000Z
On June 17 we did a 12km flat walk along the north side of the Parramatta River to Parramatta (in background) the colonial centre of Sydney in the 1700s. The river is now very shallow and the ferries can only operate to Parramatta wharf on high tides; also note the narrowness of the channel to the wharf (red and green channel guides). Low tide. We had to catch the train back to the city.

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### Day Walking in the Namadji National Park
URL: https://www.paulleonardsblog.net/day-walking-in-the-namadji-national-park/
Last updated: 2026-07-22T22:41:52.000Z
We spent three days at the end of May 2026 walking with a group (N=20) in the Namadji National Park near Canberra. This koala enclosure is in the Eucalyptus Forest section. These koalas are as agile as monkeys in their tree environment. We visited the NASA Space Tracking Station about 15 years ago. So much has changed in space since then.

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