Wildfire down the West Coast

Dave recently spent a fantastic week sailing down the West Coast of Tasmania. From Strahan down to Port Davey, around Bathurst Harbour and then back around the South Coast to Hobart. Managed to bag Mt Rugby, catch plenty of baracouta and even a couple of tuna. Great company on a quick racing yacht. (Farr 31,"Wildfire") Fast but bouncy at times. The initiation out of Strahan was certainly baptism by wildfire, beating into a stiff southerly in large lumpy seas. Pictures of the trip are here

WANF

It could be the new name for the kayak. . . wet arse no fish. . . I have spent quite a few pleasant hours peddal/paddling around the Tamar river, lakes and dams but there is little evidence of this in the freezer. I have caught quite a few, but certainly nothing of note :-(. Photo is sunrise at Low Head on the Tamar, the warm waters at this time of year are supposed to bring in kingfish as well as australian salmon. lol

ALOHA - From Canada

yes. . . . well . . . Sarah is on student exchange in Canada, but last week her host family took her to Hawaii for a holiday. Its tough for some. I suppose she is back snowboarding again now. . . Meanwhile Chris seems to be making plans to visit Europe later in the year, looking for job opportunities there. . . .

She's a Lumberjack and She's OK

Sarah is taking part in a student exchange for this year and is off to the mighty forests of Northern British Columbia, leaping from tree to tree, well perhaps not. . . Her host family sound lovely and we are sure that she will gain much from the experience, even the -20C winter which will come as a bit of a shock at first. She will be living and attending school in Prince George and will be missed by all at home, expecially Maggie (the dog) Click here for the Pics

Flinders by bike

Whilst the younger members of the family were off enjoying the Falls Festival, Dave took the ferry over to Flinders Island and cycled around for a week. It does not have the same magic as the Scotish islands, but does have some similarities such as strong winds to cycle into. The locals, although few and far between were friendly and the ferry ride was enjoyable. (Click on th picture for a view from the top of Mt Strezlecki)

Christmas Hills

For the first time in a while, all 7 Hills were "home" for Christmas this year. It was great to see them all together and the Beattie family joined us for Christmas as well to bring back memories of the many the Christmases spent together as "kids". A merry Christmas was had by all. (click on picture for a larger view)

Maid of Terror Cotta

Sarah has obviously been getting ahead in pottery classes and has recently brought home this magnificent statue which is going "straight to the pool room"

Whats this new "Blog" thing

As I had not paid anything for 6+ years, our previous ISP eventually denied us access to the old 7hills site so an alternative was sought. Supposedly derived from "web-log", this is where we are at for now. I may convert the earlier years at some rainy day time.

Feel free to add comments to this or any other postings here by clicking on "comments" below. . . . . . or start your own blog and tell us about it.

and no; I doubt it will be updated much more than the old one, significant events, around one per month only, seems to be the norm.

Sarah back amongst the ribbons

Sarah has been winning races at the inter-high sports again this year, with a first and a second this time.

Cath on the Board at Gunns Pty Ltd

The switch-board that is. . . she is now back at work, starting a traineeship this week.

Dave pedals his own canoe

As an adjunct to the fishing gear, Dave has bought a Hobie mirage sport. A sit-on-top kayak with a pedal drive system to help get out amongst the fishes. Species to-date include trout, bream, australian salmon, redfin, gurnard, couta, Flathead and pike (snook).

Hello Hanoi

Liz and Rob are tripping around Vietnam. Cath is now back in Tasssie and looking for work to refill the coffers for the next trip.

Contiki Tour Cath

Cath is now touring Europe on a Contiki camping trip for a month. Have a great time Cath. . .

Dave End to Ended

Dave is now back in Tasmania after completing the end to end cycle tour of the UK. You can read a brief summary or check out the photos. in the "Lands End -> John o Groats" Album

Cath in the Big Apple

Cath has now finished camp and is staying in New York for a few days, checking out the sights. Then it is off to Wales with a friend from camp before the Contiki camping trip around Europe.

Liz New Zealand Tour

Liz and Rob have been to the South Island to play in the snow and found plenty. . .

UK End 2 End + 3 Peaks

Dave has packed up the bike and is off to the UK to cycle from Land's End to John o Groats, climbing the three highest mountains in Wales, England and Scotland along the way. Brother Tony's 60th birthday celebrations in Cornwall seem to have been the catalyst for this cycle trip which seems to have got a bit out of hand.

See U Later Alligator

Cath has been allocated a camp in Florida; Camp Ocala.
She is now swimming in the lake with the alligators and there are bears and snakes in the woods. The camp is near Orlando, so visits to Dizzyland seem to be on the cards for many of the week-ends off.

Canadian Exchange

Sarah is applying for an exchange school year in Canada next year. Plenty of paper work to do, but we do have a passport so far. . .

Grape Expectations

Cath and Denise have started grape picking to bring in some extra cash. No free samples from the wineries however :-(

Great Ocean Rode

Dave took a week off work to pedal his bike along the Great Ocean Road. This route passes many Australian icons such as the 12 apostles. You can read a brief summary or check out the photos.

Camp America

No they are not all gay. . . Cath has applied for a stint with Camp America, an organisation that provides counsellors and helpers at American Summer Camps. And I thought that slavery was abolished. . . I'm sure she will have a great time.

Let 'm eat cake

To celebrate Sarah's 15th birthday, Cath made an amazing fairy castle cake. Tasted good too. . . and Sarah is now part of the mobile phone community. . . number available on request.

End of an Era

The white Honda Accord that has been the 8th Hill for over 20 years was
recently taken away by the scrap metal recyclers. Blown water pump, radiator,
head gasket, clutch and brakes and more than a few dents to add character
(thanks Cath). Cath is now back home in Launceston and has applied for Camp
America, she will  probably be doing a bit of grape picking meanwhile. Not
much interest has been shown in the house so it looks as though we will be here
for a while yet. . .

2005

27 Dec 2005 Open Wide . . . 

Cath starts work as a Dental assistant next week. She was offered two jobs this week so she must be getting good at interviews . . .

7 Dec 2005 Oh What a Feeling

Liz has bought a Toyota Corolla; leaving the 1984 Honda Accord (373,000 km) in Cath's careful hands. Not sure if it will make 400Kkm, clutch and rings need attention as do Cath's driving habits :-) . .; and no serious bids on the house as yet :-(

1 Dec 2005 Farewell Joan

Joan/(Denise's Mum)/Grandma died this week. She managed on her own as long as she could and hated the idea of living in a "home". Many fond memories remain and always will, so long sweet lady. . . .

15 Nov 2005 Long White Cloud

Dave spent a couple of weeks hiking in New Zealand, including the Kepler and Milford tracks. Check out the photos.

1 Nov 2005 Cath the Video Chick

Catherine has been working in a video store in Hobart for a while. It's not going to be a career move though, they would not give her time off over Christmas/New Year so its looks like notice is about to be given. . .

3 Oct 2005 Blue Ribbon for Sarah

Sarah represented her school in the inter-high-school athletics carnival recently and did very well including a first in the 100 metres. Chip of the old block?

25 Sept 2005 Empty Nest

Now all (except Sarah) of the kids have moved on, it must be time to move down a size in houses, so our home for the last 15 years is now 4Sale. Make us an offer we can't refuse. . .

22 Sept 2005 Talking Turkey

Liz is off travelling for a few weeks again. This time she has gone to Turkey with friend Rachel. She also found time to drop in on Martin in Bangkok on the way and will visit relatives in the UK before returning. Cath is currently minding the Beattie's house in Hobart whilst they are away, hopefully on the way back to reality.

2 Sept 2005 APB for Dave

No, not lost, that's not an All Points Bulletin, its a Moulton All Purpose Bicycle. Full suspension for comfort, 100psi tyres for easy rolling, good load carrying over those 20" wheels and splits for transporting. (Click on pic for details) Now Cath is no longer working in town, its back to the daily cycle commute. .  Where to next ??

2 August 2005 Cath the Rebel

Under the influence of her criminal boyfriend, Cath has quit her job and run away with him. They spent a few days with Peter in Melbourne, but are back in TAS to face more charges. . . That birthday celebration balloon is looking a bit limp now. . .

8 July 2005 Cath the gambler

Cath turned 18 to-day and to celebrate we all went out for dinner to the casino. Peter came over from Melbourne and Chris came down the next day for a big family get-together at home. Did Cath win. . .   what do you reckon?

7 June 2005 Around the Traps. .

During the school break, Sarah and Denise went to visit the boys. Chris (now working @ translogix)in Sydney, and his girlfriend Alice who is working at the Bathers Pavilion at Balmoral. And then Peter who is working at the Mint Bistro in Melbourne. Pretty classy accommodation in both capitals from all accounts. We also have a few recent pictures of the kids. Meanwhile the weather in Tasmania is pretty cold wet and dismal :-(

24 May 2005 Cath the driver. . .

The gods must have been smiling to-day. . .  as was Cath after passing her driving test. Now I wonder how much chance she has of getting the white Honda that has been in the family for over 20 years from Liz who is currently "looking after it".

11 May 2005 Liz is making babies

Liz has joined the IVF program. . .no she is not trying to make us grand-parents, she is working at the IVF clinic in Hobart since her job at the Royal was only temporary.

9 April 2005 Cath goes to Jail

Just visiting. . . . and her friend is only there for driving offences. ..  have you paid all your parking fines?

28 March 2005 Treadly

Dave's still riding that bicycle when he can. Cycled to Devonport with full camping paraphernalia, camped at the Bluff and returned via Port Sorell and the Frankford Highway. Test run for Land's End to John O'Groats maybe ?

7 Feb 2005 Hi Ho, Hi Ho

Its off to work we go. . . .  for Liz at least, who has returned to work at Royal Hobart Hospital, initially for 5 months. Time to crank up the bank balance again, she does still hold a return ticket back to the UK however.

30 Jan 2005 Hills Day out

With all the money Cath is now earning, she took sister Liz to Melbourne for another music festival (The Big Day Out). Chris also came down from Sydney to meet up with friends there, but Peter (who lives in Melbourne) didn't manage to get tickets. They did manage to meet up at Pete's restaurant for a feed however, which seems to have put a smile on their faces.

1 Jan 2005 Fallen Angels

The Hill sisters, Liz, Cath and Sarah spent two days over new year camping out at the Falls Music festival down near Hobart. A good time seems to have been had by all - as far as they can remember. Some new friendships were made. . . .  Liz seems to be looking for a job in Tasmania now.

2004

25 Dec 2004 - Bows & Knives

If you see an absent-minded professor type walking around Launceston, its just Dave wearing the bow-tie given to him by Cath for Christmas. But beware because Dave gave Cath a Machete (well it was on the list). Pete was over from Melbourne for Christmas and Liz was home too,
so it was more like the family Christmases of old.

20 Dec 2004 - Annapurnorama

We have stitched together some of Liz's photos for this spectacular panorama from Annapurna Base Camp. (use arrows to navigate) And here are also some of Daves Photos.

2 Nov 2004 - Namaste

[Na-mas-tayyy] The Nepali greeting will echo for ever in the heads of anyone who has ever been there. Liz and friend Rachel were joined by Dave for a couple of weeks trekking in the Annapurna ranges. Excellent weather, beautiful mountain scenery, middle-ages culture and the friendly natives made it an interesting and enjoyable trip.

21 Oct 2004 - Beer-go-round

Daves been back to the UK, catching up with family members and friends for a couple of weeks. Many pleasant evenings in many pubs and rarely in the same bed for more than one night. Its a hard life for some.

16 Oct 2004 - Chris Drops Out

Of an aeroplane that is. . .  from 10,000 feet. Now safely back on terra firma. .   something everybody should try. .  .  once. He has now moved up to Sydney where his girlfriend Alice has a job and is currently seeking gainful employment on the lower North Shore.

5 September 2004 - Liz out of Canada & funds

Having travelled from one side of Canada to the other over 6 months, Liz has returned to England to earn some more money before heading off on the next adventure. Mind you that's not going to stop her going to Germany for the beer festival :-)

1 August 2004 - Chris Booked Up

Chris has been promoted to assistant manager at the book shop. On ya Chris. . . 

12 July 2004 - Cafe Cath

Cath has now started work as a hospitality trainee at Bon Appetite in Charles Street. All those looking for a decent cup of coffee now know where to go! Peter also seems to be on the move in Melbourne to Templestowe Hotel if you're looking for a good feed over that way.

1 July 2004 - On the Fringe

Sarah's recent outing to the hairdressers seems to have resulted in a fringe. Looking good Sarah. . .  

24 June 2004 - Liz on the stampede

Liz has now finished working at the Resort on Vancouver Island and is heading east across the Rockies to Calgary Stampede.

18 May 2004 - Cath the masseuse

Cath went for an interview to be a masseuse. Apparently 98% of people have their spine out of alignment and Phil Newman is the man who can cure nearly all known diseases by his holistic approach to re-aligning it for them. He even came out to the car to see if I was good for the $500 he wanted to "train" Cath. I don't think so Phil.

2 April 2004 - Cath the hairdresser

Well. . .  not yet, but she has abandoned school at year 11 and is currently inundating all the local hairdressers with appeals for employment. Keep at it Cath, its not that easy to get a job in Launceston unless you know the right people.

15 March 2004 - Fly away Peter

Peter has moved to Melbourne to pursue his career in cooking and, more importantly, to be with girlfriend Leah. All going well so far.  . 

20 Feb 2004 - BC

Liz is now working in Tofino on Vancouver Island with long time friend Rachel for a few months. They plan to spend most of the summer touring Canada after a few months working in British Columbia.

31 Jan 2004 - Birthday with a BANGkok

On their way home from the UK, the girls stopped in Bangkok to visit cousin Martin and see the sights. This included riding elephants on Sarah's birthday.

10 Jan 2004 - What an Eye Full

As part of their trip to Europe, the girls went to Paris to celebrate Liz's birthday. Here they are at the Eiffel tower. They also went to Dizzyland and most other Paris landmarks.

2003

25 Dec 2003 - Sky's the limit

For Christmas this year, Chris and Pete are going sky-diving from 10,500 feet out at the airport. Happy landings boys. . .

21 Dec 2003 - Liz in London Still, but not alone

Cath, Sarah and Denise have departed for London to spend Christmas with Liz and visit more of the Hill tribes that frequent those parts. Trips to France and other parts of Europe are also envisaged.  Have a great time girls. . . Peace on earth has arrived at Danbury Drive for Dave and the boys.

7 Dec 2003 - Chris Booked

Chris has taken a part-time job in the local book store. 30 hrs a week unpacking the stock. Its getting him a bit of money whilst continuing to look for other options.

27 Nov 2003 - Belle of the Ball

To celebrate the end of High School, Cath attended the formal leavers dinner, held at the Launceston International Hotel. Wearing clothes designed and made by Liz, and make-up by Melissa she looked pretty as a picture. A good time was had by all and her high-school days are now behind her.

16 Oct 2003 - Enox is Enough for Chris

To celebrate Chris's birthday, the family went out for dinner to Enox, where Peter has been working part-time in the kitchen. The food was excellent. Seen here are, Cath, Sarah, Chris and Alice.

21 Sept 2003 - Dinky Dai

Dave is now a fair dinkum Aussie. All very informal, got the papers signed by Pete's basketball coach (now a politician), had an interview with the post-master (whom I park next to everyday) and got the certificate from the local Mayor. who I have known for many years with whom I have worked on several software projects. About the only advantage I can see is that I can now leave the country and get back in with less hassles. Didn't even have to swear allegiance to the queen as they have dropped that bit.

31 August 2003 - Flour Power

Peter is back in the kitchen, starting work as an apprentice chef in a local restaurant. Meanwhile Cath is spending a week doing work experience in the local florist shop. We are expecting some wonderful bouquets Cath... That just leaves Chris at a lose end at the moment as the vineyard work seems to be over for the season.

23 July 2003 - for Catherine

Cath surprised herself this week, managed to answer all the questions correctly and now has a learner drivers licence. Look out Launceston!

29 June 2003 - Liz Sneaks Back

Liz surprised everybody by walking in unannounced this evening. We all thought she was still in England, but has come home for 2 weeks to help celebrate Cath's 16 birthday next week. Its great to have her home for a few days.

15 June 2003 - On the Grape Vine

This is where you heard it! Both Chris and Peter are working full time this week! Its only casual work; pruning vines at local vineyards. Peter is at Pipers Brook, and Chris is at Tamar Ridge. No free samples unfortunately.

1 June 2003 - Cup-Cake Cath

It's been solid rain all week-end here, but to-day Cath has taken over the kitchen and knocked up some delicious cup-cakes, so afternoon tea will a treat at least... Meanwhile Sarah has spent a few days on a school camp at Wadamana in the highlands and now they are both on 2 weeks holiday from school... hope the weather improves.

16 May 2003 - Famished

This week-end Cath took part in a 40 hr famine to raise money for those less fortunate. She had several friends up for support and they all seemed to survive quite well.

21 April 2003 - Bush Bunny

For a change from the usual Easter activities, Dave went bush for a trip to Frenchmans Cap in the South-West, leaving more buns and eggs for the rest of the tribe. There are a few notes and pictures online.

7 April 2003 - Almost Footy Legend

Chris is currently playing footy (Australian Rules) for a small local club (Perth). I dont think its going to be a major career move, they have yet to win a match. Meanwhile Peter is making a bit of money picking fruit and vege, currently broccoli...

22 March 2003 - Dave goes back to school

As part of a trip to the UK, Dave attended an old school reunion, catching up with many old friends, some of whom he had not seen for over 30 years. It included a trip around the school where one of his old classmates is currently deputy head. Also found time to catch up with family in Faversham. Further details and photos from the reunion may be found here

13 Feb 2003 - Ghost of schooldays past

Spectres from the past visiting this week were Ron and Gill Moss. Dave went to school with Ron and until recently had not seen him since 1966. They are on a month long trip around Australia, but unfortunately only spent a couple of days in Tasmania. Great to catch up though, and we did manage to visit a couple of local attractions. Ron is organising a school reunion in March this year, details here

11 Feb 2003 - Long time no see.

We were lucky this week to be visited by some friends we last saw in Sweden in 1976. Margie and Janne Anderberg were on a walking holiday in Tasmania. (Driving a Peugeot, not a Volvo) They also now have 3 girls and 2 boys and live near the Blue Mountains in NSW. We helped get their vehicle to one end of the overland track and left them at the other.

1 Feb 2003 - Gone South West

Liz and Dave spent a few days in rugged SW Tasmania this week. Flying in by light plane to a remote gravel strip, they spent the next 7 days hiking back to civilization. This entailed some beach walks, swimming in the sea and lagoons, crossing a couple of small mountain ranges, several river crossings by ropes and one using rowing boats, forest walks and plenty of very muddy button-grass plains. (map) Liz has now resumed her travels and is currently in Thailand, heading for Europe again.

21 Jan 2003 - Cheery Cherry

Whilst visiting her daughter Verity , who is in Sydney for a year, cousin Cherry took time out to visit us. A very lively week-end was enjoyed by all. It included trips to several local attractions and the summit of cradle mountain.(Shown are Bob, Liz, Verity, Cherry and Dave)

2002

21 Dec 2002 - Eligible Bachelor

To quote from the man himself, "Getting into university was easy, its getting out that's hard!" Well, the hard? work has paid off and Chris now has a Bachelor of Computing degree and is looking for paying work. Well done Chris.

10 Dec 2002 - Hair To-day. . .

We are all glad to see Liz back home from her extensive travels for Christmas. She is now sporting a new short hair-do, courtesy of cousin Tim in Sydney. You can see the new look on the main page. It seems she may not be here long though as she is planning more trips soon.

15 Nov 2002 - Dread no more

Chris has cut off the dread-locks. Maybe getting serious about getting a job! The next days work he does will be the first...

10 Nov 2002 - On Yer Bike

In an attempt to regain his youthful level of fitness, Dave has taken to riding his bike to work 3 days a week. The rest of the family do not think this will last long though...

1 Nov 2002 - Can't catch Sarah

Cheered on by visitors Mat & Jen, Sarah cleaned up at the school athletics carnival, winning the 100m, 200m, 400m and the obstacle races. Well done Sarah!

20 Oct 2002 - O'Hare is O'Here

As part of a world trip, Dave's step-niece Jen O'Hare and partner Mat have been staying with us for a few days. Mat has kept the girls amused with his musical talents and given the boys a run for their money at pool, darts and golf. Pete's car is, unfortunately, back at the panel beaters, but this time it was not his doing and is being paid for by insurance.

28 Sept 2002 - Welsh Hills

As part of a recent trip to the UK, Dave and Liz spent a few days hiking in Wales. Up Snowdon, Cader Idris and round the Pembrokeshire coast. Also caught up with Guy, Penny and Mike and visited some old school friends he had not seen for over 30 years!

24 Aug 2002 - Daring young girl

We have driven past the cable hang glider near the gorge many times, but to-day Sarah took to the air on it. Its a bit of a short run, but quite exhilarating.

30 July 2002 - Blue Peter

Peter has now completed his 'Traineeship' in the local pub kitchen and is again looking for gainful employment. However his diminishing bank balance has been depleted further by some expensive repairs to his car after 'going bush' when the roads were made very slippery by the first rain for some time.

11 June 2002 - The Big Smoke

Dave, Denise, Cath and Sarah spent a hectic few days in the school holidays over on the mainland in Melbourne. We managed to visit the Zoo, Victoria Market, Aquarium, Museum, Science-works, St Kilda and Luna Park, South Bank and the casino complex. Also managed to take in a couple of shows; Mama-Mia and Hot Shoe Shuffle. Rode the Trams, walked for miles round the shops and are now back home for a rest..

5 May 2002 - Maggie May

The latest addition to the Hill family is a small white fluffy pup; a west highland terrier called Maggie. The girls seem very taken with her.

3 March 2002 - Saucy Cath

Yes Catherine has been making tomato sauce at school. We have also been privileged to taste her Blackberry jam and a delicious chocolate cake. Keep it up Cath.

14 Feb 2002 - NotaHonda

Breaking with the family tradition, and financed with the sale of some shares from his grandfather, Peter has purchased a Mazda 323 sedan. Power-steering, air-conditioning, tinted windows, pretty spiffy for his first vehicle. Look after it Peter!

7 Feb 2002 - Potter Prize for Cath

A large box arrived to-day with $400 worth(?) of Harry Potterphernalia. The result of entering a recent TV competition. Well done Cath.

5 Feb 2002 - Accropolis Now

Whilst Liz has been in Europe and Greece visiting the "real" Accropolis, Dave spent a few days in the Tasmanian highlands climbing a peak of the same name, also visiting the Labyrinth where the scenes for "walking with dinosaurs" were taken.

21 Jan 2002 - Pitfalls of camping

Dave, Denise, Cath and Sarah spent a few days camping at picturesque Fortesque Bay recently. Sarah's disdain for the pit toilet there meant she did not eat or drink much for 3 days, however we shifted to a commercial camping ground on Bruny Island so she could at least eat and drink on her birthday on the 31/1.

2001

25 Dec 2001 - Liztless Christmas

This year Liz is spending Christmas in England with her grandfather, uncles and cousins; still enjoying her extended overseas trip. The rest of the 7 hills spent the Day at Rosemary's. Dave actually stuffed and cooked the turkey, as well as making potatoes au gratin and a delicious cheesecake, but I don't think its going to be habitual ;-)

12 Nov 2001 - P for Peter

Well yes... much to Peter's surprise he passed the driving test and is now on P plates for a year; Denise's car is rarely in the garage anymore... Latest possum count is 9 and we think that's about it.

9 Nov 2001 - Russ moves on..

Sadly Russ, Denise's father, grandpa to 5 of the hills, is no longer with us. A big man with a big heart, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Thanks for everything Russ.

25 Sept 2001 - Hello Possums

Well its actually "goodbye possums". Since removing the ceiling in the garage we have been plagued with the furry critters. We have so far trapped 6. Chris has re-located some out near the university - we hope it teaches them a lesson.

21 Aug 2001 - Flautist in the Family

Sarah is now learning to play the flute, and is gettin gon very well for a beginner. Hear for yourself.

19 Aug 2001 - Pilf

Well thats a back "flip", now part of the trampoline routines performed by the younger girls...

20 July 2001 - Super Tramps

Cath and Sarah have recently joined the local trampoline group at the PCYC and are getting on very well, not sure who is teaching whom? It makes a change from the previous Saturday tap dance routines...

23 June 2001 - Midnight Sun (well almost)

Dave joined Liz, Guy, Esther, Rachel and Alison on a trip to Carna, a small island in Scotland. At this time of year it is light until 11:30 pm. The photo shows Dave and Esther on the peak. Dave and Alison have now returned to Tasmania, leaving Liz and Rachel to further explore the highlands before starting work for a while in Manchester.

20 May 2001 - Liz's big O/S

Liz has left the antipodes for a year or so on a big OverSeas trip. She is currently in UK, soon to embark on the obligatory Contiki camping trip for a quick flick around Europe, then back to the UK to join a family trip to Scotland, then hopefully find work to top up the coffers for further adventures. Have a great time Liz...

23 April 2001 - Wots Cooking?

Well, who's cooking would be more appropriate. Peter has recently started full time employment in the kitchen at the Riverside Hotel and even more importantly is now bring home a weekly pay packet. 'Onya Pete. We are waiting a few weeks before giving it a try ;-)

15 Mar 2001 - Hail the Overland Track

This week Liz and Dave walked through the Overland Track. 50 miles over 5 days of pristine Tasmanian wilderness. We had hail and snow on the first day, rain on the second, but sunshine for the rest of the week to climb Mt Osa, Tasmania's highest peak. Highly recommended for anyone reasonably fit.

9 Jan 2001 - California here we come

Returning from a family get-together in the UK, Dave and Sarah took time out to visit the theme parks in LA and catch up with an old friend in San Francisco. It all made for a great trip away.

2000

27 Dec 2000 - White Christmas (almost)
Several inches of snow and conditions cold enough to freeze the local duck pond solid greeted Dave and Sarah while visiting relatives in England.

25 Dec 2000 - Surprise 80th Party for Guy
Sarah and Dave journeyed to England for a surprise 80th birthday party for Guy (dave's dad) which was on Christmas day. A very large family get-together was held in a Faversham restaurant. All his children and most grandchildren were there and a good time was had by all. Dave and Sarah stayed on to catch up with other friends and relatives and see some of the sights.

20 Dec 2000 - Braided in Bali
On a recent trip to Indonesia, Sarah went along with the local custom of having her hair braided. It certainly saved Dave from having to brush or plait it for a couple of weeks!

17 Dec 2000 - Waiting for Santa
Well, the Christmas tree is up and decorated. Tradition dictates it has to be a massive pine, just trimmed enough to fit through the door and not poke a hole in the ceiling. We've gone for the hi-tech flashing lights this year, just waiting for Santa to turn up, he's sure to be impressed.

1 Nov 2000 - One man went to mow!
With the very wet and warm spring the grass here is growing faster than the mower can get round the garden. Pity neither of our sons, both finished school for the summer, seem able to find the mower! For those that remember the pampas grass front hedge... its now mostly charcoal, looking a bit black for a while but has certainly opened up the vista. Several neighbours have recently installed security fences, automatic gates and rabbit-proof fences. We are not sure whether to go for razor-wire and guard towers or leave it all open and unfenced, probably the latter.

16 Oct 2000 - Chris's double decadence
Chris has made it to 20. Happy birthday Chris. Currently studying for 2nd year exams which are coming up soon. Also back in "dreads" although a bit shorter this time. (we'll spare you the photo). We usually have the pool swimable this time of year, but it has been very wet and windy of late so spring seems at least a couple of weeks late this year.

14 Sep 2000 - Joan 80 years young
Joan (Denise's mother) just turned 80 and a large family get-together was organised at the Hills's place. All the Beatties came up from Hobart to join the celebrations. Adam, (Patrick Kerrisons youngest) stole the show by tucking into the cake as the candles were being lit.

2 Aug 2000 - Rosemary goes walkabout
Rosemary (Denise's sister) has taken a short-term teaching contract in the out-back; teaching aboriginal children in the Northern Teritory. Somewhat of a culture shock, but one way to escape from the Tasmanian winter ;-). She can be reached at alekaren@topend.com.au (mark subject attn Rosemary Kerrison). Doug has recently driven up for a visit.

28 July 2000 - Monkey Business
One member of the household recently attended a costume party. It was a considerable time before their true identity was revealed, and by the end of the evening they were well and truly "in the mist".

1 June 2000 - Limerick
There once was a donkey named FrankHe fell in the mud and sankHe jumped up and downAnd then ran to townBecause he needed to go to the bank...Catherine

20 March 2000 - Pink Pampas
The local forestry department have declared war on pampas grass and have sprayed our front bank with "roundup"containing a very pink dye. Looks quite specy, but will soon be dead. Once the autumn rains come I'll put a match to it, but its too dry just now.

6 March 2000 - Cath walks Tall - High Cath!
Cath is determined to be the tallest in the family, but has had to resort to stilts to be able to look down on Peter. Other recent events include a camping trip to the east coast by Dave, Denise, Cath and Sarah; Doug Kerrisons 60th birthday; and a hike to the summit of cradle mountain.

10 Jan 2000 - Key of the (car) door
Liz turned 21 to-day and is now the proud owner of her own vehicle. She survived all the celebrations and is now working in the Path Lab at Royal Hobart Hospital and living in nice flat in Hobart. Other birthdays close by are Peter (17) on 31 Dec and Sarah (9) on 31 Jan.