Melbourne Vixens lost to the Swifts even though it was all even at half time. A crowd of 9000 in the Hisense Arena reminded me of the world champs - no wonder the Ozzies aren't phased by the crowds and atmosphere when they play at the major events! 'sno fair. What an event though, I was like a small child in a sweetie shop, clanging my 'cheersticks' together at every available opportunity. Catherine Cox was unbelievable, how can one person be so chilled out and score 100%? I'm off to the hit the courts and shoot a few goals now that I've got some inspiration. The Dusties won't know what's hit them come Friday night training, I'll be like a new player!
The footie was just as good. What a stadium - 46000 in the Etihad stadium to watch the leaders of the league Geelong play the underdogs Essendon. Although we were on the 3rd level, we still had a great view of the game. Had to try the meat (or whatever the hell was in it) pie at half time. Best not to investigate what we were eating! I had my Geelong scarf on, alongside Bob, Bec, her mate Heather, her dad Rob and his partner Rachel and were sat in front of and behind a load of Essenden supporters. Lots of good friendly banter though and were even offered a share of the family picnic from the mum infront of us. Those bacon sandwiches and chocolate covered biscuits looked great but we maintained our manners and politely declined. Beer and pie would do fine. I'm definitely getting into the Aussie Rules - in fact I'm not as bad as I had expected at kicking the funny shaped ball myself.....perhaps there's a women's team?? Or maybe I should just stick to the netball for now.
Stayed with Rob and Rachel in Ivanhoe who were extremely welcoming and cooked us a fantastic breakfast on the BBQ. You gotta love the Aussies. Back to Warragul via Drouin where we picked up Laurelle's car (Cherokee Sport jeep, awesome) for our drive to Philip Island later on. It's a pretty big vehicle, suspension has a mind of it's own and it doesn't like sharp corners but it was great for our overnight trip and we were reluctant to give it back today!
We headed to Philip Island Sunday afternoon. It was a 2 hour drive from Warragul, via Mirboo North, Leongartha and a lovely surfing town called Inverloch. The weather was slightly overcast but the sun peeped out from time to time and the temperature was fine. Not bad for the first month of winter! Philip Island itself is a great place to visit for the weekend. Lots of interesting cafes, shops and activites for all - probably the best location for a family holiday, that's what it appeared to be anyway. Our motel was fab, just a 2 minute walk from the beautiful beach and a 5 min walk from the centre. A swift beer in a local wine bar, tea at the motel and a quiet chilled out night watching some football! We had planned to get up at 4.30am to watch the Socceroos but didn't quite manage it. In hindsight probably a good thing as the 4-0 defeat wouldn't have been enjoyable. A harsh red card we felt! Never mind.
Up early to drive to The Nobbies where the penguins live. A lovely coastal area to spot some wildlife; couldn't see any seals but spotted a penguin huddled in a hole in the ground. Decided to bypass the ridiculously touristy Penguin Parade and head off on a driving tour of the island and back to Warragul via Inverloch.
The drive home was going so well until we found ourselves with less than a quarter tank of petrol on a rather windy off road dirt track 30km from Warragul - when the petrol light comes on in the middle of nowhere, slight panic sets in! However, as I'm writing this now from the comfort of the living room infront of the fire, you would've guessed that Bob and I did in fact survive the experience! Oh, we can laugh about it now....
So that's us up to date! Bob is not looking forward to starting work tomorrow. I'm thinking he might be asleep by 8pm tomorrow evening.....Thanks guys for all your messages and emails. Hope you're enjoying our endless dribble about our exploits in Australia land. Will continue to keep you updated, lots of love Bob and Mo xx
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