The Anslow Blog

A post Christmas Lunch

2012-01-12T22:00:00.000+11:00

A post Christmas Lunch at the Station Hotel. The food was excellent and a good time was held by all.

Tom and Ann, my Dad and Mum.

Ken and baby Lucas (Granddad and Grandson)

Baby Lucas and Deanne, his Mum.

Heather, Jennifer, Ken and Lucas

Wild Flowers in the Blue Mountains.

2012-01-07T22:07:00.001+11:00

On our travels today. Wild Flowers in the Blue Mountains.

A visit to The Norman Lindsay Gallery

2012-01-07T22:00:00.000+11:00

Heather and I took advantage of the fine weather and visited the Norman Lindsay Gallery at Faulconbridge in the Blue Mountains. The gallery, once home to Norman Lindsay is now owned by the National Trust, along with the artworks given by Norman Lindsay and other works both bequeathed and bought.

Born in 1879, Norman Lindsay is regard as one of Australia's greatest and most controversial artist. With diverse talents ranging from writing, painting and sculpting, to editorial cartooning. Whilst particularly famous for his nudes and political cartoons, Norman was author of the immensely successful and much-loved children's book, The Magic Pudding which, since first being published in 1918, has never been out of print.
Norman Lindsay died in 1969, however his popularity and admiration of his work and his life continue strong to this day.

The concierge at the front gate.

Views of the grounds, understandably, photography is not permitted inside.

Some of Norman Lindsay's sculptures within the garden.

More views of the grounds, the middle photo shows Norman's Studio.

The End of the Day

2011-12-31T22:00:00.000+11:00

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-25T22:00:00.000+11:00

This Christmas was special as this was the first time in ten years that Heather, I, and my parents enjoyed the company of Samantha.

Two days prior, Mum dropped off Samantha at my work where she met up with a few of my co-workers and saw a well decorated Desk. :-)

Christmas Eve afternoon was spent with my In-Laws, where we exchanged gifts and enjoyed a relaxed time.

Around the corner from our house is this amazing display which took several weeks to assemble.

Samantha and Mum (Ann) looking through some photographs.

Relaxing after Christmas Lunch

Dad (Tom), Samantha and Mum (Ann)

The following day, Boxing Day we drove across Sydney to drop of Samantha at her Grandparents place, for lunch with her Mum, Step-Brother and Family, Granny and Bapu ad a few Aunts and Uncle thrown in for good measure..

Old Colour Slides

2011-12-18T22:00:00.000+11:00

Scanning the family Colour Slides.

Here is a Before and After - Me on Christmas 1964, Our home in Whittington, Lichfield, England.

In 1965 on the way to Australia on the T/V Castel Felice.

Mum is wearing the pink top and I'm hanging onto the railing.

Mum and I.

In 1964 on the way to Australia on the T/V Castel Felice at Aden, Federation of South Arabia, now part of Yemen.

Trevallyn, Launceston, Tasmania in 1965. My primary school can be seen and the cream coloured house, top left hand side was our home. The hilltop is now built up.

A visit to Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clare National Park in 1968

Our back garden at Fairthorne Rd Trevallyn with Kim our Rescue Dog 1969

Sniffy the cat and I at Kootara Place, Trevallyn 1971

Dad at work 1976

Christmas 2011

2011-12-17T21:38:00.001+11:00

A Visit to the Lower Hunter Valley

2011-11-06T22:00:00.000+11:00

A picnic in the vineyards....

On our way...

Mudgee Trip

2011-11-02T22:14:00.001+11:00

Mudgee is a town in the central west of New South Wales, Australia. It is located in the broad fertile Cudgegong River valley 261 kilometres north west of Sydney. The area is know for its vineyards, cattle, sheep, wheat, Lucerne, olives, fruit, tomatoes, corn, honey and dairy products. Tourism is also a major industry.

Mac and Cody getting into the holiday mood.

Top - The view from the hill at Shady Creek, were we stayed

Middle - 'Roos at Lake Burrendong at sunset.

Bottom - Lake Windarmere from the Castlereagh Highway

Lake Windarmere spillway Lake Windarmere is a man made lake, created for irrigation and recreation, by damming the Cudgegong River.

Lake Burrendong

Lake Burrendong at sunset.

We paid a visit to a a local winery and sampled and bought some of the local product at the http://www.robertstein.com.au/
Above is a postcard made up of photos from our visit.

Dropped in to Mudgee Honey Haven. http://www.mudgeehoneyhaven.com.au/

The banana Honey is wonderful!

Odd Photos

A Hitch-hiker.

Not our Accommodation.

Heather and I (+ The Cheeky Chihuahua Bothers) hat the best time. Shady Creek is a secluded self contained Cabin nicely appointed, with 2 bedrooms a large Kitchen / Dining / Lounge Room and bathroom. On the end of the second day we met up with Bruce, the owner and builder of this little bit of (dare I say it?) paradise. We had a great chat and learnt a lot about where we stayed. The creek and hill are great places to walk and relax. We will be back.

Shady Creek Cabin at Grattai, near Mudgee

On the way back, Bylong Valley Way, just outside Kerrabee.

View Larger Map

Pine Needles

2011-10-03T22:00:00.000+11:00

A very pleasant place to live.

Samantha in the Library

Samantha and Gran Ann

The New Dog Park

2011-10-02T10:00:00.000+11:00

Well, it is new to us.... Located on Doonside Road, Arndell Park, Bungarribee reserve has quite a history. Before European settlement the area was the traditional land of the Warrawarry people, later became a government farm using convict labor and becoming Bungarribee House farm estate. See http://www.itmcgowan.net/blacktown/heritages.php

Later during WWII part of the land was resumed as a Military Airfield and after the war in 1949, OTC (Overseas Telecommunications Commission), the successor to AWA's "Beam Wireless" service to over the site. Eventually submarine cable and satellite technology made shortwave radio obsolete and OTC left in 2001. Below is a map showing the historical sites at Bungarribee.

Today there is little evidence of the previous lives of Bungarribee.

Bungarribee Park

Cycle Track
Off leash dog area
Loop Walking Track
Bird Hide

Gates open at 8 am and close at 7 pm except in the months of June, July and August when closing time is 5 pm.

Entrance to Bungarribee Park and the dog off-leash area is 200 metres north of the traffic lights at the intersection of Holbeche and Doonside Roads

Warrigal Run is a huge fenced in of leash dog park.

Cody and Mac enjoying running around.

Fathers Day 2011

2011-09-04T22:00:00.000+10:00

This year we have four dads and two granddads celebrating Fathers Day. All of us met up for lunch at the Station Hotel in Kurri Kurri. The food was great and the day a great success.

We had Adam celebrating his first Fathers Day and Deane with Lucas, who is 5 months old.
Ken and Jennifer, parents of Heather and Adam.
Ann and Tom, my parents.
And Samantha, my daughter.

From L to R Samantha, Heather, Paul (me) Ken, (top of his head) Jennifer Deane and Lucas.

From L to R Lucas, Deane, Adam, Tom, Ann and Samantha.

Grandmother and Granddaughter.

Grandfather and Granddaughter.

Samantha and I

As September is a big birthday month, we will be getting together later on, this time to celebrate the birthdays of Ann, Jennifer, Deane and Heather.

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010-11 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Cody

2011-08-26T22:45:00.001+10:00

Cody, a photo by Paul Anslow on Flickr.

Cody being cute.
All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010-11 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Somersby Falls

2011-08-19T17:00:00.000+10:00

Somersby Falls, a photo by Paul Anslow on Flickr. The Upper Falls

The Somersby Falls are located 9km west of Gosford, NSW, Australia, 3km from the F3 motorway. The falls are part of the Brisbane Waters National Park and are also home to a variety of fauna and flora. The falls are located along a 400 meter walk of steps and walkways which can be slippery after rain.

The Lower Falls at Somersby

Samantha at the Upperr Falls at Somersby

Sunset

2011-07-17T22:00:00.009+10:00

On the way home from visiting my parents, Heather and I stopped at the Gosford Public Wharf and captured the photos below.

Sydney Opera House, Vivid Sydney

2011-06-04T22:00:00.001+10:00

Went into town and to see what Vivid Sydney was all about. Took a few photos and then the rain came.

5:50PM and all looks normal. :-)

Then....

Sydney Royal Easter Show

2011-04-17T21:01:00.004+10:00

My daughter, Samantha dances with Joanne Williams Dance Academy. Here are a few photos I took at the Royal Easter Show 2011

A good sized crowd watching.

Between sessions.

A Year Ago

2011-03-12T17:59:00.001+11:00

Almost a year ago, Heather and I spent a 4 day weekend in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Overlooking Lyttelton to the west.
Taken a year ago, a earthquake earlier this year has changed Lyttelton, taking some of its famous landmarks.Harbour Light theatre, The Empire Hotel, the Lyttelton Coffee Company and The historic Timeball Station have sadly been destroyed.

Christchurch Cathedral, New Zealand
22/2/11 A 6.3 earthquake has severely damaged the Cathedral today.
flic.kr/p/9k8q8k

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010-11 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Visiting Mum and Dads

2011-03-05T22:00:00.014+11:00

The visit included a belated celebration of three birthdays that fall in February.

Samantha turned 14

Mum and Cody

Dad and Samantha having time.

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010-11 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Riverwood Downs 2011

2011-02-26T14:26:00.003+11:00

Before heathers return to work we planned a mini holiday at Riverwood Downs Mountain Valley Lodge, a pet friendly country retreat.

The resort is located on the banks of a mountain river in the foothills of the Barrington Tops World Heritage Wilderness and only 2.5 hours drive north of Sydney NSW Australia.

The photos below will appear as I get the time to do post production on them and most likely in any order.

On the road to Riverwood Downs Mountain Valley Resort.

Our Cabin looks a bit rustic on the outside, but inside it has air-conditioning, Cable TV, a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom a master bedroom with double bed and 2 bunks.

House in Clarence Town.

A bush walk with friends What the Duck.

Cody dived in to the river and had an impromptu swim. now waiting for a bath. :-)

Early Morning at Riverwood Downs.

Found on our Bush walk - The Agile Antechinus (Antechinus Stuartii) (A.K.A. Marsupial Mouse) is a small native carnivorous marsupial sometimes confused with the introduced House Mouse. The Agile Antechinus is nearly indistinguishable from the Brown Antechinus, but it is slightly smaller and its fur has a more greyish tinge. It feeds mostly on beetles, spiders and cockroaches, but may also devour small lizards and soft berries is This one was found hiding in a gate post bolt hole and stayed perfectly still.

Lost?

Carsons Lookout, 920 Metres ASL, part of the Great Dividing Range, on Thunderbolts Way, a road between Walcha and Gloucester, NSW, Australia.

A refurbished Endeavour rail service on its way to Dungog. Seen from Dungog Road.

The road out of Riverwood Downs

I looked for the platypus in the river but all I found was rabbits. :-)

Morning Mist

Sunrise on our last day

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010-11 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Christchurch Earthquake

2011-02-22T22:00:00.006+11:00

11 Months ago Heather and I spent 4 days in Christchurch. see link Here "Off to New Zealand"
We has a wonderful time and was looking forward to retuning.

To say we are both shocked would be an understatement and our hearts and prayers go out those effected.

Christchurch Cathedral March 2010

A Sunday Outing

2011-02-06T22:00:00.014+11:00

Sunday we went for a picnic lunch at one of the beaches along the coast road to Wollongong. There is a dog friendly beach at Coaldale and while we were there the cool change started to arrive. Mac and Cody had a ball even after being "dumped" by a little wave. Samantha enjoyed the time too. We ended up at Woolongong's city beach when the change fully arrived, no rain but plenty of wind. The surf carnival there looked like it was going to blow away. We had a fun day all considered.

Stanwell Tops, lots of tourists, motorbikes and no hang-gliders.

There was also hundreds of Dragon Flies on the wing.

Looking south and the last of the sun as the cool change is on its way..

Samantha and the Cheeky Chihuahua Brothers after a picnic lunch.
Cody expects more.

Sharkey's Beach, Coaldale Dog Friendly beach

Rocks at the southern end of the beach

Mural at Coaldale Dog Friendly beach

Bus Shelter at Sharkey's Beach, Coaldale Dog Friendly beach

Low lying cloud on top of the Illawarra Escarpment

Wollongong City Beach. The surf carnival has stopped due to the huge winds the temperature dropped from 36C to 19C in minutes.

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010-11 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Australian Museum

2011-01-22T22:00:00.001+11:00

A familiar scene, if not a little bizarre, at the Skeletons gallery, Australian Museum.

The Skeletons gallery, Australian Museum.

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010-11 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Heather's Wrist

2011-01-17T19:56:00.002+11:00

Heather's surgery on her wrist to remove a Ganglion Cyst .

A New Day

2011-01-08T17:44:00.002+11:00

Up before sunrise and off to the Northern Beaches. Long Reef sunrise, interrupted by a sudden heavy downpour.

A Walk

2011-01-07T22:00:00.005+11:00

NYE - 2011

2011-01-01T22:00:00.004+11:00

Samantha and Mac (Mac is showing his better side). Taken at the dog friendly park at Toongabbie.

Another family pack enjoying a morning walk.

Mac enjoying the attention after his bath.

Samantha having to deal with a manic Cody.

The sun sets on another year, goodbye 2010

Happy New Year 2010!

Boxing Day - Australia

2010-12-26T22:00:00.002+11:00

Christmas Day 2010

2010-12-25T22:00:00.005+11:00

Christmas Lunch at my In-Laws. A table was set up under the back veranda A great spread of salads prawns, cold meats and deserts. In this shot is; Jennifer (my Mother-in-law), My Dad, Deanne (my Sister-in-law) and Ken (my Father-in-law)

L to R. Adam, (my Brother-in-law), I and Heather. The weather was fine and hot, 33C and a little humid. Mum was taking the photos.

A Wollemi Pine, a fitting Aussie Christmas tree.

Discussing cars.

Christmas

2010-12-18T22:00:00.002+11:00

The Martin Place, Sydney, Christmas Tree

This years Christmas tree is 21 metres high and includes 58,000 LED lights, more than 300 stars and a 1500mm seven pointed top star.

Just around the corner from our home is an impressive display!

Fame

2010-11-20T22:00:00.006+11:00

Samantha and I (dad) went to see the musical Fame. We gave it a 11 out of 10! It great to see Sydney theater comparable with the best.

One of the cast is a friend of Samantha's who she knows through her dance academy - Camilla Jakimowicz, who plays one of the students.

Samantha wearing her new dress and ready to leave

Samantha's Hip

2010-11-19T22:00:00.003+11:00

Samantha went to see a specialist today. The news is good, Samantha's hip is fine, just a pulled ligament.

Christmas is Coming

2010-11-18T22:25:00.003+11:00

Tonight is the Martin Place Children’s Christmas Concert & Tree Lighting

The Martin Place Christmas tree is 21 metres high and includes 58,000 LED lights, more than 300 stars and a 1500mm seven pointed shimmering tree top star.

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Samantha needs a photo for her library card.

2010-11-14T22:00:00.004+11:00

I like the last one the best. These were taken using a fluffy brown rug draped over a bookcase, as a backdrop and natural light.

Were are we going today?

2010-11-07T22:00:00.003+11:00

A Visit

2010-10-30T08:54:00.016+11:00

Dad and Samantha

A male Eastern Water Dragon in my parents garden.

A Wander Around Sydney

2010-10-22T22:00:00.006+11:00

I had some time after an appointment and went on a walk. Here are some of the things spotted.

Darling Harbour, an outdoor space with Conference Centre, Retail, Restaurants and other attractions.

Volkswagen Pedal Powered Photo Booth promoting their environmentally friendly stance.

The Australian Maritime Museum large exhibits Submarine HMAS Onslow and HMAS Vampire

The spider's Garden.
A garden complete with spider on the sandstone cliff on "The Hungry Mile' - formally part of Hikson Street. The new street name reflects the name the area was known as during The Great Depression, where men came in the hope of being selected for a days work on the docks.

High-rise Living
Sydney can be a pretty city, however continual redevelopment may make change to that. Note the terraces dwarfed by the apartments.

Is this Art?
Jimmie Durham’s “Still Life with Stone & Car” Sydney Art and About.

Dawes Point. The wharfs are now converted to offices, apartments, theaters, restaurants, cafes and a hotel.

AMP Building at Circular Quay - "Abseil for Youth" is put on at the AMP building by the Sir David Martin Foundation to raise money for Youth in Crisis programs administered by Mission Australia. The Royal Australia Navy is a huge supporter and provide their skills for the event. Sir David Martin was a Australian Navy Rear Admiral. Thanks Bernadette for your email.

The Rocks

P&O's Pacific Jewel at Barangaroo 5 passenger Terminal

I do like the tent passenger terminal.

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

A Visit to the Hunter Valley Gardens

2010-10-16T07:54:00.003+11:00

A Visit to the Hunter Valley Gardens

Near Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Gardens is located within the foothills of the Brokenback Ranges, the vineyard district of the Hunter..

60 acres of magnificent gardens, with 10 theme gardens; Formal, Indian Mosaic, Rose, Italian Grotto with the statue of St Francis of Assisi (patron saint of birds and animals), Border Garden, waterfall in the Sunken Garden, the elegant Oriental Garden and a Storybook Garden.

Alice in Wonderland - The Mad Hatters Tea Party

From left to right, Ann Anslow, Tom Anslow, Jennifer Higham, Heather Anslow, Ken Higham and Samantha Anslow

A coincidence and a little family history

2010-10-07T09:20:00.015+11:00

During Our UK Trip in 2009 I took the photo above

The Brownhills Miner. This stainless steel statue is almost 12 meters high created by sculptor John McKenna and is situated at the top of the high street in Brownhills. A contest was held a couple of years after the artist 's sculpture was erected in 2008 and the winner was Jak Groves a local schoolboy, who suggested "Jigger" the nickname of his Great-Great Grandfather, in tribute to those who had worked in dreadful and dangerous conditions and sometimes paying the ultimate sacrifice.

In 1951 Jack "Jigger" Taylor was critically injured when the roof of Walsall Wood pit collapsed. . He died after an emergency operation, leaving his wife, Ivy, and children John, Jill and Valerie. Jack and his family had lived lived in Bridge Street, Clayhanger and "Jigger" rests at St James Church in Brownhills.

Jack went down the pit in 1929 aged 14.

I found out later from my Cousin Jayne and my Mum that Jack Taylor was my Great Uncle.

Was Yer Ferther A Miner?

Was yer ferther a miner like mine

Did he work in the dirt and the grime

Went to work on a byke, used a bow saw and pike

To dig out black diamonds that shine?

Was yer ferther a wrecked body like mine

Through working in dust, no sunshine

His shuky was his light, damaging God’s given sight

Deep in the dark bowel face of the mine?

Did he take a piece of best Sunday cake

Ter give to the pit pony, whose poor limbs ached

As he dragged a pit tub through rubbish-sludge

So mine owners their profit could make?

Did he bath by the fire in a tub

Un yer mother his marked back did scrub

Scratch caused by low roof, scars plain making proof

Of the days of pit-props and horse hoof?

Did he often sit and tell the old tale

Of disaster and pain that prevailed

When the roof tumbled in – rock ripped at the skin

And sight of widows – children their faces pale?

But if you asked this old ferther of mine

Ter tell yer about it, his old eyes would shine

No sad tale to tell, of the Muck – the Hell

But would proudly boast

‘Ar them days of hard work were mine’.

1964 - Castel Felice on route to Australia.

2010-09-26T21:30:00.009+10:00

Arriving on board at Southampton.

A photo of me with some other bewildered kids struggling with the lady's Italian accent.
I'm the one second on the left of the lady reading.
Our voyage took us though the Suez Canal, the Ship stopping at Port Said, Aden, Fremantle, Melbourne, finally arriving in Sydney.

I remember that not long out of Southampton we experienced a severe storm in the Bay of Biscay. our cabin was located on deck C, forrad and to port, the small porthole spent most of the time underwater. We were seasick along with most of the passengers and crew. The best thing to for seasickness is to be on deck, so we did, I remember being in a saloon at night watching the storm.

My Mum and Dad sitting closest on the right. there was two sittings, one separate for the children

A lapel badge

We disembarked at Station Pier in Melbourne and traveled the last leg to Launceston, Tasmania, by plane, an Ansett ANA Fokker Friendship

The Castel Felice has quite a history. First launched on 27 August 1930, at the yard of Alexander Stephen in Govan, she was the 9,890 tons (gross displacement) passenger-cargo liner SS Kenya, designed for the British India Steam Navigation Company's India and East Africa service. She then became HMS Hydra, a troop carrier for Royal Navy in World War II, then converted to an armed infantry landing ship, HMS Keren, she saw service in various roles, including the invasion of Sicily and Italy. In 1949, Kenya underwent a complete conversion for the liner services and entered Sitmar service as the Castel Felice in 1952.

POSTCARD : S / S CASTEL FELICE, SITMAR LINE GENOA

At 12,400 tons she carried 596 cabin passengers and 944 emigrants. Castel Felice made her first voyage to Australia in 1952 but made only a few cruises from Sydney. She made a number of liner voyages from Europe to the Americas before being sold for breaking up in Taiwan in 1970.

Samantha and my Mum

2010-08-28T22:33:00.002+10:00

Samantha and my Mum, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Samantha and Mum

2010-08-21T21:48:00.000+10:00

Samantha and her Grandmother at Sunday lunch at Woy Woy.

Paul's Mum and Dad

2010-08-07T22:39:00.008+10:00

A Saturday Walk

2010-07-31T18:18:00.004+10:00

Water Lilly, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Water Lilly

A giant animated Water Lilly at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney, by Choi Jeong Hwa part of the Biennale of Sydney.

Dusk at the pond.

2010-07-20T21:21:00.002+10:00

Dusk at the pond., originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

A water feature at Stanhope Gardens, western Sydney.

Uploaded by Paul Anslow on 20 Jul 10, 8.26PM EST.

Birds of a Feather

2010-07-12T22:03:00.000+10:00

Birds of a Feather, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Birds of a Feather, (Not sure what they are) at Featherdale Wildlife Park.

Samantha

2010-07-11T22:51:00.004+10:00

Samantha, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Samantha keeping dry at the Panorama Reserve at Hawkesbury Heights

Flower, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

at Lawsons Lookout.

Mac, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Looking more like Mac Muck on his walk to Lawsons Lookout.

Photos by Paul Anslow www.anslow.net,

Sunset

2010-07-03T16:51:00.001+10:00

Sunset, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Sunset on the Hawksbury River at Windsor NSW Australia.

Photos by Paul Anslow www.anslow.net,
All rights reserved.

Sydney from Daring Harbour

2010-06-16T21:41:00.003+10:00

Sydney from Daring Harbour, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

I can see my office from here.... :-)

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2010 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Are we coming too?

2010-06-07T20:46:00.003+10:00

Are we comming too?, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Are we coming too?

Mac and Cody waiting in anticipation.

Lake Parramatta

2010-06-05T22:06:00.009+10:00

I noticed that we haven't been doing much other than working, so our blog has been pretty quiet along with my photography. Our boys have been stuck indoors with the weather and Samantha is here this weekend after a few weeks absence due to her dancing commitments.

Saturday the rain had stopped and we decided to go for a walk around Lake Parramatta.

Cody, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Cody is excited with the prospect of going out for a drive.

Around the lake, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Surrounded by suburbia is a large bush park around Lake Parramatta, that was once the water supply for the area.

Hello Cocky, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

A Sulphur-crested Cockatoo at Lake Parramatta

Lake Parramatta, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

View from the western side of the dam.

Threatening Clouds, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

The water is very cloudy after the heavy rain a few days earlier.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

2010-05-01T09:52:00.005+10:00

Sydney Harbour Bridge, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

... viewed from a friends apartment.

Sydney Harbour Bridge, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

All text and photographs are Copyright ©2009 Paul Anslow. All rights reserved. www.anslow.net

Sheffield Frankenfido

2010-04-29T20:09:00.002+10:00

Sheffield Frankenfido, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Sheffield Frankenfido

The latest addition to the family.

www.bentandtwistedcreations.com.au

African Daisy

2010-04-29T16:00:00.001+10:00

African Daisy, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

... in our garden.

Ironfest 2010

2010-04-25T22:00:00.010+10:00

Jousting at Ironfest, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

St George’s Day International Jousting Tournament.http://www.jousting.com.au/

Jousting at Ironfest, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

St George’s Day International Jousting Tournament.

Knight on his Charge, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

A wartime Beetle, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

A wartime Beetle

The German Kommandeurwagen a Beetle body mounted on the Kübelwagen chassis made during WW II.

Lithgow Highland Pipe Band, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Lithgow Highland Pipe Band street performance.

British in Battle, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

British in Battle

The Battle of Lithgow is a 19th century re-enactment of a mythical battle between French and British forces, for the control of the nascent Australian colony. Performed by the Australian Napoleonic Association.

French in Battle, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

French in Battle

Preparations for ANZAC Day

2010-04-25T07:44:00.002+10:00

They shall not grow old,as we grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condenm. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning We Will Remember Them Lest We Forget.

Preparations for ANZAC Day, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Rayner Hoff's Sculpture Sacrifice depicting a fallen soldier, at the ANZAC War Memorial, Hyde Park, Sydney.

The 25th of April is ANZAC Day here in Australia and New Zealand.

ANZAC Memorial, Hyde Park, Sydney, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Preparations for ANZAC Day, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Samantha

2010-04-11T15:45:00.002+10:00

Samantha, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Samantha enjoying her drawing at her Step Grandparents.

Samantha and Mac, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Samantha and Mac mucking about. This shot is not a setup. :-)

Royal Easter Show

2010-04-10T11:28:00.005+10:00

Produce, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Carnival Rides, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Carnival Rides between showers at the Sydney Royal Easter Show 2010.

Yoichi, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Yoichi - Best of Breed Chow at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. www.rynklsharpei.com

Cardigan Corgi, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

... at the Royal Easter Show

The Crowds, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

.. at the Show Bag pavilion, Sydney Royal Easter Show.

The Antarctic Attraction

2010-03-16T22:00:00.001+11:00

The Antarctic Attraction, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

'The Antarctic Attraction' is a well known tourist attraction, just a few minutes walk from Christchurch Airport. The centre operates a Hagglund Ride around the centre's land. This is a great educational tool for all ages, to display the mobility of the Hagglund, an Antarctic Vehicle that is still in operation. Among other attractions, there is an Antarctic snow storm room, an audiovisual, large interactive displays of exploration equipment and little blue penguins at the NZ Penguin Encounter.

USAF Hercules "City of Christchurch" at The International Antarctic Centre, Christchurch NZ, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

USAF Lockheed C-130 Hercules, 31096 National Science Foundation - "City of Christchurch" NZ. Equipped with Skis on landing gear at the The International Antarctic Centre.

Hagglund all terrain vehicle, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Hagglund All Terrain Vehicle
Hagglunds are Swedish dual-cab, medium class, over-snow vehicles which can carry four passengers in the front cab. They have a towing capacity of 2 tonnes on suitable sleds, and they operate over most snow and ice terrain including sea ice and soft snow. The Assault Course at the International Antarctic Centre is quite an experience and demonstrates the unique capabilities of this vehicle.

Having a Slide, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Having a Slide
At the International Antarctic Centre in their Cool Room at -18 degrees Celsius, you can get dressed up and experience some of the Antarctic Weather.

Antarctic Camp, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Antarctic Camp
A hands on display at the International Antarctic Centre.

NZ Penguin Encouter, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

NZ Penguin Encouter
at the International Antarctic Centre.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

2010-03-15T22:00:00.003+11:00

Christchurch Botanic Gardens, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

In 1997 the restored turquoise-and-yellow Peacock Fountain (named after the Honourable John Peacock who gave it to the city in 1906, not after any birds on it) was located among the bedding display. Originally sited at the east end of the Archery Lawn, it was dismantled in 1949 because of deterioration and high maintenance costs. In 1996 it was restored to it former glory and was officially re-opened the following year in its new location just inside the main gate on Rolleston Avenue. The building in the background is the Canterbury Museum.

Te Mana O Mareikura

2010-03-15T22:00:00.002+11:00

Te Mana O Mareikura, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Te Mana O Mareikura is a Maori Performing Arts group managed and taught by Nikora Nitro. Mareikura was formed in 2004, originally as a community based haka group for those passionate about the combined style of the founding tutors Nikora Nitro and Kaperiere Hogan.
www.whakaaria.com/

The Lyttelton Timeball Station

2010-03-14T22:00:00.022+11:00

The Lyttelton Timeball Station, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

The Lyttelton Timeball Station (1876) is one of a handful of timeball stations that have survived throughout the world, and the only original one still standing in New Zealand. www.historic.org.nz/en/sitecore/content/Destinations/Home...

Lyttelton

2010-03-14T22:00:00.020+11:00

Lyttelton Coffee Company, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Lyttelton Coffee Company. Heather and I had a great brunch there. Great food and atmosphere.

HRH, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

A long way to come for Fish and Chips ;-).

The Steam Tug Lyttelton, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

The steam tug Lyttelton, was built in 1907 by Fergusson Brothers Ltd. of Glasgow, Scotland. Once commissioned the tug was sailed out to Lyttelton, New Zealand via the newly opened Suez Canal. By 1938 the tug was found to too small and her owners, the Harbour Board placed an order for a new tug with Lobnitz & Co. of Renfrew on the Clyde, the Lyttelton II. Later that year New Zealand prepared for war and the Royal New Zealand Navy used her to transport mines, drop depth charges and equipped her with a canon and machine gun. After the war the Lyttelton was returned to her owners and in 1970 was laid up without work. Volunteers spent 2,749 man-hours restoring the tug and in 1973 she became a passenger steamer on Lyttelton harbour. In 1991 the Lyttelton Preservation Society purchased the vessel from the owners for the price of $1.00. www.tuglyttelton.co.nz

The Akaroa Lighthouse

2010-03-13T22:00:00.008+11:00

The Akaroa Lighthouse, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

The Akaroa lighthouse was originally situated on Banks Peninsula on the eastern head of the Akaroa harbour and commissioned in 1880. The light was preserved and moved to this location in 1980 after being replaced with a modern light.

View from the Akaroa Lighthouse

A Distant View, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

On the way to Akaroa, a distant view of the Southern Alps.

Action

2010-03-07T18:21:00.012+11:00

Lisa at Carters Canine Capers wasn't available to board our two Chihuahuas, Mac and Cody this time, as she is off to the UK to see Crufts 2010, the best dog show in the world. Heather and I were recommended by Lisa to Debra at Acacia Lodge Boarding Kennels.

We went there today to inspect the facilities and say hello. Debra met the boys and they instantly liked her. Debra has a beautiful set up with plenty of space and exercise areas, so we are now confident that our boys will be happy during their stay.

Chappie and Polly will be staying at home, thanks to Issy who will house sit them and do a couple of odd jobs for us.

We also booked out Accommodation at the Azena Motel and Rental Car (Toyota Corona) today. Now all we need to is pack, sort out our work and things at home! Not long to go now!

Samantha

2010-02-28T13:50:00.002+11:00

Samantha, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Samantha wearing a Spring Hat, a crazy hat made by Sam's Step Grandmum. Today is the last day of summer here in Australia.

Planning

2010-02-25T21:15:00.001+11:00

Our leave and the flights are booked. Like the UK trip we are both travelling on different flights (just like royalty ☺ ). Now all we need to do is book accommodation, rent a car, work out what to pack and complete our Itinerary. Exploring the Banks Peninsular and Akaroa is one trip planned.

We are off to New Zealand

2010-02-21T14:32:00.003+11:00

Heather and I are planning a brief visit to Christchurch, New Zealand. We were going out to Parkes, in Western New South Wales, but Heathers work had other ideas, so off to Christchurch NZ we go. By using Heathers frequent flyer points I get to carry Heathers bags. :-)

2010-02-13T22:00:00.001+11:00

A pleasant weekend with Samantha who has just turned 13.

Samantha at rest.

Samantha and Cody at her Step Grandparents

Mac relaxing on a hot afternoon.

2010-02-12T22:00:00.001+11:00

Friday night after picking up Samantha for the weekend. A bit of rain then we couldn't see where we were going!

Spider

2010-02-04T21:33:00.004+11:00

Spider, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

A spider spotted in our garden tonight. The Garden Orb Weaving Spiders are a large group of spiders with over 100 known species in Australia.

Orb weavers are reluctant to bite. Symptoms are usually negligible or mild local pain, numbness and swelling. Occasionally nausea and dizziness can occur after a bite. If in doubt seek medical assistance.

Two new toys

2010-02-02T23:42:00.002+11:00

Two new toys, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Two new toys.

A Holux GPS M-241 GPS logger to geotag photos, taken with a Nikkor 35mm f1.8G prime lens.

Sydney Harbour

2010-01-26T12:58:00.001+11:00

Sydney Harbour, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Luna Park and Bridge

2010-01-26T12:57:00.001+11:00

Luna Park and Bridge, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Cameraware

2010-01-09T17:36:00.001+11:00

Cameraware
Originally uploaded by Paul Anslow

Just bought Snug-it Camera protection, which comes in the form of a silicone rubber Jacket. Not fetishware for cameras :-) Will help to protect my D90 whilst (hopefully) travelling OS in October.

Update

On my UK trip the Delkin Devices Snug-it Pro camera protection did its job very well. I generally wore my camera over my neck and across my shoulder, the camera riding just above hip level, using the PACsafe CarrySafe 100 Anti Theft Camera neck strap. I believe that the silicon rubber jacket did an excellent job of protecting my D90 against minor knocks and scrapes. The Neck strap is reinforced with stainless steel wire, but is extremely comfortable when worn over the shoulder.

2009-11-14T18:19:00.000+11:00

Our Trip to the UK is in a separate Blog http://anslowuktrip.blogspot.com/

Here ara few Photos from that trip.

Samantha and Cody

2009-10-12T20:22:00.002+11:00

Samantha and Cody, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.

Our Latest News

2009-10-11T17:09:00.007+11:00

Our Homepage is at The Anslow Family

So what has been happening? Lots! At the end of the month Heather and I are off to the UK. After being on again off again, Heather is now attending the conference now held in Budapest. Once she finishes there then off to London were we meet up for a few days touring parts of the UK.

Yesterday a walk at Lake Parramatta.

2009-09-22T19:30:00.003+10:00

Our Homepage is located at www.anslow.net

Off to England

2009-08-26T10:10:00.020+10:00

Click on the Bus for our Travel Blog

View our UK Trip Photos Here.

In late September 2009, my wife Heather and I were fortunate to be able to take advantage of a conference that Heather attended for her work. I met up with her afterwards in London and we had a 12 day whirlwind trip around part of the UK, touching on the Cotswold's, The Midlands, London etc, visiting more towns than I can remember, and shooting 1200+ photos.

This was Heather's first visit and my first return visit since emigrating to Australia in 1965, when I was 6 years old.

We had a wonderful time, I re-experiencing places of my early childhood and Heather visiting the home town of her grandfather. The weather was not too cold and the people we met warm and friendly.

Next time we would like to take at least a month, so we can do more at a less frantic pace. A GPS logger would have been helpful to identify where some photos were taken and nice wide angle lens would be good too. ;-)

We both had a great time and hopefully will visit again.

2009-08-15T10:18:00.003+10:00

We had a brief holiday in July at Riverside Downs just south of Barrington Tops, where Samantha, Heather, Mac & Cody (our two dogs) and I had a wonderful time.The weather was great, cool at night and pleasant during the day. Our activities included bush walking, horse riding, touring around the area and relaxing.

Samantha and Cody

2009-08-15T10:06:00.001+10:00

Samantha and Cody, originally uploaded by Paul Anslow.