With the combination of still feeling the effects of jetlag and a forecast – that was spot on – of the mercury “soaring” to 17C weโall opted to visit the National Museum of Australia, only 5k from Ruth & Michael’s magnificent home๐
So, after a relaxed morning we were kindly dropped off.
Much of the museum is dedicated to the evolution of Australia as a country and the injustices suffered by the indigenous Aborigine & Torres Strait Islanders, including the forced removal of children from their families ๐ฐ
In recognition of this the Australian Government issued a public apology in 2008 to these communities
However, a referendum in October this year to formally amend the constitution to give these peoples a Voice was soundly rejected by all states except Australia Capital Territory (ACT), where Canberra is, of course, located.
We find that incredibly sad as it will be another generation before this matter can go to another referendum….
Much of the museum displays the wonderful artwork of the Indigenous Peoples and we found ourselves equally moved and attracted to it given this context.
Canberra has been described, due to the thousands of mature trees in which it sits, as “a park with houses in it”.
This creates a beautiful environment to wander through and the predominant gum/eucalyptus varieties are particularly stunning.
On returning to our hosts’ home we were treated to a highlights reel of their 15 year old daughter’s elite football career โฝ
Sophia is hugely talented and has very recently been invited to join the National Academy in Sydney, from where the majority of the Australian Women’s Team is selected – Chapeau Sophia, we are now the founders of your Scottish Fan Club ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟ๐
The evening was rounded off with a meal of ‘roo steak and salad, plus some samples from the national vineyards ๐
One of Michael’s oldest school friends, and his best man, then arrived and we much enjoyed hearing about his work with one of Australia’s largest employers, the Catholic Church no less๐ค, and other tales which fall squarely into the “what goes on tour, stays on tour” category!
Suffice to say that, suitably revived, we didn’t hit the hay until 1.30 am….ah, the good life๐
BTDU 