Exploring the Land Down Under

Tasmania, Australia

Before we left for our cruise, the only thing we knew about Tasmania was the "Tasmanian Devil" we had seen on a cartoon.  After our visit to Tasmania, and our day at the wildlife park, we are happy to say we now know more about the city, the "Devil" itself, and also became close friends to other Australian natives!

"The Kangaroo"

"The Wombat"

"The Koala"

"The Wallabie"

"the Tasmanian Devil"

All the animals seemed tame and approachable, however, NOT all the animals were as friendly as they appeared.  Papa apparently did not hear the VERY LOUD warning signal from this feathered friend, and we are lucky he still has a hand.  Next time, they might need to post signs like this above this bird's cage for extra reminders from other daring tourists who might not be so lucky!!

The city of Tasmania was also a perfect city for visiting historical sights.   Here we were able see both the oldest bridge, and also the oldest jail in Australia.  It was interesting taking a tour of the jail, and learning more about the country's history.

Bracken in shackles, demonstrates one of the treatments of the prisoners at the jail.

The oldest bridge in Australia---still beautiful after thousands of years

Like all our other adventures "down under", Tasmania was definitely a thrill!  However, our ONLY disappointment of the day was Papa's long awaited "THICK,carmel milkshake" he had been craving for days came out "Tasmanian THIN."  Sorry Papa, but look at the bright side of the day.....you still have your hand you saved from the bird!

Phillip Island, Australia

Our ship docked on this small island for only a few hours.  Only one tour was available for everyone on the entire ship---witnessing the "arrival of the penguins" on the beach.  Hundreds of passengers signed up to go see what we had heard so much about including Grandma, Papa, John, Tyson and Preston.  Alison, Bracken, and Parker stayed back on the cruise ship and realized after everyone's return that they had unfortunately missed out on an amazing experience!! 

In order to get directly onto the island, a tender took groups over to the island shorly before dusk.

Once everyone had made it to the island the wait time began.  Strict instructions were given to NOT use a camera with a flash, as it would scare the penguins.  So, everyone paitently waited and waited on the shore of the beach wondering if this was just "wasted time."

 

Until, all of a sudden---they came!!  One by one, then hundreds by hundreds.  Squawking and Chirping, looking for their "families."  Tyson and Preston were thrilled, Grandma and Grandpa were shocked to see so many penguins, and John "thought it was by far the most amazing thing he had seen this far!!"  Wow, now that says it all!

Melbourne, Australia

Welcome to Melbourne

Everything we had seen up to this point in New Zealand and Australia was fantastic!  We even heard our boys saying "We should move here!!"  Or, maybe that was after seeing how many donut shops were available around the city.  Papa treated us all making four happy boys!

We learned quickly that even though Preston idolizes his older brothers, NOONE touches his treasured doughnuts!  Our FAVORITE quote from Preston this trip was said after Bracken "tried" to take a bite of one.  Seconds after Bracken had it in his mouth Preston jumped to his feet and came inches from Bracken's face and with the most serious face exclaimed....... "THAT'S IT....DUMP IT OUT!"  We are still laughing!

In Melbourne, we took an elevator to the tallest building in the city where we were able to see all over. It was fun to spot sights like our cruise ship, and even the stadium where the Australian Open tennis matches would be held the following week.

Parker spots our cruise ship

The Australian Open

Back on the ground, the boys take a few minutes break before more Melbourne sights.

Our next stop....a beautiful cathedral in the middle of the city.  Our visit reminded us of living in Europe, and all the amazing cathedrals we visited there.

Shortly after, the boys headed back to the ship to catch a few "bowl games" on ESPN.  But Alison and Grandma were brave and explored Melbourne on their own---not even getting lost once!  Yes, it is amazing, and definitely so was the city!