Sunday 22nd
It was great to have another sleep in today and wake up to see another sunny day. I awoke to see Tony very excited about his day. He and some mates were off to see Scotland verse New Zealand in the Rugby at Edinburgh and he couldn't wait for the action. Although he did predict what might happen in the game - NZ won 40 - 0.Speth, Nerida and myself planned a morning swim at the Indoor centre. However upon arrival we were made aware that it was family fun day and couldn't swim laps until 12pm. We decided we would go home and return at this time. The facilities were fantastic, however I was quite puzzled to find that the change rooms were unisex (cubicles were used). It would make for an interesting school trip.
We swam laps for about 1/2 an hour and then changed and met the rest of the group at the Olympian Hotel for lunch and to watch Australia and Fiji play in the rugby match. The Aussies won the game as expected. We also had the change to observe some young Scottish children partaking in a traditional Scottish dance competition, all decked out in full kilts. After a glass or wine or two, we all felt that it was time for a snooze so we went back to our hosts for the afternoon. At 7:30pm we all met again at Isabell and Ken Arnott's, who live next door to Ken and Margarie McLeod for dinner. We dined in style with entree, main and dessert, as well as cheeses and coffee. Margarie made a delectable chocolate dessert and after relaying the recipe my hips were pleased that I only had the smallest slice. I have to say I felt a little bit out of my league with the beautiful Wedgewood china and silver cutlery. Ken and Keneth kept the entertainment rolling with both of them spilling their red wine on the pure white tablecloth amongst their quick wit and antics. We were all pleased that we were able to keep our clumsiness on hold for the night. An excellent night was had by all.
Monday 23rd
Nerida and I had good intentions to go swimming this morning, when Speth took her swimming squad. However, sleep seemed like the better option, as it was at 6:30am. At 10 o'clock Nerida was picked up by Joe to go to the local paper and Will appeared at the door with Catherine to take me around. Firstly after a short chat to Jeanette and Will at their home, we attended Argyle College, which is similiar to our TAFE colleges in Australia, however there were some areas that were given a status very similar to our university degrees. Here we chatted to Moira over coffee and biscuits about the facility and the courses offered by her college and how it provides opportunities for people in the area to access further education, whether it be for gaining employment or simply as an interest or hobby. She has primary school training and was therefore also interested in how our schools function in Australia.
After our visit to Argyle College we returned to Jeanette and Will's house for lunch. It was really nice to have some salads and homemade Scottish cakes, undoubtedly good for the hips. Will then took us down town to show us his shop, which focuses on traditional Scottish merchandise, including a large range of Scottish souvenirs. Catherine and I had a little wander down the street of Dunoon before meeting Will at his shop to fulfill the next part of our vocational day, visiting the brand new building of Dunoon Grammar School. This is a secondary school which has only just been built right next door to the old one, which is just been demolished as we speak. On our journey around there have been a lot of schools be rebuilt and is a result of public/private enterprise. The private companies are building the schools and effectively the schools are the tennants. In a matter of thirty years the building will become the schools. It cost about 14 million pounds to build, instead of 12 million pounds to renovate the old one. I was very impressed by the new facilities - the students and the teachers are extremely lucky to have access to such resources. One standout resource which schools do not have in Australia is a fully resourced gymnasium and weights room.
Tuesday 24th
This day saw us all up early to meet for the handover to the Lochgilphead Rotary Club. Our journey to this part of Scotland enabled us to catch our first glimpse our the countryside, which reminded me very much of New Zealand. We travelled to a place called The Lighthouse, where we had lunch and waited on the ferry to take us to the Isle of Lismore. This journey took about 10 minutes and we were greeted by a gentleman, who had been given the responsibility of giving us a tour of the island. On this trip we visited the local church, a museum and the post office, where we sent post cards back to Australia. The manager of the shop said that he quite often received mail that was meant to be delivered to Lismore in Australia - a little ironic. On the Isle, we captured our first close-up photos of the highland cows and horses.
Upon return on the ferry, we were greeted by members and wives of the Lochaber Rotary Club. Interestingly enough, we were taken to the Police Station to be briefed about our time with their club. I don’t know about anyone else, but walking into the police station initially was a little daunting. On this night we had dinner and spent time getting to know our host families. I learnt on the very first night that I was extremely lucky, Kay was a fantastic cook, as the brie and cranberry chicken was to die for.
Wednesday 25th
This day saw our last vocational day of the tour. Catherine and myself met at the Education Office and spoke with one lady who was responsible for any problems within the school and a lady who worked with the curriculum side of things. Both ladies were eager to find out how our different educations systems work. In addition to this, we visited one local school for a short period of time to speak with teachers, and to understand how the education office works alongside the schools.
Following this, I was lucky enough to speak with Ali from the local sports club of Shinty. This is a game that is very similar to hockey as we know it. I viewed a video of the local side playing in the championship (and winning) to see how the game is played and the rules. I felt honoured when I was presented with a shinty stick, ball and rules at this talk. It was certainly great to be able to learn about a Scottish game, that until that point hadn’t heard of it. You certainly have to be a fit individual to be able to play the game of Shinty.
12:30 came around quickly and this meant we needed to meet for our last Rotary Club presentation for a 1:00pm start. All went well and I am sure we were all pleased to see that we had successfully completed this side of the tour, except of course the presentation at District Conference. The food and company was certainly pleasant and Margaret found a gentleman who didn’t mind her rear view and couldn’t distinguish between a koala and a kangaroo. Catherine returned home to John and Sheila’s place to hopefully recover a little from her sickness.
The team was then inspired by a young man called Mick, who works as part of a team developing and promoting a local winter festival called the Mountain Festival. He was extremely enthusiastic and shows great passion in all areas of the festival.
Margaret, Nerida, Nadia and myself then joined together to enjoy a coffee and to discuss the successes of the tour and I guess to have a mini celebration of completing our presentations. We coupled this with a little retail therapy in the streets of Fort William.
After dinner Margaret and myself set ourselves the challenge of participating or perhaps even learning some traditional Scottish country dancing. Well to be truly honest, I have never laughed so much at myself ( or Margaret), at mainly our lack of remembering each of the steps and to have little old ladies and men pull and push us around the floor, whilst telling us which way to move. I can still see the lady who gave me the double thumbs up when I successfully completed each of the steps (it was with help though).
Thursday 26th
The morning began with a visit to the West Highland Muesum, where yet more of the history of Scotland was revealed to us. One aspect that was extremely relevant was the remains of some of the graves called the body snatchers, where people were paid to dig up bodies to use in medical schools.
Following this, we were treated to a cruise on Loch Linhe, observing mussel and trout farms, Ben Nevis and beautiful views. We had a snack, drink and met an Australian who was over for the World Cup. It was certainly different, yet great to hear the true blue Aussie accent.
We returned home to Kay and Ron’s place for lunch of mustard smoked salmon and salad to prepare ourselves for our bike ride. We rode for 26 kilometres along the Caledonian Canal, exploring the scenery and enjoying the outdoors. I felt fantastic after the exercise.
We then began our evening out, of course after a quick shower, we met at the Moorings Hotel for what was supposed to be a High Tea, but was more like a three course meal. It was beautiful however we were rushed to be able to be present at the Lochaber High School’s production of ‘Burke and Hare”. It was a truly fantastic performance, which was written and directed by one of the school’s teachers and told a version of the story of the body snatchers that we learnt about in the museum. What talented performers this school has!!
We all then met at Charlie’s for a social drink, which was a fitting end to the night.
Friday 27th
It was morning again and time to gather together to travel to travel to Aviemore for the District Conference. We all met at the hotel and loaded the minibus with all of our luggage and started on the journey. En route we stopped at the area where Mary MacKillop’s family were from and visited the church where memorials are held in her honour, as well as the old cemetery. We also viewed from a distance the house where the Monarch of the Glen is shot. Further along the road, we stopped for soup and rolls before arriving at Aviemore to register, unload and rest in the Four Seasons Motel.
The conference began with a formal night of dinner and Gaelic dancing, where of course after being to the country dancing classes was expected to be up and giving it ago the very first dance. We all seemed to enjoy the night, returning back to our rooms early in order to sleep well to be refreshed for a presentation early the next morning.
Saturday 28th
I am sure we all woke a little nervous the today, as we knew there would be a possible 400 people in the theatre to listen to our reflection of our time in Scotland. I was very proud of each and every one of us in our speeches and in my opinion I feel that they were very well received by the people present, as they certainly laughed along with us. It was a relief to have made our way to this point and the last thing we had to do was to perform our skit. We spent some time that afternoon reviewing and refining this, followed by some time out, rest and then preparation for drinks with Drew. The evening was entertaining, as it was a dress as a movie star night and some fantastic characters appeared. We shared a lovely dinner and drinks and part way through the night we escaped, changed and then appeared as lifesavers to entertain during the bands break. Well it didn’t quite come off as expected due to a few glitches, but nevertheless Margaret’s dancing and thong clapping certainly got some attention. The night continued with more drink and dance, in outfit and our wigs were shared around.
Sunday 29th
This was our last day and so we all got together to share breakfast and then packed our bags for the last time on the tour. We were then able to watch Harry’s return team from Georgia give their presentation to the conference. I felt that could relate to exactly what they were saying – a truly memorable experience.
I returned to Glasgow with John and Joyce, where we travelled to John’s brother’s place to pick up his car en route to the Glynhill Hotel. We had dinner in the bar and then I caught up with the rest of the team. It seemed that it was the end, but I couldn’t fathom all that I had learnt or experience, but felt that I had done so much and met so many truly fantastic people during this time.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
Jane's Journal - 21 September
Monday 3rd
-This day saw us all be collected from the wonderful night's stay at the Glynhill Motel with the weather being very indifferent from that of Glen Innes in Aussie. We were escorted by Harry and Lindsay to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, after Harry's arrival from being caught in traffic. Upon >arrival we learnt about the history of the city by partaking in the open city bus tour, which also provided us with the opportunity to decide which of these areas we would like to revisit. Lunch was enjoyable, after walking up a number of ascending steps. Both Catherine and myself decided that this was not punishment enough so we ran down them and then proceeded to climb the 287 winding steps to the top of the Scots Monument right in the centre >of town and then walked the steps again and decided to reward ourselves with some retail therapy. Well deserved we thought. Later in the afternoon >we visited the Scottish Parliament building and what a building it was! Anyone in Scotland could tell you that the money spent of this building was >well over budget, (400 million pounds instead of 40 million pounds) however >I must say I was impressed by the interior of the building, as a lot of >thought has been put into making various parts of this building meaningful >to the public. My favourite being the shapes of bottles in the glass of the >walls of the chamber room to remind the members of parliament that they are >making decisions for the people.>At the end of this tiring day, I met my first hosts George and Linda >MacRitchie and was most impressed to have a ride in my first Jaguar car.>>
Tuesday 4th
-This day saw the team have a quick last minute get together to ensure that >our presentation was on par for the evening meeting with the Bothwell and >Uddingston Rotary Club. Just as well we did as we found that the laptop was >not reading our external harddrive. Luckily that Harry knows just about >everyone and decided to call upon one of these people and it only took a >matter of five minutes to rectify. After this Catherine, Nerida and myself >took a wee tour of the Bothwell Castle escorted by George and Len, which is >situated near the Clyde River and only part of the castle remains.>We were then welcomed to the church by the local minister who keenly >relayed to us the history involved in the church and joined us for a bowl >of lovely soup. After this the girls were very capably driven to the >Glasgow Fort Shopping Centre by Marlyn and Margaret for some more retail >therapy.>>This night saw a very first presentation in Scotland and we were welcomed >very warmly by the clubs and were introduced to our very first Haggis meal >and the toasting of the Haggis. I must say it wasn't too bad, I did expect >it to taste worse. The highlight of the evening was the fact that I won >three lucky door raffles out of three. I guess it made a really good start >to the tour, although I did feel greedy.>>
Wednesday 5th
-This day bought our very first vocational day. Catherine and I visited two >schools - St Bride's Primary in the morning followed by Hamilton College in >the afternoon. It is very fair to say that the schools in Scotland are very >similiar to the schools in Australia. However, it is extremely obvious that >security is very important and carried out with great care, as most schools >are locked and everyone including students need to be buzzed in.>After attending our busy day above, the team and their hosts had some >quality time together over a Scottish BBQ at Roy and Margaret's place. It >was a very pleasant night for all involved.>>
Thursday 6th
-This morning saw another early rise to meet in the Church car park with our >overweight luggage to be collected and delivered to our new hosts in the >afternoon. Whilst this was happening we spent the day in Glascow begiinning >on the city bus tour to visit the Glasgow University, the Hunterian Muesum >and MacIntosh House. My favourite of these was MacIntosh House, which >showed the artworks and architecture of Charles Rennie MacIntosh. They were >truly outstanding and I certainly wish to gather a piece of this work as a >souvenir.>At the completion of this day, after observing Len reading directions we >all arrived at George McCullloch's place to met our new host families from >the Eastwood Rotary Club just after 5 and needed to be ready for the >meeting at 6:30pm. As my host families lived in Hamiliton, I was to get >dressed at George's place and meet John and Joyce at the Roary meeting. >Everyone else picked up their bags (as well as my toiletries bag) and >headed home. I quickly discovered I would have to go to the meeting without >makeup or perfume. Before we left, George insisted Margaret and I have a >drink, and we soon discovered that the Scottish like to make their drinks >very strong. Both of us, felt the pinch of it when we showed up to the >motel. Luckily no one appeared to notice. Our second presentation went ok >and skippy is surely becoming a hit.>>
Friday 7th
-This was where we were involved in our second vocational day, which >included visiting Hutcheson Primary School and Mearns Primary School. We we >welcomed into the schools, given guided tours and spoke with some teachers >about the way the curriculum is utilised in their schools. This reinforced >that their were only small differences in the schools, however probably the >biggest difference is the way in which the local shire is responsible for >the running of the schools. Certainly different to ours.>In the evening we were treated to a night of 10 pin bowling with the Rotary >Club followed by dinner at an Indian restuarant. By in large a good night >was had by all, despite the fact that all five of us were almost falling >asleep at the table as the jet lag had finally caught up with us.>>
Saturday 8th
-A sleep in was well deserved by all of us, so we met at 11am at the Glasgow >Art Gallery and Museum, which is certainly a place where you could spend >hours. We wandered freely through this, observing the history from around >the world. I took a test about love and whether I would choose the rich or >the poor guy and the results indicated that I couldn't choose between the >two. A sad state isn't it?>The next part of the day we couldn't wait for, Catherine and Judi took us >shopping in Glasgow for formal dresses for Aviemore and must to my surprise >their were dresses everywhere - mostly those that cost an arm and a leg. >Despite this I was able to find a reasonable priced black number and indeed >help Nerida to do the same. Success all round - although some of us didn't >buy much at all.>At 4:30pm in the afternoon John who was at the volleyball championships all >day came and picked me up and we headed home to prepare for our night out >at the Police Volleyball Championships Dinner, joined by Joyce and Suzy >(John and Joyce's daughter). This was held at the Science Centre and was a >sci-fi theme. Boy can the police dress up!>John was rewarded for all his marvellous work with the volleyball and Joyce >too for all her assistance was givena lovely bunch of flowers.>A good time was had by all - eating, drinking and dancing.>>
Sunday 9th
-With a threatening sky, all of the team except from Margaret took the >opportunity to go horseriding just outside of Ayr. We were left in the >hands of the capable Fiona who lead us down the road and through some >beautiful rainforest-like path during which we had the opportunity to give >trotting ago. My horse, Alya - the rather rounded one, decided that she >would be the naughty one and try and overtake all the other horses.>Upon return from our horse ride we met at a place called Dobbies to met >with our new host families. This is where I met a lady by my namesake - >Jane. We had a lovely lunch and then went back to the family home. We made >the decision, as the rest of the family was away on an orienteering weekend >to go for a walk along the beach front. I was amazed to see that the beach >was a grey colour and the sand was not like the golden sandy beaches of >Australia but rather a dull colour. The walk took us about an hour and I >think it was just what the doctor would have ordered.>>Later that evening I met the rest of the family, Bob Jane's husband, Alan, >Catherine and Joe, their children. Boy was dinner time entertaining with >each of the the children wanting to have their say and giving each other a >hard time. It was fun to watch and all in good fun.>>
Monday 10th>>This day arrived and all the team met at 11am for a quick get together >before our first lunch time meeting at 12:15pm. This went well and skippy, >our heads and tails prize, was once again a hit with the winner and the >Rotary club members.>After this we travelled to Calzean Castle and we lead through a tour of the >castle with the most magnificent views of the beach surrounding it. I must >say my favourite was the viewing the ball room. We then sat and appreciated >the spectacular view from the just below the castle and enjoyed some tea >and coffee, or in may case a hot chocolate.>>On this night, I was entertained by Catherine, Alan and Joe with a >sponetaneous musical ensemble - Catherine on the violin, Alan on the guitar >and Joe on the drums. Joe made sure that the photos I was taking were taken >from the correct position. They are all very talented musicians.>>
Tuesday 11th
-This day saw a new aspect of my vocational days. I was placed within high >schools to view how physical education programs are run, with a particular >interest in netball. The first school was called Kyle Academy. Here I >witnessed a number of various aged and ability classes in sports such as >badmitton, netball and gymnastics. These are run in a similar manner to >those in Australian schools, however the major difference was that they >were in single sex classes in the junior classes. The reason for this is >they feel that each of the groups, especially the girls feel more confident >in their ability to give it ago.>>The second school I visited was called Belmont Academy, where the school >held physical education in high regard. This was apparent through all of >the clubs held during lunch times and outside of school throughout the >course of the week. I was able to view volleyball, dance, basketball and >football in progress.>>In chatting with Jane, I was also made aware as she is a teacher that >suspensions in the primary schools are very unlikely.>>On this night we spent time at Don and Ludmilla's place for dinner and >drinks. The most outstanding thing I can remember from this night was the >delicious salmon that was in fact steamed in the dishwasher. I could not >believe it and the look on Margaret's face said it all. This was a lovely >night with great food, drink and conversation. Nadia was quite keen to hit >the town of Ayr, however we were all tired and of course what would be >happening on a Tuesday night!>>
Wednesday 12th>>Jane and I set about on own own little journey on this day. First of all we >went and visited the cottage of the famous poet Robert Burns called Burn's >cottage, as Jane had not visited this before.It was amazing to see how his >family lived and the number of poems that he had written. One thing I will >not forget is that he assisted in writing the song Auld Lang Sine.>>Jane then took me past the most popular place to get married in Ayr - a >place down near the Brig O'doon, but my memory fails me as to the name of >this place. Apparently if you wish to mary here you must book at least >three years in advance and have quite a substantial amount of money.>>Jane and I then went and made a short visit to her school and her job share >class to speak to her children. I was quite baffled by the types of >questions the children asked in particular, what are your footballs made >out of? Do you have playground equipment?>>Two things that I learnt form this visit was that the students are placed >in registered (set) classes beginning at P1 (Kindy) and are in these >classes through to P7 (year 6). Movement is very unlikely. The second thing >was that some of the schools have an open classroom design, with six >classes in the one room. A very noisy place.>>Jane and myself then met, Helen, Jimmy and Catherine for lunch at Elliot's. >The meals, although they were only snakcs were very substantial. A little >retail therapy was then required and we were then transported for our day's >break at Seamill Hydro. Upon arrival we all sat down and had a coffee >before farewelling our hosts and beginning our relaxation.>Catherine, Nadia, Nerida and myself all sat down and enjoyed a lovely >dinner and wine in the restaurant, with great conversation to go along with >it. After which we wandered up to Margaret to share another wine before >embarking on a well-deserved sleep.>>
Thursday 13th>>This was the day we had looked forward to, as we were extremely tired and >spent the day looking after ourselves. After having a wide choice of >breakfast from the restaurant we walked in a brisk manner to West Kilbride >to see the sights and to buy some fresh fruits and salads fro lunch and >dinner. Again walking briskly we returned to Seamill to be treated to a >massage, in each case we were asked if we were stressed or tired and of >course our answers explained what we have been doing. The completion of the >day involved the use of the pool and sauna, a restful afternoon in front of >the tv, and a quiet dinner with the team before an early night, as the >program begins again in the morning.>>
Friday 14th>>This saw our next vocational day, which was spent with the staff and >students of Glebe Primary School. I spent the morning with a P1 class, who >have only being at school for 4 weeks and then I attended the P1-P3 >assembly where a P7 class were presenting an item on where each of the >teachers went for holidays. One member of staff travelled to Australia and >couldn't wait to return - not surprising at all really! I then watched a P3 >smartboard lesson, followed by P7 engaged in an art task, drawing images of >people in action.>After this I spent some time with Catherine and her host family until Hugh >arrive to pick me up. We shared a couple of glasses of wine and Hugh joined >us. I then enjoyed a lovely meal prepared by Maureen, a home economics >teacher, her daughter Dawn and Hugh. A lovely evening had by all.>>
Saturday 15th>>We awoke to our first really miserable day, in which we were to take a 55 >minute ferry ride to the Isle of Arran. It seemed that God was looking out >for us and upon arrival the weather appeared to be much clearer and we were >able to enjoy everything that Arran had to offer. Nadia decided that she >would like to visit the distillery, whilst the rest of us began our journey >to tour the Castle and enjoy the spectacular views of the gardens. My >favourite was of course, a lovely wooden hut called the summer house. It >was built on the top of a little cliff, absorbing the sunshine from most >perspectives and on the inside each of the walls were covered with pine >cones and nuts glued in different patterns. A photograph could not do it >justice.>Our next adventure entailed a walk to the Arran cheese shop, where we could >sample different cheeses. My choice was the red wine cheese - how >surprising! The shop following this was Arran Aromotherapy which was full >of delightful smells, testers and lovely body care ranges. We certainly >couldn't resist some purchases, all be it for our pressies back home. As we >all enjoy retail therapy, we wandered around the shops and then caught the >bus back to town, where we met the President of the Arran Rotary Club and >his son Cameron for lunch at the Brasserie. It was a super lunch and >Catherine was extremely pleased to see and hear a bit of the Australian >Rugby team playing.>The remainder of the afternoon was ours to fill in and we did so by >wandering through the shops around Arran and purchasing little things such >as chocolates from the chocolate shop, and little souvenirs.>We returned home on the ferry at 4:30pm and wandered our way to the >comfortable seats in the bar only to find ourselves sitting nearest to a >roudy group of bowlers who had been to Arran for the weekend to play golf. >This is a very popular activity for the weekend.>The night saw us all get together at ian and Louise's house, Nerida and >Nadia's hosts where we shared a home cooked meal and were treated to some >singing by Jim, which was really super. We even requested that he sing >Waltzing Matilda. Wow what a talent he has!>>>
Sunday 16th>>This day was called a free day where we could choose what it was we wished >to do from a selection of activities. As we were obviously all girls we >opted for some retail therapy at Braehead. Jim, one of the Rotarians could >not believe that we spent 4 and a half hours wondering in the shopping >centre. We all really enjoyed the day, however we were exhausted by day's >end. Nerida took advantage of the Body shop and had her make-up done. Then >she, Ian and Louise left from Braehead to go to the city of Glasgow to see >if Nerida could spend the day at the Scotsman. Nadia accompanied Hugh, >Maureen, Dawn and myself for another homemade banquet of lamb roast and >vegetables, and lemon meringue pie. It was undoubtedly beautiful and no >wonder I feel as if I am piling on the pounds.>>
Monday 17th>>On Monday morning Dawn and myself were greeted by the two Jimmies, >Catherine, Nadia, and Margaret where we were told we needed to get some >fresh air and had a choice of playing golf or walking on the beach. >Needless to say I was indecisive to begin with, but finally made the choice >to walk along the beach. Nadia was the only one who was brave enough to >give the golf a try and by all accounts from the Jims showed potential. >Maybe we might see Nadia on the local golf courses.>Lunch was a lovely dinner at the the nearby cafe.>We returned to our host families for an afternoon of rest, before our >Irvine Seagate presentation at the Golf Hotel in the evening. Dawn, >Maureen, Hugh and myself sat up chatting with a few drinks before hitting >the hay for another night.>>
Tuesday 18th>>Tuesday morning saw yet another packing of the bag and while distributing >thank you gifts, my bag doesn't seem to be getting any easier to pack. I >was picked up early this morning (9:45) to travel to our meeting place just >outside of Glasgow called Hurlford. After departing from the car and >grabbing my bits and pieces some Irish chap from the street carried my >luggage into the meeting place, asked where I was from, gave me a kiss on >the cheek and proceeded on his way. What more can I say?>After most of us having a coffee (except me of course) we piled into some >new cars with John, Bob and Bruce from the Kirkintilloch club and headed to >the Glasgow Council chambers where we toured the chambers, met the Lord >Deputy Provoss (deputy mayor), and were served tea, coffee and scones. He >was a lovely gentleman with the electrician trade and explained to us how >he lights up the city of Glasgow. Margaret presented him with an encased >boomerang and in return he presented her with a shield from Glasgow. We >were all presented with a Glasgow tartan scarf for the ladies and a tie for >the gentlemen.>We also wandered through the religious muesum and learnt about how the >different religions came about. We were then lead through the Cathedral and >given a large insight into the history of the building and the many >significant parts of the building.>Upon returning to Kirkintilloch, I was dropped off to my new hosts, Hamish >and Gill Sinclair and their much loved children (English Springer Spaniel >Dogs) Katie and Teal. After spending a couple of hours relaxing and getting >to know our hosts, we met again for our presentation. By all accounts we >are certainly improving and becoming more confident.>>
Wednesday 19th>>Today was our vocational day. It was a little different to our previous >ones. Catherine and I spent the day in two schools which cater for the >children who have disabilities. All of the people who work in these places >are very special individuals and their jobs are very rewarding ones. >Congratulations.>>After finishing at the schools, Gill, Catherine and myself went and soaked >up the Kirkintilluch atmosphere and had a nice coffee/hot chocolate on the >sidewalk.>>This night Gill invited Fiona, a head of Department for one of the schools >in the area, around for dinner. We had a delicious smoked salmon and prawn >entree, ( I must say that I am becoming very partial to smoked salmon), >lasagne and salad, followed by a cherry cheesecake made by one of Fiona's >sons. Just going by this meal you can see how well we are being fed and it >will explain the extra weight gained.>An interesting thing I learnt from chatting to Fiona was that there is no >such thing as LSL in Scotland. How lucky are we!!!!>>
Thursday 19th>>I woke early this morning to go to work with Gill and whilst waiting for >Sandy and Nadia to pick me up I spent an hour and a half writing the blog >that you are now reading. Upon thir arrival, I learnt that Sandy had >recently purchased an Audi sportscar and that was our mode of transport for >the day. It would have made quite a photograph to see me climbing in and >out of the back seat. Luckily we only had short distances to travel. Our >first stop was the Stirling Castle. It was spectacular in all of its glory >and the history that came along with it to me seemed unbelievable.>>Our next adventure was the William Wallace Monument which is perched high >on the top of a hill, You can see this in the distance from the Stirling >Castle and vice versa. Nadia and myself, along with sandy stepped it out up >the sloping and winding road to the top of the monument, posed for a few >photographs, admired the view and then took a leisurely stroll back down >the hill.>Our last visit for the day was to the Falkirk wheel. This is where two >canals at different levels met using a wheel to transport one boat to the >another. Terrific to watch - a simple idea yet genius>>At 6pm, the team and Rotarians met together to take a ride down the Firth >and Clyde Canal in two boats. It was nice and peaceful and we enjoyed this >relaxing time. Upon return, we met up at Sandy and Moira's for dinner and >drinks. The highlight of the night was Margaret and Hamish giving the Mauri >greeting and singing a song. Hamish was very impressed by the night and >commented on the way home, 'that policewoman is nice, really nice'.>>
Friday 20th>>We met at Sandy's place early and headed on our next part of the journey, >including driving through beautiful countryside beside Loch Lomond and >viewing the tallest mountain called Ben Lomond. We stopped for coffee at a >motel near Loch Lomond and then continued on to the pick up point not far >past Rest and be Thankful. It was here that we met our new club Dunoon. >After pickup we travelled for about 30 minutes to Ken and Margarie's place >where we we treated to a lovely homecooked meal and once again smoked >salmon was on the menu. We went for a lovely walk in the country side and >yes all you folk back home can guess what happened - we got drenched with >rain. That didn't stop Nerida and myself we kept walking so that we could >take a photo of Emma Thompson's house and her horses.>>After 5pm, Ken and Margarie dropped Nerida and myself to Tony and Speth's >house which overlooks the water. It is such a beautiful location. We had a >lovely dinner and got to know Tony and Speth.>>
Saturday 21st>>Both Nerida and myself took advantage of some rest time and slept in or had >a long lie as they say in Scotland. So breakfast of course was quite late. >We then got ourselves organised for the day's adventure - a ride on the >River Rocket. It was a glorious day for Scotland and we really enjoyed >being shown the sights of Dunoon and surrounding areas by jet boat. >Surprisingly enough Catherine and myself choose to sit up the back and >unbeknowns to us this is where you get the most wet. hence Catherine and I >had soaking hair. The rest of us was dry thanks to the spacelike suits we >were wearing - very attractive.>>The afternoon was spent walking through the Botanical gardens before >engaging in the Roary meeting followed by our presentation. Once again, it >was a success and well received.
-This day saw us all be collected from the wonderful night's stay at the Glynhill Motel with the weather being very indifferent from that of Glen Innes in Aussie. We were escorted by Harry and Lindsay to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, after Harry's arrival from being caught in traffic. Upon >arrival we learnt about the history of the city by partaking in the open city bus tour, which also provided us with the opportunity to decide which of these areas we would like to revisit. Lunch was enjoyable, after walking up a number of ascending steps. Both Catherine and myself decided that this was not punishment enough so we ran down them and then proceeded to climb the 287 winding steps to the top of the Scots Monument right in the centre >of town and then walked the steps again and decided to reward ourselves with some retail therapy. Well deserved we thought. Later in the afternoon >we visited the Scottish Parliament building and what a building it was! Anyone in Scotland could tell you that the money spent of this building was >well over budget, (400 million pounds instead of 40 million pounds) however >I must say I was impressed by the interior of the building, as a lot of >thought has been put into making various parts of this building meaningful >to the public. My favourite being the shapes of bottles in the glass of the >walls of the chamber room to remind the members of parliament that they are >making decisions for the people.>At the end of this tiring day, I met my first hosts George and Linda >MacRitchie and was most impressed to have a ride in my first Jaguar car.>>
Tuesday 4th
-This day saw the team have a quick last minute get together to ensure that >our presentation was on par for the evening meeting with the Bothwell and >Uddingston Rotary Club. Just as well we did as we found that the laptop was >not reading our external harddrive. Luckily that Harry knows just about >everyone and decided to call upon one of these people and it only took a >matter of five minutes to rectify. After this Catherine, Nerida and myself >took a wee tour of the Bothwell Castle escorted by George and Len, which is >situated near the Clyde River and only part of the castle remains.>We were then welcomed to the church by the local minister who keenly >relayed to us the history involved in the church and joined us for a bowl >of lovely soup. After this the girls were very capably driven to the >Glasgow Fort Shopping Centre by Marlyn and Margaret for some more retail >therapy.>>This night saw a very first presentation in Scotland and we were welcomed >very warmly by the clubs and were introduced to our very first Haggis meal >and the toasting of the Haggis. I must say it wasn't too bad, I did expect >it to taste worse. The highlight of the evening was the fact that I won >three lucky door raffles out of three. I guess it made a really good start >to the tour, although I did feel greedy.>>
Wednesday 5th
-This day bought our very first vocational day. Catherine and I visited two >schools - St Bride's Primary in the morning followed by Hamilton College in >the afternoon. It is very fair to say that the schools in Scotland are very >similiar to the schools in Australia. However, it is extremely obvious that >security is very important and carried out with great care, as most schools >are locked and everyone including students need to be buzzed in.>After attending our busy day above, the team and their hosts had some >quality time together over a Scottish BBQ at Roy and Margaret's place. It >was a very pleasant night for all involved.>>
Thursday 6th
-This morning saw another early rise to meet in the Church car park with our >overweight luggage to be collected and delivered to our new hosts in the >afternoon. Whilst this was happening we spent the day in Glascow begiinning >on the city bus tour to visit the Glasgow University, the Hunterian Muesum >and MacIntosh House. My favourite of these was MacIntosh House, which >showed the artworks and architecture of Charles Rennie MacIntosh. They were >truly outstanding and I certainly wish to gather a piece of this work as a >souvenir.>At the completion of this day, after observing Len reading directions we >all arrived at George McCullloch's place to met our new host families from >the Eastwood Rotary Club just after 5 and needed to be ready for the >meeting at 6:30pm. As my host families lived in Hamiliton, I was to get >dressed at George's place and meet John and Joyce at the Roary meeting. >Everyone else picked up their bags (as well as my toiletries bag) and >headed home. I quickly discovered I would have to go to the meeting without >makeup or perfume. Before we left, George insisted Margaret and I have a >drink, and we soon discovered that the Scottish like to make their drinks >very strong. Both of us, felt the pinch of it when we showed up to the >motel. Luckily no one appeared to notice. Our second presentation went ok >and skippy is surely becoming a hit.>>
Friday 7th
-This was where we were involved in our second vocational day, which >included visiting Hutcheson Primary School and Mearns Primary School. We we >welcomed into the schools, given guided tours and spoke with some teachers >about the way the curriculum is utilised in their schools. This reinforced >that their were only small differences in the schools, however probably the >biggest difference is the way in which the local shire is responsible for >the running of the schools. Certainly different to ours.>In the evening we were treated to a night of 10 pin bowling with the Rotary >Club followed by dinner at an Indian restuarant. By in large a good night >was had by all, despite the fact that all five of us were almost falling >asleep at the table as the jet lag had finally caught up with us.>>
Saturday 8th
-A sleep in was well deserved by all of us, so we met at 11am at the Glasgow >Art Gallery and Museum, which is certainly a place where you could spend >hours. We wandered freely through this, observing the history from around >the world. I took a test about love and whether I would choose the rich or >the poor guy and the results indicated that I couldn't choose between the >two. A sad state isn't it?>The next part of the day we couldn't wait for, Catherine and Judi took us >shopping in Glasgow for formal dresses for Aviemore and must to my surprise >their were dresses everywhere - mostly those that cost an arm and a leg. >Despite this I was able to find a reasonable priced black number and indeed >help Nerida to do the same. Success all round - although some of us didn't >buy much at all.>At 4:30pm in the afternoon John who was at the volleyball championships all >day came and picked me up and we headed home to prepare for our night out >at the Police Volleyball Championships Dinner, joined by Joyce and Suzy >(John and Joyce's daughter). This was held at the Science Centre and was a >sci-fi theme. Boy can the police dress up!>John was rewarded for all his marvellous work with the volleyball and Joyce >too for all her assistance was givena lovely bunch of flowers.>A good time was had by all - eating, drinking and dancing.>>
Sunday 9th
-With a threatening sky, all of the team except from Margaret took the >opportunity to go horseriding just outside of Ayr. We were left in the >hands of the capable Fiona who lead us down the road and through some >beautiful rainforest-like path during which we had the opportunity to give >trotting ago. My horse, Alya - the rather rounded one, decided that she >would be the naughty one and try and overtake all the other horses.>Upon return from our horse ride we met at a place called Dobbies to met >with our new host families. This is where I met a lady by my namesake - >Jane. We had a lovely lunch and then went back to the family home. We made >the decision, as the rest of the family was away on an orienteering weekend >to go for a walk along the beach front. I was amazed to see that the beach >was a grey colour and the sand was not like the golden sandy beaches of >Australia but rather a dull colour. The walk took us about an hour and I >think it was just what the doctor would have ordered.>>Later that evening I met the rest of the family, Bob Jane's husband, Alan, >Catherine and Joe, their children. Boy was dinner time entertaining with >each of the the children wanting to have their say and giving each other a >hard time. It was fun to watch and all in good fun.>>
Monday 10th>>This day arrived and all the team met at 11am for a quick get together >before our first lunch time meeting at 12:15pm. This went well and skippy, >our heads and tails prize, was once again a hit with the winner and the >Rotary club members.>After this we travelled to Calzean Castle and we lead through a tour of the >castle with the most magnificent views of the beach surrounding it. I must >say my favourite was the viewing the ball room. We then sat and appreciated >the spectacular view from the just below the castle and enjoyed some tea >and coffee, or in may case a hot chocolate.>>On this night, I was entertained by Catherine, Alan and Joe with a >sponetaneous musical ensemble - Catherine on the violin, Alan on the guitar >and Joe on the drums. Joe made sure that the photos I was taking were taken >from the correct position. They are all very talented musicians.>>
Tuesday 11th
-This day saw a new aspect of my vocational days. I was placed within high >schools to view how physical education programs are run, with a particular >interest in netball. The first school was called Kyle Academy. Here I >witnessed a number of various aged and ability classes in sports such as >badmitton, netball and gymnastics. These are run in a similar manner to >those in Australian schools, however the major difference was that they >were in single sex classes in the junior classes. The reason for this is >they feel that each of the groups, especially the girls feel more confident >in their ability to give it ago.>>The second school I visited was called Belmont Academy, where the school >held physical education in high regard. This was apparent through all of >the clubs held during lunch times and outside of school throughout the >course of the week. I was able to view volleyball, dance, basketball and >football in progress.>>In chatting with Jane, I was also made aware as she is a teacher that >suspensions in the primary schools are very unlikely.>>On this night we spent time at Don and Ludmilla's place for dinner and >drinks. The most outstanding thing I can remember from this night was the >delicious salmon that was in fact steamed in the dishwasher. I could not >believe it and the look on Margaret's face said it all. This was a lovely >night with great food, drink and conversation. Nadia was quite keen to hit >the town of Ayr, however we were all tired and of course what would be >happening on a Tuesday night!>>
Wednesday 12th>>Jane and I set about on own own little journey on this day. First of all we >went and visited the cottage of the famous poet Robert Burns called Burn's >cottage, as Jane had not visited this before.It was amazing to see how his >family lived and the number of poems that he had written. One thing I will >not forget is that he assisted in writing the song Auld Lang Sine.>>Jane then took me past the most popular place to get married in Ayr - a >place down near the Brig O'doon, but my memory fails me as to the name of >this place. Apparently if you wish to mary here you must book at least >three years in advance and have quite a substantial amount of money.>>Jane and I then went and made a short visit to her school and her job share >class to speak to her children. I was quite baffled by the types of >questions the children asked in particular, what are your footballs made >out of? Do you have playground equipment?>>Two things that I learnt form this visit was that the students are placed >in registered (set) classes beginning at P1 (Kindy) and are in these >classes through to P7 (year 6). Movement is very unlikely. The second thing >was that some of the schools have an open classroom design, with six >classes in the one room. A very noisy place.>>Jane and myself then met, Helen, Jimmy and Catherine for lunch at Elliot's. >The meals, although they were only snakcs were very substantial. A little >retail therapy was then required and we were then transported for our day's >break at Seamill Hydro. Upon arrival we all sat down and had a coffee >before farewelling our hosts and beginning our relaxation.>Catherine, Nadia, Nerida and myself all sat down and enjoyed a lovely >dinner and wine in the restaurant, with great conversation to go along with >it. After which we wandered up to Margaret to share another wine before >embarking on a well-deserved sleep.>>
Thursday 13th>>This was the day we had looked forward to, as we were extremely tired and >spent the day looking after ourselves. After having a wide choice of >breakfast from the restaurant we walked in a brisk manner to West Kilbride >to see the sights and to buy some fresh fruits and salads fro lunch and >dinner. Again walking briskly we returned to Seamill to be treated to a >massage, in each case we were asked if we were stressed or tired and of >course our answers explained what we have been doing. The completion of the >day involved the use of the pool and sauna, a restful afternoon in front of >the tv, and a quiet dinner with the team before an early night, as the >program begins again in the morning.>>
Friday 14th>>This saw our next vocational day, which was spent with the staff and >students of Glebe Primary School. I spent the morning with a P1 class, who >have only being at school for 4 weeks and then I attended the P1-P3 >assembly where a P7 class were presenting an item on where each of the >teachers went for holidays. One member of staff travelled to Australia and >couldn't wait to return - not surprising at all really! I then watched a P3 >smartboard lesson, followed by P7 engaged in an art task, drawing images of >people in action.>After this I spent some time with Catherine and her host family until Hugh >arrive to pick me up. We shared a couple of glasses of wine and Hugh joined >us. I then enjoyed a lovely meal prepared by Maureen, a home economics >teacher, her daughter Dawn and Hugh. A lovely evening had by all.>>
Saturday 15th>>We awoke to our first really miserable day, in which we were to take a 55 >minute ferry ride to the Isle of Arran. It seemed that God was looking out >for us and upon arrival the weather appeared to be much clearer and we were >able to enjoy everything that Arran had to offer. Nadia decided that she >would like to visit the distillery, whilst the rest of us began our journey >to tour the Castle and enjoy the spectacular views of the gardens. My >favourite was of course, a lovely wooden hut called the summer house. It >was built on the top of a little cliff, absorbing the sunshine from most >perspectives and on the inside each of the walls were covered with pine >cones and nuts glued in different patterns. A photograph could not do it >justice.>Our next adventure entailed a walk to the Arran cheese shop, where we could >sample different cheeses. My choice was the red wine cheese - how >surprising! The shop following this was Arran Aromotherapy which was full >of delightful smells, testers and lovely body care ranges. We certainly >couldn't resist some purchases, all be it for our pressies back home. As we >all enjoy retail therapy, we wandered around the shops and then caught the >bus back to town, where we met the President of the Arran Rotary Club and >his son Cameron for lunch at the Brasserie. It was a super lunch and >Catherine was extremely pleased to see and hear a bit of the Australian >Rugby team playing.>The remainder of the afternoon was ours to fill in and we did so by >wandering through the shops around Arran and purchasing little things such >as chocolates from the chocolate shop, and little souvenirs.>We returned home on the ferry at 4:30pm and wandered our way to the >comfortable seats in the bar only to find ourselves sitting nearest to a >roudy group of bowlers who had been to Arran for the weekend to play golf. >This is a very popular activity for the weekend.>The night saw us all get together at ian and Louise's house, Nerida and >Nadia's hosts where we shared a home cooked meal and were treated to some >singing by Jim, which was really super. We even requested that he sing >Waltzing Matilda. Wow what a talent he has!>>>
Sunday 16th>>This day was called a free day where we could choose what it was we wished >to do from a selection of activities. As we were obviously all girls we >opted for some retail therapy at Braehead. Jim, one of the Rotarians could >not believe that we spent 4 and a half hours wondering in the shopping >centre. We all really enjoyed the day, however we were exhausted by day's >end. Nerida took advantage of the Body shop and had her make-up done. Then >she, Ian and Louise left from Braehead to go to the city of Glasgow to see >if Nerida could spend the day at the Scotsman. Nadia accompanied Hugh, >Maureen, Dawn and myself for another homemade banquet of lamb roast and >vegetables, and lemon meringue pie. It was undoubtedly beautiful and no >wonder I feel as if I am piling on the pounds.>>
Monday 17th>>On Monday morning Dawn and myself were greeted by the two Jimmies, >Catherine, Nadia, and Margaret where we were told we needed to get some >fresh air and had a choice of playing golf or walking on the beach. >Needless to say I was indecisive to begin with, but finally made the choice >to walk along the beach. Nadia was the only one who was brave enough to >give the golf a try and by all accounts from the Jims showed potential. >Maybe we might see Nadia on the local golf courses.>Lunch was a lovely dinner at the the nearby cafe.>We returned to our host families for an afternoon of rest, before our >Irvine Seagate presentation at the Golf Hotel in the evening. Dawn, >Maureen, Hugh and myself sat up chatting with a few drinks before hitting >the hay for another night.>>
Tuesday 18th>>Tuesday morning saw yet another packing of the bag and while distributing >thank you gifts, my bag doesn't seem to be getting any easier to pack. I >was picked up early this morning (9:45) to travel to our meeting place just >outside of Glasgow called Hurlford. After departing from the car and >grabbing my bits and pieces some Irish chap from the street carried my >luggage into the meeting place, asked where I was from, gave me a kiss on >the cheek and proceeded on his way. What more can I say?>After most of us having a coffee (except me of course) we piled into some >new cars with John, Bob and Bruce from the Kirkintilloch club and headed to >the Glasgow Council chambers where we toured the chambers, met the Lord >Deputy Provoss (deputy mayor), and were served tea, coffee and scones. He >was a lovely gentleman with the electrician trade and explained to us how >he lights up the city of Glasgow. Margaret presented him with an encased >boomerang and in return he presented her with a shield from Glasgow. We >were all presented with a Glasgow tartan scarf for the ladies and a tie for >the gentlemen.>We also wandered through the religious muesum and learnt about how the >different religions came about. We were then lead through the Cathedral and >given a large insight into the history of the building and the many >significant parts of the building.>Upon returning to Kirkintilloch, I was dropped off to my new hosts, Hamish >and Gill Sinclair and their much loved children (English Springer Spaniel >Dogs) Katie and Teal. After spending a couple of hours relaxing and getting >to know our hosts, we met again for our presentation. By all accounts we >are certainly improving and becoming more confident.>>
Wednesday 19th>>Today was our vocational day. It was a little different to our previous >ones. Catherine and I spent the day in two schools which cater for the >children who have disabilities. All of the people who work in these places >are very special individuals and their jobs are very rewarding ones. >Congratulations.>>After finishing at the schools, Gill, Catherine and myself went and soaked >up the Kirkintilluch atmosphere and had a nice coffee/hot chocolate on the >sidewalk.>>This night Gill invited Fiona, a head of Department for one of the schools >in the area, around for dinner. We had a delicious smoked salmon and prawn >entree, ( I must say that I am becoming very partial to smoked salmon), >lasagne and salad, followed by a cherry cheesecake made by one of Fiona's >sons. Just going by this meal you can see how well we are being fed and it >will explain the extra weight gained.>An interesting thing I learnt from chatting to Fiona was that there is no >such thing as LSL in Scotland. How lucky are we!!!!>>
Thursday 19th>>I woke early this morning to go to work with Gill and whilst waiting for >Sandy and Nadia to pick me up I spent an hour and a half writing the blog >that you are now reading. Upon thir arrival, I learnt that Sandy had >recently purchased an Audi sportscar and that was our mode of transport for >the day. It would have made quite a photograph to see me climbing in and >out of the back seat. Luckily we only had short distances to travel. Our >first stop was the Stirling Castle. It was spectacular in all of its glory >and the history that came along with it to me seemed unbelievable.>>Our next adventure was the William Wallace Monument which is perched high >on the top of a hill, You can see this in the distance from the Stirling >Castle and vice versa. Nadia and myself, along with sandy stepped it out up >the sloping and winding road to the top of the monument, posed for a few >photographs, admired the view and then took a leisurely stroll back down >the hill.>Our last visit for the day was to the Falkirk wheel. This is where two >canals at different levels met using a wheel to transport one boat to the >another. Terrific to watch - a simple idea yet genius>>At 6pm, the team and Rotarians met together to take a ride down the Firth >and Clyde Canal in two boats. It was nice and peaceful and we enjoyed this >relaxing time. Upon return, we met up at Sandy and Moira's for dinner and >drinks. The highlight of the night was Margaret and Hamish giving the Mauri >greeting and singing a song. Hamish was very impressed by the night and >commented on the way home, 'that policewoman is nice, really nice'.>>
Friday 20th>>We met at Sandy's place early and headed on our next part of the journey, >including driving through beautiful countryside beside Loch Lomond and >viewing the tallest mountain called Ben Lomond. We stopped for coffee at a >motel near Loch Lomond and then continued on to the pick up point not far >past Rest and be Thankful. It was here that we met our new club Dunoon. >After pickup we travelled for about 30 minutes to Ken and Margarie's place >where we we treated to a lovely homecooked meal and once again smoked >salmon was on the menu. We went for a lovely walk in the country side and >yes all you folk back home can guess what happened - we got drenched with >rain. That didn't stop Nerida and myself we kept walking so that we could >take a photo of Emma Thompson's house and her horses.>>After 5pm, Ken and Margarie dropped Nerida and myself to Tony and Speth's >house which overlooks the water. It is such a beautiful location. We had a >lovely dinner and got to know Tony and Speth.>>
Saturday 21st>>Both Nerida and myself took advantage of some rest time and slept in or had >a long lie as they say in Scotland. So breakfast of course was quite late. >We then got ourselves organised for the day's adventure - a ride on the >River Rocket. It was a glorious day for Scotland and we really enjoyed >being shown the sights of Dunoon and surrounding areas by jet boat. >Surprisingly enough Catherine and myself choose to sit up the back and >unbeknowns to us this is where you get the most wet. hence Catherine and I >had soaking hair. The rest of us was dry thanks to the spacelike suits we >were wearing - very attractive.>>The afternoon was spent walking through the Botanical gardens before >engaging in the Roary meeting followed by our presentation. Once again, it >was a success and well received.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Nerida Blok, Saturday, September 23.
When I first mentioned to a colleague at my newspaper back home in Australia, who was also a Rotary GSE team member some years back to the States, that we were going to provide regular updates of our Scottish adventures via this blog, he laughed in my face. "Good luck," Lindsay said with a knowing grin that only now can I relate to.Yes, I must admit, Lindsay was right.
We're three weeks into our four week trip and the overwhelming hospitality of the Scots have meant we've had very little time for blogging on websites.So apologies for this belated update but please find below a wee list of places and experiences we've been on so far: -
Bothwell and Uddingston (Sept 3-5)
-Day trip to Edinburgh where we did city bus tour around the beautiful and historic city. A highlight of the day (apart from souvenir shopping up the cobblestone streets of the Royal Mile) was the guided tour of the new Scottish Parliament building. A very impressive building that has proved a highly contentious issue here in Scotland due to its rather substantial budget blowout. - Tour of Bothwell Church and centre.- First taste of haggis on the night of our first Rotary presentation - no where near as bad as made out to be!- Vocational day at Real Radio (commercial radio station in Glasgow) and then afternoon with sports writer from Sunday Mail (national Sunday tabloid based in glasgow). Having never had radio experience before I found my time at Real Radio very interesting and was able to go out with reporter and follow the story about the breast cancer drug herceptin being edited back at studio and then aired on radio during lunchtime broadcast.
Eastwood Rotary (Sept 6- 9)
- Glasgow City bus tour- Hunterian Museum/Art Gallery- Mackintosh House- Peoples Palace- Vocational day at The Herald (National daily broadsheet based in Glasgow). Managed to get two by-lines in the following day's Saturday's paper, one of which based on interview with BBC1's Jonathon Ross' chat show house band, 4 Poofs and a Piano. Great fun and fabulous work experience. The other story was to do with a national Active Schools program.- Ten pin bowling and out for a late night curry dinner.- Kelvin Grove Art Gallery and museum.- Shopping in and around Glasgow city centre.- Trail horse riding in Ayr before handover to Ayr Rotary Club.
Ayr Rotary (Sept9-12)
-Robert Burns memorial and house of birth- Relaxation after lunchtime Rotary presentation at gym with spa, swim and sauna.- Day of shopping and exploring picturesque Ayr.- Vocational day at Gaiety Theatre. Seamill Hydro Resort (Sept 12-14)
- Rest and relaxation
Irvine Rotary (Sept 14-18)
- Vocational day with local weekly publication The Irvin Herald and Killwinning Chronicle. Helped local journalist Lorraine Howard, also a former GSE team member to the States, by writing up her weekly page based on our Rotary trip and team. I think they called the page 'Writer's Blok'.
- Ferry ride across to the lovely Isle of Arran where we did tour of Roderick Castle. Had lunch in pub with members of Arran Rotary Club.
- Braehead Shopping centre for retail therapy and then picked up by hosts Ian and Louise where we drove across to Dunbar and spent the night at their second house. Following day spent in Edinburgh - tried to talk way into The Scotsman unsuccessfully. Off to St Cuthbert's Church to see where ancestors were married.
Kirkintilloch Rotary (Sept 18- 21)
- Glasgow City Chambers tour - morning tea with Deputy Provost (a real character who made lighting sound exciting).
- Vocational day spent inside BBC Scotland's new fabulous multi-media building. Spent day with TV news team as well as speaking with the team who produce the online BBC news. Was able to go inside gallery when lunch time news bulletin was done. Extraordinary to see what goes on behind the scenes. Also able to see one reporter put together her story in an editing suite just prior to going to air. all going well until an error in voice overlay ocurred mid broadcast which upset the journalist. (At least pleased to see errors do occur in the big media too).
- Thoroughly enjoyed dinner that night listening to host Bob Tomlinson's stories from his amazing journalism career.
- Stirling Castle and William Wallace Memorial
- Canal tour up the Firth and Clyde.
- Saw Loch Lomand and Ben Lomand on way to Dunoon club.
Dunoon Rotary (Sept 21- present)
- Just back from River Rocket Ride in the Firth of Clyde - beautiful day with the sun shining - perfect. Must get ready now for a tour of garden and then tonight's presentation!.....to be continued...
We're three weeks into our four week trip and the overwhelming hospitality of the Scots have meant we've had very little time for blogging on websites.So apologies for this belated update but please find below a wee list of places and experiences we've been on so far: -
Bothwell and Uddingston (Sept 3-5)
-Day trip to Edinburgh where we did city bus tour around the beautiful and historic city. A highlight of the day (apart from souvenir shopping up the cobblestone streets of the Royal Mile) was the guided tour of the new Scottish Parliament building. A very impressive building that has proved a highly contentious issue here in Scotland due to its rather substantial budget blowout. - Tour of Bothwell Church and centre.- First taste of haggis on the night of our first Rotary presentation - no where near as bad as made out to be!- Vocational day at Real Radio (commercial radio station in Glasgow) and then afternoon with sports writer from Sunday Mail (national Sunday tabloid based in glasgow). Having never had radio experience before I found my time at Real Radio very interesting and was able to go out with reporter and follow the story about the breast cancer drug herceptin being edited back at studio and then aired on radio during lunchtime broadcast.
Eastwood Rotary (Sept 6- 9)
- Glasgow City bus tour- Hunterian Museum/Art Gallery- Mackintosh House- Peoples Palace- Vocational day at The Herald (National daily broadsheet based in Glasgow). Managed to get two by-lines in the following day's Saturday's paper, one of which based on interview with BBC1's Jonathon Ross' chat show house band, 4 Poofs and a Piano. Great fun and fabulous work experience. The other story was to do with a national Active Schools program.- Ten pin bowling and out for a late night curry dinner.- Kelvin Grove Art Gallery and museum.- Shopping in and around Glasgow city centre.- Trail horse riding in Ayr before handover to Ayr Rotary Club.
Ayr Rotary (Sept9-12)
-Robert Burns memorial and house of birth- Relaxation after lunchtime Rotary presentation at gym with spa, swim and sauna.- Day of shopping and exploring picturesque Ayr.- Vocational day at Gaiety Theatre. Seamill Hydro Resort (Sept 12-14)
- Rest and relaxation
Irvine Rotary (Sept 14-18)
- Vocational day with local weekly publication The Irvin Herald and Killwinning Chronicle. Helped local journalist Lorraine Howard, also a former GSE team member to the States, by writing up her weekly page based on our Rotary trip and team. I think they called the page 'Writer's Blok'.
- Ferry ride across to the lovely Isle of Arran where we did tour of Roderick Castle. Had lunch in pub with members of Arran Rotary Club.
- Braehead Shopping centre for retail therapy and then picked up by hosts Ian and Louise where we drove across to Dunbar and spent the night at their second house. Following day spent in Edinburgh - tried to talk way into The Scotsman unsuccessfully. Off to St Cuthbert's Church to see where ancestors were married.
Kirkintilloch Rotary (Sept 18- 21)
- Glasgow City Chambers tour - morning tea with Deputy Provost (a real character who made lighting sound exciting).
- Vocational day spent inside BBC Scotland's new fabulous multi-media building. Spent day with TV news team as well as speaking with the team who produce the online BBC news. Was able to go inside gallery when lunch time news bulletin was done. Extraordinary to see what goes on behind the scenes. Also able to see one reporter put together her story in an editing suite just prior to going to air. all going well until an error in voice overlay ocurred mid broadcast which upset the journalist. (At least pleased to see errors do occur in the big media too).
- Thoroughly enjoyed dinner that night listening to host Bob Tomlinson's stories from his amazing journalism career.
- Stirling Castle and William Wallace Memorial
- Canal tour up the Firth and Clyde.
- Saw Loch Lomand and Ben Lomand on way to Dunoon club.
Dunoon Rotary (Sept 21- present)
- Just back from River Rocket Ride in the Firth of Clyde - beautiful day with the sun shining - perfect. Must get ready now for a tour of garden and then tonight's presentation!.....to be continued...
Catherine's Journal
I begin this tale setting the scene in Brisbane Airport. Imagine 5 women, several tonnes of luggage, teary relatives a great deal of excitement in the air. We managed after some small dramas with overweight luggage to get ourselves on the plane to London. We had a quick and bleary eyed stop in Hong Kong and eventually landed in London 25 hours later with slightly less enthusiasm than we had left with.
London
Not wanting to waste a minute of our time we caught the train into the city, dumped our bags and headed of to sight-see London was great and the thing that really hit me was the history that was to be found in one city. After a busy day on the double decker tour and at Portobello Road markets we attempted to fight the jet lag and sleep. It was up early again the next morning for a walk in Hyde park and the next round of sigh seeing. Jane, Nadia and I had a great trip to Buckingham Place, The British Museum and Harrods. We returned to our hotel around lunchtime and went off to the airport again to catch our next flight to Glasgow.
Glasgow
On arriving at Glasgow airport we were given a warm welcome by DG Drew Hughes, Geraldine O'Donnell (Rotary Foundation) and Harry Marsh (GSE leader). We checked in to our hotel and had a lovely dinner with our District 1230 hosts. The next day it was up early and off for a day of sight seeing in Edinburgh. We had a great tour around the city and spent the afternoon touring the new Scottish Parliament. That afternoon we were transferred to our first host families in Bothwell and Uddingston. My hosts were Linsay and Marlyn.
Bothwell and Uddingston
In Bothwell and Uddingston Jane and I had an interesting visit to two local Primary Schools and were introduced to the structure of the Scottish education system. We found that there were many similarities between the Scottish and Australian education Systems. Our first presentation went well, without too many teething problems and we encountered our first haggis! We also had the opportunity to visit the ruins of Bothwell castle and shared a wonderful evening with Nerida's hosts Roy and Margaret on out last night.
Eastwood
After a few days in Bothwell we prepared to move on to our next club Eastwood. On our last day with our Bothwell hosts we went into Glasgow and visited the Huntarian Museum and Kelvingrove gallery. That night we were handed over to our Eastwood hosts and whisked of to our second presentation. Friday was our second vocational day and Jane and I visited Hucheson Grammar, a large independent school and Mearns Primary a new state primary school which was one of the largest in Scotland. That night we had a ten Pin Bowling night and dinner at a local Indian restaurant. Saturday came and we went into Glasgow again to visit the art gallery and museum. that afternoon we went shopping in Glasgow and had the interesting spectacle of rowdy soccer supporters in kilts parading and singing down the centre of the mall area on their way to the Scotland vs Lithuania match. That night my hosts Alistair and Roslyn had a dinner party to introduce me to their neighbours before it was time to move on on Sunday to Ayr.
Ayr
Sunday we travelled to Ayr and went horse riding with Eastwood club before handing over to out next hosts Ayr. My new host were Jimmy and Helen and we spent the afternoon sightseeing around the town. That night I met Jimmy and Helen's son and daughter who had both lived in Australia and were keen to swap stories about Australian life. Monday began with a walk along the beach before heading to Ayr's lunchtime rotary meeting and our 3rd presentation. In the afternoon we visited Cazden castle and on the way home had a look around some of the farming land surrounding the town. Tuesday was our 3rd vocational day and for a change of scene I visited the local cattle market. I had an enjoyable day learning about the process used to sell cattle in Scotland. That night we had a group dinner at the home of Nadia and Nerida's host family Don and Ludmilla.
Seamill Hydro Hotel
After two weeks going flat out we had two nights at the Seamill hydro for rest. Very little to report over this time except a massage swim and sleep!
Irvine
On Friday we were collected from Seamill and taken straight to out 4th vocational day in Irvine. Jane and I visited Glebe Primary school for the day. That night my hosts Jim and Maired took me out to dinner with Margaret and her hosts to a cute little Scottish pub near the sea. Saturday brought a trip on the ferry across to the island of Arran. We visited Brodick castle, the mini brewery and did some shopping in Brodick village. We also had lunch with some of the Rotary members form Arran.That night had dinner at the Rotary president's house. Sunday we went to Braehead shopping centre and that night had dinner with our host families. On Moday we went for a walk alonmg the beach and lunch at the Golf club and spent the rst of the dya with our host families.
Kirkintilloch
Tuesday we were transferred form Irvine to Kirkintilloch. We travelled into Glasgow and visited the museum of religion and Glasgow cathedral. That night we had our fifth presentation. I was staying with Janet and Ian and it was great as they had four horses. Wednesday we had our vocational day and Jane and I visited two special needs schools Campsie View and Craigharbour. That night was dinner at home with host families. On Thursday Nerida, her host Bob and I travelled to Stirling to visit the castle. We saw where the battle of Banockburn took place and climbed the national monument to William Wallace. Dinner that night was at president Sandy's house.
Dunoon
On Friday we travelled to Dunoon via Loch Lomond and spent the rest of the day relaxing with our hosts. Nadia and I are staying were Kenneth and Marjory. On Saturday we went on the river rocket in the morning and walked the botanic gardens in the afternoon. that evening we completed our 6th presentation. Sunday we spent the morning catching up on emails and then headed to the pub to watch the rugby.
London
Not wanting to waste a minute of our time we caught the train into the city, dumped our bags and headed of to sight-see London was great and the thing that really hit me was the history that was to be found in one city. After a busy day on the double decker tour and at Portobello Road markets we attempted to fight the jet lag and sleep. It was up early again the next morning for a walk in Hyde park and the next round of sigh seeing. Jane, Nadia and I had a great trip to Buckingham Place, The British Museum and Harrods. We returned to our hotel around lunchtime and went off to the airport again to catch our next flight to Glasgow.
Glasgow
On arriving at Glasgow airport we were given a warm welcome by DG Drew Hughes, Geraldine O'Donnell (Rotary Foundation) and Harry Marsh (GSE leader). We checked in to our hotel and had a lovely dinner with our District 1230 hosts. The next day it was up early and off for a day of sight seeing in Edinburgh. We had a great tour around the city and spent the afternoon touring the new Scottish Parliament. That afternoon we were transferred to our first host families in Bothwell and Uddingston. My hosts were Linsay and Marlyn.
Bothwell and Uddingston
In Bothwell and Uddingston Jane and I had an interesting visit to two local Primary Schools and were introduced to the structure of the Scottish education system. We found that there were many similarities between the Scottish and Australian education Systems. Our first presentation went well, without too many teething problems and we encountered our first haggis! We also had the opportunity to visit the ruins of Bothwell castle and shared a wonderful evening with Nerida's hosts Roy and Margaret on out last night.
Eastwood
After a few days in Bothwell we prepared to move on to our next club Eastwood. On our last day with our Bothwell hosts we went into Glasgow and visited the Huntarian Museum and Kelvingrove gallery. That night we were handed over to our Eastwood hosts and whisked of to our second presentation. Friday was our second vocational day and Jane and I visited Hucheson Grammar, a large independent school and Mearns Primary a new state primary school which was one of the largest in Scotland. That night we had a ten Pin Bowling night and dinner at a local Indian restaurant. Saturday came and we went into Glasgow again to visit the art gallery and museum. that afternoon we went shopping in Glasgow and had the interesting spectacle of rowdy soccer supporters in kilts parading and singing down the centre of the mall area on their way to the Scotland vs Lithuania match. That night my hosts Alistair and Roslyn had a dinner party to introduce me to their neighbours before it was time to move on on Sunday to Ayr.
Ayr
Sunday we travelled to Ayr and went horse riding with Eastwood club before handing over to out next hosts Ayr. My new host were Jimmy and Helen and we spent the afternoon sightseeing around the town. That night I met Jimmy and Helen's son and daughter who had both lived in Australia and were keen to swap stories about Australian life. Monday began with a walk along the beach before heading to Ayr's lunchtime rotary meeting and our 3rd presentation. In the afternoon we visited Cazden castle and on the way home had a look around some of the farming land surrounding the town. Tuesday was our 3rd vocational day and for a change of scene I visited the local cattle market. I had an enjoyable day learning about the process used to sell cattle in Scotland. That night we had a group dinner at the home of Nadia and Nerida's host family Don and Ludmilla.
Seamill Hydro Hotel
After two weeks going flat out we had two nights at the Seamill hydro for rest. Very little to report over this time except a massage swim and sleep!
Irvine
On Friday we were collected from Seamill and taken straight to out 4th vocational day in Irvine. Jane and I visited Glebe Primary school for the day. That night my hosts Jim and Maired took me out to dinner with Margaret and her hosts to a cute little Scottish pub near the sea. Saturday brought a trip on the ferry across to the island of Arran. We visited Brodick castle, the mini brewery and did some shopping in Brodick village. We also had lunch with some of the Rotary members form Arran.That night had dinner at the Rotary president's house. Sunday we went to Braehead shopping centre and that night had dinner with our host families. On Moday we went for a walk alonmg the beach and lunch at the Golf club and spent the rst of the dya with our host families.
Kirkintilloch
Tuesday we were transferred form Irvine to Kirkintilloch. We travelled into Glasgow and visited the museum of religion and Glasgow cathedral. That night we had our fifth presentation. I was staying with Janet and Ian and it was great as they had four horses. Wednesday we had our vocational day and Jane and I visited two special needs schools Campsie View and Craigharbour. That night was dinner at home with host families. On Thursday Nerida, her host Bob and I travelled to Stirling to visit the castle. We saw where the battle of Banockburn took place and climbed the national monument to William Wallace. Dinner that night was at president Sandy's house.
Dunoon
On Friday we travelled to Dunoon via Loch Lomond and spent the rest of the day relaxing with our hosts. Nadia and I are staying were Kenneth and Marjory. On Saturday we went on the river rocket in the morning and walked the botanic gardens in the afternoon. that evening we completed our 6th presentation. Sunday we spent the morning catching up on emails and then headed to the pub to watch the rugby.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Nadia's Journal - Weeks One & Two
DEPARTURE
Friday 31st Aug
The team met up a few hours before take off with our respective family members. Rotary District 9640 GSE Coordinator, Ian Wilson and his wife Ross came along to see us off and present us with our Alumni Pin, which was lovely. Our team reserve Rowena Bell-Bradbury also came along to wish us well and give us some support and kind words. Amazingly we all managed to check in without paying excess even though some of us were up to 35+ kilos!! We all offloaded a few things and shuffled the contents of our bags around a little….
Having farewelled everyone we had coffee and made some last minute phone calls before boarding the first 11 hour flight to HK. Prior to boarding Nerida accidentally walked into the Men’s Toilet this gave us all a bit of a laugh, much to her immense embarrassment.
Having managed not to sleep on the first flight in an attempt to avoid jet lag (little did we know!!) we arrived at the huge terminal in Hong Kong for a three-hour stop over. Nerida and Margaret managed to catch some sleep whilst Jane, Catherine and I watched the bags and walked around the terminal.
The second flight was also jam-packed but the movies were good and because I had held off sleeping until the second flight I took a sleeping tablet (prescribed by the doctor!!!) and I was out to it for 8 hours of the 12 hour flight. Poor Catherine was next to me and was force to climb out to get the toilet! Oops..
EN ROUTE
Saturday 1st Sept
Arrival into London was fairly straight forward. We boarded an Express Train to Paddington and walked (with bags in tow!!) to Linden House our lodgings for the night. On arrival we discovered we could not check-in until 12 noon (only 7am at this stage). The receptionist was kind enough to give us access to a bathroom for a “shower”.
The shower was in fact a bath so after a quick tub I tried to get out only to discover that the lock was broken so I was actually locked in. Although I don’t suffer claustrophobia as such I seriously contemplated kicking the door in after 10 minutes but managed to make so much noise (I know, surprise surprise) that someone came to rescue me. Not a good start to an already tiresome day!
Keen to get out and about we headed in what we thought was the direction of the Portobello markets. After wandering through Paddington aimlessly we finally found them and enjoyed several hours wandering before grabbing some coffee and then lunch that we enjoyed in Hyde Park.
Although we could have gone back to the hotel at this stage we all wanted to try and stay awake in a further attempt to avoid jetlag so we purchased tickets on the Original London Bus Tour (open top double-decker) and spent 4 hours travelling on different routes of the City staring at the many sights and amazing architecture.
Sunday 2nd Sept
Having woken up at 4am (1pm at home) I laid awake thinking of my friends Georgie and Tim’s wedding cursing myself for not recording or at least writing a speech for the wedding reception. At 7am I went up to see if the rest of the team wanted to join me for a walk and all four of us then went for a brisk 30 minute walk through Hyde Park ogling at the amazing Gardeners Cottages in amongst the gardens and imagined living in Hyde Park.
We all enjoyed a nice breakfast of boiled eggs, toast and coffee in the narrow underground Breakfast Room before heading out for a proper explore. Linden House was happy to look after our bags whilst we headed back on to the Bus Tour - this time not too tired to get off!!
Catherine, Jane and I went to the British Museum whilst Margaret went to Westminster Abbey for the Sunday service and Nerida did some exploring of her own. Having only 30 minutes to get from the British Museum to Harrods to meet Margaret, the three of us ended up running across most of London, which was exhausting but kind of fun. Unfortunately we did not find Margaret but had a 5 minute visit in Harrods and headed back to Linden House to find Nerida and Margaret waiting and off we went to Heathrow by train for our flight to Glasgow.
After a harrowing time getting all bags checked in (again without excess) and going through security we jumped on our British Airways Flight which was fairly brief with the best airline meal I have ever had including real crockery!!
District Governor Drew Hughes, GSE Coordinator Harry Marsh and Geraldine O’Donnell greeted us (and our mountain of luggage) at Glasgow Airport before whisking us off to the Glynhill Hotel for a briefing on what to expect in the following month. After a buffet dinner with Drew and Harry we all gratefully crawled in to our beds for the first night in Scotland.
WEEK ONE
Monday 3rd Sep
Our first day in Rotary District 1230 was a tour of Edinburgh with two of our hosts Linsay Robertson and President of the Bothwell & Uddingston Club, Len Shaw (my host). We all piled into a red bus for a tour of the city, had some lunch in a fantastic gallery and finished up with a fascinating tour of the new Scottish Parliament with an incredibly knowledgeable tour-guide. After a stroll up the Royal Mile we were taken back to meet our first host families.
Len and Margaret made me feel very welcome and entertained me with stories from their travels in Australia whilst serving me up some great wine from back home. Before long I collapsed into ‘my’ room for some much needed sleep.
Tuesday 4th Sept
The day started with a tour of the local Church and adjoining café and community centre in which Harry Marsh is very involved. The team then took some time to go over out presentation as we had our first ‘performance in the evening. Unfortunately we experienced some problems with the laptop so whilst the other girls went to the Bothwell Castle Harry took me to meet local identity Tommy at a local pub, Camphill Vaults before getting the laptop sorted out.
That night we attended our first Rotary Dinner with the Bothwell & Uddingston Rotary Club and enjoyed our first meal of Haggis. This was quite a performance as we all stood to clap the haggis in and enjoy some poetry before toasting the chef.
Luckily our first presentation went exceedingly well and we managed to sing in key (with Catherine’s guidance) which was great. The Rotarians also thoroughly enjoyed playing 2 UP with us and Skippy was awarded to the lucky winner.
Wednesday 5th Sept
Vocational Day
Tour of the Tunnock’s Chocolate and Biscuit Manufacturing Company production line with Company Secretary, Bruce Reidford.
Lunch and a tour of the office at Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce with Chief Executive, Douglas Millar
Meeting with Scottish Enterprise’s Director of Growing Your Business, Douglas Dickson who took me to The Atrium Business Centre for a tour of the serviced offices and business incubator with Deputy Chief Executive, Marian Gardiner.
Having enjoyed a busy day ‘working’ we all met up for a BBQ Dinner held for all team members and their hosts at Roy & Margaret D’Silva’s House (Nerida’s host family). Talk about fellowship and hospitality!!
Thursday 6th September
Cultural Day
Harry Marsh and Len Shaw took the team for a Red Bus Tour through Glasgow stopping at Glasgow University, wandering around Hunterian Museum. We were all shouted lunch at a groovy café recommended by Len’s daughter Fiona.
After a fun filled day with the boys we were running late for changeover to the Eastwood Rotary Club so it was a quick goodbye before heading off with my new host family, Steve, Heather, Joanne and Martin Malloy (Richard’s their other son was away in Australia so I got his room). Before long we were back in the car heading for the Eastwood Rotary Dinner. Again the presentation, 2UP and singing went down a treat.
Friday 7th September
Vocational Day
Meeting with Alan Busby, Training Executive at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce.
Meeting with Douglas Bowie, Director of Finance and Margaret Gibson, Director of Marketing & Communication at The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust
Tour of two schools with Catherine and Jane.
Having completed another days ‘work’ we were treated to a great night out of Ten Pin Bowling followed by a scrumptious Indian Feast (the wine wasn’t bad either!) with the Eastwood Rotarians.
Saturday 8th September
Having enjoyed a good night’s sleep we were taken for a wander through the Kelvin Grove Art Gallery before hitting the retail mall, Buchanan Street with District Governor Elect, Catherine Stewart and Judy….
My host parents Steve and Heather prepared a yummy feast (including our second haggis) for me, Nerida, and her host family, David & Shena. My host sister Joanne then taught us how to play tennis on Wii before we all retired to the lounge at which point Nerida and I fell asleep on the couch!!
Sunday 9th September
As a final treat the Eastwood Club took us for a ‘Hack’ at the local horse riding school. As the most amateur rider in the group I was lead by a rope with the rest of the team following behind which I am sure was fairly torturous for the horse riders amongst us but we had a couple of trots which was nice and I think David who joined us for the ride will recover eventually….
Then we were all off to a local garden centre and café to meet our third host families in Ayr. Nerida and I were together this time and had the pleasure of being hosted by Don & Lud Stevenson at their home ‘Lismore House’ in Ayr that we found highly amusing as we both grew up in Lismore, Australia.
Our visit kicked off with a quick drive around Ayr followed by a scrumptious meal of smoked salmon, prawns and the best steak I have had for some time!!
WEEK TWO
Monday 10th September
Ayr Rotary Club was the our first lunchtime meeting so Nerida and I had our first “lay in” and had the morning to do some washing and ‘get in the zone’ for our presentations. The venue was stunning, presentations were seamless by this stage and we enjoyed playing 2 UP with the Rotarians as we had at each club. I have however heard some concerning tales about Skippy’s welfare since we left him with Muir (the winner of 2UP) so I think I might have to send welfare in to check on his living conditions!!
Brian Clarke then took us all via the Electric Brae (an optical illusion) for a tour at Culzean Castle which was amazing and very interesting. It was an incredibly sunny day so we had tea out in the gardens before taking a lovely drive back to Ayr.
Lud prepared a lovely meal which we enjoyed before Don dropped us three girls off to indulge in a sauna at the local leisure centre. The car trip was fantastic as Don & Lud did a duet for us on the way!!
We finished off the day with a Hot Toddy (we were both feeling a little fluey by then) and some Ukrainian Vodka (the best I have ever had!).
Tuesday 11th September
Vocational Day
I had the pleasure of spending a full day with Chief Executive of Ayshire Chamber of Commerce, Bob Leich. Firstly we met with a group establishing a new Chamber of Commerce in Renfrewshire then we returned to the office (via a lovely café for some lunch) where I met the dynamic team including Adrienne Howard who looks after accounts and Ayshire Film Information, Claire Baird who is the Business Liaisons Coordinator, Helen McBride, Development Manager (membership), Anne Reid, Development Officer and everyone else – seven in total!!!! One day Ballina, one day;-)
As the Ayshire Chamber office is situated within the terminal of Prestwick Airport, I also fortunate enough to have a tour of the establishment with Neil Richardson who is the Public Relations Manager for Infratil Airports Europe.
After a big day I returned ‘home’ to help Lud and Don prepare for the team’s farewell party at their house. A great night of poetry, singing, food and drink followed.
Wednesday 12th September
A relaxing day repacking and shopping with Lud. We dropped in to see Don’s office and have a coffee before collecting Nerida from the local theatre where she had her vocational visit.
Then it was off to Seamill Hydro for two nights of R&R which meant goodbye to our new families. The only conciliation being that they would see us again in Aviemore at the end of the month.
The team enjoyed a dinner in the restaurant and an early night.
Thursday 13th September
Swimming, massages, reading, television and a brisk walk up the hill into town to collect supplies for a light diner in the Dunoon Suite!
Face masks, hair treatments and another early night.
Friday 14th September
Irvine Seagate President, Ian Dickson and Rotarians Jim Fairgrieve and Jim Anderson collected the team first thing and whisked us off for a Vocational Day.
The morning was spent with Alec Anderson, Economic Development Officer at Perceton House discussing various economic development initiatives and strategies.
I the spent an hour “blethering” with Walter Findlay and Jim Jardine at the Ayshire Business Gateway about business start-ups and development.
Just up the road I met with Brian Scobie at the Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire to talk about business awards.
Jim Fairgrieve took me and Margaret for a great lunch at a restaurant before dropping me to the home of Louise and Ian Dickson, mine and Nerida’s fourth host parents. Louise cooked us an amazing salmon curry which isn’t surprising as she use to be a Home Economics teacher. At this stage exhaustion was starting to kick in so we took the opportunity for an early night.
Saturday 15th September
Ian and Jim took us all for a day on the Isle of Arran via the ferry where the girls went off with Ian to the Castle whist Jim and I took a bus ride to the local distillery. We enjoyed a tour of the distillery and learnt about the distillation process. The tour finished up in the Tasting Room where the guide spent 15 minutes telling us about different aged whiskey and how to tell the difference, half way through his spiel Jim and I both looked at our watches as the bus was leaving in 5 minutes so the guide gave us our taste “a wee sensation” which I proceeded to “neck” much to the horror of the guide and the amusement of Jim.
After our return bus trip we caught up with the girls and Arran Rotarians Moira and Ken for lunch. Moira then took me for a whirlwind tour of Arran, which included: Arran Aromatics, the Cheese Shops, the Arran Brewery and Chocolate Shop.
On the return ferry ride to Irvine we sat next to a bunch of rowdy Scotsmen who had been out for a Golf Day in Arran. Margaret tried to have a nap but they all started singing “wake up Maggie” which was hilarious. They also wanted to know what was happening in Neighbours!!
After our big day we enjoyed a scrumptious Dinner Party at the Dickson’s House and enjoyed some poetry and singing.
Sunday 16th September
Much to the horror of our hosts we took the opportunity for a free day at a shopping centre called Braehead and spent almost fine hours wandering around. Rock climbing was on the agenda until we caught sight of the shops!!
I joined Jane and her hosts, Hugh, Maureen and Dawn Hutchison for another yummy meal and then had a quiet night at the Dickson’s.
-to be continued-
Friday 31st Aug
The team met up a few hours before take off with our respective family members. Rotary District 9640 GSE Coordinator, Ian Wilson and his wife Ross came along to see us off and present us with our Alumni Pin, which was lovely. Our team reserve Rowena Bell-Bradbury also came along to wish us well and give us some support and kind words. Amazingly we all managed to check in without paying excess even though some of us were up to 35+ kilos!! We all offloaded a few things and shuffled the contents of our bags around a little….
Having farewelled everyone we had coffee and made some last minute phone calls before boarding the first 11 hour flight to HK. Prior to boarding Nerida accidentally walked into the Men’s Toilet this gave us all a bit of a laugh, much to her immense embarrassment.
Having managed not to sleep on the first flight in an attempt to avoid jet lag (little did we know!!) we arrived at the huge terminal in Hong Kong for a three-hour stop over. Nerida and Margaret managed to catch some sleep whilst Jane, Catherine and I watched the bags and walked around the terminal.
The second flight was also jam-packed but the movies were good and because I had held off sleeping until the second flight I took a sleeping tablet (prescribed by the doctor!!!) and I was out to it for 8 hours of the 12 hour flight. Poor Catherine was next to me and was force to climb out to get the toilet! Oops..
EN ROUTE
Saturday 1st Sept
Arrival into London was fairly straight forward. We boarded an Express Train to Paddington and walked (with bags in tow!!) to Linden House our lodgings for the night. On arrival we discovered we could not check-in until 12 noon (only 7am at this stage). The receptionist was kind enough to give us access to a bathroom for a “shower”.
The shower was in fact a bath so after a quick tub I tried to get out only to discover that the lock was broken so I was actually locked in. Although I don’t suffer claustrophobia as such I seriously contemplated kicking the door in after 10 minutes but managed to make so much noise (I know, surprise surprise) that someone came to rescue me. Not a good start to an already tiresome day!
Keen to get out and about we headed in what we thought was the direction of the Portobello markets. After wandering through Paddington aimlessly we finally found them and enjoyed several hours wandering before grabbing some coffee and then lunch that we enjoyed in Hyde Park.
Although we could have gone back to the hotel at this stage we all wanted to try and stay awake in a further attempt to avoid jetlag so we purchased tickets on the Original London Bus Tour (open top double-decker) and spent 4 hours travelling on different routes of the City staring at the many sights and amazing architecture.
Sunday 2nd Sept
Having woken up at 4am (1pm at home) I laid awake thinking of my friends Georgie and Tim’s wedding cursing myself for not recording or at least writing a speech for the wedding reception. At 7am I went up to see if the rest of the team wanted to join me for a walk and all four of us then went for a brisk 30 minute walk through Hyde Park ogling at the amazing Gardeners Cottages in amongst the gardens and imagined living in Hyde Park.
We all enjoyed a nice breakfast of boiled eggs, toast and coffee in the narrow underground Breakfast Room before heading out for a proper explore. Linden House was happy to look after our bags whilst we headed back on to the Bus Tour - this time not too tired to get off!!
Catherine, Jane and I went to the British Museum whilst Margaret went to Westminster Abbey for the Sunday service and Nerida did some exploring of her own. Having only 30 minutes to get from the British Museum to Harrods to meet Margaret, the three of us ended up running across most of London, which was exhausting but kind of fun. Unfortunately we did not find Margaret but had a 5 minute visit in Harrods and headed back to Linden House to find Nerida and Margaret waiting and off we went to Heathrow by train for our flight to Glasgow.
After a harrowing time getting all bags checked in (again without excess) and going through security we jumped on our British Airways Flight which was fairly brief with the best airline meal I have ever had including real crockery!!
District Governor Drew Hughes, GSE Coordinator Harry Marsh and Geraldine O’Donnell greeted us (and our mountain of luggage) at Glasgow Airport before whisking us off to the Glynhill Hotel for a briefing on what to expect in the following month. After a buffet dinner with Drew and Harry we all gratefully crawled in to our beds for the first night in Scotland.
WEEK ONE
Monday 3rd Sep
Our first day in Rotary District 1230 was a tour of Edinburgh with two of our hosts Linsay Robertson and President of the Bothwell & Uddingston Club, Len Shaw (my host). We all piled into a red bus for a tour of the city, had some lunch in a fantastic gallery and finished up with a fascinating tour of the new Scottish Parliament with an incredibly knowledgeable tour-guide. After a stroll up the Royal Mile we were taken back to meet our first host families.
Len and Margaret made me feel very welcome and entertained me with stories from their travels in Australia whilst serving me up some great wine from back home. Before long I collapsed into ‘my’ room for some much needed sleep.
Tuesday 4th Sept
The day started with a tour of the local Church and adjoining café and community centre in which Harry Marsh is very involved. The team then took some time to go over out presentation as we had our first ‘performance in the evening. Unfortunately we experienced some problems with the laptop so whilst the other girls went to the Bothwell Castle Harry took me to meet local identity Tommy at a local pub, Camphill Vaults before getting the laptop sorted out.
That night we attended our first Rotary Dinner with the Bothwell & Uddingston Rotary Club and enjoyed our first meal of Haggis. This was quite a performance as we all stood to clap the haggis in and enjoy some poetry before toasting the chef.
Luckily our first presentation went exceedingly well and we managed to sing in key (with Catherine’s guidance) which was great. The Rotarians also thoroughly enjoyed playing 2 UP with us and Skippy was awarded to the lucky winner.
Wednesday 5th Sept
Vocational Day
Tour of the Tunnock’s Chocolate and Biscuit Manufacturing Company production line with Company Secretary, Bruce Reidford.
Lunch and a tour of the office at Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce with Chief Executive, Douglas Millar
Meeting with Scottish Enterprise’s Director of Growing Your Business, Douglas Dickson who took me to The Atrium Business Centre for a tour of the serviced offices and business incubator with Deputy Chief Executive, Marian Gardiner.
Having enjoyed a busy day ‘working’ we all met up for a BBQ Dinner held for all team members and their hosts at Roy & Margaret D’Silva’s House (Nerida’s host family). Talk about fellowship and hospitality!!
Thursday 6th September
Cultural Day
Harry Marsh and Len Shaw took the team for a Red Bus Tour through Glasgow stopping at Glasgow University, wandering around Hunterian Museum. We were all shouted lunch at a groovy café recommended by Len’s daughter Fiona.
After a fun filled day with the boys we were running late for changeover to the Eastwood Rotary Club so it was a quick goodbye before heading off with my new host family, Steve, Heather, Joanne and Martin Malloy (Richard’s their other son was away in Australia so I got his room). Before long we were back in the car heading for the Eastwood Rotary Dinner. Again the presentation, 2UP and singing went down a treat.
Friday 7th September
Vocational Day
Meeting with Alan Busby, Training Executive at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce.
Meeting with Douglas Bowie, Director of Finance and Margaret Gibson, Director of Marketing & Communication at The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust
Tour of two schools with Catherine and Jane.
Having completed another days ‘work’ we were treated to a great night out of Ten Pin Bowling followed by a scrumptious Indian Feast (the wine wasn’t bad either!) with the Eastwood Rotarians.
Saturday 8th September
Having enjoyed a good night’s sleep we were taken for a wander through the Kelvin Grove Art Gallery before hitting the retail mall, Buchanan Street with District Governor Elect, Catherine Stewart and Judy….
My host parents Steve and Heather prepared a yummy feast (including our second haggis) for me, Nerida, and her host family, David & Shena. My host sister Joanne then taught us how to play tennis on Wii before we all retired to the lounge at which point Nerida and I fell asleep on the couch!!
Sunday 9th September
As a final treat the Eastwood Club took us for a ‘Hack’ at the local horse riding school. As the most amateur rider in the group I was lead by a rope with the rest of the team following behind which I am sure was fairly torturous for the horse riders amongst us but we had a couple of trots which was nice and I think David who joined us for the ride will recover eventually….
Then we were all off to a local garden centre and café to meet our third host families in Ayr. Nerida and I were together this time and had the pleasure of being hosted by Don & Lud Stevenson at their home ‘Lismore House’ in Ayr that we found highly amusing as we both grew up in Lismore, Australia.
Our visit kicked off with a quick drive around Ayr followed by a scrumptious meal of smoked salmon, prawns and the best steak I have had for some time!!
WEEK TWO
Monday 10th September
Ayr Rotary Club was the our first lunchtime meeting so Nerida and I had our first “lay in” and had the morning to do some washing and ‘get in the zone’ for our presentations. The venue was stunning, presentations were seamless by this stage and we enjoyed playing 2 UP with the Rotarians as we had at each club. I have however heard some concerning tales about Skippy’s welfare since we left him with Muir (the winner of 2UP) so I think I might have to send welfare in to check on his living conditions!!
Brian Clarke then took us all via the Electric Brae (an optical illusion) for a tour at Culzean Castle which was amazing and very interesting. It was an incredibly sunny day so we had tea out in the gardens before taking a lovely drive back to Ayr.
Lud prepared a lovely meal which we enjoyed before Don dropped us three girls off to indulge in a sauna at the local leisure centre. The car trip was fantastic as Don & Lud did a duet for us on the way!!
We finished off the day with a Hot Toddy (we were both feeling a little fluey by then) and some Ukrainian Vodka (the best I have ever had!).
Tuesday 11th September
Vocational Day
I had the pleasure of spending a full day with Chief Executive of Ayshire Chamber of Commerce, Bob Leich. Firstly we met with a group establishing a new Chamber of Commerce in Renfrewshire then we returned to the office (via a lovely café for some lunch) where I met the dynamic team including Adrienne Howard who looks after accounts and Ayshire Film Information, Claire Baird who is the Business Liaisons Coordinator, Helen McBride, Development Manager (membership), Anne Reid, Development Officer and everyone else – seven in total!!!! One day Ballina, one day;-)
As the Ayshire Chamber office is situated within the terminal of Prestwick Airport, I also fortunate enough to have a tour of the establishment with Neil Richardson who is the Public Relations Manager for Infratil Airports Europe.
After a big day I returned ‘home’ to help Lud and Don prepare for the team’s farewell party at their house. A great night of poetry, singing, food and drink followed.
Wednesday 12th September
A relaxing day repacking and shopping with Lud. We dropped in to see Don’s office and have a coffee before collecting Nerida from the local theatre where she had her vocational visit.
Then it was off to Seamill Hydro for two nights of R&R which meant goodbye to our new families. The only conciliation being that they would see us again in Aviemore at the end of the month.
The team enjoyed a dinner in the restaurant and an early night.
Thursday 13th September
Swimming, massages, reading, television and a brisk walk up the hill into town to collect supplies for a light diner in the Dunoon Suite!
Face masks, hair treatments and another early night.
Friday 14th September
Irvine Seagate President, Ian Dickson and Rotarians Jim Fairgrieve and Jim Anderson collected the team first thing and whisked us off for a Vocational Day.
The morning was spent with Alec Anderson, Economic Development Officer at Perceton House discussing various economic development initiatives and strategies.
I the spent an hour “blethering” with Walter Findlay and Jim Jardine at the Ayshire Business Gateway about business start-ups and development.
Just up the road I met with Brian Scobie at the Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire to talk about business awards.
Jim Fairgrieve took me and Margaret for a great lunch at a restaurant before dropping me to the home of Louise and Ian Dickson, mine and Nerida’s fourth host parents. Louise cooked us an amazing salmon curry which isn’t surprising as she use to be a Home Economics teacher. At this stage exhaustion was starting to kick in so we took the opportunity for an early night.
Saturday 15th September
Ian and Jim took us all for a day on the Isle of Arran via the ferry where the girls went off with Ian to the Castle whist Jim and I took a bus ride to the local distillery. We enjoyed a tour of the distillery and learnt about the distillation process. The tour finished up in the Tasting Room where the guide spent 15 minutes telling us about different aged whiskey and how to tell the difference, half way through his spiel Jim and I both looked at our watches as the bus was leaving in 5 minutes so the guide gave us our taste “a wee sensation” which I proceeded to “neck” much to the horror of the guide and the amusement of Jim.
After our return bus trip we caught up with the girls and Arran Rotarians Moira and Ken for lunch. Moira then took me for a whirlwind tour of Arran, which included: Arran Aromatics, the Cheese Shops, the Arran Brewery and Chocolate Shop.
On the return ferry ride to Irvine we sat next to a bunch of rowdy Scotsmen who had been out for a Golf Day in Arran. Margaret tried to have a nap but they all started singing “wake up Maggie” which was hilarious. They also wanted to know what was happening in Neighbours!!
After our big day we enjoyed a scrumptious Dinner Party at the Dickson’s House and enjoyed some poetry and singing.
Sunday 16th September
Much to the horror of our hosts we took the opportunity for a free day at a shopping centre called Braehead and spent almost fine hours wandering around. Rock climbing was on the agenda until we caught sight of the shops!!
I joined Jane and her hosts, Hugh, Maureen and Dawn Hutchison for another yummy meal and then had a quiet night at the Dickson’s.
-to be continued-
Day Two with Bothwell & Uddingston Club
Tour of the local Church
First Club Meeting (Look closely to see the Haggis!) *on the lecturn box
Toasting the Haggis
A Day In Edinburgh Hosted by Bothwell & Uddingston Club
Outside Parliament House
On the open top Red Bus with Lindsay
The view from the bus
Friday, September 7, 2007
The team in London
After 20+ hours in the air the team stumbled into Heathrow Airport at 5am on Saturday morning (UK time) and headed to Linden House in Paddington.
On Sunday morning we all went off for a bit of an explore before heading back out to Heathrow Airport to continue our trip to Glasgow!!
The day was spent wandering thorugh the Portobello Markets, picnicking in Hyde Park and sightseeing on the Red Open Top Bus.
Dinner was had at the local pub (bangers and mash included!) before we all collapsed into our very hot hotel rooms for a much needed sleep.
On Sunday morning we all went off for a bit of an explore before heading back out to Heathrow Airport to continue our trip to Glasgow!!
Successful Launch
Over 90 Rotarians and friends from Glenn Innes to the Gold Coast attended Ballina RSL Club to support the team and hear our presentation. A great night was had by all, feedback was gladly welcomed and a few changes are planned for the final presentation.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
The Journey Begins...
G'Day! Welcome to the first of many posts from the Group Study Exchange team representing Rotary District 9640 Australia in District 1230 Scotland for four weeks commencing Sunday 2 September 2007.
The team has met on a number of occasions including the Bastille Day Bash sponsored by our Team Leader's club, Parkwood on the Gold Coast. After a marathon balloon blowing exercise we were served a great meal and enjoyed celebrating change-over from Past President Mark Kent to now President Karyn Joyner. Then the Can Can Girls arrived...
The team has met on a number of occasions including the Bastille Day Bash sponsored by our Team Leader's club, Parkwood on the Gold Coast. After a marathon balloon blowing exercise we were served a great meal and enjoyed celebrating change-over from Past President Mark Kent to now President Karyn Joyner. Then the Can Can Girls arrived...
This weekend (Sat 4th Aug) we will host our GSE Team Launch in Ballina. This event will give us the opportunity to trial our presentations and the skit we have prepared for the District Conference in Aviemore Scotland at the conclusion of our tour. Over 80 Rotarians, friends and family are expected to critique our performance whilst enjoying a fabulous meal and a drop of Scottish Whiskey...
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