Posted on December 4, 2023 by Ken Banks

Bird Pics; Sunshine Coast Qld.

Bird life at Coolum, Point Arkwright & Finland Road, Bli Bli, Qld.

Again we see bird life species that differ a little as you move from the NSW North Coast up into the Qld. Sunshine Coast areas. Being a new comer, taking an interest in the variety of bird life, I came across some interesting species as we travelled up into the Sunshine Coastal area’s near Coolum.

Some species I had never before seen / photographed included; Torresian-crows, Red-Backed-Fairy-wrens, Black-winged-Stilts, Comb-Crested-Jacana’s and Brown-Honeyeater’s.

Click on images to enlarge

White-Bellied-Sea-Eagle @ Point Arkwright

Torresian-crow @ Point Arkwright

Rainbow-Bee-eater @ Point Arkwright

Rainbow-Bee-eaters @ Point Arkwright

Red-Backed-Fairy-wren-male @ Point Arkwright

Brahminy-Kite @ Point Arkwright

Australian-Darter @ Finland Road, Bli Bli

Black-winged-Stilt @ Finland Road, Bli Bli

Comb-Crested-Jacana @ Finland Road, Bli Bli

Dusky-Moorhen @ Finland Road, Bli Bli

Purple-Swamphen @ Finland Road, Bli Bli

Black-Faced-Cuckoo-Shrike @ Point Arkwright

Blue-Faced-Honeyeater @ Point Arkwright

Brown-Honeyeater @ Point Arkwright

Silvereye @ Point Arkwright

Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla

Ken B., Mollymook Beach Waterfront: Editor for Mollymook News, Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla and Mollymook Ocean Swimmers

Posted on October 30, 2023 by Ken Banks

Bombala walkabout

Paul and Tracy chosen as ‘Best dressed’ male and female in the fashions at the Bombala Picnic Races.

Mollymook Ocean Swimmers go ‘Walkabout’ in Bombala.

Tracy (Ingram) Holt sent through this update on their (Mollymook Ocean Swimmers) trip to Bombala and writes: Attached are some photos of our recent trip to Bombala (Platypus country), however, to our disappointment we only saw a glimpse of the Platypus floating in the distance.

The old building in the pics below was known as the Bombala Literary Institute , formally the Bombala School of Arts and dates back to 1865. It is currently for sale.

The final pic is the Anglican Church. The building of it commenced back in Bombala in 1856 and the first service was in December 1857. Since then, there have been four generations of Ingram’s come through the doors for Weddings, Christenings and Funerals.

Click on pics to enlarge.

There’s more, continue reading.

Posted on October 21, 2023 by Ken Banks

2023 Bombala Picnic Races

Mollymook Ocean Swimmers take to the stage in the fashions at the Bombala Picnic Races.

Mollymook Ocean Swimmers strut their stuff in the fashion stakes.

The Bombala Jockey Club traditionally holds its annual race day to coincide with the running of the Caulfield Cup. The day is always well attended by the Bombala community, and is one of the premier social events for the whole area. Fashions on the Field is keenly contested, and ensures that the day is colourful. This year saw the amazing young ladies from Mollymook strut their stuff in the fashion stakes.

Not to be outdone, check our Mollymook male contestants. If nothing else it was a great opportunity to enjoy this Australian tradition, and experience the essence of the rural lifestyle and environment. And as per their daily routine, they had a morning swim in the river.

Click on pics to enlarge.

There’s more, continue reading.

Posted on August 3, 2023 by Ken Banks

North Stradbroke Island Holiday

North Stradbroke Island

Kath provides an update on her trip to North Stradbroke Island.

Hope you are all well, here are a few photos from North Stradbroke Island where we are staying in Geoff’s caravan. This is a stunning island with so much to explore and do. The whales are a treat to watch, so many of them. Water temperature was 21 yesterday .

Click on pics to enlarge.

There’s more, continue reading.

Posted on April 23, 2023 by Ken Banks

Tourist Destinations for the Retirees

Heather and Paul provide more tourist destination ideas.

Heather continues with her updates on the wonderful retirement holiday tourist destinations throughout Australia. “Following on from their time in Arkaroola they headed south to Ikara Flinders range for 4 days, such a stunning area, Wilpena pound & Brachina gorge, Arkaroo rock. We’ve done a few walks, hiked St Mary’s peak loop 21klm and 1100mtrs, a big day but incredible. Had a big rainfall one night at Brachina gorge and tried to help out a bogged caravan heading out of a gorge , the national parks had to come and we also saw another van jack knifed in a creek bed. We’ve had a couple of flat tyres.

The last four days have been spent at Silverton, Broken Hill & Menindee. Really enjoyed this area, so sparse. Did a few tourist destinations, the Palace hotel where Pricilla was filmed and the mad max museum. Amazing sunset at Menindee bush camp and living desert park. River Cruise in the Menindee lake and some historic stops. Also the Pro Hart museum.

We have started our drive home and are looking forward to seeing the clan, Briddy baby is due in 7 weeks ”

Click on pics to enlarge.

There’s more, continue reading.

Posted on April 21, 2023 by Ken Banks

Retirement Holiday Destinations

Retirement Holidays for local Ulladulla couple, Heather and Paul.

Heather provides this update on the wonderful retirement holiday, touring throughout Australia. “For this trip we are doing a five week loop version. Down to Cape Conran and the Marlo free camp where the snowy river meets the sea, then a little surf for Paul at Salmon rocks, then four amazing days at Wilson’s Prom. Climbed Mt Oberon for our 38th wedding anniversary and a couple of other hikes. Cruise to skull rock was spectacular and a quick stop at Peninsular hot springs. Ferry across to Queenscliff and then headed to Apollo Bay / Cape Otway.

Few days along the Great Ocean Rd, Johanna camp ground, Otway National Park so beautiful and the coast. Then ‘The Grampians’, can you find me in the forest pic hiding behind a tall tree?

We spent a few nights at ‘The Grampians’ and did a couple of wonderful 14klm hikes up and down. Spectacular area very lucky with the weather clearing at each view. Complimentary infrared sauna & cold plunge at our camp.

Spent time at Port MacDonnell, Mt Gambier and Southend SA. We did a cold snorkel in the Ewan’s Ponds absolutely unforgettable crystal clear water with an under water garden and limestone, we did three ponds. Visited the Blue lake. Had a dip in the cool ocean and we could not resist the lobby territory

Spent four days at Arkaroola in the Flinders Ranges, incredible area, wildlife sanctuary with bush camping. We did the 4wd ridge top tour, it was great, and a couple of walks.

Hope all the Mollymook ocean swimmers are doing well and a happy 79th birthday to Isabella” Click on pics to enlarge.

There’s more, continue reading.

Posted on March 7, 2023March 7, 2023 by Ken Banks

Tathra Ocean Swim

Tathra Ocean Swim Report

Wendy Jenner sent through this following report on the Tathra Ocean swim. “Such a great weekend with swimming buddies. We camped at Gillard’s beach and drove in to Tathra on Sunday morning for the Wharf to Wave swimming event. Due to strong winds and unsuitable ocean conditions for our swim, the course was relocated to the Bega river. Even though there was expressions of disappointment, the Bega River swim was safer, with clean and clear water conditions.

Our group registered for the 1200 m open age swim ‍♀️. Jill also entered in her age group and came 2 nd. ⭐️

We are looking forward to entering this event next year and in hope that the event will be from the wharf to the waves .

Cheers Wen

Poor conditions at Tathra Beach, ocean swim transferred to the Bega River

There’s more, continue reading.

Posted on February 1, 2023 by Ken Banks

Short Memorial Service for Joe

PASSING OF JOACHIM (JOE) SCHUCK

Mollymook Ocean Swimmers of past years will all have fond memories of Joe. Often he would arrive for coffee and sometimes breakfast at a similar time to us swimmers at the Beach Hut café.

He shared many beautiful stories with us and took a real interest in our swimming activities. I remember attending his 90th birthday many years ago, it was well attended by so many locals here at the Mollymook Surf Club. After a bad fall a number of years ago, his family had him admitted to the ARCARE, age facility, Ilett Street, Mollymook. My last visit to see Joe was about two months ago and he was struggling. Today he is at peace.

Joe Schuck, 1927 – 2023

There’s more, continue reading.

Posted on January 27, 2023 by Ken Banks

Swimmers celebrate Australia Day at Bawley Point

Mollymook Ocean Swimmer’s celebrate Australia Day at Bawley Point.

Swimmers entertained at Bawley Point Beach Reserve

Roving reporter Kath Rogers writes, “We had a perfect day at Bawley Point Beach Reserve.
Swimming, snorkeling, eating and laughing, and more dipping in that divine ocean.
Thanks to Greg, Kate, Sue and Chris for organizing this lovely day.

There’s more, continue reading.

Posted on October 31, 2022 by Ken Banks

Fashion Parade, Dickson College

Dickson College Fashion Parade

This ‘Fashion Parade’ in Canberra will be Mollymook Ocean Swimmer, Jill Pettifer’s final display as she has announced her retirement. On her ‘Bucket List’ is spending more time at Mollymook Ocean Swimming. Website: Dickson College

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Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla

Ken B., Mollymook Beach Waterfront: Editor for Mollymook News, Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla and Mollymook Ocean Swimmers

Posted on October 6, 2022January 4, 2023 by Ken Banks

Mollymook Ocean Swimmers’ Annual Christmas Party

Mark the Date, ‘Night of Nights’ for the Mollymook Ocean Swimmers.

Former Swimmer of the year, Gentleman John L. sends this email: “Hi Swimmers and Friends

Well the Christmas Puddings and Mince Pies are already appearing on supermarket shelves so it must be time to start planning the big event. As last year’s Swimmers’ Party at the Surf Club, organized by “Professor Mike”, was such success, I asked Emma if the Surf Club would be happy to extend the same courtesy to us this year. Emma answered with an enthusiastic YES so the gig is on. Thanks Emma!!

Date: Saturday December 3rd, 2022

Time: 5:00pm to 8:30pm

Food: Please bring a plate to share

Drinks: Purchased at the bar

Music: A star studded cast of world class musicians (guess who) will keep us entertained and get us dancing AND of course, SWIMMER OF THE YEAR – OCTOPUSES GARDEN AWARD and GOLDEN FLIPPER AWARD will be ceremoniously bestowed on worthy individuals (let me know if you have any nominations) Thanks everyone for another great year. John”

Who will it be? 2022 Swimmer of the year award

Sunrise two days ago on Tuesday morning.

Today, Thursday morning.

Dave Tudor-Jones described this morning in the surf: ‘We had a dark cold stormy morning with rough seas, bluebottles, a ‘card-board shark’ scare and blood from Ed’s lip’ what a morning..

Billy Rushton’s poem

Being a lover of your doggy companion, I’m sure you will relate to this poem that I’ve attempted to put together after sitting here in Covid isolation playing on the computer. I’m sure you will enjoy my attempt to portray the comfort and love pets can give to you. ( it’s about my son Andrew’s tradie dog called Rex).

ANDREWS BROWN KELPIE by Billy R.

Who barks and wags his tail with glee

And greets the new day joyously

With such a silly grin?

“My kelpie Rex .. that’s who”

Who, with head on paws

Waits patiently whilst I do the chores

It’s plain to see who he adores?

“My kelpie Rex .. that’s who”

Who sticks with me the whole day through

And never asks for favours,

No matter what I say and do?

“My kelpie Rex .. that’s who”

Who digs the holes in garden beds

And tears his sleeping mat to shreds,

Does his poos all-round the yard

Not caring where he treads?

“My kelpie Rex .. that’s who”

Who sometimes whimpers in the night

Perhaps from canines long – past fight?

“My kelpie Rex .. that’s who”

Who hides and howls with utter fright

When thunderstorms light sky at night

He’ll jump the fence and then be gone

So, bring him in with a soothing pat

And soon his fright abates?

“My kelpie Rex .. that’s who”

Who is my mate – not just a pet

I shan’t forget,

Perhaps and yet a mere brown dog

A loyal friend so very true

A staunch companion each day through?

“My kelpie Rex.. that’s who”

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Bird pics in the Queensland outback

For those who may be interested in one of my recent trips, here is a link to my recent post: ‘Bird pics in the Queensland Outback’

Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla

Ken B., Mollymook Beach Waterfront: Editor for Mollymook News, Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla and Mollymook Ocean Swimmers

Posted on October 6, 2022 by Ken Banks

Bird Pics in the Queensland Outback

Bird life in the Cunnamulla area, Outback Queensland.

Cunnamulla is a town perched on the banks of the Warrego River in the Shire of Paroo, Outback Queensland. It is 206 kilometres south of Charleville, and approximately 750 kilometres west of Brisbane. In the 2016 census, Cunnamulla had a population of 1,140 people.

This town was once where bullock teams passed through and shearers spilled from bar windows; but today the small town is known for its natural outback beauty and outback hospitality.

Once again I came across bird species that I (a novice) had never before seen / photographed before, some included; Black Shouldered Kites, Red Backed Kingfishers, Plum Headed Finches, Rufous Songlarks and White Headed Stilts also known as Pied Stilts.

Click on images to enlarge

Black-Kite

Black-Shouldered-Kite

Red-Backed-Kingfisher

White-Headed-Stilt also known as a Pied-Stilt

Plum-Headed-Finch

Rufous-Songlark

Jacky-Winter

Magpie-Lark-female

Torresian-Crow

Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla

Ken B., Mollymook Beach Waterfront: Editor for Mollymook News, Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla and Mollymook Ocean Swimmers

Posted on September 15, 2022September 15, 2022 by Ken Banks

Open Water or Ocean Swimming?

Open Water at Charleville or Ocean Swimming at Mollymook?

John Sarich (nee Smeeth) sent through some pics and writes, “The Charleville chapter this season for this (distant) Mollymook ocean swimmer has just started at the Ward River, 20 kms. west of Charleville (just off the Diamantina Development Road). It took me longer to get in and out of my wettie than I spent in the water. It was freezing. Still 14 ° it can only get warmer now.

I enjoyed catching up with Ken and June and later on with Bobby White. Cheers, John”.

(The Ward River is over 455-km. long and flows down into the Darling River)

In fact, when I was in Charleville, John offered to take me out to the Ward River. I graciously declined. I thought, Ken just stick to taking some bird pics whilst out here in the Queensland Outback.

It’s hard to imagine John who was so into ocean swimming at Mollymook and venturing off to various ocean swim meets up and down the coast, receiving numerous community recognition awards and being the local Ulladulla swim coach retiring to Charleville, Outback Qld. But he is very happy and still doing what he had done on the Coast, SWIM!

John ready for his open water swim at the Ward River

Ward River, Outback Queensland

Ocean Swimming this morning at Mollymook.

How beautiful is this? Although a little cloudy, the water was ideal for ocean swimming with Don measuring the temp. at around 16 ° as the boys and girls hit the water.

Mollymook ocean swimmers

Ken’s Bird life experience in Outback Queensland.

Charleville, is the largest town in the Murweh Shire, Outback Qld. It has a population of 3,000 and is highly recommended for a visit. Besides seeing John and having a swim with him in the Ward River, there are a variety of ‘must do’ attractions. It is 747 km west of Brisbane.

Once again I came across some wonderful bird species that I (a novice) had never before seen / photographed. Such as: A Brolga that stands over 1 metre tall and has a wing span of 2.4 metres, Splendid Fairy Wrens, Nankeen Kestrel’s, Major Mitchell Cockatoo’s and many more.

Click on images to enlarge

Flocks and flocks of Galah’s

Brolga standing over a metre tall

Black-Shouldered-Kite

Major-Mitchell-Cockatoo

Nankeen-Kestrel

Black-Fronted-Dotterel

Crimson-Chat

White-Headed-Stilt also known as a Pied-Stilt

Splendid-Fairy-Wren-male

Masked-Woodswallow

White-Browed-Woodswallow

Black-Faced-Woodswallow

Pied Honeyeater

Brown Falcon

Common-Bronzewing-pigeon

Red-Winged-Parrot

White-Winged-Triller

Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla

Ken B., Mollymook Beach Waterfront: Editor for Mollymook News, Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla and Mollymook Ocean Swimmers

Posted on September 4, 2022September 5, 2022 by Ken Banks

Destination Western Australia Holidays

Retirement, Holiday destination – Western Australia

Heather provides her retirement update, touring throughout Western Australia: “We spent 5 days in Kalbarri both the coast and inland national parks”.

(Kalbarri is a resort town at the mouth of the Murchison River, on Western Australia’s coast. It’s known for its seaside cliffs, estuary beach and wild pelicans. Nearby Kalbarri National Park has rocky gorges like the iconic Z Bend, named for a sharp bend in the river. The park’s coast is home to resident dolphins and seasonal humpback whales, seen from a boardwalk beside the Island Rock and Natural Bridge rock forms.)

“Absolutely stunning great walks and wildflowers everywhere. We found 24 out of 29 plants on a leaflet. Lots of stopping along the road for photos .”💨😘 Love & hugs H&P

Heather and Paul, loving retirement ….

Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla

Ken B., Mollymook Beach Waterfront: Editor for Mollymook News, Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla and Mollymook Ocean Swimmers

Posted on August 31, 2022August 31, 2022 by Ken Banks

Mollymook, Milton, Ulladulla String Orchestra

Inaugural Live Performance: Mollymook, Milton, Ulladulla String Orchestra.

Raymond provides this invitation to the Milton, Ulladulla String Orchestra.

“Save the date: Sunday September 25, 2022 from 3.00pm to 4.00pm at St Martins Anglican Church, Ulladulla the locally formed ‘String Orchestra’ will hold their inaugural live performance”.

It will be followed by a lovely afternoon tea and opportunity to meet members of the orchestra. (A gold coin donation)

Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla

Ken B., Mollymook Beach Waterfront: Editor for Mollymook News, Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla and Mollymook Ocean Swimmers