Check out the slideshow below and click on it to be taken to the website.
Showing posts with label South Australia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label South Australia. Show all posts
Saturday, April 15, 2017
Fran West Photography on Fine Art America
Fran West Photography is now available on Fine Art America.
Check out the slideshow below and click on it to be taken to the website.
Check out the slideshow below and click on it to be taken to the website.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Rritjarukar (Willy Wagtails) Ngarrindjeri Choir at Wooden Boat Festival, River Port of Goolwa, South Australia
The Rritjarukar (Willy Wagtails) Ngarrindjeri Choir featured at the Wooden Boat Festival, river port of Goolwa, South Australia.
This was my second Wooden Boat Fesival at Goolwa, South Australia, held on the last weekend of February, 2013.
A fine hot summer's day was forecast so I decided to be in Goolwa before the crowds arrived. It took me less than an hour to drive from my home in Adelaide through the rolling hills of the Fleurieu Peninsula to Goolwa.
With such a brilliant day for photography I took almost 2,000 photos. Some of these will appear in my "Alzheimer's Products" DVDs, photo downloads and interactive jigsaw puzzles. They'll also be turned into kindle books for Amazon.
The programme was filled with plenty of activities - some on the water and others on the land and I was fortunate to be on the wharf where I could photograph both areas.
One of the highlights of the day was the song and dance performance of the Rritjarukar (Willy Wagtails) Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal Choir led by Rita Lindsay (pictured below).
The outfits and face painting set the mood for the performance which illustrated traditional activities and aspects of life in the lower reaches of the River Murray.
As you can see from the photos, the performance (in the Ngarrindjeri language) was full of action.
What impressed me most was the age range of the group extending from young children up to the elders. The Ngarrindjeri culture is not only being passed on to the younger generation but it's also being presented in such a way that the wider community can enjoy it too.
Listen to a podcast with Rita Lindsay.
This was my second Wooden Boat Fesival at Goolwa, South Australia, held on the last weekend of February, 2013.
A fine hot summer's day was forecast so I decided to be in Goolwa before the crowds arrived. It took me less than an hour to drive from my home in Adelaide through the rolling hills of the Fleurieu Peninsula to Goolwa.
With such a brilliant day for photography I took almost 2,000 photos. Some of these will appear in my "Alzheimer's Products" DVDs, photo downloads and interactive jigsaw puzzles. They'll also be turned into kindle books for Amazon.
The programme was filled with plenty of activities - some on the water and others on the land and I was fortunate to be on the wharf where I could photograph both areas.
One of the highlights of the day was the song and dance performance of the Rritjarukar (Willy Wagtails) Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal Choir led by Rita Lindsay (pictured below).
 |
| Rita Lindsay, leader, Rritjarukar (Willy Wagtails) Choir |
 |
| Rritjarukar (Willy Wagtails) Choir |
 |
| Rritjarukar (Willy Wagtails) Choir |
 |
| Rritjarukar (Willy Wagtails) Choir |
Friday, February 8, 2013
Soar Beyond Your Wildest Expectations
Dear Readers,
Posting more articles and images to this blog will resume in a week or so.
For the last couple of months I've be collaborating on our new ebook - "Free Internet Marketing for Small Business". This is due for release towards the end of February 2013.
In the meantime, please enjoy "Soar beyond your wildest expectations".
This photo was taken during the Ridge Top Tour at Arkaroola, in the Gammon Ranges, in Outback South Australia.
Here's the link to Dropbox so you can download it for use as an inspirational poster or for use on your computer as a desktop wallpaper.
Posting more articles and images to this blog will resume in a week or so.
For the last couple of months I've be collaborating on our new ebook - "Free Internet Marketing for Small Business". This is due for release towards the end of February 2013.
 |
| "Soar beyond your wildest expectations", Ridge Top Tour, Arkaroola, Gammon Ranges, Outback South Australia |
This photo was taken during the Ridge Top Tour at Arkaroola, in the Gammon Ranges, in Outback South Australia.
Here's the link to Dropbox so you can download it for use as an inspirational poster or for use on your computer as a desktop wallpaper.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Turning Negatives Into Positives: Hot Air Ballooning In The Flinders Ranges (Not!)
Turning negatives into positives is a tremendous habit to acquire. It's really looking on the bright side of life and finding what there is to be thankful for. The following newsletter reprint details what I did on "Outback Adventure" after the disappointment of having my hot air balloon flight over the Flinders Ranges cancelled.
Pilot Your Life #15: Turn negatives into positives
During my recent four wheel drive trip into South Australia’s Outback, I put into practice one of the tips I learnt on Oz Flight ’99, my flight around Australia’s coast.
I had to turn negatives into positives several times.
Staying at Rawnsley Park Station, in the Flinders Ranges, was going to give me another opportunity to fly in a hot air balloon. I rather like the serenity of floating with the breeze, like earlier in the year in Florida (see issue no. 9, March 2010).
In the evening before the flight, everything pointed to the right conditions for a balloon launch the next morning. We had to get up early and meet in front of the Woolshed Restaurant at 5.45am, while it was still dark. It was also very chilly so I had on my gloves, scarf and beanie (a sight to behold!).
The chief pilot wasn’t sounding very hopeful because even though there didn’t seem to be much wind at ground level, the small tester balloon, with a light attached, was floating up into the darkness quite rapidly. So the decision was made not to launch the balloons.
Very disappointing. It would have been a beautiful flight, seeing Wilpena Pound bathed in the early morning sunlight. That was the negative side, missing out on the flight. The positive side was that my cabin was only a few hundred metres away and I could go back to a warm bed. Others, unfortunately, had to drive back the 24 kilometres to their accommodation in Wilpena.
The most important positive was that the pilot had our safety in mind and chose not to fly (my kind of pilot – safety first, second and last). Later in the day, the pilots packed up their gear and headed back to Adelaide, with no hope of balloon flights later in the week. I’d previously booked another night at Rawnsley Park in a few days’ time just in case there was another opportunity to go ballooning. Not this trip, obviously.
However, I made the most of the situation since I was already up in time for the sunrise (like in issue no. 6, December 2009).
It was bitterly cold and my boots did get wet tramping through the dew-laden grass but it was worth it for what I heard and saw and photographed. The magpies were carolling away in the trees and in the distance was the faint bleating of sheep. An eagle was even soaring not far from Rawnsley Bluff.
As the sun gradually rose, the landscape changed from the windmill silhouetted against the night sky, to trees cloaked in gentle light and mist still clinging to the ranges. Not a bad start to the day as I chose to look on the bright side and turn a negative into a positive.
So, the next great tip for how to pilot your life (personal or business) is:
Turn negatives into positives.
In order to get rainbows
you have to put up with the rain.
Always look on the bright side of life…
Two of my presentation topics are:
Overcoming procrastination
Turning negatives into positives
Pilot Your Life #15: Turn negatives into positives
During my recent four wheel drive trip into South Australia’s Outback, I put into practice one of the tips I learnt on Oz Flight ’99, my flight around Australia’s coast.
I had to turn negatives into positives several times.
Staying at Rawnsley Park Station, in the Flinders Ranges, was going to give me another opportunity to fly in a hot air balloon. I rather like the serenity of floating with the breeze, like earlier in the year in Florida (see issue no. 9, March 2010).
In the evening before the flight, everything pointed to the right conditions for a balloon launch the next morning. We had to get up early and meet in front of the Woolshed Restaurant at 5.45am, while it was still dark. It was also very chilly so I had on my gloves, scarf and beanie (a sight to behold!).
The chief pilot wasn’t sounding very hopeful because even though there didn’t seem to be much wind at ground level, the small tester balloon, with a light attached, was floating up into the darkness quite rapidly. So the decision was made not to launch the balloons.
Very disappointing. It would have been a beautiful flight, seeing Wilpena Pound bathed in the early morning sunlight. That was the negative side, missing out on the flight. The positive side was that my cabin was only a few hundred metres away and I could go back to a warm bed. Others, unfortunately, had to drive back the 24 kilometres to their accommodation in Wilpena.
The most important positive was that the pilot had our safety in mind and chose not to fly (my kind of pilot – safety first, second and last). Later in the day, the pilots packed up their gear and headed back to Adelaide, with no hope of balloon flights later in the week. I’d previously booked another night at Rawnsley Park in a few days’ time just in case there was another opportunity to go ballooning. Not this trip, obviously.
However, I made the most of the situation since I was already up in time for the sunrise (like in issue no. 6, December 2009).
It was bitterly cold and my boots did get wet tramping through the dew-laden grass but it was worth it for what I heard and saw and photographed. The magpies were carolling away in the trees and in the distance was the faint bleating of sheep. An eagle was even soaring not far from Rawnsley Bluff.
As the sun gradually rose, the landscape changed from the windmill silhouetted against the night sky, to trees cloaked in gentle light and mist still clinging to the ranges. Not a bad start to the day as I chose to look on the bright side and turn a negative into a positive.
So, the next great tip for how to pilot your life (personal or business) is:
Turn negatives into positives.
In order to get rainbows
you have to put up with the rain.
Always look on the bright side of life…
Two of my presentation topics are:
Overcoming procrastination
Turning negatives into positives
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Australia's Coast Is Awesome As Jigsaw Puzzles
Australia's Coast jigsaw puzzles are great for viewing the coast from a different perspective. This time the photos for the jigsaws have been reproduced as dry brush stroke paintings, introducing a different element for enjoyment. All these aerial photos were taken during my flight around Australia's coast.
In this series of CDs there are 5 different photos which have been converted to jigsaws of 12, 24, 40, 104 and 260 pieces each, making a total of 25 jigsaw puzzles.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over. Best of all, you can't lose any pieces.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
These photos are of Tasman Island, off the southeast coast of Tasmania, Point Nepean, on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Cape Wiles, on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, Disaster Bay (aptly named because of shipwrecks) in New South Wales, and the Useless Loop Salt Pans in the Shark Bay area of Western Australia.
If you would like to try a sample jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
In this series of CDs there are 5 different photos which have been converted to jigsaws of 12, 24, 40, 104 and 260 pieces each, making a total of 25 jigsaw puzzles.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over. Best of all, you can't lose any pieces.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
These photos are of Tasman Island, off the southeast coast of Tasmania, Point Nepean, on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Cape Wiles, on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, Disaster Bay (aptly named because of shipwrecks) in New South Wales, and the Useless Loop Salt Pans in the Shark Bay area of Western Australia.
If you would like to try a sample jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Mounted Police Are Magnificent In Person And Also In Jigsaw Puzzles
Mounted Police and their horses are not only magnificent in person but their photos made up into interactive Jigsaw Puzzles, which can be done on a computer or laptop, are stunning too.
In this series of CDs there are 5 different photos which have been converted to jigsaws of 12, 24, 40, 104 and 260 pieces each, making a total of 25 jigsaw puzzles.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
These photos are of Mounted Police Officers in London, England, in front of Buckingham Palace and accompanying the Horse Guards. There are also two photos of Mounted Police Officers at the Australian International 3 Day Event in Adelaide, South Australia.
If you would like to try a sample jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
In this series of CDs there are 5 different photos which have been converted to jigsaws of 12, 24, 40, 104 and 260 pieces each, making a total of 25 jigsaw puzzles.
This range of puzzles can be used both by children with different skill levels and adults. Jigsaw puzzles are easy to do with the click of a mouse button and can be played over and over.
Puzzles are not printable, they're designed to be used on a computer or laptop or even on a large screen via a data projector.
Internet access is not required.
These photos are of Mounted Police Officers in London, England, in front of Buckingham Palace and accompanying the Horse Guards. There are also two photos of Mounted Police Officers at the Australian International 3 Day Event in Adelaide, South Australia.
If you would like to try a sample jigsaw to see how it works, email me at
fran@franwest.com.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Flourishing Relationships Retreat: Helping Couples Enhance And Grow Their Relationship
Flourishing Relationships Retreat has been set up in the Adelaide Hills by Fran West and Hilary Thompson to help couples enhance and grow their relationship.
Flourishing Relationships Retreat
1. © Hilary Thompson The Out and About Therapist
2. Who is this Retreat suitable for? All couples who wish to grow and enhance their relationship; reconnect with each other and resolve issues that may be causing some disharmony within their relationship.
3. What is unique about this Retreat?
• We cater exclusively for one couple at a time, so there is as much privacy as you want.
• Retreats can be held at the weekend or during the week at a time convenient for both parties.
• We offer relationship coaching for each partner individually and coaching sessions together as a couple.
• The Retreat starts on the afternoon of your arrival and ends late afternoon of the second day.
• One, one hour follow up session with Hilary via Skype is offered as part of the Retreat.
4. Hilary Thompson MIICT Retreat Facilitator
Hilary is passionate about helping people to grow and thrive within their relationships.
She is also passionate about teaching people self help techniques so that they are better able to cope when life gets stressful.
Hilary will be drawing on many years experience as an NLP practitioner to help you to achieve the best possible outcome from this retreat.
5. Fran West BA ARMIT Retreat Host
Fran is your Host for this retreat.
She will be looking after you during your stay at “The Gums”.
Fran is an award-winning pilot, adventurer,author, photographer, and motivational speaker.
She is Australia’s Life Pilot, motivating others to pilot their lives and navigate their way to success.
6. Where is this Retreat held?
The Retreat venue is “The Gums” a four star Bed & Breakfast at Coromandel Valley in the picturesque Adelaide Hills area of South Australia
7. The Food
• Fran will serve you with one of her super continental style or cooked breakfasts.
• Lunches and afternoon teas will be prepared by Chef Jonathan Holmes-Ross of The Artisan Café Blackwood and served at the Retreat.
• For your evening meal, you can sample the fare of some of our local restaurants
8. Want to find out more? Email us at: flourishingrelationships@gmail.com for a comprehensive information package
9. Flourishing Relationships Retreat
A unique experience for all couples
Flourishing Relationships Retreat
1. © Hilary Thompson The Out and About Therapist
2. Who is this Retreat suitable for? All couples who wish to grow and enhance their relationship; reconnect with each other and resolve issues that may be causing some disharmony within their relationship.
3. What is unique about this Retreat?
• We cater exclusively for one couple at a time, so there is as much privacy as you want.
• Retreats can be held at the weekend or during the week at a time convenient for both parties.
• We offer relationship coaching for each partner individually and coaching sessions together as a couple.
• The Retreat starts on the afternoon of your arrival and ends late afternoon of the second day.
• One, one hour follow up session with Hilary via Skype is offered as part of the Retreat.
4. Hilary Thompson MIICT Retreat Facilitator
Hilary is passionate about helping people to grow and thrive within their relationships.
She is also passionate about teaching people self help techniques so that they are better able to cope when life gets stressful.
Hilary will be drawing on many years experience as an NLP practitioner to help you to achieve the best possible outcome from this retreat.
5. Fran West BA ARMIT Retreat Host
Fran is your Host for this retreat.
She will be looking after you during your stay at “The Gums”.
Fran is an award-winning pilot, adventurer,author, photographer, and motivational speaker.
She is Australia’s Life Pilot, motivating others to pilot their lives and navigate their way to success.
6. Where is this Retreat held?
The Retreat venue is “The Gums” a four star Bed & Breakfast at Coromandel Valley in the picturesque Adelaide Hills area of South Australia
7. The Food
• Fran will serve you with one of her super continental style or cooked breakfasts.
• Lunches and afternoon teas will be prepared by Chef Jonathan Holmes-Ross of The Artisan Café Blackwood and served at the Retreat.
• For your evening meal, you can sample the fare of some of our local restaurants
8. Want to find out more? Email us at: flourishingrelationships@gmail.com for a comprehensive information package
9. Flourishing Relationships Retreat
A unique experience for all couples
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Flyabout around Australia's Coast - 12th Anniversary, 3rd July
It's hard to believe that it's 12 years since I set off from Naracoorte, in South Australia's South East, to fly around the coast of Australia. I was two days behind schedule because of the dreadful wintry weather. Even one of the flight briefing officers said the weather was so bad that I should go back to bed and not bother flying in the Cessna 172!
Nevertheless, I did set off around Australia's coast, flying over the ocean about a mile out to sea and at about 1,000 to 1,500 feet above the water. This provided an excellent oblique angle for the photographs and the Cessna 172 was the right speed aircraft for photographing under the high wing.
Reflecting back on the flight and the past 12 years has been good for my own reminiscence therapy. Life certainly has changed for me.
Even though I had no team, partner, manager or thousands of dollars of sponsorship behind me, I still achieved my goal. However, I did receive help from people along the way. Members of the Australian Women Pilots' Association and members of Soroptimist International Service Organisation, in particular, provided me with accommodation and local knowledge when possible. I'd also like to thank again the series of friends and strangers who flew with me on different parts of my journey. From them I learnt a lot about flying, myself and life in general.
I had a dream to fly around Australia's coast and photograph while I was flying and I actually did it. The best advice I can give to people is that if you have a burning desire to do something, no matter how big or small, then just do it! Stop stuffing around and get on with it! You'll regret it for the rest of your life if you don't at least have a go.
Because I had a dream and did something about it, I set in motion a sequence of events which has led me to where I am now. On the return from my flight, I started speaking to people about my experiences. People then wanted me to write a book, which I did, Plane Reflections, and that led to collaboration in several academic publications. After that, I put my photos on CD and then progressed to movie presentations of the photos on DVDs. That in turn led me to producing DVDs for aged care and dementia patients as reminiscence therapy.
It hasn't been an easy path. In between times I suffered injuries in a head on collision in a car which further forced me in the direction that I'm now heading. Strange how my dream has now turned from me doing something solely for myself to me helping others.
Life is an adventure, so make the most of it.
If you want to hear or read more about my philosophy of life and business you can contact me at fran@franwest.com.
My websites are www.franwest.com and www.alzheimersproducts.blogspot.com.
Nevertheless, I did set off around Australia's coast, flying over the ocean about a mile out to sea and at about 1,000 to 1,500 feet above the water. This provided an excellent oblique angle for the photographs and the Cessna 172 was the right speed aircraft for photographing under the high wing.
Reflecting back on the flight and the past 12 years has been good for my own reminiscence therapy. Life certainly has changed for me.
Even though I had no team, partner, manager or thousands of dollars of sponsorship behind me, I still achieved my goal. However, I did receive help from people along the way. Members of the Australian Women Pilots' Association and members of Soroptimist International Service Organisation, in particular, provided me with accommodation and local knowledge when possible. I'd also like to thank again the series of friends and strangers who flew with me on different parts of my journey. From them I learnt a lot about flying, myself and life in general.
I had a dream to fly around Australia's coast and photograph while I was flying and I actually did it. The best advice I can give to people is that if you have a burning desire to do something, no matter how big or small, then just do it! Stop stuffing around and get on with it! You'll regret it for the rest of your life if you don't at least have a go.
Because I had a dream and did something about it, I set in motion a sequence of events which has led me to where I am now. On the return from my flight, I started speaking to people about my experiences. People then wanted me to write a book, which I did, Plane Reflections, and that led to collaboration in several academic publications. After that, I put my photos on CD and then progressed to movie presentations of the photos on DVDs. That in turn led me to producing DVDs for aged care and dementia patients as reminiscence therapy.
It hasn't been an easy path. In between times I suffered injuries in a head on collision in a car which further forced me in the direction that I'm now heading. Strange how my dream has now turned from me doing something solely for myself to me helping others.
Life is an adventure, so make the most of it.
If you want to hear or read more about my philosophy of life and business you can contact me at fran@franwest.com.
My websites are www.franwest.com and www.alzheimersproducts.blogspot.com.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Pichi Richi Railway on Track Again near Quorn, South Australia
The Pichi Richi Railway, based at Quorn, in the southern Flinders Ranges, is one of the favourite train journeys in South Australia.
The line extends from the historic little township of Quorn to Woolshed Flat. When I was on "Off the Beaten Track", photographing for the "Outback Adventure" DVD, it was in the spring after such a lot of rain. The grass was green, instead of brown, making everything look especially lush and the wattles were also in bloom adding splashes of yellow to the countryside.
From the train we could see rolling hills, dams, huge gnarled gum trees and fast flowing creeks. Just a pleasant view of the country including the Devil's Peak.
After we'd been on our train journey, we continued on to Wilpena Pound, in the Flinders Ranges, and also to the Gammon Ranges. On the way back we were fortunate to have a roadside view of the Pichi Richi Railway again.
We saw a group of cars parked near the railway crossing and knew that the train was bound to be along shortly. A great photo of the train crossing the road appears in "Outback Adventure" DVD. However, I like to photograph more than just the engine at the front.
Here's a photo of the guard's van at the back of the train. Note the old lamps at the rear of the van.
Modern technology is here to stay with the solar panel in the background providing the power for the railway crossing signals.
More views of the Pichi Richi Railway are on the "Outback Adventure" DVD.
The line extends from the historic little township of Quorn to Woolshed Flat. When I was on "Off the Beaten Track", photographing for the "Outback Adventure" DVD, it was in the spring after such a lot of rain. The grass was green, instead of brown, making everything look especially lush and the wattles were also in bloom adding splashes of yellow to the countryside.
From the train we could see rolling hills, dams, huge gnarled gum trees and fast flowing creeks. Just a pleasant view of the country including the Devil's Peak.
After we'd been on our train journey, we continued on to Wilpena Pound, in the Flinders Ranges, and also to the Gammon Ranges. On the way back we were fortunate to have a roadside view of the Pichi Richi Railway again.
We saw a group of cars parked near the railway crossing and knew that the train was bound to be along shortly. A great photo of the train crossing the road appears in "Outback Adventure" DVD. However, I like to photograph more than just the engine at the front.
Here's a photo of the guard's van at the back of the train. Note the old lamps at the rear of the van.
Modern technology is here to stay with the solar panel in the background providing the power for the railway crossing signals.
More views of the Pichi Richi Railway are on the "Outback Adventure" DVD.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Positive Police Presence With Those Gorgeous Greys Again
Due to popular demand here's a follow up to "Positive Police Presence on Magnificent Mounts".
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is fortunate to have a mounted police unit which happens to be extremely photogenic even when not in parade attire. Here are two more photos for you to enjoy.
The police officers obviously love their job and I'm sure the "gorgeous greys" do too. However, with my wacky sense of humour, I just have to put a different slant on things. The following comments are coming straight from the horse's mouth (so to speak).
"Hey, lady, I know you think I'm adorable but don't touch my mane. I've just had it washed and brushed this morning and you're messing it up!"
"Could you just scratch my neck a little higher please? That's oh so good. I don't suppose you could scratch that itch on my nose as well could you?"
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is fortunate to have a mounted police unit which happens to be extremely photogenic even when not in parade attire. Here are two more photos for you to enjoy.
The police officers obviously love their job and I'm sure the "gorgeous greys" do too. However, with my wacky sense of humour, I just have to put a different slant on things. The following comments are coming straight from the horse's mouth (so to speak).
"Hey, lady, I know you think I'm adorable but don't touch my mane. I've just had it washed and brushed this morning and you're messing it up!"
"Could you just scratch my neck a little higher please? That's oh so good. I don't suppose you could scratch that itch on my nose as well could you?"
Monday, February 28, 2011
Adelaide Abounds in Beautiful Buildings
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, abounds in beautiful buildings, particularly along North Terrace.
One of the many buildings is the South Australian Museum. I've taken the photo below but I've also included an edited description taken from the Museum's website - www.samuseum.sa.gov.au.
"The concept for the South Australian Museum originated in London with the Foundation of the South Australian Literary Association on 29 August 1834. The object of the society was to satisfy intellectual pursuits such as literature, arts, history and natural science.
In June 1856, 20 years after Governor Hindmarsh proclaimed South Australia a province and in the same year South Australia established its constitution, an Act to provide for an institution that would incorporate a public library and museum was assented to.
The Act promoted "the general study and cultivation of all or any of the branches or departments of art, science, literature, and philosophy" through lectures, classes and united cultural societies under one institution.
In June 1859, shortly after his arrival in the South Australian Colony, Frederick George Waterhouse offered his services as Curator of the South Australian Institute Museum. Waterhouse brought with him valuable experience following his work at the British Museum. Consequently, the Board appointed him as the first Curator (Director).
Eighty years later, legislation giving the South Australian Museum autonomy from the Art Gallery and Library was finally passed. This Act became operational in 1940.
The South Australian Museum is a custodian for the State’s cultural and
natural heritage. The specialised data generated by collection managers,
curators and scientists over the last 150 years and its interpretation are made available to the international community through publication, promotion,
education and exhibitions. This specialised knowledge contributes to the
protection of endangered species, protection of fossils, meteorites and
minerals, environmental impact statements, native title and Indigenous family
history.
Today the South Australian Museum boasts the largest Australian
Aboriginal Cultures collection in the world making Adelaide the gateway to
and from the Outback."
And yet there's more. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am - 5.00pm (except Christmas and Good Friday) and it's FREE admission. Check the Museum website for current information.
One of the many buildings is the South Australian Museum. I've taken the photo below but I've also included an edited description taken from the Museum's website - www.samuseum.sa.gov.au.
"The concept for the South Australian Museum originated in London with the Foundation of the South Australian Literary Association on 29 August 1834. The object of the society was to satisfy intellectual pursuits such as literature, arts, history and natural science.
In June 1856, 20 years after Governor Hindmarsh proclaimed South Australia a province and in the same year South Australia established its constitution, an Act to provide for an institution that would incorporate a public library and museum was assented to.
The Act promoted "the general study and cultivation of all or any of the branches or departments of art, science, literature, and philosophy" through lectures, classes and united cultural societies under one institution.
In June 1859, shortly after his arrival in the South Australian Colony, Frederick George Waterhouse offered his services as Curator of the South Australian Institute Museum. Waterhouse brought with him valuable experience following his work at the British Museum. Consequently, the Board appointed him as the first Curator (Director).
Eighty years later, legislation giving the South Australian Museum autonomy from the Art Gallery and Library was finally passed. This Act became operational in 1940.
The South Australian Museum is a custodian for the State’s cultural and
natural heritage. The specialised data generated by collection managers,
curators and scientists over the last 150 years and its interpretation are made available to the international community through publication, promotion,
education and exhibitions. This specialised knowledge contributes to the
protection of endangered species, protection of fossils, meteorites and
minerals, environmental impact statements, native title and Indigenous family
history.
Today the South Australian Museum boasts the largest Australian
Aboriginal Cultures collection in the world making Adelaide the gateway to
and from the Outback."
And yet there's more. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am - 5.00pm (except Christmas and Good Friday) and it's FREE admission. Check the Museum website for current information.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Sensational Sailing from City's Sands
When some people think of Australia's sandy beaches, they immediately think of Queensland, our northern most state.
However, Adelaide's white sandy beaches, in South Australia , are just superb, and they're not that far from the CBD.
As you can see from the photo, it's an ideal day for the sailing club to get out on the water. These craft are for one person and offer young sailors the opportunity to enjoy flying through the water.
On a weekend, the beach is teeming with life.
There are people in the water swimming, sailing or kayaking. People are walking their dogs, or their families, and generally soaking up the seaside atmosphere.
Close to the jetty there's the local pub and the cafe has the smell of fish and chips wafting down to the shore enticing walkers to stop and take a break.
Sometimes there are even kite surfers out on the water adding colour to the mix of sail boats and speed boats. It's so relaxing to sit on one of the benches and munch on fish and chips while watching the little flotilla in the distance.
Just South Australia being sensational again!
Check out "Maritime Mix" DVD for more snippets of South Australian waters.
However, Adelaide's white sandy beaches, in South Australia , are just superb, and they're not that far from the CBD.
As you can see from the photo, it's an ideal day for the sailing club to get out on the water. These craft are for one person and offer young sailors the opportunity to enjoy flying through the water.
On a weekend, the beach is teeming with life.
There are people in the water swimming, sailing or kayaking. People are walking their dogs, or their families, and generally soaking up the seaside atmosphere.
Close to the jetty there's the local pub and the cafe has the smell of fish and chips wafting down to the shore enticing walkers to stop and take a break.
Sometimes there are even kite surfers out on the water adding colour to the mix of sail boats and speed boats. It's so relaxing to sit on one of the benches and munch on fish and chips while watching the little flotilla in the distance.
Just South Australia being sensational again!
Check out "Maritime Mix" DVD for more snippets of South Australian waters.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Parks Pass Provides Plenty of Access to Wilderness Wonders
If you love the environment, nature, wilderness, wildlife, the Great Outdoors (sometimes known as national parks), then it would pay you to buy a national parks pass. Many countries have a national body which issues annual passes to their national parks.
Some states also have their own state pass. When I went "Off the Beaten Track" to film for my DVD, "Outback Adventure", I bought a South Australian National Parks pass. That will allow me access to my state's parks for a year.
When I toured America's Southwest in 2009, I bought an "America the Beautiful" National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass for $80. I kept it and when I visited Florida last year I was still able to use it.
"This pass is available to the general public and provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee for a year, beginning from the date of sale. The pass admits the pass holder/s and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults, at per person fee areas. (children under 16 are admitted free) The pass can be obtained in person at the park, by calling 1-888-ASK USGS, Ext. 1, or via the Internet at http://store.usgs.gov/pass and http://www.nps.gov/fees_passes.htm."
Some state parks will also let you use this pass, so it's really good value and encourages you to visit as many places as possible.
Some states also have their own state pass. When I went "Off the Beaten Track" to film for my DVD, "Outback Adventure", I bought a South Australian National Parks pass. That will allow me access to my state's parks for a year.
When I toured America's Southwest in 2009, I bought an "America the Beautiful" National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass for $80. I kept it and when I visited Florida last year I was still able to use it.
"This pass is available to the general public and provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee for a year, beginning from the date of sale. The pass admits the pass holder/s and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults, at per person fee areas. (children under 16 are admitted free) The pass can be obtained in person at the park, by calling 1-888-ASK USGS, Ext. 1, or via the Internet at http://store.usgs.gov/pass and http://www.nps.gov/fees_passes.htm."
Some state parks will also let you use this pass, so it's really good value and encourages you to visit as many places as possible.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
I'm Just a Total Wreck!
The Port Adelaide Ships' Graveyards, near Adelaide, South Australia, are the setting for a good adventure on the water.
There are five abandonment sites within the Port Adelaide area but the largest is at Garden Island, in the North Arm of the Port River, with other sites located at Jervois Basin, Mutton Cove, Broad Creek and Angas Inlet.
I've been exploring around the Garden Island area twice. Once in my nephew's boat and another time in a kayaking group (kayaking enables people to go into the mangroves but the mosquitoes can be very annoying).
There are heaps of vessel remains in the area and their maritime history covers more than a century. One thing that makes this area unique is the fact that these shipwrecks are accessible to people on the top of the water, not just divers.
You can get right amongst the wrecks but be safety conscious at the same time. Because of this ability to get up close in a boat or kayak, it's apparently the largest and most diverse shipwreck site in Australia that can be explored by people who aren't necessarily divers.
The added bonus, if you're lucky, is to have the Port River dolphins swimming beside you. Another recommended adventure in sensational South Australia!
Check out the Ships' Graveyards site.
Photos of the shipwrecks and other vessels on the water here appear in my DVD, "Maritime Mix".
There are five abandonment sites within the Port Adelaide area but the largest is at Garden Island, in the North Arm of the Port River, with other sites located at Jervois Basin, Mutton Cove, Broad Creek and Angas Inlet.
I've been exploring around the Garden Island area twice. Once in my nephew's boat and another time in a kayaking group (kayaking enables people to go into the mangroves but the mosquitoes can be very annoying).
There are heaps of vessel remains in the area and their maritime history covers more than a century. One thing that makes this area unique is the fact that these shipwrecks are accessible to people on the top of the water, not just divers.
You can get right amongst the wrecks but be safety conscious at the same time. Because of this ability to get up close in a boat or kayak, it's apparently the largest and most diverse shipwreck site in Australia that can be explored by people who aren't necessarily divers.
The added bonus, if you're lucky, is to have the Port River dolphins swimming beside you. Another recommended adventure in sensational South Australia!
Check out the Ships' Graveyards site.
Photos of the shipwrecks and other vessels on the water here appear in my DVD, "Maritime Mix".
Monday, January 17, 2011
Positive Police Presence on Magnificent Mounts
At the Australian International 3 Day Equestrian Event held in Adelaide, South Australia, last year, I came across two mounted police officers.
They were supposed to be on patrol on the Cross Country day which was the Saturday.
However, their patrol was probably done at snail's pace, certainly not at a canter or a gallop. They would have been continually stopping to chat and allowing the public to pat their mounts.
Such is the reputation of our South Australian Mounted Police that people of all ages are drawn to them and their horses like a magnet.
The police "greys" are all geldings of German warmblood breeding. As well as carrying out their police duties, both riders and horses provide a positive side to policing. You only have to look at the smiles on the faces of both officers to see that they love their job. I have a sneaking suspicion that the horses love the attention too.
Here are a couple of websites for more information:
http://www.horsesinuniform.com/index.php?set_albumName=album04&name=gallery&include=view_album.php
and
http://www.police.sa.gov.au/sapol/about_us/structure/operations_support_service/special_tasks_rescue_group.jsp
The stables for the police horses are located near the old Adelaide Gaol, where my grandfather was a warder.
Just a word of warning. In some countries you have to be very careful when photographing police. Sometimes it isn't allowed and you can get yourself into trouble, particularly in some Asian, South American or African countries.
However, it doesn't just happen there. While I was waiting for my flight home to Australia in 2009, I was photographing traffic outside Los Angeles Airport Terminal. Some of the traffic included, by chance, police cars and motorcycles. I suddenly found myself being approached by a security guard. He wasn't very amused and asked why I was taking so many photos at the airport. I handed over my business card and promptly explained that it was all quite innocent and I had no ulterior motive other than to take photos for my "Getting Around" DVD for aged care and dementia patients.
So, having had that experience, I asked the mounted policewoman if it was OK to photograph them and post the photos on the internet. Not a problem!
What a great way to promote the police and South Australia with such a positive attitude. Go Greys!
They were supposed to be on patrol on the Cross Country day which was the Saturday.
However, their patrol was probably done at snail's pace, certainly not at a canter or a gallop. They would have been continually stopping to chat and allowing the public to pat their mounts.
Such is the reputation of our South Australian Mounted Police that people of all ages are drawn to them and their horses like a magnet.
The police "greys" are all geldings of German warmblood breeding. As well as carrying out their police duties, both riders and horses provide a positive side to policing. You only have to look at the smiles on the faces of both officers to see that they love their job. I have a sneaking suspicion that the horses love the attention too.
Here are a couple of websites for more information:
http://www.horsesinuniform.com/index.php?set_albumName=album04&name=gallery&include=view_album.php
and
http://www.police.sa.gov.au/sapol/about_us/structure/operations_support_service/special_tasks_rescue_group.jsp
The stables for the police horses are located near the old Adelaide Gaol, where my grandfather was a warder.
Just a word of warning. In some countries you have to be very careful when photographing police. Sometimes it isn't allowed and you can get yourself into trouble, particularly in some Asian, South American or African countries.
However, it doesn't just happen there. While I was waiting for my flight home to Australia in 2009, I was photographing traffic outside Los Angeles Airport Terminal. Some of the traffic included, by chance, police cars and motorcycles. I suddenly found myself being approached by a security guard. He wasn't very amused and asked why I was taking so many photos at the airport. I handed over my business card and promptly explained that it was all quite innocent and I had no ulterior motive other than to take photos for my "Getting Around" DVD for aged care and dementia patients.
So, having had that experience, I asked the mounted policewoman if it was OK to photograph them and post the photos on the internet. Not a problem!
What a great way to promote the police and South Australia with such a positive attitude. Go Greys!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Murray Magic is Mesmerising
Australia's major river, the Murray, runs through three states - New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.
It's the life blood of so many towns, enabling agriculture, horticulture and viticulture to thrive. Different eco systems along the river support a diversity of bird, animal and plant life.
But the river is widely used just for pleasure. There's something for everyone as the river weaves its magic. It draws people for water sports, boating, fishing, houseboating and of course paddle steaming.
The paddle steamers are a living piece of history bringing back memories of a bygone era, of hardship and of romance. Travelling along this river highway on a paddle steamer is an unforgettable experience. There's plenty of room to walk around on the decks while the boat's moving at a leisurely, relaxing pace. Getting up close to the local wildlife is a real treat with the only interruptions being the whooshing of the paddle wheel and the occasional tooting of the horn.
This paddle steamer, P.S. Marion, is based at the Mannum Dock Museum, South Australia. Check out the link http://www.psmarion.com/ It's also one of the stars of my "Maritime Mix" DVD and well worth a visit if you're touring out of Adelaide.
It's the life blood of so many towns, enabling agriculture, horticulture and viticulture to thrive. Different eco systems along the river support a diversity of bird, animal and plant life.
But the river is widely used just for pleasure. There's something for everyone as the river weaves its magic. It draws people for water sports, boating, fishing, houseboating and of course paddle steaming.
The paddle steamers are a living piece of history bringing back memories of a bygone era, of hardship and of romance. Travelling along this river highway on a paddle steamer is an unforgettable experience. There's plenty of room to walk around on the decks while the boat's moving at a leisurely, relaxing pace. Getting up close to the local wildlife is a real treat with the only interruptions being the whooshing of the paddle wheel and the occasional tooting of the horn.
This paddle steamer, P.S. Marion, is based at the Mannum Dock Museum, South Australia. Check out the link http://www.psmarion.com/ It's also one of the stars of my "Maritime Mix" DVD and well worth a visit if you're touring out of Adelaide.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Penguins' Poor Navigation Skills
In Australia, there are two main islands off the southern coast commonly referred to as KI - King Island and Kangaroo Island.
King Island, in Bass Strait, off the northwest coast of Tasmania, lies in the Roaring Forties and can be fairly windy at times. Many sailing ships and lives have been lost around the rocky coast due to the winds and inclement weather. However, the island still provides a welcome haven for a colony of Little Penguins near the small settlement of Grassy.
The other KI is Kangaroo Island, a bigger and more hilly island, off the southeast coast of South Australia, not that far from Adelaide, the capital. The main town on Kangaroo Island is Kingscote and Little Penguins also have a colony near there too.
Now, while I was on King Island, Angela, from the local fish & chip shop, took me to see the penguin rookery after dark. Penguins were everywhere and they didn't seem to have any fear of two mere humans, so we were able to sticky beak into their lives.
It was a great photo opportunity (being careful not to upset the little birds) and I'm positive that these two Little Penguins didn't quite know what was going on and seemed to be saying...
King Island, in Bass Strait, off the northwest coast of Tasmania, lies in the Roaring Forties and can be fairly windy at times. Many sailing ships and lives have been lost around the rocky coast due to the winds and inclement weather. However, the island still provides a welcome haven for a colony of Little Penguins near the small settlement of Grassy.
The other KI is Kangaroo Island, a bigger and more hilly island, off the southeast coast of South Australia, not that far from Adelaide, the capital. The main town on Kangaroo Island is Kingscote and Little Penguins also have a colony near there too.
Now, while I was on King Island, Angela, from the local fish & chip shop, took me to see the penguin rookery after dark. Penguins were everywhere and they didn't seem to have any fear of two mere humans, so we were able to sticky beak into their lives.
It was a great photo opportunity (being careful not to upset the little birds) and I'm positive that these two Little Penguins didn't quite know what was going on and seemed to be saying...
Monday, January 3, 2011
Mine's Bigger Than Yours! You're Not Wrong There!
This mining truck at Leigh Creek Coal Field, South Australia, definitely dwarfs my four wheel drive. Tends to make one feel rather small by comparison. However, there are women in the mining industry who drive these mammoth trucks, so size doesn't really matter when it comes to the driver.
During "Off the Beaten Track" earlier in September last year, we visited the coal field which supplies coal for the electricity plant in Port Augusta. This then supplies power to a lot of areas in South Australia.
I thought everywhere in the coal field would be black but obviously the coal doesn't necessarily lie right near the surface.
We only had time to look around the observation area but apparently if there are enough people, a tour can be booked to go through the coal field. Several photos from this short visit are included in the DVD, "Outback Adventure".
More photos of the coal field will be posted later.
I thought everywhere in the coal field would be black but obviously the coal doesn't necessarily lie right near the surface.
We only had time to look around the observation area but apparently if there are enough people, a tour can be booked to go through the coal field. Several photos from this short visit are included in the DVD, "Outback Adventure".
More photos of the coal field will be posted later.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Outback Adventure DVD Out Now! Video Clip
"Outback Adventure" DVD highlighting photos from "Off the Beaten Track", earlier in September, is now available. It can be purchased in both PAL format (for Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom) and also NTSC format (for the USA, Canada, Europe and South America).
There are 270 photos (without captions), plus credits, featuring South Australia's Outback, Gammon Ranges and Flinders Ranges. Wildlife, windmills and wildflowers all make an appearance. Mini adventures like the Pichi Richi Railway journey and the Ridge Top Tour at Arkaroola are there too.
Visits to Alligator Gorge, the Ochre Pits and Leigh Creek Coal Field are included as well. Signs, buildings, vehicles and people make an appearance alongside trees, creeks and beautiful scenery.
Did I mention there are planes in it too?
What more could you want as a snapshot of the Australian Bush? These are the places Oprah didn't visit.
The DVD lasts for about 26.5 minutes and has an easy listening soundtrack.
Enjoy the video clip (short but great).
The DVDs are AUD$25.00 each. Postage & handling for Australia is AUD$2.50 and for outside Australia it's AUD$6.00. Contact me at fran@franwest.com for a bulk P&H cost if purchasing more than one copy.
Although primarily designed for aged care and dementia patients, the DVDs can be and are enjoyed by people of all ages.
P.S. the wildflowers on the DVD label are South Australia's floral emblem, the Sturt Desert Pea, (absolutely stunning in the Wearing Gorge). There are just a few on the actual DVD too.
There are 270 photos (without captions), plus credits, featuring South Australia's Outback, Gammon Ranges and Flinders Ranges. Wildlife, windmills and wildflowers all make an appearance. Mini adventures like the Pichi Richi Railway journey and the Ridge Top Tour at Arkaroola are there too. Visits to Alligator Gorge, the Ochre Pits and Leigh Creek Coal Field are included as well. Signs, buildings, vehicles and people make an appearance alongside trees, creeks and beautiful scenery.
Did I mention there are planes in it too?
What more could you want as a snapshot of the Australian Bush? These are the places Oprah didn't visit.
The DVD lasts for about 26.5 minutes and has an easy listening soundtrack.
Enjoy the video clip (short but great).
The DVDs are AUD$25.00 each. Postage & handling for Australia is AUD$2.50 and for outside Australia it's AUD$6.00. Contact me at fran@franwest.com for a bulk P&H cost if purchasing more than one copy.
Although primarily designed for aged care and dementia patients, the DVDs can be and are enjoyed by people of all ages.
P.S. the wildflowers on the DVD label are South Australia's floral emblem, the Sturt Desert Pea, (absolutely stunning in the Wearing Gorge). There are just a few on the actual DVD too.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Torrens Tempts Tourists to a Pleasant Paddle
As you've probably gathered by now, I live in a beautiful city in Australia. Adelaide is the capital of the state of South Australia and it has the River Torrens flowing through the centre of it.
Alongside the river is a well used walking, jogging and cycling trail.
The motor vessel, "Popeye", plies the river and takes passengers down to the weir and back up to the zoo. Check out the video links.
Another pleasant way to have fun on the river is to hire one of the paddle boats and get up close to the fountain and birdlife. You can pass the Adelaide Festival Theatre, Convention Centre, restaurants and rowing clubs. Not a bad way to exercise in the fresh air.
For locals, the river provides a great escape at lunch time and after (or before) work, but for tourists it's a chance to experience something different. Be tempted too!
Alongside the river is a well used walking, jogging and cycling trail.
The motor vessel, "Popeye", plies the river and takes passengers down to the weir and back up to the zoo. Check out the video links.
Another pleasant way to have fun on the river is to hire one of the paddle boats and get up close to the fountain and birdlife. You can pass the Adelaide Festival Theatre, Convention Centre, restaurants and rowing clubs. Not a bad way to exercise in the fresh air.
For locals, the river provides a great escape at lunch time and after (or before) work, but for tourists it's a chance to experience something different. Be tempted too!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)