Fully Booked

Take a Tour of the Festival Centre

Thursday June 20th 2013
Time:         10.00 AM sharp
Cost:           $11.00 each
Duration: Approx.  1 to 2 hours
Meet:  At Café, side entrance to Festival Centre………..For Coffee
Max. People:    30
Take a Tour of fascination through the Back of this well respected entertainment centre. Dressing rooms, and all the ‘behind the scenes ‘areas, which are not generally seen by the public. As always, bookings are essential.

Contact Jeanette:     8339 7254

Board a Bus to Torrens Island

Saturday June 29th 2013
Time: Meet at 12.30 PM Sharp / Front Entrance
Tour Time: Approx. 2 Hours
Cost: $25.00 per person / Includes Entry Into Museum
Max: 23 Passengers
Address:
South Australian Maritime Museum
126 Lipson Street
PORT ADELAIDE

Museum Open   10.00AM – 5.00PM

Torrens Island Quarantine Station Tour / S A Maritime Museum

The Quarantine Station has stood in chilling isolation on Torrens Island since 1880 when it was built to stop passengers from bringing smallpox into Adelaide. The guided tour will lead you through the Landing and Decontamination area, the Isolation Hospital, the Morgue and the Graveyard. This site is only accessible by the Maritime Museum’s Bus Tour. Closed shoes are required.
Contact Jeanette:    8339 7254                

10 Bookings Still Available

A Sunday Luncheon and Wine Tasting with Award Winning SA Wines

Date: Sunday July 7th 2013

Time:  Must be by … 12.30pm…At Front Entrance.
Duration: 1 pm to 5 pm
Venue:  Koppamurra Wines
Address:  32 Unley Road Unley SA
Cost: No Charge…….Correct……No Charge
Max. People: Very Strictly 24

Please Note: This is a day for the true wine lover.
The ‘Catch ‘…We must all sit together on 3 tables of eight
Spend a leisurely afternoon sampling some wonderful award winning wines, whilst enjoying a lovely lunch at the same time. All of this by special invitation thanks to two of our members. Wendy and Brian Turner. Definitely not your normal Cellar Door style of Winery. In fact, not your normal Winery at all!!
Please be sure to book early, as these afternoons are always extremely popular with wine buffs!!

Contact Jeanette ….8339 7254

ATTENTION - ONLY 6 SEATS LEFT FOR THE STEAM RANGER TRIP and FULL

PAYMENT IS DUE BY 30TH JUNE

All Aboard and Full Steam Ahead

For Our Mystery Dinner Destination to Celebrate
“Christmas in July “   

Date:  Saturday July 27th 2013

Time: STRICTLY BY… 6. 00PM… NO LATER
Departure: From Steam Ranger Railway Station… end of Gawler Street Mount Barker at 6.30 PM
Returning From: Steam Ranger Railway Station… Strathalbyn at11.00PM
Theme: To Wear Something  In The Colour …RED
Fare: Traditional Xmas…3 Course

Cost: $ 70.00 Per Person all Inclusive
Drinks: Extra

Bookings: $20.00 Ahead Required…. A. S. A. P.

Max. People:   50

Locomotive Haulage:  THE DUKE OF EDINBOROUGH: Built in the mid 1920’s at Islington, right here in Adelaide.
PLUS:    We may be able to have our very own’ Heritage Carriage ‘
So, if you are interested in travelling with the nostalgia of Steam and the Shrill of the Locomotive’s Whistle as we journey through the darkness of the winter’s night along these well preserved and well cherished timeless tracks, to our mysterious and historical venue, then please, don’t delay in contacting me to reserve your seat. This is strictly a once only event.

Contact: Jeanette     8339 7254

A full days outing to Kapunda is planned for August 11th to visit a very famous estate, full of interest and history. Why not consider  staying a little longer, and making it a wonderful weekend.
Stay tuned for further information.

Contact: Jeanette     8339 7254

Irish Club Adelaide
Visit

Saturday June 15th 2013

A small group of us took part in the fun and folklore of the Irish Club last Saturday evening. Learning many of the intricate and toe tapping steps. The hall was full of family and friends, all there to have a good time. All in all it was a cheery night.
Thank you everyone for coming along.

Jeanette  Walsingham - Meath

OLD TREASURY BUILDING TOUR

The Old Treasury Building Adelaide
Visit

Saturday May 11th 2013

On a warm and somewhat overcast Saturday afternoon, nineteen of our members took a trip back in time to see and hear all about our well known Treasury Building, in the heart of the city. We were welcomed by a friendly and experienced guide. Beginning in the courtyard, surrounded by formal and well clipped gardens, with the central point being an elegant and classical fountain. Many notable and famous people have walked past or around this, including the Beatles when they came to Adelaide at the height of their fame. Then into the main entrance hall which is now part of the ‘Adina’ luxurious apartment hotel. In this area is still part of the original sandstone wall, with its beautiful lever arch facing out into the reception area, and looking onto Flinders Street. We viewed many sepia photographs of early times along the corridors of this stunning and majestic building, and were treated to a viewing of one of the two bedroom apartments. Next was downstairs to see the area where horses drank from their water trough, which is where Archaeologists have discovered various items of interest from many years gone by. This area is now a good sized spa, swimming pool, sauna and gymnasium all beautifully fitted out for the use and pleasure of the hotel guests. Up the stairs to be introduced to the “ Cabinet Room “ still in its original state, adorned with Antique Furniture, photographs of all the past politicians, a wonderful map, outlining  ‘ The Goyder Line ‘ and lots of rather entertaining and hidden  tales regarding the very important people of the day. Now, back downstairs after viewing some handsome artefacts and furniture, to enter into the now famous tunnels.

The tunnels are narrow and the brick and stone work are bare in many areas. Many employees used the tunnels to travel to and from, whilst having the aid of tram tracks to carry metal trollies that were loaded with documents and files. All to make life easier. More stories then time to return upstairs once more to conclude our tour. It was certainly a worthwhile visit, this beautiful building exuding a rich and elegant sense of prominence and great pride about it.

Thank you to everyone who came to enjoy.

Jeanette  Walsingham - Meath

From the QM2

The weather was terrific on the day of the sailing of the QM2, and it was great to see everyone packed onto the MV Port Princess and waving frantically.

It was also good to have a running commentary from some of the gang on board, via mobile, as you pottered up and down the waterway. Just a pity that the time coincided with a compulsory safety and life jacket drill run an hour before they leave dock.

Anyway we trust that you all got a great view of the huge ship as she set sail, and I’ve included a couple of shots of the inside of the being the main dining room and one of the bar lounges. All very plush!
I’ve also attached a shot of the MG lot onboard the Port Princess.

Barb & I had a great trip to Freo, albeit Barb and half the other passengers felt a bit queasy the next day as we hit a bit swell coming up from the Southern Ocean, we were also delayed about 6 hours from docking due to high winds and given the narrow mouth into Fremantle Harbour.

Despite all that we can however thoroughly recommend such a trip if you want a few days of luxury, entertainment and as much 5 star food as you can eat.

Steve

Queen Mary 2 Cruise
March 23rd 2013

Well, what can I say…Perfect weather, calm waters although, the morning clouds, rain, and yes even fog, were a cause for concern for the day that lay ahead.

All 73 of our members, family and friends enjoyed a boat ride with a point of difference. To make it even more special, was to see and speak to one of our hard working members who was frantically waving back at us from one of the many decks that this very graceful and commanding ship has. We were all trying to catch a glimpse of Steve Spong and Barb Harrington standing in between the many lifeboats which surrounded them. It is to date, the largest, tallest, widest, longest passenger liner to be built in the world and, with an impressive itinerary to match. The long standing famous name of ‘CUNARD ‘is painted in bright red emblazoned on her side. 

         
Pods of Dolphins bobbed up and down all around the Port Princess, as we slowly made our way down the river. Many of our passengers took full advantage of the open upper deck to take in the scenery and the fresh air. Some of us had the privilege of enjoying the Captains company, whilst he steered the boat, made various announcements, plus gave commentary about our cruise, as well as entertaining us. It was nice to see everyone just sitting relaxing and soaking up the afternoon sun, whilst we sailed slowly along. The Tour took in four hours which was a bonus. Unfortunately, several of our members missed out, due to an overwhelming response. So please remember to book early for future events.

I would like to thank everyone who came along to enjoy the day.

From; Jeanette Walsingham - Meath

Movie / Meal Deal

Goodwood Hotel / Capri Cinema Goodwood

March 2nd 2013

A very hot and humid late afternoon saw 21 of our members attending this event.  Unfortunately, I was not able to be there as I was busy working. Wayne kindly took over with the smooth control of taking care of the evenings procedures for me.  

From the reports that came in, I believe the Hotel, affectionately known as the ‘Goody ‘was well received and accommodating. With a pleasant setting, good service and meals to match.

The second half of the evening was not so accommodating apparently. The feature movie was screened at a late hour and not as one would have expected it to be.  However, the Cinema determines which movies will be shown, and their time frame. So, apologies to all who were disappointed and had to endure a long evening. Maybe next visit will be much better.

Thank you to all who attended.

From; Jeanette Walsingham - Meath

Breakfast Run / Luncheon
Ashbourne / Kondoparinga Homestead
Sunday February 24th 2013

A warm and  windy  welcome at Mylor Oval for 64 of our members, then 58 of us ventured along through Mylor, Meadows and then  into Ashbourne. A very pretty drive, given that the weather was so hot. We arrived at the Homestead to be greeted by its owner. After being served lunch, which consisted of all the members being placed in different rooms to dine, including a formal dining room and a verandah, we  were then  guided around the house in small groups.

The array of side saddles were quite amazing, all were made in several different countries. There was even a ‘basket ‘side saddle made to suit a small child, which came from Ireland. A great number of saddles were from the 1900’s and earlier. Many of the saddles are still being used today by Sandra’s family.

Walking down the steps to the basement, then into a small room which resembled a dressing room from the ‘Victorian Era ‘.

Beautiful, colourful and crafted costumes, all for the riding and the elaborate elegance of   equestrianism.  A time honoured sport, for both the Lady and the Gentleman of the day.

Next point of interest was outside and a short walk down to the ‘shed ‘. A very diverse collection of stationary machinery to ponder over. The views from here were of steep valleys and rolling hillsides abound, just waiting for some heavy rains to brighten them into a glowing green again.

Thank you to everyone who came along and braved the heat and dusty entrance to the property.
From ; Jeanette Walsingham - Meath

Sunday 3rd February

High Tea and West Terrace Cemetery Visit

From: Jeanette Walsingham – Meath

On a warm and rather windy Sunday afternoon, ten of our members ventured out to enjoy in the delights of a “High Tea “at the Grand Chifley Hotel in Adelaide, opposite the parklands and within walking distance of the lovely Veale Gardens. However, the building was high, the expectations were high, but alas, the service and style were definitely not high. Not a Linen or Lace Table setting in sight, as one would expect in such surroundings. The food was plentiful, which was a bonus. We spent two hours there before continuing on to the next adventure of the day.

Through the main gates to our famous Cemetery, there waiting to greet us, were two very keen and enthusiastic volunteers from the Historical Branch of the Cemetery, as well as five more eager  listeners.We walked along roadways and pathways, learning about the history, heritage, and highlights of those buried in the thirty two acres of the State Heritage Listed Cemetery.

Many elaborate and ornate Headstones with exquisite cast iron railings and embellishments. We visited a separate section, dedicated   for young children. In one far west corner is an area that has been set aside for medical science donors. Servicemen from WW1 have their own memorial site of meticulously kept rows of headstones, with well clipped lawns. Certainly a journey of discovery awaits around every corner, as you can’t help but feel sadness, struggle, and sacrifice, whilst looking and listening to our knowledgeable guides.

So much to learn and see that a second visit is recommended. So many well-known, notable, and famous people are interned here. After spending almost two hours on our Tour, we were all ready to call it a day.

Thank you to one and all who came along.

Sunday 20th January

Fort Glanville Visit

By: Jeanette Walsingham – Meath

A somewhat different and interesting day had by all who came along to experience the life of our early armed forces in Adelaide. 18 members met in the morning sunshine at the Victoria Park Racecourse, followed by another 8 members who joined us later in the morning. Unfortunately, 3 of our couples experienced car problems to begin with, so they all arrived in their ‘plastics ‘. Due to the Tour Down Under, we had to skirt around the city to commence our outing. We arrived and were delighted to have the Barracks all to ourselves for a couple of hours or so .

After settling in and having our refreshments under the verandah; we then proceeded to view the display of memorabilia in the foyer. The Tour took place between 1PM to 4PM with an excellent volunteer guide showing us around. The design of the Fort is a ‘Lunette ‘ or crescent shaped earthwork, reinforced by 160cm of concrete and 60cm brick retaining walls. Interestingly, all the bricks used to build the Fort were transported from Victoria. Perhaps because of skilled convict labour during this period of 1878 – 1880.

We viewed many parts of the Fort, learning of daily operations,  different ranks for the Officers,  living quarters,  food  rations, various punishments, even about their daily walk to take their bath ‘The Ocean ‘.All the volunteers wore the uniform  from the original design, a heavy  wool flannel, with a rather heavy, but strikingly handsome pith helmet. Not so comfortable on a hot day. We watched the Soldiers perform their drill duties, using their bayonets and artillery carbine rifle, with some semantics thrown in along the way. Even one of our very own members was ‘enlisted’ for a full 15 minutes, amusing everyone, in the crowd. I think that the most exciting time of the day was when we witnessed the loading and firing of the cannons. The smaller one being wheeled and pulled out onto the parade ground. Plumes of gun powder exalting into a very loud bang. A most educational journey into the operations of an era past. One which is to be highly commended and valued.

Many thanks to all the members who came along.

‘’ CAMELOT CASTLE ‘’

Visit Sunday December 9th 2012

From; Jeanette Walsingham -Meath

Thirty four people attended a warm and joyous day last Sunday in beautiful Basket Range. Most of us met in the parklands of East Adelaide in the late morning. A winding and very scenic route took us up to our venue. Upon arrival we were greeted by our colourful host and hostess of this 42 year old mini castle, built from local stone, from the ‘Basket Range Quarry ‘.Literally, a ‘stone’s throw away.

After everyone was settled in the ‘Wedding Room ‘being wonderfully spacious, we then proceeded to enjoy a 3 course Christmas style meal. A surprise visitor arrived during the early afternoon, and showered everyone with good humour and lollies. Even free Champagne was offered to some. Lots of Ho Ho Ho and good cheer abound.

The grounds are superbly kept, with stone and slate paving everywhere. The scenery, having a rural feel to it.There is a Chapel at the far end of the building, very quaint and rather charming, where weddings take place, with a little stone bridge and a babbling brook just at the front of the entrance. The host was very keen to book a “Wedding “for one couple on the day.

On all accounts, it was a delightful day, and one that would equally be enjoyable in the depth of Winter, sitting in front of the large stone fireplace, and one could even stay overnight in the spacious accommodation that is provided within the establishment.There are Three Dining rooms, and the Décor is Medieval, and somewhat eclectic.

Thank you to all the members who came along to enjoy.

 “THE CEDARS “
Visit Sunday 18th November 2012
From: Jeanette Walsingham - Meath
The day began with a cool morning, the sun trying it’s best to appear.
Twenty Two keen members came along to view and admire the home, studio and works of our very famous Hahndorf Artist Hans Heysen.

The Rambling Gardens and grounds looked superb in the spring sunshine. Roses abound, many different and highly perfumed ones amongst the collection of very old, and very popular species of plants.

The original driveway being flanked by the “Indian Cedar “from the Himilayas, hence the name of this wonderful and peaceful property.
The Heysen home, once a modest small cottage, was added to and extended over the years, mainly in the 1920’s and now boasts 22 rooms. Having to accommodate eight children with Mr and Mrs Heysen, and their very fine collection of Georgian and Victorian Furniture.The home today, still has that ‘ lived in’ feeling with a real presence of it being a happy and safe sanctuary. Naturally, all the walls are adorned with the artists’ work including that of his eldest daughter Nora.

Many famous people have treaded the floorboards of this appealing property. The entirety of it is truly an Artists Haven. Whilst wondering around the well clipped grounds, one comes across intriguing and clever pieces of sculpture, constructed from wood, metal, stone and wire.

The solidly built Studio used by the artist, can only be described as absolutely remarkable. Almost still in perfect order after such a long time of constant and contemplative use. After a successful and very in-depth tour, including the well preserved garage, housing a fine looking 1930’s Ford complete with its own very first ‘Pop Up’ caravan, which the artist always took to the Flinders Ranges  as his portable home, so he could spend time painting the Landscape.

By now we were all ready to rest our legs and enjoy basking in the beautiful sunshine to picnic on the manicured lawns amongst the delightful array of roses and ornamental trees, and to soak up the countryside all around us.
I would like to thank everyone who made the day by coming along.