Brisbane

Sunday dawned bright and sunny in Brisbane and, after more than 2 weeks of good living and over eating, it was time to get out for a run. The route along the paths and board walks beside the Brisbane River was perfect for running and I was not alone. There were literally hundreds of runners and cyclist out and about just after 8 o'clock. Aussies love their sport and it was clear they like to keep fit as well.

Close to where we are staying, the street market was already erected and almost ready for the first customers. I was impressed with the work ethic of the people who must have been out their beds before dawn on to get ready for business. The run was great but it was far too warm and I actually started wishing I was back on a cold wet Carradale Beach!

Having burned off a few calories it was time to head out for breakfast, which seems to be quite a big thing here in Oz. Restaurants were packed and a hearty breakfast was the order of the day. Having taken on sufficient fuel, it was time for a sail on one of the City Cat ferries that ply up and down the twisting river acting very much like a floating train. I got talking to a local who used the service to get from home in the suburbs to his office in the City. If you have to commute to work, this has to be the way to do it! The trip gave us a wonderful perspective of the city, seeing the busy centre, residential areas and the docks where a cruise liner was berthed.

Back on dry land, we explored some of the old city, much of which sat surrounded by modern high rise buildings. The contrast was sharp, but actually highlighted the best features of the old and the new. Today's blip is of the Victoria Bridge with some of the business district in the background. We then wandered over to the South Bank, an area of parkland, outdoor theatres and numerous eateries. It was buzzing with Brisbanites all enjoying the fine weather and having great family fun. It was wonderful to sit in a restaurant and just watch the world go by. Brisbane is a city on the up and you could almost sense the quiet confidence of its people.

Back on the road tomorrow heading for Hunter Valley. Got to see where all that lovely Shiraz comes from!