Heaps of Kangaroos in the Paddock...

Australia. There is absolutely no similarity between the Aussie bush and Indiana farm country. I did plenty of Australian research, of course, but I soon came to the revelation that reading about something is not quite the same as experiencing it. And that simply knowing of something is not the same as living it. The Aussie bush is a strange and unfamiliar environment, and as surreal as it may sound, I feel strongly drawn toward it. Sad to say, I will only have 6 weeks to gather an impression of the bush. Some might say that is plenty of time, but keep in mind, Aborigines have (had) an accumulative and collective land knowledge spanning 40,000 years. For now, though, I will simply leave with the mention of the prodigious Eucalypt and its benefactor, Fire.

We were welcomed fully in Canberra, which was only to be built upon by our stay in the Berrima District in the Southern Highlands. The Aussie Rotarians are absolutely fantastic people. I owe heaps of thanks to Sue and Paul for their hospitality and welcome in Jerrabomberra. Allan, Kathy and the kids are amazing. I feel as if I go way back with Jake, the Cupitt’s family dog. Safe to say, the scourge of the introduced rabbits has one positive upshot: Jake will forever be entertained in chasing and thus harassing these pesky of pests.

I simply wanted to check in and let folks know that as is well. I do have to say that I’m very impressed by my American cohorts. Each one lends a certain unique quality and degree of professionalism in representing District 6540, and I feel quite humbled to be in their presence. Or as they would most dutifully point out, “shadow.” It’s all good nonetheless.

Cheers,

Steve