Saturday, September 10, 2011

First Caledinia orchids for 2011


First cowslip orchid for the year. Quite a lot are now suddenly popping up.


First spider orchid seen this year. This was on the Leavesley's block that was burnt last summer.

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First Caledinia orchids for 2011

First cowslip orchid for the year. Quite a lot are now suddenly popping up.


First spider orchid seen this year. This was on the Leavesley's block that was burnt last summer.

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Margaret River walk to 10 Mile Dam


Went for a walk along the Margaret River towards the 10 Mile Dam. Very still section then there are waterfalls.


Lost Ducklings

Yesterday I heard a commotion in the forest behind us. There was quacking and cheeping and crows. I saw a crow fly off with a ducking in its beak and managed to chase the other one away. The ducklings then walked past my feet, across the lawn and down the side of the house. As they got to the front of the house Mum and Dad duck came around and they all met up again with much ado.

The two crows were still trying to attack them so I had to chase them away as they walked along our firebreak, heading towards the creek, about 1km away. I had to leave them as they left our property. I hope they made it ok.  These are wood ducks that nest in hollows in the trees on the property behind us. The ducklings drop down and then have to make their way to the water.

6 well camouflaged ducklings coming out of the forest.

Heading in the right direction. They wait for each other as they go.

Mum and Dad Duck reunited with their children. Unfortunately at least one has already been taken by the crows. Bella was very good and did not chase them.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Laurance Vineyard

Had lunch at Laurance Estate today (the one with the chick on a stick). Very pleasant lasagna and Pam had a
Turkish chicken sandwich.  Their wine tasting is a bit odd as they charge $9 for 6 tasting glasses, which are on a tray which you take to a table and sip while you read the tasting notes.  Overall a good experience as you can compare at your leisure. However, the tasting notes are not very detailed and you don't get that exchange with cellar staff about the various qualities in the wine.  It think it works for Laurance as their wines are expensive so they recoup some of the tasting costs from the many lookers but not buyers. I'm glad none of the other wineries use this method as I prefer the personal touch. Still a very lovely setting. It was raining so poor Bella was not allowed out.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Best Home during our WA Trip


“Best Home during our WA Trip”
5 of 5 starsReviewed June 20, 2011 - NEW
My wife booked Loaring 13-14/06 and I initially did not think it's the best choice because it's c. 5-6km from town centre, but as soon as I arrived there I loved it: spotless room with spa in a very quiet garden, cosy lounge/dinning room like at home, fresh breakfast and free internet. A cute dog called Bella gave us lots fun. Dirk gave us great help for local information. We even changed our tour for rest of WA. Highly recommended! Alan
  • Stayed June 2011, traveled as a couple

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Lovely


“Lovely”
4 of 5 starsReviewed June 19, 2011 - NEW
This place has been purpose built to operate as a B&B, and it works really well, with a huge common area, lovely breakfast each morning, and the muffins on arrival went down so well! The owners were very hospitable and helped us each morning on what to do, giving us tips on routes or activities we otherwise wouldn't have known about or considered. The rooms were lovely - the beds were so comfy it was difficult to get up each morning! The spa was the drawcard for us and we put it to good use, it was divine and a great way to finish the day along with a glass of local wine.

The B&B is surrounded by bushland, we were lucky to see a kangaroo one day. The only downside to this is that a) the parking area is very very dark at night, to the point where maybe it would be a good idea to put in a solar-powered light outside to help is find our way. And b) our sleep was interrupted on two of our three nights by a local frog, which has very unique moaning call which went on all night.

I'd definitely return, but would be sure to take some very effective ear plugs next time!
Stayed May 2011, traveled as a couple




Fortunately for guests the Moaning Frogs have stopped their calling and lights are being installed.