Sunday, July 26, 2009

Temora Air Show – Day II




The Libran moon offers a balanced and optimistic approach to life. It’s day two of our weekend in Junee and Temora. Yesterday we went to the Temora Air Show and got front row seats to the flying action. It was a sensational day of aeronautical action and fantastic flying routines.

The weather was perfect for flying. The skies were clear and crisp and the wind was virtually non-existent. The vintage bombers and old war planes taxied and runway and launched into amazing displays of man and machine. It was humbling to be reminded of the dedication and heroism of our air force and pilots especially those young men who willingly flung themselves op in the air in the tin cans to face more experienced and established fleets.

I’ve always been a proud Australian – no matter where I’ve travelled in the world but its nice to be reminded of the legion of defenders who gave up their lives for the freedom of our country. I am constantly tormented by the price they had to pay to keep us safe and on weekends like this I want to fall at their feet and thank them for their bravery and valour.

The day of the air show was pure magic. Our view was optimum and the energy of the museum was friendly and vibrant. Temora is a tiny country town which hosts these flying events and is supported most generously by some of our wealthy Australians. In these times of economic hardship and gross national debt it is encouraging to see so many families and friends of the Museum get out supporting this monument to the brave Australians flying legacy. In the future we will keep this event in prime position in our calendar.

Last night we dined in Junee. Junee was a railway town which basted the locomotive exchange in the steam days of rail transport history. The station is stately and decorates in ornate carvings of eighteenth century décor. The red brick and sandstone buildings are a testament to the workmanship and dedication of that era. The circular driveway is grand and the appeal is welcoming. The hustle and bustle of yester-year is replaced by an eerie emptiness and ghostly sounds of the wind whistling through the platforms of loneliness.

It’s sad to see the degradation of a town. The price of progress is costly when livelihoods and family security is at stake. I know we are meant to sharpen our pencils, improve the tracks and logistically improve the efficiency of our transport system. However, this town feels the loss of progress in its heart and soul and waits for weekends like this to keep the dream of existence alive.

Last night we dined at an old country pub called, Loftus on Humphries. The transformation of this grand old building aligned with the termination of the railway stop over. In days gone by the trains would bring in many visitors and train drivers would stop in for a beer and a feed. Now, the town waits for transients and the spill over from the Temora Air Show.

Loftus on Humphries offered magnificent country cooking with portions you couldn’t dream of eating. We sat at candle lit tables and gorged on fine cuisine – a hedonist dream. Before dinner I eyed-off the cakes and pies in glass cabinets contemplate a sugary sojourn. During the meal the harsh reality set in and it was obvious that the cakes and pies wouldn’t make it to my table that night.

I wasn’t disappointed as I had been sated beyond comprehension. I sat and thought about how much food we need to feel comfortable and well fed. Why go for gluttony when we can just say, “enough thank you!” and push our chair away from the table.

Sadly, today marks the end of this short trip. Before we leave the region we are off to the Licorice and Chocolate Factory – yum yum! Have I ever told you that my most favourite indulgence is licorice and chocolate? Well, there you go, another secret has been hatched into the web!

After brekkie we will stop in and have a visit with this local industry. Maybe take one or tiny treats with us on our return journey. We’ve indulged this weekend and titillated all of our senses affirming our commitment to the enjoyment of life.

The weekend has a final chapter to explore. We are up for the journey. This interlude into our working life is another example of the balance we seek between hard work and play.

The morning spread is indicative of my boyang and satisfied demeanour. The Empress – for the new – the world for the plenty and temperance to remind me that balance and objectivity is important too!

The call of breakfast is deafening – enjoy your day!

Peace and Love,

Julia Ashton-Sayers

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