As one of Australia’s most famous historical figures, Ned Kelly was born in the colony of Victoria to Irish parents with his father being a transported convict. The Kellys were poor and saw themselves as victims of police persecution.

Ned served several prison sentences for a variety of offences. After shooting three policemen he and his gang were proclaimed outlaws. Kelly and his gang eluded the police for two years, thanks in part to the support of an extensive network of sympathisers.

Demanding justice for his family and the rural poor, he threatened dire consequences against those who defied him.

In 1880, when Kelly’s attempt to derail and ambush a police train failed, he and his gang, dressed in armour engaged in a final gun battle with the police. Kelly, the only survivor, was severely wounded by police fire and captured. Despite thousands of supporters attending rallies and signing a petition for his reprieve, Kelly was tried, convicted and sentenced to death by hanging. Supposedly his last words were reported as “Such is life”. A phrase that has become part of the Australian way of life

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In the time since his execution, Kelly has been mythologised into a “Robin Hood” character, a political icon and a figure of Irish Catholic and working-class resistance to the establishment and British colonial ties.

Trying out some of the local bar scenes. Couldn’t get passed the Berlin Bar without trying it out. Getting in requires you to ring the bell and then you have to decide if you are more a West or East Berliner

…. we opted for West Berlin, wonder why. Maybe 5* Fergus has something to do with it

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No better way to get some insight into a city than going on a walking tour with a local. Liam, our guide, did a great job sharing some of Melbourne’s history and little anecdotes.

here are a few little snippets of what we picked up …

Melbourne was founded in 1835 by John Batman which led to the settlement briefly be known as Batmania, at this time an administrative district of New South Wales. In 1837 the settlement was renamed to Melbourne after the British Prime Minister at the time. Melbourne was declared a city in 1847 by Queen Victoria. After a few begging letters to the Queen, Melbourne got approval to split from New South Wales to become the new colony of Victoria.

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The discovery of gold in mid-1851 in Victoria sparked a gold rush and Melbourne, as the colony’s major port, experienced rapid growth. The wealth brought in sparked the building of grand buildings such as the Royal Exhibition Building, the Princess theatre.

The Eureka Rebellion in 1854 resulted in major political changes to the colony, including improvements in working conditions such as 8 hour movement: 8 Hours Work, 8 Hours Recreation, 8 Hours Rest – introduced in 1856. Most notable since 1860 a Long Service Act allows public servants, after 10 years’ service, to sail “home” to England or elsewhere – 3 months leave on full pay. This is still in place and has been extended beyond the public service sector in the 1950’s. How good is that?

Melbourne is a multi cultural city with people coming from all over the world. The population is growing rapidly with lots of apartment blocks being built for housing. On the way in from the airport I casually counted 30 cranes working on one or other skyscraper building sites.

Still have to try the famous coffee culture but had our first dining experience.

There are so many places to choose from. It’s rather difficult to decide …

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In the end we followed the recommendation from Kyle, one of our guides in Tasmania. Venue and food were excellent

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Leaving from Hobart today. It’s the height of summer but certainly doesn’t feel like it. 40 degrees a few days ago and barely 15 degrees today. Why did I leave my puffer jacket with Linda? Ah yes, on the Overland track it might be snowing.😉 Keep warm and enjoy.

Pictures speak more than words ….

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Easier day today, some leisurely walk in the morning followed by kayaking down to Ansons Bay.

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And being treated by some fantastic dinner prepared by the crew (the host of the Bay of Fires lodge and the guides)

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All of us, having a great time

Enjoying the beauty of nature including all the things it throws at you … including a torrential downpour with storm force winds and a sandstorm

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We made it to the lodge despite the tough conditions. To be greeted by

In Tasmania, not Scotland. Mind you, seeing the street signs in Bothwell one could think differently

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For auld lang syne, should old acquaintance be forgot …

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All enjoying our drink of choice. No better place to have a nightcap

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