Down Under - Better Late Than Never

Time to go Down Under mate! Moonah Links awaited us on the first leg of the three tournaments in Australia and New Zealand. After 36 hours of travel we arrived on the Moornington Peninsula in the Australia state of Victoria. Our weather this year was much nicer than last, allowing for some additonal sightseeing. We did however, have to contend with some smokey skies from the nearby fires. The resort is pretty far away from civilization, so you do end up spending most of your time on site. We were fortunate to have a whole bunch of our good friends with us, which made the time away much better. We shared many riveting games of Canasta with the Summerhays, and the Putnams. If you've never heard of this game, go find it, never-ending fun!

A view of the clubhouse from afar

All smiles during practice with friends

Jim on the 18th tee

Jim and I began our time in Australia visiting the tiny beach side town of Sorrento. A courtesy car took us the 20 minute drive to this tiny town. The one main street through town is lined with specialty shops, bistros, and cafes. The other end of the main street runs to the water. A car and passenger ferry transport vacationers and tourists between the historic town of Queenscliff and the beach town of Sorrento. We were lucky to have a nice sunny day and I even stuck my feet in the water. We did go on a Monday which is their day of the week to close up early, boo hoo. We enjoyed an early dinner and some lovely Italian gelatto!

My toes made it in the water, crisp and cool

The view from the ferry dock towards Queenscliff

The Continental Hotel in Sorrento

To start off the tournament, Moonah Links provided a wonderful cocktail party for the players and families. It was so great to mingle with our friends and enjoy some fun-time. The boys enjoyed the red wine and the girls enjoyed each others company.

Steve Wheatcroft, Michael Putnam and Jim - enjoying some Australian gold!

Kristina and I in style

One of the highlights of our time in Australia was our trip to the Aces High ranch. We all got a bag of bread and were given free reign to explore about five acres full of Wallabys, Kangaroos, Deer, Peacocks, Emus, and Geese. We also encountered a very sleepy Koala. The school children at the ranch were kind enough to give up their tennis balls for an adult game of cricket. That didn't last long as the tennis balls went far and were lost quickly!

Some interested deer

Jim and I with our new friend!

A friendly roo...