South Pacific Tales

Last night I was sitting on my bed eating my food and watching telly. Somebody from outside my window started talking to me.

I go to the window because I'm getting tired of shouting across the room over the sounds of the Telly and hand fan.

I am already getting this no feeling from the chick standing outside. So now I'm at the window what I thought was a girl was a guy! So he asked me if I was horny. I say no.

That was a particularly disturbing experience. This serves as a reminder. If your window is open on the bottom floor of your house while you are trying to relax, and a stranger tries to talk to you, close the window. That might also be an acceptable time to pull out a fair sized baseball bat. Perhaps it's just me but I would think it strange that you're walking up to the window and asking these questions.

In any case with that behind me from last night I decided to focus looking at University of New South Wales material. I had met a lady who told me about the University, I gave her my address and she said she'd send me some things in the

mail. I have been very much looking forward to see the programs that offer it in Sydney.

It was brought to my attention a massive event in Sydney that demonstrates in support of the Gay and Lesbian community.

It's called the Mardi Gras. Two hour-long parade and afterwards I went to Brighton to visit Michael and Caroline, then to Kings Cross Hotel. I stayed until three in the morning dancing then I went to fetch something to eat ; veggies and cheese, then wait for the bus back to Coogee. I must have taken 30 pictures last night today is just going to be a casual laid-back day I think I probably right chords people today I also have to do laundry. Everyday life can be so interesting!

It's Tuesday March 7th 1995 the next few days or weeks eat sleep work. Got a job at Coles Supermarket working 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. 3 to 4 days a week. Today I'm starting to feel low I'm working by myself and thinking of how much I love how much I miss him how much I miss everybody at home. It's alright when I have people around to talk to but when I don't I feel lonely. I'm thinking I need a guitar. I could play to My Heart's content. It would keep me happy, I could song write and more. I think I have to learn a few chords first though. It would be nice if I could have my guitar back home sent over.

With that I could play wherever; when I want I can play. I'm certain it would be a great bonding experience and open the door how to people that play guitar.

Jason left Indies yesterday. He left me a phone card for New Zealand. What a thoughtful guy. I told him earlier could be heading over to the islands I'm doing some touring. He also noticed my bike I told him that I would be riding around the islands. It would be a pretty large bike trip. Especially on

mountain bike tires with large knobs. Little did I know how taxing it would actually be!

I was discussing with him car songs. He taught me knocking on Heaven's Door. It was the first song on guitar I had ever learnt. It was simply four chords. Rhythm what's lower and I learnt that you could hammer on & Hammer off your fingers in the courts themselves take care of your own personal flavour song.

In return he had asked me if I could write down the words against The Wind by Bob Segar for his friend. I promptly agreed. Now I can't get the song out of my head! It's a fantastic song very well written and very well played. At this point in time to lyrics mean so much as well. It's funny when you have time to reflect the music arrangement you end up hearing the lyrics and can interpret them far better.

On another note we must be something in the sunscreen or something that I'm eating as it's causing me to break out in acne. But I think I need though is a good long hot steam room or sauna to clear my pores. I have found so much to do other than watching TV it's great. There's so much life to be lived to enjoy without the droning noise of television. Perhaps my mother was onto something when she took away the TV when we were younger.

10th of March 1995 and right now I'm getting on my bike outside the fruit bowl. How the guy just got there got to go I'll be back soon. Alright it's later now and I'm at Frisco's. Frisco's is a new job that I got through Melissa. We're basically painting a Furniture showrooms setting up interior design. It’s a pretty good gig.

I have been working Frisco’s and Steve of The Fruit bowl. The guy opening for Steve on this morning at the fruit bowl this morning wasn’t too bright. I used to have no patience for people. This guy doesn't get how things work at the shop. After I finish making this huge fruit salad specifically the way that Steve told me, he's upset I put the kiwis on the bottom of the tray first. I didn't waste too much of a stink let's face it kiwis on the bottom of a fruit salad not that big of a deal. Fruit salad escapades aside, Steve doesn't need me to work this evening. This is working out well as I'm not too keen on working a split shift today. Extremely tired am I. I will be starting at another grocery store for work after the weekend. This point I think I will have to tell Steve that I have another position. This is assuming can I get more hours. The jaunt to this part of Sydney is turning out to be work, work, work. I just want to see the country. That's fine though, I am simply astounded to be here.

Rolls around to Friday and another Canadian named Phil and I went to try and find a Pearl Jam concert. Our friend Stephanie told us to get off at the stop before Eastwood at Dennistone. It's late at night and we get off and we're in Suburbia. There is not a concert stadium in sight. All we see are houses and streets. We wind up walking for a bit trying to explore and cross two drunk ladies where we were. In that we asked them “Pardon us, we are looking for the Pearl Jam concert, any idea where that is?” They had absolutely no idea where the concert was. They were a bit full of attitude towards us. I suspect they thought that we were hitting on them. However this was not the case. We decided to walk up the street a few blocks or two and look for a house that might have an idea. Perhaps we could find directions.

Phil and I walked up to a particular house knocked on the door and waited. When the door opened it was clear a bunch of people having a party at their place. We asked them if they knew where the Pearl Jam concert was. They replied that they had no idea. They did however extend an invitation to come in and hang out with them. What a random idea! At this point it was clear you're not going to be seeing Pearl Jam at a concert, though we would take the offer on the invitation.

Needless to say we didn't see Pearl Jam that night however we did meet some new friends in the middle of Suburbia nowhere, Sydney. Phil and I were amazed at having a fantastic time although we missed the concert.

We had noticed that there are some other concerts coming up so we resolved to buy tickets and research location of the venue further.

The next tickets that we bought for an event called alternative Nation. This was an absolutely insane line up of artists. Among them, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Faith No More, Tool, L7, and Violent Femmes. These were some iconic bands during the 1990s. Phil and I did have a good laugh about the events of the Pearl jam evening. We did end up meeting some pretty neat people. As far as random experiences go we both agreed this was definitely 12 out of 10!

It came time to focus on the new position at Cole’s. I still needed to go shopping for a shirt and some shoes. I picked up a shirt in Randwick priced at $4. Shoes were next, work pants following. I found both at a bizarre and decided to look around further. The pants for $12 and the shoes were 17. All up I think I did pretty well. It's Sunday and it's time for the beach. It's a gorgeous day, the waves and sand are calling.

I swear the ocean has healing properties. It seems after each swim and dry off then a fresh shower, I feel rejuvenated. I can understand why someone to simply spend their life pursuing water sports and surf around the world.

It is now Monday and last night I went and worked out at the Holiday Inn with Mick. He's a massive guy from the UK this in Australia on Telecom lines. His hands are literally about the size of my face. Doing weights and Mick saw donk. Yes, this is the same guy in the Crocodile Dundee movie. He is a big guy. A really big guy. Now that I've mentioned him you will have to go and see the movie again! I think his real name is Steve Rackman or something similar. This is the first time I think I've worked out and about 6 to 8 weeks. It feels great.

Swimming at the beach is also great workout but I'm not counting that. There is a whole different science to reading waves swimming in the ocean it doesn't compare to a gym workout.

I also bought a bus pass order to tour the East Coast of Australia from Sydney to Cairns. It leaves in about six weeks so I will have that amount of time to finalize my spending account. The bus pass is pretty neat. The bus pass is booked to stop in any location for any amount of time. When you are on the route, all you have to do is book on the bus lines again given that there is space available. There was a six-month expiry. I would have no trouble making it from Sydney to Cairns in six months.

I ended up also going down to the Commonwealth Bank on Pitt Street to find out a few things, and ended up for about an hour with Stephanie talking. She was the first person that we met when we first landed and opened our account there. She still worked at the same place. For lunch I had an invitation! What was one to do? The only thing one could do and that was to accept! We both enjoyed lunch at a local food court. Great conversation the cities visited as well as the ones that she had. There is a ton of knowledge that is held by people who live and breathe their own country. It is such a valuable resource to tap into and can give you insight into hidden gems around every corner places that you visit. Lunch was very fun and delicious. Another invitation was even extended for a night out near circular key. As it turns out it's a St. Patrick's Day celebration. From what I know of those it is likely to get very messy, very quickly.

It was the night of the celebration. I was correct in that I assumed it would be a very messy night. I brought down some friends from the hostel, the drinks came fast. They came much too fast for comfort. I do recall having a great time but I recall not much more after that. I left in a panic as I had lost my friends from the hostel. In addition I found that the trains were not running after we left the public House.

That wine that we had got me drunk all night long. When returning back to the hostel, I decided it prudent to go for a swim in the ocean. Again while not very smart, the cold water was certainly sobering. I'm pretty sure that the swim didn't quite make me sober but it sure felt good. I hope that it does get rid of any hangover I think it might be a slim chance. One always says after a big night out, “I will never do that again. “ Those sentiments generally fly away though a couple days post recovery.

On the way back from City on Sunday I met a girl by the name of Cynthia. She seems pretty nice. Pretty laid-back, and fun to be around. We hit it off pretty well and would spend the next two to three days together. It was beach time generally, and some markets. Cynthia was a treasure, another great source , of local knowledge. It would be the start of a whirlwind.

I was still occasionally working at the fruit bowl for Steve. In one shift later on in the week I had told Steve about Cynthia. I was pretty pumped about her. Steve could tell. I told him some of the things that we had been up to for the past week. He loved them. I also told him Cynthia asked me go to Camp Cove for an evening.

His eyes lit up. “Mick do you have any idea what camp Cove is?” “No” I said, “I didn't think it was that big of a deal”. I thought it would be just a nice place to go for evening stargazing and Boat watching.

Steve said, “People go to Camp Cove make out. I am pretty sure that that's what she has in mind.”

At that point I thought I had to step up to the plate or something. I figured that I needed to do something make the night fun and memorable. So I came up with this great idea.

Macaroni and cheese over a campfire stove in the park twilight. It seemed a bit ambitious so I got to work on it. First stop would be the grocery store. I would need to pick up my supplies and ingredients. Following I would need to round up a set of stove and pots. I managed to swing a deal with Steve for a good deal of vegetables from the shop. I managed to borrow a cooking set from Phil at the hostel. Given circumstances, the sourcing turned out well. Prior to Thursday I had sourced all the ingredients and supplies that I needed for night of cooking outside.

Throughout the week mornings at the fruit bowl and spend the afternoons and evenings at the beach. Cynthia would bring a friend Margaret, and I would bring Nick. Margaret and Nick hit it off pretty well which allowed Cynthia and I to spend some nice quality time weather in the evenings. We would bring music to listen to and light snacks. It had been a very good, eventful week. Saturday arrived. I had packed all the necessary ingredients and supplies into a pack. I certainly didn't forget the cutlery glasses, and blackcurrant cordial. Big into the wine at that point, but having a night out previously, the consequence of too much wine was still fresh in my mind.

Upon arriving at Camp Cove it was a spectacular spot that overlooks the bay. It was quite a long drive to get to. In any case we set up a picnic style dinner spot. We shared a few laughs well I started to prepare macaroni and cheese with vegetables. I started making the white sauce in preparation to add the cheese following. Trying to be suave, I was cooking and talking at the same time I came time to add the pepper. Thinking things were going well with the cook and I let my guard down a bit. Not paying attention, and only wanted to do a few shakes of pepper, the top of the container slipped off and into the pot. Half of the ground up pepper slid into the pot of sauce. Cynthia saw the horror look on my face, we both look at the sauce had almost died laughing. Cooking the macaroni was pretty straightforward, so needless to say it was the pepper in the sauce that took the night.

The pasta with vegetables was delicious. Aside from a bit of a spicy pepper sauce the food was great.

Desert did not happen. As Steve predicted, a good night turned into a great one with a great deal of grappling, and rolling, and making out. Camp Cove certainly had lived up to its reputation.

At the fruit bowl I would be grilled about the events transpired this evening, however my reply would be simply it was great!

I was still working at Frisco's as well and the days were long as I had to commute well past North Sydney from the Eastern suburbs. 10 in spare time for a few hours fruit bowl working for Steve. On a Tuesday I end up going for a comedy night with Cynthia, the beach later. We were sitting on a rock new the edge of the cliffs when I suddenly had a feeling déjà vu.

I recall looking from above a dream that I had previously. It was like I was flying over top and looking down at two people on the rocks cliff. This was a dream that I would had many years prior. I don't recall exact details how to train I just recalled the feeling of flying over above, send Cynthia and myself on the rocks. From the dream perspective so I didn't realize but it wasn't there I just knew that it was myself and another.

In that moment with Cynthia on the rocks when the feeling hit me I turned around and looked up to the sky for a solid few minutes. Cynthia had asked me if everything was okay. I said yes and proceeded to tell her what the feeling of déjà vu meant for me. I have premonitions in dreams of moments that are yet to come.

I've had these moments many times over the years and they're difficult to explain. I can’t predict the future, and I can’t see any details. It is more or less a Feeling of environment. It’s an awareness of sort. It’s a feeling of people and places where I am yet to be. Sometimes I see minor details in the dream. I only recognize the moment in the dream when it comes to pass in real life. I am not sure if she understood, but I described it the best I could.

Things are going very well with Cynthia, she's asked to go to Camp Cove the following week again. We agreed that I would be cooking. However this time I think we will stick to deli food.

It's Saturday Late in March 1995. Last night was by far the best night since I've been here. I went to Camp Cove with Cynthia cook a small dinner on the beach again. All this time I've made a menu, gave her a rose, she was pretty impressed. Big dinner talks, sex on the beach. I have never done that before. It was beautiful. We were meant to go skinny-dipping. We just lay naked side-by-side all night long. In the sky shining bright before us, the moon even showed it’s shiny face. Realizing how I feel right now, and we're in the world I am, with who I am, and what is transpiring is absolutely mind blowing. I’m in a city far away, at the beach, on a clear night, with great company, great food, fun food, naked. I can certainly see the appeal that nudists enjoy. Completely in all I feel like jelly. I am meant to go out again this evening although I have no idea what the plans are. Exhausted but feeling awesome.

Cynthia and I arrived at a place called Billy the pigs. It was Cynthia's friends going away party. Cynthia's friend Jeanette plans to spend two years in London chasing a career. Wish you all the luck in the world. I hope she finds great success in her career. I like seeing people do well.

Club 77. We stayed there for about 4 hours then went to Tamarama Beach to hang out. It turns out that I am snoring like a banshee upon falling asleep for a quick nap. I must have needed that one. It’s always surprising when somebody tells you that you snore. How would you know? You’re asleep!

The following day we went to watch a rugby match. When we arrived in the second half, it was still great. Cynthia couldn’t stop apologizing for getting there late, I wasn't too worried. I was simply happy to be there and experience the game. Following the game we had a visit to the beach until I had to leave visit Aaron's parents.

Aaron is a younger guy really into surfing. I met him while working at Frisco's. Work on the same renovation team. Aaron's parents from the UK, are leaving on a trip. They would be away about 60 days, and they were aware that I was travelling. They have kindly offered at their place while in absence with Aaron, and I gladly accepted. These are some fantastic people with a big heart. I think they understand what it is like to be abroad and be part of a community. It would not be long before moving to Aaron's flat. For those of you not familiar with the word flat, it is the equivalent of apartment or condo.

Cynthia was kind enough to drive me by Aaron's place, however I did leave my wallet in her car.

Do you ever have that feeling that you are naked when you leave your place? It's as if you leave your house and you have forgotten something. That feeling when you know that you leave the house with three things in your pocket only to return with only two. I left it for about 30 minutes then called Cynthia. I asked her to meet me at the Cole’s wait outside until 8:30. I had been there earlier waiting for her she didn't show up. Not to worry can always get my wallet tomorrow. In the meantime though, it does feel awkward. I don't have any cards, I don't have any ID, I don't have my key card, phone card, and more. One day is not a major deal, I am left with a bit of a sense of panic though. And now, I shall continue to feel naked, and not in the exhilarating sense.

It's now the beginning of April, I haven't accounted for many days have passed. A ton of different reasons surrounding this one. I've been pretty engrossed in Cynthia. Hold on that didn't quite come out right. Cynthia and I have been spending a ton of time together. There are so many things to do and so little time to do them in. I realize time is short. It feels very much like we are packing in lot of stuff in a short period of time. This is the way that it should be though shouldn't it? Taking advantage of every moment, I'm living every second.

I am now staying at Aaron's. I invited Cynthia for a night of movies and pizza. We both drifted off during the movie. Apparently it wasn't that riveting. The pizza and drink was banging though. Apparently we were as well after a bad movie. She ended up staying the night, as it was pretty late. She left to go grab some Essentials, and was meant to come back to noon or one. The definition of essentials meant a 2 litre jug of custard, some chocolate chip cookies and, a fruit and nut bar. Now that would sound pretty essential to me!

We did end up going out for some shopping, I showed her some favourites. Sour cream coated Strawberries dipped in brown sugar. She particularly enjoyed that one. Back at the flat she would have another movie night. This time it was Point Break. This is a movie that certainly did not disappoint. It's one that I've seen many times now and still enjoy.

During Point Break while we were eating, spooning or forking, we began quietly spooning and forking. Good times at movie night. Distractions come easily.

I think we will be going out tomorrow for a brunch Aaron and I are going to a concert at the beach Pavilion sometime around 2 p.m. I think Cynthia will enjoy the music there as well. There are some local musicians, apparently great talent. There's so much great culture here to be appreciated in the music scene.

So the plan for this Saturday is to do a crawl. Different night spots to see what their flavours are...

Saturday arrived, and here is how it turned out. First stop would be the legion, or as the Australians might like to call it, the RSL Club. RSL Club is always great for reasonable drinks and time with the slot machines. We were happy to arrive and have a few drinks. Tonight was starting out well. It wasn't too long before Cynthia asked me if I wanted a double drink. I said sure and the rest of the night was double vodka. These were mixed with 7up or lemonade. This was all the sugar stuff. I have learned since to simply do vodka soda. I now enjoy the vodka character much more than the mix drink itself.

My friend Jeremy had also come along that night and he was well on his way as well. We have been giving each other elbows back and forth and he sat down while I stayed on the floor. In an instant of spontaneity he thought it would be prudent to start chucking Easter eggs at me. We were both laughing hysterically at this point, when it was all said and done we would pull middle fingers out of our pockets and shove them in each other's faces. Several times this happened in fact. Like little boys the more we did this the more we were busting a gut laughing. Alcohol can do wonders sometimes, in unreasonable quantities. We decided to go to good bar. It was the classic nightclub setup. Classic nightclub tricks of making it look busy by holding a line outside the door. Don't be fooled by the line folks, it's really quiet inside until about 2 a.m. In Sydney, the clubs are open until 5. This is a big change from Vancouver as most places are only open until 1 or 2 am. If people are going out for a night in Vancouver, they would get ready around 6 or 7 to go out. In Sydney, nobody would go out before 10pm!

We got frustrated with a line up at good bar and decided to leave. We thought the Kings Cross Hotel would be a better option. They always have live music. And that is when we lost everybody. Cynthia and I went to the Kings Cross Hotel but we didn't see anybody. Just as well though having way too much fun just the two of us. Following the Kings Cross Hotel , back to our flat. Crashed, and woke up spooning and forking. Good Times!

I must be an old soul. Cynthia keeps telling me how much she likes me how nice I am just been letting me know how much she enjoys being around. She said she feels like she's known me for a long time although it's only been maybe a couple of months at most. The time together though was well spent. It's not the first time that somebody has said to me that they feel like they know me for a long time. It must be the connection of old souls.

That's great to hear so many great things however there are times where I think it's nice to be put on a pedestal but just as easy to fall off. Like anybody, the relationship dynamics can be such a mystery sometimes.

Another late night, we didn't get up until about 3 in the afternoon. Breakfast was actually at 5 p.m.. It was unanimous that hash browns, eggs and bacon was appropriate fare. I have a feeling that she wants to go out to Comedy Night again. I could be better if I spend some time with some friends. We have been joined at the hip for quite some time. I could be wrong though. She may just want to spend time together and this is great.

I have been having some rough days at work (Frisco’s) lately. Ian our manager keeps riding me all day. He wants me to do things over and over again even though they were done correctly the first time. I am doing exactly what he is asking, however he is not satisfied with the way it is done apparently. He keeps asking me to do the same thing again and again. I did have it out shortly with him as I felt that the work was being done redundantly. Didn't do much good but sure was satisfying though.

In the weeks working with Ian, I always knew he was high-strung. He was super high energy, and it always seemed like he could talk a mile a minute. I never did put two and two together. One of my workmates brought it to my attention one day while we were fixing up a showroom. Turns out Ian's energy was credited to a nose candy issue. Ian absolutely adored his cocaine. Following that knowledge I never did try to oppose him, or have it out with him. I felt it would have been useless. I just tried to work with him. I tried to understand what type of mood he was in at the time. We all have our vices, just some worse than others.

In early April I also forgot to mention that I did actually did give notice at Cole’s. I was getting more hours at Frisco's and getting paid much better. My time at Frisco's would be coming to a close soon as well. I would be heading up to Coast with what I have. Want to try and hold off until second week of May though. Cynthia wants to go camping with me. She has suggested the Blue Mountains which I think would be an excellent excursion. May is coming up quick but I think Cynthia it's worth sticking around for awhile.

I'm heading back home to the flat and thinking that I'm here I myself with my music and my writing. I think it might be time send a while writing home. There are lots of people that I miss. I was meant to work this morning at Cole’s but optioned for sleep instead. I still have to work at Frisco's the afternoon. Now that I'm on the train and commuting, time to think about how much I'm working. It's a bit of a scramble as I know I'll be leaving in about a month’s time.

The next night out that Cynthia and I had was a big one. There were about 8 friends that were going out together. We got stuck into the drink pretty fast. Around 16 middies of scotch and cola, I went downhill fast. I did however manage to get out on the dance floor and enjoy some music. I danced with Cynthia until she decided to leave around 12 or 1 am. We were having a great time. Right following Cynthia leaving, two drunk girls decided to hop on the floor and dance with me. I found them quite repulsive although they were quite good lookers. Take the “L” out of “lookers”, and throw in an “H”. I think that may be a more appropriate description.

As soon as Cynthia left, I did miss her. I was however in my own little world after having way too much to drink. I was beginning to become concerned that she was not having a good time that evening. I thought I would have to talk to her to let her know how I feel. This might be bad, however I think I might be falling in and out of love with her. Knowing that I have a trip booked one way, this is a tough one.

I finally did get a chance to speak with Cyn while at work the following day. She had apologized and said it was her “time of month”. I was actually going to apologize as well to her. It gave me comfort to realize that we got our wires crossed and we both realized it. It’s good to see that we were both very aware of the situation given the circumstance of heavy drink on my part as well. I think I need to put this drink thing away for the time being. The following days are always rough. They cleared up quickly though, the body was still so young and resilient.

I have been brushing off my final shifts at Cole’s. I am not really too interested in going in after giving my notice there. I instead went to a guitar lesson with a friend of mine named Tony. He taught me some more chords, and I think he was trying to teach me some scales however I was more interested in the Rhythm and progression of the chord sequence. It will allow me to look at writing a few more songs with the new knowledge. I can’t wait to sit and compose!

I was meant to go out with Cynthia again this evening. Although we were with a bunch of friends earlier, and had agreed, she bailed out when I called her. I took this quite hard. I got ready to go out, rushed around and then was declined. I think I was more upset at all the effort that was put in before a last minute call off. She had called back much later and suggested we go to comedy night. We ended up going out to dance at the Good Bar on this occasion. This time it was her that got stuck into the drink pretty well. I held off and only had 2. She got into it pretty good though. I thought it would be prudent that I take her car keys and drive home as she was well over the impaired limit, and I would rather not take the risk. She agreed happily, and off we went.

This was only my second time driving in Australia. I found it very strange. All my natural reactions were different as I was operating the car. We take these things for granted so much of the time. Everything seems second nature. Her car was a manual stick shift, and I am very familiar with standard driving as I had a standard Honda CRX 2 seat at home. When I got in the car, the pedals were similar but in reverse arrangement. It was like a mirror reflection of what my car back home was like. The gear shift was on the console to my left, and the window to my right. It was strange, and felt strange. This was the norm here though, and I was driving on the left side of the road. Everything is reverse from how I was trained to drive! I caught myself a few times looking for the gear shift with my right hand. I slammed it on the door while looking for the gear shift. I recovered and tried to make it look like I knew what I was doing by attempting to roll down the window! Nice one Mick! It didn’t take long to settle in. However, I also did find that simple gestures such as looking to your right for oncoming traffic first were not the norm for me. I would look left first, then right, then left. All the same, the tasks were still accomplished.

Cynthia crashed at the flat again, and didn’t get up until about noon with a massive hangover headache, and left as she said she had some work to do. She is meant to come over again this evening but I am not sure that will happen. Hangovers can be brutal to recover from if one has had a bad night.

A few days later we had good conversation over the phone. She wants to get away from parents as they are giving her a hard time. She is thinking going away for the Easter Long Week End. This is an awesome proposal I would like to take advantage of, but I am not sure I will be able to. May is creeping up pretty quickly.

On a side note, I will have to go to the store to grab some milk and perhaps develop my pictures from earlier in the year. I am sure they will be great to look at, lots of memories of moments passed. A funny thing happened on the way to the store. I look back with compassion now but at the time it was pretty surprising. Aaron and I were on our way to the shops to pick up some milk. We had decided to take our skateboards and were rolling down the sidewalk. As an elderly lady was walking up, we slowed down to an almost stop to let her pass. Aaron passed her first and she started shaking her hand at him with a fist. I came to a stop as she was approaching me, and she promptly gave me a punch to side! Again, at the time I was pretty stunned. I was more surprised than anything even though the punch was pretty decent for an elderly lady! Aaron and I got to the shops and looked at one another in surprise.

“What the heck was that all about mate?” “ I have not a clue, but she did pack a pretty good punch!” I laughed it off, while Aaron started calling her some pretty good curse names. Some names I had no idea that were coming out what they even meant as I wasn’t too familiar with Local curse slang. Needless to say though, I ended up laughing and expanding my vocabulary extensively on that one particular occasion.

This Friday was pretty crazy. I experienced a rave with Cynthia and friends. Loved the music, there were several tents in an abandoned building that had been converted into a club. Couldn’t stop grooving. Cynthia and friends were into the pills at that point though. I politely declined as I wasn’t too keen on doing the drugs. I was ok with the alcohol, but that was about it for this boy.

Recall the tickets that we bought for alternative nation after the Pearl Jam mess up? Alternative Nation was coming up pretty quick. The Saturday of the 15th arrived and it was brilliant. The line up was amazing. A friend of mine Steve that I had met at the Randwick fair while competing in a skateboard competition was meant to be there as well. Instructions were that we would meet for the train, then our transfer to and the train to the venue would take place at central station. This is where we promptly lost one another! I thought we were only supposed to lose one another AT the concert! No matter, I followed the rest of the Alternative Nation goers and the designated trains. All good. The concert was great. I particularly enjoyed Pennywise and Ice-T. Ice-T. It was pretty muddy and full of sweat in the front rows but this is what one can come to expect at an outdoor concert up close and personal. The concert finished, and I went back to city again via Central Station. Now this I found pretty nuts – I called Cynthia and the rave was still going on! Apparently I was not well versed in that culture. It was a three day, non-stop event that started on the Friday and ended on the Sunday with “Chill out” sets. Although the event was still going on, I decided Sunday was going to be a rest day. Certainly a smart idea. The body can only take so much before it needs it’s rest. Snoozaroo time. Will write a few letters first, then go down. Wow, what an intense week end of entertainment!

It’s now April 18^th, and I am feeling a bit conflicted. Cynthia is stealing my heart here, and I just received a letter from home. The girl I left is feeling a bit abandoned, and updating me on what life is like at home. Home seems so far away at the moment, it is difficult to relate. I think I have to put that aside for now and simply enjoy where I am at the moment. I am enjoying the company of Cynthia, and I like just being around her. Vancouver should be interesting upon return. I can see a precarious situation brewing. Cynthia wants to come to Vancouver to visit. Karen, my super cool English friend who recently left would like to visit as well. This could turn out to be a bit crazy! This has been on my mind for past few days as I have been getting more and more involved with Cynthia.

Now this particular scenario did not even transpire, and would not as future would tell, but it is crazy what our mind puts up in front of us at the time.

Late in April, another random meeting would amaze. I was walking down the George Street in Sydney when I ran into Neil. Wow! That is a pretty random encounter. I have not seen Neil in about 3 months while he was off to do his trip up the coast. He and Andrew are still not travelling together. In fact Andrew ended up going home after 2 months. My first impression was that he may regret that later as he also had a 1 year visa to work in Australia. It wasn’t clear what the motive to return was. Neil had just said that he left. It was so great to see Neil on this Random encounter. We did end up sitting down together a day later to discuss some of the hot spots to visit. In the meantime, I would continue my search for a used mobile phone, a job, and perhaps accommodation as Aarons parents will return soon.

I have been trying to meet Cynthia for the past few days, and have not connected. Human emotions can be so difficult sometimes. Not being able to meet Cynthia it felt like things were breaking off. I shouldn’t be surprised though. I had made arrangements to meet her on three separate occasions only to be stood up with all three. I was gutted.

I finally managed to get hold of Cynthia. We had some conversation, and she relayed that she wasn’t feeling well. I had thought, ok no problem. I had this bright idea to put together a care package for her.(thinking she was sick) I had purchased a basket, some bread, and ingredients to make a nice warm barley garlic soup. After I had the ingredients to make the soup, I spent the next day making a large pot of this soup. Soup and sandwiches for Cynthia in a little bread basket should make her feel better. The soup was delicious. All chefs must test their own fare before it goes out!

Satisfied with the recipe at hand I had called Cynthia to see if I could drop something off for her. She agreed but said for only a short time as she was still feeling sick and was to stay in. I walked about 5 km to her place in with the soup staying warm in Thermos containers I had bought specifically for the task at hand, placed inside of the basket with the fresh bread from the bakery. I got to her house and knocked on the door. When it opened, Cynthia was dressed up, made up, and ready to go out to a bar or club. She was on the phone with her friend Margaret arranging the meeting time. I didn’t know how to react, but I was devastated. Clearly the feeling was not mutual. I dropped off the care package and left. I was thinking that this “thing” might turn into something, but I don’t think it was meant to be.

I would be sticking around for a bit longer in Sydney, so I decided to look at getting a flat. I responded to an advert and met the two other flat mates. One was a teacher named Phil in the local schools, who was pretty grumpy. I would understand later that his parents were dying of Cancer and that was what he was going though. Episodes of coming in and turning the TV while I was watching a program would later be forgiven and understood as I knew the pressure he was going through.

Although I had never experienced anything similar in my life at that point, I clearly understood that it had to be emotionally straining to go through such a thing. Here’s the thing; we all die but facing it either for yourself or those of your loved ones is a big one.

In hindsight I could clearly see he was struggling, and wrestling with the fact that his time with his family would be limited to a short period of the future. Even though he was pretty grumpy with me throughout the time I stayed there, I tried to have some empathy and compassion. I would chose not to engage him when he was going on his tirades. Disengaging seemed to help our interactions somewhat. I did also have limited contact with him as he was a nine to five worker in the private school system.

The second flatmates name was Tom, and this guy was more than interesting. He was that of a kindred soul, and looking back one of the most neat people I have met. I would venture to say ever met even. Tom was from New Zealand. Enough said, and it should stop there say all my Australian readers! New Zealand has an agreement with Australia that residents of both countries can travel to the other and work without need for permits or visas. Tom had evidently taken advantage of this fact and was working up at Bondi Junction but living in North Bondi. He was pretty keen on this Portuguese Chicken shop that was at the North End of the Beach. This shop would later evolve into the “Aporto” Portuguese Chicken chain restaurant. Here is what made Tom so awesome in my eyes.

Tom looked like he was the professional type, although he did love surfing so much and that was one of the reasons he moved to Bondi. He wanted to pursue the surf. Tom had a very interesting background. Both his parents were of high stature in the New Zealand legal system. His mother being a prominent lawyer in Christchurch, and his Father was a judge. Both were very well educated, and had spent a great deal of time in law school, and were extremely well versed in New Zealand law. Both his parents had very well distinguished legal careers and this was their life. This was a trade they also passed on to their son. They had also groomed him to become a lawyer.

Tom had done all the years of appropriate schooling. Very early on, his parents had a huge influence in this. He was directed with the type of coursework to take, and with all the work he needed to put in so that he could pursue University in the appropriate direction. Tom had finished his university, and even practiced in law for several years in the New Zealand legal system before coming over to Sydney.

Over one of our many Chicken Shop trips he had told me where he was at now. Tom had decided to leave the legal practice and pursue a life of surfing and shoe making. Yes, you read that correctly. Tom had gone from a legal practice, to a shoe maker and surfer. While fully qualified as a lawyer, he had taken the steps of learning how to make shoes at a college institution called TAFE. He was now making shoes of his own design, and surfing at Bondi Beach. This was on a whole other level. Tom was always a happy type of character. He had a great demeanour about him. I always looked up to people that went to university and made that commitment. Tom had done that, and a complete 180 degree turnaround to choose a completely different path totally unrelated, and another lifestyle.

The flat itself was on the second floor, just up from the beach off the North End of Campbell parade. We had it sparsely furnished. There were basics, sofa, TV, dining set, kitchen necessities an more. My room was pretty basic. But it was mine. I had a futon, and a small table / dresser to keep what clothes I had. My bike would sit as the only décor in the room. Certainly not cutting edge interior design, but functional.

I had managed to secure a job at a bakery in North Sydney shortly thereafter. The flat was a good home base. The bakery was called the Tuckerbag. It was being sold to an Asian lady by the name of Belinda. She was just taking over the bakery when I started there. Belinda was clearly raised in Australia as she spoke English with a definitive Australian accent on her speech. My shifts at the bakery were generally early shifts.

I would ride my bike form Bondi to North Sydney every morning around leaving at 4am. My two favourite places to ride were when I was passing through the Central Business District on the way out, and returning over the Sydney Harbour Bridge on the way back. The Central Business District because it was so quiet during that time of the morning and would soon become a fleury of activity within a few short hours. Yet I could experience this quietness riding through the city without traffic, or any hindrances whatsoever. The Sydney Harbour Bridge on the way back because I knew I was almost halfway home to the beach, and I enjoyed riding down the wide stairway sets at the South end of the Bridge. They were particularly fun on a mountain bike with large tires. I just had to remember to slow to an almost stop on the platforms and use rear brakes only on the way down!

The Tuckerbag was really interesting to work at. I had absolutely no idea how to be a baker. The only time I had seen bread being made was in the bakery department at the grocery store I had worked at. Now I was hands on. I did learn the appropriate ratios for the different bread mixes, and the approximate sizes to cut the dough to for specific buns and loaves. The process for the dough often took a day to account for the proofing. The baking was the short part. I did enjoy this job, although there was quite the dynamic between the bakers there.

I worked with two other bakers. One named Phil and the other named Tony. Phil was a much older guy, and clearly had a great deal of experience and knowledge behind him. He had been a baker all his life, including when younger while in the UK. Phil felt that he was the senior baker and was calling the shots. He would get the dough ready to mix, and set out the process generally for Tony.

Tony was a younger guy, around 17 that had just completed his training to become a baker. I suspected he was in his apprentice phase while he was working at the Tuckerbag.

However, the way Phil would address him was that of his servant. Tony really despised the treatment and it was not uncommon for him to lash back out of frustration. Tony was a good young guy from just around the corner. He clearly still had his fire from youth in him. He wouldn’t take direction from Phil, and felt the way Phil spoke to him was demeaning. They would erupt into full blown yelling matches almost every day that would usually conclude with Tony walking out for a “timeout” to cool down. In the meantime, the production line stopped and I would have to step into another role for a short period to keep it going. Either that or Phil and I would move to another task on another front.

What Tony would never grasp is that the way Phil spoke was simply that. The way Phil spoke. He was simply trying to teach Tony what he knew but the two were not connecting on any level. From an outside perspective, and one that would be leaving soon, I could clearly pick this up. Nobody did ever address this while I was there. Belinda, the new owner inherited a bit of monkey show and only found out after the fact.

I worked at the Tuckerbag throughout early to mid May. One particular day Belinda had called me to work a two hour shift. I was at my flat in North Bondi when she called. She had asked me to come into work for a 2 hour shift. I quickly did the math on that one, and a two hour shift with a commute to Neutral Bay seemed a bit overboard. I would have been alright if it was a 4 hour shift. I did have it out with Belinda on the phone, and asked if I would still have a job if I declined. I did not hear an answer, so I had assumed the worst. Belinda pressed further and bluntly asked if I was coming in or not. Not one that is good with ultimatums, I said “No, I won’t be coming in.” I was scared that I would be sacked, but ultimately that would not be the case. I did end up getting more preferable and longer shifts after that.

A great perk from the Tuckerbag was that after each shift I was able to take home a bunch of bread and some meat pies that we prepared. Back at the flat, there was always bread and some baked goods in the cupboards or freezer. Those meat pies were awesome. They are two hundred times better than most I have found to date in North America. Thick crust, stew like interior, homemade gravy on top. Then again, fresh baked items from the bakery are always better than mass produced. There is no comparison. I found one place years later that made them like that. It was a specialty UK shop, and pricy. Airlie Beach would also prove to have great pies later on.

It’s almost the end of April and I have re connected with Neil again. We decided to go for a workout down the street at the same gym where I met “Donk” the guy from crocodile Dundee. We did a good workout, had a good chat and discussed further things about the East Coast of Australia. Neil was big into his weightlifting, and enjoyed the bench press. I myself, always having a slim or athletic frame had a completely different definition of fitness. I have always been more about endurance. Later in life using this to compete in Triathlon – Swim, Bike, and Run races. Neil did however help me push some boundaries in the fitness respect. Apparently if you can bench press your own body weight it is a pretty good accomplishment. At the time I only weighed around 165 lbs. I would hover around this weight for a long time until my late 20’s. At this occasion, Neil would push my pressing ability to over 200lbs. I think he was happier with it than I was. He was pretty excited!

Nishi, Myself and Ed were all friends and would regularly meet up at Bondi Beach. It was usually an evening of flatland skating on the promenade. The three of us just hanging out and enjoying the beach culture. We would often venture into the city and ride around to explore.

Nishi was Japanese, and sent to Sydney to learn English. He was learning the basics at a language school but wanted to know the “good words”. So Ed and I would teach him some really profane phrases. He wanted to know some insults to say to other people at one point. Ed and I happily obliged.

We would teach him a series of insults every time we were on the bus from the beach to junction to catch the train. This went on for about a week. He had picked up things like “close your legs you smell” (we told him that this was an especially bad insult towards men just to mess with him) He got this one along with all the F bombs added to everything we could possibly teach him. Tagged on to every bit of profanity he picked up quickly. There was one that would sit with him for a week before he got it though.

Mike- That information is on a need to know basis, and you don’t need to know.

This routine would go on for about half an hour each day in various iterations. Various intonations. Various Japanese authoritative intonations it was awesome. By day 4 Nishi would get through the phrase in 3 to four pauses without prompting.

Day five rolls around and you could tell he was trying really hard to get this down. Each time he would try the phrase on the previous days he would look over at me and almost call me over.

Nishi-Mike Mike.... Mike....Zaaaaat Infourrrr mayyy shunnnn iz onna onaaaaaaaaaaaa........

Nishi – (Blurts out like verbal diarrhea fast and yelling with excitement in a Japanese authoritative intonation) YOU-DON-NEED-DO-NOOOOOOOOOOO.....

Nishi had taught me a line but he wouldn’t tell me what it meant. He just said it was a greeting. It was pretty easy to pick up so I tried it on a Japanese guy at a restaurant one day.

I had to laugh at the setup.... Clearly I had underestimated Nishi’s sense of humour.

One week while living in Bondi, I had a friend from back home decide to come and visit. He booked a ticket for Sydney, and it was to be the highlight of his trip. He had emailed me and told me when he would arrive at the airport. Given that he had travelled half way around the globe to say hello, I thought it would be only right to meet him at the airport in Sydney at the arrival gate. Sydney, you have an awesome transportation system. It was so easy to get to and from the airport by train. In any case, Michael arrived with a backpack full of stuff and I offered him the sofa for the duration he was in town. The first few days he spent exploring the beaches, and a few other tourist locations around the area. I would go off to work in the morning and come back around dinner time. We would get together and usually go to a local spot for dinner, or shop around for something to bring home and eat. I showed him all the good spots I knew. The Portuguese chicken shop Tom ( The New Zealand Lawyer turned shoemaker) had showed me years earlier. Tum Tums Thai food – This fantastic Thai food place that was run by a couple of gay Thai guys that were flamboyant and neurotically off the charts fucking gay! They were good guys and comical to watch them run the show there.

There was this fish and chip shop on the beach front on Campbell parade that was pretty cool. They would take fish from the fish markets and sell you either the fish to take home, or they would let you choose the fish you wanted to deep fry with your fish and chips. I loved that one because the calamari was always fresh cut then fried, and the snapper with chips was pretty awesome too.

We had decided that we were going to go out the night before Michael was going to catch his flight. His flight was to leave Sydney the following day in the afternoon around 2 if I recall correctly. Ed and Nishi would join us this night for a send off. My instructions were pretty clear though before we left.

1) You have to take $50 and put it the front pocket of your backpack.

2) You have to pack your backpack in it’s entirety tonight before we leave.

3) Put on your plane riding clothes to go in.

4) Set your alarm for 11am

Michael – Alright done. (He goes and puts $50 in his back pack, packs his bag and takes out some clean clothes all the while sipping on a stubbie of Victoria bitter that we had decided to prefab with.)

With the chores sorted, we get onto the beer, sort out dinner then head out. Ed would join us that night for a night out at The Bondi Hotel on the second floor. What a crazy night. We started off doing rounds there. Some highballs I believe, and whatever the specials were. We would meet a ton of people there and strike up conversation.

When we would talk to ANYONE, the topic of going to the airport would come up. At this point, anytime he would say “Airport” I would stamp his forehead with my fist like I was mailing him home. The plan was pretty evident.... “AIRRRRRRRR PORRRRRRRRRRT” was the goal for the next day.

Michael took his camera with him to the bar that night. Ed and I decided it would be a happy surprise for him if we filled the rest of his roll of film with ass shots of hotties that we talked to that evening. Of all the girls we asked, everyone of them loved it and happily obliged for the purpose at hand. We tried to keep it under wraps so it would be a surprise for him but he eventually caught on to what was going on. He was so hammered though that he laughed about it whole heartedly while doubled over.

So I just stamped his forehead for the about the 50^th time that evening and we both would look at each other and yell....... AIRRRRRRR PORRRRRRRRT.

At one point during the evening Ed had gone to the bar with us and he was going to buy the round of drinks for us. Michael and I had received ours and began to sip when an obnoxious guy from a group of seven beside us piped up.

Ed – Right then, I will have a rum and coke.... (then starts pointing at each one of the guys while he goes through this)

Him, he will have a water. He will have a water too. This one wants a water, he wants a water, He wants a water with ice, he will have a water with ice too, and this guy wants a water with a lemon.

Michael and I are on the floor laughing while the other obnoxious group of guys is stunned. Needless to say no new friends there.

It went on and on, and getting home was a bit rough. We didn’t get back to the flat until around 5am. Michael’s forehead was raw with a stamp mark by this point. He would later tell me that it felt like the it had been imprinted on his head. It apparently took days to go away. As soon as we got to the flat, we crashed out something fierce.

Prep was a great idea for this time coming. Clearly had thought about this beforehand given my escapades chopping fruit salad while still drunk in the early morning, years ago in Sydney.

Clearly we are still shit faced. Its just past 11am. Michael struggles to get himself up. Thankfully everything is packed. I ring the cab company. Cab gets there in 15 minutes. I grab the $50 from Michael’s pocket in his backpack and help him get his backpack on.

We get downstairs from the 3^rd floor flat and to the cab. I help him into the back. Give him one final stamp... we both yell “AIRRRRRR PORRRRRRRT” and I chuck his backpack in the back with him.

I give the cab driver $50 and instruct him to make sure he gets to the international departures gate at the airport.

I spent the rest of the afternoon on the beach drinking water and sleeping off my hangover. Thinking about whether or not my good friend had caught his flight or not. Visit the butcher and bakery on the way back to the flat.

I would later find out that he caught his flight. It was just a really fucking drunk ass flight with a hangover included in the ride while he was still at 37000 feet. Good times. A hangover with lots of reasons; all 37000 of them.

It was late December when I decided to have a stopover in Fiji. When I arrived, I met an Indo Fijian guy named Singh. I never did catch his real name. It was just Singh. Singh would introduce me to Fiji bitter at the local spot. He ended up getting me quite liquored.

I was advised by a Scottish friend of mine to go to the highlands in Fiji. This I did. It was a fantastic trip.

In the highlands at a place called Bukuya Village I did all sorts of great things. I went on a hike to a secret waterfall in the middle of the jungle, Had Kava with the chief of the village in a Kava drinking ritual followed by a great dinner with local meat, fish and veggies.

After spending a wonderful 4 days in the village, it was time to get to the airport to fly to Mana Island. On the way down from the highlands my lorrie driver asked if I wanted some mangoes as we were driving by some trees. They were just growing on the side of the road. I said sure.

We spent about 30 minutes shaking a few down from the trees. A few turned into 15. I thought this was awesome. I had 15 fresh mangoes for the trip back to the airport.

It wasn’t enough to try just 2. I got pretty keen on the fresh mangoes as I had not really tried them previous to that point.

I decided to scarf down all 15. This was not a very smart idea. Mangoes are delicious, but also full of fibre. I was fine for the next 2 hours which was enough time to get to the airport and on the small plane for a 20 minute crossing to one of the only islands with an airport around Fiji. The plane lands right next to the accommodations and the beach there is a fantastic blue like you have never seen before. I managed to check in and get my bags settled before it happened. The guts started rumbling and I started to pee out my bum. The runs had hit me. And. They. Did. Not. Stop.

It’s about 40 degrees Celsius, and I have now been dashing off to the toilet every 20 minutes for the past 3 hours. I figured it would be smart at that point to catch a bit of sun in the late afternoon for a few hours of nap time. Sunscreen would have been the smart play.

I woke up sunburned and pretty dehydrated a few hours later. The runs started again. Ouch. Looks like it might be time to drink some more kava. I drink kava (which has the same effect as beer on the body) with some friends I meet at the resort. For good measure I decide it prudent to drink some Fiji Bitter as well. It did not take long to get over the top drunk.

That evening I struck up conversation with some English doctors from the UK who were in Fiji to apparently study tropical disease. It was very fortunate that they were bunking in the same hut as I was. I woke up the following morning with such vertigo that I could not even stand up. I was still sweating and ready to pass out.

I had one doctor taking my pulse, another was testing temperature. The third was having me follow his fingers with my eyes. Without hesitation, they gave me a few pills to take and came back with a 2L bottle full of water. The instructions were “take these”, “drink this” and have a bit of a nap.

Perfect advice. I woke up feeling very close to normal. It was 10 times better than what I had felt previously.

Then it clicked in. Dehydration. 15 mangoes. The runs for hours. A bit of sunstroke. Kava and alcohol to round out the few days. It was dehydration for certain.

On a summer night in Sydney one day near the beach, a friend of mine had a brilliant idea. We thought it was brilliant in any case.

He was into the rave scene and liked his “e” but I was on the flip side of that. I would not touch the stuff. And so he suggested Sudafed.

Jez – Well if we are going to have a big night out, why don’t we start with a few drinks on the beach and some Sudafed (Cold Medicine).

Jez – I heard if you take Sudafed and drink at the same time, it is a pretty hyper drunk.

Then off we went to the bottle shop ( beer), followed by the chemist. For my North American friends, the chemist is the equivalent of a pharmacist. We proceeded to the beach. Out came the Sudafed.

Jez – We finish up our stubbies and head out to the club at the junction. We could even go off to the good bar by Paddington green.

Mike – (takes 12 sudafed and washes it back with some carlton) Now that is an ugly sandwich.

We start off on our way. By the time we get up to junction, the effects have set in pretty good. We are both pretty gone. As it turns out there is a dress code in effect.

As we walk I tell him of this crap dress code that is apparently in effect at this club. I need a solution to this. I have an idea.

Mike – Jez, why don’t I wear one of your shoes, and you wear one of mine. We are both the same size.

We proceed to switch shoes and walk towards the door with one blue shoe and one black one.

The bright lights we were, we convinced ourselves that this was absolutely going to work.

Mike – Why not? You said we would have on dress or casual dress footwear. Well look at this one. We both have on a dress shoe. It seems like we fit the code.

Mike – Jez, you go in. I will go home and grab my pair of shoes. Back in an hour.

It takes about an hour to go to my flat and back, and I arrive this time with the appropriate shoes. Doorman lets me in.

I don’t recall too much about the night that followed except that I had fun playing pool and had a few more drinks. The last thing I remember before leaving the club was running to toilets to chunder my face off. Twice.

Jez and I made our way home, and I woke up with several foreign objects in my front pockets. Including a small bottle of bitters about the size of a worstershire bottle and a yellow number 1 ball from the pool table. What the heck had I done?

At this point I knew I would be driving the big porcelain bus wheel again. I chundered a few more times, and called Jez.

Mike – Jez, Sudafed is never to be had again. I have all sorts of things in my front pockets. Pool ball, some bitters, Some coasters (which I would use for my journal). I don’t quite recall the night.

I didn’t know there was snow in Australia. Let alone actual mountains that one can go skiing / snowboarding at. When I thought about going down under, my first thought was that of hot days and beach days do when the opportunity came up to make the journey I decided to hop on it. Apparently there was a mountain called Perisher that had skiing. I went with a friend of mine named Steve, and some of his school mates Max and Simon.

Steve lived in Lithgow and so did the other mates. Simon would drive and the plan was to sleep in the car. I had no idea how far this really was to get to. On the way there was a section that would not allow cars without chains through the pass. We did not have chains. We ended up hiring out some chains from a shop along the way. It was Simon’s car, so he applied the chains to the tires. It wasn’t long before we heard some high pitched clacking sound. Turns out it was part of the chain excess that was hitting underneath the wheel well each time it was going around. It didn’t look good when we finally stopped.

We drove to Jindabyne, took the chains off and decided to set up camp. The mates loved their bourbon, so the Jim beam was on. Next stop, the bottle shop. We went to the bottle shop and picked up some Jim Beam. Next stop, the grocery store. We made a game of it. First one to the cola gets the extra meat pies we were to purchase.

The three of us rush the store, only to find that the cola is at the back of the store. Between us and the last row at the back of the store is a waist high freezer that spans the width of the store. On the other side of this double row of freezers is the needed cola. Max Runs to one end, Steve Runs to the other, and I in all my wisdom decides to step into the freezer and walk across the two rows of frozen fish to get to the other side.

Steve and Max didn’t even make it to the end of the freezers before I was on the other side and had cola in hand.

We sat around the car for a few hours waiting for the local night spot to open. During that time we grabbed a small bite at a local café. Café food down, and well fed, we head back to the car to hang out for a bit. Then out it comes. Mister Jim Beam, and his friend cola. Down goes the Jim beam quite quickly. At that we make a pact. Should we lose one another, we will meet at the café in the morning around 11 or 12.

Night turns out alright. As predicted we did all lose one another. Dances happened, more drinks happened. I look around, and there is nobody to be found in the spot that I know. I am invited back to some peoples’ places. One girl is particularly keen on me. She invites me to her and her friends place to stay. We frisk about for a bit before passing out. I wake up around 9, and ask if I can catch a ride back to Jindy with someone. Her girlfriend was driving back into town around 11 and offered a ride.

I get to the designated café that we were meant to meet at and walk in. The boys were there. The three of them were sitting at the table at various stages of breakfast.

Mike – Nothing much that I can remember. Breaky looks good guys, what are you all having?

Steve- (Has a big sniff of the backside of Mike’s hand) AWWWW MATE!! YOU ARE GUILTY!! SO SO GUILTY!!! Excellent work Mick, but wash your hands. (Starts laughing uncontrollably as Max and Simon also join in)

We did get up to Perisher but the lifts were closed. We did all this just to try to get up and Snowboard. All was not lost though. Simon’s fender was warped from the chain (it turns out that was what the clack noise was under the fender), we were all well and hung over with a big fry up in us, and my fingers clearly still smelled from the night before.

At that we stuck to a short hike around the hill and went back to skateboard under a small overhang of a school.

This one was iconic. In touring up the east coast of Australia, I had spent the better part of a week in town. I was rooming with these crazy Swiss guys that were an absolute riot. We quickly found a place called magnums once in town. It was always a fantastic place. The shenanigans would usually start around 5 as there was an all you can eat buffet, followed by $5 PITCHERS of beer from 7pm forward. Every night got messy very quickly. Then usually around 3 or 4 am it was always to the meat pie shop. Routine.

It was the second day in Airlie, we were eating our buffet. Delish. The beer starts. You can imagine that with $5 pitchers of beer, and a group of 8 guys buying one round we used this beer like it was water. “Room 4” was the chant of the nights. It was good times always around the table.

Mike – Cheers to you! (we are both drinking directly from pitchers as we felt that glasses would be unnecessary)

Mike – okay, but first I have to go to toilets. (the effect of breaking the first seal and having to go pee all night is beginning to set in)

So off I go to the men’s toilets. I walk in, use the standing urinal. It’s a Long pee. It is at least 2 minutes straight stream. Never knew I had bladder strength for that long. Wow. I strike up a bit of small talk with the gent next to me. As you do occasionally when one is all google eyed drunk, and in a favorable mood.

Urinal guy – You and your mates should certainly try the golf, or get out on a sail boat. Both are great.

Mike – Will certainly look at that, those are some great ideas. (While I shake out last bits from my junk, zip up, and proceed to the sink to wash up)

Mike – What the heck is this? This is bullshit! (Points at the sink, the only sink in the toilets, and it is full of a pile of heaping beer glasses) How are we meant to wash our hands before we leave?

Urinal guy – (Tips his head to the side, and shrugs his shoulders as he is turning around – he is almost finished)

It is at this point I decide it would be prudent to take the glasses from the sink and start to fast pitch them at the now vacant urinal beside Urinal Guy. He is still holding on to his weiner, and the first one hits. SMASHHHHH!!! He jumps and fumbles to finish up and stuff his weiner back in his pants.

Mike – (Laughing hysterically, Grabs the second glass and pitches it again like a fastball) A guy has to wash his hands.

SMASH!! The second glass smashes all over the vacant urinal again. By this time I am almost on the floor in hysterics, and grabbing the third glass.

Now as the third glass leaves my hand and my throwing arm is still extended, the door opens and Mister juice monkey doorman walks in.

I knew instantly it wasn’t going to be pretty. I put my hands up and looked at the doorman.

But before I even got another sentence out, I was grabbed by my belt and the back of my collar and escorted out the front door. Really?? Looking back at this, it was absolutely appropriate for me to be punted out the door. I wasn’t protesting being booted out, it was just so abrupt. Then again, what would you actually expect in a situation like this? A kiss on the cheek and a nibble of the ear by the big guy politely asking a drunk obnoxious guy to leave?

There I was outside banging on the glass window of the front sundeck area trying to get my Swiss buddy’s attention. It would be in vain. It looks like it would be meat pies early on this evening and some sulking in shame.

Not a chance. Meat pies, yes. Sulking no. A couple of meat pies later it was on to the next place where my Swiss friends would turn up a while later. It was a great reunion. I told them what had happened. They all laughed and just called me a dick. I laughed too. It was certainly a dick move. It sure was fun though.

The following day myself and the Swiss guys decided it would be time to play some golf. We rented carts, and clubs. We were about 4 holes in when We decided it prudent to go and get beer. The course was a smaller one, and did not have any beverage carts driving around.

Two of us left the course in golf carts, only to visit the bottle shop drive thru. The bottle shop was about a kilometre down the road. This is fantastic!! Where else can you take a golf cart on the road and drive to a drive through liquor store? The Swiss boys I was with were pretty impressed as well.

A couple of cases of Tooheys, a case of 4X, and another case of Carlton Cold, and we were on our way back.

We shot until hole twelve and were drinking our faces off. Golf turned into go carts at that point. It was no longer about shooting par. It would be more about four wheeling around the course. By the end of 18 there were 2 carts that had run out of battery. The third one only had enough juice to go in reverse.

We had to push one of the carts by hand, and the other we used the reverse gear to push the other one. Of all 4 carts that we had, two were completely out of charge and one only worked in reverse. Wow, what a gong show!

After it was all said and done, we caught cabs back to the main strip in Airlie. It was almost 5 and buffet time. It was time to get to magnums, especially for those $5 pitchers of beer.

We made it back to magnums for beer and buffet dinner. I stuck to 1 beer. It was a pitcher.

Not long after dinner, I decided to busk with a couple of twins that played guitar from the hostel. They were touring around Australia in a VW bus originally from Western Australia. This lasted about 2 hours before. It was 3 of us jamming on guitar, and one other guy decided to sing. The only song I recall playing was “Sympathy for the Devil” by the Rolling Stones. We had the case open for contributions but only made about $40 in the two hours. A ten dollar split.

So back to magnums I went. The Swiss guys from my room were eager to greet me! Then on it went for another round of $5 pitchers of beer and karaoke. This was good times. We capped out the night with some meat pies again of course.

I was to stay at a place called “Geoff’s place” in Magnetic Island up the coast of Australia. Geoff’s place was a pretty neat place to call home for a few days. When I first got there, I asked if I could do some work around the hostel in exchange for lodging. He agreed, and I was put to work in the yard for a few hours each day prior to having the afternoons to myself.

Each morning, this massive kookaburra bird would fly down and perch on the fence next to me. Talk about a pretty intimidating beak. I suspect it was food the bird was searching for. However, when it realized I had none, it would spread its wings and take off and fly by not 5 feet from my head. These were close calls every time. Nothing makes you feel alive like a charging kookaburra that zips by you at head level. Okay, well maybe a big cat, or a snake, or a spider, or a freshwater croc. I digress. Australia has some of the most threatening and venomous creatures per capita in the world.

One of the attractions at Geoff’s place was a beach not far away. Turns out this was a clothing optional beach. So, when in Rome right? Nakedness it was for the next few days on the beach.

The first day I was there, there was a South American chauchy guy doing cliff dives from a ledge into the water below. He would time it so that when he dove he would be hitting the crest of a wave set rolling in. I thought this was nuts as when I went in the water, it was no more than about 4 feet deep out at the point where he was diving. I fully expected catastrophe to come of it. Each time though, he would swan dive into the clear blue water and come up like nothing happened. I watched a few times then decided not to pay attention as I figured he knew what he was doing. Looked like he knew what he was doing in any case, so back to laying in the sun and enjoying the beach.

I wasn’t aware of the effects of sunburn at this point. There was a light breeze and it was hot. I spent most of the afternoon flipping over every 15 minutes or so. Things seemed to be ok until the second day on the beach.

As I stripped down, I noticed I had some pink bits, but they didn’t hurt to the touch. I thought it looked like I just got some sun. No big deal. The breeze was still great. I would go for the occasional dip in the water prior to coming back to the towel to enjoy the sun again. My front side was getting a bit hot, and a lot of sun. I could feel it starting to burn a bit so I turned over to bake a bit of my back.

This is when I fell asleep for an hour and a bit while on my stomach. I was on my stomach with hands by my side palms up. By the time I woke up I knew I had gotten a great dose of vitamin D.

The full effects would not set in though until the following day. The following day I was meant to leave on a bus trip North again to Cairns.

When I woke up I knew I had overdone it quite well. Places that were sore to touch included the front of my hip bones, the top of my shoulders (they even looked slightly bruised), one side of my face, parts of the palm side of my hands, my calves, and my ass. It was just sunburn right? Yes, it was just sunburn, until it came time to ride the bus for 4 hours. I was only travelling with a day pack at this point, so luggage was not an issue. I did find though that whenever I did put on my nap sack it was itchy, and uncomfortable. My pants felt the same as my belt was always rubbing on my hips. The best part though was when I was trying to sit down in my seat. I could not actually sit directly on my ass as one normally would as I had burnt my ass pretty fiercely.

I spent the next 4 hours tossing and turning from side to side trying to sit on almost my hips. Note to self, and to others. Bring sunscreen. Wear sunscreen. Even if you are sun tanning naked, rub that stuff all over.

We flew out and arrived on Thursday night after work and would return late on the Monday evening for work again on Tuesday morning.

For those that have not travelled abroad, you can negotiate for everything out side of the western world. This includes your hotel rooming in places like Bali. We saw several places before settling on one for the night. We had already decided that we were going to get off the main island of Kuta before arriving at Dempasar airport. The two things we were to do was visit the volcano at the top of the mountain, then get off to a place called Nusa Lembongan.

The ride up to the volcano was quite comical. Out tour was literally a little mini van with a few other folks, riding up through villages to the top of the volcano. Every time our driver would see a dog cross the road, he would yell out “SATAY” then pretend to punch the gas. Each time all the tourists would laugh or smile. He would go on to explain the regions as we drove by them and their historical significance. When we got to the volcano for a stop, it was insane. I had never seen anything like this; literally a crowd of a couple hundred people mobbing the mini van. They were all trying to sell something to the tourists. It was at first difficult to move until the mini bus driver told them all to go away.

We toured the volcano after that with no troubles. Upon the return back down the hill, we came across a freshly paved section of road. All downhill. I asked the driver to stop while I got out my skateboard and proceeded to ride down the mountain side. I got about 3-4 kilometres down before I the road turned back to old asphalt. What an experience that was. In the middle of Indonesia, skateboarding downhill. I can’t say I have down hilled anywhere more unique than that!

Our driver took us directly to the docks for departure to Nusa Lembongan. The ferry over was literally a large version of an islander wooden canoe. Straight out of south pacific islander culture. A quick trip and we were on the island. With a short ride we got to our resort. We were staying on the second floor of a beach house. This was one of my favorite places in the world. We had electricity for only 2 – 3 hours of the day and used the sunlight hours to do everything needed during the day time.

The only eating spot nearby was a place called Katut’s Warung. Katut’s was literally a restaurant kitchen with a covered picnic area out the side. Extended picnic tables comprised the bulk of the seating area, and it was pretty casual. The food was mostly fish. The special was generally whatever Katut and his family had caught that day out in the bays. I ordered the reef fish they had caught along with some fresh veggies and gravy. The veggies were all locally grown, the potatoes, carrots, and peas. The fish was cooked as whole fish grilled. It was only gutted with bbq grill marks on each side. I ate this massive fish, all the veggies and gravy for a mere 50 rupiahs. This was the equivalent of 50 cents in US dollars approximately.

It was a delightful meal, fresh and delicious. Midway through Katut came up and tried to up sell me for some more gravy. He said an extra 7 rupiah? I said 5. He agreed. Here we are negotiating for cents on the dollar for gravy of all things. It was not about the price though. It was more about the experience of negotiating. He loved it too.

I arrived at Lennox Head, just up the coast, and just south of Byron Bay by about 40km. How did I choose Lennox Head? It was literally by chance that I chose Lennox Head. I looked at a map of the coast and just randomly picked. I put a finger down. I stayed at a beach house hostel blocks away from the beach. In the winter time, it is apparently a surfing hot spot.

It was an awesome place. Quiet and Beautiful. I wandered around for a bit, before asking the owners how to get to Byron Bay. There was no transport available, and the only way to get there was to hitchhike. Hitching it was. I walked out to the highway, and stuck out my thumb. It was scorching hot in the sun, and it was about 30minutes before a car stopped. It was a tiny Nissan Micra with 3 farm girls from Balina, a town in from the coast a bit. Christine, Natascha, Stacy and I discussed driving, and opposite sides of the wheel between North America, and Australia / UK.

Before long, I negotiated to drive the final 15 kilometres into Byron bay. It was extremely fun. Immediately after sitting down in the driver’s seat I went to reach for the manual shifter and banged my left hand on the door. It seemed I was conditioned to drive with a shifter on my right, not on my left. Funny, and the girls didn’t even pick up on it.

Upon arriving to Byron Bay, we proceeded to tour the lighthouse, so famous for it’s history and icon status of the town. Great views and a fantastic building. Although we could not go in, it was certainly a highlight of the trip up there. We left to tour around the town when one of the girls piped up.

Mike- (Unaware of the local slang, but generally picking up on context) Ok, I get it now. It’s to the beach to smoke some pot.

We pull up to a beach just outside of Lenox Head on the way back. Out comes a small bag of pot, and the scissors. Stacy pulls a bowl from underneath the seat and Christine starts chopping the green into the bowl. Natascha pulls out 3 cigarettes and starts to unravel them into the bowl.

Mike- I have never tried it like this. Only ever smoked it straight. That is the only way.

Stacy- Much too strong that way. It also does not last that long between friends. Its more enjoyable with more, and with friends.

Mike – (Picking up on the Social Aspect of this gathering) Now that makes a lot of sense.

Stacy was mixing the bowl like it was tossed salad. Then before we could say “roll” it was ready to roll. Between the four of us we smoked a small bowl. The typical effects set in. Lots of laughs, and a bit of munchies. We gather ourselves and take the short trip back to the Lennox Head beach house.

I am still a bit giggly when I return, and the only food I have on hand is a dozen eggs and some pasta. I cooked up 4 eggs, and about a kilo of pasta with some butter. I was about to dig in and wolf down when Graham came into the kitchen area.

Mike- That’s odd. I don’t think anybody knows I am here. Alright, I will be there in a few seconds. (Walks over to the front phone and picks up)

Tascha – Mick, we are eating and want to see if you want to come out for another bowl!

Mike – (Laughing now) Hahaha, I am eating too. Have a big dish of pasta in front of me. My eyes are still red, and I am hungry! Not the country either. Alright though. I am in.

Tascha – (Chuckles on the phone) Great Mick! We will pick you up in about an hour.

I shoveled down the pasta, butter and eggs. It was delish, and very satisfying. Full from the meal I was feeling a bit slow and lazy. I was very relaxed though. Then up pulled the Nissan Micra, and away we went to the beach again. Same routine.

Although this time, they asked if I would like to go out with them. I agreed, not knowing where I was headed. Turns out they had the local club near Balina planned out. At that it was off we go. I get a few drinks in, and we all decide to head out on the dance floor.

I have never really been a big fan of night club culture. I can handle a few here and there, but more appreciate the ones with soul and character. The culture is mostly the same unless there is a theme to the night club.

Club Girl – (Starts grabbing my hips and pulling me in) Are you a professional dancer? You sure have the moves!

Mike- (Did she just ask me if I was a stripper?) I am flattered, but no. I am not a professional dancer. If you pay me to dance though, I bet that qualifies. (As I started to dance backwards and she followed)

At this time, after the song finishes I think it is time to go. The four of us head out, and plan a trip to Brisbane.

I stopped in Bundeberg as I knew there would be work there. At the hostel there were a few job boards. I decided to ask about picking as I knew there would be some work on some of the local farms. I rolled into town with not enough to pay for my accommodation, so I offered up my guitar for collateral. The deal was that I work for a week, and get the guitar back. It worked out fine.

The mornings came fast and early though. There was always an alarm that went off at 530 am, and a roll call was made. It was good if you had to go to work in the morning. It was atrocious if you didn’t have to work. The evenings were usually filled with a few beers and some snags on the barbies. I learned American Pie at this place, and played it over and over later in the evenings. One evening I would hear banging on the wall from the dorm next door.....

Mike – (Laughing under my breath, along with the other dorm mates) Bye bye miss American pie, drove my chevy to the levy, and the levy was dry......

This went on for a short time before we packed it up as the rest of the people in my dorm needed to get to bed.

I had a Scottish friend by the name of Craig who was in my dorm. He had the boots off his feet stolen. Well, from his dorm in any case. He told the managers of the hostel, but they wouldn’t do anything about even though he knew who had them as he had seen the person with his boots. He was pretty ticked off. He decided to leave in defiance. I booked my bus ticket already, and so he decided to as well. He still owed the house for the week, and was going to jump ship without notice. This would be his “runner” time, although he was not going out the front door. He packed his bag and sat on the balcony. I had checked out, and was leaving when he was leaning over the balcony. He threw his bag down and jumped down off the balcony. We both jumped in a friend’s car and we tore off to the bus depot after a few pit stops, and waited for the departing greyhound bus to arrive. Craig just went to the toilets for a few minutes when the police arrived. We weren’t sure if they were looking for Craig or not, but Craig took no chances. When he came out and saw them, he went right back in to the toilets. I told him I would come get him when the bus was boarding.

The bus arrived , and 5 minutes prior to departure Craig got on. No problems, and no worries. Off up the coast we would both head.

South Pacific Tales

“Life Lessons, Bike Rides, and Chicken”

Part 2

By Michael David