Melbourne and Great Ocean Road

The last two days have been action packed and fun filled. Starting with yesterday, it was a day to check out Melbourne and what it has to offer. It is a much different city than Sydney with a much more laid back feel and relaxed atmosphere. Big for the cafe culture. And I can't talk about Melbourne without bringing up the flies. They are relentless and everywhere. I can't count how many times I said to myself "Fucking Flies." At least they don't bite, but you do catch yourself doing the "Australian Salute" all day long. That is when you wave your hand in front of your face to get the flies away. That being said about the flies, it was still a good time. In addition, I went to the National Gallery of Victoria and saw many pieces of Australian and Aboriginal art. Very interesting stuff. Later that evening, I met up with Jason and Joel Silverstein (Schwartz' Family.) After Jason met me, we swung by the house and met Michael and Rosalie (the parents.) They were great. We had planned to go out to eat, but they had a feast at the place suitable for the Austrailian Army. Steaks, chicken, salad, quiche, etc. They were amazingly hospitable. After that, Joel, Jason and I went out to a local Melbourne establishment for a few cold cocktails. Didn't stay out very late as I had to be out the door at 7AM to head down the Great Ocean Road.

The Great Ocean Road is a coastal drive starting about 1 hour out of Melbourne at Torquay and goes many miles. It is recognized as one of the finest drives in the world. Our first stop was at Bells Beach, where Quicksilver and Rip Curl got there start. While on Bells Beach, I met a completely amazing man. A 70 year old surfer. He has been surfing at Bells Beach for 49 years. AMAZING. From there we headed down and finished up at Port Campbell National Park where we saw the 12 apostles. They are amazing structures formed in the ocean by limestone deposits. Hard to really talk about them. You have to see the pictures. Amazing. Off for now. Take care.