Tassie

I don't think any locals refer to Tasmania as anything other than 'Tassie' and they are fiercely proud of their island life from the wine, food, climate which is much cooler than the mainland, and the stunning vistas.  

Christmas Day was declared a 'scorcher' by the local Hobart daily and set a record temperature of 36 with a very hot wind blowing all day. It was even hotter on the mainland and all eyes and ears were paying close attention to the bush fire situation in the state of Victoria.  Sadly 120 homes were lost that day on The Great Ocean Road but fortunately there was no loss of life. Bush fire watch is never far from any Aussie mind.  We may well revise our plan to travel up the Ocean Road this time depending on the siutation.  The rains that came on Boxing Day were like an added Christmas gift. 

In spite of the heat we had a full on hot Christmas feast and it was delcious. 

Xmas Dinner with all the trimmings

Traditonal dessert - raspberry pavlova - thanks Chloe!

Mt. Wellington is to Hobart what Grouse Mt is to Vancouver and is often shrouded in cloud but the day we were up it was clear.  There can be a 10 degree difference in temperature from the harbour to the top so it is wise to bring a jacket. 

Top of Mt. Wellington looking out towards Hobart Harbour

Deb and Michael have taken us on lots of their favourite day trips - not far from them we took in a walk through a restaurant garden that includes many art installations and we couldn't resist sitting down on this eucalyptus leaf inspired bench. 

  

And in case you think we are only insterested in wine tastings here we are at a whiskey distillery sipping the good stuff with Chloe.  The last taste we had came from a bottle that sold for $265.00 and they were sold out.  Darn, and I was going to buy one.....(not likely!)

The Nant Distillery grounds.

We were lucky enough to be invited on a converted cray fish boat on New Year's Eve and joined 20 others for food, bubbles, and fire work gawking while cruising around the harbour.  Yup, fire works from the water are pretty darned spectacular.  And me with a dead camera battery....bad timing. 

Brian joined Michael for a Sunday morning gathering of car buffs and later I also had a ride in this 1960 beauty.  I've never been in a sports car before so it was a thrill. Think it is obvious Brian is pretty thrilld as well. 

Still haven't seen a live one of these guys but hope springs eternal. Haven't contributed to the road kill either which is a very good thing 

We are off to explore the Tasman Pennisula and East Coast for the next 5 days. 

Adios for now. 

The Jubalidos.