What a month! it was filled with non-stop activities. Both at home and afar.
It all started with us undertaking a small project in our backyard. Our first vegie garden had the kids so excited, yet so frustrated. We cleared out the side passage of overgrown weeds and shrubs before sowing the soil in preparation. We then took the kids shopping where they bought some small seedlings, a tomato plant, zucchini, spinach and carrots for a start. The kids excitement turned to disappointment when the following day the vegies weren’t ready for picking….. How funny are kids.
The final round of the footy season saw us go and see the Parramatta Eels take on Auckland Warriors. It was our first game for the year and while the Eels couldn’t make the playoffs it was great to take the family. It was part of my fathers day gift and one I thoroughly enjoyed. The result didn’t go our way but to see my little man o enthusiast in his sport and to sit on my lap for the whole game was very special.
Fathers Day was a very special time for me. I had one of those days that will always be etched in my memory. We shared the day as a family and I received some lovely gifts from the kids and Leonie. After a lovely brekkie, and a bit of shopping, lunch on the road, we topped off the day by a nice dinner at home. While my day was very special the wind was blowing up a storm at home.
The Fathers day windstorm that lashed the Illawarra and South Coast resulted in our Unit having some 700+ request for assistance. By far it was our biggest event for the year, we had SES units, RFS strike-force teams and NSWFB brigades assist us complete the jobs which saw us operational for a week straight. During this time, I did 2-days as the OC-operations controller which was a huge initiation to my new role.
On Monday 6th Sept I was appointed to my new role within the unit. I am now the Deputy Controller – Rescue at Wollongong City. It’s something I never dreamed of when I first joined some 17 years ago. The role sees me as 2nd in-charge and responsible for managing the field response to all operations. It also had me in the hot seat on my first day as I had to do a media interview for WIN TV.
As the windstorm jobs wound down we were presented with a drenching of rain. So much so that we were placed on high alert for flash-flooding and another 60+ jobs were taken. Many jobs came from residents who didn’t realise they’d sustained damage from the windstorm. It would be another 3 days before finally we could close down SES.
The annual Petersborough Golf day was once again a huge day. A round of golf at Shellharbour Links followed by a luncheon at Shelley’s Workers resulted in great day. Considering the frequency of how much I’ve swung a club of late I was very happy with my golfing ability.
The windstorms of 2 weeks earlier had seen our Navrescue event cancelled but that didn’t stop SES, we were at it again. This time we were doing mapping assessments around the streets of Wollongong. It was pleasing to see all members deemed competent.
Not normally written in this blog but in late September I finally got out to a bit of caching. I hide 3 new caches in the Shellharbour area while last Sunday I managed 11 finds around the Campbelltown area.
School holidays started in the last week of September and the kids headed off to Grandma’s, which left Leonie and I to enjoy some quality time together. So much so that we took off to the lovely couples retreat at Bingle Tree for a 2-night stay.
As the month comes to an end, we are picking up the kids and heading off to QLD for a week. The kids are so excited to be going to Movie World, but that’s another month.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
Adenoids, Tonsils and dancing
After 5 years of Ethan not sleeping properly and his prolific sweating becoming a concern we’d had enough. Rarely did a night go by where he didn't wake up which in turn had us awake.
Our local GP referred us to a paediatrician who sent us for a sleep study. This involved Ethan having a night in hospital where he was hooked up to a machine which monitored his sleep patterns throughout the night. The results saw the paediatrician refer us to an E.N.T specialist. After consulting with the specialist he advised us that the first and best course of action would be the removal of Ethan’s adenoids and tonsils.
On the 10th Aug 2010 Ethan was admitted to Figtree Private Hospital for his first operation. He went into surgery at 8.00am and by 9.00am he was back on the ward looking and feeling as though nothing had taken place. How surgery practices had changed from when as a 5 year old I went in for the same operation. Today Ethan was eating jelly, ice cream and custard only hours later while I vaguely recall being very sick and bed ridden for days afterwards. Admittedly Ethan did get a little worse as the drugs wore off but he was such a brave little man and the very day after being operated on he was allowed to go home.
While Ethan was under the knife, Sam was on stage being judged for her primary level Ballet assessment. In what could only be described as freakish timing. Both Sam and Ethan had very important commitments at the same time which had Mum and Dad at opposite ends of the Illawarra. Sam, who loves her dancing, performed beyond expectations receiving a credit pass. I think given half a chance she’d love to make a career out of dancing.
Our local GP referred us to a paediatrician who sent us for a sleep study. This involved Ethan having a night in hospital where he was hooked up to a machine which monitored his sleep patterns throughout the night. The results saw the paediatrician refer us to an E.N.T specialist. After consulting with the specialist he advised us that the first and best course of action would be the removal of Ethan’s adenoids and tonsils.
On the 10th Aug 2010 Ethan was admitted to Figtree Private Hospital for his first operation. He went into surgery at 8.00am and by 9.00am he was back on the ward looking and feeling as though nothing had taken place. How surgery practices had changed from when as a 5 year old I went in for the same operation. Today Ethan was eating jelly, ice cream and custard only hours later while I vaguely recall being very sick and bed ridden for days afterwards. Admittedly Ethan did get a little worse as the drugs wore off but he was such a brave little man and the very day after being operated on he was allowed to go home.
While Ethan was under the knife, Sam was on stage being judged for her primary level Ballet assessment. In what could only be described as freakish timing. Both Sam and Ethan had very important commitments at the same time which had Mum and Dad at opposite ends of the Illawarra. Sam, who loves her dancing, performed beyond expectations receiving a credit pass. I think given half a chance she’d love to make a career out of dancing.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Kids are a year older
Watching the kids grow up is something that I never get sick of watching, they are a constant source of fun, heartache and interesting times. The things they say and do is worthy of a book, I love my kids.
This year AJ turned 11, Samantha 7 and Ethan 5.
They are all growing up fast but it is AJ who is getting to that stage of her life where her body starts to change, she’s maturing to a young woman who loves to dress-up in her trendy clothing, she loves listening to the latest music. However she still enjoys playing with her younger brother and sister.
Samantha just turned 7, but she would tell you she’s 17. Sam is the exhibitionist of the 3 kids. She loves her dancing and will dress-up and dance for hours in front of the mirror. In reality she has done very well with her dancing since starting back at it last year. At school, Sam is doing really well with the teacher offering glowing remarks.
Ethan (our little man) is no longer the baby, he’s a boy with the energy level to match. He loves playing with his Lego, his DS and at every chance loves to get his cars out in the dirt. As I write this he’s been such a brave boy as he recovers from having his tonsils removed.
Mum and Dad love you all
This year AJ turned 11, Samantha 7 and Ethan 5.
They are all growing up fast but it is AJ who is getting to that stage of her life where her body starts to change, she’s maturing to a young woman who loves to dress-up in her trendy clothing, she loves listening to the latest music. However she still enjoys playing with her younger brother and sister.
Samantha just turned 7, but she would tell you she’s 17. Sam is the exhibitionist of the 3 kids. She loves her dancing and will dress-up and dance for hours in front of the mirror. In reality she has done very well with her dancing since starting back at it last year. At school, Sam is doing really well with the teacher offering glowing remarks.Ethan (our little man) is no longer the baby, he’s a boy with the energy level to match. He loves playing with his Lego, his DS and at every chance loves to get his cars out in the dirt. As I write this he’s been such a brave boy as he recovers from having his tonsils removed.
Mum and Dad love you all
Friday, May 28, 2010
State of Origin in 3D
The first State of Origin against NSW and QLD this year was also the launch of 3D television. Me and 4 mates were fortunate enough to win tickets to see the game at an in-store promotion held at Joyce-Mayne Warrawong. The big lounges and in-store footy food certainly made you feel as those you were part of the crowd.
The concept of 3D TV sounds exciting but the reality is I don’t see the concept taking off. There are limited TV cameras at the sporting event so the viewers view of the game is different to those who watch the normal game, there were no replays and you have to watch the whole game with the special $100 glass’s on. Don’t get me wrong, it was a great experience to be a part of and the “depth of field” that 3D TV gives is unbelievable. The players had body and shape, while the crowd shots were incredible.
As for the game, well it wasn’t the result any NSW fan wanted to see. We were totally outplayed and the players must take the loss as a wake-up call. We as fans, deserve better.
Come on NSW.
The concept of 3D TV sounds exciting but the reality is I don’t see the concept taking off. There are limited TV cameras at the sporting event so the viewers view of the game is different to those who watch the normal game, there were no replays and you have to watch the whole game with the special $100 glass’s on. Don’t get me wrong, it was a great experience to be a part of and the “depth of field” that 3D TV gives is unbelievable. The players had body and shape, while the crowd shots were incredible.As for the game, well it wasn’t the result any NSW fan wanted to see. We were totally outplayed and the players must take the loss as a wake-up call. We as fans, deserve better.
Come on NSW.
Friday, April 30, 2010
21 again
Its become a bit of a tradition that each Anzac day (my birthday) that we go 4x4ing for the day. I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate my birthday that with family, friends, in the bush, 4x4ing.
This year we headed down towards Yalwal with the plan to camp overnight and make a 2-day trip of it. A good number of cars all from SES had gathered. A long weekend ensured there were plenty of other people with the same idea.
As the day unfolded we found plenty of fun tracks to play on, along with a bit of mud to play in. Our day was occasionally interrupted by the odd shower of rain but that just added to the fun on the tracks. Most of the afternoon was spent playing on the steps at Wombat Flat.
Late in the afternoon we pushed deeper into the bush where we found a great, surprisingly empty camping spot. Tents were soon set-up and a fire was lit. As darkness fell everyone cooked up their twist on a camping dinner. As the fire roared, the camp chairs gathered around, the stories started and the port flowed, then to my surprise a yummy birthday cake was shared by all, “what a great way to spend an evening”.
Sunday started out crisp and cool, a heavy fog filled the valley, but as the sun gathered warmth a beautiful day unfolded. We were soon off exploring more tracks, our mission today was the renowned 6th Stage hill climb and it wasn’t long before we were at the bottom of this gnarly climb. Recent rains had the top surface still very slippery and beyond our level of expertise. However that didn’t stop us walking most of the track to check out huge rock steps.
Eventually it was time to head for home. Another great 4x4ing trip had come to an end. Thanks to those who shared the weekend with me.
This year we headed down towards Yalwal with the plan to camp overnight and make a 2-day trip of it. A good number of cars all from SES had gathered. A long weekend ensured there were plenty of other people with the same idea.
As the day unfolded we found plenty of fun tracks to play on, along with a bit of mud to play in. Our day was occasionally interrupted by the odd shower of rain but that just added to the fun on the tracks. Most of the afternoon was spent playing on the steps at Wombat Flat.
Late in the afternoon we pushed deeper into the bush where we found a great, surprisingly empty camping spot. Tents were soon set-up and a fire was lit. As darkness fell everyone cooked up their twist on a camping dinner. As the fire roared, the camp chairs gathered around, the stories started and the port flowed, then to my surprise a yummy birthday cake was shared by all, “what a great way to spend an evening”.
Sunday started out crisp and cool, a heavy fog filled the valley, but as the sun gathered warmth a beautiful day unfolded. We were soon off exploring more tracks, our mission today was the renowned 6th Stage hill climb and it wasn’t long before we were at the bottom of this gnarly climb. Recent rains had the top surface still very slippery and beyond our level of expertise. However that didn’t stop us walking most of the track to check out huge rock steps.
Eventually it was time to head for home. Another great 4x4ing trip had come to an end. Thanks to those who shared the weekend with me.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Easter Holidays
As part of the Easter school holidays we headed off on a 10-day trip around southern NSW. With the van in tow we made our way to Wagga Wagga for 4-day caching event. (see Oz mega Event)
After leaving Wagga we headed north up the Olympic Hwy through the towns of Junee and Cootamundra, all the time being blasted with a locust plague that was buffeting the area. We moved onto Young where we spent a night.
The next day we headed further inland to Grenfell, where took time out to have a quick look around the historic town. We arrived in Forbes where we had lunch while the kids burnt off some energy in a nearby park. Just as we were leaving town we spotted the sale yards were operating. Wanting to educate the kids we stopped and had a look around the various pens. We saw the dogs mustering the sheep around the small pens and the loading of the sheep onto the large transporters. The kids were fascinated and enthralled by the whole experience.
By late afternoon we’d arrived in Parkes and after setting up camp we headed out to “The Dish” which provided another source of information for the kids.
On the road again the following morning and we were heading to Dubbo, but not before a visit to the Peak Hill Gold mine. This open cut mine was amazing and while the kids thought it was just a hole in the ground, Leonie and I were very interested in the associated history. Moving on and we were soon in Dubbo where we met up with AJ. We’d opted for 2 nights here and on our second day we took in the sights of Dubbo Zoo, all by bike. We all thoroughly enjoyed the fun of pedalling around to see the various animals.
the next day and we were once again on the road and were now heading towards home. A short detour and we were at the Borenore Karst, which is a small underground cave. Here we explored the cave and took in the local Earthcache. The kids absolutely loved the underground experience.
After lunch we moved on, we were soon in Orange where we checked out Leonie’s childhood home. Pressing on, we passed through Bathurst and onto Sunny Corner where we’d decided to spend out last night camped out in the bush. Once again the kids loved the fun of being outdoors and in nature. That night we had a campfire and toasted marshmallows.
As with everything, our holiday had come to end. 10 days of touring central NSW was a lot of fun.
After leaving Wagga we headed north up the Olympic Hwy through the towns of Junee and Cootamundra, all the time being blasted with a locust plague that was buffeting the area. We moved onto Young where we spent a night.
The next day we headed further inland to Grenfell, where took time out to have a quick look around the historic town. We arrived in Forbes where we had lunch while the kids burnt off some energy in a nearby park. Just as we were leaving town we spotted the sale yards were operating. Wanting to educate the kids we stopped and had a look around the various pens. We saw the dogs mustering the sheep around the small pens and the loading of the sheep onto the large transporters. The kids were fascinated and enthralled by the whole experience.
By late afternoon we’d arrived in Parkes and after setting up camp we headed out to “The Dish” which provided another source of information for the kids.
On the road again the following morning and we were heading to Dubbo, but not before a visit to the Peak Hill Gold mine. This open cut mine was amazing and while the kids thought it was just a hole in the ground, Leonie and I were very interested in the associated history. Moving on and we were soon in Dubbo where we met up with AJ. We’d opted for 2 nights here and on our second day we took in the sights of Dubbo Zoo, all by bike. We all thoroughly enjoyed the fun of pedalling around to see the various animals.
the next day and we were once again on the road and were now heading towards home. A short detour and we were at the Borenore Karst, which is a small underground cave. Here we explored the cave and took in the local Earthcache. The kids absolutely loved the underground experience.
After lunch we moved on, we were soon in Orange where we checked out Leonie’s childhood home. Pressing on, we passed through Bathurst and onto Sunny Corner where we’d decided to spend out last night camped out in the bush. Once again the kids loved the fun of being outdoors and in nature. That night we had a campfire and toasted marshmallows.
As with everything, our holiday had come to end. 10 days of touring central NSW was a lot of fun.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Swiftwater Technicians Course
Having completed the Swiftwater awareness course I was keen to purse my interest in this area. Flood Rescue within the SES has certainly taken off in the past 12 months.
On the 6-7-8th March I got the opportunity to develop my Flood Rescue capability by undertaking the Technicians course. Once again, the course was held at Penrith White-water facility. 12 SES members from across the state had gathered for what turned out to be a very demanding and intensive 3-day course.
Early on Saturday we did a quick refresher on what we should’ve remembered. The “strainer” once again brought people unstuck, from there we moved onto some new and exciting procedures such as rescuing floaters, live bait retrievals and much more. No sooner had started than the day was drawing to an end and by the looks on peoples faces everyone was feeling the pinch of a long and exhaustive day.
Our accommodation for the weekend was Penrith Leagues Club, which over the years has been an old stomping ground off mine. Over the next 3 days we enjoyed some great food and beverage as a guest of the club.
Sunday started with some rope techniques across flowing water, these were not too dissimilar to our VR stuff but just in a different application. Tensioned diagonals certainly proved a great technique for quickly traversing a swollen river, with or without a casualty. Throughout the day we were constantly reminded to keep an eye on the water as various floaters (unconscious casualties), would often be seen in the water and it was our role to rescue/recover these people.
The day culminated with us using the inflatable boats out on the course without the aid of a guide. This proved to be great fun as my group were as mad as a hat full of ……. We went backwards, we went without oars, we went upside down, we were crazy idiots but it was great medicine as the course had become very intensive.
The evening was spent comparing war stories and licking our wounds over a few quite ales.
Monday and there was no let-up in the course intensity. The day was once again involved plenty of ropework and boat movements. Floaters, again kept us busy all day. The major activity for the day involved us constructing a high-line and traversing the flowing water.
The course concluded with a short theory test, which I must say we all completed successfully.
On the 6-7-8th March I got the opportunity to develop my Flood Rescue capability by undertaking the Technicians course. Once again, the course was held at Penrith White-water facility. 12 SES members from across the state had gathered for what turned out to be a very demanding and intensive 3-day course.
Early on Saturday we did a quick refresher on what we should’ve remembered. The “strainer” once again brought people unstuck, from there we moved onto some new and exciting procedures such as rescuing floaters, live bait retrievals and much more. No sooner had started than the day was drawing to an end and by the looks on peoples faces everyone was feeling the pinch of a long and exhaustive day.Our accommodation for the weekend was Penrith Leagues Club, which over the years has been an old stomping ground off mine. Over the next 3 days we enjoyed some great food and beverage as a guest of the club.
Sunday started with some rope techniques across flowing water, these were not too dissimilar to our VR stuff but just in a different application. Tensioned diagonals certainly proved a great technique for quickly traversing a swollen river, with or without a casualty. Throughout the day we were constantly reminded to keep an eye on the water as various floaters (unconscious casualties), would often be seen in the water and it was our role to rescue/recover these people.
The day culminated with us using the inflatable boats out on the course without the aid of a guide. This proved to be great fun as my group were as mad as a hat full of ……. We went backwards, we went without oars, we went upside down, we were crazy idiots but it was great medicine as the course had become very intensive.
The evening was spent comparing war stories and licking our wounds over a few quite ales.Monday and there was no let-up in the course intensity. The day was once again involved plenty of ropework and boat movements. Floaters, again kept us busy all day. The major activity for the day involved us constructing a high-line and traversing the flowing water.
The course concluded with a short theory test, which I must say we all completed successfully.
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