It was a beautiful morning when we turned up at Bill's house ready for our outing. The bus was very hot but we opened all the windows and once we got moving the breeze was beautiful. The music and singing started and we were on our way to pick up another crowd of travellers from Sutherland.

 

Initially the plan had been to head South through the Royal National Park and end up at a beach for lunch, but we were running a bit late, so we headed straight down the freeway to Sublime Point. Several people had provided big pots of soup and rolls for lunch. The view from Sublime Point reminded us of how dry the weather has been as we looked out towards clouds of smoke and dust hanging over the ocean.

Then it was back onto the bus again and on to the Nan Tien Temple for a break from the singing and music!! The atmosphere of the temple is amazing and a peaceful walk through the gardens was a very pleasant way to spend an hour.

 

(there were more of us, it just took us a while to get organised!!)

Around 5pm we arrived at Wongawilli Hall, where Bill (& John) cranked up some BBQs, (not only did Bill drive the bus he cooked too!!)

 

I don't know about you but the caption that springs to my mind is, "Now just where would you like me to stick these tongs!!"

 

The night took the form of a blackboard concert and we were treated to a wealth of talent from various folk clubs. It was a great evening, my favourite bit being, (and I admit to being biased here), the combined Toongabbie Music Club Band and Choir, who led the room in singing some "not so traditional" folk songs. Everyone sang along heartily and we had a ball.

everybody say "AAAAAHH"

Special mention to our 2 dancing singers Paulette and Jennie who for most of it were doing a brilliant impression of "the Supremes"!! As usual everyone, it was fun and I am proud to be able to play along with you. Eventually the night had to end and it was back onto the bus for more singing all the way home.

Thanks to all of those who helped on the day, to those who brought food, those who supplied photos to me, and of course to Bill & Willy.

I said it last year, and I'll say it again, "Come on Newcastle and Bathurst Folk Clubs, wouldn't you just love a busload of folkies to arrive some night?"

 

You can read about last year's bus trip here

If anyone else has any other photos or wants to add a review of their own, just send them to me and I'll put them in.