My friends, authors and historians Cora Weaver and Bruce Osborne , recently published a well researched, richly illustrated book called Celebrated Springs of the Malvern Hills. Here is small extract; These pure springs inspired the water-cure clinics at Malvern, lining the pockets of physicians such as Dr
Read more →BRUSH WITH FAME I once worked in an office where the favourite tea break amusement was Brush with Fame. It was difficult for new members of staff to get the hang of, because it was no use simply boasting that you had slept with a Rolling Stone
Read more →It would be difficult to calculate the number of meat pies eaten at sporting events in Australia….especially at AFL matches.. There is an eatery in my Blue Mountains village of Blackheath regarded as a bit of an institution when it comes to a meal in a pastry
Read more →WHY BLACKHEATH? It was primarily my passion for birds and gardens that prompted my move from Sydney to the beautiful Blue Mountains. As a writer, I also wanted a place of peace and inspiration. The birds here are truly amazing. I don’t mind sharing my flowers with
Read more →During an extended stay at our holiday home near Marlow, my partner Rob and I were joined by Brisbane friends Margie and Lance, who were making their first visit to the UK. The prospect of this extremely laid-back couple spending six weeks with a manic history
Read more →HELLO, I CHOSE (AND EDITED ) THIS STORY ABOUT MY DISTANT RELATIVES. IT’S A BIT SAD, BUT VERY INTERESTING……EDITOR DES. There are some touching links between the Teddy Bear, that quintessential symbol of childhood comfort and security, and the tragic loss of the passenger ship Titanic on
Read more →I don’t agree with William about tea, because that comes before coffee for me. However, the rest is true. Porridge was on the 3rd class breakfast menu aboard the Titanic……among much else. Good grief, I wonder what those in 1st class were offered? Probably quails’ eggs and
Read more →On our very first visit to France as a couple, Rob and I collected our hire car at the back of the Hotel des Invalides in Paris. It was an appropriate spot considering how sick I felt at the thought of careering around the city on the
Read more →