THE BIG DAY

Sue

It was a frantic morning trying to get the kids out of bed and ready for the ceremony. Finally, we were all dressed to the nines and ready to go.

We arrived at the Melbourne Metropolitian Fire & Emergency Services Board Training College (phew .. fit that on a sign) and after 8 million people shook David's hand we went to sit in the auditorium.

The ceremony started right at 9 am. Peter Cocks read out a short biography as the medal recepients made their way to the stage. Robert Dean (parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Police and Emergency Services) presented the medal to David and the official photo was taken. We all were (are) very proud of David and his tireless devotion to the community.

Afterwards, we had tea and bikkies and chatted with Russell (who looked very smart in his uniform), Geoff and 90% of the other attendees at the conference. David seems to know everyone in Australia! Dozens of people came up to me to say g'day and to ask me about Canada and how I like Australia.

I felt regret when it was time to leave as I don't know when I will see my friends Russell and Geoff again. I sincerely hope we all stay in touch throughout our lives.

We set out for the Rialto Tower which is the tallest building in the southern hemisphere. It soars 253 metres above street level and the view is magnificent. We were able to see the Great Dividing Range, the Dandenongs, the Yoo Yangs and Tasmania from our vantage point. Once I relaxed I was able to enjoy the view but there was no way I would go out to the external platforms. The kids had a great time with the zoom city cameras and they were able to zero in on people walking several blocks away. There is no real privacy anywhere!

We went to the Victoria Market to meet Wolf but for some reason we were unable to find him. After standing on the street corner for ages Amanda and I started looking through the market. We bought some t-shirts and had a riot looking at the vintage clothing in some of the stalls. We had lunch at a small corner cafe and shopped for another hour or so then set out for Warrnambool. By the time we got back we were four exhausted vegemites!

Continue the Journey