Brisbane, Rain, and the year 1974

In Sydney, we had been reading reports regarding the flood 'situation' in Queensland. Small towns were being devastated, and the military was being flown in to assist the residents. TV telethons with Australia's biggest stars were being planned, and the national news offered occasional coverage of the floods. With that being said, there was no indication that Brisbane and its nearby suburbs would be hit hard. So I purchased my $79 dollar ticket, and got on a plane to Brisbane.

Brooke Alexander (usually known as "Chooksie") is one of my favourite people in the world. I can safely say this even though I haven't seen her for 5 years. I often wondered how so much love could come out of one human being. Well, I can say this; after being picked up from the airport by her parents, Jeannine and Rob, I understand where it came from.

As I exited the plane, I saw two adult figures dancing away with excitement. In the car ride, we hadn't even left the airport parking lot when they saw a lonely backpacker looking lost and confused. They pulled up to the young boy, turned out to be a German traveller named Marvin, and demanded that he hop into the car. We drove him to a hostel called the "Yellow Submarine" and then we were on our way; Jeannine sternly warned him "Don't get into any more cars with any more strangers."

Jeannine and Rob have four children. Brooke, Dane, Bill, and Joe. None of the children were home that evening, so I was the first of what is to be a glorious parade. Over the following days, Bill and Joe, (the youngest of the children) both returned, and the house is becoming more and more occupied. Dane and Chooksie are going to be here as well, in little over a week. The excitement level within this house is magical; unfortunately, there are natural forces at work that are out of our control.

The flood crisis has hit Brisbane incredibly hard. The television and radio stations are covering the crisis live 24 hours a day. The downtown core is empty, the buildings have had their power cut off, and emergency crews are everywhere. Two of my other friends have already had to evacuate (we are luckily on higher ground) and the outlook is getting gloomier and gloomier.

My initial prospect of living and working here may need some re-adjustment, but at this point it is too early to tell. Either way, as grim as the situation is outside, I applaud the positivity of the Alexanders in their loving home. Jeannine especially, is a beacon of love and energy, which makes life in a crisis, feel safe as can be.

P.S. You are probably wondering why I included the year 1974 in this post's title. I simply included it because I have never heard the word "1974" said so often in such a short period. This is because there was a similar flood in 1974, which crippled a much less populated Brisbane at the time. This flood is easily going to eclipse that flood in terms of devastation, according to the local media.

Cuz Night

One thing I immediately associate with Sydney television is the practical 24 hour/a day cricket coverage. Traditionally, these matches (or tests) take a number of days, with breaks in the 'action' that are actually called "Lunch Time" and "Tea Time."

However, my cousins Ivanka and Ksenia told me of a league match being played in the Olympic Park (home of the 2000 Sydney Olympics) between New South Wales and Western Australia.

Our plan was fool proof. I would meet the cousins at Circular Quay (essentially a larger Lonsdale Key) and we would transit to the match. We deemed it 'Cuz Night.' It was pretty glorious. Though the weather was initially gorgeous, it was not willing to remain cooperative. Although we ourselves may have been dampened, our spirits were not.

It was a wonderful evening, ending a lovely stay in Sydney. The parallels between Sydney and Vancouver are certainly there, and I found Sydney to be more than familiar. Perhaps what I most admired, was the natural foundation that the entire city plan appeared to be based upon. Parks are very important, and just as in North Vancouver, trees and natural beauty are put in the forefront.

I really want to thank Aras and Chris once again for hosting me so graciously. It was also lovely to meet all of Aras' friendly, welcoming group of friends. I even got to see Hannon before she departed for Canada! It was an exceptional start to a journey full of unknowns.

Wrong Country

It has been a lovely 3 days thus far in Sydney. I have found it impossible to start reading my book (starting with "The Odyssey" via Sam Sackeroff), which was meant to be a new years resolution of mine. I guess when things normalize themselves in Brisbane it will become an easier goal to achieve. Sydney has been a whirlwind of introductions, crazy nights, and lovely afternoons of exploration. I've got to say, (barring Europe) I think the beach side communities of Sydney have got to be the most romantic locales I've seen in my life. Outstanding.

I continue to post my favourite photos so far on Facebook, and I like the idea of this page being my little spot for thoughts and observations. In terms of Sydney as a city, it is an incredible place to visit. To live here would be a dream, but it is indeed costly. I always have to remember, that although the cost of living here is about twice as high, the people here get paid about twice as much. However, as a visitor who is currently not-yet-working, it is a daunting locale. Essentially, without the free accommodation that makes this visit possible, a full time job is entirely necessary to live in this city.

Remember that economic study we learned about called the "Big Mac Index?" Essentially, it compares the price of a universal object worldwide, like a Big Mac. What I have been doing has been the California Roll Index. I'd say the average cost of California Rolls in Vancouver is about $2.50. In Australia, I have averaged them at $7.75! If you want to start a Sushi restaurant, come here! You will make a killing.

Tonight, I am heading to a cricket match with my cousins Ksenia and Ivanka. It's going to be oodles of fun. We are going to dress for the part, and lather ourselves constantly with sunscreen. So far, my feet have been victimized. Sunburnt, and covered in blistered from my cheap set of "thongs" they are swearing at me every step of the way. Wearing tennis shoes feels like a day at the spa.

Photos and video will be posted soon. In terms of a few shout outs, I hope all the friends (or at least, those that remain) in North Vancouver are doing well. Want to thank all the people that wrote cards for my trip once again, some truly lovely things said. Hope Scotty is rocking out on the boat once more (see you in Brisbane) and I hope Sasha is keeping life interesting for Mom and Dad.

Mom and Dad, thanks so much. Take care everyone.

Day 1 Sydney

Following a 5 hour layover in Tokyo (made much easier by a little online cribbage with Hefe) I hopped onto a Boeing 777 heading for Sydney.

I sat next to this Australian, who believe it or not, was really friendly and outgoing. He pointed out an interesting thing that Japan Airlines loading crew does when they have completely loaded the luggage onto the plane. As you taxi towards the runway, the crew stands in an orderly line waving, and then they bow to the plane politely and walk away. Neat little cultural moment, I love those.

I arrived in sunny Sydney, and the heat hit me pretty quick. It was a jump from -4 to 32 Celsius. But all in all, I thought it would be worse considering the time of year. As I walked towards customs, I realized I had no idea where I was staying that night in terms of the address.

(something required on your customs form) So I tried to situate myself in a line where I wouldn't have any trouble. I estimated that if I put myself behind an attractive young backpacker, her looks would distract the customs agent. Turns out the backpacker was suspicious for some reason, and I waited anxiously behind her 20 minutes, when she was promptly escorted to another room. I walked up, and the guy let me right through.

My friend Aras picked me up, and what a host he has been! We have had good food, drink, and he lives a beautiful part of town. GET THIS! The area we live in, on the north side of Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House is called "the North Shore." Guess what bus I take to get home? THE 246! Honestly, what are the chances of that?

Then, something glorious occurred. Jessica Hannon, whom I am forever devoted to, pops by. She is going to spend the night! Aras and I decided to brave the heat and go play some tennis. We had ourselves an excellent game, and I managed to obtain my first sunburn. I look like someone who went downhill skiing all day, while only wearing swimming goggles.

After a lovely dinner, where I met Chris, the ridiculous roommate of Aras. You will see more of him, in the video I have posted. Also met his girlfriend Rebecca, and his friend 'Duckie."

Needless to say, the hospitality has been wonderful thus far. That night we went a famous local bar called the Oaks, which was brilliant. It is actually an old hotel, with dozens and dozens of different rooms, about half of which are designated pool halls. The vibe was really welcoming and unassuming, and it is a place I would definitely recommend.

Most memorable was our stroll home. Hannon and Aras wanted a kebab, and we walked into a place called "The Bay". Aras firmly believed that the gentleman looked like the famous 'Soup Nazi" from Seinfeld. Turns out, he acted like him too. His performance in the video is that of pure perfection.

So that's that for now, hope all is well at home with the family. Hope the friends are happy and healthy, and I hope my mid-December History 12, managed to achieve its purpose. If I recall correctly, the goal was to 'plant the seed for the new year.' Any growth?

Cheerio everyone.

p.s. Was watching the World Junior game. That was a tough pill to swallow, especially considering the only thing to watch after was Cricket.....