Our journey began with five enthusiastic horticulture students being dropped off early at TAFE’s Yallah campus. We were greeted by our new friend “Cliff”. He is a beautiful Australian cattle dog and mascot of the Horticulture dept. It was a beautiful winter day here around 60 degrees. The smell of eucalyptus oil in the air adorned with lavender filled the air.
It was a perfect day for exploring the Bush. We took notice bright orange fungi, beautifully twisted eucalyptus spotted gum trees,cracked dry soil, liken covering the dead trees, and native flowers unique only to Australia. We walked through the rows of citrus trees and enjoyed some fresh kumquats. We ran into some curious cows and soaked in the scenic views of the farmland below.
We said our goodbyes and thanked David our instructor for a memorable week of Australian horticulture educational instruction.
All the Gateway students were all reunited and treated to an incredible dinner. The restaurant was uniquely structured and designed to present a panoramic breath taking view of the Pacific Ocean. I dined on fresh salmon and strawberry rhubarb with apple sorbet for dessert.
The Horticulture students assembled again for another adventure at the Wollengong Botanical Garden. We were greeted by Mike a staff member of the garden. He gave us an insight of Aboriginal Medicinal remedies. He presented it with detailed knowledge and he added a bit of humor and we walked through the garden. He gave us remedies for nightmares, digestive cures, mosquito repellant, and inflammation. It was extremely enjoyable. We ended our day with many natural gifts from Mike. One of mine being paperback wrap around my wrist to eliminate inflamation.
The sunsets in Wollengong at 5:00 PM. We saw Mike in his exploring attire turn away into the beautiful Australian sunset. It seemed the perfect way to end our day.
Beatrice Stich