Q1 Resort was the accommodation touch of the trip. Booked into a brand new apartment building along the road in Surfers, the builders over-ran their deadline and we were compensated with a high floor ocean view pad in the worlds tallest residential building. It was wonderful.

This was a trip down memory lane for Phill. In 1989, the young intrepid explorer arrived in Australia on what became known as the nursery run.

Phill re-visited a hostel he worked at in 1989 and 1993 in search of Reg, the chap who gave the 20 year old Phill his first job in Oz. Reg has since retired, though it was quite a buzz when entering the reception area, Reg's son in-law said 'hey, I know who you are'! Moving indeed when you consider as many as 40 casual staff pas through the hostel each year.

We realise we have done well to avoid the backpacker circuit here in Australia. The average age is little over 20. Its all changed as well. Travellers these days are on organised trips around the country, clutching coupons, precise itineraries and daddy's credit card.

The six weeks in Australia has simply flown. Time seems to be accelarating. From Sydney at Christmas/New Year, Hunter Valley wine region, the coastal towns of Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Ballina and Noosa, to the chaos of Australia Day weekend in Surfers. On wednesday, Sue's folks head for home. Singapore awaits us.

The previous two occassions when Phill has left Australia have been sad occassions. This makes three in a row.

PaSx