Had a fab birthday in Sydney, got some great pics when walking over the harbour bridge. Julie and I visited the aquarium at Darling harbour, had a wander through the shops, a bite to eat a few cocktails then went to see the show 'Wicked', it was excellent!! The weather was pretty variable though, quite overcast and a bit rainy at times - but it didn't hold us back, not even as we sat on the beach watching the manly surfing competition in the wind and rain, we're hardcore Scottish girls (the ozzie's fled!!)

Saturday we watched the camper van convoy through manly as part of the surfers festival and went round a few of the local market stalls before heading over to the city to the rocks markets. I got my picture taken with a local musician!! I caught my flight to Melbourne by the skin of my teeth on saturday but when I reached my hostel on saturday night I wish I hadn't bothered (back to dorms - not good).

Melbourne itself is lovely, I enjoyed walking around the city and surrounding parks on Sunday. I found the Eureka building which I ventured into and up to the skydeck where I very bravely went to the 'edge'!! (see photo). In the evening I went to Philip Island to watch the penguin parade which was so cute! All the penguins coming back from sea to feed their baby chicks - so cute!!

Monday I went on a trip along the great Ocean road. It was a great day lots of stops to see beautiful beaches and bays and the highlight was taking a helicopter ride over the twelve apostles, the view was spectacular!

Today I'm preparing to fly back to Sydney for one night as flying out to New Zealand from there tomorrow. Really looking forward to my New Zealand tours, 9 days South Island highlights tour then 6 days North Island highlights tour, with a wee visit to my Mum's friend Christine in between so that should be good too!! Not sure how often I'll get to update blog - will do my best!!