And so the ticket was booked for nine of us, Dad, Mum, Stephen, Joanne, Jessie, Angie, Lilian, KC and I. Without anyone's knowledge, I had been persuading Debbie to join us at Perth from NZ of which she took the extra effort to join us too. That makes it a total of 11 pax. All our tickets were booked for 12.2.15 to 17.2.15, 6D5N. I started to plan the itinerary and research online for car rentals and lodging and made all my reservations online as well. Internet has made all this possible and that's how I've always arranged my holidays.
Day 1 : 12.2.15 Excitement and Surprises.
Felix and Yvonne drove all of us to KL Sentral in the morning where we did our check in at the MAS counter and took the express train to KLIA. Because KL Sentral is just a 20 minutes drive from our house and has checking in facilities, everything is a breeze including the train ride which takes only 28 minutes. We had plenty of time at KLIA and boarded the plane which left right on time at 9.30am.
Checking in at KL Sentral.
Six bags to check in.
Eager beavers.
Train is due anytime now.
On board the train.
All smiles.
KC never go anywhere without his handcarry
Jessie is always excited when going for a vacation.
So is Angie.
All seats taken up.
Having a bite at Old Town cafe at KLIA.
The service provided by MH is excellent. The wheel chairs offers good respite from their weary legs.
Like a season traveler. "Been there, done it" look.
This is the real McCoy. This one have "been there, done it" in traveling.
While we were at KLIA, Debbie was at Auckland airport at the same time ready to board her plane to meet us at Perth. This was to be a surprised that no one knows.
Debbie What's App this photo to me when she was at Auckland airport. I was at KLIA about to board our flight at that time.
Both are well traveled.
Mum loves a family holiday.
Another seasoned traveler.
Love it, love traveling.
Joanne recommended me this Korean movie whilst on the flight. A real epic. Would recommend it to everyone.
WE landed at Perth International airport on time, 3.00 pm
Collecting our rented car at Avis counter.
Waiting patiently whilst the paper work for car rental gets done.
Lilian and Angie still looking fresh after the long flight.
At the Avis carpark.
That's our rented MPV, KIA Grand Carnival. All eight of them go ahead without me as I have to wait for the other car which can be available only an hour later. I have told them to go ahead first as that would give me a chance to pick up Debbie and MK who is scheduled to arrive an hour later. Of course I did not tell them that.
Off they go heading towards Clarkson.
KC doing a selfie.
Just 30 minutes later, Debbie and MK appears at the lobby !
This had worked out better than plan.
And my car is still not here yet.
10 minutes later, it arrives, Toyota Aurion.
We reached Clarkson after a half hour driving. I dropped Debbie and MK at their apartment and we agree to spring a surprise to everyone at the Clarkson Shopping Mall. They will wait for us at 7.00pm at the mall.
I had reserved a house through Airbnb. It's a fully furnish house called Ocean Keys Cottage tucked away at Clarkson, a residential area north of Perth. We are staying there only for two days just to explore the area north of Perth.
The living room and dining area is spacious.
TV lounge.
Garden area with outdoor dining table.
Double bedroom for mum and dad.
When I arrive, Stephen had gone out to town to explore the surroundings and buy some grocery. They came back at about 6.30 pm and we all drove out to the mall which is only a km away. Debbie had text to me that they are at the foodcourt and we'll surprise everyone there.
I got everyone to walkover to the foodcourt.
This picture is taken by Debbie from where they were seated.
I had everyone seated on the high stool and they still did not notice Debbie and MK seated behind them. MK is wearing orange and Debbie in black at the back table.
The both of them walked up and surprised everyone.
It was a pleasant surprise for all to have two more family members joining the holiday.
We moved away from the stool to a bigger table.
Everyone is really happy.
It's a simple dinner, but one that is memorable.
We need to buy more groceries.
Mum is just glad to have Debbie around.
Lilian is also as excited..
What we need is enough groceries for the next two days.
MK and Dad catching up.
Jessie is just happy being on a holiday.
Happy together.
Stephen getting a local SIM card.
Another family photo.
Back to Ocean Keys Cottage.
Unpacking all the groceries.
Getting ready for the next day plan.
It's been a long day. We all woke up at 6.00 am in Malaysia and only hit the sack at Ocean Keys at midnight. It's going to be another long day tomorrow when we hit north.
Day 2. 13.2.15 The spectacular Pinnacles Desert.
In all tourist brochures at Perth, one of the listed place of interest is the Pinnacle Desert. I had been to Perth on three other occasion and did not consider the Pinnacles in all my earlier travel plans. One of the reason is it is too far away and I really do not want to travel four hours back and forth just for the desert! Curiosity got the better of me this time and I had plan the stay at Clarkson just to be nearer to the Nambung National Park where the Pinnacles are and avoid the city traffic. Debbie and MK was already at our door by 7.00 am and by 8.00 am, everyone was up. Breakfast is whatever we had bought at Coles; bread, butter, peanut butter, instant noodles, eggs, sardine, tuna, coffee or tea. Have your own pick and do it yourself. Everything is instant. We had also prepared sandwiches and beverages for lunch as the desert do not have any food outlet. By 9.30 am, we are on the road heading north.
It's like at home.
Have your own choice of breakfast, everything is on the table.
The early birds.
Just before we took off, we took a family picture. The normal pose.
The happy pose. The old folks are into it as well.
We hit the road and experience Australian countryside.
Midway, we pull over for a break.
KC practicing the selfie.
Do I look cool in my shades?
At last, here we arrive at the Nambung National park.
Like all parks in the world, there is an entrance fee.
It's early as there are not many cars at the car park.
Deciding whether to drive or walk.
It's decided that we'll take a drive first and then do the walk later.
At the signage just before entering the desert.
The Pinnacles desert is one of Oceania seven wonders. It is nickname the Rock Stars of the Outback literally referring to the rock formation all over the desert. The outcrop are limestone formed by elements of nature about 30,000 years ago and spread over some 17,000 hectares. It is indeed a spectacle and you simply gawk at the landscape carved by god.
Entering the desert.
What we saw from the car is spectacular.
It was just irresistible.
We had to stop the cars and have a feel of the desert.
It was timid tourist pose at first.
What you want is a piece of desert behind you
or some spectacular rocks around you.
They are all over the desert.
"F" found two piece of rock for his picture,.
The we started having some fun.
And yes, enjoy the sun.
Han, "This is how you do it".Stephen, "No, this is the way to do it".
Lilian and Jessie having fun.
I'll do it myself since nobody agrees with me.
How about putting the cap on.
No thanks.
Father and sons.
Girls, just wanna have fun.
What are you doing MK ? Playing hide and seek ?
Love the place.
Sunny and with cool breeze.
Photo bomb by MK.
Me and my niece.
Mum not excited with the rocks. To her, the rocks are like tombstones! She stays in the car away from the sun.
The walkway viewing point.
That's where it ends if you walk.
It's a nicely laid out track.
We continued having fun.
Jo joins the party.
That's the way ah ha, ah ha.
No short of cameraman.
That's my little rock
I like it that way.
Having fun with panoramic dash photography on iPhone 5S.
Stephen wants in on this.
Debbie and Angie tried it out as a pair.
The most expressive pose came from Jessie.
We spent more than an hour out there and enjoyed every moment of it. It is already noon and we had to find a nice spot for our picnic lunch. Across the main road onto the other side is the Pinnacles Caravan Camping ground. We drove over there and found a nice park called Catalonia Park. It has small pavilions, washing and toilet facilities for picnickers. We had our picnic lunch there with all our packed sandwiches.
Passing through the camping ground.
The caravan park.
It's a nice picnic spot.
This is what everyone loves.
Feel the outdoors.
For a way out place,
this is certainly a nice park,
It have good facilities for picnic.
and is located by the seaside.
Simple food,
maximum pleasure.
It is one of the best lunch.
I went and have a look at the ocean,
with Angie.
KC came along as well.
The wind swept trees.
Along the beach there are shades for swimmers.
The Australian flag proudly flutters at the park.
A scenic view of the park ground.
After the lunch
we just relax and enjoy the cool breeze.
It's really nice out here.
Far from the madding crowd.
It's nice and cozy out here.
The Indian Ocean is huge.
Walking back to join the rest at the pavilion.
After the picnic lunch, it's time to head back to Clarkson. We had time and would do random stop if necessary. And our first stop was not too far way. We had seen the large patch of white mass on the way up and decided to have a closer look on the return journey. It's a moving white dune peculiar to only a few places in the world.
The signage at the viewing point.
Adequately satisfy our curiosity.
That's the viewing point.
That's the mobile dune that pique our curiosity.
Let's have a photo here.
Taking a photo of the moving dunes
can be a hair raising experience!
After a 15 minutes stop here, we continue our road trip back.
Now we did notice the outback.
The vegetation changes to thick foliage
The Australian gum tree along the road.
We head straight to Coles at Ocean Keys to buy some groceries for dinner.
MK used the self checking counter.
Outside the mall..
MK and I headed straight for the liquor store to get some wine.
Clarkson town is small and very neat.
It's a one street town,
but it has all the big stores that supply all your needs.
Ocean Keys is a big mall as you would see in big cities.
We could not contact the others as they were driving way ahead and heading towards Hilary Boat Harbour. That's where I told them to meet up.
When they arrive, Stephen gave me a call.
I told them we are not meeting them but would return to Ocean Keys first.
That's the car park at Hilary Harbour.
It's a popular place with the locals during public holidays.
The marina.
I do it myself, a selfie.
Boating is a popular pastime.
Holiday homes at the harbour.
More pleasure crafts.
Angie at the harbour.
Mum and Jessie.
Jessie at the marina.
Angie likes the holiday homes.
Jo and mum having a chat.
"F" strolling around.
It's a nice place to come to if you like the sea.
Soon everyone was back at the cottage
Debbie wants to cook dinner for all of us.
The rest help out in the kitchen.
MK the master chef.
That's what he whips up, curry.
Roast chicken
Sambal prawns. They sell big prawns here.
It's a typical Malaysian dish.
Everyone have a hearty meal.
Some of us ate outdoor at the garden..
Enjoying the curry and sambal out in the cool weather.
Stephen trying out the cigar.
MK had a puff too.
Debbie and Angie are just happy at the swing.
Now there are three people on that swing.
The wine that we bought earlier at the liquor store.
"F" feeling very at home in his sarong.
It's nice and relaxing around family members.
The wine and the red faces.
There are some titbits to go with the drinks.
"M" in a pensive mood. She has been enjoying herself so far.
It's good to end the day having small chats with the family after dinner. We don't get the chance to do that back home when everyone is always busy.
Day 3. 14.2.15 : A day at Swan Valley.
Yes, it's Valentines Day today and we thought the day should start with some love, in a fun way.
That's how KC starts his day of love, a broom in hand!
Debbie showing some love to mum.
Debbie and MK as charming as can be.
Sending their love to Nicholas.
Best expression of love,
is shown by mum and dad.
It's never too old to cherish a good moment.
We are checking out from this lovely house today. We took a photo to remind us of the wonderful time we had in this house.
And sending all our love to everyone who could not join us.
After all the fun,
we are ready to explore the historic town of Guildford located at Swan Valley.
In the early 19th century, British Naval Officer Admiral James Stirling was looking to established a colony on the western side of Australia. He had explored the upper reaches of Swan Valley and established Guildford in 1829.Guildford was the main Swan River Colony before Perth succeeded it later to be the dominant location on the Swan coastal plain. Many of the landmark buildings erected during that time are still there and well maintained. We explored the small historic town on foot.
Guildford Post Office at the town center.
The old goal had been renovated.
Signage at the goal.
Across the road is Stirling park.
Stephen chatting with an Afrikaner who had chosen to reside in Guildford.
The cannon always gets the attention.
I spy with my little eye.
Should I do it this way ?
Or do I do it the other way ?
That's the way.
That's how you do it.
Walking around.
Outside the old courthouse.
It is now a visitor center.
Me and my sis.
Me and my life.
Rare functional post box.
The Rose and Crown Hotel.
It is WA's oldest operating hotel and Australia's second oldest.
It started as a general store before an inn was incorporated into the business.
Another historic building.
Guess it is a very old tree.
We took a walk to the side alley.
Some old homes
still occupied.
It is a nice home
for maybe retired people.
Debbie at Stirling Park
KC still have not finished his photography.
The rest of us are done walking around.
Resting the tired limbs.
That's how you take photo by the tree. Stand beside it, need not grab it.
It is noon and we decided to have a look at the wine trail and see if there are any nice restaurants. After taking a big loop, we saw the big signage that is inviting.
That's what we saw.
That's what we ordered.
and waited
and waited.
and that's what we ate.
Best scones in Perth ? I'm not sure, it is scone alright, but best must give you that wow factor.
After that, we saw some other shops having the same signage, "Best scones in Perth"!
The waitress at Madhatters recommended us Houghton Wines if we want to buy some. So off we went to Houghton Wines estate. It is a big piece of property with spacious garden for visitors. Everything is Houghton is welcoming, from the car park to the garden and in the wine tasting lounge. Stephen and I proceeded to taste some recommended wines.
Big sign along the main road.
The visitor center is about a kilometer in from the main road.
Ample car park.
Gives you an idea it is well promoted for the tourist.
A short walk to the wine bar.
At the entrance of the Cellar.
At the back, there are cellars and sheds for visitors.
You can chill out here. It serves as a reception for function such as wedding etc.
A sure sign of the cellar.
Jessie and mum taking a rest at the air conditioned indoor.
What are they doing ?
That's the front.
The drinks we want to sample.
These are for display.
KC having a sip.
That's my choice.
Lilian having a go at it.
We tasted 3 red and 3 white.
Stephen is keen on the red
and I took the white.
We ended up with a dozen of red and white of various variety.
Stephen wanted to try out another wine outlet.
We drove over to Lancaster Vineyard.
The structure is modest compared to Houghton Vineyard.
This is just a shed.
And it's called Tin Shed.
It is open and relaxing.
Creative menu on the barrel.
The Tin Shed have it's fair share of visitors.
The modest bar for wine tasting.
Stephen tried some recommended red and white.
Lilian do not seem to like it.
Mum gave it a try.
Must have like it.
Cool picture.
Natural frame.
We ended up buying some red here.
Jessie is not into any of these.
Jo and mum who is amazed at the grapes.
She need to try some of these.
It's all over the vineyard.
Double barrel KC.
Both like the vineyard.
A picture here for memory.
It's time to go.
Coordinating which road to use.
The road at the vineyard.
Along the Swan Valley wine trail heading south.
Dunedin at Samson.
I had booked through Stayz a big house at a residential area called Samson. It's located 5 km away from Fremantle and has six big rooms, The owner named the property "Dunedin".
We arrived at about 4.30 pm and the owner Marian was there to greet us. From outside, we could see that it is a huge house but when she opened the door and showed us around, we were all "wowed" by the interior.The decor has a lot of wood and with Victorian design. Best of all, it immediately have the homely feel. Everything you need in a house is there, free use of coffee, tea, sugar, towels, and everything a household need. Marian certainly makes us feel at home too with her hospitality.
This is Dunedin at Samson.
The car porch.
Main Entrance.
Small entrance belie the interior.
The master bedroom Upstairs.
The second room upstairs can sleep three.
The third room upstairs.
The twin bedroom downstairs.
Double room downstairs.
The bathroom downstairs.
Kitchen.
Dining area.
Fireplace
View from different angle.
TV lounge.
Tea room at inner of TV lounge.
Settee on verandah outside master bedroom upstairs.
Reading corner outside master bedroom.
Private sitting area at corner of garden.
View of garden from driveway.
Fountain pond.
Spa pavilion.
Outdoor dining table and BBQ facility.
Orange growing at the driveway.
Grapes growing at the back wall.
That's the back wall.
Close up of the car porch.
After settling in and finished with our oooing and aaaing over the house, we took a short drive to Fremantle at 5.00 pm. We headed straight to The Fremantle Market as it is "dee" place to visit and it closes at 6.00 pm on weekends. This market has a rich history of more than a century old. It started out as wholesale food and produce market in the 1900 and over time evolved to a wide variety of fresh fruits reflective of the many migrants there. Today, it is still a local fresh produce market and with many food and souvenir stalls pandering to the ever growing tourist.
The Fremantle Market was constructed in 1902.
It is a listed in Fremantle Registrar as a Heritage Building.
There are about 150 stalls in the market.
The tourist here are from US, NZ and Segamat!
This tourist is a globe trotter.
Colourful hammocks.
These tourists are here for the ambiance, not as shoppers.
This tourist is always not far away from smell of food.
Favourite Australian souvenir.
Brousers
Fresh fruits.
Smells the same food.
"Kia kia kua kua".
Emu oil at the back is popular.
Rat ! Attention grabber.
We left at about 6.00 pm and headed to another iconic place, Cicerello Fish and Chip. This is also a 100 year old institution and have been serving fresh seafood since it's opening in 1903.
The is the outdoor dining area called the Landing.
View from the seafront.
I've always eaten here in all my earlier three trips.
It's the same Fish and Chips, mussels and all the other seafood.
Selfie is for everyone to enjoy.
See how I look .
Yes, fish and chips.
And it's all being served promptly, self service.
Try again.
The wind is blowing cold and strong outside at the landing, so we eat indoor.
The fish and chips have been served here for a hundred years.
It is not about being the best in the western hemisphere
It is eating into a part of history.
Mention Cicerello and everyone will asked you how do you like the Fish and Chips there?
Kang Cheng at the harbour.
MK's bengkok pose.
Debbie soaking all in.
Nice.
Jo wants a pic here as well.
The statue symbolizes the fishing port.
Strolling after dinner.
Stephen taking the sunset view.
The port view at sunset.
MK and Debbie next to a rock star statue.
Walking back to the car park after the stroll.
Other Fish and Chip outlet.
The Ferries wheel is a permanent structure here.
Angie was at Joe's !
Waiting out the cold.
Stephen at the car park.
Day 4 : 15.2.15 A day at the city
The plan was to visit the city on Sunday to avoid the rush hour traffic. But we learned that since Friday, there's a 3 day parade to celebrate an aboriginal folklore. It's about a Little Girl Giant that fell into one of the aboriginal communities of Noongar Nation. During her time with the community, she had traversed from Minang boodja to Whadjuk boodja. Boodja is earth, Minang refers to Albany and Whadjuk is Perth. The festival ends today but celebration is confined to Langley Park facing Swan River. So we headed towards the city intending to visit Perth Mint and then spend the afternoon at King's Park.
The car is dirty, so KC gave it a wash in the morning.
Lilian doing the laundry, just like home.
The Perth Mint. We decided not to go in as the entrance fee is high, AUD 20.00 per pax. Not everyone is crazy to see gold melting and sovereign coins being minted.
That's the mint.
We could not find any car park and had to park at the car park grounds of St Mary's Cathedral
It has a rich history by itself. This was St Mary's in 1890.
As it is today.
There is a service that starts at 11.00 am and Jessie was excited about it.
She had to attend the service.
The rest of us took a stroll towards the town center.
Hay Street is one of the main street downtown.
"F" could still walk because of the nice weather.
Downtown.
It's a leisurely walk.
This is the town center.
There are crowds of people that came for the festival.
Major streets in the town center are closed for pedestrian.
Cars have to be parked at the fringe.
That's why we could not find any parking.
One of the landmark commercial building downtown.
Resting their weary legs.
There is a side alley across Murray Street.
Debbie found it charming and got MK to have a look there.
She too got "F" to have a stroll there.
It's mostly Swiss stalls.
A lot of walking.
and a lot of street crossing.
The crowd is slowly coming in.
KC is keen on photography.
This is one he took.
People everywhere now.
It's time we go back to join Jessie.
In just an hour, the crowd are jamming the street.
They are all here for the festival.
We had been here for an hour and literally see the crowd swell.
Coffee while some went to the shopping mall.
We went back to meet Jessie and wait across the street from the church.
Stephen in front of St Mary's Cathedral.
The Service is due to finish anytime now.
There she is, happy to partake in the service.
We went back in to take some photographs.
She is so glad she attended the service here.
These pictures are for her remembrance.
Happy as a bird.
We are happy too.
This was an unplanned itinerary but nevertheless is good.
Spending the afternoon at King's Park.
Our next stop is at King's Park which is a short 5 minutes drive away.
Its'a sunny and cool day as we arrived.
Debbie and I discussing on some meal arrangements we had made for the later part of the day.
It's somewhere in here.
What's that thingy KC is talking about ?
We found a shady place where we can have our little picnic..
Stephen relaxing too.
This place is really good for outdoor.
We had packed in some snacks earlier.
Some of the snacks were bought from the supermarket on the way here.
It's a good spot to have picnic lunch.
MK checking on any message from his son.
That's a big bite, Jessie.
Mum likes it here.
"F" chatting with some tourist from Malaysia.
Stephen's friend came over to catch up with him.
The names are places where Australian forces have defended during the war.
That's WW 2.
KC with the State Way Memorial at the back.
Both mum and dad are first time visitor to Australia.
Only when you are happy you do gigs like this.
Stephen and Jo with his friends from Perth.
Locals like to spend the day here having picnic.
The whole chink gang.
Let's do one more....
It has to be the fun pose.
Yes, choose your favourite country.
Getting active.
Angie having a solo pic.
Pano dash for KC.
Wrong way to take the shot.
For my facebook profile.
Angie posing for her friends.
Have a look at the photos.
Here, there are more.
You run here, then there and then there. That's how you do the pano dash shot.
Boab tree and boab man.
Mum and dad takes a rest here.
While we took the track.
Familiar tree ?
It has a unique story.
It was transplanted from Kimberly, 3,200 North of Perth.
The tree is 750 years old tree and is a gift from the Gija people
This Jumula tree is one of the main attraction here.
This is another one.
Our walk took us to this suspended bridge.
It overlook the Swan River
Good place to have a photo taken.
MK knew it.
Yes, the fun shot.
Good photography, black and colour !
Walking back.
Pace is a bit brisk now.
There was this festival taking place here as well.
It is part of the 3 day festival.
They were finishing their aborigines cultural dance when we chance upon them
Mum and dad posing with them
Debbie and Lilian join in as well.
The didgeridoo is the familiar aboriginese horn.
The spectators.
We had bought bought some Groupon vouchers to dine at Woodpeckers Woodfired Pizzaria. It was a good deal and the offer genuine. The pizzaria have also been having rave reviews and so we headed for it after King's Park. They opened at 6.00 pm for dinner and we were the first guest having arrive there at 6.30 pm. Our intention was to have early dinner at the city before heading back to Fremantle.
The real deal which is value for money.
It is true as the sign says.
We were the first guest.
Order taken, wait for food.
The pizza is prepared in full view at the front.
That's where it is.
It was good food and nice little restaurant.
We head back to Dunedin at Samson after dinner.
We took out a bottle of white wine bought at Houghton vineyard
and took it outdoor BBQ area.
It's so good to have wine in cool weather
and having a good family chat.
Day 5 : 16.2.15 A drive to Mandurah
We had plan to take a drive down south. The thought was as far as Margaret River but we only wanted to leave at late morning, so Mandurah would be the logical choice.
Lilian just have to feel like home wherever she goes.
Dad having his Indo Mee in the morning.
Debbie loves the kitchen.
Preparing breakfast.
Just like home.
After breakfast, I took some of us to explore Fremantle again. Fremantle have a rich history and I have not shown them the whole town yet. It was founded in 1829 and was first known as the Swan River Colony. It was different from other colonies in Australia then as it was originally populated by military and civilian who migrated by choice. It was only a few years later that convicts was sent there. today, the entire town of Fremantle is like a walk into history.
The Wesley Mission was established in 1830.
It is a Methodist church.
KC and Angie at one of the many heritage buildings.
One of the 19th century building.
Mum and daughter happier moments.
Father and son.
Many places of interest for photography.
Guess who is stepping into the souvenir shop.
Buying "I love Fremantle" T shirt ?
Satisfied with the purchased.
Now we can explore the streets again.
At the shopping street.
Taking a breather,
KC and Dad still walikng around.
Saw the name at the signpost ?
It's Cappuccino Street.
Hahahaha
Cool cat.
More old buildings.
They were waiting for us there,
While we were waiting for them over here.
"888". Wonder if the building belong to any early chinese settlers ?
Esplanade Hotel is another historical landmark.
Satisfied that we have seen more of Fremantle, we went back and together with the rest, we head towards Mandurah. This is a known fishing and crabbing area but those two activities are not in our plan. It was more of "makan angin" drive to see more of the Noongar Nation.
Those in the MPV.
Arrival at Mandurah.
What's in that tree ?
Walking towards the marina from the car park.
Roundabout at the marina.
Angie in front of the holiday apartments.
Just walking past, not investing.
Picture taken at the same roundabout
Selfie 1
Selfie 2
Selfie 3
Selfie 4 in front of the old folks ?
Mum browsing through the shops at the marina.
Nice little seaside resort.
KC roaming all over for photographs.
Mum and dad very in with gadgets.
In front of the marina.
MK and dad having a cuppa.
Relaxing.
at the marina platform.
Jessie soaking it in.
It's a weekday, and devoid of crowd.
I like it here,
and here,
and here.
At the marina bridge
View of the bridge from the marina.
The happy face tells it all
More happy faces.
Mum always fall into pensive mood when by herself.
The tourist guide.
Another selfie.
We pulled over at Rockingham
This was the spectacular sight that caught our attention.
It's the latest sport for the locals.
There were a number of kite surfers in that small sheltered bay.
I got to have some of these shots.
KC trying out the best camera abgle.
It's an awesome sight.
We enjoy watching as much as they enjoy doing.
Let's go nearer over there.
Make sure there are as many kites as possible in the camera lens.
MK having seen enough.
Lilian wandering away for a while.
Angie doing a selfie away from the kites ?
Yes, make sure there are a lot of kites, ya.
Good view from here.
Jessie enjoying the atmosphere.
Guess who really went to the front.
We could stand here all day just watching.
Mum must here her picture
as well as dad.
Must show it to my friends.
Jo soon start to enjoy herself.
Angie and Lilian join in.
Expression tells it all.
Yes, that's a good angle to take from.
Double jump
Triple jump
We left Rockingham after spending almost an hour there.
Stephen driving the MPV and in front is the Toyota Aurion which was driven by MK..
This was on the way back to Samason from Rockingham.
MK and Debbie doing the dishes with Jo helping out.
You can see it' is curry.
Laying the food on the table.
A lot of helping hands.
Getting ready to clear out.
We choose this nice corner for a group photo.
That's a good photo for memory at Dunedin house.
At the family lounge.
Mum and dad love this house.
Another family photo at the outside.
Mum wanted more of the place by hereself.
Yes, there's apple growing just at the compound.
We drove off towards the city and stop by the ferry terminal.
Jessie and Debbie relaxing at the bench.
Mum still playing with her new "toy".
That's where we parked our cars.
MK is always cheerful everywhere.
Across the road is the Swan River.
At the background is the Swan Bell tower.
MK at the jetty.
The ferry terminal.
We stopped by Harbour Town Mall which is a mere 5 minutes drive away. There we stroll around a bit and had our lunch at a Malaysian owned restaurant opposite the mall. After that we left for the airport at 1.00 pm to catch our 3.00 pm flight back to Malaysia. MK and Debbie spring another surprise for everyone. They had slipped into the same plane with us without anyone noticing. Everyone thought they are boarded onto another plane back to NZ. They had earlier decided to come back with us to KL to spend another week with us for the Chinese New Year but did not announced their intention. Upon arrival at KLIA, they reappeared again much to the happiness of everyone including the old folks. There was no surprise for me as I was in cohort with both of them to carry this out. It adds punch to a good event.
This holiday is a memorable one. This getaway family holiday is a good build up to the Chinese New Year. During the festive holiday back home, there were more family reunion dinners stretching for another 14 days.We never had it this good for so long. We live apart, but it is the strong family bond that draws us together for holidays like this. It is not full house like in Hawaii on 10.10.10, but it will be when we plan for our a next holiday.
And hit country road again.
The Pinnacles desert is one of Oceania seven wonders. It is nickname the Rock Stars of the Outback literally referring to the rock formation all over the desert. The outcrop are limestone formed by elements of nature about 30,000 years ago and spread over some 17,000 hectares. It is indeed a spectacle and you simply gawk at the landscape carved by god.
We spent more than an hour out there and enjoyed every moment of it. It is already noon and we had to find a nice spot for our picnic lunch. Across the main road onto the other side is the Pinnacles Caravan Camping ground. We drove over there and found a nice park called Catalonia Park. It has small pavilions, washing and toilet facilities for picnickers. We had our picnic lunch there with all our packed sandwiches.
After the picnic lunch, it's time to head back to Clarkson. We had time and would do random stop if necessary. And our first stop was not too far way. We had seen the large patch of white mass on the way up and decided to have a closer look on the return journey. It's a moving white dune peculiar to only a few places in the world.
After a 15 minutes stop here, we continue our road trip back.
It's nice travelling through such roads.
I decided to head back towards Clarkson as it is almost 5.00 pm. Debbie, MK and Lilian were with me in the Aurion.
We could not contact the others as they were driving way ahead and heading towards Hilary Boat Harbour. That's where I told them to meet up.
Soon everyone was back at the cottage
Day 3. 14.2.15 : A day at Swan Valley.
Lilian love herself.
In the early 19th century, British Naval Officer Admiral James Stirling was looking to established a colony on the western side of Australia. He had explored the upper reaches of Swan Valley and established Guildford in 1829.Guildford was the main Swan River Colony before Perth succeeded it later to be the dominant location on the Swan coastal plain. Many of the landmark buildings erected during that time are still there and well maintained. We explored the small historic town on foot.
It is noon and we decided to have a look at the wine trail and see if there are any nice restaurants. After taking a big loop, we saw the big signage that is inviting.
The waitress at Madhatters recommended us Houghton Wines if we want to buy some. So off we went to Houghton Wines estate. It is a big piece of property with spacious garden for visitors. Everything is Houghton is welcoming, from the car park to the garden and in the wine tasting lounge. Stephen and I proceeded to taste some recommended wines.
Stephen wanted to try out another wine outlet.
Dunedin at Samson.
I had booked through Stayz a big house at a residential area called Samson. It's located 5 km away from Fremantle and has six big rooms, The owner named the property "Dunedin".
We arrived at about 4.30 pm and the owner Marian was there to greet us. From outside, we could see that it is a huge house but when she opened the door and showed us around, we were all "wowed" by the interior.The decor has a lot of wood and with Victorian design. Best of all, it immediately have the homely feel. Everything you need in a house is there, free use of coffee, tea, sugar, towels, and everything a household need. Marian certainly makes us feel at home too with her hospitality.
The bathroom upstairs.
Close up of the cooking facilities.
Washing machine and clothes dryer.
After settling in and finished with our oooing and aaaing over the house, we took a short drive to Fremantle at 5.00 pm. We headed straight to The Fremantle Market as it is "dee" place to visit and it closes at 6.00 pm on weekends. This market has a rich history of more than a century old. It started out as wholesale food and produce market in the 1900 and over time evolved to a wide variety of fresh fruits reflective of the many migrants there. Today, it is still a local fresh produce market and with many food and souvenir stalls pandering to the ever growing tourist.
We left at about 6.00 pm and headed to another iconic place, Cicerello Fish and Chip. This is also a 100 year old institution and have been serving fresh seafood since it's opening in 1903.
Day 4 : 15.2.15 A day at the city
This was an unplanned itinerary but nevertheless is good.
Spending the afternoon at King's Park.
Our next stop is at King's Park which is a short 5 minutes drive away.
Apa ini ?
Leisurely stroll.
We had bought bought some Groupon vouchers to dine at Woodpeckers Woodfired Pizzaria. It was a good deal and the offer genuine. The pizzaria have also been having rave reviews and so we headed for it after King's Park. They opened at 6.00 pm for dinner and we were the first guest having arrive there at 6.30 pm. Our intention was to have early dinner at the city before heading back to Fremantle.
We head back to Dunedin at Samson after dinner.
Day 5 : 16.2.15 A drive to Mandurah
We had plan to take a drive down south. The thought was as far as Margaret River but we only wanted to leave at late morning, so Mandurah would be the logical choice.
After breakfast, I took some of us to explore Fremantle again. Fremantle have a rich history and I have not shown them the whole town yet. It was founded in 1829 and was first known as the Swan River Colony. It was different from other colonies in Australia then as it was originally populated by military and civilian who migrated by choice. It was only a few years later that convicts was sent there. today, the entire town of Fremantle is like a walk into history.
Satisfied that we have seen more of Fremantle, we went back and together with the rest, we head towards Mandurah. This is a known fishing and crabbing area but those two activities are not in our plan. It was more of "makan angin" drive to see more of the Noongar Nation.
We avoided the highway and plan the journey heading down via the inner country road and looping back via coastal road.
Mum's new hobby, very into cell phone photography.
Dad likes this Hurry Davidson.
After spending a couple of hours there, we head back towards Samson via the coastal way. I took them towards Rockingham, a seaside town that I had stayed for a night in one of my earlier trip. It is a nice little town again with a history. Rockingham was one of the three ships that brought in settlers in 1830. It was blown ashore and broke up when it hit shallow water. The settlers camped near the wreck and identify that area as Rockingham town as their address.
The last time I came here, it was to go over to Penguin Island. This time we are just passing through and as we passed Shoalwater, we saw the locals enjoying the latest sport here, kiteboarding. The sight of so many kite in the sky pulling the surf board is spectacular. We pulled over and watch them enjoying the sport. It was fun watching them.
Couple jump.
We got back "home" at 6.00 pm. MK and Debbie took to the kitchen and whip up a nice Malaysian dinner.
Let's settled down and eat.
It was a good day out and everyone is quite tired by nightfall. Most of us hit the sack early.
Day 6 : 17.2.15 : Homeward Bound.
It's always the case. The holiday was plan months ahead, and then we are here and before you know it, it's the last day and we're going home! We have enjoyed ourselves so much that time just pass us by. Anyway, we are ready to leave by 10.00 am. Even though Marian says we could stay until noon as no one else is checking in after us, we wanted to stopover at the city for some last minute sightseeing and drop by at the shopping mall to see if there's anything to buy. We had earlier missed out on the ferry terminal at Swan River where the Swan Bell is located due to the parade. That's our first stop after checking out from Dunedin house.
We drove off towards the city and stop by the ferry terminal.
It's a place where joggers use.
We stopped by Harbour Town Mall which is a mere 5 minutes drive away. There we stroll around a bit and had our lunch at a Malaysian owned restaurant opposite the mall. After that we left for the airport at 1.00 pm to catch our 3.00 pm flight back to Malaysia. MK and Debbie spring another surprise for everyone. They had slipped into the same plane with us without anyone noticing. Everyone thought they are boarded onto another plane back to NZ. They had earlier decided to come back with us to KL to spend another week with us for the Chinese New Year but did not announced their intention. Upon arrival at KLIA, they reappeared again much to the happiness of everyone including the old folks. There was no surprise for me as I was in cohort with both of them to carry this out. It adds punch to a good event.
This holiday is a memorable one. This getaway family holiday is a good build up to the Chinese New Year. During the festive holiday back home, there were more family reunion dinners stretching for another 14 days.We never had it this good for so long. We live apart, but it is the strong family bond that draws us together for holidays like this. It is not full house like in Hawaii on 10.10.10, but it will be when we plan for our a next holiday.
Au Revoir.
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