Weary Travellers

Well, two excursions in the space of eight days is no mean feat, but it does pale into insignificance when compared to the explorers we have been researching. Last week, our trip to the Parliament and Government Houses was a real eye opener for many students. Hearing about the 'blood' line in the House of Representatives is always a good yarn. This year it was out done however by the 'Cluedo' story of crime that played out in the Governor's Ballroom with a policeman and a pistol. as you can see below, the grounds were beautiful.

The Sir Douglas Mawson museum had plenty to look at and a good insight into the craziness that was Antarctic exploration.

This week, the trip down to Port Adelaide was made even better with the perfect weather for a cruise. On the Archie Badenock, a World War II built craft, we took in some history about the port and had our eyes peeled for dolphins. Some of us were lucky in spotting these playful creatures of the sea. We also got a 'cruise' by view of the City of Adelaide that was just recently dragged back from Scotland.

Turns out it is the oldest clipper in the world. We also had the opportunity on this excursion to explore the Port Adelaide Lighthouse as well as the Maritime Museum. Inside the museum we were able to check out the exhibits (many hands on activities) but also sit down for a session on Matthew Flinders, the man responsible for the first circumnavigation of Terra Australis. Flinders believed that this great southern land should be renamed as Australia. Unfortunately for him, by the time it caught on, he had passed on. As part of this we enjoyed a little instruction on how explorers of the seas navigated their way around the globe using a sextant. 

All in all, two very good excursions. Thank you to all parent helpers who came along with us and made it possible.