Day Twenty-One - Canberra

Our morning started with a visit to the Stromlo Observatory. The last time I had been there was 1998/9. Since then, the bush fires of 2003 swept through and wreaked havoc on the site. There are a number of burnt out telescope domes and residences remaining there. It was quite amazing to see the devastation. What a loss to the scientific community. 

Back down the hill, we stopped at the Royal Australian Mint, which has also changed somewhat since we were here last, having a total refurbishment in 2005. Our timing was perfect as we arrived 10 minutes before a guided tour was to start. The displays at the mint are very well laid out and very informative and having the guide share his knowledge added to the whole experience. Unfortunately, the minting process was not operating today so although we could look down at the factory floor, there was no action taking place. 

The National Museum of Australia was next but we didn't spend a lot of time there as, although the items were very well presented, there wasn't much there we hadn't already seen. 

We decided to return to the Australian War Memorial after being too late to enter yesterday. It was very busy, most likely from an influx of people coming for ANZAC Day tomorrow. It is a pity we will not be here for that but time is really running short for us to get home. The AWM is much more extensive than I remember with displays about every conflict Australians have participated in. We spent the most time in ANZAC Hall where they had a Japanese Midget Submarine and a number of aeroplanes on display as well as a presentation about the entry of the Japanese into Sydney Harbour. Tim was reluctant to leave this area. 

Towards the end of our time there, Peter found the little section where pictures and information about Cambodia was on display. He was pleased it hadn't been forgotten. After walking along past the honour rolls with all those names, I really can't understand why we still go to war. 

To pick up our spirits we stopped off at the Captain Cook Memorial Water Jet (after a slight navigational error putting us in the driveway of the Archbishop!). We had seen this spurting up into the air from Parliament House yesterday but it had stopped before we could head over to it. It really reaches quite an impressive height. 

To finish the day, Peter and I had a stroll along the bank of the river behind our campsite while the kids had fun rolling ( or possibly attempting to push each other) down the slope. 

We were thinking we might get away after lunch today to get a few miles under our belt but Canberra proved too interesting so we'll head off early in the morning. Three days left!