Back from Australia

     Yesterday, we arrived back from Australia, after a long flight home, interrupted by an unplanned overnight stay in Hong Kong, but more about that in a later post. 
     I just wanted to say "Hello" to everyone. I will get back to your blogs shortly. I did in fact read a few while away but it was pretty hit and miss - we were busy! And I had iPad trouble to boot.
     One of our very frequent companions throughout three states was the enigmatic Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita).

     This species is very common to abundant in many areas and is viewed with less than unalloyed affection by many, especially if it tends to destroy all your efforts at gardening - before proceeding to shred the weatherstripping around your windows.  For us, however, it was spectacular, exotic, and often singularly confiding.

     We fell in love with Sulphur-crested Cockatoos, and our ardour never diminished.

     Their raucous cries were akin to a symphonic suite to us, their antics rivalled Olympic gymnasts, their sense of community was heart-warming. The affection displayed by a committed pair was palpable and evident.

     For me, and I suspect for Miriam, Franc and Carol too, the bold, brash, noisy Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, like Australians themselves,  is a symbol of joy and delight, it imparts a sense of independent thinking, a joie de vivre and the toughness it takes to survive in what at times is a harsh and unforgiving climate.

     Thanks for making our trip so memorable Cockie. We will never forget you!