G'Day from Melbourne, Australia

[mfbfirie]

G'Day Wombat,

The exchange program is run by AFAC, so its not a spurious thing. However, there are some serious questions as to whether its being run properly, and to the best advantage of all firefighters concerned. While it might be easy to say 'if money's an issue dont do it', it should be borne in mind that this is my career, and has been for 19 years. The exchange program offers excellent opportunities for learning, fellowship and experience, and is something I wish to pursue. If I can make it better for all firefighters following me who wish to work abroad too, then I will push in that direction. I'm not one to work on the "jack" system. The fact is that its not being run well, and its up to us to change it to make it viable for all.

[DavidT]

Hi Matt,
recently joined this myself. Just touching base as I'm in Gippsland. Info on my profile. Been a subscriber to the mag for a while but this extra bit is well worth the $'s.

Davo

[ksaxton]

Just noticed your message.Hope all is well down there. I am from Canada,Newmarket On. that is just north of Toronto. I have been on the job for 18 years. Anyway I have a question for you if I may. There are a few of us ff and wives coming down in March for a wedding of a guy that used to be on the job with us. It is near Melbourne, the exact location escapes me right now. What are some places of interest and can you suggest any good watering holes for a pint.....or two.Reply if you can and thanks and stay safe
PS Is the AFL season ongoing around march 17th.
Thanks

[aussiefiregirl]

Hi there ksaxon,

I am a firie in Sydney so can only suggest the main sights to see in Melb such as going for a drive on the Great Ocean Road and heading north of Melb for some fine wine tasting in the Pyrenees.

What you should do though is go all the way through to Adelaide to the World Police and Fire games which are on in March 2007! Good timing on your part. I am heading over there to compete with the NSW Firies for a couple of sports. Should be heaps of fun. Check out www.2007wpfg.com.au for more info.

Cheers
Aussiefiregirl

[wombat]

I am from Melbourne - still have a house there but currently working in Canberra. (Well the house was was there but anything could happen this summer)
Recommended things to do or see in Melbourne -
1. Puffing Billy steam train - easy to access either drive or metro train services to Belgrave.
2. Healesville Animal Sanctuary - especially the birds of prey display and the platypuses - not far from Yarra valley wineries.
3. Phillip Island Penguins parade - 100km from Melb so its a bit of a drive
(Use Google map or Where is to plan where to go)
4. Balloon flights over Melbourne or Yarra Valley wineries
5. Joy flights around Melbourne - see my stepson Alex A. at the Royal Victorian Flying Club at Moorabin. He took me around Melbourne a couple of weeks ago in the clubs new Cirrus 20sr at sunset.

[ksaxton]

Thanks folks, it all sounds good. I forgot about the games being there,good suggestion. Firegirl we are actually starting off in Sydney any hints also need a good pub thanks.Wombat, how is the night life in Melboune, We are going to check out the penguins and a friend says that you can swim with the dolphins somewhere close by , it that a fact. Anyway thanks to you both and stay safe.
Sax
PS Wombat ever think about an exchange in Canada

[bxhq32]

G'da to my fellow Aussie fireys.

Hey WOMBAT do I know from somewhere