After Dave received another IBM Award he graciously gave up the solo trip to Bali and instead Marg & Dave headed to Melbourne by train for a few days discovery.  Alighting at Parliament Station we made our way to the Windsor Hotel, our first Melbourne icon.  Walking up the red carpet, which I think may not have been for us, was a regal introduction to such a stately building.  Built in 1883 it has been appropriately renovated with never-ending marble, chandeliers and gracious service from the staff. 
Sunday night we walked to Lupino in Lt Collins St to join Websters, Prices and Fosters to celebrate Mandy's birthday.  A great night and easy walk home.
After dining room breakfast we trammed to the Shrine were we spent a great 2 hours discovering the recent upgrades underneath this wonderful building. A mini War Memorial topped off with a fabulous view of Melbourne CBD

From here we walked in sunshine to the Botanic Gardens. Where we had lunch by the lake. An easy walk to Richmond Station and then caught the train back to CBD to explore Fed Square and ACMI. A tram hop back to the Windsor giving us time for a catnap and book reading before heading out to dinner.


Another sunny day on Tuesday as we trammed down to the Immigration Museum in Flinders Street.  We spent a couple of hours exploring, particularly the interesting current exhibition featuring immigrants both now assimilated and those that are still in detention centres.  A quick tram ride into unfamiliar territory, South Wharf, and a little shopping for Marg and quick lunch before returning by tram to the Palace cinema to see the film Viceroys House.  Thoroughly recommended.
Woke again to sunshine on Wednesday and finally caught a train back home. The trusty Outback was still in one piece in the Sunbury Station carpark.  I had no idea that the train/tram hop on and off was so easy and it cost us $4.10 each for the 4 day journey.  The transport and sites in easy reach in Melbourne were well worth the adventure.

On Friday 12 May, five old friends got to gather for a memorable lunch in the Committee Room at the MCG.  It was terrific occasion - lots to talk about our respective families, lots to talk about times gone by - the stories only get better with the passage of time.  The food was great, the wine was OK too and the company was outstanding.  It was a lovely day!