While many Tasmanian's are not celebrating the thought of a new stadium, we certainly enjoyed the celebration of many birthdays in the apple isle.  Below is the photo of the major 40th for Glenn but we also celebrated Steph's, Glenn's sister, Elyse and her husband Alex.

We spent our two weeks in Tassie between the northeast and west of the state, tackling many walks, mountain bike rides for the youngsters, a couple of wineries and whisky distilleries and a luxurious cruise down the gorgeous Gordon River. Checkout some of the sites below.

Who would have thought after all these years of travel to Noosa, that there was a new experience to visit.  The beauty and the peace of the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens is really quite astounding.  There are 8 different walks that range from several 100 metres to 2km, featuring fern gulleys, manicured sculpture gardens, bush tracks and a sensory path aimed to excite the kids.

​Perhaps the most inspiring was the 40min walk through the sculpture garden. Throughout the garden there are inspirational works by artists and inscriptions to tease the mind.  I found the John Sawhill quote worth repeating; In the end, our society will be defined not only by what we create, but by what we refuse to destroy.

​The sculptures include gum leaf shaped seats, contemplative water scenes, obelisks and plenty of bird reflections.  One area is set up with the results of 8 international stone carvers involvement in a 16 day event to create a wonderful array of outdoor art.

​At the other end of this extensive site there is the Whipbird Walk that is focused as a challenge to the kids sensory experience.  A 30min walk (with eyes closed and holding on to the guide rope) leads you to sights, smells, feel and noise that challenges your senses.

​Then there is the more traditional bushwalk that takes you through natural rough tracks, creek crossings, through ephemeral wetlands, fern gulleys and under magnificent stands of trees.

​This Bushland Botanic Gardens is obviously maintained with great care and attention.  It has clearly been around for quite some time but is not easy to find as the Bruce Hwy bypasses the entrance that is near Forest Glen and the extinct Deer Park.  Its history is perhaps reflected in the brochure map reference to UBD Map 77 – N17 (how long since you used one of those books containing paper maps?).  If you find yourself there one day do not miss the cute little coffee and snack counter for a nice lunch.