Golden Times May/June 2017

Gladys Gallivants
EAST COAST ADVENTURE
“Hi, bring your tucker and come join us,” shouted a friendly
Australian. It was October, the time of carnivals held in each
town on the East Coast. I sat with this friendly bunch on the
pavement while we watched the fantastically decorated floats pass
by. From topical events interpreted, a school gym group and a
Lindy Hop troupe dancing to a live band. “My boys are in the
gym group,” a proud spectator claimed loudly.
In Cairns nightly on the temporary outdoor stage, a youth ballet
or teenage orchestra performed. The standard was amazing
and of course the evening concluded with a wonderful firework
display over the sea.
Conscious of Australia’s paranoia regarding fruit crossing borders,
causing infestation and contamination to their crops, I complied,
eating up the last of my late lunch pack before climbing on the
coach and heading for my next destination.
The bus travelled overnight arriving at 5.00am. As had been
arranged by the previous hostel establishment, the proprietor met
me - in the oldest car I had ever seen. The rusty limo had one red
front mudguard compared to the remainder of dark blue paint
work. The chrome bumper was tied on with rope. The hotel
matched the vehicle.
I was handed the key to No. 21 and rambled through a labyrinth
of corridors. My room, last on the right at the end, having
passed through a communal lounge with drunks sleeping off the
previous evening and the stale air heavy with boozy fumes.
A quick shower, clean clothes donned, decision made -
alternative accommodation an
essential requirement. The local map
showed the tourist bureau in the
centre square. Fortified by coffee and
toasted bun en route, I was outside
the office awaiting opening time.
When I told the clerk where I had a
room she was astounded. “My friend owns the most gorgeous
B&B – newly decorated in florals, lace and ribbons, you will love
it,” she enthused. “I will phone and she can fetch you from here.”
Fifteen minutes later. “Hi, I am Shona, come on home to “Cute
Cottage.”
While enjoying a pleasant stay in Laura Ashley land, I contacted
the local club of my international service organisation.
“Welcome to our monthly meeting, hope you will enjoy your
time in our town. We are happy to offer whatever assistance you
may need in your search for a business,” the President introduced
his speaker. I was once again talking about my club’s projects
in South Africa and exchanging tokens. They were also most
helpful with contacts.
This was a farming area and the membership consisted of burly,
tough men who were dressed in their club colours - pink ! It was
before all clubs allowed women in on equal terms although South
Africa had been amongst the first to embrace the change. So
there I was, soberly attired in my navy power suit, addressing a
sea of pink shirts. Where to next ?
Celebrating 30 years
Hospice Neighbours
When you are living with a life-limiting illness the world doesn't stop
and there are many everyday tasks that still need to be done.
We’re looking for Hospice Neighbour volunteers throughout
Hastings and Rother to provide practical help to those with
life-limiting illnesses, such as shopping, dog walking, light
housework or just dropping in for a cuppa and a chat. This is
a very flexible way of volunteering and gives huge support
to people in their home and their family and friends.
If you would like become a Hospice Neighbour
or would like to use the service, contact us on
01424 445177 or volunteering@stmichaelshospice.com
www.stmichaelshospice.com
stmichaelshospice stmhospice stmichaelshospice
Registered charity number 288462
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