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 8 Find us online at www.goldentimes.co.uk
To advertise in <strong>Golden</strong> <strong>Times</strong> call Debby on 01424 429139 or email debby@goldentimes.co.uk 9
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