Day 12
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| Richard causes traffic jam and mayhem in the motel car park |
We opted for a short drive to the Japanese Gardens for a gentle walk around. We discovered that the gardens are quite extensive and undulating. The gardens are magnificent with a selection of quiet contemplation areas allowing ones mind to be lost in the peace and tranquility. It was soothing and invigorating. It should not be missed when-ever visiting Cowra.
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| Gathering at the entrance just inside the Japanese Gardens |
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| Mike and Alan ring the bell - the sound of which is a deep crisp sound that can be heard across the gardens. |
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| A resident Duck family (bird snaps just for Lyn!) |
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| Mike tries to make a new friend - it was too clever for that! |
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| The Koi (Japanese carp) know where the food comes from although the ducks tend to get most of it. |
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| One of an amazing collection of Bonsai |
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| Some people opted to get an easy ride - Alan was not sure of the driving skills needed. |
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| See above, Mike considers his options. Judy (driver), John and Jan take in the sights in comfort. |
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| View of the pond from the high vantage point. |
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| Mike seizes the chance to get IT advice from Frances |
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| We found a wee garden gnome - and named him Alan. |
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| Who's hiding in the bushes - Maritta, Frances and Andrew |
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| Alan and Mike deep in conversation |
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| Admiring the wisteria |
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| A lovely view up to the rock lookout. |
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| Mike waiting for a clear view of the hilltop |
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| David and Kay emerging from the bushes! |
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| Taking the path up to the rock lookout. |
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| Dale takes in the view! |
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| Knew there was a bird here somewhere (just for Lyn) |
We stayed for lunch at the gardens which was made up of a variety of sandwiches followed by free baked scones with jam and cream. Then it was time for another short drive out to the Cowra Garrison, which was the site of the Cowra breakout by Japanese POW’s during WW2.
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| David's Speed 25, Mark's Speed 20 and Bob's 12/50 cut a fine picture in the parking area. |
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| Alan's 12/50 with Peter's Mustang in the background |
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| A very fine hare! |
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| Richards TA14 (Audrey) gracefully at rest |
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| Part of the historic Cowra Garrison |
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| Alan and Noeline contemplate the serenity |
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| Mike and Alan off to walk the site. |
In spite of the cultural differences, the people of Cowra are very well respected by Japanese society for the kindness and the respect with which they treated the POW’s detained in Cowra. This has resulted in a huge amount of investment in the many historical sites around the town including the Japanese Gardens. Cowra is also the site for Australia’s “World Peace Bell’, normally situated in a country's capital city it was decided by the UN that Cowra was a fitting location for this symbol rather than Canberra.
From here some went to the Cowra Railway Museum and round house and several other town based attractions.
Eventually we all arrived at the Cowra Railway Station, home of the Cowra Antique Automobile Club. This is an excellent location for the club with plenty of parking and a number of rooms available to the club. They lease some of the rooms to other local organisations and share the annual rent.
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| Gathering at the club rooms of the Cowra Antique Automobile Club. The crowd waits with anticipation for the formal greeting. |
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| Cowra Car Club Meeting rooms in the old station |
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| Alvii outside Cowra Railway Station, home of the Cowra Historic Automobile Club |
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| Just what we need more food - the car club put on a massive spread for us....we think they were expecting considerably more people. |
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| Now that's a gavel, beside the centenary badge we presented to the club. |
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| Back at the motel - Frances helps Mark with his indicator wiring |
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| Is that where it went...Alan explains. |
We returned to the motel and followed with an excellent dinner at the Cowra Services Club. The flathead tails were particularly good.
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