flashman181

As is the body. Have had some good drinking sessions but no hangovers or even a tad seedy. Very hard to get going in morning though. Takes about an hour before can actually stand up straight with back issues and knees are groaning from the walking. Going to take a wild guess and suggest I am getting older. Back issues from a very soft bed and disrupted sleep with noise and nose I am guessing. While 7 days may well have been enough will enjoy these extra two days but at a more relaxed, approaching comatose , state. Last wash ( clothes not body) is on so one less thing to stress about😏 Of course being Sunday Bloody Sunday no cafes are open early so will stick with my Babettes in QVB when opens at 7 am for coffee and toast . Once again a beautiful morning

Only real plan today is watch Broncos at 230 pm. Toyed with idea of sitting in pub to watch but yeah no. Easy to watch in comfort of room and still have Pringle Plan. Do have a couple of bars to check out still but of course closed on a Sunday 🤦🏻‍♂️ Quickly put two and three together and thought ya body feels crap and bars are closed – how about a massage🤔. Only 15 within one square mile and all with name Thai in it so chose closest one as it was Royal. Limped down at 930 am and went straight in and it was very good indeed. For same money as an hour at Maybe Sammy came out also feeling relaxed but could walk in a straight line. 😏 Didn’t get any bartender phone numbers though…..

One thing about big rain events is weather afterwards is usually great for a few days as it has been in Sydney. Will wander back out soon to grab some lunch but just a roll or similar methinks. I wish I had found this map at start of week 😏

Thought the Broncos was on at 230 pm but turns out it’s 4 pm 😏 Watched first 60 mins and thought Raiders on way to win . Headed to first pub The Burrow for another Negroni and it was quiet. The Taste of Pain was delicious and toasted The Broncos losing

Then it was time to head to Old Loves a Rum bar for a change . Good atmosphere so started with some Eldorado 12 yr old with cane juice. Checked score and it was 28:26 – the beauty of Foxtel GO on phone. Time then for a rum cocktail and settle in for the overtime.

Watched the Raiders score what assumed was winning try and settled up and walked home. Then saw result ! Wow. Think Walsh will be fine but Carrigan could be in trouble. Week off is a big blessing now .

So a quiet day ended very well . One to go

Weekends are a bit of pain for a few reasons but mostly many cafes are closed or open later. Still, found my usual one on George Street and then headed off towards Hyde Park on another glorious and quiet Saturday Morning.

Then I saw the hordes of Police . Was there a protest going on ? If it’s about the cafe situation on weekends I am marching ! Maybe they were there to protect the new statue of me they have erected in Hyde Park ?

Ah turns out it’s a protest against something something so will wait and see what occurs but seems may be even worse in Melbourne. As long as it’s over by 4 pm as have a date with Sammy again. Maybe . Now let’s start day with a sensible breakfast if can find a cafe open. Ok, I am starting my own protest movement . FFS make a standard quantity provided when you order Toast ! Either too much or too little. Could drive a man to drink. Or very least use a Light Rail. Ended up in QVB at Babettes.

A slightly different tack then today as had breakfast a bit earlier as no doubt crowded later on with the yuppie brigade. Back to room and up to gym and then a quick swim and almost feel normal and alive . Now what do I do for the next 7 hours apart from enthrall the fans 🤔 Watch my room get cleaned maybe…

Now just have to pull out the hospital corners and will be sweet. It has been good to avoid some world news for a week although the big ones do sneak through. Obviously any shooting is not acceptable but of course the difference in how Trump reacts to this one compared to Democrat lawmakers is pathetic. First up blaming the radical extremist left without knowing anything – his standard position of course. Then the truth comes out and all Buffoon Bob says is “ time to move on” . Imagine the usual nutbags when faced with actual facts suggested he was radicalised then at University. One semester . In fucking Utah! Give me a break 🤦🏻‍♂️

I see there is a drone show on tonight at 730 pm at Darling Harbour which could be cool to see depending on crowds. Assume wearing PJs would be ok that late at night 🤔 It is only a 10 min show of course. Will just need to keep the Cockle at Bay …..

https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/events/darling-harbour-drone-show

Eventually ventured out around 1 pm for some lunch as not a fan of crowds and weekends like this will be packed. As it was. Lovely out in the sun mind you and a leisurely stroll and with no great enthusiasm ended up at Helm. Solo dining is a problem especially on weekends and at restaurants where the best tables are booked for most numbers. Last time I booked a table was for a shoulder reconstruction and we all remember how that worked out. Oh you don’t ? And that’s the good one

In hindsight that would have given me a conversation starter with the rager party going on. Think they mistook a 7 for a 9. It was an Egyptian theme so maybe guest already mummified somewhere.

Just leaves a couple of hours to fill in before the fun starts. Do wish they opened earlier but appreciate they do stay up late . The street noise was certainly markedly up last night through to 130 am.

So headed off a little early to general area to try out Blu At 36 bar at Shangri La. Classic example of having a superb location is all you think you need. Reception hopeless, sitting in blinding sun and service woeful . Really amateur hour.

Luckily 2 min walk to Maybe Sammy even if have to wait 10 mins before opens. Quite crowded and as they say lightning don’t strike twice. Maybe the Saturday tourist crowd ( many Japanese) compared to Friday work crowd . It slowly picked up and staff were great but you need the crowd . Good value mind you as loaded up on $8 mini cocktails and $3 oysters

Luckily a better couple then moved in next door and the evening picked up. Tried a few adult size drinks and they were great but when started to see triple knew time to head home 😏

So, another great afternoon. Now , can he stay awake for the drone show 🤔 Will make the effort as close by but if crowded or difficult to see will be back toot sweet . Don’t go away …..

Braved the crowds and don’t want to drone on but you seen one light show you seen em all 🥸

That’s been a full week. Could be a couple of quieter days now .

Well what a difference a day makes. Still dark at 5 am of course but looking doodle for early morning on the water. Today intend to do more walking and wake up the Vitamin D after yesterday afternoon did go on a bit 😵‍💫

First up down to SoHo Express while it is nice and quiet.

Not even 6 am yet but let’s catch Light Rail to Circular Quay and catch a Ferry to Luna Park for a laugh. It was a bit breezy so bought a tourist inspired hair comb from a tacky Tourist place to keep the flowing locks in place. Worked a treat

Really is a stunning harbour especially early morning with sun coming up. Only a short trip first up. Or very short as it turns out. We almost got to the bridge and just turned around and went back to CQ with out a word. Now, there was only me , a deck hand and I assume a driver. Asked deck hand “ do I just stay on ?” “Yes” and then he got off and walked into a room. Finally got underway again after 10 mins and when got off at Luna Park new deck hand Sid “ sorry for delay, medical issue” Assume deck hand took sick suddenly.

Luna Park was of course closed but had a brief look before heading off on a very pleasant stroll around to Kirribilli for a cup of tea with Albo. Beautiful vista back across the harbour and some prime real estate to boot .

So, a perfect start to the day. Only problem is back in room by 730 am 😏 Some planning required now and also a light breakfast .

Had my go to toast breakfast at Bomonti. Then headed off for a walk towards Chinatown via Darling Harbour. Lovely hour out and about around Darling Harbour. Looked at markets but always the same

Still liking idea of Guinness Pie and Pint for lunch on site so back in room to chill a bit and plan afternoon. The public transport system is very good and easy to use so can travel distances easily. Pie and Guinness went down fine even though a chicken and leek pie 😰

Well a fairly casual plan turned into an amazing afternoon. Snuck up on it with an Aperol Spritzer at a rooftop bar on a booteeful day – Harper Rooftop

Zuckerberg informed me about a Sicilian bar named Apollonia after the character in The Godfather and it opened at 3 pm 👏🏻 Loved the menu and went with the Franco Nero as too early for a Michael Corleone .

Had my eye on the rooftop bar at State Library but as didn’t open until 4 pm spent some time in the actual library. Then at 4 pm duly went up in the lift to an amazing bar with great views. Actually had the local Negroni and one of the best have had. And I have had a few….

It was very comfortable here and could have stayed but had read good reviews on the Martini Flight at Maybe Sammy’s which was a 15 min walk . Best decision I have made since that second circumcision in ‘03. Started with the Martini Flight and the rest is pretty much a blur until stumbled out about 90 mins later. Gayest bar have been in but also the most fun period.

Then started on the mini menu – a Negroni and an Irish coffee before finishing with a La Paloma

The real fun though was when the bar staff suddenly broke into a song and dance . They were having fun so we were having fun.

Simply a fantastic day. Only problem now is how do I fill in tomorrow until 4:30 pm when Sammy’s open again – it is closed Sunday/Monday 😰

So Armageddon arrived, had a squiz and liked the look of the place so decided to hang around another day 😰 Thinking forecast of “1-5 ml” is a tad conservative. Not showing in a still image , the system is actually spinning up from south west and not moving off coast but rather up the coast

So, leaves another morning at least to fill in as hopefully clears by afternoon. Worst aspect of this is best days will be as weekend approaches and crowds increase. Should be glorious when fly out on Sunday 😏

Grabbed my couple tray brolly and headed out into the gloom. It was consistent rain certainly but only went 100 m up road to Grindhouse. In general coffee has been great in Sydney but fear this could have been an organic one. The fancy cup was a concern straight up

Now my batting average is poor in this caper but feel it may clear late morning. Really just want a good walk today. Do I go to the gym now and risk the exercise bike brigade or wait until after breakfast🤔. One thing I do know with large Asian population in CBD those little ladies are a danger to society with their bloody umbrellas open at the 5 foot level while on their fooken phone!

The gym won out one-nil and as expected the Lycra brigade had descended . Still a couple of machines left for real men. Did notice some bikes but they were not going anywhere as bolted to floor duh. You can’t fool me Pal. Again 😏 Pool still not heated and in added touch the door to the outside – where rain and wind event unfolding – was open just dropping temp a bit more. It was bracing but also woke one up and quite pleasant when you get out

This weather system really kicking in so best hope maybe clear by late morning but is heavy now. Looks like breakfast on site today.

Went with an egg and bacon roll onsite as options limited so may as well limit spend. Going to be a long few hours methinks before can venture out.

And a dangerous few hours. Boredom leads to thinking – and am now spending two extra nights in Sydney and flying home Tuesday instead 🕺🏻 Maybe it will stop raining by then

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1335431551345017?fs=e&s=TIeQ9V&fs=e&fs=e

And if you thought that was a lot of waterworks wait until I tell CLP not coming home Sunday 🥸 Realistically $300 pn for this room in Sydney CBD is great value .

So having settled on a clever plan to watch the Broncos live in a pub on Sydney time to venture out on a still gloomy day. To a rooftop bar of course. Sweet, The Sweeney opens at 11 am, quick detour through a dry QVB and arrive at 11:30. Ah, rooftop bar opens at midday, we have to remove the ducks that are swimming there at present. No sweat Sweetheart, one thing people always will tell you about me is how easy going I am. So had a beer downstairs and then caught a canoe to the roof. Look, it may go off like a frog in a sock on weekends but ambience levels were low for moi and I bring plenty ambience with me trust me 😏

As rain was now coming in sideways let’s go to another rooftop bar but enclosed. They must have sat around for ages to come up with the name – The Rooftop. It is noted that it is a taste of The Hamptons in Sydney. I will keep both eyes out yo yo ma

Certainly a very pleasant area for a drink and time for some lunch and some John Dory fit bill perfectly. One reason glad staying until Tuesday is didn’t really want to end on a weekend when everything is busy and crowded with the great unwashed.

And so a productive morning comes to an end as the clouds start to part at last. Having spent the rainy mornings on rooftops will now seek out some dark dingy bars for the finer weather later this afternoon😏

Well that was a long and enjoyable afternoon but not sure how many I can handle at my age . It’s all time focused so let’s begin with The Baxter Inn which opens at 3 pm. FMS why are these places almost impossible to find. It’s a great Prohibition themed bar and very heavily whiskey based . I had a whiskey based cocktail but would certainly recommend to whiskey lovers.

Then it was time to check out Herbs Tavern, basically a Negroni bar but not participating in Negroni month 🤔. As always friendly staff and would be easy to settle in for afternoon but I have a mission.

Must be another bar within 100 m surely . Ah, Since I Left You will fit the bill . Another laneway but easy to find

A sensible person would head home now but on every corner is a new bar. Ok some are down tricky laneways or up rickety stairs but you get my point. Herb recommended the Breakfast Negroni at PS40 and seemed a smart move to me. Basically on way home Your Honour. It was a great bar with friendly staff as usual . The breakfast Negroni is based on Banana Bread and the left over bread is converted to ice cream.

And then my new best mate Fred suggested the signature Africola and must say it was delicious

Time to head home then but overshot as can happen. 100 m from The Grace was a CW themed bar called Jolene’s which was also on the Negroni bandwagon. Well, cat hurt eh

Ok, think I can make it home from here. I did. Goodnight

Well the bed sheets were certainly a mess this morning. Must have been rehearsing the wash and spin cycle before the Big Event today. It’s dark at 4:30 am – Yay – so let’s flush the nose and then check out BOM. Armageddon approaching but I see a couple of gaps surely.

Time then to head down to laundry having already acquired the necessary coinage – what, is Clinton still President ? #Platonic. The soap dispenser was not easy – ok easy to take your money, hard to grab the box of detergent . Do like my washing machines like my coffee – Industrial Strength . Only 2 machines (research again) suggested a 530 am assault could be wise. Now for the coffee 100 m away in light drizzle. Nice enough Albanian serving me . “Do you serve Cortado “ What is that ? “Well it’s a Spanish coffee that is a bit like…..” . We are in Australia. WTF did you just say Agon ? I had the Campos Flat White and it was fine but I won’t be back Again Agon 😏

Today is going to take some planning and a sprinkle of luck. Plenty of Breakky options onsite and of course Irish Bar from midday also on site. Does leave a long morning though after I have folded my clothes and checked sock count. Do like some exercise to prime the machine for shenanigans that invariably ensue.

Washing completed so dropped by reception to get my medal. Spoke to my honeybuns – mostly about my washing success to be fair – and then headed out in light rain to Bomonti 100 m up the road with no umbrella or jacket ! Not my smartest move but in comparison seemed quite clever compared to decision to order two serves of toast after being informed they were small serves. 🤦🏻‍♂️ 4 slices of Yummo Turkish but only 2 butter and one jam. Smells like the old One Jam Shim Sham to me.

Weather starting to cool down at least which is something. Now that 3.5 hr wait until pub opens.

I watched one show but really don’t come to Sydney to watch TV. I go to Melboring for that 🥸 Decided to brave the rain but really was miserable out there. Here is one I prepared earlier . Look like Wednesday on a Wednesday if you Lurch to one side . Spooky

Well that didn’t work, wonder what gym set up like? Called ahead to clear place out and it was perfectly acceptable . Really piddling down now but can still see Paris. Sweet

The shower was a religious experience , the “unheated pool” more a hellish one. It may be a Lap pool but feels more like a Snap pool now if ya follow me 🧊🧊. Still certainly feel refreshed and two stone lighter .
Now next big decision is at Irish Bar do I go with my fave Guinness Pie or take up the Wednesday special of Porter and Pie for $28. Well, I am a pensioner. And I am no weather expert – who is 😏 – but looks to me like this weather system may be passing through quicker than forecast 🤔 Or at least south of CBD.

Certainly good value for $28. I seem to be following steak specials around . Does leave a bit of a long afternoon ahead as certainly full a la goog at present. I am, as always, prepared for lousy weather this arvo

Well Lordy Lordy the bureau was right. Shocked I tell ya. But kinda suspecting it. Plan Pringle activated

Only people more shocked today were the Trumpettes…… and it’s Goodnight from him

Waking up to rain was not on the agenda. If ya can’t trust the weather bureau who can you trust 😏. Not supposed to start today until a “ late shower “. Given it’s only 4:45 am let’s see if it clears by coffee time for at least a walk. Fair bit of building cover being a CBD of course so am sure a plan can form. Of course Armageddon still predicted for tomorrow.

Nose currently running (medical humour) at about a 2/10 so that is becoming a pain for sure . Been about 3 months now .

Weather cleared sufficiently to venture out for a stroll to Martin Place across the road from Lewis Lane. It certainly is a great space in the middle of a busy city. My go to coffee choice actually looked a bit dicey so just opted for Urban Barrel in case rain came back. It didn’t

Now for a breakfast plan. Would love a toaster in the room for a simple start to day . Probably just head out for another stroll and see what appears. Getting up at 5 am certainly leaves a lot of time before any shops/attractions open. Headed to QVB building looking for a simple breakfast and was suitably rewarded with toast and jam.

By now weather was a bit more promising so wandered around Town Hall area for a bit of quirk and then got hounded for autographs outside the State Theatre for some reason

Thought it might be worth checking out the Light Rail as station nearby and caught one down to Circular Quay as weather was holding. Lesson learnt – no opal machines on board , so must tap on on street. $3 saved. Walked out to Old Opera again as is an impressive building indeed. Did pose for the Triple Icon Collectable which will be available on NoWayUSA.com.au shortly. $29.99 ea or two for $80 (trying to discourage hoarding 😏)

It truly is a marvellous backdrop for photos and also a leisurely stroll on a relatively quiet morning. Almost went for a walk in the Gardens but common sense prevailed. Actually ankle giving me a bit of grief which is odd and assume with all the walking feet are swelling a bit making shoes tight. It’s a theory not involving 🦕 so treat accordingly.

Light rail back home then for a break as still only 9 am 🤦🏻‍♂️

Went back out around 10:30 with no great enthusiasm but picked up some lunch which could become dinner as well. The morning did drag a bit but just after 1 pm hit the streets again in search of Negroni Nirvana. Turns out there are some great bars within rolling distance . First up was Joji which turns out to be a rooftop bar which went through to keeper on first research. Tried the Tropical as Sun was out briefly and it was “interesting”.

Most of these bars partaking in Kneegroani month ( patent pending) have two options apart from classic so can see return visits as so close to home. Next up was Uncle Mings on York and think my eyes are bloodshot already 😏 So dark no chance of reading menu so asked One Hung Lo to surprise me. Well that went south quickly #Crying Game.

Back out into natural light and thought let’s go back to old fave The Duck of Death and hope I am unforgiven after yesterdays effort. The Gabriati has Pale Ale on top which was interesting to say the least

So it’s rolled around to 230 pm so time to head back home before the 4 pm assault when many new bars open. The beauty of Negroni month , apart from cost , is you don’t take on much liquid but plenty of alcohol. First time I have been to 3 bars and no toilets in a session trust me. 👨🏻‍🦳The Grace is truly proving to be a perfect base with so many great bars within easy walking distance. Had the onsite Irish Bar pencilled in for Armageddon tomorrow but realistically could easily return to any of these 3 establishments.

3 pm update : Armageddon still on track.

Planning is required as some bars open at 4 pm, some at 430 pm and others in a very unAustralian way – 5 pm 🙄Plan is beer, Negroni , Whiskey .

First up then is Old Mates rooftop bar. Bugger me some of these places are hard to find from the street

Then it was around the corner to the Carribean theme Papa Geddes bar. Again need to walk down odd laneways to find these places. Worth the effort.

As we approached 5 pm it was then time to head to Perfecture 48 , a subsidiary of my own brand Perfect 67. Zuckerberg told me about a pop up Suntory Whiskey bar for this month so why not eh. Had the Highball food combo but may still need dinner methinks . Not a big whiskey drinker but it was something different in great surroundings. Time then to waddle home

Another great day even with a dull period for a few hours in middle of day. Armageddon still on track so see what tomorrow brings. May struggle to sleep anyway with laundry day tomorrow. Excitement builds.

Not a great nights sleep – usual pillow scenario ( 17 but none suit) , soft bed, noisy AC and of course street noise although not sure it was construction. These things happen in a CBD hotel in a big city. The advantage – plenty of coffee places nearby. Mind you more coffee shops open by 6 am in Maryhole than here ! Weather seems changeable all week but plan still today is head down to Bondi Beach by 🚌

Hustled on George Street with the street sweepers. Perfect time of morning for this LBD

Walking the streets early always reveals some quirk. Dropped in at a special gym just to get my balls washed. You just have to know when to pull them out . You only make that mistake once 🥸

Debate then raged in Flashskull. Do we go to Bondi early for sunrise and breakky or wait for mid morning so can have a beer or three. Common sense prevailed – one sunrise on beach, heap plenty drinkeries with views. Glad I did as another glorious morning and bus not too crowded at. 630 am . Even decided to have a surf and Lordy Lordy by time I got out already a mural done!

For all the talk about Bondi in old days it is a beautiful beach and have to say the waves looked great too. Saved the Ice Cubes from the Ice Bergs but maybe another time

Time then for some breakfast and Surfish was jumping so hooked in. Great egg and bacon roll and passable coffee. Location Location Location.

Only issue I guess was only just after 8 am and already done so much today. Bus trip home a bit slower so now back for a little rest and research before getting my rocks off later this morning .

The Rocks was a rocking and a massive cruise ship loading. Apparently its home port is Sydney and mostly does two day trips. WTF. Who lines up for 3 hours for that. As always a stunning vista down at harbour and took requisite photos and then settled in for a coffee at Belgian cafe while waiting for The Glenmore to open at 11 am.

Research certainly pays off and The Glenmore has a great rooftop bar and opens at 11 am – rare. It was a nightmare to get to but worth the effort . Stunning views and it was Monday Steak special. Very tasty and only $19. After requisite beer also tried the 4 Pillars Spritzer special which was a perfect cleanser. As always feel full as a goog despite not eating all that much and a lot of walking . When Old Whiskers was giving out Good Looks, Collapsible Joints and Slow Metabolism I scored the bloody trifecta 😏

A normal person ( looking at you CLP 💋) would have a nice lie down after requisite cup of tea to refresh for arvo assault. Ah nah doesn’t work for moi. Will rest for a bit and really don’t want to waste this great weather as rain expected to come in tomorrow and be very heavy on Wednesday- or as we call it, Laundry Day. Maybe find a dark quiet pub to celebrate Negroni month. Too much sun aint good for you afterall…..

So headed off with general plan to check out some rooftop bars on a nice day. Jackson on George was first up and a sign of things to come. A rooftop bar by definition sure, but no great views . At least it was quiet

Then it was on to The Rook which was close to home. Again you went up 7 floors in a lift – Mama didn’t raise no fool – but it was an enclosed area really and some roses had had an orgasm recently. Just went with a white whine ….

Of course Zuckerberg knows I am now in Sydney so feed is populated with Sydney events. Not a bad thing really. It’s Negroni Month! Mostly supported by “ laneway” pubs and one 100 m from home is The Duke of Clarence. Well pickle my sausage this place is a keeper. An English theme and quite small but at 2:30 pm on a Monday it was quiet and very comfortable. Went for a non standard Negroni which was perfect as I settled in for the afternoon.

I could have stayed here for ages….so I did. A sign drew my attention and so naturally supported Aussie Gin growers and Abo cordial producers. Apparently.

By now Wobbly Boot firmly attached and could have kicked on but as only Monday plenty of days left to kill some more liver cells. I will definitely be back here , especially on a predicted rainy day. I do fear though that my dreams tonight may be haunted by the question – was I actually sitting across from the Duke of Clarence 😵‍💫

Hey look I have had a few sherberts but am starting to think I may prefer Sydney to Melbourne now. The Grace is a perfect location – great pub, Coles and Chemist within 100 m. The CBD is more lively than Melbourne. Not the great breakfast options of Langham but I ain’t starving. I could see another solo trip next winter – would like to be here when it is cold .

In for the night now. Wisely – Mama didn’t…ah ok – bought a salad yesterday for tonight’s dinner almost as if I knew somehow would be half cut by now🕺🏻 Tomorrow’s plans will be mostly weather based but hope morning is ok for some loitering with no intent .

Up your Date : Quick tally had us 2 Liver cells and 1 Brain cell left for today’s quota so Zuckerberg suggested Bar 83 at Sydney Tower and I don’t argue with Trillionaires (unless they are a Trump). Mama didn’t… ok fair call. What a great experience. $30 minimum spend and now being 3/4 cut missed the 5 pm cut off for Happy Hour so two cocktails cost $41 instead of $30. Then I tried to hook into bottomless lunch for $89 on Friday and was told minimum 2 people. When suggested I could drink enough for 2 just got the old “ you Aussies “. Not as if any wait staff are Australian 😏 . My case is pending with ACCC. Anyway what a day today has been. May suffer for it later but can live with that for the memories and experiences . Take a gander at this lot

And so we come to Partie Deux of Plan B – “No Way USA” – with a week planned in Sydney following on in succession one after the other , apart from a 2 month break , a week in Melboring in June. CLP is house sitting in Windsor for 6 weeks so worked out well to come down yesterday and fly out today. No worries about paying for airport parking. Once again at the pointy end although we basically get up in the air and then start our descent around Tweed Heads I think. Great go to hotel , at a price, in Sydney is The Grace. Perfect location for loitering by the harbour and getting my Rocks off around La Opera House. Melboring is my fave Aussie City but Sydney does have its icons and this week there will be one more…..

Sydney is a rougher place than Melbourne of course so got a couple of extra Tatts to keep the pretenders at bay. The hand can’t hit what the eye can’t see.🦋🐝

Went to our usual haunt for a beer last night but they have changed the name from Fritzenberger to Frankie Browns. Beer is still cold 🍺👍🏻

Great to see/hear the planes fly by for Riverfire and then the fireworks after 7 pm from back verandah at Windsor.

CLP dropped me at Bowen Hills to catch the Airtrain. In hindsight the actual railway station at Bowen Hills would have been better 😄 Airtrain was quite packed but made it in plenty of time and easy check in at Brisbane had me tucking into hearty breakfast by 0830. Not planning a lot of air travel in coming years but do need to adjust arrival time at lounges when bar is closed 😏 A long time to fill in

3 bloody wheelchairs and a chatty Cathy . FMS. Still we got away almost on time so no dramas especially at the pointy end. Do think C team on today though. In group 1 boarding and first two people including me – “ sorry wrong flight” when scanning pass. Ah no. Oh, sorry we had the wrong flight loaded🤦🏻‍♂️ Take off and soon after lunch service and as 11/12 to be served alarmed no alcohol yet. Ah, it’s not midday . Mine is served at 11:55 “ Can I get a beer after midday Gerald ?” You can get a beer anytime sir, what would you like 🤦🏻‍♂️Well get ya skates on pal I just saw the Big Bananna ! So had my beer or two and a bit concerned the toilet in BC still XXX . Did someone die ? Hey Gerald, what’s the caper bud. Hmm. Ah, sorry we forgot to unlock it 🤦🏻‍♂️ FMSSSSS.

Really good flight down had us arriving too early so had to circle over Tasmania for 15 mins before touching down. Slow bag retrieval but train is good , if somewhat expensive, and was at The Grace at 2 pm for check in. It’s a great room on a nice high floor but will wait and see if any “construction” noise at night as per notice 😏

Time then to head down to Darling Harbour as only a 5 min walk on a glorious day. Crowded but not ridiculous for a Sunday. Fearing dehydration on a warm day I found a bar first up – The Pontoon. Very acceptable and watched the Dolphins win a who cares match.😏

Walked across Pyrmont bridge and you really do appreciate what a magnificent location the harbour is and this isn’t even the fancy Opera House side. I will head home after this to do some planning to take full advantage of the places to see and visit

Did the slow walk then around the harbour in search of another bar . Lo and behold there was one all along next to The Pontoon 🤦🏻‍♂️. Watched the Eels win a who cares match 😏

So as usual get a lot done on first day but even though a glorious afternoon time to head back , get some supplies and do some planning. Weather looks a bit dicey on Tuesday and Wednesday so may head to Bondi tomorrow . Also need to find a chemist as nose remains your basic nightmare . Later dudes

Looking at my facebook memories it must be that time of year again when the Twins of Terror roam the hallways once more. Therese is getting a bit tired of all the blood down the hallways but is a good sport.

We usually try and extend our little trip as beautiful part of the country and this year we are coming from both ends which does sound painful. First up we will drive down to Mount Tamborine on Thursday for a relaxing night in a cottage and hope for a clear and cool day. Then onto TB for couple of nights including the usual Della feast on Saturday lunch. Back home to RJER for Sunday as have Old Farts Day Part 1 on Monday at Munchkin Hall. Back To Flashman INC Sunny Coast for Tuesday until I head out to Toowoomba on Wednesday for Old Fart Part 2 with Ryan. Then back to Maryhole that afternoon. Its a jam packed agenda full of thrills and spills but of course all centred on Yabbadabbadoo

First up then down to Flashman Inc early Thursday morning on a clear, if brisk, beautiful morning. Watching the sun come up over the mountains as you approach Sunny Coast is glorious. A couple of hours then to pack and answer that age old question – when is it too cold to swim. Haven’t found the answer yet. Or my testicles ……

A good two and a half hour drive to Mt Tamborine so as being chauffeured it allowed me to partake in my new pastime – doodling and signing as pubic hair. Here are some I knocked up in transit

Good drive down had us checking in just after 12:30. Looks a very nice cottage for a relaxing stay

Cedar Creek Winery was a 15 min walk down Hartley Road so seemed a good option for lunch. In reality it was barely counter meal quality with slow service. It filled the void I guess and probably clogged an artery. I had a nice Verdelo, CLP had an off Moscato by best guess cleverly called a “ White Wizard”.

On such a glorious day decided to hop across the road to Cauldron Distillery which was a much more comfortable place although crap service again. We had the cocktail of the month – a Hot and Sour. Spookily that is what many folk call me. Very passable while we watched the tour group get pissed . CLP was a bit slow so I spent some time arranging a few pebbles. She seemed to appreciate it . It’s the little things

Walked back to cottage and decided to hop across another road and do the 3.1 klm circuit to Witches Falls lookout in the National Park. Rough and rocky walk which was killing my knees and as we approached the 1.5 klm mark and lookout wondered why I couldn’t hear the gushing falls. Wonder no more . Fuck me, what a waste of time. If someone had not flushed the public loo at the top of the hill there would have been nothing ! Then I had to walk and stumble back up the 1.5 KLM. I did not hop back cross the road trust me

Stayed in for night with some cheese etc and a nice Cab Franc. We started a fire ….. almost

It was certainly getting a bit cool by now

Good nights sleep and woke to a brisk 1 degree on what looks like another glorious day. The included breakfast hamper was excellent especially the freshly baked bread. Luckily they told us the code.

Needed a walk after that so headed down to Rotary Lookout for a great view. Apparently this is the first National Park in Australia declared open in 1908. They are thinking of adding a waterfall feature in 2028 apparently……

Fairly loose plans this morning before checkout at 11 am. A 5 min walk at 10 am to Mason Winery for a tasting will work out well and then will decamp to town and our usual go to lunch at Fortitude Brewery and a stroll along Gallery walk. Then it’s time to catch up with Barney and Betty.

Once again the service at Mason Winery was poor. We had to sit at a table outside while each small taste was bought to us

Headed back and decamped and headed off to Gallery walk. Nothing special there , including our organic coffee, but glad we went around corner to Mt Tambourine Distillery. Great service and good value so we bought a couple of supplies

Walked back to Fortitude Brewery to complete our Bingo Card and had our usual very tasty pizza and a beer. Then it was time to head off to Yabbadabbadoo and make TBs day by turning up early 🕺🏻🕺🏻

Settled in at YabbaDabbadoo and then faced the eternal question. When is it socially acceptable to start drinking. Then we remembered we are anti social and hooked in . First up though, this years mug shot had a ring in but no Coldplay vibe luckily.

Shankeys Whip appeared and disappeared in short order . Walk in the park. Time for bed then to prepare for festivities. And maybe rain. Slept ok and woke to cloudy but no rain. Hope to be allowed inside tonight. Hopefully rain stays away until after 3 pm. We all have our jobs to do and mine is to make sure the others do their job. And of course the Antipasto … Set the table and then time for a rest

The gang all arrived well on time. Sadly, Claude not able to attend as a bit under the weather . The rain did come in about 1 pm and got heavy at times later as guests started leaving. Another wonderful lunch by TB

We did pretty well in the drink caper and even if the nips were getting smaller they still packed some punch. Shnakeys Whip is a keeper

Not a bad nights sleep considering alcohol intake and woke to a foggy sky if not head. Weather has cleared through as predicted so after usual wonderful breakfast it will be up the road to Munchkin Manor for part two. Will sign off now after another edition of Yahooing at Yabbadabbadoo is locked away. I wouldn’t say it will be the Last One but just in case 🤓

At that stage of holiday after a week in a hotel that you start to develop roomitis. Maybe the AC and temperature variations but wake up with sniffly nose and tickle in throat . Could be Showgirl feathers to be fair 🤓. Nothing develops – yet – during the day so should survive tomorrow. Early start tomorrow means pack this afternoon and the good news is should be stress free tomorrow in business class. Will relax more when check in online this morning as always wary with booking changes going all the way through “ the system” .😏 Have to pick up car at airport and drive home to Flashman Inc so one drink on flight will suffice.

Plan then is to head out well rugged up after 730 am to MCG precinct for a while and tack on a coffee at the end .Do have another cocktail planned in Aria this arvo just to use up money honest 🤓. Have had a good run in the alcohol caper last two days so a bit lighter today. Well that’s the plan.

Another glorious brisk morning. Always great to visit the MCG and see the statues. Was following a Balloon around all morning for a bit of fun

Continued on then up through Yarra Park and had a decent coffee at Laurent which was next to a sadly closed Route 66 bar. Then onto Fitzroy Gardens before heading home. Think that bloody dog and Roo are following me

Will wait until can check in for flight at 10:20 then think will head down to Williamstown on train on such a glorious day . Check in all smooth so a training I will go. Read good things about Williamstown

Now in hindsight the crowded trains should have been first clue

Still a glorious day so looking forward to some seaside scenes. Hmm. Lots of cranes and boats but all behind fences. This place made Tiaro look like a thriving metropolis. I did eventually find a bar open and to be fair the beer was good value.

I did find what must pass for the Main Street and there were some shops and restaurants – all closed – until stumbled across Atomic Bar so dropped in for another beer and some lunch . No atmosphere

One thing have seen often here in Melboring is not a lot of encouragement to actually sit at a bar . So at end of day just because it was a bit dull doesn’t mean it wasn’t a good idea.

Back home then to do some packing and chill . Still have my last cocktail to fit in this arvo but will be a quiet afternoon and early night. Had a magic run with weather last few days and some great memories but pretty well ready to go home. Still have a few things ahead this month with several days in Brisvegas.

I’ll drink to that …… and it’s Goodnight from Him.