Michael's Wanderings

Yaroslavl - Russia

2011-09-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

We awoke this morning to find our area covered in dense fog. Under Russian maritime rules, vessels come to a halt when the visibility drops below a certain level.

(L - A passing ship comes out of the gloom)

This time we were lucky and managed to keep going. (Later we were forced to stop near and coming in to St Petersburg and also traveling across the White Lake to Goritsy - so in both cases the guides had to devise a Plan B, which they did very well.)

(L - As the mist started to clear we were treated to some interesting sights)

(R - The sun climbed and burned off the fog - to give a beautiful day)

(R - There are many cruise boats operating on this connection between Moscow and St Petersburg)

(R - At Yaroslavl we disembarked and boarded our luxury coaches for the day's events)

(L - In most Russian cities there is a statue of Lenin, the founder of the early Communist system)

(R - Church of Elijah The Prophet)

Yaroslavl is located 250 kilometers north east of Moscow. The historical part of the city, a World Heritage Site, is located at the confluence of the Volga and the Kotorosl Rivers. It is one of the Golden Ring cities, a group of historic cities northeast of Moscow that has played an important role in Russian history.

Preceded by Viking sites such as Timerevo from the 8th or 9th centuries, the city is said to have been founded in 1010 as an outpost of the Principality of Rostov Veliky. It is now about the 3rd largest city in Russia.

During the years of the Second World War Yaroslavl managed to escape German occupation of the city, since the Wehrmacht did not manage to break through the Soviet defence lines surrounding Moscow. Due to its location as a large transportation hub, and since the 1913-built railway bridge over the Volga in Yaroslavl was the only point at which to cross the river, the city became a major target for air raids during 1942-1943, and many buildings were completely destroyed. Most of the city's industry, including the automobile, tyre and textile plants, were converted, during the war, to produce armament and equipment for the Soviet Red Army.

(R - Our first stop was at the local Art Museum, which includes Russian Icons (XIII-XVII Cent), pictures of Russian artists of XVIII and XX, Cent, and masterpieces of ornamental art).which is set out as the home of one of the earlier nobles)

(L - We were welcomed by a small orchestra)

(R - And our guides played the parts of the daughters of the House Owner)

(L - At the end our tour the guides selected various members of the audience to join them in one of the old time dances - and I GOT picked, by the LOVELY girl in the orange gown!! Then all were invited to dance to the music - a really superb visit)

(L & R - At our next visit, we saw a group of school children visiting the monument to the fallen from WW II - apparently this is a normal excursion on the first day back at school)

(R - One of the Churches here. We were quizzed about how old we thought that the Church was - we guessed 800, etc years. Surprise, surprise, it is about 5 years old. Being completely destroyed it has been fully rebuilt based on

plans and photographs)

(L - In 2011 the city celebrated its 1001th year since foundation - the park features the city crest along with the 1001 year picked out in flowers)

(R - Near the view over the park, this iron railing carries many padlocks - a Russian custom for weddings when the couple lock the padlock and throw away the key to indicate their pledges. Unfortunately no one could tell us what happens if divorce occurs, and which is apparently at a high rate just as in the west)

(L - Another Church - I learned many more saints of the Russian Orthodox Church, which apparently has different rules for creating Saints than the Roman Catholic Church - and it is much easier!)

(R - On a more earthly note, the cross pieces of the crosses are covered in spikes to frustrate the local pigeons)

(R - We had free time to investigate the local markets - some undercover)

(L - And some in outside tents)

(R - The Transfiguration Monastery)

(L - The Monastery regularly holds competitions in campanology - this is the practice of ringing small bells - not like the large bells rung in Churches. We were entertained by one of the locals, with his own composition - then he offered CDs to buy!!)

(R - We left Yaroslavl and continued)

(L - One of our on-board experts lectured us in the finer points of vodka)

R - After which we had to adjourn to the dining room, to sample five different types of vodka - gee life's hard - con't recall a lot of what else we did that day!!)

(L - Again we sailed off into the sunset - well actually we were heading north!!)

NOTE - I will finish up here, as we have long since left Russia and since then returned home. Thanks for reading!!

Cruise - From Moscow start

2011-09-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

We sailed from Moscow around 5.30pm on the Tuesday, and proceeded down the Moskva River. This river circles Moscow, and is joined to the Volga River by a canal.

As we sailed we passed under a variety of bridges for thew Moscow traffic.

(L - We were due to pass through a number of locks on our journey - one consisting of 5 locks in a row. We were due to go through these at 3am, so I got up to watch - but we were late - but I still managed to see some of them later that morning)

Some of our views as we proceed on the journey down the Volga

(L - Our guest lecturer Larisa Kuptsova, provided lectures on Russia - history, demographics, education, politics, etc.)

(L - We had a lecture on Matrushica dolls - the ones that fit inside each other - demonstrated by the Art Director - including one that opens to disclose a bottle of vodka!!)

(R - This dam across the Volga means a drop of around 50 feet)

(L - The nearby locks that allow the ship's passage)

(R - The end gates open for our vessel to sail through)

(L - Another lecture from Anna - this time on vodka - what else would you expect in Russia - this was followed by a vodka tasting party - where we sampled 5 different vodkas. I am afraid that I can't remember much of the rest of the day!)

(R - We arrive at Uglich - pronounced Ooooglitch - and circled into the port.

(L - The passengers leave the ship at Uglich)

(R - One of the old buildings at Uglich)

(L - We had a choral rendition from a 4 man choir - and they had CDs for sale)

(R - The Church of St Dmitry on the Blood and Chambers of Princes of Uglich - we couldn't take photos inside - I found many Saints that I had never heard of!!)

(L - Most Russian cities have some form of markets, and Faye checked them all out!!)

(L - Our evening dinner in a family home was hosted by this lady - who taught me one of the traditional Russian toasts - which involved holding a glass each, then passing your arms through the other ones bent arm, and by bending the arm, drinking from the glass held in the encircling hand. This ended with a nice kiss - but I am not sure if that is all part of the real toast or not???!!)

Our Ship - The AmaKatarina

2011-09-05T00:27:00.001-07:00

Our vessel was known as the AmaKatarina, being the latest vessel of the Ama Waterways group.

However, under Russian requirements all vessels have to have a name from some person. And our vessel was named Mstislav Rostropovich. The gentleman was a well known celloist. The vessel has just been through a costly refit. Built around 1968 and grossing around 4000 tons, she carries a Russian crew of around 100.

The entrance part of the ship opens into a lobby area raising to the three levels. Cabins are on Decks 1, 2 and 3. The Front Desk is generally manned during waking hours.

We had cabin 203 on Deck 2, and like most cabins we had a balcony - which we were determined to use - as it was the first one we ever had.

Our cabin desk

The bathroom was slightly larger than the one that we had on the train, but still cupboard size.

Forward on deck 3 we had a lounge along with a bar. This was also used for occasional meetings.

(R - The computer section - adjacent to Deck 3 Dining Room)

In the rear of the vessel on Deck 3, we had a "computer section". The vessel was equipped with an erratic Wi-Fi, and this area had its own computer that could be used by passengers who didn't have their own computers. Naturally the wait could be long for this computer. It was much easier with your own computer!

(L - The computer group tunes in to the net)

(R - On Deck 4 we had an open deck for exercise)

(L - Despite leaving dock some passengers would prefer the rest and sunshine)

(R - The open deck area at the front of Deck 3 - good for viewing the way ahead)

(L - The rear deck area)

(R - Shortly after our first sailing from Moscow we went through the usual lifeboat drills - here are some passengers rigged up in their fashionable jackets)

(L - We had several lessons or hobbies which we could try out - this one was in painting wooden Matrushikas)

(R - One of the students paints her doll)

(L - Our voyage also included a trip to the Bridge to see the ship's officers at work)

(R - Lunches and dinners were extensive with 3-4 courses each time - well over the required levels of calrie intakes)

(L - We had two visits by the Captain - at a welcome dinner and also a farewell dinner - the latter being held 3 days before we arrived in St Petersburg - as for those last few days we were docked!)

(R - What ship would be complete without a gift shop?? On the lobby floor)

Moscow - Russia

2011-09-02T00:35:00.000-07:00

(L - Faye arrives in Moscow looking fresh after traveling all that way, and for 12 days)

(R - The porters unload our luggage - gee it is nice not having to lug the cases around!!)

Our train arrived in Moscow mid-morning after traveling over 10,000 kms, through 7 time zones, from the Russian east coast. We unloaded and then started our packed day of touring. The name Moscow first appeared in 1147 when a city was founded on the banks of the Moskva River. This developed into a major trading centre.

Moscow has seven railways stations - radiating to different parts of the country - apart from the city subway

(L - Our coaches lined up for the start of the half day's touring program - these coaches really re well driven considering the terrible traffic congestion that appears almost right through almost all city streets)

(R - We visited the the Novodevitchy Monastery which has a very large cemetery for important people. All plots are taken by famous and renowned people, with elaborate head stones and markers.)

(L - The Moscow University)

(R - Sparrow Hills is a look out spot perched on a hill giving a good view of the city of Moscow.

(L & R- Lookouts from Sparrow Hills - On right picture, note the onion shaped domes near Red Square)

(L - Faye checks out the shopping stands at Sparrow Hills)

(R - The Moscow Metro Subway System Map)

(L - The escalator DOWN to the station - some as deep as 400 meters underground)

(R - Many stations are decorated in great detail)

(L - A Moscow subway train - they run about every 2 minutes on every line - and carry around 8 million passengers a day)

(R - Another underground railway station)

(L - A painting from the railway station)

(R - Passengers wait for a train, or friends - note the statues in bronze around the station)

(L - The entrance to Red Square - now equipped with metal detectors and bag searches after some attacks in Moscow)

(R - GUM – On Red Square - Known as the original shopping centre of Russia. Once virtually the only store in which you could buy imported goods – now stocked with all the world famous clothing brands – seems lots of staff but few shoppers.)

(L - Red Square – currently being prepared for an up-coming Military Pageant, and thus very difficult to see the real size.

(R - St Basil’s Cathedral – overlooking the Square - said to have been erected during the time of Ivan VI - otherwise known as Ivan the Terrible - it is also said that he was so pleased with the beauty of the design that he ordered that the architect should be blinded so that he could not design anything to surpass it.

(L - The domes of St Basil's)

(R - On an interior view of one of the ceilings in St Basil's - the grave of St Basil is contained within the Cathedral)

(L - Another view inside St Basil's)

(R - The view from St Basil's along Red Square toward the entrance gate - the blue are the stands being erected for the visitors expected for the military pageant to be held shortly)

(L - The double headed eagle is the symbol of Russia and appears everywhere)

(R - This huge cannon displayed in the Kremlin grounds has never been fired. It lay buried for many years, and was finally recovered and put on display. A firm offered to supply the cannon balls stacked in front of the cannon - but the size is wrong - they do not fit!!)

(L - Another display in the Kremlin is this 200 ton bell - which has a huge chunk missing out of one side - that alone weighs around 11 tons - we had two stories about the broken piece - first that in hanging the bell, they dropped it and a large piece was cracked out of it - the other that during the cooling period a flood of water surrounded the bell, this causing a piece to split out)

Lake Baikal - Siberia

2011-08-28T06:18:00.000-07:00

(L - One of our first views of the Lake - as we run around the edge)

(R - The railway line hugs the lake edge and also the seaside cliffs)

On the Wednesday evening we made the run from Ulan Ude to Lake Baikal and

stopped at Slyudyanka Station until 7.10am. Lake Baikal is actually a branch line of the Trans Siberian. This was also the last part of the whole line that was constructed, due to difficulties and cost. The original route ran to the east side of the Lake and then passengers transferred to ships to cross the lake and joined the train on the west coast

side.

(L - More high cliffs beside the line)

(R - Our train stops for us to climb up on the engine)

The lake freezes over in winter and there were originally 2 ice breakers purchased from England to help with crossings in winter. One of these vessels had railway lines, and the carriages could run straight into the vessel. In the dead of winter crossings were made on the solid ice crust, with the carriages dragged over the ice.

(L - Faye climbs aboard the engine)

(R - The views from the engine as we travel around the branch line.

The branch line was constructed but is now by-passed entirely with the line simply being a branch line mainly used by tourist travelers. The line is very windy, twisting around the lake shore, which limits speeds to just above walking speed. Tourist numbers are fairly large though and there are about 3 trains a day.

(L - Some brave - others said foolhardy!- souls braved the waters for a swim - but only for a few minutes!!

(R - Whilst the train staff set up a table to serve vodka or champagne to the swimmers - I took the champagne but passed up on the swim)

The views are spectacular, and due to our reduced speed the train manager arranged for passengers to be able to travel on the cat walk around the engine as we proceeded along the journey.

(L - Our spot for the Lake swim)

(R - Lake Baikal has some fish found nowhere else - and the locals take the opportunity to catch and smoke)

Lake Baikal also has a breed of seal, which look just like balloons blown up. They have 2 at the local Museum.

(L - Our train at the Lake swim spot - we have become accustomed to simply walking across train tracks - but draw the line at climbing under the blocking train - as we have seen some locals do!!)

(R - We arrive at the station of Port Baikal - a throwback to the old days when the train collected the passengers who had just crossed the lake by steamer to rejoin the Trans Siberian railway - and we walk across the tracks!!)

(L - We walked down to the boat)

(R - On our boat cruise)

We had a boat cruise on the Lake followed by a visit to the Museum of Wooden Architecture which features many of the skills of the early builders who didn’t even use nails!!

(L - The other side of the lake boasts a number of resort hotels and a "beach" - of sorts)

(R - The Museum has a model of the British built ice breaker that carried the early Trans Siberian trains across the near frozen lake)

The area also hosts a Museum of Wood, which features many old buildings – all constructed with wood, and often no metal nails to hold them all together.

(L - Faye at the museum - beside a stuffed Sturgeon fish - the source of caviar, which Faye is quite fond of!)

(R - The rotund Lake Baikal seal)

(L - At the local wood Museum, I wasn't quite sure just what you COULD do?!)

(R - An early fort reconstructed at the Museum)

(L - More of the wooden buildings in the Museum)

(R - Our barbeque at Lake Baikal - with Faye tucking into another course, and of course an Australian wine)

Our day finished with a barbeque by a stream feeding into Lake Baikal. Fortunately the weather held for us – the previous trip had their barbeque washed out by rain and they partook of the food back on board the train.

(L - As we rejoined our train and made the trip back to the main line, the sun set over Lake Baikal)

MONGOLIA - ULAN BATAAR

2011-08-27T10:48:00.001-07:00

Around 10pm one evening, the train reached the Russian border and the authorities came on board to collect passports. The Russian people wanted to check our pictures with our faces, and return the passports in person, so we had to wait around until that was finished – about 2 ½ hours.

Then the train moved off for the short trip across the border and the Mongolian authorities came aboard. However, they just knocked on our door, and came in and collected the passports from the table where we had left them.

We awoke early next morning to see what sort of country we were passing through – we could see the local Gers (the nomadic home of the Mongol herders) and groups of horses and cattle.

At Ulan Bhaatar (the Capital of Mongolia) we visited the Gandan Buddhist Monastery, then drove 1 ½ hours out of town to visit the Terelj National Park, and be shown a Ger. In the afternoon we drove back to town to visit ShukheBaatar and the National History Museum before having shopping time and attending for dinner. Dinner was accompanied by a very good musical group – which included Mongolian Throat Singing.

(R - A Mongolian Train Official stands on her post and signals the train that all is OK to proceed)

(L - Our train wends its way toward Ulan Bataar)

(R - A settlement of Gers on the hillside)

(L - Ulan Bataar is a very poor city)

(L - A visit to the Gandan Buddhist Monastery)

(R - Terelj National Park)

(L - Inside a Ger - the traditional home of the Mongols)

(R - A square in Ulan Bataar)

(L - Ther square by night)

(R - Back to the train by 10pm and a very much appreciated bed)

RUSSIA - VLADIVOSTOK AND TRANS SIBERIAN

2011-08-27T10:07:00.000-07:00

We arrived by air into Vladivostok. The city is perched on the hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

It was once a closed port and the home of the Russian Pacific Fleet, which now features prominently in their museums!! We were told that the city currently has 2 seasons – summer and reconstruction – they are preparing for a big international conference in 2012, so are tearing up the city and roads to rebuild everything. They are also building a massive bridge which will be one of the biggest in the world – WHEN completed! Locals are not sure if it will all be finished in time. And the city appears to be one large traffic jam!! And parking is a massive problem. Traffic drives on the right but vehicles can be either left or right hand drive as they import large numbers of second hand cars from Japan, and the Russians are NOT going to be deprived off their cars!!!

(L - Our train - the long blue one in the back ground)

(R - Our welcome glass of champagne in the meeting hall)

After a tour of Vladivostok we were taken to our train – the Golden Eagle – our luggage was already aboard in our cabins. We were welcomed with a glass of champagne and then taken to board our train.

There was a brass Band playing to welcome us. Our cabin stewards guided us to our car – we were car 10 – the last car, but for the start we were at the front of the train. It appears that when leaving Moscow trains run forward, but backwards when returning.

(L - Faye is welcomed aboard by our two carriage attendants)

The train has all facilities just like a large hotel - dining cars, lounge cars, kitchen and of course bedrooms, which convert to seats during the day.

Cars are inter Cars are interconnected, so you could walk from one

end of the train to the other. The only extra from a hotel is the swaying motion all the time – especially if the track is rough!!

(L - The corridor down the carriages)

(R - The cabin ready for day use)

(L - The lounge car)

(R - The cabin ready for sleeping - the upper bunk swings down)

(R - The dining car)

Day 20 - Training, Final Group, Walk with Lek and Tubing

2011-08-07T02:59:00.000-07:00

Another activity at the Park is simple training of elephants. Lek is trying to show that it is possible to train elephants in a way that is not cruel and painful. One of the major purposes of the training is to enable possible veterinary work to be carried out simply - as the animals are taught to respond to the training and gain confidence that they will not suffer.

(L - Karl and Michelle in the training grid - the cross bars are the various heights which the elephants are trained to lift their feet.)

The training is on the reward system, with the elephants being rewarded with bananas when they get the commands right. Karl and Michelle carry out the training day by day. Attendance is voluntary, and some elephants progress faster than others. (One elephant comes in 3 - 4 times a day - perhaps because they want to learn, or perhapsd it is the banana hand out??? But that would be cynical, wouldn't it??)

(L - Michelle replicates some veterinary examination of the base of the elephants foot - to accustom the animal to what could occur)

(R - Karl uses the long pole to tap the rear quarters of the elephant to train them to change positions)

(L - A mahout carves an elephant model of his elephant. The mahouts can supplement their income by the sale of these carvings)

(R - A rear view of Tilly and Mae Kham Puen - the former has a damaged hip, and the latter is 90% blind - and they are best friends)

(L - Our group assembles for the traditional group photo - the elephant came uninvited)

(R - We also have the guides assemble

(L - WE then were able to pose with the guides and the elephant)

(R - In the afternoon, Lak appeared again, and took several of us on a walk out in the Park - with the babies she simply calls their names, and they come right up to her)

(L - Lek had brought her pet hen along to try the sand bath on the sand pile)

(R - The baby elephants demanded some attention)

(L - Lek also tried to introduce her pet chicken to the elephant - it didn't seem to mind too much!!)

(R - The baby elephant tries to negotiate the sand pile - UP)

(L - And DOWN!!)

(R - Mum and baby are quite happy to have Lek - see her crouched under the baby's front legs)

(L - Lek talks to us on the river bank)

(R - Now that the week has come to a close the guides offered a tubing adventure on the river - so we loaded the vehicles and drove up river, where the passengers boarded their tubes for the drift back to the Park)

(R - Tep had trouble getting on board his tube)

(L - About 20 mins later the group drifted back into the Park)

(R - And at about the same time, the monsoon rains started!!)

(L - A very wet group emerges from the water - and rush for a hot shower!!)

Day 19 - Poo and Lek

2011-08-06T06:42:00.001-07:00

Today we had a varied day, which started with the usual clean up of the elephant pens - more commonly known as poo shoveling. But we have a good group, and we have the mechanics down to a fine art in the utensils needed in number of rakes, pitchforks and shovels. In this way we can efficiently collect all the different products that we have to collect! We hope the elephants appreciate their cleaner stalls - but somehow I doubt it!!

(L - The large pens)

(R- Cleaning up at the clinic!! This place always seems to distract us - due to the sick patients - as we always seem to have time for a pat!!)

The afternoon was really special as we had a visit from Lek who talked to us about her work. Then in the afternoon at feeding time she came out to the family pens, and sat with one of the babies as she was fed. She invited people to come inside and sit with her and have their photographs taken. Following are some shots of Lek and some of the volunteers - amongst the legs of the elephants!!

(L - Mum, Baby and Lek)

Day 18 - Corn Cutting & Elephant Walk

2011-08-06T05:44:00.000-07:00

(L - Some o9f the local women are employed for the cutting also - and they do about twice what we do!!)

Corn cutting was on the agenda today. In previous weeks I have been out on similar ventures - once to cut elephant grass, another to harvest the top parts of the corn - above the cob. The first one we were issued with machetes, but the second one we used our hands to simply snap the upper part of the corn off. Then the farmer could harvest the cob, and now we could come along and use the machetes to cut off the remainder of

(L - We unload from the transport)

the plant - at just above ground height. Whatever the work we still had to collect the cuttings into bundles, which the local people who were with us tied into bundles. Apparently in early days volunteers used to tie the bundles, but they had a habit of coming undone in transit. The locals can tie better.

(L - Chay unloads and hands out the machetes)

(R - We head out into the fields)

(L- Chay demonstrates the correct use - so that we retrun to the Park with the same number of fingers and legs as we came with!!)

(R - Now armed we confront the task)

(R - One of the locals ties up the bundles)

(R - We take a break!!)

(L - The bundled corn has to be carried back to the truck - again the little local ladies generally carried two bundles each, whilst we could manage one)

(R - At the truck a local lady threw the bundles up on the truck!!)

(L - The corn cutting team for the day)

(R - We came out in the truck - but now it was full of cut cane - so Chay gave us an option - walk back or ride W-A-Y up top. Of course we elected for the latter and had a lovely breeze

(L - The View from the top of the truck)

(R - The triumphant corn cutting team back at the Park)

Day 18 - Our Home

2011-08-05T23:08:00.000-07:00

Our home is quite comfortable - as long as one doesn't mind spiders, lizards, geckos, rats, mice, snakes (one seen one seen in the rafters, but believed to be a mouse snake), mosquitos, cold showers on occasions, rain and muggy weather.

Otherwise things are great. The food is plentiful and plates are loaded every time. Daily resolutions are made to take a smaller plate - but that simply means the pile of food is higher!!!

So here are some photos taken from around the place.

(L - The bar is quite erratic with its opening hours!!)

(R - Part of the regular eating are - wher you can sit and watch the elephants)

(L - A simple jungle exists in the center of the block)

(R - One of the many walk ways around the place)

(L - The area for the tourists being shown around the place)

(R - The toilet and shower block)

(L - The loading dock for the elephant kitchen)

(R - The washbasins in a central location)

(L & R - Meals are egular and food is abundant)

(R - The view from one of my windows)

(L - The view from my other window)

(R - My bedroom - complete with mosquito netting)

Day 17 - Kitchen and Sand Shifting

2011-08-03T04:09:00.000-07:00

Another regular chore is getting the food for the elephants. We have our breakfast nice and sharp at 7am, and then at 8am we report for our work shift. There are basically 3 main tasks, so we rotate through them. That is food, poo and cutting something!!

Today we were back on the kitchen routine. Considering that each elephant eats around 200kg of food each day you can understand the regularity - I guess that it is a bit like our breakfast regularity.

I didn't realize that pumpkins came in so many shapes and sizes!! Still the routine is always the same - form a line and shift a pile of pumpkins to the water trough, then scrub the pumpkins (to remove any possible insecticides), then pass them onto the very NICE lady who swings a mean machete (bet her husband never says NO) and chops them into smaller pieces. Still it is interesting to see the way some elephants take a full pumpkin, and you can hear the crunch as the large teeth make very short work of it.

So here are some shots of our regular preparation.

(L - One of the other work groups heads off for their work duty)

(R - Ther usual view across the Park - each day I can't resist but stop and have a look - and wonder if I am really here!!)

(L & R - The elephants wander and at set times they are watered - well the tourists throw buckets of water at the sides of the elephants, most of which goes over the top to drench the tourists on the other side of the elephant!! - and the tourists gather round to have photographs taken with the family Group)

(L - Baby and Mother visit the mahout during a break)

(R - Afternoon work roster was to shovel sand. We were taken into the park to the large pile of sand, and then filled the trailer - the sand is destined for building foundation)

(L & R - Our transport around the Park for this duty is by the trailer - highly illegal in most places!! But fun here - especially with all the bumps, and still a bit of water left around the Park)

(L & R - Our group is ready to start - the enthusiasm ran out fairly quickly as the wet sand, mixed with rocks was quite heavy to shovel)

(L & R - The foundations for the new building - sand on top of smashed concrete bricks, and steel reinforcement - the upright poles contain reinforcement, but when it goes to a second level they sometimes will weld a second piece onto the reinforcement of the first upright pole))

Day 16 - Poo and Water Tank

2011-08-03T04:08:00.001-07:00

Our drafted work for the morning was the usual poo-duty. It is still raining occasionally, so rain jackets are required - which of course means that as well as getting wet outside, we get wet inside where the plastic makes us sweat.

(L - In good council fashion we can lean on our shovels!!)

(R - Tep has the tractor and the pick up cart - we shoveled about 4-5 loads)

(L - As well as the usual poo, we had some collections of sugar cane that has not been consumed)

(R - Our other form of pick up!!)

(R - In the afternoon we were drafted to the task of cleaning the elephant water tanks - so we collected our brooms and scrubbing brushes)

(R - The watar tanks are large concrete structures beside the elephant pens, and which the elephants use for water at night time.)

(L - Cleaning starts - despite the pouring rain)

Day 15 - New Vols - Kitchen

2011-08-03T04:07:00.000-07:00

It has rained here since midday Sunday, as the old volunteers left. And constantly since then!! By daybreak on Monday the Park was well awash, and the river had risen about 2 feet. The water is now up to the bank, and the beach of pebbles that we used to have has disappeared.

(L - The River has risen and the flow rate increased dramatically)

(R - However, this doesn't seem to upset our elephant, enjoying her early morning swim)

(R - Despite the rain the tourists still enjoy bathing the elephants - and people complain about the rain??!!)

(L - Here is a puzzle for you - what is this? An island, or what??)

(R - NO - Look closely at the back of the elephant where she has sprayed mud on her back - and the mud contained this plant!!)

(L - The tourists with the elephants in the river)

Day 14 - Moses' Wedding

2011-08-01T23:42:00.000-07:00

We were fortunate to be in the Park on July 31, when Moses, the Mahout for Mae Keow, married Moe Moe.

(L - The Conference Room decorated for the occasion)

Some of the volunteers decorated the Conference Room, and of course everyone that was here attended the ceremony. The service was conducted in Thai (I think - but it may have been in Burmese??), and was a Roman Catholic service.

(L - The First Lesson was read by one of the Mahouts)

After the wedding service the Priest conducted Mass. The hymns were accompanied by a portable organ. These are some photographs that I took of the ceremony.

(L - The Service)

(R - Some attendees didn't pay a lot of attention, and slept through the service)

(L & R - The various wedding groups)

(R - Note the bridesmaid with a veil and head dress)

(R - The bride actually smiled for me!!)

Day 14 - Volunteer Change Over

2011-08-01T23:06:00.000-07:00

This

This Sunday was the end of a week and so many of the volunteers finished up their week long shift!

In the morning we had our usual tasks, and I worked in the kitchen again - there is always a need for food for the 36 elephants. After lunch several of us walked around to make the last good byes for Victoria and Caryn, and also catch the occasional picture they had missed earlier.

The following photos are some of the pictures - possibly repetitions that I have already taken, but it is just magical to see these elephants walking past each day, and also to be able to actually handle and feed them. So I shall just let you enjoy the pictures - with an occasional comment.

(R - The elephants accept the daily bathing by the tourists but really enjoy the bathing by them selves when they frolic and roll around)

(R - One of the baby elephants claims the high point for the afternoon feeding)

(L - One of the volunteers stands beside one of the elephants)

(L - The elephant fossics in the food bag of the Mahout)

(L & R - The Monsoon rains came, and the Park was quite wet. The river rose about 2 feet and the tide became quite fast and strong)

Here are some movie clips to enjoy also

Day 13 - Mae Khaam and walk

2011-07-31T01:26:00.000-07:00

(L - As exp0lained in the previous page, we all had to share mattresses and floor in the single room - thids is an early view - it seemed as though every one slept in the same posture - like spoons alongside each other)

(R - A family picture from the lady next door)

(L - We took our gear down to the truck to load, which left us free for the 90 minute walk ahead)

(R - We meet our two elephants for the walk ahead - the big bull, followed by Mae Khaam - which mans "Golden Mother" in Thai)

(L - We meet Mae Khaam for the first time - she seemed very placid and peaceful)

(R - Mae Khaam checks us out)

The next photos are from the walk up the hillside, so I have not added any particular narration to some pictures)

(R - On the trip up there were occasional stops for "refreshments" on the road side)

(L - So what are you lot looking at>>)

(L - Even some of the local villagers turn out to have a look)

(R - Mae Khaam follows the big bull, which is ridden by a mahout)

(L & R - A small water crossing the road proves an obstacle for some)

(L - But not everyone!!)

(R - The Mahout turns the elephants off the road and into the jungle)

(L - The track is UPPPPP)

(R - And we follow - although not quite as easily!!)

(L - The Mahout cleans mud out of the broken tusk stump)

(R - The sun can be hard on the skin, so this was a good stop for a dirt shower)

(L - Let's take a snack to nibble on the journey)

(R - One of the volunteers gets up close to Mae Khaam)

(L - Our group say their farewells)

(R - Our group photo!!)

Then disaster struck!! The elephants found a muddy water pool, and decided to cool off. They filled their trunks and squirted the muddy water - EVERYWHERE - including the surrounding volunteers!!

(L & R - Victoria from Hawaii received most of the mud - she said that she loves the new elephant so much she may not wash for days!!)

Day 12 - Up to Hill Tribe Village

2011-07-31T00:41:00.000-07:00

We finally got the go ahead to go up country to check out the condition of the new elephant that Lek is trying to transfer to the Park.

(Left - we stopped at a market for supplies)

This elephant is an ex-trekking elephant, who has had two calves before - but she killed both - thought to be due to stress. She is now carrying the third calf, which is due within the next month or so, and the hope is that is they can transfer her to the Park they will be able to reduce the stress, with the presence of the other elephants, and therefore save this calf.

(R - Lunch was served at a roadside cafe - this is the menu - select your meal - all about Aus $1)
(L - The kitchen)

(R - Part of our group enjoying their meal)

The villagers where the elephant is situated is up in the mountains a seven hour drive from the Park. They are also very spiritual and anything can hinder the transfer process. Last week one of the elders had a dream involving geckos, and this was considered a bad omen, so the transfer was postponed again.

(L - The scenery on the way up)

It is estimated that the elephant will probably be too stresses to travel by truck, so it will be a matter of walking the elephant to the Park - a trip expected to take about 6 days. This is normally done using teams of volunteers walking with the elephant. Normally the convey has to go via the jungle as elephants are not allowed on most roads. They stop each night at villages who are used to these transfers, and provide some basic flat surface where the volunteers can sleep!!! (In varying degrees of uncomfort!!)

(R - After 5 hours of driving we transferred to a 4 wheel drive vehicle)

(L - Travel now was a little more spartan)

(R - But some people sat down - for many short spells)

This particular blog covers our trip up to the village.

(L & R - The other vehicle follows)

(L - The scenery as we climbed higher)

(R - Finally arriving at the village)

(L - The walk up to our accommodation)

(R - Our home for the night)

(L - The view from the window was very nice)

(R - But the bedroom was lacking a few refinements - like beds, mattresses, blankets, etc!! Mattresses did finally appear, so we all slept in linesw on the floor - as one girl said "it was the first tim she had slept with 12 people!!))

(L - Facilities were outside and similarly spartan)

(R - The facilities included a toilet and shower - the squat toilet was flushed with a dipper from the tub of water on the right hand side. The shower was obtained in the same way - all icy cold!!)

(L - After coming to terms with the accommodation the volunteers started to explore the village)

(R - The local kids loved having their pictures taken, and then seeing the image on the digital screen)

(L - We brought gifts of packets of chips and nibbles for the children, who when advised of the hand outs quickly formed into two lines)

(R - With the hand out completed and the village explored, we settled down to dinner)

Day 11 - Elephant Kitchen and Tree Planting

2011-07-28T02:23:00.000-07:00

All of our days start with breakfast - and before that of course we see the elephants!! Our breakfast is a buffet style which we eat on the deck whilst the elephants are being released from their pens, and heading off for their daily locations. Naturally some of the elephants passing by drop in hoping that they will get a banana or something else!

Lately we have been watching on of the baby elephants who can't wait to get out, so when the top rail is removed he actually climbs over the remaining three bars, and the top one is about5 the same height as he is!! He will be hard to keep in when he gets older. Today we saw that he now has worked out how to remove the top bar himself with his trunk!!!

(L - Making banana balls)

After breakfast we had our morning duties, and my group reported to the elephant kitchen again - with one group put onto banana balls, and us going to wash pumpkins. In the middle of that a delivery truck arrived with another 3 tons of pumpkin, so we formed a human chain and unloaded the pumpkins onto the racks.

(L & R - Washing pumpkins in the trough - a wet but satisfying job in the hot weather )

(R - After the pumpkins we had to load and wash the watermelons - here they are transferred to the carry baskets)

(L - Renee uses the machete on the pumpkins - making to bite size - although some of the elephants will take the whole pumpkin in one bite!!)

(R - Even at lunch time we seem to be ablwe to find time to go see the elephants - here Tilly and Mae Kham Puan enjoy the river)

(L & R - The pumpkin truck arrives, and we unload)

(L - We are well away from the local shops but the ice cream man drives up at 2pm each day!!

(R - After lunch we were on tree planting duties outside the front gate)

(R - Our tree planting group - AFTER the completion of the day's shift)

(L - Victoria hams it up with two of our guides - Chet and Jam)

(R - Outside the front gate and the welcome sign)

Day 10 - Elephant Park - Poo Duty, Lek and Walk

2011-07-27T16:28:00.001-07:00

(L - As usual Tilly and Mae Kham Puan pass by the deck where we are having our breakfast - just in case there are some bananas goi8ng begging)

(R - Some of our group of 2 weekers having breakfast on the deck)

(L - We have a very good selection for breakfast - but mainly Thai, with some acceptance of western customs - like corn flakes, and toast. But the toast is cooked on a fire in a clay pot. Sometimes it is cooked by the staff, but sometimes you have to cook your own. I time it to arrive there when there is generally toast available to pick up!!)

(L - We generally have fresh bananas, but they go quickly - even though the elephants seem to get plenty - but theirs are generally green!)

(L - This is an elephant's tooth - they normally have four, but a few of ours have no teeth and so we prepare softer foods for them to eat)

(R - Jam -James - one of our regular guides

(L - After breakfast we were allocated to the cleaning up job - Poo Cleaning!! We lean n our shovels like all good council workers)

(R - This time we had a truck to load the refuse in! We use shovels, pitch forks and rakes)

(L & R - Cleaning up in the various pens. The elephants are returned to certain stalls for the night, where they are chained up. It is unfortunate that they are chained for longer than they are free, but as the surrounding areas are private farming land, there is always the danger that if they escape and cause a nuisance in the farmer's field he is allowed to shoot them)

(R - One of the workers not working!!)

(L & R - Loading our truck

(L - In the clinic, we visit the resident elephant who is in for foot treatment - he stood on a land mine which seriously injured his left hind foot.)

(L & R - This elephant was on the walk back to the rear of the Park, but was thirsty. So he stopped by a certain tap, and then with his truck he turned on the water. The tap was a lever type, so he didn't have to twist it. Then he proceeded to fill up his trunk and squirt it in his mouth. And he stayed until he was satisfied. At one stage the mahout turned the tap off but the elephant promptly turned it back on again!!)

(L & R - Two of the elephants enjoy their river swim - another regular thing to look at each day)

I was lucky enough to meet Lek, who is the driving force behind the Elephant Nature Park. Lek is Thai and her name means "Small", and to see her with elephants is amazing. She talks to them, chides them and they seem to "listen" to her. And to see her standing beside these large elephants, she almost disappears, as these pictures show.

(L & R - Lek gave me some food to feed the elephants and Pom came and took the camera for these shots

(L & R - We have two baby elephants - but they are around 2 years old now. Here one of them poses with tourists)

(L - Our banana stockpile in the elephant kitchen)

(R - We pass an elephant as we go out into the Park for another elephant walk)

(L & R - Afternoon duties were fence repairing or building - which ever way you want to look at it. The first part of that was the cutting of the fence posts to length. We had a very small cross cut saw, which some of the girls used - with effort!!)

(L & R - The rest of us set about digging holes for the posts. We were replacing a fence that was there previously, and had rotted or collapsed or been leaned upon by an elephant!! We had to remove the old posts, undo the attached bared wire, dig the hole, replace the post and then re-attach the barbed wire! We had a small post hole digger, a hammer and pliers and a small supply of nails. Again a story of lack of correct tools

(L & R - After repairing that section of fence we moved up to the deck to work on another fence that had failed to stand the strength of a rampaging elephant last week. It was quite interesting to watch, but I didn't have a camera at the time - but this particular elephant came rushing out from his stall, with an eye on a branch hanging low down over the deck. She was able to put her forelegs up on the steel rails, and reach the overhanging branch. Then the dogs started barking at her, and she started chasing them. This got more and more boisterous with the dogs barking more and the elephant chasing them in all directions!! In the end she ran round the deck and crashed through a fence there. The mahouts had to come and carefully shepherd her out, and then we had the job of repairing the damage.

4 Bodalla - Kayley

2011-07-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Kayley - "How young is the youngest elephant there?"

At present we have 2 "baby" elephants, but they are about 2 years old. Their names are Chang Yim and Farmai. The picture on the left shows one of these babies with Lek, who was the founder of the Elephant Refuge here. On the right the baby elephant follows his mother on a walk. We are hoping that we might have a real baby elephant here soon, as we are trying to bring an elephant who is expecting a baby to the Park in the next few days

4 Bodalla - Will S

2011-07-27T04:15:00.000-07:00

Hi Will S - "What is your favourite thing you have done there so far?"

My favourite thing here is going out into the Park on what we call an "Elephant Walk". We go out with a guide and we take a large bunch of bananas. Then we go and visit some of the elephants where they are feeding, and then give them some bananas and get the chance to take pictures standing beside them and patting them. They have very rough skin, but if we don't have any food they are not interested!!

4 Bodalla - Jasmine

2011-07-27T04:06:00.000-07:00

Hi Jasmine - "What is the biggest elephant at the Park?"

Our biggest elephant here is Shrinuan, and from the picture you can see that she is probably twice as high as a man!! She is about 50 years old. Elephants sometimes live to be 90 years old, but like humans they need to keep good health and be looked after. Unfortunately she is blind, so needs a friend to help her. But she can smell the food very well, and take it out of our hands.

Elephants pick up their food by wrapping their trunk around the object and then putting it to the side of their mouths, where they can use their tongue to push it into their mouths. This picture shows her wrapping her trunk around some bananas.

4 Bodalla - Jake

2011-07-27T03:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Jake - "What is your favourite job at the Park?"

I am certain that my favourite job at the Park is working in the elephant kitchen, preparing the food for all the animals. It is fun and we quite often get wet - which we don't mind as the weather is so hot.

Trucks arrive with 3 tons of pumpkin or watermelon, which we have to pack on racks. Then we have to wash ALL the items as we don't know what chemicals have been sprayed on them. Then they are chopped up into smaller pieces. The picture at left is our wash trough with a day's pumpkins in it.

The elephants also love bananas and we have lots of bananas, which we have to keep sorting as some get ripe quicker than others - we just have to watch for the spiders and cockroaches. The elephants eat 200 kg of food each day

4 Bodalla - Rhiannan

2011-07-27T03:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Rhiannan - "What is the elephant's most favourite obstacle?"

Well you have given me a very hard question, and it seems to me that probably their favourite obstacle is a river - they love water, but can swim well and enjoy getting wet and across to the other side. I have seen them break through a fence, I have seen them chase dogs, and even saw one turn on a tap so he could have a drink of water!!

So for your question I have included another shot of the elephants in the river that we have here at the park, and you can see how they love the water, and how good they are at swimming.

4 Bodalla - Lauren

2011-07-26T23:41:00.000-07:00

Hi Lauren - "Do you have a favourite elephant?"

Well Lauren, I actually have two favourites, and this is them. On the left is Tilly, and on the right is Mae Kham Puan. The reason that I like these is that Mae Kham Puan is totally blind, and Tilly stays with her all the time as her best friend. Mae Kham Puan was blinded by her owner when he got cross with her./

4 Bodalla - Helen

2011-07-26T23:15:00.000-07:00

Hi Helen "What are the elephants favorite food?"

(L) This is a lunch basket for Mae Kampuan. She normally has two of these a day. It contains watermelon, pumpkin and bananas. An elephant eats about 200kg of food each day. We also give the elephants greens to eat during the evening, when they are chained up in their areas. We use elephant grass and also the tops of sweet corn - above the corn cob

4 Bodalla - Lauren

2011-07-26T23:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Lauren - "Do the elephants swallow the banana skin?"

Well sometimes. For the visitors here they feed the elephant a single banana at a time. The elephant wraps the trunk around the banana and then pops it in the mouth. Sometimes we give them a whole bunch of bananas and they take it in all one bite!! Sometimes the elephant doesn't like a banana and drops it from the trunk. We tried to give an elephant a banana skin yesterday, but he just dropped it. We normally use green bananas.

4 Bodalla - Jake

2011-07-26T22:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Jake - "Why do elephants like water so much"

An elephant is VERY large and they get very hot, and the water helps them cool off. They also drink a lot each day, as they lose a lot of water through perspiration. They are also clean and use the water to clean up. But after they have cleaned themselves by having a bath they use their trunks to spray dirt over themselves to help protect their skin against sunburn. Also they love to roll in mud, as this also works like a sunburn cream.

Day 9 - Elephant Park - Cutting Corn

2011-07-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

Today's duty was to collect some (actually a LOT) corn green for the elephants. The green is actually the part of the corn plant that grows above the cob. The farmer wants the cob for sale, and so we go through the field and snap of the part of the plant directly above the cob.

(R - We arrive at the field and are given our instructions by Chia)

(L - Our group prepares for the work - in the background is the truck which we need to load.)

(R - Our team goes in to attack the corn field)

(L - Chia demonstrates the correct merthod for snapping off the corn stalks)

(R - The corn tops that we have snapped off are collected and tied into bundles for collection

(L - The corn field and our people picking up the tops)

(R - I am in the middle of the corn field)

(L - Bundles of corn tops to be collected)

(R - Carriers bring the bundles in from the fields)

(L - One of the workers in the field)

(R - Our bus for the ride back home)

(L - At the heat of the day, this vendor of cold fruits found us in the field)

(R - On the road back home we pass one of the elephants that carries tourists)

(L - The scenery of corn fields on the drive back home)

(R - At the clinic one of the elephants has an ear infection sprayed)

(L - In mid afternoon, the elephants come out to feed on the raised area

(R - Out on our elephant walk, we feed another elephant

(L - One of the elephants spends it days under the house)

(R - This is the grave of one of the elephants that passed away some months ago)

(L - The grave stone for Rara)

(R - The veterinary students worked at the clinic)

(L - The view back to the main building)

(R - The elephants bath time for the tourists)

(L - Afternoon feeding time for the tourists, whilst our group finishes our Elephant Walk)

Day 8 - Elephant Park - Volunteer Change Over

2011-07-26T05:37:00.000-07:00

Today was Monday, which is the first day for the new volunteers coming from Chiang Mai. Sunday night was very quiet in the Park, with just the three of us having dinner, and an early night - but AFTER a Thai Massage. Here at the Park the local ladies come in and can provide a massage for Baht120 which is about Au$4 for an hour. It is really like a family affair up the stairs in a loft above the main eating area - they chat and laugh.

(L - This is Tilly, and she is a good friend of Kham Puen - they are always together)

The new volunteers started to arrive about 10am, and that was just the same time that a truck drew up with 3 tons of pumpkin!! So we didn't hesitate but put them straight to work unloading. We had just finished that when a truck load of watermelons arrived and we had to unload that too!! So they got a quick start.

(R - And this is Kham Puen - and she is totally blind - having been blinded by a Mahout when she refused to obey his instructions - and that was just after her baby had died!! Now Tilly helps her - and at feeding time she depends on her smelling ability)

So I thought that in the absence of pictures I would introduce you to some of the elephants - we have 37 all together - most with heart wrenching histories.

(L - This is another shot of Tilly, and you can see that she has a bad rear leg - possibly due to some accident in a logging camp)

(R - A view outside the lounge area, with the elephants assembled for a feed, along with the 2 baby elephants that were born in the Park)

(L - Another view of the elephants out in the Park and another one hanging round the gate in the hope of an extra banana from some gullible tourist)

(R - The over bridge that runs out into the park - from here you can view the elephants below or as they swim and frolic in the river)

(L - I was lucky to meet up with Lek, who was the instigator of the whole drive to show the world just how cruel the training is of Thai elephants)

I have put my name down to become and Elephant Ambassador for the group when I go back home. Our task is to educate people about the brutality behind the lovely elephants that the tourists see.

Day 7 - Elephant Park - Downwalk to Park

2011-07-24T23:29:00.000-07:00

(L - Up at the lodge we arose about 6.30am, and of course were all looking our best!!!)

(R - Breakfast was quite simple - omelet and toast and tea - so that we could get away as quickly as possible as we needed to be back at the Park before lunch)

(L - A shot from the front door at the mist low down on the hill tops)

(R - Our lodge with the mosquito netting on the beds on the verandah)

The next films show the start of the trek down - I wasn't able to film much more as the elephants traveled so fast, and I was bringing up the rear, so didn't see them again until we got back to the Park

(

(R - Back at the Park we had a last picture of our Week's group)

(L - And our guides - ?, James, Tep and Chai

(R - That afternoon pendemonium reigned as the departing group loaded in their vehicles and headed back to Chiang Mai.

(L - The vans departed - end of Week 1)

Day 6 - Elephant Park - Planting trees

2011-07-24T01:14:00.000-07:00

Today, Saturday, we had another adventure - together with another organization, there is an attempt to resettle elephants back into their native surroundings - the jungle. However there is not a lot left, so this group has acquired some land and is replacing the crops with jungle trees. The objective is to re-establish a jungle area where the elephants can roam in their native state. To acclimatize the elephants one or two at a time are taken up to the area, and allowed to roam freely for a couple of days before being brought back down to the Park.

(L - Highly illegal in Australia, we load in the back of the truck for the trip up)

(R - Our journey starts on sealed roads)

A volunteer group of about 15 will walk up the hill with the elephants, then stay overnight at the (very basic and rough) building there. On day 2 another group of volunteers will go up by truck and stay overnight replacing the first group who will then travel back in the truck. On day 2 both groups are involved in planting trees in the area that has been cleared of crops.

(L - Our road soon deteriorates to a vehicle track)

(R - And then deteriorates further to the stage where we need the four wheel drive)

I was involved in the second batch - planned to go up on the Saturday and then walk the elephants back down on Sunday, in time for those finishing up to clean up and catch the buses back to town.

(L - The scenery is beautiful - even if the road is not)

(R - Our "home" for the night - basically two rooms upstairs, a verandah to sleep on, two toilets and a shower - with cold water - but that is not noticed to much as the weather is generally so hot and muggy!!)

(L - Group 2 meets up with Group 1 and exchange notes about the walk up)

(R - The adjacent shower and toilet block)

(L - We all head down to the area where the tree planting is to occur)

(R - Our Group surveys the task up the hill)

(L - The band of stalwarts are issued with their tools - basically a hoe and trees in tubes and cardboard and fertilizer. One to the staff has the huge task of cutting the head height elephant grass down to a manageable level, then with the hoe we drag the cut grass away to expose the ground, then dig a small hole for the tree. After the tree is place in the hole, some fertilizer is sprinkled around the tree and a sheet of cardboard is placed around the tree like mulch. A stake is then driven in to the cardboard to hold it down, and also indicate where the tree is)

(R - Waiting for instructions and some holes to be dug)

(L - Tic shows us how to remove the tree from the plastic tube and plant the tree in the hole)

(R - The trees are placed in distances of about 2 meters to the nearest next tree - some of our measurements were a bit hay wire)

(L - We returned to the building for lunch

(R - After lunch groups were split up again, some back to the tree planting, and some others assigned to making the stakes to drive into te ground. Bamboo is used extensively here. The broad bamboo is cut into length and then with a machete - also a much used item here in Thailand - the bamboo is splintered to make a number of stakes. Then, again with the machete, the end is pointed)

(L - Meanwhile back at the tree planting work progresses but is slowing as the chap cutting the grass is slowing!)

(R - The Group 1, who walked up the day before climb into the trucks and head back to town and the showers. We continue for another half hour)

(L - The cane splitters and sharpeners continue - I managed to get a job sharpening points until we finished all the work)

(R - The beds on the verandah - we shared two to each mosquito net - this one was mine - shared with Tep, our guide)

(L - The view from the bedroom was great)

(R - We lined up for dinner at 6pm - again a great selection of Tahi food - then we had a cup of tea or coffee, and chatted for a while. There was nothing else to do, we were miles from anywhere, and the closest local store had no beer - so it was bed around 8.15pm - ready for the fun walk on the morrow to take the elephants back to the Nature Reserve)

Day 5 - Elephant Park - Banana Balls and Elephant Walk

2011-07-22T05:57:00.001-07:00

Today when we reported for duty we were given a new job - making banana balls!!

(L -We receive our instructions)

(R - The start - peel the over ripe bananas)

Some of the older elephants, or some without teeth (elephants have 4 VERY large teeth) have difficulty with eating the regular food, so here we make up banana balls for easier digestion.

(L & R - we peel and mash!!)

(L - When you have peeled all the bananas, you then mash even more, until it is quite smooth - I figured that a large blender would have been an asset!!)

(R - When the mixture is quite smooth, seeds and other dry ingredients are added)

(L - It is quite a feeling, mashing away at the bananas. It slows however as the dry ingredients are added)

(R - When the mixture becomes dry enough, it is rolled into large balls

(L - In the afternoon we were taken on another "elephant walk" around the park. We go with one of the guides who carries a large bunch of green bananas. Here the mahouts drag down a cart full of elephant grass for their charges to nibble through the night)

(L - In another part of the Park they have set up a school to train elephants in certain things. The training is done on the reward system, with snacks for the correct actions. Most of the training is directed to actions that may be necessary for the care of the elephant - like a sore leg, or some other part when it may become necessary for the Vet to touch the elephant. In this way they are comfortable with being touched)

(R - we passed by the "Clinic" and stopped to give some bananas to a sick elephant - it has a foot problem on one of its back legs - it is actually quite interesting in that whilst there are two sick elephants there are actually three elephants in the clinic. The extra one is a "friend" who stays with one of the sick ones)

(L - Further down in the Park we came up with two more elephants who were quite happy to diminish our load of bananas.

(R - They have quite a sense of smell, and you can touch them, but if you have no bananas they are not that interested in you)

(L - We got on quite well)

(R - All of us clustered around and the elephant is quite happy - even more so if we have a banana to fold into the trunk)

Day 4 - Elephant Park - Poo and Local School

2011-07-21T06:02:00.000-07:00

(L - We report for duty again)

(R - Our assignment this morning is to clean up AFTER the elephants in their night stalls - in other words "elephant pooo"!!! We are allocated our pitchforks, shovels and rakes)

(L _ The elephants are penned and chained each evening in their stalls, which is where we clean up)

(R - We load it into the truck)

(L - We take to the compost heap, where we unload - after several trips we were told that we were finished, and should go back and have a shower!!)

(R - Later that morning we visited a local primary school

(L - the children had a variety of things for us to do or participate in - from teaching English, to making bracelets, etc. I participated in the Thai Foot Massage, for which I made a Baht 100 donation - about Aus$3

(R - That is my foot!!)

(L - A class room at the school)

(R - The children playing in the sports area

(L - The pre-school children are assembled for their lunch)

(R - Our visitors wait outside one of the school buildings

(L - Back at our place we have lunch on the deck)

(L - After lunch we report to the elephant kitchen for duties.)

(R - Our task is corn shucking - we have received 3 tons of corn which needs to be peeled - it is interesting to understand how long it takes to peel a corn cob, and exactly how long it takes to be swallowed!!)

Bananas, watermelons, and pumpkin are the main items stocked in the kitchen, and they arrive by the truckload, and have to be stored and regularly checked for ripening, etc.

(R - A load of bananas arrives and we are taken of corn duties to help unload)

(L - We form a chain gang and pass the bunches out)

(R - Our elephant kitchen, with shelves stacked)

(L - Our group carries the baskets of food over to the baby elephant stalls for the afternoon feeding)

(R - There is always an elephant looking to pick up some extra morsel)

(L - One of the injured elephants - see the rear right leg)

(R - Hanging out for a bite!!)

(Below - Enjoying myself in the river)

`

Day 3 - Elephant Park - Cutting grass and Elephant Walk

2011-07-20T23:05:00.001-07:00

Today our group was allocated to the task of "cutting grass"!! The elephants are fed at regular times of 11.30am and 4pm and then chained for the night. So they are left a quantity of grass to nibble through the night (as they only sleep for about 4 hours each night). This was the grass we had to cut.

(L - we arrive and R we walk into the cutting area)

The grass we cut is called "elephant grass" (quite naturally) and we were issued with machetes to cut the stalks. The 36 elephants eat about 300 bundles a day, and our task was to cut about 100 bundles (about a very large armful)

(L & R - Cutting away - we needed to wear long sleeved shirts and trousers, as the grass has a sharp edge - and several people suffered cuts)

After cutting for about an hour we had a break and then started collecting the bundles, which had been tied up by the paid employees (apparently when the volunteers did it in the past the ties didn't stay tied!!

(L - Stacking the bundles)
(R - carrying the bundles in)

(L - Victoria climbs to the top of the stack)

(R - We all join in for a group photo - see me on the extreme right - I did make it)

(L - With our cutting and stacking finished we pile in to the truck to go back home)

(R - Back at the Lodge there are a number of buildings that are set aside for the visitors who come and stay overnight)

(L - dinner is set up, and when the bell rings there is a rush - but always plenty of food)

(R - When ever you go past the main deck there is an elephant looking for any tid bits that are spare!!)

(L - How can you resist this look of "any spare bits of corn or water melon?"

(R - We had a visit and talk from Lek who was the founder of Elephant Nature Park, and who advocates that the elephants do NOT need to be brutally trained as is done in Thailand)

(L - After lunch we went on an elephant walk, where we could actually meet some of the elephants in the park. We took a handful of bananas each and headed off with our guide)

(R - Our presence has been detected, and probably also the prospect of a bit of a free extra feed!)

(L - Victoria feeds some bananas

(R - Now it is my turn!)

(L - These two elephants stay together - one was blinded by his owner because she refused to obey him - and she had just lost her baby calf!! Any wonders!! Now the sighted one helps the blind one)

(L - Volunteers feeding the second elephant)

(R - It is rainy season in Thailand and down it came - as we were out in the open area)

(L - On the way back we stopped off at the elephant hospital, where the sick elephants are cared for. The elephant here is being treated for some foot problems)

(R - Notice the rear far foot which has been covered with a cream for the infection. Outside of The Nature Park, the elephant would probably get no treatment and possibly die!!)

Day 2 - Elephant Park - Cleaning deck and Kitchen

2011-07-20T02:34:00.001-07:00

Our day normally starts with a look at the elephants which are around us as we have our breakfast

(L - We talk to the elephants!!)

(R - the edge of the main deck where the elephants come to feed)

We have been divided into 5 teams (there are a total of 41 volunteers here at the moment) and twice a day we assemble to hear the duties that we have been allotted for the morning or afternoon.

(L - we assemble for instructions)

(R - Our detail is to clean up the edge of the deck - which involves watering it down, sprinkling soap powder on the surface, and then a brisk broom followed by water to wash it all off again - this is where the elephants feed, and they are rather messy).

(L - The elbow grease and the soap powder goes in)

(R - With a water finish off)

(L - A pumpkin truck has delivered a load of vegetables, and they need to be washed to remove any traces of insecticide)

(R - then they are chopped insto smaller pieces - although I am not quite sure why, as I have seen a number of elephants with whole pumpkins in their trunks and mouths)

(L - A load of watermelons - much smaller than ours - has also arrived, and they need to be washed and cleaned also)

(R - Each elephant - there are 36 at the moment - have their own basket of food)

(L - Next it is on to the banana sorting - to separate the ripe and yellow ones - these are sometimes given whole, or other times mashed up into balls and mixed with medicines.

(R - In the banana racks)

(L - Our group is then sent off to clean out the elephant water tanks they have for drinks during the night. Elephants sleep lying down, but normally only sleep for about 4 hours a night)

(R - the water tanks need to be drained and then scrubbed with brooms and brushes, and it is easier to get in the tank)

(L - There is always a supervisor watching over)

(R - Every day at 1pm is bath time for the elephants - and also the day visitors!!)

(L - This walk way runs out into the main area, and you can walk out here for a better view, whilst the elephants walk underneath)

(R - Part of the main building, which includes my room, amongst the trees, where I have a wonderful view out each morning)

(L - The elephant hospital where those with injuries are treated)

Day 1 - Elephant Park - Intro and Orientation

2011-07-18T07:12:00.000-07:00

We had a drive of about 90 minutes to the Park, and then our arrival was just in time for the daily feeding. The elephants know the routine. We were also shown the correct way to feed them - which is to hold the food in such a way that they can grasp it with their trunks, and transfer it to their mouths.

(L - waiting for the food - R - correct feeding)

We were given a short tour of the facilities, before having lunch - along with about 100 day visitors)

(L - The elephant kitchen, and R the baskets of food - one for each elephant)

(L - baskets of elephant food laid out waiting)

(R- We lined up and had our own lunch - all traditional Thai foods)

(L - after lunch is the regular bath time -for some of the elephants and the tourists. This is quite a dangerous time actually - but mainly from water thrown by your friends)

(R - To prove I was there)

(L - Bath time)

(R - a group of elephants move across the park)

(L - My bed)

(R- The view from my window)

(L - looking out of my window)

(R - our group having more orientation)

(L- My room is in the building in the middle of the picture, amongst the trees)

(R - Our daily work roster board)

Chiang Mai

2011-07-17T06:24:00.001-07:00

(L - My room at the Holiday Inn - Chiang Mai - luxury!!)

(R - The view from the 18th floor is great in this direction)

(L - And also on the river side)

(R - I took a quick trip up town to pay the balance of money due on my elephant visit - I tried a "tuk-tuk" the local cheap form of transport - basically a low powered motor bike with seats for 2 behind the driver - I am not sure just what rules apply to tuk-tuk as ours didn't stop for anything - including traffic lights!!

(L - The view from inside the tuk-tuk)

(L - Now try the movie to get some idea of the journey)

(R - A broom seller peddling his wares along the streets)

(L - One of the main temples in town)

(L & R - There is an old walled part of the town, known as The Old City)

(L - a very dirty canal is inside the walled city)

(R - Further out of town tourist vessels ply the very muddy coloured water of the river)

(L - Tourist boarding the vessels!!)

(L - Back to my hotel - Holiday Inn - about an hour's walk from the center of town)

Thailand - Sydney to Chiang Mai

2011-07-17T05:47:00.000-07:00

Our trip began with an early evening flight out of Sydney with Emirates - but our plane was an hour late due to head winds across from New Zealand. We had a Boeing 777ER, and the flight to Bangkok was scheduled to take 8 1/2 hours - but they made up half an hour on the way, so we arrived early - at 1.45am!!!!! But to give it a bit more perspective that is 4.45am Sydney time - not quite as bad!!!!

(Right - the lights of Bangkok)

So I had to while away the time until my next flight at 7.45am. I had difficulty finding any comfortable chairs, so settled as best I could next to one of the exits!! The Bangkok airport is HUGE - from my original arrival gate, I walked around 800 meters to the first intersection, and then another 800 meters until I found somewhere to prop for several hours. I managed to doze in little stretches.

(L & R - Some of the long concourses at Bangkok airport)

I finally stirred about 5am local time and made the journey to the Chiang Mai connection desk. Here I cleared immigration, and then was able to enter a witing lounge where they had more comfortable chairs. I found a McDonalds and was able to get a cup of coffee, which helped me until we finally were called to board. We had to go out by bus, and the driver gave us a tour of the airport - as it seems that he was given the wrong location of our aircraft, which was a B747, and we had to climb all these stairs to get aboard. I was glad that I didn't have heavy hand luggage - wheels don't help at a time like this!!

(L - Exterior view of one of the airport concourses)

(R - Taking off over Bangkok)

Again I had a window, and we were served a packed lunch in a cardboard box. Actually not too bad considering that the flight was just 1 hour!!

We came in over Chiang Mai, and I found it a surprise to see all the rice fields. Emirates has an arrangement whereby they transfer the luggage to Thai Airways, and I was happy to see it emerge on the belt. Customs was easy, and they just wanted to x-ray the case, so that was that.

(L - The approach over Chiang Mai and all the rice fields)

A local cab drove me in to town, and I had my first currency error. The set fare was Baht 120 (which is about Aus$4). I decided the tip the driver, but gave him a B50 note instead of the planned B20 - still that was an error of Au$2 or so - so not too bad)

(R - Arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport)

Australiana Pioneer Village - Opening Day - Jan 26

2011-01-27T20:15:00.000-08:00

Well, our BIG day finally came - Australia Day and the GRAND reopening - after so many trials and tribulations, fits and fights, ins and outs - the day had finally come. After lots of working bees, regular and irregular, we were OPEN AGAIN!! Advertising had been handed out, and the word was out. Now was the big test - how many people would come. And here are some of the photos that I took that day.
(Left - the gate attendees are ready for the first arrivals)

(Right - Grant Denyer of Channel 7 was there for the weather forecasts - his quip "What was the name of the Swagman in Waltzing Matilda?? Andy sang as he watched and waited !!)

I should add that the temperature was over 40C, and most of the volunteers were wilting by day's end. But it was all worth it. It seems that we had over 5000 people came through. So we are under way again.
(Left - the crowds have started - even before the 9am official opening)
(Right - down in the Damper Camp the girls were waiting - scones and dampers in hand)

(Left - behind the main street, the antique machines putted and chuffed away)

(Right - crowds and horses in main street)

(Left - people wandered up and down)

(Right - the horse and sulky rides were popular - not sure if the horse enjoyed walking the same path time and again on such a hot day!!)

(Left - there was something of interest for everyone - from old cars to trucks and tractors)
(Right - and lots of nostalgia)

(Left - we were entertained in the old fashioned way - pre TV, I-pods, etc - with good old fashioned toe tapping music)

(Right - crowds lined to get into the sheep shearing - you'd think they haven't seen such before!)

(Left - across the park, people enjoyed picnics)

(Right - the mounted troopers paraded around)

(Left - Main Street again)

(Right - the smithy showed how to lose weight!! without Jenny Craig!!)

(Left - the working horses navigate the people)

(Right - The HUM CHOIR entertained)

(Left - Uncle Wes, of the Bidgigal people introduced the Smoking Ceremony for the
Welcome to Country)

(Right - The Reopening was declared by one of the Hawkesbury Councillers)

(Above left - Afternoon and the TV celebrities have no rest - Channel 2 interview our revered President)

(Right Above - with mid-afternoon, the crowds start to decrease)

(Above Left - the children played with watermelon rolling)

(Above Right - they also tried out the gumboot throwing - much to the danger of watchers!!)

And so that was our Opening Day - great and tiring - but very satisfying!!

Australiana Pioneer Village - Working Bee - Nov 28

2010-11-29T01:41:00.001-08:00

With our opening day of Australia Day 2011 coming closer the pressure is on to have everything ready for the big day.

(Left) Our concentration was on the chapel, which will be the venue for a wedding in December - now it needs a bit of TLC

(Right) The entrance had a nasty vine entanglement, which needed some cutting and lots of tugging

(Left) One up, and one down!!

(Right) Meanwhile outside the weeding and gardening continued

(Left) Lots of implements - and discussion

(Right) Inside, work continued on the pews

(Left) Ride on mowers are very handy for large areas

(Right) Gardening and wood restoring

(Left) The good old rotary mower comes into its own

(Right) The Iron Chefs of APV cook up a storm

(Left) The hungry crowd gathers

(Right) Tucking in

(Left) The Village is looking great

(Right) The buildings are getting ready for the big re-opening

(Left) Being the 40th anniversary of the original opening, it was commemorated by the planting of 4 trees (plus one for inflation) - 4 red cedars and 1 Australian Christmas

(Right) Another tree another hole

(Left) Down to a tube this time

(Right) Can't say that we don't get down to work on these working bees

(Below) We finished the lunch with some good old fashioned melodies - click on the start arrow underneath the picture to share the music