When I was young I had this great record collection, remember in Darwin there was no TV and as a result social events gravitated towards music. I do recall that listening to the Radio was a common pastime and everyone had there favourites.
My record collection from the 60's included the The Beatles, Bee Gees and other now classic acts. These were what was called LP (Long Play) and there was a 'learnt' art to check the needle and ensure that this was in working order before trying to place this as smoothly as possible onto the moving turntable.
It is now poignant that this week, we go to see Ringo Starr (one of two surviving Beatles members) and later this week Barry Gibb (the only brother still alive).
Ringo is famous for being Thomas the Tank Engine as well as being the drummer for the most famous band in the world. He had a successful solo career, but also was the lead singer for a number of Beatles songs:
Please Please Me - Boys
With the Beatles - I Wanna Be Your Man
Beatles for Sale - Honey Don't
Help - Act Naturally
Rubber Soul - What Goes On
Revolver - Yellow Submarine
Sgt. Pepper's - With a Little Help from My Friends
The Beatles (white album) - Don't Pass Me By, Good Night
Abbey Road - Octopus's garden
Barry Gibb, where do you start? He was the lead singer for one of my favorite all time groups, a talented song writer who has an incredible track record of collaboration with other stars.
Undoubtedly Barry is the more talented Ringo, there is really no argument there. In terms of pure longevity the Bee Gees as a group spanned from 1960's through the 80's and interestingly their careers came after the Beatles.
One of the interesting facts is that they decided to move from Brisbane, Australia back to the UK and then struggled to get any attention. At that stage the Beatles had disbanded and there was a trend away from bands; despite this they have had an incredible career.
Some words on the Beatles to Bee Gees week later.....
Friday, February 8, 2013
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Stranded @ Wilson Island
We struck it lucky when our long weekend break at Heron Island on the Great Barrier Reef became a free upgrade to Wilson Island.
Where? .......... you probably say. And that was also my reaction.
Wilson Island is the exclusive smaller island that is that is connected by a small boat from Heron Island. It seems that they had overbooked as had a function at Heron, therefore offered to move us to Wilson for the evening.
Heron Island is a beautiful island paradise; just an hour and a bit from Gladstone by a fast ferry. It is on the reef and you can snorkel just off the island. There is bird life, turtles and all the marine species that you expect. The food is all included and you have the conflict of eating and then you can't go into the water.
When we transfer to Wilson Island you leave behind all your wallets, iPhones and iPads. They supply a 'wet bag' and ask you to repack a smaller bag - a shirt or two, swimming costumes, wetsuit, sun screen and then you are ready to go.
On boarding our boat we soon understand why the 'wet bag' as there is quite the chop from the waves and the 'splash' effect is evident. It is a 'wet' landing and now I realise that the water shoes we bought, will come into great use. Also the notion of 'exclusive', becomes apparent as there are 4 guests in total.
As we land onto Wilson there is a beautiful white coral beach, with just amazing formations of coral. We are greeted by our chef (Lindsay) and Liaison Manager (Geri). Yes there are 2 staff and 4 guests.
Our beachside hut is named 'rapture'; interesting name.....my first thought is Jurassic Park? Actually rapture means being 'caught up', which is quite the misnomer as at Wilson Island you just drift away.
Each of these beachside huts is facing a private beach and have a great hammock. They are luxurious without being luxury, you soon have a smile on your face that really doesn't go away. There are no phones, TV or power points and the bathroom is centralised.
Lindsay works his magic at a common (longhouse); the first question that I will always remember asking him is 'what time is lunch?'. To which he answers: whenever you like. Lindsay recommends a swim and perhaps lunch at 2pm. They explain the safety aspects of swimming in the front (unpatrolled) beach and that there will be cocktails at sunset at 6:30pm.
Exciting, I trudge onto the white beach -- carefully avoiding the large sharp coral. It is a crystal clear day and the water is a surreal aqua blue. There is no-one else on the beach and it is somewhat erie, as I correct my goggles and have my first look underwater. It is amazing the water is only 1 metre deep and the reef is 2 metres offshore and there are thousands of fish of every colour that you can imagine.
Hint: They don't care that I'm there....it is just intimidating being in such a beautiful world and all alone. Looking underwater to see the teaming life and then above to see a peaceful desolate dry world.
The marine aspects are the highlight of Wilson Island; but a short word about the food. Lindsay has been professionally trained and he takes high quality ingredients and does amazing food. It would not look out of place a fine dining establishments, except you are wearing shorts and flipflops with premium wines.
What is incredible is that there is no technology and you are removed from cell phone and wireless data. Funny I didn't miss this at all and time just passed so slowly.
One day at Wilson feels like 3 days -- it's that good !
Where? .......... you probably say. And that was also my reaction.
Wilson Island is the exclusive smaller island that is that is connected by a small boat from Heron Island. It seems that they had overbooked as had a function at Heron, therefore offered to move us to Wilson for the evening.
Heron Island is a beautiful island paradise; just an hour and a bit from Gladstone by a fast ferry. It is on the reef and you can snorkel just off the island. There is bird life, turtles and all the marine species that you expect. The food is all included and you have the conflict of eating and then you can't go into the water.
When we transfer to Wilson Island you leave behind all your wallets, iPhones and iPads. They supply a 'wet bag' and ask you to repack a smaller bag - a shirt or two, swimming costumes, wetsuit, sun screen and then you are ready to go.
On boarding our boat we soon understand why the 'wet bag' as there is quite the chop from the waves and the 'splash' effect is evident. It is a 'wet' landing and now I realise that the water shoes we bought, will come into great use. Also the notion of 'exclusive', becomes apparent as there are 4 guests in total.
As we land onto Wilson there is a beautiful white coral beach, with just amazing formations of coral. We are greeted by our chef (Lindsay) and Liaison Manager (Geri). Yes there are 2 staff and 4 guests.
Our beachside hut is named 'rapture'; interesting name.....my first thought is Jurassic Park? Actually rapture means being 'caught up', which is quite the misnomer as at Wilson Island you just drift away.
Each of these beachside huts is facing a private beach and have a great hammock. They are luxurious without being luxury, you soon have a smile on your face that really doesn't go away. There are no phones, TV or power points and the bathroom is centralised.
Lindsay works his magic at a common (longhouse); the first question that I will always remember asking him is 'what time is lunch?'. To which he answers: whenever you like. Lindsay recommends a swim and perhaps lunch at 2pm. They explain the safety aspects of swimming in the front (unpatrolled) beach and that there will be cocktails at sunset at 6:30pm.
Exciting, I trudge onto the white beach -- carefully avoiding the large sharp coral. It is a crystal clear day and the water is a surreal aqua blue. There is no-one else on the beach and it is somewhat erie, as I correct my goggles and have my first look underwater. It is amazing the water is only 1 metre deep and the reef is 2 metres offshore and there are thousands of fish of every colour that you can imagine.
Hint: They don't care that I'm there....it is just intimidating being in such a beautiful world and all alone. Looking underwater to see the teaming life and then above to see a peaceful desolate dry world.
The marine aspects are the highlight of Wilson Island; but a short word about the food. Lindsay has been professionally trained and he takes high quality ingredients and does amazing food. It would not look out of place a fine dining establishments, except you are wearing shorts and flipflops with premium wines.
What is incredible is that there is no technology and you are removed from cell phone and wireless data. Funny I didn't miss this at all and time just passed so slowly.
One day at Wilson feels like 3 days -- it's that good !
Friday, December 21, 2012
CIO of the Year
Yesterday I received a message that I really hadn't expected, IT News had voted me as finalist in CIO of the Year.
There are 15 finalists for Australia and I'm in the financial services last 3, along with CBA Executive CIO Michael Harte. He is undoubtedly the favorite in my view for the overall title, having led such a high profile organisation into a position of market leadership.
It is a cliche to say that you are humbled - but I am indeed 'humbled'.
It is also a cliche to say that this is the consequence of the work of a great team - that's also a fact. I'm blessed with a talented and committed team at cua that wants to make a difference.
This recognition is a lovely Xmas present and the perfect way to cap off an incredible year.
http://www.itnews.com.au/News/327044,finalists-chosen-for-cio-of-the-year.aspx
There are 15 finalists for Australia and I'm in the financial services last 3, along with CBA Executive CIO Michael Harte. He is undoubtedly the favorite in my view for the overall title, having led such a high profile organisation into a position of market leadership.
It is a cliche to say that you are humbled - but I am indeed 'humbled'.
It is also a cliche to say that this is the consequence of the work of a great team - that's also a fact. I'm blessed with a talented and committed team at cua that wants to make a difference.
This recognition is a lovely Xmas present and the perfect way to cap off an incredible year.
http://www.itnews.com.au/News/327044,finalists-chosen-for-cio-of-the-year.aspx
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
12 12 12
Not a mistake but that's the title of this blog entry. Today is the last of the uniquely repeating dates in the calendar.
I remember making mental notes on 8 8 88 and other similar dates, but this one is special as it marks the end of that window.
If you use numerology 12 12 12 = 9
I'm not sure what that actually means but you can try a lottery ticket or go the casino and put money on the number.
Either way I wish you a great day today. Thinking about 'great', interestingly having just returned from Heron and Wilson island, the reef was just stunning and Wilson was simply spectacular. There were 4 guests and 2 staff - a chef and a liaison.
In a discussion with the chef, I commented to him that his 'worse' day on the island paradise was better than the 'best' for many in the world.
So let me restate again : wishing the 12 12 12 is a Wilson Island 'Great' day for you!
I remember making mental notes on 8 8 88 and other similar dates, but this one is special as it marks the end of that window.
If you use numerology 12 12 12 = 9
I'm not sure what that actually means but you can try a lottery ticket or go the casino and put money on the number.
Either way I wish you a great day today. Thinking about 'great', interestingly having just returned from Heron and Wilson island, the reef was just stunning and Wilson was simply spectacular. There were 4 guests and 2 staff - a chef and a liaison.
In a discussion with the chef, I commented to him that his 'worse' day on the island paradise was better than the 'best' for many in the world.
So let me restate again : wishing the 12 12 12 is a Wilson Island 'Great' day for you!
Saturday, September 15, 2012
The 50th Reunion Tour of the Beach Boys
Recently we were privileged to see the concert with the Beach Boys; we had seen Brian Wilson before but not the whole band.
(Boy) what amazing melodies. While Brian was clearly suffering from Parkinson's Disease, the group was still soooo incredible. Mike Love's voice was exactly the same as his recordings and for many days I've carried these tones in my head.
"I can hear music...." so the lyrics go and they are so intoxicating and have aged well.
You can't help but think that the Beach Boys are America's version of the Beatles with a portfolio of songs and anthems.
Mike (Love) kept referring to Brian being his Cuz (Cousin) and I was intrigued to later read about how Mike had sued Brian on a number of occasions.
I say watch the old black and white videos of the Beach Boys and you will be hooked
"So I say from me to you
I will make your dreams come true
Do you love me, do you surfer girl"
(Boy) what amazing melodies. While Brian was clearly suffering from Parkinson's Disease, the group was still soooo incredible. Mike Love's voice was exactly the same as his recordings and for many days I've carried these tones in my head.
"I can hear music...." so the lyrics go and they are so intoxicating and have aged well.
You can't help but think that the Beach Boys are America's version of the Beatles with a portfolio of songs and anthems.
Mike (Love) kept referring to Brian being his Cuz (Cousin) and I was intrigued to later read about how Mike had sued Brian on a number of occasions.
I say watch the old black and white videos of the Beach Boys and you will be hooked
"So I say from me to you
I will make your dreams come true
Do you love me, do you surfer girl"
Saturday, June 30, 2012
What I said on Facebook....
As the song goes I've had the time of my life......my head hurts from the HANGover from the party. But my Heart is very happy. No more happy tears from this Dad as my little Amber has married her love of her life.
___________________
Interestingly when I wrote those words I was struck with a 'Personal Best' hangover from way too many shots and too short a recovery time from Amber and Sam's wedding.
What I do remember is that this was a momentum day for our family and as parents we were sooooo proud. The arrangements were precise and the hands on help from her friends was great. There were tears and many moments of laughter....I had used two tissues before I go to the aisle.
The setting was in Novo Ligure and in a beautiful vineyard. Amber and Sam had organised to host their closest friends at this lovely little villa. Thus no-one was driving home and the party did not have a end time or date.
In the lead up to the event; a small group had been involved in organising extensive decorations and shipping this to Italy. Then it seemed nearly every guest had some role to play to help setup and orchestrate the day. All except me....I had to walk down an aisle, nod, make a speak and dance with my daughter. Easy -- right?
We had been in Italy for about a week in Cinque Terra a world heritage series of towns and then into fabulous Milan - where whatever you wear, you are shabby in comparison to the locals. Thus we were acclimatised to the timezone, food etc
The day (June 2nd) started with that small buzz that they day was important. Before long three hairdressers arrived to start to assist the bridal party with their 'do's. Then the decorating...last minute things, with guests arriving independently and fairly constantly.
There was then the element of dressing and taking a few happy snaps of the bride and her group as they made their preparation. At around 3:30pm the two professional photographers arrived and they would split; one taking pics of the groom and one of the bride. In my supporting role as Dad I was privy to both of these realities. A special moment was one that the photographer had asked me to wait near the staircase to help Amber down the steps; but to look away and not watch her dress until the requested. Being in the situation where you can hear and see what is going on vaguely in the corner of your eye...made the anticipation even greater. Amber looked just stunningly beautiful and so so radiant.
This was a two (2) tissue moment for me.....but I was warned not to ruin her makeup....so was abruptly stopped.
As we walked down the aisle with the vineyard all around us and "here comes the sun" her chosen song. It was a short walk, perhaps 30 steps but seemed to last a really considerable time. Having to let go and taking my seat, led to a few tears from Anna. Nathan said to Mum - look Dad's not crying.
(if only they knew)
The ceremony was lovely - personal and so very much the Sam and Amber we love. In that moment my little girl, who sat on my lap was no-more and as a Dad I felt incredibly happy for her but with that touch of sadness.
Let the party begin......I will report on the evening activities in my next post
(By the way, I have to add that it was an incredibly long day 23 hours awake and partying.....and I have to remember that I'm not that young anymore)
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