Melbourne Chat

Hello Peter J!



Unfortunately I don't have any friends in England.

Last summer I went to an English Language Course in Malta (island in South Europe), but that wasn't very good (British) English either.

I thought: if I want to emigrate to Australia in the future, I can better learn your ''awful'' English as soon as possible! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/tongue.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

I'd better get used to it right away! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



I really don't know why al these Muslims want to come to The Netherlands! It's too cold here and we have only some small dunes!

I think it has something to do about our social services. Holland is known for it's good services. That's the only reason I can imagine. (and our goverment can learn something about your emigration policy, it's easy to come in here) <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/unsure.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':unsure:' />



The reason I love Australia and I want to emigrate is the warm climate, the nature, the space and the mentality of you people.

I really don't understand why people want to emigrate to the Netherlands, of all countries for God's sake! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/sad.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

How do you think about our ''cold frog country''? (do you know what I mean? <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/tongue.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' /> )

I'm very curious about this!



Greetings Ireen and have a nice day! It's almost bedtime for me.. zzzz







[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1294643977' post='31735']

Hello Ireen!

Welcome back to Aussie Melbourne Chat!



Do you have any friends in England?

I mean English friends, they will give you good instructions in English.

Now here is a good idea, don't tell them you are learning/practicing English on an Australian chat site.

Because they will laugh at you, and that's because they (the English) think we (the Aussies) are awful at English.

Maybe we are.



I have a question for you. Don't answer if you are not comfortable with it.

Why is it that so many Muslims live and want to live in Holland?

Hell you don't have any sand much less a desert for them to wander about in.

Holland seems to me to be the last place they would go to! The cultures are completely different.

[/quote]

Well I guess painting is not rocket science! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/tongue.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

Hee Peter J!



ohh, it's very difficult to get a permanent visum for your country! My occupation is primary school teacher. This occupation was on the SOL list for at least 20 years!! However, I contacted a visa office in March 2010 and I've paid a lot of money to do the application.

In may 2010 the occupation went of the SOL list! Unbelievable, after 20 years!! What a trouble! So we have to wait for a sponsorlist of different states. But you have to bring AD 50.000 to send this appliciation. (it varies per state) We've bought a house few years ago, we don't have that money. So I don't know if there are any other opportunities...



I don't know what you mean with '' a grand restaurant at the waterfront''. There are only little canals in Amsterdam. On the edge of Amsterdam, there is the IJ, a river. Maybe the restaurant was at a river?



What a nice person, that Hollander! Lying to get a job! However, it worked for him..

I think that doesn't work nowadays!

You still remained friends? <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



How is the situation in Brisbane by the way? I saw it on the Dutch news!



Greetings Ireen



[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1294725954' post='31744']

Hello Ireen!



Thanks for that reply. So the immigration to Holland must remain a mystery to us Westerners.



So to your desire to emigrate from Holland to Australia.

Many people have sort assistance on this site.

The answer seems to be that to get any entry visa apart from a tourist visa is almost impossible for Westerners.

There are zillions of Asians and Africans here. Either as students or refugees.

How do they qualify I've no idea.

Your best hope is in the "Wanted for skills" section of immigration.

That is do you have a qualification that matches the current wanted list?

This list seems to vary from year to year.



Another way is to marry an Australian. Although that does not always work.



Ireen I have not been to Holland, but I have visited Denmark, Austria and Sweden as the nearest to Holland I guess.

It was pretty cold when I was in Austria. But the people there did not seem to worry!

Oh I forgot I did a European bus tour a long time ago and there was a stop in Amsterdam!

We went to a grand restaurant on the waterfront. That's all I remember.



Don't forget that Melbourne Summer can be very hot for many days. And other parts even much hotter.



I remember my first meeting with a Hollander! 1956 or there abouts.

This young foreign guy started working at a factory where I was an apprentice.

He said he was a painter and was employed as such.

He seemed to like Australia very much and we became friends.

Later on he told me he was not a painter at all he just said so to get the job!

[/quote]

Hello Peter J!



Yes, it's really a shame! Upgrading to Secondary School Teacher will cost 3 years of study!

Unfortunately, it isn't realizable to getting qualifications for something else, because you must have at least 3 years of experience.

I do'nt want to study for 3 years and wait another 3 years for my experience.

I feel that, it's time to start a new life elsewhere. I'm 28, maybe I want children within a few years.

I don't want to wait that long. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/mellow.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':mellow:' /> There must be another way.. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/sad.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



I didn't saw the news yesterday, does the waterlevel drop? Or is more rain coming? (mm, this sentence doesn't sound so good)

The damage will be huge!

And what about Victoria? High risk for them?



Good luck to all your fellow-countryman (and woman!)



Greetings Ireen



[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1294884056' post='31765']

Hello Ireen!



What a shame about the teaching possibility going off after 20 years.

What about upgrading to Secondary School Teacher? Are they still required?

If you have a long term aim then maybe you can spend some time getting qualifications for something else on the list?



For the moment the floods seem to have peaked.

However much more rain is expected in the coming days/weeks.

As you have seen the damage is huge.

The number of lives lost has not yet been determined.

And many many people have nothing left.

Floods are occurring further south in much of NSW and now several towns in the west of Victoria are in flood condition.



Ha Ireen I guess the restaurant was on the river, it was night time and I could not see too well I guess!



About my painter friend. Unfortunately after I left that factory I did not see him again.

He was always known as "Duchie" and I believe he never made a mess so he got away with his painting caper.



Your English is excellent!

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



That will be a big cleanup overthere!

We heard on the news about all the killed animals, that's too bad.



Yes, we have looked at migrate opportunities in New Zealand. Unfortunately, we don't have enough points to submitting a visa with my occupation. (teacher)



We have considered Spain, it's a nice country with beautiful nature, great food and a good climate. However, the people are very temperamentful. Do you know what I mean? I like the easy going mentality, you don't find that in Spain <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Whistle.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':Whistle:' />

Besides, the economy isn't really good at the moment, they have still problems: economical crises.

But Spain is a possibility if Australia doesn't work at the end..



Yes, it's not so difficult to move to another EU country.



I received your PM, I want to thank you for it! Fine if I know what's correct en what could be better. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/rolleyes.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



Do you know which places/councels have a labour shortage in teaching?

They don't have a financial requirement?

I can always try!!



Greetings Ireen



ps. It's 11 degrees in Holland, amazing for the Winter period!

what's the current temperature in Melbourne?



[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1295064772' post='31795']

Hello Ireen!



Well the immediate weather threat has subsided and in most places the cleanup has begun.

Here in Victoria there is still more rain on the way, however the whole "front is moving east towards New Zealand.



That reminds me! Have you looked at migrating to New Zealand first?

It maybe easier, I'm not really sure.

However once there you will have an easier task to get into Australia.

Sorry to say but it is extremely difficult to get into Australia.



I suppose you can go with ease to any EU country? Yes?

If you like the heat then what about Spain or Italy or somewhere like that?



Have you set your profile to receive PMs? I sent one to you with a few other ideas.

Please let me know if you received it OK.



And what about to Google directly some "outback" Australian towns, try to get to the local council.

There you can inquire directly about school teaching. They may want to "sponsor" you?

That is because lots of country towns can get no teachers, doctors etc..

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



So you name it ''hot blooded''? That sounds exactly how I mean it <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



Places like Esperance, Broome or Derby (WA) are rather isolated places, but are they still isolate enough? Maybe you mean places that aren't even on the map? There are so many little places if I look at Google Earth.

By the way; yes, I can search on Australia, so that's useful! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



My boyfriend is working as a teamleader (is that a word in English?) on a distribution department.

Only managers are on the occupation list and he doesn't have 3 years of experience yet. Too bad..

18 degrees? Isn't that a little bit cold? My favorite temperature is about 23 degrees, but it must be sunny! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

98% humidity? That's really high! Not so nice. Is that frequently?

I've been to Hong Kong in July (2009) and I found the humidity very drained. I felt tired and I couldn't breath very well.

Has the humidity dropped now? ( I hope I write it well this time <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/biggrin.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' /> )



Bedtime for me.. Have a nice day!



Greetings Ireen







[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1295255908' post='31811']

Hello Ireen!



Yes I know what you mean about the people (generally speaking) from Latin countries.

We use the term: "Hot blooded". Or perhaps volatile.



Each of the States will have "Teachers Associations".

Most will have "State" teaching associations and "Catholic" teaching associations.

Try to Google these places, their job will be to see that their members have jobs, so in effect they will know where there are vacancies.

Maybe they will tell where the vacancies are.

Just try positions vacant for teachers.

Can you set your Google to search Australia rather than Holland?

Perhaps look on Google maps and note towns that are fairly isolated. These places always have trouble getting help.

What qualifications does your boyfriend have?



We have just passed through a hot humid few days and now the temperature will be in the 20s and low 30s for about a week.

Yes 11 degrees seems high for your Winter time.

Perfect temperature for me is 18 degrees.

A few days ago we were the most humid place on the planet at 98%. Higher than Singapore at 96%!

[/quote]

Hi Peter J!



I've searched on the Internet at ''teacher shortage''. I found many newspaper articles, but most articles were from 2008 and it was about secondary school teachers. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/sad.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



I found this link: [url="http://www.ptcwa.wa.edu.au/?page_id=12"]http://www.ptcwa.wa.edu.au/?page_id=12[/url]

But there is only one post address, I this the only link for WA?



Maybe it's an idea if I send my letter of application to this Teaching Council.

It doesn't make sense if I send letters separate to different schools, what do you think? <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/unsure.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':unsure:' />



We want to visit Australia this summer (July/August). Maybe I will be invited for a job interview, you never know!

It's a welcome bonus if I'm in the neighbourhood! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



I don't think it's easier with a child, but I'm not sure.

I know if a state sponsors you, for every child you have, you must take extra money to Australia.

So it gets more expensive! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/ohmy.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':o' />



You always lived in Melbourne?



Greetings Ireen

Hello Peter J,



Thank you for looking at the link.

I will try to write a nice, English email to this woman. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

I saw a vacancy in Brisbane, for a Dutch primary school. Unfortunately, it was a job for less than 20 hours per week. They asked for people with a residence. They can't sponsor anyone, because of the few hours. That's too bad! I was really enthusiastic, even though the few hours. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/sad.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



I prefer to live in a (country) town nearby the sea, for a cooling sea breeze. But maybe I have no choice..



Yes, our Kim is doing a good job overthere. Did she really almost marry an Australian?

Why almost? <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/unsure.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':unsure:' />



Have a nice sunday! (hopefully with plenty of sunshine)

It's been a rainy day in Holland. Next week it's going to freeze again.. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/kosa.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':kosa:' />



Greetings Ireen



[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1295576341' post='31848']

Hi Ireen!



I have looked at that site.

It seems a good place to start.

See near the top is an email for general inquires, (Gillian S). Tell her your story and ask for advice. Ask if there are teacher shortages in WA and which towns, then chase the towns.

Also see the links on the right.

I would also ask for advice in these links.

The ones I would try are:

CEO

AISWA

EDNA

ESA

APTA



Well I have lived most of my life in Melbourne and before Melbourne in a couple of small country towns.



You should mention in your inquiries that you are coming to Australia soon and hopefully you can convince someone to give you an interview.

Most country towns are hot. generally hotter than the cities.

The exceptions are in Tasmania where the temperatures are generally cooler.



Your countrywoman Kim (Aussie Kim) Clisters is going very strongly in the Australian Open Tennis.

We call her Aussie Kim because she almost married Leyton Hewitt!

[/quote]

Hee Peter J,



What a story about ''our'' Kim and her ex-lover! And the mother sounds like a terrible women! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Talking Ear Off.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':Talking:' />



By the way, is it still hot in Melbourne?

Did you know I never have visited Melbourne?

I' m very curious about Melbourne, but I'm afraid we can't visit Melbourne this summer (our summer: July, August) because the distances between the different states are too far!

We have a flight to Sydney, were we stay a few days to watch the headlights. After these days, we take a flight to Perth. From Perth, we drive all the way to Darwin.



Have you ever traveled through your own country? To me, it seems like Australians don't have to travel abroad, because there is so much to see and do in their own country <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

Seems too good to be true? <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/rolleyes.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



And what about New Zealand? Is it as beautiful as they say? With a great nature? A few years ago we were in Australia. Several people said that New Zealand was more beautiful!? I can't imagine, what do you think? <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



Whoops, I have to write another few student reports and it's almost bedtime... <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/ohmy.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':o' />



Greetings Ireen





[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1295739728' post='31869']

Hello Ireen.



Keep looking and trying.

Something will turn up sooner or later.

There are lots and lots of seaside towns just Google maps and zoom in on them.

My guess is that the further from a big city the better the chance.



Yes Aussie Kim almost married Leyton Hewitt. (Our best male tennis player).

They were engaged.

Hewitt's mum was domineering and wanted to run the wedding and the marriage.

In the end Kim told the Hewitts it was all off and she disappeared.

She made a good judgment!

In the end Leyton married a "soapie" star and they now have kids. I presume the mum is now real happy!



Last few days were hot in Melbourne.

Hot again today.

I want cool!

Please!

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



Yes, it's a shame that I can't visit Melbourne this time. I hope to come back soon (in December) and I would love to visit Melbourne, Kangaroo Island, Adelaide, Tasmania..

Unfortunately, a flight from Holland to Australia is very expensive

Hopefully I can emigrate to Australia in the future, then I have enough time to discover the different states <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/tongue.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



That's a big mistake, haha. When I saw you had written the word highlights, I knew headlight was a complete different word!

I think you had a lot of fun behind your computer! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



Thanks for all your tips. Do you think it's necesarry to rent a satelite telephone? It costs plenty, so if calling to our next stopping place is enough...?



We have never ridden (does that sound good?!?) a 4WD before. In 2009 we have travelled from Darwin to Alice Springs and from Brisbane to Cairns.

Unfortunately, we had a ''normal'' campervan, with 2WD. We didn't see all the nice things in the neighbourhood of West MacDonnell Ranges. That was a pity.. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/sad.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



New Zealand sounds nice and beautiful. In Europe, people say that te south island looks like Norway.

I have never visited Norway, but I think it is really pretty. I saw pictures from other travellers and the nature is... breathtaking!



Yes, it's a great opportunity to visit schools and town halls. Maybe I can sent my letter of appliciation before (around June) than they have see/heared my name before? Perhaps it will help?



Then I must keep practicing my English! Because otherwise, they think I'm a really bad teacher! (in Aussieland) <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/ohmy.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':o' />



Greetings Ireen





[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1296019809' post='31896']

[size="3"]Hello Ireen.[/size]



[size="3"]A few days ago it was 30ish, but now we have a few days of 20+. Real nice![/size]

[size="3"]

[size="3"][/size]What bad luck that you cannot squeeze Melbourne into your itinerary?[/size]

[size="3"]You are missing out! Next time I hope![/size]

[size="3"]Oh you would not like the Melbourne cold at that time, no bright sunshine or warm days.[/size]

[size="3"]But not as cold as Holland.[/size]



[size="5"]We have a flight to Sydney, were we stay a few days to watch the headlights.[/size]

[size="3"]Ireen you won't be watching any headlights!! Maybe the highlights![/size]



[size="3"]Your trip from Perth to Darwin will be an adventure. Be aware it is a long long way to drive.[/size]

[size="3"]Take your time don't rush, be careful, don't leave the main road even if you have a 4 wheel drive.They get lost just as quick.

Don't leave the vehicle. Let people know where you are expected to be and when.

Phone ahead to your next stopping place and tell them when you expect to arrive.

Use a GPS.

Don't pick up strangers. But you are expected to stop and assist stranded people, try to quickly assess if they are genuine.

That trip is not a trip beside the Danube!

Google "traveling the Australian outback" for advice.

[/size][size="3"]I think the road you will take will be very good, just use common sense.

[/size]

[size="3"]I have not been everywhere in Australia at all. Not Darwin or Broome for example.[/size]

[size="3"]In 1975 we (Wife 3 boys and I) drove from Melbourne to Perth and return in the heat of December. The boys had a great adventure.

We took 6 days going and 5 days in return.

Stopping in caravan parks over night. We towed a camper trailer for sleeping in.[/size]



[size="3"]All the States in Australia have their own charm and things that are must see.[/size]

[size="3"]But as you know a long way between.[/size]

[size="3"]Victoria and Tasmania pack a lot of stuff into small spaces.[/size]

[size="3"]I am a lucky person as I have made many trips abroad. 1984 was my first, to England Italy and Switzerland.



New Zealand is beautiful, especially in the south island. It has everything that Oz does not. So it is a must for anyone for once in their life.

New Zealand is completely different to Australia. See both.

14 day trip in NZ is the minimum, 18 - 20 days is better.



But what a great opportunity for you to check out schools along the way especially in wild West Australia.

Be bold go to the town halls and ask directly. People will be very helpful.

Also go to the schools along the way and ask at the reception if they know of any places that cannot get teachers.



Insist your students spell correctly![/size]

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



Finally, it's weekend! It was a busy week at work with writing school reports for 27 children.. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/sad.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

Next week 27 parent interviews and then a calm period will return.

You survived the hot temperature? What a difference! Last night, it was freezing 7 degrees in Eindhoven!! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/kosa.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':kosa:' />

Do you know Eindhoven? The city of light? (Philips) That's my home town.



I think we will stay on the main road. But maybe you need a 4x4 for the national parks, like Kakadu or Litchfield?

[size="2"]

A travelagent told us to make a circle around Perth and to visit: Cervantes, Geraldton, Monkey Mia, Fremantle, Kalgoorlie en Esperance. Do you know if these places are nice to visit?



I've read something about a Satellite Safety Beacon. That's not a satelite telephone, I think?

It is an equipment in the Apollo campervan. So we can use that either in case of an emergency.



Thank you for your tip about cell phone coverage. There is an Australian site what says that there is no coverage in 80% of Western Australia, which is quiet low..



The countdown has begun: 5 months to go and then we will come to your amazing country. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/biggrin.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' /> <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/biggrin.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

I'm looking forward to it!



Greetings Ireen





[/size][quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1296090131' post='31905']

Hello Ireen.



Well you have been to many places I have not seen.

So you are experienced with "out back" driving to a good degree.

I believe you will have no trouble on the trip Perth to Darwin as it is a good road.

Problems only arrive when people leave the main roads.

So you will not need to have a 4x4 at all. (The correct word is "driven a 4 . . .").

Re the phone. If you phone ahead and tell the next camping/hotel area when you are expected well that should be enough.

You could Google " to get an idea what the "normal" coverage is.

I would make a bet that "Telstra" coverage would be the best.



I have not been to Norway, but your friends are correct NZ is just like the Norway of the travel books.



You have nothing to lose by sending a forwarding letter.

Many people here like people who are motivated and try to help themselves.



Ah well the next few days will be hot again, around the 30 plus.



Your trip here is not far away!!

[/quote]

Hi Peter J,



our Kim is the best! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wacky.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':wacky:' />



I looked at the link, very useful. I've printed it. I think it's very expensive to call with our Dutch cell card in Australia, but in emergency cases it's okay to have your cell with you.



Unfortunately, I can't open the link about New Norcia, but I have looked on Google. Beautiful buildings, especially the college and the Abbey church. If it's possible in time and kilometres, I want to visit this place!



By the way: do you know how it's possible that NSW still hasn't published their Sponsorship list? I'm waiting since October 2010. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Whistle.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':Whistle:' />

I heard from our translator (he lives in Queensland) that there is a shortage in NSW for teachers. It was in the newspapers. Did you heared something about this subject? I'm very curious if they mean secondary school teachers or primary/special needs teachers. Maybe there is still a change voor me! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/rolleyes.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



I looked at the site weather online, I saw 40 degrees in Melbourne!

You will probably sweat? Is there a cooling surface in the neighbourhood of the sea?



Good job from your grand daughter! And with these temperatures! Well done!

Pff... That's really too hot for any sports!



I don't know if you can open this link:

[url="http://translate.google.nl/#nl|nl|eindhoven"]http://translate.google.nl/#nl|nl|eindhoven[/url]



Press on the right button uitspraak (means pronunciation) and you can hear the name Eindhoven.

Let me know I you have managed!



You don't have Philips light in Australia? When we were in Hongkong, we saw a lot of Philips lights/lamps! (and billboards..)

Eindhoven = Philips and Philips = Eindhoven, they name Eindhoven ''the city of light''. Long time ago, there was a Dutch man (Frits Philips) and he innovated the (light) bulb. (I have searched this word on internet, I didn't know the word in English!) <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Whistle.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':Whistle:' />



Greetings Ireen





[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1296359556' post='31958']

Hello Ireen.



Aussie Kim Wins!!



Look at this link:



[url="http://www.telstra.com.au/mobile/networks/coverage/state.html"]http://www.telstra.c...rage/state.html[/url]



It shows Telstra mobile phone coverage in WA.

Actually if Telstra covers only 20% of WA believe me that is really good.

Remember that about nobody compared to Holland lives there (in an area of XX Hollands) so the effort by so few to cover so much is extraordinary!

Make sure that your phone battery is good. If it is two years old get a new one, (battery) and keep both charged.

Anyway at least 50% of the highway looks covered.

Take plenty of water. (With water you can survive for nearly 30 days.)

The important thing is if your car breaks down, do not leave it, stay in it's shade. Help will pass by soon.



All of the towns you listed are good examples of outback Australia.

Fremantle is a cosmopolitan city and it is close to Perth.



Check out this link to New Norcia.

It is unique to Australia.



[url="http://www.lifeonperth.com/newnorcia.htm"]http://www.lifeonper...m/newnorcia.htm[/url]



However it is North of Perth and I cannot remember how far off the main highway it is.

I have seen the art on display and it is brilliant.



Eindhoven, I have had a look at your fine city.

But how do you pronounce the name?



Today extremely hot at 40 degrees.

Our grand daughter's football team played two matches today.

One at 7.00AM about 22 degrees then and another at 1.00PM probably 38 at that time.

It was first day of a tournament and her team won one and drew one.

It was a good result as they expected to loose both!

Next weekend will be the finals of the tournament and it will be held at Bendigo in country Victoria.

[/quote]

I mean chance instead of change!! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Loser.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':Loser:' />





[quote name='irenevank' timestamp='1296390100' post='31964']

Hi Peter J,



our Kim is the best! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wacky.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':wacky:' />



I looked at the link, very useful. I've printed it. I think it's very expensive to call with our Dutch cell card in Australia, but in emergency cases it's okay to have your cell with you.



Unfortunately, I can't open the link about New Norcia, but I have looked on Google. Beautiful buildings, especially the college and the Abbey church. If it's possible in time and kilometres, I want to visit this place!



By the way: do you know how it's possible that NSW still hasn't published their Sponsorship list? I'm waiting since October 2010. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Whistle.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':Whistle:' />

I heard from our translator (he lives in Queensland) that there is a shortage in NSW for teachers. It was in the newspapers. Did you heared something about this subject? I'm very curious if they mean secondary school teachers or primary/special needs teachers. Maybe there is still a change voor me! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/rolleyes.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



I looked at the site weather online, I saw 40 degrees in Melbourne!

You will probably sweat? Is there a cooling surface in the neighbourhood of the sea?



Good job from your grand daughter! And with these temperatures! Well done!

Pff... That's really too hot for any sports!



I don't know if you can open this link:

[url="http://translate.google.nl/#nl|nl|eindhoven"]http://translate.goo...nl|nl|eindhoven[/url]



Press on the right button uitspraak (means pronunciation) and you can hear the name Eindhoven.

Let me know I you have managed!



You don't have Philips light in Australia? When we were in Hongkong, we saw a lot of Philips lights/lamps! (and billboards..)

Eindhoven = Philips and Philips = Eindhoven, they name Eindhoven ''the city of light''. Long time ago, there was a Dutch man (Frits Philips) and he innovated the (light) bulb. (I have searched this word on internet, I didn't know the word in English!) <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Whistle.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':Whistle:' />



Greetings Ireen

















[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



Aussie Kim appears to be a Belgian! I didn't know! And yes, in the Dutch newspapers, they all call her Aussie Kim because of her (stranded) relationship with L. Hewitt.



How is it possible that there isn't any airco in a sports hall?!

I can believe it's too hot!



An Aussie sim card is an idea! But hire it? It's that possible? As far as I know, we can't hire such cards in Holland.

However, hire isn't really pricy I think?



Is Preston a suburb from Melbourne? Is it a quiet area?

So the beaches are a bit further? Is it more expensive to buy a house nearby the beaches? Because that's our dream, but maybe it will be a dream forever.



Your skin is very sensitive? When we were in Australia, we constantly used our sunscreening product.

Nice and sticky <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/unsure.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':unsure:' />

We heard all kind of horror stories about increased risk of skin cancer in Australia. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/sad.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



Yes, I meant invent! But first manufacture is probably the right word! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/wink.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

In Holland we call it the gloeilamp. The translator on internet calls it: electric bulb, bulb, incandescent lamp.



If you have one grand daughter, she must be very special for you! And she is also a sporty girl!



It's bedtime for me..



Enjoy your day!



Greetings Ireen



[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1296463950' post='31978']

Hello Ireen.



Well Today not as hot as expected. Depending where you live it would be between 30 and 35 in the city. Too hot for me.

I went to the Gym but only stayed about 50 minutes. It was too hot inside, airconditioning seemed not working properly.



Did Kim C tell you in the Dutch papers she is known as Aussie Kim here?



I think you will be able to hire an Aussie SIM card for your phone once in Australia.

You know international roaming charges are high, but it is still important to have a phone in an emergency.



I have no news about NSW teaching shortage.



Ireen I live in Preston which is about 13Km from the nearest beaches.

We cannot be bothered to drive that far just to get out of the car into the heat.

I cannot go bare skinned in the Summer ever, so I would have to swim fully covered.

Just not worth the effort.



Ah my grand daughter was in a rep team for under 13 girls. (Only grand daughter, I have 9 grand sons!)

She is still able to play under 13 for another two years, so she was playing against bigger girls, but still did very well.

From that competition they select the girls to represent Victoria in the national championships.

She is not that good yet, but in two years who knows . . .



Thanks I got the pronunciation right!



Well of course Philips is big in Australia!

But I did not know he was from your city!

I played basket ball with a mate called Fred Philips. Oh about 50 years ago!

Did Philips "innovate" the electric light bulb?

Do you mean "invent"?

Sadly for you the world believes that Edison invented the electric light bulb! (Or so I am told).



Actually it was about 1868 that "Black Jack Johnson" from the Victorian sheep town of Dimboola invented it!!! Ha!!!

That's a joke Ireen.



I'm glad you will try to reach New Norcia. It's a hot place!

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



I have misunderstood you! So I have to buy a SIM card in Australia, to use during my journey. (and afterwards I can throw it away)



I found your residence on google maps! It's an amazing invention, google maps!



So you mean that living in the suburbs is generally more expensive? I thought living in the city is most expensive!

But maybe I don't understand your sentence, it's quite possible!! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/unsure.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':unsure:' />



I have never heard of Bendigo, but it's above Melbourne? (yes, google maps again!)

Is it a nice place?



So in Melbourne it's also dangerous to sunbathe! You always wear a hat?

When we were in Australia, we bought a hat immediately. It was so warm and the sun was bright.

In Holland, I don't need any hat. Even in summer! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/kosa.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':kosa:' />



Greetings Ireen



p.s. the anticipatory pleasure is really fun!!

(did I use the right word?)





[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1296537517' post='31987']

Hello Ireen.



Well the Gym I attend has airconditioning, just that it seemed not working so well that day!



Perhaps you cannot "hire" a SIM card as such, but you should be able to get throw away one. Say put $50 on it for the time you are here.



Preston is a suburb of Melbourne, it is about 10Km form the CBD of Melbourne.

It is to the north whereas the beaches are to the south.

Beach side homes and suburbs are dearer to rent into or buy. (Generally).



They say that Queensland is the skin cancer capitol of the world.

But here in Melbourne it is also very dangerous because of two things:

One is that we are very close to the "hole" in the ozone layer. You will be aware that the ozone stops lots of UV rays.

So the hole thus allows much UV radiation onto Melbourne.

Two is that we are much more south of the equator that all but Hobart in Australia.

This means that the "lower" burning sun is peeping under the brim of the hat for much of the day. So wider brim hats are better.



Good luck with the trip preparations.



The grand daughter and her brother finish the football tournament this weekend in Bendigo.

Do you know about this town?

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



How was your weekend? You've been away for a couple of days?

Was it nice? Were did you go?



I've been to the Efteling this weekend, it's a beautiful park in The Netherlands, near by Eindhoven.

With theater, attractions and fairytales. We stayed in a cosy house, near the park, named Bosrijk. (in English: forest rich)

[url="https://www.efteling.com/Solution/Subhome.aspx?id=NL-OVERNACHTEN&ch=DEF"]https://www.efteling.com/Solution/Subhome.aspx?id=NL-OVERNACHTEN&ch=DEF[/url]



I think it's the most beautiful park in The Netherlands. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/happy.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='^_^' />



I've heared about forest fires in Perth? Is it still going on? Was it too hot overthere?



Greetings Ireen



[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1296796002' post='32021']

Hello Ireen.



So you found lovely downtown Preston!

So you can see we are 10 Km north of the city.

Generally the bay side suburbs are the dearest to buy or rent.

I guess city rents are high as well.

Out Preston way, prices are more affordable but less desirable!



Bendigo started life 150 years ago roughly as a gold mining town and quickly became a rich town.

One can see grand buildings built during the gold rush.

It is still an important town along with a sister town Ballarat, another gold built town.

Gold mining is happening right under the town of Ballarat!



I always wear a hat when outdoors, Summer or Winter.

My skin is so sensitive I can feel the rays burning it, when other people just feel a pleasant warmth.



Your question:

p.s. the anticipatory pleasure is really fun!!

(did I use the right word?)

I understand it well.

And it is good to hear how a phrase from another language turns out in English.

An English speaking person may say: "Anticipation is half the fun!"



I'm away for a couple of days, so have fun in Holland, I could easily live there!

[/quote]

Hello,



here I am again ;-)



Thank you very much for these links!!

Oh, I find it very useful!

I've seen a little bit of it, because it's almost bedtime here.

But tomorrow I'm going to take plenty of time to watch it !



Greetings Ireen





[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1297065376' post='32030']

Hello Ireen.



I have found some video of trips in W Australia.

They are part of a TV travel series currently on Aus TV.



Go here:

[url="http://www.makingtracks.tv/episodes/"]http://www.makingtracks.tv/episodes/[/url]



You will see that the set is up to episode 10.

WA starts at episode 9.

I'm sure that at least one more episode will be about WA. So this time next week should be episode 11.



Of course you can see any episode you want to help you decide.

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



what a pity, your weekend in Bendigo! Was it a long ride?

So this weekend you will go to Bedigo again?

Lots of lucky to your granddaughter!!



Monkey Mia is a dolphin resort! Is that right? I saw it on internet. It looks very jolly!

I want to visit this place, I have never seen a dolphin before. (besides pictures in books)



Don't you think it's too cold in July/August for the Perth region?

There is no heater in the back of our campervan, so it's maybe too cold during the night? <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/kosa.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':kosa:' />



I was very jealous when I read your last sentence:



We have just had one of our son's family here for dinner, the weather is pleasant and they sit around outside after the meal and have a pleasant chat.



Hopefully we will get a nice spring and summer, but I doubt it!

<img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/unsure.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':unsure:' /> Last year the summer was very rainy en cold. (20 degrees, cloudy en rainy)



No more natural disasters these days?



Greetings Ireen



[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1297239894' post='32045']

Hello Ireen.



I'm glad you will get some help from the "tours" of Western Australia.

I think Monkey Mia is famous all over the world.

Alas I have not been to that place.

For you it is a MUST see!



Oh last weekend was a disaster!

We went to Bendigo to see the finals of grand kids football.

However there were huge storms and the football was canceled.

So we traveled for nothing.

Anyway the matches are on again this coming weekend and we shall travel once again to Bendigo.

The weather forecast is for much better days. So all should be well.



That place in Bosnijk looks beautiful. Lucky you!



The outer suburbs from Perth were engulfed in fierce bush fires.

Fires in WA are not as common as fires in Victoria.

Maybe you saw that there were many houses burned down.



We have just had one of our son's family here for dinner, the weather is pleasant and they sit around outside after the meal and have a pleasant chat.

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



Congratulations with your anniversary!! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/Party.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='arty:' />

That will be a big party next year! A golden anniversary is a milestone!

I don't think we will achieve that, we know each other 11 years now, but we're still not married! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/rolleyes.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />

My boyfriend is 32 years old, so we have to hurry then! We don't live forever...!



How did it go (or went? what's the correct form?) in Bendigo?

Has your granddaughter won the competition?

Hopefully the weather was great and you have enjoyed the trip.



I thought the sunshine coast was the most sunny coast, but actually it's Western Australia?!

I saw on internet that 15 degrees is the average temperature in Perth. Brr! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/kosa.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':kosa:' />

However, if it's sunny, I'm satisfied! <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/laugh.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':laugh:' />



We had booked a 4x4 adventure camper for our Australia trip, but the price was really high! I didn't know that a 4x4 were so expensive!

We were shocked! So now we have booked a little campervan. Hopefully we can visit the National parks, like Litchfield.



Do you have home air conditioning? For the heat and humidity? Or does it not work by humidity?



About 'my' kids: unfortunately, they don't always behave well!

So sometimes I'm a strict teacher.. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/angry.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':angry2:' />

Most children have a Dutch nationality. There are a few Turkish, Moroccan and Surinamese children.



The weekend is over. I go to sleep and tomorrow... back to work.. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/officechair.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':officechair:' />



Greetings Ireen



[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1297414916' post='32068']

Hello Ireen.



The drive to Bendigo is about 2 hours for us.

We are heading there again tomorrow. (Saturday)

The first match is in the afternoon.

I'll tell you the results on Monday!



Dolphin resort at Monkey Mia is correct. It is very popular and a must see. (Many places to see thereabouts).

The weather then will be fine.

Remember what they said in one of the videos: "Sunny 350 days a year!"

But it will be cold in the evening as you won't be far from the coast.

And even in the desert it will be cold at night. Yes you will need warm clothes.



Weather in Melbourne just had another first!

Last night (Thursday evening) the humidity reached 98%, the highest at night ever! I believe.

So hard to sleep!

BTW yesterday 10 2 2011 was our 49th wedding anniversary!

One to go for GOLD. I believe!

I hope you can make it to GOLD as well!



What about the kids you teach? Are they well behaved?

Do they come from many countries?

[/quote]

Hello Peter J,



The girls have done well! Good job!

If they continue like this, maybe they will be champions in the future!



The evening/night temperature in Perth is approximately 8 degrees. So I think we hire a heating system for in our campervan.

When we were in Alice Springs 2 years ago, we slept in our campervan with 2 layers of clothing, brr!



We have a short stop in Sydney. Is it the same temperature as in Perth?

I have doubts about our travel schedule. Do you think it's possible to drive from Sydney to Darwin (through Perth) in 6,5 weeks?

Our travel agent advises us to take a flight from Sydney to Perth.

But if we go by car, we can visit Melbourne, Adelaide and Kangaroo Island as well.



You had a busy day!

My day today wasn't very special! I'm a bit feverish. I hope I feel better in the morning. <img src='http://www.melbournechat.org/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/sad.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt='' />



Greetings Ireen





[quote name='PeterJMelb' timestamp='1297761607' post='32093']

Hello Ireen.



You asked:

How did it go (or went? what's the correct form?) in Bendigo?

You were correct first time. "How did it go?"

Well it went very well. Neither the g daughter or g son's teams were in the finals.

But the boys won both consolation games and the girls were brilliant.

In there last 4 games they won one, drew two and lost one.

Remember I told you that they (the girls) were last on the ladder after the regular season, so their last four games were great and exciting.

Oh the weather was mild about 22 or so.



You saw that the average temp in Perth was 15 degrees. Do you know if that includes the evening/night temps?

Plenty of sun in Perth and all of WA!



We have two (single room) airconditioners.

If we run both then our house is OK for comfort.

We do not run them at night. If necessary we run the ceiling fan in the bedroom. It is quiet and cooling with a gentle breeze.

We have ceiling fans in every room, which we use until late in the afternoon then run the A/C.

Today was 30 degrees but we have not run the A/C.

If there is humidity in the air the A/C will help remove it.



Well today is over for me.

This morning I went to McDonald's for morning coffee.

Then a visit to my dermatologist to have skin treatment.

This afternoon I repaired a PC for a family member.

Now it is nearly bed time for me as well.

[/quote]