MEMORY LANE
In 1986 some Aussies we met in the Greek islands, on returning home, made us a generous offer we couldn’t refuse: They would buy a VW campervan in Australia for our use! In 1988 we travelled from Melbourne cross-country as far north as Bundaberg with side-trips to the Great Barrier Reef and New Zealand then returned to Victoria’s coastline. We were hooked and ended up buying the vehicle from them (in instalments!) and have since spent a dozen long trips Down Under.
While staying in our friends’ home on our first trip, we became aware of an early edition of AUSTRALIAN GEOGRAPHIC and have now subscribed to it for 35 years. It inspired us to visit most of Australia, except Far North Queensland, and enjoy places like Monkey Mia, the Bungle Bungles and Coral Bay before they developed into tourist honeypots. We rarely receive an issue that includes an area we haven’t visited, which brings instant pleasure and nostalgia. AG 180 brings back very happy meetings with numbats, both at Dryandra and Yookamurra. The same edition also reminded us of our visits to Whyalla and Naracoorte.
Age takes its toll in many ways, and it is unlikely that we will have the energy to visit you again. But I’m sure we will continue to derive great pleasure from your excellent magazine. Long may it continue. Frank and Harriet Faulkner, Northampton, England
POSTCRIPT: Last issue’s Australian Portrait profile incorrectly described Chris Darwin as Charles Darwin’s ancestor, not descendant.Thank you for keeping us on our toes with your letters and emails.