Australian Countryside, Upper Hunter, NSW

The Australian Countryside

It is easy to love the Australian countryside, especially that of the Upper Hunter Valley. The view from my daughter Suzi's house is quite stunning, as you can see from the image above.

Of course, one disadvantage could be that this is the road out from their house, 

and it's quite a while before they hit a tarred road.

My Granddaughter, Katelyn, is a true country girl, who loves the outdoors. 

Here, Grandpa is helping her collect some sticks, so she can show him how to make a campfire.

And here she is beginning to build her fire, as Grandpa and her faithful dog look on.

Katelyn's dog, Tinker

Here is the beginnings of the campfire that Katelyn built by herself. 

Very good, for a five-year-old! 

(Of course, she is still too young to be allowed to light it herself!)

Part of country living is the ability to see a wide selection of wildlife. Every night we saw thousands of flying foxes. But they fly so fast in the dying rays of light, that I was unable to get a shot of them.

Fortunately, I was able to get an image of these Rainbow Lorikeets...

...and the ubiquitous kangaroo.

And here is the end to another perfect day in Australia.

by Elizabeth Coughlan