Fire Drill at the Astra

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A successful fire drill was held for Astra residents and staff last week, attended by the Fire & Rescue NSW team from Bondi. The Village Manager Aaron gave a short presentation advising us on what to do in the event of an alarm. Some of his handy tips included keeping a torch close by in case of power outages, and making sure that fire doors are closed properly to minimise the spread of fire. The drill itself was supervised by our friendly local fireies and all went according to plan. The residents practised leaving the building and assembling out front, the office staff practised directing and checking that everyone made it out safely...and we rounded off the session by practising our tea-making skills with a celebratory cuppa, hot pie and slice of cheesecake! All in all it was a very successful exercise, and a reinforcing of our Astra community spirit.

Christmas in July

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The evening began sedately enough; tables were re-arranged and supplies were sought. As the time grew near, however, the buzz became more noticeable. Slowly, yet surely, the residents began to gather – one, two, a few, half a dozen, a dozen and finally almost half the village had arrived! The mood was merry and bright as we kicked off the proceedings with drinks and chat.

After drinks, we walked next door to the Bondi Tratt for a scrumptious meal of turkey, ham and all the trimmings. The atmosphere was festive, the conversation lively, the laughter infectious. Having had our fill of the feast, we retired to the Astra to continue the fun. Music and entertainment was provided by the lovely Keff. Having eaten more dessert than you would think possible after such a huge meal, there was excitement as the raffle was drawn. The prizes were provided by Sam, and the Social Committee worked tirelessly to put the whole shebang together. Festivities continued with dancing and singing to Keff's smooth tunes (even Sam and Aaron joined in the silliness!). 

Finally the music faded, the plates were washed and Christmas in July was all wrapped up for another year. The weary Astra folks put their heads on their pillows, happy and joyous and full of good cheer.

Fitzroy Falls Day Trip

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Great fun was had by all on our day out to Fitzroy Falls on 6th June. Our numbers may have been a little smaller than usual, but we more than made up for it in noise and good spirits…just ask Mark our driver! The outlook for the weather in Sydney wasn't fantastic, but the further south we drove the better it became. Despite the forecast, we had mostly sunny weather (albeit with a misty view once we got to the falls). After a short stop at Mittagong Maccas for a coffee, we arrived at Fitzroy Falls and strolled up the boardwalk to look at the falls. Due to recent rain, there was a spectacular amount of water flowing down into the depths. Standing at the top of this 81m high waterfall, this was not a view for the vertigo-prone!

Having had our fill of the wonderful bush-fresh air, waterfall lookouts and retail therapy in the gift shop, we went for a lovely pub lunch. The Burrawong Hotel is a beautiful bistro-pub with an open fire and sweeping views out over the local countryside. We managed to get a quiet corner area with big windows and lots of space to spread out and enjoy our food. The food was excellent, the bar well-stocked, and the company superb. In my first role as official ‘Trip Photographer’ I insisted on taking group shots at every available opportunity!

Once we had all eaten and drunk our fill it was time to get back onto the bus for the journey home. Former local Noni directed us on a wonderful country route back to the highway…much to the frustration of Mark! We all loved seeing the rolling hills, lakes and resident animals (sheep, cows and yes, even horses!) though, and we were not late home at all, despite Mark’s gloomy predictions. We serenaded the landscape with our own Astra versions of Advance Australia Fair and Pub With No Beer to while away the time. Some of us may have fallen asleep on the bus…but as there are no photos to prove it I’m claiming ignorance! Back home at around 4pm, just in time for a cuppa and a rest (well, that’s what I did anyway!) Bring on the next trip, I’m already looking forward to it…