Wildlife sighting and WOW what a finish!

Saturday we got out for a walk around the little peninsula at the edge of Port Fairy. 

Scene from the walk around Port Fairy

Interesting - take a look at the Australian version of pine needles. The trees look the same from a distance, but close up...

It is a lovely walk along the bay and the coastline and as it turns out, ripe with wildlife! See the photo of one of the wallabies we practically ran right into on the trail!

Isn't he cute! Our Wallaby sighting.

Of course, we called it a kangaroo but were tactfully corrected by our innkeeper. Turns out the wallaby - much more common in that region - is a smaller relative of the kangaroo, which is primarily found in the Outback. They do look like a miniature Roo, though - with the short front legs, powerful hind legs and long tail for jumping. Obviously these two were pretty used to people, as they sat there and very kindly posed for a lengthy photo shoot while they munched on some twigs for breakfast. 

We had a long drive ahead of us, so after our walk we headed back to Melbourne to turn in the car and get down to Melbourne Park where we used my grounds passes to watch the Men's Final on the big screen outside Hisense Arena. It was lots of fun being there on the grounds - and wow what a show!

You've probably heard by now that it was the longest match in Australian Open history and the longest Grand Slam final ever. It lasted 5:53 and finished up at 1:40am Melbourne time! I may not have been wild about the outcome but you can't help but appreciate the athleticism, endurance and focus on display. From the 80 minute first set to the 19 shot rally at the very end, it was really incredible that they were still standing, much less still performing at that level. And yes, of course I stayed to the end - I flew half-way round the world for this, how could I leave?!? And now I have about 20 hours to sleep on the plane. 

I should be home by the time I post this, so here's to a great trip, a wonderful hostess, fantastic tennis, and a warm, welcoming country that I urge you all to visit someday! Good day, mates!