Scotland Island June 2001 Newsletter

We're moving to an island I hear Sue say, plenty of room and the kids can play,
It's a different lifestyle and you can come, It's out of the city and will be lots of fun.
I'm off for a visit to this paradise, "Don't bring too much" is the advice.
Suncream, sunnies and fishing rods, I have a few bags, and some odds and sods.

There is a beautiful view across Pittwater Bay, an island of green, just a boat trip away.
Come on, we'll get there while the tide is in , we can be sailors, can't you swim?
The ferry is sedate and takes the ride slow, or take the pink water taxi for plenty of go,
or what we like best, our little blue runner's a little rusty but it sure is a gunner!

I hold on for life, and enjoy the spray, the engine is loud. What did you say?
It's up and down and side to side, my knuckles are white but I enjoy the ride.
Whew! That was great, let's tie up the boat, that doesn't look easy and can't be done rote.
Marcus balances between boat and pylon, I hope that suit is made of nylon.

Somehow the appropriate knots are tied and the laws of gravity defied,
Now is the best part, just a short climb, there are a few steps, we'll be there in no time!
With bags and pillows under my arms the island beckons with all of its charms.
I start with confidence - but then, How many did you say? Two hundred and ten!

I'm halfway there and out of breath, My legs are jelly and I feel close to death,
My heart is pounding and misses a beat No, I will not accept defeat.
I suppose you are used to this I say Yep, you get fit when it's every day.
Ah, there's the house, a haven amongst trees, I crawl through the door, on my knees.

I need a drink! I hear my voice rasp But Wow! What a view is my second gasp.
This panorama of water through gums to view With the setting sun painting a golden hue.
I'm glad we are here and it's worth the climb, now to relax in this world sublime,
But there's some toys scattered about and some clothes on the chairs
Oh and few things to move so you can sleep downstairs.

I'll grab a shower and have a good soak. Sorry, we're on tank water, so you won't.
Well, that's okay I can live with thatchy, you didn't tell me the water is black!
I wake with a start from a blissful sleep A crashing noise disturbs me from the deep.
I rush upstairs to see what is the fray It's just the possums out to play.

So every night 'tween dusk and morning light The possums scratch then run and jump in fright.
The sight of Marcus with the broom To chase those possums from the room.
But they are hardy and are back each night It's just one of those things about island life,
Like spiders and ticks and creepy crawly things. It is part of the fun that country life brings.

How do I get up here with the shopping load? The island taxi is the right mode.
He's always there when you need that ride It's better than the steps I must confide.
And every day there are parrots to feed Justin is very handy with the seed!
There is enough food from morning to night but we never tire of their colourful flight.

Together with Jessie, we make lots of cakes and plenty of cookies for the island fete.
We like to walk to Tennis to play, and back again at the end of the day.
To go off the island is an expedition requiring timing, forethought and determination.
Got the car keys? my purse, and coat? Don't want to do it 3 times by boat.

Church Point is a lovely spot by far, great pub, a post office and friendly milk bar.
The ferry pulls in with great precision, to be back by four is my decision.
We return from our day out on the town, the Church Point car park has wide renown.
Hey I have a sticker and can park my car here, looks like I might be parked on the pier.

What luck, a spot has just become free we squeeze in and run to the pier with glee.
What do you mean the last ferry just went, its pink water taxi and another 12 dollars spent!
The time has come and we must leave the isle, sad farewells, but we'll be back in a while.
Yes it was worth the steps, and a gale or two for island peace and fun, and solitude.

"For Sue"

The Scotland Island Players presented Survivor 3 - the island on June 8th and June 9th 2001, and your editor and his attractive assistant went along to enjoy a night of revue

presented by our local talent. The show was (very) loosely based on the television series known and loved by some, and starred MC's Bob Blackwood and Toby Jay. Netty Lodge, Lizzie Brand, Lisa Atkins and Mat Penfold, together with Brian Franki, Robert Dale, Michael Sourial, Tania Carroll and Darryl. With lots of sharp humour, many references to certain on-shore establishments and some fine music played by an augmented SI orchestra (who may need just a little more practice), we thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Please keep up the good work and may we have many more shows of such quality.

The Scotland Island Preschool invites you to the Black and White Charity Ball to be held at the SI Community Hall on Friday July 6th at 8pm. Featuring John Brownrigg and Imagine That, this night will sure to be lots of fun. Supper is being provided by Caotic Catering and refreshments will be available. Dress: Black and/or White. Cost $35.00 per person. Numbers are limited and there will be no ticket sales at the door. Inquiries: 02-9997-6768.

The Scotland Island Rural Fire Brigade extends an invitation to all residents and friends of

the Brigade to attend our annual "Christmas in July" dinner to be held on Saturday, 21 July 2001. Join us for a sumptuous traditional three course dinner with all the trimmings, live music, prizes and special guests. Seats are strictly limited so book early - at just $35 each you don't want to miss this fun night out. Call Bruce at the Fire shed to make your booking on 9999 4404.

The Scotland Island Directory has been a great success since it was first printed in early 2000. Scotland Island Residents' Association has received a number of requests from both current and potential new subscribers to the Directory to be included in any future edition. We have therefore decided to collate and print an update to the Directory to be released to all residents of Scotland Island as well as residents in the Western Foreshores. The update would include advertisements, both from existing and new advertisers, as well as an updated listing of telephone numbers for Scotland Island and the Western Foreshores.

If you are interested, please reply to SIRA by Monday 9th July indicating that you wish to be part of this supplement and forward your Application and cheque for payment by Tuesday 31st July. Applications are available from the following people:

You can now join SIRA by clicking here. Please print the page you see and return the completed form to SIRA at this address:

The Treasurer, SIRA, PO Box 70, Church Point 2105. Please NO CASH. If you wish to pay in cash, contact the treasurer, Shirley Page on (02) 9997-1875 to arrange collection/delivery.

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