12. Ararat, Green Hill Lake

Month: March
Days Stayed
Weather: Sunny autumn weather

We arrived late in the afternoon and the next day did the washing as our spot was beautifully secluded, overlooking the second smaller lake. Beautiful Lake view on one side and 'sheepies' on the other.Oh Yah Lovely!!!

Oh My Goodness:
The 'Drug infested bludger':
We're waiting for the tram on the station to go back to the train. We were the only people on the station at that stage.
This 'captain underpants' ( he had on long pyjama pants on with undies over the top) walked onto the platform and father gave him 'the evil eye'. All of a sudden 'captain underpants' is hurling abuse at father. He was extremely angry. Father immediately asked for my walking stick just in case, however, he then crossed over the lines and started throwing things at dad- first a piece of pizza, then his lighter. By this time other people began coming onto the platform and he walked off. Thank goodness!!!

Highlights:
Gum San: Chinese Heritage Centre
I wasn't expecting much, however, it was awesome! There were lots of dioramas depicting life for the Chinese during the gold rush years. They also had hands on activities for the kids- gold panning, chinese writing, dressing up, movie extracts etc. The lady at the front desk was also very informative, having lived with her grandfather who had lived during those years.
Father decided to go gold panning- no gold pan for father. He just leant over the miniature creek, staring and staring into the water! Sadly- no gold!

J Ward Lunatic Asylum:
What an apt place to visit!!! It was an annexe of the hospital with many inmates being transferred back and forth from the prison to the J W ward. Again very informative and interesting with the guide, (we believe was a former guard) telling us about the various people who lived there.

Melbourne Markets:
Father missed out on his Victorian train trip so we decide to take the 2 hour trip to Melbourne by train and then tram to the Queen Victoria Markets. We caught the 6.15am train there and the 6.15pm train home.
I rode the 'Goffey' onto the train in Ararat, however, previous to this day trip we had a bit of trouble with the 'Goffey' cutting out suddenly, so I was a little concerned. Of course, the inevitable happened and it conked out halfway up the ramp onto the train. Thankfully Father was able to come to the rescue and he gets it onto the train. When we got off at Melbourne Father had a good look and it seemed to be working again, however, that was the last of me driving on and off trains or trams.
We strolled around the markets, had lunch then headed back to the station, strolled around the Outlets Shopping Centre, bought some tea to eat on the train, before heading home.
It was a very enjoyable day!

Stunning sunsets:
Just like Colac the sunsets and rises are aweaome!

One Hill Lookout:
Wow! 360 degrees lookout. Very impressive!