Australian Family Road Trip

By Daniel Beauglehole

This family’s road trip is a special journey. It is a trip of discovery as they make their way around Australia, as well as an opportunity to grow as a family. Daniel Beauglehole has woven his experience of travel and his knowledge of the challenges facing those on the Autism Spectrum. Resulting in a story, that is not only informative but also humorous and enjoyable to read.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Inspiring Publishers / ASPG
• Release date: Dec 7, 2022
• ISBN: 9781922618870

Book preview

Introduction

Hello, I am Cassie… let me introduce you to my parents.

My Dad’s name is Daniel Fred Bontel, he has mild autism and was born on January the sixteenth, 1970. Dad has dark brown hair which is always neatly combed and styled, he has bright blue eyes and rosy cheeks with a moustache below his straight nose.

He has a smiling mouth and red lips that cover gleaming white teeth. His strong chin sits on an elegant neck, he has broad shoulders and chest, his lily-white skin covers a lean stomach and ramrod straight back.

Long arms are ended with elegant hands and fingernails. He has strong, shapely legs and sings with an ‘eighties’ popstar voice. He wears a bowler hat, and he favours clothes made of silk. He has a ‘Seiko’ watch which he wears on his right wrist.

His favourite outfit is a green tee shirt, green pants and green socks. He is five feet eight inches tall. He wears dark black sunglasses which he has worn all during his music career, and he has a powerful singing voice which has been compared by fans and music critics alike, to Rick Astley!

My Mum’s name is Mikayla Natalie Bontel (nee Macdonald), she has mild autism also and was born on February the sixteenth, 1970. She has long coal black hair which brushes her shoulders. Mum has emerald green eyes and rosy cheeks, with a button nose.

Her mouth is shaped in a cupid’s bow, with shining teeth and ruby lips. Her neck is swan-like, leading down to rounded shoulders of creamy coloured skin. She has a good figure, with a strong back and shapely arms and legs.

She likes to wear a Panama hat and her clothes are made of satin, she has a ring on her right middle finger and a ‘Michel Herbelin’ watch on her right wrist. Her favourite colour is yellow and she wears a shirt and pants in that colour.

She is five feet eight inches tall and in her right ear she wears a diamond pearl earring, that she has worn since she was seventeen years old. Her powerful singing style has been compared to Madonna by her fans and music magazines.

Now I will tell you about myself!

I am Cassie Annabelle Bontel I am sixteen years, two months and three days old. I was born on April the twenty-first, 1995. I live at twenty-three Henry St, Melbourne in Victoria, Australia.

I have mild autism, an autism spectrum condition. I have long, charcoal black hair, which reaches past my shoulders. My sky-blue eyes and rosy cheeks compliment my button nose. I have a smiling mouth that shows straight teeth and crimson lips.

My strong chin is located right on top of my gracious neck which continues on to my broad shoulders of ivory coloured skin. My strong arms end in hands that have long fingers finished with long fingernails.

I like to wear a Fedora hat and my clothes are always made of cotton. I don’t wear any jewellery, apart from a ‘Citizen’ watch that I have on my right wrist. I have a blue head-band to match my favourite outfit of a blue t-shirt and pants.

I am five feet nine inches tall and my vocal sound has been compared to the voice of Nikki Webster.

We are going to take a trip around Australia…this will mean lots of changes to my routine!

I am nervous, because there will be many new places to visit, many new people to meet and interact with, new environments to explore… and all the sensory issues that may arise!

I’ve never travelled interstate before! Mum, Dad and I have been to places in Victoria, the state that I was born and raised in, but we have never travelled interstate as a family together. I have always resisted, every time Mum and Dad planned to go somewhere like South Australia, or New South Wales.

Although I am nervous, at the same time I am excited… because I am keen to learn new things about Australia’s history and see Australian cities and landmarks along the way. Mum and Dad are going to help me throughout this road trip, we will navigate this journey of a lifetime as a family and help each other with the challenges!

It may be tough, but I guarantee we can do it. We can do it!

Because I am a visual learner, Mum and Dad showed me a map of our schedule, to let me understand what’s happening next. The day before we are due to leave, Mum shows me the plans.

This is what’s going to happen, Cassie.

Here are the plans for our road trip around Australia!

We will pack everything up tonight and be ready to leave in the morning!

We are going to start in Melbourne, we will visit places like Emerald, Moe, Traralgon, Bairnsdale, Echuca, Shepparton, Wangaratta, Wodonga and that is just Victoria!

We may stay in motels sometimes, we plan to change drivers every two hours or so, that way we won’t get too fatigued… we will all be able to stretch our legs at changeover times.

After Victoria, we plan to go the Australian Capital Territory, then New South Wales, followed by Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania, finally returning to Victoria!

We can try out some fun activities in all those places… do you understand Cassie? Mum asked

Yes, Mum… I understand. I reply

Also, I want you to be on your best behaviour… if you get upset or angry try and use your words… so that we can work out what has upset you… that way we can help you.

We are always here for you… if you have any questions along the way, don’t be afraid to ask us. Mum smiled

You can ask us anything especially on this road trip…we’ll do our best to answer. said Mum, I nodded

Next it was preparation time, everyone had to make a list of what they would need to take… on our ‘Aussie Family Trip’!

Cassie’s road trip list!

DVD player and DVD’s, comedy movies, animal documentaries, Australian history.

Toy cars and stress balls

Game Boy, GB Colour, GB Advance, DS, charger and games

Magazines-That’s Life and Take 5

Batteries

Music CD’s and headphones, plus noise-reduction ones, music CD’s, Aqua, Kylie, Katy Perry, Quirky Service, Nikki Webster

Pens and pencils

Australian history books, sports books, Mikayla’s jokes

iPad and iPod

Laptop

Guitar

Next, or should I say ‘Most Important’ on my list… is my super ‘survival bag’!

This is what I use whenever I go out! It’s full of necessities that I always carry to help me feel calm and safe. Especially, when the places I go to are likely to be noisy and crowded or smelly too!

These are the little things that help me when I get overwhelmed from ‘sensory’ overload, this bag is really great and the best item I own! Here are the items that I have in my ‘survival’ bag that have helped me since I was three years old, they have been added to or changed as I have grown older… hopefully they can help me again… on this road trip!

Noise-Reduction Headphones/MP3 Player

This is the best item I have ever had… honestly, it’s a lifesaver! When I wear them, it helps me to cope with loud noises in public places… so I can focus on what I am doing. I’ll take them off to hear something that Mum and Dad have to say to me when we are in a quiet place. I also have an MP3 player that I got when I was thirteen, it has many of my favourite pop artists/bands including Nikki Webster and Quirky Service, I also listen to soothing classical music and Eurodance beats.

My Dolphin Soft Toy

I have had this dolphin soft toy since I was five years old, it is one of my comforting tools, I get very distressed and upset if I misplace it. I still keep it today, I stroke the plush fabric with my fingers to feel the soft sensation, it helps to calm me. It’s my ultimate comfort item, I would not go anywhere without it! I know what you’re thinking… you’re sixteen! DO you really need to carry it everywhere? I DO carry it everywhere and it’s FINE by me!

Weighted Lap Blanket

I always have the weighted lap blanket with me in case I get nervous on public transport. Besides calming me down at home when I meltdown it also helps me if I’m on public transport for more than a couple of hours. It gives me a positive feeling of comfort and relaxation. It’s a no-brainer idea… it’s a great tool for me to use!

Notebook, Wallet, Essential Items and Bag

I use my notebook to write down ideas for my music projects… to compose songs… I also draw little pictures in it as well as my sketchbook… which relaxes me. My wallet is a cute ‘Minnie Mouse’ wallet from Disney… it contains coins, Mum and Dads’ emergency numbers and my autism card.

When I get nervous or shy, I find it difficult to talk to anyone, which could cause a meltdown. When this happens, I get out my card which says… ‘My name is Cassie and I have mild autism, I am shy, I find it hard to talk to new people, especially in unfamiliar environments. Please call my Mum or Dad on the following numbers’.

This lets other people know that I need help, or I can call my Mum or Dad when things get too much. I have used it twice… hopefully I don’t need to use it for a long time.

I have an emergency kit which has band-aids… in case I cut myself, pens, pencils, Advil and other bits and pieces. It’s very helpful and I wouldn’t go anywhere without that kit.

Books

I’ve always been a bit of a bookworm, I got that from Dad. He is good with English, English Literature and languages, so I usually pack a few books wherever I go. Most of the time, I take two fantasy novels, a pop music book and a best-selling novel. I love to get lost in a book when I read them. For this road trip I’m taking the ‘Twilight’ series by Stephanie Meyer, an autistic daughter of Mum’s friend, gave them to me on my fourteenth birthday, I still love reading them today. They are brilliant, fantastic and very thrilling.

Food and Drink

For food I have various chocolate bars, little packets of Doritos and Twisties. On days when I don’t want to eat anything due to my food sensitivities, or when my acceptable foods have run out, these foods are my staple items.

They are my favourite ‘junk’ foods, I know I’m supposed to eat them in moderation, but these foods are the only foods I take with me. Don’t listen to me for dietary advice and don’t ask me for any either!

I also have a bottle of Mount Franklin water, in case the weather gets hot, it’s the only brand of water I will drink! Some brands from the supermarket are disgusting ‘Eeeuuw’… others are too expensive… Mt Franklin is the only water I like… it’s refreshing and cool every time I drink it! This ‘survival’ bag is the best idea Mum and Dad ever had! I will use it if things get overwhelming. It’s a winner

Mikayla’s road trip list

Movie DVDs… no horror movies!

Iphone

First aid kit… including insect repellent!

Camera

Music CD’s

Laptop

List for everyone

Medication

Toiletries/Hankies

Clothes

Bottles of water

Spending money

Snacks

Daniel’s road trip list

Iphone

Camera

Music CD’s

Laptop

iPad

Guitar

Chapter One

Monkeys-Model Trains-Machinery

The next morning bright and early, we put our suitcases into the back of the vehicle and climb into our silver Holden Colorado four-wheel drive. Dad is taking the first two hours shift, he and Mum have agreed to share the driving during our Australian road trip, to avoid fatigue which is a good idea! Mum and Dad also thought another good idea sometime on this road trip, would be to teach me how to drive! I feel nervous about ‘that’ idea… but a little excited as well! We agree that I can have my first practice on a quiet back road with little traffic, where I can take it as slowly as I need to. It is something to look forward to later in the trip, with both excitement and trepidation. It may take some time but our road trip should give us the perfect opportunities for practice along the way, once we get into the outback.

What would you like to do first Cassie? asked Dad

I would like to see and feed the animals at the Melbourne Zoo! I replied, excitedly

Dad smiled at my excitement as we took the short drive to the zoo.

Hello, can I help you? asked the Zoo operator

We would like to see and feed the animals please. Dad replied

That will be fifteen dollars please. said the zoo park operator

There were elephants, penguins, monkeys, tigers and lions, we walked up to the tiger’s enclosure. They looked relaxed lying on the grass, I put on my noise-reduction headphones just in case the tigers growled and frightened me. We went up to the monkey enclosure, they were funny, we all laughed at their antics.

Next, we went to see the penguins who were waddling around the pool and diving into the water. Then we went to see the elephants, I laughed when an elephant tickled my hand with his trunk.

Hee, hee, that tickles! I giggled

It made Mum and Dad laugh too, a second elephant scooped up a handful of water and squirted it at Mum.

Glug! Glug! spluttered Mum

Dad and I laughed at her, Mum saw the funny side and laughed as well! Just then another elephant scooped up water and squirted me right in the face!

"Wah! I shrieked

Mum and Dad laughed at me, I laughed too, it didn’t end there though, Dad copped a ‘trunkful’ just as he threw back his head to laugh!

What the… spluttered Dad, trying to catch his breath

Mum and I sniggered.

Looks like we all got a good soaking there. said Mum, ruefully

We sure did, those elephants were cheeky today!

They definitely were, how mischievous! agreed Dad

A zookeeper came up to us with three towels.

Are you all right?

You look wet. he added

We’re fine thanks, it’s all in good fun. Mum smiled

Here dry yourselves off with these. the zookeeper nodded

Thank you. I said, grabbing a towel to wipe off my face

Mum, Dad and I, dried ourselves, it had been an embarrassing moment; but we laughed it off.

We decided to go and see the koalas.

Hey, you’re that ‘famous’ family… aren’t you? said the keeper, looking closely at our faces

We might be… why do you ask? said Mum

I’ve heard about your music career and your celebrity life.

I’ve got a koala that I would like you to meet.

You may hold him if you wish.

Would you like to meet him? asked the keeper

Yes, we would! we all said in unison

The keeper came out holding a koala.

His name is George. said the keeper

He gave him to Dad to hold.

My gosh!

He’s so furry.

He’s a handsome fellow!" Dad said, admiringly

Then it was Mum’s turn.

Aw.

He is so cute.

His coat is so soft.

His nose is shiny too.

Then it was my turn, I was reluctant to hold George at first.

Don’t be shy Cassie, George is so friendly. said Mum, encouragingly

The keeper gently placed George into my arms.

He’s so handsome, and his ears are soft. I said

Would you like to have your photo taken with George? asked the keeper

Yes please, we’d love to! said Mum and Dad, together

I will wear my black sunglasses…I’m not being a superstar… I just want to protect my eyes from the flash! I laughed

I got out my black sunglasses and put them on. We then had our photos taken with George it was one experience that I will remember for a long time. To finish our trip to the zoo, we went to see the lions. I was nervous when I saw them and shook, I became emotional at the sight of them. Mum and Dad told me to take some deep breaths, which I did and it calmed me down.

Cassie, let me tell you something.

The lions are in their cages as you see here.

They are behind their fences you are safe they can’t get to you.

The lions eat meat for nourishment and they swim in a pool to cool them on hot days.

The males have manes around their head and necks, so you can recognise that feature.

The male lion is referred to as the ‘King of the Jungle’, they fight to keep their lionesses by beating other lions for their pride, (which is the name of a lion’s family). Dad told me

Now that is Dad at his teaching best!

As we left the zoo the monkeys decided to give us something…they threw rotten fruit at us!

Yuck! shrieked Mum

Eeuuw! I yelled

Urgh! moaned Dad, as some ‘squishy’ fruit landed in his hair

There was ‘squishy fruit everywhere, all over our clothes and hair! I was embarrassed, some children were laughing at our predicament, but I wasn’t sure I could see the funny side just yet!

Oh dear!

It looks like the monkeys got you!

They do that sometimes they have a mischievous sense of fun.

"I’m very sorry about that! said the zookeeper, shaking his head

That’s all right, I guess we will have to make a pit stop to freshen up before lunch! said Mum, wiping fruit out of her eyes

We were given wet towels by the zookeeper to clean off the fruit from our hands and faces, before finding some facilities to spruce up again.

Once we were presentable it was time for lunch… we decided on KFC! We went inside, it wasn’t too noisy, bright or crowded for me, so we walked up to the counter.

Dad ordered

Tower burger

Large chips

Can of orange lemonade

Mum ordered

Original BBQ bacon and cheese burger

Large chips

Can of raspberry lemonade

My order was

Original fillet burger

Large chips

Can of lemonade

Eat-in or takeaway? asked the cashier

Takeaway. said Mum

That will be thirty-two dollars and ninety-five cents please. the cashier said

Everybody got their seatbelts on? asked Dad

Yes. said Mum and I, together

Wagons Ho!

"Let’s get this road trip rolling! said Dad, with a big grin

Mum turned in her seat.

It’s time for Australian Trivia Book Number One … are you ready?

Yes… I’m ready." I replied, with a mouthful of fillet burger

Which antique steam train has been running between Belgrave and Gembrook since 1900? Mum questioned

Puffing Billy.

You can also race alongside it to beat it to the finish line. I added

When did the Emerald Post Office open? Mum continued

December the twenty-second, 1899. I replied

Which Australian TV series screened in 1976, involved a fictional local policeman solving crimes in Emerald? asked Mum

Solo One. I replied

An hour or so later we arrived in Emerald, Dad whipped out his mobile phone to check out what’s happening in Emerald.

We could try the Emerald Lake Model Railway, walk through Cardinia Reservoir Park or go to Emerald Lake Park.

Which one would you like to do? he asked

Let’s go to the Emerald Lake Model Railway! I said

Okay, Emerald Lake Model Railway it is then. said Dad

When we arrived, we were given a lovely welcome.

Hello, Sir, Madam and Miss, how may I help you? asked the receptionist

We would like to see the model railway, there are three of us as a family. Mum told the lady

That will be twenty-five dollars please. said the receptionist

Dad paid the entrance fee. We were amazed by the model trains I was so excited there were so many trains to see. ‘Mia, my cousin would love this.’ I thought

Look Cassie. called Dad

That’s the ‘Orient Express’… in 1883 it began service from Paris to Istanbul.

It crossed six countries over ten different railroads… it was most famous for its five-course French meals… its passengers included diplomats, royalty and government couriers!

Wow!

That is one first class train! I said, very impressed

Look Cassie that’s the ‘Flying Scotsman’. said Mum

In 1928 it became the first non-stop train from King’s Cross in London to Edinburgh in Scotland!

It was a luxury express train full of amenities, featuring a hairdressing salon, a Louis the XVI style restaurant and bar, and for a short time it even had a cinema coach.

Amazing!

That’s one train you would like to ride on. I said

Look Cassie there is the ‘Super Chief’." said Dad

In 1936 it was originally operated by the Santa Fe Railroad… it ran from Chicago to Los Angeles… it was considered to be one of the best long-distance trains in the US.

It was also renowned for its gourmet food and Hollywood clientele.

The Flying Scotsman would have to be my favourite train! I exclaimed

The Amtrak currently operates a long-distance train over the same route. said Dad

After an hour looking at all the model trains we left.

Mia would’ve loved that place!

She loves trains so much…she would be so excited to see all those trains.

You are right about that Cassie.

Mia would be very excited…it’s train heaven to someone with a train obsession like Mia…absolute paradise. said Mum

I remember the last time I was in Emerald.

What do you remember about Emerald, Cassie? said Dad, surprised

It was May the sixteenth, 2003 and I was eight years old.

You brought me here for a week’s holiday.

I played in the park and I saw a train in a museum.

It was a happy time… and now here I am again today… having visited the new train model museum…learning even more about trains! I smiled

We had a good time in Emerald back then and we are enjoying it just as much today. said Mum, happily

Let’s walk through Cardinia Reservoir Park, I would like that. I said

Yes, why not?

It’ll be good for us. Dad agreed

As we drove to the park, Dad proceeded to tell one of his really bad ‘Dad’ jokes.

Dad, you’ve told me that ten times before… ever since I was two years old… and it’s still bad! I said, cringing

It may be an oldie… but it’s a goodie!

The old ones are the best!

That one’s a classic! said Dad, laughing heartily at his own ‘bad’ joke

It’s definitely a classic one, dear. said Mum, ‘egging’ him on

I groaned…you are both so embarrassing… I mumbled under my breath… my head in my hands. Mum and Dad can be ‘so’ embarrassing sometimes, especially when Dad tells bad, cheesy jokes then Mum follows up with the punchline!

They make me cringe… especially when it happens in front of my friends or classmates… but I still love them regardless… I know it’s all ‘meant’ in good fun.

We parked the car and prepared to walk through the gardens. Along the way, I stopped to smell the flowers and Mum and Dad collected some leaves. After a lovely walk of nearly an hour, we got back to the car and on the road again.

Our road trip started off with a comedy moment with those cheeky monkeys. said Mum, smiling

Yes, it did Mum.

They were even funnier than Dad’s jokes! I said, laughing

Waddya mean! said Dad, in an offended tone of voice

Cut down in my comedic prime by my own daughter. he said, pretending to be mortally wounded

We all burst out laughing at that!

I took out my iPod, put in my earplugs and listened to my favourite music, Katy Perry was playing, I watched the scenery out the window as we drove along. An hour and fifteen minutes later we arrived in Moe, Mum looked in her driving guide book for some activities to do.

We could go to Old Gippstown, discover Walhalla, or walk the Yallourn Rail Trail.

Which one shall we do? she asked us

Let’s go to Old Gippstown and see the machinery collection. I said

We arrived at Old Gippstown and went inside the town… it was like stepping back in time. We were amazed by the variety of old buildings, there was a large collection of horse-drawn carriages too. Every time I found something new, I learnt as much as I could about it.

After we had finished looking around Old Gippstown Heritage Park, we drove to Traralgon twenty-six minutes down the road.

Here we are in Traralgon, let’s book a room overnight, and ‘chill out’ after our first big day. said Dad

We found the Motel Traralgon and were given room Number Six for our stay. We took our suitcases up to our room, and unpacked just the things we would need for an overnight stop. After our first big day, I was ready for some downtime.

That was a big day… I need to chill out. I said

We do too!

We’re going to watch some TV… what are you going to do Cassie? asked Mum

I’m going to play on my laptop for an hour or two.

We’ll go out and have dinner then… so be ready when we call you. said Dad

Yes, I’ll be ready. I replied

Later Dad said…

What do you want for tea?

We are feeling too tired to dine out somewhere tonight. said Dad

Subway! I called out

We drove to Breed Street in Traralgon, where Subway was located… there were a couple of people in line before us… I used to dislike waiting in lines in takeaway shops… but I have learnt to wait patiently until the other people in front of me have done buying their lunch or dinner.

I patiently waited until they collected their dinners. Next it was our turn we ordered our usual favourites. We drove back to the inn to have our tea.

After we finished eating, Dad made a phone call on his mobile phone to his Mum… Maria Bontel.

‘Hi Mum.’ he said

‘Yes, we are in Traralgon.’

‘Yes, we have started our journey well, Mum.’

Thanks Mum, we just had tea, tomorrow we are making our way to Bairnsdale. Dad continued

‘Bye, Mum, we’ll be sure to take some photos!’ said Dad

Mum then made a phone call on her mobile to her Mum… Belinda Macdonald.

Hi Mum we’re having a great time. Mum said over the phone

Our road trip is off to a good start, at the Melbourne Zoo we got to hold a koala named George.

His fur was so soft and cuddly Mum.

While we were there Daniel, Cassie and I, got squirted by three elephants, we got quite a soaking! Mum laughed

Yes, Mum they were very cheeky.

As we left the zoo the monkeys were even cheekier!

They threw rotting fruit at us… it was embarrassing. Mum giggled

Yes, we did have a great time at the Melbourne Zoo… even with the monkeys! Mum laughed out loud

We’re going to watch a movie now… I think we’ve decided to watch the ‘The Nutty Professor’… so I will say bye now Mum. Mum ended her phone call

Our Mums are right behind us every step of the way! said Dad, cheerily

Yes, they are!

Mum supports what I do and she says quality time with family is important! Mum said, firmly

The same goes for my Mum too! Dad said, proudly

Mum always encourages us to spend time with our loved ones and that’s what matters, even on a road trip! Dad exclaimed

Right, let’s put ‘The Nutty Professor’ on. said Mum

Cassie, do you want to watch the movie with us? asked Dad

Yes please, I would like to.

I paused what I was doing on my laptop and went to watch the movie. We all laughed at the funny bits, especially when Sherman Klump, (played by Eddie Murphy), knocked Jason out, (played by John Ales), when he tried to stop him from going to the Alumni Ball! Ninety-five minutes later, it was bedtime.

I hope you don’t snore, Mum!

You might keep me awake… as well as Dad. I said

I’ll try not to. said Mum

We all woke up at seven-thirty the next morning, we had our breakfast, showered and dressed, and went for a drive around Traralgon. At nine-thirty we went to the Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve.

It says in the 1930’s, there was once a nine-hole golf course and in the north eastern corner there used to be a rubbish tip, but they were both closed in 1939.

Inside the conservation reserve there were different areas, including a lake in the middle and various birds and vegetation.

There’s a blue bird over there! I pointed

Dad got out his binoculars and looked for it.

You’re right Cassie!

There is a blue bird… your favourite colour! Dad smiled

Yes, it is Dad. I agreed

There’s a yellow bird over here, it’s yellow like my shirt! said Mum, getting out her binoculars and looking through the lenses

Hey, I can see a green bird up there!

It’s the same colour as an emerald! says Dad, looking through his binoculars.

You’re right darling.

It is like the colour of an emerald. Mum agreed

We took out our cameras and snapped a few photos, they’re going to look good to show our family!

In the nature reserve we saw some ducks, I let a couple of tiny ducklings walk on my hand, but I wouldn’t let the mother duck because I was afraid, she might bite me! Mum and Dad assured me that the ducks are harmless, so I let the mother duck closer to me.

These ducks are so cute. I said

They sure are if we had some bread with us… we might be able to feed a few of them. said Mum

Well, I’ve got some… so we can! said Dad

He gave us all a handful, and we proceeded to feed the ducks.

Here ducks, come and get your bread!

We’ve got plenty for you, so come and eat it all up. I cried out to them

The ducks needed no second invitation, they were very keen to get to the bread!

Hey!

"Hey guys!

Don’t be greedy!

There’s plenty to share round.

I know you all love it. I said

We all enjoy feeding the ducks don’t we. said Mum

Yes, we do! Dad said, with a grin

Ducks are fun birds to interact with, they will follow you around like you’re their mother then try to nibble your feet… but I enjoy being around them. I reflected

When we saw the swamp hens, I got nervous and backed away a little. I’ve never encountered a hen of this type and it looked scary to me at first glance.

It’s all right Cassie, the swamp hens won’t hurt you. said Mum, reassuringly

I settled down to admire the swamp hens, they weren’t so bad after all, once you learn about them.

They’re so colourful and they’re not so scary after all. I agreed

We finished off our visit by visiting the swans.

This place is tranquil and the birds are beautiful, their birdsong is music to my ears. said Mum

After lunch, Mum made a phone call to Jessica Smith her best friend, she put it on speakerphone.

‘Hello Mikayla.’ said Jessica

Hi Jessica.

We’re staying in Traralgon, this morning we saw some birds in the Traralgon Conservation Reserve. said Mum

‘Those birds must’ve been a pretty sight to see.’ Jessica replied

Oh yes they were Jessica. Mum agreed

‘Remember when we were both sixteen years old fishing in the Yarra River with our Dads?’

‘It was only our third time fishing we fished for three hours from one to four.’

‘You caught a Murray Cod, you were delighted… I was also delighted when I caught a Macquarie Perch!’

‘In total we caught four fish… two each!’

‘Whilst we were there our Dads’ taught us about the Murray River… how to appreciate its beauty.’

‘We cooked the fish we caught for our tea and they were delicious!’ said Jessica

I did enjoy fishing, and that day was the best fishing day I’ve ever had!

Cassie dislikes fishing. said Mum

No, I don’t!

I’m afraid the fish might bite me! I said

‘I’m sure they won’t Cassie.’ said Jessica

Well okay then… I will have a go at fishing… at some point on this road trip.

Who knows… I might even catch one! I laughed, at the thought of that

‘Good on you Cassie!’

‘If you do catch one, send me a photo of it.’ said Jessica, laughing down the phone too

Will do, Jessica. I replied

My Dad is on holiday with his mates, for a men’s month away. said Mum, to Jessica

At the time, I thought. ‘What are they up to without the womenfolk!’ Mum added

‘I would’ve thought the same thing myself.’

‘I don’t blame you.’ added Jessica

Anyway… I wonder what he’s doing there. mused Mum

‘Well, why don’t you ask all about it when you skype your Mum tomorrow?’ said Jessica

Great idea. Mum said

‘I’d better go now… my mother Josephine is visiting me for a ‘cuppa’… she is going to show me her new coat that she bought yesterday… from ‘Keep Warm, Dress Warm’… the winter clothing shop.’ said Jessica

That will be sure to keep her warm all winter! said Mum

‘It sure will… bye Mikayla.’ Jessica signed off

Bye Jessica. said Mum, doing the same

After Mum finished her phone call, we got changed into our bathers, I got my bucket and spade, Mum and Dad collected their books and we drove to the nearest beach. That was ninety-mile beach at Woodside… it was sixty-eight kilometres from Traralgon and took us about an hour to get there. When we arrived Mum and Dad set up their beach chairs and settled down to read, I walked down the beach to collect some seashells.

Don’t go too far, Cassie.

You can have a paddle in the water if you want to… but stay at a distance where we can see you.

We don’t want you to get lost. Mum worried

Okay, Mum.

I’ll be fine. I sighed, to myself

I’m only sixteen years, two months and four days old! I’m not a little child anymore for goodness sake. I sighed again. I wish Mum and Dad would let me have a bit more independence. What is a girl supposed to do to prove she is growing into a young woman? They still talk to me like I’m eight years old or something… I muttered to myself as I ‘stomped’ up the beach searching for shells.

I needed to get that out of my system, I still get embarrassed when Mum and Dad tell me all that at my age. I think it is time that I tell them I need a bit more independence… I also have to listen to what they say… I just hope in the end the outcome will be positive and preferably accomplished without too many arguments. All I have to do now is to find the right time to tell them all of that!

Whenever I go somewhere on my own such as the general store… or whenever I am with the family… I have to let Mum and Dad know in case I get lost! I can be independent doing most things and hopefully I will do more… but Mum and Dad feel the need to protect me and keep me safe… especially from the ‘paparazzi’… but I always know where Mum and Dad are…once I’ve done whatever I need to… I always walk back to them safe and sound!

I know Melbourne like the back of my hand because I was born there… I’m a Melbourne born and bred celeb girl you see!

I collected several seashells, including a few pink ones, I studied them one at a time, for several minutes. They look so pretty and delicate they are shiny like my birthstone… Diamond! I might take some home with me and keep them in my crystal jewels collection.

I put the seashells in my bucket and walked back to where Mum and Dad were sitting.

Mum, Dad, look at the seashells I’ve collected. I said, showing them

They look very pretty Cassie… and shiny too.

Almost as shiny as your long black hair. said Dad

Why don’t you take them with you and add them to your collection.

They would look great. said Mum

I will. I replied

When Dad and I were young, we sometimes went to the beach, not only to collect seashells, but to play in the water and to build sandcastles in the sand, I still remember those days.

When Dad and I were sixteen years old, we walked down to the beach during one of our evening walks, we stood near the water’s edge holding hands and watching the sunset.

I said to him…

This is so romantic, it’s one of the best walks I’ve ever been on.

Dad said…

It is romantic, you’re my darling Valentine and this sunset signifies our love for each other. Mum said, with a dreamy look on her face

Even though I’m not interested in that romance stuff, it’s a pretty good story to hear. I told Mum

I put the seashells in a plastic bag, then I started making a sandcastle using my bucket and spade, I did most of the building, then Mum helped me to decorate it with the shells.

It looks great Mum we did a good job! I smiled

Yes, we did. said Mum, standing back to admire her handiwork

I filled up my bucket with water… but instead of filling the moat with it… I threw it all over Mum!

Aah!

What was that for? spluttered Mum

Ha Ha!

I got you Mum!

You are drenched! I laughed, pointing at her

Dad laughed as well.

You got me good Cassie! Mum said, in a tone that meant… I’m going to get you back for that later

That’s a great sandcastle, all it needs is some water to fill up the moat and it will be finished. said Dad, admiringly

I filled up the bucket again… but this time Dad copped it… just as he sat down to admire my sandcastle.

Glug!

What was that? spluttered Dad

Hee Hee!

I got you Dad! I laughed, pointing at his dripping face

Mum’s turn to laugh now.

You did get me… you really did! said Dad, with an expression on his face that says payback will happen, as he pointed his finger towards me and wagged it accusingly…

Chapter Two

Meeting Lucy, AFL & Mini Golf

I filled up the bucket for a third time and gently poured it into the moat of my castle. My sandcastle is complete, and it looks great! Some kids are playing further along the beach, and a little girl wanders over to look at my sandcastle, I run away and hide behind Mum’s beach chair.

It’s okay, Cassie.

The little girl has just come over to admire your sandcastle. Mum said

I’m not so sure about that… what if she stands on my sandcastle?

She might ruin it all. I said, nervously

I’m sure she won’t stand on it. Mum said

Can you use your anxiety techniques to help you? asked Dad

The little girl approached and smiled shyly at me.

Can you please show me how to make a sandcastle like that? she said, quietly

Of course, I can.

I can show you how to do it. I said

What is your name? I asked the little girl

My name is Lucy

Lucy?

That’s a nice name.

My name is Cassie.

We can have lots of fun building a sandcastle together. I told her

Lucy smiled happily. We had lots of fun building a sandcastle together, we added decorations to it and chatted to each other about our favourite things… like sisters do.

Mum and Dad watched, proud that I have had a breakthrough and made a new friend. After a while, the sun got a bit hotter in the late afternoon.

Mum, can we have an ice-cream from the ice cream van over there?

Yes, we can.

Let’s all get an ice-cream each. said Dad

I’ll just ask my Mum and Dad. said Lucy

My favourite is chocolate. said Mum

I like butterscotch the best. said Dad

What about you, Lucy? I asked

I like strawberry… I like banana… I like bubble-gum… said Lucy, counting them off on her fingers.

We all laughed together and Dad said…

I think we had better get you a rainbow coloured ice-cream if you want all those flavours!

I think I will stick with one… I’ll have my favourite flavour… Vanilla. I said

Before we go to get the ice-creams, Mum says…

It will be a good idea for Lucy to ask her Mum and Dad for permission first, so they know where she is for safety reasons.

Lucy ran over to her family and soon was back with a happy smile on her face

It’s okay!

I’m allowed to go. said Lucy, happily

We are very lucky that an ice cream van has driven out here to the beach, because it’s half an hour’s drive back to the little township of Woodside. We all set off across the beach to the spot where the van has parked. When we get there, the queue is quite long as everybody has the same idea on a hot sunny afternoon. Finally, we get up to the van and order our ice-creams. As we walk back up the beach, we are licking our ice-creams as fast as we can, so they don’t melt everywhere and become puddles on the sand.

We gathered up our beach gear and waved goodbye to Lucy, who was going back to her family. We packed our things into the back of our vehicle and jumped in, we were all feeling tired, salty, sandy and gritty! Now for a lovely hot shower back at the hotel!

Since I’ve been in the sand for most of the day, I’m having the first shower tonight! I bagged

You might as well Cassie… but please don’t use all the hot water when we get back… Mum and I will need some as well! reminded Dad

OK Dad. I replied

It was a sandy, itchy trip back to the hotel in Traralgon, where I dashed in to the shower room.

Whilst I was showering, Mum had a look through the in-house menu.

‘I’m so hungry after our day at the beach, this looks appetising’ Mum thought

‘I think I’ll choose spaghetti bolognaise’

I would really love a good rump steak.

You know how much I love steak! said Dad, licking his lips

You sure do…you love your steak. said Mum

I finished my shower and came out of the bathroom.

It’s your turn to choose Cassie, pick anything you want. said Dad

I picked up the menu and studied it very carefully. I dislike fruit and vegetables very much, but Mum says they are good for you… if you want to keep a healthy body!

‘Yeah, that’s what Mum says, anyway!’ I thought, suspiciously. Soup is another food I dislike… because most soups are full of vegetables! Erk! I only like roast chicken with chips… I also dislike fish because they’re slimy and full of bones!

‘Maybe I can have roast chicken and some chips to go with it.’ I muse

‘It’s going to be a very long road trip before I get used to eating fruit and vegetables!!" I say out loud

Mum and Dad grinned at each other, they know my likes and dislikes by now.

They have a very long list to keep check of!

They use the list as a guide for my carers and people in my support network.

Mum said…

Have you chosen yet Cassie?

I want to ring our order through.

Yes, Mum. I said

Chicken and chips! We all said together… and burst out laughing

You know me very well… I always go for my favourite meal. I grinned ruefully

Mum put the order through and soon the evening meal arrived. After dinner, Mum and Dad want to discuss something with me. They sit down on their bed and I sit down on mine facing them with my hands on my knees.

Dad said…

Mum and I, are so proud of your progress this afternoon with Lucy.

You got over your fear and had a lovely time playing with a new friend today. smiled Mum

I was so happy to see you interacting with Lucy, and she had a good time too.

Dad and I want to reward you with a little gift for your perseverance.

What would you like Cassie? asked Dad

I thought about it for several minutes and said,

I have decided to try something… I have never done before.

What’s that Cassie? asked Mum, with a note of surprise

I’ve decided to try horse-riding.

Mum was delighted to hear that I was keen to try something new and so was Dad.

Good choice Cassie! Mum said

I know you love horses. added Dad

Do you remember when you took me to see the horses at a couple of festivals and shows, and even at a horse-riding club?

I would rather watch the horses canter and gallop about than to get on one… because I feared I would fall off and get trampled! I said

We will help you.

Dad and I have been horse-riding years ago… if there are horse-riding trails nearby, we’ll get a guide to take us… then you should be okay. said Mum, reassuringly

I was relieved, I was feeling a little more confident about riding a horse for the first time. I wonder if I will get a brown horse or a white horse… they are all beautiful no matter what colour. If I take a carrot with me, I may be allowed to feed them. I know with some encouragement I can do it.

Then Dad asks me…

Cassie, how do you feel about the afternoon we just had?

I feel happy and great about this afternoon!

I had the best afternoon I’ve had in about two years.

I enjoyed the day at the beach, especially when I threw the water all over you both! I grinned

Then building that great sandcastle… the best I’ve ever built and decorated!

"When Lucy came over… I had an anxiety attack and hid behind the beach chair…. I thought ‘She’s so scary like a shark, don’t let her near me!’… then I used my anxiety techniques like you told me to, then I felt better and a lot calmer."

When Lucy asked me to show her how to build a sandcastle like mine… I agreed and we both had lots of fun building and talking like sisters.

Lucy enjoyed having an ice-cream and so did we… I had a wonderful afternoon… I would like to play with another friend and help them. I said

I’m glad you had a lovely time.

Your Mum and I did too.

Well done for making a breakthrough… we’re so proud of you. said Dad

Thanks Mum and Dad… I am proud of myself too!

I am starting to make breakthroughs even though it’s only the beginning of our road trip… hopefully I can make some more! I beamed

That’s the way Cassie, my darling girl. said Mum

Let’s have a look at the television and see how Collingwood is doing shall we?

We switched on, it was at the twelfth minute mark in the first quarter, Sydney were winning 3.0.18 to 2.1.13 a margin of five points. Jarred McVeigh kicked the goal, a close one this is.

Can Collingwood win this match for Mum at ANZ stadium in Sydney?

Mum barracks for Collingwood Magpies she’s only seen one premiership in 1990 against Essendon when she was twenty years old, that was a few months after she and Dad got married.

She was so delighted back then she had a celebratory party! She did the same when Collingwood won the 2010 premiership a week after the Grand Final draw. She was born to be a Collingwood fan…she is a member!

Mum was getting excited.

Ooh it’s a close one already… it’s only the first quarter but this is great AFL viewing! she exclaimed

I was excited too.

It sure is Mum!

ANZ Stadium is a good place for the Sydney Swans to play… let’s hope Collingwood can do it for you Mum!

Even Dad was excited.

It is definitely a close game.

It’s good, this!

‘carn the Pies! shouts Mum

Dad and I shouted,

‘carn the Maggies!

It was close throughout the second quarter too… barracking for Collingwood and cheering well done you beauty… whenever Collingwood kicked a goal. It’s is a great game… but when the third quarter started, we were so tired from our afternoon on the beach… we could barely keep our eyes open.

Dad and I collapsed onto our beds still wearing our clothes and Mum turned off the TV thinking ‘Daniel and Cassie must be exhausted they have had a big day and so have I… I’m exhausted too… I might as well get some much- needed sleep… there’s going to be another big day ahead for the three of us tomorrow’… then she too fell asleep… still wearing her clothes, soon everyone was sleeping soundly and some of us… (no names mentioned) … were snoring too.

We woke up at seven-thirty… I looked down and instead of my pyjamas I was still wearing my clothes. I was shocked. Crikey! I didn’t even have time to put on my pyjamas!

Mum and Dad looked down too. Uh, oh! Dad was surprised.

Oh, it’s too late to put on my pyjamas now!

Mum was bewildered.

Oh, my dear, how did that happen!?

We were watching the game last night and we couldn’t keep our eyes open for a moment longer… so we collapsed on our beds with our clothes on! I said, laughing

I remember I managed to turn the TV off… then I must have fallen asleep beside your Dad and we have all missed the final scores now. said Mum, with a crestfallen look

Let’s see if we can find out the results.

I’ll turn on the radio. said Dad

He turned the radio on but no sound came out of it. Dad was puzzled.

Hmm… I don’t know why that’s happening.

It worked yesterday!

He tried it again still no sound came out of it. What could the problem be?

Try it again, Dad.

If it doesn’t work this time, we’ll try the television. I said

Dad tried a few stations, but there was no sound from any of them. He inspected the radio to see what the problem was.

What’s wrong with it dear? asked Mum

Dad turned the radio over and opened the battery section.

The batteries must be flat. said Dad

Shan’t get the AFL result that way. Dad said, shrugging his shoulders

Let’s try the TV.

I turned on the TV but when the screen came on it was just static.

For goodness sake, now the TV’s on the blink!

We can’t get the AFL results that way either. I sighed, mournfully

We will report this to the hotel reception and hopefully they will fix it in time for the next guests that stay. said Mum, grumpily

Well, after we pack up our stuff and put it in the car, we’ll drive to the newsagency to buy a paper and check the results. said Dad

I hope so Dad! I said

Well we’d better order our breakfast from room service, then pack up our stuff and head to the newsagency. said Mum

All right. said Dad and I, together

After breakfast we put on fresh clothes, then reported the flat radio and broken TV to reception, before packing the car to leave.

If there are no papers left… we’ll have to use one of our iPhones.

I hope we find out last night’s result soon! said Dad

Mum was anxious to find out how her team had done.

Yes, I hope so too!

We drove to the newsagency hoping to find a newspaper.

Can we find last night’s AFL results?

When we arrived, it was closed! Dad put his hand on is head and said…

Oh, of course!

We forgot the newsagency won’t be open on a Sunday!

Sorry… Mum and I forgot as well. I said, with an embarrassed grin

Looks like we might have to use our iPhones. said Mum

Dad and I agree, as we walk back to the car. Mum took her iPhone out first she turned it on and accessed Google. Mum typed AFL into the search engine and clicked on the top link entering the AFL website. She couldn’t see the results properly so she tapped on one and crossed her fingers hoping it was the Sydney Vs Collingwood match from last night. When the next screen loaded up, a big smile played over Mum’s face.

She likes what she sees.

The score was 14.9.93 Sydney to 13.21.99 Collingwood. Collingwood has won by a goal!

Mum got excited.

You little beauty! she said, jumping up in the air and doing a fist pump

A couple looked at her weirdly but she didn’t mind that all.

Did Collingwood win? asked Dad, guessing the answer

Yes, they did.

Just by six points! said Mum

I knew they would win it! I said

Yes, they did well to get that win! said Dad

I’m glad we finally got the results, I’m so happy that Collingwood won let’s continue on our road trip! said Mum happily, as we got back in and ‘buckled up’

It’s time for Australian Trivia number Two!

I’m always ready! I said

Which Australian cricketer who played for the Victoria Bushrangers since 1999 as well as the Australian National cricket team since 2005 was born in Bairnsdale? asked Mum

Cameron White.

He became Victoria’s youngest ever captain at age twenty in the 2003-04 cricket season. I responded

Bairnsdale’s Water Tower… currently an icon of Bairnsdale’s skyline has been out of commission since which decade? asked Mum next

The 1980s.

It cost six thousand, one hundred and thirty-two pounds, to build the whole tower. I said

A man named Frederick Jones, an early squatter in the Bairnsdale shire, previously worked for some time as a ‘what’ in Castlereagh Street, Sydney? Mum asked

He previously worked as a school teacher. I replied

We arrive in Bairnsdale, one hour and twenty-six minutes later. Dad checked his mobile to see what attractions were available.

We could go to ‘Bairnsdale Bazaar’… the ‘Historical Museum and Resource Centre’… or the East Gippsland all abilities playground situated in Main Street Bairnsdale.

Some of the activities we could do at Bairnsdale Fun Park are archery, mini golf, swimming and go-karting, and of course we can go shopping!

What would you like to do first?

I choose Bairnsdale Bazaar. I said

There were all sorts of antiques everywhere from precious vases, to wooden furniture. We walked around the shop, amazed by the antiques. Dad looked at antique clocks, Mum looked at antique figurines and I looked at antique furniture. I did not touch, (because I’ve learnt not to), but I admired the beauty of all the different pieces.

These antique clocks are precious masterpieces.

My grandad used to own one, I enjoyed looking at it when I used to visit him.

He gave it to me for my twenty-first birthday… it’s not working at the moment… it needs cleaning and putting back together. said Dad

Jessica owns two she’s been looking after them very carefully.

She may, or may not plan to sell them… she loves her job as an antique dealer. Mum added

The antique furniture is fascinating they remind me of your Nan’s house. I said

Next, Mum looked at the dolls Dad looked at the glassware and I looked at the pottery.

I used to own a few dolls like that… besides my ‘barbies’. said Mum, admiring the old-fashioned dollies

I sometimes played with them for hours…gosh I enjoyed them. said Mum

That glassware would look great in any home.

It’s crafted so beautifully.

You have to be careful not to break them. Dad said, admiring the glassware

This pottery looks amazing!

I would consider giving it a go… you know how much I love getting messy. I said, with a grin

After an hour’s browsing, we decided to buy something. Dad bought a couple of classic videos, (seventies and eighties), which he watched years ago…Mum bought a doll which was similar to one that she owned as a child… I bought a few classic novels. Together our items cost forty dollars, we gave the right amount of money and left the shop… by that time it was almost eleven-thirty.

What would you like to do next? asked Mum

I choose Mini Golf. I said

We drove to the Fun Park. As we were getting ready to play our mini golf game, there was plenty of ‘banter’ going on between us!

Dad said…

I have played some mini golf on the odd occasion… I’m sure I can out hit the two of you!

Not to be outdone, Mum piped up with…

I’ve played more mini-golf than you two combined…I’m a many time Australian and World Champion… so try and beat me but I bet you won’t… because I’m too good at it!

I didn’t want Mum and Dad to outdo me, so I said…

I’ve played mini-golf for many years… I’m thinking that I can outsmart the two of you…if you think the two of you combined can beat me… there is no chance at all!

The Mini Golf Park owner had been listening to all of this ‘bragging’ with amusement. When we went to select our equipment, he said…

You three are hilarious!

We’re a bit competitive. Mum had to admit, ruefully

Good luck with that!

Let me know who wins this one!

I can’t wait to hear! said the owner, with a big grin on his face

At the fifth hole which was a straight putt it was a good opportunity for me to get a hole in one. I went up, placed my blue golf ball on the tee, stood to the left side of it and placed my club next to it with the head facing the right side of the ball. I’ve hit a hole in one a few times on similar mini-golf courses, so can I do it again on the Bairnsdale course?

Here I go!

I hit the ball a bit hard… it whizzed straight across the hole… bounced off the front wall and teetered near the hole edge for a few seconds. Oh, it’s nearly in! Will it go in? The ball dropped into the hole after what felt like a lifetime…excitement is spreading all over me!

A big grin spreads all over my