Today was a pretty cool day. I woke up bright and early, relaxed after my first successful Australian work week ever. After making the rounds online, Hayley and I jogged down to Primrose Park for a quick run.

A nice sight on the way down to the park.

As usual, the kookaburra couple were in the park chasing each other around from tree to tree. I tried to get video footage of their unique laughing call, but Murphey’s Law took effect and they would stop chirping or fly away everytime I pressed the shutter. We jogged a bit around the huge field and then headed back to the studio.

One kookaburra, hanging out on a tree branch.

I took a quick shower and sat down to upload some photos when Andrew called and said that they were short a player for tennis. Glad I took a shower! It was definitely worth it as we played a full three sets and had a great time. I picked up a Prince Graphtech DB-90 a few weeks ago for $5 at a thrift store and I have used it more times in the last month than I used my expensive Wilson Pro Staffs in the last ten years. Afterward, I hitched a ride back with Andrew’s brother Paul and quickly got ready for our afternoon.

An ocean pool on the walk to Shelley.

Hayley and I packed the cooler, changed into beach attire and hopped on the 143 bus to Manly. We walked through the main promenade and checked out a few local surf vendors at the Manly Surf Festival. We also watched the longboard competition for a little bit before walking south around the coastline to Shelley Beach.

Shelley Beach is tucked away behind crowded South Steyne beach in Manly.

The BBQ at Shelley was great. We caught up with Rodney, who is leaving for Mexico in a few days, and chatted with Scott and Brooke for a few hours. I took a dip in the surprisingly warm water and feasted on a fine lunch that Hayley made and the chips and dips that Scott and Brooke brought. On the way back we saw the coolest lizard ever:

The Lizard King.

Afterward, we headed back to the studio, had a small dinner and turned on the tube. As if the day wasn’t awesome enough already, Independence Day was just starting. Sweet!

More pictures here and here. As usual, thanks for reading.

Tags: Australia, beach, festival, manly, shelley, surf, Sydney