Is that a Coolibah tree beside the abandoned house? Every Australian knows about Coolibah trees because the bush ballad Waltzing Matilda is nigh on our unoffical national anthem but most of us live nowhere near the inland where they grow. Once a jolly swagman camped by a billabong, Under the shade of a Coolibah tree, And he sang as he watched and waited till his billy boiled, You'll come a Waltzing Matilda with me. Waltzing Matilda, Waltzing Matilda, You'll come a Waltzing Matilda with me, And he sang as he watched and waited till his billy boiled You'll come a Waltzing Matilda with me.
"To muse, to creep, to halt at will, to gaze ... such sweet wayfaring"
William Wordsworth
It is amazing what 50 years does. When we moved to the Upper Hunter in 1956, Dad had 'investigated' areas like Molong and Mudgee but chose an allotment between Denman and Merriwa, based mainly on price I guess. The area then was mainly poor share-farmers. This was totally pre-vineyard days. There were only minimal horse studs (the standout being Widden Stud). When I was there the population of Denman was something like 850. Prompted by your journey, I have toured Denman courtesy of Google maps. I lived in Turtle Street with a triple fronted block with our house in the middle, all of which were double-depth. Between us and where Mrs Phipps was, is now a retirement village - Merton Village - which takes advantage of the depth of the block. And our gate which led to the shed and the chook run, is now a lovely looking brick villa. However, the main street is still as drab as ever. I would imagine that all the trade goes to Muswellbrook.
ReplyDeleteSo pleased you took this journey.
Looks interesting, be sure and tell your chauffeur I send my regards and thank him for making your travel images possible.
ReplyDeletePaula, I passed on your regards.
ReplyDeleteJulie, I thought the main street was neat and tidy and quite delightful -- not down at heal like so many of the country towns I have photographed.
Nice scenery before and after the window. A changed landscape now days as Julie points out.
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting how the reflection in the mirrow makes this photo complete - I like that.
ReplyDeleteVery cool composition! The reflection on the mirror is great.
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