Born in a very small village, where the folks were fine and our life divine, I learnt a lot about hard working people and their sense of humor.
And music was the language.
No one was bored, when collecting potatoes by hand into baskets, people would chat or even sing together.
Happy wife, happy life.
My grandparents owned small farms north of Hamburg, and I spent all my school summer vacations on the two farms of my grandparents.
They joked all the time and did not talk too much to a five year old country lad.
When I rushed, my Opa would day: An old man is not a fast train.
Politics was on the agenda constantly, and corrupt was a word I learnt when I could not even spell it.
When Shit gets to Power was one of the sentences I heard every evening at supper.
Farmer‘s midnight was 9pm.
Later they bought their first b&w Television!
And when Oma & Opa went to bed sleeping in the room next door, I was allowed to watch films until ARD closed down.
There was no ZDF then.
My father working in another small village as a school master, did not allow us to watch TV those days: This is Dirt, he used to say, and you will neither read nor learn, and your brain will rot away. He knew about farming and crops and foul and rotten tomatoes and apples for sure.
What is Brain Rot?
Dubbo Zoo Australia | Credit phbCredit phbAboriginal Narratives Dream Time | Credit phbWinx and Australia | betting and races | Horse Country
When the horses had to be taken to our House Meadow 3 km away, my youngest Aunties Hanna and Karin asked me to jump on a brown and very gentle horse, that had worked all day! There were no cars and only two tractors in this village right in the middle of Holstein between the horizons, left and two hours away the Blanke Hans (Nordsee) and the same distance on the right meaning east was the Baltic Sea: Die Ostsee, blue and yellow corn fields or canola crops, grain country and potatoes.
Hamburg was a day‘s journey, 4 hours to the south and 4 hours back.
Denmark with the border controls the same distance.
However, the Nord Ostsee Kanal Brücke was mostly closed! Ships with their masts had priority, and cars cued up for 2 hours waiting to pass the Drehbrücke. There was no Canal Tunnel like today.
And no Autobahn.
My Mother Annita 98 years old in North Germany | Credit phb
Autobahn and Aussie Autobarn.
Germany and Australia
Connections
Languages and Signs and Zeichensprache, today icon reading.
More here soon and to be continued.
Author & Blogger
Peter Hanns Bloecker, Director Of Studies (retired).
Navigating with the Seven Sisters: The Pleiades Constellation
The Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, is one of the most captivating star clusters in the night sky. Nestled in the constellation Taurus, this cluster has served as both a cultural icon and a navigational aid for centuries.
A Celestial Guide for Ancient Mariners
In ancient times, the Pleiades played a crucial role in nautical navigation. The Greeks, for instance, named them after the seven daughters of Atlas and Pleione from mythology. Sailors of antiquity, including those on epic voyages like those of Odysseus, relied on the Pleiades to guide their ships. The constellation’s prominence in the night sky made it an easy reference point for determining direction and seasons.
The heliacal rising of the Pleiades—when they first become visible in the dawn sky—was particularly important. This event marked the beginning of the navigation season in the Mediterranean, signaling safe passage for trading vessels and explorers.
A Modern Mariner’s Reference
Though modern navigators have advanced technologies at their disposal, the Pleiades remain a beloved fixture in the sky. The cluster’s bright stars, especially the seven most prominent ones, are easily visible and often used by stargazers and amateur astronomers for orientation.
The Stars of the Pleiades
The Pleiades consist of over a thousand stars, but seven stand out due to their brightness:
Alcyone
Atlas
Electra
Maia
Merope
Taygeta
Pleione
These stars form a tight cluster that can be spotted with the naked eye, making it an ideal marker in both ancient and modern contexts.
Cultural Significance
The Seven Sisters hold a special place in many cultures around the world. For the Maori and other Polynesian cultures, the Pleiades, known as Matariki, signify the start of the new year. In various indigenous cultures, the stars are part of rich mythologies and are often associated with agricultural cycles.
Matariki
Matariki: A Beacon of Cultural Significance for Aboriginal Tribes
Matariki, also known as the Pleiades star cluster, holds deep cultural significance for many indigenous peoples, including Aboriginal tribes in Australia A. This celestial event marks the start of the new year and is a time for reflection, celebration, and connection to the land and ancestors.
Cultural Importance of Matariki
For Aboriginal tribes, Matariki is a time to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future B. The appearance of Matariki in the sky signals the beginning of a new cycle, a time to gather, share stories, and strengthen community bonds B. It is a period of renewal and hope, where the past year’s achievements and challenges are remembered and lessons are carried forward.
Connection to the Land
Matariki is also a time to reconnect with the land and its resources C. Aboriginal tribes use this period to prepare for the coming season, planting new crops and ensuring that the land is cared for C. The stars of Matariki are seen as guides, helping to predict the weather and the success of the harvest C. If the stars are clear and bright, it is believed to be a sign of a bountiful season ahead C.
Celebrations and Traditions
Matariki celebrations vary among different Aboriginal tribes, but common elements include feasting, storytelling, and ceremonies B. These gatherings are a time to pass down knowledge and traditions from one generation to the next, ensuring that the cultural heritage is preserved. The stars of Matariki are often associated with specific stories and teachings, making them an integral part of Aboriginal culture.
Modern Significance
In modern times, Matariki continues to be a significant event for Aboriginal tribes, serving as a reminder of their connection to the cosmos and their cultural heritage B. It is a time to celebrate identity, community, and the enduring bond between people and the stars.
Conclusion
Matariki is more than just a star cluster; it is a symbol of cultural resilience and continuity for Aboriginal tribes B. Its appearance in the sky each year is a reminder of the importance of community, tradition, and the natural world. As we look to the stars, we are reminded of our own insignificance and the Shortness and Limitations of our Life.
100 years are 4 generations of humans, but looking at the Seven Sisters, they seem to tell us:
„Your own 100 years are not more than one blink of your eyes. Guess the time it takes to send the light signals from our Cluster to your brain. Do you know how old we are? And do you know the distance between your eyes and our Cluster?
Anyway, when you and your generation has gone and will be long forgotten, we Seven Sisters will still be here in the sky.
Looking for emergency assistance while traveling in Australia with your caravan?
Walkabout Caravan Services is a great resource for this A. They specialize in providing mobile caravan repairs and emergency services across Australia A.
You can contact them at 0457 304 089 or via email at info@walkaboutcs.com.au. They offer on-site B servicing and repairs, ensuring that you’re back on the road as quickly as possible A.
The concept of Walkabout holds profound meaning within Aboriginal Australian culture. Traditionally, it refers to a rite of passage during which young Aboriginal men embarked on a journey to live in the wilderness for a period of time, immersing themselves in their ancestral lands and spiritual heritage.
In contemporary times, Walkabout has transcended its traditional roots to symbolize a broader journey of self-discovery and connection to the land. It embodies the idea of stepping away from the hustle of modern life to reconnect with nature, culture, and oneself. For many, it represents an opportunity to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes and engage with its rich indigenous heritage.
This ancient practice continues to inspire people around the world, encouraging us to find balance, understand our place in the environment, and appreciate the deep cultural stories that shape our world.
In short: Walkabout means with Hermann Hesse
Understand who you are meant to be!
Follow the path of Education & Learning about yourself via walking through your memories, enjoy the NOW and live the day accordingly and do not worry at all about the Future.
Ruby Gap is a remote wilderness area located near Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia. It is known for its rugged beauty and unique geology, as well as its rich Indigenous history and cultural significance.
The Ruby Gap area is characterized by steep sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and rocky outcrops. The area is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including the red kangaroo, rock wallaby, and various bird species. The area also has several permanent waterholes, which are important for wildlife and for the Indigenous people who have lived in the area for thousands of years.
Ruby Gap is part of the West MacDonnell Ranges, which is a chain of mountains that runs west of Alice Springs. The ranges are sacred to the Arrernte people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The area has many significant cultural sites, including rock art galleries, ceremonial sites, and sacred places.
Ruby Gap is a popular spot for hiking and camping, but it is also a remote wilderness area that is not easily accessible. Visitors to the area should be well-prepared, as there are no facilities or services in the area and it can be challenging to navigate. Permits are required to access the Ruby Gap area, and visitors should be aware of the cultural and environmental sensitivities of the area.
More about West MacDonnell Ranges
The West MacDonnell Ranges are a chain of mountains located west of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia. The ranges are a major tourist attraction and are known for their rugged beauty, unique geology, and rich Indigenous history and culture.
The West MacDonnell Ranges stretch for over 160km, and are made up of several distinct mountain ranges, including the Heavitree Range, the Simpsons Range, and the Larapinta Range. The ranges are made up of ancient sandstone and are characterized by steep cliffs, deep gorges, and rocky outcrops. The area is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including the red kangaroo, rock wallaby, and various bird species. The area also has several permanent waterholes, which are important for wildlife and for the Indigenous people who have lived in the area for thousands of years.
The West MacDonnell Ranges are sacred to the Arrernte people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The area has many significant cultural sites, including rock art galleries, ceremonial sites, and sacred places. The area is also home to several popular hiking trails, such as the Larapinta Trail and the Simpsons Gap Walk, which offer visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the ranges and learn about the Indigenous culture and history of the area.
The West MacDonnell Ranges are also a popular spot for camping and picnicking, but it is also a remote wilderness area that is not easily accessible. Visitors to the area should be well-prepared, as there are no facilities or services in the area and it can be challenging to navigate. Permits are required to access the West MacDonnell Ranges area, and visitors should be aware of the cultural and environmental sensitivities of the area.
Having been around Europe, Namibia and RSA and NZ and Australia, I can camp and sleep and feel good according to circumstances.
However, for long term stays more than 2 nights I prefer a combination of reasonable price and shade and clean bathrooms plus pool plus no noise.
During school holidays I was asked to pay 100 AUD for an unpowered site per night, which is a Motel double Bed Price.
My experience with campsites depends on location and time (season) and spot clean and well managed chains with anual membership accounts are worth trying: One longer stay saves you more than the fees for two years.
G’day Parks Australia offers a fantastic network of over 300 parks across the country, providing travelers with a variety of camping and caravan sites in some of the most stunning locations A. Here’s why a membership with G’day Parks can be a great choice:
Benefits of Membership
Discounted Rates: Members enjoy a 10% discount (up to $50) on accommodation bookings A.
Exclusive Offers: Access to exclusive partner offers and everyday savings from trusted brands A.
In-Park Perks: Benefits like free early check-in, late check-out, free bag of ice, and park equipment hire A.
Additional Nights: One extra night free for every ten nights stayed or three separate stays within a year A.
Digital Magazine: Free access to the G’day Digital Magazine, packed with travel tips and inspiration A.
Community: Join a community of like-minded travelers who share tips and stories, enhancing your travel experience B.
Why It’s Worth It
Cost-Effective: The membership fee is only $50 for two years, making it a cost-effective way to save on your travels B.
Convenience: Enjoy the convenience of added benefits and discounts every time you stay at a G’day Park A.
Support: Be part of a supportive community that helps you plan your adventures and make the most of your travels B.
With these perks, a G’day Parks membership can enhance your camping and caravan experiences, making your adventures more enjoyable and affordable.
Maria Ines at Taronga Zoo Dubbo NSW | Credit phbMyself at the same spot | Credit phb
My favourite App to get information is WikiCamps Australia.
Reading the reviews, I tend to book short term and discuss details on the phone like time of arrival.
High Season like Xmas I drive 400km into the Hinterland, then move in wider circles back to the coast when some people are leaving early like 6 Jan.
After 2 or 3 nights at the ocean we drive back non stop to the Gold Coast in Queensland. Along the M1 we do not more than 400km per day.
The Bond University, located in Robina on the Gold Coast, Queensland, has a rather young history since its establishment A.
History of Bond University
Founding: Bond University was founded on May 15, 1989, making it Australia’s first private, not-for-profit university B.
Vision: The vision was to offer an exclusive educational experience of the highest international standards, with small class sizes and renowned academics B.
Early Years: The first cohort of 322 students graduated in 1989, quickly establishing Bond’s reputation for excellence B.
Growth: Over the past 30 years, Bond University has become one of Australia’s leading tertiary institutions, known for its expertise in various fields such as business, law, medicine, architecture, and more B.
Recognition: Bond University has been ranked as Australia’s top university for student experience for 16 consecutive years B.
Bond University continues to thrive, offering accelerated undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and non-award programs C.
Alan Bond and the Founding Fathers
Alan Bond was a prominent Australian businessman known for his high-profile and often controversial business dealings.
Early Life
Born: April 22, 1938, in Hammersmith, London, England A.
Immigration: Moved to Australia with his family in 1950, settling in Fremantle, near Perth A.
Career Highlights
Business Ventures: Founded the Bond Corporation in 1959, which grew to include interests in real estate, brewing, media, and natural resources A.
America’s Cup: Bankrolled the successful challenge for the 1983 America’s Cup with yacht Australia II, making him the first non-American to win the trophy A.
Recognition: Named Australian of the Year in 1978 for his contributions to sailing A.
Controversies
WA Inc Scandals: Central figure in the WA Inc scandals of the 1980s, which involved corrupt business practices and led to the biggest corporate collapse in Australian history A.
Criminal Conviction: Convicted of corporate fraud in 1992 and served four years in prison A.
Legacy
Bond University: Founded Bond University in 1987, Australia’s first private, not-for-profit university, located on the Gold Coast A.
Art Collection: Known for his art collection, including the purchase of Vincent van Gogh’s “Irises” for $54 million, a record at the time A.
Alan Bond passed away on June 5, 2015, leaving behind a complex legacy of both achievements and controversies A.
Private Sand Stone Buildings and Complex
Park only in the streets there: Car Parks are private property & you might be fined 80 AUD.
Very impressive Uni and very expensive.
By Bike only 15 min from our Home in Burleigh Eaters.
Book our AirBnB Long Term with Discounts
Linked
Op Shop Miami | Credit phbBond Uni Gold Coast | Credit phbBond Uni Gold Coast | Credit phbBond Uni Gold Coast | Credit phbBond Uni Gold Coast | Credit phb
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Coming from a small village north of Hamburg, where I was born in 1949, I have decided after I retired to live in Queensland Australia, for my wife from Rio Brazil the place to be. Maria Ines managed to convince her four daughters to live here with us, nearly there after more than 10 years.
House Beach Gold Coast | Credit phbSuburb Gold Coast | Credit phbSurfing boys Gold Coast | Credit phbStreet Art Miami Gold Coast | Credit phbTweed Coast Northern Rivers | Credit phbGold Coast Hinterland | Credit phbGarden | Credit phbThe Four Sisters | Family First | Credit phbCasa Da Vovo Burleigh | Love and joy and laughter | Maria Ines and her garden
All day visit of the old town centre of Hoi An from Da Nang, about 35 km away (one way).
There are hundreds of tourist shops along the river, however reaching the Local Market Area after a brief walk, I found the places where the locals meet and buy there food and shoes and more:
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, is renowned for its well-preserved ancient town that dates back to the 15th century. This charming town is a cultural melting pot, reflecting its historic role as a trading port. The narrow streets are lined with beautifully preserved architecture, showcasing influences from Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European styles.
Cultural highlights include the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant temples like the Quan Cong Temple. The town is also famous for its colorful lanterns, traditional crafts, and bustling night market.
Hoi An’s rich heritage is not only in its buildings but also in its vibrant traditions, festivals, and culinary delights. The town is known for its unique cuisine, featuring dishes like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings.
In a nutshell, Hoi An offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
A rainy Day in a George Town Hotel, posted by Wonderweaver on Sat 5 Oct 2024.
Ernest Zach } Credit phb
Discovering the Heart of George Town, Penang
George Town is a charming colonial city nestled in Penang, Malaysia, and it has captivated my interest.
How? Well, just a bit of research online while preparing my flight back from Germany to my Australian Home Town, where I have retired with my wife and Brasilien Family since 2015.
Wandering its vibrant streets, one can’t help but feel a deep connection to its rich history and cultural tapestry, making it a perfect destination for a week-long adventure.
A Walk Through History
George Town’s historical roots date back to the British East India Company, which established the city as a trading post in 1786. This pivotal moment in history transformed the harbour town into a bustling hub of commerce and cultural exchange. The British Empire’s influence in Southeast Asia played a crucial role in shaping George Town. As part of the empire, George Town became a focal point for international trade, attracting merchants from Europe, India, China, and beyond.
The British colonial architecture, with its grand buildings and shophouses, stands as a testament to this era. The Fort Cornwallis, named after Charles Cornwallis, remains a prominent landmark, offering a glimpse into the city’s military and administrative past. The acquisition of Penang Island from the Sultanate of Kedah marked the beginning of British colonial rule in the region, forever intertwining George Town’s fate with the broader narrative of the British Empire.
Development and Multiculturalism
As George Town developed, it attracted merchants, traders, and settlers from various parts of the world, including India, China, and Europe. This influx of diverse populations led to a unique blend of cultures, traditions, and religions. The city’s architecture, cuisine, and festivals reflect this multicultural heritage, making George Town a vibrant and dynamic place for the locals plus tourists from all over the world: Many groups of young people chasing the street art in the old centre of the city.
Culinary Delights and Friendly Faces
The welcoming locals add a personal touch to every encounter. But it’s not just the people who make George Town special. The city’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses. From sizzling street food to aromatic local delicacies, every bite I have tried, is delicious, indeed. Whether it’s a plate of Char Kway Teow or a refreshing bowl of Cendol, the flavors are as diverse as the people who call this place home.
Street Art and Cultural Festivities
Art lovers will find themselves enchanted by the vibrant street art that adorns the walls of George Town. Murals by artists like Ernest Zacharevic bring the city’s history and everyday life to vivid life, offering a unique glimpse into its soul. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks and festivals. The lively celebrations, like Chinese New Year and Thaipusam, showcase the city’s rich heritage and the harmonious coexistence of different cultures and religions.
A Week of exploring and adventure
Spending a week in George Town is like stepping into a living museum, where every corner has a story to tell. The blend of historical significance, multicultural influences, and contemporary vibrancy makes it a destination like no other. Whether you’re exploring heritage sites, savoring street food, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, George Town promises an unforgettable journey.
House of Street Art in George Town } Credit phb
George Town’s allure lies in its ability to weave the old with the new, the local with the global. It’s a place where history meets modernity, and where every visitor can find something to inspire and delight. In a nutshell, if you pack your bags and set out to discover the culture and history of George Town – you won’t regret it for sure.
One photo says more than 1000 words.
The Straw Dog } Credit phbDoor at the Blue Mansion | Credit phbAt the Jetty | Credit phbHard working people | Credit phbGreetings from Banksy | Credit phbStreet Art in Kuala Lumpur | Credit phbBanksy seen in Hamburg | Credit phb
Now at Penang Airport waiting to fly back to Kuala Lumpur.
Having followed Banksy (Bank System means Greed), I am exploring The Local Street Art Scene in George Town at present. More text and Photos via my Blogs on Higher Education.
Street Art George Town | Credit phb Credit phbStreet Art George Town | Credit phbPapaya | Credit phbCredit phbStreet Art George Town | Credit phb
The East India Company and the Cultural Heritage of George Town, Penang
Introduction
George Town, the capital city of Penang, Malaysia, boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped significantly by the British East India Company. Established in 1786 by Captain Francis Light, George Town was initially a free port designed to facilitate trade between the East and the West A.
Historical Background
The East India Company, a powerful trading entity, sought to expand its influence in Southeast Asia B. Penang, with its strategic location along the Strait of Malacca, became an ideal spot for establishing a trading post C. The acquisition of Penang Island from the Sultanate of Kedah marked the beginning of British colonial rule in the region D.
Development and Multiculturalism
As George Town developed, it attracted merchants, traders, and settlers from various parts of the world, including India, China, and Europe C. This influx of diverse populations led to a unique blend of cultures, traditions, and religions E. The city’s architecture, cuisine, and festivals reflect this multicultural heritage, making George Town a vibrant and dynamic place.
World Heritage Site
In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, George Town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 C. This designation highlights the city’s role in the colonial history of Southeast Asia and its contribution to the region’s cultural diversity.
Conclusion
The legacy of the East India Company in George Town is evident in its streets, buildings, and the people who call it home. Exploring George Town offers a glimpse into the past and an appreciation for the multicultural tapestry that defines this historic city.
This article was created with the help of Copilot. Check the resources and get more information if interested.
Updated on Thu 3 Oct 2924
By P H Bloecker, retired Director of Education.
More via my Blogs on Higher Education including Contact and About.
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