Ahh, what to say about a city that is about as perfect that as one could find? The weather is perfect, multicultural, multigenerational, solid economic base, relatively affordable, strong educational art activities, lots of water activities, professional and participatory sport opportunities, the list goes on. But, as an interesting reflection on my heart, I did not feel its soul.

Random art in a public square.

I watch locals perform daily activities, see lost tourists, observe uni (university) students and public school students live life as students do, smile at the power suits struting in their importance, giggle with hospitality people who laugh and kibitz with their customers, and I enjoyed the multicultural activities. I also saw a middle aged soul lying in the grass asking for someone to end her life. Sadly on a Saturday morning people turned away and walked on. No one even thought to call for assistance. While not a reflection on the city, more a reflection of how cultures struggle to assist those in emotional turmoil. I too am at a loss as to what I could do aid this soul.

On a environment and conservation note, I was able to attend the Australian Zoo, established by the Irwin family. Steve and his father started the reptile park and now continues to be managed by Steve’s family (Terry, Bindy and Robert). The zoo is well managed with priority given to education and the welfare of the animals. Steve also established an Animal Hospital next door for the treatment of animals. Visitors can view the workings of the hospital for no cost. There is an emergency centre, operating room, technology of most modern day human hospitals, triage and patient care rooms for animals from the zoo. During my visit I was fortunate to be up close with a pair of nine week old tiger cubs. A good day all in all.

When I come back, I want to be able to sleep in a tree.

The posted photos are a random collection of art and wildlife that caught my artist eye.