Saying Goodby to Castlemaine

As spring slowly arrives and the days lengthen, we experience a time of variable weather. Of clouds and clear sky. Of chilly mornings and warm-ish afternoons. And these sorts of clouds basking in the golden light of sunset.

We say our goodbyes to Castlemaine and the goldfields as we move on to other vistas and adventures.

The Castlemaine Botanical Garden

We've had a lot of rainy cool days lately, but during a recent spot of sun, I visited the Botanical Garden here in Castlemaine. such a garden is a standard fixture in every town of any size in Australia. Just like the bowls club, veterinarian office, and place to wet your whistle, it is an iconic part of small town life here.

I'm not entirely sure who we have above. I believe it is some sort of Mallard-mix. He's missing the band around the neck. Ducks are quite promiscuous and there are variations that span the gamut.

Lawn Bowling

I stopped by the Castlemaine Bowling Club to watch for a while. This is a significant game for Australians. Every town of any consequence has a bowling club.

Victorian Goldfields Railway

 
To celebrate my birthday, we took a train ride on the Victorian Goldfields Railway. This is a steam engine that pulls five cars between Castlemaine and Maldon. We purchased 1st class tickets and rode in what seemed to be the club car.

Around Castlemaine

Winter is coming to an end and flowers are starting to bloom. Spring is on its way.

Old Castlemaine Gaol

On top of the highest hill in town sits the old Castlemaine Gaol. The view from here is nice, but I'm pretty sure that none of the involuntary residents were unimpressed.