Wangaratta - day 5

With the forecast of possible showers and a much cooler day than yesterday, it was a group rugged up which departed for our tour of Bright. The showers did not eventuate and the sun kept us from feeling too cold.

Bright is renowned for its autumn colours, however the many blossom trees in town were just starting to show off their splendour.

Our coach headed straight for the riverside park where we started the day with morning tea. The Ovens River was flowing very swiftly and was very swollen. With a large snow melt to come it will be watched very carefully as summer approaches.

We watched a video presentation of the area with a historical account of how the High Country has changed since gold was discovered. Then our local guide, Les, took us on an entertaining overview of the town of Bright and also the heritage town of Wandiligong. Once a mining area it is now a producer of apples and chestnuts.

Apparently this town has such a tight knit community they call people from Bright ‘city slickers’. The people from Bright reputedly say they need to lose their front teeth and play the banjo to be accepted in “Wandi” – only in Australia!!

Back in Bright we had lunch in a local café and then had free time to wander around this pretty town.

One last stop – we were taken to the Red Deer and Emu Farm. Situated in the hills outside Myrtleford we were welcomed by the owner who talked about how the business has grown and diversified over time. The views were gorgeous and as we wandered around the grounds the sun found its way through the clouds currently showering the High Country with snow and we saw that snow on one of the peaks shining like a beacon between the wooded hills.

The animals provided plenty of interest as did the emu oil they produce – good for arthritis and dry skin and other ailments – a popular purchase.

lots of emu chicks keeping warm under an electric light

Many deer had shed their antlers - this rack was still on display

On our way back we passed through Everton where they are now the proud owners of a bus shelter.

Only in Australia

Once back in Wangaratta the usual 5 o’clock drinks did not happen, everyone was resting up for their dinner and entertainment on our last night.

It’s been a wonderful few days. Now it’s back to Sydney and reality.