What could be more fun on Australia Day than jumping in the car and going on a short road trip to Latrobe to participate in Henley on Mersey?!


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They've got everything, from regatta events, fun activities for the kids, helicopter rides, RC car stunts and market stalls to wood-chopping events, the Betta Milk boat race and the famous Ferret Frolic and Ferret Racing!

This year was possibly the biggest turnout I've ever seen there - cars and people galore! The parl at Bell's Parade was packed - on both sides of the river. It's just a perfect spot for this sort of event - nice cool flowing water and loads and loads of big shady trees.

We were there for the ferret racing of course, sadly we arrived early in the afternoon so missed the boat racing. :(

The Ferret Chocolate wheel is always a big favorite - in place of the traditional wheel, a plastic half-drum with ferret sized holes cut in it is used. The ferret is places inside and the barrel spun - If you are holding the ticket corresponding to the numbered hole the ferret comes out of you win!

But! I did get some awesome ferret pictures, as well as a bit of a shock! Tasmanian Premier David Bartlett was officiating at the event, which included awarding prizes & certificates, and overseeing some of the ferret racng too. I guess he was up for a change from dealing with weasles for something a little cuter ;)

On the way home, we stopped at Ashgrove Cheese to sample their latest creations, and bring some home of course! Broc stuck to the usual suspects - Lancashire and some goold old Farmhouse, but I went a little further afield (as per usual!).

I picked out a block of their new Cumin Seed cheese - a rich creamy club cheese mixed with cumin seeds. Tastes awesome on its' own, and I'm looking forward to having it melted over some tasty curries and other delights - mmm.

I found the most awesome gift - and nibbly snack for myself - taster sticks! At $1.60 each they are great for trying new cheeses that you're still not quite sure of . I bought a stick of Double Gloucester and Bush Pepper. I was tempted to get a stick of Wild Wasabi too but luckily my local Fruit & Veggie place stocks it ;)

I also bought a stick of Lavender cheese for my Nan. It sounds unusual, and the taste is unusual too, but not at all unpleasant. A nice snacky cheese.

I also picked out a nice wedge of Heidi Farm Gruyere - very ouchy on the wallet, but sooo worth it!

We also saw some of the Cow Art on show at Ashgrove - this was my favorite. The program was developed to help schoolchildren gain a greater understanding of the dairy industry. Pretty cool eh?

You can see the full album of the days photos Here.