tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-163815632012-01-27T22:25:55.604+11:00Ramblings inspired by psychology, physics, philosophy, philanthorpology, philandering, phenomena, prophets & profits. Travelers Tip: Where is your towel & avoid the garlic sauce.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.comBlogger2481100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-5165748114180248932012-01-26T14:14:00.000+11:002012-01-27T22:24:44.127+11:00

Watched the Ides of March (Ryan Gosling & George Clooney) the other night.. a good but not exceptional movie. Some things just didn't sit right. A very sharp look at US politics with a very bleak message for idealists like me that may one day consider a career in the great game. Hated the Ryan Gosling character by the end, much as he did himself as well I suspect.

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-32033947361717854332012-01-24T11:18:00.002+11:002012-01-24T11:18:11.231+11:00

I'm enjoying the feel of things at the moment. I'm not sure if its extra sensitiveness in my hands, or particular focus on the here and now. Maybe its the awareness of an impending departure. I'm not sure, I'm just enjoying the feel of things at the moment. Enjoying the feel of things The rough yet soft touch of freshly washed, low-thread count cotton sheets pulled tight every morning The tiny,

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-71979932128276851572012-01-16T06:00:00.000+11:002012-01-24T11:21:03.267+11:00

All you muso's should check out Alex Dean: http://www.tripleJunearthed.com/AlexDean As an aside: How cool is TrippleJ! Very Very cool. Can you name me another government run media company that dedicates a portion of its budget to youth music and spends months of every year collecting, compiling, testing, supporting and promoting young, upcoming artists?

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-58527558700664520392012-01-13T12:00:00.000+11:002012-01-13T12:00:00.448+11:00

This time, its refreshing to be in Bali. For my wallet anyway! Price point comparison of Bali to Tokyo: Bali Tokyo Cheap accommodation (per night) including pool / onsen $12 $120 Feed (Entrée + Local staple + Beer) $6 $23 Back & neck massage $5 $60 All prices in AUD and estimated/averaged. Food in Bali: Satay sticks, Nasi

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2Tokyo, Japan35.6894875 139.691706435.2790265 139.0627389 36.099948499999996 140.32067389999997tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-62453924600429515062012-01-12T22:41:00.000+11:002012-01-12T23:08:48.767+11:00

Compare these two quotes and tell me what you think? "As a child I felt myself alone, and I am still, because I know things and must hint at things which others apparently know nothing of and for the most part do not want to know." Carl Jung. "As a climate change consultant I felt myself alone, and I am still as a Sustainability Consultant, because I know things and must hit people over the

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-90966759063599272902012-01-03T19:58:00.000+11:002012-01-24T11:21:36.858+11:00

I was in Kyoto on New Years Day with friends visiting a few Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples and not so much praying and wishing for good fortune as gobling up delicious Japanese street food. As a result, I missed the quake experience in Tokyo, which was apparently pretty mild. http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Quake+rocks+Tokyo+region+Year/5933751/story.html I'm sure I'll catch the next

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-66447247908319807862011-12-28T07:00:00.000+11:002011-12-28T07:00:02.742+11:00

A small selection of the weird, wonderful & tasty that only the Japanese would invent.  Mmm, Hot Soba with whitebait & seaweed! The book - "Reimagining Japan" by McKinsey, an excellent collection of essays from those who should know on what the future of Japan should be and what is needed to get there.   Cabbages that look like flowers or flowers that look like pretty cabbages?  

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-56565743990467698982011-12-26T15:03:00.000+11:002011-12-27T15:54:02.589+11:00

Went back to Ofuna, fetched up the bike and set of for Kamakura. At teh outset, I intended to return the bike to Tokyo, then I realised - whats the rush? Japan has such a low crime rate, people leave their bicycles unlocked and all over the place - I could just head to another train station at the end of the day, park the bicycle and head home. <p><a href="http://

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Japan, Enoshima, 国道134号線35.30735075920143 139.4854259490966835.30087225920143 139.47555544909667 35.31382925920143 139.49529644909668tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-75283250584019064282011-12-25T14:31:00.000+11:002011-12-27T14:36:09.108+11:00

Headed out on Christmas day for a little bike ride on an electric assisted bicycle. Started a bit later than anticipated and whilst the target was Kamakura and the many temples in that area, I was so busy taking in the surrounds - the beautiful narrow streets, bicycle-ways, tiny 2 story houses that just seemed so Japanese for no reason I can describe, I never quite made it! <p>&

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Japan, Ofuna, １丁目２３−５35.3529826 139.532610235.145775099999994 139.2167532 35.5601901 139.8484672tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-32384875219742277932011-12-21T15:59:00.000+11:002011-12-21T16:34:33.632+11:00

Arrived Tokyo last night. Very peaceful yet vibrant place. How do the Japanese manage to be relaxed, energetic and quiet? For now I'll put it down to Zen. Here to meet with some of the rapidly growing PwC Japan Sustainability Services Team to talk about their recent success. Tokyo Tower Park in Autumn Splendor Did you know Zen is a form of buddhism that travelled to Japan and America

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Tokyo, Japan35.6894875 139.691706435.2768075 139.0599924 36.1021675 140.32342039999997tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-20150258420136661842011-12-20T13:50:00.000+11:002011-12-20T13:50:00.729+11:00

I love reading Stimulating the imagination or stimulating the mind Theres nothing quite like A good blog find. http://blog.talkingphilosophy.com Needs a decent Sunday afternoon to do it justice,  it is good for stimulating the mind, or trying to understand it, or to marvel at its complexities and nuances. It is a blog that does a much better and focused job of explaining philosophy and in

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-49200501276306812322011-12-20T00:08:00.002+11:002011-12-24T15:59:21.664+11:00

The world is small. When viewed in parts. I'm in Bali again. Flight over gave a great view of the part of the world that is Atauro and Timor, Wetar and the Alor islands, and the rest of Nusa Tengara Timor - Flores, Komodo, Rincha, Sumabawa, Lombok and Bali. Got me a little nostalgic about the amazing kayaking trip I did with dad in 2002 through those islands and also made me realise how close

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Kuta, Indonesia-8.725478 115.177939-8.8510375 115.0200105 -8.599918500000001 115.33586749999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-6597776621975664852011-12-07T18:23:00.001+11:002011-12-21T16:35:26.014+11:00

It started as a simple map but got a bit cluttered when I added all the trips! East and West Map yet to come! East Map includes the Maliana Hot Springs trip with dad. The trips are not actually in chronological order, just drawing order! Trip 1 - To Turiscai and back in the rain. Read the blog post here. Trip 2 - To Hatu-Builico (oops, wrong name on map!) at night. Climbed Ramalau.

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-16747927220494388352011-11-30T23:39:00.000+11:002011-12-01T01:39:44.823+11:00

I was riding home from a joy ride to Liqudoe with Paolo on the weekend when I spotted my very precious stolen helmet! I was very very annoyed when this helmet was stolen and this frustration and anger bubbled out of me when I spotted the helmet on the street. I promptly locked up the back wheel in front of the Presidents Palace and the crowd assembled for the Independence celebrations. Dropped a

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-47473492114587204142011-11-20T12:45:00.000+11:002011-11-20T12:45:03.333+11:00

The Good Return Sustainable Energy Program in Timor-Leste has been progressing in leaps, bounds and land-slides and has been both extremely challenging and very enjoyable.  It is now at the stage where it will begin to transition to Moris Rasik so they can continue to run with the program in the New Year. The Extended Good Return Team in Timor-Leste(L - R: Hamish, James, Guy, Damian, Paolo, Edy)

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-64581053081773273592011-11-19T14:30:00.000+11:002011-11-19T14:30:54.280+11:00

Last week marked a turning point in the Good Return Sustainable Energy program in Timor-Leste. The transition of the project from Good Return hands to Moris Rasik management has begun, and it is an exciting time.   The PABU Team on the road! This transition started during a week-long trip into the districts to conduct product focus sessions with Moris Rasik clients at centre meetings and to

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-15959529460016619872011-11-17T17:22:00.002+11:002011-11-17T21:58:37.176+11:00

The Programme Ahi Baa Uma ( PABU - Lit. Light for the house) Team, Training and Product Development Manager and Operations Manager journeyed out of Dili to Maubesse recently to providing training to all the staff from the Same, Maubesse, Ainaro and Aileu offices (known as the SAMALEU Region).  The team left Dili and travelled the ~60km to Maubesse in about 3 hours. Arriving in mountainous and

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Maubesse, Timor-Leste-8.82808114120722 125.59570306249998-9.06626864120722 125.44521956249997 -8.589893641207219 125.74618656249999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-7412448331989424182011-11-17T15:45:00.000+11:002011-11-17T15:45:57.537+11:00

A friend dedicated this song to me and I'm quite pleased! Thanks Roni. ---------------------------------------- Nomad by Iron Maiden Like a mirage riding on the desert sand Like a vision floating with the desert wind Know the secret of the ancient desert lands You are the keeper of the mystery in your hands Nomad, rider of the ancient east Nomad, rider that men know the least Nomad, where you

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-67567982474820192732011-10-31T17:12:00.000+11:002011-10-31T17:12:10.287+11:00

First real service of the Bike for me on the weekend: Warning light inspection and check Throttle grip free-play inspection and adjustment Idle speed inspection and adjustment Coolant filter inspection and clean Coolant inspection and replacement Fuel hose, connection and tank inspection Air cleaner inspection and clean Brake fluid level inspection and replacement (Front & Back) Fuse box

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-22934600884779885902011-10-31T15:42:00.001+11:002011-10-31T16:14:59.827+11:00

The Air is thick with the smell of steam, rotten and pure, salty and fresh It is stirred by the breath of the sea,  a whisper on the back of my kneeLightning brightens the sky in clusters, rhythmic and pulsingHeavenly fans and clouds of thunder play acoustic rythyms on the leavesIt is tranquil The Mind is thick with thoughts of feelings, ripe and firm, toxins and chemicalsIt is stirred by

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-70463100479020249042011-10-24T13:01:00.002+11:002011-10-31T14:45:04.297+11:00

Rode to Hato-Builico Friday night, scary. Climbed Mt Ramalau on Saturday morning, beautiful. Nanna nap on Saturday and Sunday, refreshing. D&M on the beach late Saturday, humane. Baking Sunday morning, fail. Indonesian friend visiting on Sunday, challenging. Wine and Cheese Sunday night, enlightening. 

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Hato Builico, Timor-Leste-8.88778526780534 125.56720727392576-9.12597276780534 125.41672377392575 -8.64959776780534 125.71769077392577tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-18775551358064851272011-10-13T00:25:00.001+11:002011-10-13T00:25:33.304+11:00

Yes, yes, yesyesyes. Its not that hard to improve the world Just say 'Yes'. Don't think too long Or dilly dally your decision When some-one asks, Just say 'Yes'. Place some trust in your friends When they ask, Just say 'Yes'. Its not that hard to make a difference Just say 'Yes' Don't use sarcasm or make a joke When some-one asks, Just say 'Yes'. Boost your colleagues self esteem, When they

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-55993741382124051162011-10-08T22:32:00.002+11:002011-10-31T14:51:27.658+11:00

This report contains probably the most useful information you could have if your working or planning to work in TL. The report is a detailed assessment of the values of the Timorese people. Through a series of interviews and questionnaires they assess 1,200 people to determine what it is that will motivate them and which values will be aligned to and assist 'development'. Unfortunately, I do

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Timor-Leste-8.874217 125.72753899999998-9.615167 124.03168899999997 -8.133267 127.42338899999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-83591533375879691292011-09-30T18:32:00.000+10:002011-09-30T18:32:30.215+10:00

Xanana Gusmao Remembrance day in Timor on the 30th August was impressive. The public demonstrations of affection, tears, pride were all a good reminder that what they are remembering happened not long ago. Xanana received a huge hero's reception. I wonder about his dream to become a farmer when the resistance was over.

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Dili, Timor-Leste-8.558458 125.57815099999993-8.577149 125.51896949999994 -8.539767 125.63733249999993tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-8884698352843146512011-09-30T17:43:00.000+10:002011-09-30T17:43:38.182+10:00

I think I've just completed some kind of strange cycle or spiral*. I came to Bali in 2002 a pretty naive, innocent, innocuous boy amongst mostly people older than me. I didn't really comprehend everything that was happening. In fact, I don't think I had a clue. I couldn't read people, I couldn't tell what they were thinking, feeling or what they wanted. I was armed with a very basic set of

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3Bali, Indonesia-8.724565997331634 115.17243650781256-9.118355497331635 114.53248550781257 -8.330776497331634 115.81238750781256tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-81505314714352263652011-09-13T01:37:00.002+10:002011-09-30T18:18:53.214+10:00

The environment here is just damn strange There are different currents going many different ways At times I'm stuck in a whirlpool of human emotions, mine and others. At once Fighting strongly in the rough chop of intellectual challenge Enjoying my work And then Tiring and drowning under waves of cultural misunderstanding Despairing the work Once again Buoyed and lifted by an unexpected gust of

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3Dili, Timor-Leste-8.558458 125.57815099999993-8.577149 125.51896949999994 -8.539767 125.63733249999993tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-16684484094312266472011-09-10T17:11:00.002+10:002011-09-30T18:19:41.256+10:00

It was Timorese Falintil (rememberance) day on 30th August and they get 2 days off to celebrate. That was Tuesday and Wednesday so of course nobody was coming to work Monday. Mega long weekend - just what is needed to make the trek to Jaco Island, one of the few national parks in TL. Titarala - Far East Timor Island Due to work departure was delayed until Sunday afternoon, by which time the

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1Tutala, Timor-Leste-8.415472554021768 127.2962442701172-8.632651054021768 126.9712282701172 -8.198294054021769 127.6212602701172tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-33630137101244264022011-09-06T11:16:00.002+10:002011-09-30T18:20:08.958+10:00

No it wasn't mine!  Went with Renato down to his friends Timorese wedding with Paolo. It was located abiout 30 min out of town in Tibar. Big calico tent of sorts was erected at the back of the families house with the dirt semi cleared and 'watered' to keep the dust from the dancing down.  I was surprised to note though that the dancing is 100% formal, all night. They love to dance, but it is

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-50034232282600870412011-09-04T14:09:00.001+10:002011-09-04T14:43:14.720+10:00

In late August I managed to head out with a translator for my first field trip - an Energy Needs Assessment. Number of clients interviewed: 96 Languages spoken: 4 Number of Centre Meetings: 9 Distance Travelled: ~700km Number of Districts: 2 Days on the road: 6 Number of Sucos: 5 Total Cost: $305 Centre Meeting in Ainaro The bike in

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2Same, Timor-Leste-9.004968845825085 125.64820433789055-9.016314845825084 125.63305183789055 -8.993622845825085 125.66335683789055tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-71217915197906249442011-08-27T11:56:00.000+10:002011-08-27T11:56:29.731+10:00

Why I listened to the bloke who said to put my helmet on the floor I don't know. It was a pretty good spot. Under a low chair, next to a pole, behind the waitresses stand. I was less than 3 meters away, between the helmet and the door and I knew all the people around me. RIP It survived less than 2 hrs. Whoever stole it must have literally brushed past me on their way out. Unless they

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-79716047765630467932011-08-20T14:55:00.001+10:002011-08-20T14:56:52.935+10:00

A mate of mine, Richard Nolan is doing the Oxfam 100km Trail Walker challenge with a bunch of friends. This is the second time they have done it but thus time they are trying to get it done in under 24hrs. Last time they just wanted to finish, and they did, in about 30hrs from memory. The Oxfam 100km Trail Walker Challenge is a charity event to raise money for Poverty Alleviation. The Sydney

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-49890714527910862782011-08-13T22:04:00.001+10:002011-08-13T22:07:53.140+10:00

Spending time with intelligent people who care is a blessing. Its also challenging. Thankfully, I'd chosen to bring a bottle of Shiraz (Red Belly Black, surprisingly smooth) to the Sunday night dinner party, and it fitted right in. Not sure how it came up, but Australia's immigration policy took a bit of a hammering, particularly from the European contingent, and this was pre London riots.

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-22640207778817661802011-08-13T18:37:00.000+10:002011-08-13T19:54:01.698+10:00

Hit the road with dad (almost literally) and a good friend, Maria last weekend. We headed from Dili to Maliana via the ErMera (inland) road. I had heard that the coast road was better and quicker, but having taken that road a few times before I was keen to take the inland route, plus its typically more fun and more spectacular riding in the mountains. Would never have thought dad would

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1Maliana, Timor-Leste-8.9833333 125.21666670000002-8.9988253 125.19580870000001 -8.9678413 125.23752470000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-5613184133347839202011-08-02T12:45:00.000+10:002011-08-13T19:55:21.354+10:00

While i'm here in TL I'm supposed to be developing a distribution and sales network for renewable energy technology (RET). An example what I wish I could develop is contained in this article. The reality is that these programs are waaaaaaaay more advanced and sophisticated than what I could even wish to develop here in TL. Its kinda sad actually. Guess it certainly ain't going to happen if I

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-31941685079279900692011-07-26T23:22:00.000+10:002011-08-13T19:55:38.494+10:00

Check out the new blog map on the right hand side menu bar! Its not very sophisticated compared to what you can do these days but it still took me 2 hrs to work out! You can click on a location to open the blog post made about that location. Alternative click here for the nomad-odyssey feed in GoogleMaps! For an example of a fully interactive travel map check this great blog about a couples

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-903058095822124632011-07-26T21:37:00.000+10:002011-07-26T21:37:11.017+10:00

A wordy Jakartan summarised my impression of Jakarta aptly with this metaphor: Jakarta will always be complicated. It is like a Durian. Not all the people like Durian because it is big, with spiky, dun coloured skin and has a very strong smell. On the inside though, it has a really soft and moist tissue and taste like heaven.  Jakarta is just like that. Harsh, rough, and sometimes so raw that

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2Jalan Jaksa - Kebon Sirih, Jakarta Capital Region, Indonesia-6.18514 106.82928100000004-6.187282499999999 106.82875700000004 -6.1829975 106.82980500000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-23669339621255860012011-07-24T15:04:00.002+10:002011-07-24T16:45:43.685+10:00

In uni, I did a subject called 'International Management'. At the time I thought it was a bit of a joke. My ideology then was that everyone was the same, motivated by the same intrinsic things and culture was just a set of rules that could be understood and applied appropriately.  It seems to me now that is not the case, although I still think the subject was a joke. That subject focused on

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com5Moris Rasik, Dili, Timor-Leste-8.552983528027779 125.57068373010247-8.57167452802778 125.51150223010248 -8.534292528027779 125.62986523010247tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-50662222583886963932011-07-20T22:11:00.001+10:002011-07-24T16:47:56.352+10:00

Made a whirl-wind tour of the north coast of Timor all the way to Com and back on the weekend. I went to attend a cultural event, a visit to the traditional place of the people of Com however the elder leading the event got sick before hand and the event didn't happen. Kids in Eucusse  I was invited by Antunes, the Mercy Corp PPI Program leader as he is from Com. So i stayed with his family on

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com6Com, Timor-Leste-8.360830181918747 127.06201267242432-8.364662181918746 127.05797867242431 -8.356998181918748 127.06604667242432tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-52572768687994128802011-07-14T14:29:00.001+10:002011-07-24T16:26:50.746+10:00

Do you feel like Australia is over-regulated these days? Do you lament that the iconographic image we built of our-selves through the blood, sweat and tears of the Diggers and the integrity and determination our international sports stars during the 80's and 90's has been lost? I do and I hope you do to. The image and identity of Australia as a land of larrikans, opportunity, fairness and a

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-33261062491349032832011-07-13T00:55:00.003+10:002011-07-24T16:51:40.610+10:00

Decided to investigate one of the apparently more remote regions in Timor over the weekend, the Turascai district. The level of concern from some of the other volunteers was endearing but a little surprising. It seems one assumption I had about the development crowd was that they were all mostly adventurous too, but it turns out that is not strictly true. Left earlyish Saturday morning and had

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2Manumera, Turascai, Timor-Leste-8.822782519119519 125.70511285249017-9.052908019119519 125.46923185249017 -8.59265701911952 125.94099385249018tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-66573325093019067632011-07-04T21:26:00.001+10:002011-07-24T16:53:42.859+10:00

I have the bike in Timor Leste and I feel much better for it. I headed up into the hills behind Dili on the weekend and was surprised at how steep they are. No wonder the Indonesians had trouble finding Xanana Gusmao and the Fretlin and Fatalin guerilla fighters, access is seriously limited in places. At the tops of the mountains are still some lush old-tree forests and they have a very calming

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2Dare, Timor-Leste-8.5954595 125.57809640000005-8.600228000000001 125.57366990000006 -8.590691 125.58252290000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-45163177818817199002011-06-30T11:41:00.000+10:002011-07-24T16:28:09.481+10:00

I met these crazy kids in Kupang, they are raising money for charity by doing three things in 3 months; 1. The 3 peaks challenge in the UK (climbing 3 big, cold, wet, windy mountains in 24hrs) 2. Travelling from London bridge to Sydney Harbour bridge overland & water without flying. 3. Riding a bicycle from London to Paris All in 3 months. Crazy, but I can attest to how good they are at

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-84389822024315303212011-06-27T22:25:00.000+10:002011-07-24T16:28:09.482+10:00

When I planned for this trip, one of the few things that my amazingly comprehensive planning ideology of "Ah Bugger it, I'll just work it out when I get there" didn't actually cover was a little bowel problem. Ah yes, I can hear you all saying, that Damian is hopeless. He 'planned' a trip through SEA and 3rd world countries and didn't pack any gastro tablets. But you would be wrong, I did pack

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-18522691991739089822011-06-26T20:44:00.002+10:002011-07-24T16:58:17.772+10:00

Currently i'm in Kupang in West Timor. Contrary to the guide books and popular opinion, its not a dump. Although, accomodation is a bit expensive for what you get, unless you stay for free with some random you met on the 12hr bus trip from Dili to Kupang! Here is an excerpt from the blog post I wrote for GoodReturn relating to the the bus trip: "The difference in infrastructure between East and

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Lavalon Bar, Kupang, Indonesia-10.157267183970125 123.58360797980959-18.819917183970126 100.42990797980958 -1.494617183970126 146.7373079798096tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-72865795380485235792011-06-22T00:41:00.001+10:002011-07-24T16:59:02.847+10:00

Never before have I written a whole blog post and not published it, but that it was I just did for the post about Dili. I'm finding it really hard to describe it in my usual style. I've a feeling that it may be because this is a serious place. I've had more challenging discussions in the last week about life, death, what we should and shouldn't do for people, cognitive dissonance, racism, giving,

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com4Dili, Timor-Leste-8.558458 125.57815099999993-8.577149 125.51896949999994 -8.539767 125.63733249999993tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-67838402355242313952011-06-20T20:04:00.000+10:002011-06-20T20:04:26.589+10:00

I feel compelled to draw attention to this quote provided by L in a comment on another post. The reason I was compelled to do so was because without knowing it, this explains exactly why Jakarta was so fascinating: "Anyone who wants to know the human psyche will learn next to nothing from experimental psychology. He would be better advised to abandon exact science, put away his scholar's gown,

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-6554699166131999072011-06-16T13:19:00.001+10:002011-07-24T16:59:52.716+10:00

I arrived in Dili on Monday, and whilst i'm reserving judgement for now, first impressions (besides the UN helicopters, UN lear jet and numerous UN police vehicles) are that as per expectation, the situation is over-hyped by the media. I'm liking it so far, but sense perceptions are still working on the locals, in Dili they are not as bright or friendly as the indonesians up front, but I have

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Dili, Timor-Leste-8.558458 125.57815099999993-8.577149 125.51896949999994 -8.539767 125.63733249999993tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-51228653987056664812011-06-16T13:11:00.001+10:002011-06-20T20:07:15.097+10:00

I liked what Jung had to say about trying to define and describe Love: “If he [who tries to define love] possesses a grain of wisdom, he will lay down his arms and name the unknown by the more unknown, 'ignotum per ignotius' – by the name of God.” For Jung, according to my interpretation, God was a label for the unknown. So within this context, knowing that which I do not know and can not

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-74213897245532615022011-06-12T21:34:00.001+10:002011-07-24T17:01:00.784+10:00

Arrived Bali without incident. So nice to go for a swim and body surf. Place has cleaned up a lot since last time I was here in 2002. Much easier to walk around, roads are better, hotels are better. Got a good clean hotel room for 60k IRP in Jl Poppies I (was paying 80K for similar in Jakarta). However, everything else except beer is more expensive - well the taxi's, the food and the water (

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Kuta, Indonesia-8.725477999999999 115.17793899999992-8.849260999999998 115.09972899999993 -8.601695 115.25614899999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-49194283263392918252011-06-10T15:53:00.001+10:002011-07-24T17:01:52.731+10:00

I left the bike and 2,250,000 IRP with a complete stranger. All I have in return is a piece of copy paper, a 'legal' stamp and a promise to deliver it to Kupang in about 2 weeks. To be fair, it is supposed to be a logistics company, but in reality it was just a nice house which advertised the services of a lawyer. It sounds bad, but in reality the transaction with Schenker in Australia was

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Jakarta Capital Region, Indonesia-6.211544 106.84517200000005-6.355154 106.69912250000004 -6.067934 106.99122150000005tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-29997663199320912262011-06-07T16:31:00.000+10:002011-06-10T20:49:59.501+10:00

All the effort doctoring my Jetstar flight receipt was in vain. The bloody immigration officer didn't even ask to see it this time. Can't help but feel i was just a tad unlucky last time because the immigration officer was having a bad day. Up and about early today but to no avail. I still don't have transport to kupang yet and time is running out. Off to the Pelni head office now to see if

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-39821732844733435832011-06-06T18:03:00.001+10:002011-07-24T17:02:46.861+10:00

The Indonesian embassy in Singapore closed at 12. Whaat? Ok, I should have got out of bed earlier, but I though 9:30am was pretty good going. Engaged my left brain and decided that given most 'return tickets' consist of a print out of the receipt from Jetstar, I could simply change the date on teh receipt I had for the flight here. Quick select and copy from Pdf to paint, change the monmth to

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2Singapore1.305417 103.85177891.169206 103.6147689 1.4416280000000001 104.0887889tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-41733517094930139602011-06-04T21:49:00.001+10:002011-07-24T17:03:52.749+10:00

I got the bike on Friday. No dramas. No bribes, no real difficulty. Had a lot of help from the Schenker guy in clearing the paperwork through APW. It took from about 10:30am until 3pm, including an hour break for lunch. Rode half-way across jakarta back to jaksa without issue and without getting lost. Also rode out to the Kawasaki factory today without even a hint of a traffice problem or

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2Tanjung Priok, Jakarta Capital Region, Indonesia-6.11776 106.86983199999997-6.1533929999999994 106.84208499999997 -6.082127 106.89757899999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-54365326034123109012011-06-02T16:48:00.001+10:002011-06-02T16:52:28.104+10:00

Customs inspection went well on Wednesday. I arrived at DB Schenker office and Mr Farried who is handling my case and who happens to be a bike enthusiast took me out to the bike on his 150cc Kawasaki. It sounded horrifically tinny but it looked good. DB Schenker, Tanjung Priok, Jakarta When we arrived literally just around the corner (Easy walking distance) I realised that the location on my

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-32460746195807140372011-05-31T22:52:00.000+10:002011-05-31T23:22:36.774+10:00

The bike is definitely maybe available tomorrow. I have had this confirmed from other independent sources now, which helps keep my head above water. These are the events that have been confirmed by multiple sources as having occurred to delay my bike: There was a strike in the Port over the week-end There has been 2 public holidays with a 3rd this week if it is not out tomorrow One of the

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-74625338178977189972011-05-31T22:51:00.002+10:002011-07-24T18:50:54.564+10:00

In a world of shades and shadows You were my beacon in the dark Your sweet innocence draws a crowd I'm but one, a moth to your halo. You spread waves of light against the tide of darkness It flickers and flutters Rippling to the pulse of an uncertain beat At risk of being gutted by rips of jealousy It reverberates slowly Through the rapids of affection and attention where rocky hands tear at

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Memories Cafe, Jl Jaksa - Kebon Sirih, Jakarta Capital Region 10240, Indonesia-6.184542682221886 106.82953849206547-6.188200182221886 106.82391149206546 -6.1808851822218855 106.83516549206547tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-45695141700694275412011-05-28T00:35:00.000+10:002011-05-31T23:22:36.775+10:00

Been a good, productive few days. Decided to visit the Jakarta Customs today despoite not having the notification from Schenker that the bike had been 'Stripped' yet. (First the container gets un-loaded, then it gets stripped). I have nothing but good things to say about Jakarta customs at this stage, they were impressive. I arrived about 10am, was informed I couldn't enter because I didn't

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-55450750678428265842011-05-26T17:56:00.001+10:002011-05-31T23:21:58.085+10:00

I ran into this Italian guy on the street in Jakarta. He has riden his Harley from Italy down through the Stans, China, Pakistan, India and then itno SEA, through Indonesia to Bali where he sips the bike to Japan and then goes home through China, Russia and Mongolia. He had some great info on the Chinese / Pakistan border which unfortunately wasn't promising. But what got me most was his quiet

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-85681764701930692082011-05-26T16:50:00.000+10:002011-05-31T23:24:46.603+10:00

Its very easy to sleep during the day in Jakarta. Most people seem to do it, the librarian at the UN section of the National Library who is looking for a journal for me has just now apologised because she hasn't found the book yet and she is going off to have her after lunch nap! The last week I have been living almost on a nocturnal basis. Its quite strange, but once in the rythym is kind of

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-43610872847620696882011-05-25T19:30:00.001+10:002011-05-25T20:11:42.260+10:00

New Pics from Silvia's farewell party at memories Hotel. Silvia has been in Jakarta even longer than me, waiting and waiting. Silvia is the owner / operator and dive instructor of the rajalaut-bunaken resort in Suliwesi and is off to Italy to drum up some more business. Full album is available here

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-4841363133094382292011-05-21T20:09:00.000+10:002011-05-25T20:06:53.871+10:00

Spent Friday morning running around trying to drum up sufficient USD to pay for my shipping charges. Because my travel money card from CBA is actually denominated in USD I thought I would spend teh extra time looking for a ATM that dispensed USD. This is not uncommon and I actually ended up at a commonwealth bank in the Landmark area (Banking area) because I figured it would be the easiest,

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-28476011490383183912011-05-19T13:50:00.000+10:002011-05-19T13:50:30.436+10:00

So, apparently it takes about 2.5 days for a bike to be loaded in Singapore, shipped to Jakarta and unloaded in Jakarta. Then in takes about 2.5 days for the shipping paper work to be arranged here in Jakarta. End of story is that I cannot even commence the customs paper-work until tomorrow, 5 days after the bike was shipped from Singapore. The Db Schenker contact here in Jakarta, Mr Dody, has

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-48660975479530101302011-05-19T13:29:00.001+10:002011-05-19T14:04:14.451+10:00

Found out on Friday that the bike is not shipping until Sunday, so nothing for it but to spend even more time in the pub. Getting a little sick of Jl Jaksa by that stagfe with exceptions, such as the always fun and honest Memories staff. Being Friday memories is full and by this time i'm known to many locals by name, which is welcoming in one way but kinda like being bakc in Cobram in another

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-83892361472507869332011-05-19T13:06:00.001+10:002011-05-19T13:53:16.973+10:00

On Thursday I miss out on a trip to the traditional markets with Yanti and her Family due to a miscommunication but make up for it by heading to the Stadium night-club with some locals from the pub. The ring leader is Maria, who works 2 jobs - Receptionist in a hotel and also in a factory out of town near where she lives. She is in tow with some old friends who have not seen each other for 3 or

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-43059606226150283882011-05-17T00:26:00.001+10:002011-05-19T13:36:28.181+10:00

I was so happy when I received the customs confirmation for the temporary import of my motorbike into Indionesia, looks like I was a little hasty in my celebration though because it seems that DB Schenker Jakarta and DB Schenker Singapore just don't get it.  Its a shame, because they have been wonderful people. I have copied below the customs confirmation and the email I just receveived from DB

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-71134419312097516722011-05-17T00:07:00.001+10:002011-05-25T20:08:52.775+10:00

Some pics from my stay in Jakarta so far have been updated. They are mostly people as my sight-seeing has been confined to trips to and from various government buildings, and to be honest most of my time here has been spent on the computer or phone so far!

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-85840526014604796362011-05-15T12:23:00.000+10:002011-05-19T13:36:28.183+10:00

Well, I think my belly has done pretty well. I'm quite proud of it actually and to be honest, I did think those Sate chicken skewers were a bit raw last night. I think "Belly proud" could be a new term. I know a few people I could name who often seem to convey a sense of pride in their belly by the way they give it a gentle rub or an affectionate pat after dinner or during beers. Hands up belly

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-50360214810764446232011-05-13T23:59:00.002+10:002011-05-19T13:37:00.974+10:00

This place is in-sane. The people are mostly Muslim, but you can hardly tell. There is a Mosque about every 250m but I barely hear the call to prayer and certainly the locals only pay it a little more attention than the Bule (white foreigners). To be honest, I have been struggling with a few inner battles the last few days. The turmoil of being surrounded by prostitutes, pimps, poor people,

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-30925976397535422682011-05-13T23:57:00.001+10:002011-05-19T13:40:27.368+10:00

My poor Kowi finally has an end destination – Jakarta. Ship leaves Singapore on this Sunday 16th May. Although the Pelni information man indicated, twice (the second time with the lovely Yanti acting as translator) that there was only one boat to Kupang and it was going into dru dock service after the run leaving Tanjung Priok on the 15th May I'm confident that there must be other Pelni boats

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-82513092832086353232011-05-11T13:59:00.001+10:002011-05-19T13:37:34.286+10:00

Found a book on Carl G Jung today – “Memories, Dreams, Reflections”. It is a combination biography / autobiography. Decided that reading it would be a good way to bring my entertainment budget back under control! Plus, had a quick flick through and noticed a few sections on the unconscious and the ego, a few pet topics of mine. Reading through some of it has made me realise that these guys were

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-6633732679597941082011-05-11T13:38:00.001+10:002011-05-11T14:19:52.018+10:00

I take back all the bad things I said or insinuated about the Indonesian customs. It seems a lot has changed in 8 years. I visited the Australian embassy and Aus-Trade on Monday to try to get some information and tips for the meeting with the Director General of Customs and Excise. They were worse than useless and could provide no relevant information. In fact I provided them with a lot of

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-6140600734145100262011-05-08T19:48:00.002+10:002011-05-10T16:45:09.835+10:00

Us Fullers are not know for our tender turn of phrase Our honesty is mostly raw and pure, often overwhelming and rarely diplomatic. We craft our terms and carefully choose our words for just a few special people, Our family, the tax man, the rich man and opponents in any game of chance. We travel wide and hold our heads with pride, so Our independence is renowned in many towns. My story

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-7444798072018702912011-05-08T19:46:00.004+10:002011-07-24T18:49:03.194+10:00

Got a little bit of an awakening to the real south east asia today when I travelkled to Jakarta. A little time and cost comparison of travelling between airports and hotels gives a pretty good indication, and note that these prices are not adjusted for purchase power parity. Time and cost from Prince of Wales Hostel to terminal at Changi Airport Singapore: 45 min and about SGD $2.5 for the

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1Jalan Jaksa - Kebon Sirih, Jakarta Capital Region, Indonesia-6.18514 106.82928100000004-6.187282499999999 106.82875700000004 -6.1829975 106.82980500000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-86811199386897591722011-05-06T22:57:00.002+10:002011-05-08T19:48:52.889+10:00

Some nice bikes here in singapore, making me all sentimental about my poor baby stuck in a box god knows where. Thought it would take a little longer for me to grow attached to The Bike, but i sure would like to take her for a spin right now. I'd be even happy just touching it, caressing the slightly bent handle bars, playing with the little flap of torn seat, seeing if the 4kg of metal in my

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-22501042153178229422011-05-05T15:28:00.003+10:002011-07-24T17:06:10.117+10:00

Mount Faber looking over the port / industrial area  Clarke Quay. Add about 1 million ppl for a long wkend. China Town   For the full album please refer here to Picasa

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1Mount Faber, Singapore1.2736111 103.817777799999931.1374001 103.58076779999993 1.4098221000000002 104.05478779999993tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-50467262441243116612011-05-04T17:37:00.002+10:002011-05-04T21:17:22.162+10:00

"Are you traveling to india to find yourself? No, good, because we indians have a saying - if white man look to find himself in India, India look to rip him off". Anindya Bose PwC Singapore. Best financial advice you will hear.

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-70996240755169461922011-05-03T14:29:00.000+10:002011-05-03T14:29:16.602+10:00

Just a quick note to let you all note that I have gone through the archives and updated the blog for labels, so hopefully this will make it all a bit more usable. You can now click on a label on the menu on the right hand side and it will show all/only posts for that label. Hopefully this will enable me to focus the blog a little more on and keep me from rambling too much.

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-91643957667845408072011-05-02T16:37:00.005+10:002011-07-24T18:40:21.635+10:00

Long weekend here in Singapore, so not much happening with the bike at the moment. I've been really enjoying singapore, and seek to denounce the myth that it is a boring place! Although, the locals are tough nuts to crack. Highlights so far: A couple of argentinians and I talked our way into one of the luxury residences at Marina Bay on a very hot Saturday. We thought we were heading to a

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1Singapore1.352083 103.819836000000011.213633 103.573908 1.4905329999999999 104.06576400000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-7027503728381324092011-04-30T11:41:00.002+10:002011-05-02T17:04:48.111+10:00

To say Singapore is efficient is stating the obvious. Everybody has heard about the amazing public transport system, but I have found it goes a long way beyond just public transport. I have to deal with three organisations in order to get my bike to Dili, the Land Transport Authority (Think RTA, nationally), the Autombile Association of Singapore (Think NRMA, nationally) and DB Schenker. I qued

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-52288105836180507622011-04-29T02:05:00.002+10:002011-07-24T18:43:41.905+10:00

I have arrived safely in Singapore! A little bit of a scare from the V Australia crew who delayed oproviding me my boarding pass to Singapore because I didn't have a return ticket. Apparently they could be up for a $10,000 fine if I get rejected by Singapore customs. No fear there, the guy didn't even ask to see my itinerary - all he asked is how long I wanted to stay for. When I said as long as

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0Prince of Wales Hotel, 101 Dunlop st, Little India, Singapore1.3053455294683733 103.853011992590381.2971750294683733 103.84453949259039 1.3135160294683734 103.86148449259038tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-2418426200902168142011-04-29T01:56:00.001+10:002011-05-02T17:04:01.189+10:00

The kitchen is complete! In fact, the whole renovation is complete! Thank heavans because i'm in Singapore! I had a lot of help getting the kitchen off the ground from Lassie Ng of Interior Arc and I can highly reccomend her work. Check out the complete set of pictures on picaso, but here is a sample: Kitchen Before Kitchen demolition in progress Floor sanding complete & varnishing in

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-14267783700413073252011-04-20T08:54:00.002+10:002011-05-02T17:09:27.944+10:00

The terms of reference for my 3 months in Timor Leste are exciting! My role will basically be to act as a facilitator and co-ordinator for Good Returns/World Education Australia Limited between Moris Rasik, a Timor Leste based Micro-Finance Institute (MFI) and Mercy Corp, an aid organisation. Mercy Corp has some cash from the EU that it wants to use to establish a renewable energy technology

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-12098200384597868762011-04-10T20:04:00.000+10:002011-05-02T17:09:27.945+10:00

I decided late last year that it was time to take another long journey. I'm happy to say that I'll be heading off on Sat 16th April to ride my motorbike from Timor Leste to London. The journey actually starts in Singapore, I head by Ferry through Indonesia to Timor Leste where I will spend 3 months volunteering for micro finance organisation Moris Rasik. Once my tasks are completed I will

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-25930551054462982212011-01-28T22:01:00.000+11:002011-01-28T22:01:56.254+11:00

I just watched this TED video on Vulnerability by Brene Brown, a social science researcher story-teller. It was fascinating. It is the story of her research as a social worker into human connection and the impact that her findings had on her own life. I cannot do the video justice so you should watch it. However, I can tell you the potential benefits of watching the video will be: An

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-79422321009682896982011-01-22T10:00:00.001+11:002011-01-22T10:00:58.955+11:00

All electronic memory updates will now be located on this page, so they don't clog up the blog with info that most of you don't want to know. The blog will then hopefully revert back to useful, intriguing, thought provoking ramblings.

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-67284303672128941032011-01-10T18:18:00.000+11:002011-05-02T17:11:55.525+10:00

I just recently finished reading Dale Carnegie's book "How to win friends and influence people". I know, the titel is terrible. I almost felt ashamed and embarassed reading it, and the title alone may be one of the reasons I have never read this book (and my pride). However, it is a terrific book! I read the updated version, because the poriginal was written way back in about 1920. Apparently

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-37538447995848292762010-11-24T15:53:00.001+11:002011-07-24T18:53:57.138+10:00

Hi all, for those that made it here from my recent 'reach out' email - welcome! Here's a quick re-cap on your long lost friend / relative: Be warned - I'm going back nearly 10 years here! I'm renovating a small apartment I bought 2 years ago in Arncliffe (South Sydney, about 10km from the CBD and near Brighton Le Sands). Renovations consist of sanding and varnishing the parquetry timber floors

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2My Apartment, Arncliffe, Sydney, NSW, Australia-33.938199 151.14551800000004-34.3105245 150.72531450000002 -33.565873499999995 151.56572150000005tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-78377272374066152232010-11-19T12:14:00.001+11:002011-05-02T17:13:55.212+10:00

Thanks to Stephen Covey whose following words kick started my thoughts "Love is a verb. Love the feeling is a fruit of love the verb." To love is to serve, sacrafice, listen, understand, empathize, appreciate, affirm and recognise. To feel loved is to have loved and to act with the feeling of love. I acted to serve, blindly and without regard for the problems that I cause Now, I have listened

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-86068370099032715932010-10-18T00:20:00.001+11:002011-05-02T17:10:42.297+10:00

Strong and bold, chest full of air, coat covered in dust with six shooters on his hips Scant words on his lips, a larrikins sparkle in the eyes and concern on the brow The hero, always ready to show them how. Strong and bold, chest full of air, coat covered in dust with six shooters on his hips Words fit to spit, eyes of the storm and anger in the arch The hungry hero, in desperate need of

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-18954638094943587612010-10-11T22:58:00.001+11:002011-05-02T17:10:42.298+10:00

Got a little shock just now, someone was gonna throw a bottle, he was gonna chuck a can. Realised some of my best friends were racist and I probably was too What can you do, when your parents would rather shoot you then eat tofu? Got a little shock just now, someone was gonna go to far, he was gonna cut a man. Realised a little to late it wasn't the best place for a date What will she think,

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-71714390031513519402010-08-28T13:23:00.000+10:002011-05-02T17:11:55.526+10:00

Back to Aristotle via the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). It makes sense that if this guy spent his time debating his theories in public and many of those theories went on to be very popular, that he knew something about being persuasive. Apparently Aristotle identified three main streams of persuasive speech or rhetoric - Ethos, Logos and Pathos. Ethos is an appeal to the audience on

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-49098348580498969642010-08-21T16:37:00.003+10:002011-05-02T17:11:55.527+10:00

Still plundering the Wikihow site for tips, these two pretty much exhausts the most useful tips:Persuasion tip #3Empathise and relate to your audience. By making your audience feel like you understand them and are concerned about them they are more likely to listen and possibly trust what you say. Its hard not to like someone who is concerned about you. Follow this up be explaining what you want

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-16074240635308765562010-08-20T00:18:00.003+10:002011-05-02T17:11:55.528+10:00

Hit pay dirt with this one, although it still leaves me feeling kinda dissapointed."Aristotle noticed that using logic (logos) is perhaps the worst way to persuade someone. Arousing a strong emotional bond to your point of view or fear and doom to the opposing views (pathos) and tying your position to deeply-rooted, commonly-held beliefs (ethos) is the key to success."This little gem cam from the

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-58375520006511315592010-08-19T23:53:00.002+10:002011-05-02T17:11:55.529+10:00

I've recently started taking more notice of how other people persuade me. I used to think that I was pretty immune to peer group pressure and certainly wasn't interested in pleasing people for the sake of it or popularity. Self centered is probably a fair description of me most of the time. However, recently I've felt that a few people have had some kind of persuasive grip on me, and it has a

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-86988727461426422232010-08-17T19:57:00.002+10:002011-05-02T17:10:42.299+10:00

Terribly distracted, a butterfly on the breezeblown from thought to feeling and,back again.Flying forward, flittering and falteringfinding an eddy, calm and peacefulIts a trap, its a tide or a rip.An unseen danger, an ice bergmuch more than the tip.Extremely impulsive, a puppy off the leadfollowing its nose, from certainty to doubt and,back again.Running with the scent,digging up a bone.Its a

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-83235570691465985912010-08-15T16:21:00.002+10:002010-08-15T17:19:32.808+10:00

Being single really cops a lot of abuse these days. Apparently the only reason someone would want to be single is so they can sleep around. I think being single has a lot more going for it than that.(Bias alert: I'm single and enjoy it)Being single means you can do what you want, when you want (with one minor exception)If that means saving boy soldiers from Sudan or watching the football and

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-60982713832470773902010-08-11T22:47:00.005+10:002011-05-02T17:12:46.862+10:00

Sweat rolls down my ribs, undulating rapids of bone,the droplets ripple to the tune of a muscular drum,pouring out a rythym of blood.Air catches in my chest, an ivory homewhile bile rises in my throat, hairs rise on the domemy body shakes with the adrenalin rush,riding on a rythym of blood.The chase is on and the games begin,dry lips are licked, rough 'n' rice paper thin,revealing a cheeky

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-14136265027810300802010-08-11T00:30:00.004+10:002011-05-02T17:15:53.211+10:00

Our concept of success is changing to a more sustainable model, finally.The western world seems to be growing more than a little disenchanted with the pursuit of happyness through material wealth and the security it offers. Happyness, fullfillment and enlightenment (spiritual not religous) have been touted as the replacements. But the movement is not mainstream and I would argue you need to be

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-21899269134491032972009-05-08T17:24:00.005+10:002011-07-24T19:00:38.850+10:00

After a few drinks a friend recently told me that she thought travelling in order to find 'ones self' was a load of wank and just an excuse to selfishly indulge on all those things you cant do when your friends, partners or parents are around. At first I was puzzled because I didn't understand why you couldn't simply do those things in your ordinary day to day life if thats what you really

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com3482 Pacific Hwy, Artarmon, NSW-33.8080825 151.178624-33.950717 150.9451645 -33.665448 151.41208350000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16381563.post-40558818694963381422007-01-14T19:02:00.000+11:002007-01-14T19:09:03.239+11:00

I think there is one factor everyone over-looks when they slip into the 'baby of the family' stereotype. Its a good factor, not a bad factor. It means you really do get to live up to your name, especially when your cousins are mostly younger... even if it does mean they call you uncle!For more pics see FlickR.

D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10228607736401181085noreply@blogger.com4