BY ELIN LIMUN – The Sydney based Buhay Dalisay Filipino Australian Association (BDFAA) has many planned outings in 2016 in line with the organisation’s objectives of enhancing the quality of life of its members; minimising isolation and homesickness; promoting friendship and social cohesion; and developing respect and appreciation of Australian natural environment to promote its conservation.
Last 12 February, BDFAA had a fruitful outing at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah, NSW.
Sponsored by My Home Living Care Pty. Ltd., through Ms. Maree Vano, Manager and supported by the Philippine Health Care Association of Australia- Philippine Nurses Association (PHCAA-PNA) and organised by, Dr. Julie C. Nunez, OAM , the group travelled via coach supplied by Blacktown Community Transport through Manager Mr Chris Nafe.
The members enjoyed taking photos and selfies of the beautifully landscaped flower gardens and greeneries. There were lots of dahlias and other tropical flowers in bloom. Mount Tomah Garden is situated in a basalt peak, 1,000 metres above sea level in the World Heritage Greater Blue Mountains.
It is home to many beautiful landscaped gardens including some weird and amazing plants, rainforest walks and a variety of birds. Mount Tomah Garden is also an ideal setting for a mountain wedding.
The group had a sumptuous lunch at the Chinese Restaurant at Katoomba RSL Club. The group proceeded then to the Penrith Whitewater Stadium . Members posed for more photos while others enjoyed taking selfies at the Sydney International Regatta Centre.
They just revelled at the panoramic view of the green valleys and hills under a clear blue sky. The Regatta Centre is one of the best rowing and sprint kayak watercourses in the world. It hosted 825 athletes from 56 countries during the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
This place was re-invented to become a popular water adventure park, sporting, corporate and social venues receiving 50,000 visitors a month. Bike, canoe and kayak hire is available on site. Barbecues are also open to the public. The trip was one of the most memorable for the group since there was the glorious sunshine and cool day breeze it its background.Elen Limun