#flight training brisbane

[yeeterthek33per]

Sparklers (Kyra Cooney-Cross x Reader)

A/n Requested. Honestly this one isn't my best work but I just wanted it to be done, so it's not as substantial but I promise I did my best to save it from the clutches of undone WIPs.

Content/Warning(s): Fluff, Kyra being a pest.

-----------------------

When Kyra had first left for Sweden, she'd been adamant that she couldn't leave you behind.

But after many tears, hugs, kisses and persuasion in the form of future travel plans, she left for Hammarby IF, while you stayed with the Melbourne Victory.

Thus, nearly two years later, just a month before the World Cup and one week before the start of camp, a very tired and whiny girlfriend of yours sits on facetime with you, begging you to let her come over to Australia early to spend time with you.

"Babe, c'mon, I'd only be missing one match anyway."

And thus, you subsequently scolding the twenty-one year old.

"Kyra, no. No way. Seriously, play your last match, if I remember rightly, Hammarby haven't offered you a new contract right?"

She huffs, silently fidgeting with her fingers and not making eye contact with you through the camera.

"You need to play the last match, Ky. Be professional about it, please, if not for the club, for me? I want you to be able to get opportunities over there. Take it seriously and you can come see me the moment your last match is over."

She groans, letting her head hit the bed from where she'd been laying stomach down with her phone in front of her.

"Promise me, Ky. Play out the rest of the season. Even if you don't get the league, you've still got a trophy under your belt there, baby."

"Alright."

The look in her eyes as she turns her head away from the camera makes you sigh softly.

"Kyra, promise me you'll stay. I miss you more than anything, but your career comes first. Promise me."

She mumbles back, finally.

"I promise, baby, I promise I'll stay."

You nod in satisfaction, giving the girl a small smile and pressing a kiss to the tips of your fingers before holding them up to your phone as she does the same.

"Goodnight, baby."

"G'night, Ky."

-----------------------

So she does stay.

She plays her heart out in her last match, taking the draw with Piteå before finally getting on her flight to Australia.

She's exhausted from the match, and nearly forgoes showering and changing to switch tickets to an earlier flight.

Instead, she heeds your warnings of not kissing her should she decide to show up at the training centre without at least taking care of herself first.

She's already got her bags packed and ready in her rental to fly to Australia, and just about drags them to the match with her but forgoes it.

The poor aussie just needs to see her girlfriend. To collapse into a warm, fluffy pile of cuddles and-

"Flight 157 to Sydney, Australia, Now boarding."

She sighs and hopes the flight boards quickly, eager to see you.

-----------------------

Everyone was told similar times to be at the centre by, giving them a roughly six hour window to arrive in, given any delays in flights, although that doesn't seem enough knowing international boarding mid year can be dicey.

So you've taken the initiative to be in Brisbane early to avoid the traffic of the day.

It's ripe time at six-thirty in the morning, meaning you're far earlier than all of your teammates, even the one's closer to Brisbane than you are, and thus you have plenty of time to kill and nap in the lobby waiting for your teammates to start arriving at around ten.

Of course, you're startled awake by a slap to the stomach.

Taking a precursory glance at the clock on the wall above the receptionists desk, it's about three and a half hours later.

It's Steph and Caitlin, both of them sporting tired smirks at you.

"Well hello miss."

You just about jump into the arms of your vice-captain, having missed seeing the woman at the last camp due to injury, thus you haven't seen the woman since the games in April against Scotland and England.

"Steph!"

She chuckles, giving you a tight squeeze.

She had taken you under her wing the moment you'd stepped into your first national team camp just four years ago, not long after the World Cup but right before the Covid Pandemic.

She'd been the one to stick with you over facetime while you navigated the league in Australia, and of course, once a sense of normalcy returned and after the Olympic games in Tokyo.

You were often found in her room with her even though you'd all been given the privileges of single rooms.

Now, you tended to spend more time with Kyra, but, if your teammates needed you, it was always one of the two of them that you'd be found with.

"What, and I'm chopped liver, am I?"

You poke your tongue out at the striker, burying yourself back into Steph's arms.

"No, I'm just the favourite."

"Please, you and I both know you're no longer the favourite."

"Shhhh, let me have this, she isn't here yet."

Giggling, you nudge the defender and separate from her.

"I'm in love with the girl, but you're more tolerable, some days."

"Ayy, that's my girl."

She ruffles your sleep mussed hair.

"Hey! Hands off the goods, Catley."

You swat at the older woman, who dodges the tired attempt.

"Yeah, stop bullying my girlfriend, Catley."

Your head shoots up from it's laid back position on the back of the couch to look at the newly appeared brunette, standing across the lobby from you.

"Ky, get that cute butt over here, right now."

At your demand, she drops her stuff and runs over in two seconds flat, nearly tackling you back onto the seating, arms wrapped tightly around your form, nose buried in your neck.

Staying for a moment to just breathe each other in, your hands rub circles into the woman's back, your face buried in her hair, breathing in the scent of her shampoo, wincing at the smell of airplane on her.

She pouts when you pull away with a terribly hidden grimace.

"Baby, I love you, but you need a shower."

A soft whine from the midfielder makes you raise a brow at her.

"I just got in, can you blame me?"

There's a teasing smile on your lips as you wrap your arms around her waist.

"Obviously, you were supposed to shower before coming here."

Kyra huffs at that, crossing her arms.

"Love you."

She grumbles in response.

You nudge her, pouting.

"Love you."

Still no response.

You grab her face, turning her head back towards you with a small frown.

"I love you."

When she doesn't respond again, you start peppering her face with kisses and she gives in, grinning at you.

"Alright! Alright! Love you, too."

Satisfied, you give her a small peck, to which she chases you up for a second, a third and then someone clearing their throat beside you interrupts her from a fourth.

"Alright, you two, stop being gross."

It's a grunt from the striker on your left, which earns her a slap to the shoulder.

"Leave them be, Caitlin."

-----------------------

It's your final day off before the full commitment to the World Cup preparations takes precedence over your time in Australia, thus you want to do as much as you can with your girlfriend before your time together, alone, gets limited.

You'd had a few days off to explore the city, but nothing really concrete as you and Kyra had just wandered around the area where the hotel is.

This time, you wanted to plan something for the midfielder, something to last you both the couple weeks of the World Cup, hoping it would tide you both over, knowing it'd be torture not spending time together.

At least when she was in Sweden, you had space to yourselves over facetime.

World Cups are chaotic, and allow little to no time to yourselves, as you've so discovered and been told by the older girls on the team.

So, here you are, calling various different restaurants for reservations tonight, with, unfortunately, no luck.

Instead, managing to sneak away from the girl for an hour or so, you run down to the grocery store, pick up several of her favourite snacks, drinks, and a small surprise that you think she'll love and then rush back to the hotel, getting ready for a night out in one of the cities parks.

She looks at you suspicious when you drag her down, scraggily dressed in hoodies and sweats, to a taxi rather insistently, dragging a completely full duffle bag behind you.

Not that you blame her.

You would be sussed out, too, if she decided to randomly drag you out to a taxi at six on a Saturday night, carrying a nearly ripping at the seams, black duffle bag.

"Sooooo... Where are we goin', babe?"

"You'll see."

You let out a little laugh at the small pout she has on her face, pecking her sweetly on the lips in exchange for the small smile she relents at the sound of your giggle.

When you finally pull up at the park, you're all but dragging the woman across the green grass and to the edge of the waterline where you drop the blanket you'd been carrying down onto the somewhat flat grassed area.

It's lit well enough that when the sun starts to set, it's not ridiculously dark, so you take a little comfort knowing it's not entirely dangerous out, plus the added comfort of the occasional family or couple wandering by on the path just to the left of you by ten feet or so.

You nudge her to sit down next to you, hand settling in hers.

"I wanted us to have a nice little sit down together to just relax and talk and eat and just be stress free for a little while. Just to breathe for the night. Together. It's about to be even more hectic and I've missed you."

You pout softly, leaning into her a little.

She leans over, kissing you fully, hand on your face tugging you in closer.

You're both a little breathless when she let's your face go again.

"I love you, so fucking much."

Giggling, you kiss her once more.

"I love you, too."

Finally, you open up the bag and dump out the contents onto her lap, knowing you're about to have a very excited sugar hyped puppy on your hands after this.

Her eyes sparkle up at you, the grin on her face causing her eyes to crease at the corners.

"Just wait 'til you see what else is in there."

Eyes darting around the small pile, she digs through it to find a pair of packets of sparklers and a small lighter.

She feels giddy, and looks the part, too, her immediate giggle and hug crushing you making your heart just about melt through your body entirely.

It's adorable.

It's cute.

It's oh so Kyra and you feel your heart bursting at the thought that you get to call her yours.

You're dragged out of your train of thought by said woman dragging you to your feet, lighting a sparkler and handing it to you, running around you, both of your giggles and the small handheld fireworks lighting up the night sky and the river before you.

No matter where you are, how far apart they keep you, Kyra will always be your one, you realise.

It's a small, heartbeat skipping thought, but it makes you smile harder and enjoy the moment all the more while you can.

The sparkler she's holding blasts out tiny stars of combusting magnesium, being spread out harmlessly in the air and onto the grass as she runs circles around you.

It goes out within a minute or so, and she's looking over at you with puppy dog eyes.

"Babe, can you get another one out, pretty please? I wanna attack those cheezels soon."

You chuckle, obliging with her demands, a small kiss to your lips as thanks.

She may be a child at heart still, but she's yours.

-----------------------

[sunshine-theseus]

El Viaje | Sam Kerr x Reader

Words: 2.3k Summary: Sam’s done her ACL and the journey proves to be tough

“Sam? It’s 12:30 in the morning, what’s wrong?” my voice is groggy and hoarse as I pick up the phone.

Nothing is said in reply but a small shuttering gasp trickles through the speaker. I was very familiar with that sound. The one of Sam trying not to cry. It alarms me, so I scurry to sit up against the hotel headboard and turn on the lamp, as if it will make me concentrate better on the conversation.

“Chicka? What happened? Shouldn’t you be in training?” the Chelsea team had travelled to Morocco for some hot weather training, leaving them only 1 hour ahead of London but 9 hours behind Brisbane, so the timing was odd.

“I-” she chokes on her words and my heart clenches, as if I could feel whatever pain and sadness she was feeling.

“I won’t be going back to training. Not for a while.” my fiancé’s usual candour isn’t anywhere to be seen as she drags out the admission.

“Sam what are you going on about?”

Another one of those almost silent cries escapes her mouth.

“Sam please telling me what the fuck is going on or I’ll call Emma.” I grow even more worried as I flick through all the possibilities of what could have happened in my mind.

“Can we facetime? I want to see your face, it’ll make me feel better.” I’m requesting the facetime call before she can even finish, and it takes no time at all for me to be met with her face.

Her solemn, tear stained, lip quivering face. I nearly start crying just looking at her. I’ve only seen her look so defeated a small number of times, but it never gets easier. I desperately want to magically transport to Morocco and just hold her.

“Oh Sam, please tell me what’s wrong.”

“I did my ACL.” The words don’t process in my head for a moment. She can’t possibly have said what I think she said.

“What?” it’s a whisper of disbelief but her face shows me everything I need to know. I feel sick as I stare into her eyes. Eyes that are usually so full of light and joy, dark and sullen in pain.

“I’m flying to Morocco. Next flight out.”

“No, we leave the day after tomorrow, it’d be a waste.”

“Sam-”

“You’re spending time with Sharn and Tameka, I’ll be okay.” The mention of my best friend and our Matildas teammate nearly makes me want to laugh.

“I’ve been here for 5 days; I went to their game last night, they’ll understand. Sharn’s coming to England in a couple months anyway. Say the word and I’ll fly out, whenever you want.” I can see the fight on her face.

“Please fly home, to England. I need you.” Tears well up in her eyes and I can feel them fighting on my waterline as well.

“Of course chicka.”

-

My flight gets in an hour before the team’s is supposed to. I sit in the secluded hallway I know they’ll eventually make their way down, leg bouncing non-stop and hands sweating. I’ve seen Sam injured, I’ve nursed her back to health, I’ve done everything you can imagine, but an ACL is different. Worse in every way.

Soon I begin to hear the chatter and footsteps often associated with the Chelsea team and rapidly stand up to greet them. Emma is the first one around the corner, closely followed by Jessie and Zećira. Each of them greet me and pass on a sorrowful smile before continuing down the hall.

It takes a little longer for Sam to make her way around, surrounded by Millie, Guro, and Erin; all of them are laughing and smiling at something Erin said. It takes me a few seconds but I’m taking off down the hall to meet the group who don’t notice me until I’m right in front of them. Where I usually would pick Sam up and spin her around, I have to stop myself, the crutches serving as a reminder to why I’m back early.

“Chickadee!” she smiles at me with that beautiful, joyful smile I’m used to, and I can’t help but lean forward and press a kiss to both her cheeks. Eventually she presses her own lips to mine, clearly sick of waiting.

“How’re you feeling?” Sam rolls her eyes, knowing I’m going to start fussing over her, and the girls around us laugh.

“I’m good. Millie’s been nursing me.” The friendly giant blonde grins proudly at us at the comment.

“Good, but now you have an actual nurse to look after you.” I grab Sam’s bag that Erin has a hold of, and the backpack that’s in Guro’s hand.

-

When we get home, I heave both lots of our bags through the house before cautiously trailing behind Sam who makes her way to our bedroom. She drops down onto the bed and I get nervous at the way her leg bounces as it absorbs the shock. I kneel down to start untying her shoes as she peels off her Chelsea travel jacket.

“I can do it you know?” Sam was ever the stubborn individual, and rarely wanted to accept help.

“Let me look after you.” I press a soft kiss to her injured knee before I continue taking off her shoes and socks.

I grab one of her oversized sweaters and shorts for her to slip into then head into our bathroom, running the warm water into the tub. I light some candles and turn off the lights, knowing she prefers the mellow light in times like these, before I hear her making her way on her crutches. It takes a little adjusting but I eventually help her slip into to sudsy water, then leave her to relax as I order some food for dinner.

Not long after I exit the room, I hear a splash and a groan of frustration, and race to see what’s happened. Sam’s body is still deep beneath the surface of the water but there’s a large puddle that slowly disperses at the base of the tub.

“What happened?” I pull my towel off the rack and begin to clean up the mess.

“I tried to get out.” the defeat is clear on Sam’s face, and it helps dampen the flame of anger that bubbled in my chest.

“Sammy-”

“I can’t do that, I know. I just… I don’t want to rely on you for everything.”

“Darl, I know it’s hard, and it will be hard for the next 9 months, but I’m here for you. I want to help you. You’re not alone.” Gently, I run a hand through her drying hair, occasionally massaging her scalp.

I can see the cogs turning in her head as I wait for an answer. The only thing I get is her leaning over and resting her head on my shoulder. It’s not comfortable for either of us but it’s the gesture that matters.

~~~~~

A few days later Sam has to go in for surgery. I have a shift at the hospital, so I drive her in, and take a goofy photo of her before she gets prepped, before I start my rounds. I find it hard, lacking my usual charm and overly-kind demeaner as I visit Carl, a 63 year old Irish man who came to spend a few years in England after retiring from teaching history in Australia, before going home to Ireland. He doesn’t stop talking. I don’t mind though; his stories never disappoint. He came in for a hip surgery but due to some complications he’s had to stay a little longer, and come in for regular stays every few months.

“You’re worried about something.” He likes to study me as I move around.

“Not when I’ve got you, hey Carl?”

“You’re pouring yourself a cup of tea. You don’t like tea. Which is appalling by the way.” I relax my shoulders and take in a deep breath. He knows me too well.

“It’s my fiancé-”

“Sam! Oh how is she!? I love young love.” A warm and reminiscent smile flitters across his face.

“Yes, well, she tore her ACL during training in Morocco. She has surgery today.”

“Bloody hell the poor thing! She’ll be okay love.” Carl pats my arm in reassurance, and I hate to admit I feel much more at peace.

-

Around 4 hours into my shift, I get called to take over a new patient for one of the other nurses who had to leave after their surgery. I walk down the fluorescently lit hallways, my shoes squeaking against the linoleum. Sam should just about be finished surgery too.

I pushed open the dark wood door but come to a stop when I see who’s snoring in the bed. My fiancé, ever so peaceful and beautiful, yet still looking so tired. There are band-aids over different points of her knee, barely propped up with a roll of cloth.

I check her vitals, not yet giving her more pain meds, and take a seat beside her. I take her hand in mine, rubbing my thumb back and forth over the dark vein, and admire her. Despite the hospital attire and the ruffled hair that falls out of her hair-tie, she looks so handsome.

-

I get paged to visit a few other patients before Sam gets the chance to wake up, but by the time I get back, basically the whole Chelsea team is sitting around her room or in the hall.

Jessie’s the one talking Sam when I walk back through the door, vials and food in hand.

“Time for lunch and meds!” I scoot in beside Emma and LJ to have access to her IV after she finishes the food, the girls around us greeting me.

“Chickadee! You’re here.” Sam reaches a hand out for me and puckers her lips but I stand back.

“Nuh uh. Here we’re nurse and patient, not fiancés. Now I need you to eat some food so I can give you your medication.” I can see her desire to fight back on her face, but I know she won’t ignore the orders when I’m actually on the clock.

When she finishes the horrid food, I put clean gloves on and fill the new needle with morphine, then turn back to her. I have to fiddle with the IV for a moment but eventually manage to inject the medicine.

“You might get sleepy; I’ll be back soon to see how you’re doing and adjust the dose if need be, okay? There’s the emergency button if you need me sooner.” I bid her and the team adieu.

~~~~~

I don’t get to take Sam home with me after my shift, instead having to pick her up the next day.

While she’s wheeled out to the car, crutches resting on her lap, I carry her brace and compression bands and whatever else she’s been given. Sam sits across the backseat, making sure to keep her knee elevated, and I make sure to drive as safely as possible.

-

When we get home, we find ourselves in bed, Sam’s head resting on my chest as I play with her hair, Derry Girls playing on the TV.

“I love you so much, thank you for being my nurse.” A kiss is pressed lightly to my collar bone and I smile.

“I’ll always look after you, my beautiful girl.” She looks up at me with those big chocolate brown eyes and I think I fall in love with her all over again.

I lean down and attach my lips to her’s but as we pull away, she turns serious.

“You owe me a lot of kisses for refusing to kiss me in the hospital.”

“Of course darling.” I simply kiss her again. Anything for my beautiful girl.

~~~~~

“You don’t have to baby me Y/N for fuck sake!” so much for ‘thanks for looking after me’.

“I’m not babying you Sam! I’m making sure you don’t push yourself too far!”

“I can lift things without you hovering over me!”

“You were trying to lift boxes that I can barely lift at full health!” she was really getting on my last nerve.

“I just want you to leave me alone for 5 fucking minutes! God I’m so sick of you!” that makes me pause, pain encapsulates my heart and tears floor my waterline.

My mouth opens and closes but nothing comes out. What am I supposed to say to that? So I turn around, picking Helen up on my way, and head to our bedroom. The door slams shut behind me, rattling the walls, the artwork threatening to drop and shatter to the floor. Not dissimilar to my heart.

I hear Sam groan but nothing else echoes down the hall for a while. Until I hear a crash. Without a thought I’m opening the door and rushing across the wood floors to find the girl I’m angry at.

All I find is her sitting on the ground, surrounded by piles of wood. She’s untouched.

“Sam…” it’s more of a sigh of relief than anything else.

“I just- I wanted to make it myself to apologise. And also to prove myself right.”

“You don’t need to make a whole fucking bookshelf for me. You shouldn’t. Your words hurt, but I don’t want you hurt.” I slowly help her get up, although it’s a struggle.

“I’m really really sorry. I didn’t mean it, that I’m sick of you. I could never be sick of you. You’re too kind.” A kiss is pressed to my cheek.

“And pretty.” Another to my opposite cheek.

“And perfect.” She kisses my lips, love flowing between us as I kiss back.

“I don’t deserve you. You’ve done nothing but take care of me and I’ve been all ‘Oscar the Grouch’ on you.” I lead her over to the couch and pull her against me.

“You could turn into Oscar the Grouch and I’d still love and take care of you. I will find you in every lifetime, and love you endlessly.”

[iinsertblognamee]

hello new york

summary ― sam gets signed to play for the western new york flash team

pairing ― sam kerr x reader

warning/s ― fluff, mentions of injury

masterlist

Not even two days after arriving back home from Cyprus did your world completely flip. 

Sam had been offered a sport in the Western New York Flash team playing in the National’s Women Soccer League. It was a big deal and you knew she had to take it - even if it meant leaving the country for the first time without you. 

Logically you both knew you would be able to come over and visit, as well as play in the Asian World Cup in a few months. But this was different to last time, this wasn’t just on the other side of the country, it was the other side of the world. 

Bags were packed within the week and after the win against Brazil in Brisbane when it was time to fly home, you went one way and Sam went another. 

You never got used to Sam not being around, but you got the hang of long-distance fast enough. You both had block-out times every day where you would both be contactable. You had all her games in the calendar, ready to watch them regardless of the time over here. 

It felt a lot longer than a month before you saw each other again. It was hard seeing each other for the first time and not being able to hide away, training for the Women’s World Cup taking over. Thankfully you were given the nights in your shared hotel to make up for lost time. 

The games were rough, your ankle playing up in the second game causing you to sub off halfway through the game. You watched on the sideline as your team won 3 - 1 to Jordan. Turns out your ankle was now placed as a stress fracture, being benched for the rest of the World Cup. It sucked, sitting there watching the girls go out and play but you knew (from last time) not to push yourself and let it heal properly. 

After many talks with your physio, you were given the all-clear for air travel, deciding to use your break to head back over to New York with Sam. Tickets were booked (although you had to change Sam’s booking so that you two could be together on the flight over, which she didn’t know about) the excitement of your plan helped you through the annoyance of not being able to play. 

The World Cup ended as fast as it came, the team saying their goodbyes as they all started making their way to wherever they were heading. It had taken Sam three seconds to realise what exactly she was looking at when you handed her the tickets and passports. Her arms wrapped around you as she spun you around. 

“You’re coming with me? To New York?” you nodded your head in response, laughter leaving both your lips and she brought you in for a kiss. 

“God, I love you so so much”. 

After a meeting with your physio, Sam asked every question under the sun to ensure it was okay for you to come and all the information she would need over there, you were off. You held Sam’s hand through lift off, taking her mind off the flight by telling her stories she had missed while being away. 

The flight was hard on your body, the pressure of the plane as well as not being able to move around and use it caused your ankle to swell up. Sam massaged it as best as she could, asking for ice to create an ice pack for you and when you cried, she brought your head into her neck, rubbing your back trying to soothe you in any way possible. 

You managed to pass out during the 7th and 8th hour on the flight, your armrest between you and Sam up, so you could lay on her without either of you being stabbed. Sam continued to watch your face, looking for any sign of discomfort as she played with your hair. The lady who was sitting in the aisle seat kept looking over at the pair of you, Sam waited for the comments to start, she didn’t care what this lady had to say. Her girlfriend was in pain. 

“You two make a lovely couple” 

Sam almost missed it the way she whispered it, being mindful of you asleep in her lap. Sam looked up at the lady to see a small smile on her face. 

“Thank you” 

She throws her hand in the air to say no need to thank me before adding “You two remind me of me and my husband, back when we were young” 

Sam smiles in response, looking back down to you, pushing the hair that had fallen off your forehead. A few seconds pass, Sam thinking the lady was uninterested anymore, as she looked back up. 

“Is she the one?” a small glint in the lady’s eye causing Sam to let out a small laugh, nodding her head. 

“Yeah, she’s the one”.

[sunsetkerr]

SURPRISE, SUPERSTAR | s.kerr

summary: you fly from london to australiua to surprise sam for her bronze medal match against sweden [1.6k words]

pairing: fem!reader x sam kerr

notes: part two is here!

[ 📱 sammy: ] two more days and I'll be home, missing you lots

[ 📲 message sent: ] good luck today superstar, you’ve got this x

[ 📱 sammy: ] hopefully

[ 📱 sammy: ] how are you feeling? 

[ 📲 message sent: ] better than yesterday, I was so out of it

[ 📱 sammy: ] I know, you were gone all day 

[ 📱 sammy: ] I miss you a lot y/n

[ 📱 sammy: ] keep the apartment warm for me x have to go prac now

[ 📲 message sent: ] I miss you too x go be an athlete or whatever

[ 📱 sammy: ] yes maam xxxx I love you

[ 📲 message sent: ] I love you more, I’ll see you soon x I’ll be watching tonight

technically you weren’t lying to her.. you just never said where you would be watching. You clutched your carry-on close to your body as you waited to get out of the plane. You were grateful for time zones, they helped you keep your story under wraps. As you stood up to follow the line of people out of the plane, you texted alanna, letting her know that you had landed safely; landed in Brisbane. 

while you were on your 22 hour long flight, sam was under the impression that you were sick- sleeping away your symptoms in dreary england, when you were actually flying over to australia.

alanna, who was ruled out for the last two games of the world cup had helped you organise everything. she had told the accommodation team that you would be rooming with sam and for them to organise a spot for you in the vip section with the other family members of the team.

you hadn't seen sam in a month while she was on her world cup journey, smashing records and winning over the nation. you were finally able to make some time off and jetted across the world to cheer on your girlfriend during her bronze medal match against sweden.

the airport was bustling with people, you looked for a sign with your name on it- something alanna had told you to look out for. you were spoilt by the tilly’s team. once you found your name on a piece of card, the matildas logo in the bottom corner, you made your way to the car with your driver.

sam would be at the stadium for the rest of the day, prepping for tonight’s game. so you were free to leave your stuff in her room, which you had now been given a card for. as you came inside, you saw sam’s things sprawled all across the room. you smiled with a sigh, shaking your head. you began to pick up after sam, folding training jumpers, media kits, and training tops over and over. she had been busy, constantly on the move and obviously neglected the time to clean her room. but you knew that she would feel better coming back to a clean hotel room after tonight, win or lose. 

you spent the rest of the day lounging around the hotel room before getting ready for tonights game. you pulled on your matildas jersey, number 20 on the back and sams last name above it. pairing it with some white pants and boots, you picked a large brown jacket to cover it with- knowing that it would be cold during the game most likely.

as you were leaving for the stadium, your phone buzzed.

[ 📱 sammy: ] almost game time, putting phone away x make sure you eat something light for dinner if you’re not feeling good bub x

[ 📲 message sent: ] i’m feeling a lot better, but i will x

[ 📲 message sent: ]  good luck superstar x go show australia what you’re made of 

[ 📱 sammy: ] i love you so much

[ 📲 message sent: ] i love you more

your heart felt overwhelmed thinking of how nervous sam would be for tonight. she had the entire country in the palm of her hand and you knew how desperately she wanted to bring them back some hardware from this cup. she was terrified to lose. 

you knew that it didn’t matter. australia would remember this tournament forever and she was one of the reasons why. she had changed sport in australia for the better throughout this world cup, all of the team had. you were ready for them to show australia what they had to give.

arriving at the stadium you met up with clara and harper who were decked out in all of their matildas gear. 

“hey harps!” you crouched down to the girls level as she ran over to you. she engulfed you as best she could, her little arms wrapped around your neck for a hug. 

“you ready for tonight?” clara asked, a smile on her lips. as you stood back up, now holding harper on your hip- you gave clara a hug hello.

you let out a deep breath, “i’m nervous for them,” you admitted. 

“me too,” clara agreed. “harper wants to go get her face painted,” clara smiled, poking her daughter’s belly. 

“face paint?” you gasped, she laughed at you. “let’s go,” you cheered heading towards the lounge for family members. you let harper sit on your lap as the artist painted a green and gold design on her cheeks. the team photographer snapped a few pictures of you both as you waited for harper. she held your hand tightly as the brush went over her skin. you couldn’t wait to one day have your own child with sam, for this to become your reality. 

the game was getting ready to start as you went and sat in the vip section. harper sat in between you and clara, a snack in her hand. clara pulled a blanket out from her bag and laid it over all three of you. the crowd was beginning to get louder as they announced the girls from the tunnel. 

you stood up with clara, waiting to see sam and there she was. leading her girls out of the tunnel, she waved to the nation as she walked onto the pitch. you cheered loudly along with the rest of the crowd. 

katrina looked up to where she knew harper and clara would be sitting, but when she spied you, she quickly called out to sam. “skippa’,” she shouted. sam turned around to listen to her. following katrina’s hand as she pointed into the stands, her jaw dropped.

there you were, sat in a jersey with her name on the back of it- looking beautiful as ever. she knew she couldn’t leave the team, it was time to do the anthems and she had things to do as captain. 

so she did what she could, she smiled, blew you a kiss and waved.

you waved back, your heart beating faster than it had all day. 

“i love you!” she called out to you from her spot. you laughed, knowing that she was probably fighting all urges to run over and kiss you, you would be doing the same in her position. 

you mouthed back to her ‘i love you too’, waving again. as she lined up with the team, ready to get on with the pre-game, she smiled at you again and her eyes didn’t leave you. 

‘thank you’, she mouthed. 

you blew her another kiss as the crowd began to calm down, ready to sing the anthems so the game could begin. you watched sam stand with her team, ready to play for australia and to show them what football was all about. 

and in that moment, you had never been more proud of her.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

New SpaceTime out Wednesday

SpaceTime 20240821 Series 27 Episode 101

Oceans of water found on Mars

Scientists have found evidence of oceans of liquid water deep under the Martian surface – enough to cover the red planet to a depth of more than a kilometre.

Galaxies in dense environments tend to grow larger

A new study has shown that galaxies located within galaxy clusters with lots of other galaxies nearby tend to be up to 25 per cent larger than isolated galaxies drifting through the cosmos alone.

Curtin’s Binar satellites arrive aboard the International Space Station

Northrop Grumman’s NG-21 Cygnus cargo ship has successfully docked with the International Space Station’s Unity module’s nadir port carrying fresh supplies including three Curtin University built experimental satellites.

The Science Report

Why the thymus dies early.

July shown to be the 14th consecutive month of record breaking heat.

AI-generated training datasets can cause machine learning model collapse.

Alex on Tech Google Pixel release

SpaceTime covers the latest news in astronomy & space sciences.

The show is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Apple Podcasts (itunes), Stitcher, Google Podcast, Pocketcasts, SoundCloud, Bitez.com, YouTube, your favourite podcast download provider, and from www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com

SpaceTime is also broadcast through the National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio and on both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

SpaceTime daily news blog: http://spacetimewithstuartgary.tumblr.com/

SpaceTime facebook: www.facebook.com/spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime Instagram @spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime twitter feed @stuartgary

SpaceTime YouTube: @SpaceTimewithStuartGary

SpaceTime -- A brief history

SpaceTime is Australia’s most popular and respected astronomy and space science news program – averaging over two million downloads every year. We’re also number five in the United States.  The show reports on the latest stories and discoveries making news in astronomy, space flight, and science.  SpaceTime features weekly interviews with leading Australian scientists about their research.  The show began life in 1995 as ‘StarStuff’ on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) NewsRadio network.  Award winning investigative reporter Stuart Gary created the program during more than fifteen years as NewsRadio’s evening anchor and Science Editor.  Gary’s always loved science. He studied astronomy at university and was invited to undertake a PHD in astrophysics, but instead focused on his career in journalism and radio broadcasting. Gary’s radio career stretches back some 34 years including 26 at the ABC. He worked as an announcer and music DJ in commercial radio, before becoming a journalist and eventually joining ABC News and Current Affairs. He was part of the team that set up ABC NewsRadio and became one of its first on air presenters. When asked to put his science background to use, Gary developed StarStuff which he wrote, produced and hosted, consistently achieving 9 per cent of the national Australian radio audience based on the ABC’s Nielsen ratings survey figures for the five major Australian metro markets: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.  The StarStuff podcast was published on line by ABC Science -- achieving over 1.3 million downloads annually.  However, after some 20 years, the show finally wrapped up in December 2015 following ABC funding cuts, and a redirection of available finances to increase sports and horse racing coverage.  Rather than continue with the ABC, Gary resigned so that he could keep the show going independently.  StarStuff was rebranded as “SpaceTime”, with the first episode being broadcast in February 2016.  Over the years, SpaceTime has grown, more than doubling its former ABC audience numbers and expanding to include new segments such as the Science Report -- which provides a wrap of general science news, weekly skeptical science features, special reports looking at the latest computer and technology news, and Skywatch – which provides a monthly guide to the night skies. The show is published three times weekly (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday) and available from the United States National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio, and through both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

[knuckles-bloody-for-me]

What is life like in Melbourne? I’m looking into moving there from the UK and would love some insights and whatever else from people who live and work there 💕

Well you'll find the weather familiar that's for sure. In winter I'd say we're about the same, except our sunset at the earliest was about 5:25 this year. In summer it CAN get hot, it's gotten to 40C before but mostly it's in the low 30s or high 20s.

The central area of the city is kind of dead unless you work there. There's a few big shops, similar to Nordstrom I think??? But the cafe scene in there is slim pickings. Lots of really really cool bars these days though, and most have food and nonalc options! Some absolutely gorgeous parks dotted throughout the city, and if you can get out into the countryside it's stunning in the Yarra Valley,the great Ocean road, Bright and Beechworth, Gippsland etc. Some have trains, others have to be driven to. Be warned our public transport is about 20 years behind Europe (our fastest trains are 160kmh)(I literally work for a train manufacturer so this is legit)

It gets really cool in the suburbs, you'll find local cafes all over, some great pubs and restaurants etc. Some have really vibrant communities and markets that are great, like the south melbourne market, the prahran market, Fitzroy and Brunswick are must see Melbourne suburbs and easily accessible by tram. Be aware we don't have the same grandeur as London, but I still really like it. We have beaches too and some of them are even nice lol.

The east side tends to be more expensive but has better public transport (trans and trams), while the west is a bit cheaper but underserviced (you'd be relying on buses more). Driving in some areas can suck massively, especially the central part of the city (you'd avoid driving in central London the same way).

People say Melbourne is Australia's most European city and im inclined to agree, so if that means anything to you great! We have fantastic food and coffee, and I truly don't think it's just because I live here but the people are nicer than in syndey. That's not to say everyone will smile and wave at you but if you needed help or directions most people would stop and chat, where in Sydney everyone seems to rush around more and have a bit less time.

Something you might find very different to the UK is a culture of not seeing people as much. I think in the UK you'll frequently see people for dinner through the week and its normal (I think??) Whereas here not so much. We're mostly a weekend bunch, but I'm trying to do more weeknight easy meet ups.

@idsb is another great person to ask about living in Melbourne (and I think she needs to come back 🤧)

Sydney feels like a bigger city, but Melbourne population just overtook it. Brisbane is further north on the east coast and is locally called Brisvegas. I have never spent much time there because in summer it's humid as fuck and I can't stand that and the heat.

Adelaide is small, Hobart is gorgeous and only a short flight from Melbourne, but tiny. Perth people are loving these days but I've only been once so gonna need someone else to pitch in there! Same with Darwin :)

I would love for you to tell me more about living in the UK because IM considering moving THERE!

[edge-oftheworld]

there's a tunnel in brisbane under the city called the clem 7. its name reminds me of the halsey song, clementine, but really--when you're in it it feels like travelling through space. it's too expensive usually to go through by car, but if you're travelling to chermside from the south there's a bus that takes you through it for $3.64 and you bypass the hustle of the city. now my boring old commute feels like that same kind of wonder--something i never thought i could feel about the bus ride I've done thousands of times again and forgot I ever did. i'm travelling through space and time, or is it in my own head, places and memories I thought I forgot coexisting all in this moment, all in the notes of this song?

i'm 16 and in love for the first time, and it's consuming me, i'm feeling too much and i have homework to do and i can't remember the last time i slept until sunrise. listening to the mouth of the river on repeat the way home from year 11 camp, not sure if i'm awake or not, the bus ride feels like a dream. brisbane is the one city that doesn't move on ever; all the people i connect to it and memories, happy and sad, i've lost from my teens or never gotten a chance to process, all the people I connect to them have left the city. i forgot that feeling. i remember it now.

sitting in my bed trying to study, i do urban design but i study it online, my lecturer is standing in pyrmont making a video and we're learning about the inner west. about the connection to the land of the Indigenous people of greater sydney, and not for the first time i think, i'm not indigenous, but i feel it too. and i feel the fragmentation, my sense of home in different places, different dysfunctional places, i never did find a place where i'm able to get my needs met. hopefully i get to create one one day. she's talking about the evolution of landscape through colonialism and whatever else, all i hear her saying, is the city tends to move on all the same. sydney always did. i knew there was hope and i knew the nostalgia was lost when they built the train bridge over the georges river at east hills. and i have something to do with my life and a defense against the frustration of traffic i never did learn to handle, but at what cost? in undergrad we learned the term 'solastalgia'. and i know what it is for me and i can't imagine how far away usamerica is or having to go there to create. i create all the time. i don't get anything else done.

where is home? my two cities are only a train ride apart, or a short flight. but i've never seen the homes of my ancestors. they live in me but i don't know them, i don't know their land. i want to. i want to connect to places in lots of places. i want to integrate them all into who i am. i want to discover things about myself i see in other people like i do even with more distant family here. i need to make peace with my high school self too, how do i go about that? how is it a song that's putting the pieces of me together and it hurts while it does, but maybe i can study the ways in which the city moves on meanwhile. cities are my art and it always hits home when i see them represented in my favourite form of communication, music. it's like someone photocopied my brain. God, perhaps. maybe I am the photocopy. and i'm okay with that. i'm okay with learning from what other people create. it's what i do i guess. but 16 year old me? who discovered urban design for the first time without knowing what it is? am i ready to face her? i have to. or i won't ever concentrate on anything else

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 5.28 (after 1960)

1961 – Peter Benenson's article The Forgotten Prisoners is published in several internationally read newspapers. This will later be thought of as the founding of the human rights organization Amnesty International. 1964 – The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) is founded, with Yasser Arafat elected as its first leader. 1968 – Garuda Indonesian Airways Flight 892 crashes near Nala Sopara in India, killing 30. 1974 – Northern Ireland's power-sharing Sunningdale Agreement collapses following a general strike by loyalists. 1975 – Fifteen West African countries sign the Treaty of Lagos, creating the Economic Community of West African States. 1977 – In Southgate, Kentucky, the Beverly Hills Supper Club is engulfed in fire, killing 165 people inside. 1979 – Konstantinos Karamanlis signs the full treaty of the accession of Greece with the European Economic Community. 1987 – An 18-year-old West German pilot, Mathias Rust, evades Soviet Union air defences and lands a private plane in Red Square in Moscow, Russia. 1991 – The capital city of Addis Ababa falls to the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front, ending both the Derg regime in Ethiopia and the Ethiopian Civil War. 1995 – The 7.0 Mw  Neftegorsk earthquake shakes the former Russian settlement of Neftegorsk with a maximum Mercalli intensity of IX (Violent). Total damage was $64.1–300 million, with 1,989 deaths and 750 injured. The settlement was not rebuilt. 1996 – U.S. President Bill Clinton's former business partners in the Whitewater land deal, Jim McDougal and Susan McDougal, and the Governor of Arkansas, Jim Guy Tucker, are convicted of fraud. 1998 – Nuclear testing: Pakistan responds to a series of nuclear tests by India with five of its own codenamed Chagai-I, prompting the United States, Japan, and other nations to impose economic sanctions. Pakistan celebrates Youm-e-Takbir annually. 1999 – In Milan, Italy, after 22 years of restoration work, Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece The Last Supper is put back on display. 2002 – The last steel girder is removed from the original World Trade Center site. Cleanup duties officially end with closing ceremonies at Ground Zero in Manhattan, New York City. 2003 – Peter Hollingworth resigns as Governor-General of Australia following criticism of his handling of child sexual abuse allegations during his tenure as Anglican Archbishop of Brisbane. 2004 – The Iraqi Governing Council chooses Ayad Allawi, a longtime anti-Saddam Hussein exile, as prime minister of Iraq's interim government. 2008 – The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly of Nepal formally declares Nepal a republic, ending the 240-year reign of the Shah dynasty. 2010 – In West Bengal, India, the Jnaneswari Express train derailment and subsequent collision kills 148 passengers. 2011 – Malta votes on the introduction of divorce; the proposal was approved by 53% of voters, resulting in a law allowing divorce under certain conditions being enacted later in the year. 2016 – Harambe, a gorilla, is shot to death after grabbing a three-year-old boy in his enclosure at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, resulting in widespread criticism and sparking various internet memes. 2017 – Former Formula One driver Takuma Sato wins his first Indianapolis 500, the first Japanese and Asian driver to do so. Double world champion Fernando Alonso retires from an engine issue in his first entry of the event.

[hazmattenhatten]

So, I'm writing a fanfic right now that's set before the game starts, and there's a part where Scout's taking a flight to New Mexico. And so I got distracted and spent over half an hour figuring out the flight routes that the mercenaries would take to get there. The routes are as follows:

Scout: Takes a flight from Boston to Dallas, then Dallas to Albuquerque

Soldier: Drives from Idaho (I jokingly headcanon he's from Idaho) to Seattle, then takes a flight from Seattle to Las Vegas, then Las Vegas to Albuquerque

Pyro: I don't even know where he's from so I don't know how he'd get there either. For my writing purposes he gets there before everyone else

Demoman: Takes a train from Ullapool to Glasgow, then takes a flight from Glasgow to London, then London to Los Angeles, then Los Angeles to Albuquerque

Heavy: Gets to Moscow probably through a lot of driving and flights that I don't even want to begin thinking about, then takes a flight from Moscow to Istanbul, then Istanbul to London, then London to Houston, then Houston to Albuquerque

Engineer: Drives from Bee Cave to Dallas, then takes a flight from Dallas to Albuquerque

Medic: Takes a train from Stuttgart to Munich, then takes a flight from Munich to Houston, then Houston to Albuquerque

Sniper: Drives to Sydney, then takes a flight from Sydney to Brisbane, then Brisbane to Los Angeles, then Los Angeles to Albuquerque

Spy: (Assuming he starts in Paris) Takes a flight from Paris to Munich, then Munich to Houston, then Houston to Albuquerque

So, unless I decide to change things for my own writing purposes, Scout and Engineer fly together, Demo and Sniper fly together, and Medic and Spy fly together and are later joined by Heavy. Soldier is the only one flying by himself (honestly not a great idea).

Was this way too much work? Yes. Will I do it again in the near future? Probably.

[clueless1995]

living in australia is just. if you want to leave the country and go anywhere but the islands in oceania flights are going to be. so long and me personally? i am not so good with flights like i can reasonably manage brisbane to sydney but that’s as far as i’ve managed. i am proposing an underground train system from australia to every other continent

[charlesandmartine]

Wednesday 1 March 2023

The start of autumn today and two weeks before we have to start our journey home.

Longreach was only to be seen as an overnight stop to break an otherwise too long a journey. However it has been really interesting and sitting at the bar overlooking the main street on our high stools drinking Aussie beer we people watched, albeit a fairly quiet evening, all signs of life on the thoroughfare. Further up Eagle Street the cops were working a pincer movement on unsuspecting traffic, breathalyzing anything that moved. In cities folk predominantly drive town cars, saloons. In rural towns the SUVs take over. Out here in the outback the heavier trucks are almost universally used; bull horns to protect from kangaroo strikes, large 2 way radio antenna on front bumper, true off-road capability and of course 4WD. Still, our little tin SUV is fine on sealed roads pretty much but even these in the intense heat are buckling somewhat.

The motel was very different from most. It was called the Staging Post but the rooms were across the road in a stables layout but no parking allowed. Instead, where cars might have parked, old carts and vintage trucks are positioned in a casual nonchalant sort of way amidst seating areas. Very atmospheric. Longreach was on the Cobb& Co stagecoach route, and one such coach was on display across the road. This boneshaker would have carried 14 fare paying people from Longreach to Winton. Scary thought.

Longreach has some interesting stuff on offer. For us at this time of year it's very quiet, however in April the hordes shall appear. It seems Longreach is more on a tourist route than perhaps we thought. We were alone in the tourist information centre, but the nice lady said that come April she will be talking to 400 people a day! We asked for things to do in an hour and a half. Top is the Qantas Founder Museum. This was their first flight Operation Centre although it was founded in 1920 at Winton. Longreach today has a DC-3, a Super Constellation, Boeing 707 and more lately a 747. There's a runway next to the museum which provided the means of delivery for this huge 747, Spirit of Australia aircraft, however due to the lack of runway length, all seats were removed, only 2 very brave, optimistic or certifiable pilots aboard, sufficient fuel to take them to Townsville as a plan B and only used 2 engines on landing. In this manner they got it down and parked it under the canopy. It will never get out again. We had a look at the extremely quaint little railway station which runs trains twice a week from Longreach to Brisbane along narrow gauge track. We have never actually seen a train on this line but they assure us they do run.

Winton is our next stop for 3 nights and is also our furthest north west destination. It was 40 degrees in the shade on the 180km journey here. We sat on the Matilda Highway all the way, hardly saw another car and didn't pass through any towns, villages or even hamlet. Australian opinion about us visiting Winton varies from where's that, there's nothing there why go there, to great place. We have checked into the North Gregory Hotel which has had a slightly unfortunate history. To date it has burned down 3 times. We are being very careful to extinguish all fires we might light. To us Winton is a comly place. It came about when Englishman Robert Allen, a policeman from Aramac in Queensland resigned his post and decided to set up camp here in 1875. His camp was in a place called Pelican Waterhole (pelicans came to a waterhole there) and for a time he served as an unofficial postmaster and he soon tired of writing pelican waterhole so renamed it Winton, because it used less pencil and also after the town of his birth. He built a hotel and a business and lived happily ever after. Winton however is certainly a town of surprises. No other than Banjo Paterson who famously in 1895 wrote Waltzing Matilda. So in his honour there now stands in this fair town a Waltzing Matilda Museum and a commemorative statue to Banjo and also for all the swagmen who lie in unmarked graves. And so to the big one...

In 1999 David and Judy Elliott were mustering sheep when they came upon part of a femur of a Cretaceous Sauropod, as you do. More fossils were to follow. Then in 2005 again whilst mustering sheep again, this time nearby in Belmont, a whole load more were unearthed. We are going tomorrow on a half day red dirt tour bouncing along unsealed tracks to see these sites most importantly where actual dinosaur footprints have been discovered from 95 million years ago. You'd have thought someone would have swept up at sometime since then!

We have concluded the day with a jolly nice meal at the hillbilly pub across the road. Nice food, nice beer and fantastic flies.

ps The water here smells of a school chemistry lab. Very sulphuric but harmless they say.......

[jaegeraether]

Do you come to the other side of Aus much?

I lived in Brisbane/Toowoomba for 2+ years while doing my flight training ✈️ it’s beautiful except the traffic, tolls, and no beaches in Brisbane itself (no, the Southbank lagoon doesn’t count 😂)

I’ve visited Tasmania, Sydney several times including this year for the Tillies, Adelaide a little, and travelled up and down the coast of QLD 💁‍♀️

My family is all in WA but I’m not opposed to moving and/or visiting anywhere! I have a few friends in Melbourne so I’ll be popping over there at some point too ✌️

[blackluxechauffeurs]

Valuable travel insights you can understand by hiring luxury car chauffeur service

Chauffeur services when assumed might seem a costly affair to deal with. But these services are not just hovering around celebs and business tycoons. You can even prefer a Brisbane chauffeur hire to enjoy premium transportation service. It caters to the wide and varied transportation needs of travelers. It means you can have a personalised travel facility which can prove beneficial. But how chauffeuring can bring elegance and luxury to any road transportation? Also, know who typically uses this service and what to expect from hiring. This blog delves into clear insights about this supreme transportation.

So, what’s a chauffeur is?

A chauffeur is a trained driver who operates luxury cars like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes. The individual specialised in catering to the needs of travelers with luxurious transportation. Thus, the demand for chauffeur hire Brisbane exceeds that of standard taxis. These individuals are well prepared with advanced driving skills, car maintenance etiquette, customer service, and local area knowledge. Hence, when you hire a chauffeur to get around Brisbane, you can have an enjoyable experience. Also, get highly comfortable and convenient travel service by the expert with commitment of timely arrival.

Why should you book Brisbane chauffeurs?

If you want to feel relaxed and cosy during a ride, you should look for the best transportation. Hence, look no further to hire a chauffeur who picks you up in a luxury fleet. Booked chauffeur service delivers you the best facility for traveling along with a range of complimentary amenities. So, let’s take a look at what occasions, you must grab this service at your disposal. 

Airport Transportation

Dealing with the stress of airport transportation is not everyone’s piece of cake. Especially, when you are already frustrated with a long flight, you can’t keep more patience to waiting at the airport lobby. Thus, you want to get fast ground transportation to reach your destination whether it’s a hotel or home. Therefore, you should prefer private airport transfers Brisbane to meet your needs. A luxury car chauffeur arrives early to pick when you land. Thus, there will be no waiting and you get meet and greet service by the chauffeur.

VIP Guest Transportation

Chauffeur service Brisbane is ideal to hire when you want VIP guest transportation. If someone special is arriving to join you on a special occasion, you can use a chauffeur. One arrives to pick you up and to attend the VIP whether it's for business or other purposes. You can make the individual feel special as the ultra-modern fleet keeps the attention of passengers. One can enjoy the amenities like fresh water bottles, napkins, AC, spacious legroom, etc. Also, customised amenities like child seats are available for the passengers.

Long-distance Transportation

You can have a chauffeur service hired for a smooth and comfortable transition. The service is available for city-to-city rides thus ensuring you have the convenience of traveling. You can book Brisbane airport transfers to Gold Coast to visit this vibrant coastal city. Book your single or round trip for enjoying to/from transportation driven by a chauffeur. Also, if you are an international tourist, you can have stress-free traveling around.

The final words

Black Luxe Chauffeurs is the prime service offering Gold Coast to Brisbane airport transfer for comfort and style. It brings luxurious elements to your ride and makes you feel proud of your decision.

[australia-discovery]

Australia Travel With Ali Reza

Australia is a land of wonders, where breathtaking landscapes merge with bustling cities and rich cultures. From Sydney's lively streets to Hobart's serene beaches, every part of Australia offers unique discoveries. Whether you’re an adventure lover or a history enthusiast, Australia has something for everyone.

Transportation: Public Transport, Car Rentals, Domestic Flights, Train Journeys

Navigating Australia is easy with various transportation options. In major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, efficient trains, buses, and trams connect you to major attractions. Public transport is reliable and convenient for both tourists and locals.

Car rentals offer flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Imagine driving along the Great Ocean Road, taking in the stunning coastal views, or venturing into the outback to experience its rugged beauty. Car rentals make these adventures possible.

If time is short, domestic flights are a great option. They quickly connect you between cities, making it easy to travel from Brisbane's beaches to Perth's sunsets in a few hours. Train journeys, like The Ghan or Indian Pacific, offer scenic travel through beautiful regions, combining comfort with adventure.

Shopping: Queen Victoria Market, The Rocks Markets, Chadstone Shopping Centre

Shopping in Australia is a unique experience. Melbourne's Queen Victoria Market buzzes with energy, offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience local culture and find unique souvenirs.

Sydney's The Rocks Markets, located in the city’s oldest neighborhood, showcases local artisans and their stunning creations. The vibrant atmosphere and variety of stalls make it a great place to find beautiful souvenirs and enjoy delicious street food.

For a more traditional shopping experience, Chadstone Shopping Centre won’t disappoint. Known as the fashion capital of Australia, this mega mall features high-end brands and popular favorites. With something for everyone, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring its shops and dining options.

Cities and Towns: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart

Sydney impresses with its iconic Opera House and stunning harbor. The lively atmosphere draws visitors to its beaches, markets, and bustling neighborhoods. Bondi Beach is a must-visit for sunbathers and surfers, offering a quintessential Australian beach experience.

Melbourne is rich in culture, filled with art galleries, street art, and trendy cafes. Explore its laneways to find hidden gems or enjoy world-class dining at Southbank. The city's diverse culture and artistic vibe make it a favorite among travelers.

Brisbane offers a relaxed atmosphere along the Brisbane River. Its subtropical climate is perfect for outdoor activities in parks like the Botanic Gardens. Whether exploring the city’s attractions or relaxing by the river, Brisbane’s charm is undeniable.

Adventure Sports: Skydiving, Bungee Jumping, White Water Rafting

Australia is a paradise for thrill-seekers. Skydiving over Byron Bay’s stunning coastline offers an unparalleled experience. Imagine free-falling from thousands of feet with breathtaking views of golden beaches and lush hinterlands.

Bungee jumping in Cairns will get your heart racing. This iconic jump takes you into the depths below, surrounded by spectacular rainforest scenery. The rush is unforgettable, making it a must-try for adrenaline junkies.

For water sports enthusiasts, white-water rafting on Tasmania's Franklin River delivers excitement amidst pristine wilderness. Navigate through thrilling rapids while soaking in the surrounding beauty. It’s both challenging and awe-inspiring, offering a unique adventure experience.

Historical Sites: Port Arthur, Old Melbourne Gaol, The Rocks

Port Arthur in Tasmania stands as a testament to Australia’s convict past with hauntingly beautiful ruins and stories of resilience. Visitors can explore the old penitentiary, lighthouse, and gardens while absorbing the eerie atmosphere.

Old Melbourne Gaol is another intriguing site. Once home to notorious criminals like Ned Kelly, it now serves as a museum. Walking through its narrow corridors and learning about life behind bars in 19th-century Victoria brings history to life in surprising ways.

The Rocks in Sydney blends cobblestone streets with modern culture. This area, with its heritage buildings and vibrant markets, tells tales of early European settlement. Art galleries, pubs, and restaurants line the streets, making it perfect for leisurely exploration.

Nature and Scenery: Uluru, Great Barrier Reef, Twelve Apostles

Australia’s natural wonders are diverse and stunning. Uluru, or Ayers Rock, rises dramatically from the flat desert landscape. Its changing colors at sunrise and sunset create a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates visitors.

The Great Barrier Reef is another Australian jewel. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkeling or diving here offers an unforgettable glimpse into an underwater paradise filled with colorful fish and corals.

The Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road are a sight to behold. These limestone stacks stand majestically against crashing waves, showcasing nature’s artistry. The dramatic cliffs and picturesque coastal views make this spot perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Wine Regions: Barossa Valley, Hunter Valley, Margaret River

Australia’s wine regions offer distinct experiences for enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. Barossa Valley is renowned for its rich Shiraz wines and picturesque vineyards. The landscape is dotted with charming wineries where you can enjoy tastings and stunning views.

Hunter Valley, known for its Semillon, offers a vibrant atmosphere. Here, cellar doors welcome visitors to explore exquisite pairings of local cuisine with exceptional wines. The region's friendly ambiance and beautiful scenery make it a favorite among wine lovers.

Margaret River is famed for its quality wines and breathtaking coastal scenery. It’s an ideal spot for fine dining alongside your favorite wines, soaking up the relaxing ambiance unique to this region. Each area invites travelers on a sensory journey through taste, sight, and relaxation.

Family Activities: Theme Parks, Zoos, Aquariums, Science Museums

Australia offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. Theme parks like Dreamworld and Movie World in Queensland provide thrills with roller coasters and live shows, ensuring fun for all ages.

Zoos are exceptional for wildlife encounters. Taronga Zoo in Sydney showcases native animals against stunning harbor views, while Melbourne Zoo brings you face-to-face with exotic species from around the world. These zoos offer educational and enjoyable experiences for the whole family.

Aquariums like SEA LIFE Sydney immerse visitors in underwater worlds filled with colorful marine life. Kids can marvel at sharks and playful penguins up close. Science museums such as Questacon in Canberra and Scienceworks in Melbourne combine education with fun, sparking curiosity and inspiring young minds through interactive exhibits.

Weather and Seasons: Summer Activities, Winter Activities, Best Time to Visit

Australia’s varied weather makes each season a unique experience. Summer (December to February) is perfect for beach lovers and outdoor adventurers. Surfing at Bondi Beach or hiking in the Blue Mountains are popular summer activities.

Winter (June to August) brings cooler temperatures but plenty of adventure. Skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Thredbo offer thrilling experiences for snow enthusiasts. For those preferring milder climates, the northern regions provide warmth and sunshine, making them an ideal escape from the cold.

The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring (September to November) features blooming wildflowers and pleasant weather, perfect for exploring national parks. Autumn (March to May) offers vibrant foliage and harvest festivals celebrating local produce. Each season has its charm, making it about finding what excites you most in Australia’s vast landscape.

Local Tips: Travel Safety, Currency Exchange, Language

Travel safety is crucial in Australia. While the country is generally safe, always be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated areas at night for a smooth trip.

Currency exchange is easy with widely available ATMs and credit card acceptance. It’s wise to check with your bank about international transaction fees beforehand. Carrying large amounts of cash isn’t necessary, as electronic payments are common.

English is the primary language spoken in Australia, making communication easy for most travelers. However, you might encounter regional slang or phrases that could be unfamiliar. Don’t hesitate to ask locals if something doesn’t make sense—they’re usually happy to help.

By following these local tips, you can enhance your experience as you explore Australia’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. Embrace the adventure ahead, knowing you’re well-prepared for a memorable journey.

[riskoisic]

From Culinary Artist to Wine Steward: Risko Isic's Journey to Sirromet

Brisbane's Culinary Maestro Takes the Helm at Sirromet Winery

Risko Isic, the passionate CEO of Sirromet Winery, brings more to the table than just a love of fine wine. His career is a captivating story woven from over two decades of experience in the vibrant world of food and beverage. Buckle up for a journey that transcends grapes and takes you through Michelin-starred kitchens, innovative dining concepts, and a deep appreciation for creating unforgettable guest experiences.

Swiss Beginnings and Culinary Excellence

Risko Isic began in the esteemed halls of the Hospitality School in Zurich, Switzerland. Here, under the guidance of rigorous training and diverse experiences, he built the foundation for a remarkable career. His culinary compass soon pointed him towards the prestigious 3 Michelin Star Restaurant Fischerzunft in Schaffhausen. This defining experience instilled in him an unwavering commitment to service perfection and the art of culinary artistry.

Brisbane Beckons: A Marriage of Italian Passion and Aussie Innovation

Switzerland may have ignited Risko's passion, but it was Brisbane that captured his heart. He immersed himself in the city's dynamic hospitality scene, gracing some of its finest establishments. His entrepreneurial spirit then flourished when he became the proud owner of Mariosarti Restaurant in Toowong. For over five years, Mariosarti wasn't just a restaurant; it was a canvas where Risko's vision for Italian cuisine in Australia came alive. He masterfully blended traditional methods with modern twists, creating a unique dining experience that resonated with Brisbane's food lovers.

Beyond the Plate: Innovation Takes Flight

Risko's thirst for innovation didn't stop at the restaurant door. He embarked on a groundbreaking project – developing the first-ever fine dining concept on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. This wasn't just about serving exquisite meals; it was about crafting unforgettable memories. Imagine indulging in culinary delights while the city skyline rotates around you, offering breathtaking panoramic views – a testament to Risko's ability to push boundaries and redefine the dining experience.

Recognition and Accolades: A Testament to Dedication

Risko's dedication to his craft hasn't gone unnoticed. Throughout his career, he has garnered prestigious accolades from esteemed organizations like the Australian Restaurant and Catering Industry and the Italian hospitality and commerce association. These awards are more than just recognition; they are a validation of the tireless efforts and creativity poured into every project by Risko and his teams.

A New Chapter at Sirromet: Where Wine Meets Culinary Expertise

Today, as the CEO of Sirromet Winery, Risko brings his extensive hospitality background to the world of winemaking. His vision goes beyond crafting premium wines that capture the essence of the region's terroir. He seeks to elevate the wine-tasting experience, weaving together exquisite wines with culinary delights that tantalize the senses and create a truly holistic journey for every guest.

A Legacy of Passion and Unforgettable Experiences

Risko Isic's story is an inspiration. It's a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. He doesn't just create meals or wines; he crafts memories. Join him at Sirromet Winery, where every sip tells a story, and every visit is an adventure waiting to unfold. Let Risko's passion be your guide as you embark on a journey of exquisite wines, culinary artistry, and unforgettable experiences.

[mygainyear2024]

Day 64 Sick in Sintra!

I knew today was going to require some effort and as the day progressed so did my symptoms, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezes - I'm also aware there's a bit of coughing around me, so I'm not the only one.

I ditched the Uber option as yesterday's tour guide said there were often accidents on the route that could cause three hour delays. I walked 30 minutes to Rossio station via the Copenhagen Coffee Lab to grab a takeaway smoked salmon bagel and coffee. The train was about 40 minutes.

First stop Casa Piriquita for Sintra's traditional pastry (each region in Portugal has its own traditional pastry), a travesseiro, quite delicious served warm.

I then hightail it to Quinta da Regaleira and the Initiation Well, a long queue had already formed so no chance of getting pictures without tourists. I wondered the grounds and the palace after. Others had advised to take some layers to Sintra due to the microclimate and I was looking forward to some cooler weather, however I think that was gazumped by my own body temperature. I did enjoy that smoked salmon bagel with a view of the palace. Next stop, a short uphill walk to Tivoli Palácio de Seteais, now a 5 star hotel. The guide yesterday said to make sure I included this stop, walk to the arch and turn around for a view of Pena. I could see Pena but the photos did not do the scene justice, plus there were people standing in the middle of the foreground who would not move!

The Uber option was slow to Pena Palace so I opted to go to Monserrate next. It was much quieter there and slightly cooler. I did enjoy this experience better. It was hurried though as I was keen to get to Pena as I knew it would be heaving with tourists and was quite a distance.

Well I had not realised quite how far and how windy it would be to Pena, it felt like more than 30 minutes and the place was pretty busy. Others advised not to bother with tickets inside the Palace, just walk the exterior, which I did. It's certainly a site! I then walked to the Valley of the Lakes exit, expecting to see a great view of the Palace but I missed that. A guy offering rides back down the hill in his jeep informed me there was a much shorter way back to Sintra, off road. My offline maps indicated it was a 38 minute walk. Well I slipped most of the way down the off road track, thought I was lost again, and felt very relieved to hear traffic so opted for the road for the last 26 minutes! By this time I'd had enough of myself and headed back to train.

Do not take my advice about the order of things. In hindsight first stop Pena, then walk to the Moorish Castle (which I chose to miss, but I saw it in the distance from Pena), it's possible to then walk to Quinta de Regaleira from there (off road or on road), then Seteais for that view, then transport to Monserrate. There were many other things I missed, so if there's time I'd strongly recommend two nights or more in Sintra, as Cascais and Cabo da Roca are easily accessible from here too. I'll let the pictures, below Regaleira (and separate picture posts, speak for themselves).

I hope to sort the posts for the missed days shortly, particularly my day in Braga, as it was a highlight of the Portugal trip.

Right now Rose is getting ready for her lift to Brisbane Domestic Airport and she'll be on a flight to Melbourne, then to Madrid via Hong Kong and I'll meet her at Madrid Airport Wednesday morning my time. Super excited to be able to hang out with her for the remainder of my gap quarter.