Lee Kernaghan - Australian of the Year 2008

By Darren Stones

Australian country music icon, Lee Kernaghan OAM, 43, has been announced Australian of the Year for 2008.

Lee's efforts in raising over AU$1,000,000 during the last 10 years for drought affected communities are testament to his ongoing dedication to assist Australians in need.

Australian Prime Mininster Kevin Rudd presented Kernaghan with his award at a ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra.

Lee Kernaghan is Patron of Aussie Helpers. Aussie Helpers is an organisation that assists drought affected farmers and their families.

David Bussau AM was named Senior Australian of the Year, and MotoGP champion Casey Stoner was announced Young Australian of the Year.

Oh My Darling

By Darren Stones

My Darling my Darling don’t leave me this way
I need you to flow forever and a day
It’s not only me who sees it this way
Our farmers and graziers rely on you each day

My Darling my Darling please do not run dry
We need you to help us so we will not cry
Please help us please help us dear Lord up above
We need you we need you we’ll work hand in glove

My Darling my Darling you’ve come back again
To heal us to heal us and flow around that bend
Lord thankyou Lord thankyou for helping us this way
We’ll need you we’ll need you I’m sure once again

Darling River: Bourke, New South Wales, Australia

Woodlands Historic Park

By Darren Stones

Some Melbournians may not be aware of Woodlands Historic Park, but it affords magnificent views of the city skyline and Melbourne Airport from the 204 metre summit of Gellibrand Hill.

Trig point at dusk

The closest access point to the summit is reached by parking in Mickleham Road and then taking the short walk along the gravel track and through a springloaded gate.

River Red Gum

Granite boulders, river red gums and the Dun Donald Ruins are just some of the photographic highlights around the summit. From late afternoon into dusk is when this place looks at its best.

Granite boulders at sunset

Dun Donald Ruins late afternoon

Keep a keen eye out for mobs of Eastern Grey Kangaroos, too, especially around dusk.

The park contains a radar which assists in monitoring aircraft movements for the Melbourne Airport.

Radar and Trig Point late afternoon

Information:

Woodlands Historic Park – www.parkweb.vic.gov.au

Mickleham Road Parking Area at Swain Street, Greenvale.Melway Ref: Map 178 J11.