Memories
The study group I was in at 3rd NCYC in Brisbane . Me with a hat .
On arrival at Brisbane South Railway Stations around 26 hours later our carriage , being at the rear of the train , was a long distance from the platform and we were told to be patient whilst they unloaded the front carriages , then backed the train out to remove the empty cars then return to the station to unload the next lot and so on . We soon decided that would take forever , so we clambered down with our luggage and walked alongside the train until we reached the platform !
Arrangements had been made for each of us to be billeted in the homes of local delegates . My host family , including one son John and two daughters were very nice people and looked after me extremely well . I had a great time and discovered the city of Brisbane . Virtually every day whilst in Brisbane brief storms would pour rain on me as I made my way back to their suburban Norman Park home late in the afternoons and the summer heat always soon dried me out .
Every time another table filled in the dining area for lunch , those sitting at it would sing the grace – trying to use a tune that no other group had used for it . The one that sticks in my mind is “ Hernando ’ s Hideaway ”.
- Brian Rope
St Margaret ’ s News 5 March 2023