Welcome pbaldy as a new moderator!

[Jon]

I just want to make a formal announcement that pbaldy has joined the moderating team! His fine contribution to these forums and regular presence makes him the idea candidate.

 

[pr2-eugin]

Way to go Paul..

 

[pbaldy]

Thanks Paul!

 

[Alansidman]

Congrats Paul.

 

[Vassago]

Well deserved! Thank you, Paul!

 

[Brianwarnock]

Congratulations Paul.

Brian

 

[pbaldy]

Thanks all!

 

[jdraw]

Congratulations Paul!! Good stuff.

 

[Catalina]

Great, he has helped me out several times with good advice.

I'm happy to see him here.

 

[pbaldy]

Thanks again!

 

[RainLover]

Congratulations Paul.

I will open a new cask of rough Red to drink to your health. A nice new one. Circa February 2013.

If only McDonalds sold Pasta. I could have a real celebration on your behalf.

 

[pbaldy]

Thanks Rain! I'll probably be down under this year. My younger daughter just moved to NZ, and I'm planning a visit soon. Will probably poke around Australia a bit too.

 

[RainLover]

Thanks Rain! I'll probably be down under this year. My younger daughter just moved to NZ, and I'm planning a visit soon. Will probably poke around Australia a bit too.

I have spoken to Chris about that.

I hope it comes off.

 

[smig]

Congratulations Paul

 

[pbaldy]

Thanks smig!

Rain, a trip is a virtual lock, but what part(s) of Australia we make it to very much up in the air. The airline we can fly with miles on flies to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, so we're trying to research which of those areas to go to (any thoughts appreciated). From there we'll hop over to Wellington.

As you might guess, the bulk of the trip will be spent in NZ, since that's where the kid is. Unfortunately my wife can't take vacation for as long as I can (since I can work remotely), so we won't be able to spend the time I'd like in Australia.

 

[RainLover]

I will talkk to my partner in crime (Chris) before making a recommendation.

When, as in which monh are you comming and for how long.

 

[pbaldy]

I'm trying for late March or April. Because of my wife's work, if we miss that window she can't go until December. Probably be a 2-3 week trip, but no more than a week in Australia. I realize that doesn't do it justice, but it's a limitation I'm stuck with.

Thanks!

 

[RainLover]

I will send a mail off to Chris for his suggestions.

 

[Galaxiom]

My advice is to avoid Byron Bay entirely. It used to be nice many years ago but not any more.

 

[RainLover]

Paul
It is difficult to advice. Sydney to see the Harbour and the Opera house and miss out on the Great Barrier Reef. Perhaps you would prefer Kakadu or Ayres Rock. The Beaches on the Gold Coast (Brisbane) and so on it goes.

Get the travel books and if you can make it to Brisbane then we can get together. Lunch or Dinner. Sorry the advice is not better but it is up to your likes and dislikes.