Day 3, Someone turn the heat off.

Well, that marks the end of day 3 and the end of our time in Ballarat.We have loved our short time here but move on we must to explore another township as we make our way to Adelaide.

Today started off at a mild 18 degrees C  and by 4 pm temperatures had peaked to a stifling 41 degrees C.

Today was our last day to visit Sovereign Hill and the Gold museum. We utilised our two day pass and headed back up the hill to complete our unfinished exploring.

Before the sun had any chance of scorching us we headed for the GOLD, to try our luck at gold panning. Whilst we never expected to find our fortune, we did manage to find a few little specks of gold. Luckily you are able to take these found treasures home with you as a keepsake of your time at Sovereign hill. The kids loved gold panning, however this could not be the only task we accomplished today.

As the littlest two were unable to head down the self guided mine tour, Maciek and Krystian spend 20 minutes exploring the red Banks Mine, whilst Oskar, Bella and i headed for some much appreciated air conditioning and relaxed in the New York Bakery decorating Ginger Bread Men (one of the many school holiday activities). This kept them thoroughly entertained for a short time.
We laughed as we looked at each of their gingerbread men, one headless (brainless) and the other arm less 😃







Lolly making was also high on the agenda today at Bella's request as we missed this demonstration yesterday. Was quite amazing learning all about the properties of sugar and how a confectioner worked in the late 1800's till today. We even got to sample a freshly made boiled lolly still warm to touch. he big kids loved this! 

The remainder of our time on the Hill was spent wandering the numerous exhibitions of old buildings/ gardens/ shops and work sheds. 







Before leaving the gold precinct, we headed over to the Gold Museum to explore everything regarding Ballarat and Gold. Was fascinating to learn that every state has its own colour of Gold and they all vary from each other/ state to state. 







Leaving there, we headed for only one place - The Swimming pool and spent the next 2 hours chilling off before the kids hung out with their new friends and played outdoors. 

Tomorrow sees us heading for Swan Hill. Roughly 310kms from Ballarat. Swan Hill will again pull us up for 2 days to allow us time to explore this historic township. We very much look forward to exploring the Murray river and the paddle steamers and the history this town has to offer. 



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