Backbencher

I felt that the primary intent of lecture two was to familiarize the students with the geographical features of Australia and New Zealand, emphasizing the differences between these two countries and the role the lands have played in the development of Maori, Aborigine, and settler cultures. New Zealand seems to have endured the blending of cultures fairly well. Its small scale, and adequate rainfall make it a beneficial location for both commercial timber growth and vineyards, which do well in the nutrient poor land. I was intrigued by the beautiful buildings (and thermal pits) in the Marae village. On the other hand, it is still a land still divided, as evidenced by the contention over native and exotic species of plants that span the country. The Lombardy poplars, while they are a beautiful tree, are obviously a non-native species. While they have been around long enough to be accepted, and even recognized as historical markers, the Briar (or Wild Rose) is still an irritation and not as readily accepted.

I was also surprised to see that crossing Cook’s strait was so choppy and gloomy. I guess I had envisioned it as being a short yet pleasant jaunt by ferry between the two islands. Like most of you (admit it) I was surprised to learn that all of Australia is divided between desert and bush, like popular American media portray it to be. While the western plateau is sandy desert deficient of lakes and streams, the interior lowlands have plenty of bush and grasslands with a higher annual precipitation. Furthermore, the East Australian Highlands are resplendent with areas of Eucalyptus forest and an annual precipitation of twenty-five, or more, inches of annual rainfall.

Having been to Yellow Stone National Park, in its current, barricaded state, I can clearly understand the temptation to see things up close. While I would probably avoid jumping off cliffs and swimming with crocodiles, I don’t think I could pass up walking that ledge under the water fall. I did notice that while listing the major attractions in these two countries, the surfing culture was omitted. I have it on good authority that the Western coast (near Perth) offers some of the best surfing waves this world of ours has to offer.