What a fabulous day we have had. We were taken to Fairbridge which was the children’s home that Bert was sent to and spent ten years there. It is out in the countryside miles away in spectacular scenery and is now used for various activities that children can involve themselves in, such as riding for the disabled and farming. They hold festivals on some of the site and today a film crew were busy filming a programme that had amongst others Ben Elton. We met the CEO and he kindly opened the canteen building where Bert had his meals and the church which was very peaceful in its surroundings. Walking around the large site we met other people who spent their childhood at Fairbridge so lots of experiences and reminiscing took place. We went to the building called “Darwin” which was Bert’s accommodation doing his years at Fairbridge.

One of the staff we met had heard people from Wales were visiting and she made a point of meeting us as she had emigrated from Newbridge Gwent, small world! When we left we were given a lovely Fairbridge calendar. It was a truly great visit after all the research I had done to actually be there was special for us both.

We then went for lunch at a lovely place by the river. Close by the Fairbridge children would spend their Christmas time in this idyllic place. On the way home we went by the coast road viewing fantastic big houses overlooking bays of crystal blue waters and golden sands. Marinas full of large yachts were a sign of a wealthy area of Western Australia. A great day and many thanks go to our hosts.