WWII History: Disaster at Hariko

Part of the untold story of Australia’s little ships and the old men and boys who went to war in them.

Words: Roderick Eime

The quiet of the balmy tropical evening sky was disturbed by the distant drone of aircraft engines. The tiny convoy of just-as-tiny ships had dropped anchor and were about to begin the frantic task of unloading their cargo of valuable supplies for the Allied campaign that was due to start the next day. 

What's New in Bhutan

 

 

Mushrooms in Bhutan

Bhutan's unique environmental conditions and rich biodiversity make it a prime habitat for a diverse array of mushroom species, including over 400 that are categorized as edible, medicinal, or inedible. Notably, the Tricholoma Matsutake, locally known as Sangay Shamu, is one of Bhutan's most sought-after mushrooms, with a harvest season from July to September.

How Hotels Around Asia Are Going Green

As Earth Day draws near, we thought it would be a timely moment to share with you some of the remarkable sustainability efforts undertaken by hotels and resorts across Asia. With a growing global focus on environmental consciousness, this collection of initiatives serves as a timely reminder of the hospitality industry's commitment to eco-friendly practices.

The first Japanese PoW

Hajime Toyoshima at his graduation

When visiting the the Patakijiyali Museum at Wurrumiyanga on Bathurst Island you will learn the fascinating story of Hajime Toyoshima, the pilot of a Zero fighter that crashed on neighbouring Melville Island., 80 kms north of Darwin.

On the 20th February 1942, a group of Tiwi men were waiting to receive their rations at the Bathurst island Mission Station Father McGrath advised them to take to the bush with their families for the time being as a Japanese invasion appeared to be imminent

Eight Tiwi men left the mission station at sundown and headed east for their camp only to find it deserted The leader Matthias Ulungura was scouting around in the bush when he came upon the Japanese pilot

Matthias stalked the Japanese pilot who was armed with a revolver and a knife. Matthias recalls i take revolver from his right side near his knee. Then I walk backwards pointing my gun I say 'Stick em up right up two hands no more holding hands on head and at the same time made signs to indicate what he meant by 'stick 'em up".

Istanbul: A Grand Bazaar

 French Poet, author and politician Alphonse Lamartine said, “If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul.”

When Lamartine first laid eyes on Istanbul, it was love at first sight as the ‘city of contrasts’ captured both his heart and imagination.

China's Egg-Laying Mountain

 Tourism chiefs in China are trying to attract visitors by claiming that a mountain lays eggs.

Mountain egg - allegedly /Quirky China News

Officials at Gulu village, Guizhou province, claim a cliff of Gandeng Mountain has laid more than 100 eggs, reports Guizhou Metropolis News.

Driving in Italy, Tuscany and Umbria

 With the vast majority of tourists flying into Italy's famous capital city, Rome, the need to drive north to revel in the artistic splendour of Tuscany, and the hilly opulence that greets you in Umbria, makes a journey by any road out of Rome an integral part of any trip to Italy.