What a beautiful place - Ballendean! I’m located about 900m (2700′) above sea level and the weather here is terriffic. Warm days, cool nights, low humidity. Ballendean is in the “Granite Belt” of Queensland – similar to Mt. Airy – and is home to a number of wine grape vineyards and wineries. Yes…I’ve tried them…and yes…they ARE good. 
I spent about 2 hours yesterday in the vineyard picking grapes…which was AWESOME! Today, we visited a celery and lettuce farm, which was really cool. I even got to sample some of the celery fresh from the field. Tomorrow, we leave for Tenterfield, about 20km to the southwest or about a 30 minute drive. I have really enjoyed my host family who have been very kind to me and very understanding of my need for some rest. Somehow, I have developed a head cold and that is throwing me for a bit of a loop. I have my own little cottage that my host family uses as a B&B and it is extremely comfortable. Too bad I can’t move here! Well – I am hopeful that I can update more soon…depending on my internet connection. Talk to you soon!
-MJ
Posted by Patrick Eakes on March 26, 2010 at 6:18 pm
It looks like your experience is off to a great start – I am so glad. Your counterparts arrived yesterday and are an immediate hit with district 7690. They are getting a bit of rest, but tomorrow (3/27) they get on the same merry-go-round you are on now.
I will open a bottle of Aussie wine tonight in your honor!