Annie in wonderland

So, I have been on Facebook, and in my part of the world, there is a celebration happening: the Carnival of Flowers. The Toowoomba Regional Council Parks and Rec (yes, that is really their name; instead of sighing, they went with it) have done a spectacular job. Parks and Rec is the gardening arm of the council, responsible for maintaining the beautiful public gardens, and they’ve truly outdone themselves this year. Just a reminder to everyone enjoying the gardens—please don’t pick or prune the flowers or bushes! If you’re interested in any of the plants or flowers on display, they’ve set up information stands about where you can buy them. But something I've noticed with an acquaintance is quite scary—they’ve completely gone down the conspiracy rabbit hole. I do watch content like The Why Files (shout-out to Hecklefish—Yahtzee!), Lodge Law , 5 Kind TV , Decoding the Unknown , and listen to Freakonomics Radio . These are run by very smart people with teams of researchers to back th

 Nestled on the eastern outskirts of Toowoomba, Redwood Park offers visitors an escape into nature with its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and extensive walking trails. This 243-hectare park is a gem for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the serenity of the Australian bush. In this blog post, we'll delve into what you can expect when visiting Redwood Park, where the walking trails connect, what to bring, how to plan for emergencies, the wildlife you might encounter, and the efforts of the Friends of the Escarpment. What to Expect at Redwood Park Redwood Park is renowned for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. As you enter the park, you'll be greeted by a canopy of towering eucalyptus trees and an understory teeming with native plants. The park's varied topography includes steep slopes, gullies, and ridges, offering a range of experiences from tranquil strolls to challenging hikes. After some rain, the park transforms into a lush, ve

Nestled in the heart of Toowoomba, Newtown Park is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of history, beauty, and accessibility. As the home of the State Rose Garden, it showcases a stunning array of roses in full bloom, making it a paradise for flower enthusiasts and photographers alike. The park's rich history adds to its charm. During World War II, Newtown Park played a significant role, serving various wartime purposes. The building now used by Friends of the Rose Garden served as a guide hut until the 90s, reflecting the park's long association with the Girl Guides movement. Founded in 1910 by Lord Baden-Powell, the Girl Guides aimed to provide girls with opportunities to develop practical skills, leadership, and a sense of community. This movement quickly spread worldwide, including Australia, where it became an integral part of many girls' lives. Today, visitors can discover a hidden memorial dedicated to the animals that served in the war, a poignant reminder o