Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women everywhere. From breaking barriers to leading with courage, women continue to inspire change and shape a better future.
Let’s recognise the power of diversity, equality, and inclusion. Let’s lift each other up, challenge biases, and create opportunities for the next generation of strong, fearless women.
This Valentine’s Day, my husband and I celebrated 15 wonderful years together with an early lunch at a hidden gem—Bellbird Dining & Bar at Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre. It was the perfect spot, offering a cozy, industrial-chic vibe that made our time together even more special.
We started with a selection of delicious share plates: Meredith goat cheese fritters with beetroot chutney, honey, and walnuts, which were crispy on the outside and creamy inside with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavours. We also had prawn tacos that were fresh and zesty, a fig salad that had the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and scallops that were cooked to perfection, melt-in-the-mouth goodness.
For mains, I had the sous vide Llandilo duck breast, served with quince tart, celeriac purée, pickled cabbage, and port jus. The duck was so tender, and the flavors complemented each other beautifully. My husband went for the roasted pork belly, which came with parsnip purée, braised fennel, pickled fennel, pork salt, and jus. The crispiness of the pork skin was just right, making every bite satisfying.
To finish, we indulged in the most heavenly soufflé—light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious. It was the perfect ending to an already amazing meal. Bellbird Dining & Bar focuses on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, many from their own kitchen garden, and you could really taste the difference in every dish.
After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the free exhibitions at Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, soaking in the art and culture. It was such a beautiful way to spend time together, a mix of great food, great ambiance, and meaningful conversation.
Feeling so grateful for 15 years of love, laughter, and moments like these. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience that combines amazing food with a touch of fine dining in a casual setting, Bellbird is definitely worth a visit.
Hope all of you are having a great time with your loved ones and making beautiful memories to cherish forever. Whether it’s a cozy meal, a heartfelt conversation, or simply spending time together, it’s the little moments that make life special. Wishing you all love, happiness, and many more wonderful moments to come!
During our recent holiday in Tasmania, we discovered Mirmire Nepali Restaurant, a cosy spot offering authentic Nepali flavours. The warm ambiance and friendly service made it a perfect choice for a family meal during our getaway.
We couldn’t resist trying their famous Momo Platter, which featured an assortment of steamed dumplings paired with tangy dipping sauces. Each bite was bursting with flavour, a delightful reminder of Nepal’s rich culinary traditions. We also indulged in their spicy and bold Chilli Chicken, which added an exciting kick to our meal.
Another highlight was the Jhol Momo, where the momos were served in a fragrant, soupy broth. The combination of the dumplings with the rich, spiced gravy was comforting and absolutely delicious. It quickly became a favourite for us.
For the kids, we ordered their classic chicken nuggets with chips. While it wasn’t Nepali cuisine, it was a hit with them and kept everyone happy. To complement our meal, we sipped on creamy lassi, which provided the perfect sweet ending to our culinary adventure.
Dining at Mirmire Nepali Restaurant added a special touch to our Tasmanian holiday. If you’re ever in the area and looking to explore Nepali cuisine, this is a fantastic spot to try!
During our recent stay in Tasmania, we were fortunate enough to visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG), and I can’t wait to share our experience with you. If you’re planning a trip to Hobart, this is one spot you definitely don’t want to miss. Located just a short walk from our hotel, the museum is not only conveniently close but also offers a wealth of fascinating exhibits for all ages to enjoy.
As we approached the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, I was immediately struck by its size. The building is impressive, with its historic architecture beautifully blending with modern spaces. Inside, the museum is spacious, offering plenty of room for visitors to explore and enjoy the various exhibits. From the moment we stepped through the doors, we were welcomed by the inviting atmosphere — it’s an educational space that feels both comfortable and engaging, making it ideal for families.
The best part? Entry is completely free! This is something I always appreciate, especially when visiting museums with children. It means you can explore without worrying about the cost piling up, making it an affordable option for families looking to experience something educational and fun.
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has so much to offer. Whether you’re interested in natural history, art, or local culture, there’s something for everyone here. We started our journey by walking through the natural history section, where we were greeted by impressive displays of Tasmania’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. From taxidermied animals to interactive exhibits, there was so much to learn about the island’s biodiversity.
As we moved through the galleries, we encountered beautifully curated art collections showcasing Tasmanian artists, historical artifacts, and intriguing exhibits about the region’s past. What I loved most was how the museum does an excellent job of blending history, culture, and nature in a way that kept us all captivated. The kids were particularly drawn to the interactive elements of the displays — it kept them engaged and curious as they explored the exhibits.
If you’re visiting with children, the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is a dream come true. The museum is extremely family-friendly, with designated play areas where kids can get hands-on and dive deeper into learning. Our children had an absolute blast here, and I’m sure yours will too. One of the highlights was the play area, where the kids could run around, slide down a fun slide, and explore different interactive exhibits designed for little hands.
We spent over an hour in this section alone, as the kids were completely engrossed in the exhibits. From exploring fossils to pretending to be scientists, it was clear that the museum had been thoughtfully designed with young visitors in mind. It was a fantastic way to balance fun and learning while allowing the children to explore at their own pace.
As we explored the various exhibits, I found myself appreciating just how much the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has to offer. It’s a place where history, art, and nature all come together in one spot. The museum is well-maintained, and the exhibits are thoughtfully displayed, making it easy to navigate and appreciate the richness of the collections. It’s one of those places where you can easily spend a couple of hours without even realising how much time has passed.
Before we left, we took some time to browse the gift shop, which had a lovely selection of locally made crafts, books, and souvenirs — a perfect way to remember our visit.
If you’re ever in Hobart, make sure to carve out some time to visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. With free entry, a variety of exhibits to explore, and a kid-friendly environment, it’s the perfect place for a family outing. The mix of educational and interactive exhibits, along with the spacious and welcoming atmosphere, makes it an ideal stop for anyone looking to learn more about Tasmania’s natural and cultural heritage.
Have you visited the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery? Share your experiences in the comments below
One of the joys of being on holiday is waking up and heading to a buffet breakfast – it’s like a little celebration to start the day. During our recent stay at DoubleTree by Hilton, we indulged in their breakfast buffet, which, although smaller compared to some other places we’ve stayed, still offered a delightful variety to satisfy everyone in the family.
The kids were thrilled with their favourites – cereals, crispy bacon, sausages, hash browns, and pastries. Watching them excitedly pick out their plates and enjoy their meal made me so happy. For me, a good breakfast sets the tone for the day, and this one didn’t disappoint. It even felt a bit luxurious, with freshly prepared eggs available to order. Though it took a little while to get the eggs just right, the staff were friendly and eager to help, which made the experience pleasant overall.
Every morning, we looked forward to this routine – sipping coffee while the kids explored the options, from sweet pastries to warm savoury bites. It became a little family tradition during our stay, and I loved seeing the kids embrace it. Traveling isn’t just about the big moments; it’s these little ones that make it special.
Coming back home to “normal” breakfasts was definitely an adjustment. After all, how do you go from a variety-filled buffet to a quick piece of toast? These moments make me appreciate the joy of travel even more – from exploring new places to enjoying the simple pleasure of breakfast together.
If you’re staying at a DoubleTree, definitely give their breakfast a try. It’s not just a meal; it’s a great way to start your holiday mornings on a positive note.
What was available?
A selection of cereals
Crispy bacon and sausages
Hash browns and baked beans
Pastries and toast with spreads
Fresh fruit and yoghurt
Made-to-order eggs
Juices, tea, and coffee
For us, breakfast became one of those cherished parts of the day, and it reminded me how much I love traveling with the kids – watching them grow, love, and enjoy everything that comes with it.