We seem to getting a good shower of rain or a storm every few days which helps the gardens and makes the lawns look a beautifully green. We know it’s summer though, as the days are certainly hot enough.

The cicadas have awoken with their summer chorus, too. If anyone knows someone would like a few hundred of these chirping little devils, please let me now. I’ll personally capture them and send them off to sing for you. I am tired of closing doors to keep their noise outside at night so I can hear the TV.

I guess it’s the price to pay if you want to look out and see the bush and a clear, rural view. I had forgotten just how much noise these little creatures are capable of. As a child I loved to catch one and place it on my dress or blouse like a brooch. They were so docile and cute. Then I realised they emerged from the empty not so cute cases that hung off trees and fences. I thought the nymph stage was quite ugly so I gave the adults a wide berth, too. 

Related reading: It’s beginning to sound a lot like summer

Please remember we are now in the silly season when Christmas parties are the go and road users do not always have a designated driver to ensure their safe arrival home after the celebrations. That means all you responsible drivers have to be on the lookout and ensure there are no accidents so everyone has a Happy Christmas. 

The men in blue will be out in force keeping an eye on all drivers. Few can afford to donate to state coffers by way of fines and I’m sure none of us want to lose our licences. A new car is expensive if someone else damages what we drive, so keep your eyes and ears open at all times over the holiday season. Remember, children don’t always understand the road rules and mightn’t obey them. 

Why is it when it is holiday time the litter on Nowendoc Road grows? I used to think it was all the extra travellers, but I have been behind some local family cars returning from shopping and seen litter fly out their car windows. I am sure they would not like their family to throw litter everywhere at home. Maybe one of the older children in the family could be made responsible for putting a used plastic bag in the car as a litter bin. Our roads go through some beautiful scenery so we should all keep them clean and a pleasure to drive along. Rubbish does not attract visitors, it only attracts flies. 

A short note for our RFS members. I now have the large coloured version of next year’s training calendar. If you are interested in any of the courses feel free to come to my place at 1576 Nowendoc Road, and check the dates so you can apply early and be sure of securing a place.