Coogee Beach

My apologies for not taking the camera however the plan really was only to go to the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia at Maroubra. Nevertheless, after what was a longer than necessary process at the Consulate albeit painless this lengthy process meant that it was close to lunch time and warranted a detour.

So, from the Consulate we continued up and along Maroubra Road and ultimately arrived at Coogee. Dyah wanted some fish and chips and we found a little joint that seemed to sell such fare. We opted for the Barramundi and chips for AUD 9.00 and then crossed the road and ate in the park in front of Coogee Beach. It is autumn and the temperature is noticeably cooler. However, this doesn't seem to stop people getting into the swimmers and going for a dip or just doing some sunbathing to pass the time.

Eating in a park close to the beach always attracts the birds. The birds in this case are seagulls and pigeons. Be warned that if you feed the birds this only brings more birds.

It is school holidays in this part of the world so there were lots of kids and their parents around. It also seemed as though there were plenty of people taking flexi-days or people who have flexible work schedules that allow some midday day beach time.

A good morning and afternoon was had by all. Will enjoyed the park and seems to enjoy the noise. However, most of all I think Will enjoys the car seat as he goes straight to sleep no matter his mood.

The Chiko Roll and Potato Scallops

This is a flashback post that will mean much more to my Australian readers who lived the 70's and 80's like my family and I did. Simply, at least one day a week involved fish, chips, Chiko rolls, and potato scallops for dinner from the local milk bar or corner fish and chip shop.

The Chiko roll was created by Frank McEnroe in 1951 and looks like a Chinese spring roll on steroids. It is essentially the same shape as a spring roll although a lot larger. The contents have always been a bit of a mystery and in fact in all reality any old ingredients could be tossed in. Generally, there were some vegetables and occasionally some meat.

The Chiko roll is a thick dough in a cylindrical shape that was then deep fried and eaten hot. The very thought of the composition and the manner of its preparation would have nutritionists falling over themselves to tell you how bad it is for you. But, that is the way of the world is it not? Anything that is nice and enjoyable is bad for you!

My other favourite milk bar food is potato scallops. Once again another deep fried food and good for hardening your arteries. Essentially, sliced potato dipped in batter and then fried to ones own personal satisfaction. Then generously sprinkled with salt. Sounds delicious and has my mouth watering at just the thought of downing a potato scallop or four!

Well, that is my trip down memory lane for today!