Day 16: 17/07/2009 Alice Springs

Visited the sights in the town. Ran into Michael from Flanagans (Traralgon) in the Cultural Centre. Pam liked the paintings; I liked the aviation museum. Something for everyone. Next stop was the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Nice talk and film. Enjoyed one pilot's comment: "People are always really glad to see you." No doubt.Next stop was the School of the Air. Saw kid's art work and a replay of a really nice session with a four-and-a-half year old future rodeo star. Saw a mother and daughter visiting the school from one of the stations. Daughter seemed to be getting every wish grated without argument. 160 in something like 500,000 square kilometers.Finished off with a visit to the original Telegraph Station. Nice Aboriginal man conducted the tour and told of living on the property and being looked after by the Station mistress. He was a sickly child and had no complaint about his treatment of that at the Methodist School that followed. Both Pam and I were reminded of her father. The bloke was loquacious and expressive. Could have been a successful politician.Finished the day at the Aurora Hotel in Alice Springs. Nice room, roomy shower and bed. Dinner was nice but at city prices. Service was slow as most help is temporary/ itinerent. One trick: when you get a drink, order another at the same time. Saves thirst.