Our most recent walk was from the Southern Cross station to Melbourne University, to visit all the interesting buildings and museums along the way (and of course to stop for a coffee). The three kilometre stroll was done in delightfully warm and sunny weather.
First stop was at the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre where we were taken to the rooftop (pic) and given a tour of the building. Our guide explained that originally there were beds on the verandas for the younger and stronger female patients, as it was thought the fresh air was better for them (but colder too no doubt). Then on to the sobering memorial to Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner, who two Tasmanian Aboriginal Palawa men, publicly hanged in 1842. Next the Malt Store and the memorial to the three victims of the collapse of a brick wall and advertising sign during high winds in 2013. Penultimately, we marvelled at the face of William Barak (the last traditional ngurungaeta (Elder) of the Wurundjeri-willam clan) on the Swanston Square Tower (pic).
Finally, we were able to settle in for a coffee at Soul Soul Café (a café so good it was names twice!) and reflect on some of the sobering sights we had seen.