Bren's Backyard

02/10/2026

This week I had to make a dash into town. Caught the train in and was early for my appointment so I got a coffee at Pellegrini’s. it’s one of the many things I love about Melbourne. It’s not pretentious, it’s not fancy. It has excellent coffee that’s not expensive and still has the same menu and decor from the 1950’s.

25/08/2026

24/08/2026

Many years ago, I was on the Nilumbik council advisory committee for bike paths and trails. We lobbied hard for over 10 years to get a trail built through to Hurstbridge. Whenever I go for a run or ride I am so pleased we stuck to our guns and didn’t go for the cheap options ( at one stage it went to a vote as to simply adding a bike lane to Heidelberg- Kinglake rd) it’s such a great trail.

18/08/2026

Took Kathleen on an adventure to the city. Did the diamond creek trail and the main Yarra trail. Was actually doing it to see how easy it will be to get her on and off public transport when I do some big rides later in the year. Perfect day for it. Baguette from centre place lane and a coffee from Brunetti’s . Very Melbourne . Works out that gravel bike shirts are funkier than road bike shirts and the colour of my bike is metro train green.

10/08/2026

Heading into the backcountry for some skiing and snow camping. This is typically what I take for an overnight trip ( need to pack my lunch)

21/07/2026

Took Kathleen the Kona sutra on her maiden overnight trip. Apart from a leaky air bed it went really well. Look forward to planning some bigger adventures

21/07/2026

First overnight trip on the new bike. Perfect weather ( chilly night 0 degrees) Everything went well except for a leaky air bed. Can’t wait to plan some big adventures

16/07/2026

Quick dash up to Mt Stirling. Not enough snow to go skiing but still great to get up there. It will always be my favourite place in the world to watch the sunset