Fronting nature, your way

Nature has unleashed its full fury on mankind over the past few months. In Australia, Queensland faced devastating floods that brought the state to a standstill, as did the massive earthquake in Christchurch which has had an estimated damage bill of $12 billion. While the world was getting to grips with these catastrophes, another calamity struck in Japan as it was engulfed by a massive tsunami which has claimed the lives of an estimated 27,000 people. While the recovery efforts are still ongoing, the focus in Japan has been more on the effects of radiation from the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant, rather than on the tsunami itself. Nature in all these instances has shown itself to be a mighty force which can cause destruction and havoc.

Yet under more normal circumstances, nature offers us much scope to partake in its beauty. Take Sydney for example: it is surrounded by beautiful bushland on three sides – the magical Blue Mountains on the West, the Royal National Park in the South and the Ku-rin-gai Chase National Park in the North; and then of course the magnificent Pacific Ocean in the East. All of them offer fantastic opportunities for us to explore and enjoy some of the delights which nature has bestowed upon this adopted country of ours.

BY PAWAN LUTHRA

Back in India meanwhile, there has been unprecedented urbanisation over the last few decades. Rainforests and natural habitats are disappearing as there is increasing demand for land and development to meet the growing needs of the ever expanding population. Cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai etc are increasing their carbon footprint as the country moves away from primary production into a service economy. With an expected middle class of over 300 million people, there is a demand for more housing and facilities close to the centre of the “action” and there are decreasing parks and green zones around the cities. While Sydney is also experiencing growth, the natural heritage listing of some of our natural resources helps protect the natural parks from over urbanisation.

For most Indian Australians the lifestyle in settling into their new country is arduous and often they need to work multiple jobs to attain even a basic level of financial security. They also need to work hard to meet their family needs without any external assistance. While work takes up the regular week, the weekend is sometimes filled with more work, besides responsibilities of home, family and friends. An occasional meal out and a regular dose of Bollywood are the only respite. Nature, while around us, is merely experienced rather than enjoyed.

Perhaps with the cooler seasons upon us it is time to change all that. Within a 2-hour drive from almost anywhere in Sydney, one can be in the middle of the Australian bush and enjoy the greenery and beauty of nature. Yes, one will have to face the challenges of sand flies and nettles and leeches and other wild life, but the pleasure of beautiful views, tall gum trees, blue skies and water, will far outweigh these minor irritants. Not only is there ease of access, it is also inexpensive – most national parks can be accessed at marginal costs. One can hike into the bush for a few hours and set up camp, or “car trek” where one can drive up to a wilderness campsite and pitch a tent and enjoy day hikes. The options to enjoy nature are plentiful.

Garam chai around the campfire while tunelessly singing Bollywood songs will be a memory to be treasured for a long time.