At Wollongong

(As part of An Australian Odyssey)


One day, we drove to Wollongong
A small University town as Oxford
Where Yupar and Ei graduated forth
They got credits, distinction and honour both.


Old memories came back vividly
We sent Yupar and Ei timidly
Lest they fell prey to liberality
But they studied seriously and fiercely
They came out nicely and we’re happy.


We went to Nan Ting Buddhist temple
Where Chinese and others assemble
To worship Kwan Yin and Buddha’s resembles
People kowtow, meditate and donate without shamble.


Nan Ting Temple is big and beautiful
Perched on a hillock in full view
Of Wollongong and its environs
One can see far into the horizon.


Then, we drove to Wollongong beach
Where every one tries to reach
To see sea gulls swirling over ships
We watched with wonder and wished
We have a pleasant trip.

We then joined a veterans club
Thronged with military brass
We rubbed shoulders with them en mass
It’s the centre of town or hub.

It was a buffet dinner
After paying some dollar
Eat as you like without hinder
Steak, Satay, Sushi and so many others
English, Japanese, Chinese and Australia’s
We ate all kinds of food to our heart’s desire.

We drove back from Wollongong at night
Speaking, singing and swooning at height
With belly and brain all tight
We might enjoy as we like.

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
8.11.2007