For over four decades I have been a rail and bus photographer.
However, during this time I have aimed the lens at other subjects, be they different transportation, scenery, buildings and other bollocks.
Given these do not really fit the scope of my other sites, I felt compelled to set up a new site so as to inflict my other photographic garbage upon the world.
While primarily Philippine and Australian content, there will be the occasional forays into Fiji and Hong Kong. Perhaps other locations should the current pandemic ever allow it.
So sit back and enjoy, or hate, even be indifferent. That choice is purely up to you.

Official Home Of the 'Brad N Virls Adventure Series' - Images are copyright, so contact us if you would like to use any photos on your site/video! (We don't bite)


Tuesday, 28 January 2025

NEWCASTLE MUSEUM - 10-03-2024

After a false start during the challenging Covid times, when we arrived only to find the museum closed, I decided to give it another go with Virls.

This time, our visit was a success, and I have to say it was a fantastic experience. The staff were excellent, the exhibits were impressive, and we both left feeling really happy with what we got to see.

As always, we’re only sharing a small selection of what’s on display, and we highly encourage everyone to visit in person to explore more, learn about the items, and discover all the fascinating things the museum has to offer.



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General entry is free.

There may be a charge for special exhibitions. 
There was on the day we were there.

Open: 10am - 5pm Tuesday to Sunday.
Seven days during all NSW school holidays

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The Newcastle Museum, located in Newcastle, just beside the violated railway line that once served the city, is an important cultural institution that highlights the city's history, science, and culture. The museum showcases a variety of exhibits that dive into different aspects of the region, from its colonial beginnings to its role in Australia's coal industry and its development over time. There is also a significant focus on the Indigenous heritage of the area, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the land’s long history.

The museum is known for its interactive displays and hands-on exhibits that make the experience engaging for visitors of all ages. Whether you're learning about the region’s industrial past, the evolution of the city, or its natural environment, there’s something to catch your interest. In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, often exploring specific themes or partnering with other institutions. These exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, from art and design to historical events, offering a fresh perspective on various subjects.

For me personally, the highlights were very much the BHP Newcastle section with light show, along with preserved tram LP-284, and former J & A Brown locomotive #4.

The museum is housed in a former railway workshop building, which adds a layer of historical charm to the experience. The building itself is a piece of Newcastle’s history, contributing to the atmosphere of the museum. Inside, visitors can explore various themed spaces that reflect the diverse facets of the region’s past and present. The museum is equipped with amenities like a cafĂ© and provides educational programs, making it a great destination for school groups and those looking to learn more about the area.

Overall, the Newcastle Museum offers a comprehensive and engaging experience, perfect for those interested in learning about the city’s rich and varied history. If you’re considering a visit, you’ll find a lot to discover in this unique space.

Download the Newcastle Museum map.

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Former Civic Station seats now sitting in the small park area where the tracks once were.
Photo: Brad Peadon



Above and below.
Part of the Civic Station footbridge on display in the park between the former station and the museum.
Photo: Brad Peadon




Former Civic Railway Station building, now in use as a visitor information centre.
Photo: Brad Peadon


Above and below
Virls posing along a painted wall outside the museum.
Probably a bad time for lighting.
Photo: Brad Peadon




Above and below
A lovely looking museum entrance.
Photo: Brad Peadon


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The Newcastle Story Section.





Virls having some good ideas.
Photo: Brad Peadon


Very old cash register and related items.
Just some of the incredible items collected from our past.
Photo: Brad Peadon



Few would be those who don't know the name Arnotts Biscuits.
Photo: Brad Peadon


Above and numerous below
Beautifully restored Newcastle LP class tram 284.
Photo: Brad Peadon



The museum also has a selection of tram related
  items in it's collection.





Oak Milk products are a well known Hunter name, their once having a large factory at Hexham.
Photo: Brad Peadon





Some well known old cleaning products that I even remember my grandparents using.
Lux, Rinso, Bluo ,and Sunlight Soap.
My nan used to have an obsession for buying Sunlight Soap when it was on special. After she passed away, we found cupboard packed full of it.
She may well have single handedly kept the business alive.
Photo: Brad Peadon


Above and two below
Photo: Brad Peadon



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The Supernova Section.



Not gonna pick a fight with Virls :-)
Photo: Brad Peadon


Personally, I didn't find the magnets all that disgusting.
Photo: Brad Peadon


This was a very popular feature at the museum.
The frame above the car extended out to near where I was standing. There was the ability to pull down on it and lift that car into the air.
Photo: Brad Peadon


Virls doing something or other. What something or other that was is beyond me now.
Photo: Brad Peadon

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The Link Gallery Section.



Above and below
An impressive looking organ formerly located at the St Augustine Anglican Church in Merewether.
Photo: Brad Peadon


Above and numerous below.
Virls admires historic steam locomotive 'The Buck'.
Photo: Brad Peadon







Shortly we will be having a look through the amazing collection that exists in the Newcastle BHP Steel section.
The steelworks sound and light show was something else and definitely not something to be missed. 
In the meantime you can check it out in our video.

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More video of the day will be coming to the channel soon.

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Virl Virls.
The awesome and friendly staff of the Newcastle Museum.
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We have many sites and forums, check out our Link Tree below:
Your link to all the things we have to entertain you.

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I just inherited 10 acres of land that's paved with asphalt and white lines 
are painted on it. 
All I can say is, "That's A Lot".





Wednesday, 22 January 2025

2010: COMMONWEALTH MARKET QC - PT2


The Commonwealth Market in Quezon City, Manila, is one of the notable markets in the area known for its size and large variety of goods. 
  It is situated in Quezon City, along a thoroughfare of the same name, a major city within Metro Manila, the capital region of the Philippines.
  Commonwealth Market offers a range of goods including fresh produce, meats, seafood, dry goods, clothing, household items, and local delicacies. It caters to both everyday shoppers and wholesale buyers.




Love The Philippines?: Check Out All Our Link Tree sites

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Does anyone know what the lady above is selling on the table?
Looks like gelatin or something.
Photos: Brad Peadon


Enough rice to feed an army.
Photos: Brad Peadon


Busily stock up her stall.
Photos: Brad Peadon


Above and Below.
In a word.....colourful.
Photos: Brad Peadon







Above and Two Below.
There are always some happy faces to be found in the markets.
Photos: Brad Peadon




Above and Below.
You can never accuse Commonwealth Markets of being quiet and boring. It is always a hive of activity..
Photos: Brad Peadon





Those happy faces suggest they have just forked out a heap of Pesos :-)
Photos: Brad Peadon

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Onyo, Nhing, MrX
And the people in the market who made us welcome.
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Love those colourful and iconic traditional jeepneys?
So do we. Come and join in.