What Are Some Of Australia’s Favourite Hobbies And Pastimes?

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When it comes to hobbies and pastimes, Australians have quite a few of them. One way or another, there’s always something we can do to fill our leisure time in Australia.

In this world, there are so many places to see and explore in our free time | Weekly Photo Challenge: Earth

In this world, there are so many places to see and explore in our free time | Weekly Photo Challenge: Earth.

Depending on our personalities, each of us has our own ways of enjoying our spare time and time outside of work.

Many Australians are fond of hobbies and pastimes where we don’t have to think or plan too much, at least those of us who are laid-back. Often, we stay indoors when we have spare time on our hands and “take it easy”, as we like to say. A survey in 2011 shows 92% of Australians like to spend their leisure time watching TV and DVD (and more recently Netflix) at home, 2 out of 3 Australians surf the interwebs in their down time and 63% like reading.

The more enthusiastic among us Australians prefer to spend our free time doing things that challenge us. We take up hobbies that let ourselves get lost in worlds we’ve never known. We enjoy the great outdoors: hiking, cycling, camping, admiring wild animals from a distance in the country and more. For instance, younger generation Australians are camping more and over half a million Aussies registered caravans and campervans in 2014.

When we enjoy our hobbies, we get lost in our own little worlds.

When we enjoy our hobbies, we get lost in our own little worlds.Water

After all, Australia is a country with fairly warm weather all year round (in metropolitan Melbourne winter temperatures average 13’C/55’F in the day) and so exploring vast Aussie terrains is ideal most part of the year.

Then there are Australians who like to spend their spare time being a part of something, being a part of something bigger together. Sport is almost like a religion in Melbourne. On weekends, stadiums hosting Australian Rules Footy (AFL) games in winter and cricket matches in summer are packed – easily a few million Aussies attend AFL and cricket matches each year Down Under. In Melbourne, there’s not forgetting countless art exhibitions and museums to visit and appreciate, to connect with and let our imaginations wander.

In the areas away from the city in Australia, offices and shops close right on five each day and only a handful of stores open on Sunday. So during time outside of work, what else is there to do but catch up with family and friends at home – hardly anywhere else to go, nothing else to do. Or perhaps go watch a movie in the city together.

It’s a fact that some hobbies and pastimes are more universal than others. We can go anywhere in the world, meet someone and they might have the same hobbies as us. But what we do in our spare time often depends on where we are at and where we want to go in life.

There’s no guessing where our hobbies that we love can take us.

There’s no guessing where our hobbies that we love can take us.

What we did for leisure back in the day was much different. In the early to mid 1900s, boomerang throwing was what Indigenous Australians did. With the passing of Aboriginal elders, this activity has been dying out over the years. But today in the town of La Parouse in the state of New South Wales, there are workshops on the first Sunday of each month teaching visitors this skill, basket weaving and Djaadjawaan dance, keeping traditional pastimes alive.

Often, we complain of not having enough time for our favourite hobbies. A study two years ago found Australians are finding it harder to achieve a work-life balance, working harder to keep their jobs. Maybe work really does demand we put in more hours at the office. Or perhaps it’s poor time management on our part. Or life throwing curveballs at us.

I spend most of my spare time writing. Occasionally I go out exploring the Aussie terrain.Just as we can work too hard, we can play too much and stretch ourselves too thin in our down time. As philosopher Josef Pipier said:

“Leisure is only possible when we are at one with ourselves. We tend to overwork as a means of self-escape, as a way of trying to justify our existence.”

Enjoy our down time, feel at peace with ourselves.

Enjoy our down time, feel at peace with ourselves.

Sometimes, we might take our free time or even hobbies for granted and forget to have fun, leaving us empty inside. For some of us, our hobbies might be what we are passionate about and give us a sense of purpose.

Nevertheless, when it comes to winding down outside of our day-to-day routines, it’s always important to not take this time too seriously altogether. Fact is we win some and we lose some when it comes to play and either way, it’s not the end of the world.

In Australia, there’s a phrase and mantra that goes, “work harder, play harder”. It roughly means: work so we can pay the bills, and play more than we work so we can live life to the fullest.

After all, when it comes to taking things easy, having fun is the most important thing.

What are some of your (country’s) hobbies and pastimes?

231 thoughts on “What Are Some Of Australia’s Favourite Hobbies And Pastimes?”

  1. Mabel although Canada doesn’t have boomerang throwing, I found on our trip there that we Commonwealth cousins are similar in many ways. My guess is that stats around TV watching and screen time are similar. We too have a variety of outdoor adventures available. For us a lot of spare time is spent with family and friends, a variety of adventures with cycling being a priority and of course the blog and assorted social media branches attached. Wow that looks like a rather busy schedule. 🙂

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  2. I like that blogging is now an overarching hobbing that includes photography, cooking, writing and interacting with people on various social media platforms. It gives me a good sense of balance in contrast to the work I do Monday through to Friday.

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  3. What? No stats on dancing? I watched “Strictly Ballroom” — how can that be? I was sure that would be one of your leisure activities. 🙂

    A lot of activities in the US depend on where you live and the season. Recreational cycling has gotten much bigger (no, we don’t actually use our bikes for something useful like work, as we have gas to guzzle for that), and I find myself dodging the peloton when I walk on the weekends. I know many surfers, skiers, snowboarders, Cross Fit cultists — I mean ENTHUSIASTS — and some of us do yoga.

    But I think most Americans are online, on their phones, and on Netflix more than they are outside.

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  4. Hi Mabel,

    I really enjoyed this post. Work/life balance is something I am a big promoter of. If we have hobbies, we can use our work to funds our creative pursuits outside of the office. Creativity/passions/interests keeps us present and gives us something to look forward to. I am going to write a post soon about how I like to relax and after a long day, writing or even watching shows is perfect because it allows me to focus on something else. I love that hike you went on, I enjoy going there often. If you ever want to go together let me know x

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    • Without work, I don’t think we can truly appreciate the world for what it is. That is, work can put things into perspectives for us as we tirelessly put our skills to use on the job whether we like it or not.

      You have always come across as such a relax person who knows how to work and play hard, and I am so looking forward to your blog post on unwinding 🙂 Would love to hike some day with you, my friend. Talk soon xoxo

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  5. Great post as usual, Mabel. This keep me wondering, really with regards to the high percentage of people spending their leisure time watching TV at home. 92% is such a huge number. I am not too sure about NZ but probably around 80% and that is still high. It just goes to show that people are basically happy with the simple things in life. I hardly ever watch TV although I watch Korean dramas in my bedroom (which is basically the same as being glued to a TV screen). It’s my luxury and putting my feet up besides all the dining out and socializing with friends and the not so frequent walks these days. 🙂

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    • I think we are more inclined to stay indoors in winter to watch TV, perhaps more so in NZ because it’s colder over there. But you are so right, that people are content with simple things – even if it’s something like watching dramas on TV, something that is make belief but keeps us entertained.

      Enjoy your Korean dramas, Jess. I am sure they have very handsome male characters as well as ladies who are very fashionable. As long as it makes you happy, why not 🙂

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      • Due to climate change, weather is still pretty warm here. Many of us are still wearing summer clothes. Enjoy the coming weekend, Mabel. Anything planned? Outdoors or TV watching for relaxation?

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        • Th weather is still warm here in Melbourne this time of the year. It is around 20’C each day as we head into winter. This weekend I might go out for a hike, but I feel like I really need a quiet one in. We’ll see. Hope you have a good weekend too, Jess. More K-dramas for you.

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    • I also prefer sports and hobbies which can be practiced lying down in front of the TV.
      At my age, when I have time off — I don’t go mountain climbing. I like to relax.

      I’m also embarrassed to admit that the one time I had an “out of body experience” and could have traveled any spatial dimension in the celestial planes of the space-time continuum … I chose to … float back down and watch TV.

      : )

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      • Good to know your limits, Denny. Apart from having fun, it’s important to not push ourselves too far in what we do.

        You know what, I’ve had those out of body experiences more times than I can count in my down time. I’d be sitting down and my mind will drift until I don’t feel my body anymore…and I’d still be awake sitting upright 🙂

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  6. what a wonderful information and insight into the people of austrailia…very nice to know..hope will someday visit their to witness all that in reality..
    thanks for sharing

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  7. I would also say that community arts is a popular pastime here, if my local community is anything to go by. I once read in an article that there were about 30 theatre groups in the Geelong region. Community singing is also popular. We have quite a number of art galleries here too, many of which are run by the artists themselves and often offer classes or collaborate with other local artists.

    Of course, the footy club is all-pervasive in my town but we also have a very strong arts focus which makes me proud. 🙂

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  8. I used to go for bike rides in the forest area surrounding Oslo: track riding/downhill biking, but my full suspension bike needs repairing and has been untouched for the last 3 years. Nowadays I usually spend my pastime at the gym.

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    • I still remember those shots you took last year of you riding a bike and taking photos with one hand, after some drinks. You should do that again sometime when you feel bored of the gym 😀

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  9. Excellent post. Really loved the photos particularly of the bridge and the still water with the reflection. I think America is a lot like Australia: TV talk by the water cooler at the office, sports fever, enjoying the summer in the great out doors, etc.

    But I really do think everyone works too much and that’s why they don’t have time for anything else. Just Sat or Sun to catch up on chores and one day a week to relax is not enough time! Part of the reason why I moved abroad was to escape the 9-5 and get more time back on my hands – and it’s worked. Of course, it’s not without its sacrifices…

    I love reading blogs, sight-seeing, reading, writing and if I was in the right environment, being outside and hiking and biking is the best. Cheers!

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    • I think you make a good point in that America and Australia share some of the same pastimes. Americans love their TV, and Australia loves American TV.

      I always thought that many in Asia work on Saturdays, but I suppose that is mostly confined to the corporate world. When I was a kid living in Malaysia and Singapore, my dad would go to the office for half a day on Saturdays. I didn’t really fault my mum for doing most of the chores…

      Reading your blog and book, Lani, teaching life sounds hectic. I hope you do find time to relax and don’t stress too much 🙂

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  10. Excellent post Mabel 🙂 I particularly like this hobby that you mention – ‘admiring wild animals from a distance’ 😀
    I love to travel – here in Australia and overseas and I think that my favourite thing to occupy my time, is writing. Keep entertaining Mabel! Thanks again for sharing.

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    • Thanks, Andy. I think where you are you get more opportunities to admire wild animals from afar. Most of the time I have to travel a fair bit out to the country to spot that wild kangaroo 😀

      I didn’t think this post was that entertaining at all…been hitting a brick wall with writing of late with that. But sometimes that is just writing.

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  12. Wonderful pictures. It is hard to say what the hobbies in my countries are as especially in Germany in could be anything from fishing over sports to animal breeding (at least the people I know). In Finland it isbasically hiking and fishing.
    For myself I do a lot of sports (gym, cycling etc) and besides that I love to play some stupid computer games, read books and comics aaand watch tv shows:)

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  13. Josef Piper was a very wise man! I look forward to when your book is published so that you and Mr Wobble’s can spend more time outdoors taking great photos. Hugs from Byron Bay.

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    • I too hope my book is finished soon because that would mean more free time for me. Mr Wobbles and I miss you already. I’m sure we’ll catch up again at some point. The other day I was taking photos of street art and I thought of you and how you inspired me. Take care and safe sails for the weeks ahead.

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  14. lovely post and photos as always, Mabel. i spend a great deal of free time out in the nature. mallard lake is a convenient haven where I can just sit there and enjoy the serenity and splendor of nature. 🙂

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  15. Hello Mabel,

    Very informative post. Nice pics as well.

    Sad to hear that you guys need to work harder to keep your jobs. I think the situation is same everywhere sadly.

    I have never been to Australia. Someday….

    Have a great day!

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  16. That sure was an awesome place to hike. Thanks for taking us alone.

    London is a big city with lots going on. The hobbies and interests of Londoners depend on who you hang out with. Biking, hiking, golf, attending football matches, having a drink in the pub, participating in community activities and eating out are popular pastime.

    Prior to my Middle East posting, I was actively involved in a number of community activities ranging from local regeneration projects, foraging and being actively involved in two leading NHS hospitals so as to enable them to become a Foundation Trust whereby it can manage its own finance. I also had a blast in Q&A discussions on a wide ranging subjects eg medical, law etc and I also attended talks, shows etc.

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    • “depend on who you hang out with” This is such a great point, and thanks for bringing that up. The company we keep often influences what we do in our spare time. Sometimes we go along with activities because we want to be a good friend, other times because we have nothing better to do.

      It is so encouraging to hear you got involved in the community in London. They sound very hands-on and good to hear you got to mingle with a wide variety of people. Sounded like there was never a dull moment.

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  17. First of all, Mabel, your photography is just beautiful! As for hobbies and “making time” I read a quote the other day that had my head bobbing …. yes. When we say “I don’t have time” it is the same thing as saying “I don’t want to”. Working as many hours as I do, I make time to enjoy those things I really Love. I strongly believe in balance and that includes enjoying the great outdoors like you do. Make sure you carry water with you when you hike. That should help with the cramping. Getting your hiking legs is a lot of work but once you have got them, you are good to go. Too many people sit and watch TV or are on the computer which is a very unhealthy state of being, especially if you are sitting all day at work. Our bodies were made to move so I encourage you to keep on getting lost in your hobby. Your mind and body will thank you!!! Beautiful post, dear friend!!! ❤

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  18. Oh, the irony! How we tend to work harder and forget to also play. I, for one, know that I suck at time management and planning… so most of my pastime activities include procrastination and reading. Sometimes, I write, too. If my brain cells and eyes are not too tired. Once in a while, I watch stuff on the Internet. Speaking of which, I wonder if Rooster Teeth has released any new episodes. (Will check some other time.)

    Ah, there are also the walks in the park. And sleeping. XD But funny enough, I’m still sleep deprived.

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  20. I think Australians are very much like South Africans. I was surprised that you said that people like to stay indoors and watch TV etc. when you have such great weather for outdoor activities. Maybe they only stay inside when the weather is bad. 🙂

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    • It is much more colder in the southern states of Australia. In the winter, the wind here makes it feel like the temperature single digits…but compared to other parts of the world, it isn’t that cold. Maybe we have a low tolerance for cold and so like staying indoors in winter…or maybe not 😀

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  21. The Bachelor is my secret addiction. I didn’t know it originated there! I thought it was here. Shows you how much I know. Thanks for sharing what an Aussie does. 🙂

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  22. Cycling has become a big hobby in Taiwan in recent years. My husband, who used to cycle when he was younger, has also revived his love for the sport. It is something that he does every other day and, on Saturday or Sunday, he usually does a 70 to 100 KM ride with three or more of his buddies. Personally, I think it gives them a time to socialize as well, as they usually stop for coffee and have lunch together. There are also several cycling events in Taiwan as well that they like to participate in.

    For me, I enjoy writing, photography, hiking, checking out new places, and catching up with friends. Lately, I have been doing more shopping than usual to prepare for the arrival of our baby. I am not really one who enjoys shopping, but shopping for a baby is actually very fun and exciting.

    I don’t really watch a lot of TV, but I have to admit that I do watch the Australian program My Kitchen Rules. The 2016 season just started airing this week in Taiwan. I also watch The Big Bang Theory for some laughs.

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    • Oh, I clicked the reply button before I mentioned that the photos included in this post are absolutely gorgeous. The picture of the bridge is stunning and the reflection in the water in the last picture in breathtaking. It is great that you can combine nature and photography.

      Looking forward to hearing more about your book. I am sure it will be a great and interesting read.

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      • And I replied to your other comment before reading this one! Thank you for the kind words. I honestly thought this post read quite flat, and the photos lacked a cetain kind of oomph. Then again, I’m not used to doing this kind of photography.

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    • Your husband sounds every bid the avid cycler. A 100km ride is a bit of a stretch, but that is very good exercise and a good way to get fresh air outdoors. I wish them well in the cycling events and maybe they will win a prize at some point. If they don’t come in either first second or third, maybe they might win the lucky draw prize 🙂

      Ah, My Kitchen Rules. That is a very popular program here, and interesting to hear that it is broadcast in Asia. I hear Masterchef Australia is popular there too. Take care, Constance. Wishing you the best ❤

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  23. Hey Miss Mabel! Happy Friday! Mwah!

    I’m not sure what the country as a whole gets into in its spare time, but for me, blogging is most def one of my favourite hobbies, I get to cook, photograph, eat, write and chat with incredible people like you from all over the globe. Its like the ultimate hobby! 🙂

    When I was younger, I lived on a farm and we went to an indigious pre-school where they taught boomerang throwing. I wonder if it is still a thing they teach and the kids get into?

    Have an amazing weekend lil sis. Hope it is fun filled and delicious. Big hugs and love coming at chou! xox

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    • Blogging. The ultimate hobby. Such a good way of putting it. Your blog is always so polished from your narrative to the photos and the presentation – and I can see your passion for it shining through.

      That is so interesting to hear you encountered boomerang throwing when you were younger. Hopefully schools still teach it today, at least those in the country…it would be sad to see this activity die out as it is every bit of Indigenous and Australian culture.

      You always know how to bring the cheery vibes around, Miss Anna. Wishing you a good weekend and even better week ahead. Lots of hugs and kisses your way xoxo

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  24. I was just reading a chronicle of someone in Perth with absolutely zero prior experience in homebuilding who decided to build his own house from scratch in his free time. Aussies are amazing!

    Malaysians… I think our national pastime is eating. And maybe discussing about 1AmDeeBee recently… 🙄

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    • Not the first I have heard of. Today there are still quite a number of Australians who like to buy a block of land far out in the suburbs and start a farm there or build their own houses with their own hands.

      I thought Malaysians like shopping 😀

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        • I am not an eating fan, and would never visit a place just for food – be it a country or a town. Would love to come back for a spin, but at the same time I can go anywhere else 😉

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  25. Your post makes me wonder if globally we are all joined at the hip at having TV as a hobby ! And of course now we can watch it live streamed on the go via our mobile devices. The Eurovision Song contest is taking up our TV diary here at the moment and Australia has just made it through to the next stage. There song was great ! Your posts never fail to inspire further thought into modern life. Awesome work ! Wishing you a great weekend.

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    • I like your train of thought, Lita. Maybe all of us are joined at the hip and enjoy the same things like TV and watching movies…but maybe except me since I’m a not a fan of either! Yes, Eurovision is now on and Australia is very happy that our contestant got through to the next round. Here’s a big cheer to all the countries participating ❤

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  26. The part about not having anything to say about regular TV is rather familiar since I almost never watch it either. My main hobbies used to be moaning to myself about the weather, muttering under my breath about my job, and (for variety) griping once in a while about my children’s fashion sense.

    Since I started blogging, I’ve been on my best behavior. 🙂

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  27. Hi Mabel,

    It seems that favorite pastimes of modern man are quite similar…T.V. eats up most of the time and now there are more digital devices to play with! Blogging has added a wonderfully new dimension to hobbies and communicating with bloggers around the globe. Since I took to blogging, my T.V. time has reduced considerably.
    May I add shopping as a favorite pastime of ladies? I don’t mean groceries or other essentials!
    I love those pictures of Nature as they convey a subtle message…’come to me…I have all the pastime potions!’ 🙂

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    • Yes, shopping! I missed out that one completely! I don’t shop often but when I do, I am a slow shopper and take my time to compare prices and try things multiple times before I buy.

      So nice to hear you found productivity in blogging. I really enjoy your poems and so glad to have connected with you, Balroop. “’come to me…I have all the pastime potions!” Such a beautiful way to put nature and I can certainly see that line in a poem of yours 🙂

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  28. There is nothing quite like getting lost in my own world ~ and I guess I never looked at it this way, but that is what a great hobby does, takes me away from any 9-5 feeling life creates. I’m very much with you in terms of the TV thing, I watch very little to none (big reason is that I’m often in areas without access), so it gives me time to explore other avenues (hiking a big love and photography/writing can take me away). And like you say, there can be something special about procrastinating and just chillin’ with a book 🙂 I think Aussies and Americans are similar in the pursuit of their free time. Given a long weekend (or just an early escape from work), and the planning and doing is automatic…time to get away and enjoy life.

    Wish you a great time exploring this weekend ~ my guess is more writing and editing for you… Wishing you a great day Miss Mabel 🙂

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    • Seems like we have quite a few things in common. Like you, I like exploring the great outdoors in my free time. Unfortunately over the last year, physical limitations have put a damper on that…but I still enjoy hikes whenever I can in smaller doses these days 🙂 Hope you get to go out and chill whenever you can. With that said, there is nothing wrong chilling indoors 🙂

      You are right. This weekend is blogging weekend for me, and writing the next blog post and trying to edit my book. Wishing you well, Randall. Go out there and do something 🙂

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      • 🙂 Actually, have to fly up to Hangzhou tomorrow for a week…would rather not, but work is work. It was a beautiful day here in HK today, however, and I did get out to enjoy it 🙂 Wishing you the best Mabel, and have a good Sunday writing. Cheers ~

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  29. I like the quotes and pics (as usual) and I just mentioned “tv watching” in my Oprah post – because it is something that I only started doing in the last decade – and I am glad to not enjoy some TV – but was definitely fine without it – it was just never my thing.
    and I bet you have heard some diverse convos from your colleagues over the years! which just adds to your seasonings – and by the way – hope your book is coming along well. woo hoo
    and one last thought – the hubs and I saw a Toyota commercial where they were marketing the RAV4 for the person who has tons of hobbies and pastimes – which your post addresses nicely. Anyhow, we thought the orange RAV4 was a Subaru – but it is just an updated look-a-like ripoff of a Subaru! ha!
    anyhow, that led to a short discussion about how some people these days are maybe “too adventure driven” and maybe so “wanderlust” seeking to where it exhausts me from afar. hmmmmmmmm

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    • I hopped over to your Oprah post. It was a very entertaining read, Y.

      That is hilarious what you though of the ad. A car that can take you places to do all of your hobbies and things…but a car that can probably function the same as another brand 😀 Such an important point there – sometimes we want to do all these things but really, we are challenging ourselves too far.

      My books is slowly coming along…and I’ll explain why in a couple of posts ❤

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      • Well looking forward to the book updates – and I guess some of the adventure stuff is our global access culture and much of this adventure can really enrich life – hmm

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          • yes – but too often I see this stretching thin thing again and again –
            in fact, just saw it recently with some folks who got back from a trip….
            the saddest thing is that vacations have gotten to be so adventurous for many to where they physically get taxed and go back to work exhausted – oh…..

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            • Such a good point. So many of us try to cram many things into our holiday time, doing as much fun things as possible. What we might not realise is that these fun things take up energy and since they are not things we do too often, we might push ourselves too far.

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              • well I am, guilty of this too… ha!
                and the plus side is that we are mentally refreshed – but the body needs rest – ha!
                and the older I got – the more boundaries we could draw – or was it just that were more satisfied because we were able to “get stuff out of our system” = who knows…
                and I am looking forward to your book update (*just curious)

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                • As I get older, I relate to what you say. When I stay up late at night, I feel very tired in the morning – when I was a teenager, I would feel alright when the sun came up! I think when we get older, we learn to appreciate what we can actually do and the simple things.

                  I won’t be talking directly about the book update in a couple of posts. More like what’s been slowing it down.

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  31. In Canada, we lock hockey, hockey and more hockey. We’ll squeeze in the CFL, although most football lovers prefer the NFL, cut to watching and playing baseball, and then go back for more hockey.

    We have a lot of hardcore video gamers, gossip and text messagers, movie and TV watchers, book readers and writers. Many of the young spend much of their time either listening to music or trying to create it and break into the industry.

    Enjoying the great Canadian outdoors is still important for many but that work-life balance thing is a challenge that we know about so well here. As the cost of living from taxes to food to housing and transportation is so high, and the social pressure to acquire material wealth and luxuries is so intense, we work our tails off. Even when the work day ends, we find ourselves hustling and networking behind the scenes just to try to get a better edge on the regular workday.

    The advent of the smart phone makes this matter worse. While we’re supposed to be out doing things with our family and friends, we’re still sending and receiving texts, e-mails and abrupt phone calls for working angles and deals. So, we fail to pay full attention to those we love, and devote all of the time necessary to spend with each other.

    Where hobbies and pastimes were once considered important to mental, physical and social health they are increasingly looked upon as superfluous lifestyle choices that only interfere with the pursuit of other material things that are believed to be far more important. We’ve screwed ourselves with modern living.

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    • Your last paragraph is certainly a reality check, and I like how you linked one point to another and brought it back full circle in a way.

      Interesting to hear that Canada is into sport just like Australia. I suppose every country is to some extent.

      Understandably a good number of us work long hours for the money and then spend it on material goods. Sometimes to get ahead and get a better job and attain a network, one has to put their pride on the line and play the game. Sometimes, we like it or don’t really mind because that defines who we are.

      Well said.

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  34. I am not surprised that many over there love the outdoors. Australia is so blessed to have the land area, the scenery, and the resources. Unfortunately though, they are kind of wasted on people like me who are happy just lazing about at home when they get the chance. Personally, I am happy to enjoy peace and quiet (and a few moments without cares and responsibilities) anywhere I can have it.

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    • You know what, I am like you. You are not the only one, Imelda. I like to laze a lot at home. My idea of a good night or a good weekend is sitting at home away from the rest of the world and listening to music or reading a book. Don’t mind sitting around and chatting with someone, just not in a big group 😀

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  35. I don’t have a tv so I haven’t gotten into tv crowd in the regions of Canada where I’ve lived. I do INternet surf probably more hrs. than I care to track.

    But yea, cycling lots all over the place locally when it’s not raining nor snowing. I do art in spurts. Read non-fiction. I’m intrigued by the camping among younger generation which is great for Australia. I live (like sue) just 100 km. south of the famed Rocky Mountains…but we only go there about 4-5 times per year. Usually for several days each. Snowshoeing, cycling or just walking around town. Canada like Australia has huge tracts of wilderness which creates extremes among people in terms of their leisure time habits. Either one does a lot outdoors and enjoys it or hunker down for many hrs. in front of tv/computer.

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    • Sounds like you know how to keep yourself occupied, Jean. With the internet, so many of us can live without TV these days. But the computer also is a screen, just like any other TV. Too much time in front of it can’t be all that good for us.

      I think one of the differences between Canada and Australia is that Canada is colder, and so your country has a better affinity with snow and winter activities. I like your idea of doing things in spurts – bodes well for each season and you give yourself the opportunity to try other tihngs..

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  37. I think that having hobbies, and/or “passions” (however you want to call them, however passionate they make you) are super important in life. People that do nothing but watch TV series, what is so passionate about life with just that? One becomes just a bystander, not creating anything, not doing anything useful for yourself nor for others. I think doing sports and having hobbies (is piano, cooking, blogging, photography to many?) are crucial to give us a balance to make us more whole.
    I hope you’re keeping well Mabel! xxx

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    • You put it very nicely, Sofia. Yes, why be a bystander when we can participate? Maybe some of us just like taking it easy and watching the world around us. But like you, I prefer to do something when I can – like blogging, photography, writing. I don’t think you can have too many hobbies so long as you enjoy them all and don’t stree yourself out 🙂

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  38. The Joseph Piper quote is beautiful in so many ways: “Leisure is only possible when we are at one with ourselves. We tend to overwork as a means of self-escape, as a way of trying to justify our existence.”

    The only part of Australia I’ve seen is Sydney. It’s beautiful! When we lived in Vanuatu, we saw lots of Australian tourists. I can say that they like to swim, snorkel, see the sights, and drink beer. Because we had quite a few Aussies and Kiwis in Port Vila, we had a party for the Melbourne Cup. We dressed up in summer dresses and floppy hats and listened to the game on the radio while we ate lunch.

    In the spring and summer here in Western Washington state, I like to spend some time outside at the farmers’ markets and street fairs or taking walks or hikes.

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    • Sydney is a beautiful city, but I must say I’m biased towards Melbourne 😀 That sounds like quite a Melbourne Cup party you had there. Dressing up is so much fun, and I hope you had a great time putting your outfit together and enjoyed the food.

      Happy walking around the markets and street fairs. I’m sure there is a lot of art to be admired, and lot of artists to meet.

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  39. I think watching TV is the favourite pastime across the globe. Ever since we’ve shifted to Seoul, we don’t watch as much TV. Maybe, binge serial watching on the weekend. But, we have started to hike and walk a lot more. And looks like most of the people are doing the same thing. 🙂

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    • Binge watching sounds relaxing – you sit and rest your body all day and entertain your mind with a show that has a plot you like! I guess I feel the same way with a good book that I don’t want to put down. Really like your shots around Seoul – you and Basil should go out more 😉

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  40. Like you, most of my time goes in working on my blog (after work), social media catch-up and also on working on my hobbies – which are mostly about travel and outdoor activities.
    I normally like to go out every weekend for some or the other activity, or just for a stroll through the mall.

    Adventure is a great way to bring in happiness in one’s life…glad you did that 8km one (even with the ‘minor’ cramp, it sure is all worth it).

    Have a great week, Mabel.

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  42. I can only say I think you are doing quite well with finding a balance between work and play Mabel. Must be Mr Wobbles that keeps you grounded. 😆

    Amazing captures of the beautiful world around you, as always. I love it! 😀

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    • I think all of us struggle to find a balance between work and play unless we’re living our dreams. It has been hard finding time for play since I haven’t been too well of late, and during my free time I have to rest. I’ll explain in a couple of posts’ time 🙂 But yes, Mr Wobbles is always here for me ❤

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      • I think it is a struggle sometimes and yes, I can only imagine living out a dream. 😀

        I am sorry to hear that Mabel and I do hope it’s nothing serious. Getting enough rest is important and I do hope you are taking good care of yourself. Please tell Mr Wobbles if he doesn’t take care of you as well, I will come down there and have a good chat with him. ♥

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        • In an ideal world, each of us would be living out our dreams. But sometimes in order to experience fun, we have to know the meaning of work and working for it.

          Mr Wobbles is always offering me his bananas, asking me to eat healthy. He is a sweetie 😀

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  43. Hi Mabel, It’s hard to know when a hobby is truly your work and therefore not as much fun as our recreational pursuits. It’s rewarding to be sure, but there is work involved in writing. It takes discipline and commitment. You’re an awesome writer and I look forward to reading your book! AS for hobbies and recreational activities, the outdoors are very popular here in Canada, too. Hiking, skiing, water sports, camping are great pastimes. I love yoga as well. Great post as always, Mabel. I really enjoy your writings

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    • What wise words, Lisa. Sometimes the line is indeed fine between work and play. Passion does take a lot of commitment, and I suppose each of us have our own reasons for committing. For me, it’s because I feel I can express myself through words – words can be so direct…yet vague at the same time. I like the mystery 😀

      Sounds like your hobbies keep you in good shape. Good on you and wishing you all the best, Lisa. You are a published author and an inspiration to me, and I’m sure many others as well.

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    • Nothing wrong with sitting around at home and enjoying your spare time. Each to their own and each of us find delight in different things. To be honest, I like sitting around at home a lot of the time on the weekend, just me and myself and get away from the rest of the world.

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  45. Greetings from Canada! From what I can tell, the hobbies they have here are hockey, hockey and… hmm, oh yes, hockey! Seriously, though, they do have other interests but hockey does rate very highly among them.

    For us in Australia I imagine swimming is a very popular sport. I think it’s a good skill to have in general, but with so many beaches and backyard pools, I think swimming is especially important for young Aussie children to learn. In NSW, as with Queensland, Rugby is far more popular than Aussie Rules, but I prefer the latter – both watching and playing – maybe because I can actually understand how to play it! The distinction between League and Union is also lost on me. More recently, I follow the Test cricket along with my colleagues.

    For myself, I was much more active when I was younger. Swimming, tennis, even in university years we would sometimes go on bushwalking trips in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney. Sadly, I’ve become quite sedentary in the working years. I think as my friends have all got married they have settled and are not so active any more. Although recently I’ve been going indoor rockclimbing with a friend a bit more regularly.

    I tend to occupy myself most nights with my thumbs or hands (video games, PC games, etc). Not so good for the body, but depending on the game it can exercise the mind quite well. In terms of TV, I’m only really interested in MythBusters – at least it tries to be educational and fun at the same time. Like you, I hear my colleagues talking about this show or that but I wouldn’t pay much attention because I didn’t watch them. Here in Canada I’ve only caught an episode of Gotham and Arrow on a couple of evenings, simply because I’ve heard them mentioned by friends and they seem quite popular.

    When it comes to getting stressed while ‘relaxing’, I can understand how some people get there. Even on my holiday away, it’s been rather tiring at times. But it’s been good so far. At least in terms of your blog, you don’t strike me as being too serious – in fact, I think your tone is generally quite laid-back, friendly and welcoming. It’s a personal outlet for you which I find is quite approachable, as opposed to a formal publication. I imagine writing a book for publication to be rather hard work, maybe that’s what you meant by play becoming work. All the best for your endeavours with that!

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    • Hockey and more hockey. It sounds like you find it fascinating that Canada loves hobby – and that you are not bored of it yet!

      Very true. Swimming is very much popular here. When summer comes around, so many Aussies love flocking to the beach and taking a dip in the water – so no wonder kids tend to learn swimming here. It is interesting to hear you say rugby is the sport where you live and up in Queensland too. In Victoria, AFL reigns supreme.

      Nothing wrong with twiddling your thumbs over video game consoles most nights of the week. Perhaps you play adventure and tactical games…if so, then in a way you are exercising and conditioning your mind to come up with ways to get out of situations…that can happen in real life in a sense 🙂

      It’s timely that you mention I am friendly and approachable. Thank you, Simon. It’s something I’ve questioned about myself over the last year, and I’m going to put those thoughts in a couple of posts. Talking about one’s state of mind is a heavy topic, but I do hope to inspire. Enjoy your holiday. Don’t worry too much about me and my blog!

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      • Actually I haven’t seen a game, but it’s clear to me that ice hockey is very popular and that’s fine. Just as we have our own sports that are popular back home.

        Rugby is definitely the other big football type sport in Aus. Surely you’ve heard of the State of Origin matches between NSW and Queensland? I think AFL is spreading, however slowly – Sydney Swans were our only team for a while (even if originally South Melbourne) and relatively recently GWS Giants joined in too.

        I play many kinds of games, but my favourites tend to be ones which tell an engrossing story. Stories can be told in words, books, films, and now games, but good stories have always captivated imaginations. There’s often elements of problem solving and creativity in games which can be a good educational opportunity.

        It sounds as though you’ve been quite introspective recently. That can be good, but I hope it hasn’t got you down. It looks like you have hundreds (even thousands?) of supporters here, I see no reason for you to look down on yourself. I suppose I’ll wait for your upcoming posts to get clarification on what you mean here. I hope we can be an encouragement to you as you’ve been an encouragement to us! (:

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        • Yup. I’ve heard of the State of Origin matches and the rivalry. I may have also caught a bit of some of the matches when my parents were flicking through channels on TV. So true – GWS recently joined AFL a few years ago. Since most AFL teams are Victorian based, makes sense as to why the sport has the biggest following in this state. The sport has gotten some publicity in China over the last few years.

          Stories within games. How true. I’ve been thinking of taking up puzzles lately. That is a big time waster…

          Thanks for the kind words and support, Simon. Always appreciate it, don’t forget that. I wouldn’t say I have that many supporters compared to other blogs. It is hard to explain…but yes, hopefully I will be able to clarify in a couple of posts. Take care 🙂

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  46. As someone who doesn’t watch TV or shows much due to my work I can hardly keep up with one series for a long time. I sometimes don’t understand what Game of Thorn fans are saying, I only read books, never saw the show…. :/ Hello sister, I also don’t get to speak at all when colleagues talk about which shows they are watching and loving. Sometimes feels alone.

    Wonderful ideas to pass time and do things one loves in the weekends… I didn’t know more then 90% Australians spend their time indoor. I mostly felt like their weather is cooler then us, they must be able to get out of home more then we do but it seems we top it here.

    wonderful article..

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    • High five for not watching much TV. I too don’t know what’s the fuss about Game of Thrones, but unlike you, have not even read the books 😀 Yes, it does feel lonely sometimes when we can’t join in the TV conversation. But then again, I would much prefer to have a conversation about real life and emotions and feelings.

      Haha, when the weather gets cold I like to stay indoors. If it’s hot, even 30’C and higher, I’m the one rushing out the door to enjoy the warmth.

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      • thumbs up to that.. I’d rather stay silent then talk about TV soaps and all… I am slowly getting some of my colleagues to have real talks and it feels great to finally be able to connect. Yea in cold countries it’s fun to go out in summer, when I was in UK I felt like the population almost doubled when it was summer. hahaha something I am noticing now, thanks to you!

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  47. When I was still working in the Philippines, my weekends are devoted to family. Cooking, playing, watching movies and TV series to summarize it. I also climbed one mountain (almost) every month. That’s how I got to traveling.

    When I was college, I used my weekend to watch a lot of movies. During high school and when I was a lot younger, I played with my pets, played so many traditional games, and watched anime and cartoon shows. I suddenly missed Skitter, the best buddy, and Caraj, the loveliest bird.

    It just dawned on me that the things we like change as we age. Nevertheless, there some of them stays intact like my penchant for toy cars and love for animals.

    The thing that I like most about this post, Mabel, is that you asseverated the need to take a time off every once in a while. The world where we live in now is very fast paced and to cope with it, we should spend time doing something we do to make us relax and enjoy whenever chance presents itself.

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    • I admire you so much when it comes to family: you make time for them and do things with them. One day, I hope to learn to love like you do in my spare time.

      Sorry to hear you miss Skitter and Caraj. But when you think of them, I’m sure they bring back wonderful memories and make you smile, at least even a little. It sounded like you had hobbies that got you thinking and appreciating history and nature around us. Well-rounded.

      Agree. While our tastes change over time, sometimes the heart will always love that one thing that makes us feel good inside. Keep that toy car collection. One day it could be worth a fortune. But more importantly, it will remind you of you were…or still are.

      I always appreciate your kind words, Sony. You have said many meaningful things on my blog that hit home for me, even when I just started out years ago. Thank you very much, and take care, my friend.

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  49. Lovely post, beautiful photos, and interesting outlooks in the comments too… I’m just back from a 2-week trip so took my leisure time all at once and spent it in England. Now at home, I need to get back to work on my projects, but that leisure-time can be addicting. I just want to go to museums, on walks and tours of the countryside, and out for coffee. Must. Get. A. Grip! (maybe it is better to have just a little leisure every day and keep focused) — Sandy

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    • Thanks, Sandy. Lovely to hear you have been abroad and taking the world in. Can’t wait to hear about England on your blog. Good luck with your projects – any kind of project is always a good way to pass the time, and also looking forward to see what you’ll discover next around your home 🙂

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  50. I always enjoy reading your posts. They always bring so much new information and makes people think 🙂
    I think in Norway the TV stats are more or less the same as in Australia. But a hobby peope have in the winter is going skiing and in the summer walking the mountains. So it is good it is not just TV 😉
    After starting working in the local newspaper, I have met so many people that have so many special and interesting hobbies. Like birds, taking pictures of car signs, collecting games ect. 😀

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    • And I always like reading your posts, Hanne. So informative about travel 🙂

      Good that those in Norway do more than just watch TV. Too much TV can get boring after a while…sort of the same for anything. So interesting to hear you working for the local newspaper. They must like telling their hobbies to you 😀

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