Battle of the Brewers and Birds

Several pubs have started holding 'Battle of the Brewers' where a couple of breweries take over the taps for the night and the punters try several of their beers, head to head against each other and vote for their favourite. I think this is a great idea, as one gets to try similar styles with slight differences, and can make informed judgments about one's preferences. This weekend it was the turn of The Old Canberra Inn to host Nomad and Modus, both from Northern Sydney.

Head to head beers

Tap Takeover at The Old Canberra Inn

Beers on offer

My favourite of the evening was the Barrel-Aged Couch Stout from Nomad, which was soft and stout and altogether pleasing. The addition of oatmeal brings a slight sweetness and a full mouthfeel, and the malt is gently roasted and full of comforting cocoa goodness.

And because there were so many decisions to make, the pub appeared to pose an extra toiletry dilemma - over or under? (Always over, in case you're wondering)

While out running, I came across a frozen Tawny Frogmouth. I don't think I've ever seen a live one, although I might have and not been aware of it, as they have amazing camouflaged plumage. 

 

These beautiful birds are mainly nocturnal and they mate for life. During the colder moths they don't hibernate but enter a state of torpor, which results in energy conservation by significantly slowing down heart-rate and metabolism and lowering their body temperature. They often roost closely together on the same branch for warmth in winter.

I was devastated to think that this little bird had left a cold and lonely partner in a tree somewhere. Winter can be very cruel.