Continued from Living the Dream part 3
May has arrived and the weather is getting warmer
Calliope Reserve was a very pleasant surprise. It is situated on both sides of the Calliope river at the Calliope Historical Village site. Some of the twenty buildings from around the area form village. Each building has different displays that tended to bring back some memory's. The Many peaks Lodge hall is still used for regular meetings of the Lodge. We were lucky enough to be there on the weekend of the Country Markets.Some of the stall holders come from as far south as Brisbane and as far north as Townsville.
We set up on the high side as it seemed quieter ...All party the animals were on the low side.
We set up on the high side as it seemed quieter ...All party the animals were on the low side.
We drove up to the Lookout as there was a Kiosk and a waterfall up there. Yep you guessed it... The Kiosk was closed and the waterfall was closed. Gladstone is an Industrial Town with a very pretty marina. It is a pity that that they don't cater for visitors to town especially on a Labour Day Weekend. I wonder how Mothers Day Sunday will pan out..We ended up driving back to Calliope and having lunch at the Diggers Hotel. An old country pub complete with all the locals. The lunch was very good and then it was back to camp to start getting ready to move on.
Carmila Beach Reserve..QLD
On the road again.. this time to Carmila Beach Reserve. Another free camp right on the beach. We never know what to expect until we arrive at a place, especially free camps but finding this place was a real win for us. We are still there/here and will have been here 3 nights as we intend to move on tomorrow.
We are camped right on the beachfront with stunning views through the trees along the beach and way out to sea. We want to get up to Mackay and then Airlie beach so that we can get in some more quality snorkeling. At Airlie we can snorkel straight off the beach... It is so nice that we really have to justify leaving, especially as it is free and at Mackay we will have to go into a crowded caravan park. Here we have so much space to ourselves...
It's like being on a desert island. A little touch of paradise as they say, but we know there is better to come so as hard as it is we must leave.
We are camped right on the beachfront with stunning views through the trees along the beach and way out to sea. We want to get up to Mackay and then Airlie beach so that we can get in some more quality snorkeling. At Airlie we can snorkel straight off the beach... It is so nice that we really have to justify leaving, especially as it is free and at Mackay we will have to go into a crowded caravan park. Here we have so much space to ourselves...
It's like being on a desert island. A little touch of paradise as they say, but we know there is better to come so as hard as it is we must leave.
Carmila township is situated about 100 kms south of Mackay, and is a major sporting and social centre for the surrounding sugar cane farms. We saw sugar cane , sugar cane and more sugar cane on the way here. The picture is of a farmer harvesting his sugar cane
Carmila beach is only 6 kms from the township, Just a nice distance but there is only a general store and a service station there. The section on Carmila Beach will be mainly photos as we just veg-ed out and walked the beach, taking in the beautiful scenery, beach combing, checking out the fishermen who weren't catching anything and picking up firewood for our nightly campfire.
Our first night was magical as the moon put on a special display for us. This is what they called the ' Stairway to the Moon' It only occurs at certain times of year when the moon rises over the horizon. It was something that neither of us had ever seen before and it repeated itself on night two and hopefully it will again tonight, being night three.
Just the most magnificent Beach as far as the eye can see
Sunrise....Greg got up at some earthly hour to take these photos
I pretended to still be asleep so I wouldn't have to go and 'watch'
Sunrises come in different stages.. In Western Australia the sun 'Sets ' over the ocean... Here it rises.. It is beautiful both ways
I think I might have peeped out of the camper window and seen this awesome sight.. It's all a blur. I am not a 5.30am person
I think at this point I actually sat up and took notice. This was SUNRISE over the ocean... I had not seen it before
Sunrise or no sunrise over the ocean, it was time to pack up and go. Mackay was our destination and we hoped to be able to get all the info on the Whitsunday cruises and maybe even get on standby for an 8 person, 3 day, snorkeling etc and island stops in a couple of weeks time. We have been hanging out for this part of our trip as neither of us have ever been on an overnight cruise of any sort before. The cruise will take in the Northern part of the Great Barrier reef and some of the magical islands within It. It will be a good part of the blog when the time comes around
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This dumb Scrub Turkey will miss all the scraps we leave out |
In Western Australia we don't see many Butterflies so it was a special treat for us to have them fluttering around here, right under our nose
And as we were leaving this beautiful Sea Eagle swooped and soared over us. It was as if he was allowing us to take his photo.
As soon as we had taken the photo he soared away. It was such a spectacle and a joy to watch.
As soon as we had taken the photo he soared away. It was such a spectacle and a joy to watch.
Mackay... we are on our way
I can't wait |
The main reason for us stopping at Mackay was to get information about the Whitsunday cruises from the Airlie Beach area, We decided to stay the weekend as it is Mothers Day weekend and everywhere is really busy... so best to stay put. I am writing this segment from Mackay on Saturday evening after a lovely day exploring the area and a delightful lunch at the Marina over looking the harbour.
And I cant wait either
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Even I can't wait
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Mackay Marina
Mackay has a breakwater that forms the entry to the marina through a narrow inlet from the ocean. The Breakwater has a road that runs along the top of it right from one end to the other. I am not sure how long it is but it is the longest that I have ever been on it curves right around so that you can see the other end coming across to meet you at the Marine entrance.The breakwater was closed by Cyclone Ului 18 months ago and repairs by the North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation have been costly. Somewhere in the region of 15 million dollars. It really is a lovely spot and is well used by the locals and the all the sailing clubs that are based here. |
Mackay Marina is amoung one of the top ten Marinas in Australia and has shown that it is the preferred port for international yachting rallies with the Island Cruising Association (ICA), confirming Mackay as the official Port of Entry for the Australian leg of their 2012/13 Western Pacific Rally which started at Opua in New Zealand on the fifth of May 2012 on what will be the Island Cruising Associations biggest adventure yet. This 10 month odyssey takes in Vanuatu, The Solomon’s, Louisiade’s, Australia’s east coast from Mackay to Hobart before heading back to New Zealand at Nelson and finishing back in Opua late March 2013. It will be epic and I would just love to be in town when they come through Mackay.
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There are around 30 different beaches in Mackay but we didn't swim at any of them as there were Jelly Fish warnings. We used the pool at the Caravan park this afternoon (Mothers Day) to cool off. We are heading off tomorrow up to Cape Hillsborough National Park for a couple of days . It is only a 45 minute drive and Wallaby's come down to the beach at night. I hope we get to see them
When we got back to camp there were about 40-50 of these beautiful creatures marching around the sites trying to scavenge what ever they could get. They are called 'Plumed Whistling Ducks' and they really do whistle. They kind of march in step and then they all freeze in unison if anything unusual happens. Well that's about it for Mackay. It is a great gateway to see lots of other places around but apart from the Marina, there really is not that much in the town itself, even so we like it here.. It is a friendly town and it has a great Irish Pub. We learned the art of making Guinness while partaking one rainy lunchtime |
What a great Pub..
Cape Hillsborough
We arrived at The Hillsborough Nature Resort around Midday. It was a very lush very private kind of place with lots of palms and vegetation between the sites on the top 2 levels where were situated. We had planned to go beach side decided to against it when we got there as it was very windy down there and also very dusty with minimal wind break. What a very nice place this is...
This is where we are on our GPS
There are several walking tracks of historical interest within the Nature Reserve..
We Opted for the easiest one which is called the Diversity Boardwalk The track meanders through the Melaleuca woodland, a Mangrove woodland open Eucalyptus forest and vine thicket..There is a series of trail markers that highlight the importance of the diverse woodlands and factors that make them what they are today. The boardwalk was set about 1 metre above the ground the tide was out when we were there but at high tide you get the full beauty of the mangroves and the water beneath them. |
The humidity makes a perfect environment for these wild mushrooms to thrive.
The Hidden Valley
The second trail walk was to the Hidden Valley. The Yuibera Trail... so called because of the Yuibera People that used to abide there.
Mr & Mrs 'Hidden Valley 2012
When we eventually found the secret valley it was a truly enchanting place.
It felt as if we had stepped out of a scene from the movie
"Lost World"
It felt as if we had stepped out of a scene from the movie
"Lost World"
The boardwalk track is promoted as 'The Hidden Valley'.
When we eventually came across it, it was a truly enchanting place.
It felt as if we had stepped out of a scene from the movie
"Lost World"
These photos don't really do it justice but it is a beautiful,quite, serene and spiritual place
When we eventually came across it, it was a truly enchanting place.
It felt as if we had stepped out of a scene from the movie
"Lost World"
These photos don't really do it justice but it is a beautiful,quite, serene and spiritual place
StAndrews Point Track
Now this trail walk was the hardest of them all.. It was steep and consisted mainly of stone steps that just kept going on up up up. I had been well that morning.. I had a bout of vertigo but decided to go any way which was a mistake. About three quarters the way up I had to quit the rest of the climb and slowly make my way back down..
Now this trail walk was the hardest of them all.. It was steep and consisted mainly of stone steps that just kept going on up up up. I had been well that morning.. I had a bout of vertigo but decided to go any way which was a mistake. About three quarters the way up I had to quit the rest of the climb and slowly make my way back down..Greg kept on going like the trooper that he is. I had to have the photos for my blog so he was under pressure to deliver the goods .
Me chickening out...
Greg did a great job. It was very very steep and he just kept on going up defeating the elements to bring home the photos
It looks as if the summit is nigh. Was it worth it I wonder?.
ABSOLUTELY!
Wish I had been there
Wish I had been there
The flash didn't bother him at all.He was such a cutie pie
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It was that time again and we had to start packing up ready to continue north to Airly Beach. That night the weather turned on us and it rained very heavily.. It is a pain in the neck when that happens because it delays our departing time in the morning as we like to wait for the canvas to dry off a bit if we can. We had drinks with our neighbours and while we were sitting under the awning we had an uninvited surprise cheeky little visitor. He must have smelled the nuts and as bold as brass he joined us as if he were the family pet. He didn't get any nuts though. It is bad to feed them. He stayed a while and then realised that he wasn't going to get anything so he moved on to greener pastures.
We just try to bear in mind that we are in THEIR territory and respect their space. |
Not wishing to be out done this tiny fingernail size butterfly got in on the action |
We managed to get away about midday. We made a dash for once the water had stopped dripping from the canvas and before is began to rain again. The weather is beginning to drive us nuts. This is not supposed to happen. We hear all these good reports about Airlie Beach so lets hope the weather there is at least dry
Airlie Beach
It was easy to find a Park to stay at. We could take our pick. There were no Beachfront Tourist Parks as we had hoped so we drove out of town about 5 minutes up the hill to a place called The Flame Tree Tourist Park. It seemed like quite a nice place and the price was right.
We still prefer the open spaces of National Parks and free camps but we have no option here in Airlie Beach. The Park also doubles as a booking agent for the Whitsunday tours so the first thing we was make a booking for the first available on the Catamaran, 'Whitsunday Blue'.
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The earliest was Wednesday 23rd May. So we grabbed it. We had the last 2 places.
That gave us a whole week to explore Airlie and catch up with some business matters in the process.
That gave us a whole week to explore Airlie and catch up with some business matters in the process.
Airlie Beach's original name was the town of "Airlie". It received this name in 1935 when the Proserpine town Chairman requested a name for a new subdivision on the coast. Airlie has been named after Scottish Parish of Airlie,.. The township of Airlie Beach is North facing which means that the town has protection from the prevailing South East Winds. Therefore the township itself is usually balmy and tropical and Airlie Beach is known as the heart of the Great Barrier Reef .
Airlie Beach's main swimming beach is Airlie Beach and is on about the same latitude as Tahiti, Hawaii and the Bahamas which means that you should be able to swim all year round. The water is supposed to never drop below 20c..
I wish to challenge that claim..
Airlie Beach's main swimming beach is Airlie Beach and is on about the same latitude as Tahiti, Hawaii and the Bahamas which means that you should be able to swim all year round. The water is supposed to never drop below 20c..
I wish to challenge that claim..
First Night at Airlie
Our first night at Flame tree Park was highlighted with a couple of unexpected surprises. This Beach Stone Curlew paid us a visit
We had never seen one before and looked it up in the book to see what it was.
Its call is like a crying baby that reaches a crescendo before it peters out. It is spine chilling if you don't know what it is. It's a nocturnal creature that has huge Owl like yellow eyes. |
Just as we were going to call it a night we had another cheeky little visitor. An injured Possum with a baby in the pouch. Camp management request that guests do not feed the Possums anything but fruit. I gave her pieces of banana. She was obviously hungry and came right up to us and took straight from my hand.
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She was very calm and gentle and managed to down the the whole big banana before wandering of into the night. I have no doubt that we haven't seen the last of this mother and child.
The injuries are bit of a worry but what can we do? It is best to let nature take its course. Nature usually takes care of it self |
Our first day it rained most of the day off and on so it was not a good day to take photos but it brightened up on day 2 so we took a drive around the Airlie Beach area and took a few photos from different directions. It is a beautiful harbour with stunningly blue sea.
Another picturesque port town close to Airlie is Shutehaven
The day we visited Shutehaven, It was 26c, the sun was shining. and a light breeze made for a very pleasant atmosphere. |
Wow!...
This place really takes your breath away with it beautiful scenic views and turquoise blue water. Shutehaven is nestled on the busy Shute Harbour. Part of the Whitsundays region, and is the main departure point to the Whitsunday Islands and surrounding marine parks. In 1959, when Shute Harbour was adopted as a main tourist terminal, the Government of the day decided on the name ‘Town of Shutehaven’ There are water Taxis here and a claim to fame for the area is that the harbour itself is now home to the largest sea plane airbase in the southern hemisphere, as well as laying claim to being the second busiest harbour in Australia. How come that no one has ever heard of this place?
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I guess we will have to find other avenues of entertainment in he meantime
Well it is next day now and tomorrow is Cruise Day and I didn't find anything I liked at the markets so I will just have to make do with what I already have, It is a very casual affair so I'm not worried. Just disappointed as I really wanted to buy something new
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Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach
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23rd May
Whitsunday Blue Cruise
The Harbour at Airlie from our mooring
On the first night we sailed around to a calm bay on Hook Island called Nara Inlet . It was glorious for a while and we laid on nets at the front of the boat and looked at the stars as we moored. It was dark by the time dropped anchor. We ate dinner outside on the back deck which was a lovely BBQ'd fish meal cooked by our skipper Tanya. It was great fun getting to know our fellow passengers We slept like logs that night.. it was magical watching the reflection of the moon on the water casting images through the port hole onto the walls of our cabin. |
We set off from the Marina on time and met our fellow cruisers on the jetty. A mixed batch of very nice people. Our crew appeared to meet us and take us to our boat. Tanya (Our Skipper) and Rachael (Our Hosty)
The skies were very grey and the forecast was not for fine weather so we just crossed our fingers and hoped for the best along with the rest of our travel companions. As we made our way out of the harbour the view was quite stunning. We saw Airlie from a different view point. There is a lot of development here, mainly tourist orientated. Many of the businesses are having trouble making ends meet and sadly resorts are going broke because of the world financial crisis. Tourists from Japan and China etc can no longer afford to spend lots of money here and what was once a thriving industry dependent on those countries is struggling to survive. View through our port hole in the light of the morning.
A great way to wake up |
Even though it was chilly and overcast the view made up for it. It was spectacular ...a quiet eeriness hung over the bay.. the only sound was that of water rippling
Cataran Bay
It was still very overcast and had started to rain. Bummer!!..
But we decided that we were going to get wet either way
so we went in the water for a snorkel.
Because of the rain it wasn't as clear as we had hoped but it was still a great experience.
It was still very overcast and had started to rain. Bummer!!..
But we decided that we were going to get wet either way
so we went in the water for a snorkel.
Because of the rain it wasn't as clear as we had hoped but it was still a great experience.
No one told us there were Walruses in the Whitsundays
I thoroughly enjoyed the mornings snorkeling and managed to get lots of photos with our new waterproof camera. The fish were awesome and the colours in the coral were like I had never seen before. Fish are very quick and they seem to know when you want to take their photo and decide to start swimming.I'm sure that once we get used to the camera the photos will gradually get better .
White Haven Beach and Tongue Bay
Tongue Bay
Tongue bay looks out across the inlet to White haven Beach. The sand bars here are totally unspoiled and the water is crystal clear. There are many Manta Rays in the shallow waters. The sun had just come out and we had a couple of hours there to relax and soak some rays.
Once we were on the Island we climbed up a stone stairway through the rainforest up to a look out.The views from the the lookout were unbelievable. I just wish that I had remembered to bring by binoculars on the trip. Now this is what we ordered.
Sunshine, blue skies and a desert island on which to enjoy it. |
This Beach Hunk kept smiling at me so I took his photo.
It started to cloud over after a while and storms were forecast so we were picked up by dingy and taken back to the boat so that we could make our way back to Nara Inlet to spend the night. On board we had the pleasure of the company of 8 very nice people,2 of whom were very good female crew.
We all got along very well together despite our diverse back grounds.
We all got along very well together despite our diverse back grounds.
Jaimie and Julie..
A very 'Green' couple with so many stories to tell. They have traveled the world and experienced more than the average person ever would. He is a retired banker and she had a career in nursing. They made the decision to hit the road and enjoy life before it is too late.. Gordon and Marc.
What a great fun couple they are. Gordon works as an IT manager at Duneden University in New Zealand. Marc runs his own Optometrist business, also in Duneden |
John and Kim...
John doesn't like having his photo taken as you can see but gave in under pressure for this one John manages a group of houses that accommodate severely disabled people and Kim is a deputy head mistress at a high school in Canberra. Rachael and Tanya..
Tanya was our skipper and very good she was too. Rachael was our hostess and she really looked after us well. She cooked great meals under the most cramped of circumstances and through it all kept smiling.Both Rachael an Tanya always had smiles on their faces... |
Some of us took a a turn at steering the boat under supervision from Tanya of course. Jaimie took it all very seriously and mastered the helm like a real pro.
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Marc was also very diligent and never took his eyes off the horizon
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I think Gordon secretly wanted to take the wheel but Mark wasn't going to relinquish control without a fight so Gordon was relegated to feeding the ropes that control the sails. They made a good team, it was hard work and they were still smiling at the end of it. |
Poor Julie suffered a little with the motion sickness.
She clung to the pole most of way when the sea was rough Inside was a good place for some..At least it was warm in there.
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We were very very cold and had not taken long pants along..
We naively assumed that we wouldn't need them. .. I preferred to be out side when ever possible.. I can sit at a table at home.
I may never get this chance again |
Evening time was fun.. It was too wet to be outside to eat so we squashed around the table inside and got cosey. The water was very calm at the inlet but it rained heavily and blustered around. We were given the bad news by our skipper that the weather was going get worse and she would do her best to find some good anchoring spots for us to have a dive the following day.
Once in the water it is quite warm but even so John was the only person to venture out at this stop. He wasn't out there for long as the water had been churned up and he couldn't really see anything which made the rest of us all feel better about chickening out so once back on the boat we up anchored and set sail for Manta Ray bay to see what the coral held for us there. >>>>>>
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The weather forecast was right. The boat rocked an rolled all night. I quite enjoyed the motion and found it relaxing and good to sleep to. After breakfast we headed out to another island dropped anchor at a place called Saba Bay. It was extremely choppy and we were all feeling quite cold from the strong winds. In other words we decided to give it amiss at this bay. All except for one that is. |
Success!!!
The bay was calm and we had one happy skipper and eight happy cruisers.
The bay was calm and we had one happy skipper and eight happy cruisers.
The water was quite warm and the wetsuit certainly helped.. I took some more photos here.. remember...I'm still learning
There's more folks...
It is so hard to pick out the odd ones to post so I took the easy way out and picked out the odd ones NOT to post.. WE went for a second snorkel after lunch to a place called Luncheon Bay so there were more beautiful things to see.
We had stopped worrying about the cold by now. The worst part was putting on our wet cold wet wetsuits.after we had warmed up
Check out this little Mamma.. It is one of the strangest fish I have ever seen.
I didn't think the photo would come out as the fish is translucent and blends in with the background
I didn't think the photo would come out as the fish is translucent and blends in with the background
Heads up... There's our boat and it's time to leave this heavenly place.. After a hot drink and a snack we will be sailing around to Stone-havens to anchor for the night.As we left the shelter of Luncheon Bay we bore the full blast of the wind and rain again. The seas were huge with massive waves rolling us around all over l the place again. So much for 'Sunny Queensland' my dream of sipping champagne on deck were blown right out of the water (Scuze the pun)
Stone havens was a very popular place. There were several boats out there seeking shelter from the storm. A party boat moored next to us and thought.. Uh Oh!!... but they must have all been sea sick as they went very quiet very early. It was actually our boat that made most of the noise... Laughing out loud and talking until quite late. Hopefully we will be able to go back on the reef one more time before we set sail back to Airlie. That would have to be the quickest 3 days ever.
Stone havens was a very popular place. There were several boats out there seeking shelter from the storm. A party boat moored next to us and thought.. Uh Oh!!... but they must have all been sea sick as they went very quiet very early. It was actually our boat that made most of the noise... Laughing out loud and talking until quite late. Hopefully we will be able to go back on the reef one more time before we set sail back to Airlie. That would have to be the quickest 3 days ever.
There was no way that I was going to attempt going in the water on the last morning. It takes a lot to keep me out of the water but it was soooooooooooooooo cold because of the high winds again that 4 of us gave it a miss. Four brave ones went in and said it was totally amazing on the reef with turtles and all sorts. Then of course we regretted not making the effort. That was OUR loss..
We cuddled up on he back of the boat instead trying to keep warm.
It had been a fantastic experience that I would not have traded for the world...storms, rain and all. It was all part of the overall adventure. Thanks Tanya and Rachel.. You did a great job
We cuddled up on he back of the boat instead trying to keep warm.
It had been a fantastic experience that I would not have traded for the world...storms, rain and all. It was all part of the overall adventure. Thanks Tanya and Rachel.. You did a great job
Sailing into Airlie harbour marked the end of the trip and for us it was back to camp to wash and dry our clothes before we move on the next day.
We were exhausted after all the adrenalin rushes over the last few days so had a few wines and were just about to call it a day when our little visitor came back to see us and the baby in the pouch had noticeably grown. Her injury's had also improved a lot so we gave her a banana which she politely devoured before wandering off into the night. For us it was bedtime and we crashed into our lovely comfy bed wondering what the next place would be like.
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Airlie harbour look very dark and overcast
Morning came too soon and we woke to blue skies and sunshine... NOW it decided to shine... where was it for the last 3 days....
As we looked up at the sunshine we spotted something large in one of the trees and here's what it was.
What a beauty.. |
A Magnificent adult Great-Billed Heron
On our way up to Cairns we are stopping off at the Mission Beach area and hopefully catch up with some friends we met at Repton NSW last year.There are some places to see around that way so we decided to stay for about a week.
We did not stop at Mission Beach even though it is a very beautiful spot but stayed at another place called Kurrimine at the caravan park . Gordon and Jo were already there. This is a very nice place and the beach is very flat with a fast tide. There is a reef that gets exposed when the tide goes out and people can walk out to it and explore the rock pools.. The reef is regenerating as it was taken out by Cyclone Yasi a couple of year ago.
We took a walk out there with a group from our park. We were waist deep in water and walked out for about a Kilometre to reach the exposed reef. It was OK to start off with but walking back was a killer for the unfit..We thought we would have sore legs as it was hurting at the time but as soon as we stepped out of the water it disappeared and we didn't suffer at all. Much of the Coral has dies but here and there are signs of new growth.
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Greg picked up a crown-of-thorns starfish which are considered one of the serious problems facing the coral reef ecosystem because they feed on corals, removing the polyps and leaving the corals bleached and dead.
This is an out of focus Sea Anemone..
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Kurrimine has a very quaint old Church that I just had to get pics of. The whole town, as small as it is, is very well cared for with lush lawns and beautiful gardens everywhere.
Innisfail
The town of Innisfail also has some very nice old retro buildings and is fast becoming the service centre for the region between Townsville and Cairns and even has a Macdonalds..The region, first settled more than 110 years ago, developed as a sugar growing and timber producing area. Sugar is still the main base, with total sugar revenue having a gross value in excess of $87 million, and total cane revenue valued at $55 million
The region, first settled more than 110 years ago, developed as a sugar growing and timber producing area. Sugar is still the economic base, with total sugar revenue having a gross value in excess of $87 million, and total cane revenue valued at $55 million.
Our International deep water port at Mourilyan Harbour caters for cargo and freight ships and is being used for a sugar handling facility, with very large ships being able to enter.
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Old water tank that is now home to a communications tower
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Mission Beach
We did drive out and visit Mission Bay. What a nice beach and foreshore. There is not much there but it would spoil it if they did commercialise it. It is fine just the way it is. It is dangerous to swim in the ocean this time of year on this coast because of the stingers and not to forget the odd Croc lurking in the shallows.
That is a real shame as the water is so inviting. It was cold and rainy the day we went so we probably wouldn't have gone swimming anyway.
The first white settlers here were into growing coffee, mangoes, coconuts and bananas, as well as a timber trade.
The area got its name from an Aboriginal mission which was set up at South Mission Beach by the Queensland government in 1914 to house the remainder of the local indigenous population.
A major cyclone swept the area in 1918, bringing with it tidal waves and floods. The mission was destroyed and lives were lost.
This area of coastline is commonly known as 'The Cassowary Coast'
The Casssowary is as tall as a person, and only found in the tropical rainforests of north-east Queensland, Papua New Guinea and some surrounding islands.Like the emu and ostrich, the southern cassowary is a large flightless bird with unusual feathers and other features that distinguish it from all other birds. It has glossy black plumage, the adult southern cassowary has a tall, brown (helmet) on top of its head, a vivid blue and purple neck, long drooping red wattles and amber eyes. Nobody seems to know what the purpose of the helmet is, but it may indicate dominance and age, as it continues to grow throughout life.
The Casssowary is as tall as a person, and only found in the tropical rainforests of north-east Queensland, Papua New Guinea and some surrounding islands.Like the emu and ostrich, the southern cassowary is a large flightless bird with unusual feathers and other features that distinguish it from all other birds. It has glossy black plumage, the adult southern cassowary has a tall, brown (helmet) on top of its head, a vivid blue and purple neck, long drooping red wattles and amber eyes. Nobody seems to know what the purpose of the helmet is, but it may indicate dominance and age, as it continues to grow throughout life.
Cassowary habitat in the Wet Tropics has since been greatly reduced by land clearing, Approximately 89% of their remaining essential habitat in the Wet Tropics is within protected areas Cassowaries require a high variation of fruiting trees to provide a year-round supply of fleshy fruits. Although occurring mainly in rainforest, they also use woodlands, swamps, mangroves and even beaches as intermittent food sources. Places with a mix of these things are preferred by cassowaries that live on the coast. |
Well we went to Mission Beach not only to see the beach and surrounds but to spot a Cassowary. We assured that we would see one but warned not to get too close and they can be very aggressive and have been known to rip open a car door with its claws as if a can opener had been used. So all we got were the statues that surrounded the Discovery Centre just by the beach.
We were unlucky and only saw fakes. But they are along the coast to the cape so we hope to spot a real one on our way up..
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There are so many nice places to visit around Kurrimine and ETTY Beach is one of them
Etty Bay is the surfing beach for the town of Innisfail. It is about 15 km by road from Innisfail with the final kilometre climbing 100 m over the coastal Moresby Range before descending into the picturesque little bay.This is the view we got when rounding a bend on our way down to the beach. It was stunning
MURDERING POINT WINERY
We had been told by several people to visit the Murdering Point Winery and try some of the fruit wines they have on offer...so we did....and we tried them....and they were really good. They have a different kind of taste to what you would expect but certainly very moreish and made only from fresh fruits.
Of course we bought some even though we made a pact before we went in not to get suckered in to any special deals no matter if they offered us the moon and the stars.
They didn't have to go to all that trouble, they offered us one free bottle if we bought six and we fell for it.. I think they saw us coming.
We had been told by several people to visit the Murdering Point Winery and try some of the fruit wines they have on offer...so we did....and we tried them....and they were really good. They have a different kind of taste to what you would expect but certainly very moreish and made only from fresh fruits.
Of course we bought some even though we made a pact before we went in not to get suckered in to any special deals no matter if they offered us the moon and the stars.
They didn't have to go to all that trouble, they offered us one free bottle if we bought six and we fell for it.. I think they saw us coming.
The name Murdering Point originates from a shipwreck that occurred on inshore King Reef only a few hundred metres from the coast of Kurrimine Beach in 1878. King Reef was the undoing of a number of sailing ships that foolishly tried to use a difficult passage through the reef to the beach.
The gardens there are beautiful and in pristine condition. It was worth the visit just to see the gardens..
The gardens there are beautiful and in pristine condition. It was worth the visit just to see the gardens..
Silkwood
Silkwood is a drive through town...with a couple of unique buildings to look at. We saw our first sugar train in action. The sugar train transports the cut sugar canes along to the Mills to be processed. It is almost time to harvest. I could not believe how much sugar cane is grown here. You can drive for hours and see the sugar cane fields one after the other for as far as the eye can see. It is amazing.
This person wanted to build something different and succeeded. I am not quite sure how to describe it but it's name is 'Silkwood Castle'
This is my favourite....
It has to be the smallest bank in the whole of Australia and on that note I think I have just about covered Silkwood.
Time to move on....Next Stop... Paronella Park, about an hours drive away.
Gotta say goodbye to our friends first though
This was going to be quite an experience to remember.
It has to be the smallest bank in the whole of Australia and on that note I think I have just about covered Silkwood.
Time to move on....Next Stop... Paronella Park, about an hours drive away.
Gotta say goodbye to our friends first though
This was going to be quite an experience to remember.
These cute little things are our friends Gordon and Jo's kids. They are so cute and so loving.
I could happily have taken Solomon home with me. What a placid kind little pooch he is. .
I could happily have taken Solomon home with me. What a placid kind little pooch he is. .
Bye Solly!!
Paronella Park
Paronella Park
After a peaceful drive through the lush greenery of the far North we didn't really know what to expect. So many people had told us to visit this place but no one could tell us what it was all about. Now I know why it is so hard to explain. We were about to embark on an amazing journey of discovery.Everyone has a dream but not everyone's dreams are fulfilled.He was inspired by childhood memories Jose Paronella's dream was to build a castle. He chose a special part of Australia and created Paronella Park.
He began to build it in 1930 and opened it to the public in 1935.
He began to build it in 1930 and opened it to the public in 1935.
Jose had originally come to Australia to make his fortune so that he could marry his sweetheart Matilda, back in Spain and keep her in a fine style. Unfortunately, after 11 years of hard toil he returned to Spain with bags full of money only to find that Matilda had got tired of waiting and married some one else. No one to come home empty he proposed to Matilda's sister Margarita instead and she did of course accept knowing that Jose was now a very wealthy man. He was a money making machine. He was not afraid of rolling up his sleeves and getting on with the job. Everything he touched just seemed to turn to gold. He even sold the mushrooms that grew on the walls of the buildings. He was a clever man.
They returned to Australia a year later and Jose built a 47 step staircase to transport his building materials between the levels.
Queensland first Hydro Electric Power system was built by Jose Paronella. He was unable to get electricity to his land so as Jose would he decided to make his own. He had all the water he needed. Once it was completed he was able to invite the public in to the grounds.
He also built a cafe, a museum and tennis courts. The landscaping was out of this world.
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Jose then set about building an entertainment area. A movie theatre transformed on weekends into a grand ballroom that hosted live bands and a massive ball of mirrors to reflect the mood of the time.. Little remains of it now because of the fire. But if you stand in the middle of the floor it is easy to imagine what it would have been like.Magical.
There are finger prints still in the foundations as a testament to Jose's enduring hard work. Saturday night was party night and the Paronellas would invite everyone over to watch movies in the theatre. They built Tennis courts from termite mounds and turret topped changing rooms for the guests that wanted to swim in the lagoon.
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7000 trees were planted around their home and castle, including an avenue of Kaurus trees that now tower over the park
For ever the romantic he set about building a lovers lane. We walked along it and it certainly was very romantic
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The lake has so many fish that it is easy to touch them if you want to. I chose not to. The Carp Eels would come out of the water to onto the rocks to feed. There were also Black Bream, Turtles and many more... They are so cute.
Black Bream feeding frenzy
Carp eels coming ashore for food
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Along with the turtles there Black Bream that just massed in a feeding frenzy. We were given fish pellets to stir them up and what they left behind got washed on to rocks at the water's edge and the Carp eels would swim up onto the rocks to get at the fragments of food. It was fascinating to watch |
The enormity of the dream and task that lay ahead of Jose drove him to work harder and harder. There were unexpected setbacks but each time nature dealt them a bad hand they sat up and repaired the damage. Jose dies in 1946 and after many years in the hands of Jose's children the park was sold in 1976... 3 years before the fire that saw it close. It remained untouched until 1993 when it was discovered by the current Mark and Judy Evans who took on the task of reviving Jose's dream with his appreciation of beauty and hospitality. The Hydro Electric power system was restored to good working order and the cafe was expanded out onto a huge deck. The park is totally self sufficient now and actually sells power back to the electric company. Thus making even more money.. |
Greg with Mark, the owner being shown the workings of the underground Hydro Turbine |
There is so much more to the story but I will just leave you with some photos of the Park to give you an indication of the ambiance and the beauty. I would describe it as Mythical and Mystical. The kind of place where you expect fairy's to be dancing across the Lilly Pads. Check out the rest of the photos..I am sure you will know what I mean.
And some flowers that we spotted along the walks
Paronella Park is a joy to visit. So much to see and not enough time to see it in. The owners have that covered by giving everyone to buys a ticket a 2 year pass that they can use as often as they like. If we should be back this way we will certainly use ours..
Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thoroughly enjoyed it.
CAIRNS-6th June
View from our camper at Crystal Cascades Tourist Park at Cairns
Our next stop was Cairns and we had no choice but to stay in a Big 4 Tourist Park. National park camping would have been our preference but they were not conveniently located for what we wanted to do..The park is called Crystal Cascades and is very nice . So well organised that we were all lined up like children's building blocks. There was even a member of staff there when you backed into your allocated site who instructed you when to turn to make sure you were in line. It put me in mind of a song recorded by Pete Seeger in 1963 called 'Little Boxes'.
Little Boxes on the Hillside Little boxes made of ticky tacky Little boxes on the hillside, Little boxes all the same, There's a pink one and a green one And a blue one and a yellow one And they're all made out of ticky tacky And they all look just the same. ***
We did as we were told. Didn't want to risk getting thrown into solitary
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As long as you remembered your line number you couldn't get lost
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Almost immediately we were greeted by a family of Stone Curlews. They're common in Queensland but I have never seen one in WA. They are strange birds. Freezing motionless, they then move slowly forward in a stalking fashion.
We had also seen them at Flamingo Tourist Park, Airlie |
<< The movie shows one of the Stone Curlews in 'Stalking Mode' It is a special treat when you see a whole bunch of them stalking in unison.' They always make for great entertainment |
Kuranda Scenic Railway
One of the reasons we wanted to stay at Crystal Cascades is because it is close to Freshwater railway station that is a main stop for the scenic railway up to Kuranda which is also an access point to the Sky Rail Cable Car system.
In 1886 the most ambitious railway project ever undertaken commenced. Its purpose was to replace the primitive supply routes for the gold that was being mined and after a very wet season in 1882 the supply routes were cut off and families and townships were without the necessities to sustain life.1500 men with shovels, pics and dynamite moved almost 3 million cubic metres of soil and rocks.Today the railway is Heritage Listed and a National Engineering Landmark and is used by visitors and locals alike. The old authentic timber carriages still run and the feeling you get meandering through the breathtaking scenery is indescribable.
In 1886 the most ambitious railway project ever undertaken commenced. Its purpose was to replace the primitive supply routes for the gold that was being mined and after a very wet season in 1882 the supply routes were cut off and families and townships were without the necessities to sustain life.1500 men with shovels, pics and dynamite moved almost 3 million cubic metres of soil and rocks.Today the railway is Heritage Listed and a National Engineering Landmark and is used by visitors and locals alike. The old authentic timber carriages still run and the feeling you get meandering through the breathtaking scenery is indescribable.
A view from our carriage window
There is also a small at the end of the platform museum that houses quite a few artifacts from earlier days.
Here we go
The views from the carriage window were to die for. We had a few stops along the way so that we could stretch our legs and get the benefits from the scenery. It was a lovely warm day which made it perfect.
We splurged and treated our selves to Gold Class for the journey. We had lounge seating... Drinks and food were served by a steward. It was special as we had our own private area to relax in..
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We disembarked at Kuranda Historical Village.This is also the place to pick up the Skyway Cable Car to take us back down the mountain where we would catch the shuttle bus back to Freshwater Station and our parked car.
The scenic railway was a slow climb of 1000feet right to the top of the mountain.. It was a lovely experience and indeed a very romantic one.. |
KURANDA
Kuranda buses are a real feature. They beat the boring old buses in the city
Kuranda is picturesque mountain retreat and is surrounded by World Heritage Rainforest.
It was originally a centre for those seeking an alternative lifestyle in the late 60’s. Historic Buildings from the villages past have now become upmarket restaurants, cafes and bars. It is still laid back, but with a style and sophistication all of its own ..I just loved it and could easily settle in a place of its kind.
The shops and markets are exotic and very different from the run of the mill market. We saw genuine handcrafted goods and Aboriginal artifacts. I had a Chinese neck massage while I was there.. It was really good.
It was originally a centre for those seeking an alternative lifestyle in the late 60’s. Historic Buildings from the villages past have now become upmarket restaurants, cafes and bars. It is still laid back, but with a style and sophistication all of its own ..I just loved it and could easily settle in a place of its kind.
The shops and markets are exotic and very different from the run of the mill market. We saw genuine handcrafted goods and Aboriginal artifacts. I had a Chinese neck massage while I was there.. It was really good.
This amazing video is of a steel sculpture . One of many designs made here . Mind blowing!!
We took the time to visit one of Kuranda’s nature based attractions, which include koalas, butterflies, native and exotic birds, kangaroos and reptiles.
We decided to do the Birds. There were too many places and we didn't have time to fit all of them in. Sorry to say we took photos of some of these beautiful creatures and some of them are below. More birds.. I just love em.
We decided to do the Birds. There were too many places and we didn't have time to fit all of them in. Sorry to say we took photos of some of these beautiful creatures and some of them are below. More birds.. I just love em.
Kuranda is the traditional home of the Djabugay People who call the town Ngunbay. Place of the Platypus)
The first European settlers came here in 1885. The first wave of settlement was based on timber felling, agriculture and grazing. That has given way to it becoming a tourist destination (The health Resort of North Queensland).
The Lifestyle here prompted a Hippy Invasion in the 1960's thus providing a base for the vibrant arts and crafts.
The first European settlers came here in 1885. The first wave of settlement was based on timber felling, agriculture and grazing. That has given way to it becoming a tourist destination (The health Resort of North Queensland).
The Lifestyle here prompted a Hippy Invasion in the 1960's thus providing a base for the vibrant arts and crafts.
This is an Aboriginal Mural painted on the side of a building. As we approached the work of art it was very impressive...
After having a relaxed look around Kuranda and spot of lunch, we made our way up to the Sky Rail platform and climbed aboard our car and started out on our journey, 7.5kms down hill to the base.
After having a relaxed look around Kuranda and spot of lunch, we made our way up to the Sky Rail platform and climbed aboard our car and started out on our journey, 7.5kms down hill to the base.
SKY RAIL
Sky Rail was the first Tourist attraction in the world to be EarthCheck certified and has since achieved
EarthCheck Platinum status.
EarthCheck Platinum status.
Australia's tropical rainforests are an area of exceptional natural beauty and recognised as one of the most ecologically natural areas in the world, dating back 120Million years. They are the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforests on earth being home to the Dinosaurs as well as several of the first flowering plant species.
Having once occupied almost all of Australia, today only covers .026% of the landmass.
Having once occupied almost all of Australia, today only covers .026% of the landmass.
Having taken a pic from the outside looking in we noticed that our carriage number was '29'.. This just happens to be the date of both of our birthdays and the number that always comes up for us. eg: Table numbers, room numbers, seat numbers, booking numbers,team member numbers,layby numbers, raffle ticket numbers, etc etc etc....29 has it every time
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While in Cairns we wanted see the Botanic Gardens as well.. What can I say apart from the fact that it is a beautiful place to visit especially if the sun is shining which it did for us. The photos do not do justice to the real thing but for us it will remain a pleasant memory of a lovely day.
Any there were many many more that we wont be putting on here.
Super Spoof in Action
Some how on our meanderings, Greg and I got separated. I decided to follow the golden rule and stay put rather than both of us walking round in circles... eventually he would have to come back around this way and sure enough he did.
I watched with amusement as he walked up and down looking for me but even though I was not far away but he could not see me. I called out but he could not hear me either. Round and round he went searching in vain
I must have been in his blind spot or something.
Eventually he did hear me call and turned around and took this photo. I don't think that Sherlock Holmes has nothing to worry about.
I watched with amusement as he walked up and down looking for me but even though I was not far away but he could not see me. I called out but he could not hear me either. Round and round he went searching in vain
I must have been in his blind spot or something.
Eventually he did hear me call and turned around and took this photo. I don't think that Sherlock Holmes has nothing to worry about.
We wanted to get to the 'Tanks' Museum and cultural centre before it closed and took a very pretty walk along some tracks in the park to find it.
Cairns has done something unique with some old water storage tanks. Instead of demolishing them or leaving them to decay they have recycled them and converted them into a Cultural Centre, Art Galleries and a Theatre.Many well known entertainers come here to perform to small intimate audiences. What a great idea.
We were not able to take photos in the Art Gallery and there was some renovation going on in the Cultural Centre, Well done Cairns...This has to be one of the best recycling ideas I have seen. Recycled pottery was also used to build walls at one of the entrances.
We were not able to take photos in the Art Gallery and there was some renovation going on in the Cultural Centre, Well done Cairns...This has to be one of the best recycling ideas I have seen. Recycled pottery was also used to build walls at one of the entrances.
What a great concept. Instead of demolishing they recycled and it's all part of the Botanic Garden complex.
Cairns City
We are not city people but we thought while we are here we should take a look at it ad look at it is all we did. Just another city with lots of fancy resorts along the waters edge.
The waters edge is very nice and the harbour is picturesque. Cafes and Restaurants everywhere.
Tide was right out so we didn't get to see it at its best. I imagine that when the tide is in it would be beautiful but sadly once again it is not safe to swim here. There are crocodiles and as far as I am concerned they take priority..
The waters edge is very nice and the harbour is picturesque. Cafes and Restaurants everywhere.
Tide was right out so we didn't get to see it at its best. I imagine that when the tide is in it would be beautiful but sadly once again it is not safe to swim here. There are crocodiles and as far as I am concerned they take priority..
I had a special moment of my own when I got to meet Stan Walker who was our last Australian Idol winner. He was doing and outdoor concert on the foreshore that we unfortunately couldn't make. He was doing a sound check before the gig. He is a really well mannered nice guy and to make it even better.. I voted for him... That boy sure can sing
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Greg???... Barefoot in the grass???..
You don't see that very often. |
That just about covers Cairns . It was a great place to visit but if I never come here again I wont be heartbroken. The Sky Rail, Scenic Railway, Kuranda and Botanic Gardens made it worthwhile. We both found the city itself to be too built up, commercialised and extremely busy.. This isn't even the busy season so I dread to think what happens when it is.
Next stop is Port Douglas, a place that I have always wanted to see.
Next stop is Port Douglas, a place that I have always wanted to see.
This lazy old Crocodile was posing sun baking just for us..
Port Douglas will be our last city for a while. From here on in we will be on dirt roads and making our way through potholes and dust up to the tip of Australia, Cape York and over to Thursday Island. We stopped here as it is close to the Daintree and lots of salt water crocs. This is Tropical North West Queensland..palm trees everywhere.
We Big 4'd it again for convenience. A nice grassy park with fantastic views and lots of palm trees.
We Big 4'd it again for convenience. A nice grassy park with fantastic views and lots of palm trees.
What to do first?.. the Daintree River Cruise or the Daintree Rain forest and Discovery Centre. Seeing as the next day looked as if would be fine we opted for the Croc. spotting River Trip which consisted of two different trips in the one $25 ticket. The second trip can be taken any time in the next 2 years. We did them both in the one day.
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As I said in the first paragraph, this is Tropical North Queensland. The locals have never known weather like this. It was so cold when the sun went down. We couldn't believe it. We only kept out one warm jumper. The rest of our winter woollies including sweatpants are in deep storage inside the camper..If this is to become the norm we will have to get them out again.
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Next we have the Crocodile Portfolio. They are pretty hard to photograph but we managed to get a few. The River cruises were very enjoyable and we learned a lot about this area and the wildlife that inhabit it.
There is also an abundant amount of bird life here We saw tree snakes and bats and many other types of wildlife..
The Daintree has become one of our top spots. It has blown us away with its beauty. Some of the things we have have seen cannot be put into words.
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As a side trip to the tour we took a diversion and took a ride through some Mangrove creeks. The water is so calm it looks like glass. What a peaceful place. No wonder it has become sacred.
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The tour company we went with is a ' No Frills' setup. It's not fancy but it's cheap as they say. I am in no doubt that we saw just the same as others that would be paying 3 times a much. We were there to see the Daintree River and all it has to offer. Morning tea was not one of our priorities this time around. We couldn't see the point in paying to see the Daintree River and wasting half the time under a shady tree having pre prepared morning or afternoon tea. As it was was great, and we get to go again if we so desire.
In the Northern Territory they are plentiful and can be found in almost all coastal areas, rivers and creeks and have been seen crossing the Stuart highway and some poor lost baby crocodiles were found in the car park of a Darwin shopping centre.
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We learned that when a Croc attacks its jaws are so strong that it can totally flatten a human being across the torso. Sending half the innards up and out through the mouth and the other half down and out through the back passage.
Despite this enormous strength biting down its ability to actually open its mouth is very weak. It is, by all accounts easy to hold a crocodiles mouth shut.Even a rubber band will do the trick The problems start after he has managed to open his mouth, so the trick is to make sure he doesn't. It wasn't long ago that crocodiles in Australia were endangered.They were hard to find 40-50 years ago and hunted for their skins. But they a protected species and have been for some decades.Consequently their numbers have increased dramatically. No-one is allowed to harm a crocodile in Australia, Huge fines and jail terms apply to anyone found harming one.
It has been suggested that they be culled to reduce the numbers a the crocodile has now quite a common sight on our northern waterways. Just because they are big doesn't mean they are slow. They are very fast in attack mode and will wait for the perfect moment to attack. They have also been known to stalk campsites at night time looking for food. |
We learned much about Crocodiles on the boat and I'm sure we haven't seen our last one. The hard part is that all the waterways up here look so inviting, especially when it is hot and humid but you can't swim in any of them.
I'll leave it to the Crocs . It is their territory.
Sadly if a person does do something stupid like knowingly going into Croc infested waters, and they are attacked, it is the Croc that gets the blame and they go and shoot the poor thing. Something about that doesn't sound quite right to me
I'll leave it to the Crocs . It is their territory.
Sadly if a person does do something stupid like knowingly going into Croc infested waters, and they are attacked, it is the Croc that gets the blame and they go and shoot the poor thing. Something about that doesn't sound quite right to me
Next Day
Discovery Centre Day
In order to get to the Discovery Centre and the depth of the Rain Forest we had to take a small wooden ferry that was hand operated and looked like it could sink at any moment. The guy operating the ferry was one of the happiest people we ave met. He could not get the smile off is face. This man just loves his job. He didn't seem at all worried about it sinking. I was more concerned about the Crocs lurking underneath if we went under. Greg was making last minute alterations to his will.. that's a bit of a worry.
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It was towed back and forth by cable and winch. It was like something out of the ark.. But it does the job so why would they change it?. |
We were on the flat to start off with and there were sugar cane fields as far as the eye could see.
The sugar is ready to harvest when the the tips turn to seed. Sugar is big industry here and the great majority of the farmers are planting it. Either that or Bananas. You'd think Bananas would be cheap here as there is a plantation on almost every corner. ..Not so... They are the same price as everywhere else, probably a little fresher. |
After the flat came the hills.
A steep narrow winding road through overhanging trees that formed a tunnel of bright green lush greenery.The drive up the hill to the Centre was full of spectacular views. We wound our way up the side of the mountain and thinking it couldn't get any better and then another bend and another awesome view.
The Daintree Rain Forest cover an area of around 12000 Square Kilometres from the Daintree River north, down to Cooktown south and west to the Great Divide. It is the largest block of Rainforest in Australia and is one of the few places in the world where the Rain Forest meets the reef. To top that it is also the oldest intact lowland Rain Forest in the world.The Amazon is 7 Million years old and the Daintree is 200 Million years old.
Many Millions of years ago Australia was warm and humid and conditions were ideal for the beginnings of Rain Forests that were also found in the Central Australia but as the climate has become more arid there were few and fewer places for rainforests to survive.The Daintree has survived here because the climate is unchanged and the conditions are ideal.
The Discovery Centre brings all these things to the public's attention . There are a series of raised boardwalks that meander through the 'Jungle' and up to a lookout the has great views over the treetops.The photos will tell a story
Many Millions of years ago Australia was warm and humid and conditions were ideal for the beginnings of Rain Forests that were also found in the Central Australia but as the climate has become more arid there were few and fewer places for rainforests to survive.The Daintree has survived here because the climate is unchanged and the conditions are ideal.
The Discovery Centre brings all these things to the public's attention . There are a series of raised boardwalks that meander through the 'Jungle' and up to a lookout the has great views over the treetops.The photos will tell a story
We really didn't take many photos in there as there were a lot of shadows and the images were unclear. I found these few signs interesting though. There were dozens of different signs. The whole experience was an adrenalin rush and if we ever return I would like to revisit this place. Maybe next time we will see more birds..
Port Douglas to Cooktown
What a beautiful scenic drive it is. One of the most interesting things we saw on the way was a place called
"Black Mountain"
"Black Mountain"
The viewing point for Black Mountain a roadside lookout a distance away. The Indigenous Kuku Yalanji people do not permit anyone to set foot upon it. It really is a very unusual site and hard to imagine how it could have evolved this way.
To be honest, Black Mountain reminded me of when I was a child and there were huge piles of coal around the mines.
You don't see that so much these days.
You don't see that so much these days.
Well after a lovely drive we eventually arrived at our destination. We opted to stay out side Cooktown in an eco camp.
It wasn't far to drive into town and much nicer to be out in the quite of the woods.
It wasn't far to drive into town and much nicer to be out in the quite of the woods.
Endeavor River Escape
The Station is a horse stud and primarily breeds Clydesdale Horses hat are shown and perform at Equestrian events and Rodeos. The owners invite Guests to come along at feeding time and take part. The more hands the better is the motto.
Some Years ago they decided to turn some of the beautiful property into an eco natural spacious camping area. There are no powered sites and all pumps and hot water are solar driven. Everything around the place is solar driven. We are OK as we have a solar panel that we put up on such occasions. We had a huge area to ourselves. Everyone did. There are only 16 sites on the whole property and it felt like we were all alone. It was cold at night time especially after being warm in front of the fire and then having to leave it and climb into a cold bed. Extra blankets were called for
Some Years ago they decided to turn some of the beautiful property into an eco natural spacious camping area. There are no powered sites and all pumps and hot water are solar driven. Everything around the place is solar driven. We are OK as we have a solar panel that we put up on such occasions. We had a huge area to ourselves. Everyone did. There are only 16 sites on the whole property and it felt like we were all alone. It was cold at night time especially after being warm in front of the fire and then having to leave it and climb into a cold bed. Extra blankets were called for
We were warned right from the start that there are crocodiles in the river and definitely not to swim there. I didn't even venture down to the waters edge just in case.....you never know what could be lurking there..
Never mind about the Crocodiles.... no one bothered to warn us about the spiders... They were bigger than the Crocodiles and hung out around the toilet block.
Never mind about the Crocodiles.... no one bothered to warn us about the spiders... They were bigger than the Crocodiles and hung out around the toilet block.
The camp is situated right on the banks of the Endeavor River. It is a tranquil place with plenty of room to spread out .
We just love our campfires. We even carry our own wood these days as there never seems to be any left when we want some. Plus the fact that you get ripped off if you try and buy some. Something like $13 - $15 for a small bag that doesn't even last one evening.
It is a delightful environment in which nature has been left to develop naturally as much as is humanly possible.
It was great to have our own huge area and be able to light a campfire and not have to worry about the smoke annoying those strange people that don't like camp fires. From here we were able to drive into Cooktown quite easily. We had to go and renew our prescriptions and this was the most convenient place to stop.
It was great to have our own huge area and be able to light a campfire and not have to worry about the smoke annoying those strange people that don't like camp fires. From here we were able to drive into Cooktown quite easily. We had to go and renew our prescriptions and this was the most convenient place to stop.
Cook Town
In 1770 Captain James Cook ran his ship 'The Endeavor' ran aground on the Great Barrier Reef and made a big hole in the hull. All the crew and stores were offloaded to free the Endeavor from he reef. He sailed his damaged ship to the closest river and safe waters. He named the river the Endeavor River after the ship that was saved by it.
Another large granite rock on the foreshore bears a plaque which reads
."This marks the spot where Captain James Cook beached his "HM Bark Endeavor: in the year 1770"
."This marks the spot where Captain James Cook beached his "HM Bark Endeavor: in the year 1770"
This is the back drop for the Cooktown Bicentennial Park and memorial Park. What a pretty place it is
The Museum was a great educational experience. We took a stroll through history and thoroughly enjoyed it. I certainly would not have like to living here when Cooktown was a thriving Gold Rush Town. Chinese flocked here when Gold was discovered at Palmer river and took on any task they could and opened businesses to cater for the people flooding in.
They were very clever business people and knew how to make the most of every opportunity.
The Museum itself is the beautifully restored Sisters of Mercy Convent which dates back to 1889
They were very clever business people and knew how to make the most of every opportunity.
The Museum itself is the beautifully restored Sisters of Mercy Convent which dates back to 1889
It was kind of hard to take photos within the museum because of the reflections from the display cabinets .
But all I can say is.. I am very happy to be living in this century. You would not have wanted to get sick and go into hospital in those days. Even a visit to the Dentist looked gruesome. No Thanks |
I really enjoyed Cooktown because of its history and its quaintness. After all it was named after the great Captain James Cook who discovered it. We sat overlooking the harbour trying to imagine what it must have been like for the men aboard The Endeavor the day the limped into this place and what they would think of it now with all us travelers wanting to to take a look at the place where it all started. Cook Town has remained very much as original as possible and has managed to keep the old building in very good repair... Well Done Cook Town... We had a great visit...
I have used up all my space on this page so our drive up to Cape York will be continued on the next page..
Titled... Up to the Tip.. Just lick on the tab to continue.
Titled... Up to the Tip.. Just lick on the tab to continue.