Airlie Beach
Since be bought the camper trailer almost two and a half years ago, I have been very discipline writing this blog. Every night I find time to write about the day, what we did how we enjoyed it, the weather, what to look forward to. In all the trips I can't remember a night where I didn't write. Then I post the blog the day after we leave the camp. This trip has been no exception. Here at Airlie Beach I have written every night and right now it is Monday 20 July 2015.
Today we had a " technical" difficulty and everything I have written since leaving Townsville a week ago, has been deleted and unretrievable. So now I'm going to look at the pictures we've taken and try to rewrite the last week. Here we go.
14 July 2015
We left Townsville mid morning as we only had 2 hours to drive the Airlie Beach. We drove through to Bowen for a play at a park and lunch. The park was right next to a lake and was quite beautiful. In fact the nicest park of what we saw in Bowen. We couldn't find a cafe for lunch so went to Woolies got some rolls, baked beans and a salad then kept driving.
Just out of Bowen we stopped at "The Big Mango" for a very short time, just enough for a couple of pictures then on to Airlie Beach.
We arrived right on 2:00. We wandered the park and had a look at the facilities before setting up.
I went and got food for a BBQ dinner and Cate took Ethan and Aisha to the playground and jumping pillow. Dinner then the bedtime routine.
15 July 2015
We decided to head into Airlie Beach on Wednesday morning. We found the logo on pool with a playground and walked around the town. The kids had a ball playing on the playground and wading in the lagoon. We didn't take their swimming gear so we they couldn't go right in.
We bought Aisha a pair of crocs from one of the local shops and spent some time looking for a pair of sandals for Ethan because he has grown our of his current ones, to no avail.
We had lunch in the main street and Cate book a trip to Hamilton Island for later in the week.
The afternoon was spent swimming in the pool at the caravan park. There are 2 water slides and the pool is heated. The weather was perfect, not a cloud in the sky and not a breath of wind. After the pool we went to the jumping pillow again before another BBQ dinner before bed.
16 July 2015
We woke to another beautiful day. Perfect warm weather with no wind. We decided to ride our bikes into Airlie Beach, a 6.1km ride one way.
Before we left I found out that there is a ride along a footpath to a boardwalk which makes its way into the town centre.
Aisha has never ridden more than 1km before so I was wondering how she would go. Ethan is terrific on his bike and besides intersections is very independent. There was one small section, perhaps 200m that we had to ride on the road but up to the boardwalk was a great ride.
Just as we got to the boardwalk Aisha had a stack when she ran into the side of Cate. Although Aisha rides very well, she is still to master breaking and she is too short to touch the ground when sitting therefore prefers not to stop. I ride directly behind her and grab her when she need to stop. On that occasion I was a little slow getting to her.
The boardwalk began as a concrete path. There were several steep downhill sections and Aisha was a little apprehensive on the decent but handle them all really well.
The concrete turned into a real boardwalk. The boardwalk had balustrades and seemed to narrow the path considerably. Aisha has a bell on he bike and certainly let everyone know she was coming. Incredibly some people gave her little room to pass even after they turned to see a little dot riding behind them.
We arrived at Abell Marina and decided to stop for a snack and a coffee, tea and chocolate milkshake. It was beautiful sitting beside the marina watching the yachts and soaking in the sun.
We walked down the marina and had a close look at the boats, really I have no idea where people get the money for the over indulgent toys they have. It was an up close and personal view of how the rich and famous live.
Leaving the marina we continued the ride to Airlie Beach. We arrived at the same place we had been the day before and the kids wanted to play on the playground. They did that for a while then went for a swim in the lagoon. I had carried the backpack with their swimming gear.
We walked our bikes through the main street then had and ice cream before exploring more of Airlie Beach on the bikes.
We made our way back to the camper and rode all the way back with only one short stop for a water. We rode at least 7 km back non stop, I pushed Aisha up a few hills but she handled the bike really well. I was incredibly impressed with Ethan. He was extremely supportive of Aisha, encouraging her every time we came to hill, up or down.
The kids did really well as did Cate it was truly a brilliant ride.
Dinner was a "make your own burger" put on by the Big 4. Must say all profits go to a local disabled child.
Just before that we had a game of giant chess, Cate and Ethan Vs Aisha and I, great fun.
The dinner ran a little late but we had a ball. We were placed on a table with another couple who were spending 4 months travelling with their son the same age as Ethan. We had a great chat the kids had a ball and the food was great.
17 July 2015
Cate had wanted to do a horse trail ride on this holiday. Friday was her day. On Wednesday we book for Friday 11:00.
Being able to take our time in the morning, Ethan and Aisha were looking for a particular toy they had bought with them. I unlocked the car for them and they searched. While in Cairns, we were running out of room in the fridge and I had a brainwave to put fruit on ice in a little travel esky to keep cool. Unfortunately I had forgotten it was in the car and the kids spilt the now water with rotten fruit all over the back seat of the car. I really can't describe the smell. Ethan and Aisha put it perfectly when they came and told Cate and I that "it smells like vomit", it surely does.
Note to self - remember the fruit on ice before it becomes putrid.
We tried to clean up the mess, quickly then headed to the trail ride for Cate. It was a 1 on 1 ride, before her ride she organised for the kids to have walk around on the horse. It was amazing to see Aisha then Ethan riding a horse and I can't remember them riding before. Their faces were terrific while riding. I took Ethan and Aisha to the jumping pillow and the playground while Cate was riding. Cate had a good time riding but I was hoping it would be as amazing for her as the dive off Green Island was for me. Unfortunately it wasn't.
The ride was for an hour and after that we had lunch then back to Airlie Beach. (We are staying about 7 km from Airlie Beach central). On Wednesday I found an aqua park which is effectively giant inflatable sections in the ocean. It was cool and the water was cold, Cate and I were not to keen to go in the water but I'm very glad I decided to have a go and take the kids on the playground. We were 20 meters off the beach and had a ball playing on the inflatables. Aisha was very tentative as they moved and were very slippery.
There was a part where Ethan sat on the end of a pillow and I jumped on the opposite end and he went flying into the air and splashed into the water. He really enjoyed that and did it several times. We played in the Aqua park for nearly an hour before the kids (and I) got cold. I'm so glad I braved the cold and got wet that day, a lasting memory.
We got back, warmed up had dinner and then the bedtime routine.
18 July 2015
As mentioned Cate booked a trip to Hamilton Island and we left on Saturday morning, early. We got on the first ferry, we woke the kids at 6:00 and fed them when we got to the terminal. On the ferry they were still in their PJs. The sun was rising as we left the dock.
The wind was blowing quite heavily and the ferry ride was very rough. Compared to the ride to Green Island, Ethan did very well. Cate spent most of the trip staring at the horizon, and Aisha was sick just as we got to the wind protection of the island 5 minutes before we arrived. We got the shuttle straight to our accommodation.
One of the first thing I noticed upon arrival was the number of golf buggies on the island. They can be rented while on the island so that is what we decided to do. walking towards the rental place I noticed several people staring up towards the high rise building. I was totally surprised to see a monkey walking along the balustrade 5 or 6 floors up.
We then hire a golf buggy and decided to have a look at the entire island and then decide what to do. We drove the island in around 2 hours stopping for a bit to eat at the bakery.
We saw a type of shanty town on the south side of the island and were confused as to what it could be. We also saw a beautiful chapel, a terrific look out and the main shopping centre of the island.
We ate an ice cream at the main pool and had lunch at the restaurant. Then the kids spent a couple of hours swimming in the pool while we waited for our room to be ready.
Then I had a chat with Allen, a guy who's kids Ethan and Aisha had met days earlier at our caravan park. He told me that the filming of "Pirated of the Caribbean" was taking place just of the south side of the island and that explained the monkey we saw and the shanty town.
The room was ready then we went to the main pool where Cate had a cocktail the kids played in the playground again, a terrific afternoon.
Then back to the room for some warm cloths and headed to the lookout we found earlier in the day for the sunset. There were a heap of people at the lookout and it was a brilliant sunset.
Dinner at the restaurant near the pool and back to bed.
19 July 2015
I decided to get up before first light for the sunrise, at the lookout. It was very cold and I stayed there for around 45 minutes a little disappointed that it was overcast. Then off to breakfast.
We had a buffet, perfect for us. Ethan enjoyed fruit while Aisha had a hot breakfast. Cate and I and the kids ate until our stomachs could take no more.
Back to our room we packed for the day then headed to the beach. It was a little overcast and we played in the sand, made sand castles and destroyed then, brilliant beach activities.
Cate was very keen for a bushwalk so we headed to the Scenic Trail and began walking. It was very steep and we walked for quite a while before Turing around, we must have walked several kilometres in total.
We played in the playground for the rest rest of the day before having a picture with a koala. Then on the ferry back to Airlie Beach.
The trip was much calmer than the trip over.
We dinner at a local bar and grill for pizza and curry. Ethan and Aisha really enjoyed the music and danced on the stage entertaining the tourists and locals, the kids had a ball.
20 July 2015
We now get to today. This morning we had nothing planned. The kids played in the camper Cate and I spent much of the day reading. The car still smelt terrible so I spent much of the day drying to remove the small and small nice.
Another of those days where the batteries are recharged. Art from the "technical" difficulty with the blog a relaxing day.
Apart from today the weather has been brilliant. Tonight it's raining and was quite windy all day. It was also overcast and not much sun.
21 July 2015
Today was another of those recharge the battery days. There was nothing planned again. The kids played in the camper and on the jumping pillow and playground the entire day.
I did go for a drive to Shute Harbour. It is a very different place. There are several buildings there and not one of them was open. There was a van selling coffee parked parked under the verandah of the main complex and with the exception of a group of 40 odd going an a charter cruise, there were very few people around. Most of the looked homeless or were workers on boats or the marina.
The weather was the worst it has been since we left Yarragon. It was quite cool and drizzling for the majority of the day.
Tonight is the last night at Airlie Beach tomorrow we head to our last stop, Mackay.
Wednesday, 22 July 2015
Wednesday, 15 July 2015
Townsville
11 July 2015
I made a terrific prediction last night, there would be no rain when packing up this morning. Considering the rain last night and over the last couple of days it was more of a hope than anything else. Well it came to fruition. The rain stopped around 4:00 this morning and although most things were wet it wasn't raining.
We were packed and ready to leave just after 8:30 but decided to hang around and play in the same and paddle in the water considering it was the first time at Etty Bay that going to the beach was worth it. We left just after 9:00.
Our first stop was at Mission Bay. By the time we got there the weather had cleared perfectly. There was no breeze and the sun was beaming. The beach was perfectly white and the waves gently lapped at the shore. Walking down to the beach there was a huge red flag in the centre of the beach. I wasn't sure it that indicated the beach was closed or not. It didn't really matter if it was closed, we didn't have bathers or towels handy so we were on lay paddling and walking.
There were very few people on the beach and with the tide out the water was around 50 meters from the coconut trees. There was a couple 100 meters or so looking back and staring in our direction. We were the only ones on the beach and they seemed to be staring for quite some time, eventually I looked around and saw a guy standing next to the flag with a parachute. The red flag was a signal for the sky divers landing point. Looking up there were 15 or so tandem sky divers all landing on the beach about 20 meters from where we were standing. They came in silently and with my broad brim hat I had no idea they were coming. It was a fantastic display. One of the guys grabbed the flag and they were all gone in no time at all.
We walked along the beach for a while and decided to head back to the car. The beach was beautiful and went for as far as the eye could see. It was the first read time we have spent at the beach since leaving Yarragon.
We found a little cafe type bar for lunch. It was terrific, very child friendly. Ethan played pool for the first time in his life, we listened to the music and took in the hippy ambiance. We all had a terrific time.
We left Mission Bay and had a very quick stop in Ingham, toilet and a play in the park before arriving in Townsville.
The Walkabout Big 4 is having major road works happening right out in front of it and the GPS was having a difficult time getting us here. We drove past it several times before locating the entrance. I started setting up, Cate took the kids to the park and then we went into The Strand for dinner. It was a perfect night to be walking along the beach. Several life guards and parks officers were putting up signs telling of a recent crocodile sighting and closing the beaches. With the way they were working I'd suggest the sighting happened less than half an hour before we got there.
We found and ice cream place for desert then back to the camper.
Again it was very difficult to find the place with the road works happening but I'm sure I'll be right from now on.
It's interesting to note that Townsville is an considerably drier than Cairns, and even Mission Bay. Everything here is much browner and appears like it did when I was driving up through the centre of Queensland. It seems less humid and there are definitely less mozzies than there was in Etty Bay. I look forward to the next few days here.
12 July 2015
Cate said this evening that today was her Groundhog Day, again. It was a wonderful day. Throughout the night it was very windy, in fact I thought the awning would be flapping around, I woke more than several times due to the noise, but it wasn't. After a quick breakfast we headed to The Strand and spent all day there.
By the time we got there, around 9:00, the wind had died completely. We walked along The Strand and found the local swimming hole / pool with a playground where Ethan and Aisha ran around and had a really ball.
We played on the swings and paddled in the pool. Cate and I got a coffee / soy hot chocolate then wandered up to Kissing Point.
Before we went the Kissing Point we had lunch at a local cafe. We shared a fruit platter, french toast and a crasaunt. The bay in the back ground and wind non existent and the sun shining proved to be a perfect back drop.
We walked up the steps to Kissing Point and when we got there I spotted what I think is a crocodile. I did take a picture but it was so a long way away and when I zoomed in its difficult to see exactly what type of animal it is. I followed it for a while but it disappeared and reappeared and I only got 1 shot. I did tell the local life guards when we got down from Kissing Point. They were very interested in seeing the photo I'd taken. There had been a croc around the area for a while evidently and I was the first to take a photo of it.
Cate, Ethan and Aisha had started walking to the other end of The Strand while I spoke to the life guards. I eventually caught up with them and we had a very pleasant walk along the fore shore. We made it to an ice creamery and ate ice cream.
We had the most please walk along The Strand from one end to the other and finally arrived at a water park for the kids. Cate and I had a chat with the life guard, ironically from Leongatha, before hearing back to the car. We found and other park for the kids and I went and got the car.
We decided to go to the NQ aquarium and had a tour of the turtle hospital. It was great to see Ethan and Aisha intrigued with the turtles and we had a little time to have a look around. We mush have really rushed through the aquarium, we did it in about an hour.
Leaving the aquarium we went back to the camper for dinner and the normal routine.
It really was a wonderful day and besides the wind in the morning the weather was perfect.
Tonight the wind has sprung up again but the temperature is still so much better than it would be at home.
13 July 2015
Today we went to Magnetic Island. It was a perfect day and one of the best we have had since leaving Yarragon. Up early we left the camper around 8:30 for the ferry to the Island leaving the mainland at 9:30. It's a short 20 minute ferry ride to Magnetic, Ethan was a little nervous due to the ferry ride to Green Island but there were no problems with the trip. It was very windy again last night and still windy when the ferry left but it was relatively calm.
Arriving at Nelly Bay we hired a "Topless" car, it was pink and the kids were very excited to be travelling in it. Cafe wanted to go horse riding and there is a ranch near Horseshoe Bay so we headed there. Unfortunately no one was there and they weren't doing their afternoon ride so we went to the beach.
Arriving at Horseshoe Bay we went for lunch. A beautiful cafe on the beach for salad and nachos. Nachos are the kids (me included) new favourite meal. The food was terrific and the sun was awesome. We wandered to the beach and spent the next several hours playing in the sand the water and the kids were collecting "treasures". They found found some dead coral and other shells, even several hermit crabs in the shells to have a look at.
The day was truly perfect. The wind was non existent, the sun was hot, the water was warm, perfect.
We left Horseshoe Bay and went to Arcadia Beach which again was perfect. The beach was narrow but picture perfect. There were swings and a park for Ethan and Aisha to play in. Cate went and stood in the water for a while soaking in the ambiance. We pushed the kids on the swings for a while. Cate and Aisha had a moment today when Aisha wanted to push Cate on the swing. It was terrific to watch them interact and laugh while Aisha was pushing Cate, it was beautiful.
We then went to Picnic Bay and walked along the peer. Cate was nervous with the kids running along the peer, it was low tide and it water was a long way below the peer and one side had no hand rails.
Deciding to leave the island at 4:30 we went back to Nelly Bay and boarded the ferry for Townsville.
We ate dinner at the Seaview Hotel, calamari and chips and pizza for dinner. It was the first time I can remember taking the kids to a pub. A couple of guys were playing pool and the kids wanted to watch so Cate put them on a bar stool and they watched them play. They were clapping the good shots and I explained the rules to them. After that Aisha had a dance to the music that was playing. We left the pub and went to an ice creamery for dessert.
Back at the camper for a bath then bed. It was an amazing day and we had a terrific time.
Today school went back and it's the first time in my life I've been on holidays when school is in. I can definitely see a difference in the people who are on holidays. There were very few kids on Magnetic Island today, there were a few but no where near as many as the last couple of weeks. There are no kids in the caravan park tonight, every one here has no kids or are at retirement age.
There is a cold snap in Victoria at the moment but the weather here is amazing. Hot during the day and very mild at night. The perfect weather for sleeping.
Tomorrow we head to Airlie Beach, it's a shame to not spend more time here but I'm sure the next stop will be terrific.
A foot night tonight. As mentioned previously, most of the people I have have spoken to have been to Cape York (affectionately called "The Tip") well we made it to the tip today!
I made a terrific prediction last night, there would be no rain when packing up this morning. Considering the rain last night and over the last couple of days it was more of a hope than anything else. Well it came to fruition. The rain stopped around 4:00 this morning and although most things were wet it wasn't raining.
We were packed and ready to leave just after 8:30 but decided to hang around and play in the same and paddle in the water considering it was the first time at Etty Bay that going to the beach was worth it. We left just after 9:00.
Our first stop was at Mission Bay. By the time we got there the weather had cleared perfectly. There was no breeze and the sun was beaming. The beach was perfectly white and the waves gently lapped at the shore. Walking down to the beach there was a huge red flag in the centre of the beach. I wasn't sure it that indicated the beach was closed or not. It didn't really matter if it was closed, we didn't have bathers or towels handy so we were on lay paddling and walking.
There were very few people on the beach and with the tide out the water was around 50 meters from the coconut trees. There was a couple 100 meters or so looking back and staring in our direction. We were the only ones on the beach and they seemed to be staring for quite some time, eventually I looked around and saw a guy standing next to the flag with a parachute. The red flag was a signal for the sky divers landing point. Looking up there were 15 or so tandem sky divers all landing on the beach about 20 meters from where we were standing. They came in silently and with my broad brim hat I had no idea they were coming. It was a fantastic display. One of the guys grabbed the flag and they were all gone in no time at all.
We walked along the beach for a while and decided to head back to the car. The beach was beautiful and went for as far as the eye could see. It was the first read time we have spent at the beach since leaving Yarragon.
We found a little cafe type bar for lunch. It was terrific, very child friendly. Ethan played pool for the first time in his life, we listened to the music and took in the hippy ambiance. We all had a terrific time.
We left Mission Bay and had a very quick stop in Ingham, toilet and a play in the park before arriving in Townsville.
The Walkabout Big 4 is having major road works happening right out in front of it and the GPS was having a difficult time getting us here. We drove past it several times before locating the entrance. I started setting up, Cate took the kids to the park and then we went into The Strand for dinner. It was a perfect night to be walking along the beach. Several life guards and parks officers were putting up signs telling of a recent crocodile sighting and closing the beaches. With the way they were working I'd suggest the sighting happened less than half an hour before we got there.
We found and ice cream place for desert then back to the camper.
Again it was very difficult to find the place with the road works happening but I'm sure I'll be right from now on.
It's interesting to note that Townsville is an considerably drier than Cairns, and even Mission Bay. Everything here is much browner and appears like it did when I was driving up through the centre of Queensland. It seems less humid and there are definitely less mozzies than there was in Etty Bay. I look forward to the next few days here.
12 July 2015
Cate said this evening that today was her Groundhog Day, again. It was a wonderful day. Throughout the night it was very windy, in fact I thought the awning would be flapping around, I woke more than several times due to the noise, but it wasn't. After a quick breakfast we headed to The Strand and spent all day there.
By the time we got there, around 9:00, the wind had died completely. We walked along The Strand and found the local swimming hole / pool with a playground where Ethan and Aisha ran around and had a really ball.
We played on the swings and paddled in the pool. Cate and I got a coffee / soy hot chocolate then wandered up to Kissing Point.
Before we went the Kissing Point we had lunch at a local cafe. We shared a fruit platter, french toast and a crasaunt. The bay in the back ground and wind non existent and the sun shining proved to be a perfect back drop.
We walked up the steps to Kissing Point and when we got there I spotted what I think is a crocodile. I did take a picture but it was so a long way away and when I zoomed in its difficult to see exactly what type of animal it is. I followed it for a while but it disappeared and reappeared and I only got 1 shot. I did tell the local life guards when we got down from Kissing Point. They were very interested in seeing the photo I'd taken. There had been a croc around the area for a while evidently and I was the first to take a photo of it.
Cate, Ethan and Aisha had started walking to the other end of The Strand while I spoke to the life guards. I eventually caught up with them and we had a very pleasant walk along the fore shore. We made it to an ice creamery and ate ice cream.
We had the most please walk along The Strand from one end to the other and finally arrived at a water park for the kids. Cate and I had a chat with the life guard, ironically from Leongatha, before hearing back to the car. We found and other park for the kids and I went and got the car.
We decided to go to the NQ aquarium and had a tour of the turtle hospital. It was great to see Ethan and Aisha intrigued with the turtles and we had a little time to have a look around. We mush have really rushed through the aquarium, we did it in about an hour.
Leaving the aquarium we went back to the camper for dinner and the normal routine.
It really was a wonderful day and besides the wind in the morning the weather was perfect.
Tonight the wind has sprung up again but the temperature is still so much better than it would be at home.
13 July 2015
Today we went to Magnetic Island. It was a perfect day and one of the best we have had since leaving Yarragon. Up early we left the camper around 8:30 for the ferry to the Island leaving the mainland at 9:30. It's a short 20 minute ferry ride to Magnetic, Ethan was a little nervous due to the ferry ride to Green Island but there were no problems with the trip. It was very windy again last night and still windy when the ferry left but it was relatively calm.
Arriving at Nelly Bay we hired a "Topless" car, it was pink and the kids were very excited to be travelling in it. Cafe wanted to go horse riding and there is a ranch near Horseshoe Bay so we headed there. Unfortunately no one was there and they weren't doing their afternoon ride so we went to the beach.
Arriving at Horseshoe Bay we went for lunch. A beautiful cafe on the beach for salad and nachos. Nachos are the kids (me included) new favourite meal. The food was terrific and the sun was awesome. We wandered to the beach and spent the next several hours playing in the sand the water and the kids were collecting "treasures". They found found some dead coral and other shells, even several hermit crabs in the shells to have a look at.
The day was truly perfect. The wind was non existent, the sun was hot, the water was warm, perfect.
We left Horseshoe Bay and went to Arcadia Beach which again was perfect. The beach was narrow but picture perfect. There were swings and a park for Ethan and Aisha to play in. Cate went and stood in the water for a while soaking in the ambiance. We pushed the kids on the swings for a while. Cate and Aisha had a moment today when Aisha wanted to push Cate on the swing. It was terrific to watch them interact and laugh while Aisha was pushing Cate, it was beautiful.
We then went to Picnic Bay and walked along the peer. Cate was nervous with the kids running along the peer, it was low tide and it water was a long way below the peer and one side had no hand rails.
Deciding to leave the island at 4:30 we went back to Nelly Bay and boarded the ferry for Townsville.
We ate dinner at the Seaview Hotel, calamari and chips and pizza for dinner. It was the first time I can remember taking the kids to a pub. A couple of guys were playing pool and the kids wanted to watch so Cate put them on a bar stool and they watched them play. They were clapping the good shots and I explained the rules to them. After that Aisha had a dance to the music that was playing. We left the pub and went to an ice creamery for dessert.
Back at the camper for a bath then bed. It was an amazing day and we had a terrific time.
Today school went back and it's the first time in my life I've been on holidays when school is in. I can definitely see a difference in the people who are on holidays. There were very few kids on Magnetic Island today, there were a few but no where near as many as the last couple of weeks. There are no kids in the caravan park tonight, every one here has no kids or are at retirement age.
There is a cold snap in Victoria at the moment but the weather here is amazing. Hot during the day and very mild at night. The perfect weather for sleeping.
Tomorrow we head to Airlie Beach, it's a shame to not spend more time here but I'm sure the next stop will be terrific.
A foot night tonight. As mentioned previously, most of the people I have have spoken to have been to Cape York (affectionately called "The Tip") well we made it to the tip today!
Sunday, 12 July 2015
Etty Bay
9 July 2015
This morning was pack up day. We woke early and began packing bags and sleeping bags then went to breakfast by the pool, pancakes. The Coconut Resort really do things well. The was a large number of people wanting pancakes, yet the wait was not really that long. There were 3 guys attending 3 large BBQs, 3 people at the door of the pool gate writing names and where people live on stick name tags and another 2 guys mixing the pancake batter with cordless drills. They have been doing pancake breakfasts for a long time and they certainly have the procedure down pat.
The weather turned just after breaky and there were a few light showers as we were packing the camper. Around 10:30 we said good bye to the Coconut Resort and Cairns and headed the short 100 km drive to Etty Bay.
The drive was quite pleasant we didn't have that far to go so time was never a factor. We arrived in Etty Bay around noon, half set up camp then headed for some water falls. The beach here is terrific and we are only 40-50 meters from the beach, we considered staying here for the afternoon but it really wasn't beach weather. It wasn't cold but it had been raining on and off all the way here and the rain was threatening. We changed our minds several times as to exactly where we were going and then stumbled across the Mamu Tropical Skywalk so we stopped and walked the 2.5 kms through and across some of the most beautiful National park. There is a Cantilever which is 20 meters high, an elevated walkway 350 m long and just has high as the Cantilever and a tower which is 37 m high. The views across the tree tops is wonderful and the serenity was only broken by 2 kids that wanted to follow us around all day. We really did have a ball.
Upon arriving back at our camp site we discovered a cassowary roaming through the park and it wandered right beside our site. It was amazing to see a wild, endangered creature just looking around. They are really huge and it just disappeared into the bush. The rest of the day was the standard getting dinner and ready for bed.
Around 5:30 the rain became quite heavy and consistent. Still it's not cold, just a little annoying.
Interestingly the sound of the freeway near the Coconut Resort resembled the sound of the waves at the beach, and now that we are so close to the beach I'm amazed how close the two sounds are.
This is a very different park from the Coconut, there are few facilities but the beach is terrific, we now hope for beach weather while we are here.
10 July 2015
The rain was persistent and consistent throughout the night last night and continued through the morning. We had planned to go to Parenella Park today and we headed off as soon as we had had breakfast.
The people of Queensland have certainly been friendly. We were one of the first people at the park and we were treated by a lady named Jo who came out to the car park with umbrellas for us so we didn't have to walk in the rain. She pointed us in the right direction. We found out that we should have got a pass for the Skywalk and the Parenella Park together, still they didn't charge for the kids today and gave Cate and I a discount so I think we were better off.
We decided not to go on the 9:30 tour and join to 10:00 one instead. This gave us time to relax enjoy a hot chocolate and a coffee and have a look at the shop. Jo was also willing to have a good chat with Cate and the kids, talking mostly about Jo's experiences with the local crocs.
Parenella park was terrific. The tour went for around an hour and we were told the history of the place and how it had developed and changed over the last century. After the tour we had the opportunity to wander the park ourselves. The highlight for the kids was feeding the fish and the turtles. We were given some fish food at the beginning of the tour to feed them when we got to them.
There were 2 spectacular weaker falls in the park and some terrific buildings. We walked the many paths surrounded by some amazing trees and some well directed views of the waterfall. We enjoyed the park for a couple of hours before heading to the Mena Creek pub for lunch. The pub had a room with some toys and a TV, ironically Play School was on followed by some of the kids favourite ABC programs. We ate till we could eat no more then headed to the sugar museum near Etty Bay.
Aisha had fallen asleep so Cate waited with her while Ethan and I went in for a look. It was quite educational on the process of producing sugar and the local / Australian Cain industry. The museum is only small and we weren't too long, then back to the camper.
Throughout the day the rain has been on and off. At the camper Cate, Ethan and Aisha played some games in the camper while I sat under the awning and read. It was a very relaxing afternoon, it was a shame it was no where near beach weather, I think Etty Bay would be terrific if we could utilise the beach, it's very close and very clean and not very busy.
We had toasty sandwiches for dinner and decided to go back to Parenella Park for the night tour, we had enjoyed the tour during the night and they were heavily emphasising the night tour. It was included in the price of our daytime admission. We were a little disappointed with the night tour. There were some flood lights of the 2 waterfalls, the main waterfall was well lit up but I was really expecting more, the "grand finale" was little more than a poorly lit castle with some mood music.
It was just after 7:00 when we left there so straight back to Etty Bay for bed.
One thing Cate and I discussed today was how Ethan and Aisha have developed over the last 6-12 months. Ethan has really taken an interest in using the GoPro and the still camera and he is quite good at using both. Aisha is a lot more independent and wants to walk more than the last time we camped.
It's a shame we haven't been able to have a day at the beach here but the 2 tours we did were well worth it. Tomorrow we pack for Townsville. I'm really hoping the rain stays away while we are packing in the morning.
This morning was pack up day. We woke early and began packing bags and sleeping bags then went to breakfast by the pool, pancakes. The Coconut Resort really do things well. The was a large number of people wanting pancakes, yet the wait was not really that long. There were 3 guys attending 3 large BBQs, 3 people at the door of the pool gate writing names and where people live on stick name tags and another 2 guys mixing the pancake batter with cordless drills. They have been doing pancake breakfasts for a long time and they certainly have the procedure down pat.
The weather turned just after breaky and there were a few light showers as we were packing the camper. Around 10:30 we said good bye to the Coconut Resort and Cairns and headed the short 100 km drive to Etty Bay.
The drive was quite pleasant we didn't have that far to go so time was never a factor. We arrived in Etty Bay around noon, half set up camp then headed for some water falls. The beach here is terrific and we are only 40-50 meters from the beach, we considered staying here for the afternoon but it really wasn't beach weather. It wasn't cold but it had been raining on and off all the way here and the rain was threatening. We changed our minds several times as to exactly where we were going and then stumbled across the Mamu Tropical Skywalk so we stopped and walked the 2.5 kms through and across some of the most beautiful National park. There is a Cantilever which is 20 meters high, an elevated walkway 350 m long and just has high as the Cantilever and a tower which is 37 m high. The views across the tree tops is wonderful and the serenity was only broken by 2 kids that wanted to follow us around all day. We really did have a ball.
Upon arriving back at our camp site we discovered a cassowary roaming through the park and it wandered right beside our site. It was amazing to see a wild, endangered creature just looking around. They are really huge and it just disappeared into the bush. The rest of the day was the standard getting dinner and ready for bed.
Around 5:30 the rain became quite heavy and consistent. Still it's not cold, just a little annoying.
Interestingly the sound of the freeway near the Coconut Resort resembled the sound of the waves at the beach, and now that we are so close to the beach I'm amazed how close the two sounds are.
This is a very different park from the Coconut, there are few facilities but the beach is terrific, we now hope for beach weather while we are here.
10 July 2015
The rain was persistent and consistent throughout the night last night and continued through the morning. We had planned to go to Parenella Park today and we headed off as soon as we had had breakfast.
The people of Queensland have certainly been friendly. We were one of the first people at the park and we were treated by a lady named Jo who came out to the car park with umbrellas for us so we didn't have to walk in the rain. She pointed us in the right direction. We found out that we should have got a pass for the Skywalk and the Parenella Park together, still they didn't charge for the kids today and gave Cate and I a discount so I think we were better off.
We decided not to go on the 9:30 tour and join to 10:00 one instead. This gave us time to relax enjoy a hot chocolate and a coffee and have a look at the shop. Jo was also willing to have a good chat with Cate and the kids, talking mostly about Jo's experiences with the local crocs.
Parenella park was terrific. The tour went for around an hour and we were told the history of the place and how it had developed and changed over the last century. After the tour we had the opportunity to wander the park ourselves. The highlight for the kids was feeding the fish and the turtles. We were given some fish food at the beginning of the tour to feed them when we got to them.
There were 2 spectacular weaker falls in the park and some terrific buildings. We walked the many paths surrounded by some amazing trees and some well directed views of the waterfall. We enjoyed the park for a couple of hours before heading to the Mena Creek pub for lunch. The pub had a room with some toys and a TV, ironically Play School was on followed by some of the kids favourite ABC programs. We ate till we could eat no more then headed to the sugar museum near Etty Bay.
Aisha had fallen asleep so Cate waited with her while Ethan and I went in for a look. It was quite educational on the process of producing sugar and the local / Australian Cain industry. The museum is only small and we weren't too long, then back to the camper.
Throughout the day the rain has been on and off. At the camper Cate, Ethan and Aisha played some games in the camper while I sat under the awning and read. It was a very relaxing afternoon, it was a shame it was no where near beach weather, I think Etty Bay would be terrific if we could utilise the beach, it's very close and very clean and not very busy.
We had toasty sandwiches for dinner and decided to go back to Parenella Park for the night tour, we had enjoyed the tour during the night and they were heavily emphasising the night tour. It was included in the price of our daytime admission. We were a little disappointed with the night tour. There were some flood lights of the 2 waterfalls, the main waterfall was well lit up but I was really expecting more, the "grand finale" was little more than a poorly lit castle with some mood music.
It was just after 7:00 when we left there so straight back to Etty Bay for bed.
One thing Cate and I discussed today was how Ethan and Aisha have developed over the last 6-12 months. Ethan has really taken an interest in using the GoPro and the still camera and he is quite good at using both. Aisha is a lot more independent and wants to walk more than the last time we camped.
It's a shame we haven't been able to have a day at the beach here but the 2 tours we did were well worth it. Tomorrow we pack for Townsville. I'm really hoping the rain stays away while we are packing in the morning.
Saturday, 11 July 2015
Cairns
29th June 2015
It was a very early night last night, and after I opened the camper the tiredness set in, I hit the sack around 9:00pm.
I woke early this morning to an overcast day. The temperature was extremely pleasent around 20 degrees, shorts and t-shirt weather. I went to the cafe and had a coffee then decided to go and have a look around Cairns. It wasn't to long before I really got sick of driving around and headed back to the park around 10:00.
The site I was in last night was not the site we would be in for the rest of our stay. I had to move the camper, which is why I didn't completely set up last night.
I took my time setting up, it took me until lunchtime.
I went down to the local IGA and shopped for dinner. There was a fast food section where you can buy dim sims, potato cakes and the like, I'd never seen that at a supermarket before.
I got back to the camper around 12:30 and decided to head for the pool. A quick swim then I got into the spa, it was brilliant, it was raining and the temperature of the water was perfect.
I returned to the camper and dried off then relaxed and read for the rest of the day, stopping to cook and eat dinner.
Throughout the day I called and text Cate and now look forward to them arriving tomorrow.
30 June 2015
To was great. I woke early went to the cafe for a coffee and waited for what seemed an eternity for Cate, Ethan and Aisha to arrive. They arrived spot on time 12:20.
We came straight back to the park and had a look around. Cate was booked for an hour massage at 2:30 so I took the kids to the water play park where they ran got wet and had a great time. Aisha fell over and grazed her knee so wanted to sit on my knee for a while. We then went to the spa where we waited for Cate to finish the massage.
When we got back to the camper we dried off and went for a tour of the park with one of the staff.
Dinner followed, BBQ, then we went to watch to outdoor movie. We only lasted half an hour before Aisha then Ethan wanted to go to bed.
All in all a great day.
1 July 2015
This morning was certainly the most pleasant since I've been here. There was no rain last night and very few clouds in the morning.
We decided to head to the Skyrail and to that trip. When we arrived there were a heap of people waiting and a lady working there suggested we book before we arrive. So we postponed the trip to Kuranda until tomorrow and booked the train and Skyrail until then.
The tablelands was on our itinerary while we were here so we loaded the car and set of for Atherton. We had a terrific drive, stopping off in Kuranda for a quick bit to eat, we'll see it all tomorrow, then a quick stop in Atherton and on to Malanda where we saw a turtle colony and took a quick walk in the bush before checking out a small waterfall.
Ethan was pleased to learn that most of the area had been built up by extinct volcanoes so we went for a drive to a lake. It was very spectacular created from the top crater of an extinct volcano. The water was very clear and the surrounding very green, breathtaking.
Leaving the lake we headed straight to the caravan park. Ethan and Aisha had been looking forward to going to the water park all day so we headed straight there. We spent just over an hour playing in the water before heading to the camper for dinner and the usual nightly routine.
An excellent way to spent the first real day here in the far north coast.
2 July 2015
Waking early this morning, we left the camper just after 7:30 for the Freshwater train station for the trip to Kuranda. We managed to become "geographically challenged" on the way ending up down a no through road surrounded by sugar cane. We did manage to get to the station in plenty of time to catch the train.
It was a terrific train ride. Very picturesque and comfortable. The kids really enjoyed going through the 15 tunnels along the way and I enjoyed hearing about the history of the track from its beginning.
The scenery was spectacular. At certain times the train slowed to allow passengers to take pictures, and we even stopped at the Barron Falls station for about 10 minutes. I think that was so more pictures could be taken.
Arriving at Kuranda we had a bit to eat and then a play on the play ground Ethan had spotted yesterday. That was great for the kids to have a run around because the train trip, although terrific, was about an hour and a half.
After that we walked the many markets and stalls. We told the kids they could choose 1 thing they really wanted to buy. Ethan chose a fridge magnet crocodile, and Aisha chose a ring for her pointer finger. At one point of the day there was a piano in the middle of the market and Ethan wanted to play. He passed me his crocodile, I managed to drop it and the magnet broke off the back. Luckily I'll be able to glue it back on.
We were booked on the 2:30 Skyrail trip back down the mountain. Again another spectacular experience. The views from above the tree line are hard to describe. The kids enjoyed the ride, laughing and giggling all the way. There is a stop along the way and an opportunity to travel a boardwalk. Then back on another Skyrail.
Half way down the second Skyrail Cate noticed that Aisha's new ring had fallen off and was now lost. Aisha handled it reasonably well.
We had a connecting bus ride of 10 minutes back to Freshwater Station and our car. Arriving back at the camper Ethan, Aisha and I headed to the water park where we played until 6:00. Boritos for dinner then bed. Another great day.
3 July 2015
Today we did nothing, literally nothing. It was one of those days where when reflecting nothing much really happened and nothing was achieved, but how perfect. A brilliant way to completely recharge the batteries.
Yesterday I noticed the GoPro waterproof case was cracked so this morning I searched Cairns for a new one and did some food shopping.
The afternoon was spent at the waterpark and the swimming pool. Effectively that was it. Totally relaxing and the kids had a ball all day.
What I haven't mentioned much this time is the weather. The first couple of days I was here there was quite a lot of rain. Although it seemed to be only drizzle, the gutters and grass got very wet very quickly.
The night before and the morning of Cate, Ethan and Aisha arriving there was heaps of rain, I went to Bunnings on the way to the airport and bought 2 large umbrellas, I used one on the way from Bunnings to the car and, ironically, we haven't used either since.
Everyday has been overcast with the sun popping its head through every now and again. When the sun is out it has a distinct sting about it. The temperature has been down to 20 odd at night, quite pleasant, and days a degree or 2 shy of 30.
I'm so glad to be here in July.
4 July 2015
We woke this morning to a relatively cloudless sky, however it wasn't long before the clouds rolled in.
We planned to head to Green Island today and by the time we reached the jetty at 8:00 it was quite overcast and very windy. The 45 minute boat trip to Green Island was very bumpy, the closer we got to the Island the rougher the sea became. The other 3 had different levels of sea sickness from feeling unwell to half filling one of the provided paper bags.
On the jetty at Green Island we were nearly blown right into the sea, it was amazing how the natural surroundings desipated the wind and you could feel no wind at all.
When booking the trip to the island there a choice between snorkel gear or a ride in a glass bottom boat. We decided that I would get the snorkel gear and Cate, Ethan and Aisha would take a glass bottom boat ride. While we were on the boat getting to the island they were placed in the 9:30 boat ride but with all three not feeling well decided to postpone the ride until the afternoon.
I had booked a beginner SCUBA dive which began at 9:30. We found a locker for our gear then I went to begin the "training". It was very short but thorough, several tips on the main things that could go wrong, then off to the pool for around 10 minutes practice before heading a output 1 km off the island to a reef. There was 1 instructor at 2 others on the dive.
Jumping from the boat we slowly descended around 10 meters. It was truely one of the most amazing experiences of my life. The coral was breathtaking, the fish were in many different colours, shapes and sizes and seemed to ignore the divers altogether.
It wasn't long before we came across our first turtle. It glided effortlessly through the water about a meter from us. Had a look and kept drifting. It was about 1 meter in total length and I find it difficult to explain what it's like just watching it swim by.
We saw several turtles in the half hour or so we were diving,coney were certainly a highlight. Being up close and personal with the coral, fish, giant clams and turtles was, again, amazing. I'm sure I'll get another opportunity to dive again.
Considering how rough it was at the surface, I'm guessing half to 1 meter swell, it was incredibly calm under the surface. The were a gentle ebb and flow that moved maybe 25 cm, it was quite rhythmic and soothing. The hardest thing at the beginning of the dive was getting balance and buoyancy right. Air in the vest in or out allowed for the correct buoyancy but I found getting 3 demential balance a challenge for the first 10 minutes or so. Fun and amazing.
When I got back to the island I found Cate and the kids, and we had some early lunch. They had gone for a walk through the island to the other side. By that time that clouds had cleared and the rest of the day was picture perfect with the exception of the wind. The temperature was around 28 and it was cloudless.
After lunch we took the glass bottom boat ride. With a wink from the lady at the information desk she gave me a ticket to ride with the others. The ride was very informative and although brilliant with what we could see I'd had the experience of the dive from the morning. Cate and Aisha sat a couple of turtles, Ethan and I missed them, still an terrific time and we managed to get through without feeling sick.
We then went to the beach on the north side of the island. There the wind was very light. The kids played in the sand building sand castles and rivers. Ethan was quick to realise that when he dug a trench from any part of the beach to the ocean, water immediately began to flow from the top, so he literally carver several rivers leading to the ocean.
I took the snorkel gear out for a while, again amazing what can be seen under the water so close to the beach. Cate then went for a snorkel as well. I haven't mentioned the water temperature, I was told this morning that it is currently around 22-23 degrees and when in the water it is quite warm. The wind when you get out does make it feel slightly cool.
Aisha then has a go at the snorkel gear. Unfortunately her head it still a little small and the goggles filled up with water. She did manage to have 1 breath out of the snorkel before bringing her head up.
Ethan then tried, a little more successfully. He was able to have several breaths and his goggles stayed free of water. He tried twice and then decided he had had enough.
It was getting close to departure time but we had time for a walk around the island, the entire island. It is incredible how small Green Island actually is. Then we headed for the jetty and the ride home.
The wind was still very strong so we were going to wait until out boat arrived before walking out and getting blown away again. I mistakenly took another boat for ours so we were out there earlier than we had wanted. We managed to get to the end of the jetty out of the wind to wait. When the boat arrived we were near the rear of the queue to get on. Unfortunately the boat reached capacity before we could board so we had to wait for the next one, luckily only 10 minutes.
The return trip to Cairns was uneventful, no one was sick and the closer we got the calmer it became.
Arriving at Cairns we put our bags in the car and headed to the Esplanade for dinner, pizza and ice cream. The atmosphere was terrific.
One thing that has shocked me about Cairns is the number of international people here. It is quite unusual to hear and Australian accent and with 1 solitary exception all the staff I encountered on the ride to, at and back from the island were from overseas. Predominantly Asian but certainly quite a number from America and the U.K. Most signs here have Chinese or Japanese writing as well.
That said, there was a sign near the Esplanade advertising fireworks tonight. I pointed it out to Cate and thought perhaps a Saturday night during school holidays, only when we got back did I realise that it is the 4th of July and with many U.S. People here they need to celebrate.
Today was a day I won't forget in a while.
5 July 2015
We woke to the sounds of the alarm this morning to get a head start on a long driving day. We left around 6:45, ate breakfast in the car and began driving to the Daintree Rainforest.
We stopped for a short while in Port Douglas for a snack at the award winning bakery. We crossed the Daintree river on the ferry and finished at the Daintree Discovery Centre. We had trouble paying as their electronic equipment kept failing. Once inside we were treated with audio recordings through individual hand held devices where a number is displayed through the walk and you dial it into a mobile phone type device and it plays a description of what you can see from that displayed number. It was very interesting and informative. Ethan got right into listening intently to the recordings and became frustrated if we wanted to stop for a picture because of his total engagement. It looks from the pictures that everyone is talking on a mobile and just looking at all the people in the Center you can be forgiven for thinking that.
Just before we crossed the river on the ferry we saw several hour trip companies offering crocodile spotting rides on the Daintree. We got to that location in time for a 1:15 trip. We saw 3 crocs, several snakes and and 3 wide mouth owls. It was incredible to see a 2-3 meter croc just sunning itself on the side of the river. Evidently she was relative small and young so I can imagine the size of a large one. An incredible experience seeing such a creature wild in its natural environment.
Next stop was the Daintree Village. On entering the village it's very much like a time warp. The youngest building would be at least 50 years old and nothing about the town gives a hint of being in the 21st century. I grabbed a coffee at the souvenir / general store / cafe / pub. A very interesting room to walk into. The town was quite busy and a small camping ground right in the town was relatively full.
Mossman Gorge was our next stop. We managed to walk all the tracks and have a good look around in a couple of hours. The scenery is spectacular. The forest walk is terrific, a well worn path with very few steps or boardwalks once you reach the main viewing platform. The kids did really well considering it's about a 4 km walk from beginning to end. Cate and I carried the kids for a short distance but the walked the vast majority of the way.
The bus you have to travel in to get to the gorge drives past a koorie mission. It's disappointing to see the community in such disrepair. Doors missing no curtains on any of the windows and several trashed cars in the front and back yards of houses. It really is not a good look for international tourists to the area.
We were all a little hungry by the time we left Mossman and we decided to make it to Palm Cove for dinner. We had Thai. The food was delicious, the service was poor, and for me, way to many vegetables.
It was past 7:00 by the time we left and with some very tired children in tow we headed for the camper, a quick routine and bed.
Again another brilliant day, we are all a little tired but today was well worth the effort. We got to some of the very spectacular parts our country has to offer.
6 July 2015
Woke to an overcast and cool morning today, there was a slight breeze making the 19° feel more like 18°, what a shame!
We really liked the look of Palm Cove last night but we didn't have time to look around due to the late hour we were there so decided to hear back there again today for a daytime look. First impressions are that it is very trendy and very much caters for tourists. The main boulevard along the beach has many restaurants and accommodation units and a vibe very relaxed and chilled.
There was a little rain as we arrived but it cleared to be a very pleasant sunny day. Ethan and Aisha just wanted to play at the park so they played until lunchtime. I wandered to the local caravan park for a look, unfortunately I was disappointed. Compared to the rest of the area it was nothing to really speak of, enough to said.
We ate at a cafe bar, had a delicious lunch then walked along the beach for some distance. The beach is very tranquil. Small waves meet a white sandy beach which meets palm trees, beautiful.
We left Palm Cove around 1:00 and headed back to Cairns stopping briefly at Rays Outdoors to buy a pack for us to take to the beach. The Esplanade beach pool was our next destination. We were very excited to be going there after seeing it on our return from Green Island and we were not disappointed. It is. Dry much like a clear lagoon with soft white sandy beaches leading into a huge pool. The water was excitement clean and had an excellent temperature.
The kids played in the sand had a swim and played in the sand. The sun was out and the 27° felt more like 30. It was a perfect afternoon at the beach and the hours rolled by very quickly.
On returning to the camper, I did the shopping while Cate took the kids to the water park again. We had promised the kids some time at the water park and a BBQ for dinner for 2 days buy with our busy schedule hadn't been able to deliver, tonight we did.
Cate bathed the kids while I cleaned the dishes and right now it is a very balmy evening, again another brilliant day.
There are a couple of observation to make about Cairns. Firstly the traffic. We noted that it is very much a larger country town rather than a small city. Everyone drives slowly and the mood is very relaxed. Secondly there is a definite lack of sunsets. Although it get darker later than at home there are huge mountains on the western side of the city which block the sun at around 4:30-5:00 resulting in no beautiful sunsets. It struck me tonight as I walked out of Coles that the sun had already gone behind the mountains. Thirdly, Cairns is obviously a starting or end point for people travelling to Cape York Peninsula, and this is the season for it. There are a large number of people either leaving for the Cape or on their way back. They stop here for a few days and then head to wherever in the country they reside.
7 July 2015
Another perfect day in paradise. Today was certainly the best weather we have had since this adventure began. It was mostly a cloudless day and the temperature reached 27° although in the direct sunlight it was quite hot. We certainly loaded up on sunscreen and we were seeking shade when not in the water.
A lazy morning followed by a ride on the 4 seater bike was the perfect start. We crused the caravan park and for the first time realised that there are several permanent residents here, I was totally surprised. We took it in turns of stealing the bike, although Ethan and Aisha couldn't peddle while they were stealing and Cate and I were not allowed to sit in the from so we took it in turns of walking while the kids steered.
That worked up enough of a sweet we had a quick bite to eat then headed to the water park. Again the kids really enjoyed the facilities. I think it's a highlight for them.
After some time they wandered over to the jumping pillow for a while and enjoyed playing hide and seek. They really get along so well and genuinely enjoy each other's company. It gives me great pleasure to see and hear them make each other laugh.
After the pillow we went back to the camper for lunch. I did some food shopping and returned just in time to head to one of the pools here.
We spent a good couple of hours swimming. I was throwing the kids in the air and they were standing on my shoulders then jumping off. We also slide down the water slide. The time in the pool was fantastic and is one of the most special times of the holiday so far.
We got back in time for dinner then the normal bedtime routine. It was a brilliant day and I could really get used to living in this type of climate.
8 July 2015
Today is our last full day here in Cairns. In preparation for this trip we had our list of things we wanted to do while we were here and we have done all we wanted. So today was very relaxed and low key.
Again the weather was terrific, the sun was out all day and there was little wind. In fact the sun was quite warm. We began the day with a visit to the water park. The kids have really enjoyed the facilities here and the water park in particular.
On the way back from the water park we stopped off at the playground for a while. Interestingly it was the first time we had been there all week. The kids knew it was there, there were just more interesting things to do.
Back at the camper we ate lunch and then headed to the Esplanade pool in town. It is a terrific facility complete with life guards, although the guy this afternoon was a little to enthusiast with the rules, I saw him tell off a 6 or 7 year old for having a foam kick board. The kids played in the sand and had a swim. It really was a picture perfect afternoon enjoying the sand, water and definitely the sun.
Tonight after dinner and bath and the kids went to bed, I went to the big screen outside and watched the rugby league state of origin decider. It was terrific to watch the game with so many Queenslanders. The atmosphere was amazing and the maroons won by a record margin.
I will be a little sad to pack up and leave here in the morning. It has been an amazing 10 days and the time seems to have flown, although it seems like an eternity ago since I made the drive here. Yet I'm looking forward to the rest of this FNQ trip
It was a very early night last night, and after I opened the camper the tiredness set in, I hit the sack around 9:00pm.
I woke early this morning to an overcast day. The temperature was extremely pleasent around 20 degrees, shorts and t-shirt weather. I went to the cafe and had a coffee then decided to go and have a look around Cairns. It wasn't to long before I really got sick of driving around and headed back to the park around 10:00.
The site I was in last night was not the site we would be in for the rest of our stay. I had to move the camper, which is why I didn't completely set up last night.
I took my time setting up, it took me until lunchtime.
I went down to the local IGA and shopped for dinner. There was a fast food section where you can buy dim sims, potato cakes and the like, I'd never seen that at a supermarket before.
I got back to the camper around 12:30 and decided to head for the pool. A quick swim then I got into the spa, it was brilliant, it was raining and the temperature of the water was perfect.
I returned to the camper and dried off then relaxed and read for the rest of the day, stopping to cook and eat dinner.
Throughout the day I called and text Cate and now look forward to them arriving tomorrow.
30 June 2015
To was great. I woke early went to the cafe for a coffee and waited for what seemed an eternity for Cate, Ethan and Aisha to arrive. They arrived spot on time 12:20.
We came straight back to the park and had a look around. Cate was booked for an hour massage at 2:30 so I took the kids to the water play park where they ran got wet and had a great time. Aisha fell over and grazed her knee so wanted to sit on my knee for a while. We then went to the spa where we waited for Cate to finish the massage.
When we got back to the camper we dried off and went for a tour of the park with one of the staff.
Dinner followed, BBQ, then we went to watch to outdoor movie. We only lasted half an hour before Aisha then Ethan wanted to go to bed.
All in all a great day.
1 July 2015
This morning was certainly the most pleasant since I've been here. There was no rain last night and very few clouds in the morning.
We decided to head to the Skyrail and to that trip. When we arrived there were a heap of people waiting and a lady working there suggested we book before we arrive. So we postponed the trip to Kuranda until tomorrow and booked the train and Skyrail until then.
The tablelands was on our itinerary while we were here so we loaded the car and set of for Atherton. We had a terrific drive, stopping off in Kuranda for a quick bit to eat, we'll see it all tomorrow, then a quick stop in Atherton and on to Malanda where we saw a turtle colony and took a quick walk in the bush before checking out a small waterfall.
Ethan was pleased to learn that most of the area had been built up by extinct volcanoes so we went for a drive to a lake. It was very spectacular created from the top crater of an extinct volcano. The water was very clear and the surrounding very green, breathtaking.
Leaving the lake we headed straight to the caravan park. Ethan and Aisha had been looking forward to going to the water park all day so we headed straight there. We spent just over an hour playing in the water before heading to the camper for dinner and the usual nightly routine.
An excellent way to spent the first real day here in the far north coast.
2 July 2015
Waking early this morning, we left the camper just after 7:30 for the Freshwater train station for the trip to Kuranda. We managed to become "geographically challenged" on the way ending up down a no through road surrounded by sugar cane. We did manage to get to the station in plenty of time to catch the train.
It was a terrific train ride. Very picturesque and comfortable. The kids really enjoyed going through the 15 tunnels along the way and I enjoyed hearing about the history of the track from its beginning.
The scenery was spectacular. At certain times the train slowed to allow passengers to take pictures, and we even stopped at the Barron Falls station for about 10 minutes. I think that was so more pictures could be taken.
Arriving at Kuranda we had a bit to eat and then a play on the play ground Ethan had spotted yesterday. That was great for the kids to have a run around because the train trip, although terrific, was about an hour and a half.
After that we walked the many markets and stalls. We told the kids they could choose 1 thing they really wanted to buy. Ethan chose a fridge magnet crocodile, and Aisha chose a ring for her pointer finger. At one point of the day there was a piano in the middle of the market and Ethan wanted to play. He passed me his crocodile, I managed to drop it and the magnet broke off the back. Luckily I'll be able to glue it back on.
We were booked on the 2:30 Skyrail trip back down the mountain. Again another spectacular experience. The views from above the tree line are hard to describe. The kids enjoyed the ride, laughing and giggling all the way. There is a stop along the way and an opportunity to travel a boardwalk. Then back on another Skyrail.
Half way down the second Skyrail Cate noticed that Aisha's new ring had fallen off and was now lost. Aisha handled it reasonably well.
We had a connecting bus ride of 10 minutes back to Freshwater Station and our car. Arriving back at the camper Ethan, Aisha and I headed to the water park where we played until 6:00. Boritos for dinner then bed. Another great day.
3 July 2015
Today we did nothing, literally nothing. It was one of those days where when reflecting nothing much really happened and nothing was achieved, but how perfect. A brilliant way to completely recharge the batteries.
Yesterday I noticed the GoPro waterproof case was cracked so this morning I searched Cairns for a new one and did some food shopping.
The afternoon was spent at the waterpark and the swimming pool. Effectively that was it. Totally relaxing and the kids had a ball all day.
What I haven't mentioned much this time is the weather. The first couple of days I was here there was quite a lot of rain. Although it seemed to be only drizzle, the gutters and grass got very wet very quickly.
The night before and the morning of Cate, Ethan and Aisha arriving there was heaps of rain, I went to Bunnings on the way to the airport and bought 2 large umbrellas, I used one on the way from Bunnings to the car and, ironically, we haven't used either since.
Everyday has been overcast with the sun popping its head through every now and again. When the sun is out it has a distinct sting about it. The temperature has been down to 20 odd at night, quite pleasant, and days a degree or 2 shy of 30.
I'm so glad to be here in July.
4 July 2015
We woke this morning to a relatively cloudless sky, however it wasn't long before the clouds rolled in.
We planned to head to Green Island today and by the time we reached the jetty at 8:00 it was quite overcast and very windy. The 45 minute boat trip to Green Island was very bumpy, the closer we got to the Island the rougher the sea became. The other 3 had different levels of sea sickness from feeling unwell to half filling one of the provided paper bags.
On the jetty at Green Island we were nearly blown right into the sea, it was amazing how the natural surroundings desipated the wind and you could feel no wind at all.
When booking the trip to the island there a choice between snorkel gear or a ride in a glass bottom boat. We decided that I would get the snorkel gear and Cate, Ethan and Aisha would take a glass bottom boat ride. While we were on the boat getting to the island they were placed in the 9:30 boat ride but with all three not feeling well decided to postpone the ride until the afternoon.
I had booked a beginner SCUBA dive which began at 9:30. We found a locker for our gear then I went to begin the "training". It was very short but thorough, several tips on the main things that could go wrong, then off to the pool for around 10 minutes practice before heading a output 1 km off the island to a reef. There was 1 instructor at 2 others on the dive.
Jumping from the boat we slowly descended around 10 meters. It was truely one of the most amazing experiences of my life. The coral was breathtaking, the fish were in many different colours, shapes and sizes and seemed to ignore the divers altogether.
It wasn't long before we came across our first turtle. It glided effortlessly through the water about a meter from us. Had a look and kept drifting. It was about 1 meter in total length and I find it difficult to explain what it's like just watching it swim by.
We saw several turtles in the half hour or so we were diving,coney were certainly a highlight. Being up close and personal with the coral, fish, giant clams and turtles was, again, amazing. I'm sure I'll get another opportunity to dive again.
Considering how rough it was at the surface, I'm guessing half to 1 meter swell, it was incredibly calm under the surface. The were a gentle ebb and flow that moved maybe 25 cm, it was quite rhythmic and soothing. The hardest thing at the beginning of the dive was getting balance and buoyancy right. Air in the vest in or out allowed for the correct buoyancy but I found getting 3 demential balance a challenge for the first 10 minutes or so. Fun and amazing.
When I got back to the island I found Cate and the kids, and we had some early lunch. They had gone for a walk through the island to the other side. By that time that clouds had cleared and the rest of the day was picture perfect with the exception of the wind. The temperature was around 28 and it was cloudless.
After lunch we took the glass bottom boat ride. With a wink from the lady at the information desk she gave me a ticket to ride with the others. The ride was very informative and although brilliant with what we could see I'd had the experience of the dive from the morning. Cate and Aisha sat a couple of turtles, Ethan and I missed them, still an terrific time and we managed to get through without feeling sick.
We then went to the beach on the north side of the island. There the wind was very light. The kids played in the sand building sand castles and rivers. Ethan was quick to realise that when he dug a trench from any part of the beach to the ocean, water immediately began to flow from the top, so he literally carver several rivers leading to the ocean.
I took the snorkel gear out for a while, again amazing what can be seen under the water so close to the beach. Cate then went for a snorkel as well. I haven't mentioned the water temperature, I was told this morning that it is currently around 22-23 degrees and when in the water it is quite warm. The wind when you get out does make it feel slightly cool.
Aisha then has a go at the snorkel gear. Unfortunately her head it still a little small and the goggles filled up with water. She did manage to have 1 breath out of the snorkel before bringing her head up.
Ethan then tried, a little more successfully. He was able to have several breaths and his goggles stayed free of water. He tried twice and then decided he had had enough.
It was getting close to departure time but we had time for a walk around the island, the entire island. It is incredible how small Green Island actually is. Then we headed for the jetty and the ride home.
The wind was still very strong so we were going to wait until out boat arrived before walking out and getting blown away again. I mistakenly took another boat for ours so we were out there earlier than we had wanted. We managed to get to the end of the jetty out of the wind to wait. When the boat arrived we were near the rear of the queue to get on. Unfortunately the boat reached capacity before we could board so we had to wait for the next one, luckily only 10 minutes.
The return trip to Cairns was uneventful, no one was sick and the closer we got the calmer it became.
Arriving at Cairns we put our bags in the car and headed to the Esplanade for dinner, pizza and ice cream. The atmosphere was terrific.
One thing that has shocked me about Cairns is the number of international people here. It is quite unusual to hear and Australian accent and with 1 solitary exception all the staff I encountered on the ride to, at and back from the island were from overseas. Predominantly Asian but certainly quite a number from America and the U.K. Most signs here have Chinese or Japanese writing as well.
That said, there was a sign near the Esplanade advertising fireworks tonight. I pointed it out to Cate and thought perhaps a Saturday night during school holidays, only when we got back did I realise that it is the 4th of July and with many U.S. People here they need to celebrate.
Today was a day I won't forget in a while.
5 July 2015
We woke to the sounds of the alarm this morning to get a head start on a long driving day. We left around 6:45, ate breakfast in the car and began driving to the Daintree Rainforest.
We stopped for a short while in Port Douglas for a snack at the award winning bakery. We crossed the Daintree river on the ferry and finished at the Daintree Discovery Centre. We had trouble paying as their electronic equipment kept failing. Once inside we were treated with audio recordings through individual hand held devices where a number is displayed through the walk and you dial it into a mobile phone type device and it plays a description of what you can see from that displayed number. It was very interesting and informative. Ethan got right into listening intently to the recordings and became frustrated if we wanted to stop for a picture because of his total engagement. It looks from the pictures that everyone is talking on a mobile and just looking at all the people in the Center you can be forgiven for thinking that.
Just before we crossed the river on the ferry we saw several hour trip companies offering crocodile spotting rides on the Daintree. We got to that location in time for a 1:15 trip. We saw 3 crocs, several snakes and and 3 wide mouth owls. It was incredible to see a 2-3 meter croc just sunning itself on the side of the river. Evidently she was relative small and young so I can imagine the size of a large one. An incredible experience seeing such a creature wild in its natural environment.
Next stop was the Daintree Village. On entering the village it's very much like a time warp. The youngest building would be at least 50 years old and nothing about the town gives a hint of being in the 21st century. I grabbed a coffee at the souvenir / general store / cafe / pub. A very interesting room to walk into. The town was quite busy and a small camping ground right in the town was relatively full.
Mossman Gorge was our next stop. We managed to walk all the tracks and have a good look around in a couple of hours. The scenery is spectacular. The forest walk is terrific, a well worn path with very few steps or boardwalks once you reach the main viewing platform. The kids did really well considering it's about a 4 km walk from beginning to end. Cate and I carried the kids for a short distance but the walked the vast majority of the way.
The bus you have to travel in to get to the gorge drives past a koorie mission. It's disappointing to see the community in such disrepair. Doors missing no curtains on any of the windows and several trashed cars in the front and back yards of houses. It really is not a good look for international tourists to the area.
We were all a little hungry by the time we left Mossman and we decided to make it to Palm Cove for dinner. We had Thai. The food was delicious, the service was poor, and for me, way to many vegetables.
It was past 7:00 by the time we left and with some very tired children in tow we headed for the camper, a quick routine and bed.
Again another brilliant day, we are all a little tired but today was well worth the effort. We got to some of the very spectacular parts our country has to offer.
6 July 2015
Woke to an overcast and cool morning today, there was a slight breeze making the 19° feel more like 18°, what a shame!
We really liked the look of Palm Cove last night but we didn't have time to look around due to the late hour we were there so decided to hear back there again today for a daytime look. First impressions are that it is very trendy and very much caters for tourists. The main boulevard along the beach has many restaurants and accommodation units and a vibe very relaxed and chilled.
There was a little rain as we arrived but it cleared to be a very pleasant sunny day. Ethan and Aisha just wanted to play at the park so they played until lunchtime. I wandered to the local caravan park for a look, unfortunately I was disappointed. Compared to the rest of the area it was nothing to really speak of, enough to said.
We ate at a cafe bar, had a delicious lunch then walked along the beach for some distance. The beach is very tranquil. Small waves meet a white sandy beach which meets palm trees, beautiful.
We left Palm Cove around 1:00 and headed back to Cairns stopping briefly at Rays Outdoors to buy a pack for us to take to the beach. The Esplanade beach pool was our next destination. We were very excited to be going there after seeing it on our return from Green Island and we were not disappointed. It is. Dry much like a clear lagoon with soft white sandy beaches leading into a huge pool. The water was excitement clean and had an excellent temperature.
The kids played in the sand had a swim and played in the sand. The sun was out and the 27° felt more like 30. It was a perfect afternoon at the beach and the hours rolled by very quickly.
On returning to the camper, I did the shopping while Cate took the kids to the water park again. We had promised the kids some time at the water park and a BBQ for dinner for 2 days buy with our busy schedule hadn't been able to deliver, tonight we did.
Cate bathed the kids while I cleaned the dishes and right now it is a very balmy evening, again another brilliant day.
There are a couple of observation to make about Cairns. Firstly the traffic. We noted that it is very much a larger country town rather than a small city. Everyone drives slowly and the mood is very relaxed. Secondly there is a definite lack of sunsets. Although it get darker later than at home there are huge mountains on the western side of the city which block the sun at around 4:30-5:00 resulting in no beautiful sunsets. It struck me tonight as I walked out of Coles that the sun had already gone behind the mountains. Thirdly, Cairns is obviously a starting or end point for people travelling to Cape York Peninsula, and this is the season for it. There are a large number of people either leaving for the Cape or on their way back. They stop here for a few days and then head to wherever in the country they reside.
7 July 2015
Another perfect day in paradise. Today was certainly the best weather we have had since this adventure began. It was mostly a cloudless day and the temperature reached 27° although in the direct sunlight it was quite hot. We certainly loaded up on sunscreen and we were seeking shade when not in the water.
A lazy morning followed by a ride on the 4 seater bike was the perfect start. We crused the caravan park and for the first time realised that there are several permanent residents here, I was totally surprised. We took it in turns of stealing the bike, although Ethan and Aisha couldn't peddle while they were stealing and Cate and I were not allowed to sit in the from so we took it in turns of walking while the kids steered.
That worked up enough of a sweet we had a quick bite to eat then headed to the water park. Again the kids really enjoyed the facilities. I think it's a highlight for them.
After some time they wandered over to the jumping pillow for a while and enjoyed playing hide and seek. They really get along so well and genuinely enjoy each other's company. It gives me great pleasure to see and hear them make each other laugh.
After the pillow we went back to the camper for lunch. I did some food shopping and returned just in time to head to one of the pools here.
We spent a good couple of hours swimming. I was throwing the kids in the air and they were standing on my shoulders then jumping off. We also slide down the water slide. The time in the pool was fantastic and is one of the most special times of the holiday so far.
We got back in time for dinner then the normal bedtime routine. It was a brilliant day and I could really get used to living in this type of climate.
8 July 2015
Today is our last full day here in Cairns. In preparation for this trip we had our list of things we wanted to do while we were here and we have done all we wanted. So today was very relaxed and low key.
Again the weather was terrific, the sun was out all day and there was little wind. In fact the sun was quite warm. We began the day with a visit to the water park. The kids have really enjoyed the facilities here and the water park in particular.
On the way back from the water park we stopped off at the playground for a while. Interestingly it was the first time we had been there all week. The kids knew it was there, there were just more interesting things to do.
Back at the camper we ate lunch and then headed to the Esplanade pool in town. It is a terrific facility complete with life guards, although the guy this afternoon was a little to enthusiast with the rules, I saw him tell off a 6 or 7 year old for having a foam kick board. The kids played in the sand and had a swim. It really was a picture perfect afternoon enjoying the sand, water and definitely the sun.
Tonight after dinner and bath and the kids went to bed, I went to the big screen outside and watched the rugby league state of origin decider. It was terrific to watch the game with so many Queenslanders. The atmosphere was amazing and the maroons won by a record margin.
I will be a little sad to pack up and leave here in the morning. It has been an amazing 10 days and the time seems to have flown, although it seems like an eternity ago since I made the drive here. Yet I'm looking forward to the rest of this FNQ trip
Tuesday, 30 June 2015
Road Trip 1
26 June 2015
After a very long count down today finally arrived. We left Yarragon a little later than I had hoped, around 4:45 pm. We said goodbye to our home and Yarragon and headed to Catherine and Peter's. I dropped Cate, Ethan and Aisha off and began the long drive.
Getting through the city proved to be difficult with traffic a major problem from when I entered the freeway. Once I got past Essendon airport the rest of the night was very cruseie.
I spend my first night 6.6 km North of Jerilderie, at a truck stop, with 456.8 kms travelled. I got here at 10:46 and now it is just after 11:00pm.
Tonight is very clear, no clouds and it is absolutely freezing. I'm typing this under the doona and my hands are freezing from getting the bikes off the trailer and setting up, I'm tipping it's going to be a very cold night.
27 June 2015
Last night I said it was going to be cold and, oh my god, was it cold. Last night I had the doona wrapped around me as much as it could and at times I woke with the cold I even slept with my socks on. Well it could have been the cold or the fact that not long after I went to bed 2 trucks rocked up and decided to keep their motors running all night. That or the bleating sheep in the paddock right next to the tent. Either way I woke a lot last night.
This morning there was ice on the camper, in parts it was 1cm thick and I can't remember the last time I was that cold. I started the car before I put the bike on the trailer to defrost the windscreen. Bitterly cold.
Bikes on and strapped on and I pulled out at 6:51am. There was a little fog to begin with, not enough to to slow progress as it was just off the ground. I had breaky in Nerrandera and filled up with fuel.
Not long out of Nerrandera the fog got very thick, it was just after 8:00 am. So thick I had to slow down because of visibility. Indeed it wasn't long before I came upon some traffic. Visibility was so bad that at times the car 50m in front of me disappeared and needless to say progress was very slow. From Nerrandera to West Wyalong I must have averaged less than 70 km/h.
With the fog still persisting just north of West Wyalong there were police and ambulance diverting traffic and had closed the Newell Hwy. The traffic went through Caragabel, a tiny town with about 10 people living in it, and Piney Ridge then on to Forbes. It put an extra hour onto the entire trip. Just as I was getting into Forbes the fog finally lifted, it was 10:33.
I grabbed a coffee from the Forbes bakery and lunch at Gilgandra where I turned off the Newell and up the Castlereagh Hwy through Coonamble and towards Walgett.
Walgett is a very interesting place. I hadn't seen a police car all day and saw 2 in Walgett. The windows on the shops were all barred and there were only indigenous people in town, around 60. Needless to say I decided not to stop.
The last 150km to the QLD boarder were very interesting. I crossed a cattle grid and noticed several dead sheep. Then noticed the flock of sheep and herd of cattle. It was an area that isn't fenced and the herds and flocks can roam at their leisure. The same can be said for the kangaroos. There was a definite increase in the numbers killed on the roads.
Hebel is the town just over the boarder and where I wanted to get fuel. It was just on dusk and the road headed directly into the sun. There are no hills and very few trees so the sun looked like it was coming out of the road. Again visibility was difficult. Whilst trying to see where I was going the local wildlife increased dramatically and I had several near misses with kangaroos and emus. I knew the Hwy made a right angle at Hebel so was very much looking forward to getting there getting fuel and moving on only to find out there is no fuel in Hebel and I needed to get to Dirranbandi 65 kms away. I was very close to empty when I got there.
From Dirranbandi to St. George was a difficult drive the road was narrow and the bush was quite high immediately next to the road which made spotting the roos quite difficult.
From St. George I headed thought Rome and Ijune eventually pulling over tonight at 11:04 about 100kms from Rolleston. The only mishap was collecting an echidna about 30 mins before I stopped, made an awful thud but I'm grateful it wasn't a roo.
Today I covered 1465km. 1921 km down 1195 to go.
28 June 2015
It was definitely more pleasant waking this morning. The weather was quite mild and the sun was up earlier than yesterday. I packed up and left at 6:51 again.
About 5 minutes into the drive I came across more fog. Luckily it only lasted about 5 km and wasn't at all heavy like yesterday. I was in Rolleston just before 8, fuelled up and headed towards Springsure. I grabbed a coffee and a toasty and stopped to take some pictures, then to Claremont. I refuelled there and then headed to Charters Towers. That was the longest part of the entire trip so far. It was 375 km of straight road, no hills, no towns, few trees, the only thing to look at was the road kill. You name it, from roos to boars, it was dead. It seemed to take forever to get there.
The rest of the day was a dream. I arrived in Townsville around 4:00, I rang the caravan park in Cairns to see if they had a spot for me tonight and the did.
So I arrived here at my final destination at 7:45 this evening, a total of 3122 km covered in exactly 50 hours.
It really was a great trip, thank god for music on the phone and podcasts. The podcasts were a highlight, I think I have listened to all the ones I have so I'll need to so others for the trip home. I have listened to several things more than once, although I wanted not to but that was by choice. I am really looking forward to a good night sleep not having to get up and sit in the car, and I do look forward to a similar trip home.
I'm a little weary but have really enjoyed the ride and now I look forward to the best part, Cate, Ethan and Aisha arriving on Tuesday.
After a very long count down today finally arrived. We left Yarragon a little later than I had hoped, around 4:45 pm. We said goodbye to our home and Yarragon and headed to Catherine and Peter's. I dropped Cate, Ethan and Aisha off and began the long drive.
Getting through the city proved to be difficult with traffic a major problem from when I entered the freeway. Once I got past Essendon airport the rest of the night was very cruseie.
I spend my first night 6.6 km North of Jerilderie, at a truck stop, with 456.8 kms travelled. I got here at 10:46 and now it is just after 11:00pm.
Tonight is very clear, no clouds and it is absolutely freezing. I'm typing this under the doona and my hands are freezing from getting the bikes off the trailer and setting up, I'm tipping it's going to be a very cold night.
27 June 2015
Last night I said it was going to be cold and, oh my god, was it cold. Last night I had the doona wrapped around me as much as it could and at times I woke with the cold I even slept with my socks on. Well it could have been the cold or the fact that not long after I went to bed 2 trucks rocked up and decided to keep their motors running all night. That or the bleating sheep in the paddock right next to the tent. Either way I woke a lot last night.
This morning there was ice on the camper, in parts it was 1cm thick and I can't remember the last time I was that cold. I started the car before I put the bike on the trailer to defrost the windscreen. Bitterly cold.
Bikes on and strapped on and I pulled out at 6:51am. There was a little fog to begin with, not enough to to slow progress as it was just off the ground. I had breaky in Nerrandera and filled up with fuel.
Not long out of Nerrandera the fog got very thick, it was just after 8:00 am. So thick I had to slow down because of visibility. Indeed it wasn't long before I came upon some traffic. Visibility was so bad that at times the car 50m in front of me disappeared and needless to say progress was very slow. From Nerrandera to West Wyalong I must have averaged less than 70 km/h.
With the fog still persisting just north of West Wyalong there were police and ambulance diverting traffic and had closed the Newell Hwy. The traffic went through Caragabel, a tiny town with about 10 people living in it, and Piney Ridge then on to Forbes. It put an extra hour onto the entire trip. Just as I was getting into Forbes the fog finally lifted, it was 10:33.
I grabbed a coffee from the Forbes bakery and lunch at Gilgandra where I turned off the Newell and up the Castlereagh Hwy through Coonamble and towards Walgett.
Walgett is a very interesting place. I hadn't seen a police car all day and saw 2 in Walgett. The windows on the shops were all barred and there were only indigenous people in town, around 60. Needless to say I decided not to stop.
The last 150km to the QLD boarder were very interesting. I crossed a cattle grid and noticed several dead sheep. Then noticed the flock of sheep and herd of cattle. It was an area that isn't fenced and the herds and flocks can roam at their leisure. The same can be said for the kangaroos. There was a definite increase in the numbers killed on the roads.
Hebel is the town just over the boarder and where I wanted to get fuel. It was just on dusk and the road headed directly into the sun. There are no hills and very few trees so the sun looked like it was coming out of the road. Again visibility was difficult. Whilst trying to see where I was going the local wildlife increased dramatically and I had several near misses with kangaroos and emus. I knew the Hwy made a right angle at Hebel so was very much looking forward to getting there getting fuel and moving on only to find out there is no fuel in Hebel and I needed to get to Dirranbandi 65 kms away. I was very close to empty when I got there.
From Dirranbandi to St. George was a difficult drive the road was narrow and the bush was quite high immediately next to the road which made spotting the roos quite difficult.
From St. George I headed thought Rome and Ijune eventually pulling over tonight at 11:04 about 100kms from Rolleston. The only mishap was collecting an echidna about 30 mins before I stopped, made an awful thud but I'm grateful it wasn't a roo.
Today I covered 1465km. 1921 km down 1195 to go.
28 June 2015
It was definitely more pleasant waking this morning. The weather was quite mild and the sun was up earlier than yesterday. I packed up and left at 6:51 again.
About 5 minutes into the drive I came across more fog. Luckily it only lasted about 5 km and wasn't at all heavy like yesterday. I was in Rolleston just before 8, fuelled up and headed towards Springsure. I grabbed a coffee and a toasty and stopped to take some pictures, then to Claremont. I refuelled there and then headed to Charters Towers. That was the longest part of the entire trip so far. It was 375 km of straight road, no hills, no towns, few trees, the only thing to look at was the road kill. You name it, from roos to boars, it was dead. It seemed to take forever to get there.
The rest of the day was a dream. I arrived in Townsville around 4:00, I rang the caravan park in Cairns to see if they had a spot for me tonight and the did.
So I arrived here at my final destination at 7:45 this evening, a total of 3122 km covered in exactly 50 hours.
It really was a great trip, thank god for music on the phone and podcasts. The podcasts were a highlight, I think I have listened to all the ones I have so I'll need to so others for the trip home. I have listened to several things more than once, although I wanted not to but that was by choice. I am really looking forward to a good night sleep not having to get up and sit in the car, and I do look forward to a similar trip home.
I'm a little weary but have really enjoyed the ride and now I look forward to the best part, Cate, Ethan and Aisha arriving on Tuesday.
Sunday, 18 January 2015
Pambula
Saturday 10th January
This morning we leisurely packed the trailer and left Canberra for Pambula. Last night Cate and discussed leaving at 11:00 and we pulled out of the caravan park at 11:03, perfect timing.
We stopped for lunch at the same park in Cooma just after 12:30 had a play and continued the drive.
We drove through some of the most spectacular scenery I think I've ever seen. From the Monaro Hwy we went on the Snowy Mountain Hwy where we passed over the top of Glenbog State Forest. The decent from the top is spectacular and very slow driving. We began literally in the clouds and descended for what seemed like ages. The road was very steep and I was in second gear most of the way down. Just out of Bemboka we turned off the Snowy onto Mogilla Road this took us to the beautiful town of Candelo where we got onto Candelo Wolumla Rd. At Wolumla we made the Princes Hwy and on to Pambula, an absolutely beautiful drive.
Cate took the kids for a play while I set the camper up for our relaxing week here. Around 5:00 it started to rain and at 10:30 the light rain is still falling. The forecast is not so flash for this week, mostly rain but warm temperatures. Like last year the caravan park is packed and I look forward to the rest of the week.
Sunday 11th January
An extremely relaxed day today with very little planned which was terrific after the very hectic week in Canberra. The rain continued all night last night and finally stopped around 9am. There was not really heavy rain just a constant light rain that occasionally got heavier. The ground was very heavy this morning and some sites had a considerable amount of water in front of them; luckily not ours.
The local kangaroos were abundant this morning. Aisha was very excited when a mother and joey decided to have a very close look at our set up. They could smell the kids breakfast and tried to make themselves at home under our awning. They hung around for half an hour or so then moseyed off.
I did a couple of loads of washing and dishes, just some general clean up stuff and with the rain starting again around 11 we decided to go back to Candelo for lunch and a look around.
There was a park for the kids to play in and as usual we went there first. The kids were very happy they had a flying fox and a climbing frame. We then went to a cafe and general store to order lunch and were told they were about to close at 1:00. So we had a coffee, hot chocolate and chocolate milkshake then went to the local bowling club for lunch. There were 3 staff and 3 customers when we walked in and by the time we left the only people in the place were the staff. I have no idea how a small country town can support a bowling club that seems to open 7 days.
We returned to Pambula. The kids swam in the pool, I shopped and cooked dinner and that about ended a very relaxed day.
Although it rained a lot today the temperature wasn't that cold. Tomorrow should be a little warmer and dryer.
Monday 12th January
This morning was a little overcast and there was a little rain last night. It wasn't long before the clouds began to dissipate and we saw the sun for the first time in Pambula.
Ethan, Aisha and I went to the pool while Cate went for a walk along the beach. Around lunchtime we needed to head back to the camper for a bite to eat and loading up on more sunscreen. The temperature was not as high as when we were in Canberra but it felt more intense and burning.
After lunch we went back to the pool for a while then again came back to the camper for more food. We finally hit the beach this afternoon. It was a perfect beach day, little wind and warm sun. We found several tennis balls in the beach toy bag and that kept Ethan and Aisha amused for quite some time. Throwing the balls into the surf as far as they could then waiting for the waves to bring them back. The kids loved playing it and really enjoy themselves. I'm sure that game will be played several times this week, weather permitting.
Dinner and bed for the kids followed.
Today was the most relaxing day we have had in quite some time. Nothing planned, playing it by ear, doing what the kids wanted and chilling out. I hope the rest of the week is more of the same.
Tuesday 13th January
Another beautiful morning greeted us and we were applying the sunscreen around 9:00. Ethan, Aisha and I headed to the pool while Cate had a little snooze. Cate joined us around 10:00 and we spent all the morning jumping from one pool to another. Ethan and Aisha seem really at home in the pool and enjoy each other's company.
The kids have made a few friends since we have been here. There are four girls who seem besotted with Aisha and find their way to the pool when we are there. Aisha is very pleased to have some friends and is attracted to talking to them. It is difficult to hear the girls talking to Aisha and Ethan and I would really like to have a hidden mic because their body language is interesting. They talk to Aisha and have a little laugh, and I'm sure they are nice kids.
After lunch the kids and I hired the parks 3 and 4 wheel bikes. We had a ball riding around and another first for Ethan was him being tall enough to ride the bike on his own. It was funny watching him trying to peddle and steer at the same time.
There was an art and craft session this afternoon and Cate took Aisha while Ethan and I went to the jumping pillow. Ethan soooo wants to be able to do flips (like Sporticus from ABC-kids). He can spin 360 degrees and roll over a number of times; so cute compared to the 15 yo kids on the pillow.
The local Lions Club had a curry night and were using the camp kitchen and Cate was desperate for something other than BBQ. So while we waited Cate and the kids headed to the pool for a dip. Unfortunately they were running short and only had the green curry. This left us a little short for dinner and I warmed up the leftovers from the fridge.
Just as dinner was finishing up the rain started. It was coming from a direction that was coming straight under the awning and everything is going to be wet tomorrow. Still we are having a great time and the canvas on our trailer is 10/10.
Wednesday 14th January
The rain was relentless last night; a consistent amount of rain until around 4am Luckily I had put most of our stuff in the trailer and shut the kitchen. The morning was beautiful once again. No clouds or wind and perfect beach weather; such contrasting weather. Cate went for a run this morning before we went to the beach, she headed towards Pambula and made it about half way.
We were at the beach by 9:30 and had the best part of the day for it. The two hours we spent there were terrific; nice and warm, no wind, warm water, perfect. We stayed in the water for quite some time; Cate and Ethan together while Aisha clung to me. Both the kids were very adventurous in how far they wanted to go into the water. Ethan was standing and I was holding Aisha and I was probably chest deep. Cate had a swim, diving under the waves, and loved it. After the swim the kids dug in the sand for a little while before we went for an explore on the rocks near the beach entrance and the kids were really climbing the rocks well. They were very sure footed and rarely asked for my help in getting from one place to another even though the rocks were difficult to climb.
Back at the camper for lunch then Aisha wanted to get to the pool, mainly to catchup with her friends. We spent a while at the pool and around 2:30 went back to the camper. I went for a ride into Merimbula while Cate took the kids to an art and craft afternoon; 2 flags were made. Cate then went for a walk on the beach and I took the kids back to the pool. Then Cate took over while I cooked dinner.
So far tonight is the best of the nights spent here. There is no rain and it is still quite warm with no wind to speak of.
Thursday 15th January
Cate described today as her holiday ground hog day (possibly the 3rd or 4th time in the last 3 weeks) and I would have to agree.
Last night I sat with our neighbours, Craig anbd Shannon, looking at the stars which were performing amazingly. We were satellite watching and discussing our travels and life in general. They really are very nice people and have a young family, their youngest daughter is a similar age to Aisha.
We woke to a perfect day. Again cliche but true. This morning we decided to head back to the Toucan Cafe we went to last year and riding into Pambula from Pambula Beach. The ride there went really well. There was a distinct difference between Ethan riding last year and this year. Breakfast was terrific. We had a big breakfast, a Pambula burger and some fruit toast as well and soy hot chocolates, lattes and milkshakes, all of which was great. We then rode back to the camper. It is a total distance of 7.2km Ethan was a real trouper and the ride there and back and the meal was 10/10.
When we got back we headed to the beach, it was perfect beach weather. Interestingly Ethan and Aisha wanted to find their friends before we went there but they were nowhere to be found. Aisha woke very early this morning and actually had a sleep in Cate's arms while sitting at the beach. Ethan and I played in the waves and he wanted me to bury him so I dug a hole and he was buried to his chin. He was laughing and really enjoyed playing in the sand. When Aisha work we left the beach organised lunch and headed to the pool.
The entire afternoon was brilliant, the kids found their friends and Cate and I enjoyed the pools and the sun. It has been interesting watching the friendship develop between Aisha and the girls and that Aisha has been looking for them at every opportunity.
After dinner the park had a karaoke night and Aisha's friends had a blanket for Ethan and Aisha to sit at. The karaoke was ok and it was a VERY late night for both the kids they were in bed at around 9:30.
I would have to agree with Cate that today could nearly be a ground hog day.
Friday 16th January
This morning was quite overcast although not cold at all. We stayed near the camper for most of the morning then went to the pool to find the kids friends. While at the pool Cate and I got chatting to a couple whose kids were also running from pool to pool, Greg and Blith. I had run into them earlier in the week at the camp kitchen and it seemed we have the same cooking time.
Most of the day was spent at the pool and around 3:00 we headed back to the camper. The kids and I went for a ride around the park for and hour or so, I'm sure we rode past every site in the park.
The Pambula Surf Lifesaving Club had dinner and a paper plane design and throwing competition on tonight. It turned out to be a great evening. The guy organising the event was terrific with the kids keeping them busy and entertained. Ethan and Aisha's friends were there for them to hangout with and Greg and Blith were there with their kids so Cate and I had another chat with them. We wanted to get the kids into bed on time because of the late night last night but that didn't eventuate.
After the kids went to be Cate and I sat with Craig and Shannon. They have a daughter similar age to Aisha and it's uncanny the resemblance they have to each other. They sound similar, have similar hair, and the same dory drink bottle and princess towel.
It has been a pleasure shutting and getting to know Craig, Shannon and their kids this week. They are a lovely family and I hope we see them again next year.
Originally we had planned to drive home this evening but I an very glad we didn't. Meeting other families tonight has been terrific.
Saturday 17th January
This morning was brilliant for packing up. It was also the perfect morning for the beach. Nevertheless we set about packing. It was a very casual pack I really just took my time and this time I did remember to organise dinner for the DreamPot.
We said our goodbyes to Craig, Shannon and their kids and headed off just after 10:00.
The drive was quite nice and the traffic was really good considering the number of vehicles on the road. We had 2 stops, the first in Cann River and the second in Bairnsdale. They have already become the places to stop at when going to and from Pambula.
We drove in the driveway just after 5:00 to see our house for the first time this year.
It has been and extraordinary 3 weeks. We have experienced a lot, met some wonderful people that I hope we meet again and created more fantastic memories.
This morning we leisurely packed the trailer and left Canberra for Pambula. Last night Cate and discussed leaving at 11:00 and we pulled out of the caravan park at 11:03, perfect timing.
We stopped for lunch at the same park in Cooma just after 12:30 had a play and continued the drive.
We drove through some of the most spectacular scenery I think I've ever seen. From the Monaro Hwy we went on the Snowy Mountain Hwy where we passed over the top of Glenbog State Forest. The decent from the top is spectacular and very slow driving. We began literally in the clouds and descended for what seemed like ages. The road was very steep and I was in second gear most of the way down. Just out of Bemboka we turned off the Snowy onto Mogilla Road this took us to the beautiful town of Candelo where we got onto Candelo Wolumla Rd. At Wolumla we made the Princes Hwy and on to Pambula, an absolutely beautiful drive.
Cate took the kids for a play while I set the camper up for our relaxing week here. Around 5:00 it started to rain and at 10:30 the light rain is still falling. The forecast is not so flash for this week, mostly rain but warm temperatures. Like last year the caravan park is packed and I look forward to the rest of the week.
Sunday 11th January
An extremely relaxed day today with very little planned which was terrific after the very hectic week in Canberra. The rain continued all night last night and finally stopped around 9am. There was not really heavy rain just a constant light rain that occasionally got heavier. The ground was very heavy this morning and some sites had a considerable amount of water in front of them; luckily not ours.
The local kangaroos were abundant this morning. Aisha was very excited when a mother and joey decided to have a very close look at our set up. They could smell the kids breakfast and tried to make themselves at home under our awning. They hung around for half an hour or so then moseyed off.
I did a couple of loads of washing and dishes, just some general clean up stuff and with the rain starting again around 11 we decided to go back to Candelo for lunch and a look around.
There was a park for the kids to play in and as usual we went there first. The kids were very happy they had a flying fox and a climbing frame. We then went to a cafe and general store to order lunch and were told they were about to close at 1:00. So we had a coffee, hot chocolate and chocolate milkshake then went to the local bowling club for lunch. There were 3 staff and 3 customers when we walked in and by the time we left the only people in the place were the staff. I have no idea how a small country town can support a bowling club that seems to open 7 days.
We returned to Pambula. The kids swam in the pool, I shopped and cooked dinner and that about ended a very relaxed day.
Although it rained a lot today the temperature wasn't that cold. Tomorrow should be a little warmer and dryer.
Monday 12th January
This morning was a little overcast and there was a little rain last night. It wasn't long before the clouds began to dissipate and we saw the sun for the first time in Pambula.
Ethan, Aisha and I went to the pool while Cate went for a walk along the beach. Around lunchtime we needed to head back to the camper for a bite to eat and loading up on more sunscreen. The temperature was not as high as when we were in Canberra but it felt more intense and burning.
After lunch we went back to the pool for a while then again came back to the camper for more food. We finally hit the beach this afternoon. It was a perfect beach day, little wind and warm sun. We found several tennis balls in the beach toy bag and that kept Ethan and Aisha amused for quite some time. Throwing the balls into the surf as far as they could then waiting for the waves to bring them back. The kids loved playing it and really enjoy themselves. I'm sure that game will be played several times this week, weather permitting.
Dinner and bed for the kids followed.
Today was the most relaxing day we have had in quite some time. Nothing planned, playing it by ear, doing what the kids wanted and chilling out. I hope the rest of the week is more of the same.
Tuesday 13th January
Another beautiful morning greeted us and we were applying the sunscreen around 9:00. Ethan, Aisha and I headed to the pool while Cate had a little snooze. Cate joined us around 10:00 and we spent all the morning jumping from one pool to another. Ethan and Aisha seem really at home in the pool and enjoy each other's company.
The kids have made a few friends since we have been here. There are four girls who seem besotted with Aisha and find their way to the pool when we are there. Aisha is very pleased to have some friends and is attracted to talking to them. It is difficult to hear the girls talking to Aisha and Ethan and I would really like to have a hidden mic because their body language is interesting. They talk to Aisha and have a little laugh, and I'm sure they are nice kids.
After lunch the kids and I hired the parks 3 and 4 wheel bikes. We had a ball riding around and another first for Ethan was him being tall enough to ride the bike on his own. It was funny watching him trying to peddle and steer at the same time.
There was an art and craft session this afternoon and Cate took Aisha while Ethan and I went to the jumping pillow. Ethan soooo wants to be able to do flips (like Sporticus from ABC-kids). He can spin 360 degrees and roll over a number of times; so cute compared to the 15 yo kids on the pillow.
The local Lions Club had a curry night and were using the camp kitchen and Cate was desperate for something other than BBQ. So while we waited Cate and the kids headed to the pool for a dip. Unfortunately they were running short and only had the green curry. This left us a little short for dinner and I warmed up the leftovers from the fridge.
Just as dinner was finishing up the rain started. It was coming from a direction that was coming straight under the awning and everything is going to be wet tomorrow. Still we are having a great time and the canvas on our trailer is 10/10.
Wednesday 14th January
The rain was relentless last night; a consistent amount of rain until around 4am Luckily I had put most of our stuff in the trailer and shut the kitchen. The morning was beautiful once again. No clouds or wind and perfect beach weather; such contrasting weather. Cate went for a run this morning before we went to the beach, she headed towards Pambula and made it about half way.
We were at the beach by 9:30 and had the best part of the day for it. The two hours we spent there were terrific; nice and warm, no wind, warm water, perfect. We stayed in the water for quite some time; Cate and Ethan together while Aisha clung to me. Both the kids were very adventurous in how far they wanted to go into the water. Ethan was standing and I was holding Aisha and I was probably chest deep. Cate had a swim, diving under the waves, and loved it. After the swim the kids dug in the sand for a little while before we went for an explore on the rocks near the beach entrance and the kids were really climbing the rocks well. They were very sure footed and rarely asked for my help in getting from one place to another even though the rocks were difficult to climb.
Back at the camper for lunch then Aisha wanted to get to the pool, mainly to catchup with her friends. We spent a while at the pool and around 2:30 went back to the camper. I went for a ride into Merimbula while Cate took the kids to an art and craft afternoon; 2 flags were made. Cate then went for a walk on the beach and I took the kids back to the pool. Then Cate took over while I cooked dinner.
So far tonight is the best of the nights spent here. There is no rain and it is still quite warm with no wind to speak of.
Thursday 15th January
Cate described today as her holiday ground hog day (possibly the 3rd or 4th time in the last 3 weeks) and I would have to agree.
Last night I sat with our neighbours, Craig anbd Shannon, looking at the stars which were performing amazingly. We were satellite watching and discussing our travels and life in general. They really are very nice people and have a young family, their youngest daughter is a similar age to Aisha.
We woke to a perfect day. Again cliche but true. This morning we decided to head back to the Toucan Cafe we went to last year and riding into Pambula from Pambula Beach. The ride there went really well. There was a distinct difference between Ethan riding last year and this year. Breakfast was terrific. We had a big breakfast, a Pambula burger and some fruit toast as well and soy hot chocolates, lattes and milkshakes, all of which was great. We then rode back to the camper. It is a total distance of 7.2km Ethan was a real trouper and the ride there and back and the meal was 10/10.
When we got back we headed to the beach, it was perfect beach weather. Interestingly Ethan and Aisha wanted to find their friends before we went there but they were nowhere to be found. Aisha woke very early this morning and actually had a sleep in Cate's arms while sitting at the beach. Ethan and I played in the waves and he wanted me to bury him so I dug a hole and he was buried to his chin. He was laughing and really enjoyed playing in the sand. When Aisha work we left the beach organised lunch and headed to the pool.
The entire afternoon was brilliant, the kids found their friends and Cate and I enjoyed the pools and the sun. It has been interesting watching the friendship develop between Aisha and the girls and that Aisha has been looking for them at every opportunity.
After dinner the park had a karaoke night and Aisha's friends had a blanket for Ethan and Aisha to sit at. The karaoke was ok and it was a VERY late night for both the kids they were in bed at around 9:30.
I would have to agree with Cate that today could nearly be a ground hog day.
Friday 16th January
This morning was quite overcast although not cold at all. We stayed near the camper for most of the morning then went to the pool to find the kids friends. While at the pool Cate and I got chatting to a couple whose kids were also running from pool to pool, Greg and Blith. I had run into them earlier in the week at the camp kitchen and it seemed we have the same cooking time.
Most of the day was spent at the pool and around 3:00 we headed back to the camper. The kids and I went for a ride around the park for and hour or so, I'm sure we rode past every site in the park.
The Pambula Surf Lifesaving Club had dinner and a paper plane design and throwing competition on tonight. It turned out to be a great evening. The guy organising the event was terrific with the kids keeping them busy and entertained. Ethan and Aisha's friends were there for them to hangout with and Greg and Blith were there with their kids so Cate and I had another chat with them. We wanted to get the kids into bed on time because of the late night last night but that didn't eventuate.
After the kids went to be Cate and I sat with Craig and Shannon. They have a daughter similar age to Aisha and it's uncanny the resemblance they have to each other. They sound similar, have similar hair, and the same dory drink bottle and princess towel.
It has been a pleasure shutting and getting to know Craig, Shannon and their kids this week. They are a lovely family and I hope we see them again next year.
Originally we had planned to drive home this evening but I an very glad we didn't. Meeting other families tonight has been terrific.
Saturday 17th January
This morning was brilliant for packing up. It was also the perfect morning for the beach. Nevertheless we set about packing. It was a very casual pack I really just took my time and this time I did remember to organise dinner for the DreamPot.
We said our goodbyes to Craig, Shannon and their kids and headed off just after 10:00.
The drive was quite nice and the traffic was really good considering the number of vehicles on the road. We had 2 stops, the first in Cann River and the second in Bairnsdale. They have already become the places to stop at when going to and from Pambula.
We drove in the driveway just after 5:00 to see our house for the first time this year.
It has been and extraordinary 3 weeks. We have experienced a lot, met some wonderful people that I hope we meet again and created more fantastic memories.
x
Sunday, 11 January 2015
Canberra
Friday 2nd January
This morning we packed for the end of our Lake Tyers holiday. I really hadn't planned to well for the pack and drive. I hadn't organised a DreamPot dinner and I hadn't done the dishes from last night. So the pack up took longer than anticipated.
It was really a shame to have to say goodbye to Zaron and Talia, we had such a great time together I look forward to our next camping adventure with them.
It was just before 11am when we left Lake Tyers and headed for Canberra. The drive was fantastic, the kids began by singing to the tunes we were playing in the car and before to long Aisha was asleep. Not long after that we had our first break for the day in Cann River. A picnic lunch at the local park and a play on the equipment and we continued our journey, a stop of around 50 minutes.
1 little side note, about 5km out of Cann River we passed a truck that was travelling incredibly slowly. It made the same turn towards Canberra as we did when we left Cann River I asked Cate when we would catch it, keeping in mind he had 50 minute head start. We caught him half an hour out of Cooma.
Cooma was the next stop. Again a play in a playground a little snack and 20-30 minutes we were off on the last leg to Canberra. The only other stop on the was was to have a photo at the ACT sign.
One very interesting part of today was that I have never been to this part of the country before. The scenery today was breath taking in parts and the roads better than I anticipated.
We found the caravan park we have booked into for the next 8 nights and I must say first impression are not favourable. I'm sitting here trying to find kind appropriate words to explain what it is like. Here we go!! At least half the people here are live in locals. Their accommodation needs desperate renovations, "trailer trash" definitely comes to mind. Just as the kids were heading to bed a couple on the locals seemed to have a competition as to whose V8 could be reved the loudest, and I swear there are more teeth in the Collingwood cheer squad than the residents and the concept of the TV show "Bogan Hunters" was possibly conceived right here in this caravan park.
That said there are a few travellers and right now, 9:35pm everything is quiet except for a late traveler who just pulled up.
When we arrived, since I had not planned dinner, we dropped the trailer at our site and went out for dinner. We found a terrific pizza and pasta restaurant in Manuka for dinner then came back for the set up, I set up while Cate showered the kids and read before bed.
Today was very warm and a good day to sit with the AC on in the car, tomorrow's forecast is for 35 degrees in Canberra so are heading to Big Splash Water Park, I look forward to another terrific day.
Saturday 3rd January
The camper got very warm very early and were up and about before 7. Big Splash Water Park slides didn't open until 10 am so we had a little time to fill in. When Cate was living in Canberra the Bearsley's didn't live too far from where we are staying. Cate was very excited to stop out the front of both houses and explain to Ethan and Aisha what she got up to at each house. She was extremely excited to visit her old trumping ground.
Last night I read about 3infun.com.au where you can purchase tickets for 3 of the places we want to see at heavily discounted family prices. We drove to the Canberra and Region Information Centre to purchase the tickets. They also had free Wifi so we logged on and uploaded some of the pictures and blogs we had from our Lake Tyers trip. Then off to the Water Park.
We arrived at the park around 10:45 and were met by a rather large line. The pool opens at 10am and there were people in there before we arrived. The temperature was rising and the line was hardly moving at all. What was it going to be like when we got in?
We got to the window to pay and you pay by height. If you read the blog about the day we went to Sea World on the Noosa trip you'll understand how disappointed Ethan was when he couldn't go the water slide there. He stood tall, he stood proud and made the height limit for all the rides by about 5cm. Boy was he excited. Ethan, Cate and I got our yellow hand bands and off we went. Aisha also wanted to stand next to the height limiter and to her amazement and disappointment she missed out by 15cm. Although she was disappointed she was excited that Ethan made it.
There was a little pool for little kids that had small water slides catering for kids Aisha's age. We went there first. Aisha wouldn't go down the slide on her own; she was very nervous. Ethan was very patient while I spent the early time with Aisha.
There were 3 different slides for those over 110cm. Ethan selected the slide to go down first and sitting on my knee we went on the adventure. He was very clingy and the pool was my chest high so we both went under. He came up laughing and wanting to go again. And again we went; walk up slide down, walk up slide down. Ethan and I then moved to another slide where we sat in a blow up double tube. Again he was massively excited. We did that several times as well.
At this point of the day it struck me that the wait for the rides was nowhere as bad as the wait to get into the place.
Ethan then wanted to share the experience with Cate, so they did all the slides while Aisha and I waited and watched. He was excited to go with mum and Aisha was excited to see them hit the water.
We had lunch and both the kids went to the little pool. They were both really enjoying the slides and the water. It was tangible the increase in both their confidence levels as the day went by.
The first slide Ethan really enjoyed, I'd describe it as the normal, traditional water slide. One time I went first and waited for Ethan to follow and pick him up. Boy was he excited to go on it by himself. The pool at the end was way over Ethan's head but he was determined to walk up the steps and ride it alone. Cate and I agreed. We waited for him to come down with no support in the water and he did struggle. Mum had to jump in and "rescue" him. A little scare but he was keen to do it again.
The final ride was called the twister and everyone had to go down alone, 2 slides side by side. I thought I'd go and check it out. The ride flew, fast and faster; great ride. I went back and told Ethan how fast it was. He really wasn't keen. He would have been keen if he could go down with me. However he was becoming more and more confident in the water and with the slides, he came up and asked if we could go on the twister. Ok off we went. With feet crossed and hands behind our head we went down together. I hit the bottom first and jumped up to make sure Ethan was ok. What I saw was the biggest smile and him yelling "THAT WAS AWESOME! LETS DO IT AGAIN" so again up we went. And again.
The slides closed at 5pm and both the kids were disappointed when that was it. I was impressed with the confidence improvement both Ethan and Aisha showed today.
We bought take away Chinese for dinner and ate it by Lake Burley Griffin. Really a perfect way to end a perfect day. The heat took it out of us today and by the time we left the park we were all a little tired yet we managed to get through the night with little fuss. A credit to us all (3 to 44) for not cracking it. Great day (understatement).
Today I took a heap of video, thank you GoPro. I haven't seen it yet but if it's as good as I hope I'll definitely post a YouTube video. Keep an eye on that page.
Sunday 4th January
Another warm morning meaning we were up early and ready for the day.
For my birthday Cate bought a voucher for an hour flight in a 737-800 simulator. Ethan got half an hour for Christmas. Today was the day Cate had booked for the flights. Ethan was going first then I was to follow. Not wanting to be late, I looked for the location of the simulator so we could leave in plenty of time. To our amazement it is literally less than 800 meters from our camp site.
I had been very excited to learn to fly a 737 since my birthday. Anthony was the pilot and he introduced Ethan to the simulator, which is a scale model of a 737 with huge screens to project the scenery and give an excellent view of up to 22,000 different airports worldwide. There is enough room behind the simulator for 3 people to watch. Ethan took off from Sydney. It was terrific to see the enthusiasm on his face as he took off and flew the plane. He was totally excited when he approached and flew through the clouds and eventually he made an excellent landing in Newcastle.
My turn. While Ethan was flying Anthony asked which airports I was interested in flying from and to. I thought New York's JFK would be great to see so we began from there. Anthony took me on some of the pre flight checks that need to be completed from cabin pressurisation to fasten seat belt signs. Then a basic run down of the controls for take off and landing and a chat about all the dials and switches for the activation of the auto pilot. Then I powered up and we took off. We flew a lap around New York and landed on the same runway. It was interesting to feel how the controls felt and handled and was surprised how forceful you need to be to get the aircraft to respond. By that I mean how far to turn or push, not how difficult it is. Interestingly I wanted to see New York from the cockpit but instead I was watching instruments and keeping the plane on track. Although the autopilot is available I wanted to fly the thing myself.
The hour flight allows for 2 takeoffs and landings so for the second one I flew from Chek Lap Kok airport in Hong Kong to Kai Tak also in Hong Kong. Kai Tak is no longer in operation and was widely known as the most difficult for pilots to fly into. It was very busy and difficult on the flight deck and I must say Anthony is a great coach and I made it without him touching the flight controls.
Since that flight is so short I managed to fit another flight in, this time the reverse of the Hong Kong airports.
It was truly amazing to be in the cockpit of a plane and take the controls, an experience I will definitely never forget.
As it was only 11:30 we came back to the camper for a bite to eat then we headed off to find the old merry go round in the city. It took us a while to locate it and we ended up parking at the Canberra Central shopping center. The kids were very excited to go on the ride, as was Cate. We then spent a little time having an ice cream and wandering the shopping center. While we were there it bucketed with rain and we weren't really sure if we had put the windows up in the trailer!
We then made the trip to Capital Hill and a visit to Parliament House, arriving just after 3pm. I was surprised to see a heavily armed police officer at the entrance with a fully automatic assault rifle at the ready. I later found out that those officers had been there since September when the Parliament in Canada was the subject of a gunman. After going through the metal detectors we found out that a free tour was beginning at 3:30 so off we went.
The tour guide was Kevin (no not Rudd) and he gave us a history of Canberra, the old and the new Parliament Houses. He took us to the public gallery of the House of Representatives and the Senate explaining how many members and the procedures etc. He was a very knowledgeable tour guide and the 50 minute tour seemed like only 15 minutes. Ethan and Aisha were both brilliant sitting and listening while the explanations were happening.
After the tour we went onto the roof and had a look around. The scenery really was magic. We left the roof and had a little wander around inside before it closed at 5pm.
We ate out at a Chinese restaurant then headed for the camper and bed.
It really has been a wonderful and busy day. I'm glad we decided to come here for the week and I feel we have packed so much in already and we still have 6 days to go.
On Friday night I made some comments about the park we are staying in. Although accurate at the time I found out today the the SummerNats have been in Canberra this weekend. That explains all the V8 noise and some of the people staying in the park. The facilities could still be better but I am enjoying staying here.
Monday 5th January
Today was the first of our 3infun days and we decided to head to the AIS. Another perfect day greeted us with blue skies and wonderful warm weather.
Arriving at the AIS we got our tickets for the guided tour then I went and bought a hat; I only packed my big beach hat and I really need a cap.
The names of the 2 athletes alludes me right now but the male is a wrestler and the female is a netballer. The tour started with a hands on exhibition. Ethan and Aisha had a great time trying all the different sports and I was amazed reading all the memorabilia on the walls.
The next hour was spent touring the many facilities the athletes have at their disposal. We toured the main arena, the gymnastics training facility, the volleyball training facility, the weights and conditioning facility and the swimming pool. There were some facilities I remember from my time at the AIS and the tour was great.
Last night Aisha, Cate and I had a bad sleep. Aisha woke around 3am and from then Cate and I slept poorly. By the time we left the AIS we needed to drive for a while so Aisha could have a sleep. Cotter Dam was the choice; at least a 30 minute drive.
A perfect choice it was. Cate and Aisha had a sleep in the car while Ethan and I explored the park. After a little while it was the boys and the girls exploring the Cotter Dam Reserve. Ethan got into his bathers and went walking and swimming in the creek and I followed.
The time we spent at the Cotter Dam Reserve was very relaxing and I thought I could have really seen a platypus, such was the clarity of the stream. We spent a considerable amount of time watching the river flow past, throwing rocks and exploring the bank of the stream and playing in the playgroun; a perfect couple of relaxed hours.
When we got back to camp Cate bathed the kids while I went and bought sausages and steak for dinner. We could see some black clouds approaching and I went to the camp kitchen to cook dinner. The rain that came was torrential. Cate and the kids got soaked getting back to the camper, while the sausages were poached because of the water on the BBQ. I had to cook them again when I got back to the camper. Although the rain was heavy and everything outside was soaking wet the inside of our camper is brilliant. I really could not be happier with the quality of the canvas. I certainly did not predict tropical storms in Canberra.
Tuesday 6th January
Today the plan was to head to Cockington Green Gardens. We chose today because there was less chance of rain. Again up early due to the temperature in the morning and greeted with a beautiful day.
We arrived at the gardens around 10:30 and headed inside. Cockington Green Gardens is a miniature world where they have created building and scenes anywhere from 1/12 scale to 1/50 scale. The grounds are divided into 2 main sections. The first original section of display from Great Britain and the second section The International and Australian display. The slogan for the place is "where the little things matter" and they say don't miss the little things. We walked around the gardens looking a number of times throughout the day. There is an enormous amount of detail in the displays and every time you look at it you see something new and different. It was great to see the sense of humour the people who created the displays had and I can imagine some of the discussions they had when planning the creations.
There is a small train to ride on and we went on that once then the kids played in the playground for a while. Ethan particularly enjoyed pressing the button to work the miniature train that went around the international section of the displays.
When we left the gardens we headed to the Telstra Tower. Aisha was particularly keen to go to the tower since we arrived in Canberra, mainly because it can be seen from any location. Ironically she was the one to get "bored" after being there for a short time. I think the kids were more excited to walk into the tower and get the the highest point then they wanted to leave. I think they are a little young to appreciate the views from there.
Earlier in the day Cate and I saw the National Carillon and thought it would be a great place to have dinner by Lake Burley Griffin. We went into Canberra CBD. I wanted to get a GoPro pole at Teds, and we found a supermarket and chicken shop to buy dinner. We didn't make it to Carillon as everyone was hungry so we ate dinner in the CBD then headed there.
A perfect evening to be walking around the island where the Carillon is located. Just as we arrived the bells chimed and again a short time later.
On the back to the camper we drove past The Lodge. I am very surprised the main entrance is on a freeway. We will drive past it again and find the other entrance but this afternoon we were running out of time.
We were back just in time for a bath, books and bed. Another brilliant day.
Wednesday 7th January
Yet again a glorious day greeted us this morning. Breaky done and we are all ready by 9:00am then off to Questacon, the science and technology centre. Questacon is located very close to the old Parliament House and is a relatively new building; very modern, open and well designed. It is very bright in the foyer area and there are 8 different rooms with different themes and several show type exhibits throughout the day.
There is a room dedicated for children up to the age of 6 called the Little Q and due to the school holidays they had 45 minute sessions with a limited number of people entering the room at any one time.
We were in the 10am session so we had half an hour in the first room before Little Q. The first room was mainly about optical and auditory illusions. The expression on Ethan's and Aisha's faces was terrific when they finally got the illusions, some however did go over their heads.
Little Q was awesome for the kids. Water play and mini everything. We could have stayed there for longer but the time limit kicked in and we were out. Probably for the best so we could fit everything in.
There was so much in every room and Cate and I really let the kids dictate when to move to the next room. The highlights were a gravity display where balls were rolled and they kept going round and round and round. Ethan sat and watched for a while and then in the same room, an earth and universe. There was lightning in a cage and an earthquake room both very exciting.
There were three shows we went to today. The first was a dinosaur puppet show; the second was a reptile quiz and information show. The third was a physics show about flight. The first show was terrific and Ethan really got into it. Aisha was interested in the dinosaur show but was hesitant to get to close and sat on Cate's knee for the duration of the show but did do the actions. Aisha was so cute walking up to the puppet and giving it a pat after all the other kids at the show had their turn. After the dinosaur show the reptile show began in the next room.
Room 7 was one of the kids favourite rooms. Aisha was intrigued with a series of pressure tubes that shot fluorescent silk scarves out from various spots in the room. There was a series of tubes that had compressors blowing air to take the scarves. There is a 6 meter free fall display where you can go, hang from a pole and free fall for a little while then slide to a stop. The minimum height limit is 110cm as with the water park several days ago and Ethan being 113cm could go on the ride. He has been a trooper this week going on the water slide rides and I thought he would back out on the drop when he got up there but he didn't. I couldn't take a camera with me and could see his reflection in the glass when he was hanging there it was priceless. As much as he enjoyed the drop he wasn't keen to do it again.
There were air pressure water jets for the kids to set fly in the outdoor area. They were about the size of a 1.25l bottle with a hose connection on the bottom. Half filled with water they were clicked into the launcher then pumped up with a large bike pump to 80 psi. Once launched they sprayed the water out the back and took off, quite high really. Today was warm so getting wet was part of the fun. The location was terrific as well; the grass area about 100 below the old Parliament House looking at the War Memorial in the distance. From there we went back to room 7.
There was also a thermal imaging camera in room 7 and that was really interesting. I could see the temperature of my breath when I breathed through my nose. There was another show to catch and that was about the physics of plane flight. It was an interesting and interactive show and both Ethan and Aisha got an opportunity to get on stage. Ethan played an air molecule, stinky methane, and Aisha held then let a balloon go to demonstrate thrust.
We got chicken and other grocery items for dinner and again we went and sat by Lake Burley Griffin. We went to the playground near there, an awesome park with everything imaginable. Ethan and Aisha had a ball but it was getting close to bed time and we had to leave.
PJ's and a quick wash then bed. Today was the last day on the 3infun pass and tomorrow we are going to the zoo.
I have been on many trips in our wonderful country and this trip to our capital Canberra has been brilliant so far. Up early and doing the tourist thing has been terrific. Cate and I have been wondering if the time we intend to spend here is long enough and by Friday I think we'll know. Tomorrow is another adventure.
Thursday 8th January
The National Zoo and Aquarium here in Canberra is the largest privately owned zoo in Australia I believe and today we went. It also has the largest collection of big cats in the country and I was very much looking forward to going.
After getting geologically challenged on the way, and yes I will blame the GPS, we arrived at a very picturesque location. Ethan was desperate to go to the aquarium so we headed there first. We had a quick look around because there was a talk about the lions and the zoo is the only one in the country with white lions. The talk was interesting but by the time it finished the temperature was pushing into the high 20's by noon it was over 30. The zoo is beautifully lined with trees which means there is little wind to keep cool. Cate and the kids were struggling a little with the heat and by 1pm we had walked the entire zoo and seen everything. We had promised Ethan another trip to the aquarium; inside it wasn't air conditioned. We sat in the shade and had lunch then decided to head to Manuka outdoor pool.
Cate swam there when she lived here. It turned out to be a perfect decision for the remainder of the day. The kids pool was the perfect depth for both the kids. There is a play ground next to the pool which was in the shade and Ethan and Aisha being the great mates they are played with each other in the pool and in the play ground then back to the pool. There is no doubt the simple things in life are free and the best. It is truly delightful watching them play together there is rarely a moment when they are not getting along. I'm not joking.
Just after 5:30 we left and went to the pizza restaurant in Manuka we went to on the first night in Canberra. Dinner was great again and the kids were terrific as usual.
Friday 9th January
Another picture perfect morning, warm and cloudless which was a little surprising considering it rained for most of the night. We were off to the War Memorial this morning with a way stop at the Molongolo river, a site I skied at back in the day. Some of the site looked familiar such as the judges tower but 22 years can really change a site with tree development etc.
We arrived at the War Memorial around opening time of 10:00. The biggest catastrophe of the week happened this morning when I left the battery for the camera at the camper still charging from over night. Ethan was bitterly disappointed because I had given him the title of official photographer for the day.
We went to the greeting center and bought a guide and map; we also found out where and when there were things for the kids to do. We had a little wander in the WW1 section then downstairs to an interactive story for the kids. Cate stayed with the kids while I looked around. I was totally surprised at the size of the Memorial. I'm not actually sure I had any conception as to its design and national importance. I had heard of the Roll of Honour and that was about all. I went to the Roll of Honour while the others were at the story. There was an art and craft session an hour after the story so Cate went there with Ethan and Aisha and again I took more in.
Next to the art and craft room was a discovery room designed for hands on stuff for kids. Ethan and Aisha had a ball playing in there. There was a life size helicopter for them to sit in and "drive", a life size submarine replica to play in, army dress ups and a trench for everyone to walk through including an interactive display of trench foot that both the kids thought was hilarious. They were happy to stay there with Cate.
There are 2 things I want to put in this blog. The first is the Roll of Honour. As far as I know I don't have any relative on the wall or that even went to war, yet I felt a sense of genuine loss when I walked up the stairs and saw how high the names went, possibly 3 metres, how long the wall is, 50 metres, and how small the names are, 15mm, then there were as many on the opposite wall. I went up there twice; the first time I was the only person up there and it was surreal. The second time with Cate, Ethan and Aisha and there were a few people up there. The atmosphere was awesome; many people in a space and it being quiet is eerie yet intense. The most amazing thing is over the speakers there are school children saying the name, in 15 second intervals, of all 62,000 diggers who made the ultimate sacrifice during WW1.
The second thing to mention is the display of the current Afghanistan soldier story. Video and commentary from those who were there and members of their families was touching and intense. I will never forget Elvi Wood describing when and how she was received the news her husband, Sergeant Brett Wood, had been killed in acting in Afghanistan during his 2011 deployment. I certainly can't do justice to her words here but the tone and detail of her recollection was truly emotional.
There were several returned soldiers describing their return to Australia after their deployment and trying to put into words the PTSD they experience and the importance of their respective families and the mates in their units. It's a must see.
Ethan and Aisha and Cate were amazing at the Memorial. There were few complaints in the 5 and a half hours we were there and really you could spend 2 days there and still not see everything. It's definitely on my list for the next trip to Canberra.
We left the War Memorial to drive past several of the land marks in Canberra. We went to The Lodge for a look and a photo and went to find as many Embassies as we could. We found the embassies of: Sri Lanka, USA, Indonesia, France, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Belgium, Egypt, The European Commission, Germany, India and The British High Commission. I've possibly miss some but the drive was terrific. We noticed that most of the European embassies had their flags at half mast; then found that flowers were laid at the front of the French embassy. This was the first indication we had that something had happened in France. We soon learned of the horrific terrorist attack there.
We wanted to visit a caravan park in the area to have a look for our next trip here so plugged it into the GPS and started towards it. The journey took us past the old Parliament House so we stopped to have a very quick look. Once again I was totally surprised at what we were confronted with. I knew it was a museum but didn't know it's the Museum of Democracy. About 80% is open to the public and again too much to mention here and it closed at 5:00. We got there at 4:00.
To be able to walk through both Houses of Parliament and the Prime Ministers office, the cabinet room etc. was quite interesting. I could spent another day there really, so much to read and see about Australian Politics.
We finally made it to the caravan park we wanted to see and had a great dinner at their restaurant. Then back to the camper and bed. There are not enough hours in the day.
Tonight is our last night here in Canberra and I feel I need to reflect on the week. I think we could spend more time here. There are so many things we missed; the national museum, the recording and movie museum and more time at some of the attractions we went to. The weather was tropical, hard to believe I know. We had hot weather every day and rain nearly every night. The traffic is non existent. It seems to be a big country town and everything closes at 6pm (ok, except restaurants and bars). I was expecting cold and we had hot weather. I thought a week was way too long it wasn't long enough. I am extremely glad we came here this week; a memory forever. Cate is obviously attached to here and we are staying close to where she lived. I feel we will definitely return in the future, possible when Aisha is over 110cm tall. I will be sad to leave, yet excited to drive to Pambula tomorrow for what I'm sure will be an awesome week.
This morning we packed for the end of our Lake Tyers holiday. I really hadn't planned to well for the pack and drive. I hadn't organised a DreamPot dinner and I hadn't done the dishes from last night. So the pack up took longer than anticipated.
It was really a shame to have to say goodbye to Zaron and Talia, we had such a great time together I look forward to our next camping adventure with them.
1 little side note, about 5km out of Cann River we passed a truck that was travelling incredibly slowly. It made the same turn towards Canberra as we did when we left Cann River I asked Cate when we would catch it, keeping in mind he had 50 minute head start. We caught him half an hour out of Cooma.
Cooma was the next stop. Again a play in a playground a little snack and 20-30 minutes we were off on the last leg to Canberra. The only other stop on the was was to have a photo at the ACT sign.
One very interesting part of today was that I have never been to this part of the country before. The scenery today was breath taking in parts and the roads better than I anticipated.
We found the caravan park we have booked into for the next 8 nights and I must say first impression are not favourable. I'm sitting here trying to find kind appropriate words to explain what it is like. Here we go!! At least half the people here are live in locals. Their accommodation needs desperate renovations, "trailer trash" definitely comes to mind. Just as the kids were heading to bed a couple on the locals seemed to have a competition as to whose V8 could be reved the loudest, and I swear there are more teeth in the Collingwood cheer squad than the residents and the concept of the TV show "Bogan Hunters" was possibly conceived right here in this caravan park.
That said there are a few travellers and right now, 9:35pm everything is quiet except for a late traveler who just pulled up.
When we arrived, since I had not planned dinner, we dropped the trailer at our site and went out for dinner. We found a terrific pizza and pasta restaurant in Manuka for dinner then came back for the set up, I set up while Cate showered the kids and read before bed.
Today was very warm and a good day to sit with the AC on in the car, tomorrow's forecast is for 35 degrees in Canberra so are heading to Big Splash Water Park, I look forward to another terrific day.
Saturday 3rd January
The camper got very warm very early and were up and about before 7. Big Splash Water Park slides didn't open until 10 am so we had a little time to fill in. When Cate was living in Canberra the Bearsley's didn't live too far from where we are staying. Cate was very excited to stop out the front of both houses and explain to Ethan and Aisha what she got up to at each house. She was extremely excited to visit her old trumping ground.
Last night I read about 3infun.com.au where you can purchase tickets for 3 of the places we want to see at heavily discounted family prices. We drove to the Canberra and Region Information Centre to purchase the tickets. They also had free Wifi so we logged on and uploaded some of the pictures and blogs we had from our Lake Tyers trip. Then off to the Water Park.We arrived at the park around 10:45 and were met by a rather large line. The pool opens at 10am and there were people in there before we arrived. The temperature was rising and the line was hardly moving at all. What was it going to be like when we got in?
We got to the window to pay and you pay by height. If you read the blog about the day we went to Sea World on the Noosa trip you'll understand how disappointed Ethan was when he couldn't go the water slide there. He stood tall, he stood proud and made the height limit for all the rides by about 5cm. Boy was he excited. Ethan, Cate and I got our yellow hand bands and off we went. Aisha also wanted to stand next to the height limiter and to her amazement and disappointment she missed out by 15cm. Although she was disappointed she was excited that Ethan made it.
There was a little pool for little kids that had small water slides catering for kids Aisha's age. We went there first. Aisha wouldn't go down the slide on her own; she was very nervous. Ethan was very patient while I spent the early time with Aisha.
There were 3 different slides for those over 110cm. Ethan selected the slide to go down first and sitting on my knee we went on the adventure. He was very clingy and the pool was my chest high so we both went under. He came up laughing and wanting to go again. And again we went; walk up slide down, walk up slide down. Ethan and I then moved to another slide where we sat in a blow up double tube. Again he was massively excited. We did that several times as well.
At this point of the day it struck me that the wait for the rides was nowhere as bad as the wait to get into the place.
Ethan then wanted to share the experience with Cate, so they did all the slides while Aisha and I waited and watched. He was excited to go with mum and Aisha was excited to see them hit the water.
We had lunch and both the kids went to the little pool. They were both really enjoying the slides and the water. It was tangible the increase in both their confidence levels as the day went by.
The first slide Ethan really enjoyed, I'd describe it as the normal, traditional water slide. One time I went first and waited for Ethan to follow and pick him up. Boy was he excited to go on it by himself. The pool at the end was way over Ethan's head but he was determined to walk up the steps and ride it alone. Cate and I agreed. We waited for him to come down with no support in the water and he did struggle. Mum had to jump in and "rescue" him. A little scare but he was keen to do it again.
The final ride was called the twister and everyone had to go down alone, 2 slides side by side. I thought I'd go and check it out. The ride flew, fast and faster; great ride. I went back and told Ethan how fast it was. He really wasn't keen. He would have been keen if he could go down with me. However he was becoming more and more confident in the water and with the slides, he came up and asked if we could go on the twister. Ok off we went. With feet crossed and hands behind our head we went down together. I hit the bottom first and jumped up to make sure Ethan was ok. What I saw was the biggest smile and him yelling "THAT WAS AWESOME! LETS DO IT AGAIN" so again up we went. And again.
The slides closed at 5pm and both the kids were disappointed when that was it. I was impressed with the confidence improvement both Ethan and Aisha showed today.
We bought take away Chinese for dinner and ate it by Lake Burley Griffin. Really a perfect way to end a perfect day. The heat took it out of us today and by the time we left the park we were all a little tired yet we managed to get through the night with little fuss. A credit to us all (3 to 44) for not cracking it. Great day (understatement).
Today I took a heap of video, thank you GoPro. I haven't seen it yet but if it's as good as I hope I'll definitely post a YouTube video. Keep an eye on that page.
Sunday 4th January
Another warm morning meaning we were up early and ready for the day.
For my birthday Cate bought a voucher for an hour flight in a 737-800 simulator. Ethan got half an hour for Christmas. Today was the day Cate had booked for the flights. Ethan was going first then I was to follow. Not wanting to be late, I looked for the location of the simulator so we could leave in plenty of time. To our amazement it is literally less than 800 meters from our camp site.
I had been very excited to learn to fly a 737 since my birthday. Anthony was the pilot and he introduced Ethan to the simulator, which is a scale model of a 737 with huge screens to project the scenery and give an excellent view of up to 22,000 different airports worldwide. There is enough room behind the simulator for 3 people to watch. Ethan took off from Sydney. It was terrific to see the enthusiasm on his face as he took off and flew the plane. He was totally excited when he approached and flew through the clouds and eventually he made an excellent landing in Newcastle.My turn. While Ethan was flying Anthony asked which airports I was interested in flying from and to. I thought New York's JFK would be great to see so we began from there. Anthony took me on some of the pre flight checks that need to be completed from cabin pressurisation to fasten seat belt signs. Then a basic run down of the controls for take off and landing and a chat about all the dials and switches for the activation of the auto pilot. Then I powered up and we took off. We flew a lap around New York and landed on the same runway. It was interesting to feel how the controls felt and handled and was surprised how forceful you need to be to get the aircraft to respond. By that I mean how far to turn or push, not how difficult it is. Interestingly I wanted to see New York from the cockpit but instead I was watching instruments and keeping the plane on track. Although the autopilot is available I wanted to fly the thing myself.
The hour flight allows for 2 takeoffs and landings so for the second one I flew from Chek Lap Kok airport in Hong Kong to Kai Tak also in Hong Kong. Kai Tak is no longer in operation and was widely known as the most difficult for pilots to fly into. It was very busy and difficult on the flight deck and I must say Anthony is a great coach and I made it without him touching the flight controls.Since that flight is so short I managed to fit another flight in, this time the reverse of the Hong Kong airports.
It was truly amazing to be in the cockpit of a plane and take the controls, an experience I will definitely never forget.As it was only 11:30 we came back to the camper for a bite to eat then we headed off to find the old merry go round in the city. It took us a while to locate it and we ended up parking at the Canberra Central shopping center. The kids were very excited to go on the ride, as was Cate. We then spent a little time having an ice cream and wandering the shopping center. While we were there it bucketed with rain and we weren't really sure if we had put the windows up in the trailer!
The tour guide was Kevin (no not Rudd) and he gave us a history of Canberra, the old and the new Parliament Houses. He took us to the public gallery of the House of Representatives and the Senate explaining how many members and the procedures etc. He was a very knowledgeable tour guide and the 50 minute tour seemed like only 15 minutes. Ethan and Aisha were both brilliant sitting and listening while the explanations were happening.
After the tour we went onto the roof and had a look around. The scenery really was magic. We left the roof and had a little wander around inside before it closed at 5pm.
We ate out at a Chinese restaurant then headed for the camper and bed.
It really has been a wonderful and busy day. I'm glad we decided to come here for the week and I feel we have packed so much in already and we still have 6 days to go.
On Friday night I made some comments about the park we are staying in. Although accurate at the time I found out today the the SummerNats have been in Canberra this weekend. That explains all the V8 noise and some of the people staying in the park. The facilities could still be better but I am enjoying staying here.
Monday 5th January
Today was the first of our 3infun days and we decided to head to the AIS. Another perfect day greeted us with blue skies and wonderful warm weather.
Arriving at the AIS we got our tickets for the guided tour then I went and bought a hat; I only packed my big beach hat and I really need a cap.
The names of the 2 athletes alludes me right now but the male is a wrestler and the female is a netballer. The tour started with a hands on exhibition. Ethan and Aisha had a great time trying all the different sports and I was amazed reading all the memorabilia on the walls.The next hour was spent touring the many facilities the athletes have at their disposal. We toured the main arena, the gymnastics training facility, the volleyball training facility, the weights and conditioning facility and the swimming pool. There were some facilities I remember from my time at the AIS and the tour was great.
Last night Aisha, Cate and I had a bad sleep. Aisha woke around 3am and from then Cate and I slept poorly. By the time we left the AIS we needed to drive for a while so Aisha could have a sleep. Cotter Dam was the choice; at least a 30 minute drive.A perfect choice it was. Cate and Aisha had a sleep in the car while Ethan and I explored the park. After a little while it was the boys and the girls exploring the Cotter Dam Reserve. Ethan got into his bathers and went walking and swimming in the creek and I followed.
The time we spent at the Cotter Dam Reserve was very relaxing and I thought I could have really seen a platypus, such was the clarity of the stream. We spent a considerable amount of time watching the river flow past, throwing rocks and exploring the bank of the stream and playing in the playgroun; a perfect couple of relaxed hours.
When we got back to camp Cate bathed the kids while I went and bought sausages and steak for dinner. We could see some black clouds approaching and I went to the camp kitchen to cook dinner. The rain that came was torrential. Cate and the kids got soaked getting back to the camper, while the sausages were poached because of the water on the BBQ. I had to cook them again when I got back to the camper. Although the rain was heavy and everything outside was soaking wet the inside of our camper is brilliant. I really could not be happier with the quality of the canvas. I certainly did not predict tropical storms in Canberra.Tuesday 6th January
Today the plan was to head to Cockington Green Gardens. We chose today because there was less chance of rain. Again up early due to the temperature in the morning and greeted with a beautiful day.
We arrived at the gardens around 10:30 and headed inside. Cockington Green Gardens is a miniature world where they have created building and scenes anywhere from 1/12 scale to 1/50 scale. The grounds are divided into 2 main sections. The first original section of display from Great Britain and the second section The International and Australian display. The slogan for the place is "where the little things matter" and they say don't miss the little things. We walked around the gardens looking a number of times throughout the day. There is an enormous amount of detail in the displays and every time you look at it you see something new and different. It was great to see the sense of humour the people who created the displays had and I can imagine some of the discussions they had when planning the creations.
There is a small train to ride on and we went on that once then the kids played in the playground for a while. Ethan particularly enjoyed pressing the button to work the miniature train that went around the international section of the displays.
When we left the gardens we headed to the Telstra Tower. Aisha was particularly keen to go to the tower since we arrived in Canberra, mainly because it can be seen from any location. Ironically she was the one to get "bored" after being there for a short time. I think the kids were more excited to walk into the tower and get the the highest point then they wanted to leave. I think they are a little young to appreciate the views from there.
Earlier in the day Cate and I saw the National Carillon and thought it would be a great place to have dinner by Lake Burley Griffin. We went into Canberra CBD. I wanted to get a GoPro pole at Teds, and we found a supermarket and chicken shop to buy dinner. We didn't make it to Carillon as everyone was hungry so we ate dinner in the CBD then headed there.
A perfect evening to be walking around the island where the Carillon is located. Just as we arrived the bells chimed and again a short time later.On the back to the camper we drove past The Lodge. I am very surprised the main entrance is on a freeway. We will drive past it again and find the other entrance but this afternoon we were running out of time.
We were back just in time for a bath, books and bed. Another brilliant day.
Wednesday 7th January
Yet again a glorious day greeted us this morning. Breaky done and we are all ready by 9:00am then off to Questacon, the science and technology centre. Questacon is located very close to the old Parliament House and is a relatively new building; very modern, open and well designed. It is very bright in the foyer area and there are 8 different rooms with different themes and several show type exhibits throughout the day.
There is a room dedicated for children up to the age of 6 called the Little Q and due to the school holidays they had 45 minute sessions with a limited number of people entering the room at any one time.We were in the 10am session so we had half an hour in the first room before Little Q. The first room was mainly about optical and auditory illusions. The expression on Ethan's and Aisha's faces was terrific when they finally got the illusions, some however did go over their heads.
Little Q was awesome for the kids. Water play and mini everything. We could have stayed there for longer but the time limit kicked in and we were out. Probably for the best so we could fit everything in.
There were three shows we went to today. The first was a dinosaur puppet show; the second was a reptile quiz and information show. The third was a physics show about flight. The first show was terrific and Ethan really got into it. Aisha was interested in the dinosaur show but was hesitant to get to close and sat on Cate's knee for the duration of the show but did do the actions. Aisha was so cute walking up to the puppet and giving it a pat after all the other kids at the show had their turn. After the dinosaur show the reptile show began in the next room.
Room 7 was one of the kids favourite rooms. Aisha was intrigued with a series of pressure tubes that shot fluorescent silk scarves out from various spots in the room. There was a series of tubes that had compressors blowing air to take the scarves. There is a 6 meter free fall display where you can go, hang from a pole and free fall for a little while then slide to a stop. The minimum height limit is 110cm as with the water park several days ago and Ethan being 113cm could go on the ride. He has been a trooper this week going on the water slide rides and I thought he would back out on the drop when he got up there but he didn't. I couldn't take a camera with me and could see his reflection in the glass when he was hanging there it was priceless. As much as he enjoyed the drop he wasn't keen to do it again.
There were air pressure water jets for the kids to set fly in the outdoor area. They were about the size of a 1.25l bottle with a hose connection on the bottom. Half filled with water they were clicked into the launcher then pumped up with a large bike pump to 80 psi. Once launched they sprayed the water out the back and took off, quite high really. Today was warm so getting wet was part of the fun. The location was terrific as well; the grass area about 100 below the old Parliament House looking at the War Memorial in the distance. From there we went back to room 7.
There was also a thermal imaging camera in room 7 and that was really interesting. I could see the temperature of my breath when I breathed through my nose. There was another show to catch and that was about the physics of plane flight. It was an interesting and interactive show and both Ethan and Aisha got an opportunity to get on stage. Ethan played an air molecule, stinky methane, and Aisha held then let a balloon go to demonstrate thrust.
We got chicken and other grocery items for dinner and again we went and sat by Lake Burley Griffin. We went to the playground near there, an awesome park with everything imaginable. Ethan and Aisha had a ball but it was getting close to bed time and we had to leave.PJ's and a quick wash then bed. Today was the last day on the 3infun pass and tomorrow we are going to the zoo.
I have been on many trips in our wonderful country and this trip to our capital Canberra has been brilliant so far. Up early and doing the tourist thing has been terrific. Cate and I have been wondering if the time we intend to spend here is long enough and by Friday I think we'll know. Tomorrow is another adventure.
Thursday 8th January
The National Zoo and Aquarium here in Canberra is the largest privately owned zoo in Australia I believe and today we went. It also has the largest collection of big cats in the country and I was very much looking forward to going.
After getting geologically challenged on the way, and yes I will blame the GPS, we arrived at a very picturesque location. Ethan was desperate to go to the aquarium so we headed there first. We had a quick look around because there was a talk about the lions and the zoo is the only one in the country with white lions. The talk was interesting but by the time it finished the temperature was pushing into the high 20's by noon it was over 30. The zoo is beautifully lined with trees which means there is little wind to keep cool. Cate and the kids were struggling a little with the heat and by 1pm we had walked the entire zoo and seen everything. We had promised Ethan another trip to the aquarium; inside it wasn't air conditioned. We sat in the shade and had lunch then decided to head to Manuka outdoor pool.
Cate swam there when she lived here. It turned out to be a perfect decision for the remainder of the day. The kids pool was the perfect depth for both the kids. There is a play ground next to the pool which was in the shade and Ethan and Aisha being the great mates they are played with each other in the pool and in the play ground then back to the pool. There is no doubt the simple things in life are free and the best. It is truly delightful watching them play together there is rarely a moment when they are not getting along. I'm not joking.
Just after 5:30 we left and went to the pizza restaurant in Manuka we went to on the first night in Canberra. Dinner was great again and the kids were terrific as usual.
Friday 9th January
Another picture perfect morning, warm and cloudless which was a little surprising considering it rained for most of the night. We were off to the War Memorial this morning with a way stop at the Molongolo river, a site I skied at back in the day. Some of the site looked familiar such as the judges tower but 22 years can really change a site with tree development etc.We arrived at the War Memorial around opening time of 10:00. The biggest catastrophe of the week happened this morning when I left the battery for the camera at the camper still charging from over night. Ethan was bitterly disappointed because I had given him the title of official photographer for the day.
We went to the greeting center and bought a guide and map; we also found out where and when there were things for the kids to do. We had a little wander in the WW1 section then downstairs to an interactive story for the kids. Cate stayed with the kids while I looked around. I was totally surprised at the size of the Memorial. I'm not actually sure I had any conception as to its design and national importance. I had heard of the Roll of Honour and that was about all. I went to the Roll of Honour while the others were at the story. There was an art and craft session an hour after the story so Cate went there with Ethan and Aisha and again I took more in.Next to the art and craft room was a discovery room designed for hands on stuff for kids. Ethan and Aisha had a ball playing in there. There was a life size helicopter for them to sit in and "drive", a life size submarine replica to play in, army dress ups and a trench for everyone to walk through including an interactive display of trench foot that both the kids thought was hilarious. They were happy to stay there with Cate.
There are 2 things I want to put in this blog. The first is the Roll of Honour. As far as I know I don't have any relative on the wall or that even went to war, yet I felt a sense of genuine loss when I walked up the stairs and saw how high the names went, possibly 3 metres, how long the wall is, 50 metres, and how small the names are, 15mm, then there were as many on the opposite wall. I went up there twice; the first time I was the only person up there and it was surreal. The second time with Cate, Ethan and Aisha and there were a few people up there. The atmosphere was awesome; many people in a space and it being quiet is eerie yet intense. The most amazing thing is over the speakers there are school children saying the name, in 15 second intervals, of all 62,000 diggers who made the ultimate sacrifice during WW1.The second thing to mention is the display of the current Afghanistan soldier story. Video and commentary from those who were there and members of their families was touching and intense. I will never forget Elvi Wood describing when and how she was received the news her husband, Sergeant Brett Wood, had been killed in acting in Afghanistan during his 2011 deployment. I certainly can't do justice to her words here but the tone and detail of her recollection was truly emotional.
There were several returned soldiers describing their return to Australia after their deployment and trying to put into words the PTSD they experience and the importance of their respective families and the mates in their units. It's a must see.
Ethan and Aisha and Cate were amazing at the Memorial. There were few complaints in the 5 and a half hours we were there and really you could spend 2 days there and still not see everything. It's definitely on my list for the next trip to Canberra.
We left the War Memorial to drive past several of the land marks in Canberra. We went to The Lodge for a look and a photo and went to find as many Embassies as we could. We found the embassies of: Sri Lanka, USA, Indonesia, France, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Belgium, Egypt, The European Commission, Germany, India and The British High Commission. I've possibly miss some but the drive was terrific. We noticed that most of the European embassies had their flags at half mast; then found that flowers were laid at the front of the French embassy. This was the first indication we had that something had happened in France. We soon learned of the horrific terrorist attack there.
We wanted to visit a caravan park in the area to have a look for our next trip here so plugged it into the GPS and started towards it. The journey took us past the old Parliament House so we stopped to have a very quick look. Once again I was totally surprised at what we were confronted with. I knew it was a museum but didn't know it's the Museum of Democracy. About 80% is open to the public and again too much to mention here and it closed at 5:00. We got there at 4:00.
To be able to walk through both Houses of Parliament and the Prime Ministers office, the cabinet room etc. was quite interesting. I could spent another day there really, so much to read and see about Australian Politics.
We finally made it to the caravan park we wanted to see and had a great dinner at their restaurant. Then back to the camper and bed. There are not enough hours in the day.
Tonight is our last night here in Canberra and I feel I need to reflect on the week. I think we could spend more time here. There are so many things we missed; the national museum, the recording and movie museum and more time at some of the attractions we went to. The weather was tropical, hard to believe I know. We had hot weather every day and rain nearly every night. The traffic is non existent. It seems to be a big country town and everything closes at 6pm (ok, except restaurants and bars). I was expecting cold and we had hot weather. I thought a week was way too long it wasn't long enough. I am extremely glad we came here this week; a memory forever. Cate is obviously attached to here and we are staying close to where she lived. I feel we will definitely return in the future, possible when Aisha is over 110cm tall. I will be sad to leave, yet excited to drive to Pambula tomorrow for what I'm sure will be an awesome week.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)