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Published: January 5th 2016
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A visit by the local tv station at dawn
The weather being reported from the camp site by he local TV station followed by pancakes Arriving back in Cairns we discovered that it had rained hard all week while we were away,evident by the many puddles still visible around the camp site.Our caravan had been moved from storage to a good sized site and all set up for us.We stayed for 2 more nights in Cairns before heading down the coast.Stopping overnight at a free camp in the small but quaint town of Home Hill to break our journey passing Townsville this time as we headed for Airlie Beach We were booked in at the big 4 resort just out of town and on the way into the way into Airlie Beach.Here we where to meet up with friends once again, Ronnie and Cheryl who had arrive there days earlier.Although having stayed at this camp ground several times before we still find the site and surrounding countryside a great place to stay.Whilst here we were visited by a local TV network who were presenting the news and weather from the camp ground.Pancakes and other goodies where on offer on the morning of the presentation as well as entertainment for the camp guests and their children, a great morning was had by all.
Fishing on this
trip has not been very productive or a frequent as I would have liked, Ronnie has had a similar experience so we decided to try our hand at a fishing charter out in the bay. Arriving at 6.30am we were surprised to find that we were the only 2 on the charter, which was a small craft capable of holding about 6 and the skipper.Thinking this might give an edge and under the watchful eye of the skipper , a local man with experience of these waters we set off to catch some fresh bait.Moving to different locations around the bay and using different fishing techniques over 5 hrs of fishing, produced nothing more than a couple of small fish just enough for a fish supper.True to our past history we were not bringing home dinner.It was however a pleasant day on the water and a change in our routine.
Monty's resort in Hideaway Bay is just that a small resort hidden away and fringing a beautiful sandy bay,a place which we had not been to before even though we had visited the area several times. We made our way there with our friends and spent a couple of
very relaxing hours walking the beach and eating a very hearty lunch, well worth a visit.
We went on to visit several of our haunts from our past visits and noticed the growth of accommodation and amenities that is now Airlie Beach including a new ferry terminal and upmarket shopping complex.The main street however remains the hub of the town and the backpackers make this such a colourful place and fill it with viberent energy.The caravan park is large with ample room for everyone and the pool is a great place to wind down during late afternoon or play a game of boules on the inbuilt pitch.
Leaving our friends and Airlie Beach we head south for Cape Palmerston Caravan Park, which is half way between Mackay and Sarina and 6kms off the highway.Only opened 4 years ago this park is quickly becoming known as an oasis.With it's well laid out slabs and grassy tent pitches this is a well thought out park.Enough space for even the biggest rig this park can cater for all comers.The amenities are obviously new and very clean, while the camp kitchen doubles up as the entertainment venue in the evenings.While we were
there we were entertained by a fellow traveler with his songs and Australian wit. Marshmallows and snags over the campfire went well also.The beach is only a short stroll through the dunes to reveal miles of golden beach begging to be walked on.
Our time here comes to an abrupt halt because of medical issues, forcing us to break camp and head for home, stopping only to free camp once on the way.The medical issues where quickly sorted out once we were home.We missed some favorite camp spots on the way back but we can always go back if we want to.
Back home since September we have painted the house cleared and revamped the garden (with help from friends). Jackie's mum has been and gone back to Scotland,Christmas has passed by as we wait for the new year to arrive.2016 what will it bring? For us we are not sure we have sold the Caravan!!!! and a few bits and pieces and are considering what next . For now our trip around Australia is over and we hope we have brought a few smiles to some of you and hopefully inspired some of you to get out
there and see more of our beautiful country, see you out there there somewhere.
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Alan
non-member comment
Going home
Hi Bill and Jackie, we'll all great things come to an end! You have shown us all the fabulous beauty of Australia and its diversity. Your blogs have been both informative and entertaining and inspiring. Jan and I do hope to follow your example in the future and return to oz to spend quality time in the country and with you guys! We hope the memories of your trip as well as the many pictures you have taken sustain you until the next adventure. Welcome to 2016, stay safe and hope to see you soon. Alan & Jan x