We spent our last night in the Cooktown area at the Lions Den, a historic pub situated on the Annan River. This was a great little spot to unwind with waterfalls and freshwater swimming holes near the campsite, and good quality pizza served on the big deck at night. We were glad we made the effort to visit this area as most of it remains undeveloped, which suits us just fine. Next time we get up this way we hope to bring a boat and head further up into the Cape York Peninsular on the famous Telegraph Road Track. We are planning our next trip already!!!!

On our way down to Cairns we stopped for a few nights in Atherton Tablelands. As much as we love the coast, the Walsh family enjoys the hinterland country just as much. If you are sick of Waterfalls do not come here as this is the area where God makes water. We stayed a cuple of days in the old logging town of Ravenshoe and then on the banks of Lake Tinaroo. The air up here is a lot drier and cooler at night – a perfect climate (we think) in this part of the world. Apart from doing some walks and swimming at the local waterfalls, we got into some mountain biking and visited the many small produce farms dotted along the country roads.

Coming into Cairns we decided to base ourselves in Redlynch, on the outskirts of the city. The caravan park we stayed  here for 5 nights was very impressive and situated in a beautiful valley. From here we visited Mossman Gorge, Port Douglas and Trinity Inlet to the north. It was also time to get back into the salt water, and we spent a day on the nearby Fitzroy Island.  The island was very beautiful, the water was warm and the snorkelling was better than we had anticipated (with many turtles to be seen). The kids got to visit the local turtle hospital and were very privileged to get up close to these amazing animals. Back in Cairns the kids made use of the swimming lagoons and the family got to eat out at a couple of good restaurants.

Now was time to start the big journey south. It hard to believe here how beautiful and lush the mountain backdrop is to the sea. As well as visiting the coastal towns of Curramine and Mission beach, we spent several days travelling around the sugar cane towns of Tully, Lucinda and Ingham. What a contrast these struggling farming communities are with the white-shoe brigade developments just happening close by on the coast. Many days were spent enjoying this diverse region, which included the Frankland islands and Hinchinbrook Channel, across to the rural towns and into the lush rainforest yet again. This whole region displayed all the attributes of Far North Qld and we loved every minute of it.

Heading south towards Townsville we stopped off at Wallaman Falls and Crystal creek before basing ourselves in town for a week. We didn’t realise just how big this town is, and a very liveable one at that. Wendy flew to Melbourne for a wedding so Chris took the kids over to Magnetic Island and lived in luxury for a few days. The island is very relaxed and not overly touristy. Apart from enjoying the comforts of a city life in Townsville, we visited the museum, were very impressed with the aquarium, hung out on the local esplanade and Dad caught up with a few old mates at the races. As usual the weather remains dry and perfect with no signs of the wet season build up upon us yet.

Next stop south was Bowen, which is mango capital of Australia. It is also the town that played host for the filming of the Darwin scenes in the movie Australia. Most people ignore this place on their way up the coast or to the Whitsunday Islands. However, this quiet working town set in a beautiful position is definitely a place people should visit
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We were lucky enough to secure standby rates for a 3-night cruise on the Whitsundays. The price was good value although we were a little bit hesitant as there would be 30 backpackers on board. However, we didn’t need to worry as they were a mature bunch whom absolutely loved having the kids on board. The weather was perfect with the focus of the trip being relaxing and snorkeling. It was magic – we finally got to dive on the outer reef and it was everything worth waiting for. We were the only boat there, the wind was still and the visibility was perfect. The crew looked after us all and guaranteed a trip we will always remember. I reckon a 38ft catamaran just might be a good way to spend ones retirement superannution – this place is paradise.