Cairns

It was a little sad leaving beautiful Etty Bay - we saw no more cassowaries but did see some dolphins frolicking in the bay. Our morning tea spot was at the amazing Babinda Boulders.

As we strolled along the pathway, we were continually reminded that there has been 21 deaths since 1965 and it’s not suitable for swimming, except in one spot. It was a beautiful walk and the it’s hard to imagine how these huge boulders ended up here.

Once we left there, it was only a short drive to Cairns and our bargain caravan park. We are very comfortable here as the sites are secluded with hedges and we are in a lovely treed environment. Once we set up, Mark and Kerri took us on a quick tour of the city and surrounds and we ended up at the Botanical Gardens which were so pretty with many plants in flower.

It was terribly hot and humid though so we were happy to come back to camp and cool off either with a shower or swim before our guests, Chloe and Bryce arrived. We had a happy evening with them and enjoyed a Thai takeaway meal. 

We have been hearing about Palm Cove from Mark & Kerri as it’s where they’ve stayed several times, so it was great to see it for ourselves. It’s certainly a beautiful spot - quite busy, very trendy and tropical. We walked along the esplanade and enjoyed the cool breeze. 

It’s amazing to see how the buildings are built around the trees - just as well they aren’t red gums! There are many lovely resorts so it’s certainly a popular holiday destination. 

Another attraction, not far from where we are, are the crystal cascades and after another beautiful. walk, we braved the cool waters for a quick dip! We never tire of seeing waterfalls and rainforests. 

The Cairns we are seeing now is very impressive with beautiful parks and gardens and a beautiful foreshore boulevard. 

When we were driving around the first couple of days, there was a huge cruise ship in harbour but it had gone when we walked along the boulevard to where we enjoyed a beautiful lunch at Hemingways Brewery.

We have really enjoyed our time in Cairns and it was made extra special by being here when Chloe arrived sporting a beautiful engagement ring. Bryce surprised her when they were at a concert in Brisbane - but now he’s over home in USA for a bit. You can imagine how excited Kerri & Mark are and how we are blessed to be a part of the excitement. 

So now we are at the end of our trip together and tomorrow Dennis and Tops head off to Ravenshoe, we’ll go towards Chilligoe and Mark and Kerri are staying here. We’ve had a wonderful 5weeks together and it will be very quiet travelling by our selves. Even here at our caravan park we’ve enjoyed many happy evenings even if we sit around a citronella candle rather than a camp fire.  It unfortunately it doesn’t keep us very warm! 

We send all readers our best wishes - ❌❌❌❌❌❌