Greendale Around Australia -Cooktown 2015

27th February 2015.

After a latish start on the road again to one of our favourite spots Elliott Heads via Maryborough.  A lovely hot three days spent here swimming, kayaking and relaxing.  Stephen and Elizabeth visited and we enjoyed Sunday afternoon drinks and nibbles.

3rd March 2015.

Left Elliott Heads and travelled straight up the highway to the free camp beside the Calliope River.  A nice spot on the high side of the river although still very hot.  Enjoyed a walk over the old highway bridge.

4th March 2015.

Once we left Calliope started to see the cyclone damage with lots of trees snapped off and fallen over.  Rockhampton looked like a war zone having lost a great proportion of their trees - even well established ones coming out by the roots.  From our quick trip through there wasn't a great deal of structural damage apparent - the odd few tarps over buildings but we probably didn't see the worst of it.  Travelled on to the sleepy little spot of St Lawrence to a well maintained free camp at the Rec grounds overlooking the wet lands.  Still very hot but we did venture out for a walk around the wetlands to a bird viewing area.  Lots of magpie geese, black swans, water hens and various species of ducks (and the mozzies came out at dark).

5th March 2015.

Left St Lawrence and once again straight up the highway through Carmila and Sarina almost to Mackay then headed west through Marian and Mirani to the showgrounds at Finch Hatton.  Still very hot but we found a nice shady spot in the well maintained grounds.  Went for a drive to Finch Hatton Gorge then a 5km walk to Araluen Cascades and the Wheel of Fire (named after the Fire trees that encircle the waterhole.  Two lovely spots and Russ braved the cold water for a dip in the clear water.  Went for a drive to Mackay to investigate the caravan parks for next week while Russ is doing some work there.  Visited the marina and then took a drive to the northern beaches of Mackay - Slade Point, Blacks Beach, Bucasia, Eimeo and Shoal Point but weren't impressed by any of the beaches.  On the way home visited Kinchant Dam and Teemburra Dam which are used for water skiing, jet boating etc.  Had Sunday night roast dinner at the Criterion Hotel in Finch Hatton. Yum!  Took the drive up the mountain on Monday after the crowds were gone to visit Eungella and Broken River.  Lots of fresh water turtles but no platypus to be seen.  Did a couple of short bushwalks and back to the Chalet for lunch.  Enjoyed a couple of happy hours with Graeme and Merilyn.  Lovely to meet you and may catch up in Gordonvale.

11th March 2015.

A short trip into Mackay, set up and enjoyed a swim.  The weather turned a little damp for Russ to start his four days of work.  The wind also picked up and pulled the awning away from the van.  As the work in Gordonvale had also fallen through, we decided we would head home and get some repairs done and Russ may pick up some more work around the country.  Enjoyed a coffee with Sandra - was great to catch up.

18th March 2015.

Left Mackay and headed straight down the highway, reaching Calliope mid afternoon.  The free camp was a little more crowded than on the way up but found a nice spot.  Anton and Sarah paid us a visit and it was great to catch up with them and hear their news.  Home tomorrow to regroup, get the van fixed and decide on our next trip.  Not sure if we will make it to Cooktown this year so may have to change the heading.