The Tropics

Welcome back all,

Back in Sydney now after a few great days in Tropical North Queensland. We visited Cairns, whose name is the most ambiguously pronounced name that I’ve ever heard. While in Cairns, we spent two days on the Great Barrier Reef, snorkelling and the other day exploring the tropical rainforests that surround the town. I’ve snorkelled before but this was the best yet. The water was absolutely pristine; a bale green-blue colour that was only outdone by the colours of the coral themselves. We were able to see coral, fish, sharks and even a turtle! Unfortunately, no underwater camera for me, but I did manage to get some shots of the beautiful water.

On day two we travelled up the mountains into the rainforest. We took a scenic railroad up the hill and a cable car back down. Both offered stunning views of the valleys below us as well as the forest itself and some great waterfalls. Once in Kuranda, the village, we saw some wildlife up close and personal. I was able to pet a kangaroo and even cuddle a Koala!

We also spent some time with the local Aboriginals and learned how to throw a spear and a boomerang. They also performed some tribal dances and taught us the basics of didgeridoo playing. I also got some private lessons from a didgeridoo shop in town! The didgeridoo is a really cool instrument that requires a huge amount of breath control and air. Definitely a great experience to learn to play though.

Our last day in Cairns was also spent on the reef where we were once again stunned by the natural beauty present there. Sunburned and tired, we caught a few hours sleep before the red eye flight back to Sydney.

The weather in Sydney was gorgeous today and we took a ferry ride to Manly Beach which offered amazing views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Tomorrow, it’s off to Canberra and Melbourne. It’s hard to believe that I’ll be home in less than two weeks time...

More soon!

- Liam