Australia - Part 4 - Queensland and The Great barrier Reef 2006

 We arrived at Melbourne airport and spotted the lead singer of UB40, Ali Cambell, we chatted for a few minute and told him how much we had enjoyed the previous night's show .

We then boarded  our flight to Cairns, Queensland which took around 3 hours. We were greeted at the airport by our driver and headed towards our base in the town of Port Douglas, where we booked in to the Cher du Monde.

We went for a walk around the town and were hit by the high temps and humidity.

We returned to the hotel for a cooling dip in the pool.

The following day, our adventure continued as we strolled down to the local jetty, excitement bubbling within us for the Poseidon boat trip out to the Great Barrier Reef. The morning air was filled with the salty scent of the ocean, mingling with the gentle sound of waves lapping against the pier. We boarded the boat, a sleek vessel that promised to take us to one of the world’s natural wonders.

Once aboard, we were greeted by friendly staff who made sure everyone felt comfortable and ready for the day ahead. After a brief introduction, we set off, the boat gliding effortlessly over the clear turquoise waters. As we traveled, the horizon stretched endlessly, and the vivid blue of the sea began to blend with the sky, creating a breathtaking panorama.

Arriving at the reef, we gathered for a fascinating talk by a Marine Biologist. Their passion for the underwater ecosystem was infectious as they shared insights about the vibrant marine life that thrived in the reef's depths. We learned about the intricate relationships between species and the delicate balance of this underwater paradise, and we were left in awe of the biodiversity that lay beneath us.

With our curiosity piqued, it was time for the main event. Rob eagerly suited up for snorkeling, his anticipation evident. After a thorough safety briefing, he took the plunge, diving into the crystalline waters with a splash. The moment he submerged, he was transported into another world.

Rob found himself among the Agincourt Reef, a breathtaking underwater spectacle. The sight was overwhelming—a kaleidoscope of colorful fish darting in and out of vibrant coral formations. The sun’s rays penetrated the water, illuminating the reef and bringing the underwater landscape to life. Schools of parrotfish, clownfish, and butterflyfish danced around him, while the gentle sway of the sea anemones created a serene ambiance.

On Rob's second dive, his dive buddy, Paul, pointed upward where there were several white tip and Reef sharks swimming just above them. After the dives, Rob returned to the boat for lunch, Mandy and Rob then dressed in "Smurf suits" (these were protective suits against Stingers) and spent a wonderful time snorkelling above the reef.

The Following day we walked over to the local market at ANZAC park, we then hopped on a steam train for the short ride between Port Douglas and St Crispin's station and stopped off at the Hog's breath cafe for a coffee. In the afternoon we walked over to the "Courthouse" for a beer and to listen to some live music.

The next day we joined Tony's tropical tours, we drove to Mossman gorge where Tony told all about the local animals and fauna. We drove on to Daintree where we boarded a small ferry with Bruce to look for salt water crocodiles, without luck.

Tony drove us to a look out in the forest to see views of the Daintree river estuary, we then we found ourselves at the breathtaking Cape Tribulation, a place where the ancient Daintree Rainforest meets the stunning Great Barrier Reef. This unique destination, with its lush greenery and pristine beaches, promised adventure and tranquility all at once.

As we drove along the winding roads, the towering trees of the rainforest enveloped us, creating a magical canopy above.

 Rob managed a quick dip in the Daintree River.

One of the highlights was their exploration of the lush Noah Valley. Nestled within a breathtaking expanse of untouched wilderness, Noah Valley offered a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The air was crisp, infused with the earthy scent of damp foliage and rich soil, creating an atmosphere that felt both invigorating and refreshing.

As we arrived at the valley, we donned their waterproof ponchos, ready for whatever the elements might throw their way. The anticipation of hiking deeper into the forest filled them with excitement. The sky above was a canvas of grey, but rather than dampening our spirits, it added a sense of adventure to the journey.

With each step along the winding trail, the sounds of the forest enveloped us, the gentle rustling of leaves, the distant calls of birds, and the soft trickle of a nearby stream. The lush greenery surrounded us, with towering eucalyptus trees reaching towards the sky, their smooth bark contrasting beautifully with the vibrant greens of the ferns and shrubs below. Every turn in the path revealed new wonders—a glimmering spider's web, a flash of color from a wildflower, or the sudden appearance of a wallaby darting through the underbrush.

We even managed a quick glimpse of the endangered, Cassowary.

The Next day we rented a car and stopped off at Palm cove before touring the "Tablelands" and the surrounding area.

Australia – Part 3 – Melbourne 2006

As we arrived in Melbourne, the vibrant cityscape welcomed us with open arms. Our first exploration took us along the picturesque banks of the Yarra River. The gentle sounds of water lapping against the shore harmonized with the laughter of people enjoying the sunny day. Towering skyscrapers framed the skyline, while lush green parks dotted the landscape, providing a refreshing contrast to the urban backdrop.

After soaking up the sights and sounds, we decided to elevate our experience and jump on a pleasure boat for a scenic tour along the river. Climbing aboard, we settled into our seats as the boat glided smoothly away from the dock. The gentle rocking of the vessel was calming, and the views were nothing short of spectacular.

As we cruised up the Yarra, we marveled at the unique perspective of the city. Iconic landmarks, such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Royal Botanic Gardens, came into view, framed beautifully against the clear blue sky. The river itself was a vibrant blue, reflecting the hues of the day. We snapped photos and shared laughter, relishing this moment of adventure together.

Our destination was Williamstown, a charming coastal suburb that promised quaint streets and seaside views. The journey along the river was both relaxing and exhilarating, with the breeze in our hair and the warm sun kissing our skin. We felt a sense of freedom, exhilarated by the beauty surrounding us.

Arriving in Williamstown, we disembarked and explored the picturesque waterfront, with its delightful shops and inviting cafés.

The next morning, we decided to start our day at a local favorite, Speedie Nick's, for breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air as we entered this cozy café. The atmosphere was lively, filled with friendly chatter and the clinking of cutlery, making it the perfect spot to fuel up for our day of exploration.

After enjoying our delicious meal, we made our way to the Rialto Tower. As we ascended to the observation deck, our excitement grew. Once we reached the top, the views of the city stretched before us like a living map. The skyline was a striking mix of modern architecture and historic buildings, each telling its own story. The Yarra River snaked gracefully through the city, reflecting the sunlight like a shimmering ribbon. We could see iconic landmarks such as the Flinders Street Station and the Federation Square, bustling with life below.

Our next  destination was the iconic Flinders Street Station, a masterpiece of Victorian architecture that served as a focal point for the city's vibrant life. The station, with its distinctive yellow façade and prominent clock tower, stood proudly amidst the evening bustle. As we approached, they admired the intricate details of the building, taking in the lively atmosphere of travelers, locals, and tourists alike, all weaving through the bustling plaza outside.

After soaking in the sights and sounds of the station, we made their way to the nearby Waterside Hotel. Nestled along the banks of the Yarra River, the hotel offered a perfect blend of charm and comfort. As we entered, the warm ambiance enveloped them, drawing them away from the cool evening air. The interior was adorned with elegant wooden furnishings, and the soft glow of ambient lighting created an inviting atmosphere.

The following day in Australia saw us hopping on a local tram, excitedly making our way to the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The city was alive with energy, and the tram ride itself was a delightful experience, offering glimpses of the vibrant streets of Melbourne.

As we approached the MCG, its grandeur loomed ahead, and we felt the thrill of visiting a venue steeped in sporting history. We joined a guided tour, eager to learn about this iconic stadium, which has hosted countless memorable matches and events since its opening in 1854.

Our tour began with a stroll around the exterior, where we marveled at the impressive architecture and the iconic light towers that pierce the sky. The guide shared fascinating stories about the ground’s evolution, from its humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of Australian sport.

One of the highlights was stepping into the players’ dressing rooms, where we could almost feel the energy and anticipation that athletes experience before a big game. Standing on the hallowed grass, we snapped photos to capture the moment, imagining the excitement of a packed crowd cheering for their teams.

The tour concluded with a visit to the Melbourne Cricket Club Museum, where we explored interactive exhibits that showcased cricket’s rich history in Australia. It was a treat to see memorabilia from past players and matches, including the legendary Don Bradman's bat and uniforms worn by some of cricket's greatest stars.

We jumped on another tram and head of St Kilda beach, we had lunch there and hit the beach, as we were walking to get the tram back to Melbourne we noticed that the reggie band, UB40, were playing at the local theater, so we nipped in , bought a couple of tickets and enjoyed a great show.

Our Australian adventure took a delightful turn as we hopped on another tram, setting our sights on the vibrant St Kilda Beach. The sun was shining brightly, and the air buzzed with excitement as we made our way to this iconic destination.

As we arrived, the sandy shores of St Kilda greeted us with open arms. We strolled along the promenade, enjoying the sight of sunbathers lounging on the beach and families playing in the gentle waves. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and the sounds of the ocean crashing against the shore.

While walking to catch the tram, we noticed a familiar sound wafting through the air—the unmistakable reggae beats of UB40! Our hearts raced with excitement as we realized the band was performing at a local theater just a stone’s throw away.

With spontaneity guiding us, we darted inside, quickly purchasing tickets for the show. The theater was buzzing with anticipation, and we couldn’t believe our luck. As the lights dimmed and the band took the stage, we were swept away by the rhythm and energy of the performance. UB40 delivered an incredible show