We got off to a bit of a late start on Thursday to get to Springbrook National Park in Queensland. Once we got there though it was one adventure after another. We ended up getting there a little late and much to our surprise everything closes at dark there, luckily we found an open cafe and stopped in to chat with a local guy who runs the place. So far, I will be sincere and say that everyone has been exceedingly kind here. Sean (the cafe owner) rang a few of his friends in the area with accommodations, and luckily we found one place that still had some vacancy - Rosella's B&B.
Once we woke up in the morning we were literally IN the national park. Walked across the street to the entrance and started our journey (which unexpectedly ended up being a 17km hike!). We ran into so many beautiful waterfalls and so much natural beauty.
Once we ended our hike we headed down the mountain to a town called Kirra Beach, which had a camping ground with cabins. They were very nice and we cooked our kangaroo meat there and had a nice dinner. We were pretty tired so we hit the sack early that evening.
The following day we made our trek to Surfer's Paradise. I think I'll nickname it Backpackers Paradise. It's a nice city, but full of hostels and lots of evening festivities. Jane and I took part in the festivities by booking a pub crawl and getting to tour the town that way for the evening. Ended up being a great evening, but left me the next day not feeling so hot. Hence the nap on the beach :)
After my beach nap, we headed to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and saw an abundant of Australia's indigenous species-- Koala's, Tasmanian Devils, and Roos. I had no idea that I've actually be able to pet a kangaroo, so that was a nice treat! The wildlife sanctuary has several "shows" through out the day, but one of the best is the feeding of the Lorikeets at 8am and 4pm. These colorful birds flock to the sanctuary at this time (because they aren't actually living in the sanctuary, so they come to get fed) and are very used to humans.
Way to go Mac, there's nothing like seeing things up close. You have a great spirit keep up your travels. LOL Sam
ReplyDeleteI think that's why Contiki goes to Surfers Paradise...cheap accommodations and night life :)
ReplyDeleteso glad you're having a good time! Are you going to do any suring while there? I've always wondered why there are so many unique animals in that area.....roos and koalas and duck-billed platapus....any explanation for the region's distint mammal life?
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