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MarkTula Exploring Oz
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MarkTula Exploring Oz

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  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Beautiful spotDay 1 of fishingWater tank mural

    Bowen

    July 8, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    We had 4 nights at Blowin Bowen and it was Blowin.
    We tried our hand at fishing but no luck. We will keep trying.
    Visited the markets and bought some great produce.
    Visited Flagstaff Hill, the water tank art and numerous beaches. They were all so beautiful. The water was so clear.
    Caught up with some new friends for an afternoon.
    I got to ride my scooter to get fish and chips.
    It is amazing when you say that you are from Darwin how many people once lived in Darwin or have a family member living there now.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    1Sunset from our site in Home Hill
    Painted machinery at the dioramaBig cane cuttersCane trainAyrAyr

    Home Hill

    July 1, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    We stopped in Home Hill for a week. This was the place we chose to stay to see what happened to the Townsville lockdown. We couldn't have chosen better. The caravan park was green and right next to the pool, which we could swim in for free. We did not.
    Ayr was about 10 min away across the Burdekin Bridge. (Great bridge.)
    We investigated a couple of fishing spots recommended by the caravan park managers (who lived in Darwin for a time. It is amazing when you say you are from Darwin how many people say they have also lived in Darwin.)
    We went fishing at Groper Creek and did some cast netting of the small jetty. Trying to get prawns for bait and to eat but we only managed bait. The holiday locals ( holiday there every year) were catching kilos some took pity on us and gave us some for bait.
    We visited the market in Ayr. I love the market. Ayr is a very pretty town.
    Home Hill is very small but still had an IGA and about 3 pubs.
    We went to the diorama and saw the big cane cutters. It is a good spot to be based in.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Window store front in Charters Towers

    Charters Towers

    June 29, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 22 °C

    On the way to Charters Towers we stopped at Greenvale and had lunch at the Three Rivers Hotel. (One day we will stop somewhere and not go to the pub). This pub was made famous by the Slim Dusty song.
    We spent a couple of nights in Charters Towers before going onto Home Hill. I wanted to spend time in a powered sight incase the lock down was widened we were close to Townsville when it went into lock down.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    The Archway

    Undara Lava Tube Tour

    June 28, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 22 °C

    The lava tubes were created 190,000 years ago. The only way to see the lava tubes is on a guided tour. We did the 2 hour Archway tour, which includes Stephenson Cave and the Archway. (Many steps)
    Stephenson Cave was flooded earlier this year and the last section still had water over the boardwalk.
    The colours of the rock was amazing. The way the lava kept flowing when the to cooled and hardened leaving the tunnels behind.
    I can't do the beauty of the area justice.
    I must see if you are in the area. You can do a tour without staying at the Undara Experience.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Campsite Undara
    Kookaburra waiting for leftovers.Sunrise day 1.Mark all rugged up for breakfastBreakfastBilly tea and coffeeMark cooking his toastKookaburra waiting for food to fall to the groundPool that only the kids were swimming Ina's it was so cold.Full as a goog.

    Undara Experience

    June 27, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    We arrived in Undara for our 2 night stay. We were back in red dirt country. We got set up and then went to have a look around. Sat and had a drink at Undara Central watching a local Kookaburra swipe some food.
    Our first night was State of Origin 2. We got to watch it on the big screen around the fire. The best way to watch.
    We did the outback brekkie. Billy tea and coffee along with all the breakfast foods outdoors. We were only going to the one day but liked it so much we did the brekkie the next day also.
    We did the Lava Tube tour. They are amazing see next blog.
    We moved onto Charters Towers.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Steam coming off the water

    Mount Garnet

    June 26, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    One night stay at Mount Garnet Travellers Rest. This van park is very serene and tranquil. Wake up to the birds chirping. Lovely sleeping weather. Didn't get as cold as we thought it would. Only 15°.
    We stopped in at Innot Hot Springs and waded in the creek. A little too hot for our liking. I know right hot springs, but needs to be a little colder during the day to enjoy.
    Next stop Undara Experience.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    All banana s are packed green and ripened at the market not the farm.Off to market on Brisbane.

    Banana Farm Tour

    June 22, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C

    Banana farm tour was amazing. We didn't realise how labour intensive it is to grow bananas. (Everything is done by hand. Everything)
    All of the farms in the area are under quarantine. All vehicles need to wash down and we had to wear blue booties and go though a dip solution before we could go on the farm.
    I had great respect for farmers it has now increased tenfold.
    I recommend that if you have the opportunity to do a tour of any farm that you do.

    If you are interested the banana farm is for sale.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Mamu SkywalkThe BamaEllinjaa FallsZillie FallsMillaa Millaa Falls

    Mamu Skywall and the 3 waterfalls

    June 21, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    So much to do so little time. More walking. Visited Mamu Skywalk. I told Mark it was only about a kilometre long. Once we had paid we were told it was a 2.2km return trip with a counter levered section and a stair climb before returning. (We didn't do the tower.) We were there nice and early and only saw one other couple until we were on the way back. The views were amazing. It was wonderful to listen to the rainforest wake in the morning. This was only the first walk of the day.
    On the way to the waterfall tour we passed this very cute little waterfall along the side of the road. It is a great place to stop for a rest. You don't see that on the Territory on the high way.
    We then went on to the 3 waterfall tour. Ellinjaa, Zillie and Millaa Millaa. The first 2 were harder to get to i managed to get a photo of a local. I think the tourists are feeding him. Didn't move whole several people photographed him. Millaa Millaa had a swimming hole at the bottom and we were told to park in the lower parking area no walking needed. Should probably do this in the wet season the water will be warmer.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Babinda BouldersBramston Beach

    Babinda, Josephine Falls and Bramston Be

    June 19, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 22 °C

    We went for a drive to look at some local sites. Innisfail is a great town to base ourselves in.
    First we went to Josephine Falls. Great walk in mainly up hill. We were told to remember it is down hill when walking out. Mark thinks I trying to kill him. Some people were swimming but a bit cold for our liking.
    Next we went to Babinda Boulders must admit only went to the bottom pool. Took the boots off and waded in the cool water didn't get changed for a swim. While we were in Babinda we checked out the bakery and the butcher. Two of my favourite places to go. (They are places we try to check out on every town we go). It is amazing how many places have WW2 historical significance.
    On the way back to the van we called into Bramston Beach, we love looking out over the ocean.
    Another hard day at the office.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    August Moon Caravan Park pool
    Meeting Mr Buckaroonie himself and more fansEtty Bay

    Innisfail-August Moon Caravan Park

    June 16, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 27 °C

    Spent 10 nights in Innisfail at August Moon Caravan Park. Cameron and Julie are wonderful hosts and have avast knowledge about the area. We went for a swim in there pool the water was very good and we didn't stay in long.
    Cameron was able to give us a couple of suggestions up see a Cassowary in the wild. We visited Mourilyan Harbour, Etty Bay Beach, Coquette Point and Flying Fish Point. Saw the Cassowary at Etty Bay. It walked up right behind Mark when he wasn't looking. We went back to Paronella Park. We went to Mamu Sky Walk, did the 3 waterfall tour ( Ellinjaa, Zillie and Millaa Millaa). Visited Josephine Falls, Babinda and Bramston Beach.
    While staying in Innisfail we meet some fellow Mr Buckaroonie fans and got to meet the man himself. Mr Buckaroonie is a utuber we follow.
    Next stop is Mount Garnet.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Entrance to the Tunnel of Love (closed) going to Teresa FallsTeresa FallsThe Grand StaircaseMark coming up the grand staircaseMena Falls

    Mena Creek the Paddock - Paronella Park

    June 15, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 26 °C

    Spent our first night off grid. We are visiting Paronella Park and doing the night tour. We will be going back before we leave Innisfail it is only about 20 min away. More to come. On our second visit to the park we did a day tour and found out more about Jose and the story of building the park. Well worth the effort and cost. A beautiful setting.Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Herberton Historical Village
    State schoolRosemary growing from a cutting from Gallipoli

    Herberton Historical Village

    June 13, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 23 °C

    Went to visit the historical village. On Sundays they join together with the local train restoration group visitors can ride the Tinlander to Herberton and back to the village. The group receive no funding and are in the process of restoring a steam engine and carriages. The walk around the village is mind blowing. Beautiful old buildings.Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Mt Molloy Hotel
    Markets at MareebaNew addition to the vanMark is cold only 18° he has on his Uggs and jumperCoffee works in MareebaAnother pub lunchBeautiful fire placeOutside the Crystal CaveLake Tinaroo Dam WallThe other side not what I expected

    Atherton Tablelands

    June 11, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 22 °C

    Spent 4 nights at Atherton visiting the surrounding area. After leaving Wonga Beach we drove through My Molloy and visited one of the oldest pubs in QLD. Visited Mareeba markets I love going to the markets to see the hand made items. We then went on to have breakfast at the Hungry Pug Cafe. Paid a visit to the Coffee Works and bought chocolate. We had a full day we then went onto visit the Mt Uncle distillery. Love to try new things. Checked out shops love little towns.
    The next day we went to Herberton Historical Village. (See another blog) spent our last day looking around Atherton had lunch at Barron Valley Hotel the architecture was amazing. Visited Lake Tinaroo and walked the dam wall.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Driving to Wonga Beach.
    Lunch at the Tin Shed in Port DouglasBeach at the back of the caravan parkRex look outSafe swimming beach in Port DouglasMossman GorgeFloraville Ice Cream Factory great signCape TribulationThornton Beach

    Wonga Beach

    June 8, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C

    Arrived on Wonga Beach and it is a good little park. As we normally do set up and then went looking for a pub. Were given the names of a couple of places in Port Douglas on 30 min away. The Tin Shed was very popular even had to wait for a table. We stayed in Wonga Beach 3 nights. One day was spent looking around Mossman and Port Douglas the other day was driving up to Cape Tribulation.
    We visited Rex Lookout and Mossman Gorge. The views from both places are spectular. I can't believe how cool it is walking in the rainforest. We were advised that we shouldn't swim in the gorge do to the current however if you did it was at your own risk. (Yes we did see people swimming.)
    The next day driving up through the Daintree to Cape Tribulation. I don't normally get car sick but that drive tested me. We stopped for icecream, which was yummy bought more to take home to the van.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Mark on the Skyrail
    Red PeakBarron FallsRiver Cruise looking for wildlife.Cute turtlesKuranda StationMark getting on boardFront of the trainRear of the trainPicked up a hitchhiker while we were having coffeeStoney Creek Falls

    Kuranda

    June 4, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    A day trip to Kuranda
    A must see when in Cairns is Kuranda. Everyone told us we had to go and do both the train and the Skyrail. Loved it and I agree it is a must do. We went up by Skyrail and back down by train. I would do it the other way that way you are not locked into leaving at a specific time.
    The view from the Skyrail was spectular. The rain forest canopy is amazing and the stopping to view Barron Falls was breath taking. I would love to see the falls in flood.
    We spent 5 hours wondering around Kuranda. There are so many stairs. (I hate stairs)
    I think we went into every shop. We picked up a hitch hiker when we stopped for coffee. Relocated him to a new home. (See the first video)
    We did the river cruise looking at the local wildlife only one other couple on the boat they wanted the see the crocodiles, which we did only freshies.
    Took the train back down to Freshwater station. I loved watching the world pass us by. The commentary on the building of the railway was brilliant. Loved the sound of the train on the tracks. I think we have turned into a train enthusiasts.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Hot spa at caravan park
    View from the EsplanadeLow tide at the EsplanadeBeautiful lead light sign from old Strattie PubA day at the aquariumBig Captain CookBig MarlinSunset for the dinner cruiseEarly anniversary celebrationLights of Cairns

    Cairns

    May 31, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    We spent a week in Cairns. Stayed at the Big 4 Cairns Coconut Resort. It was our first time in a Big 4. There is so much to do in them, I see why families love them. Can keep the kids occupied all day.
    We have finally met another Hilltop owner. There was another Feathertop caravan in the park. It was great to meet Ian and Wendy. We have been on the look out for another Hilltop since getting our van.
    We spent some time looking around and shopping. Managed to find a couple of big things. Did the Kuranda trip which will be in another blog and a day at the aquarium. The aquarium is amazing I took so many photos but can only use 10 per blog. Really loved looking at all the colours.
    We were able to get Mark his first Covid 19 vaccination he will have the second in 12 weeks.
    I love to visit any markets that are on when we are in a new location, the night markets were not very good in Cairns.
    On the whole Cairns is a lovely place to visit navigating around is a little difficult, there are lots of road works and part of the city was closed off for the Iron Man but got there in the end. We moved onto Wonga Beach north of Port Douglas for 3 nights.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    The Golden Gumboot
    The view from the vanOn the beach outside the parkMark on Bedarra IslandView from the islandThe other view from the islandThe Big CassowaryCocoa podsTasty chocolateJetty on Mission Beach were we did some fishing

    Mission Beach

    May 27, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Mission Beach is an amazing place. The caravan park was right on the beach. Can see the ocean from our van if the sites are empty in front. Easy walking distance to shops, cafes and bars. We did the Fozzy 3 hour 3 island tour. The skipper had a lot of knowledge and was very funny. At the end of the tour you spend time on Bedarra Island swimming. We also did the Charley Chocolate Tour. We learnt all about the cocoa bean and how they make chocolate from it and how the process hasn't changed a lot from the Inca times. They take you through a look at the plantation and then the tasting at the end. They make alot of dark chocolate. Otherwise we did a lot of relaxing and enjoying the sun when it was out. Quite a bit of rain while we were there.Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler

    Cardwell

    May 25, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 23 °C

    We left Townsville and had a 2hr drive. We did stop off for icecream at the Frosty Mango. We were going to do some fishing in Cardwell and go to some pools but it rained most of the time we were there. We did walk along the jetty where we were going to fish. We visited the Coral Sea Battle Memorial Park. It is amazing to think 3 ships were sunk and not all by enemy fire. The night of the lunar eclipse we had dinner outside at the Beachcomber Restaurant. Beautiful view with great food and yummy cocktail. We also visited the Bush Telegraph and PO Museum. The original building that was a kit brought over from England in 1870 survived both cyclone Yasi and Larry with minimal damage.Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Heading to Magnetic Island
    Looking back onto TownsvilleComing into Magnetic Island.Magnetic island is anything but flatHorseshoe BayDipping my toes inOne of the many walksThe jetty in Picnic BayView from the pubGot rough towards the end

    Magnetic Island

    May 22, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    We had a day trip to Magnetic Island. Only a quick 20 min ferry ride. I haven't seen a hillier place. Glad we had a day bus pass and didn't hire a car or take over our car. After getting into Nelly Bay we went around to Horseshoe Bay (we were told not as windy there). Spent lots of time just looking out over the ocean. I did put my feet in the water but was a little chilly. Mark decided not to try. We went for a little walk before getting on the bus back to Nelly Bay for lunch of what else seafood. Went to Picnic Bay to have a look at the jetty before heading back to the main land. All of the island is one amazing view after another. It was one of the most relaxing days ever.Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    On the way to Townsville saw the sign and loved it.
    Beautiful caravan park.One of the vans had this dog and moved it to keep you on your toesCowboys Leagues ClubSmokehouse Brewery tasting paddleThe jetty on the strandMonument on Castle HillOne of the many beautiful views from the topSecond brewery we went too.View from the lunch table over looking the Strand

    Townsville

    May 18, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 25 °C

    We arrived in Townsville on Tuesday we were here for seven nights waiting for a couple of parcels to arrive and spent the next few days waiting for tradesmen to do a couple of jobs on the van. Once that was done we were able to get out and about in Townsville. It is a beautiful city. The caravan park was green and quite. We had a few things we wanted to do. Magnetic island which will be in another blog. Castle Hill, Cowboys Leagues Club (we didn't see any players) and a couple of breweries (we seem to be on a pub crawl). Every where we go has great food. Loved going up to Castle Hill the views are magnificent. We tried a couple of markets (nothing like Darwin's). Bought some of the best produce from them. We visited many shopping centres. I can't believe how many there are. The population is slightly larger than Darwin's I think it is very well laid out. If it was cooler it could be a contender for the final destination.Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Kronosaurus Korner
    Fred Tritton LakeSunset at Fred Tritton LakePrairie PubBurdekin Weir

    Richmond, Hughenden and Charters Towers

    May 14, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C

    A one night stop in Richmond to see the dinosaurs. After lunch we went to Kronosaurus Korner. A very interesting place to go. Loved that we could go at our own pace. We stayed at Lakeview Caravan Park. Where we were told that red claw were in the water. We got a couple of pots and gave it a go. Red claw have nothing to fear from us. On to Hughenden. We really need to keep track of the days travelling into remote towns on the weekend means nothing is open. We went for a drive to Prairie and spent time in the old pub. Visited the bakery on our way out of town and had one of the best pasties. (We left on Monday). One night at Charters Towers (we will be coming back) the city has great architecture. The caravan park was beautiful and green. We went out to Burdekin Weir. A truly beautiful place.Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Burke and Wills information at Mary Kathleen Park
    Early school of the air radioThis is the Top Pub by name and natureFire pit at the caravan parkMark was reminiscing about the locking mechanismSpirit of the Lighthouse Sculpture.1 of the display boards about local soldiers from WW1Stage for CamerataWine glass water tower lit up at night

    Cloncurry and Julia Creek

    May 10, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 30 °C

    We spent 2 nights each at Cloncurry and Julia Creek. Second time in Cloncurry we were here before going to Karumba. This time we did the tourist thing. We went to Mary Kathleen Memorial Park and museum and also John Flynn Place Museum. So much to see.
    On to Julia Creek, I must admit I really did like this town. When booking the caravan park found out that Camerata was coming to town (QLD Chamber Orchestra). That was Thursday night and then campdraft was on the next 3 nights. We went to the Duncan McIntyre Museum and WW1 Memorial site at the RSL. The number of men from the region that enlisted is mind boggling. Of course we did visit the pub. Sometimes I think we are on a very large pub crawl.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    Van set up and the viewLillySunset at the tavernSunset at the tavern 21Sunset from the vanSeafood tower

    Karumba

    May 6, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C

    We spent 4 nights in Karumba, staying at the Karumba Point Service Station. This is a lovely little park our site was on the edge of a little lagoon. We spent our days staring out at the water and a little fishing. It is a great way to relax. We went to the Sunset Tavern to watch the sunset over the water, magnificent. We went to dinner at the Anchorage Bar and Grill and had the seafood tower. OMG
    We would definitely go back.    Read more

  • MarkTulaMarkTula Exploring OzTraveler
    1

    Finally Heading East

    May 2, 2021 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C

    We are finally heading East. Called into Three Ways to have breakfast as we enjoyed their food when bringing the van back to Darwin after picking it up. Glad we did as we caught up with Andrew. It is always good to catch up with old friends. We spent 1 night at Barkly Homestead, 1 night at Camooweal (had the best garlic bread - bacon, maple garlic bread if you are in Camooweal go to the hotel it is a must try) and then shopping in Mt Isa and onto Cloncurry for a night. We spent last night at Normanton, (on the way we stopped at Burke and Wills Homestead for a look) lovely little park we were even able to buy fresh fruit and veg from the truck behind the Purple Pub ( he is only there Wednesdays from 3-5pm). Yes it really is called the Purple Pub and yes it is purple inside and out. We are going to Karumba next.Read more

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