Lady Elliot Island, Queensland

To celebrate our pearl anniversary of 30 years wed
Escaped to an island enticed by a glamping tent bed.
Lady Elliot is found on the southern Great Barrier Reef
Known for seeing Manta Rays, albeit our time there brief.

At Hervey Bay boarded a fourteen seater Cessna plane
With fingers crossed that we’d escape the tireless rain.
A cloudy 40 minute flight ended by landing in a downpour
Had sincerely hoped for less wet stuff, ended up with more!

Memories of our time on Wilson Island flooded back
Walking to our accommodation along a coral track.
Through deepening puddles we had to splash
The banded rail’s ablutions suddenly dashed.

Home to thousands of seabirds there’s a distinctive smell
Plus a calmness ensured by the oceans rhythmical swell.
Above where flocks swirl at dusk returning to their nest
Chirruping eruptions whilst settling in for their nightly rest.

The terns and noddies murmur whilst Shearwaters moan
As winds intensify the tent incessantly shakes and groans.
Head sandwiched between pillows the only way to sleep
Dreaming of the wonders we’ll discover in waters deep.

Walking to the lighthouse crossing the airstrip
Boarding a vessel for our glass bottom boat trip.
Enjoyed a reef snorkel and a turtle did spy
Experience shortened as swell was too high.

Enjoyed our meals in the rustic dining hall
Stepping over rails searching for crumb falls.
It’s stunning view overlooking the large lagoon
Fingers crossed the winds will die down soon.Read more