Arrived at Seaforth Reserve where we found ourselves a couple of large sites. Very big nature reserve sponsored by local council. The sites are huge but quite slanted so caravans are parked at numerous different angles. We ended up parked sideways on two adjoining large sites. Located right on the beach and has drinking water, toilets, and showers. Appears to be lots of fisherman staying here for a number of weeks.
After lunch we went for a drive into Mackay as the Ransleys had to pick up a caravan tap from a shop there. We went to the information centre as well to enquire about Finch Hatton Gorge and Eungella which are west of Mackay. Stopped at Spotlight on the way home so the girls could investigate their scarf making supplies. Not much luck there so will have to turn to the Internet for suppliers. We had a nice walk along the beach in the afternoon when we returned.
Wednesday we had an easy morning before going for a drive with the Ransleys after lunch. We toured a number of local bays near Seaforth on the way to Cape Hillsborough National Park. We stopped at Ball Bay and Halliday Bay. Both were quite nice secluded beaches although the tide was out so difficult to get a proper idea of what they might look like. We walked along Ball Beach and girls found a few shells.
Next stop was Cape Hillsborough National Park where we did a nice long walk along the beach. Very pretty even though tide was well out. Lots of rugged rocks along the sandy beach. Got some nice photos before returning to the car and caravan park.
Thursday morning we got an early start and headed West towards Eungella. Our first stop was Dame Nellie Melba's homestead in Marian. Unfortunately it was not open when we arrived so we continued West towards Pinnacle, Finch Hatton, and Eungella. The last 5 KM into Eungella is probably the steepest climb we have been on so far on our trip. Very winding, steep, and beautiful. At the top you get a wonderful view back down the valley towards Mackay and the ocean.
We did a short walk at the Sky Window Lookout where you got a great view of the valley before heading to Broken River where we did a short walk along a boardwalk. We were lucky enough to see a number of Platypus on our walk. The area is well known for them but they are best seen early in the morning or late in the afternoon so we were fortunate to see several late in the morning. First ones that Sandra or I have seen in the wild!
Back into the car and off to Pease Lookout on the other side of Eungella. Steep climb and beautiful rainforest but lookout is lacking because of overgrown trees. Quickly back on the road and driving down the steep hill out of Eungella towards Finch Hatton Gorge. We do a 3KM return walk into Araluen Cascades once we reach the gorge. Very nice walk through dense rainforest. Temperature drops considerably as you are completely shaded from the sun. The falls and pool were beautiful and so much green along the walkway. Stephen and I decide to take a swim at Araluen Cascade much to the girl's amusement. Turns out to be freezing cold and you could feel your limbs going numb as soon as you got into the water. I was in first but couldn't lie to Rans as my skin was turning colour and I was gasping for breath. Quickly climbed out and dried off before the return walk to the car. We traversed a few water crossings on our return journey to Finch Hatton.
We stopped at the Pinnacle Pub on the return journey for lunch. Famous homemade meat pies for the boys and the girls had a nice Chicken Salad. Very high on the pie score for our journey! Stopped at the Melba House again on our return trip only to find out it had closed 10 minutes before we got there at 3:10. I guess we weren't meant to tour the Melba House. Headed back home where we prepared for our trip tomorrow. The nights have been very cool and we have become reacquainted with our winter doona. We were treated to lots of bird life at the campground as well with a variety of ducks and Rosella's in abundance.
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