Distinctive Australia

Our stay in Palm Cove started with lunch at a lovely sea side cafe where we snacked on some really tasty lamb stuffed olives.  While there, we began visiting with our table neighbors who happened to be Kiwi's (New Zealanders).  They had come to Palm Cove for some warmer temps and sunshine.  As we shared our stories, we learned that this couple had traveled Canada for two years exploring the countryside when they were in college.  They spoke of the incredible kindness of the folks in Canada who opened their homes to them for lodging and friendship.  So when this couple learned that we would be visiting New Zealand next spring, they offered their home as a place to stay if our schedule allowed.  In their mind, it was paying back all of the kindness afforded them so many years ago.  How cool is that!  We exchanged information and plan to give them a buzz when we get to New Zealand. 

This week, we took our first trip into the rainforest using the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.  The views were absolutely incredible.  This 150 million years old forest existed when Australia, Antarctica & South America were all one land mass covered with tropical rainforests and dinosaurs. It's hard to capture the beauty of this place with a phone camera.  It is a magical place.

150 million year old forest

We've located several places to observe Wallabies which are smaller cousins of Kangaroos.  They are like our white tailed deer in many ways.  They are grazers and hang out in open fields (even in the middle of towns) mostly in the early morning and late afternoon.

Wallabies

We are not sure if Wallabies are edible, but we do know that their larger cousins, Kangaroos are very tasty.  We have found Kangaroo meat at the grocery store in all types of cuts and preparations.  Dan grilled some Roo steaks which were superb.  (sort of beef/venison flavor)  And as you can see below, jerky of all types can be found.

Jerky Flavors - Emu, Kangaroo & Crocodile 

Speaking of crocodiles, there are both fresh and salt water species in the vicinity.  This makes ocean swimming a very interesting proposition here in Australia.  Basically, every beach has an area where they enclose a part of the ocean with nets to prevent crocodiles from entering.  In addition, there are certain times of the year when the jellyfish (stingers) are very prevalent.  Thankfully, we seem to be here before the high season for either!

Warning Signs posted at every beach

As we wander about the area, we continue to find new birds, views or experiences.  This morning I (Cheryl) ran up one of the small mountains in our neighborhood .  The elevation kicked my butt..... but the views were absolutely worth it! 😁

Queensland - where rain forest meets the sea

Stay Curious!

Cheryl & Dan