#Flinders Surf Beach

[robryebeach]

Watch Some Good Ocean Surfing Waves. #surfingwaves #seawaves #watch

[2024nepeannationalpark]

20 Mar 2024

Today we woke up to less than 15 degrees and very windy. We therefore planned a couple of short walks to see what else the weather had planned. Lots of rain clouds about.

We started with a drive to Tea Tree Creek trail. A very short 1.6km out and back walk and we were rained on coming back out. A pretty walk down to a beach.

Next stop was Flinders blow hole but even though the surf was rough we couldn’t see it blowing! Most likely because it was low tide but it was still stunning. It was another short walk.

Next stop was the little township of Flinders which we all really liked. Not too commercial, a bit arty, and an awesome deli where we had a coffee and cake (lamington for me).

We also got a local lasagna which will be our dinner tonight.

From there we drove a short way so we could walk down to Flinders jetty as Phil heard that you can see stingrays hanging around it. We walked down a big set of wooden stairs to the jetty and it was blowing a gale! Unfortunately no stingrays to be seen. But a nice place to see.

Then we drove to Shoreham to start a walk along the beach to Point Leo. It was again a lovely walk with moments of sunshine as well as lots of wind. It made us all feel like explorers! Thank goodness for wind/rain jackets. Out of the sun it was pretty chilly.

We stopped in a spot not long after starting that was out of the wind to eat today’s wraps as it was 2pm and we were getting hungry.

Close to the turnaround point we saw a group of surfers …. lots of them. You could also see about 4 guys without surfboards who appeared to be helping the others. We realised it was a surf school. Quite the conditions to be learning to surf!

We headed back along the beach but then turned off the beach to a track through the bush behind. It was a nice walk getting glimpses of the beach often. It started off walking through a campground which looked like a great place if you were a keen surfer.

Back to the car and heading back through Flinders, we thought we’d celebrate another good day by having a glass of rose (G&T for Sharon, beer for Paul) at the Flinders Hotel. A nice spot in the sun. Happy days.

Back now in the apartment thinking about tonight’s dinner.

Tomorrow we check out. Paul and Sharon’s head back to Adelaide by plane and we’ll be driving to Ballarat but not before paying Alex a visit in Melbourne.

[travelingonvacation]

Australia is a vast and diverse country with stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife. Whether you're interested in exploring the Outback, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or experiencing the cosmopolitan culture of cities like Sydney and Melbourne, there's something for everyone. Here's a guide to help you plan your travel in Australia:

1. Sydney:

Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge: Iconic landmarks offering spectacular views.

Bondi Beach: Famous for its golden sands and surfing culture.

Royal Botanic Garden: A tranquil escape near the city center.

2. Melbourne:

Federation Square and Flinders Street Station: Cultural and architectural landmarks.

Queen Victoria Market: A bustling market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and more.

Street Art in Hosier Lane: Explore Melbourne's vibrant street art scene.

3. Great Barrier Reef:

Cairns or Port Douglas: Gateway towns to explore the Great Barrier Reef through snorkeling or diving.

4. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park:

Witness the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta formations, especially during sunrise or sunset.

5. The Outback:

Consider a road trip through the Australian Outback for a unique and rugged experience.

6. The Whitsundays:

Sail or cruise around the stunning Whitsunday Islands with their white-sand beaches and clear waters.

7. Brisbane:

South Bank: Enjoy parks, restaurants, and cultural institutions along the Brisbane River.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Interact with Australian wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos.

8. Tasmania:

Explore the natural beauty of this island state, including Cradle Mountain National Park and Freycinet National Park.

9. The Daintree Rainforest:

Explore the ancient rainforest, home to diverse flora and fauna.

10. Perth:

Visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden for panoramic views of the city.

Explore the beaches of Fremantle and Cottesloe.

11. The Twelve Apostles:

Witness the dramatic limestone stacks along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.

12. Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive:

Consider driving along the coastal route between these two major cities for breathtaking scenery.

13. Indigenous Experiences:

Engage in indigenous cultural experiences to learn about Australia's rich Aboriginal heritage.

14. Wine Regions:

Explore renowned wine regions such as Barossa Valley, Margaret River, and Hunter Valley.

15. National Parks:

Australia has numerous national parks offering diverse landscapes, from rainforests to deserts. Consider exploring Lamington National Park, Kakadu National Park, or Blue Mountains National Park.

Tips:

Travel Seasons: Australia's seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. December to February is summer, and June to August is winter.

Safety: Australia is generally safe, but be cautious of the country's unique wildlife, including spiders and snakes.

Transportation: Domestic flights are common for long distances, and renting a car is a great way to explore regional areas.

Australia offers a wide range of experiences, so tailor your itinerary to match your interests and preferences. Enjoy your travels Down Under!

[roamanddiscover]

South Australia

South Australia, known as the “Gateway to the Outback”, is the heart of Australia and a must-visit destination. This diverse state is the perfect destination for explorers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs who want to experience a unique blend of culture and adventure. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and breathtaking natural wonders, South Australia offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore the rugged landscapes of the Outback, hike through the lush forests of the Adelaide Hills, or swim with dolphins in the crystal-clear waters of Kangaroo Island. The state’s capital, Adelaide, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, known for its festivals, wine, and food. It is surrounded by picturesque coastal towns and beach resorts that are ideal for surfing and swimming. Adelaide is also home to a vast network of cycle paths, the perfect way to explore the city and its surrounds. South Australia is home to some of the most unique and diverse wildlife in the world. Visitors can see endangered species, such as the southern hairy-nosed wombat, or get up close and personal with a variety of marine animals, including the famous Great White Shark. South Australia is a food and drink lover’s paradise, with an abundance of fresh and local produce on offer. Visitors can sample some of the world’s finest wines in the Barossa Valley or indulge in some of the state’s famous seafood, including prawns, oysters, and tuna. The state’s food scene celebrates its multicultural heritage, with restaurants offering everything from Italian to Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you are looking for cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, South Australia welcomes you to explore this beautiful and unique state.

Etymology

The name South Australia was given by the British colonial government when the territory was established as a province of Australia in 1836. The name was inspired by the region's location in the southern part of the continent, bordering the Southern Ocean. The original proposal was to name the region Australasia, but it was considered too broad and eventually rejected. The name South Australia is also believed to have been influenced by the Greek word "australis," which means "of the south." It's worth noting that the indigenous Kaurna people, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years, had their own names for the land and its features. The Kaurna name for the Adelaide Plains, where the capital city is located, is Tarndanyangga, which means "place of the red kangaroo."

History

South Australia is a land of rich history that dates back thousands of years. The earliest known inhabitants of the region were Aboriginal people who had occupied the land for at least 40,000 years before European settlers arrived. The Aboriginal culture in South Australia is diverse and includes many distinct groups, such as the Ngarrindjeri, Adnyamathanha, and Kaurna peoples, each with their own language, customs, and traditions. European explorers were the first to officially document the land in 1802 when a British explorer named Matthew Flinders charted the coastline of South Australia. In 1836, the first British settlement was established by a group led by John Hindmarsh, who became the first governor of the region, and established the city of Adelaide. South Australia gained self-government in 1856, becoming the first Australian state to do so. During the late 19th century, South Australia experienced a boom in the mining industry with the discovery of rich copper deposits in areas such as Moonta and Kapunda. This led to an influx of immigrants from all over the world, including Germany, Ireland, and China. In the early 20th century, South Australia became a major producer of wheat and wool, with the opening of new railway lines and infrastructure to support the industry. South Australia played a significant role in both World War I and II, with many of its men and women serving in the military. The state also suffered greatly during the Great Depression of the 1930s, with high unemployment and poverty rates. Today, South Australia is a hub for wine production, tourism, and renewable energy. It is known for its thriving arts scene and cultural offerings, and is home to world-class museums and galleries. The state has a rich history and cultural heritage that is celebrated and preserved for future generations to appreciate. Table: Significant Events in South Australia's History Year Event 1802 Matthew Flinders maps the South Australian coastline 1836 South Australian colony is established 1856 South Australia gains self-government 1870s South Australia experiences a boom in the mining industry for copper and silver 1914-1918 South Australia heavily involved in World War I 1929-1939 South Australia suffers during the Great Depression 1939-1945 South Australia heavily involved in World War II 2016 South Australia experiences a statewide blackout due to severe storms

Geology

South Australia is home to diverse and breathtaking landscapes, making it a geological wonder. From the rugged Gawler Ranges to the stunning Flinders Ranges, the state is full of interesting geological formations that are waiting to be explored. The Flinders Ranges are undoubtedly South Australia's most famous geological formation. The mountain range stretches for over 400 km and is characterized by jagged ridges, deep gorges, and breathtaking scenery. The Wilpena Pound is a natural amphitheater that is one of the most popular attractions in the area. The area is also home to a stunning array of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and koalas. The Gawler Ranges are another must-see destination for geology enthusiasts. The region is characterized by volcanic rock formations, including the incredible The Organ Pipes. The Organ Pipes are formed from basalt columns that have been exposed over time, creating a unique and stunning geological feature. South Australia is also home to several ancient rock formations, including the Nullarbor Plain, a vast expanse of flat, limestone rock. The region is home to several caves, including the world-famous Nullarbor caves, where visitors can explore incredible cave formations and see ancient fossils. The state's coastline is also a geological wonder. The Great Australian Bight is a vast stretch of coastline that is characterized by towering cliffs and rugged coastline. The limestone formations of the Bunda Cliffs are a popular attraction, and visitors can often see humpback whales migrating along the coast. For those interested in minerals, South Australia is home to several mines. The Olympic Dam mine, located in the state's north, is one of the largest mines in the world and produces copper, gold, silver, and uranium. South Australia is a geological wonderland full of diverse and breathtaking landscapes. From the rugged mountains of the Flinders Ranges to the ancient limestone formations of the Nullarbor Plain, the state is a must-see destination for anyone interested in geology.

Geography

South Australia is one of the six states in Australia and is located in the southern central part of the country. It lies between Western Australia to the west and Queensland to the east. The state also borders the Northern Territory to the north and Victoria to the southeast. It covers an area of 984,377 square kilometers, which makes it the fourth largest state in Australia. South Australia has a diverse geography, with different regions offering breathtaking landscapes and features. The state has three main geographic regions - the Eyre Peninsula, the Mount Lofty Ranges, and the Murray Basin. The Eyre Peninsula is located in the western part of the state and has a rugged coastline with spectacular cliffs, serene beaches, sheltered bays, and natural harbors. The Mount Lofty Ranges are a series of hills that run parallel to the coast within Adelaide. It has many vineyards, forests, and parks, and is known for its diverse wildlife. The Murray Basin occupies the eastern part of the state and is a flat and fertile plain that is drained by the Murray River. South Australia's topography is characterized by a combination of rolling hills, mountains, plains, and plateaus. The highest point in the state is Mount Woodroffe in the Musgrave Ranges, which rises to 1,456 meters. The Flinders Ranges is also an important mountain range in the state that stretches over 450 kilometers from the Gulf of St. Vincent in the east to Lake Torrens in the west. It has many picturesque gorges, valleys, and creeks that are home to a variety of plant and animal species. The state's coastline is nearly 4,700 kilometers long and includes the Great Australian Bight in the south that has one of the longest uninterrupted stretches of coastline in the world. It also has several islands, including Kangaroo Island, which is the third largest island in Australia. South Australia's geography and topography have a significant impact on the local climate. The state has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The temperature can vary significantly across different regions of the state due to differences in topography and proximity to the coast. South Australia's geography and topography are diverse and spectacular. Its rugged coastline, rolling hills, majestic mountains, and fertile plains make it a unique and special place. The state's geographic features not only shape its climate and weather patterns but also provide opportunities for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Ecology

South Australia is home to some of the most unique flora and fauna in the world. The landscape of South Australia varies from coastal regions to arid deserts, and each ecosystem is home to its own distinct species. The flora of South Australia is diverse and includes plants such as banksias, wattles, and eucalyptus trees. The sandy deserts of South Australia are home to spinifex grass and the iconic red kangaroo paw. The vegetation of South Australia is a mix of both native and introduced species. The native vegetation includes plants that have adapted to the harsh conditions of the region over thousands of years. The introduced species, such as olive trees and grapevines, have been introduced for commercial purposes. South Australia is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including many species that are not found anywhere else in the world. The kangaroo is perhaps the most iconic animal of Australia, and the red kangaroo is the largest marsupial in the world. Other notable wildlife in South Australia includes koalas, echidnas, wallabies, and emus. The coastal waters of South Australia are also home to a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, seals, and dolphins. One of the most unique and fascinating animals in South Australia is the platypus. The platypus is a semi-aquatic mammal that is endemic to Australia. It is known for its unique appearance, with a bill like a duck, webbed feet like an otter, and a tail like a beaver. The platypus is an important part of the ecosystem in South Australia, and it plays a vital role in keeping the freshwater systems healthy. The Murray-Darling Basin is the largest river system in Australia, and it runs through several states, including South Australia. The basin is home to many important wetlands that provide essential habitat for a wide range of bird species. The Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert are internationally recognized wetlands that support migratory bird species from around the world. The ecology of South Australia is also affected by human activity. Land clearing and habitat destruction have led to the decline of many native species. The introduction of invasive species, such as rabbits and foxes, has also had a negative impact on the ecosystem. However, there are many conservation efforts underway to protect and restore the unique flora and fauna of South Australia. the ecology of South Australia is diverse and unique. From the sandy deserts to the coastal wetlands, each ecosystem is home to its own distinct species. The flora and fauna of South Australia are a vital part of its cultural heritage, and there are ongoing efforts to protect and preserve these important ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.

Biodiversity

South Australia is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, spanning from the coastal region to the outback. The state is known for its unique and rich biodiversity that attracts nature enthusiasts from all over the world. The area boasts an extensive range of ecosystems, from marine life to arid zones and everything in between, making it a biodiversity hotspot. The marine life biodiversity of South Australia is exceptionally diverse, with a vast range of species living in the Southern Ocean off the state's coastline. The Great Australian Bight, located off the coast of South Australia, is home to over 800 known species of fish, including many endemic species. The area is renowned for its unique marine life, including southern bluefin tuna, blue whales, and Australian sea lions. In addition to marine life, South Australia is also home to a wide range of plant and animal species. Coastal vegetation is unique to South Australia, with saltbushes and bluebushes growing in the region's arid zones. Further inland, arid regions are home to a variety of reptiles, including bearded dragons and geckos. The outback also serves as a refuge for marsupials, such as the bilby and the bettong. The state's wetlands, such as the Coorong and the Riverland, are home to migratory and endemic bird species. These wetlands provide critical habitat for waterfowl species, including pelicans and spoonbills. The Coorong, which is also a Ramsar site of international importance, boasts a diverse range of birdlife, including the vulnerable fairy tern and hooded plover. South Australia is also home to some of the world's rarest plant species, with over 3,000 plant species, including several that are found only in the state. The state's arid regions boast a unique landscape, with red sand dunes and sparse vegetation that shelters a variety of plant species, including the desert pea and sturt desert pea. The state's conservation parks, such as Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, are home to rare and endangered plant species such as the black oak and the kanku-breakaways wattles. Protected areas throughout South Australia make up more than 20% of the state's total land area. The state government, along with local and national organizations, is committed to preserving the state's unique biodiversity through conservation projects, sustainable use, and effective management strategies. So, whether you're a nature enthusiast or a curious explorer, South Australia is the place to be for an up-close and personal experience with Australia's unique biodiversity.

reptiles

Climate

South Australia is a state that experiences a variety of climatic conditions throughout the year. It has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild wet winters. The state has diverse climatic regions, ranging from temperate climate in the southeast to arid climate in the northwest. The coastal regions of South Australia have a relatively mild climate, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C in summer to 12°C in winter. The interior regions of the state experience hotter and drier conditions, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C during summer. The northern part of the state is particularly arid with little rainfall. The rainfall patterns in the state vary significantly from region to region, with the south and west receiving more rainfall than the north and east. The rainy season in the south and west usually occurs during winter, with the occasional rainfall in autumn and spring. The northern and eastern regions are mainly influenced by tropical weather systems and are characterized by erratic rainfall patterns. South Australia is subject to various weather phenomena, such as tropical cyclones, thunderstorms, and heatwaves. During summer, heatwaves are common, and they can last for days or even weeks, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Thunderstorms occur mainly during summer and can result in heavy rainfall, strong winds, and occasional hail. In terms of climate change and global warming, South Australia is experiencing an increase in temperatures, particularly during summer. This has resulted in the state experiencing more frequent and severe heatwaves, water shortages, and bushfires. The government has implemented various measures to combat climate change, including increasing the use of renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. South Australia is a state with diverse climatic conditions, ranging from mild to arid. The state experiences various climatic events throughout the year, and it is essential to plan accordingly when traveling to the state. Whether visiting during the hot summer or the mild winter, there are always beautiful landscapes and attractions to explore.

Environmental Issues

South Australia hosts many unique and diverse ecosystems, including the Great Barrier Reef, the Flinders Ranges, and the Murray-Darling Basin. Unfortunately, like the rest of the world, South Australia is facing environmental issues that threaten these habitats and their inhabitants. One of the biggest problems South Australia faces is climate change. Rising temperatures and changes in weather patterns are affecting the state's agriculture, wildlife, and water systems. The Murray-Darling Basin, which is Australia's largest river system, is also facing issues with excessive water extraction, degradation of water quality, and declining biodiversity due to drought and climate change. Another issue in South Australia is deforestation. The state has lost a significant amount of habitat due to land-clearing practices, making it difficult for native wildlife to thrive. This has had a severe impact on the state's flora and fauna, including many endangered species such as the southern hairy-nosed wombat and the black-flanked rock wallaby. South Australia is also facing challenges with managing waste and pollution levels. Plastic pollution is a significant problem, affecting both marine life and public health. The government has implemented programs to reduce plastic waste and promote recycling, but more work is still needed. Despite these environmental challenges, South Australia is making efforts to conserve their unique natural resources. Conservation efforts are concentrated on protecting endangered species and restoring degraded ecosystems. The government has also implemented policies to promote sustainable practices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. South Australia is also home to many national parks and conservation areas that offer opportunities for the public to engage in conservation efforts. Read the full article

[portmacquarieaustralia]

Show Stopping Beachside Masterpiece

[terrigalaustralia]

Show Stopping Beachside Masterpiece

[outbackaussietour]

Australian Tours for Adventure-Loving Individuals

Whether you are a nature lover, food and wine fan, or sun worshipper, Australian adventure tours has something for everyone. You can experience pristine beaches, wildlife, extinct volcanoes, coral reefs, and more.

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's greatest coastal drives. It crosses Australia from Darwin to Adelaide, crossing the rugged mountains of the Flinders Ranges. You can also explore the towns of Alice Springs and Katherine.

The Red Centre in Australia is home to the Anangu people, who have been living in the area for 22,000 years. They have a unique way of life that is reflected in their sacred places. You can learn more about their culture on a guided tour.

The Great Barrier Reef is home to the world's largest coral reef system. You can take a tour of the island, swim with humpback whales, and experience the beautiful beaches and scenery.

You can also take a tour of the Murray River, which is one of the world's most exciting water adventures. You can see Jim Jim Falls, the Hell Gates, and more. You can also go rafting on the Murray River.

If you want to get closer to the wildlife, you can also go on a private wildlife travel outback Australia. Guests can get a closer look at kangaroos, emus, koalas, and more. The tours are offered by Pepper Bush Adventures.

You can also try your hand at surfing at Bondi Beach. You can take lessons to improve your skills. Or you can just hang out and take pictures.

[jacquelynstephensart]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jacquelyn Stephens Abstract Artist (@jacquelynstephensart)

So the other day it was a bit wild and woolly at the coast. See Oscar, no surf today, just washing machine. @flinders Stay kind x #art #studio #artlife #whatido #surfbeach #painterslife #beach #surf #savetheocean #breathin #savethesealife #blue #inspiration #environmentalawareness #grateful #precious #memories #dreams #flinders #gunnery #nosurf #wind https://www.instagram.com/p/BvuyWyZDP08/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1wuzeqfgqe2ov

[robryebeach]

Flinders SeaLife second Video.#sealife #oceanlife #beachlife

[curious-rabbit-photography]

Waiting in the car because we aren’t allowed out at The Pines Beach at Flinders. #flinders #flindersbeach #pointleo #pointleosurfbeach #thepinessurfbeach #beach #surf #dogsofinstagram #baysidedogownersgroup #fujifilm #fujifilmxt3 #fujifilm23mmf2 #snapseed #fujifilmaustralia #fujifilmaus #fujifilmglobal #samoyed #goldenretriever #samriever #goldensammy #dogsincars #melbournedogs #smileydog #finnthesamriever (at Flinders, Victoria) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu6QhDBh8-S/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1jh6ceeoqsv0

[surferboianddollbaby]

[jcnniferslaw-archive]

- ̗̀  A L Y C I A   A N D  J E N N I F E R   S A Y  ‘ I   D O’  ̖́-

After the ceremony and reception, guest will be flown by private plane to the gorgeous Kangaroo Island, where private villas will await.  Kangaroo Island lies off the mainland of South Australia, southwest of Adelaide. With nature reserves, home to native wildlife like sea lions, koalas and diverse bird species. In the west, Flinders Chase National Park is known for penguin colonies and striking coastal rock formations, like the sculpted Remarkable Rocks and the stalactite-covered Admirals Arch. And did we mention the gorgeous beaches with cristal clear water, perfect for surfing?

@ajcsmin​

[robryebeach]

old volcanic rocks at flinders surf beach. #beach #nature #sand

[jenshewring]

Sold! Fields of Love inspired by Red Hill on the Mornington Peninsula is on the way to its new home thanks to Angela who told me they always have such a lovely family time at Red Hill and Point Leo and this painting ‘stole her heart’. I love hearing the stories behind collecting art! Point Leo is a hidden gem for kids surfing, we have had many summers of fun times with our kids on this beach with stunning views across to Flinders and Phillip Island. Can’t wait to return 🏄🏻‍♀️☀️ Thank you Angela and @artloversaustralia gallery #artloversaustralia #artloversaustraliaartist #artlovers #jenshewring #soldpainting #redhill #morningtonpeninsula #jenshewringartist #jenshewringart #countrysideliving #countryliving #interiordesign #homebeautiful #inspiredbynature #artcollector #melbourneartist #handmadeinaustralia #handmadewithlove (at Melbourne, Victoria, Australia) https://www.instagram.com/p/CUw0xT8P5EB/?utm_medium=tumblr

[conqueror4x4]

Hypnotic Off-Road Camper Trails!

Esperance, Western Australia

It is, a small town on the south coast of Western Australia, really what makes the west coast so special. Sparkling waters and white sand stretch for miles, bordered by incredible bushwalks and seaside views.

 Grampians National Park, Victoria

Located off the coast of the Great Ocean Road, this national park presents beautiful mountain views, with incessant nature walks in the area to discover all that this place has to offer. There are overnight hikes that take you to some magnificent camping spots nestled on mountain peaks.

 Jervis Bay, New South Wales

The summer months give stunning sunny days and hot temperatures, and the winter months present views of humpback whales migrating north.

 Flinders Ranges, South Australia

A five-hour drive from Adelaide, steal a site at Wilpena Pound Campground and discover the 540-million-year-old landscape. It is suggested to visit during winter months, since the summer can bring horrendous temperatures.

  Blue Mountains, New South Wales

Located just two hours from Sydney, the Ingar Campground in the Blue Mountains is entirely free on a first come first serve basis. If you go during the winter months, making sure to dress warm as the mountain temperature is not your typical Aussie weather.

  Daintree National Park, Queensland

Portion of the Wet Tropics World Heritage area, this national park is a retreat for endless rainforest, beautiful beaches, and varied wildlife. The Noah Beach camping site is located 50m from the shore, underneath the mossy trees—this isn’t your regular camping experience.

 Kalbarri, Western Australia

This National Park is a must-do when you are exploring the west coast, with river gorges, scenic hikes, and famous red and white striped rock formations for miles. If you go in the right season, the wildflowers will be in a bloom, creating a magical pop of color in the national park as far as the eye can see.

 Margaret River, Western Australia

Margaret River has it all—wonderful beaches, world-renowned surfing, wineries, and cafés. Only a three-hour drive from Perth, there are a ton of campsites to choose from. The sunsets over the ocean are a little unique, and the temperatures in the winter don’t often drop below five degrees, making it the perfect camping spot year-round.

 MillaaMillaa, Queensland

To say it’s a tropical paradise is an understatement, surrounded by lush rainforest and Queensland’s highest mountain, Mt Bartle Frere, at an elevation of 1,611 meters (5,285 ft).

 It’s no secret that Australia offers the best of the best: amazing beaches, coastal views, national parks, and superb weather. Well, the country also offers some quite impressive camping spots to pitch a tent, meaning you can enjoy and appreciate the country’s outdoor spaces even more.

Conqueror Off Road Caravans, Conqueror Off Road Campers, Conqueror Australia, Off Road Camper Australia

 So, plan and enjoy!

[rufusdawes]

Seals the Deal

I'm not sure where I'm happiest but surely it's somewhere in nature peering under rocks, peeking through scrub, and generally looking for native wildlife be it reptilian, mammalian, avian, or even insectivorian. And so, having found a rock pool chocka full of crustaceans of all sizes on our first full morning walk during our weekend visit to Kangaroo Island, I was one happy little camper. I was therefore a little dismayed to look up from my marine adventureland to see the other nine of us wandering off back down the beach and continuing on with our stroll. Nor was anyone overly enthused to help with my hypothesis about what one small louse like creature might be, of which there were dozens, once I'd caught them up. Obviously, I've since looked it up and can confidently state that it was a Marine Slater (Ligia australiensis). [Just in case someone out there cares!]

Things did improve upon the sighting of an echidna by some of the friends on a track near our base camp. I hastily turned around and a few of us squatted down together, eventually discovering a glimpse of a handful of spines as it hunkered down from our prying eyes. I remained after the others for a few more minutes hoping the echidna might feel empowered to continue on its forage but it seems it would remain spooked and mostly hidden for some time to come.

A dog at the gin distillery elicited even more interest from the group as did a game of ‘dead or alive’ in the car, whereby roadside animals were ID’d as either being living flappy (avian), furry (mammalian), or flatties (reptilian), or sadly of the late variety. Not quite the same as tramping through the bush searching solely for live ones but, at least a passing interest in wildlife was evident.

However, a visit to Flinders Chase National Park, still recovering from the severe bushfires of 2019 which meant the closure of most walks, finally united the lot of us in enjoying the spectacle of our native wildlife. Perched upon the rocks below us at Admirals Arch, playing in the rock pools, posturing against one another, pups suckling from their mothers, big bulls and cows bathing in the full sun were several dozen long nosed fur seals. What started as a viewing high up on the cliffs turned into a relatively close encounter as a boardwalk led us ever further towards sea level. A healthy distance is still maintained however, the proximity allows for an intimate following of a favourite's behaviour.

‘Look, those two are fighting’, ‘Aw, look at the baby one’, ‘Ha, that one's having a play in the waves’. We're all pointing and sharing what we're seeing but all are too engrossed in our own sightings to take every action and reaction in.

Eventually, and one by one, we pull away from the boardwalk and ascend the wooden staircase like a version of the ending to Ocean's 11. Two of the mob race back to the cars but one remains behind and for the first time, it's not me.

Below, one story is of a pup trying to find its mother. The most likely candidate offering nothing more than a roar, teeth bared. I return to join Thalia, the last one standing who's been watching this all play out, and we monitor the vain efforts of the pup for several more minutes together. Eventually time wins out and we too take to the stairs missing whatever conclusion played out amongst the rocks.

A common question asked among the group during the weekend was for people’s highlights and the seals were indeed a frontrunner, up against frolics in the surf, and the splendid home cooked meals we enjoyed. I might not get too many joining me in the rock pools but the shared experience of watching these sleek marine mammals made it an absolute highlight for me.

Upon returning to the house that evening, the Air BnB we were using just off Pennington Bay, I even discovered a card game called ‘Menagerie’. In it, players collect native Australian wildlife for each of three ecosystems; desert, rainforest, and marine. This game could have been made for me. After our united seal experience, perhaps everyone wanted to play? Unfortunately, it was not to be. I was indulged briefly by Thalia who was unable to betray the childish excitement in my eyes, she the one that had stayed behind to watch the travails of the pup. Still, it was enough for me to be where I might be truly happiest, in the company of dear friends enjoying each of them finding and being in their own happy places, whatever and wherever they may be.

#kangarooisland #seals