G'Day.

We are now in Cairns enjoying cheap hostels and free meals. It seems that it is not only Australia that is still under a drought but also our bank accounts, but we have made it to our last major town in OZ.

Our first stop after Noosa - which is a lovely place - was Fraser island - the largest sand island in the world. The beaches here were awesome although the pacific ocean did not look that inviting especially with man eating sharks at the outer reef waiting for an unlucky swimmer. The fresh water lakes were so clear you cold actually drink the water as you swam. we also saw a wild dingo prowling about as we were driven around in the 4by4 jeep tour.

We departed after 2 days up to Airlie beach by bus, to the start off point for our Whitsundays 3 Day 2 Night live on board Trimaran tour. We would say that this has been one of the highlights of OZ - we snorkelled the South point of the great barrier reef, the fish were amazing! We watched sunsets, saw dolphins and sea eagles that swooped to collect meat trown at them from the boat. We only had a couple of hours of bad weather with lashing rain, 2m swell and the beginings of seasikness, but it was well worth it.

We then headed north to Magnetic island where we had a relaxing two days and sadly said goodbye to our tent which has served us well. Then off to raft the white water rapids of the Tully river! Had a bit of a hariey moment when our boat flipped and jenni disapperared underneath- but we survived with a few cuts and brusies although gillon was convinced he had a fracture dislocation of his left elbow which turned out to be a minor graze! We were the only boat out of 10 to flip so at least we got our moneys worth.

We have just spent the afternooon at Cairns Lagoon, sitting in the shade reading our books and starting to plan our campervan trip up north and also in New Zealand.

If anyone wishes to Donate to the Gillon and Jenni See New Zealand Travel Appeal please call this OZ number 1 800 PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!!

Hope all is well at home and this finds you all well

Gillon and Jenni