Time to board the ferry to Heron Island. To make sure we got there on time, we spent the night in Gladstone. Rather slow small town, even though it is a center for refining and shipping bauxite and other natural resources. The only taxi at the airport was leaving as we got to the curb. A janitor called another for us to share with a marine engineer destined for one of the ships. Between him and the fellow in the visitors center at our departure point, Dave enjoye...

On our way to the ocean, we passed through Brisbane, billed as the very up and coming city here. There was certainly plenty of action in the downtown pedestrian area. Much new development alongside beautiful old buildings. We enjoyed a walk along the river front park. Highlight was seeing the beach pool they've built. What a great idea, free for all ! Then as we got back to our hotel, there was a dance event going on "International Zouk Day". Great fun watching t...

We took a day off after the long walk, and visited the National Park Cultural Center. It was very interesting with history, folklore, etc. However, much of the display was the abstract artwork portraying ceremonial ritual. Photos were not allowed. We took just a short walk nearby on the Liru Walk. A different view, different light, it was still stunning. We got there by shuttle. The driver said nothing of photo restrictions, so I took advantage. As noted earlier...

Time to leave the city skyscrapers for one in the Outback. Another memorable hike today, 7 mi. (fortunately flat) around the base of Ayers Rock/Uluru. I'm not normally up for the hikes that start at sunrise, but it was worth seeing the variations of the light and colors. Photos barely do justice. Too close to get the whole thing, but seeing the details gave totally different perspective. The Rock is very sacred to the traditional owners of this area,the ind...

Time to see the animals. Of course, the best was seeing the natives out in the open country, but we weren't going to see them all that way so it was time to go to the zoo. Platypus was underwater and too quick moving to get a photo. The biggest surprise was this cassowary. Native to tropical forests of northeastern Australia, Indonesia, New Guinea. One other note, going to the zoo is one more of the "universal attractions", especially for families. I enjoyed w...