CLIFTON BEACH-PORT DOUGLAS-MOSSMAN GORGE- SOUTHERN DAINTREE RAINFOREST NP

PORT DOUGLAS
Friends used to live here and Kerry had been here many moons ago, though under duress as nanny in her former life. So we decided to cruise about town, check out the sights, swim in the stinger net zone @ 4 mile beach and plonk ourselves on the sand with a good book. To me, it resembles Byron Bay. Extremely commercialized, although at least the 4 mile beach is still protected so as you gaze along the coast line you cannot see the myriad of buildings that lay behind the esplanade.
Fortunately, we are here pre peak. The water is warm around 27deg, and as I write this Kezzy is out in the surf splashing around like a four year old- though also feeling her frustration at being 'caged' unable to swim out as far as her heart desires. I can understand the terror her mum must have experienced as Kerry swam and swam and swam way out as an eight year old. I now must feel my own fears, as I watch her do what she loves- if only I could be so brave! Yet still the memories of being a 12yr old, stung by a blue bottle at Two Fold Bay, terrified and convinced I was going to die (based on what I had heard from the caravan park owner several days before) haunt my future beach experiences. I am still projecting my past onto the future.
To watch two little girls running around butt naked, enthralled in the sand and the waves so so excited, so free! At what point did society suddenly decide its 'accepted and appropriate' for children to play and be liberated in public, totally absorbed in their delight, but for an adult to do the same, play in the sand and frolic among the waves, would be frought with such judgement and potentially a call to the police for "indecent exposure"!! Yet, the desire is within us all! Well definitely is within me. I found myself feeling a pang of envy mixed with joy whilst observing these young girls, squealing and jumping about; their little arms and legs pumping as they tare in and out of the break with shear glee and enthusiasm.
Right now, unfortunately the fear is dominating the desire- maybe one day I'll be courageous enough to do it anyway, but for now feeling joy at their joy, will have to suffice.

MOSSMAN GORGE
We were fortunate to gain a few tips from the locals who recommended we do the circuit walk at Mossman Gorge, and to pack the togs as there was a stunning little rock pool along the way that most tourists ignore. After ascertaining that I would not be donating a limb for crocodile snack time, we eagerly donned the eucy oil and headed off into the luscious rainforest.
WOW! A fabulous Black Ulysses Butterfly beckoned us to follow deep into the rainforest- flying high up into the canopy showing us the amazing harmony and sharing that seemed to be occurring above us. Birdnest ferns growing within the highest branches of the trees; vines traversing the lengthy trunks making their way from the dark Forest floor to the light above; the enormous, intricate network of roots that provide stability in the sodden soil conditions, and capturing decaying foliage which increases the nutrient supply for all species living in that area. Again, WOW!
Then we found the rock pool- agh!! I couldn't get my gear off quick enough- it was so enchanting, and pristine...and inviting- b***** the togs THIS is a nudie swim not to be missed. Crystal clear water cascading over the rocks and fallen tree trunks, the sweet smell of moss, lichen and the decaying forest floor. The moistened rocks and feel of course sand between my toes...mmm, a little piece of heaven on earth does still exist- my heart is glad. I may have shocked and humiliated a few passer bys that over looked as we swam, but also unknowingly provided encouragement for a few who stripped off and enjoyed the 'underwear paddle'!