The land of Cassowaries, Green Tree Frogs, Tree Kangaroos and Crocodiles....

Also land of sugar, coffee, tea and milk!! Mmmmmm rather good combination don't you think!?

Magnetic Island was wonderful, probably one of best Island experiences for me so far. We all went horse riding (discovered Dominic has fairly severe allergy..), Jacinta, Luke and Benn went bareback in the ocean!! Jacinta has no fear, very happily trotting along - kept up very well with all the adults, left Luke and I miles down the track.

After leaving Magnetic Island and Townsville territory we headed further up north to South Mission Beach. Ocean water is now too cold to swim in, according to me anyway... but kids still swam in the pool. Really enjoyed the atmosphere of Mission Beach and surrounds, many signs to be careful not to hit Cassowaries on the road. We are enjoying learning more about the native animals as well as the changing landscapes. Saw a beautiful green tree frog on the wall of the amenities block at Mission Beach. And love the rainforest!

Now, in Atherton we must be careful not to hit tree kangaroos along the road. Apparently, now there are also crocodiles in some of the creeks and rivers we have passed over. Atherton is sooo beautiful, just love it, but imagine way hot in summer. We visited Paronella Park, at Mena Creek day before yesterday, created by a Spanish man in the early 1900's, just amazing. The last few days we have visited a coffee planation, tea farm, sugar Mill (at Tully), and finally a diary, cheese and chocolate factory. So interesting, has been a wonderful learning experience for us all. Today, is the first day since down south of NSW that we have had to pull out the jackets and long pants, very cool maybe top of 18 or 19C. Really feel the cold, I think I have already climatised to warmer weather!

Well off to cook dinner, lamb chops on the BBQ, pasta and vegies.....