1st Thurs – April Fool’s Day. Last day of work for me for this term. No one played a trick on us though some of the teachers had a couple of gags on the students – like putting lemonade in their glasses and telling the students they got it out of the bubblers . Rochelle organised some nice nibbles and cakes for morning tea to celebrate my birthday and Gary’s, who is the 2nd too.
Margaret texted so I rang her back so we could have a long chat. They are still waiting for their new car. Took a photo of the gecko pot holders that Margaret made for me ready for us in the camper.
Sad news for Kevin and Linda with their son, David, passing away. Thinking of them all at this sad time.
2nd Fri – I am 58 years old today - where have the years gone. Steve gave me a lovely card, scratchies and chocolates. Also an Easter Bunny and Egg for our trip too.
Mum and Dad gave me some money which will go towards our trip next year to the Horizontal Falls in WA.
The Rose of Sharon has lots of blooms.
Started putting bits and pieces in the camper ready for our 5 day meandering on Tuesday. Julie is coming down to look after Mum and Dad while we have a break.
At lunch time the Rose of Sharon goes pink.
Kaylene and Rick called in for a quick cuppa. Rick can come out of hospital for a short while but then has to return for intravenous antibiotics as he got an infection in his back wound from the surgery. So lovely to see him and hopefully he will recover well.
Lots of lovely messages from family and friends. Had a lovely long chat with Erica then Margit rang.
By late afternoon the Rose of Sharon changes to a deep pink colour then shrivels up and falls off – each flower only last one day.
Greg came over to have dinner with Mum and Dad so we could have dinner at Jon and Annalise’s. Daniel and Fran came too with lovely flowers and some money for me to pamper myself with. Linda, Matt and Taylor joined us too and Linda made me a lovely cake as well as cooked Grout Island Red Emperor and prawns as she likes the traditional Good Friday fish meal. Annalise made home-made pizzas which Jon cooked on a stone in our old Webber – still going strong. It was a lovely evening. So lovely to be with our boys and their lovely ladies. So glad they are both happy.
4th Sun – A nice drop of rain this morning. Will move our things into the camper to sleep tonight in case it rains more tomorrow.
Hot Cross Buns for morning tea.
After morning tea the sun came out. Steve used a base off one of Dad’s old computer screens to mount our TV onto. He had bought some ‘rabbit ears’ and set it up in the camper. Works well. Will take my hard drive full of shows in case we want to watch some TV at night.
I found some mango in the caravan freezer that I brought back from Woodgate so we enjoyed that with ice cream after dinner then we cracked the big Easter Egg Steve bought me and we all enjoyed a quarter.
5th Mon – Finished packing the camper, Steve finished off a few more bits – board over the sink so I can have more space for chopping vegies etc, foam to put the TV on while we travel and foam to block the vent in the door when we go on dirt roads so the dust won’t come in.
Kaylene and Rick called in for a cuppa after Kaylene picked him up from hospital for his afternoon out. Hopefully he will be able to go home soon.
6th Tues – Julie arrived to stay with Mum and Dad for a few days so we can have a break. Went through things with her then we headed off at 11am. Nice day, sunny with puffy clouds.
Big trek to Babinda!! Decided to help the economy and stopped at the Bakery for one of their famous pies. Forgot about the Covid sign in stuff but luckily I had my mask in my bag so I stood in line, signed in then purchased our lunch.
Drove down to Babinda Boulders where there is a 72hr RV camp nearby. We chose a spot and set up, only takes a few moments. Steve unlatches the roof. I unlock the door and pull out the steps. Steve still has to make new ones and we will probably mount them on the back for easier access. I then press the buttons for the roof to rise and then open the windows. Easy. Everything is secure in side though we haven’t been on any rough roads yet.
Brought my lovely birthday flowers from Daniel and Fran with us.
There is only one other tent set up and then another campervan pulled in. There was a sign-in book in the toilet block for Covid tracing.
Had our lunch on the picnic table beside us then put on our togs and walked to the swimming area. Lots of people about – you don’t have to sign in for Covid here though, only if you overnight – go figure. Checked out the upstream spot first – then looking downstream to the main swimming area.
The Golden Penda is in bloom on the other side of the main pool.
The water was very cold but once in it was beautiful. We swam to the other side where there was a nice sandy bottom. Steve felt a nip and looked down to see a freshwater crayfish nipping his fingers. He thinks it could smell the pie! Then some little fish nibbled my feet!
Read about the Legend of the Boulders.
Walked along the path along the creek to the two lookouts – Devils Pool then Boulders Gorge Lookout. Lots of trees have fallen bringing down the vines and opening up the canopy from that wild storm recently. The “wait-a-while” lawyer vines are growing well though.
We spotted a turtle which made us wonder why we don’t see any Platypus in the creeks around here considering they are on the Tablelands.
It is a nice walk and with the recent rain the creek is flowing well and can easily trap someone under the rocks.
Walked back for a cuppa in the camper. The lorikeets have moved in and there are four curlews standing around like statues.
Put our boots on and went to find the Goldfields Trail walk. Clouds have come over so it is lovely and cool. Found this information about the man, Abel Cottone, who donated the land here as a recreational reserve.
Found the trail information further along on the upstream section. As kids Mum and Dad would take us up to swim at the Mulgrave River top causeway. I remember going with Steve once and the march flies were so bad we submerged our whole bodies in the water with just our mouth and nose out!! We also went up to the old gold mine – shame we didn’t have a metal detector then. Now you have to walk or cycle 8.6km up to it. Gold was discovered in the Mulgrave River in the late 1870s which created the township of Goldsborough. Unfortunately after 10 years the gold ran out. In the 1930s William Kraft discovered gold on the Bartle Frere’s north-western slopes which sparked the gold fever again. Prospectors were eager to access the area and cut a track from the coast over a saddle in Bellenden Ker Range. In 1986 the track was opened up again for hikers.
The first little creek is still running across the track but we were able to use stepping stones to get over it.
The next one we couldn’t without taken our boots off so we didn’t continue. Will put that on our list to do later.
Found another track down to the water upstream and then zoomed in further upstream.
Spotted a freshwater crayfish and the little fish that were nibbling us before.
Another couple found a secluded spot on the other side. The vines make good swings.
Went back for a brisker walk along the creek this time – need to keep the exercise up.
Back to the camper for our togs and in for another cool off. Lovely. Only a few people left now.
More people have moved into the camp area. We had our drinks outside looking up at the mountinas. Swatted a couple of march flies and some annoying mozzies. Chatted with a lovely young lady from Kangaroo Island who is studying Marine Science at JCU in Townsville. Having a few days away with her uni friends.
Dug out the card games I had found at Woodgate – Phase 10 and Uno Hearts. Steve got the hang of them quickly and won!! Another couple pulled in beside us about 9pm when we were having our cuppa. Otherwise it is all quiet.
7th Wed – The lorikeets are awake early. We had a shower of rain during the night. As we were packing up we chatted with the couple that came in late. They were from Brisbane and were late because they had just climbed Mt Bartle Frere. She asked what games we were playing last night as they need to get some for their travels. I also suggested Dice as that can be played outside even if it is windy.
Back through quiet Babinda and onto the highway. Took the turn off into Josephine Falls. Lovely and sunny now. No clouds on Bartle Frere so you can see Broken Nose clearly.
Read the information.
Followed the bitumen path – no access to the falls now as people have died here. Steve remembers coming here with our friends (I had forgotten) and it was a gravel track right to the top. The boys went across the waterfall though it wasn’t flowing this much then. We were lucky to grow up and freer time with less rules but we were also lucky we didn’t have any tragedies either. Stopped at the first turn off to the bottom pool and rock slide. There is a marker showing when it is too dangerous for swimming.
Continued up the path to the middle creek platform.
A couple below us sent their drone up. I thought it was going to disappear into the waterfall.
Further along we reached the top pool platform. This where in the ‘old days’ the boys went up the side of the creek then across the top of the falls.
Back to the carpark. Wandered up to where one of the Bartle Frere trails starts. I have been to Broken Nose in my youth so that one is ticked off the bucket list. I remember it took 4 hours to go up and then there was a storm so we high-tailed it down in 2 hours. Steve has done Broken Nose and the Summit – coming in from Lamins Hill. Not sure I could handle the summit walk nowadays. We might check out Bobbin Bobbin Falls though one day.
Around to Golden Hole on the Russell River, where there is plenty of open grassy area but back from the water. Only the mower man is here at the moment. Steve remembers being here on a Boys Brigade camp.
We walked down to the water – upstream then downstream. Steve then told me about the time he and Alan Gregory followed old forestry tracks on their motor bikes from Lamins Hill down to here. He remembers coming across a wide area of water and seeing drill holes in the granite rocks from the tin and gold mining days. He also got a leech in his eyeball which he has never forgotten!
Very calm the river is so reflective.
Had a cuppa in the camper as there were a few more march flies here.
Back to the highway and continued south through Innisfail and then Tully. Someone else wanted a photo of the Golden Gumboot! I got mine as we drove by.
Saw the sign for Tully Gorge (45km) and decided to check it out as we definitely hadn’t been up this road before. Passed a sign that said “This road does not lead to Townsville or Cairns”. Obviously a few people have gotten lost.
Lovely view with blue mountains, green canefields, blue sky and fluffy white clouds. When you zoom along the highway you forget how much land there is going up to the mountain range. The road borders a Military Training area – Combat Training. The bridges have number names – 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B then 6, 7, 8 etc. The sugarcane fields finish and bananas begin.
Crossed Bridge 13 as we enter the Tully Gorge National Park with still 20km to go to the Gorge Campground. Travelling beside the Tully River now.
Just before Bridge 15 people were carrying rafts out – the rapids are world famous. The Hydro Scheme lets water out and works with the tourist operators to provide this fabulous rafting experience.
Just before the main bridge over the Tully River there is a dirt road leading off to the Misty Mountains. We followed it years ago from Palmerston Highway when we first got the truck but ended up on the Tablelands, not here.
Across the bridge – upstream then downstream.
Near the turn off to the campground workers were clearing up a recent landslide.
Parked in the Day Use area and had a look around. Need an Epermit to camp but there is no phone reception. No spontaneous camping with the National Parks nowadays.
Checked out the Tully River – No swimming allowed, there is a croc sign, really!! Steve thinks it is more to do with when they let the water out for the rafting as the water level can rise quickly and catch people unawares.
Followed a track further upstream. This would have been a nice spot for a dip.
Steve moved the truck nearer a picnic table in the camping area and started making lunch. I did the butterfly walk. Only saw one tiny little one and there wasn’t a plaque about it. Good information. Luckily we see so many Ullysses (Blue Mountain) and Cairns Birdwing butterflies at home around the house.
The back of the fridge has frozen and it is only on 1 – coldest is 7. I remembered that it did that in Woodgate too but I thought it was because I didn’t have much in the fridge. The food at the front is ok but my tomatoes at the back of the box are frozen. Will have to get onto Bushman.
After lunch we turned on the Hema and followed the road further up the gorge. Table Top Range to the right and Cardwell Range to the left and we can see Koombooloomba Dam above that.
Continued up the road to the site of Cardstone which was the township while they built the hydro power station. Continued on till we reached Keerya Power Station. Parked and read the information.
Checked out a flying fox set up down to the river. Not sure if this was for the power station or rafting. There is a line with numbers on it.
Headed back and stopped at pull off area marked 11. We spotted a paddle so it is one of the spots where the rafters start from. Nice big picnic area here too.
Lovely waterfalls at the moment. Sadly the fish aren’t looking too well – I wonder why.
Turned off and up the slope to the Cardstone township ruins. Other people from Tully were here and asked Steve how we found it – Steve said we saw it on the Hema. I walked up the top level and found concrete paths and a retaining wall.
Steve joined me and we followed a track which led to Cardstone Weir. We had seen a sign as we drove up but I thought it was on the river. We think this is what the others were hoping the tourists didn’t find!
We think this area was the community hall/club as there are blue tiles on the floor and a room underneath. They had a nice view too.
Continued back along the road and stopped at Flip Wilson Lookout. Great history information on the board. I turned around to talk to Steve and he had disappeared.
I followed a path down to the river and found the lookout platform – shame no one was rafting by at this moment. Certainly would be a fun ride over the rapids. I did white water rafting in New Zealand on the Shotover River when I was 18. We had a ball though I remember getting knocked out of the raft when we were having a splashing battle and it was very cold.
Steve turned up – he had followed the track up the hill and found the rest of the Cardstone township. We drove up the track and found a huge area with curbing, retaining walls and tennis court etc. Anywhere the guinea grass is would have been the house blocks.
We drove back to the weir. There was a concrete slab with BBQ and up the steps the change room area as there was tiles on the floor, toilet holes etc.
We headed back. Lovely view of the river as we continued downstream.
We can’t book a site here with no reception so we headed back to the main highway.
John Beal rang just as we crossed the Tully River on the highway. His belated birthday call to me – he is so funny as he said, it is part of the Brotherton/Beal contract that we have 30 days to be able to wish someone a happy birthday. He is doing well and glad we are having some time away. He had to order a birth certificate to prove who he was when he recently sold a house in Hampton and found out that his birthday is actually the 8th, not the 9th like he has celebrated for the past 92 years.
Through Cardwell and over the range. We always called it the Cardwell Range, though it is closer to Ingham. On the Hema it is called Dalrymple Gap. We learn something every day!
We pulled into Rollingstone RV campground which is free for 48 hours and beside the Rollingstone Creek. Due to Covid we had to sign in using the QR app that I had managed to download on my phone recently. We parked up beside a small campfire which even had some timber.
Steve got the fire going but realised why it was left – very wet. We managed to enjoy a few flames while we had our drinks. I rang Mum – they are having Chinese and all is good. Little bugs moved in, biting us so we retreated into the camper. There are only 6 other campers here. This was where we stopped on our first night on the road on the 16th August 2014.
8th Thurs – Quiet morning. Drove down to Balgal Beach for a look. Lots of pineapples growing around here.
Balgal Beach is a little beach village with a long esplanade. There is a 48hr RV camp spot near the boat ramp where Rollingstone Creek flows into the sea. I went for a wander while Steve chatted with the chap from Bushman fridges. He said to check the door seals and ring him when we get back and he will send up another thermostat. Will just pull everything forward so it doesn’t freeze. Nice view of the boatramp that goes into the creek. The mouth is around to the right.
The beach looks lovely. Will come back here sometime.
Kerry and Brian rang for a chat.
Back to the highway and north to Paluma Range National Park turn off. We kept going over Crystal Creek to the servo and filled up the tank. I said to the lady we were going up the range and she said she wouldn’t advise it as it is narrow and windy.
We went back to the turn off and drove up to the turn off to Big Crystal Creek. I texted Rebecca as she and Clive had recently been up here so I thought I would check with her about going up the range. It is a nice spot with a campground and short walk to Crystal Creek. Steve spotted two NP rangers so he chatted with them while I made a cuppa. He said we would have no problems as he goes up in a big truck.
We put on our togs and headed to the creek for a swim in Paradise Pool. Big granite rock to gain access to the water – we found a sandy bit to go in rather than jumping in. Very chilly but beautiful once you get the body in the water. Spotted a couple of small fish then I got a fright when an eel headed my way. He disappeared quickly with me thrashing about in the water back to Steve!!
Looking further upstream from the top of the rock.
We dried off then drove further up the road to check out the ‘rock slides’. The road follows the water pipe that provides the water for Townsville.
Parked at the locked gate which states the land further on is owned by the water board. Others were walking back so we continued on foot down to a water crossing and up the other side.
Turned at the sign and followed the track up the hill side for 100m. Spotted a few native hibiscus.
Nice views of the creek as we walked along.
Up to the rock slide area. A chap was having a go, showing his kids it was safe. He said he didn’t get bumped but I am not convinced.
We went back to the other spot which had good steps to walk down. The water is lovely and the water fall was powerful that I could just lean into it. It must be fairly deep as some kids were jumping off the rock – their Dad had goggles on so obviously he checked it out first.
Back to the truck then back out to the turn off and continued on to the next turn off to Paluma township and Little Crystal Creek. Up the 18km narrow, windy road – about 1 ½ cars wide but no problem passing people if you take it carefully. The car park was full as we approached Little Crystal Creek and there were heaps of people in the water when I looked over as we crossed the bridge. Looks like a nice place with lots of water falls. Will check it out on our way back.
Still climbing on the narrow road – nice views through the trees but nowhere to stop to take photos.
Into rainforest now. On one corner there is a wall of rock where there are two waterfalls coming down – recessed in the rock – called Twin Falls. Another spot was called Noahs Ark as there is a huge boulder in the creek and it did look like a big ship.
Reached Paluma township – 2925ft the sign said – Hema says 917m above sea level. Parked at the lookout carpark and checked out the view.
I zoomed in from north to south. The cloud is hanging but we can still see all the islands etc. Very nice.
The picnic area is where the radar station was during the 2nd World War.
We had lunch in the camper and put on our boots to walk 1.3km to Witts Lookout where the unmanned radar was and on to Cloudy Creek (2.1km). Nice easy walk through the trees with a bit of information to read.
Further along we left the forest changes.
Reached the Y-intersection of Witts Lookout, 10m to upper lookout or 60m to lower lookout. Did the upper one first. Nice view, would be spectacular on a sunny day. Zoomed in on the where the creek snakes its way down to the sea.
Spotted some banksias which the sign mentioned before.
Down the track to the lower lookout. Watched some kookaburras fly across to the rocky outcrop to perch on the tree.
We can see a bit further up the coast from here.
As we were walking out a small snake slithered across the track in front of us making us jump.
We continued on to the next signpost – 1.1km to Cloudy Creek. Interesting hollow tree trunk.
As we quietly wandered along I spotted a flash of red. Normally its Steve that spots the wildlife. It was a King Parrot and it stayed still long enough for a photo. We had a couple land at our place in Cicero Close many years ago. Spectacular birds. There are supposed to be cassowaries here too but I don’t want to meet one of them on the track.
This time Steve was keeping his eye out for wildlife and as spotted this red bellied black snake. It was enjoying the warmth on the black plastic interlocking squares which protect the slopes. Steve had just thought they would be a good spot for a snake to lay and warm up in this dreary weather. We tossed a couple of branches near it to make it move and eventually it got the hint and disappeared back into the scrub. We are keeping a good eye out now as there are lots of branches and roots on the track that look like snakes!
We continued down the hill to Cloudy Creek, narrow with a little fall at the top. Further down the walls goes over a rocky drop and continues down through the rainforest.
Steve noticed a little track that went to where the creek curved and found a nice spot for a dip. I didn’t want to wet my bikini top as the padding holds the water so Steve got a treat! Not sure what the rope is for.
Back up the track to the intersection and we followed another track back to the village called Andree Griffin walking track (815m to Paluma township). This is not on the other maps but at least we don’t have to back-track to where the snake was! Further along there was a resting spot with a memorial to Andree to was a pioneer in recording bird calls.
Certainly lots of interesting things to take photos of along the way, fungus, creek and interesting tree formations.
Found a little weir where the little creek flowed through a narrow opening in the rocks.
We came out at the Village Green and then wandered down the main street reading the history signs. Very interesting reading – home of Australia’s first Motel. Certainly a quaint little spot with lovely flowering gardens.
Back to the truck – no cassowaries, just the bush turkey.
Had a cuppa then continued along Mt Spec Road. Stopped for a photo at Star Valley Lookout which was nice but nothing spectacular.
Turned onto a dirt road for 6.8km to Birthday Creek Falls. It feels like driving along Boar Pocket Road at Tinaroo Dam as it is narrow, clay and lots of pot holes full of water and the rainforest is closing in. Obviously we are following a shower of rain as there is a mist falling from the trees even though the sun is shining.
Across Birthday Creek then pulled in to check out Birthday Creek Falls (816m elevation). Followed the moderate grade track 500m downhill to the top of the falls. Nice little pool right at the top.
Continued downhill. Found some big lawyer vine and plenty of ‘wait-a-while’.
Nice cascading series of falls.
Steve found a love heart for me.
Went across to another fall which lands in a nice pool but no easy access to get in for a dip. Shame as we are by ourselves again and Steve was hoping for a skinny dip!!
Back on the dirt road again, across Little Birthday Creek. The truck is going well and of course the driver is doing a fabulous job.
Arrived at the Dam – I thought there was a little camp area here but it is big but full of trees and full of campers. $38 per couple so we will just have a look and leave. No phone reception here but there is a ranger on site for the school holidays. A few people are out in their canoes – that’s why Clive and Rebecca liked it as they have their inflatable canoe to go paddling in.
We drove through the day use area and across a wall on one side where there are some more camp spots. It was the site of the quarry that supplied the dirt for the dam in 1958.
We went back and parked in the day use area so we could have a cuppa and a wander. The dam is full and overflowing after all the recent rain.
Walked across the dam wall and back.
As it is nearly 5pm we headed back. Spotted another water fall along the way.
Back over Little Birthday Creek.
We drove back to Birthday Creek Falls carpark. No one else was here and there was no ‘no camping’ sign so we parked up for the night.
Steve showed me his new hook to pull down the pop-top clips. It works well. He found it downstairs and thinks it was from Millaa house. We had old coat hooks in the van that we brought out of the house when we cleared it out many years ago before Dad sold it.
We played Uno Hearts for a while – from my Woodgate pile of games. It is good but would be better with 4 people. Had dinner and played a couple more hands. Read our books while we had our cuppa – so peaceful and it is so lovely to be on the road again.
Might need an extra cover tonight as it is a bit cooler up here.
9th Fri – Lovely waking up listening to all the birds. I love the sound of the Whip Bird best. Bit chilly this morning, 20 degrees – glad I brought my flannelette shirt.
8.30am we were back in Paluma. Stopped at the Lookout again to see if the view was any better. Brighter but we were looking into the sun and the clouds were lower so we couldn’t even see the islands today.
Back down the range to Little Crystal Creek. Lots of bush turkeys on the side of the road. We are the first here but decided to park on the layby on the top side of the bridge. Walked across the old stone bridge and checked out the falls on the upper side. Lovely.
There was another set of steps to the main falls.
Natural crossing. A dad and his kids arrived and they scampered over all the rocks – oh to have that energy again and no fear of breaking bones!
Walked up to the picnic area and carpark on the lower side and read the history on the notice board and a plaque about the Mt Spec Road and bridge.
We walked down to the lower side – looking up at the bridge. Amazing to think of the hard workers the men were to make the bridge etc. The dad we met before was in the water trying to encourage his kids to jump in too. Eventually they did then he couldn’t stop them!
The track continued further downstream and there was a couple of paved areas with picnic tables but no swimming spots.
We walked back up and put our feet in the water under the bridge where the water churns and rolls over the big rock which the kids jumped off.
More people have arrived and are enjoying the water.
We walked back across the bridge – looking down on the bottom falls.
We had a cuppa in the camper and changed into our togs now we have warmed up a bit with the walking. More people have arrived – very popular spot. We got in – getting better at just getting in the cold water now. Chatted with a man from Townsville and his daughter and husband who were visiting from Melbourne. Lots of butterflies flittering about. Plenty of Blue Mountains and another blue one called the Blue Triangle Butterfly - one decided it liked my towel as we walked out and wouldn’t get off. Apparently the males like to land on blue clothing – lucky I read the information on the Butterfly Walk boards at Tully Gorge. Eventually I was able to shoo it onto a bush.
Continued back down the range then took the south road back to the highway and on to Balgal Beach to park up for the night. Another couple from Townsville had just parked up with their van and we both tried logging on to register. Took a bit but we got through. They thought the same thing – we should explore the places near our homes.
Had our lunch in the shade shed chatting with the wife. There were books left on the table – two were good so I nabbed them a left a couple of ours.
Steve Allard rang to see where we were as he passed us on Wednesday near Innisfail. They were heading home from camping over Easter weekend. Normally Steve is good at spotting people but he must have been concentrating on something – of course we do stand out a bit now!
We rang Steve’s speedway friend, Mick to let him know we would be up tomorrow. Sadly we found out that his wife Maralyn has been diagnosed with cancer and will be heading off to Brisbane on Monday to start treatment. So sorry for them both as they had just picked up their van in November to enjoy some travelling. Life can be so cruel.
Walked along the beach – tide still going out so there is no swimming in the swimming enclosure! We headed north along the beach. Muddy rock along the edge.
Kept going around the point where Rollingstone Creek is. The caravan park is on the other side, accessed from a road off the highway further north. View up creek and around to the sea.
Would be a good spot for fishing though there might be a lot of ‘no fish - green zones’ and lots of islands to explore.
Walked up the boat ramp and checked out Fisherman’s Landing where a few patrons were enjoying fish and chips. Found some more information about the area and Isabella Fitzpatrick who built the pub at Rollingstone.
Back to the camper to relax and read our books. Had an early cuppa then walked along the beach to the south this time. The tide is still out and very hot – such a contrast from the cold freshwater creeks. We checked the stinger net to see if anything was caught in it – one dead fish, yuck.
Walked back along the road checking out all the different beach home, old and new. It is sunny and hot and I didn’t bring a hat!! Such a change from the cold wet walk through the rainforest yesterday.
Drinks outside watching the red-tailed black cockatoos munch on the beach almonds. Then the lorikeets moved into the she-oaks over the camper dropping things on the roof.
Played a few games of Skipbo after dinner then read our books again. Very relaxing – just what we needed. We can hear the waves rolling onto the beach now the tide is coming in. Walked down and sat on the sand watching a boat navigate its way out of the creek channel and admired all the stars. Didn’t see any satellites though. The sea air will make us sleep well.
10th Sat – Bright orange glow for sunrise as it came up behind a band of cloud – not worth getting out of bed for though! Our beds are very comfortable and we have slept well though not quite the same as having a queen-sized bed but we had to compromise somewhere.
The birds are up and chirping now and the sea is calm. Looks beautiful and serene.
Headed off and back up the highway to Jourama Falls which is in the northern section of the Paluma Range National Park. Crossed a flowing causeway to the day use area. Nice swimming spot there. Shame they can’t bring in an overnight camp spot in the day use area for people just wanting to pull in for the night. They pay to put in the facilities for day visitors and they pay nothing to use them but if you want to camp you are parked further away and you have to pay – go figure.
The sign said camping area 250m and falls walking track 800m. Obviously you have to cross the next causeway first.
Back to the truck and across. Stopped and checked out the camping area sign.
Further up to the car park then a 3km return moderate walk to the falls.
Nice walk by the creek with tracks going off here and there.
Water flowing from all directions.
Crossed the creek on platforms with the water washing over one section of it. It has been good to see all the falls so quickly after the recent rain.
Left the creek and followed the track up the hillside. We are quickly warming up in the sun now. Should have put our togs on!! Checked out the first spot which is called Rock Pools but not an easy spot to get in for a dip. Chatted with a chap who has climbed to a lot of waterfalls in the area – some very remote.
450m on to the top lookout. Reach the first rest spot and you can just see the top of the falls from here. The zoom works well on the camera.
Continued winding our way up the hillside on the path to the top lookout. The falls are quite spectacular, glad we are seeing it with lots of water coming over.
Zoomed in on each section.
Steve took a photo then I tried a selfie of us – worked well.
Walked back to the Rock Pool but decided it was too hard to get in for a dip as it was all sloping rock.
Walked down the rock but it was a drop down onto the sand below. Two Blue Triangle Butterflies were having a drink.
As we didn’t have togs Steve was keen for a skinny dip so he worked out there had to be a way in to the pool below the falls which had a nice sandy approach. We walked back till we met the creek again and then climbed over the rocks and under some tree branches till he came to the sandy beach. It is nice and secluded so we stripped off and went in. No one came and it was so lovely – getting used to the cold water now. I even let Steve take a photo!!
Got out and dried off using our shirts then headed back out to the track.
We met the backpackers from Balgal Beach and told them of the swimming spot – they had their togs on. More people followed them so we timed it well.
Back to the camper for a cuppa – our clothes have dried off with the walk back. Drove back out then on to Ingham. Spotted the sign for Wallaman Falls – will do that again another day with some of the other falls we have passed. Steve reminded me we had been there before kids – well that was a while ago!!
Before Cardwell we turned off to 5 Mile Pool. We came in here with Lindsay, Julie and their best man David in the early 1980s. No signs, picnic area etc back then. Bright and sunny now. Very interesting story and now I know the name of the cottage on the north side of Cardwell – Sunbeam Hut. Dad had taken a photo of it years ago for Mum to paint. It had been damaged in the cyclone but has now been restored as it is an icon for those travelling along the highway. We decided to keep moving since we had just had a dip. Through Cardwell – the sea is calm and picturesque. There are lots of people milling about which is great for the tourism trade.
Past Sunbeam Hut – I just got a photo of it and the photo Dad took years ago.
The next falls to visit are Blencoe Falls. It has a tight, steep range up which was an old Forestry track.
Further on is the turn off into Murray Falls – 20km.
We turned off the highway at Silkwood to weave our way towards the Palmerston Range via Paronella Park. We crossed Liverpool Creek which flows down to Cowley Beach where we had a shack many years ago. Pulled in to the picnic area and had some lunch by the water. It was flowing well and kids were enjoying going down the rapids from the bridge.
Stopped at Mena Creek and Paronella Park. Walked across the swing bridge to take some photos. Steve survived the wobbly walk. I met Erica and Terry here in 2018 and we explored Paronella Park then.
Steve spotted a platform on the other side so we followed the track down to it to take a better photo of the falls. Spotted a big black bream swim by – there were people fishing nearby.
Rang Mick and said we would call in tomorrow about 10am as we wanted to do a walk at Henrietta Creek.
Continued through the township of South Johnstone which has a big sugar mill then turned onto a side road to take us across to the Palmerston Range Road.
Lovely and green with puffy white clouds against the bright blue sky as we headed up the range. Passed Mamu Skywalk which we did in 2012 when we first got the caravan. Steve wanted to try towing it up the range with Pat to make sure it would cope. We put the intercooler on after that!
Stopped at Crawford’s Lookout – lovely view down to the North Johnstone Gorge. There is a 2 hour ‘difficult’ walk down to the next lookout which he reminded me we did when we were younger so no need to do that again!
Continued on to Henrietta Creek where we stopped in 2012 with the van. We parked out of the way on the gravel dump.
Had a cuppa then followed the signs to Nandroya Falls, 2.4km away. We did this walk back in 2012 which was before I started my blog. Across Henrietta Creek which flows into Douglas Creek and then that flows into the North Johnstone.
Walked along the side of the road over grass where we came across an area dug up by pigs. Good warning sign as we followed the track into the scrub.
Across the first waterway with stepping stones. Easy walking so far. Tall trees.
We came to an intersection – 1.7km to Nandroya Falls to the left or 3.5km to the falls on the right. We chose the shorter one. A few obstacles along the way like fallen trees.
Reached Silver Falls which is pretty and crossed the water to the other side to continue on.
Eventually we arrived at a sign – Nandroya Falls100m to left or 4km alternate return route to the right. First there was a wide cascade then we reached Nandroya Falls where a few other people were sitting about on the volcanic rock base.
Looking downstream to where the water falls over the wide cascade.
We worked our way around for a better photo of the falls and scanned around the solid walls.
No nice spot to swim so we decided to take the long way back as Steve figured it must follow Douglas Creek for a while. Took photos here and there of different falls etc.
Had to keep an eye out for wait-a-while as it was hanging down waiting to grab our caps.
Steve reckons this is downstream of Silver Falls so we will call it Lower Silver Falls!
Nice walking except for the loose ground where the bush turkeys and pigs had turned up the wet ground on the edge of the track.
Then we left the creek and followed the track up the hillside. Obviously the rangers haven’t been through recently to chop the ‘obstacles’ like the next one.
Another little waterfall as we climbed up from the creek. Steve spotted this pile of ‘cassowary poo’ just before he stepped in it. Not sure what would be worse – meeting a pig or a cassowary on this narrow track. It is a nice walk and there were lots of interesting bird calls too.
Eventually we arrived back at the intersection and headed back over the little creek and out to the road.
On the way we walked down to the swimming spot where the wild ginger is blooming.
We went back to the camper and changed into our togs and took our drinks and nibbles with us for a relax in the water. Cold but very nice. There were a few march flies but they didn’t survive long!
Only one other camper came in so we chose a spot and parked up for the night.
Had dinner then played Phase 10 and after our cuppa read our books. Trying to finish them before we get home.
11th Sun – Quiet night but very noisy in the morning with all the birds. A cool 22 degrees which was nice.
Continued up the Palmerston Highway crossing Henrietta Creek then Douglas Creek then the Beatrice River.
Into Millaa Millaa – the Brotherton family home is obscured by trees again. One day we hope to be able to visit it again when Ian and his daughter have restored it.
Turned off and drove up to the Millaa Millaa Lookout. Lovely view this morning with the clear sky.
The other side of Bartle Frere and Broken Nose.
Chatted with a chap from Innisfail waiting to join his friends for a cuppa in Millaa. Two chickens wandered up and he said there is usually 5 of them and a rooster. Must come up from the farm below us.
Continued through Tarzali then Malanda. Across the North Johnstone River and into Atherton to Mick and Maralyn’s place. Chatted with Mick, as Maralyn was resting, for a couple of hours reminiscing about the old speedway days etc. Steve moved in with them when his parents were transferred from Cairns to Bundaberg with the Forestry Department. I remember visiting them on their 10th wedding anniversary and thinking that was a very long time to be married – here we are heading to our 38th!
Into Yungaburra where there are platypus in the creeks. Found Steve’s aunt and uncle’s new place in a new subdivision near the old saw mill my grandfather managed before opening the mill in Millaa Millaa. It is a lovely home. Maralyn and Greg are very happy with the move though they did it on the hottest days! Their daughter Marijke and her son Ryan had been staying for the school holidays so they had a quick look through the camper then headed back to Cairns. Marijke was our flower girl.
As we haven’t heard any news we asked what was happening in the world and the main thing was that Prince Philip had passed away just short of his 100th birthday – what a shame he didn’t get his letter from the Queen.
Had lunch with Maralyn and Greg then headed home down the Gillies Range. The friendly rock frog is now the Gillies landmark since the Bikini Lady tree was burnt in bush fires years ago. Steve is happy with how the truck is going but will still do an upgrade of the turbo and put an intercooler on just to give it some more boost.
Arrived home about 3pm so Julie had time to get back up to Ravenshoe. Mum has deteriorated in the last few days with the fluid build-up causing her a lot of discomfort. Rebecca and his children were visiting when we arrived then David and his wife arrived. Nice for Mum and Dad to have her grandchildren and great grandchildren call in and see them both.
Julie headed back to Ravenshoe. Greg brought dinner over but Mum didn’t feel like eating. Dad is very quiet but still well. I moved back into my room in case Mum needed help while Steve stayed in the camper.
12th Mon – Mum is not good. So nauseated from all the build up from her kidney and heart failure. So glad we are here to be able to comfort her and look after Dad. As much as I want my mother my only wish is for her to be comfortable and that will mean saying goodbye soon. In the meantime we will be here to do what we can for them both.
13th Tues – Mum a bit better today after taking some fluid tablets and more charcoal tablets.
Jon, Annalise, Dan and Fran called in to visit in the afternoon. Dan brought pavlova so we all had some which brought a smile to Mum and Dad’s faces. Chatted away till dinner time.
Veronica, her daughter Faith and Veronica’s partner Mark called in for a visit.
Leanne and Rick have arrived in Cairns. We will catch up with them for dinner tomorrow night.
14th Wed – Julie decided to come back down but will stay with her daughter Veronica as I am sleeping in the house beside Mum’s bedroom.
Brian posted up photos of Stephanie’s University Graduation for Psychology. It had been delayed because of Covid last year and unfortunately scheduled when Qld had this latest outbreak and they all had to wear masks and they could only have a few family members attend. She has been working with children with Steve’s cousin, Marijke, and loving it.
Afternoon turned grey with drizzly rain. I had booked for dinner on the waterfront to enjoy the view – looks like we will be getting wet as well as I planned to walk from their hotel to the restaurant. Luckily the rain stopped. We had a drink in their room then wandered down to the restaurant – umbrella in hand. Had a lovely night – the restaurant was very busy for a Wednesday night so the tourism trade is picking up now that Covid restrictions are settling again. Kaylene was there too with two friends, enjoying a night out before heading back to teaching next week. At the table beside us a chap was smiling at Steve and it turned out to be Joseph, who raced BMX with Jon. We haven’t seen him in years – all buff from gym work and looking very handsome.
Julie had come over for the day and stayed for dinner – Chinese night. She was able to be here till Greg arrived so we could head off early. Tracy, Tim and Katie joined them for dinner too so they were all chatting away when we got home.
15th Thurs – Still grey with drizzle rain. Mum still able to get about on her scooter but with a lot more help from us. Tracy and her mother, Helen called in for a cuppa. I have texted a few people close to Mum to let them know and we have had some lovely messages and phone calls.
16th Fri – Bit nicer morning. Matthew decided to fly up from Brisbane so he and Tracy called in.
Tash arrived with a lovely bunch of flowers and hot cross buns. Mum still enjoying listening to all the prattle though nods off a lot more lately.
Rang Rochelle to let her know I won’t be coming to work next week as Mum was not doing well.
Brian called in to see Mum and Dad. We gave him some old Supercar posters and programs I had kept and the framed signed shirt of Craig Lowndes which our friends, Jeff and Lyn had given us. As he is an avid Holden supporter he will look after it for us till we return one day.
Tracy and Matthew cooked us a roast dinner and trifle for dessert which was lovely. They weren’t staying but I convinced them and we had a lovely night chatting. Mum even managed a few little bits.
17th Sat – Mum deteriorating but we still chatted and laughed about things while she rested.
Steve cleaned up the front patio so Dad can sit there and look at the trees and watch the birds and butterflies. He roped off the stairs as they are not safe.
More rain – getting heavier.
18th Sun – Raining still – rain gauge overflowing.
Sent Suzanne a birthday message for today.
Mum had a better morning and was quite thirsty but when she got up for the toilet she was very nauseated but not in any terrible pain.
Julie arrived to stay the night. We had arranged to go out with Rick and Leanne again as they had moved out to Palm Cove. Greg was making his usual spaghetti and would come early to cook it here. Mum had wanted us to live our lives and not to worry if she passed and we weren’t home. As we were travelling this could have been the case. Tracy and Tim arrived too so we were happy to go out and have a break with all of the others here to care for Mum and Dad. We headed off to the Reef House at Palm Cove in the rain – again.
We had a lovely night chatting and eating pizza. It was nice to have a break even though my heart is breaking on the thought Mum won’t be with us too much longer.
19th Mon – I got up at 5.30 and went down to see how Mum was doing - not good.
I rang the Palliative care nurse at 8.30 and Nurse Tracy arrived about 10am. Greg arrived and we talked to Mum and hugged her as she passed into her next life in Heaven. She was ready to go and we are thankful she went peacefully and we were there with her. Steve said his farewells too in between checking on Dad, who was peacefully sitting in the lounge room. Thankfully his dementia has progressed enough that he didn’t understand what was happening.
The heavy rain continued until the moment Mum left the house then it stopped for an hour - it was an eerie feeling. She has always loved the rain and watching the weather patterns - especially when cyclones are forming.
The day passed with phone calls and messages from family and friends. We arranged her cremation as she wished - no fuss. She just wanted us to remember her fondly. We decided to wait until her plaque is erected on the big granite book at the Crematorium and then we will scatter her ashes in the garden there. As her birthday is the 4th of July which is a Sunday we would do it then and have an afternoon tea with family and friends to celebrate her life. She would have turned 90. Dad’s birthday is only 4 days later too.
We posted photos and a message on Facebook to let others know. There are so many photos. I will put some together with her life story that she wrote ready for her birthday.
As much as we were prepared for this moment our hearts are still aching at not seeing Mum in her green recliner enjoying the view out her windows or watching her favourite shows.
We are so glad we came home at the end of 2019 and have had all this time with Mum and Dad and are able to stay here to continue to look after Dad.
20th Tues – Katie’s 20th birthday.
Dad asked a few times where Lena is and is happy to hear she is out visiting friends. He said he is ok to be staying her with Steve and me.
Jon sent me the photos of the waterfall in the creek beside their place. It is roaring with all this rain.
21st Wed – Erica rang to say Uncle Robbie – her youngest brother, passed away in Miles Hospital from lung cancer. He was only diagnosed earlier this year so it is a blessing he didn’t have to suffer too long. He had run Erica a couple weeks back saying he was in a flash hotel drinking champagne – always a bit of a larrikin. He and Uncle Ronnie had turned up for Christmas at Woodgate last year, late, with home-made pies – that still had to be cooked. It was so wonderful to have that funny memory of him and Ronnie.
We had tried contacting another of Mum’s friends, Dot and found out that she had passed away on Saturday. They will all be having a wonderful time catching up at the Pearly Gates.
Rebecca and Clive called in for hugs and a cuppa. Nice to be able to just chat about normal things. Clive heads off for his diving trip tomorrow. He was going on the bus down to Townsville but with all the heavy rain the roads were blocked so he decided it was safer to fly even if they open the road it could close again with more rain predicted.
One of the neighbours Scott and Candy brought up a hot quiche for us for dinner. Mum has watched their children grow over the years as they would bring them for walks up the street regularly.
Julie arrived in the afternoon so we sat outside having our drinks listening to the birds. At least it isn’t raining at the moment. Karen, back neighbour, came over to join us.
We had arranged for all our kids and Julie’s grandkids to come over for the traditional Wednesday night Chinese dinner as a silent farewell to Mum/Nana. It was nice chatting with everyone and Dad joined in here and there but not understanding why everyone was there.
22nd Thurs – Dad slept in – wet and dreary good sleeping weather.
Took a photo of the lovely flowers we have received and there have been a lot of lovely cards and messages too.
23rd Fri – Susan and Ross have headed off in their caravan. I sent her a message for her birthday and to enjoy their travels.
I headed off to do some jobs. I am so lucky to have Stephen who handles Dad with ease. Called in for a cuppa with the Tuckshop girls. They were all there as they had a big catering job because of Anzac Day so we had some yummies to eat too. It was good to get my hugs and to be able to tell them everything in one hit. I even served a couple of people.
I picked up a wheel chair from a lady. Amazingly her mother grew up in the main street in Millaa and knew the Brothertons. What an amazing co-incidence - obviously Mum is looking down on us and sorting things out. As she said "everything falls into place when it is meant to happen."
Home for lunch. The post man delivered a parcel from Margaret and Bob. A beautiful card with a wonderful poem Margaret wrote and two fabulous place mats she made. We laughed as Steve said – tell her Sharon’s bum isn’t that big. I rang Margaret back and we had a good laugh. She became a great grandma again to a little girl, Hunter Hayley.
Steve went over to Rick’s for a cuppa as he is getting bored being at home.
Dad and I had a cuppa in the carport looking down the driveway. Paul called in to drop off a card and we chatted the afternoon away until Steve came home and then they continued chatting about the truck etc. The turbo has arrived so they checked it over. It is nice that Steve is getting some away time from Dad too. With the wheelchair now we will go out for walks on the Esplanade etc to get us out of the house as well as Dad. We didn’t do that before because we didn’t want to abandon Mum as she couldn’t go out.
Scott and one of his daughter came up for their usual exercise run so I took out their pan they made us the quiche in and said thank you for their thoughtfulness. They said they will miss seeing her in the window and giving them a wave. Dad has moved into Mum’s chair which is nice so he can wave to them now.
Dad hasn’t asked where Mum is in the last couple of days which is good as it breaks my heart to say she is away for a bit.
24th Sat – Still overcast but no rain at the moment.
Leanne rang to see how we are going - they are back home again. Enjoyed their stay at the Reef House and might book again for later in the year.
Dad is content to sit and look at pictures in books and cuddle his ‘cat’. He enjoys his wanders around the garden though we keep a close eye on him as the ground is uneven and I worry he might have a fall.
Steve worked on the truck as he had started putting in the radio/reversing camera. He noticed water on the floor on my side so that's another job to investigate.
Reversing camera works well. Steve mounted it under the tray near the tow ball so he can see when backing to put the camper on and he will be able to see when backing up as well. I put in the microchip which I filled with all our music off our CDs in its slot and it works great and the radio and antenna went up and down so we will be all set when we hit the road. Unfortunately he twisted his back and is now walking hunched over. I massaged him with Mum’s ‘good’ stuff and he is slowly improving.
Nice to have a break from the rain even if it is still grey and cloudy.
25th Sun – Anzac Day. More rain during the night, emptied 90mm. It has overflowed heaps in the last week so haven’t kept tabs but Cairns and surrounds has certainly had ‘wet season’ rain rather than April showers.
Greg brought dinner over and the three of us played cards while Dad watched TV. We laughed when we remember the fun times with had with Mum – tapping the table to help her put the right cards out and Steve just about playing her hand for her in the later months!
The lilies in the bouquet Dan and Fran gave me have opened up and the scent is lovely.
26th Mon – Anzac Day public holiday. More rain, starting to get over it now.
Hard to believe it has been a week since Mum’s passing. Life goes on of course but she is in my heart so I don’t feel sad as I know she was ready to move on.
Haven’t been up to the van to see how much mould has grown!! Steve noticed water in the channel where the cables run on passenger side of the truck. He thought he found where it was coming in but it looks like it is from the sealed back window. There is a bit of rust there so he will have to pull it out and have a look. At least we are finding these problems now. The camper is under the tarp so it is protected but I said to Steve we should have had it out to make sure the waterproofing he did on the pop-top vinyl will work.
28th Wed – Jonathon’s 28th birthday. Sent him off a text as he is working. We are going over for dinner.
The sun is out at last so I pulled the sheets and covers off our beds in the camper. Starting to smell musty so it is good to have them clean and packed away. I checked the caravan – our poor chairs have new seat covers, furry mould. We will have to pull them out to clean them and dry them in the sun. I emptied out the storage area under the bed in the caravan – more things to go through and decide what we need and what we don’t!
Rebecca came over after lunch and we chatted outside in the lovely breeze and sunshine.
Wendy messaged so I rang her back. They have sold her parents place which is a big relief. Her mum is doing well at the Aged Care place which is great.
Greg arrived for dinner with Dad so we can go to Jon’s for his birthday. We had a lovely dinner and chatted away. Annalise’s mother, Linda, is lovely and easy to chat with. Her brother Matt and his lady, Taylor are good fun too. Linda gave me a lovely bunch of flowers for Mum’s passing. The rain started again just as we prepared to head home.
29th Thurs – Drizzly rain through the night. Dark and overcast morning.
Finished emptying out the van. When it dries out we will give it a big clean and try to sell it.
Steve went over to visit Rick – improving each day.
30th Fri – Beautiful clear blue sky this morning and a bit chilly.
I got the sheets etc into the washing machine so they can be dried in the sunshine.
Pulled the car seats, we used as our dining/lounge chairs in the caravan, out and gave them a good clean and dried them in the sun. They were not looking too good!
Steve started putting the turbo onto the truck’s engine. All day job.
I got lots of things washed and put away. So nice to have sunshine to dry things again.
Rick and Kaylene called in for a chat and cuppa in the afternoon which was lovely. Rain is good but it is so nice to have a bright sunny day for a change.
