The great OZ

Gallery: Byron Bay

jessicaandluke — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 16:48:00 GMT

Gallery: South Ballina

jessicaandluke — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 16:33:00 GMT

Iluka, Ballina, Byron and Gold Coast

jessicaandluke — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 16:30:00 GMT

Iluka Cont:

25^th Aug 2007

It is still raining though we have decided to take a drive to Yamba today.

We drove down to Yamba Main beach and pool. Due to all the bad weather the beach water has gone very brown with mud and there is allot of foam all around, taking up all of the sand.

28^th Aug 2007

It has now been sunny for a few days and everything has dried out.

We have spent a day out on the Clarence River and Luke caught a 63cm Flathead while I headed in to Yamba for to get our lunch. We have also walked along 10 Mile Beach; needless to say we did not make it the whole way. On the first day of sun we headed off to the Rain forest in Iluka that took us to Iluka Bluff, it was really beautiful and there were many birds to listen too.

Today we headed into Evans Head to check it out; we had lunch at the RSL and a 4X4 drive along Airforce Beach we were lucky to get quite close to an Eagle and drove along a group of Black Caped Tern’s. Tonight we went out on the water and watched a lovely sunset and the beginning of the Eclipse. I am still now popping in and out to look at the moon; Luke is not that interested and has gone to bed. I on the other hand think it is quite cool.

29^th Aug 2007

Luke went for a fish this morning though had no luck. After lunch we headed back over to Yamba and then onto Angourie were we did over a 10km walk around Yaraygir National Park. First we stopped in at the Blue and Green Pools near Spooky Beach. The Blue pool is fresh water and looks man made even though it still has a dirt and clay floor and the Green pool is sea water, this pool is just a big hole in a rock on the headland.

The walk around the National park was great with very beautiful views. We even came across some wild life, some Wallabies and Eagles that were too fast to catch on film and two Echidnas, we were most impressed with them as we had never seen an Echidna in the wild before.

Ballina: South Ballina Beach Holiday Park (10 days)

4^th Sep 2007

We have been in Ballina since the 30^th August. The park we are staying at is at the tip of South Ballina just across the Richmond River from main Ballina. We are a few min walk to either the lake or the beach and there is also a 4x4 track onto the beach from the park. We have spent most days at the beach driving up and down chasing Salmon and just taking in what nature has to offer. South Ballina Beach runs from the break wall all the way to Evans Head, it is a long beach and we have not made it as far as the Southern end.

Luke has been out fishing in the river a few times though with no luck, we think the water is still too fresh from all the rain we had up here.

Yesterday we headed over on the car ferry to Ballina it only takes around 10mins to get there from where we are staying. We had lunch at the RSL; it was almost as big as Mona’s RSL with a new big gaming area down stairs and large entertainment and eating facilities upstairs. We both had our beef burgers with the lot (it’s become our standard out to lunch meal that we have once a week).

Today the weather has turned bad on us again and we have decided to stay in while it rains, hopefully it doesn’t hang around for too long.

15^th Sep 2007

The rest of our time in South Ballina was wet and miserable and nearly turned us batty. We left in the rain and drove to more rain.

We really loved it at South Ballina and will defiantly go back there.

Byron Bay: Belongil Fields (4 days)

We got to Byron and waited for the rain to stop and to set up. The park that we stayed was not very nice though was the only park that would take dogs. Our first day we drove around town did some shopping and just watched a movie.

The next few days in Byron we had perfect weather and were able to do all the things we wanted.

Our second day we spent walking around town, Main Beach and up to the lighthouse. The lighthouse was great we also got to see some whales.

Our Third day we spent going out to Nightcap National Park & Whian Whian State Conservation Area. We did an eight Km loop walk from the top of Minyon Falls down to the bottom around Minyon Grass and back up to the top again. It was a great walk and though we didn’t see any wild life the forest containing rare and endangered plants was just beautiful.

We then drove through the Village of the Channon to the lush World Heritage rainforests of Terania Creek, we took a sorter walk there of just 1.4km to see the breathtaking Protester Falls, it was really something worth seeing.

Luke got quite mad that day as he and I did not realise how far out from Byron it was to go to see these waterfalls, we also took a few wrong tracks and got a flat tyre. So the next day I wanted to do some more exploring though Luke decided to stay home as it was all just a bit too much (and he wanted to work on the boat)

So on the fourth day I headed off up to Brunswick Heads, Mooball, Pottsville, Hastings Point and then to Bogangar/Cabarita Beach. It was really nice my favourite spot was Cabarita Beach it was really lovely there and I will defiantly go back. On the way back down I stopped in at the famous Moo Moo Cafe at Mooball and had a huge double-decker burger it was really good. The cafe is situated in the petrol station though when you go out the back you would have no idea that you are on the highway. Out the back you look out to green fields and cows, there are chickens, roosters and bunny rabbits walking around at your feet, there is some great kid equipment for kids to play in and some goats that are enclosed by a small fence though you can go in to look at them. It really was a great experience even though I was on my own and if you ever go past it make sure you stop in.

From Mooball I drove Bangalow to walk around there very hip and funky stores and to take in the beauty of the farms and macadamia plantations.

Although Byron Bay itself is very busy and touristy it’s surrounding suburbs and towns are just lovely. It truly is where the bush and farms meet the sea; it is very surreal to be driving through farm land and to only be only 5 min from the sea and beautiful beaches.

18^th Sep 2007

QUEENSLAND

SUFERS PARIDISE: Runaway Bay Caravan Park (30 mins)

Yes we have finally stepped over the border and have left NSW though not completely as we are going to do a few trips back south to Nimbin, Tweed Heads, Kingscliff, Mount Warning (Wollumbin) Nation Park and Border Rages National Park.

We drove into Runaway Bay to find our caravan park in amongst units and tall buildings. When we drove in we could not even work out were the reception office was. Anyway long story cut short is that all the people there were freaks and the park looked like shit so we runaway, which was highly amusing considering the name of the suburb and caravan park.

SUFERS PARIDISE: Gold Coast Holiday Park (2 weeks and 3 days)

After leaving the caravan park from hell we drove back out to near the Motorway to the only other park that will take dogs. It has turned out to be a lovely park and the people here are very nice.

We have been out fishing in the Broadwater and just hanging around relaxing. Luke’s parents arrived on Monday so that has been nice. They will be staying with us for at least the next three weeks as Bob will be going in the Flathead Classic with Luke and I.

Gallery: Evans Head

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 23:06:00 GMT

Gallery: Yamba

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 23:00:00 GMT

Gallery: Iluka

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 22:46:00 GMT

Gallery: Moonee Beach

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 22:39:00 GMT

Gallery: Nambucca

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 22:28:00 GMT

Gallery: South West Rocks

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 22:22:00 GMT

Gallery: North Haven

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 22:15:00 GMT

Gallery: Manning Point

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 22:11:00 GMT

Gallery: Forster

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 22:02:00 GMT

Catch up

jessicaandluke — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:44:00 GMT

Forster: Lani’s Caravan Park (7days)

Our first stop was Foster; we left home around 10 with Mel and Darbs waving us off. On our trip up we were even treated to a pod off dolphins playing around as we drove past Karuah.

We had been to Forster on a number of occasions before and have stayed at Lani’s a few times, so between fishing on Wallis Lake catching a few flathead (enough for most dinners) and a few crabs we spent our time just setting up and getting the few extra items we still needed.

On our last day we experienced a fair bit of rain, we had decided to purchase the walls to our annex. The plan was to buy them in QLD though with the weather being so cold and a BBQ galore up the road selling them we decided to make the purchase early.

We went out on our last night to see Matt Hill, it was our first time leaving Gremlin by herself for an extended period of time and she behaved beautifully. Unfortunately when we got back to our site we were welcomed with strong winds, torrential rain and our annex collapsed and all seams leaking. It was not a pleasant experience, though after a few tantrums and a lot of wishing we were back home, we got through the night and were lucky enough to be able to pack up the next morning and move onto our next destination.

Manning Point: Weeroona Holiday Park (7 days)

As difficult as it was packing up with everything wet, it was nice to get to this beautiful, extremely clean and well kept but very quiet park. When we arrived there were only a very small handful of people staying there, I guess because it is a fair way off the highway and there is nothing there...One bowels club and one tiny store. It was very beautiful though and we were on the beach and next to the river.

We spent most days on the water in the boat and walking the beach. The river was full of fish that we could see though catching them was not as easy as seeing them. Luke was able to catch us a few Flathead for dinner though that was it from the river; it enjoyed him to no end as we were able to see that many fish.

We drove the boat over to Harrington a few times and walked around, one day on our way back I sighted a snake in the water. It was huge and at fist I though it must be some sort of water snake though when we got closer it looked to be some sort of diamond python swimming from Manning point over to Harrington, it was very strange.

We were lucky enough to see dolphins most days off the beach catching waves and also in the river. They were always out in the surf every time Luke went for a fish, though moved on fairly quick so we were able to catch a few Tailors for dinners.

I really liked it at Manning point though Luke thought it was to quiet, it is defiantly somewhere we will go back too.

North Haven: Jacaranda Caravan Park (6 days)

Our stop at North Haven was to check out Port Macquarie and its surrounding suburbs as a possible place for us to reside after our trip. We explored south down to Diamond Head and up to the Northern end of Port. We found a place called Bonny Hills that is 20Km South from Port and we both fell in love with it, so the plan now is to move there when we get back.

North Haven was really beautiful, Luke spent most mornings out in the boat and I would walk with
Grem to meet him for lunch. We got a beach pass and had our first drive session on the beach. When we were not out on the water or driving around checking out the suburbs we did a few walks.

When we left North Haven we took a car ferry from Port Macquarie over to Plomers Road and drove the dirt tracks to our next destination.

South West Rocks: Rouse Family Home (4 days)

Our stay at the Rouse’s was really nice, Mel and Darb’s came up for the weekend and it was great to catch up with them and Darb’s Dad, Helen and the kids.

We went out 4x4 driving on the Saturday from the Rocks across the beaches to Crescent Head; it was a fabulous day with the sun out shining spending time with friends. At Crescent we had lunch from that great bakery with the best pies, I also treated myself to the most amazing vanilla slice for desert. We went for a walk up the headland and took a few photos; it was a lot of fun.

On the way back home we stopped in at some sand dunes for some fun 4x4 action, we all had great fun.

On the Sunday Dave took us out on the water down the Macleay River, it was really cold though we had great fun, Luke even spotted a platypus.

On Monday we attempted taking the boat outside and headed over to fish rock, unfortunately the weather was not on our side and after passing Green Island we had to head back home, we did manage to catch some Tailor though we only landed one of them.

The rest of our time at Darb’s dads was spent watching TV and relaxing, it was nice to be around some friendly faces.

Nambucca Heads: White Albatross Holiday Centre (7 days)

I wasn’t that keen on Nambucca at first, though after we went for a few walks and 4x4 on the beach I liked it quite a bit. Luke liked the water ways and spent a fair bit of time fishing.

The breakwall was very colourful with loads of art work and messages from people, Luke and I added to the wall by painting our own rock. The park that we stayed backed on to beaches and the breakwall so we did lots of walking.

We saw our first whale at Nambucca and plenty of dolphins. We had some great weather and on our last day I actually went for my first swim of the trip in the ocean, it was lovely.

Moonee Beach: Moonee Beach Holiday Park (9 days)

Moonee beach is around 10mins to Coffs Harbour. It was a beautiful spot that looked out onto Moonee creek, Moonee beach and to the South Solitary Islands.

We spent a bit of time in Coffs picking up some things (mainly fishing gear from Luke’s favourite fishing and tackle shop) we also attempted to go on another boat trip outside, though again we were forced to come back in due to bad weather.

We meet up with Tristan Edwards for a beer and lunch at the fishing club in town, it was great to catch up with Eddy and talk about our trip.

Luke spent a fair bit of time fishing in Moonee Creek catching many Flathead. We fitted in a few walks out on Moonee head land and a walk on Sapphire Beach, before the bad weather set in. It rained for three days (around 300ml) causing us to extend our stay from 7 to 9 days.

Iluka: Anchorage Holiday Park (7days)

We packed up in the rain at Moonee Beach and headed up north. When we got to Iluka the weather was quite nice, though before long it looked as though we had brought the rain with us and we ended up having to set up in the rain also.

Iluka is on the Northern side of the Clarence River mouth surrounded by golden beaches and Bundjalung National Park. Iluka has long been famous for fishing and serious anglers never visit without a frypan in the fishing gear. People also come to this beautiful coastal town to experience one of Australia’s rarest and most accessible rainforest remnants. The World Heritage listed Iluka Nature Reserve contains the largest remnant of littoral rainforest in NSW.

24^th Aug 2007

With all the rain it has been father depressing and I have thrown many a tantrums. Though things are looking up and hopefully the weather will be fine again soon so that we can fit in some walks, fishing and sightseeing.

Luke attempted the water today, taking the boat out in between showers. There seems to be no fish to be caught due to all the rain the Clarence River Mouth seems to be to fresh (fresh water that is, Luke tasted it and said you could easily drink it).

Having Fun!!

jessicaandluke — Sun, 5 Aug 2007 18:48:00 GMT

Hi All,

Sorry we haven't updated for a while. We have been on the road for three weeks now. We haven't travelled very far as yet, we are currently staying at Darb’s family in South West Rocks.

There has been a delay in getting our computer though all should be sorted by the end of this month. We will then fill you all in on our story’s and show our many photos already.

We have seen allot of wild life...lots of dolphins, snakes and today we even saw a platypus.

We are well and have started to really relax, we have caught a few fish and the weather has been fairly good to us.

Hope you are all well…

13 Days to go!!!

jessicaandluke — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 13:15:00 GMT

13…..the count down….

Last weekend was a big one, Mike and Jord’s had one of those all nighter crazy parties the theme was red light district and it was crazy fun!!! There were poles for pole dancing and the dress up that some wore was just fantastic. I drove that night so I was lucky enough to score some good photos. (The photos tell all the stories)

Saturday Luke and I had our farewell. The sun was out and the waves were big (it was great to watch the surfers being towed out on jet skies) and we all managed to party on even though it was cold because of the wind. So the farewell was across the road from my parents at north Narrabeen, it was great cos when it got dark we just headed across the road to keep drinking which was great and also meant that Tim, Elks and Nyla were able to hang out with us some more (Connor and Nyla had the best time). At some late time of the night a few of us ended up at Mona pub and also at the pie shop eating many pies!!!

So there is only 7 days left of work, thank god!!! Luke is doing fine, he is living back at his parents as they headed off on anther trip up north on Monday and someone needs to take care of Gremlin (its not safe for her to be at Narrabeen as there is no gate) I have decided to stay at my parents and spend time with them and Conner before we head off. I(‘m starting to stress out though I think mainly about getting everything done and seeing everyone before we head off, the biggest thing though is that I haven’t sold my car yet and I’m starting to get a bit scared about that, so fingers crossed for me that I can sell it in the next 13 days…

Well to Ben, Em, Shan, Andy and all the others out there travelling take care!! Luke and I will be joining you soon into the holiday life!!

Love Jessie

Gallery: OUR FAREWELL

jessicaandluke — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 14:18:00 GMT

The count down begins

jessicaandluke — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 14:42:00 GMT

So it’s now 20 days till we head off on our trip, things are a little stressed as we finish up at work and deal with cold upon cold that Luke and I keep catching.

A fair bit has been happening in the last few weeks, getting the trailer together and buying the last of the things that we need.

Tim Bellamy was wonderful enough to help Luke build the kitchen for the trailer and we really can’t thank him enough cos it just looks great!!

And the man from Custom engineering good old Timmy will be helping in the next few weeks to build the most important thing of all THE BOAT RACKS!!!!!

Two weekends ago at our last fishing club lunch Luke and I were presented with the most wonderful picnic hamper. It is just wonderful the best picnic basket I have seen in a long time it looks like something out of a movie. Chris was also kind enough to organise getting our oven for the trailer (yes I have been able to twist Luke’s arm into letting us have a few creature comforts.) we also purchase a special mattress topper (memory foam) to stick on top of the foam mattress that came with the trailer so that we can have good night sleeps.

It has been raining non stop for the last two weeks and we have had some rather bad storms. I’ve attached some photos from Newcastle where a ship has been beached.

During all this wet weather Cooper held his birthday party at his and Sarah’s place. Thank God for our handy men as there were nailed in tarp and under cover devises everywhere along with lovely mushroom heaters. The star of the night was the pig on the spit and Andy I took photos of it just for you as I know you would have loved it. The party was going great and everyone was fairly well behaved until someone decided to make a beer bong and as you can imagine it all went down hill from there, I woke up the next morning with a rather large black eye and a very sore head and belly (I think most people woke up to a sore head and belly) thanks to the Queen and her birthday it was a long weekend so we all had enough time to recover before work the next week.

Last weekend was spent looking at car restraints for our dear little (big) Gremmy and the rest of the time was spent indoor out of the wild weather watching movies and eating.

We have bought an external hard drive so I have been bring all our CD’s into work and copying them to the drive so it doesn’t take up so much room on our computer and we don’t have to take any CD’s with us, so that giving my days at work some meaning I have downloaded 20 or so days worth of music now (iTunes actually tells you how much music you have downloaded and once you get to 24 hrs it starts counting in days and hrs) allot of music!!! I’m sure we won’t be listening to all of it. It’s a pity we can’t put it all on our ipod. Now all we need is the new computer, Luke’s uncle will organise that for us and then were just about ready to go.

This weekend is our farewell so ill attach more photos again next week, we just hope the weather is good though I don’t think our chance of that is any good. but rain or shine it will go on it just might have to be at my parents if its raining.

Gallery: getting ready

jessicaandluke — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 16:22:00 GMT