Day 71 Gutherunga to Airlie Beach

Headed off from our overnight stay in paradise truck stop and stopped in at Bowen for a look. There was a small harbour complete with fishing boats and Fish Co-ops that sold fresh fish straight off the boat, so we grabbed a couple of fillets. We also managed to find the local bakery snaffling some cream buns for morning tea.

It was then off to Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Coming over the rise into Airlie Beach was quite amazing as the blue water loomed in front. Drove through the main street which we found lined with 'Schoolies'. We set up camp at a Caravan Park called Flame Tree Caravan Park which was halfway between Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour. It was cheap and really quite nice. We found out why when planes started taking off from the other side of the fence.

We went back down to the main street for a swim at the lagoon (it seems most major towns have these when you have to face stingers and crocs), then a walk around town, some ice creams and back to camp.

That night we drove out to a point where you could view the sun setting over Airlie Beach.

We cooked up some tucker at the camp kitchen and mixed with a number of back packers. Had a long chat with an english guy and 2 english girls all travelling togther in a van (thought about what the scenario there was a bit). Then off to bed.

Richard