A Dingo Ate My Baby

Okay, well I have to admit that this is a bit of a stretch since I didn't end up actually seeing a dingo on my excursion to Fraser Island after much anticipation. Oh, and I don't have a baby. But I digress...

Earlier this week, Simon (please refer to the koala pictures/story) and I drove up to Fraser Island to stay for a few days. We went to the trouble of having a travel agent book things for us, only to find out once we arrived at the harbor to catch the boat that there was no boat for us to board. To add insult to injury, we had left Brisbane at 4 a.m. that morning to catch said 'boat' and have a full day on the island. Total bugger! But we got things sorted eventually and got over to Fraser Island, which is the world's largest sand island and has both beaches and rain forests to explore.

First sight of Fraser - the clouds didn't hinder our excitement



Though we arrived to cloudy conditions and rain, we made the most of it by bellying up to the bar at the resort we were staying at and making some new friends after dinner. Simon hustled some people at the pool tables and I played my part by keeping the alcohol coming and distracting his opponents while he cheated/won. All in all a great night.

Simon coaching his pool partner, Pete



At the Beach Bar



With our new friend, Mana, from New Zealand



Friendly after the cutthroat game of pool



The following day we opted for a half day tour of the island, led by Simon's new idol, Woody. We walked down the boardwalk at Central Station, which had once been the center of the island's logging activity, and then headed to Lake McKenzie. The skies cleared as we got to the lake, which was absolutely pristine and surrounded by the softest sand I've ever felt. We swam in the lake, laid on the sand and re-boarded the bus to head back to the Eurong Beach Resort for lunch and a nap before dinner. Ah, vacation!!

Rainforest



Silent Creek - makes no noise as it runs over sand



Lake McKenzie



Clear water and white sand, so soft you can use it to polish silver jewelry



Greenery around the shore of the lake



As we departed Fraser Island early Thursday morning so that I could make my flight to Melbourne, the weather turned absolutely gorgeous. It was slightly disappointing to see that in our rearview mirror, but the trip was thoroughly enjoyable nonetheless!

Beautiful weather as we headed home



Goodbye, Fraser Island!