DreamTrip

          Day165
Weather opening up after a night of rain, and couldn't be any better. Whilst Leon and Lynden drove the truck back to the Rental place, Kirsten started tidying up the car and getting ready to leave. Making sure everything is sorted and saying our goodbyes to Abraham and a hopefully-see-you-laters to Karen and Lynden, at 11:36 we headed off! 
Driving down to Glendale Shopping Centre, we walked around the shops, bought energy drinks ($1 from Aldi) and sweets ($2 from Reject Shop), then went to Wooly's and bought some good deals on chicken sausages $5/kilo and fresh tagliatelle. Already 15:30, we drove along Lake Macquarie down to Caves Beach to look at a potential sleep location. Rain wouldn't stop, so we needed shelter to cook. Drove down to Catherine Hill, and decided to stop at Mackenzie Reserve in Budgewoi.
Already 16:30, we cooked 300g fresh pepper and basil tagliatelle with the chicken sausages. After a satisfying dinner and already dark, we made our way back up to Catherine Hill, and stopped at a local biker pub. Learning they had a strip-tease show from 4-6pm, now being 18:15, realised why so many people were at this thriving secluded Catho Pub. Having 'XXXX Gold' and a beer called 'Minimum Chips' for $11.60, and a Carlton Black for $5.40, we drove a block away and looked for a place to sleep next to the splashing of the sea and under the starry sky.
           Day166
Morning sun bliss! Driving to Morisset and buying from BWS some x6 Crown Golden Ale and x6 Tooheys Pale ale. 
10:00 Drove to Gwandalan to meet up with Leon's relatives, and upon arriving found the Maltese flag swinging in the wind to greet us. Grace and Sam welcomed us in their gorgeous house, and sat down for lunch - a lovely corn and chicken soup as entrée, and cheese, tripled smoked ham, salami, olives, bread etc as a meal. 
Taking us a tour around the town, we visited a boat wharf overlooking Lake Macquarie, then the local community garden - a piece of land which is provided by the government to grow your own organic crops. 
Chilling at the house, we got served dinner - lamb and chicken, baked pasta (Maltese style), sweet potato with butter and cinnamon, potato with sour cream and corn on a cob. Beautiful.
After the triple chocolate ice-cream around 20:00, we enjoyed some good company with our hosts, then headed into the bedroom and hit 'our' bed for the night.
          Day167
Waking up to lovely weather, we went out on the veranda and cooked Bfast as Brunch - hash browns, mushrooms, bacon, sausages, eggs, tomatoes and toast, downing it with mixed apple and orange juice. 
13:00, we were driven to Norah Head - home to many birds, snakes and ringtail possum and also a good spot to whale watch. Walking around a lighthouse built in 1903, we then went to The Entrance South - Terilbah Reserve to try fishing for the first time with the experts in Tuggerah Lake. Having the pufferfish eating our shrimp bait atleast 7times, it was time to depart to the Pelican Wharf at The Entrance for the daily 15:30 feed. Seeing pelicans flying from everywhere, and seagulls waiting for the fishmonger to throw food at them. Seeing the free show and feeding some bread to seagulls later, we went to 'The Entrance Hotel' and (after being asked for Kirsten's ID card at the bar for a change) all four of us got beer and chips to snack on. 
Enjoying the lovely day out, we made our way back to the house, and after some two hours of resting, drove to '3in1 Asian Restaurant' and ordered King Prawns wrapped in Bacon, Sizzling Beef Mongolian Sauce, Singapore Pork Ribs, Chicken/Beef/King Prawns mixed, Hokkien Mee Noodles and Fried Rice. Having a 'Bring Your Own' rule in most restaurants here, we downed the amazing food with beer which we got from home. 20:00 On our way back to the house, we talked and shared some good moments till late at night, and headed off to sleep for a long drive tomorrow up and inland to the country.
          Day168
Saying goodbye early to Grace as had to leave for work, we packed our things in the car, lodged the tax return online, said our goodbyes to Sam, and by 11:36 left Gwandalan and started making our way up to the awaited bush experience to meet up with family. 
Passing through the inside of Lake Macquarie, we stopped at Rutherford warehouse some 87km later, and stopped to say goodbye to the forklift operator Eric. 
13:00 Making our way up through the New England Highway, we stopped at Singleton Info Point. Just opposite was the actual '1st Australian Tank Battalian' of 1939 known as 'Matilda'. Driving to Rose Point Park, we passed one of the largest sundial in the world, and pulled over to eat lunch. Having our hosts make us a lovely dish of baked pasta (Mqarrun), we sat down in the lovely 16degrees weather and ate the whole lot!
Drove to Bunnings in Singleton, and bought a new folding table costing just $34.95 with a year warranty, then off we made our way North. Passing through Muswellbrook, the old town of Aberdeen, and Scone. Stopping at Reject Shop to try and buy some replacement containers, we then drove up to Wingen and right turned onto Burning Mountain Rest Area for the night, reaching exactly on time before getting dark (making a total of more than 210km).
           Day169
07:00 - (-2)degrees
08:00 - (6)degrees
Making our 108km to Tamworth, passing through Murrundi, Wallabadah and Goonoo Goonoo.
09:44 Welcome to Landcruiser Town! Tuning in on 88.90, local radio playing country music! Visited a local liquor but had expensive alcohol, we went to Wooly's and bought XXXX Gold and Cinnamon Donuts. 
Making our way to meet up with relatives, we drove to 'Dratta Mechanics' to meet up with Tony and his mechanic son Matt. After talking for some while and had our car checked, we drove off around the town, walking on Peel Street and visit some shops and passed the huge iconic Country Guitar. Back to the garage, we drove after Tony around 13:15 to his house. Stopping at his friend's house before making our way to Dungowan Hotel for a schooner, we continued our 50km way to Ogunbil, through gorgeous hills, mountains, scenery, cows, sheep, bulls, goats and horses, and the lovely country-side. Arriving at his house on top of a mountain, the view from the house was amazing and jaw-dropping. Meeting the four lambs at the front and the 3mums, dad (Cuc) and a goat at the back, we made our way inside the fire-place lit and cosy house.
Drinking beer, and tasting the Bundaberg Coffee Liquor with snacks out in the verranda surrounded by hills, we later got served very rich tasting beef with potatoes and salad, and teasing the taste buds with Sydney cheeselets (Gbejniet) which were pretty good for Australian made. 
21:40 Relaxing, we hit 'our' bed for the night out of the cold and chilly weather.
          Day170
Waking up and making some bfast, we ate toast, raspberry crumpets and donuts out in the verranda, awe-ing at the view. Second best view for a b'fast together so far (after the Bush Breakfast in Serenget National Park). Deciding to head to Nundle, we passed through Woolomin, and Bowling Alley Point around 35km later, bright and hot weather, and arrived at the Nundle Info point. Housing a few hundred of beautiful gems and stones, we drove to the Nundle Woollen Mill - historic machinery still in use (built more than 100years ago), and is the only working woollen mill in Australia - donation entry. After some 15mins, we walked to a very interesting Mount Misery Gold Mine Cafe, which has a $2 entrance fee to see a replica of what the 1850s gold mine looked like. 
Buying some milk from the Friendly Grocer (only one as population is 289 in this historic village and 56km from Tamworth), around 12:45 we made our way to Hanging Rock, once again with gorgeous views of hills along the way. Drove up to the Lookout, we just sat down and enjoyed the scene, downing an XXXX Gold. 
Around 14:00, we started making our way to Ogunbil - 46km drive through pure country. We chilled on the verranda till sunset, before we got served a very surprising and delicious meal - as close as you can get Maltese Bread and the table full of capers, cheeselets, olives, tuna, anchovy, tomato paste, cheese and served with a bottle of imported Kinnie. A very well missed typical Maletese meal, and after relaxing on the sofa, made our way to bed with a very satisfied stomach!
          Day171
07:30. Once again 2degrees! Enjoying cereal in the verranda, we made our 43km way to Tamworth to visit our host's son, the mechanic. Having a look and trying to book in our car, we went to Supercheap Auto, had a look around and went to Maccas for a soft cone. 
12:00 17degrees. Drove uphill to Oxley Lookout (591m above sea level) and enjoyed the breeze laying in the sun. Making our way to Endeavour Drive for the Marsupial Park, we learned upon arriving that the park wasclosed for playground refurbishment. 
Parking the car next to the bridge for free, we walked all the way to Peel Street and enjoyed walking in and around the shops. 
14:00, we drove back down to Ogunbil and sat enjoying the scene in the veranda once again. Having a talk and tasting a lovely home-made wrap with garlic and melted cheese for snacks, we enjoyed a lovely 'Ross il-Forn', a typical Maltese Dish mostly missed. Home made Passionfruit Cheesecake as desert (luxurious!), we spent the evening talking about travelling and getting help planning our trip due to just having 6months left and sooooo much to see!
          Day172
After bfast, Leon made his way to meet Tony at Tamworth to start helping Matt with our car to get fixed. Meantime, Kirsten left to Tamworth with Barbara (after feeding the sheep) to run some errands. Enjoying a nice walk around Tamworth visiting some shops, Kirsten and Barb visited Bicentennial Park, full of ducks, geese, birds, and trees full of gorgeous fruit bats occasionally flying around. 
Visiting the boys, Leon, Tony and Matt, they had removed the clutch, and enjoyed a good bread roll for lunch. 
Around 15:00, the car was taking longer than expected, so Kirsten and Barbara headed back to the house, stopping at the Golden Guitar and Souvenir Shop, and relaxed till the evening. 
After a hard day, Leon, Tony and Matt changed the clutch and some other amendments, and headed back home. Blue Moon right opposite the house and lighting all the hills below it, we ate cube roll with home-made chips and eggs. Having a full stomach, we relaxed on the sofa drinking XXXX Gold and watched 'The Kite Runner', then headed off to bed.
          Day173
After cereal and vegemite toast, Leon and Tony headed down to Tamworth to finalise the car, while Kirsten and Barbara spent the morning feeding the sheep and going for a walk in the lovely countryside in the hot sun. 
Around 15:00, we all sat down in the veranda eating cheese, jatz and beer, and later had a ride around on one of their bikes - Yamaha80. 
Helping with dinner, we stuffed the Snapper fish and Calamari with bread, capers, olives and tomatoes, and barbecued them around 18:00. Served with amazing home-made tomato sauce and olive bread, we licked the delicious plates clean, and sat down watching 90s music videos till around 21:30 and then headed to sleep.
           Day174
Bfast, fed the sheep, then we started preparing the Ute to go cut some wood for the fireplace. Sharpening the chainsaw, around 10:00 all four of us drove to Loomberah and arrived at the destination. Wearing hats and gloves, Tony and Leon started cutting the pieces of tree bark, whilst Kirsten and Barb collected the wood. Having a XXXX Gold (Beer Break) in between, the sun was a scorching 25degrees, but what a stunning place of countryside this was! Being surrounded by cows, we kept on collecting wood till the Ute and trailer was packed, then around 15:00 made our way back home. 
Nibbling on crisps, we made our way up to the top of the hill where the house stands, and the view was jaw-dropping. Seeing the sun slowly crawl behind the hills behind us, we enjoyed the tranquility Ogunbil had to offer. A very steep hill downwards to get to the house, we sat down at the table and ate a wonderful plate full of lamb liver, bacon and eggs, all deliciously cooked in garlic. What a treat! Sharing some memories from travels, we ate some ice-cream (in a cone!), then sat sorting some stuff on the laptop and watching TV till it was time to rest our heads and start a very-looking forward week!
          Day175
An early morning. Quick bfast and got a lift with Tony down to Tamworth to collect the car. Arriving at 'Dratta', the car just needed some final touches and cleaning. All serviced up and with a new clutch in, the car was ready and safe for the adventures ahead. A very well done job indeed and a much very fair price for all the work and long hours (and swearing) Matt has done on the car, we were very excited for tomorrow to make our way up to Queensland (thank you Matt ;)). 
11:04 - Drove to Peel St, City Centre to take a look at the thousands of bats settled at Bicentennial Park. Going to Supercheap Auto to buy a $175 jump starter battery pack, we went to Wooly's to buy some dessert for tonight, topped up petrol, and visited the Souvenir Shop at the Info Point. Up at the house, we started cleaning out the car and sorting out the things in it. Sun almost setting, we went inside to eat a delicious breaded chicken with chips one last time together. After dessert, we got out the sight-scope to look at the stars and the moon rising from behind the hills and trees. After saying out goodbyes to Tony, and before hitting to bed, we walked outside to gaze at the stars outside the house. The place was pitch black, middle of nowhere, and the sky filled with stars, and the more you look, the more your eyes settle and visible the Milky Way was. Majestic!
          Day176
Started getting the car ready for our adventure. Packing everything tightly in, we finally finished and said our goodbye to Barbara. 
13:05 Made our way to Tenterfield! Being back on the road, it is obviously now cloudy and looks like its going to rain.
Stopping at Moonbi Lookout, we passed Bendemeer, Thunberbolt's Rock and onto Uralla. Around 14:45 and 12degrees, we stopped at 'The Glen' Park, and cooked Mongolian Sausage with Rice. An hour and half later, we drove next to the 'Constellation of the South' Sculpture Park and headed off along the New England Highway to Armidale, driving along open land and fields with brown grass and groups of gathered trees mostly dead.
Passed through the city centre of historic town Armidale, we drove to Thunderbolts Cave Carpark, and after walking 200m downhill, we arrived to his hideout; a very small and cosy cave inside a huge boulder. 
Sun setting, 6degrees, we drove to 'Mother of Ducks Lagoon' in Guyra to spend the night. Starting to get the bed ready, we found the liquid clothes shampoo leaked and filled the middle of the bed. Trying to wipe it with as many tissues as we can, we flipped the mattress the other way round to be able to sleep for the night.
          Day177
06:30 - (-)3degrees. Feels like (-)9.8degrees. Frost everywhere. Car windows, doors, streets and grass. Toilet sink has frozen stalactite coming out, car water for wipers is frozen and water bottles!
07:30 Driving along the A15 and seeing frost everywhere, all of a sudden we hear a loud pop, and see white smoke coming out of the engine bay. Pulling aside, we found out that the radiator water was frozen, and the back pipe burst. Not feeling our hands and ears, we quickly U-turned back to Guyra. Stopping at an NRMA mechanic to say they don't have time, we drove around the corner to Multi-Motor who advised once their water pipes were unfrozen, they would be able to boil some water and see what the problem was. Giving them our water bottles to heat, he came to a conclusion there was a crack and we needed a new pipe. Whilst the car was being fixed (Not Again!!), we walked along Bradley Str., bought a cappuccino ($3) from Hot Bread Shop, and Dairy Milk Picnic ($2.50) from IGA around 10:15 to kill some time.
11:00 Bad news. The mechanic advised the water by-pass was burst aswell and costed $330 on its own. Having a walk around town again till he tries find a second hand one, we went to the Info Point (just brochures no one available), then found a BBQ area. Having no luck, the expense will cost around $900-$1000 and will receive the new pipe tomorrow. We went to IGA, bought some BBQ mix, and went to Rotary Park and cooked the Beef, Sausages and Rissoles, and eggs around 14:30. Temperature 6degrees, we went back to the mechanic after sitting around helpless on a bench, and offered to park and sleep in the drive in of his garage for the night. Early night in as nothing to see or do, and hoping for the best tomorrow!
          Day178
"Snow is falling. 
All around us"
Looking out of the car - most of the surrounds covered in snow. 08:30 went to Rotary Park to make some Caramel Cappucino. It is now 2degrees with 87% humidity and not even a sign of sunray. Freezing cold, we stayed indoors at the mechanic to warm ourselves up.
11:40 The part arrived by Courier from Armidale and mechanic ready to start working on it. Walking around town, sun finally out, we tried tasting the Cadbury Vegemite. Mixed feelings! Back at the mechanic we waited, and waited, and watched ABC news till around 14:35 till the car was taken for a test drive. 
14:50 All good. Wallet not happy for $840 expense, but unexpected things happen.
15:06 Back on the road! Passing Llangothlin, Glencoe and the Balancing Rock, we arrived to Glen Innes (Celtic Country - settled mostly by Scots in 1838). Stopping at the Info Point for brochures and fuelling the car up, we drove onto Gwydir Hwy to see the Standing Stones (3500year old). 40 granite monoliths (3.7metres each and average 17tonnes) - Circle 24stones to represent 24hours, 3central stones, 4cardinal stones marking N,S,E and W, and 7stones to mark summer and winter solsticles. The stones were raised as calendars to mark seasons - when to sow and harvest.
Making our way to Deepwater, we stopped at Doug Biddle Apex Park and made some quick 2mins noodles.
17:50 Made our way up to Tenterfield. Passed Bluff Rock and 51km later, turned right onto B60, Bruxner Highway to go East. Stopping at Wood Str. in Tenterfield to see a Cork Tree, brought from England in 1861 and believed to be the largest one in Australia. Quite soft too!
Passing through the Great Dividing Range, a winding road through Girard State Forest and Tabulem, we arrived at Mallanganee Lookout around 20:00, driving a steep uphill to sleep for the night under a carpet of brightly lit stars!
          Day179
Peeping through the window, 06:15 we watched the sun rise and shed light over the Gondwana Rainforest. Beautiful lookout. 07:25 Barely any 3g, we made our 51km way through Casino (Beef Capital) and 32km to arrive at Lismore. Arriving at 08:30, we chilled outside a park on Keen St, enjoying the sun and free wifi. 
Going to Supercheap Auto to replace the battery pack as the battery wasn't keeping the charge, we drove through Lismore Heights and onto the B62. 
11:00 - 16degrees. Visited an Open Air Cathedral on top of a hill in Bexhill, and made our way through Clunes, Bangalow and onto Byron Bay. 
Paradise! Seeing the beach, sun, trees and smiling people everywhere. Driving around, we then parked and walked along Jonson Street. Ordering Ham&Cheese and Bangers&Beef from Domino's ($11.95 - cheapest to eat we could find), we sat down on a bench on a pavement and enjoyed seeing young and vibrant people, along with colourful adults walking around - kept reminding us of Melbourne. Very diverse and open to cultures - but hippie version. Parking at Lawson Str, we started a 6.20km walk around the tip of Byron Bay. Walking along the shores on Main Beach and Clarkes Beach, Captain Cook lookout and onto Fishermans Lookout and enjoyed the sea breeze and sun. Walking along the steps over Wategos Beach, we saw dolphins and continued walking to the Eastern Point in Australia and passed through the Cape Byron Lighthouse. A tiring trail through Arakwal National Park through forests and sand, we arrived back to the car an hour and 50mins later. 15:15 and 18degrees. Loving the weather! We drove to Bay St and walked along Belongil Beach and saw remains of a wreck back in 1920s. Sitting back and relaxing in the sun, walking on the beach, listening to people play saxophone and harmonica with beats, and finding love and peace signs everywhere, trees with colourful warmers, poles too and coming across pieces of paper saying 'Enjoy the moment. Someone somewhere loves you!'
We visited Wooly's and bought Gatorade and Thins (Crisps), and walked around the centre finding good places and pubs. After walking to the beach and hearing the sea splash and drum beats, we walked to Rail Park and went to 'The Rail Pub'. 19:00 Live permormance kept us entertained - Tim Stoke Band - whilst downing Carlton Draught. 20:00 Back on the road hitting North, M1 55km later arrived at a BP station Chinderah, to spend the night sleeping at the back road and hit the road early tomorrow to Tweed Heads and hit Queensland soon!
Queensland
          Day180
Going to the petrol station at Maccas for some wifi, we started the journey along the M1 and into Fingal Head. Parking the car and walking along the beach, we walked through tropical trees and sand and onto the Giant's Causeway, overlooking Cook Island. Passing through an 1880 lighthouse, we walked back to the car around 09:15. Now 14degrees. 
Driving up to Tweed Heads, we visited the Info Point and travelled down to South Tweeds again to buy from Wooly's. Driving along Griffith St, turning around the roundabout and...
11:17 QUEENSLAND!! Round the roundabout again and back in New South Wales! Driving all the way up North, we parked the car and walked to Captain Cook Memorial overlooking Snapper Rocks and Rainbow Bay, now in Queensland again! Passing along Marine Parade, Point Danger right at the border showing remembrance to 40 wrecked ships. Walking down along Boundary St, we stopped at the Boundary Statue, one foot in each of the states - Coolangatta and in Tweed Heads. Driving along Marine Pde, passing Greenmount Beach, Kirra Beach and onto Gold Coast Highway. 12:20 and 18degrees. A funny "No keeping of Rabbits" sign along the highway. Passing through Burleigh Heights, we stopped at Tallebudgera Park and jumped in the clear sea. Refreshing in the 19 degrees, we spent an hour and half, then around 14:30 made our way West to Albert Park for lunch. Not finding any good spots to eat, we went to Cascade Gardens instead, passing through roads and bridges over many small lakes and rivers where these houses were built. The map looks ridiculously funny! Cooking Penne with Beef in Black Bean Sauce whilst being surrounded by bats, we hit the way to Surfers Paradise centre. Even though this city has tall buildings, loud music and the many faces of cultural backgrounds, we fell in love with the hussle and bussle. Almost sunset, we parked 30mins in Orchid Avenue first till we visited an Info Point. 
Then 17:35, parked at The Esplanade to walk around the city streets and enjoy the night life on a Saturday night! Walking along The Esplanade and Surfers Paradise Boulevarde, we took a look around the vibrant city, and after strolling around enjoying the lights and music from bars, sat at Maccas for the 50c soft cone. 
21:00 We decided to find somewhere to sleep for the night, and drove up past the man-made lakes once again, onto Gold Coast Highway, passed Biggera Waters, and onto Jabiru Island to sleep for the night, down to Lions Park Boat Ramp, in the middle of Coomera River.
          Day181
Coming across an advert on Australia Backpackers FB page, we decided to drive 55km to Mount Gravatt East, Brisbane to help carry some furniture to a new house. 
09:11 Welcome to Brisbane. Driving along the Pacific Motorway, we arrived at the destination (Leon got shat on by a flying bird!!) and met Kat. Given directions what to move, at 09:30 started packing away in boxes and loading them onto a moving truck. We later met Tim, who had hurt his wrist, and assisted with moving the furniture out too. 
Around 14:30, they brought us a bottle of water and an amazing bbq rib pie. Going to their new house a few kms away, we unloaded the truck, then went back to get what was left. 
Getting late, and trying to fit a huge trampoline in the truck, we finally got everything ready by 18:30. 
Offering us a beer at their place (a strong Centennial IPA 7.2%), we sat and chatted with Tim's daughter, and their British Au Pair. Bringing snacks to the table, we got offered to have a shower, enjoyed the evening playing the piano, watching 'The Wiggles' with Kat's son, watching videos of Tim's skateboarding brand Majimba Cruises and later around 21:00 they paid for Indian Take-Away and spent a relaxed evening. 
Being offered to sleep at their house, we decided it was best to leave, thanked for the amazing hospitality and a $180 each for 9hours work which flew by. 
22:30, dark and looking for somewhere to stay, we visited Mount Gravatt Lookout to sleep but found many people enjoying the amazing night view of Brisbane, and after driving a few places, settled at Oxley Creek in Corinda and crashed to bed within a few minutes.
          Day182
Driving 11km to Southbank, we parked for 15mins free around the corner from the Info Point, and then drove off to West End to find free parking. Finding in Amersham Street, at 10:50 left to walk around the CBD (Parking varies from $2.40 and $4.40/hr) 
Within 15mins, we arrived at the Queensland Museum & Science Centre (free). Seeing many fossils of dinosaurs, and sealife creatures, stuffed animals, insects and learning about Australian heritage, we walked over the Victoria Bridge to the City Centre. Walking along the Queen Street Mall, we stopped at Communal Bistro at 12:50 and ordered x2 200g Rump Steak with Fries and Salad for $10 each. Walking along the streets, we bought x2 Cookies Ice-Cream from Hungry Jacks, then visited Post Office Square and sat on the free deckchairs available at the park in the middle of CBD. Walking all the way through Albert St, we arrived at Roma Street Parklands. Filling out a survey at new cool water refills, we laid down in the grass above the Amphitheatre enjoying the sun. Almost time, we walked all the way down to Edwards St and met up with Leon's ex-schoolmate Dennis and his friend Andre at RiverBar & Kitchen. Having a great time, talking & drinking XXXX Gold Pitchers ($16.50 each), before we knew it, it was 23:15, and started making our way back to the car, and to yesterday's park to sleep for the night.
          Day183
6months! 
Making our way to Sherwood, just 1km away, we bought some food from Woolworths and made it back at the Oxley Creek. Cooking some mushrooms, baked beans, bacon, tomatoes, eggs and onions, we wrapped it up in Lebanese Bread and made a breakfast wrap. Still 10:00, we started planning out the route for Fraser Island and the surrounds. Enjoying the sun, we laid down on the benches being plain lazy, then after playing some ball in the 26degree heat, at 13:50 made our way up North to Boondall. Passing through the Redcliffe Info Point to gather some leaflets, we met up with Andre at the house him and Dennis were staying at, to have somewhere where to charge the new battery pack and freeze some ice packs. After having fun feeding the chickens in the backyard, we made our way back down to Oxley Creek. Stopping at Westfield Shopping Centre in Chermside, we walked around K-Mart, Big W, Target and Wooly's, buying some cheap sweets, donuts and other stuff. 
Walking out, 18:00 and dark, we drove back to the park, and cooked a gorgeous bbq of Beer marinated Lamb Chops with onions and salad, hearing some guys jamming with drums and clap sticks next to us, then hit to bed - ready to go for a day's work tomorrow.
           Day184
Drizzling at 06:30 in 13degrees, we ate some donut bfast around 07:40 and started making our way to Mount Gravatt to meet up with Kat and asisst her once again. Started the cleaning process at 08:45, we stopped at around noon for Beef and Rice Noodles (paid by Kat), and continued bleaching, hoovering, washing, wiping and scrubbing the place. Experiencing a tropical thunderstorm for just 30mins, the weather quickly opened up and was hot and sunny again. Kat spent more time away from home than helping us, which took longer to clean. However before we knew, time quickly passed and finished around 19:30. Being alone, we ordered Domino's - Crunchy Chips, Beef&Onion Pizza, Deluxe Pizza and 1.25l Fanta for $21.80 ($2.84 of which was charged as it was a public holiday). Finishing off clearing the things out of the way, we prepared the car in the drive-in, and smashed onto the mattress after a long hard-working day.
          Day185
By 08:00, and having keys to the house, we started cleaning on our own and around 11:00 Kat came to assist. Finishing at 12:00, we earned $300 each for yesterday and today's work!
12:40 Made our way up to Redcliffe. We passed by Holt Str to see where to park tomorrow for the boat trip, then up to Redcliffe and parked at a 2hr parking in a street called Redcliffe Parade, we walked down the steps to a man made lagoon, free of charge at 'Settlement Cove'. Enjoying the 23degrees swimming in the pool with the seagulls, at around 16:15 we visited Wooly's to buy some beer and snacks, then drove down to Boondall to stop at Mulbeam Park to prepare our bags ready for tomorrow's day out!
18:45 Went to where Dennis and Andre where staying at, and enjoyed a good evening cooking 'Borg's Pastizzis', then got served Noodles with Pork, and had Ice-Cream with Nutella, Walnuts and Strawberries for desert. Very yummy! Before we knew it, it was 12:30, and hit the road to Pinkenba to sleep for the night and find ourselves ready at the destination when we wake up in 5hours time to depart to the Tangalooma Wrecks!
Moreton Island
          Day186
Moreton Island - 3rd largest sand island in the world.
Tangalooma - Aboriginal word 'where fishes meet'. 
Tangalooma Wrecks - 15 sunken ships from 1963 Harbours and Marine Department Steam Driven Dredges and barges on the edge of the sandbed.

05:45 Alarm went off and started getting ready. Walking some few hundred metres from where we were sleeping, we bought $65 return ticket each to board the Tangalooma Cruise and take us to Moreton Island. 
07:02 Departed. 
07:40 Out of Brisbane Waters and on the right hand side could see the Island. We walked outside the catamaran and enjoyed the sea breeze till we arrive 08:18 Welcome to Moreton Island! Walking out & stepping onto the sand, we collected our free $20 food voucher each from Reception, then walked for around 20mins all the way to the Wrecks. Amazing! High tide at the moment, we enjoyed sunbathing & playing in the sand, & at 10:00 got the snorkel & fins for a swim. Strong current, we spent an hour loop around the first half of the wrecks, then after a break at 12.20 spent another hour around the second half. The amount of fish & colourful coral we saw was incredible. The swim was breathtaking, passing through the wrecks & swimming between them in the crystal clear waters and white sand. 
It turned out to be a lovely 22degree day, no clouds, very warm sun and just enough breeze. After drying ourselves off, we walked along the beach, now low tide, to the restaurants. Having both restaurants closed by 14:30, (it was exactly that time!) we went back to the Beach Cafe & after presenting the $20 food voucher, we bought x2 Chicken Wraps ($9 each) and coke, and spent the other on Fruit Salad ($7), x3 Muffins ($3 each) & a Cookie ($4).
16:20 Departed. Arrived back at the harbour at 17:45, & made our way to Bald Hills, Deepwater Bend in Tinchi Tamba Wetlands to sleep for the night. Thinking about it, $65 (€45) is very cheap for a great day out! 1.25hrs both ways on a cruise ship, National Park Fee, a $20 (€14) food voucher & free resort facilities such as archery, badminton, golf... (even though we didn't have time as we preferred snorkelling the wrecks for longer). We still find it hard to believe who say Australia is very expensive to stay in. It is really not if you look beyond tours & divert off track from the famous touristy-aimed attractions & do very basic research instead of finding everything easy & ready & whats given to you!
           Day187
Sleeping with the sounds of bats, and waking up with birds chirping, we walked around the place then sat down to relax till 11:15. 
After making our way to Wooly's in Bracken Ridge, we visited Dennis and Andre at Boondall around noon to collect some items we left at theirs. 
14:34 On the way to Bribie Island. Driving along the Bruce Highway - M1, then along the Bribie Island Road - 85, we stopped aside at 'Berries Galore' in Ningi. Buying 3kg oranges for $3, carrots at 49c/kg, red capsicums at 49c each and 500g garlic at $2!
Stopping at Wooly's in Bribie Island, we drove around to Lions Park in Woorim, overlooking North Moreton Island. Cooking Rice Noodles with Chicken in Black Bean Sauce, at 18:00 and sun already setted, we made our way out of the Island. Stopping just before the bridge, we realised if we made our way up North, we would miss the Glass Mountains. Realising there is no good place to sleep around Glass House Mountains, we drove back and up to Woorim Beach Car Park for the night and head our way tomorrow during the day to see the spectacular mountains.
          Day188
After eating bfast (Orange & a Blueberry Muffin) on a bench overlooking the beach, and chatting with a guy called Peter, at 08:25 we made our way to the Glass House Mountains Info Point. Driving 56km Northwest, onto Steve Irwin Way, Tourist Drive #24, and uphill to the Glass Mountains Lookout. Overlooking Mount Ngungun (253m), Caloundra, Mount Cooee (177m), Mount Tibrogargan (364m), Mount Tibberoowuccum (220m), Moreton Island, Trachyte Range, Mount Beerburrum (278m), Redcliffe, Deception Bay, Tunbubudula - The Twins (338m/294m), Caboolture, Mount Miketeebumulgrai (199m) and D'Aguilar Range. Trekking 800m Scenic Loop Circuit, we drove off to Mount Ngungun around 10:00. Pronounced Noo Noo, meaning 'Faces' in Gubbi Aboriginal, 10:00 we hiked 30mins all the way up to the summit. 360degree panoramic view, and 30mins of amazing pictures later, we walked all the way down. 2.8km and 55mins hiking in total. 
12:00 Making our way to Sunshine Coast, we stopped at Landsborough at Jack Harris Memorial Oval Park for a hot shower. Back on the road, we arrived at Caloundra, stopped at Wooly's for food, then drove to Bulcock Beach. Eating at Happy Valley (Beef with Honey Teriyaki and Rice in Wraps), at 15:40 we drove through Kings Beach, Moffat Beach, Dicky Beach, and up to Mooloolaba. Finding the Info Point closed at 16:15 (closes at 16:00), we drove to Maccas for some wifi but did not have any. 
Driving to Buderim, a lovely town surrounded by rainforest, we parked the car at Edna Walling Memorial Garden to walk a 1km circuit in the Buderim Forest Park and see the natural Serenity Falls, home to goannas, paddymelons and gliders. Sun already set, we drove to Maroochydore to kill some time surfing the net and looking up where to go next, then at 22:30 we drove off to a Boat Ramp car park in Fisherman's Road to sleep for the night, and trying to ignore the loud bat noises coming from the surrounding trees.
          Day189
Waking up in the middle of the night with loud bangs and the police raided a nearby car for suspicion, we woke up around 07:00, & visited the Library for some wifi. Driving to Aldi, then Woolworths still at Maroochydore, we bought Apple Cider Vinegar to try & heal an ear infection naturally rather than buying (probably very expensive) drops. At 10:40 we headed to Mudjimba Beach, parking at Harry Stuart Memorial Park. Walking around the Esplanade, we drove through Marcoola & Mount Coolum, & stopped at Point Arkwright & Point Perry. Lovely views of the sea & coast. 
Noon & just 19degrees. The sun here is VERY hot even though it is still Winter! Collected some brochures from Coolum Beach Info Point, we walked along David Low Way & bought Blueberry Slushie & Soft Serve from Maccas for $1.50, then around 13:05 Made our way to Noosa. 15km North, we parked at Seaview Terrace & walked along & dipped our feet in Sunshine Beach & up the steps onto Paradise Caves. Walking amongst bushes & trees in Noosa National Park, we stopped to look at Devils Kitchen, & walked the 1km back to the car. Driving to Lions Park & past busy Hastings Str, the only good place with tables & parking was in Noosa Spit Recreational Reserve. 14:50 Cooking underneath an NSRRAI Picnic Shelter (Noosa Shire Residents and Ratepayers Ass. Inc). We cooked Spaghetti with Lamb in Carbonara, surrounded by many birds & turkeys keeping us company. Taking a peep at Main Beach, & playing frisbee with our thongs, we saw the sun set behind the hill around 17:10, & it was time to decide where to sleep. Nowhere in Noosa, we drove 15km inland to Tinbeerwah. Still light at 17:45, we arrived at our destination (after steep uphills), & quickly walked to the Lookout. Blood red sky & light full of stars, we enjoyed the view till it got dark & walked down 700m back to the carpark to sleep for the night.
          Day190
Waking up at 08:00, we drove to Tewantin and stopped at the Post Office. Shipping some items - 4.55kgs for $77.35 including parcel box, we drove to fuel up and passed by Tewantin Noosa Lions Park. Already 11:30, we visited Woolworths and bought some bbq meat and sausages. 
Passing by the Tewantin Info Point, we obtained details and maps for Fraser and ways how to get there. $7/vehicle barge to Cooloola Beach and $17.65 permit to drive on the beach, we decided due to low tide times, to drive up to Rainbow Beach from the highway and save the park and ferry fees. Cooking the bbq at the same Tewantin Park, we spent the day charging the battery pack and laptop with the outdoor charging points and planning out Fraser Island. Scorching 23degrees, the sun set at 17:45 and drove to BWS and Woolworths. Buying some snacks and stocking up on some food for tomorrow and the week ahead (very expensive to buy food from Fraser Island), we drove 43km up along the M1 and A1 Bruce Highway and right turned into Puma Rest Area around 20:30 to sleep for the night.