Current News (19th May 2013) – As you have probably gathered from the sudden halt in the updates we got the bike out of the warehouse in Vancouver Monday 13th May. We have been busy the last few days putting on new tyres (or tires as they say here), sorting insurance etc. We did take her out for our first ride on Thursday, fittingly to meet up with Grant and Susan of Horizon’s Unlimited fame who now live back here in Canada.
Our blogs are back in March still in Australia and we are at Wilson’s prom which was so good you have a three part installment, enjoy.
Blog 245 Wilson’s Prom (Part A) – March 2013
Our destination was Wilson’s Prom, we had many recommendations to visit this area so it must something pretty special.
We stopped at Loch for lunch and took a stroll over the suspension bridge before continuing on our way.
Traveling in the height of summer the parched grass had been evident all around but as we neared the prom the scenery got greener and the air cooler.
Known locally as “the Prom” or “Wilson’s Prom” it’s full name is Wilson’s Promontory National Park. The promontory has been a National Park to one degree or another since 1898 and contains the largest coastal wilderness area in Victoria. It was closed during world war II when it was used as a commando training ground. It is now full of wildlife and sealife so as the sign suggested we could expect to see Kangaroos, Koalas and Wombats.
We were headed to Tidal River camping ground, the only settlement within the park boundary. It has suffered its fair share of catastrophes, fires and floods over the years, some of which campers had to be evacuated from but the natural beauty of the area was still apparent. We found a good snug camp amongst the surrounding trees for a bit of shade and it was just a short walk to Norman beach.
After setting up camp we ate and went straight to Norman beach to enjoy the first of many spectacular sunsets. The sun setting on the far hills lit the rocks up to an orange glow and the clouds on the hill behind became a fluffy pink.
When we turned to look out to sea it became even more stunning. The ships masts lit up in the dying suns rays.
Next morning we took a gentle stroll through Lilly Pilly gully full of tree ferns and red gums. The photo shows the red resin bleeding from the tree. The last photo is a dead grass tree with its leaves surrounding it on the ground. Lilly Pilly gully is one of the most southern warm temperate rainforests in Australia. It was also a very pleasant walk to do in the heat of the day. On our return to camp I persuaded Kev to join me in a rather bracing but very pleasant swim.
That night we took a sunset walk across the foot bridge over Tidal river. The area was beautiful even at night so we resolved to return in the morning. We also disturbed this wallaby out foraging for food.
As we walked higher we could see where Tidal river met the sea at Norman beach.
Next up – Wilson’s prom (Part B) Tidal River.
#1 by Lyn&Arthur Spain on May 21, 2013 - 1:50 pm
Hi both tried to get on to face book in Hotel in Italy but can,t so hope this will get through. Had quite a lot of rain but. Still had some great views. Went past the Guzzi FACTORY ON THE coach Monday but Dad didn’t,t have the camera out in time. Pleased to hear you have the bike out now. Will catch up when we get home. Love Mum & Dad.
#2 by Julie [aka Clarkie] on May 21, 2013 - 12:50 pm
I agree with Jane’s comment on the photos…stunning.
Enjoy your travels in Canada.
Take care,
Julie x
#3 by Chook & Phil on May 21, 2013 - 9:58 am
Excellent Photo’s….your photo’s of Canada should be more spectacular
All our love
Chook & Phil
#4 by Neil on May 20, 2013 - 1:03 pm
What a knock out blog guys! Glad to hear the bike’s hitting the road at last. Keep the blogs coming. All good here, nice day out at Teo Lamers yesterday. Cheers, Neil
#5 by Jane on May 20, 2013 - 10:22 am
Beautiful photos, looking forward to seeing Canada! Safe travels. Love Jane x