Finally, our long awaited plans to visit Stradbroke Island in Queensland, Australia had arrived. We boarded the Stradbroke Flyer in Cleveland and enjoyed a smooth cruise across Moreton Bay and 30 minutes later we found ourselves walking along the jetty towards the island.
The picturesque scene (below) is one of many that I will be sharing with you in two blogs.
The weather was beautiful and Stradbroke Island looked very welcoming indeed as we made our way to the bus stop.
There are ferries which accommodate vehicles but we were happy to take advantage of the bus to reach our chosen destinations on the island. Our first priority was Point Lookout and we were hoping we'd be lucky enough to spot a whale or two as they made their way towards The Great Barrier Reef.
We'd heard that it was quite possible to see whales from the shore and as there were many vantage points with which to spot them, we were feeling reasonably confident.
The best time for viewing the migration of whales is from June to November and one of the best places to see this exciting event is along the North Gorge Headland.
This view from the jetty takes in the horizon towards Brisbane.
There were quite a few boats and yachts moored in the bay and the beach I was admiring is a small part of an area which covers 27.530 hectares of land on North Stradbroke Island. It is 38 kms long and is 12 kms at its widest point.
North Stradbroke is the second largest sand island in the world. Apart from the pristine beaches, the serene inland lakes, the abundant wildlife and flora, another huge part of the allure of 'Straddie' are the amazing rugged coastal outcrops.
And then there are the spectacular views which simply take your breath away.
We didn't have long to wait before our bus arrived but before it did, I took a look at the aboriginal mural on the side of the bus stop. It read:
'Welcome To Minjerribah, Stradbroke Island.'
The home of the Quandamooka people. Please respect our home and help us take care of it. This mural depicts some of the land, sea and air animals found in and around Quandamooka (Moreton Bay) Quandamooka Dreaming, designed and painted by Salt Water Murris, Quandamooka Incorporated. Sponsored by Redland Bay Council.'
This beautifully shaped tree is situated on the edge of the Dunwich cemetary and has the most wonderful view overlooking Moreton Bay. Dunwich is known as Goompi by the Quandamooka people and this small town on the western side of the island is part of the Redland City local government.
The other two towns on the island are known as Amity Point and Point Lookout. The first settlement at Dunwich was established in 1827 as a pilot station and a military post.
The image (below) is part of the Dunwich Cemetary.
The bus dropped us off at the beginning of Gorge Walk at Point Lookout. A few moments later, as we made our way to the path which wound around the headland, we knew we were in for a visual treat enhanced by the sounds of surf crashing upon the rocks and various birdlife.
The Stradbroke Surf Life Saving Club is situated overlooking Main Beach and looked very impressive from our vantage point. This unique venue caters for functions such as weddings, special events, conferences and school camps.
Spectacular seascape images were visible as far as the eye could see and we spent long moments soaking it all in. There is something very mesmerizing about watching wave after wave roll in towards the shore, unfurl in wide, rythmic ribbons and swirl against strong currents before slamming into rocks; forming a frenzy of foam which then quickly disappears.
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With determined force and energy, the unstoppable drama of the seas repeats itself again and again to the fascination of those lucky enough to witness this scene.
There was much more awaiting us up ahead. As we approached the boardwalk I was aware of experiencing a feeling of anticipation wondering if we would get to see any whales. Unfortunately, I will have to prolong your anticipation as I cannot fit all my images in one post. I hope you will return to read Part 2 of our visit to Stradbroke Island.
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THANK YOU FOR VIEWING. HAVE A GREAT DAY.
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