Brisbane and Byron Bay

Brisbane is home to the Fairclough family, who welcomed us into their home with open arms.  We spent the first Sunday up at Noosa, which has a great beach and a beautiful National Park where we were lucky enough to see wild Koalas.



Judy, G, Ailsa, Ian & Gemma on Noosa Beach

We visited the city during the week, and climbed the clock tower of the town hall, witnessing the deafening chimes as the clock struck 11am.  At least it wasn't midday!  We also took a boat ride along the river:



Brisbane from the River

Gemma turned 16 during our visit, and we went to her bush BBQ party. We got out of breath blowing up balloons and full from all the sausages and home made cake we ate!



BBQ time!

After the party we went with the girls to the "Ekka", the local agricultural show and fair.  We had lots of fun seeing numerous farmyard animals and riding fairground rides.  We also tried our hand at the games, trying to win huge cuddly toys that we would have had to buy extra air tickets for!



G showing why he didn't join the army



At least someone was successful!

We hired a car for two days and drove down to Byron Bay.  The cape is home to the famous lighthouse marking the most eastern point in Australia.  We ate ice creams as we watched dolphins and whales playing in the beautiful turquoise waters.



Ice Creams at Byron



Coastline scenery

We had a great time in Brisbane, enjoying walking Koby the dog and spending time with the family.  We bid them farewell on Monday as we flew on to Melbourne.
 


Gemma, Ailsa, Koby and G