Relocation Relocation

Tuesday 21 May. After the exertions of the previous day I took it fairly easy doing some computer catch-up and meeting with Rachael to go for fish and chips and a walk along the waterfront to Brighton pier, which was closed for renovation L It was also much colder and greyer today, no doubt to make me feel like I was in Brighton UK, and Rachael seemed flabbergasted that I had been swimming just yesterday.

In front of Brighton pier

It had been a while since I had taken my vehicle for a spin so I thought it was time to devise a slightly more ambitious route! I headed north and a bit east to cross the longest bridge in Australia – it felt weird having an entire cycle/ pedestrian segment of it to myself. On this occasion, given the inclement weather, the 24 mile journey felt possibly more significant than the sights.

Thursday was a bit of a late start – made worse by forgetting to check train times again so I arrived at the station just as one left. I eventually made it to Milton, just east of the centre of Brisbane, where I was meeting family friend Marie for lunch. My lamb burger was most satisfying. Marie then gave me a quick tour of Milton via a Queensland nut ice cream stop. After pointing me in the direction of the river Marie bad me farewell as she went back to work and I headed towards the centre of town. Again feeling my way rather than using a map, I found Roma Street Parkland, peaceful gardens somehow hidden away in the centre of Brisbane. My last stop of the day, conveniently visible from the edge of the Parkland, was the recently reopened TARDIS-like Brisbane City Hall, home to the museum of Brisbane. From there I returned to Boondall.

The City Hall

I took it fairly easy for my last full day in Brisbane, going for a leisurely walk towards Sandgate to investigate some so called lagoons - although one may have better classified as a large puddle! Ralph beat me in a couple of close fought games of pool, and after a huge and delicious T-Bone steak I spent the evening puzzling over how to fit everything into my smaller bag and leave several centimetres to allow it to squeeze down to regulation aeroplane hand luggage size...

The lagoon

Ralph gave me a lift to the airport, especially kind considering that we had to leave at 5am. I made it to Cairns without issue except for my bag being slightly too heavy for my own comfort, nearly leaving my sunhat at customs, and wearing too many clothes for the destination. Cousin Steve cleverly succeeded in timing his arrival to coincide with mine outside the airport. I was now in FNQ, still the same state as SEQ but over a thousand miles north!  Two very different worlds.