FRIDAY 5 JUNE     CAIRNS

We seem to have driven north of the rainy area. Today was warm and sunny – and dry!

After breakfast, drove into the centre of Cairns. It was not too hard to find street parking.

Went to the Tourist Information Centre – I was hoping to get good material on parts north of here. But they seemed to be only interested in booking tours and accommodation, not in actually dispensing sightseeing information to us lowly ‘vanners. I suspect they may be reliant on commission from products sold?

The RACQ shop staff were much more helpful. They were a source of good information. I found out from them that the Cape York roads were all open. Got some free maps.

We had lunch on the Esplanade – just rolls. I was really let down by the Esplanade area. Given the reputation of Cairns, I was expecting it to have a lovely sandy beach area. Nup – tidal mud! Not at all attractive.

Back to the shops to get some drink to take tonight.

At the van changed, then left for Lake Placid.

Had a great meal with H and M – prawns, followed by tuna and salad. M has found a good fish co-op here. That is a good idea – I must start actively looking for such places in towns where there might feasibly be such a thing.

There was much talk of travels and family. H and M are doing some longer trips, each year, now they have mostly finished working.

Excellent evening, in great company. I had to drive us back to the van! Fortunately, the navigation was pretty straightforward, at that time of night.