Managed to make it through to Byron Bay today although the floods had closed the Pacific Highway in two places and forced us to detour. As a result we had plenty of time to listen to Aussie local radio and came to the conclusion that we had 2 options - we either chose a pop station where we listened to the same four records played endlessly or opted for a country and western station. Roger was initially keen to stick with the Country station in case we heard "Coward of the County" (see earlier blog!) but we soon came to the conclusion that Aussies have unhealthy relationships with their horses and dogs who seem to "reach the end of the trail" with monotonous regularity only to "frolic through whispering grasses fetlock high". In a bid to avoid becoming suicidal we switched to the pop station where the chat shows were busy debating whether it was acceptable to pee in the pool with listeners phoning in eagerly to contribute and the news was all about the misdeeds of the "first bloke" who reminds me somewhat of Prince Philip. His latest indiscretions include promoting male health and prostrate checks but advocating that men seek out an Asian woman doctor (supposedly because of her small hands) and parking his car illegally with a note for police to refer to the Prime Minister's office!!

Byron Bay is lovely. Beautiful beaches and the town has a bohemian/hippy feel with the girls wafting around in long floaty cotton dresses as opposed to shorts. We tackled a circular walk this afternoon taking in the lighthouse on Cape Byron and Australia's most eastern point. Spectacular views in all directions. We have blown the budget somewhat and booked ourselves into a lovely guest house which is all wind chimes and incense sticks with a decidedly far eastern feel.