Day 42. After a leisurely 'Sunday' breakfast, we went into Rockhampton to Quay Street and the Fitzroy Riverfront. What a beautiful area and an array of lovely nineteenth century buildings. After a stroll along the riverside promenade to admire the river and the buildings, we had coffee and a muffin for 'elevenses' in a beautiful old restored building. Then we drove out to Yeppoon. RM wanted to see some 'Joh' legacy resort there and, after a stately drive to the t...

Day 41. The free camp at St Lawrence was excellent except for the generators. The facilities were great and it is but a short walk to the town pub and shop, alas this fact was discovered too late. Drove down to Rockhampton and our CV a few ks to the south. Will explore the town and environs tomorrow. RM has been suffering from an attack of sand flies for a few days. Ros had some Aloe Vera gel which has helped but he needed some antihistamines. We now have plenty ...

Day 39. Drove to Mackay and beyond to a free camp near St Lawrence. We had a good look around Mackay and were very impressed by Mackay Harbour. It has a long causeway you can drive your van all the way along AND turn round. Most important. Loads of big ships for RM to admire and loads of yachts for me! We met the Langworthys on the causeway and had a cuppa. Then onto our free camp with loads of vans and endless generators. Rather defeats the purpose of a free ca...

Day 38. Leaving Alva Beach as perfect as when we arrived, we headed south for Bowen and Proserpine. The Bruce Hway was not bad and the traffic, including the entire Australian Army, seemed to be going north. Had there been an emergency down south? Anyway, undeterred, we continued south without mishap. We went to Horseshoe Bay at Bowen and then on to Airlie Beach at Proserpine. It is 40 years since we were here. So much suburban development has spoilt the area for...

Day 37. A 'no drive' day for me. Took a long walk along the beach. There were 6 boats out fishing. Spent time planning the next few days with Ros and Alex. We will stay together until after Rockhampton. Then guitar practice, a swim in the pool here, reading, lunch, nap. Beautiful temperature here. RM went into Ayr to take care of medical and shopping requirements. Then I prepared my Jamie Oliver lamb chops with chick peas and smoked praprika dish. Caught up with...