Surfers Paradise to Byron Bay

We had no intention of going to Brisbane, but our plans changed when we found out that a former student of Lynda's was living and working there. So after a day at the zoo, we headed into Brisbane and had a short visit with Lauren. Craig did double duty in the dark, driving and navigating our way to a caravan park in south Brisbane for an overnight stay. We happily headed out of the big city early the next morning driving to Surfer's Paradise which turned out to be another big city, but a city along a beach. The parking meter gave us two hours which was long enough to snap a few photos and then we quickly headed south along the coast road.
We passed many beautiful sandy beaches and little towns until Byron Bay. Everyone says that you have to go to Byron Bay and everyone did. It was quaint, but very crowded. We did the compulsory stops (town centre, lighthouse, Main beach), but we found a quiet place to stay at Suffolk Park, just five km south. A couple of days on the beach allowed Lynda to read her book and Craig to practise his boogie boarding. Then came the BIG rain. With our laid back beach attitudes, we decided against putting the tarp up. Oops! Now we know all the places where the camper van leaks. The next morning we headed for the hills. We took a scenic drive through the towns of Bangalow, Clunes, Channon, Nimbin, Uki, Murwillumban and back home to Suffolk Park. We avoided the rain and saw some beautiful countryside. Macadamia nut orchards and hippies are abundant.

While putting on some more miles the next day, a lunch break in the town of Grafton was a pleasant surprise. It is known for its spring festival which celebrates the beautiful, purple Jacaranda trees that line the streets. Our timing was perfect.

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