Finally In Cairns

Gecko Done in Stainless Steel - Cairns Indigenous Art FairWe arrived in Cairns on Friday, August 19th, so this post is a little late. But we're in the northeasterly-most place we're likely to be in Oz-ville. It seems anticlimactic but it's more like anti-climate as we've been dealing with the coldest winter the land down-under has had in eons and we're now finally warm (during the day, at least). We thought this might be a little outpost of civilization but really it's a decent-sized city. (In fact, let me say along that line of thought: I saw Cowboys and Aliens at the local theatre here and the sound was the best sound I'd heard ever. Also: Great escapist film. I loved it!)

Cairns Casino with Nature Way Off in the BackgroundThe town is large enough to support a casino, which we walked through briefly then back out again. The main thing going on this week is the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair with some fascinating art and very cute native dances. While not as thrilling as Cowboys and Aliens, it still had its allure for us foreigners. There was a little parade and some fireworks also. Nothing to write home about, which is why you're being tormented with all the details.

Beautiful Blue Butterfly in the SanctuaryWe went to by train to a little town outside Kuranda, high up in the mountains. It was really fantastic to take a train that had created such a profound history of mining in this little outpost. Many people lost their lives as the precarious rails were placed one-by-one up the steep mountain. At the top was one of the most magical places we've see so far: A butterfly sanctuary where thousands of beautiful butterflies fly around all you! So many beautiful varieties would be within just inches of us, sometimes landing on our cameras as we tried to take pictures. It inspired us regarding our next place we might live to have a butterfly-greenhouse where our cats could play safely and we could go to meditate.

Even though we have a week here, we're keenly aware we have another huge leg of our Australian adventure to venture. Our trusty steed needs its 5,000 km/3,000 mile check-up here then we must gird our loins and corresponding butt muscles to drive to Darwin, which is 2400 km/1400 miles down the road. But let's not go there just yet.

Comments

[Marshann]

Wow! That butterfly is spectacular! Great picture. I love visiting historical sites, especially where the stories of the struggles that our ancestors went through are evident. The mining outpost you visited is a testament to the character of these pioneers. Thanks for sharing this wonderful place with us.

[Shirl]

Hi Marshann! Loved your comment. I will be doing a gallery on butterflies and a gallery of some of the pictures of the early guys building the railway to Kuranda. Cairns was our most "touristy" experience so far, as we balance rest with unique area activities. Also have another car for you - people love to decorate their cars here! Good to hear your voice (in typing, of course!)
Love,
Shirl