Cooktown charmed us with laid-back days, sunset cruises, museums, and even a cheeky paddle for Zoe. We wrapped it all up at the iconic Lions Den Hotel—live music, hearty meals, and full hearts.

From swimming holes to rainforest tracks, our time between Babinda and Kuranda was a mix of sightseeing, family catch-ups, and a long-overdue crocodile feast.

Exploring North Queensland took us from the busy streets of Townsville to the calm waters of Big Crystal Creek and the sheer power of Wallaman Falls. City views, creek swims, and unforgettable waterfalls in one stretch.

From a tense river crossing and a surprise snake encounter to a crowded Airlie Beach and a quiet roadside camp in Home Hill — our journey north was full of unexpected turns and memorable stops.

A quick coastal stop turned into seven relaxing days camped beneath palms in Seaforth. Beach swims for Zoe, fresh scones, friendly neighbours, and a kangaroo tourism reality check made this one of our favourite unexpected stays.

We spent a week in Mackay with family, exploring art galleries, sugar tours, vibrant laneway murals, and orchid-filled gardens. While the city didn’t charm us completely, the time together made it memorable.

From freshwater lakes and towering rainforests to beach highways and shipwrecks, K’gari is the wild heart of Queensland’s coast. We toured, swam, floated, and flew, and left with sand in our souls.

Beach walks, local markets, and whales in calm blue water — Hervey Bay is the coast at its most easygoing. Perfect for slow mornings, sea breezes, and a good reminder to pause awhile.

From the sweet tang of molasses to the final sip of salted caramel rum, the Bundaberg Distillery tour is a mix of history, humour, and Aussie spirit, bold, local, and unmistakably Bundy.