Another Day in Paradise ...

Stranded turtle that finally made it to the sea - with our cajoling
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We moved from one perfect beach to another – Coral Bay actually has a spot called Paradise Beach. Quite different from where we were as this is a real resort – lots of people, campsites and activities whereas the park we were in was much more isolated and unspoilt.

However we managed to adjust and find our own secluded patch for snorkelling. We are quite adept now, though still a bit weedy about going out of our depth. There’s a strong current which carries you along – fortunately into shore. True to its name the coral here is amazing – we had a glass bottom boat trip this morning and learnt all about it. On our own snorkelling we have seen lots of different types of coral (all fairly colourless this close to the shore) –it’s just like a garden down there with fish darting in and out – a veritable Octopus’s garden I seem to recall. The weather here is hot in the sun but there is an unrelenting St Cyprien wind which is quite chilly for those of us smothered in factor 30 and lying in the shade.

Great shoes - all part of the kit - these will be yours one day Sam and Emily
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Last night we had a real treat – Patrick says it’s the best 2 hours he’s spent in a long time (did my ego no end of good!) We went quad biking in the dunes to go and spot some turtles on a secluded beach. It was brilliant except for the old bird who slowed the whole party down. My quad biking is rather similar to my skiing – very enthusiastic but a real wimp when it comes to the crunch. Those who have seen me ski will undoubtedly recognise the coat hanger in the ski suit posture. (see photo) Patrick was a natural though and even went up the giant dune that only the guide went up!!! (see photo with kangaroo coming out of his head). (First real kangaroos we’ve seen too – only I’m afraid I was concentrating too much on steering the bike to notice). He (Patrick that is) also overtook me as we raced along the flat beach – I noticed the speedo went up to 38 kph – scary!. It was such fun and I fear it has opened up new career objectives for Patrick. As we left the 20 year old beach bum in the cool shades and the Billabong shorts Patrick asked him how he could get his job ….mmm nice try Patrick – wonder if the 18-30 Club groups would enjoy it so much with Patrick at the helm –“no running on the beach”, being a favourite remark made on one of our family holidays.

Now you see him, now you don't!
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Tomorrow is going to be a hard day’s drive. We’re sadly leaving Ningaloo now – we extended our stay here by a day too as this really is a wonderful area. Sam informed us this evening that according to an article in today’s paper it’s THE place to be in Western Australia. We’re heading for Denham – another National Park on the coast with lots of snorkelling, swimming etc. It’s also Melbourne Cup day and Sam has said it’s a real Australian not-to-be-missed occasion so we’re hoping to be able to drop into a pub along the way to watch a bit and pick up the atmosphere. I seem to remember it’s also a big day in America – may the best man win! It all seems so far away from here – in distance and emotion. Still, no doubt we’ll find out the result in due course and see how our futures will be affected .