CAIRNS (29/09/09 - 01/10/09)
The far north, tropical city of Cairns is best known as being the place where the Great Barrier Reef is at it's most accessible. We were no different from any of the other millions of tourists who come here every year, we got ourselves on a boat heading out to the reef on a snorkeling tour. We had to get up early to catch the boat but Liz still had time, despite the tropical heat, for a Latte in her sunhat.
Our cheap underwater camera really does not do the reef any justice although it is doubtful whether any camera truly could. We have included some of the pictures just to give a rough idea. Here is Adam with his flipper right next to a Giant Clam.
The sheer number and variety of fish on the reef is absolutely astounding. This shoal of small blue fish were darting all around us.
As well as millions of brightly coloured fish there is also the massive diversity of coral species to look at. At all times in the water you really don't know what to look at.
A school of small striped fish.
Large, azure blue Parrot Fish are a common sight. They use their parrot like beaks to bite off, and eat, small chunks of the coral.
Some more of these striking (species unknown, sorry!) striped fish.
Another Parrot Fish.
Liz has some reservations about swimming but enjoyed every second of our Reef trip.
Liz, back on board the boat, spotted Adam in the distance, probably chasing after some poor creature which just wanted to eat the coral in peace.
Uncle Adam! Back on board the boat we received a text with some happy news- at 2pm on October 1st his first nephew was born. Congratulations Olie and Mel!
A celebratory drink was in order so we headed into town where we stopped for a while to look at the city light reflected in the bay.
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