An Early Start in Mission Beach
The day began in the serene surroundings of Mission Beach, Queensland, where I had spent the night in a hostel nestled among the wilderness. This wasn’t just any part of Australia – this was Queensland’s northeastern coast, home to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef. After picking up my camper van in Cairns the previous day, I had decided to rest at the hostel rather than risk driving through the dangerous nighttime roads where Australian wildlife often roams freely.
The Local Wildlife Challenge
Australia’s unique wildlife adds an extra layer of adventure to any journey. During my stay at the hostel, we had an unexpected encounter with a Coastal Taipan snake – the world’s second most venomous snake. A fellow traveler spotted it while having a drink outside. This was a stark reminder of Australia’s diverse and sometimes dangerous wildlife, from spiders to koalas, kangaroos, and ostriches. In these parts, a snake bite could be fatal within 40 minutes, and with hospitals few and far between, caution is always necessary.
Morning Preparations
As morning arrived, I faced the typical traveler’s dilemma – to leave early or take it easy. With 16 days to reach Sydney along the North East coast, I chose to enjoy a relaxed morning. I spent time preparing my camper van, setting up the bedding for future nights. One of the advantages of traveling in a camper van is the flexibility it offers – you can stay longer in places you love and quickly move on from those you don’t.
The Journey Continues
After bidding farewell to my French friend Nami, who had traveled with me from Cairns to Townsville, I set out on the road. The drive through Queensland’s coastal roads was beautiful but required constant vigilance. Road signs frequently warned of crossing wildlife, particularly ostriches, reminding travelers of the unique Australian driving experience.
A Pleasant Discovery
During my journey, I made an interesting discovery about my camper van’s solar panel system. While chatting with some German friends who had done similar trips, I learned that the solar panels on the roof could charge the van’s battery system, powering the fridge and other electronics. This meant I wouldn’t need to rely on camping sites for power – a significant advantage for freedom camping.
Fuel Stop Adventures
A significant part of the day involved monitoring fuel consumption. At one point, I had to stop at a small town called Cardwell to refuel. The experience of filling up in rural Australia was interesting – 66 liters cost 127 Australian dollars, and the self-service system was notably trusting, allowing you to fill up before paying.
The Evening Dilemma
As evening approached, I faced another common traveler’s decision – whether to continue to Townsville or stay at a rest area. I found a lovely spot called Bushy Parker Park, where other travelers had parked their camper vans. The area had basic facilities and a friendly atmosphere, with people sitting outside their vans enjoying the evening.
The Gym Solution
Eventually, I decided to head into town to find a gym, as I needed a shower and some exercise. This led me to Muscle and Fitness gym, where for 15 Australian dollars (about 850 Indian rupees), I could work out and use their facilities. It was a practical solution to the everyday needs of life on the road.
Night Safety Considerations
The day ended with an interesting conversation with a local about safety. While parked outside the gym at night, he advised that while car theft does happen in the area, it usually involves stealing keys from homes first. With the van parked in a well-lit area with security cameras, and me sleeping inside with the keys, he assured me it would be safe enough.
Conclusion
This day of travel along Australia’s Queensland coast perfectly encapsulates the adventure of exploring this vast country by camper van. From wildlife encounters to practical challenges, each day brings new experiences and decisions. The freedom of having your accommodation on wheels comes with its own unique set of challenges and rewards, making every day an adventure in itself.
