With a few days up our sleeve a wind down was in order, so we headed off on a 6 km "shortcut" to 'The Tip' which is "impassable when wet", and crosses a croc infested creek twice. It took one hour to drive, but what fun we had! The Tip is the most Northerly point on the Australian mainland and is reached by a short walk over some rocky spectacular coastline. It really is a point, which is kind of cool. We took our shots, marveled at the speed of the current around the point, and then noticed some big fish swimming around nearby. So, the boys threw in their lines, I hunted photographs, and managed to befriend a turtle, who came up a few times to get his picture taken. We went back to enjoy the rest, and watched a spectacular sunset from the beach. Plenty of gorgeous shells and hermit crabs, as well as the thrill of waiting for a croc to show himself. A full moon topped off the feeling of achievement of the long journey undertaken.
Saturday we took a ferry out to Thursday Island and learned about "island time" which basically means "it will happen when it happens". It can sometimes be a difficult concept for people who expect things to run on time and on schedule to master. We wandered though the pretty small town, enjoyed the best coffee since Sydney, and then grabbed a ferry to Horn Island to see the impressive little museum there. Horn Island had been highly strategic and very important in WW2 and the locals are proud of their contribution. The museum also revealed information about Torres Strait Islanders, who used to be headhunting tribes until Christianised by Missionaries. They are beautiful, open relaxed people, and felt like after this day I'd met just about everyone on the island. We met Thomas the ferryman, his dog Buster (what a great dog!!) Jacobea the cray fisher man, Susan the housewife and her kids, and everyone was keen for a chat. Pearls, girls, pearls also, aplenty. Local pearl industry produces creamy white glowing pearls for sale and export. Lovely. John and I also found the incredible cultural centre, a vibrant and fascinating building with outstanding cafe and celebration of local craft and culture. Beers at the Torres Hotel, the most northern pub in Australia, And NO DUST!!! I loved this day... SJC
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