Life Begins At.....
Issue link: http://ebook.aprs.com.au/i/23233
CARAVANNING Make friends T together over the Christmas and New Year period. For some, catching up with extended family over Christmas is as easy as visiting the neighbours, for others, it can mean expensive and stressful trips across the country. This year, rather than making the annual trek to see the grandchildren, why not take the time to get back to the things you love, pack up the caravan or other form of recreational vehicle (RV) and meet some likeminded people amongst some of Australia’s most picturesque locations. Whether you are an avid bushwalker, birdwatcher, fisherman or otherwise there are plenty of things to see and do and lots of new friends to make around Australia this Christmas. Be astounded by Australia’s natural birdlife With over 800 different species of birds spread across different regions and habitats, Australia is a birdwatchers paradise. Luckily, you usually don’t have to go too far to find some of the country’s best bird life for this holiday season he summer holiday season is a time when families meet to relax, share stories and spend valuable time watching with plenty on offer in every state. In particular, Lakesea Caravan Park at Bateman’s Bay is a perfect spot to meet fellow enthusiasts with over 150 species of birds calling the park home and even more in the neighbouring Murramarang National Park. According to park owner, Rob Carver, Christmas and New Year are some of the busiest times of the year and the perfect opportunity to cook up some freshly caught snapper on the BBQ as you share some bird watching tales around the campfire. “Our park gets pretty full at this time of the year as many people head south to escape the hot temperatures,” Carver said. “The bird watching is still great with local bird watchers taking groups to explore the park’s wildlife and to also visit the stunning Durras Lake. “For the keen fisherman amongst us, summer is a great time to drop a line in to catch delicious snapper as well as morwong, brim or flathead.” If you are further west, just off the Hassell Highway is the Cheynes Beach Caravan Park, a bird watching haven. With an abundance of species living in the park itself, don’t be surprised if you share your breakfast with a few extra guests. Whether you are hoping to see the Noisy Scrub-bird, Western Whipbird or Western Bristlebird, otherwise known as the ‘big three’, the friendly staff members are more than willing to point you in the right direction. Cheynes Beach Caravan Park owner Joanne Marsh says that summer brings bird watching enthusiasts from all over the country and is the perfect time to catch up with old friends as well as make new ones. “There is always a great atmosphere around the park in summer as people get together to share hints and tips on where to find the rarest birds,” she said. Only a short walk away, the aqua blue waters and sparkling white sands of Cheynes Beach offer the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening wine amongst newfound friends. Walks to remember No matter what your fitness level, Australia’s wide range of natural bushwalks can cater for anyone. Whether you enjoy a challenge or would rather a short stroll, the fresh air and the amazing scenery of the THE RETIREE SUMMER 87