Today was a great day with wonderful weather! We drove to Kuranda and visited the Koala Gardens, a small wildlife center. We had our “koala cuddle” photos taken, with instructions from the handler on how to hold the koala (you actually “make like a tree” and don’t cuddle it as he’s expecting a tree).
Koalas napping at the Kuranda Koala Gardens
“Koala cuddle” at the Kuranda Koala Gardens
We then took the Skyrail gondola up to the top of the rainforest and visited Barron Gorge and Red Peak. Rangers provided guided tours and described the unique rainforest plant life.
Strangler Fig
Then it was on to Hartley’s Crocodile Farm for lunch (including crocodile – somewhat salty for my taste), wildlife sightings and (of course) crocodile feedings. The crocodiles are fed scrawny plucked chickens from a fishing pole by park personnel. We also took a river cruise for more crocodile sightings and feedings. It was no surprise to learn that crocodiles occasionally ram the boats, especially since they know there are plump tourists on board that would make better eating!
Crocodile feeding at Hartley’s Crocodile Farm
Our dinner on the resort grounds featured an open wine bar and an even bigger surprise – dances, music and demonstrations by three Aboriginal performers! They graciously consented to take pictures with us.
Posing with Aboriginal performers at the Kewarra Beach Resort
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