Next stop - Strahan (population 658) - formerly the port servicing the local mining communities in the 19th century, nowadays, tourism is Strahan's main focus.
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Wilderness Railway Station
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Customs House and Post Office
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Strahan was always a must see in our travel plan. We stayed at Strahan Beach Caravan Park. Pretty much rained the whole time for the duration of our visit. However, we had some small windows of respite, enough to get around and check out as much as we could fit into the 2 days there.
Walking access to Hogarth Falls is from the local park within the town. It's an easy walk along formed tracks and boardwalks through rainforest.
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Hogarth Falls
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On the second day, we took the 'Spirit of the Wild' (the grey boat) on the Gordon River Cruise. There are two operators that run this cruise experience - the Red Boat and the Grey Boat. We can't fault our experience. Six hours takes you out on the Macquarie Harbour through Hells Gates in the open ocean - crack a u-bolt back through the harbour and down the mouth of the Gordon River. Once you enter the river, the boat switches to electric motors and the silence and sense of calm can't be overstated.
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Mouth of the Gordon River
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This old Huon Pine died and fell about 25 years ago. It has been dated as 2300 years of age.
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At the turn around point, we went ashore for a short immersive experience in the wilderness. Back on board, a wonderful buffet lunch was served as we cruised back to the mouth of the river. The heavy overcast skies and misty rain added to the ambience of the place. Hopefully, the photos do it justice.
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Our turn around point up the river
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On our return, we past the red boat cruising up the river
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Hells Gates
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Hells Gates Lighthouse
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On our return up the harbour, we landed at Sarah Island where we had a very animated guided tour through the ruins of the former convict settlement.
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Solitary confinement cells
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All aboard!
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Rain followed us home
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That night we went to the play - "The Ship that Never Was". Last year, the play celebrated its 30th birthday. The play has a cast of three, one of which was our tour guide on Sarah Island. It's all about audience participation.
Enjoyed that - it was a blast!
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