Mackay to Rockhampton

SATURDAY, 3 SEPTEMBER 2016

Setting up

Blacks Beach Caravan Park

Tent area

Looking south towards Mackay

Walking north

Our final tropical day for this year.

After a very hot night at Townsville, we were on the road early headed for Mackay.  Unfortunately, the caravan did become a little geographically challenged finding the exit gate and it was necessary to practice some back backs.  Of course, it was Jayco’s fault – they are blamed for everything else from burnt toast to forgetful owners!

The weather continued to be very hot, the traffic continued to be heavy but the roadworks lessened.  Our only holdup was for about 10-15 minutes on the bridge over the Burdekin River, but this did give us the opportunity to closely observe a golden orb spider in its web close to the car.  After deciding to stop at Proserpine for a break and driver change, we quickly came to the conclusion this was a very unfriendly RV town, with no rest area or places to park a caravan.  Shortly before arriving at Mackay, a sudden and sharp shower blew across and the temperature dropped about five degrees in as many minutes.  However, by the time we arrived at the Big4 Blacks Beach Caravan Park, the sun was shining and the humidity had skyrocketed.  As we were only overnighting, we were allocated a drive-thru site which had large rubber matting in lieu of a concrete slab.  We were very impressed with this small beachside caravan park, situated right on the beautiful Blacks Beach and would be happy to spend more time here.  It was so nice to be able to have a long walk along the beach and the light sea breeze certainly helped with the heat.

We had another large shower shortly before sunrise but it quickly disappeared, much to the delight of the numerous magpies.  Once again, we were quickly packed ready to roll – staying hitched up certainly saves a bit of time!  The drive south was fairly uneventful – no roadworks but the road was very bouncy.  As we pulled of the highway into Marlborough, we scared a long snake in the process of crossing the minor road; the snake 20 metre dash record was broken this morning.  The weather continues to be hot for our overnight stay at the Big4 Rockhampton.