Have made our way up the coast as far as Innisfail (so far) today. The drive has taken us through the areas worst hit by cyclone Yasi – especially the area around Cardwell.
The country is slowly recovering from the cyclone but just like the Victorian bush fires, the trees tell the story. Probably around 30% are on the ground or seriously laid over. Those still standing are covered in new growth just like after the bushfires. Many houses and businesses are still relying on tarpaulins to keep out the weather and extensive road works are underway to repair flood damage.
On a positive note, the sugar cane harvest is well underway and the mills are working around the clock to clear the backlog sitting in the cane trains awaiting processing.
On the drive from Cairns up to Port Douglas this afternoon we observed what we considered to be a conflict of commercial interest (well at least for one party). Gliding high above the road were a hang glider and paraglider enjoying what appeared to be ideal conditions as they gradually descended from their clifftop launching platform.
What struck us as a possible conflict of interest (at least for those gliding back to earth) was the location of a crocodile zoo with feedings at 11am and 3pm daily directly under the launch platform!
We wondered whether the local planning regulations would cover such developments. We also wondered who got in first. Were the gliders first and the crocodile zoo the brainchild of an opportunistic entrepreneur? Did the launch pad follow the development of the crocodile zoo. One would have to assume it was not for novices and more likely targeting adrenalin junkies.
We may never find out but I’m interested in visiting the crocodile zoo when a glider launches!