Last Tuesday I went out to Rainforestation. My 2 boys and I arrived around 10:30 and were greeted by so many friendly faces. I was given a map and timetable and we set off exploring. Our first stop was the Koala and wildlife park. I was pleasantly surprised at the variety of animals on display. The elevated platforms in the koala viewing area is such an amazing concept as you become face to face with these beautiful animals regardless if they are asleep or not. My children especially loved the reptile enclosures. There were quite a few different varieties of the cold blooded locals on display here. Lizards and snakes and of course the crocodiles were all displayed in a very visible and safe environment. The cassowary enclosure was also a very up close experience. There are kangaroos and wallabies roaming the grounds as well.
Next it was off for our Amphibious Army Duck Tour of the Rainforest. Our Army duck driver/guide’s name was Darren. He is a true passionate local with all the knowledge you could ask for. We had German and Korean tourists on board with us and he was fluent in both these languages and really gave the impression he would converse with tourists from any country! The commentary and information was really interesting, funny and educational. We made our way through the World Heritage Listed Rainforest stopping to learn facts about different plants and animals before driving in to the lake for a look around. We spotted water dragons, turtles, termite mounds at the top of trees and birds of many varieties. We continued through the rainforest and into the tropical fruit orchard. To see the variety of exotic fruits I had never heard of actually on the trees it was fascinating. Also I did not know the dragon fruit grow on a type of cactus! Amazing!
Our next stop was to the Aboriginal theatre to watch the cultural display by Pamagirri dancers. My eldest son was given a lesson on stage with a couple of others and did his best to try to learn some of the moves. It really is harder than it looks! Very entertaining-to watch, thank you!
After the show we were greeted by one of the performers, Henry. He was our guide for our Dreamtime Walk. He showed us how and why aborigines throw boomerangs for hunting. We each were given a chance to throw the boomerangs - again harder than it looks! We then moved on to the Didgeridoo area and learned how to make and play this amazing musical instrument. Henry then displayed his spear throwing ability. We selected targets for him to hit, and he was successful on each one. Well done Henry!
The day was really fun and educational. We topped it all of with a gelato ice cream made locally, I had exotic sour sop and my boys opted for the ever popular mango gelato. Yum!
I would like to say a big thank you to Rainforestation for the chance to learn more about our diverse country in your fun, friendly and highly educational Nature Park.
Sonja McSweeney - The Tour Specialists Palm Cove
