02 August 2024
In the first week of the school holidays, a group of students escaped the winter chills on an unforgettable trip to Port Douglas, where our uniform was shorts and Crocs. Our journey was packed with activities that offered a mix of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and thrilling experiences.We kicked off our trip with a tour of Mossman Gorge, where students marvelled at the rainforest and learned about the cultural significance of the area from local guides. The breathtaking views and refreshing waters made it a perfect start to our adventure and of course we had to go for a swim in the freshwater river!
That afternoon, we set sail to the Low Isles, where students enjoyed snorkelling spotting vibrant coral and marine life. We were lucky enough to see one of the largest green sea turtles I have ever set my eyes on. The students also played in the shallows with two curious smaller turtles.
One of the highlights was the Outer Barrier Reef tour of Opal Reef. Our students snorkelled in one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef. The sheer diversity and beauty of the marine life left everyone in awe. Some noteworthy sightings where large Maori Wrasse, multiple White Tip Reef Sharks, Moray Eels, Cuttlefish, Nemo (Clownfish) and a kaleidoscope of colourful reef fish.
A visit to the Wildlife Park provided close encounters with some of Australia’s unique fauna. Students had the chance to see kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles and even cassowary up close before trying to find them in the wild later that day.
Exploring the world’s oldest rainforest, the Daintree Rainforest offered a glimpse into an ancient ecosystem. Guided walks revealed the rich biodiversity and intricate web of life that thrives in this lush environment. We hopped on a crocodile cruise and were lucky enough to see the largest male crocodile in the river system out sunbaking.
Our adventure also took us to Green Island, a tropical paradise where students engaged in various water activities, including snorkelling, glass-bottom boat tours and seeing the world’s largest crocodile in captivity called Cassius who is 114 years old.
Back Country Bliss Adventures added a dose of thrill to our trip by jumping on river sleds to race down some fast water rapids. It was a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the area from a different perspective.
The trip wouldn’t be complete without some unique local fun, which we found in cane toad racing. This quirky and entertaining activity brought lots of laughter and offering a light-hearted end to our action-packed days.
Overall, the trip to Port Douglas was an enriching experience that combined education, adventure, and a lot of fun. Our students returned with lasting memories and a greater appreciation for Australia’s natural wonders.
Stay tuned for more updates on our next exciting adventure!
Tim Hennekam
Exploration Society Coordinator
