We left the plateau with its chilly nights for a few days of truly tropical climate before leaving for Sydney.  Yesterday drove south along the coast past banana orchards and sugar fields.  Stopped at lovely and deserted beaches where breakers lapped against coconut palms.  Found more Cassowary and heard our last Bird-of-Paradise (Victoria’s Riflebird).  

This morning Anne and I woke early and walked to the beach to watch the sunrise.  It was lovely, but low clouds obscured the sun at dawn.  They did not obscure the mountain island offshore or the dolphin broaching near shore. We will take two relaxed days here on the beach before what is sure to be a frenetic three days in downtown Sydney.  I’m sure there will be too much to see in too little time.  After that we rent a caravan and head south to Canberra and then east to the coast again.  Spring temperatures are forecast to be cool.  We will have to adjust.  Our adventure continues.