Coffs Harbour: From Sunrise to "Croc" Encounter

On the Road: From Byron Bay Via Lennox Head to Casino

Back on the road and heading down south! What a remarkable sunrise we saw at Lennox Beach on our route to Casino to catch our onward train.

The track twisted and turned for a couple of hours before we arrived. It was warm, airless and breezeless. Good planning, Helen! We had booked the nearest hotel, just a couple of hundred yards away from the station (the other choice was three times as far). We were early but managed a sort of access to the room before the cleaner arrived on the Sunday shift, so a quick change and we set out in search of the town centre.

Country Market Vibe

The market had brought all the locals out and there was Country and Western music echoing around the park. We'd noticed back in Byron that line-dancing was enthusiastically enjoyed—not so much here—but the sound was pleasant enough to cause some foot tapping as we wandered through the stalls.

Jetty Stroll and Coastal Views

We spent much of the afternoon strolling around the jetty. We even spotted a recently rather large turtle which had been recently released back into the ocean! Go on old fella, good luck. He swam in and out of the pier, avoiding the teenagers who were leaping into the harbour water far below.

The views were, of course, magnificent. Although the beach within the breakwater at Coffs was pleasant, it didn’t quite have the surf of Byron nor the thrill-seeker's youthful profile. Families were more the order of the day here.

Well there is always one seeker!

Muttonbird Island Walk

The small headland, known for its birds, was an interesting place.

A purpose-built walkway protects the special habitat for these burrowing, migrating birds and it delivered the opportunity to stroll to the cliffs.

Crashing waves hammered hard against the rugged outcrops. We were far from disappointed as we failed again in our search of the ocean for dolphins and whales returning south.

Fish, Sharks and Crocodile DunHelen

Next, we focused on the harbour. Teems of fish in the water were quite incredible to witness! We saw brilliant colours from the quayside, large and small—even a couple of tiny baby sharks (yes, sharks!).

But then it happened: Crocodile DunHelen came face to face with a "croc"! Helen hurried James over to witness the sight, who excitedly captured the event on video!

Crocodile DunHelen Encounters a 🐊..?

What a day! It was certainly more relaxed than Byron, by around 10,000 steps. Tomorrow we head to Port Macquarie.