Dr Dolittle

16th - 20th December: Queensland

So, we're now in Australia and I should have thought about it before, but my mind was occupied with thoughts of sun and beaches and it just didn't occur to me that there are LOADS of creepy crawlies and poisonous animals etc lurking around this island. Yikes! Don't think a spray of Boots insect repellent is going to protect me from these nasties. Actually, in fairness, Oz is just full of animals, and apart from snakes, crocs and spiders, there are also the cute cuddly koalas. And birds are ok too I guess as long as they don't do their business on your head.

On our first day in Australia, Gord treated us to a day out snorkelling in the great barrier reef up near Cairns. I've never been snorkelling before, and after a few minutes learning how to breathe through my mouth and not choke on sea water (don't laugh, it's not tasty), we were cruising around through the most spectacularly crystal clear water over magnificent reef looking down on a huge variety of colourful fish. Really was a great day. The only downside being that as we were wearing wetsuits, none of us put on suntan lotion. Big error as these don't cover all of your leg so we had bright pink ankles for the next few days, you can still actually see the tan lines now, bit like a reverse sock mark. Not a good look, believe me.

Anyway, in addition to the amazing sea life, Oz has lots of wildlife roaming the land. Whilst on Magnetic island (affectionally known as 'Maggie' by the locals), we went to a Koala sanctuary. Or that was at least what I was led to believe it to be. So, off we followed our guide, expecting to see some cute fluffy things but instead were greeted with small handling crocs which were presently passed round and one forcefully placed into my hand. To be fair, it was ok, he was only a little fella, we saw his mother later and there was no way anyone was going near that one. With or without her mouth taped up. Later, the next animal to be passed around to my delight was a snake. Not in the form of a handbag but a real live python. We were assured that this bad boy wasn't poisonous but a mere constrictor. So, having been bullied by Ed and his dad, I gave in and the next thing I knew it was wrapped round my neck. Not slippery like you may think but pretty heavy and you could feel it working its way round you. A quick few photos and it was off me like a shot. I'm glad I held it but let's just say I still don't want to see one in the wild.

In addition to all these scary creatures we did also see a koala. Despite it looking cuddly we decided not to hold this one, not because we were scared, but because it cost a few more of our hard earned dollars. And where's the excitement in holding a teddy bear anyway?