MOOLOOLABA, QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA

 February 19, 2023

Our ship anchored in the beautiful bay of Mooloolaba (have fun saying that) and we tendered to shore.  We admired the beautiful beaches but are past enjoying time in the sun and surf. So, we took a bus to Montville, a quaint town in the mountains that is designed to extract money from tourists who want to escape the coastal heat. The drive was beautiful though lush, green mountains. The cute small town has lots of shops and cafes.  Our only purchase was a coffee for Rich…Vera, taking a sip, said “that’ll make your knees black!” (an expression from her Dad).  They love their dark, dark roast.  


On our way back to the ship we stopped at the Cloud winery and sampled their wares.  We liked the Shiraz, so we bought a bottle (to help the local economy--smile). 


Mooloolaba where our ship is anchored, is just north of Brisbane, capital of the State of Queensland and in what the Aussies call the Sunshine Coast. It reminded us of Florida coast towns with its expensive homes and boats/yachts on canals that connect to the ocean.   It is a growing resort town with lots of beaches and yachts in the marina.   


Our very knowledgeable guide said Australia would be happy for us to retire here.  She said just bring money and don’t ask the government for any support. 


Now we are heading north up the Coral Sea and will soon be in the area of the Great Barrier Reef.


                                                       In the town of Montville

                                      View from Cloud Winery.  Note the Magnolias on the right

                                              Wine tasting flight.   All good

                                              Just sold...shucks!

                                              Lifestyle in Mooloolaba

                                           Tinder returning to ship...Mooloolaba in the background




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