Day 181 After a quick visit to the local library and a dip in the icy ocean we hit the road. Our goal was Mackay about 330km to the north. We backtracked to the Bruce Highway and were en route when we seen the sign for the Capricorn Caves. We wanted to take the tour of the caves but were disappointed to learn that the usual hourly tours were off due to a wedding. Oh well maybe next year! Back on the highway the reggae bumping we drove and drove. Our next break from driving was for a stretch in Carmila, which in turn ended up being a stay for the night. While parked at the gas station one of the locals buying ice sparked a conversation asking if we been to the free beach front camp sites. We told him we just got here but he needed to say no more. Within 10 minutes we were parked on a sandy beach and dinner was served soon after.
This mornings walk on the beach was awesome and interesting. We were able to walk a hundred meters onto the ocean floor as the tide was out. When it started to come in however it was really quick. Within about 12-15 minutes it had reached the shore. We made our way over towards a sand dune but luckily did not go out on it as I think we would of been stranded. We also got a glimpse of a sea turtle, it was too quick for a photo. Later we seen a sign near the camp site with info on the turtles. This beach is a common breeding ground for them and between October and December you can watch them come up lay eggs and then watch the hatchlings make the deadly dash for the water. After talking to one of the local fisherman we were told that the tide for today was 5.85 meters!! Not only that but sting rays and sharks are a somewhat regular sighting here. So we are going to stay the day and see if we can catch a glimpse of one.