May 26 - Ayr to Bluewater Creek - 128 km

Day started off well. We couldn't get to our bikes as they were locked away in a secure area of the pub so we headed down the Maccas's for breakfast. It was the only thing open. A bit amused to see all the local fitness freaks heading there for coffee after their morning jog. It was the only thing open in town.


Back to the hotel to discover we were now locked out. Fortunately there was a cleaner mopping the bar who let is back in and we were able to access our bikes. We were back in the saddle only marginally later than normal. 


It was still quite cool and the wind was now across us rather than behind. We made steady progress and didn't stop for morning tea until we found a servo after 60 kms.  
Hey, not far to Cairns now!!!




Imagine my surprise when I came over a hill on the way into Townsville and saw what I thought was the ATO FM radio station with a boot scooting picture of Kent Perdrisat beaming down.  Turns out it wasn't Kent, or the ATO but it did look like it at first.


After that we reached Townsville by lunchtime. 













We had organised our trip so that we could take in some of the interesting shows up here.  Whew, glad we didn't miss Sexpo.








We had a good look around and were impressed at the interesting old buildings.  Got some mighty big spiders up here.  This didn't do much for my arachnophobia.






 A local shopkeeper warned us to lock up our bikes in the CBD. Not sure who would steal 2 fully loaded touring bikes (35+ kg each). I hope they have a ute! We bought groceries and rolls for lunch and dinner at the supermarket.


We had lunch in a park in the CBD. Lovely lush tropical vegetation. Felt a bit odd with the very cool weather.


Back on the highway we headed for Bluewater Creek rest stop with a quick stop at a roadside "fisho" for some mackeral fillets. The rest stop was very well populated before we arrived with up to 30 camper-vans and caravans. Many of the residents appeared to  have been there for many days despite it being restricted to 24 hours only.


Excellent fish and vegie curry for dinner followed by an early night.