Wednesday 2 February

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Time spent reading a very good book as we cruise along! Weather has turned cooler after a rather wild storm overnight. Sitting out on deck not as comfortable. Plenty of other options. 

Not as many pelicans on the river this year


Lots of corellas in the trees at our Swan Reach mooring

We arrived at Swan Reach mid morning where our coach was once again waiting for us. This part of the river we have done before but it's always good to revisit unfamiliar places. Swan Reach is no exception. Also we have a different coach driver whose commentary is different too. 

A visit to the Op Shop proved fruitful. Six children's books for $1:30! Some new reading material for the grandson. We toured the almond farm, wandered around Swan Reach then back on board to cruise to our overnight Bush camp on Big Bend. 





This is a spectacular location. 

There's so much birdlife on the river. Here are some I managed to capture.

Spoonbills

Grey Heron

Just an easy perch. Unlikely the nest has any other use at this time of year





Rainbow Bee-eaters

White Plumed Honeyeater

Look closely, he has an insect in his beak

Soooo hard to capture in flight. The best I could manage.


Whistling Kite

Fairy Martins. They nest in the cliffs at Big Bend

Immature Spiny Cheeked Honeyeater

Just keeping an eye on things

Sulphur Crested Cockatoos also nest in the cliffs


We enjoyed our tender trip into the wetlands behind our Bush camp and along the cliffs of Big Bend. The day was topped off with a fabulous on shore BBQ with entertainment as the sun set changing the cliffs from yellow to gold. Magical.









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