Follow the adventures of one fearless little explorer as she discovers the wonders Australia has to offer.

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Grandmother Tingle (Albany to Margaret River, WA)

Having been out of contact for awhile we're finally back in an area with mobile service so I can update you all. We were in the Margaret River region about a month ago and it was just beautiful (although we didn't call into any wineries- sacrilegious I know!). The weather was rainy, but we were able to do most things we wanted which included two caves, the Augusta lighthouse and a maze- which Amelia absolutely loved. So here's the rundown on our trip from Albany through to the National Park we stayed in near Margaret River...

We left Albany on a rainy day and headed north west towards Margaret River, on the way taking a dodgy little track down to the most delightful boat ramp and fishing spot- aptly named Caruso Beach. The pier is obviously still used by local fishermen, perhaps for some commercial operation as the public are unable to park in the area during certain hours. The main occupants when we stopped were of the feathered variety and the pelcians quickly assessed our food source potential and then floated off to better fishing grounds. I couldn't resist taking photos- although our littlest explorer was more interested in the iPad.







Our next stop was so much fun- "The Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk" near Denmark, about 400 kms from Perth, WA. I'm not sure if it was the one that the "Otway Fly" was modelled on- but it was great to be able to walk amongst the canopy of the giant tingle trees. The walk took us 40 metres above the forest floor for about 600 metres and then we were able to walk through the Ancient Empire walk where we could experience the veteran tingle forest from ground level. Peaceful and stunning, even Amelia was quiet with wonder.






                





The Ancient Empire Walk through the older forest area was fascinating. Some of the trees, found nowhere else in Australia or the rest of the world, are over 400 years old. 

     




The range of smaller life forms within the ancient forest included mosses, lichen, fungi and various flowering plants some located metres above the ground.





A highlight was finding old Grandmother Tingle... can you see her?




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