2020-03-14 – Rockhampton and the drive to Airlie Beach

Before heading out this morning we stopped by the visitor information center where they have a spire that is located on the Tropic of Capricorn.  The Tropic of Capricorn marks the southernmost latitude at which the sun can be directly overhead. It is winter solstice when it is directly overhead. At any latitude south of the Tropic of Cap the sun will never be directly overhead but will always be just a bit north. In actuality the circle marking the Tropic of Cap is gradually moving northward at approximately 15 meters per year because of earth’s wobble. So this spire is likely no longer right on the Tropic of Cap, but who is quibbling.

Australian Magpie...we see them everywhere

We also stopped to make a short visit to St. Joseph’s Cathedral.  

Very beautiful with many beautiful stained glass windows.

This sign on the Holy Water basin pretty much sums up what is happening right now.

Then it was off through the countryside  for the long day trip to Airlie Beach (the Heart of the Barrier Reef).  The countryside is lush and green and there are lots of sugar cane plantations. 

Turns out we have a wonderful view of the Airlie Beach harbor from our hotel.