We saw all sorts of native Australian wildlife, but of greatest interest was the kangaroo field where we were allowed to go in and hand feed them! These little kangas were adorable in soft chocolate brown; about as tall as Addi when not 'standing up' and up to my shoulders when on hind feet; and as aggressive as geese who knew there was food to be had. Addi and I were a bit nervous at first, but enjoyed ourselves once we figured out how to manage the swarm (how? You wonder? Let Jim hold the food bag!). We had great fun petting, feeding and watching them hop around until one little quick guy decided to play with Addi (read: tackle...or as we told Addi: hug). She was fine- just startled, and the kangaroo was really only playing with her the way they were playing with each other, but we took the queue and left. Once outside the gate, Addi told the kangaroos that it was ok; she knew they were just playing. Here's to hoping this doesn't come up later in therapy!
The other animal worth mentioning is the talking cockatoo who said "hello! Hello!"....with an aussie accent!!
From there we took the red dirt roads north through endless wild bush to Stokes Bay. We trekked through volcanic rock and caves which suddenly opened up to an amazing little coral beach. Although the waters were exceptionally rough, there was a small protected lagoon that Jim could snorkel and swim with Addi in. The water was a bit cold for me so I observed from the sand.
We stopped at Sunset Vineyards on the way home for a tasting and bought some delicious wines for enjoyment tonight. Among others, we tasted a sparkling Shiraz. Served chilled, it is a very popular Aussie trend that I forgot to mention when writing about the Barossa valley tour. It is a treat...and one that I had not seen in the US. Keep your eyes open for it. Greg and Bonnye, we are bringing a bottle to enjoy with you in Bangkok.
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Hanging out with kangaroos--so cool! We liked your photo of the beach with the sign warning of cross-fit participant. By amazing coincidence, we had friends for dinner friday and they brought sparkling shiraz as a hostess gift--said it was the next new thing!
ReplyDeleteWe're cross-country skiing in Warberg's woods across the street today. Tomorrow will be a high of 16 degrees.
Love--mom and dad
How fun and such great photos! Addi is truly a trooper. Glad you got to snorkel and play. we'll look for the sparkling Shiraz. Pooh is thrilled with the Kangas, too. we'll look at the cows next.
ReplyDeletelots of love, Baba and Pooh