We had a relaxing time at the Tuross Beach Caravan Park and we were kept busy socialising with family in the area.
Our campsite was bordered by NZ Christmas Bushes in full bloom, so we had plenty of birds keeping us amused as they fought over the nectar filled flowers.
From the beach at Tuross Head we ventured a few kilometres inland to Nelligen, about 10km from Bateman's Bay at the confluence of Nelligen Creek and the Clyde River at the base of the Clyde Mountain. Over the years we have often travelled through Nelligen, on the King's Highway from Canberra to the coast, but we've never stopped there or explored the area. The only "downer" was the lack of phone or internet coverage - something we expect in rural areas, but usually have in towns, even if it's slow and unreliable. Here there's nothing even though we are only 10km from a busy town. Nevertheless, we had a fantastic time. The Big 4 Caravan Park we stayed in, just out of town, was excellent and was very good value. We chose a large drive through site looking over Nelligen Creek - away from the playground and bouncing pillows!
Nelligen town is on the Clyde River, a tidal river popular with fishermen. They weren't having much luck while we were there although some flathead and bream were caught.
There are some lovely drives in the area, through the state forests towards the coast. We drove from Nelligen to Runnyford where we crossed the river before making our way towards Mogo, well known for its zoo and heritage buildings. The river is home to many black swans.
A few days later we drove north along the River Road to Shallow Crossing. This road joins the Princes Highway near the Bawley Point turn off. As we drove we had some lovely views of the Clyde river. We forded the river at Shallow Crossing.
Our last night at Nelligen we had heavy rain. The caravan park ducks were all out in the morning swimming and paddling in the large puddles around the park.
Now we are further inland house-sitting at Lake Bathurst. This small town is about 30km from Goulburn on the Goulburn-Braidwood Road. Another small place we have often travelled through. In fact we often stopped at The Tea House and Lavender Farm for lunch or coffee. Unfortunately this lovely establishment is now closed and is up for sale.
We're looking forward to exploring the area at our leisure.
In the meantime we have magnificent views and we are making friends with the 3 dogs, 6 chooks, 3 ducks, 2 alpacas (a first for us) and a ferret (another first).