Far North Queensland Honeymoonniversary Adventure, Part I: The Signs

A little more than a year ago, we got married. It was fun. We moved to Australia right after, and didn't get a chance for a proper honeymoon. So, for our first anniversary, we took a trip to Far North Queensland (FNQ) - the tropical northeast corner of the continent. Being winter here (where being in the south means it's colder and the north warmer), we were told it's the perfect place to go in June.

We took oodles of pictures, which means we'll have to do a few posts. As a teaser, we begin with our favorite signs (which give hints of some things you'll see in future posts). For our families: despite what you'll see below, we made it back fine. Thanks.

Here are ten signs, moving from the most dangerous to the least:

#10

The box jellyfish that breed off the coast of FNQ are, we hear, the most poisonous creature in the sea. Plus, the waters they like are also frequented by the most dangerous lizard in the sea (or on the continent, for that matter): the saltwater crocodile. Wikipedia says that in Australia, attacks by crocodiles are "somewhat rare." There were signs like this on most beaches we saw. Fortunately, it wasn't stinger or croc season.

#9

This is sort of the same as the previous one, without the crocs. But the most poisonous creature should get two signs. Vinegar supposedly helps with stings, so there were bottles of vinegar stashed here and there. Some clearly hadn't been replaced in a while.

#8

This was a placed called 'The Boulders.' There was also a plaque on the ground by the entrance commemorating someone who 'came for a swim, and stayed forever.' We did not venture onto the rocks. But a nice old man we saw did, and seemed to make it back alive. 

#7

Yes, there are neurotoxin-laden trees in FNQ. Naomi wouldn't let Colin touch them, despite his curiosity.

#6

Cassowaries are a large, endangered bird. But they're also a threat to humans (though not on the same scale). They have very sharp claws, and apparently know how to aim them. Yikes. Stay tuned for a peek of one...

#5

Terrifying. We went no further: this was the end of the paved part of the continent's eastern coastal road.


#4

As far as we know, banana diseases aren't directly dangerous to humans. But we're not sure.

#3

What kind of creature is that? One that's primarily dangerous because it is so cute that crowds of people will stop in the middle of the road to take it's picture. Did we get a picture? You'll just have to keep reading our blog...

#2

???

#1

There were several of these around Cape Tribulation, the first place we stayed on our trip. Despite the ominous name, as this sign suggests, the people of Cape Trib were very nice. We had a lovely time.

More to come...