We started the day with a trip to Maits Forest, which is a temperate rainforest. Although not particularly prevalent in mainland Australia, there are larger areas of these in Tasmania and New Zealand. Because of this, we were already very familiar with most of the bush growing there. New to us were the really tall Mountain Ash trees, which are the tallest flowering trees in the world. We also saw a black snail and listened to the cecadas - insects which make noise similar to rain hitting a conservatory roof.
Next we rejoined the Great Ocean Road, this time for the most notably scenic section. Twisting and winding our way along the coast, we enjoyed the stunning views. Our first stop was Apollo Bay, where we had a quick look at the rolling surf, and drank in the fresh (but pleasantly warm - fab weather) air. Further along the road was a small side street where koalas and king parrots were to be found. The parrots were vivid red and green, with the females having red heads, and the males green heads. I think Peter, with his red head, would leave them largely confused....
Lorne beach was our lunch stop, and after kangaroo-bolognese wraps, we headed straight for the crashing waves (yes I know, swimming straight after a meal etc etc but it was a small meal) and had a great time messing about in the water.
This was nearing the end of the Great Ocean Road for us. The road was built by ex-servicemen after WWI and was dedicated to those who had fallen, making it the longest war memorial in the world. A wooden arch marked the end of the road and had information about its construction, which took place at a very slow 3km per month.
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