The love affair with WA continues

WA is still proving to be brilliant. Although we realised the other day, as we sat in the information centre staring up at a giant map of the state, just how huge it is and wondered if it could all be as great as it has been so far.

View from King's Park

We've had a few lovely days in Perth doing city things: going to the rugby to watch the Western Force get smashed by the Hurricanes (Dylan was disappointed as he bought a Force hat but noted that it was probably good for the Brumbies); touring the Perth Mint (all about gold and fascinating); spending a day in King's Park (spectacular); visiting the Aquarium (fun).

The only down in all of that was a sporting injury sustained by Lukas. Well, I say sporting but really it was a viewing injury. We were seated behind the goal posts at the rugby and as the Force were doing their practice kicks, one came sailing right towards us. Lukas put his hand up to stop it hitting him in the face and it hit his wrist and bent it back. All I can say is that those guys kick hard! We spent the first 10 minutes of the game at the first aid station applying ice and bandages. It was nicely swollen and they think sprained. Despite managing to fall on it another two times in the last couple of days it seems to be getting better so we've still managed to avoid any trips to doctors or hospitals as part of our chaotic adventure and that (touch wood) is an achievement in and of itself!

Salmon Gum at Wave Rock

A short side trip saw us head East for a couple of days to visit Wave Rock. The drive through the wheat belt and salmon gum forests was lovely and Wave Rock itself was simply stunning. We all agreed that it was a highlight of the trip so far, and definitely worth deviating inland for.

Evie, Max (and baby!) at Wave Rock

Lukas showing just how huge Wave Rock is

A less-visited site just north of Wave Rock provided an equally amazing wonder - Mulka's Cave.

A short walk through a small opening in an overhanging rock reveals a cave filled with ancient aboriginal art, mostly in the form of hand stencils.

The sense of sacredness was strong and there was a definite grounding in the spiritual presence of the space.

A portion of the rabbit-proof fence provided an educational stop along the highway, although I have to say that my fascination was probably not equally shared by the kids who, correctly, observed a broken fence with a lot of rabbit poo on both sides!

York, just 100km from Perth, is a really impressive old town that provided us with a delicious lunch on the way back East and some beautiful buildings to stroll around.














So we're now back on the coast and will start the journey north shortly. Will this be as amazing as the southern regions? Only time will tell!