This morning Andy was up early, as usual, with a run around the hills and woodland of Pullenvale. It’s been 5yrs since we were last here and whilst it’s a similar time of year, the weather is both wetter and cooler but there’s still no escaping the humidity.

After this energetic start, we then had a chance to engage with the local wildlife after breakfast, feeding the wallabies that congregate in Paul & Naomi’s back garden.

After an enjoyable and healthy breakfast courtesy of Naomi and her homemade Bircher, along with Paul’s excellent sourdough and Vegemite toast, we jumped into the car and headed for the South Bank in central Brisbane for a boat ride and then walk to the West End.

The boat trip along the Brisbane River was only a couple of stops and cost a mere 50 cents each, part of a new travel deal to encourage people away from their cars and on to public transport. It definitely gets our vote and makes so much sense. This is part of a longer term commitment in advance of Brisbane’s hosting the Olympic Games in 2032.

After getting the boat to the South Bank we then started our 5k walk to the West End, which we had planned to be a leisurely wander in the sunshine taking in the scenery.

Unfortunately this wasn’t how it played out, as no sooner had we started the journey then the rain started and turned ever tropical! Despite stopping a couple of times under shelters, hoping for it to pass, the rain only got heavier and we had no option but to embrace it and get wet.

Michelle had had the foresight to bring her waterproof jacket and Paul & Naomi both had umbrellas, however Andy was less organised and looked like he’d been for a swim. After a trip to Woolworths to get a towel and then wringing out clothes in the public toilets, Andy was able to rejoin the group and make lunch, albeit still a little damp.

We had a wonderful lunch at a Yamas Greek and thankfully the weather improved in the interim and we were able to continue our walk and on to Sky Deck, a new development in the CBD offer great views over the city skyline.

By the time we reached the 32nd floor on the Skyline the sun was back out and we’d waved goodbye to the torrential downpours pre lunch.

Our walk back along the South Bank was in glorious sunshine and was in complete contrast to earlier in the day.

Brisbane looked so much more appealing after the rain had passed and we intend to return later to explore further.

The city along the waterfront is a vibrant place and is adorned with colourful street art across the motorway bridges.

After an very enjoyable afternoon we returned to Pullenvale and had a late dinner before planning tomorrow and a visit to Manly and a walk along the seafront before dinning at Manly Marina, all hopefully in more glorious sunshine as the weather improves.