Our latest stay in Byron Bay came to an end today, but we weren’t going far, with a 20min drive down the coast to Lennox Heads before a further 15mins south to East Ballina.

Our first port of call was Lennox Heads, a place we’ve previously visited at the start of our road trip back in early January. It’s a counter balance to Byron, quieter and more serene with a fantastic sandy beach and nearby cafes with a friendly and relaxed vibe.

The beach was so inviting and beautiful, and being outside of holidays aside from a few locals, we had the whole beach to ourselves.

With most of the morning caught up in the sunshine reading on the beach, we had worked up an appetite and made our way to an expresso bar, two coffees and a white chocolate and raspberry muffin later we were back walking down the beach trying to work off the calories.

Michelle was keen for some beauty treatment and whilst she had her appointment, Andy sat around in the park and took in the wildlife and nature.

Mid-morning we made our way down to our latest apartment ‘Studio Birdsong’ in Ballina, a neo Scandi affair, with loads of space, a real find at just £60 for the night.

After dropping off our stuff, we made our way into the centre of Ballina and went for a coastal walk that took us along the Richmond River and up to Missingham Bridge Beach.

After an enjoyable saunter along the water front, we had worked up an appetite and stopped at the local RSL club for dinner. We indulged in a drink and soaked up the vista looking out over the river.

Dinner was a real treat with salmon for Michelle and a light chicken curry for Andy – almost like being on holiday!!

Before we started our meals, at 6pm we all stood and listened to the dawn chorus acknowledging those Australians who sacrificed their lives during the various conflicts.

Tomorrow we head back up the coast and inland for a couple of days away from the beach in Bangalow where we intend to get fully immersed in the hinterland and explore the rainforests and do some nature walks.