Fireworks

In September each year,  huge crowds gather along the banks of the Brisbane River for Riverfire; a 20 minute synchronised fireworks spectacular.  

Riverfire is the annual conclusion to the Brisbane Festival, which is one of Australia's leading international arts festivals. 

Further information about Riverfire can be found here.

 

 

 

Ekka

The 'Ekka" is Queensland's largest annual event.  Everyone in Queensland knows about the "Ekka".  There is even a public holiday for "Ekka".

I received the strangest looks when we arrived in Queensland and I asked: "What is Ekka?"

It was originally called the Brisbane Exhibition, which was shortened to Ekka, and the name has remained.  Ekka is the Royal Brisbane Show, which commenced in 1876.  Ekka has been held each year, except in 1919 (Spanish Flu Epidemic) and 1942 (Show Grounds in use for World War II).  Unfortunately, it was announced today that Ekka shall also be closed again in 2020 due to the Coronavirus.

You can find out more about Ekka here

There are always crowds at the Ekka

I always loved the clowns as a child

There is always something happening in the main arena

Always a lot of produce on show

Fairy floss and Hotdogs are a must at the show

Cupie dolls take me back to childhood shows

Sideshow alley is always popular

Ribbons and Animals aplenty

Rides for all ages

Cheap Prizes

Fireworks each night

Dreamworld

In 2016, four people died in dreadful circumstances at Dreamworld, when a water pump failed.

The Thunder River Rapids Ride was my favourite ride, but has since been rightfully closed forever.

The tragedy is terrible and very sad.  The reputation and attendance at Dreamworld, the largest (and my favourite) theme park in Australia has been severely impacted.

For those who live in Queensland the locals annual pass is the best value as you receive unlimited entry to Dreamworld, WhiteWater World and the SkyPoint Observation Deck.

We have visited Dreamworld several times in the past three years, since the accident, and found it to be very enjoyable with safety a priority.  However, we noticed that there were less people visiting as the queues were a lot less than they were before the accident.

The theme parks are closed at the moment due to the coronavirus, but hopefully, they can re-open in future.  At which time, I urge you to visit Dreamworld, if on the Gold Coast, as it is fun for all the family.

I haven't been on the giant drop, but the Tower of Terror on the side was one of my favourite rides!

Good on a hot day as you always get wet!

There are many rides for all age groups

Always a popular ride too

This one is pretty tame!

The Claw gets the adrenalin rushing. as it is 9 stories high and swings 360 degrees

There is an entire section of annuals, including the tiger experience.

There are rides of the littlies too

I missed taking photos of the Buzz Saw,  which would be the scariest ride (roller coaster) at Dreamworld, in my opinion.  Quite fitting as I had my eyes closed while riding it too!

Cedar Creek Falls X 2

Cedar Creek Falls

Queensland has a large number of wonderful waterfalls within an easy drive from Brisbane.  There are two Cedar Creek Falls, one north of Brisbane, near Samford Valley and the other south of Brisbane on Tamborine Mountain.

Both are lovely outings.

The Cedar Creek Falls, near Samford, is below Mt Glorious, which is an apt name for such a beautiful location.   We always take a picnic and a thermos on our outings.  There are several places along the creek for picnics. 

The falls are an easy 15 minute walk along the creek

The water is crystal clear with several rock pools along the walk

Reflections add to the tranquility

There are several small waterfalls along the creek

Cedar Creek Falls (North of Brisbane)

The other Cedar Creek Falls, on Mount Tamborine, is more popular.  It took us several visits until we were able to get a carpark and complete the walk down to the falls, which could be called cascades, as there are several levels of falls.

Brisbane

The Brisbane sign at Southbank. 
Southbank offers cuisine from many different nationalities and is the home to many events and festivals during the year.

Brisbane from Kangaroo Point

Beautiful Brisbane!

This country girl has quickly fallen in love with Brisbane.  We originally moved to Brisbane with a 5-year plan.....but may stay for good!

You have heard of the tree-change or the sea-change, but we have had a city-change!  Having spent my entire life in the country and regional towns,  I wanted to experience city living.  Melbourne and Sydney were too big and intimidating so we decided on Brisbane........and have not looked back!

Brisbane has everything that we need (and more) but within a short 30-minute drive,  we can feel like we are in the country, with national parks, lakes, beaches and mountains within a short day trip.

The photos below show just a few of my favourite things to do in Brisbane:

Take the Ferry for a trip along the Brisbane River.  The ferries run day or night.  The City Hopper is free.  Get off at every stop along the river and you shall easily fill the day.

Take a ghost tour through the city and hear some interesting stories and history.  There are several different tours available.

Enjoy the view from the Brisbane Wheel, both at night and during the day

The River Walk is always very enjoyable.  Our little dog likes it too.

Enjoy the under bridge art while walking around the city.  There are many murals in Brisbane.

In October, the jacaranda trees are in bloom and the heritage walk and Brisbane River are even more enjoyable

The Story Bridge changes colour to commemorate different events

The Story Bridge Climb is very enjoyable at any time.  They now have a lean out trust challenge too, for those who want an adrenalin rush!

A walk through the city reveals many heritage buildings alongside newer buildings.

Shopping at Brisbane Arcade