Queensland

The Poem, Stop by Stop

1. 1Canberraflying north
   Winter in Canberra got you singing the blues?Flying north to Queensland was easy to choose,Boarded the first plane, had to travel in twos,A surgical mask, in Australia, we still had to use.
2. 2Reef View HotelHamilton Island
   Off to Hamilton Island to meet Karolina and Josh.On the 17th floor of the Reef View is really quite posh.With sealegs behind us, we began a brand-new dayComplimentary breakfast could fill much more than a tray“More ping pong” was most prominently what Jack would sayAnd the rain meant more Uno and War did we play.
3. 3Reefworld, Great Barrier ReefHardy Reef
   Then onto a boat cruise to slip and to sloshStaring into a vomit bag…oh my gosh!We saw a Hawksbill turtle and a whole heap of fish.The girls to underwater viewing whenever they wish.Chocolate and pink lamingtons served freely on your dishAnd the boat endlessly rocking--a swish swish swish swish.
4. 4The Pool TerraceHamilton Island
   Hair braids and tattoos are the weather back-up planThe same Poolside Terrace menu merited a quick scan.The kids eat free limited the hotel tab that we ranAnd all kids with teeth said to pasta, “I’m a fan!”
5. 5Cooinda GardensHamilton Island
   Then homeless on Hamilton stuck in the cold rainSpring rolls again for Addy; she ate them plain.Our buggy tried the hill the sixth time, but it was in vainKarolina slid off the back and her left knee was in pain.Dancing by the pool with many, many twirlsPizza box turns to plate, as each one unfurlsBlue shuttle time, with daddy and his girlsFlying foxes at sunset with swoops and with swirls
6. 6Catseye BeachHamilton Island
   Finally sunshine for a beach day at lastWe looked to the future, didn’t dwell on the pastPaddleboards went quick so had to grab them fastSandcastles and snorkeling, all ages had a blast.Less successful next day at the beachTried to keep kids safe, but unfortunately had a breachCC backflipped off the table, hopefully a lesson it did teachDon’t sit up high and keep your toddler within reach.The good news is we had some cocktails by the poolPina Coladas and mango mocktails, but not a Moscow Mule.Shuffling through shallow water—don’t be a foolRays in the surf and fish swimming by the school.Up early, grab some chairs closer to the waterReserved with towels and a bucket, but little other fodderWith the oldest son, middle and youngest daughterThen pastries, with an early start, the menu slightly broader.Time at the beach with paddleboards and with ballsFinally had a day without any painful fallsMostly free but took a few work callsThen dinner at Tako where they opened up the walls.
7. 7A round of mini-golfHamilton Island
   What to do without the pool for the last few hours?No more orange hibiscus bling or rocking out with flowers.Checked out of the holiday home, now without any showers.A round of mini-golf to test out the kids’ powers.
8. 8Hamilton Island AirportHamilton Island
   Now off to the airport with our treasures and clothes in towIf we went six across we’d take up a whole row.The kids have headphones on, don’t interrupt their flowAll the way to Brissy, fortunately, that airplane did go.
9. 9BrisbaneMarriott, Queen Street
   An airplane, an airtrain, pulling baggage up a hillTired kids, bedtime will always test your willHave some sushi in the hotel room—please don’t spill.Watch Encanto from your beds, to have some time to chill.CC’s bday, cream filled donuts for a startShe’s content with two small presents for her partPool and hot tub—kids are happy, off the chart!Out to eat, COVID ordering, at the table in your cart.A gourmet breakfast, didn’t venture outsidePancakes, eggs, fresh juice on the sideA morning of meetings, but pool time turned the tideHop on the glider board, we’re off for a ride.Having pasta and pizza, in more Queensland rainEven more aeroplane pasta to-go, but just keep it plain.Too much time in the hotel room would make us insaneSo mummy braves the cold pool, with four kids in train.One last day for coffee and a snackAnd into the hot tub for CC to put foam on my backUp to the room for a final, all-in packGoodbye to Brissy, we’ll see you down the track.