Particular highlights: the starfish in the touching tank were a beautiful blue; you could put your head right inside the tank of Nemos and Dorys, in a glass bubble (I tried it out, slightly uncomfortably, and it was amazing getting that close up); and it had a tank of giant barramundi (which I have been enjoying eating, so was pleased to see what they looked like). Apart from that, lots of the usual: coral and tropical fish; an invisible octopus; a walk-through shark tunnel; a lovely seal area; and a good jellyfish area (we designed our own jellyfish and aced the jellyfish quiz - we know too much now, after the stinger fear from up north). As usual, Jemima cried when we left - I think she could happily stay there all day. But we were hungry, so we ambled to the Esplanade.
Lunch was outside among lots of plants - they have designed it all so well. Then a wander further along for a coffee and ice cream; then a bit further so I could visit the Seafolly shop (my favourite swimwear, an Australian brand), which was very exciting, for me anyway. Then back the other way to the playground - you could happily potter about here forever, and you could see people who seemed to be doing just that. But the beach was calling, so we went back to the motorhome for the suncream ritual (we've done it enough now for Jemima not to moan the whole way through, thank goodness); and she and I went off, leaving Kevin to some peace in the van.
We had a wonderful time. I'd remembered Jemima's goggles today, and she got even more enthusiastic about the sea. I held her as she dived through big waves as they crashed towards us (she'd seen Kevin and I doing it, and wanted a go); she practiced bracing herself against the breaking waves, turning her back, bending her legs (and clenching her fists with the effort). And then she learned how to bodysurf the smaller ones, launching herself into the foam with only her ponytail hairband showing above the water (I kept a VERY close eye on it). She occasionally drank seawater, and was covered in sand, but kept going, loving it. Then back onto dry land for some hopscotch, stone finding, and jumping games. Eventually, sandy but happy, we went home, showered and out for dinner.
My takeaway sushi last night had been from a restaurant where the food came round, not on a conveyor belt, but on flat carriages pulled around a track by a little electric train. I thought this might be a winner for Jemima; and it was - definite food entertainment, and quick and easy after a busy day. Then back to the motorhome to bed, with more Mooloolaba beach fun planned for tomorrow.
Finding Nemo:
Fun on the Esplanade:
The "Loo with a View", another great public facility (toilets, showers and changing rooms underneath; a shaded seating area on top):
The little sushi train:
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