Townsville

A new day with all the promise of a brighter end than yesterday, or so we thought.  We were supposed to be relocating to Rowes Bay Caravan Park, right near the city, the strand and the only park on the water which happens to overlook Magnetic Island.  It was the first park we attempted to get into two days ago. To recap, the lady on reception needed a good lesson in customer service and rudely declared that they don't take bookings. Walk in's only and she pretty much pushed me out the door.  So you can imagine my surprise when Ricky boy told me he had secured a booking for both us and our Port Hedland friends for the next three nights, starting tonight.  So we eagerly got up early this morning and headed to the markets for a quick whip around before moving to paradise. The markets were fair, not so big, but they had a lovely charm. We treated the kids to some fab cupcakes from a black New Yorker.  She was "dark" with very white teeth and boy did she smile.  She was gorgeous and a long way from home to be flogging cup cakes.  We picked up some home made crostoli and melting moments from "Maria", an Italian mumma from Ayr who had clearly been busy baking. Some vegies and a coffee later, we headed back to the caravan park to pack and get organised.  And so began the disaster.  Upon arrival we discovered there was no booking, and we had paid a deposit and booked elsewhere.  Where?  We weren't sure.  So we searched through Rick's phone and found the number with the kids screaming and near killing each other in the background. Stressful. We soon realised which park it was and headed off, very disappointed and gee that sea beamed at us as we sadly turned away.  On to the caravan park behind McDonalds, Sizzler and KFC which they proudly boasted in their advertising.  We paid, drove in and parked in the last site that happened to back onto the road that led into all three car parks.  Ah I don't think so.  So after consultation, we left but not before backing the caravan out of the park.  Arghh.  Where to next?  We called and booked into another Big 4, this time 15km north of Townsville, but a local riding past stopped and told us the area was dodgy.  So we went back to Rowes Bay to see if they suddenly had some availability.  Again, no luck and we were over it.  We "discussed" it further and decided it was best to go with the devil you know than the one you don't, so we're back at the original Big 4.  And they welcomed us with a smile. They certainly have the best customer service we've had second to Bundaberg (also a Big 4).  So here we are, camped behind the truck stop.  Rick's gone to Bunnings.  I've put a DVD on for the kids and we are hanging out.  I couldn't do another day of sun (dare I say that with all the rain down south) and am happy to stay put, although Rick will try Rowes Bay again tomorrow.  Hopefully the day will end better, as we are heading out for dinner. Stay tuned til tomorrow.