Friday, March 8, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Uluru or Ayers Rock, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
We are at Uluru, or Ayres Rock, Australia.
DARWIN, AUSTRALIA
A NEW-FOUND PARADISE FOR SALTIES
With an estimated population of between 100 and 200,000 individuals in the Northern Territory, the saltwater crocodile, or Crocodylus Porosus, is a species that has come a long way. Decimated for decades, the saltwater crocodile came close to joining the long list of extinct species: by the 1970s, it had become 98% extinct in Australia.
If today, its population – equivalent to or greater than that of the Northern Territory, according to estimates – seems to be in good health, the situation is the result of a long process of protection first, then population management – both saurian and human – and lastly, and above all, raising awareness among the local population. For the local people, the Saltie was first and foremost an animal whose leather could make you rich, but it was also a relentless killer, capable of stalking for hours on end and wiping out livestock, domestic animals and humans with a single blow from its impressive jaws. With a size that can exceed 6 metres and a weight of one ton (20 feet for 2200 pounds), the animal is a true survivor from the age of the dinosaurs, with the difference that today it is the largest living saurian.
Once the ban on killing the Saltie had been put in place, it was necessary to step up campaigns aimed at the population, for whom the increase in crocodile numbers also meant a proportional increase in the risk of being eaten while fishing, swimming or trying to refresh themselves in a billabong (see Crocodile Dundee for reference). This prospect was not a happy one, so the population had to be educated and made to understand that a live crocodile could be more valuable alive than in a handbag, but that precautions also had to be taken. Safety poster campaigns were run and signs along the rivers were put up, while reptile transfers out of populated areas were organised. You can’t teach a crocodile that you don’t eat people or livestock, but you can keep it away from areas where it is likely to come across them…
At the same time, to compensate for the loss of income, authorised harvesting of wild eggs has been introduced and landowners, many of whom are Aborigines, are paid by the breeding farms for the 70,000 eggs that can be collected each year from the wild alongside 1,400 crocodiles. The skins produced here are among the highest quality in the world, and Hermes and Vuitton source them from the Northern Territory. A whole economy has been created around the Saltie, the tourism it generates and the breeding farms. Activities that bring in over A$100 million a year to the Northern Territory and provide work for a large number of local people. So much the better for the saurians, but tourists beware: always assume there’s a crocodile in the water, whatever happens.
WWII TUNNELS
Near the waterfront are some original WWII Oil Storage Tunnels. Darwin has a well-known history of its involvement in WWII and a large part of the city was bombed during raids by the Japanese. The old oil tunnels are still the original tunnels they built for WWII and were supposed to be used to store fuel. You can escape from the heat of the day by walking through the WWII oil-storage tunnels and explore the exhibit of wartime photos.
SIGHTS
- Darwin Military Museum
- RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility
- Crocodylus Park
- Stokes Hill Wharf
- Aquascene Fish Feeding Sanctuary & Cafe
We continued our two-day excursion to Uluru or Ayers Rock, Australia.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Mango · Pineapple · Rice · Bell Pepper · Cucumber · Celery . Tomato . Raisin . iMayonnaise .Curry Powder
Chicken Bits · Chicken Stock · Sweet Corn · Cream
Scallops · Lemon Butter Sauce · Oven-roasted Fennel · Grated Lime Zest · Roasted Red Onion Mash Potatoes
Rosemary · Thyme · Red Onion · Bell Peppers · Roasted Potato · Courgette · Olive Oil · Eggs · Mustard · Breadcrumb
Roulade Meringue ·Passion Fruit · Kiwi · Pastry Cream · Mango Coulis · Crème Anglasie
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Thursday, March 7, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Darwin, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
In Darwin, Australia.
DARWIN, AUSTRALIA
AN ADVENTURER’S PARADISE WITH TROPICAL OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE
Australia’s capital of the north is a uniquely tropical city and a historically isolated outpost of this vast, diverse country.
Reaching up towards the equator, an entire 2,000 miles from Sydney and Melbourne, the city was named in honor of
Charles Darwin was established by British settlers who established a frontier outpost there. Colorful Darwin is an enchanting and exotic Australian destination with a unique history, beautiful islands nearby, and a palette of sizzling Pacific flavors.
Crocodiles patrol the jungled waterways and tropical rainforests around Australia’s gateway to the Top End. Explore via
airboat to look down on the veiny waterways of the mist-laced Kakadu National Park. The sounds of chattering birdlife
and the gentle splash of fountains and waterfalls will fill your ears in George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. Soak it
all in before kicking back and relaxing with a picnic and a crackling barbecue.
The sunshine and famous tropical pink sunsets mean many visitors naturally gravitate to the city’s soft sands to relax
at spots like pretty Mindil Beach as evening approaches. The adjoining market is filled with souvenirs and crafts stands
and is the perfect place to enjoy fiery Asian flavors. Stroll the stalls, grab food, and crack open an ice-frosted beer as the sunset show begins.
It may be remote, but Darwin found itself on the front line during the Pacific War as the Japanese air force unloaded
their bombs on the city in 1942.
DARWIN CITY LAGOON
It is located on the waterfront next to the wave pool and is a great place to relax, work on your tan, and picnic.
Swimming in Darwin (primarily because of the crocs and jellyfish) can be dangerous, so the lagoon is the only place in the city where swimming is safe. It’s a small bay with a net surrounding it to prevent jellyfish and crocodiles from entering the area.
The Darwin Lagoon is open all year round and patrolled by lifeguards daily. It also has a new Mobi-mat for wheelchair users.
SIGHTS
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
- Crocosaurus Cove
- Mindil Beach
- Darwin Wave Lagoon
- Darwin Aviation Museum
- Nightcliff Jetty
- George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
Today’s Overnight Excursion – Right at the heart of Australia is Uluru, a solitary mountain with desert stretching out away from it as far as the eye can see. The spiritual center for the indigenous population, we’ll be treated to a special cultural and dinner event, along with one of the starriest night skies in the world.
We had a special dinner prepared by Australian renowned chef Mark Olive and were entertained by an indigenous dance group.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Wednesday, March 6, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Darwin, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Caires to Darwin on the north coast of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean.
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Discover Silversea Expedition – Galapagos voyages with Future Cruise Manager Gui.
- Venetian Society Representative and Future Cruise Manager, Gui gave an inspirational and educational talk about the incredible Living Museum.
- Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Geoffrey Gray: “Darwin and the Top End”
- The city was twice destroyed, now with the regions rich resources it has a bright future. The Top end of Australia is one of the last great wilderness areas, with considerable resources and an important strategic defense role. How best to develop while preserving the environment and rich Indigenous culture.
- Dinner Special Feature: Secrets of the Sea
- Showtime! The Magic of Zlwin Chew
Discover Silversea Expedition – Galapagos voyages with Future Cruise Manager Gui.
- Venetian Society Representative and Future Cruise Manager, Gui gave an inspirational and educational talk about the incredible Living Museum.
Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Geoffrey Gray: “Darwin and the Top End”
- The city was twice destroyed, now with the regions rich resources it has a bright future. The Top end of Australia is one of the last great wilderness areas, with considerable resources and an important strategic defense role. How best to develop while preserving the environment and rich Indigenous culture.
Tonight’s Dinner was at The Restaurant.
TONIGHT’S SHOW – THE MAGIC OF ZLWIN CHEW
“When you want something, the whole universe conspires to help you achieve your dream.”
This quote hung close to a young Zlwin Chew’s heart, starting in the magic world 15 years ago.
With a deck of cards and a head full of dreams, Zlwin started his career working at the top clubs in his country, Malaysia.
His shows are often sought after by luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel, and he travels worldwide from Istanbul to Paris, London to Amsterdam, Oman to the Maldives, and all across Asia and Australia.
Zlwin’s shows are often called “Something so entirely different from what others are doing.” Rightly so, he believes in using his time on stage to share a message of hope and light in a struggling world. He fuses magic acts with thought-provoking messages and inspiring poems, performing a unique kind of magic that entertains
the eyes and moves the heart.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Tuesday, March 5, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Darwin, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Cairns to Darwin on the north coast of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean.
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Destination Lecture with Michael DiSpezio: Darwin and the Diversity of Life
- Learn about Darwin the city, and Darwin the man. What makes Charles Darwin so unique and why is “natural selection” critical to biologists?
- Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Geoffrey Gray: The USA/Australia Alliance
- Australia is the only country that has been with the USA in every major conflict since the end of WWII. The increased threat from China is bringing the two countries even closer together with the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal to supply Australia with submarines starting next decade.
- Dinner Special Feature: Secrets of the Sea
- Showtime! “Boogie Fever” on the Pool Deck
Destination Lecture with Michael DiSpezio:
Darwin and the Diversity of Life
Learn about Darwin the city, and Darwin the man. What makes Charles Darwin unique, and why is “natural selection” critical to biologists?
Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Geoffrey Gray: The USA/Australia Alliance
Australia is the only country that has been with the USA in every major conflict since the end of WWII. The increased threat from China is bringing the two countries even closer together with the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal to supply Australia with submarines starting next decade.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
TONIGHT’S SHOW & POOL DECK ENTERTAINMENT
BOOGIE FEVER & DANCE PARTY
Join us on the Pool Deck for an entertaining evening!
Get on your boogie shoes and feel the heat in your feet as you join our Silversea Singers and Dancers for some disco fever and explosive dance moves, bound to get your toes tapping and heads bobbing.
Enjoy cocktails and an incredible dance party under the stars with your favorite dance hits by DJ Gabor.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Monday, March 4, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Day at Sea En Route to Darwin, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Cairns to be a Darwin, Australia in the South Pacific Ocean.
BOAT BUILDING COMPETITION
PREPARE TO GET CREATIVE AND GET CRAFTING
A renowned and highly anticipated World Cruise tradition is our annual boat boat-building
a ‘Sea-Worthy’ boat. The boats must undergo specific trials and challenges to be crowned the Silver Shadow champion. You are invited to work alone or in teams.
The boat will be tested on overall creativity of design and presentation, ability to float un-assisted in the pool, and the amount of weight it can hold (the weights used will be 12oz. cans, so the ship needs to be designed to store those types of weights).
You may use any materials you can find around the ship to construct your boat, provided that you will not cause damage to any property of the Silver Shadow. We also want you to ‘create’ your ship, so no using of large materials such as life-jackets, trash cans, etc, and the total length of the ship can be no longer than 40 inches.
A table with materials available for you to use in your ship’s construction. These materials will only be available at the times listed in the Chronicles, so plan accordingly. Be as creative as you want in your presentation and design, and most importantly, HAVE FUN!
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Destination Lecture with Michael DiSpezio: Coral Reefs: A Deeper Dive
- Continue our journey with a deeper dive into the secrets of this incredible underwater world. Gain a richer understanding of fascinating creatures with and without backbones.
- Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Geoffrey Gray
- Both Captains Cook and Bligh ended up on the Great Barrier Reef; both made it off and continued their great navigation careers. The Endeavour was shipwrecked, and Bligh and his eighteen men landed on the reef. They mapped the reef and learned more about the new land and the immense size of the reef.
- Anniversary Reception for the Dominy’s and the Clink’s in the Observation Lounge.
- Dinner Special Feature: Flavors of Australia
- Showtime! “Dance on Fire”
- Inspired by the world-famous show “Burn the Floor”. Mya Boyd, Francesca Rimoldi, Luke Upton, and Lelo Twala, together with our dancers and musicians.
Destination Lecture with Michael DiSpezio:
Coral Reefs: A Deeper Dive
Continue our journey with a deeper dive into the secrets of this incredible underwater world. Gain a richer understanding of fascinating creatures with and without backbones.
Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Geoffrey Gray
Both Captains Cook and Bligh ended up on the Great Barrier Reef; both made it off and continued their great navigation careers. The Endeavour was shipwrecked, and Bligh and his eighteen men landed on the reef. They mapped the reef and learned more about the new land and the immense size of the reef.
We had a reception this evening with Brian and Diane Clink, celebrating our 40th and 52nd wedding anniversaries.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
TONIGHT’S SHOW – DANCE ON FIRE
“Dance on Fire” is inspired by the world-famous show “Burn the Floor”.
The concept and the show have seen unbelievable success as a new, modern, and innovative way to present and perform ballroom dance styles.
Mya Boyd, Francesca Rimoldi, Luke Upton, and Lelo Twala tonight, with our dancers
and musicians provided an entertaining evening!
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Sunday, March 3, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Cairns, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
In Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, on the northeast coast of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean.
RUSTY’S MARKETS
If you thought the landscape colors up here were bright and bold, wait until you see the region’s local produce at Rusty’s Markets.
Rusty’s has been operating from its Grafton St location for over 30 years, packing over 180 stalls into one city block with everything from sarongs to Vietnamese coffee, fruit, and veggies to crocodile-leather bracelets—the perfect place to find a unique souvenir or indulge in the delicious local cuisine.
SIGHTS
- Cairns Museum
- Cairns Art Gallery
- Josephine Falls
- Palm Cove
- Samurai Gallery Australia
TONIGHT’S SHOW – THE MAGIC OF ZLWIN CHEW
“When you want something, the whole universe conspires to help you achieve your dream.” This quote hung close to a young Zlwin Chew’s heart, starting in the magic world 15 years ago.
With a deck of cards and a head full of dreams, Zlwin started his career working at the top clubs in his country, Malaysia. Luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel often seek his shows. He travels worldwide from Istanbul to Paris, London to Amsterdam, Oman to the Maldives, and all across Asia and Australia.
Zlwin’s shows are often called “Something so entirely different from what others are doing.” Rightly so because he believes in using his time on stage to share a message of hope and light in a struggling world, he fuses magic acts with thought-provoking messages and inspiring poems, performing a unique kind of magic that entertains the eyes and moves the heart.
Sunday Family Dinner in La Terrazza
This Sunday, we took a culinary journey to bustling Great Britain! Traditional English delights and superb musical entertainment.
Did you know?
Yorkshire pudding dates back to the 1700s, when it was described as “Dripping Pudding” in The Whole Duty of a Woman. Cooks in the 18th century roasted meat on a spit over the flames in the kitchen fireplace, where it dripped as it cooked. The puddings were carefully placed beneath to catch and be flavored by those drippings.
Bon Appétit!
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Saturday, March 2, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Cairns, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
In Cairnes on the northeast coast of Australia at the center of the Great Barrier Reef in the South Pacific Ocean
CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA
HOME TO THE ICONIC GREAT BARRIER REEF
Warmly welcoming you to the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a treasure trove of rich tropical
beauty and incredible sea life. Swathes of rainforest spread out to the north, where you can soar over the canopy
in a cable car before looking down over narrow channels of water plummeting down gorges and crocodile-filled
waterways. The diverse lands of the Atherton Tableland lie to the west, but it’s the crystal-clear waters – and life-filled
reefs – of Cairns’ remarkable underwater world that draws universal adulation. Priding itself as the Gateway to the
Great Barrier Reef, explore Cairns’ constellation of color as you dive into the world’s largest and most spectacular
underwater universe.
Cairns is huddled in amongst abundant swathes of rainforests, giving way to glorious golden beach crescents.
Kuranda – with its scenic railway and heritage market stalls – waits to be discovered, cloaked within the depths of the
rainforest. Learn of the indigenous people of North Queensland during cultural performances, and hear the throaty
reverberations of digeridoos as you listen to eternal stories handed down through time, from generation to generation.
Back in Cairns, there’s always time for a coffee, a beer, or a feast of fresh oysters with glasses of Cairns’ white wines
– boldly flavored with mango and banana notes.
BARRON GORGE NATIONAL PARK
Experience a world-heritage rainforest, the spectacular Barron Falls, and the diverse wildlife in Barron Gorge National Park. Located in the Wet Tropics of Queensland’s World Heritage Area north of Cairns, the park is part of the traditional lands of the Djabugandji Bama (local Aboriginal people), who maintain a close spiritual connection with this country.
Before Europeans arrived, Bama traversed this country, developing trails linking the coast to the uplands. These historic trails now form sections of a walking track network.
SIGHTS
- Cairns Aquarium
- Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
- Cairns Botanic Gardens
- The Australian Armour & Artillery Museum
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Today’s Excursion – Aboriginal Rainforest Journey
Explore the Aboriginal culture amidst the pristine natural beauty of the Rainforestation Nature Park during this captivating sightseeing excursion.
Kuranda Range, Rainforest, Rainforestation Nature Park, Army Duck-Ride, Wildlife
We departed the pier for the scenic drive from Cairns, the heart of tropical north Queensland and home of nature, culture, and wildlife, up the Karanda range and through the rainforest. Upon arrival at the spectacular Rainforestation Nature Park, we boarded an authentic Army Duck, a heavy-duty, amphibious truck utilized during World War II, for a picturesque ride through the verdant rainforest.
Aboriginal Culture, Dancing & Musical Activities, Kangaroos, Koalas, Cassowaries
Next, we enjoyed a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the Aboriginal culture in the tropical rainforest first-hand through dancing and musical activities. Australia’s abundant wildlife is also on display during your time in the park. We watched adorable kangaroos hopping at our feet and looked for other Aussie favorites, including koalas and cassowaries.
TONIGHT’S LOCAL SHOW – THE STORY OF TWO BROTHERS
A performance of ancient and contemporary stories from ancient Song Lines.
Songline custodian David Mundraby, Elder of the Mandingalbay Yidinji clan
from Far North Queensland, is a Teacher’s Aide at the Yarrabah State School and holder of the song line of his clan. The songline stretches from the North of Queensland down to the land of the Mandingalbay Yidinji, which lies between
Yarrabah and Cairns.
A central story for Mandingalbay Yidinji people is the story of two brothers, Damari and Guyala. Before the white man arrived, two brothers, Damari and Guyala, made their way down the east coast of Australia. They came seeking shelter and food after a long journey from the North and made a stopover near the land of the Mandingalbay Yidinji tribe of the Cairns area.
The story of betrayal, lies, and loyalty is told in the language, dance, and song of the Mandingalbay Yidinji.
Check out today’s Chronicle
Friday, March 1, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Airlie Beach (Whitsunday), Australia
Where in the World Are We?
On Airlie Beach (Whitsunday) in northeast Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
AIRLIE BEACH, AUSTRALIA
THE GATEWAY TO THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS AND THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
With the finest powder sand, knots of deep green rainforest, and ankle-deep shelves of turquoise sea water – Airlie
Beach is your gateway to some of the world’s most spectacular beaches.
This lively town welcomes wide-eyed young adventurers and the yachting crowd alike to the Whitsunday Islands
serenity, the hiss of espresso machines, and the excited chatter of adventure spill out from its many cafes and bars.
Relax at Airlie Beach Lagoon – the social hub of this town – where sun-heated saltwater invites you to wade before
flaming fresh coral trout over a barbecue as the sun sets.
Or, sit at one of the glorious restaurants offering uninterrupted views out over the waters of Pioneer Bay
towards the 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays. These heavenly waters don’t just attract humans.
Humpback and pilot whales also migrate here to indulge in the warm waters and sheltered locations. Spot the majestic
creatures breaching and gulping in vast gasps of oxygen as you explore. Feeling adventurous? Rainforest walks to
secluded pebble beaches await at Conway National Park, where difficulty-graded walking trails are available.
Dive among swirls of jewel-colored marine life, or experience the thrill of skimming into the sky on a seaplane.
Take off to admire the scattered island paradises below from a stunning new aerial perspective before landing and
enjoying a picnic amid Whitehaven Beach’s bliss.
AIRLIE BEACH LAGOON
Situated in the center of Airlie Beach, right at the oceanfront, this famous man-made lagoon is surrounded by grassy sunbathing spots, playgrounds, and BBQ areas. If you want to spend a relaxing day with no admission fee, this is the place to “cool off” during hot summer days—a favorite hangout spot for locals and visitors alike.
It is built on a raised breakwater, giving an excellent view out to the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands while providing an environment completely safe from stingers and marine wildlife all year round. The Lagoon is open to the public every day, and lifeguards patrol it.
SIGHTS
- Coral Sea Marina
- Boathaven Beach
- Whitehaven Beach
- Betty’s Beach
- Hydeaway Bay
- North Whitehaven Tree
- Northerlies Beach
Today’s Excursion – Escape to Whitehaven Beach
We experienced the scenic natural splendor of the Whitsundays during this relaxing excursion to Whitehaven Beach via catamaran.
Airlie Beach, Catamaran Cruise, Whitehaven Beach
We departed the pier aboard a catamaran for the scenic cruise to Whitehaven Beach. En route, we learned about the history and natural wonders of the area. Upon arrival, we spent approximately two hours on this beautiful, pristine island.
Swimming, Sunbathing, Beachcombing, Hill Inlet Lookout
We relaxed, unwound, soaked up the tropical sun, swam in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoyed spectacular views from the Hill Inlet Lookout. We took a barefoot stroll along the shore of this idyllic, golden beach; since the sand is 98% silica, it does not retain heat. We boarded the catamaran for a cruise back to the pier following our visit.
Dinner tonight was in The Restaurant.
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH PETER COUSEN
SONGS FROM THE MUSICALS AND MORE
Peter Cousens is an award-winning actor, singer, producer, director, and teacher/trainer of actors, singers, and singer-songwriters.
He has worked for most of the major theatre and opera companies in Australia, starring in many plays and musicals including Les Misérables, Aspects of Love, West Side Story, Miss Saigon, Show Boat, Fiddler on the Roof, Chicago, Sweeney Todd, The Convicts Opera (UK Tour), The Hatpin, Company, The Mikado, Macbeth, Hamlet, Measure for Measure, Nicholas Nickleby and as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera in London’s West End.
Peter has recorded five solo albums and sings the role of Chris on the International Symphonic Recording of Miss Saigon.
As Artistic Director of the Nation Musical Theatre Company, Kookaburra Peter produced the musicals Company, Little Women, Tell Me On a Sunday, Pippin, Songs for a New World, and a range of cabaret and concerts. He directed the major international feature film Freedom in the USA, starring Cuba Gooding Jnr. and William Sadler.
Peter is currently the Artistic Director of the Talent Development Project, facilitating the development of emerging artists’ creative imagination and guiding them toward professional careers in music and performance. Peter also teaches at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. He holds a Master of Arts (Creative Writing) CQU and a Bachelor of Drama (Acting). NIDA is currently studying for a Juris Doctor at Canberra University. Peter is a Patron of Freedom Hub, an Artistic Ambassador for Central Queensland University, and an Australia Day Ambassador.
In 2019, Peter was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to theatre and the community.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Thursday, February 29, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Day at Sea En Route to Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Islands, AUS
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing northwest from K’Gari to Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with John Stainton: Crikey What An Adventure
- Cabaret Showtime! Silversea proudly presents Mya Boyd’s “Country Queens”
- Dinner Special Feature: Secrets of the Sea
Enrichment Lecture with John Stainton: Crikey What An Adventure
After riding the wave of fame & international popularity, The Crocodile Hunter enterprise hit an all-time low after two consecutive disasters
Cabaret Showtime! Mya Boyd’s “Country Queens”
Mya performed her favorite country songs by various female artists such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Shania Twain, and more.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant
Check out today’s Chronicle
Wednesday, February 28, 2024 – Photo of the Day
Where in the World Are We?
In K’Gari (formerly Fraser Island) on the northeast coast of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
K’GARI, AUSTRALIA
K’GARI – MEANING PARADISE IN THE NATIVE ABORIGINAL LANGUAGE
K’Gari (formerly Fraser Island) is a World Heritage site listed for the diversity and beauty it holds. Despite being a sand island, Fraser has over 100 lakes and the landscape changes constantly as dunes are moved across the island by wind. With over 350 bird species recorded, K’Gari is also part of an ‘Important Bird Area’ and on the ‘Australian National Heritage’ list.
The island can be explored by 4WD coach and kayak. In addition to the natural history, there is a rich Butchulla Aboriginal culture here. The island’s most spectacular lake, Lake McKenzie is well suited for a cooling swim, and at the historic central station in the heart of the island, it is possible to walk along the banks of the Wanggoolba Creek and become immersed in the peacefulness of the rainforest.
LAKE MCKENZIE (BOORANGOORA)
Lake McKenzie (Boorangoora) is a perched lake on K’Gari or Fraser Island in the Great Sandy National Park. The awe-inspiring beauty of Lake McKenzie makes it probably the most visited natural site on the island.
It’s a ‘perched’ lake, which means it contains only rainwater, no groundwater, and it is not fed by streams nor does it flow to the ocean. Lake McKenzie’s incredibly pure waters are ideal for swimming and the soft, white sand makes it an incredibly peaceful experience – and works wonders on the skin. The lake offers great hikers camping facilities, toilets, and cold showers.
SIGHTS
- S.S. Maheno
- Champagne Pools
- Lake Wabby
- Waddy Point
- Eli Creek
- Seventy-Five Mile Beach
- South Ngkala Rocks
Today’s Excursion – Bush Tucker & Medicine Walk with a Ranger
Since creation, the Butchulla people have lived by three principles: what is good for the land must come first, do not take or touch anything that does not belong to you, and if you have plenty you must share. This walking tour helped us learn more about the history and culture of these indigenous ingredients, reconnect with nature, and discover the food secrets that surround us on Fraser Island.
Bush Tucker Walk with a Ranger
We joined an experienced Ranger on a guided walk through the native wallum to see, touch, and taste the ingredients used by the local Butchulla people for the past 5,000 years, growing within the natural environment followed by a presentation by the resort chef.
Food Demonstration by a Local Chef
We explored the tastes of Australia and experience the delights of its native bush tucker ingredients. We nibbled on native berries bursting with flavor, and relished in the refreshing citrus of lemon myrtle, and learned how these ingredients can be utilized in cooking. With an endless list of native ingredients on our doorstep, the Chef presented a selection in their natural, and raw state, detailing their origin, and pairing them with freshly cooked kangaroo, crocodile and emu. With many of the ingredients grown on Fraser Island, the Chef demonstrateed how to use them, presented the cooked dishes for us to taste, and shared some recipe secrets.
Pre-Dinner Showtime! Violinist “Ian Cooper”
A high-energy performance of Classical, Gypsy, Country & Irish music
Ian Cooper began learning the violin from his mother at the age of four. His first live television appearance was at age 5 where he performed “The Two Grenadiers” by Schumann on Channel 7 Australia. He made his Sydney Opera House debut at age 6 and wowed audiences as a child star in the U.S.A., Canada, and Britain, Europe and Japan for NHK TV. At age 12 he performed with the Vienna Boys Choir in their hometown.
Ian was awarded a scholarship to the New South Wales Conservatorium of Music at age eight and continued his training there for the next ten years. He was commissioned to compose and perform the “Tin Symphony” for the opening ceremony of the 2000 Summer Olympic Games in Sydney, and has appeared with artists as diverse as James Morrison,
George Benson, John Farnham, Barry White, Andrea Bocelli, Neil Sedaka, and Olivia Newton-John.
Among his many live performance accolades, Ian was honored with a platinum ARIA Award – the Australian equivalent of the Grammys. He is also a qualified pilot, composes soundtracks for Discovery Channel and is a keen yachtsman in his spare time.
Tonight’s Dinner was at The Pool Grill
Check out today’s Chronicle