31.01.2023 from The Prom to Phillip Island, Cowes

In the evening, new campers arrived, with a toddler and others with lively children, which doesn't bother us, but they wake up early. So we have time to go on a wildlife observation hike in the early morning, a 2.5 km walk promises emus and various species of kangaroos. It may be too bright for wombats, as they are more active at night. And as soon as we enter the area, we see an emu mother with her 5 young emus peacefully feeding by the side of the road. A few steps further, the NP administration explains to the interested observer through a sign how and why kangaroos are observed here. Many animals wear colored ear tags and collars. And just like that, we encounter the first large gray giant kangaroos on our way, their ear tags shimmering like earrings. They look at us, hop away only if we come too close, and eat and look and eat again. Finally, Father Emu presents himself, he also shows no signs of escaping, just doesn't want to make eye contact.

We are satisfied and continue to Phillip Island. We actually wanted to go to French Island, but we can only camp there and not park with the camper. So we choose a somewhat secluded campsite and stay. Our next trip takes us to Nobby Point, a tip of the island where small penguins come to the shore every evening to rest after a successful hunt. The penguins can only be seen in the evening for a fee. Well, today the penguins had bad luck, we go eat. But before that, we observe the waves as they hit the rocks with full force, turning the water into blue-white liquid and creating a great spectacle. Silver gulls screech for prey and the management warns not to leave the paths, not because one could fall, no, there are poisonous snakes here, without an antidote in case of emergency, and apparently there is no better way to keep visitors on the paths.

Tonight we're going out to eat, I'm having a seafood platter and Frank is having a hearty steak. Thank you very much for all the birthday wishes.