Day 138 / 2015 - Gold Coast to Beerwah & the Aussie Zoo

We were going to stay at Helensvale a few more days but they put the price up from $37.00 to $57.00 per night because of a boat show being held over the weekend. We decided it was time to leave.

Heading north along the M1 we passed through the interchange at 8 mile plains then onto the Gateway Motorway. We drove over the Gateway bridge which incurs a toll charge. It was at this point we were starting to think it was time to Aquire an electronic toll token to try to simplify tolls and not have to worry about remembering to log onto the website to pay tolls.

The next attraction we wanted to see was the Irwins Australia Zoo. The closest low cost camp was the Beerwah Showgrounds which is only a few kilometres away from the Australian Zoo. Arriving at Beerwah we could see the Showgrounds but finding the entrance was a little confusing eventually found it. Checking in we setup on a nice level concrete slab for only $20.00 a night with power and water it was good value.

Close by is the Glasshouse mountains so we took the winding road up to the lookout. There was a great view of the mountains and out towards the distant ocean. From here we drove to the hinterland town of Malaney for a look. Next day we spend the whole day at Australia Zoo. There are lots of attractions to look at and Steve Irwins life size image is predominant through out the park. We really enjoyed the lunchtime show which showed off the skills of predetor birds as well as the handling skills of the keepers who look after the big crocs. There are many attractions such as Bindi's island and the Savanah enclosure. You can also do a tour through the animal hospital which is located next to but outside the park grounds