Hop, hop, hop. We were hoping to see a bunch of wild hippity hop kangaroos on this island. They were there, somewhere, hiding in the bush. Seems as though these roos are nocturnal and generally come out at dawn and dusk.
Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third largest island after Tasmania and Melville Island, and lies 70 miles southwest of Adelaide. Some 4,600 folks live here, most of them descendents from islanders who have farmed the land and fished the seas for generations. Wine, gourmet cheese, and honey are produced here. Kangaroo Island is a pristine wilderness that is home to many of Australia’s native animals. Here you will find koalas, penguins, wallabies, and New Zealand fur seals as well as many species of birds.
We happen to visit on race day. This event is spread over two days and attracts people from all across Australia. This is a BIG happening and the entire island is in party mode. We tendered into the port area that is being revitalized and were greeted by the locals. At the same time, the ferry from the mainland arrived and people streamed off the ship wearing racing day finery with dresses and hats. Those that drove on paid a steep price for the transport: something like $195 round trip for the 45 minute ride.
The locals provide a 45 minute bus tour of part of the island for free. Since we didn’t have a ship’s tour, we took advantage of this offer and got to see at least a small part of the island. We then went back to the ship in time for my acupuncture/massage appointment. I think these sessions are starting to help and give me some relief from the nagging pain in my knees.
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