Phillip Island VIC

So here we are on Phillip Island, land of the famous penguin parade. As we drove around we discovered that the island is a lot bigger than we thought. Found the place that John had contacted the day before named Woodbyne Resort. They have a spot out the back as long as your van is fully self contained you can park your rig for $20.00 a night, no power or water. Set up camp in the rain and headed off to book our ticket for the penguins, we went for the cheaper option of general viewing at $26.20 per person.
It was suggested that we go to Nobbies as it is known and walked along the board walks, which are right next to the nesting boxes and burrows that the penguins use. We enjoyed the views of Seal Rocks and the blowhole, after we enjoyed a hot cup of coffee out of the wind.
First thing you are told by the rangers is no flash or non flash photos can be taken of the Little Penguins with either a camera or phone, something to do with light that is emitted when you do. Sorry guys no pictures of the little fellers doing there thing.
We braved the constant rain to watch our little web footed friends come in for the night. It was freezing and we were there watching and waiting for over 2 hours as little groups slowly came to shore, you really have to be patient, but it is worth it
It's about 8pm and it is show time. They are so cute, one comes out to make sure it is safe for the others to also come out of the surf, then as a small group they all go running up the sand hills to their burrows. The males and females take it in turn to either look after the chicks or go out and hunt for food to bring back to feed the young ones, quite the social critters.
On the Wednesday we did some coastal walks along the beach and cliffs along the lower half of the island as usual the scenery was a knockout.
We also went to the Vietnam War Museum. You don't realize how much our troops went through until you visit this museum. First thing to draw your attention is the Ballot Barrel they used to draw the dates to chose who was conscripted for the war. All males were over the age of 20 were asked to fill out a conscription form, some refused but most did fill in the form as they thought it was their duty to serve. Their stories are told through news paper articles, books and a very moving 3D holographic story. This museum is totally run by volunteers who also work on planes, tanks, helicopters, weapons and other machinery to bring them back to full working order.
If you ever get the chance to go to Phillip Island do not miss this museum, the little bit I have written about does not do it justice.



























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