On the Gold Coast, we are staying at an Airbnb in Mermaid Waters. The home is a restored original 1960s beach cottage. The Knight family lived here about 50 years ago in this quiet little beachside town where Brumbies once roamed wild in the adjacent paddock. Dana’s last name is Knight, so there might be a distant connection, you just never now.

(Photo courtesy of Joey and Iovanah, our Airbnb hosts)

Our accommodation is at the back of the main house, in what used to be the horse barn. I love discovering the history of the places we choose to stay. Our hosts, Joey and Iovanah, have been incredibly hospitable and friendly. We’ve had many cheerful chats with them. It’s lovely to stay in places like this where you feel warmly welcomed and treated as part of the family.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Since it was Saturday morning, we decided to visit the nearby Burleigh Outdoor Markets. The market buzzed with the chatter of people and the lively tunes of street musicians, creating a cheerful and inviting atmosphere.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

We were able to feel a sense of connection to the local culture as we browsed through the diverse offerings. It was a chance to immerse ourselves in the vibrant life of Burleigh Heads. We watched as the locals carried out armfuls of farmers’ harvests, a colourful selection of fruits, vegetables, and flowers that highlighted the region’s agricultural bounty.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

After our market stroll, we took off our sandals and stepped onto the warm sand of Burleigh Beach. The sand was soft and inviting under our feet, radiating the sun’s gentle heat.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

As we walked along the shoreline, the rhythmic sound of waves crashing added a soothing backdrop to our leisurely pace.

(Dana Knight photography)

The ocean breeze carried the salty scent of the sea, mingling with the fresh air and making each breath invigorating.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

The clear blue water glistened in the sunlight, and we could see surfers riding the waves in the distance. It was a perfect moment of relaxation and connection with nature.

(Dana Knight photography)

Once again, Dana reveled in the simple joy of her leisurely walk along the sun-kissed shore. The waves are like music to her ears, soothing her soul and enveloping her in a sense of calm. For Dana, the beach is her happy place.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Burleigh Beach on this Saturday morning brought us both joy, marking a delightful beginning to our stay on the Gold Coast.

(Dana Knight photography)

We enjoyed our lunch at the Burleigh Espresso Cafe, observing the waves and the people: some taking a dip in the ocean, others lounging on the sand. Nearby, children were busy building a sandcastle. It was a cheerful scene, with everyone leisurely savouring the moment. This epitomised the Australian way of embracing a Saturday.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

The melody of yesterday’s Mullumbimby tune, “Take the Weather with You,” resonated in my mind. The cheerful ambiance created by the locals of Burleigh Heads had a contagious effect on us, and soon, we found ourselves feeling relaxed and smiling, mirroring the demeanour of the passersby.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Being at the Gold Coast, thoughts of my husband Peter inevitably flood my mind. He was once a local here, and if it weren’t for marrying me, he might still be. To me, Gold Coast will always be Peter’s Gold Coast. Our numerous visits here together in the past make every corner remind me of him. So today, we let Peter be our guide, phone chats with him offered helpful hints along the way about what to see and where to go.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

With Peter leading the way, it was only natural that our next stop would be Broadbeach, considering it was one of the places he once called home.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

The streets hummed with activity, a symphony of laughter, chatter, and the occasional snippet of music drifting from nearby cafes and shops. Couples strolled hand in hand, families bustled by with children in tow, and locals went about their daily routines with an easy familiarity that spoke of belonging.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Every destination we explore, we prefer to leisurely stroll through its streets, observing the locals and absorbing the atmosphere. It’s remarkable how distinct each place can feel.

Dana has a talent for capturing extraordinary images of buildings, and this one is a beauty!

(Dana Knight photography)

Once more, the beach beckoned to us, even as the day lingered on.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Nestled between high-rise buildings and vibrant city life, Broadbeach beach emerged as a sanctuary of serenity amidst urban life. The golden sands stretched for miles, glistening under the gentle caress of the sun. But it wasn’t just the pristine shoreline that set this beach apart; it was the atmosphere of cosmopolitan charm that infused every grain of sand.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

The seaside palette danced with hues of tan, blue, and white, painting a canvas of natural beauty. The golden sands stretched along the shore, bathed in the warm glow of the sun, while the waves gently kissed the coastline, their frothy crests reflecting the endless expanse of the sky above. It was a symphony of colours, each shade harmonising with the next to create a picturesque scene that whispered of tranquility and wonder.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

It has been a joy to share the wonders of the Gold Coast with Dana. She has been an exceptional travel companion, eager to embrace new experiences, marveling at nature, and expressive in her appreciation.

As we have explored the vibrant villages and scenic beaches during this road trip together, Dana’s enthusiasm and curiosity has added an extra layer of joy to our adventures. Whether we were sampling local delicacies at bustling markets or soaking in the breathtaking views from towering cliffs, her infectious spirit has infused each moment with a sense of wonder and excitement.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

We haven’t dedicated much time to shopping centres during our road trip, as nature has been the primary allure. However, this afternoon, Dana felt the urge to shop, so I decided to indulge her and take her to Pacific Fair Shopping Centre for some retail therapy.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

A couple of hours passed in the blink of an eye, marking the progression of the afternoon.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Our next destination was Surfers Paradise and its Beachfront Markets, known for its casual open-air setup with numerous stalls.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

As the late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over Surfers Paradise, we found ourselves strolling through the bustling Beachfront Markets. The salty sea breeze mingled with the aroma of street food, creating an atmosphere of lively excitement. The sound of live music filled the air, adding to the vibrant energy of the scene.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

It was a memorable late afternoon spent indulging in the sights, sounds, and flavours of Surfers Paradise, a true celebration of the coastal lifestyle.

However, the most memorable moment of the visit occurred when I noticed a group of people gathered together, their attention focused on a particular spot in the sea. Curious, I made my way over to join them. As I approached, someone excitedly informed me that there were whales in the distance close to the shore.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Peering out across the water, I strained my eyes to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures. Suddenly, I saw it—a disturbance in the water followed by a burst of spray as a whale breached the surface, its massive body soaring gracefully into the air before crashing back down with a resounding splash.

Again and again, I watched in awe as the whales swam, sometimes breaching, other times spouting plumes of mist from their blowholes. Their presence in the vast expanse of the ocean was a humbling reminder of the beauty and magnificence of nature.

Dana and I were equally thrilled to witness this spectacle, but despite our efforts, our cameras struggled to capture the moment adequately. Ultimately, we resigned ourselves to simply storing the experience in our memories.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

To top our Gold Coast day, tonight we ventured to the Australian Outback Spectacular, eager for an unforgettable experience. As we arrived, the excitement in the air was palpable. The Outback Spectacular promised an evening filled with thrilling performances, showcasing the beauty and spirit of the Australian outback.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Inside the venue, we were greeted by the warm glow of the lights and the sound of lively music.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

The atmosphere was electric as we took our seats, anticipation building for the show to begin.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

As the performance unfolded before us, we were transported into the heart of the outback, mesmerised by the skillful horsemanship, dazzling special effects, and captivating storytelling. From daring stunts to heartwarming moments, each scene left us in awe of the performers’ talent and the rich heritage of the Australian bush.

(Dana Knight photography)

Throughout the evening, we cheered, laughed, and applauded, fully immersed in the immersive experience, while enjoying a delicious three course dinner. It was a night to remember, a celebration of the Australian spirit.

Towards the end of the show, a moving scene unfolded before our eyes: horsemen carrying Australian flags rode proudly into the arena, while the iconic song “I Still Call Australia Home” filled the air.

(Dana Knight photography)

The song “I Still Call Australia Home” holds a profound impact on Australians, resonating deeply with their sense of identity and belonging. With its stirring melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song evokes a strong emotional response, often stirring feelings of nostalgia and pride.

For many Australians, “I Still Call Australia Home” serves as an anthem of connection to their homeland, regardless of where they may be in the world. Whether living overseas or traveling afar, hearing the familiar strains of the song can evoke a sense of longing for the vast landscapes, the laid-back lifestyle, and the unique cultural heritage of Australia.

(Photo taken by Jaana)

Moreover, the song embodies the enduring spirit of resilience and mateship that defines the Australian character. It celebrates the country’s rich diversity and multiculturalism, emphasising the bonds that unite Australians across different backgrounds and experiences.

(Dana Knight photography)

In times of celebration or reflection, “I Still Call Australia Home” serves as a soul-stirring reminder of the values and traditions that Australians hold dear. It encapsulates the deep-rooted connection that individuals feel towards their homeland, making it a cherished and beloved anthem for generations to come.

And tonight, it stirred my spirit and my soul.

Our day at the Gold Coast was a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.