In April, we started our retirement with a stop in Port Macquarie on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. The weather again could not have been better. The resort, nicely positioned at Flynns Beach, enabled us to enjoy swimming. Fishing rods are available, along with board riding, walking, and e-bike riding. I loved how you had the beach trolley at your fingertips to cart your gear to and from the beach each day. The ‘coastal walking trail’ takes you through gorgeous scenery and is not that difficult to do, walking along the beach at times, then through the rainforest. Port Macquarie has terrific shopping, and if you enjoy doing the rounds of the charity and antique shops, there is an impressive selection. The Koala Hospital is worth the time to visit; it is very informative and gives you the opportunity to appreciate one of our cuddliest, most lovable native animals. The wine-tasting opportunities are too irresistible not to partake in, so we picked up a few bottles that we enjoyed on our road trip.

Heading south through breathtaking coastal roads, we arrived at Phillip Island in southern Victoria. What a great location—a real nature reserve of rugged beauty and diversity. Activities here ranged from the push pedal carts, e-bikes, a gym, pools (both heated and not), and breathtaking walks in the national parks. One must take every opportunity to experience nature at its best, so one night we patiently watched in anticipation for the little penguins. We weren't disappointed: they arrived on time, waddling up the beach. Their little cries could be heard as they searched for their mates tucked away in their burrows. 

Backtracking a little, we drove to Dinner Plain next, a hidden treasure found in the Victorian Alps surrounded by bushland with majestic ghost gums, babbling brooks, waterfalls, and wildflowers. The cold, crisp air was invigorating, and our days were spent walking the many trails surrounding the resort. We came across many breathtaking vistas, and the trails varied in difficulty. The central administration building had a magnificent fireplace, and we had a great time making damper there and a brilliant game of trivia with the locals. A novelty was the frisbee golf and scavenger hunt. There was also a toboggan and ski slope on the property, and we vowed to come back when there was snow.

Three months later, we drove to Airlie Beach, a sun-kissed resort situated in the Whitsundays. It's a brilliant opportunity to break the winter blues. The resort is built on a hillside, so each unit has an incredible view of the port and the coastline. The poolside offered both a heated spa and a refreshing infinity pool. Bikes were available, as well as a shuttle three times a day to take you to the centre of town and back again. However, a comfortable walk to the city centre is another option. Day excursions to the Great Barrier Reef were available, and the concierge offered us excellent discounts. A boardwalk provided a scenic view of the coastline and was an enjoyable, easy walk. The gastronomic choices at both the resort and Airlie Beach restaurants were scrumptious, and the seafood choices were unbelievable. Truly, this is paradise at its best.