Morning came the 31st Day

 With some dread. We planned a big walk but hoped it wasn't the searing heat of yesterday. Wearing my fabulous long sleeved Kathmandu shirt we set off into a day tempered by a slight breeze which made a big difference. Although locals report  that at this time of year the winds are often unpleasant.

Our destination was  a heritage walk to Whitlock and Babbage islands. En route we passed one of Fr Hawes 29 buildings. Our Lady Star of the Sea church

To access the islands we used the old tramway

A great array of botany which made for a leisurely walk.

The main focus for us was to follow the story of Indigenous incarceration at the turn of the century, history that needs to be told. And in this case graphically  demonstrated again by the Smith duo.

A young Indigenous girl, pointing to the islands, hands over her eyes...

 

The sad saga is worth Googling. Not a story we hear of in the east. Look for Dorre and Bernier Islands incarcerations. A great museum featuring HMAS Sydney location, early industry and the lock Islands. And of course, a lighthouse. 

Of course, also the famous one mile pier, now closed. We thought due to the cyclone but seems not. The most recent floods, as is always the case, brings silt down the river from the inland Gasgoyne.  This turns the sea red. The dumps further weakened the aged piers and part collapsed. A view from the land-

Had a pool swim on our return and set off for Mass. Surprise! The population here is very diverse- Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, Spanish,Vietnamese. All have brought and maintained their religious traditions..including Fatima celebrations.  This was the night for singing, procession and community feasting. Sadly they currently have no permanent priest so it was the visiting Bishop officiating,which was great- he just went with the flow. 

After a walk around the block, led in singing by the Italian Matriach, we ended at tables laden with fresh produce( for the taking), and wonderful food. One couldn't leave! We were welcomed by a younger couple with two adorable kids, Tomas and Fion. Their mother is Welsh, Dad is Oz but they lived 15 years in UK. Both are teachers. Plenty to talk about. All in all an unexpectedly pleasant evening.

So ended the 30th day..with the cutting of the cake. Here is the bishop. Countries represented- Wales, USA, Italy, maybe Phillipines or Vietnam. 

Our lovely hosts who have invited us for coffee