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Weather
The Australian sun is
particularly harsh, especially on young children’s skin. A hat, sunscreen and a t-shirt are recommended for all
outdoor activities. Be especially careful when swimming because you won’t
notice yourself burning and sunscreen washes off in the water. It’s a
good idea to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours. See the ‘what to
bring’ page for more info.
The wet
season can be a real dampener on your trip if you’re
not prepared for it. April to October is the best time to come
to avoid both the hottest part of the year and the wettest. It
can rain anytime of year though so be prepared that this might
happen during your stay and pack accordingly. Fortunately there
are plenty of great rainy day activities to
chose from.
The cyclone
season is from December to March, some years no cyclones
cross the coast at all, if one is predicted while you are here
you can check the regular updates on the radio, local television
stations or the internet (www.bom.gov.au). Most accommodation
hosts will have a cyclone safety plan in place and will be able
to advise you on the best course of action to take.
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Dangerous
creatures
The estuarine
crocodile is one of the world’s largest
reptiles and is found in saltwater and freshwater rivers
and creeks of northern Australia. There will be ‘no
swimming’ signs
where crocodiles are known to inhabit but it's best to
stay out of all mangrove lined creeks, rivers and estuaries. Cassowaries rarely
attack but its best to view them at a distance in the wild,
do not feed them, or get too close as they can become aggressive.
Stonefish look
just like a rock but are poisonous and can cause serious
injury. Watch your step and wear shoes when walking in
shallow water or rock pools.
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Coral scratches
can be painful and become infected if not treated properly,
be cautious when swimming near coral.
The
box jellyfish is found in the tropical
waters of Far North Queensland from November to May, it
is highly
venomous and can be fatal. If you are stung by a box jellyfish,
vinegar is the best treatment, while waiting for medical
attention. To avoid being stung most beaches
have ‘stinger nets’ installed during the season.
You can buy a ‘stinger suit’,
at around $50, and they will also protect the children
from the sun. Stingers can be found at the islands
and the reef too. Stingrays are
highly venomous and a sting can be fatal, watch out for
them while snorkelling on the reef or at the islands.
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Australia
is home to a number of venomous snakes and spiders.
You’re
not likely to come across any at all but it is important
to be aware of them in case you do. If you
are bitten by a snake or spider it
is best to stay still until help arrives, running or walking
will spread the venom faster, call 000 and ask for an ambulance.
Most Australian snake and spider bites can be treated successfully
if you
get to
the
hospital in time. Stay to the track when bush walking and
avoid rolling over rocks and dead logs.
Sandflies and mosquitoes are
annoying but easy to avoid. Personal insect repellent is
available in spray or roll-on from all supermarkets and
chemists for about $5.00. They usually arrive at dusk so
as long as you close all your screens in the late afternoon
(double check the doors and windows), and cover up with
long sleeved clothing when out doors in the evening they
shouldn’t be a problem. Fitted mozzie nets for prams
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Plants
The stinging
tree is found along the edges of rainforest trails,
it has a heart shaped leaf and is best left alone. If you
are stung, seek medical attention and do not put water
on the affected area. The Wait-a-while or
lawyer vine has sharp spines along its tendrils which can
catch on your clothing, causing you to ‘wait-a-while’ Watch
out for them hanging down as you walk through the rainforest.
Don’t
eat any fruit and berries you
find in the rainforest unless advised to do so by a guide,
even then it's not advisable to give any to children.
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