We reached Riverside Holiday Park in Iluka after a 5-hour drive, typically a 3-hour journey from Redlands (Our Home) in normal traffic conditions. Accompanied by family reconnecting with friends from Lismore, we were glad to finally arrive at 6:00 p.m.
Our caravan site turned out to be smaller than we had anticipated, requiring a second attempt to position our caravan accurately. It was at this moment that Chris, an arrival from Gloucester, NSW, stepped in. Leveraging his wealth of truck driving experience, he provided invaluable guidance and insightful advice during the manoeuvre. This unexpected encounter was the start of many more pleasant interactions with the locals during our stay.
The next day, we explored Iluka, a fishing haven on the Clarence River. It was named after an Aboriginal term meaning ‘close to water’.
While biking to Iluka Beach along the waterfront pathway, we paused to explore the history of the rock walk and wharf, detailed on plaques along the path. Later, we ventured to the break wall at the Clarence River entrance, observing dolphins feeding and relishing the scenic view.
On the way back, we encountered a local in his restored 1948 Ford F Truck, proudly claiming it as the inaugural model; his blue cattle dog accompanied him. Despite the age of his truck, it had undergone modifications to accommodate a tinny on the roof and the ability to tow a 16ft caravan.
On Saturday, we reunited with family and friends, briefly driving to Woody Point National Park. We took a beach stroll and explored the camping grounds—a beautiful location near the beach with abundant friendly kangaroos.
Iluka, with its yachts gracefully anchored near the shore and the sky ablaze with breathtaking sunsets, left an indelible impression on us.
