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November 8-10, 2025 Marti Eicholz Embark on an extraordinary journey with the Odyssey, traveling from Darwin to Cairns. This four-day voyage at sea traverses the remote, untamed expanses of Arnhem Land and Cape York. Sailing on the Odyssey, Expect the Unexpected. As we leisurely spend a day at sea, anticipating our arrival in Cairns, Australia, our fellow residents treated us to an extraordinary Musical performance, a creative and spirited retelling of the life of Margaret Brown, famously known as "The Unsinkable Molly Brown," who heroically survived the Titanic disaster. This inspiring rags-to-riches story was brought to life in an entirely new way by my shipmates. What made the evening even more remarkable was the sheer dedication and talent displayed by the nearly 45 participants, most of whom are not professional actors, dancers, musicians, or stage crew. Despite limited resources and the challenges of staging a production on a moving ship, they delivered a memorable show filled with heart, humor, and ingenuity. Their teamwork and commitment truly deserve the highest praise. Cairns, our destination, is a vibrant city perched on the tropical northeast coast of Queensland, Australia. Nestled on a narrow coastal strip, it lies gracefully between the Great Dividing Range to the west and the sparkling Coral Sea to the east. The Great Barrier Reef further defines the city offshore and the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics Rainforest inland, creating a remarkable convergence of two globally significant ecosystems. Several rivers — the Barron, Mulgrave, and Russell — meander through the region, supporting a rich diversity of flora and fauna. With its tropical climate marked by consistently warm temperatures and high humidity, Cairns thrives as a lively community of approximately 169,312 residents. The historical tapestry of Cairns is both rich and storied. For over 40,000 years, the region was home to Aboriginal communities who developed deep connections with the land and sea. In the 19th century, Cairns emerged as a bustling gold mining port, later transforming into a vital transport hub for exporting sugar cane, tin, and timber. During World War II, the city played a significant strategic role as a major base for Allied forces, particularly during the pivotal Battle of the Coral Sea. In modern times, Cairns has blossomed into a global tourism hotspot, renowned for its close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. What truly sets Cairns apart is its status as the only place on earth where two World Heritage sites — the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest — are located side by side. This rare proximity creates an unparalleled haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Here, you can plunge into adrenaline-fueled activities such as bungy jumping, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving among vibrant coral reefs, or venture into the rainforest to discover hidden waterfalls and ancient plant life. Nature lovers will delight in the region’s unique wildlife, including the elusive cassowary, often dubbed the world’s most dangerous bird, and the impressive Hercules Moth, Australia’s largest moth. The ocean offers the rare thrill of swimming alongside dwarf minke whales in the Ribbon Reefs, while land explorers can tackle Queensland’s highest mountain, which rises to 5,285 feet just outside of Cairns. Not far away, the Undara lava tubes rank as the world’s longest lava tube system, and the majestic King Fern grows here, boasting fronds that span up to twenty-three feet. The Cairns region is also home to fascinating and quirky features. It hosts the world’s longest single-day mail run, covering an astonishing nine hundred miles in over nine hours. Beachgoers should be aware of the summer presence of venomous jellyfish such as the Irukandji and box jellyfish. However, safety is a priority: many beaches are protected by nets, and lifeguards are equipped with stinger kits. Adding to the area’s charm are its oversized roadside attractions, part of Australia’s celebrated tradition of “big things,” including Normanton’s “Big Croc,” a tribute to the largest crocodile ever recorded. The city’s history of innovation is marked by the construction of the first public tramway in 1896, which linked the port to agricultural lands, facilitating regional development. Cairns’ wartime legacy endures, as it served as a critical base for Allied operations during World War II, notably during the Battle of the Coral Sea, the world’s first naval engagement fought exclusively by aircraft. Beyond its natural wonders, Cairns boasts a dynamic cultural scene. The Tanks Arts Centre, a standout venue, is ingeniously housed within three converted World War II naval oil storage tanks set in the lush Cairns Botanic Gardens. With its industrial-gothic aesthetic, characterized by oil-stained poles and concrete walls, the center hosts a vibrant array of events, including live music performances, avant-garde theater, visual art exhibitions, and hands-on workshops. This creative hub is a testament to the city’s ability to repurpose its history for contemporary artistic expression. Art lovers will find inspiration at The Cairns Art Gallery, one of the region’s premier cultural institutions. The gallery showcases an impressive collection spanning historical and contemporary works, with a particular focus on the cultural heritage of Far North Queensland and its ties to the broader Asia-Pacific. The gallery also celebrates the vibrant traditions and creative achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, reflecting the area’s rich indigenous legacy. For a deeper understanding of the region’s past and present, the Cairns Museum offers engaging exhibitions centered on local history, including the development of the sugar cane industry, the construction of railways, the biodiversity of rainforests and reefs, and the multicultural influences shaping the community. With interactive displays and family-friendly activities, visitors of all ages can connect with the area’s fascinating story. Cairns is truly a playground for all ages, evoking the excitement of a kid in a candy store with its endless array of activities. Adventurers can choose from thrilling pursuits like scuba diving, skydiving, hot air ballooning, and white-water rafting. The city’s lively atmosphere is reflected in its bustling cafes, vibrant markets, and eclectic shops, making it a hub of energy and opportunity. The majesty of the Great Barrier Reef and the serenity of the Daintree Rainforest inspire awe and tranquility in equal measure. Whether you’re strolling along the scenic waterfront or unwinding at the Esplanade Lagoon, Cairns offers an invigorating blend of wonder, relaxation, and discovery. My fellow shipmates discovered an exceptional spot to unwind, a lively watering hole perfect for gathering together, sharing drinks, and toasting to our adventures. Set against the stunning backdrop of the waterfront, this venue offers breathtaking views that make ones visit memorable. The highlight of our experience was Hemingway’s Brewery, a renowned and iconic establishment located within the historic, heritage-listed Cruise Liner Terminal. Not only does it provide a welcoming atmosphere, but it also boasts an impressive variety of beers on tap, catering to every taste and preference. Hemingway’s Brewery is a beloved destination for those of us seeking a unique place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The essence of our Global Harmony group is to foster genuine connections with people in the communities we visit. During their time in Cairns, the group discovered a local Laughter Club, which led to a memorable gathering on Monday at Hemingway Wharf. Over lunch, they joined in a laughter activity that brought everyone together and created a joyful atmosphere. The experience highlighted the universal truth that laughter truly is one of the best remedies for stress and negativity. But is laughter really the best medicine? In many ways, it certainly comes close. Laughing not only increases our intake of oxygen-rich air, which stimulates the heart and lungs, but it also triggers the release of endorphins, enhancing our mood and sense of well-being. In addition, laughter has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce levels of epinephrine and glucose, and improve glucose tolerance. Even if it isn’t the absolute best medicine, laughter is undeniably one of the most powerful natural therapies available to us, uplifting both body and spirit. The Odyssey is ready to set sail, leaving the relaxed, laid-back, tropical vibe of Cairns as we experience the unique feel of humid air and smell of coconut palms. |
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