Melbourne to Mallacoota

  Yes, Virginia (and Cheri), there ARE kangaroos!  We finally saw then at Wilson's Promontory National Park (henceforth referred to as The Prom).
   But first, let's back up. We carefully planned our trip out of Melbourne for Cheri to avoid problems. We drove about 200 yards and encountered a DETOUR. We followed the detour, which led us into another detour. (Apparently they do their roadwork here on Saturday). So much for the plan. We left the central downtown and discovered that the quickest route from there was a very short toll road, for which we didn't have a pass - we'll be getting the bill from Hertz for that. Interestingly, you only encounter the toll road when you leave Melbourne, not when you enter it.
   Anyway, we finally got out and then toured the Mornington Peninsula, not too far south. We first visited a chocolate factory, then did a couple of mazes in a wonderful garden there, and finished with lunch on the seafront in Sorrento (no, not the Italian one). Then on to Phillip Island, where we quickly checked into our hotel and then rushed over to see the Penguin Parade. It was just like the photos. Although the penguins stay well clear of the crowd when they come ashore (in large and comical bunches), they proceeded to their burrows along the boardwalk, only a few feet away from us. At one point, the walk had to be cleared so they could cross in front of us. It was a rare opportunity (as it was for the other 800 people there).
   Yesterday we headed for The Prom, a pointed chunk of land sticking out into the ocean. We took several walks along the beaches, and then, determined to see animals, we stayed in the park until later. About 4:30 we saw our first kangaroo. We then moved to a wildlife walk area where we encountered our first (live) wombat - up close, as they don't appear to be concerned about people at all, and couldn't really get away if they wanted to - they're very fat and slow.
   We walked a few hundred yards into the bush. In the distance we saw what appeared to be a number of brown rocks, but, as a qualified geologist, I knew there were no brown rocks in the area. Shortly one of the 'rocks' raised its head - a kangaroo! Then another! There were probably about two dozen within a few hundred yards of us, along with 3 emus. At last, Cheri was satisfied! We had now seen the Australian collection: koalas, wallabies, wombats, kangaroos, and emus - and, oh yes, an echidna which we saw crossing the road that morning. We made it back to our hotel a few minutes after official sunset without hitting anything, so all was well.
   Today we had a long drive to Mallacoota on the southeastern corner of the continent, preparing for our dash to Sydney. We're staying at a lovely guest house overlooking the bay, with parrots and other colorful birds all around. There is the (unlikely) possibility that we might see a sea eagle here, or even the rare lyre  bird. If so, you'll soon know.
   Photos to follow when we have time!