A dream in the making

Eight months from now, a long-time dream will come true. Disembarking from Qantas business class, I'll find myself in Australia, Sydney to be precise. Thanks to Intel's lovely sabbatical program, I can spend three full weeks down under exploring the cultures and wildlife. About a week of this time will be spent on the Great Barrier Reef, with other stops also offering aquatic adventures.

My ability to take this trip is due to years of saving frequent flyer miles. In the next couple of weeks, I'll deal with getting the actual tickets. Once that's settled, hotels and rental cars will be reserved (frequent guest/renter programs). I've already got offers for a couple of free tours, one at a small zoo and one at an aboriginal cultural center. Still trying to make contact with some researchers for whales and dugongs. In the meantime, here's the draft itinerary. Any comments/suggestions would be appreciated.

August 6-7 Fly to Australia losing a day as I cross the International Date Line
August 8-10 Sydney. Opera House, Taronga Zoo, Harbor Cruise, etc.
August 11-12 Victor Harbor. Southern Right Whales (hopefully), penguins
August 13 Kanagroo Island. Kangaroos, koalas, seals, sea lions, and, with luck, platypus
August 14-17 Cairns. Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda, Urimbirra
August 18-20 Heron Island. Great Barrier Reef
August 21-24 Hervey Bay. Humpback whales, dugongs
August 25 Coast to Brisbane
August 26 Fly home

There may be a day or two added somewhere, but this feels just about right to do what I want to do. This blog will be kept up to date as hotels are chosen and everything firms up. Pretty sure of where I'm staying in Victor Harbor and Cairns and Heron Island has only one choice. Still need to make choices for Sydney and Brisbane. Suggestions anyone?