For such a remote little place, there is plenty to do here in Nhulunbuy, particularly if you enjoy the beach. Not being able to swim is not really a problem for me as I’m not much of a swimmer. John was always a great swimmer but says his days for swimming are over. Those who have lived here a while are quite blase about crocodiles. They go to beaches and water holes where the water is fairly clear- and they send the dogs in first believing the crocs will always go for the dogs before people! We have swum at Bremer and Granite Islands as the water was very clear and fairly shallow. Tommy can splash around at a few others – Turtle Beach is one – where the water is clear and shallow. Recently the incoming tide at East Woody has formed a very safe little water hole that the kids can enjoy.

Kyran tells me there are amazing fish to catch here including Red Emperor, Tuna, Spanish Mackerel, Coral Trout and Barramundi just to mention a few – plus mud crabs. I have never been into fishing but, over the last few days, John and I have taken Tommy out to a few beaches to fish. We haven’t caught anything and we are just having some fun but I actually really enjoyed it. It could be the first time ever that I am not watching the clock or on a time limit and I think that is the difference. I don’t have to be anywhere at any time and what a great feeling that is. Throwing a rod into the sea over and over again, knowing (and probably hoping) I won ‘t catch anything is something I would never have contemplated before; time was too short. Now it is a lovely way to pass the time. And a great thing to do with Tommy. He loves it.

Last week, John was invited out fishing with Drew, a friend of Kyran’s, and Aiden on Drew’s boat. They left around 5.30am and returned at lunchtime. Although they didn’t do as well as they’d hoped, John had a terrific time. Between them they caught some fish including a Coral Trout and a Trevally but threw back lots that were undersized.

While I’ve been enjoying time with Tommy, John has been spending an afternoon a week playing golf and is becoming one of the regulars at the Gove Golf Club.

In case fishing and golf weren’t enough, Kyran took John to the local Gun Range for a couple of hours, and he had a great time there. He may become a regular there too!

There is certainly no shortage of fun to be had here in Nhulunbuy. Most people spend their free time camping, fishing and at the beach, but there are lots of other ways to pass the time. I can absolutely see why people love living here.