Maranoa River a magnet to the people of Mitchell

Weekends in Mitchell see many people gather along the banks of the river -- the majestic Maranoa. It's like a magnet, this river, as it loops and meanders around the small outback town.

Fishing, walking, photography, sharing a barbecue lunch by a campfire -- all these and more provide relaxation, exercise and stimulation for all age groups from the very young to the elderly.

Yesterday, as I paused on the foot bridge, a flock of about 50 white cockatoos flew overhead, screeching, sulphur-crests raised in anticipation of the evening feast of grain provided by Rob and Brian at the Major Mitchell Caravan Park.

My gaze moved to the riverbank where Snow White the egret stood, still like a statue. Further down, on the naked branch of a river red gum, perched a white-necked heron, surveying the river. Her dark eyes locked onto mine, then she took wing, effortlessly lifting over the shining water; mirrored, deep with reflections.

It was like I was flying too.

As I breathed in the sharp smell of eucalyptus and the dusky aroma of the river, my eyes rested on the smooth, silver-lit water.

Here it was possible to drift back in time, to reflect about the origins of life on earth.

Major's second birthday celebration walk

To mark the occasion of my German shepherd's second birthday, I took him for a longer than usual walk.

Overhead, eight sulphur-crested white cockatoos screeched as they flew towards the river, their wings lit with sunshine.

One of the tracks we walked along brought to mind how different the climate is in outback Queensland, compared to 'down south' at Phillip Island. You can see it in the grasses. The summer rain has produced waist high grass, and now, in mid-winter the soil's bone dry and the grass is bleached by repeated frosts. So much so, there's a fire risk.

On the other hand though, I like the look of tall golden grasses. I also enjoy the feel and sound as the grass crunches brittle beneath my feet.

On a walk that took us about three-quarters of an hour, several Willie wagtails swooped and flirted around us, chattering excitedly. I like to think they were saying, "Happy birthday Major!"