Salonika Beach, Mackay, Queensland

Salonika Beach is about half an hour's drive south of Mackay.

Reddish sands and swaying casuarina trees give this remote beach an eerie beauty.

When wild weather strikes, king tides gouge the sand dunes and topple the trees

To the north, Salonika Beach overlooks the Hay Point Coal Terminal.

Empty coal ships queue on the horizon awaiting their turn to be loaded before returning to the other side of the world.

Tawny Frogmouth, Salonika Beach , Mackay

Is this a Tawny Frogmouth? This owl-like bird was perched on the edge of our balcony to welcome us when we arrived. With marbled grey feathers and a big hooked beak I suspect it is a Tawny Frogmouth.