In this video, Deb and Mike discuss a question about where a person with no photography skills can go in Kakadu to capture a stunning image.
Mike explains that the answer depends on the specific image they are after, as lighting and location play crucial roles. He emphasizes that there is no right or wrong time of day or location for photography in Kakadu.
However, Deb, having a photography background, suggests that the best time of day for photography is sunrise or sunset, during the golden hour. She recommends Ubirr Rock in the north of Kakadu as an iconic location with breathtaking sunsets over the floodplains.
Dan and Neville also discuss the same question, and Neville mentions that the choice of location depends on the person’s preferences. They discuss various options like helicopter rides, lookout points, and specific spots like Nawurlandja and Ubirr with opportunities for capturing storms, lightning, and different times of the day.
Dan even humorously suggests taking a photo of himself in front of a work vehicle.
Lastly, Leigh and Yvonne agree that Ubirr at sunset is a stunning location for photography, with its 360-degree views, vibrant colours, wetland area, and escarpment in the background. They emphasize that one doesn’t need to be an expert to capture a good photo there.
This edition – Katherine Gorge or Kakadu? Insta-worthy places in Litchfield. How long do you need in Kakadu, & more.
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This edition – Katherine Gorge or Kakadu? Insta-worthy places in Litchfield. How long do you need in Kakadu, & more.
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Amoxicillin: The Antibiotic Every Australian Over 30 Should Know About
A doctor’s review using the AIDA approach — written for adults who want reliable, affordable treatment without guesswork.
Attention
Few things stop a busy life faster than a bacterial infection. You’ve got a mortgage to pay, children or ageing parents to care for, and work deadlines that won’t wait. A chest infection, sinusitis, dental abscess, or spreading skin infection can leave you feverish, exhausted, and unable to function. As an Australian doctor, I see this every week. Patients come in worried about the cost, the time off, and whether the treatment will work. When a bacterial infection is the cause, amoxicillin is often the first medicine I reach for—and for good reason. It is effective, well tolerated, and one of the most affordable antibiotics on the PBS.
If you have ever wondered how long you need to take it, whether you can buy it from overseas, or what it costs, this article answers everything in plain English.
Interest
Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic. It works by destroying the cell wall of bacteria, causing them to burst and die. It has been used safely for decades in Australia and around the world. It is not a “last resort” antibiotic; it is a first-line workhorse for many common bacterial infections in adults over 30.
In my clinic, I commonly prescribe amoxicillin for:
Chest infections such as mild community-acquired pneumonia
Bacterial sinusitis that has lasted more than 10 days
Middle ear infections in adults
Dental abscess and gum infections
Helicobacter pylori stomach ulcers, as part of combination therapy
Some skin infections, including cellulitis caused by sensitive bacteria
Your doctor will choose the right antibiotic based on the type of bacteria, your allergies, and local resistance patterns. Amoxicillin is not a treatment for viruses such as colds, flu, or COVID-19.
Typical Course Length for Amoxicillin in Australia
The length of treatment depends on the infection. Stopping early can lead to relapse and antibiotic resistance.
Infection
Typical course length
Doctor’s note
Bacterial sinusitis
5–7 days
Only if symptoms persist or worsen
Chest infection / pneumonia
5–7 days
May be extended if severe
Dental abscess
3–7 days
Dental treatment is still essential
Cellulitis (if amoxicillin chosen)
5–10 days
Often flucloxacillin or cephalexin is preferred
Strep throat
10 days
To prevent rheumatic fever
H. pylori stomach ulcer
7 days
As part of triple therapy
Lyme disease prophylaxis after tick bite
Not routine
Doxycycline is the standard
Desire
Why do doctors and patients trust amoxicillin? Because it consistently delivers.
“After two days on amoxicillin, my fever broke and I finally slept. I was back at work by day five.” — a typical patient experience, shared with permission.
Here is what matters most to Australians over 30:
Benefit
What it means for you
Fast action
Most people feel improvement within 48–72 hours
Affordable
PBS subsidy keeps cost low; private scripts often $10–$20
Well tolerated
Fewer stomach upsets than many older antibiotics
Flexible dosing
Take with or without food; easy to fit around a busy day
Proven safety
Decades of use in adults, children, and pregnancy when needed
Your Most Common Questions Answered
Is amoxicillin a penicillin antibiotic?
Yes. Amoxicillin belongs to the penicillin family. If you have ever had a serious allergic reaction to penicillin—such as throat swelling, difficulty breathing, or a blistering rash—tell your doctor before taking it. Many people who think they are allergic are not truly allergic, and your GP can arrange testing if needed. Do not avoid an effective antibiotic based on a childhood label unless it has been confirmed.
Can amoxicillin be used for cellulitis?
Yes, in selected cases. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deeper layers of skin. It shows up as red, hot, swollen, tender skin and can spread quickly. Amoxicillin can treat cellulitis caused by Streptococcus bacteria. However, because many cellulitis infections also involve Staphylococcus aureus, Australian guidelines often recommend flucloxacillin or cephalexin first. Your doctor will assess the severity, your risk factors, and any swab results to decide if amoxicillin is appropriate. Always seek medical care for spreading redness.
How much does amoxicillin cost with PBS subsidy in Australia?
Amoxicillin is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for many common infections. If you have a Medicare card and your doctor prescribes it for a PBS-approved reason, you pay no more than the standard PBS co-payment.
Patient category
Typical co-payment
PBS safety net
General patient
Up to $31.60
Reduced after annual threshold
Concession card holder
$7.70
Free or further reduced after threshold
Private prescription
Often $10–$20
Ask your pharmacist for the lower price
Many pharmacists will charge the private price if it is lower than the PBS co-payment, meaning you could pay under $20 for a standard course. Always ask: “Is it cheaper as a private script?”
Can I import amoxicillin from overseas for personal use in Australia?
Legally, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Personal Importation Scheme may allow you to import up to a three-month supply of prescription medicine for personal use, provided you have a valid Australian prescription. However, importing antibiotics without a prescription is unlawful and risky. Overseas tablets may be counterfeit, expired, or incorrectly labelled. I strongly recommend buying from an Australian community pharmacy. You get guaranteed quality, correct storage, and a pharmacist who checks your dose and interactions.
What documentation do I need to carry amoxicillin overseas?
If you need to travel with amoxicillin, carry it in its original packaging with the pharmacy label. Ask your doctor for a travel letter stating the medication name, dose, and medical reason. Keep a copy of your prescription and the letter with your carry-on luggage. Check the destination country’s embassy or health department before departure—some countries restrict certain medicines. This simple step can save you from customs delays or confiscation.
Can amoxicillin be used for Lyme disease prophylaxis after a tick bite?
In Australia, local ticks do not transmit classic Lyme disease, but if you are travelling to an endemic area overseas, the standard prophylaxis after a high-risk tick bite is a single dose of doxycycline, not amoxicillin. Amoxicillin may be used to treat certain early Lyme infections in some cases, but it is not the routine prevention. If you are bitten by a tick and are worried, see a doctor promptly. Do not use amoxicillin “just in case” unless it has been prescribed for that specific situation.
Can I return unused amoxicillin to the pharmacy in Australia?
No pharmacy can accept returned medicines for resale or refund once they have left the store. However, you can return unused, unwanted, or expired amoxicillin to any Australian pharmacy under the Return Unwanted Medicines (RUM) Project. It will be disposed of safely. Never keep leftover antibiotics in the cupboard for future use—this fuels antibiotic resistance and can be dangerous. Complete the full course as prescribed, and return any leftovers.
Action
If a bacterial infection is making you miserable, do not wait until it worsens. Book a telehealth or in-person GP appointment. Ask your doctor: “Is amoxicillin the right antibiotic for me?” If it is prescribed, have the script dispensed at a local Australian pharmacy. Ask about the PBS price, take the full course exactly as directed, and store it correctly. That way, you get the best chance of a fast recovery with the least fuss and cost.
Doctor’s bottom line: Amoxicillin is one of the most trusted, affordable, and effective antibiotics available in Australia when used correctly. For busy adults over 30, that means less time in bed, less money out of pocket, and more confidence when infection strikes. Talk to your GP today.
