A friend and I are planning out a trip to Australia this summer. Back when I had time on my hands a few months ago I went hard on planning a trip from Brisbane to Cairns (1200 miles in 10 days). He now informs me hed like to start in Sydney instead. My brother backed out of the trip so now we can be flexible with time. So I am asking you all on advice on what is must-see as we travel up the coast. My friends focus is scuba diving, while Ive never dove before. I just want to soak up the country.

My original plan was:
* 3 days in Brisbane
* Sunrise Coast
* Noosa Heads
* Yeppoon
* Bowen
* Townsville
* 2 days in Cairns

Im thinking the extra leg would add at least three days to the trip. Where should we stop in between Sydney and Brisbane? What are the must-see places of those two cities?