Murtoa's Big Weekend First weekend in October Friday 6th, Saturday and Sunday. October 2023. Show & Shine All those who attended were friendly people keen to see what is on display. Quite often the smaller Show & Shine displays in country towns have a few big, interesting surprises. Who knows what unusual vehicles are kept on farms or are in backyard sheds and are brought out occasionally for all to see. Show entrants come from far and wide. All are pleased to attend. Any trophies won are a bonus. The Show & Shine event held on a sunny Sunday on McDonald Street was a spectacle to behold. The classic cars gleamed under the bright sunlight. A hint of Mad Max vibes lingering in the air, giving the event a unique and edgy feel. Despite the vintage beauty of the cars on display, it was the people that truly made the Show & Shine memorable. The event seemed to attract a diverse crowd, each person bringing their own flair and personality to the gathering. From car enthusiasts to curious onlookers, each with their own story to tell. As the day unfolded, the sound of engines revving and the sight of polished chrome reflecting the sunlight created a sensory feast for all in attendance. The Show & Shine was not just a display of classic cars but a celebration of automotive history and the passion that drives enthusiasts to preserve these treasures. The car display was in the main street of Murtoa and Murtoa's Big Weekend is usually an annual event. A large market day with many stalls is also held over the weekend. The Water Tower Museum is open daily. Noon to two and has a large taxidermy collection. The annual Agricultural Show is held on the Friday to begin the weekend of activities. Murtoa is in the Wimmera two hundred km from Melbourne. Murtoa is also the home of the, 'Murtoa Stick Shed' and could be included on the Silo Art Trail route. Read Stick Shed post. Traveldriven MURTOA GOOGLE MAPS MURTOA BIG WEEKEND SIGNAGE OPEN AIR CADILLAC Murtoa Show & Shine MAD MAX Z900 MURTOA MOTORS PREV SHOW & SHINE NEXT

Camperdown Camperdown is a charming rural town located in the picturesque region of southwestern Victoria, Australia. It lies approximately two hundred kilometres to the west of Melbourne, making it accessible for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. The town is known for its rich agricultural background and beautiful landscapes, which include rolling hills and expansive farmlands. With a population that exceeds three thousand residents, Camperdown boasts a close-knit community where neighbours often know each other, fostering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. One of the notable features of Camperdown is Manifold Street, which serves as the main retail thoroughfare of the town. This street is not only a hub for shopping and local businesses but also an essential part of the town's identity. The name "Manifold" carries an interesting connotation, particularly in relation to automotive terminology, as it refers to a vehicle's exhaust or intake manifold. This association adds a unique character to the street, suggesting that it was perhaps designed with the presence of cars, motorbikes, and trucks in mind, inviting a sense of movement and activity. The bustling environment of Manifold Street often sees locals and visitors alike enjoying the various shops, cafes, and services available, making it a focal point for community engagement and social interaction. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP CAMPERDOWN GOOGLE MAPS CAMPERDOWN SHOW & SHINE CAMPERDOWN SHOW & SHINE MANIFOLD STREET Unusual stretched limousine ideal for taking it easy. Let someone else do the driving. Full length running board. Like the full size spare mag wheel on the back Hot rod Route 66. Exposed painted engine. Red and yellow nice contrast and the black car body. Suicide doors. Side chrome exhaust for show. Actual exhaust underneath the rear for road legal. A collection of older vehicles. Left of image in need of a paint job. Left unpainted for the effect. Red shiny mag wheels makes you wonder what is under the bonnet Two tone light and dark. Side running board blends in well. Wire spoke wheels suit the vehicle and lowered somewhat Hot rod in immaculate condition Nice curved front bodywork Light blue hot rod. Exposed engine mag wheels and skulls mural down the side. Suicide doors open backwoods on entry Big chrome grille. White roof and red body Down on Manifold Street. Plenty of show cars and onlookers PREV SHOW & SHINE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Halls Gap in the Grampians and the annual Hot Rod Show and Shine, February. A weekend in Halls Gap. Halls Gap is a town in Victoria and surrounded by the Grampians National Park. The town is in Fyans Valley between two ranges. The Grampians National Park (also Gariwerd), commonly referred to as 'The Grampians', is a national park located in Victoria. The 167,219-hectare (413,210-acre) national park is situated between Stawell and Horsham off of the Western Highway. About a twenty minute drive from Stawell the closest regional town. Halls Gap has a population of about four to five hundred. The approximate driving time from Melbourne is three hours following the Western Highway and a left highway turn off of Stawell on to Grampians Road for a further twenty-five km. Traveldriven ROLLIN HOT RODS HOT RODS ARRIVAL IN HALLS GAP SKY BLUE HOT ROD UNDER THE TREES ROD RUN STICKER AND CAR ENTRANT 66 HOT RED ROD DARK BLUE AND WHITE TONE WHITE RIMMED TYRES NICE MATCHING RUNNING BOARD LARGE CHROME GRILLE BUICK 1956 ROADMASTER PARKED AND READY COPS ARE DISLLUSIONED, TIRED, JADED AND FADED *STATE TROOPER* OLD SKOOL ROD REAR TYRES EXTEND FAR OUT FROM BODYWORK READY TO RUMBLE Row of hot rods Yellow hot rod suicide doors Hot pink hot rod and trailer Bright green Ford & motorsport rocker cover triple wipers Bright lime green hot rod with theme trailer and drive-in stand with side window food tray Red hot rod with rear suicide doors Red mustang with side vents mustang in neat and tidy trim Early model mustang interior left-hand drive PREV SHOW & SHINE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Hanging Rock Famous or perhaps infamous in Australia as a place of intrigue and mystery. The backstory is of three schoolgirls and a teacher on an excursion to Hanging Rock and all seem to have disappeared into the rocky outcrop never to have been seen again. Despite many failed searchers for the missing people. Occurring on Valentines Day, 1900. Hanging Rock is about eighty km from Melbourne in the Victorian countryside. A large rock is wedged above the walkway to the summit and this is where the name originates. Hanging Rock rises to about one hundred metres above and behind the café and the adjacent information building. Open daily. Indoor and outdoor shaded dining is available. The reserve itself is in natural bushland and many area's are grassed and cleared for the public to have BBQs or an outdoor picnic. A racecourse is part of the reserve and horses race on the track twice per year. New Year's Day and Australia Day. INTRIGUE AND MYSTERY A famous novel was penned by Joan Lindsay on the girls disappearance and published in 1967. Peter Weir directed the 1975 film Picnic at Hanging Rock. The film tells the story of the missing girls. Their fate unknown. Miranda, Edith, Irma, Marion and their teacher Ms McCraw. Only Edith returns to raise the alarm. Hysterical and vague. It's said by a few the event was supernatural. While filming on the set location many of the crews watches stopped at the rock for no apparent reason. During the premiere of the film the cinema clock stopped on twelve o'clock to the second. Is the 1900 disappearance fiction or true? The truth is now somewhat lost to history. Also, two girls had gone missing at Hanging Rock about eighty years before in the early 1800s. The bushranger 'Mad Dog Morgan' (1830-1865) was thought by some to have used Hanging Rock as a hideout. In recent years a few rock and roll international artists have performed at Hanging Rock and attracted upwards of twenty thousand concert goers. Woodend is the nearest small town to Hanging Rock. The general area with its small towns, nearby forest and weekend markets are a popular tourist drawcard. PICNIC AT HANGING ROCK CAR SHOW The 37th Classic Hanging Rock Picnic, a highly anticipated event, took place on the 11th of February 2024, marking another successful year for Victoria's largest car show. This annual gathering has become a tradition for car enthusiasts and spectators alike, drawing crowds from near and far to marvel at the impressive display of vintage vehicles. Notably scheduled just four days before Valentine's Day, the picnic provided a unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in a nostalgic atmosphere while celebrating their passion for classic cars. One of the highlights of the event was the prizes offered to vehicles aged 25 years and over, adding an exciting competitive element to the showcase. Owners proudly presented their meticulously maintained cars, hoping to secure a coveted award and earn recognition for their dedication to preserving automotive history. Moreover, the inclusive nature of the gathering allowed any vehicle to be displayed for public viewing, creating a diverse and vibrant exhibition that catered to a wide range of automotive interests. From vintage classics to modern marvels, the event showcased the evolution of automobile design and engineering over the years. Despite the large turnout and bustling atmosphere, organizers ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Thankfully, as far as is known, there were no reports of anyone going missing during the event, unlike in the film, Picnic at Hanging Rock. Traveldriven DRIVE WOODEND TO HANGING ROCK CAFE HANGING ROCK HANGING ROCK SUMMIT WALK THE STORY OF PICNIC AT HANGING ROCK FACT OR FICTION? EXPLORING MYSTERIOUS HANGING ROCK DISAPPEARING INTO THE ROCK HANGING ROCK CAFE A SMALL SECTION OF THE CAR SHOW IN FRONT OF CAFE ATTENDED BY MANY THOUSANDS HANGING ROCK FOOD AND TRADE AREA MYSTERIOUS HANGING ROCK IN THE BACKGROUND SHOW CAR, RACECOURSE TOWER & HANGING ROCK PREV VICTORIA NEXT PREV SHOW AND SHINE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Entry of $25 donation to the Good Friday Appeal Lincoln & Lincoln Land Lincoln is the luxury vehicle division of American automobile manufacturer Ford. The American brand is unavailable to buy in Australia with no dealerships. Lincoln Land in Australia is Jim's private collection of upwards of thirty-five Lincoln motor cars. A once only opportunity for the public on Good Friday to view the many motor vehicles. All Lincoln's on display are in pristine condition. Donation in 2025 and 2024 on entry of $25 to the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne. Also, live music, BBQ, and an Outdoor Show & Shine. Hundreds of people in attendance on the day. Amount raised for the Hospital appeal in 2024 according to local mainstream media was $55,000. Lincoln Land is on private property in the vicinity of the small town of Pomonal. On the fringe of the Grampian National Park in Victoria, Australia. Jim's Lincoln Display in Australia Most, if not all Lincoln's, were imported from the United States and all left-hand drive. Convertible open top continental GT's and hard tops. Two door and four door Lincoln's spanning decades of various models. Some models similar to what American presidents used. Lincoln was once described lovingly by Jay Leno, an avid American car collector, as driving a swimming pool on wheels. Jim's private collection of Lincoln motor cars in regional Victoria is open to the public only on Good Friday. For classic and muscle cars on display at local Show & Shine events in Australia please go to this page post . Traveldriven LINCOLN LAND JIM'S GARAGE TEXACO & LINCOLN SIT DOWN & ADMIRE MEMORABILIA ON DISPLAY FANTASTIC COLLECTION 'OLD MARGE' ANOTHER WING FULL OF LINCOLN'S PRISTINE CONDITION AMERICAN ENTERTAINER 1916 - 1987 JACKIE GLEASEN'S STRETCH LINCOLN MORE LINCOLN'S ON DISPLAY OUTSIDE CLASSIC CAR SHOW MORE VEHICLE'S OUTSIDE JAKES SPEED SHOP CAR DISPLAYS ON OUTSIDE LAWNS EXTENSIVE CAR DISPLAYS TVR GRIFFITH 500 SPECS TVR GRIFFITH 500 2024 TOTAL 11.15AM $20,280 RAISED END OF DAY GREATER THAN $55,000 2024 Lincoln Display of cars AS NEW MARK 1V "LARGE MARGE" PART OF THE OUTDOOR GENERAL CAR DISPLAY LINCOLN LAND 2024 OLD ZEPHYR POLICE CAR LIGHT & SIREN SIXTY-FIVE FORD ZEPHYR CARS ON DISPLAY DRAG RACER TURBO SIX TIGHT FIT PANELS REMOVED LINCOLN PARKED JIM'S LINCOLN LAND SIDE DOOR ENTRY TO LINCOLN LAND WALKING THROUGH THE CAR EXHIBITS ROLLS ROYCE SILVER GHOST 1920 LIVE MUSIC JIM'S GARAGE GOOD FRIDAY 2022 MORE LIVE MUSIC JIM'S GARAGE HOT ROD WOLF GEAR STICK HOT ROD SHOW & SHINE PETER BROCK O5 HOLDEN RACE CAR REST IN PEACE P BROCK (1945-2006) & A MOFFAT (1939-2025) PETER BROCK 05 REPLICA MODEL RACE CARS Jay Leno's Garage 1966 Lincoln Continental PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 32 VICTORIA RIVER Considered by many to have Australia's largest saltwater crocodiles in its waterways. Five hundred and sixty kilometres (350 mi) long. The river flows south of Gregory National Park which is the source of its water. Then continues to the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf in the Timor Sea. The Victoria River is the longest permanent river in the Northern Territory. The Victoria River meanders from the northern edge of the Tanami Desert to the coast near to the Western Australian/Northern Territory border. Victoria River Cruise In Western Australia The Victoria River Cruise has been discontinued. The afternoon cruise was previously booked from Timber Creek. All departures were from Timber Creek. The Victoria River itself is quite close to the small town. There is just one bridge crossing in the vicinity of Timber Creek and is for military use. There is no river access to the public from the bridge. Although the river cruise is discontinued those with a boat may access the Victoria River from Timber Creek at their own risk. The tour cruise included lunch on a pontoon moored in the middle of the river many km up river. The cruise operator hung fish bait out from the pontoon's side for crocodiles to eat. However, on this particular morning river cruise none took the bait. The operator thought crocs had been feeding on riverbank wildlife such as wallabies. Many wild cattle are sighted along the riverbank amongst the green foliage. Apparently, cattle stations lose two hundred plus cattle to crocs every year. Food for crocs. Back further along towards the town of Katherine, the Victoria Highway crosses the Victoria River Bridge and is visible from the Victoria River Roadhouse. If stopped roadside on bridge approach, and walking onto the bridge for an elevated river view. Saltwater crocodiles are occasionally seen in the river below. Along the length of the Victoria River this bridge is the only highway crossing over the Victoria River for the general public. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP VICTORIA RIVER ROADHOUSE GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME DRIVE LAKE ARGYLE - TIMBER CREEK - VICTORIA RIVER THE VICTORIA RIVER CRUISE TIMBER CREEK Victoria River croc food Bridge over the Victoria River Military area PROHIBITED AREA next to Victoria River PROHIBITED OFF LIMITS Victoria River Victoria River Sunset WELCOME SIGN TO TIMBER CREEK ANYTHING IS CROC FOOD PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT PREV N\TERRITORY NEXT HOMEPAGE

Traveldriven Home Page and Travel Experiences. Welcome to the Home Page of the Traveldriven website. All are welcome to browse page posts and leave a comment. There are upwards of two hundred and seventy individual page posts. If one were to browse from first to last post and spend two minutes on each post this would take well over eight hours to read, glance at photos and see a small snippet of the many videos. Why Browse Traveldriven? Needless to say, we all only want to know about and see what we are interested in. In the quickest and easiest way. Preferably, with an honest first hand insight and experience to the topic at hand. This is what Traveldriven is about. Also sharing a few amusing, and a few concerning travel experiences. To share the driving experience and destination. The good and not so good. You and others might also want to go out and see it firsthand. All are free to browse page posts for travel ideas. The purpose is to show with pictures and video to those who don't know or have little knowledge of how large and diverse Australia the land and people are, a glimpse of the vast country of Australia. Why Not Fly Instead of Drive? Aside from capital cities, only the largest major regional hubs are served by domestic commercial jet flights. This includes Australia's tropical northern centres like Broome in Western Australia, and Cairns, Townsville, and Hamilton Island in Queensland, as well as the Gold Coast near Brisbane. In the central Outback, Alice Springs and Uluru (Ayers Rock) in the Northern Territory also have airports serviced by commercial jet carriers. During the tourist low season of the northern wet season summer months in Australia, when flooding cuts off many roads, and the countryside is lush and green, low airfare jet flights to northern Australia might be more practical. From a flights and accommodations budget point of view. Although once on the ground, the frequent storms and the uncomfortable oppressive humidity make getting around difficult and would be fairly restrictive. Fly and Drive, Rail or Road Trip? Numerous larger town airports in Australia provide domestic regional flights operating smaller passenger light aircraft; however, these flights are typically quite costly and may not operate daily. Rail travel is an alternative, but it usually is quite expensive for several days of interstate journey by sleeper rail car. None offer the flexibility of a road trip and the convenience of a road vehicle for many weeks or months of travel. To state the obvious, sightseeing and stopping at random places of interest is impossible from a commercial flight. Flying and renting a car is another option for short trips of a week or two, but total travel costs increase significantly for longer journeys without your own vehicle. Be aware, even to fly and drive, travelling for less than two weeks in the Outback imposes an unrealistic time constraint to see most attractions on one trip. More time is essential to explore more than just a small snippet of the vast array of interesting locations in the northern and central regions. Travel Vehicles We have all seen the fancy travel rigs. A hundred and fifty thousand dollars or much more for the vehicle and towed travel van. All well and good for those with the budget. Traveldriven has used swags, small tents, basic vans, motels and bush hotels. Some of the most commonly seen vehicles sold in Australia have been driven on travel trips. These range from family sedans (Ford Falcon), sports cars (Mustang GT) to SUVs. All Traveldriven trips pre-2025 are without a towed vehicle. See What Is Out There It's not about what means of travel you have or budget but getting out there and doing. Weather being solo, with family or friends. All Traveldriven posts are about places where ordinary travellers may like to go. Travellers like you and I. Almost all destinations in mainland Australia on this website are reachable on sealed bitumen roads. Without the need to own an expensive long range offroad specialised vehicle. Just everyday driving skills are required. With a little basic knowledge and common sense. You can drive to extraordinary locations . Enjoy, relax and to seek out new places of interest. Having said that, depending on the time place and local events, things happen. Read the following to quickly go to a page post of interest. A few posts are of places not within Australia. It's great to gain a perspective on life outside of country of birth. If only to compare and appreciate your corner of it. Traveldriven TAKE AN OUTBACK BREAK BIRDSVILLE, QUEENSLAND TRAVELDRIVEN ONE MINUTE SNAPSHOT Australia and Bushfire Survival Every State in Australia is of risk of major bushfire breakouts. It is good to know the basic do's and don'ts in these fire prone environments. Not only overseas visitors but residents of Australian cities travelling to country area's should know how to pay heed to the dangers. A Traveldriven first hand example is given in the following post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/bushfire-wildfire-or-forest-fire-survival Timber Creek, Northern Territory Australia is generally a safe country for travelling by road. However, be cautious of potential issues with wildlife and people. For first time Outback drivers a safe Outback option is to stay within the National Australia Highway Network, which offers good roads and communication. Many sealed highways, but not all, have mobile phone coverage. It's not uncommon for no phone or GPS reception for hours of driving. All sealed highways have some daily traffic and travellers if in need of outside help will get assistance from other travellers. Nevertheless, Outback areas remain very remote, often with police, hospital and vehicle breakdown services three to four hours away by car. It is foolhardy and may be life threatening to rely on or expect help from patchy or non-existent mobile phone reception in the event of an emergency. At a minimum an inflated full size spare tyre and ten litres of drinkable water should be carried for safety and peace of mind. Timber Creek is a small outback settlement 185 km from the Western Australian border. Read how serious situations may develop from doing nothing wrong. Encountering local wildlife endemic to the tropics (not saltwater crocodiles) and people. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/australia-big-righthand-turn-2 South Pacific Islands Vanuatu and Inyeug Island. Stories of head-hunters and the visiting cruise ships. The islands are nearer to Sydney than Sydney is to Perth in Western Australia. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/south-pacific-island-of-inyeug Cruise Kimberley Islands Hop aboard the MV Oceanic. A converted Rottnest Island ferry. Adventure cruise the Kimberley Islands of Western Australia for seven days. A firsthand experience of what sights to expect to see and the experiences in this offshore region. Tourist requirements are really just to have the ability to walk for five minutes or so and have a curiosity of the truly spectacular scenic Kimberley Islands unfolding all around. Both in seascape and landscape. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/australia-cruise-kimberley-islands-mvoceanic Great Barrier Reef Islands Whitehaven in Queensland, Australia's most famous beach non-Australian's have probably never heard of. Whitehaven truly lives up to expectations. Just a short inexpensive daily tour boat trip from Hamilton Island. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2020/05/31/whitehaven-beach Hamilton Island & How to Sail Solo Hamilton Island is a major tour mecca of the Great Barrier Reef. Serviced by all major Australian airlines and capital cities. Read how its done to sail cheaply and solo with little to no sailing experience on a four man catamaran. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2020/05/31/hamilton-island Australia Travel Icons Who hasn't heard of the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria! Within eyesight are the Gibson Steps. Take the one hundred cliffside steps down to the beach. Wild surf batters the beach. Breathe in the salty air. Don't do a Harold Holt (ex-Prime Minister) who disappeared in Victorian waters. If you enter the water of rips and currents at one's own pearl. You will probably never be seen again. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2020/05/31/twelve-apostles Road Trip Western Australia\Northern Territory\South Australia Australia's big right-hand turn. Day one of a solo road trip driving a Ford Falcon sedan from Victoria. A glimpse of the attractions that await travellers planning a road trip to the West. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2017/07/11/australia-big-right-turn-day-1 Road Trip to Townsville, Queensland Day one of a three-week solo road trip to Townsville driving a Ford Mustang GT V8 from Victoria. Including a visit to Ned Kelly country. Australia's most famous bushranger. Don't miss the roadside attractions along the trip, such as tossing a coin to the Dog On The Tuckerbox. Discover which roadside attractions are truly worth visiting. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2019/03/18/driving-to-queensland Road Trip to Silverton, Outback New South Wales A special weekend event to celebrate the 40th year of the release of the second Mad Max film. Parts of which were filmed on set around Silverton with Mel Gibson and crew. Enthusiasts dressed in movie theme attire. Road going replica vehicles and of course the Wasteland Compound. Do your own Mad Max adventure and drive to Silverton. Inspect the sites and see movie props and movie memorabilia. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/silverton-outback-australia Road Trip to Tasmania Day one of a road trip to the island state of Tasmania. Driving a Mustang GT. Start of trip was on the Spirit of Tasmania car ferry Victoria to Devonport, Tasmania. What to expect on the ferry and small town tourist sights. Attractions that are worth a stop along the way to Hobart. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2018/02/18/mustang-gt-search-box Road Trip to Canberra Australian Capital Territory Day one of a solo road trip to Canberra driving a Mustang GT. Passing through Bendigo, Victoria and a visit to the Great Stupa. A free attraction for all. Canberra is not boring as many from interstate will try to tell you. Get an insight on a few Canberra locations and buildings you should visit on your next trip. Many are free to experience. Includes a two-day detour to the famous Bathurst Motor Racing Circuit and unlimited driving time of the track. How you can drive Mount Panaroma within the law and still have enjoyment. Go to post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/bendigo-art-silo-s-ned-kely Road Trip Outback 4WD Basically, anyone could do this with just an interest in the Outback and nothing else required apart from the tour cost. Day one of a nine-day road trip tour to Birdsville in Outback Queensland in a Toyota Landcruiser V8 from Adelaide. Costing roughly five hundred dollars per day (as of 2025 in Aus.$). The tour operator drives the vehicle and includes, meals, and unit or hotel accommodations for the entire trip. Go to post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/work-in-process-road-trip-birdsville Grampians National Park First hand local information about the Grampians National Park and Halls Gap in Victoria. Less than a few hours' drive from Melbourne. Other websites barely mention the Park if at all. It is one of the best accessible Parks to all road going vehicles year-round within Australia. View spectacular and accessible mountain scenery. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/wildlife-of-the-grampians-national-park Road Trip The Bend Motorsport Park Within an hour's drive from Adelaide. Drive to the riverside town of Tailem Bend in South Australia and drive your own vehicle around the world class track. Track sessions are only allowed on designated track experience days. Trackside safety marshals are in attendance on these days. Vehicle must be roadworthy. The racetrack driving experience is cheap and safe. High speeds are obtained. A full thirty minutes on track time. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/tracktime-the-bend-motorsport-park Road Trip New Zealand Driving New Zealand on the South Island and a day's visit to White Island volcano on the North Island before the deadly eruption and the tourist ban. Discover Arrowtown and Queenstown attractions. Drive the scenic valley along State Highway 94 to Milford Sound via the Homer Tunnel. Agreed by many to be New Zealand's most scenic highway. View snowcapped Mt Cook from your hotel room. Touch a floating iceberg on a glacial lake. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2019/04/20/arrowtown Road Trip Ireland For anyone planning on visiting Ireland consider driving around Ireland. If budget allows, visit and gain fine lodgings at Ashford Castle. Or perhaps for more value for money visit and stay overnight in a haunted Castle such as Ballyseede Castle. You might experience a supernatural encounter with Hila the friendly ghost. Read what to expect as a guest and a personal non-frightening ghostly experience. Go to Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2017/04/15/driving-around-ireland-2015 Scotland & Nessie of Loch Ness Embark on a Loch Ness cruise across the renowned lake. On one particular lake tour, tourists on the Loch hear a factual account of the legend from a guide. The talk captured on video. The presence of sizeable aquatic creatures in the Loch's depths may contribute to the legend, though it's not what most tourists typically imagine. Hear the guide's explanation. Visit the Page post: https://www.traveldriven.net/single-post/2019/06/02/loch-ness RETURN TO TRAVELDRIVEN.NET

Echuca and Moama are Murray River towns separated by the Murray River on the Victorian and New South Wales borders. Echuca, a Victorian regional city, is a little less than two hundred km driving distance from Melbourne. Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival On the last weekend in July. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday offer a fantastic opportunity to enjoy free live music all day long. While the nights might be cool and occasionally rainy, sunny winter days are a frequent occurrence, providing a pleasant backdrop for exploring the music scene. Many of the venues hosting these live music events are conveniently located within walking distance, allowing visitors to easily hop from one performance to another. For those venues that are a bit further away, minibus transportation is often available, ensuring that music enthusiasts can experience a variety of performances without any hassle. So, whether you're strolling through the streets, catching a ride on a minibus, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, the weekend promises a delightful musical experience for all to enjoy. Music is in multiple venues in Echuca all around town on a paddle steamer and a winery or two. Some open stage and others inside hotels or along the riverfront in Marquees. All venues very busy. A few venues very likely to become full house with the most popular acts. The Winter Blues Festival event was attended by Traveldriven in 2025, 2024 and 2022. Many of the musician's return for multiple years as do many people who enjoy the music. The Echuca Blues Festival is a very popular event and never fails to disappoint. A diverse range of music from Blues to rock, and other music styles can be enjoyed live. Traveldriven PORT OF ECHUCA CIGAR BOX GUITARS FOR SALE ECHUCA ECHUCA GOOGLE MAPS   MOAMA GOOGLE MAPS 2024 Winter Blues Festival Jimi Hocking's Blues Machine He struts the stage with his band, playing his 'showy' guitar style while pulling all the classic stunts...behind the head... the duck walk... even the splits. excerpt, program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2024 Charlie Bedford One of Australia's exciting next generation artists, Charlie began playing in bars and clubs at the age of 12 and is now a regular on the Australian pub, club and festival scene. excerpt, program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2024 VOODOO CHILD & JIMI HOCKING PLAYING MANDOLIN CHARLIE BEDFORD PLAYING GUITAR & STOMPBOX ON A ECHUCA PADDLE STEAMER NO RAIN NO FLOWERS WRITTEN & PERFORMED BY CHARLIE BEDFORD 2022 Winter Blues Festival WINTER BLUES IN THE PARK PARK BLUES & ACROSS THE ROAD ODD CAPTAIN CAFE DAILY BIG BREAKFAST IN ECHUCA DAY ONE BIG BREAKFAST FRIED EGGS DAY TWO BIG BREAKFAST POACHED EGGS DAY THREE BIG BREAKFAST SCRAMBLED EGGS Winter Blues Festival 2022 Andrew Farrell , Piano Wizard He is widely acknowledged as a versatile virtuoso pianist with great technical and brilliant improvisational skills. Totally unique! excerpt, program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 ANDREW FARRELL PIANO WIZARD PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 47 I needed to dispose of the unused fireworks now highly illegal in Victoria. -find a salt lake Stuart Highway The fully sealed highway runs the full length from Darwin on the coast in the Northern Territory via outback towns of Tennant Creek and Alice Springs and ending in the seaside town of Port Augusta in South Australia. Crossing the continent through the centre of Australia North to South. Outback Strange Lights In the Outback. Woomera to Port Augusta, South Australia, and nightfall along the main highway about halfway between the two towns. Perhaps 500 metres from the road, an intense bright white light was spread over a large area and was reflecting up from the ground between some low ridges. Similar to a floodlit sporting oval but lights low and unseen. The strange thing is why and how? Located in rugged desert countryside? So, no farmland with machinery. No road, rail or wayside stop. Not a mining area. No trucks. No houses or available power. Very isolated. Not a drone, spotlight, searchlight or scrub fire. Bit of a mystery! I'm sure there is a plausible explanation. Woomera A short eight km drive off of the Stuart Highway from the roadside stop of Pimba is the town of Woomera. The town is in fact a ghost town in the Far North region of South Australia. Its appearance is so unlike the vast majority of towns in Australia. Infrastructure but few people. The town buildings and dwellings still look in reasonable condition. The dry climate helps in this regard. Population 7,000 in the 1960s to a few hundred now. Easy to drive the many paved streets as it’s like a modern ghost town. Approximately five hundred kilometres (277 mi) north of Adelaide. "Woomera" also refers to the additional surrounds of the RAAF Woomera Range Complex. A flight-testing range covering an area of 122,000 square kilometres (47,000 sq mi). The Woomera range is operated by the Royal Australian Air Force and the town infrastructure still appears to be mothballed as of 2025. Woomera is a Department of Defence owned and operated facility. There are no restrictions for the general public to drive around the large township. There are no privately owned homes in the township. Woomera National Aerospace and Missile Park is interesting. Arrangement was made for accommodation in the old barracks from the Eldo Hotel after a cold drink. Eldo Hotel was the old mess hall. A few local workers were inside taking a quiet break. The only accommodation available is in the old barrack blocks. Corridors are very long and rather narrow. Not unusual for no overnight guests. Very quiet and eerie. Roxby Downs A sealed 78 km road connects to Roxby Downs. Established 1986. The small mining town has a supermarket and accommodation. South Australia Outback Drive To Adelaide I was driving past the occasional small and a few large drying salt lakes scattered along the main Stuart Highway. I considered deposing the remainder of the fireworks I still carried in any roadside salt lake. Perhaps Lake Hart would do. Possession illegal after Northern Territory Day. Only a couple of small boxes remaining. I decided against it. These fireworks were safely deposed of soon after arrival in Victoria in the next few days. I left the South Australian Outback behind on approach to Port Augusta. The place has a population greater than 13,000 residents. A city known as the Gateway to the Outback if driving North. The beginning or end of the Stuart Highway depending on direction of travel. The Stuart Highway north from Port Augusta to Darwin is 2,700 km. Not to be confused with the Sturt Highway 959 km in length located in NSW to SA. I was driving South and drove a further three hundred km onto Adelaide for overnight motel accommodation. The following day ended this road trip in Victoria. Victoria & End of Road Trip I did not use any free camping sites in outback or regional areas. Although fairly common, most appeared not to have any people. At least during dawn to dusk. People tend to keep to themselves after dark in these locations. I decided as a solo traveller I wanted to have an opportunity to chat with fellow travellers at the end of most days. That's why I used paid accommodation locations with access to convenient onsite amenities. Unpowered camping sites to budget motels. Although this was a solo trip, I enjoyed meeting fellow travellers every day and seeing the incredibly diverse country of Australia. For a more recent road trip in the opposite direction and different visited tourist sights. Go to, Road Trip Australia 2025 Day One post . Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP WOOMERA GOOGLE MAPS PORT AUGUSTA GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE COOBER PEDY - WOOMERA - PORT AUGUSTA BLAST OFF TO SPACE FIREWORKS BOX ONE OF THE FEW REMAINING ROCKETS OF WOOMERA'S PAST WOOMERA RAAF BASE WOOMERA OUTBACK RAIL UNDERNEATH AN OUTBACK RAIL LINE, LAKE HART LAKE HART PARKING BAY LAKE HART SALT ACCESSIBLE FROM HIGHWAY SALT LAKE LAKE HART WARNING ALIENS HAVE LANDED HERE? OUTBACK MESSAGE IN DRY SALT LAKE HART WALK ROXBY DOWNS CLOSED DOWN IN WOOMERA NO RADIO BROADCAST MUSEUM ROCKET PIECE OLD BOMBER IN PARK WOOMERA ROCKET PARK KEY TO WOOMERA WOOMERA MESS HALL ACCOMMODATION BLOCK OLD BARRACKS ACCOMMODATION BLOCK ANOTHER OLD BARRACKS THIRD ACCOMMODATION BLOCK NO OTHER TYPE AVAILABLE IN WOOMERA LEN BEADELL LAID TO REST IN WOOMERA CLICK wikipedia Len Beadell of Woomera CLICK ABC news gunbarrel-highway Len Beadell PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT PREV SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

ALICE SPRINGS IN THE HEART OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY Contrary to popular opinion, the Northern Territory can have cold, overcast and rain showers on multiple days. I experienced this around Alice Springs. Locally known as The Alice , the town is situated in the heart of Australia. Almost halfway between Adelaide and Darwin. The usually dry sandy Todd River flows through part of the city and hosts the Henley on Todd Regatta every August. Alice Springs is a good base to explore central Australia. Reverend John Flynn the founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service born in Victoria worked in central Australia. He campaigned for an aerial medical service for outback Australia. The RFDS museum in Alice Springs is very interesting. Many displays. During 2024 there was ongoing indigenous youth unrest in the Alice Springs area. A youth curfew was introduced to limit property damage. Often cited by media as the most dangerous town in Australia. Generally, the Alice Springs area is safe in the daylight hours for visitors. Lasseter's Reef Fabled Lasseter’s Reef is a legendary tale that has captured the imagination of many for decades. Lewis Lasseter's name became synonymous with mystery and adventure when he made the bold claim of discovering an incredibly lucrative gold reef in central Australia back in 1929. The allure of untold riches hidden within the vast and unforgiving Australian outback was enough to spark a gold rush frenzy among prospectors and dreamers alike. Tragically, Lasseter's triumph quickly turned into a heart-wrenching saga as he lost his way back to the elusive reef, ultimately meeting his demise in the harsh desert landscape in 1931. His final resting place in Alice Springs serves as a poignant reminder of the high stakes and unforgiving nature of the Australian wilderness. Despite his untimely end, Lewis Lasseter's legacy lives on through the numerous books, films, and documentaries that have sought to unravel the mystery surrounding his fateful expedition. The Lasseter Highway off the Stuart Highway to Uluru and 245 km in length is named after the prospector. The story of Lasseter's Reef continues to intrigue and captivate adventurers and historians, drawing them into a world where the promise of unimaginable wealth is tempered by the harsh realities of nature and human ambition. ALICE SPRINGS GOOGLE MAPS West of Alice Springs Glen Helen . Glen Helen Lodge is 130 km west of Alice Springs alongside the Finke River on a sealed road. The Lodge is now no longer accessible to the public (2025). There are no tourist facilities and there is no fuel available. Views are to the nearby West MacDonnell Ranges and of the Glen Helen Gorge cliffs. Nearby Redbank Gorge offers spectacular rock colors within the gorge and this is accessed by a somewhat rough track. Access is via a rocky dry creek bed walk to an entrance blocked by a pool of cold water. In drought years when the pool may be dry Redbank Gorge is one of the best experiences in the Northern Territory. Driving this far west of Alice Springs there are roadside views of Mount Sonder at 1,300 metres in height. The mountain is the highest point in the ranges. Mount Sonder is known locally as the ‘ sleeping lady ’. Glen Helen on the Finke River is just short of two hours' drive west of Alice Springs along an all-sealed road. GLEN HELEN GOOGLE MAPS GLEN HELEN AT THE END OF THE SEALED ROAD The return drive to Alice Springs was in the late afternoon. On this particular day the weather was cold, sky overcast and regular rain showers. Best to drive one day to the west of Alice Springs and the next day to the east. Or vice versa. East of Alice Springs Ross River is about 85 km east of Alice Springs via a sealed road. Located there is the Ross River Homestead. The Homestead has a Bar, café and dining area and is only available for large groups who must pre-book. Fuel is unavailable to tourists and tourists are not allowed to enter the homestead and the surrounding area. However, the drive along the Ross River Road leading to the Homestead is a scenic two-hour return drive east of Alice Springs along an all-sealed road. On the return drive to Alice Springs an oncoming roadtrain gave me a stone chip on my car windscreen. Traveldriven ROSS RIVER RESORT GOOGLE MAPS   ALICE SPRINGS FIVE DAY FORECAST WEST OF ALICE SPRINGS SEALED ROAD EAST OF ALICE SPRINGS SEALED ROAD ROSS RIVER HIGHWAY TERRY GILL WAS RIDING HIS HARLEY & HIT A CAMEL. EACH YEAR A MEMORIAL RIDE IS HELD RAISING FUNDS FOR CHARITY ROADSIDE MEMORIAL LASSETERS MEMORIAL, ALICE SPRINGS CEMETERY ROSS RIVER HOMESTEAD EAST OF ALICE SPRINGS OUTBACK ROCK STACKS OUTBACK ROCK OUTCROP THE THREE PILLARS SIGNAGE THREE CATERPILLARS OF EMILY GAP EAST OF ALICE SPRINGS ROSS HIGHWAY DESERT ROCK FLIES AND MORE FLIES ALICE SPRINGS RAZOR & BARBED WIRE AROUND CARAVAN PARK ALICE SPRINGS PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 36 Tennant Creek The place did not appeal pleasant for an overnight stop. No noteworthy sights. So pushed a little further on to the Devil's Marbles Hotel late in the day. The decision to bypass the uninviting location for an overnight stay was a wise choice, as the lack of notable attractions and the somewhat dilapidated appearance of the small town did not offer much promise for a restful stop. The presence of windowed bars on most retail buildings added to the sense of neglect and perhaps even unease about the area. Instead, opting to continue the journey to the Devil's Marbles Hotel about one hour's drive further proved to be a more appealing prospect. This shift in plans likely provided the opportunity for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience, with the anticipation of reaching a destination that offered better accommodations and a more welcoming atmosphere. Devil's Marbles Northern Territory Karlu Karlu\Devil's Marbles Conservation Reserve. Devil's Marbles is an aboriginal sacred site. About one hundred km south of Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory and four hundred km north of Alice Springs. In 1953 an eight-tonne marble was taken and placed on John Flynn’s grave in Alice Springs. It was returned to the Devils Marbles in 1998. The marble was replaced with a more suitable rock with aboriginal permission. Bush camping is available. Devil's Marbles Hotel Accommodation is available in the Devil's Marbles Hotel and is a convenient overnight stop. Accommodation at the Devil's Marbles Hotel offers a convenient and comfortable option for travellers seeking a restful overnight stop amidst the stunning surroundings of the Devils Marbles. Located just eight kilometres north of this iconic natural attraction, the hotel provides a perfect base for visitors to explore the area. In addition to rooms, guests can enjoy the refreshing experience of a small swimming pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The hotel's proximity to the Devils Marbles ensures that guests can easily access the site and immerse themselves in its unique beauty. Whether you're passing through or looking to spend more time in this remarkable region, the Devil's Marbles Hotel promises a welcoming retreat with modern amenities and a tranquil setting. The hotel is in the middle of nowhere again. No other services such as fuel are available. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP TENNANT CREEK GOOGLE MAPS DEVIL'S MARBLES GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE DALY WATERS - NEWCASTLE WATERS - DEVIL'S MARBLES DEVIL'S MARBLES HOTEL ONSITE SWIMMING POOL INDIGENOUS STOCKMEN ON HORSEBACK DEVIL'S MARBLES & ILLEGAL OVERNIGHT CAMPING ON ROCKS THE RESERVE IS HOME TO FOUR SPECIES OF SNAKES OLD & NEW FINELY BALANCED THE DEVIL DID IT? A DEVIL OF A FLY A COLLECTION OF MARBLES HOT DESERT CLIMATE TOURISTS WALKING THE DEVIL'S MARBLES DEVIL'S MARBLES PLAYGROUND? UNSEALED HIGHWAY TURNOFF TURNAROUND AND GO BACK ABANDONED BESIDE THE ROAD ANOTHER WRECKED CARAVAN SOUTH AUSTRALIAN PLATE ON FOOT TO ALICE SPRINGS NEWCASTLE WATERS DROVER STATUE NEWCASTLE WATERS WETLAND THERE ARE NO SERVICES AT NEWCASTLE WATERS PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

MATARANKA SPRINGS NORTHERN TERRITORY The thermal water is said to relieve one's ailments. Located adjacent to the Roper River, the pool can sometimes get crowded, especially during June to August. The pool is filled with fresh spring water from the Daly and Georgina basins, and it maintains a consistent temperature of 34 degrees. The walkway and springs are shaded by palms. However, the ground floor is dry and brown and devoid of greenery from the top down and unsightly. Mataranka Springs are pools of water with one large pool for swimming and the pools are set amongst large palm trees reached via a boardwalk. Mataranka Springs are about one hundred and seventy km north of Daly Waters. BITTER SPRINGS Bitter springs are nearby to Mataranka Springs. Being only a short drive between the two. However, there is a big difference one to the other. In Bitter Springs, people float down a small waterway surrounded by bushland and shady trees to an area some two hundred metres downstream with an exit platform. On rare occasions the springs are closed by rangers because of a saltwater crocodile sighting in the area. Daly Waters Is a locality in the Northern Territory. About six hundred kilometres south of the capital of Darwin at the intersection of the Stuart Highway and Carpentaria Highway of which only 48 km is sealed. Daly Waters was established in 1927. With a population of only nine people. Daly Waters Airfield was a centre for the London to Sydney Air Race of 1926. A refuelling stop for early Qantas flights to Singapore and a World War II Airforce base. The historic Daly Waters Hotel was licensed in 1938. There is often free nightly live entertainment. Gets quite busy during peak holidays and its accommodation including caravan sites may be fully booked out. As an alternative, The Hi-way Inn Roadhouse may have accommodation available and is ten minutes' drive from the Daly Waters Hotel on the main north\south Stuart Highway. There are no other options. Numerous outback hotels try to impress and differentiate  from other localities  by unusual self-promotion. Apparently the wackier the better. Examples are photographed below. Larrimah Located over 500 km south of Darwin this very small settlement off of the Stuart Highway is centred around the now infamous Larrimah Hotel. The hotel was often frequented by 'Paddy', the missing local man presumed murdered in the Outback by persons who are perhaps known in the community. The story is told in a major Netflix drama. Based on a true disappearance. As of 2025 the mystery disappearance of Paddy is unsolved. The Larrimah Hotel lays claim to have the highest bar in the Northern Territory. Travellers may camp overnight in the local caravan park or stay in the hotel units. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP DALY WATERS GOOGLE MAPS MATARANKA HOT SPRINGS GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE KATHERINE - MATARANKA - DALY WATERS THE LONG LONELY ROAD LARRIMAH HOTEL IS ONE HOUR'S DRIVE NORTH OF DALY WATERS LARRIMAH HOTEL CLAIMED AS THE HIGHEST BAR! LAIDBACK AUSTRALIAN BARMAN NOT A, 'BACKPACKER BARMAN' ANYTHING TO ATTRACT TOURISTS TOURIST DRAW CARD? DALY WATERS ENTERTAINENT DALY WATERS PUB EXTERIOR DALY WATERS PUB TRUE BLUE...... DALY WATERS A TOURIST SERVO DISPLAY AND IS ACTUALLY USEFUL DALY WATERS INSIDE DALY WATERS HOTEL OUTBACK PUB BUSY TIMES THE BUCKING SHED DALY WATERS PUB TOURIST SALES ANYTHING FOR THE TOURIST DOLLAR DALY WATERS HOTEL FOR SALE MATARANKA REGION WE OF THE NEVER NEVER, MATARANKA MATARANKA SPRINGS NT MATARANKA SPRINGS MATARANKA SPRINGS THE ROPER RIVER SIGNAGE WALKWAY TO MATARANKA SPRINGS BITTER SPRINGS NEAR MATARANKA SPRINGS FLOATING DOWN BITTER SPRINGS WITH POOL NOODLES OVERNIGHT AT MATARANKA SPRINGS FREE NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT JULIAN JAMES & PARTNER PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE