Things to see in Canberra Carillon A carillon is a pitched percussion instrument. Often housed in bell towers of public buildings. Carillons produce sound by striking stationary bells. An excellent view of Canberra's Carillon is from a lake tour, or a lakeside walk. Royal Australian Mint When visiting Canberra, the capital city of Australia, a must-see attraction is the Royal Australian Mint. This institution holds a significant role as the sole producer of all circulating coins in the country. It is responsible for minting various denominations, including the five cent, ten cent, twenty cent, fifty cent, one dollar, and two-dollar coins that are used daily by Australians in their transactions. Situated in Denison Street, Deakin, Canberra, the Royal Australian Mint offers a fascinating experience for visitors. One of the highlights of a visit to the Mint is the opportunity to witness the coin stamping process firsthand. Visitors can observe the intricate machinery in action as it transforms raw materials into shiny new coins. The sight of coins moving through large hoppers and being minted with precision is both educational and mesmerising. Moreover, the Mint provides an insight into the history and artistry of coin production. From the design phase to the final minting process, visitors can learn about the craftsmanship and attention to detail required to create each coin. The Mint's exhibitions and displays showcase the evolution of Australian currency over the years. In addition to the educational aspects, the Royal Australian Mint also offers a unique souvenir shopping experience. Visitors can browse through a wide range of collectible coins, and commemorative sets available for purchase. These items make for memorable keepsakes or gifts that reflect the rich cultural and historical significance of Australian currency. Overall, a visit to the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra is not only an opportunity to witness the coin production process up close but also a chance to appreciate the artistry, history, and craftsmanship behind Australia's circulating currency. It is a destination that combines both education and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Australian Signals Directorate (until 2013: Defence Signals Directorate, DSD) Occasionally the ASD offers the public a showcase of the history of the ASD. The Australian government agency responsible for foreign signals intelligence, support to military operations, cyber warfare, and information security is known as the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD). The Directorate is tasked to protect Australia from various threats in the digital age, also the ASD plays a crucial role in gathering intelligence from foreign signals to provide valuable insights to the government and military. Through its advanced capabilities in cyber warfare, the ASD is equipped to defend against cyber-attacks and safeguard Australia's critical infrastructure and sensitive information. Moreover, the agency's expertise in information security ensures that government systems and data are protected from cyber threats, espionage, and other malicious activities. Overall, the ASD's multifaceted responsibilities contribute significantly to Australia's national security efforts in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity and digital defence. The ASD and other Australian government agencies sometimes offer the public an overview of their vital work. In addition, there are many interesting museums, public buildings and exhibitions open year round. Most are free to visit in Canberra. Traveldriven CARILLON CANBERRA THE CANBERRA CARILLON HAS 57 BELLS AND A HEIGHT OF 50 METRES THE CARILLON IS IN REGULAR USE & BELL SOUNDS CARRY ACROSS THE LAKE CARILLON PLAQUE AUSTRALIA'S COINS COINAGE OF AUSTRALIA STAMPED HERE GOLD COINS GOLD COIN HOPPER ROBOT FILLING BOX WITH LARGE BAGS OF GOLD COINS AUSTRALIAN SIGNALS DIRECTORATE MOTTO AUSTRALIAN SIGNALS DIRECTORATE ONE OF THE MANY FREE EXHIBITIONS IN CANBERRA PREV CANBERRA ROADTRIP NEXT HOMEPAGE

ROADTRIP DESTINATION Canberra is the capital city of Australia. Canberra's estimated population is greater than 430,000. Founded and formally named as Canberra in 1913. The name is said to be derived from a local aboriginal word for 'meeting place' Traveldriven leisurely circled Parliament House multiple times, taking in the architectural design as a tourist. Armed Australian Federal Police were consistently stationed at the entry points. It's reassuring to see Australia's heritage being protected with visible security. Inside Parliament House There is no need to pre-book an unguided tour of Parliament House. The building is open daily to the public. Upon entering the Marble Foyer, people are greeted by a grand display of opulence and architectural magnificence. The sight of 48 towering marble columns immediately commands attention, their polished surfaces reflecting the soft glow of the ambient lighting. Each column stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the skilled artisans who meticulously carved and shaped the marble into these majestic pillars of strength and beauty. The sheer scale and number of columns not only serve a structural purpose but also convey a sense of grandeur. As visitors move through the Foyer, the rhythmic repetition of the columns creates a sense of rhythm and harmony, guiding the eye upwards towards the intricately detailed ceiling, adorned with ornate mouldings and elegant chandeliers that cast a warm, inviting glow over the entire area. The Marble Foyer, with its impressive array of columns, stands as a timeless symbol of elegance and refinement, inviting guests to step into a world of luxury, grace and power of the nation. Walk the Interior No appointment is necessary to explore the inside of Parliament House. Visitors can simply walk in and be greeted by the grandeur of this iconic building. Upon arrival, a security section must be navigated to ensure the safety and integrity of the premises. This initial process adds a layer of importance and sets the tone for the experience ahead. Once inside, visitors have the option to join a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the history and significance of the various halls and rooms within Parliament House. Alternatively, visitors can choose to explore the building at their own pace, allowing for a more personalised and intimate encounter with this seat of federal government. The architecture of Parliament House is both impressive and steeped in tradition, with many hallways and rooms open to the general public, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of the government. From historic chambers to modern meeting spaces, each area tells a story of democracy in action. Take a Break at the Cafe For those in need of refreshment, there is a café conveniently located within the building. Here, visitors can take a break, get a bite to eat and enjoy a variety of beverages, and even indulge in delicious milkshakes. The café provides a welcoming environment for relaxation and reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of parliamentary activities. Overall, a visit to Parliament House is not just a tour of a building; it is an opportunity to witness democracy in motion, to appreciate the architectural beauty, and to immerse oneself in the rich history of Australia's federal government. Traveldriven VISIT PARLIAMENT HOUSE VISIT CANBERRA GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT CANBERRA FIVE DAY FORECAST DRIVE MELBOURNE TO CANBERRA VIEW FROM PARLIAMENT HOUSE TO REAR OF OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE, WAR MEMORIAL & MOUNT AINSLIE Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. The Great Verandah is the public face of Parliament House. The Great Verandah has a screen wall made up of 22 columns and is topped by a glazed glass roof. The flag mast is 81 metres tall. Australian flag is 12.8 metres long 6.4 metres high WALKING TO PARLIAMENT HOUSE DRIVING AROUND PARLIAMENT HOUSE AUSTRALIA FOYER PARLIAMENT HOUSE WALKING INTO THE GREAT HALL The Marble Foyer features 48 marble columns THE GREAT HALL PARLIAMENT HOUSE, THE KING TABLE IN BACKGROUND & the GREAT HALL TAPESTRY BACKDROP THE KING TABLE THE KING TABLE & HIGH BACK CHAIRS THE GREAT HALL HAS A CAPACITY TO HOLD UP TO 1,000 PEOPLE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CHAMBER or lower house 151 MEMBERS SENATE CHAMBER or upper house 76 senators twelve from each state two from both territories MEMBER'S HALL PARLIAMENT HOUSE DIRECTLY UNDER THE FLAG MAST FLOWING WATER SOUND DESIGNED TO COVER ANY CONVERSATION Lake Burley Griffin Canberra Skyline as viewed across Lake Burley Griffin PREV CANBERRA ROADTRIP NEXT HOMEPAGE

DRIVE TO BIRDSVILLE OUTBACK QUEENSLAND Birdsville Track and Strzelecki Track. On this road trip spend two nights experiencing the renowned hospitality of the Birdsville Hotel. Birdsville is the most famous Outback town in all of Australia. Our plan was to embark on this road trip in a Toyota Land Cruiser, starting from Adelaide, without a towed trailer or any additional vehicles. A small tour group of three organised by Desert Sky Tours in Adelaide, South Australia. Accommodations to be mainly in hotel units along the way. No camping. Passing through Outback Flinders Ranges settlements and dots on a map. Names such as Mungerannie (Birdsville Track) and Innamincka in South Australia. Driving the full length of the famous Birdsville Track in Outback Queensland/South Australia and ascending Little Red and Big Red (100 feet in height sand dunes), on the edge of the Simpson Desert in Outback Queensland. To get to Birdsville, driving outback towns of New South Wales, Tibooburra, Broken Hill, and through station country in outback South Australia. A return road trip of greater than 3,400 km (2,100 miles) with a few short detours to tourist sites. Over one third was to be driven on unsealed outback roads and tracks. The outback tracks and roads can be life threatening to drive. Vehicle breakdowns do occur. Vehicles get bogged after infrequent rains. A recent national television news report was of the death of a young driver from extreme heat in a two car convoy. Both vehicles bogged in the Outback about one hundred km from the Northern Territory/Queensland border. January 17, 2024. It's not uncommon for Birdsville weather forecasts during the summer months to have daily highs of 42 to 47 C (116 F). Most tourists travel the area in the cooler winter months. Traveldriven OUTBACK TRACKS 2024 HF RADIO IN VEHICLE FOR SAFETY SATELLITE PHONE IN VEHICLE FOR SAFETY RECOMMENDED FOR VEHICLES TO CARRY TWO FULLSIZE SPARE TYRES CHECKED & LOADED UP 4 WHEEL DRIVE V8 ROOFTOP LUGGAGE STORAGE ON TOP PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE POST

the cooked full roast chicken on its silver platter sliding down the length of the long twenty seat plus dining table -shipmate, Alma Doepel Tall Ship Alma Doepel Alma Doepel was built in 1903 in Bellingen, NSW, by Frederick Doepel and named after his youngest daughter Alma. Up until 1915 she operated around Sydney and the northern rivers district of NSW. In 1915 she was brought by Tasmanian owners and commenced freighter operation. The ship criss-crossed Bass Strait between Hobart and Melbourne. Carrying timber and general goods. She undertook wartime World War Two service in Papua New Guinea. From July 1988 the Alma Doepel was used as a sail training ship on Port Phillip Bay and moored in Melbourne until 1999. Sea going wear and tear took its toll and the ship was unable to continue in this role. She was sailed up the Australian east coast and found berth at Port Macquarie unable to continue on and this is where she stayed for many years in a floating dock. Unseaworthy and in need of repairs. The local volunteers, although enthusiastic, unable to do a restoration. The ship was returned to Melbourne and from 2013, she was berthed at No 2 Victoria Dock Melbourne. Being mounted on a submergible barge, undergoing an extensive refit to return her to survey so she can recommence sail training. On 16 October 2021 she was lifted off the barge and back into the water. Restoration works In the years leading up to 2025, volunteers continue to engage in restoration work. Restoration is in Docklands Melbourne. All work is carried out with donations received. Completion total cost is estimated of five million dollars. Enabling sailing once again on Port Phillip Bay. Occasionally a tour may be available to see restoration works. About two-thirds restoration completed in 2023. Ship masts fitted in 2024. Planned fitout completion is now extended for early 2026. Sea trials are expected going into 2026 for sea worthiness compliance. Followed by sailing with crew and passengers. Possibly by middle 2026 onwards. First Experience On A Ship I sailed on the Alma Doepel pre-1995. An overnight winter's weekend tall ship experience on Port Phillip Bay off of Melbourne in Victoria. Group of twenty or so, plus crew. The sleeping quarters were located below deck, featuring double-deck bunks that extended along both sides of the interior hull, with a walkway in between. You slept in your own sleeping bag, which you brought on board along with a few personal belongings. The planned evening meal was to be a large, cooked roast and beverages were supplied. Crew and shipmates shared friendly banter. Crew could be given a helping hand with ropes and rigging. The sea trip being advertised as experiencing life on a tall ship for a weekend. Gale Force Radio Warnings However once aboard, soon all shipboard activities were curtailed due to severe weather. Gale warnings issued for bays and open waters. A successful attempt was made by a few to go by ship's tender to the Sorrento Hotel in full safety gear and return. Transfer to the tender lowered alongside of the rocking ship was fraught with caution. Weather worsening by the hour. Crew only allowed in the high rigging due to bad weather. Little of the evening meal was eaten. The untouched full chicken roast on its silver platter sliding down the length of the long twenty seat plus dining table. Only the raised table rim preventing spillage to the floor. All galley plates and kitchen utensils falling loudly onto the galley floor from normally secure storage space. Drinking water was preferred by most instead of onboard beverages to avert feelings of seasickness. A howling overnight & cold gale force wind cut through the rigging. No other vessels out on the bay apart from a few large international freighter ships. Frequent marine radio communications conveyed warnings of gale force wind threats to shipping in bays. Call For Volunteers Only a few hours into the voyage the ship's captain, Captain Wood, called for volunteers from the crew to furl in the most forward sails on the Bowsprit (projecting long pole). The Bowsprit bucking wildly up and down in the worsening swell and strong wind. Only two younger crewmen volunteered. All other crew declined. These two crewmen climbing out over the white capped water. All hoping that if a fall occurred the small safety net between the bowsprit and choppy swell would prevent a man overboard emergency. Everything must be battened down and sails furled away. Ship rocking noticeably during anchorage overnight in the wild storm. During the night, ship's crew used a loud portable drill to drain lapping water on floorboards in the sleeping quarters. No doubt the bilge pumps running non-stop beneath. Sleep continually interrupted by loud protesting creaking timber joints and frequent squalling wind heard over the deck above. Scurry Back To Home Port and Safety In the morning daylight, the ship tacked so as to run with the strong wind enabling much smoother sailing back to port. Several hours of sailing from near the entrance of the bay. Curling waves crashing consistently over the side wooden railings washing the deck fully in the heavy swell. Seawater as deep as one's knee's spreading across the timber deck and quickly draining through the deck side scupper drainage holes. All were careful not to be caught on the open deck during a breaking wave. Crew could be overheard saying the main anchor was dragged on the sea floor in overnight storms moving the ship a short distance. All found it impossible to maintain self-balance. Hand grips on any ship fittings were essential to move about. All crew and passengers arrived back safely in port late morning. Although most if not all were nauseous for the past twenty-four hours from the wild weather. A seafaring experience not forgotten. Good job by crew and the ship's Captain Mr Wood. No further personal sailing for over twenty years. Traveldriven ENTER DOCKLANDS GOOGLE MAPS ENTER ALMA DOEPEL WIKIPEDIA ALMA DOEPEL By Sail & amp ;Adventure Limited - Sail & ;Adventure Limited photo library, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29873986 OFFSHORE SORRENTO PORT PHILLIP BAY, VICTORIA GALE FORCE WINDS ON BAYS THE SAME WEATHER SYSTEM OUR SHIP DID NOT VENTURE OUTSIDE OF THE BAY ENTRANCE SHIPMATES BOARDING FOR THE WEEKEND SAILING CAPTAIN WOOD USING BINOCULARS HELMSMAN & WHEELHOUSE SECURE GRIP ON FIXTURES VOLUNTEERS FOR THE BOWSPRIT BOWSPRIT SAILS FURLED PITCHING MAST & CREW CREW PULLING ROPES ON TALL SHIP PULLING ROPES ADJUSTING SAILS DECK WASHED BY WATER OVER TOP RAIL REAR VIEW OF GALLEY DINING AREA WARMER INSIDE OUT OF ICEY GALE NO HEATING ON A TALL SHIP SAIL FURLING & GALE WINDS CREW AND TENDER OF TALL SHIP SHIP'S TENDER ROCKIN AGAINST SHIP SHIP'S TENDER TO SHORE SHIP'S BUNKS & LAPPING WATER HOLES DRILLED BY CREW TO DRAIN WATER RETURN TO MELBOUNE, HOME PORT & STABLE SECURE FOOTING ALMA DOEPEL RESTORATION DOCKLANDS ALMA DOEPEL FITTINGS INSIDE WHARF SHED FOR RESTORATION LATE 2023 ALMA DOEPEL WHEEL BOX ALMA DOEPEL AFLOAT AWAITING MASTS & RIGGING PHOTO TAKEN LATE 2023 ALMA DOEPEL RESTORATION 2023 OPEN DAY & SAUSAGE SIZZLE ALMA DOEPEL OCTOBER 2025 KEEL & FRAMES FINISHED ENGINE INSTALLED MASTS, DECKING, & BOWSPRINT FINISHED ALMA DOEPEL DOCKLANDS 2025 RIGGING & SAILS YET TO BE FITTED INSIDE THE MAIN GALLEY YET TO GET FINAL FITOUT STEERING BOX AND WHEEL FINISHED & IN WORKING ORDER ON BOARD SHIP WHEEL STEERAGE INSTRUMENTATION INSTALLED & FINISH DETAILS WORK IN PROGRESS ENCLOSED SIDE RAILING YET TO BE INSTALLED ABOVE SCUPPER HOLES PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 10 Try my luck finding gold in a hot and dry creek bed - Traveldriven Marble Bar The town of Marble Bar was named after a nearby jasper bar was mistaken for marble. The jasper bar runs across the bed of the Coongan River. Large gold nuggets were discovered as a result of the Marble Bar goldrush. The 333 ounce Little Hero The 413 ounce (11.7kg) Bobby Dazzler The 332 ounce (9.4kg) General Gordon All were found in the goldfields around the town. I gathered several hand size samples of jasper for a keepsake. SEEK OUT GOLD Try my luck and go find gold nuggets I told myself. I carried a White Gold Detector machine for a little scratching around. A basic and capable detector. I was raising a sweat and swinging my pick in an out of town creek bed. It's hard work in the heat. The creek bed not all sand & somewhat stony. I hung the pick on a tree branch for a short rest. Driving towards Marble Bar a fellow in an old 4wd pulled over and he began talking through the wound down car window. He showed me a small 30ml clear plastic container like you get chemist tablets in. GOLD NUGGETS FOUND Inside were odd sized small gold nuggets. The prospector said he had found gold a couple of km away up a side track. Try your luck around there he said and drove off. I knew all the side tracks were covered in the sharp gibber like stones. I thought who needs a tyre puncture in this extreme heat. Me driving a sedan with road tyres only. I called it a day and returned to Marble Bar. Plenty of Jasper Jasper is commonly known as a spotted or speckled stone. Apparently seen to have healing properties for some and is used as jewellery and for decorative oddments. When jasper is water covered many bright and strong banded colours are bought to the fore. Quite pleasing to the eye. There was plenty of raw Jasper in plain sight around Marble Bar, unlike gold or marble. The Price of Jasper Raw jasper taken from the ground is worth up to about one dollar per half a kilogram. Could be quite a bit less. Not a high monetary valve even when cleaned and polished. On the other hand, a square foot of actual raw marble is sixty dollars on average. A square foot weighing four to seven kg. Traveldriven CLAIMED AS AUSTRALIA'S HOTTEST TOWN THERE IS NO PUBLIC ACCESS TO TOP OF WATER TOWER HARD TO FIND AROUND HERE WATER & GOLD TRAVELLERS REST MOTEL AND PETROL AVAILABLE MARBLE BAR CLAIMED AS AUSTRALIA'S HOTTEST TOWN & BEER AVAILABLE MARBLE BAR pub notice Collingwood ban good idea. An Australian Rules Football club. DETECTING FOR GOLD IN CREEKBED NO LUCK WATER BRINGS OUT THE COLOURS THE MARBLE BAR/JASPER ROCK BARS OF JASPER JASPER ROCK JASPER ROCK DISPLAY MARBLE BAR PARK ROAD OUT OF TOWN NORTH to where? PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Great Northern Highway The highway is the longest in Australia with a total length of 3,200 km. This inland highway connects Perth to Wyndham in the far North of Western Australia. Travelling from Perth the highway route passes through Newman and onto Port Hedland on the coast. Newman is the turn off to the town of Marble Bar. The turnoff onto the road called Marble Bar Road continues to the small stop of Nullagine and onto Marble Bar. A road distance of about 300 km. Marble Bar A town in the Pilbara of north-western Western Australia. There are extremes of hot weather, with a mean maximum temperature second only to Wyndham, Western Australia. Claimed to be the hottest town in Australia. The town has less than two hundred residents and is located in the Pilbara region of north-western Western Australia. A famous Jasper rock outcrop can be seen along the Coongan River near town. Marble Bar Comet Gold Mine has an interesting museum and is seven km out of town. The most famous building in the town is the Ironclad Hotel built in the 1890s, constructed of corrugated iron. There is one Caravan Park within Marble Bar. Entry is across a small dry creek. Shaded sites are available. I was told by a fellow camper to spray ant killer around the parked car as Singapore ants may damage the electrical wiring in the engine bay. In days gone by several large gold nuggets were discovered in the area. Among them the 413-ounce Bobby Dazzler found in the 1890s. While I was in Marble Bar I used a White’s gold detector a few km out of town in a dry creek bed. Hot dusty work in the heat of the day. No valuable finds. On another much earlier road trip I drove solo Marble Bar to New Norcia down towards Perth on the then unsealed Great Northern Highway as mentioned above. A driving distance of thirteen hundred km of gravel via Newman an iron ore mining town in the Pilbara of several thousand residents. The drive continued down the Great Northern Highway through to Meekatharra and onto New Norcia. This road trip was in a two-wheel drive car. Now-a-days the Great Northern Highway is all sealed. Meekatharra Translates as 'place of little water'. Established as a small gold mining town and currently has about one thousand residents. There is accommodation available in the Meekatharra Hotel. Petrol and Diesel fuel is available. New Norcia A monastic town of numerous abbey's a little over an hour's drive from Perth. Abbey tours do not include the monastery as monks live in the building. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP MARBLE BAR MEEKATHARRA NEW NORCIA GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT MARBLE BAR FIVE DAY FORECAST TRAVEL DOWN UNDER & DRIVE PORT HEDLAND - MARBLE BAR MARBLE BAR & OUTBACK DEATHS DRIVING INTO MARBLE BAR MARBLE BAR MARBLE BAR WELCOME SIGNS CATTLE HORSEMEN OF THE OUTBACK BIGGER THAN THE STATE OF VICTORIA OLDTIMER WALKING INTO MARBLE BAR MARBLE BAR ROADTRAIN FOUR TRAILERS PRIME MOVER WITH FOUR TRAILERS OUTBACK HOMESTEAD OR BE IN THE SHIT PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Warrior woman obliged for a photo. She carried a nice bow. I didn't ask if she could use it. -Traveldriven Mundi Mundi Lookou t & 40th Anniversary of Mad Max 2 The Mundi Mundi Lookout is located 29 km north of Broken Hill or 4 km north of Silverton and is the location of a Mad Max 2 chase scene. The lookout is accessed along a sealed public road. Everyone who could drive or ride made their way to Mundi Mundi Lookout. A few black Mad Max XB Falcons were in the mix of vehicles. The most memorable car from Mad Max 1, Max's black Pursuit Special was a 1973 Ford XB Falcon GT 351, a limited-edition hardtop. The XB sold in Australia from December 1973 to August 1976. Amidst tourists in their regular travel cars, Mad Max-themed vehicles, the ones road legal, I and others enthusiastically headed to Mundi Mundi Lookout for a sunset gathering. Everyone eager not to be left out before sunset. All participants in the 40th Anniversary weekend celebration of the Mad Max 2 movie travelled the 15 minutes in good time. Wasteland Compound on the outskirts of Silverton, a meticulously crafted replica from the Mad Max 2 movie, stood nearly empty awaiting all to return after dusk. As mentioned, various road legal Mad Max pursuit special XB Ford Falcon's were amongst the cars. An attendee with long dreadlocks was operating a drone in the air, seeking the best action shots. Another drove solo down from Queensland to attend. Sleeping roadside overnight in the old van he travelled in. Menacing Big Wez and Photo Shoot Movie lights and cameras were brought out for a photo shoot next to the Mundi Mundi Lookout sign. Cameras rolling. Big Wez and his menacing actions stealing the show. All enjoying the occasion. The owner of the Mad Max Museum in Silvertown wanting footage for his business. A Holden sedan Statesman, lacking doors, was utilized as a prop. This old Statesman, with iron and wire replacing the doors and missing front panels, was rolled off a flatbed towed trailer. The roof top siren and horn were in working order and the vehicle right hand drive as it should be. Able to be driven but not on public roads. Weather was hot dry and dusty. Typical Mad Max conditions. A warrior woman, in full movie themed attire, obliged for a photo. She dressed in all white movie themed attire more suited to cooler weather. She carried a nice bow. I didn't ask if she could use it. Before the light faded there were many enactments for photos and a group photo opportunity for those in themed attire . Much fanfare and fun. A few motorbikes added to the atmosphere. Return to Wasteland, Mad Max Country As the setting sun disappeared most of us returned to the highly detailed and reconstructed Wasteland Compound as seen in the movie for the night's entertainment. All the vehicles rumbling slowly past the Silverton Hotel and Silverton Municipal Chambers buildings back to Wasteland Compound. The compound was constructed over many months just outside of Silverton in the red desert landscape. It must be said, the on-location movie set of Wasteland Compound was long gone and constructed in a different area and not near this replica compound. A few hardy souls camped inside this replica Wasteland Compound over the weekend. Some slept in hammocks strung out underneath overhead tarps. All in Mad Max themed attire of course. During the day, temperatures climbed to 35°C (95°F), while the nights were cool and brisk with a clear, starry sky in the desert setting. Traveldriven MAD MAX SUPERCHARGER Wind farms were built many years after the filming of Mad Max 2. HOLDEN STATESMAN DOORS REMOVED & DRIVEABLE WARRIOR WOMAN MAD MAX GROUP OF PEOPLE THE FEARSOME FOURSOME? THEMED ATTIRE MUNDI MUNDI LOOKOUT DRIVEN FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA FRIENDLY MAD MAX GANG MAD MAX ROLL, CAMERA, ACTION MUNDI MUNDI LOOKOUT SCENE MAD MAX 2 PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE

TOWNSVILLE ROAD TRIP AUSTRALIA The road trip destination. 2,800 km from Victoria and home. I approached Townsville driving from inland Queensland and connected with the coastal Bruce Highway. The highway continues through Townsville and onto Cairns or down the coast south to Brisbane. The first task was to drive up Castle Hill. Here there are great views of the city and Magnetic Island. I reserved a relaxed three-hour jetski tour of Magnetic Island for a few days from now. The owner of the jetski hire conducting the tour. Both he and I on our skis circumnavigating the island. Large turtles may be spotted swimming in the clear waters and island features are pointed out. On Magnetic Island you can hike to the World War II forts and walk through the bushland on a clearly marked trail. The Strand While in Townsville visit and relax along "The Strand".  This is a two km watered foreshore promenade available to the public. There are shady palm trees, green grass, eateries, water parks etc along this thriving beach foreshore of Townsville. Located back behind the beach The Strand may be driven along its length. On this trip, convenient accommodation was in Rydges Motel in Palmer Street. A short drive away from the foreshore and central city. Palmer Street has the outdoor cafés, hotels and restaurants to enjoy. Souvenirs may be purchased along Palmer Street. The Strand Rockpool Enjoy a free swim in the sea water rockpool on the Strand. This is a saltwater lagoon. The large rockpool is fully enclosed and separated from the open sea. Has a shallow area and a deeper area for swimming. There are clear views of Magnetic Island across the water. The rockpool is usually attended by a lifeguard and is open most days. Provided and maintained by local government. Castle Hill Is a granite monolith in the suburb of Castle Hill, Townsville. Castle Hill stands at a height of 286 metres (938 ft) above sea level. A well-made sealed road leads to the top. Views are to the city skyline. Elevated views are of Magnetic Island that is some four km distant. Castle Hill Lookout is one of Traveldriven's top eight Australian lookouts. For another top eight pick please go to: Mount Wellington Tasmania Post Traveldriven CURRENT TOWNSVILLE FIVE DAY FORECAST ROAD TRIP AUSTRALIA ENTER CLICK/TAP TOWNSVILLE GOOGLE MAPS MAP OF CASTLE HILL ROAD CASTLE HILL & LOOKOUT Castle Hill Townsville from Castle Hill Castle Hill descent Castle Hill backdrop Castle Hill driving Two the same Townsville CBD Townsville artwork The Rockpool Along the Strand TOWNSVILLE QUEENSLAND GOOGLE MAPS PREV ROADTRIP TOWNSVILLE NEXT PREV QUEENSLAND NEXT HOMEPAGE

FIVE RIVERS LOOKOUT, WYNDHAM Wyndham to Five Rivers Lookout takes you to the top of one of the best views the Kimberley has to offer. The lookout stands 335m above sea level giving an excellent panoramic view. It is easy to find just by following the signs from Wyndham town centre and the sealed steep winding road will lead to the summit lookout. Suitable for both 4wd and 2wd vehicles. Not towed vans. Once on top stunning views will become apparent of the multiple rivers all around! There is plenty of parking and a covered picnic area with tables are available for tourists. The occasional roadtrain may be observed far below travelling to and fro from the Port on the dusty roads. From the top of the Gulf Bastion is where the following five rivers of the Gulf meet: Durack Kink Pentecost Forrest Ord Five Rivers Lookout is a crocodile safe area that provides visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region without the looming threat of fatal crocodile attacks. This lookout offers a safe vantage point to admire the picturesque landscape, including the convergence of five rivers, while ensuring the safety and peace of mind of those who visit. In contrast to the safety of Five Rivers Lookout, the area around Wyndham has unfortunately witnessed tragic incidents of fatal crocodile attacks in its waterways and surrounding areas. These attacks serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by these apex predators in certain environments. Visitors to Wyndham are advised to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with crocodile encounters. Underscoring the risks present in the vicinity of Wyndham, it becomes evident that being informed and vigilant when exploring natural habitats is crucial. The coexistence of humans and crocodiles in these regions underscores the importance of respecting wildlife and understanding the need for responsible behaviour to ensure the well-being of both visitors and the native fauna. Five Rivers Lookout is one of Traveldriven's top eight lookout picks of Australia. For one of the other top eight please go to: Castle Hill Lookout Queensland Post Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP WYNDHAM GOOGLE MAPS VIEW FROM FIVE RIVERS LOOKOUT FIVE RIVERS LOOKOUT CAMBRIDGE GULF VIEW FIVE RIVERS LOOKOUT WYNDHAM PORT AREA WYNDHAM, GOOGLE MAPS PREV WESTERN AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

GOLD COAST The Gold Coast is Australia's holiday destination. This a large coastal city in Queensland, approximately seventy kilometres south of Brisbane. Local residents are sometimes called Gold Coaster's. The area's population is greater than seven hundred thousand residents. The largest non-capital city in Australia. Surfers Paradise is the hub of the Gold Coast and has world famous surfing beaches and a high-rise beach frontage skyline. All types of accommodation are available. As are theme parks, nightlife, and rainforest hinterland. Travel Down Under to Movie World The Movie World Theme Park offers a captivating experience with its end-of-day Grand Parade, featuring a vibrant procession of beloved movie and cartoon characters. Among the highlights is the appearance of iconic figures like Batman, Cat Woman, Bugs Bunny, Tweety, and Sylvester the Cat, who delight spectators with their lively performances as they gyrate through the parade. The parade also showcases unique vehicles, such as the famous bat car, adding an extra element of excitement to the spectacle. In addition to the Grand Parade, visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of themed enactments throughout the day. One of the popular enactments involves a thrilling portrayal of the infamous 1930s gangsters Bonnie and Clyde as they attempt to rob a city bank. The enactment culminates in a dramatic showdown with the police outside the bank, creating a suspenseful and engaging scene for onlookers. Following this intense performance, a light comedy sketch is presented, providing a humorous and entertaining interlude for the audience. These immersive experiences at Movie World Theme Park not only entertain guests but also transport them into the magical world of movies and cartoons. The attention to detail in the character portrayals, the dynamic parade, and the engaging enactments all contribute to making the park a destination for those seeking a fun and memorable entertainment experience. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP Gold Coast GOOGLE MAPS Surfers Paradise GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT GOLD COAST FIVE DAY FORECAST GOLD COAST PARADE OF MOVIE CARS Gold Coast motorcycle hire Bonnie & Clyde Bonnie & Clyde Gold Coast the real Bonnie & Clyde car in the USA PREV AUSTRALIA ICONS NEXT PREV QUEENSLAND NEXT HOMEPAGE

Tipperary Town The town has a resident population of under five thousand. The song "It's a Long Way to Tipperary", became popular among the British military as a marching song in World War One. Rock of Cashel The Rock of Cashel, a prominent historical landmark in Ireland, holds significant cultural and architectural importance. Also referred to as Cashel of the Kings and St. Patrick's Rock, this site is steeped in centuries of rich history and folklore. Perched majestically atop a limestone hill, the Rock of Cashel commands attention with its striking presence and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Legend has it that the Rock of Cashel was formed when St. Patrick himself banished the devil from a cave on the hill, resulting in the creation of this iconic site. Over the years, it became a symbol of power and authority, serving as a royal stronghold and a centre of religious pilgrimage. The site's structures, including a round tower, a cathedral, and a high cross, showcase a blend of architectural styles spanning different periods in Irish history. Visitors to the Rock of Cashel can explore the intricate carvings, ancient artifacts, and ornate decorations that adorn its buildings, offering a glimpse into the past glory of this revered site. The atmosphere is imbued with a sense of mystique and reverence, inviting contemplation and reflection on the historical events that have unfolded within its walls. Today, the Rock of Cashel stands as a testament to Ireland's enduring heritage and serves as a reminder of the country's rich cultural legacy. Its significance as a symbol of Irish identity and spirituality continues to draw visitors from around the world, who come to marvel at its beauty and immerse themselves in the stories that echo through its ancient stones. Cashel, County Tipperary, Ireland. Cobh known from 1849 until 1920 as Queenstown, is a tourist seaport town on the south coast of County Cork, the town was associated with the RMS Titanic , which was built in Belfast. Facing the town is Spike Island . A now disused prison often referred to as the Alcatraz of Ireland. The prison used to hold high profile prisoners. Prisoners such as members of the IRA. Public tours are available of the prison and grounds. On a high point in the town of Cobh stands the cathedral church of the diocese of Cloyne, St Colman's. It's one of the tallest buildings in Ireland. Driving the Irish Countryside Driving through small colourful Irish towns. On the main road in one village the newly picked up hire car, a diesel Hyundai, the engine stopped in traffic. We were unable to move with a gathering line of cars behind. Leaving us wondering what to do for a good minute. I pressed the go pedal, immediately the engine started and the car moved forward. No thanks to the car hire staff for not telling me the car has a fuel saving mode. We drove along a short detour to Tipperary Town. Walked around Tipp Town Shopping Centre housing a small cluster of retail shops in Tipperary. Horse breeding and racing is very prominent in County Tipperary. Races are held at the Tipperary Racecourse and are often broadcast live on dedicated racing television channels in Australia. One roadside signage said you have come a long way. It must be said you can't be much further away than Melbourne, southern Australia. 17,365 km as the crow flies. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP TIPPERARY GOOGLE MAPS WINDSWEPT IRELAND COBH WATERFRONT LAST DEPARTURE JETTY FOR THE TITANIC BEFORE SETTING SAIL THE LAST SUPPER ON THE TITANIC? DOCKSIDE IN COBH AWAITING OUR DINNER WITH PRE DINNER DRINKS OLD JETTY FOR TITANIC TENDER CRAFT LAST PORT OF CALL COBH SPIKE ISLAND PRISON IRA MEMORIAL MAD HATTERS OF IRELAND WORRYING? THE WOLF OF WICKLOW IT'S A LONG WAY TO TIPPERARY FROM AUSTRALIA ROCK OF CASHEL & IRISH FOLKLORE NOT FAR TO TIPPERARY, TWENTY KM DRIVE COBH GOOGLE MAPS ROCK OF CASHEL GOOGLE MAPS PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Dublin The capital of the Republic of Ireland. The city is situated at the mouth of the River Liffey. Appearing from the outside as a much more pleasant a city than Belfast. Perhaps a larger number of tourists are catered for in Dublin than Belfast. Seems to be more tourist friendly attractions. Dublin city is home to the very popular and famous Guinness Brewery. Tours and tastings on tap are offered daily in the multi-story Brewery. The Guinness tastes much better on tap where the dark brew is manufactured onsite. Road Trip Belfast Our drive took us away from Dublin to the much different world of Belfast. The city appearing rather bland and cold. The city just two hours drive away. During the drive I innocently remarked will we drive through Londonderry? I instantly regretted the comment, and no fuss was made about it. But I realised people native to Dublin preferred Derry and those native to Belfast preferred Londonderry. I didn't want to stir up strong views one way or the other. I know much of the worst "troubles" were centred in the city. Not fully understanding the meaning behind place names can get tourists in trouble if not paid attention to when conversing with locals. Weather you call the city Derry or Londonderry it was not on our driving route. Row upon row of flags were displayed along streets outside of homes in the suburbs of Belfast. Both Irish and UK flags but, never mixed together. Always segregated to defined living areas of Catholics and Protestants. Even to this day. A reminder of the "Troubles" not all that long ago. Forward to the current day and our Irish hosts would not stop in any of these areas for fear of vehicle vandalism because of the Dublin number plates displayed. Distrust will always remain between the two. Belfast City The capital and largest city of Northern Ireland. Belfast's population is almost half that of Dublin. The city and CBD are notably smaller in size. A feeling overcomes one of to be careful when in and around Belfast. Personally, I felt Dublin feels more inviting to visitors. The famous cruise ship RMS Titanic was built in Belfast by Harland & Wolff's Shipyards. The company still exists to this day. As excited tourists we were driven by our Irish hosts to the Belfast Titanic Exhibition.  Needless to say, the Exhibition did not disappoint. There is a large café onsite. The Exhibition is spread over multi floors. Do yourself a favour and not just walk amongst the exhibits on display around the café area as some folks do. Explore all the walkways with interactive displays. You will be glad you did. Traveldriven CLICK TO ENTER BELFAST TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTER GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME https://www.google.com/maps/place/Titanic+Belfast/ DRIVE DUBLIN TO BELFAST & ATTEND THE TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTRE GUINNESS BREWERY DUBLIN LEPRECHAUN REAL OR FICTION? WHERE LEPRECHAUN'S ARE SEEN, DUBLIN FAMOUS HOTEL 'THE TEMPLE BAR' DUBLIN DUBLIN WATER RATES PROTEST ATTENDED BY IRA MEMBERS TAKE IT EASY TITANIC BELFAST EXHIBITION CENTRE HARLAND & WOLFF'S CRANES DOMINATE THE BELFAST SKYLINE TYPICAL BUILDING IN BELFAST PORT AREA DUBLIN GOOGLE MAPS PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE