Day One Outback South Australia to Birdsville, Queensland A major setback to derail our nine day Birdsville Road Trip itinerary. Apparently the Birdsville Track is affected by recent heavy rain covering large sections of the track. This presented several options. Postpone the trip or do the planned itinerary in reverse. Postponement meant perhaps waiting twelve months as other upcoming tours were set to begin a few weeks after our return by the tour operator. Our small group tour in one 4wd Landcruiser planned and run by Desert Sky Tours based in Adelaide needed the itinerary to be rearranged to allow extra time for road conditions on the Birdsville Track to improve. A few extra days hopefully would be enough to allow the track to reopen. The Birdsville Track is 517 km in length and is all unsealed road. Howard the driver and tour operator, thought if the road trip was done in reverse we would have a good chance of driving down a reopened track. If the track was still closed for a further extended period our only option was to reach Birdsville via our reverse itinerary through outback New South Wales and outback Queensland. However we would have to return the same way where the roads were somewhat in better shape. The vast majority of road trips into this part of Australia's outback are done from May to October, as daily temperatures rise close to 50°C or well over 100°F in the summer months. In the cooler months from May onwards, the days are generally sunny with average highs in the mid-twenties Celsius. Birdsville from Adelaide is around a 3,400 km return trip via Broken Hill in New South Wales. So on day one our small group of three left Adelaide bound for Broken Hill in the far west of Outback New South Wales. A distance of over 600 km. Driving the South Australian mid north towns of Burra, Terowie, Yunta and Olary. We were soon driving along the World's End Highway past the Wildongoleechie Hotel towards Burra and up to Peterborough for a quick lunch at a café. World's End Highway was a rather apt name considering our road trip venture into the Outback. A group of feral goats were strung out beside the road not far on approach to Broken Hill towards the end of our first full day. Burra Burra is well known for its former six hundred or so Miner's Dugouts along the banks of the Burra Creek. Miners lived in these dugouts for protection from the extreme heat and cold weather. Virtually all dugouts were flooded in 1851 and only several survive intact to this day. There is no public access, but the remaining dugouts may be viewed over a wire fence from a road. If time allows, a gate key can be obtained from the local tourist office for a fee and for a closer inspection of the dugouts and other attractions. Terowie Terowie was declared a "historic town" by the South Australian government. There are many well-preserved 1880s buildings in the town, and is home to over one hundred and thirty people. The town was a large staging camp for WWII troops, using the railway to allow access for mass troop movements to Alice Springs and on to northern Australia. A most famous speech of the World War Two era was made in the town during a visit by General Douglas MacArthur, who in his famous speech declared for the first time "I shall return" . The speech referred to retaking the Philippines, the Pacific islands that the Japanese had overrun. Traveldriven DRIVE ADELAIDE TO BROKEN HILL ON TOUR, JAN (WORLD TRAVELLER) HOWARD, TOUR DRIVER & OWNER WAYNE, (TRAVELDRIVEN) MINER'S DUGOUTS, BURRA THE FEW REMAINING MINER'S DUGOUTS OUTBACK HOTEL OFTEN REFERRED IN NAME AS THE 'WILD DOG PUB' OUTBACK ODDITIES TEROWIE RAILWAY STATION PLAQUE ON TEROWIE RAILWAY PLATFORM TO GENERAL MACARTHUR "I SHALL RETURN" PETERBOURGH HOTEL MOTORBIKE TOURS ARE CONDUCTED FROM HOTEL PETERBOURGH HOTEL BURRA COPPER MINE CHIMMEY THE MINE EMPLOYED UP TO 1,000 BEFORE CLOSURE PREV PAGE NEXT

Geoff Achison is a blues-roots artist from Australia best known for his guitar work and songwriting. Benny James & the Blue Flames is a coming together of some of Melbourne's finest Blues and Rock musicians. Electric Rockin' Blues with swagger. Rambal is a six-piece band playing an electrifying mis of soul, blues, and funk music who have been touring up and down the East Coast of Australia garnering national attention with their soul-packed performances. excerpt program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 Traveldriven GEOFF ACHISON & THE SOULDIGGERS LIVE GEOFF ACHISON & THE SOULDIGGERS BENNY JAMES & THE BLUE FLAMES RAMBAL LIVE PORT OF ECHUCA PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT HOMEPAGE

How to Build an Ice Guitar Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 The music event is in venues all around town near the Murray River along the Victorian and New South Wales border. Many well know Australian artists perform multiple times throughout the weekend. Ice Guitar Imagine the intricate process of crafting a guitar out of a solid block of ice using only a chainsaw and a hand chisel. The skilled iceman tradesman expertly maneuvers the chainsaw, sending ice chips flying in all directions as the guitar slowly takes shape. Each precise cut and delicate chisel work is a testament to the craftsman's experience and dedication to their art. On how to build a guitar of ice. The scene is mesmerizing, with the ice sculpture standing tall on a sturdy timber pallet, glistening in the sunlight like a work of frozen art. The sheer size of the ice block is awe-inspiring, hinting at the hours of labor that have gone into its creation. Despite the challenging working conditions, the iceman maintains sure footing, navigating the slippery surface with ease and grace. As the day progresses, the guitar begins to reveal its intricate details, with the ice lasting well into the next day, a testament to the quality of the craftsmanship. The beauty of the ice guitar is not just in its form but in the skill and artistry required to bring it to life, turning a simple block of ice into a stunning musical masterpiece. The music festival is the last weekend in July. All day Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Winter frosty mornings, sunny afternoons and cold rainy nights enjoyed along with the tunes of the Winter Blues Festival. A popular Echuca annual music event. Legendary live performances. Music of; Stevie Ray Vaughan ZZ Top Jimi Hendrix Eric Clapton and music from many others. Recorded live over three days of the Winter Blues Festival. Gigs include the famous Gypsy Bar, Star Hotel. Also the famous Shamrock Hotel in Echcua-Moama Victoria. Three full days of live Australian blues rock. Legendary performances may be seen. Traveldriven ICE GUITAR MAN ON PALLET ICE GUITAR & FINE DETAIL HOW TO MAKE AN ICE GUITAR PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT HOMEPAGE

Echuca is a Murray River town of over fourteen thousand residents on the Victorian side of the border with NSW. Moama is a smaller town connected by road bridge to Echuca over the Murray River in NSW. Not unusual for the winter months to be generally cold overnight followed by clear sunny days. Summer's are hot. The Winter Blues Festival is a charming event that takes place in the picturesque older historic riverside area of the city. The venues are strategically located around the historic port, surrounded by beautiful buildings and a timber wharf that exudes a sense of nostalgia and charm. This area not only serves as the backdrop for the festival but also adds to the overall ambiance and experience for attendees. The historic riverside area is not only a hub for the Winter Blues Festival but also a hotspot for tourists throughout the year. Visitors are drawn to the area's rich history, stunning architecture, and the unique atmosphere created by the combination of old-world charm and modern amenities. The festival, set against this backdrop, offers a perfect blend of culture, music, and entertainment that appeals to both locals and tourists alike. As attendees make their way through the festival venues, they are treated to not only a variety of blues music performances but also have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. From quaint cafes and boutique shops to scenic river views and historic landmarks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Winter Blues Festival truly encapsulates the spirit of the city's riverside area, making it a must-visit event for music lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Cars & Music A last visit to The National Holden Motor Museum. A museum for Holden cars and stand alone engines. Museum now closed and new Holden vehicles are no longer sold or manufactured in Australia. A red and black Holden Torana A9X was one of the display vehicles. By memory, I remember these as being only a white colour on the racetrack. Apparently twenty-three colours were used for the limited edition road going A9X Torana's. To purchase an A9X today may cost as much as one million dollars at auction. I purchased one of the few Ford items for sale in their onsite shop. The museum permanently closed in April 2024. Traveldriven OLD LOGGING DAYS, PORT OF ECHUCA SIGNAGE ON WALL NATIONAL HOLDEN MOTOR MUSEUM RESTORED AND ORIGINAL OLD HOLDENS NATIONAL HOLDEN MOTOR MUSEUM HOLDEN ENGINES 19-twenty  have been whipping up a frenzy on the festival scene. They are electric. An infectious riff and groove based blue-billy-grass-rockin'-roots band. excerpt, program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT

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, mini bus 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 mini bus, 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 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. 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

MV OCEANIC ADVENTURE CRUISE DRIVE BROOME TO CAPE LEVEQUE & CRUISE KIMBERLEY ISLANDS The MV Oceanic is a powered mono hull, 24 metres long, rigged sailing yacht. Under power can travel at 6 knots. Storage for 8000 litres of fresh water and 12,000 litres of fuel with three tenders for exploring. Built 1992 in Fremantle. Accommodation is basic and clean. All meals included. Caught fish can be cooked. It has to be said, most if not all Kimberley Islands luxury ship tours are priced from upwards of $20,000 per person of 7 days or more. Ahoy Buccaneers of Broome provided a safe affordable adventure holiday in a spectacular and inaccessible region of Australia. Well done. Adventure Cruise Kimberley Islands for 6 nights/7 days. $2000. All meals and tendercraft excursions included. Maximum guests on board 25. Two toilets/showers. Five crew plus the ship captain. All Australian. The captain a native Western Australian. All Australian guests on board. Age range from young adult to active retirees. Diverse background from all around Australia. All crew and passengers cooperated well together and enjoyed all excursions, meals and life experience aboard a ship more like a working ship than a cruise liner. Accommodation in the few cabins available or sleeping under the stars using supplied swags on deck or the beach. Cruise accommodation for myself booked as solo trip & choice given of deck space for swag. Fore or Aft, under cover or open deck. I chose the Fore open deck. To gain MC Oceanic access, guests were driven from Broome via a four wheel drive vehicle for greater than an hour along the then unsealed heavily corrugated Cape Leveque road to an anchorage off private property. Boarding of ship was done by wading knee deep to tender craft and transferred to the MV Oceanic anchored several hundred metres away. Pre-ordered bottled water, beer, spirits and wine were delivered to guests on the beach whom carried the beverages in tendercraft to be stowed in allocated timber lockers on ship. My own locker used as a handy seat collapsed underneath me whilst at sea on the first full day. Throwing myself onto the ship railing preventing a 'man overboard' rescue. In conversation with the captain discussing guest sleeping quarters the Skipper suggested to myself placement of swag on forward bulkhead of wheelhouse is an ok location. Position and comfort surprisingly good. MV Oceanic is currently out of service. There are current (2024) ship cruises of the Kimberley Islands by numerous tour operators. These follow the same routes and visit the same sites or similar as shown in the following pages. Browse to see locations. All Kimberley Islands ship tours are usually in the dry season May to October. For safety reasons, to avoid cyclone (hurricane) risk and for comfort to avoid oppressive wet season heat. Most, if not all cater to the higher end of the market. Prices start from about 11,000 Australian dollars for ten nights or more per person. Traveldriven Buccaneer Archipelago Kimberley Islands is made up of approximately 800 islands. Places of interest visited. CROCODILE CREEK in Yampi Sound. The top pool is safe from crocodiles. RUBY FALLS Fresh water swimming holes and waterfalls. MONTGOMERY REEF Tidal differences of over 10 metre. Five metre's of reef emerges from the ocean at outgoing tide. The reef is 80km long. STONE WARRIORS Excursions to the Stone Warriors on an uninhabited island. Langgi Inlet. HORIZONTAL FALLS In Talbot bay. Jetboating. Helicopter rides. And Seaplane flights. RAFT POINT Rock art site. 150 metre climb up a steep hill overlooking Steep Island. PREV WESTERN AUSTRALIA NEXT PREV KIMBERLEY ISLANDS NEXT HOMEPAGE

The Buccaneer Archipelago of Western Australia These are a group of islands off the Western Australia coast. The nearest town is Derby. The closest inhabited place is Bardi. An aboriginal settlement about fifty kilometres away on the coast. The Archipelago, is over fifty square kilometres (19 sq mi) in size. Composed of about eight hundred islands found between King Sound and Collier Bay. Close to Yampi Sound. Huge Tidal Range in the Kimberley Islands The area where our adventure unfolded boasts remarkable tidal ranges, with the water level fluctuating by over ten metres. This unique natural phenomenon sets the stage for the maritime activities that take place in these waters. During the beginning of our journey, two members of our newly acquainted crew were engrossed in the arduous task of hoisting up the ship anchor. The atmosphere was filled with the resounding noise of the heavy chain being retracted, link by link, as it emerged from the depths below. Meanwhile, two crew members stood watch, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of this crucial process. One of them diligently sprayed the chain with a water hose, adding a touch of fluidity to the otherwise mechanical task. Amidst this bustling scene, Skipper Steve 'Tux' commanded the wheelhouse with unwavering focus and determination. His presence was a testament to the dedication and responsibility that comes with steering a vessel through challenging waters. It was evident that his time was not solely dedicated to leisurely activities such as light reading in the captains chair; rather, his role demanded constant vigilance and quick decision-making. As the ship's engine hummed in the background, a subtle reminder of the power that lay beneath the surface, our belongings were neatly stowed away. Swags, pre-rolled and strategically placed on the roof of the wheelhouse, symbolised our readiness to embark on the next leg of our journey. The anticipation of departure hung in the air, mirroring the ebb and flow of the tides that defined this remarkable maritime environment. Traveldriven CRUISE KIMBERLEY ISLANDS BUCCANEER ARCHIPELAGO CREW PULLING UP ANCHOR ROLLED UP SWAGS ON ROOF ITEMS DRYING ON SIDE RAILING WATCHING A TOUR SHIP MOTORING AWAY FULL OF 'THE MINIONS' WITH THEIR YELLOW TOPS & LINE ASTERN FORMATIONS The MV Oceanic captain Steve, discussing the famous aviator pioneer Kingsford Smith and his Kimberley forced landing site. On 31 March 1929, enroute from Sydney to England, the Southern Cross aircraft with Kingsford Smith at the helm made an emergency landing on a mudflat near the mouth of the Glenelg River, in the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia. The Southern Cross was found and rescued after a fortnight's searching. Dubbed the 'Coffee Royal' incident after the brew of coffee and brandy which the crew had drunk while awaiting rescue. Traveldriven PREV KIMBERLEY ISLANDS 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 The Mundi Mundi Lookout is located 29km north of Broken Hill or 4km north of Silverton and is the location of a Mad Max 2 chase scene. Accessed along a sealed public road. A few black Mad Max XB Falcons showed up. The most memorable car from Mad Max 1, Max's black Pursuit Special was a 1973 Ford XB Falcon GT351, a limited edition hardtop. The XB sold in Australia from December 1973 to August 1976. All attendee's of the 40th Anniversary of Mad Max 2 drove about 15 minutes from Wasteland Compound Silverton for a sunset gathering. As mentioned various road legal Mad Max pursuit special XB Ford Falcon's amongst the cars. One attendee with long dreadlocks had an airborne drone flying about. Looking for the best action shots. Another drove solo down from Queensland to attend. Sleeping roadside in the old van he travelled in. Menacing Big Wez and Photo Shoot Movie lights and camera's 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 wanting footage for his business. A Holden sedan statesman with no doors used as a prop. The roof top siren and horn in working order. Right hand drive as it should be. Able to be driven but not on public roads. Weather was hot and dusty. Typical Mad Max conditions. Warrior woman obliged for a photo. She in all white attire more suited to cooler weather. Carried a nice bow. I didn't ask if she could use it. Before the light faded there were many enactments for photo's 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 wasteland compound for the night's entertainment. All the vehicles rumbling 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. A few souls camped inside the compound over the weekend. Some in hammocks strung out underneath overhead tarps. Daytime temperatures reaching 35c, (95F). All in Mad Max themed attire of course. Traveldriven MAD MAX SUPERCHARGER HOLDEN STATESMAN DOORS REMOVED & DRIVEABLE WARRIOR WOMAN THE FEARSOME FOURSOME? THEMED ATTIRE MUNDI MUNDI LOOKOUT DRIVEN FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA FRIENDLY MAD MAX GANG MAD MAX ROLL CAMERA'S, ACTION MUNDI MUNDI LOOKOUT SCENE MAD MAX 2 PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE

"It's a special place, my high perch, where I sit cross legged facing the setting sun. To the north and south of me, domes of windswept sand protrude like pimples over a ridge line, each one fired like a glowing poker, while below me, the shadow cast by the westerly dune inches its way across the inter-dunal flat, intent on destruction. Darkness Falls on Big Red. Bartell, Denis (1978) The Frozen Sea On the edge of the Simpson Desert is a section of the sand dune Nappanerica commonly referred to as Big Red. Accessible to 4wd vehicles to climb and perhaps for 2wd to the base of the dune and 35 km west from Birdsville. Big Red The first and highest of well over one thousand dunes in the Simpson Desert, which run north-south for hundreds of kilometres. Big Red's summit is approximately 36.5m (120 ft) above sea level. Roughly 30 to 33m (98 -108 ft) above the surrounding plain. The once a year Big Red Bash attracts thousands of music lovers and is held on the Birdsville side of Big Red on the flat and dry clay pan with Big Red as a backdrop. The annual last weekend in June event of 2024 was apparently a wet occasion. Weekend rain arrived. Turning the clay pan dust to a vast pan of mud, sticking to all and sundry for miles around. Authorities even closed the Birdsville Track for a few days. Driving Big Red is always prohibited for the duration of the festival. We in our Landcruiser were here with no restrictions as it was a normal time of year with no events in the Birdsville area. Driving Big Red to the Top The road out to Big Red goes over Little Red into the Simpson Desert. Little Red is the first sand dune to cross over and reach Big Red from the Simpson desert side of Nappanerica. We made a right-hand turn with Little Red out in front. There is no need to traverse Little Red before tackling and driving Big Red. The easiest access point to Big Red is before Little Red and further along the base of Nappanerica along a very short track to the right. We three were in a V8 Toyota Landcruiser. A red flag on a pole was attached to the front of the Landcruiser before the climb. Regulations require a minimum height of 3.5 metres from the ground. The red flag for vehicle safety, to alert other drivers a vehicle is cresting sand dunes from the other direction. On our first attempt Howard the driver kept the vehicle in Hi range. Tyres were left at normal road pressures. With a run up head start, we reached the top in little more than a minute. Quite easily done. On the other side of Big Red was a steeper short access track up to the top. We were the only vehicle and people there at this time of day. About midday. Outside of the vehicle flies were bothersome by the dozen. We descended Big Red and drove past another 4wd parked with the driver deflating his tyres for the run up on the loose sandy track. On Top of Big Red Walking to the top dune crests of Big Red is a challenging experience, as the red sand resembles quicksand, making each step a struggle. The fine powdery sand seems determined to engulf anyone attempting to climb the peaks of the surrounding crests, with each footstep sand engulfing past the ankle and sand cascading past the wrists, when looking to gain traction to top the crests. Despite the daunting terrain, with perseverance and a crab-like movement, it is possible to reach the highest crest of the dunes. Fighting swarming flies away from your face. The shifting sand constantly threatens to pull you down. The panoramic view from the top, however, makes the effort worthwhile, offering a breathtaking vista of the vast red desert, low hardy bushes and small green spindly clumps of grass stretching out in all directions, a reminder of the raw beauty and harshness of nature. Traveldriven BIG RED AND THE SIMPSON DESERT AUDIO RECORDING HOWARD OF DESERT SKY TOURS DRIVING BIG RED ON TOP OF BIG RED BIG RED DUNE WALKING BIG RED THE STEEPER SIDE OF BIG RED HOWARD, ON BIG RED NAPPANERICA SAND DUNE, BIG RED PREV PAGE NEXT

Brisbane Road Trip Australia If in Brisbane it is a little over a one hour drive to the Gold Coast and one and a half hours to the Sunshine Coast. Both are tourist hot spots with numerous popular surf beaches. Southbank is a popular recreational area in Brisbane. Southbank is on the southern bank of the Brisbane River and easily walked from Brisbane CBD. I prearranged Brisbane accommodation in Spring Hill, near the CBD. Spent one full day in Brisbane. Joined a Southbank Brisbane River tour with River City Cruises to the famous Breakfast Creek Hotel for a mighty steak lunch. A one and a half hour tour aboard MV Neptune. An excellent relaxed way to take in the city sights. Complimentary Morning tea and a beverage on the return trip. $60 including a lunch voucher. Informative commentary. The Breakfast Creek Hotel is probably the most famous hotel in Queensland. Rivalling the Birdsville Hotel. Has weathered many floods. A cold beer and meals are available in the historic bar. Away from the large modern bistro area catering to most visiting patrons. NOOSA HEADS  is about one hundred and forty kilometres (85 mi) north of Brisbane. Noosa Heads is the tourist heart of Noosa district, with many restaurants and hotels. The main retail street is Hastings Street, which lies directly behind the seashore. Along Hastings Street it's difficult to get parking. Noosa is the land of roundabouts and suburbs. The Noosa Heads Yacht Club offers a bistro-style restaurant and bar overlooking the Noosa River. Ten minutes drive from Hastings Street. Good for a lunch or dinner alongside the Noosa River. I decided not to continue down the NSW east coast and Pacific Highway as I have travelled the coastal highway a few times before. Through Pacific Highway coastal regional cities such as: Byron Bay Memories of surf life saving carnival's causing many of the town streets to be blocked off by local council. The streets that could be driven were extremely busy to navigate. The city is home to a few famous people tucked away in their coastal retreats. Coffs Harbour and the thirteen metre Big Banana. Now features a large fun park and water park. The first of the big things in Australia. Built 1964. Port Macquarie with it's low high rise looking over the pristine marina and it's boats and the ideal climate. Perhaps enjoying the best year round weather in Australia. Newcastle and it's ocean baths. Nobbys Head views surrounded by water on three sides. Memories of hiring and driving sand buggies in, around and over sand dunes with fighter jets screaming overhead out of Williamstown Air Force Base. On this roadtrip the return drive was the inland Brisbane expressway to Toowoomba and overnight rest, then onto Goondiwindi on the Queensland border and into Victoria. Ending the three week solo Australia road trip, Victoria to Townsville in Queensland and return. Traveldriven CURRENT BRISBANE FIVE DAY FORECAST BRISBANE GOOGLE MAPS RIVER CITY CRUISES NOOSA HEADS GOOGLE MAPS BRISBANE RIVER CRUISE BRISBANE RIVER & BIG WILLIE SKYSCRAPER BRISBANE CITY STREET LINED WITH PALMS BREAKFAST CREEK HOTEL, BRISBANE BREAKFAST CREEK HOTEL WRITING ON THE WALL THE BREKKY CREEK GANG SIGN BRISBANE RIVER TOUR TO THE BREKKY CREEK PUB BRISBANE WELCOME SIGN SOUTHBANK BRISBANE MALL ENTERTAINER BRISBANE CBD PREV ROADTRIP TOWNSVILLE NEXT PREV QUEENSLAND NEXT HOMEPAGE

PARACHILNA Driving past the small settlement of Leigh Creek, a former coal mining town, one approaches Parachilna. Parachilna is sixty-five km south of Leigh Creek and is within a few hundred metres of the roadside turnoff from the sealed, 'The Outback Highway'. Parachilna consists just basically of the well-known Prairie Hotel. Celebrities have been known to frequent the hotel due to feature films made in the general area. Well-heeled patrons come from the cities to experience the outback atmosphere. Fine accommodation and dining is available, and there is an onsite microbrewery with beer on tap. HAWKER Hawker has a population of a few hundred. A very small town in the northern Flinders Ranges between Parachilna and Quorn along 'The Outback Highway' ninety km south from Parachilna. KANYAKA RUINS The ruins located approximately 30 km south of Hawker are a fascinating historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Accessible by both 4wd and 2wd vehicles, a short turn off The Outback Highway leads to these extensive ruins, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the area. The backdrop of brown hills surrounding the site not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds to the sense of mystery and intrigue that shrouds the ancient structures. As you wander through the ruins, you can't help but imagine what life was like for the people who once inhabited this place. This popular wayside stop serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that exists in the Australian Outback, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the stories of the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of this unique region. QUORN IN THE FLINDERS RANGES Is a Flinders Ranges town. On the edge of the Outback. The first reasonable-sized town south of Birdsville, Queensland 850 km north of Quorn. Quorn has all expected services found in regional towns. The Pichi Richi steam engine and several carriages often leave the Quorn Train Station with passengers for an experience of a bygone era. The steam train departs Quorn Train Station on most days for Port Augusta about 32 km return. The train meets and joins the Afghan Express from Woolshed Flat. Quorn is 335 km distant from Adelaide. Laura and C J Dennis C J Dennis the poet spent his formative years in Laura. In the small South Australian town of Laura's main street stands a monument dedicated to the renowned Australian poet. A literary figure whose influence on Australian culture transcends generations. C J Dennis played a pivotal role in shaping the Australian vernacular by popularizing the unique slang that has become synonymous with the country's identity. His works not only captured the essence of the Australian larrikin spirit but also celebrated the resilience and humor of the everyday person. Fondly referred to as 'the laureate of the larrikin.' C J Dennis's poetry resonated with audiences far and wide, earning him a lasting place in the hearts of Australians. The monument in Laura serves as a tribute to his enduring legacy, reminding visitors of the profound impact he had on the literary landscape of Australia and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Laura to Adelaide is about 230 km via Clare in the Barossa Valley wine region. DESERT SKY TOURS The Desert Sky Tour finished in Adelaide, ending nine days and approximately 3,500 km of driving a 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser through the Outback. There were no incidents or problems. Howard, the tour operator and driver, was a very informative and friendly guide. All agreed that the tour was one of those once-in-a-lifetime road trips. BIRDSVILLE TOURS & THE OUTBACK Of course, Desert Sky Tours are not the only Outback small group tour operators. Other operators may be found with small group tours departing from Adelaide or Brisbane. Many use 4WDs or a high clearance bus. A few operate out of Victoria and New South Wales as well. Reputable tour operator's should be found with an affiliation with an established tourist body. There is no need to own a 4WD vehicle, have driving experience, or Outback knowledge to undertake such a road trip. Meals, fuel, accommodation with a proper bed, and a toilet and shower are all included in the reasonable tour price. The providers do this for the traveler. This is great peace of mind in remote areas. Those with mobility issues, traveling alone or as a couple, would find this mode of travel ideal. Towing a large cumbersome van, camping in small tents or swags and a bush toilet doesn't have to be how an Outback road trip is done. Visitors to Australia could easily do such a holiday. Two weeks is plenty of time to allow for flights, etc. Certainly for a nine day Outback adventure. As an Australian, Traveldriven enjoyed the history and the quirky character of the Outback, as did others. People such as Jan, being a solo traveler of the world and of Australia. Thanks to Howard of Desert Sky Tours of Adelaide for his enthusiasm for the Outback, allowing a very few, the opportunity to experience the real Outback. An opportunity made available in safety and comfort. Such a road trip is possible to those many Australians who never venture too far away from the coastal cities. Traveldriven DRIVE MARREE, PARACHILNA HAWKER, QUORN, LAURA PARACHILNA DISUSED TRAIN STATION OPPOSITE PRAIRIE HOTEL PRAIRIE HOTEL PRAIRIE HOTEL EXTERIOR PRAIRIE HOTEL BREWERY NORTHERN, FLINDERS RANGES HAWKER TOWNSHIP SIGNAGE KANYAKA RUINS KANYAKA TOWNSHIP RUINS QUORN TRAIN STATION QUORN STEAM TRAIN LEAVING QUORN STATION QUORN STEAM TRAIN QUORN SHOPFRONT SIGNAGE STATUE OF C.J. DENNIS A LONGTIME RESIDENT OF THE SMALL TOWN OF LAURA PREV PAGE NEXT

DAY FIVE Finally arrived in Birdsville for a two-night stay at the rear of the famous Birdsville Hotel. The anticipation of experiencing the outback charm and hospitality was palpable as we checked into our accommodation units. The Birdsville Hotel truly exceeded all expectations with its excellent facilities. The modernity and cleanliness of the rooms were immediately noticeable, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for our stay. From the well-appointed amenities to the attention to detail in the decor, every aspect of the accommodation exuded a sense of quality and care. The Birdsville Hotel's commitment to providing a great experience was evident in our stay, making it a memorable and enjoyable visit. Birdsville Facts: Population 110 approx Height above sea level approx 50 metres Annual rainfall 200 - 400 millimetres (8-16 inches) Water supply mainly Artesian Bore Birdsville is on the Diamantina River Famous Birdsville Races are held every September attracting upwards of 7,000 attendees from all over Australia for the two day event. Birdsville Hotel The hotel is probably the most famous hotel in all of Australia, certainly in Outback Australia. Built in 1884 from sandstone obtained from a quarry 16 km east of the town, this was the third and final hotel built in Birdsville and the only remaining hotel open for business today. A cyclone levelled outbuildings in 1905. A fire in 1964 destroyed part of the hotel. Another fire blazed through the interior of the hotel in 1979, and the main bar had to be rebuilt. In 1986, a lounge bar was added and became known as the "Green Lizard" bar. This was due to the formation of a league of members who assembled there during an acute beer shortage in 1968 when the only drink available in town was crème de menthe. Today, the hotel boasts 18 modern motel units, a modern guest laundry, and a pleasant beer garden. A few patrons were overheard discussing driving the French Line in the Simpson Desert. This route is renowned for its rugged terrain, vast sand dunes, and remote location, making it a true test of skill and preparedness for any adventurous traveller. Only those who are well-prepared, both in terms of equipment and experience, should dare to tackle the French Line. The journey demands a high level of off-road driving expertise, as well as a thorough understanding of desert survival skills and the ability to navigate through the harsh and unforgiving landscape. A Quiet Drink on the Veranda Be mindful of enjoying a quiet beer outside of the hotel on the provided seating. As the mid-afternoon temperature rises, it soon becomes apparent flies are attracted to a glass of cold beer in hand. Several swimmers within a few minutes make a return to the inside of the hotel the sensible thing to do. Traveldriven ON THE ROAD TO BIRDSVILLE QUEENSLAND THE OLD DISUSED ROAD INTO BIRDSVILLE DIAMANTINA RIVER OLD DIAMANTINA RIVER CROSSING BIRDSVILLE ARTESIAN BORE FAMOUS BIRDSVILLE RACE MEETING ONE HORSE RACE (MAN) BIRDSVILLE HOTEL EXTERIOR FAMOUS GREEN LIZARD BAR, BIRDSVILLE BIRDSVILLE HOTEL INTERIOR BIRDSVILLE HOTEL BAR STAFF & OPEN FIRE PLACE IN USE TAKING IT EASY OUTSIDE THE FAMOUS BIRDSVILLE HOTEL BIRDSVILLE HOTEL, NO FLIES RESERVED FOR DINNER BIRDSVILLE HOTEL NOTE MISSPELLING, "DES S ERT SKY" TOURS PREV PAGE NEXT