DAY 4 'Sheepishly with car bonnet up I told the auto electrician the problem solved itself' -in the WA goldfields, Traveldriven CURRENT KALGOORLIE REGION FIVE DAY FORECAST DRIVE NORSEMAN - KALGOORLIE - PERTH Norseman The small town is in the Goldfields-Esperance region of Western Australia along the Coolgardie-Esperance Highway, seven hundred and twenty-five kilometres (451 mi) east of Perth. Norseman is a small town of almost six hundred people. The town is surprisingly spread out. Norseman is a town in the middle of nowhere really. A sensible overnight stop for rest and petrol. Mostly small gold mining operations operate in the area. The Norseman Gold Mine is Australia’s longest continuously running gold mine. Drive past these mine sites and a gold mine tailing dump to Beacon Hill Lookout The town centre has life size ‘Corrugated Iron Camels’. A tribute to camel trains of the early days. Norseman is the start or end of the Eyre Highway. Depending on driving direction. Driving back east, the last town of any note before Ceduna, South Australia. 1,200 km eastward. Kalgoorlie-Boulder Known just as Kalgoorlie, this Outback centre is a large regional city in the Goldfields-Esperance region of Western Australia. Almost six hundred km (370 mi) east of Perth and connected to Perth by the Great Eastern Highway. Kalgoorlie is a wealthy gold mining city. The Fimiston Open Pit (super pit) is an open cut gold mine 3.6 km long, 1.6 km wide and over 600 metres deep. Trucks take round trips of about 35 minutes. The Superpit is located on the edge of town. See Kalgoorlie’s famous or infamous Hay Street brothel museum. Visit Western Australia’s only legalised Two Up school. Many hotels and motels. Worth a day or two’s rest from the Great Eastern Highway. Car Trouble? Outback Western Australia During daytime and a two hour drive heading to Kalgoorlie I unknowingly knocked the interior lights button on the car's central display. A small unlabelled recessed button I have never used. Four interior overhead lights shone brightly and I wasn't sure how to turn them off. Lights are normally a press on/off type. Lights remained on even after a brief stop. Driving in remote desert country I thought not a good idea for extra drain on the car battery. As is often the case, there is no cell phone reception in this remote area of Australia. If a vehicle cannot be restarted. Even if cell reception was available. There is no roadside assist to call. Seldom seen are vehicles other than road trains. Realising I cannot push start an automatic transmission sedan due to a flat battery. What to do? Here in the stopped car. All lights shining. Under the hot sun in a cloudless sky, raising a sweat just by sitting there with the engine off. The occasional road train passing by I thought it best to restart the car and drive to the next town for a car check. The battery wasn't a problem yet. I restarted the car and continued non-stop to Kalgoorlie several hours drive away. AUTO ELECTRICS WORKSHOP HELP Upon arrival in Kalgoorlie I pulled into a roadside auto electrics workshop to get it checked. Expecting the worse outcome. After a short while wondering if I had done something inadvertently. I pressed the unused unlabelled central button and all lights went off. Sheepishly with car bonnet up, I told the auto electrician the problem solved itself and thanked him for taking a look. He wouldn't accept payment for his time. The point is solo driving for long periods in a remote hot area 35c many hours' drive from civilisation does play on your mind when even small, unexpected problems arise. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP KALGOORLIE GOOGLE MAPS NORSEMAN GOOGLE MAPS NORSEMAN LAND SAILS NORSEMAN CAMEL TRAIN OPEN CUT GOLD MINE KALGOORLIE SUPERPIT THE SUPER PIT, KALGOORLIE YORK HOTEL KALGOORLIE CBD OUTBACK DRIViNG THE RABBIT PROOF FENCE WAS A FAILURE IN THE LONG TERM THE PROJECT, ALTHOUGH GRAND, PROVED TOO LITTLE TO LATE KALGOORLIE GOOGLE MAPS PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY ONE OF ROAD TRIP AUSTRALIA MAY 23 Tuesday morning Solo road trip to South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory and return to Victoria. Approximately seven to eight weeks in duration. Driving a Ford Falcon four door XR6 from the Wimmera in Victoria to South Australia. First night was an overnight stay in Adelaide. CURRENT ADELAIDE FIVE DAY FORECAST DRIVE ADELAIDE - KIMBA - CEDUNA Driving from Victoria, drive out of the Adelaide Hills onto Portrush Road, Adelaide South Australia. There are motel accommodations on Portrush Road. This is a very busy main road and can be used to bypass the Adelaide CBD. Alternatively, visit the Adelaide beachside suburb of Glenelg. Driving from Victoria and before driving onto Portrush Road, turn left onto Cross Road and join ANZAC Highway and then follow all the way to Glenelg. This is a very popular area. There are tourist focused local shops, restaurants and hotels. The only tram service in Adelaide runs along Jetty Road from Moseley Square, GleneIg. To bypass Adelaide city, drive west along Portrush Road towards Kimba 463km and onto Ceduna. Day Two Adelaide, and on the road by 9 am and drove to Ceduna via the city of Port Augusta, Wudinna and Kimba. A distance of 775km. A huge red dust storm enveloped the Ceduna area when I approached the town. The next day was clear and calm. Stayed only one night in Ceduna. Port Agusta The city, located on the edge of the Outback, has a population exceeding thirteen thousand. Port Augusta is situated along the shores of Spencer Gulf. It serves as a starting point for journeys to Central Australia and the Outback when travelling north. To the west looms the Nullarbor Outback. Many regard Port Agusta as the last stop before travelling through remote very small highway towns and roadhouse stops. The city is said to have a hot desert climate. To the west lie Kimba and Ceduna. Kimba Kimba is a service town on the Eyre Highway at the top of Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. The small town is between Port Agusta and Ceduna. Kimba has a population of a little over six hundred. Ceduna Last Town on the Edge of Civilisation A town on the west coast of the Eyre Peninsula South Australia. 800 km from Adelaide. Ceduna is derived from the aboriginal word Chedoona . Said to mean, 'a place to sit down and rest'. Ceduna is the last town of about two thousand residents before crossing the Nullarbor Plain. Accommodation was found in the Ceduna Foreshore Motel. Offering reasonable rates and facing the beachfront. The foreshore lined with tall mature pine trees and green grass. A great spot for eating fish & chips on a beachside table and seat under the pines. The ocean sparkling in bright sunshine and seagulls milling about for a tasty chip. Thought I would treat myself to a room, a proper bed and a full meal before venturing into the Outback with a sedan and tent. Not knowing what services will be available after leaving Ceduna. Hotel Takeaway From the Foreshore Motel accommodation, the local hotel is just one hundred metres away. ID is required for takeaway liquor at their bottleshop. Even for older senior adults. Me walking into the bottleshop to purchase two cans of alcohol and being asked for ID. I said you must be joking. No, I was told to produce ID proof of age. The request is really to ascertain if prior purchases of alcohol were made on that day. If so, a total daily limit is enforced on all customers and service may be refused. This includes multi venues included in a purchase on the day. It's a State government legal requirement not only enforced in rural South Australia but rural Western Australia and the Northern Territory as well. It's a measure to curb alcohol related crime and or abuse. Fair enough, I had to return to the motel and car to gather my ID and return on foot again. I had just driven 800 km and just wanted a rest with a cool drink. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP GLENELG, ADELAIDE GOOGLE MAPS CEDUNA GOOGLE MAPS KIMBA GOOGLE MAPS GLENELG JETTY & THE OLD SUNKEN JETTY FURTHER OUT GLENELG AND THE GRAND HOTEL ON RIGHT KIMBA, SOUTH AUSTRALIA KIMBA ROADSIDE TRACTOR DISPLAY BIG BIRD THING WUDINNA FARMING STATUE 103 KM WEST OF KIMBA IT'S A VERY LONG WAY AROUND AUSTRALIA PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT PREV SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE POST

Daydream Island One of many islands within the Whitsunday Islands group in Queensland, Australia. A part of the Great Barrier Reef. Daydream Island is small in size. One km in length and 400m at its widest. The highest point is fifty-one metres above sea level. Daydream Island is in the Whitsundays Island group 5 km off of the Queensland mainland. It's an easy 30 minute ferry transfer from Hamilton Island where daily interstate flights arrive. The island is much smaller and laid back than the highrise of Hamilton Island. All walking tracks and sights can be done within an easy one hour stroll. Naked Mermaids of the Great Barrier Reef Three life-size mermaid statues named Serenity, Aphrodesia, and Infinity, symbolizing mind, body, and spirit respectively, once graced the main foreshore of the island resort. These stunning sculptures were a beloved feature, captivating visitors with their beauty and significance. Serenity exuded a sense of calm and tranquillity, while Aphrodesia represented love and passion, and Infinity embodied the eternal connection between the physical and spiritual realms. However, the devastating Cyclone Debbie in 2017 wrought havoc on the island, washing away these iconic statues along with the memories they held. Despite the passage of time, the absence of Serenity, Aphrodesia, and Infinity is keenly felt by both locals and tourists alike. Their disappearance left a void in the landscape, a reminder of the destructive power of nature. In the aftermath of Cyclone Debbie, the island resort underwent a complete renovation to restore its former glory. While the physical damage caused by the cyclone has been repaired, the emotional and symbolic loss of the mermaid statues lingers on. The decision not to replace them speaks to the island's resilience and ability to adapt to change, yet their absence serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of beauty and the cycle of creation and destruction that defines the natural world. The island resort has been fully renovated after cyclone Debbie. Updated accommodation and attractions. A new replacement Outdoor Cinema. There is a new underwater observatory. An expanded Living Reef experience lagoon, featuring over 100 species of marine fish, rays, and more, extends 200 metres throughout the resort. Kayaks are available for hire. It's possible to kayak around the island although on the wind wood side paddling becomes more difficult. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP DAYDREAM ISLAND GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME POOL VIEW OUTDOOR CINEMA DAYDREAM ISLAND MERMAIDS LOST AT SEA Daydream Island Mermaids PREV BARRIER REEF NEXT PREV QUEENSLAND NEXT HOMEPAGE

Horsham Halfway to The Bend from Melbourne The city is in the Wimmera region of Victoria and the Wimmera River flows through part of the city. The city is a convenient overnight stop if travelling from Melbourne. The city is a three hundred km drive along the Western Highway (National A8). The beginning of the Wimmera/Mallee Silo Art trail is within fifty km of Horsham. Horsham and one of its many overnight accommodation choices are an excellent choice for an early morning start. Often smaller towns are very limited with tourist facilities. After departing Horsham, the Western Highway heads towards South Australia, covering a distance of 160 km to reach the Victorian/South Australian border, where it connects to the Dukes Highway near Bordertown in South Australia. Tailem Bend & The Bend Motorsport Park From the Victorian\South Australian border drive a further 175 km onto Tailem Bend , South Australia. The location of the Bend Motorsport Park. The park is a few km out of Tailem Bend and also a few km from the Murray River. Accommodation may be had in Tailem Bend or at Rydges Motel located inside the Bend Motorsport Park complex. The town of Tailem Bend is about one hundred km from Adelaide. The Bend Motorsport Park in now owned by Shell V Power. Traveldriven HORSHAM GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE MELBOURNE TO TAILEM BEND MOTORSPORT PARK Coonalpyn silo art. Dukes Highway South Australia COONALPYN SOUTH AUSTRALIA CROSSING THE VICTORIAN/ SOUTH AUSTRALIAN BORDER COVID-19 POLICE CHECK OF BORDER CROSSING PAPERWORK PINK LAKE WESTERN HIGHWAY VICTORIA PREV SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

CABRAMURRA IN THE SNOWY MOUNTAINS Considered to be Australia's highest town, it can be accessed by two-wheel drive vehicles via a fully sealed road, at least during the summer months when there is no snow. Cabramurra is not quite on top of the range. It sits at 1,488m AHD (4,880 ft) in the western Snowy Mountains of the Great Dividing Range. New South Wales. The name Cabramurra may be derived from native aboriginal meanings of "crooked hand" . In comparison the highest point in Australia is Mount Kosciuszko at 2,228 metres. A distance of fifty-five km north as the crow flies. Cabramurra is a 'company town'. Workers live here and work in the nearby Tumut 2 hydro-electric power station and surrounding dam infrastructure etc. Only persons directly employed by Snowy Hydro, and their families, are allowed to live in Cabramurra. Do not expect tourist or visitor facilities, this includes retail outlets and fuel. There is no accommodation for visitors. Day access is allowed by private vehicle. A very short, sealed road leads to a Lookout with a town view. Access to town sites may be restricted due to summer bushfire infrastructure damage. Cabramurra Township The town has about one hundred and fifty houses and units. A distinctive feature are the very acute angles of roof pitch on buildings. Needed for the high amount of snowfall for three to four months of the year. There is a general store, petrol station, primary school, canteen (tavern), indoor swimming pool, single ski slope, and tennis courts. The residents are due in future to be replaced by drive in/drive out crews. The nearest small public town by road is Adaminaby due east, about sixty km distant. The nearest large city is Canberra, and the small high-country towns of Tumut and Cooma. A heli-pad is onsite. Emergency evacuations can be conducted by helicopter. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP CABRAMURRA GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT FIVE DAY FORCAST CABRAMURRA LOOKOUT HOUSING AND SKI RUN CABRAMURRA ROADS Cabramurra Google Maps PREV NSW 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 stationed at all 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

DAY ONE SOLO ROADTRIP AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY Drive from the Wimmera in Victoria to Bendigo. An inland city in Victoria. About one hundred and fifty kilometres north-west of Melbourne. Founded on the discovery of gold and developed into a large central Victorian city. Bendigo With a population of over one hundred thousand people. The morning calls for a coffee stop at Lake Weeroona, Bendigo. This is a man made lake set on eighteen hectares beside the Midland Highway that passes through Bendigo. It's a popular rest area. Motels are opposite the green watered parkland and lake. The area is a water bird habitat. Great Stupa of Universal Compassion Visit the Great Stupa on the edge of Bendigo surrounded by bushland. A free attraction. All are welcome to visit. A visitor centre and café are on site. The exterior stupa structure was completed in 2020. Intricate interior detail is said will take eighty years to complete along with outside infrastructure, gardens etc much of which is already done on the two hundred acres of surrounding grounds. A stupa, in Buddhism, is a building with a bell-like shape atop. The stupa is a commemorative monument. Temple like in appearance but not used as a temple. The Bendigo stupa is the largest Buddhist stupa in the western world. Height of 48 metres (157 feet) and 50 metres wide at its base. Almost pyramid like around the base. The stupa is a place of holy objects. The Bendigo stupa is designed to last many centuries. Jade Buddha The foremost holy object inside the Bendigo stupa is a jade Buddha. Carved from a single boulder of jade found in Canada. The Jade Buddha stands 2.5 metres high and sits on an alabaster throne of 1.6 metres. The priceless buddha weights about four tonnes. The carving took five years and was consecrated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2009. It's said purpose is "really about inspiring people" and a symbol of peace. Silo Art Colbinabbin Drive from Bendigo to the small town of Colbinabbin. A distance of 55 km. View the popular silo art as seen from the Bendigo-Murchison Road passing through the town. Artwork depicts a train, a train station, early model cars and local people from days gone by. An in-use railway is behind the silos. There is a very large parking area for all types of vehicles. Traveldriven CURRENT BENDIGO FIVE DAY FORECAST BENDIGO GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE BENDIGO - GREAT STUPA - COLBINABBIN SILO ART PATHWAY TO THE GREAT STUPA THE GREAT STUPA SURROUNDING THE BASE OF THE GREAT STUPA INSIDE THE GREAT STUPA & JADE BUDDHA JADE BUDDHA LAKE WEEROONA COFFEE BREAK LAKE WEEROONA IS A MAN MADE LAKE IN THE CITY OF BENDIGO COLBINABBIN SILO ART TRAIL COLBINABBIN SILO ART COLBINABBIN ARTWORK COLBINABBIN SILO ART TRAIL PREV VICTORIA NEXT PREV CANBERRA ROADTRIP NEXT HOMEPAGE POST

HOWARD SPRINGS Located about thirty kilometres from the vibrant central area of Darwin, Howard Springs serves as an excellent base for those looking to delve into the many attractions and experiences that the Darwin region has to offer. This charming locale is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its affordability, particularly when it comes to accommodation options. The local caravan park provides a budget-friendly alternative to pricier lodgings found closer to Darwin city. Travellers can enjoy the convenience of camping or parking their caravans in a serene environment, amongst shady palms away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. TREETOP POSSUMS Beware a family of possums may descend from the treetops in the night hours to look for food scraps. The inquisitive younger possums may even startle park guests and hop across their lap if sitting outside under the greenery of a cluster of palms. For those seeking a hearty meal the Howard Springs Tavern offers a diverse menu featuring a variety of delicious hotel meals, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. Accessibility to Darwin is straightforward and convenient, primarily via Tiger Brennan Drive, which is a major thoroughfare leading directly into the city. This well-maintained multi lane road allows for a smooth, scenic drive that typically takes around twenty minutes to reach Darwin City. The ease of transportation makes Howard Springs an ideal spot for day trips into Darwin city, allowing travellers to enjoy the attractions of the city while returning to the tranquillity of their base at the end of the day. The popular Humpty Doo area is further out and is easily reached from Howard Springs. HOWARD SPRINGS NATURE PARK Just a short drive of a few kilometres from the local retail shops and the caravan park lies the Howard Springs Nature Park. This natural bushland features a large manmade pond that serves as a habitat for various wildlife, along with a picturesque manmade waterfall adding to the park's charm. Visitors can find plenty of shaded areas, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely outdoor barbecue with family and friends. The park is equipped with picnic tables and BBQ facilities, encouraging social gatherings in a beautiful natural setting. It’s a place to unwind, enjoy the fresh air, and experience the local flora and fauna. In addition to its natural attractions, within easy driving distance there are occasionally local events such as car shows and community market gatherings on weekends. These events provide an excellent opportunity for visitors and residents to come together. Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply looking to engage with the local community, these events add a unique charm. Traveldriven HOWARD SPRINGS GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE HOWARD SPRINGS TO DARWIN CARAVAN PARK & POSSUMS IN THE TREETOPS CAMPING SITE TIPPING WATER BUCKET COOL OFF IN THE CARAVAN PARK HOWARD SPRINGS TAVERN HOWARD SPRINGS HISTORIC SITE HOWARD SPRINGS NATURE PARK CROC FEET? HOWARD SPRINGS NATURE PARK HOWARD SPRINGS NATURE PARK WATERFALL LIMITED EDITION MUSTANG MUSTANG WITH SCISSOR DOORS MUSTANG FORD HOT ROD FORD GT 40 PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT

DAY 44 Kata Tjuṯa The aboriginal translation is 'many heads'. Also known as the Olgas , they are a group of large, domed rock formations located about 360 km (220 mi) southwest of Alice Springs, in the Northern Territory, of central Australia. About a forty minute drive along a sealed road from Uluru (Ayers Rock) and fifty-five km. Travel Down Under The Valley Of The Winds circuit walk of the Olgas takes three to four hours and is 7.4 km in length. On this occasion walked anticlockwise amongst the domes. Best walked in the cooler mornings and start before 9am. In my opinion, one of the best walks in the Territory. Unlike many crowded popular walks, the circuit walk provides a feeling of solitude but in relative safety within the remoteness of the Territory. Fellow hikers are usually seen. A drinking water canteen and hat is essential. Average fitness required. Lookouts on the Circuit Walk Not much shade is available. At least once the walking track veers away from the ridge between the first Karu Lookout and the second lookout of Karingana. Walking over the exposed rock of Karingana Lookout and between the domes, voices echo and an eerie feeling of isolation is felt as the track descends into more open bushland and turns to the left for a few km and left again. A track section is walked along a dry flat stony creekbed. Most of the track is cleared red earth. Wide enough for two or three walkers. A few of the smaller domes may be walked up at one's own risk in places off the track but this is not really warranted to enjoy the overall experience. Some of the best experiences on occasion require a little bit of planning and effort to travel down under. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP KATA TJUTA GOOGLE MAPS WALKING THE VALLEY OF THE WINDS VALLEY OF THE WINDS SIGNAGE BEST HIKED IN THE EARLY MORNING TO AVOID THE HEAT RESTING ON TOP OF THE RIDGE ENJOYING THE VIEW VALLEY OF THE WINDS WALK WALK DOWN TO THE VALLEY FLOOR VALLEY OF THE WINGS WALKWAY ALONG A STONY CREEK VALLEY OF THE WINDS WALKING TRACK VALLEY OF THE WINDS WALKING TRACK HIKING VALLEY OF THE WINDS VALLEY OF THE WINDS DOMES VALLEY OF THE WINDS DESERT BUSHLAND PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT PREV N\TERRITORY NEXT HOMEPAGE

CURRENT DARWIN FIVE DAY FORECAST DRIVE DARWIN TO CAHILLS CROSSING Darwin Tunnels & Best Family Restaurant Darwin is the largest city and the capital of the Northern Territory of Australia. To the north is the Timor Sea. Darwin's population is over one hundred and fifty thousand. Darwin is the most northern of the Australian capital cities. Two seasons, wet and dry. It's the wettest and smallest capital in population. During World War Two, Northern Australia was bombed approximately 100 times by the Japanese. To safeguard from air raids six underground oil storage tunnels were completed before the end of the war. The longest, Tunnel 10, 184 metres. The tunnels are open to the public. Tickets are available onsite. Tunnel entrance on Kitchener Drive. A great way to avoid the hot daytime sun and take in some history. Darwin was devastated by Cyclone Tracy, on Christmas Eve 1974. 30,000 people of the population of 46,000 were evacuated to the southern states. Darwin was subsequently rebuilt into a modern city. Unlike many large cities Darwin is one of the easier to drive about for tourists. On this occasion accommodation was in the multi-level Oaks Elan, in Darwin CBD. Reasonable rates. Great city views. Excellent service. Sign in room said never turn off air conditioning. Each floor level has natural flow through outside air. Tims Surf & Turf restaurant is one of Darwin's gems. Open since 1994. In a small street, 10 Litchfield Street, it’s one of Darwin’s favourite dining spots. Meals are big and reasonable priced. Tim is often on hand. Steak, seafood or crocodile. Your choice. Read the 'Australia 2025' post for more about Tims Surf & Turf and his magic tricks. Darwin & Colourful Hotels I remember a 1990's visit to Darwin. A long solo drive from Victoria. Within a few days of arrival, I planned a quiet Sunday afternoon visit to the Nightcliff Hotel. In the Darwin suburb of Nightcliff. Upon entering the building there could be seen floor to ceiling chicken wire out the front of the empty stage area. In the half-filled public bar, there were patron's tossing the odd empty glass beer stubbie. A few breaking against the chicken wire and with the occasional small bar scuffle breakout amongst the locals. This all happening in early afternoon. Apparently, the hotels unruly reputation was well deserved back in the day. Winnellie Hotel The hotel is off the Stuart Highway on Winnellie Road. Not far from the RAAF Base. This is a hotel catering to working individuals. It serves cold beer on tap and lacks any elaborate tourist attractions. In fact, there often are no tourists to be seen. The interior is straightforward and rugged and parts within could do with some attention. Would not be outer place in any blue-collar inner-city capital in Australia. There is a bar semi-open to the outside at the rear of the hotel. The building is encircled by an industrial area. Behind the hotel, there used to be a Caravan Park, which was a convenient accommodation spot, offering shady date trees that sheltered flying foxes, (bats). However, the Park appears to have been replaced by industrial development, though the hotel continues to operate and welcome guests as of 2025. Cahills Crossing The crossing is located in Kakadu National Park and is approximately a three-and-a-half-hour drive east of Darwin on a sealed road. Cahills Crossing crosses over the East Alligator River. Or more accurately, allows vehicles to drive through the river on low tide. Bordering Arnhem Land. It's Australia’s most dangerous water crossing. I had been there twice before. Both times shortly thereafter fatal crocodile attacks had occurred. It is a popular fishing spot. There is a safe Crocodile viewing platform. A permit is required to cross the East Alligator River into Arnhem Land. I was told, risk an indigenous spear thrown through a window if no permit is displayed for all to see on the windscreen. Manngarre Rainforest Walk This is an easy loop walk of about one hour and follows much of the East Alligator River within walking distance of Cahills Crossing. I only partially did the walk. Along the riverbank. Meandering through a Monsoon Forest of scrub, vines and trees. Apparently, this area is home to the Scrub Fowl and the Drongo Bird. Metre wide crocodile mud slides frequent the river embankment. On a bend in the river and on the opposite side of the river were flat outcrops of rock with large saltwater crocodiles motionless on top. Their jaws wide open in the hot sun. Would not want to do the walk in crocodile nesting season. On this afternoon walk no other people were seen. No dogs are allowed on the walk. I understand why with frequent crocodiles in the wild proximity. Obviously, it's dangerous to detour from the walking track. The track is not an elevated boardwalk. Only a cleared dirt walking track barely wide enough for two walkers' side by side surrounded by scrub close to the river embankment. Who knows if crocodiles may be unseen in the leafy undergrowth between the narrow walking track and river? Also, crocodiles could be on the walker's right side of the track with the river to the left. Walk the track with due caution. The forest floor floods every wet season and is closed until the dry season. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP DARWIN GOOGLE MAPS Manngarre Rainforest Walk https://kakadu.gov.au/things-do/activities/walks/manngarre-rainforest-walk/ DARWIN CITY DARWIN WHARF WORLD WAR 2 DARWIN CBD BY TOURIST BIKE world war 2 oil storage tunnels DARWIN TUNNELS WORLD WAR TWO Tim's Surf & Turf Where the locals go and best in Darwin RAAF Base Darwin entry display flat out like a lizard drinking CAHILLS CROSSING KAKADU CAHILLS CROSSING, WORLD'S DEADLIEST CAHILLS CROSSING GOOGLE MAPS PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT PREV N\TERRITORY NEXT HOMEPAGE

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

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