Birdwood is a town in the Adelaide hills near Adelaide. The National Motor Museum in Birdwood is an automobile museum well worth exploring for several hours. There are large, themed areas and extensive grounds. The museum is highly impressive and can compete with those in any capital city. An annual Bay to Birdwood car run from Adelaide takes place in October, after which the vehicles are showcased on the expansive outdoor grounds, creating a picnic-like atmosphere. The Vehicle Collection Established in 1964, the Australian motor museum stands as a testament to the country's rich automotive history. Boasting an impressive collection of around four hundred vehicles, this museum offers a captivating journey through time for enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Each vehicle on display tells a unique story, showcasing the evolution of automotive design and technology over the years. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a diverse array of exhibits dedicated to various makes and models of vehicles. One notable display is the Birdwood Holden's exhibit, which pays homage to the iconic Australian automotive brand. From classic models to modern innovations, this exhibit offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of Holden vehicles and their impact on the Australian automotive industry. Wandering through the museum's expansive halls, visitors can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of different eras in automotive history. From vintage classics to futuristic prototypes, the museum's collection caters to a wide range of interests and preferences. Whether you are a car enthusiast or simply curious about Australia's automotive heritage, a visit to this motor museum is sure to be a rewarding and enriching experience. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM GOOGLE MAPS Holden 2005 EFIJY Winner of the 2007 North American Concept Car of the year. HOLDEN HOLDEN DISPLAY HOLDEN HERO'S DISPLAY Chamberlain 8. 1929 The only custom racing car wholly designed and built in Australia Holden Hurricane is a two-seat concept car built by Holden in 1969. HOLDEN DISPLAY AMERICAN MOTORCYLES PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Big Rocking Horse The Big Rocking Horse is a tourist attraction found in the small town of Gumeracha, South Australia in the Adelaide hills. The structure stands at over eighteen metres. Of course it does not rock. It's fixed firmly to the ground. There is a large shop with souvenirs to purchase, sweets shop and a café. A two-dollar entry fee (2024) applies to climb the Big Rocking Horse. An internal steel round rung ladder in one of the legs connects to the top platform. A visit to the Big Rocking Horse is good for the novelty. Some pet animals are in enclosures onsite. Hand feeding of the animals is allowed for two dollars per bag of feed and an additional four dollars for entry to the animal park. Kangaroos, Wallabies and emus. Assorted farm animals may be hand fed. Open daily. Good for kids. Good for people of all ages and the young at heart. Wooden Toy Factory Discover the charm of witnessing the intricate craftsmanship of a traditional onsite wooden toy factory. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of skilled artisans meticulously carving, shaping, and assembling each toy with precision and care. From the raw materials to the finished products, experience the journey of a wooden toy coming to life right before your eyes. As you explore the factory, you'll have the opportunity to observe the various stages of production, gaining a deeper appreciation for the time-honored techniques and attention to detail that go into creating these timeless treasures. From classic wooden trains and dolls to whimsical puzzles and games, each toy is a testament to the artistry and dedication of the craftsmen. After witnessing the craftsmanship firsthand, step into the onsite store where a delightful array of completed toys awaits. Whether you're looking for a special gift or a unique keepsake, you'll find a wide selection of beautifully crafted wooden toys to choose from. Each toy tells a story of tradition, quality, and creativity, making it a meaningful addition to any collection. Take home not just a toy, but a piece of history and craftsmanship that captures the essence of a bygone era. Support local artisans and celebrate the beauty of handmade wooden toys that are not only playthings but also works of art. Visit the onsite wooden toy factory and bring home a piece of timeless craftsmanship that will be cherished for generations to come. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP GUMERACHA GOOGLE MAPS THE BIG ROCKING HORSE DRIVE ADELAIDE TO THE BIG ROCKING HORSE THE BIG ROCKING HORSE BIG ROCKING HORSE SIGNAGE THE BIG AND LITTLE ROCKING HORSE THE BIG ROCKING HORSE CERTIFICATE THE BIG ROCKING HORSE PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

The National Motor Museum, is located in the township of Birdwood. In the Adelaide hills of South Australia. Established in 1964 it's Australia's largest motor museum. Up to four hundred vehicles are on display and the history of the motor vehicle's role in the development of Australia. Both in culture and transportation. Motor cars, motorbikes and a few trucks. From the early days of motoring to the present. Allow a few hours to walk through. There are very extensive display areas. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP BIRDWOOD GOOGLE MAPS NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE ADELAIDE TO BIRDWOOD NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM, BIRDWOOD THE BUGATTI VEYRON EB 16.4 The Veyron features an 8.0-litre, quad-turbocharged, W16 cylinder engine, equivalent to two narrow-angle V8 engines bolted together. Each cylinder has four valves for a total of 64, but the configuration of each bank allows two overhead camshafts to drive two banks of cylinders so only four camshafts are needed. BUGATTI VEYRON 2008 WALK AROUND T MODEL FORD EARLY MODEL LINCOLN LINCOLN BUILT IN AUSTRALIA NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM HOLDEN CAR ART PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

The Bend Motorsport Park Museum The museum is also called the Auto Gallery and is inside the Motorsport Welcome Centre. Also located within the reception foyer of Rydges Motel in Tailem Bend, South Australia, alongside the Auto Gallery is a merchandise shop that offers a wide range of souvenirs and memorabilia for visitors to take home as a memento of their stay. The foyer itself is not just a simple check-in area but a fascinating space that invites guests to explore and admire its unique features. One of the main attractions in this space is the display of a dozen or so notable race cars, each with its own story and significance, making it a must-see for car enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. As you wander around the foyer, you can immerse yourself in the history and excitement of these impressive vehicles, learning about their racing achievements and the technology behind their design. Stay Trackside Overnight This unexpected blend of hospitality and automotive culture adds a special touch to the overall experience of staying at Rydges Motel, that is integrated into The Bend Motorsport Park complex. The museum along with the onsite accommodation creates lasting memories for guests and leaves them with a deeper appreciation for the destination. Even on non-race days it's a place worth visiting. Race days are very busy and the onsite accommodation likely booked out, or if available, higher priced. Race car test and performance days are held regularly and a stay may include such a day at no extra cost to accommodation. Food & Drink Located on the second level of the facility, the bar and meal area offer a unique vantage point that overlooks the thrilling racetrack below. Guests can enjoy their drinks and meals while taking in the exciting races happening right in front of them. The Bend's own lager is no longer on tap (2024). The elevated position not only provides a clear view of the track but also creates a vibrant atmosphere. The design of the bar and meal area is carefully planned to ensure that patrons have a comfortable and enjoyable experience, with ample seating, stylish decor, and large windows that allow natural light to flood the space. This elevated dining and socializing spot adds an extra layer of excitement and luxury to the overall racetrack experience, making it a popular choice for visitors looking to combine great food and drinks with the thrill of live racing action. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP THE BEND MOTORSPORT PARK RYDGES MOTEL GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME THE BEND MAIN FOYER CAR DISPLAY SKYDECK VIEW 4TH LEVEL GEAR ART HELMET THE BEND FOYER PETER BROCK A9X TORANA V8 .05 SUPERCAR FERRARI WHEELS EXOTIC FERRARI RACETRACK V8 SUPERCAR McLAREN RACE CAR LARGE REAR WING ON McLAREN OPEN WHEEL RACE CAR ON DISPLAY BIG WHEELS DRAG & RACE PREV SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Breakfast & Bends. Thirty minutes on track time plus breakfast $39. Lunch & Laps. Thirty minutes on track time plus lunch $49. THE BEND MOTORSPORT PARK SOUTH AUSTRALIA On track participants awoke early for a thirty-minute session on the racetrack. This track time was allotted before breakfast. Afterwards all drivers attended breakfast served in the Apex Bar. Morning racetrack session was more enjoyable than the afternoon session with more cars on track for the afternoon. Each session was preceded with a compulsory driver briefing. This included track layout, safety and regulations briefing. On this particular day track conditions were ideal. No drivers were allowed to overtake the pace car. There were a few front brake lockups by other drivers. These lockups causing momentary tyre smoke. Mustang GT track grip was excellent. Trackside marshals were in attendance at strategic track locations. Early Start Waking up early to start the day with a thirty-minute session on the racetrack is a testament to dedication and passion for the sport. The crisp morning air sets the scene for a focused and invigorating experience. The track slowly comes to life, with the hum of engines and the screech of tires cutting through the quietness of the morning hour. Each lap around the racetrack is a symphony of precision and skill, with every turn and straightaway presenting a new challenge to conquer. The adrenaline rush of pushing the limits, feeling the slight G-forces in every corner, and striving for the perfect racing line creates a sense of exhilaration that is unmatched. The concentration required to navigate the twists and turns at high speeds demands complete focus and control, honing both physical and mental agility. In those thirty minutes on the racetrack, there is a unique sense of freedom and liberation that comes from pushing oneself to the edge of performance. It is a time to escape from the demands of everyday life and immerse oneself in the pure joy of speed and competition. The camaraderie among fellow drivers, the shared passion for the sport, and the mutual respect for each other's skills all add to the sense of community and belonging that the racetrack provides. As the session draws to a close, the sun rises higher in the sky, casting a golden glow over the track and signalling the end of another exhilarating morning or afternoon on the racetrack. The memories of those two thirty-minute sessions pushing the car and one's self will linger, fuelling the anticipation for the next opportunity to hit the track and chase that adrenaline rush once again. Mustang GT & Highest Speed Mustang exceptional track handling was commented on by fellow drivers. Highest speed obtained was greater than 165 km/h (100 mph plus) with more in reserve. At least 180 km/h felt attainable following behind the pace car on pit straight. No track incidents occurred. No off track over enthusiastic driving errors for any of the participates. A great day of fun and a new experience. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP TAILEM BEND GOOGLE MAPS PARKED WITH VALID PERMIT MUSTANGS READY FOR ON TRACK TIME DRIVER BRIEFING BEFORE TRACK TIME EARLY MORNING SESSION ON TRACK THE BEND RACETRACK THE BEND DRIVER EXPERIENCE LANDROVER ON A POLE. KEITH DUKES HIGHWAY 130 KM FROM THE BEND MOTORSPORT PARK. PREV MUSTANG GT NEXT PREV SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEXT

Barney's Bistro & Bar A New Year's Day drive to Barney's Rubble just outside of Pomonal on the Ararat to Halls Gap road. Barney's is now going by the name of Barney's Bistro & Bar. The drive was via Lake Fyans in a mustang GT. A short pleasant easy drive of five to ten minutes or so. Lake Fyans is a popular fishing and holiday destination with a large caravan resort park. Barney's was untouched by the 2024 bushfires with lost housing in Pomonal. Barney's is generally open Friday to Sunday. This particular time I was given a free cold beer on arrival. Thanks for the beer! Meals are hotel style. From the outside dining area kangaroos can be observed in the background grazing in paddocks. Between Barney's and the towering Grampians mountain range. Barney's Bistro & Bar has rear mountain and bushland views. Friendly staff are on hand. Open weekends. Relaxed atmosphere. Quieter than nearby Halls Gap. Pomonal Located just a brief ten-minute drive away from the charming town of Halls Gap in Victoria, Pomonal stands as a quaint and picturesque community nestled on the outskirts of the renowned Grampians National Park. Despite its small size, Pomonal boasts a unique charm and a strong sense of community spirit. The village is home to essential amenities such as a general store, a school, a football oval, and a community hall, all of which serve as vital hubs for locals and visitors alike. The heart of Pomonal lies within its one and only general store, which also conveniently doubles as a cafe. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by the warmth of a fireplace during the cooler months, creating a welcoming ambiance that encourages patrons to linger and savor the moment. The café offers an array of delicious snacks and beverages, making it the perfect spot to refuel after a day of exploring the natural wonders of the Grampians. With ample seating available, visitors can relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere while enjoying a hot cup of coffee. The general store's rustic charm and friendly service add to the overall appeal of Pomonal, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of rural Australian life. Whether you're a local resident popping in for your morning coffee or a traveller passing through the area, Pomonal's general store and café provides a delightful experience that captures the essence of country living at its best. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP POMONAL GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE HALLS GAP TO POMONAL BARNEY'S BAR & BRISTRO POMONAL HOT ROD AT BARNEY'S DRIVING TO BARNEY'S FROM LAKE FYANS COCKATOO'S TO THE LOO BARNEY'S BACKYARD On the menu. Italian Pork Sausages, Mashed Potato and Gravy. BARNEY'S BISTRO & BAR LAKE LONSDALE PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Great Western Wines Great Western is a Western Highway small town on the east edge of the Wimmera region of Victoria. Driving distance by road from Melbourne on the Western Highway is 225 kilometres and is to the north-west. The population is under one thousand people. Great Western is the wine capital of the Grampians. Two prominent wineries of Great Western are: Seppelt Great Western The winery has an extensive underground network of three km of cellars or 'drives'. Tours are available. Cellar Door sales. Bests Wines of Great Western. Established in 1866. Cellar Door sales. Moyston Cars n Coffee Held on the 4th of December 2022. A small car display. Veteran, vintage, classic and special interest cars. Driving from Great Western, Moyston is a twenty km drive along the Great Western/Moyston Road. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP GREAT WESTERN GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE MELBOURNE TO GREAT WESTERN Magnum: Is equivalent to two standard 750 ml bottles Magnum bottle is sixth largest bottle shown in photo GREAT WESTERN WINE BOTTLES SEPPELT TOUR OF SEPPELT WINE DRIVES SEPPELT WINERY GREAT WESTERN Show & Shine 2024 POP TOP AND POP BONNET PLENTY OF ROOM LEFT HAND DRIVE VIVID WILD COLORS STAWELL RACECOURSE PREVIOUS NIGHT RACECOURSE COMPLEX ONE HUNDRED CARS MODEL A FORD 1928 HOT ROD BEER CAN COOLING? BEER CAN INDUCTION? SLICK REAR TYRES PERMIT TO DRIVE TO SHOW & SHINE GREAT WESTERN SHOW & SHINE WALK Lindsay Fox Trucks on display. Linfox Great Western café shopfront grapes Tickford mustang GT, Shadow Wolf Moyston Cars n Coffee DISPLAY OF OLD CARS STRAPPED BONNET CHEV. BONNET DECALS GOD SPEED PREV SHOW & SHINE NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Early Morning Drive Early one Saturday morning hours before sunrise and driving across country Victoria to reach the Great Ocean Road a bright glow of green lit up most of the clear night sky. Lasting several seconds. Local ABC radio was playing. Within a short time, the announcer proclaimed the station had taken phone calls from puzzled listeners seeing the same thing. I have since found out a larger falling meteor is like this. If the meteor is made of iron and nickel, it makes a green glow from friction in the atmosphere. Marking a memorable start to driving the Great Ocean Road. Great Ocean Road Driving the Great Ocean Road is an exhilarating experience that offers not only safety but also breathtaking views if road signs are followed diligently. The road is lined with numerous vehicular turnouts that provide stunning vistas of the ocean, making it a perfect spot for taking in the beauty of the coast. While any vehicle can traverse the Great Ocean Road, it is recommended to avoid towing a trailer or caravan to fully enjoy the drive. Although the road features twists and turns in some sections, it is still permissible to tow a caravan, providing an added level of flexibility for travellers. The drive may be cut short if desired. The drive from Lorne to Deans Marsh or Skenes Creek through the Otways Forest offers a picturesque journey through lush greenery and towering tree ferns. The option to cut the drive short provides flexibility for travellers looking to save time on their journey back to Melbourne or Geelong. By choosing the shorter route, you can still experience the beauty of the Otways region without committing to a longer drive. The sealed roads ensure a smooth and comfortable drive, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way. As you pass through the forested landscapes, you'll be surrounded by the tranquillity of nature, with the fresh scent of damp forest air adding to the immersive experience. Whether you opt for the Lorne to Deans Marsh route or the Skenes Creek to Forest drive, both paths promise a great way to experience the Great Ocean Road. This before turning off to experience the serene and refreshing drive through the Otways, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Personally, I had the pleasure of driving a Mustang GT on a day road trip spanning 615 km from the Wimmera, not once but twice within 12 months. Making a pitstop in Lorne to indulge in a delicious serving of fish and chips added a delightful touch to the journey, making it a memorable experience that is worth reliving! Lorne is a seaside town on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. With a resident population greater than one thousand. A popular holiday spot for Victorian's and the wealthy with their lavish holiday homes. Apollo Bay is a coastal Great Ocean Road town in Victoria. The retail street overlooks a long beach frontage. The town appears more relaxed and casual than Lorne. As of February 2021, roadworks Apollo Bay to Lorne is completed. In general, Great Ocean Road surface maintenance has remained good into late 2025. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP APOLLO BAY GOOGLE MAPS LORNE GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE LORNE TO APOLLO BAY PITSTOP IN THE BUSY MAIN STREET MUSTANG GT GREAT OCEAN ROAD OTWAYS DRIVING OVER THE TOP DRIVING APOLLO BAY DRIVING LORNE ENTRY ARCH TO THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD DRIVING FROM MELBOURNE PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Bunjil As depicted in Australian aboriginal mythology. An ancestral being or deity. Often imagined as a wedge-tailed eagle which is common to Australia. Drive to Bunjil Shelter off Bunjil Cave Road. A twenty-five minute drive from Halls Gap. Bunjil Shelter is outside of the Grampians National Park and located in the Black Range. Sealed roads lead to the site. Bunjil Rock Art Shelter The artwork depicting Bunjil, the creator of land and water, along with two dingoes, holds a profound cultural significance in the landscape of Gariwerd, this mountainous and rural farming land is also known to non-indigenous people as the Wimmera, including the Grampians, in southern Australia. The large outcrop of rock, where the artwork is situated, not only showcases a representation of Bunjil and the dingoes but also features a distinctive upper body animal shape that adds to its mystical aura. This site serves as a powerful reminder of the deep connection between the Indigenous peoples of the region and the land they inhabit. The intricate details of the artwork symbolise the rich cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs of the traditional custodians of the land, highlighting their reverence for nature and the stories passed down through generations. As visitors engage with this artwork, they are invited to reflect on the enduring traditions and wisdom of the Indigenous communities that have nurtured and protected this sacred site for centuries. Rock Art Pranksters The rock art found in this area has long been shrouded in mystery and intrigue, with rumours circulating that it was the handiwork of mischievous pranksters dating back to as early as 1910. However, upon closer examination and expert analysis, these claims have been debunked, revealing a much more ancient origin that speaks to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Over the years, this invaluable piece of history has faced numerous threats, including vandalism by individuals who sought to deface the artwork with lead paint. Fortunately, efforts were made to restore and preserve the rock art, with specialists successfully removing the damaging substances to reveal the true beauty and significance of the ancient depictions. To safeguard this precious cultural treasure from further harm, a protective wire cage has been installed around the rock art site, serving as a physical barrier against potential vandals and ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at this remarkable piece of history. The presence of this protective structure not only preserves the integrity of the artwork but also symbolises the collective commitment to honouring and cherishing our shared cultural heritage for years to come. There is a short sand and gravel walking track of about two hundred metres winding to the top of a rocky tree covered hill and around down to the shelter. This track meanders back to the carpark mostly on flat ground. It's common to be the only visitor to the site. Traveldriven DRIVE HALLS GAP TO BUNJIL'S SHELTER BUNJIL CORRUGATED IRON SIGN POST DRIVE HALLS GAP TO BUNJIL'S SHELTER BUNJIL SHELTER SIGNAGE BUNJIL SHELTER ROCK ART BUNJIL AND TWO DINGOS' Picnic area off Bunjils carpark. No toilets or waste bins are onsite. PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Wind Farms Driving country roads in Victoria around the canola fields. During the spring months of September and October. There are longer hours of daylight, warmer days, green hills, and wind farms and their spinning blades high above fields of canola crops. Blades up to 90 metres in length and heights of towers to 150 metres. Apparently wind farms generated about twenty percent of Victoria's electricity in 2023. Forty wind farms are completed with about another forty proposed as of 2024. Exploring the picturesque country roads of Victoria during the vibrant spring months of September and October is a truly enchanting experience. As you meander through the rolling landscapes, you are greeted by vast expanses of mesmerizing canola fields stretching as far as the eye can see. The lush green hills serve as a perfect backdrop to the golden sea of canola flowers, creating a stunning contrast that is a feast for the senses. One of the most captivating aspects of this journey is the longer hours of daylight, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. The warm spring days bring a sense of rejuvenation and vitality, breathing life into the countryside. Along the way, you may also encounter majestic wind farms, with their towering turbines gracefully spinning in the breeze high above the canola crops. Each turn in the road unveils a new panorama of natural splendour, with the vibrant colors and textures of the landscape painting a picture of tranquillity and serenity. The symphony of sights and sounds, from the gentle rustling of the canola flowers to the distant hum of the wind turbines, creates a harmonious melody that lulls you into a state of peaceful contemplation. Wimmera Canola Crops In the picturesque Wimmera region, vast expanses of paddocks are meticulously cultivated with the vibrant hues of canola plants, creating a stunning mosaic of green and yellow that captivates the eye before the imminent harvest. As the seasons progress, the transformation of the canola crops unfolds in a mesmerizing display of nature's cycle. The once vivid green and yellow canola fields gradually transition as the pods mature, turning a rich shade of brown, signalling the optimal time for the next stage of harvesting. In a carefully orchestrated process, the canola is windrowed, a method where the plants are cut and left to dry before being picked up by a combine harvester. This crucial step ensures that the crop is harvested at peak ripeness, guaranteeing the best quality seeds for processing. The harvested canola seeds are then transported to processing facilities where they undergo extraction to obtain the valuable edible oil contained within. Spring canola, reaching a height of approximately 1.2 meters or four feet, thrives in the fertile soils of the region, contributing to the agricultural tapestry of Western Victoria. The Wimmera region, located two hundred and fifty kilometres west of Melbourne, emerges as a hub of canola cultivation, with many fields sown with this versatile crop in anticipation of the spring season. The cultivation of canola not only adds to the visual splendour of the landscape but also plays a vital role in the local economy, showcasing the agricultural prowess of the region. Traveldriven WIMMERA WIND TURBINES YELLOW AND GREEN CANOLA MUSTANG CRUISING WIND FARMS & CANOLA REST STOP DRIVING COUNTRY ROADS MUSTANG GT ON THE DIRT MUSTANG GT STOCK IMAGE OF A CANOLA CROP SOUTHERN AREAS OF AUSTRALIA PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Port Phillip Bay Ferry The ferry is a Car & Passenger Ferry crossing between Queenscliff and Sorrento, Victoria. Operated by Searoad Ferries. Hourly, every day. 7am to 6pm. As of March 2023. Fare $142 return. Car and driver. No pre booking required. Ferry crossing is approximately forty minutes one way. Across Port Phillip Bay. Vehicles drive on and drive off. Above the car deck is a café/shop and plenty of seating areas. On this particular day Melbourne's forecast was for a high of 37c and strong winds. The drive was through Ballarat via Geelong and twenty-six sets of Geelong traffic lights onto the Queenscliff ferry terminal for breakfast. Solo return drive home of 540km. Driven in one day. If driven from Melbourne, a one-way loop of the bay would be best. Wild Seas & Crossing the Bay The morning crossing on the Port Phillip Bay Ferry with Searoad Ferries was an adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns. As the ferry navigated the choppy waters, the sound of car alarms being activated added to the cacophony of the journey. Despite the rough conditions, the vehicles on board were safely secured, shielded from any potential damage that the waves could have caused. Stepping about the ferry felt like being a drunken sailor, trying to find balance in the midst of the rolling waves. In hindsight, indulging in a big breakfast and a cup of coffee just thirty minutes before the crossing might not have been the wisest decision, considering the unpredictable nature of the sea. However, as the ferry punched through the choppy waves, all passengers managed the rough passage and reached their destination unscathed from the wild weather. The return journey in the late afternoon provided a stark contrast to the morning's tumultuous ride. The bay was much calmer, offering a serene and peaceful ferry ride back to shore. The gentle rocking of the ferry became almost soothing, a stark difference from the earlier adrenaline-filled experience. As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the water, passengers could reflect on the day's journey and appreciate the beauty of the bay from a different perspective. Traveldriven SEAROAD FERRY QUEENSCLIFF TO SORRENTO GOOGLE MAPS QUEENSCLIFF GOOGLE MAPS SAIL QUEENSCLIFF TO SORRENTO FERRY TERMINAL BREAKFAST OF TWO TOAST SLICES, TWO EGGS, BACON, TOMATO & TWO HASH BROWNS. FERRY TERMINAL & CARS WAITING TO BOARD QUEENSCLIFF/SORRENTO FERRY ONE OF TWO CAR ALARMS & DOLPHINS IN THE BAY POPES EYE 1.5 METRE'S DEEP INSIDE 10 METRES OUTSIDE PORT PHILLIP BAY PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Arthurs Seat Arthur's Seat stands 314 meters above sea level. The winding road leading to the summit is fully sealed. It features several hairpin bends with a speed limit of 15 km per hour, which are best navigated in first gear if driving a manual. It's not as challenging as it might seem. The road is in excellent condition as of 2025. There is a Summit Café with plenty of seating and food options. The Arthurs Seat Gondola end point & Lookout are in the same area. The operators do close the Gondola if high winds develop. No Gondola passengers are left on the top if there is a closure. The Gondola operators' return riders by road vehicle to the lower entry area if the need arises. There are views of Port Phillip Bay through the tops of the surrounding bushland trees from Arthurs Seat summit. Although the views are generally obscured by trees. Arthurs Seat is thirty minutes drive from the seaside town of Sorrento and the car carrying ferry that crosses the bay to Queenscliff. Most of the coastal road is busy in the summer months. The drive is partly driven on freeway and it is a seventy minute drive from Melbourne CBD on this side of the bay. Arthurs Seat is in a built-up area as is much of the coastal Mornington Peninsula of Victoria. Hot and High Winds Forecast On this visit the daily forecast was predicting a temperature of 37°C and high winds. This led to the necessary precaution of closing the Gondola for safety reasons. It is advisable to plan a trip to ride the Gondola on a day with a forecast of low winds to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Despite the closure, the day still offered a pleasant drive with scenic views. A notable feature near the café is a cast statue depicting a larger-than-life eagle, adding a touch of artistry to the surroundings. Additionally, visitors can find an outdoor chair named Arthurs Seat, inviting them to take a seat and enjoy a moment of relaxation. This harmless and fun activity resembles an all-weather throne, creating a whimsical and intriguing sight for visitors to appreciate. Traveldriven ARTHURS SEAT GOOGLE MAPS SORRENTO GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE ARTHURS SEAT LOOKOUT EAGLE & ARTHURS SEAT EAGLE ROCK HIGH WINDS CLOSURE BAYSIDE FISH & CHIPS SORRENTO UNDER THE PINES PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE