Each fire season in regional and rural Australia a bushfire threat exists to property, flora and fauna. Lives are at risk in these fire fuelled environments. The winter months of June, July and August are dry in Northern Australia and the summer months particularly in February are hot and dry in southern Australia. Pre season fire mitigation management can only go so far. Many call for more work to be done by authorities. The debate is ongoing with how much clearing should be carried out. Argument's for and against. Tourists and Australia Bushfires Fire Survival Wildfire and forest fire are called bushfires in Australia. Our bushland Eucalyptus trees and their bark and oils making them highly flammable. Often referred to as 'gum trees' these trees are very common throughout Australia. Along with dry grasslands a significant fire hazard exists. Visitor's to fire prone area's are safe as long as precautions such as listening for any media alerts and extreme weather alerts available via local radio, mobile phones etc. are acted upon. Risk of death is possible or even likely if road blocks are driven around and then entered into in an active fire zone. Not all are manned. Due to limited resources. This does not mean the risk is lower. Radiant heat is the major cause of bushfire death followed by smoke inhalation. Both are deadly. Radiant heat is life threatening at a range of five times the flames height. A simplistic example: Flame height is a crucial factor in assessing the severity and potential danger of a fire. In the context provided, a flame height of five metres multiplied by five results in an alarming twenty-five metres, which is equivalent to approximately eighty-two feet. To put this into perspective, the height of a typical house does not exceed five metres, highlighting the immense scale of such flames. In Australia, where the standard two-way road width is 7.4 metres or 24 feet, the potential threat becomes evident. Even with a cleared roadside verge of ten metres (two times five metres), the proximity of flames of this magnitude poses a clear and immediate risk to life, especially for individuals in vehicles. It is important to note that the majority of bushfire flame heights far exceed five metres, making the situation even more hazardous. The intensity and speed at which a fire front can advance are also critical factors to consider. A fire front moving at speeds of up to twenty-five kilometers per hour or approximately fifteen miles per hour can rapidly engulf vast areas, leaving little time for evacuation or containment efforts. These statistics underscore the urgent need for robust fire prevention measures, early detection systems, and effective emergency response strategies to mitigate the devastating impact of wildfires on both lives and property. The Summer of 2025 Grampians Bushfire A few days preceding Christmas Day 2024 evacuation orders were issued for the small townships of Halls Gap, Pomonal and Moyston bordering the Grampians National Park in Victoria. The order for both residents and tourists. The Grampians National Park was declared closed due to the large bushfires burning within the Park. The fires were sparked by a lightning strike. The weather forecast for Boxing day a high of 39 C and high winds. The fires burning in excess of 75,000 hectares or 185,000 acres as of December 27th. About one third of the Grampians National Park burnt out. Mainly in unpopulated forested areas. The fire fighting involving six hundred fire fighters and dozens of aircraft. The bushfires posed imminent danger to life and property approaching the new year of 2025. Four properties were lost to fire in Moyston. All fires contained by January 6th. Moping up duties to be carried out by fire crews on site for much of January 2025. Christmas Day 2024 The nearby Grampians National Park & City of Stawell township Under Watch and Act Warning from Grampian bushfires burning twenty-five km distant MOUNTAIN FIRESTORM Bushfire Aftermath The small township of Pomonal of approximately 350 residents is about 240 km west of Melbourne, Victoria and borders the Grampians National Park. On February 13, 2024 a dry lightning strike started a bushfire in the Grampians National Park burning down the mountain range and into the edge of Pomonal. Forty-five homes were lost to fire on a day of high wind and forty degree Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) temperature. No fire deaths and very little livestock reported lost. The town general store, church, school, hotel, community hall and fire station were all spared. Fire impacted the town on all sides. All lost buildings were on the mountain range side. About 2,200 hectares burnt or 5,500 acres. The fire gained extensive national news coverage. Ten days later the public was granted access to the township's main through road. In the area smoke haze could be seen hanging in the air and smelt from another current bushfire this time eighty km distant and nearer to Melbourne also with homes lost. Media warnings of more extreme hot weather in the coming days and for all people to remain vigilante in the vicinity of the Grampians National Park. The last major fire to impact the area was in late January of 2006 with two deaths of local residents in a car found on the main Pomonal/Moyston road. A few of the thousand or so Pomonal and Halls Gap residents (also relating to the 2006 bushfire) are known to: Traveldriven HALF ROAD CLOSED ENTRANCE TO POMONAL A PICTUREQUE PLACE & BURNT ROADSIDE STAGING AREA ON OVAL OPPOSITE FIRE STATION BURNT BUSH AND MOUNTAIN RANGE BUSHFIRE BURNT OUT CAR BUSHFIRE BURNT OUT HOUSE PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOME PAGE POST

Lake Lascelles The lake is quite popular during peak times such as Easter when there may be upwards of one hundred camps. A 4wd is not required to access the lake. Most of the time there is plenty of room and the lake is far from cramped. Unlike quite a number of Victorian waterways in the summer months. Generally there is excellent weather for watersports, fishing, swimming and the lake is within easy walking distance of the small town charm of Hopetoun. Lake Lascelles is about a four and a half hour drive north west from Melbourne via the Calder Highway or Western Highway and located in the southern Mallee. Would be a good overnight rest stop between Melbourne and Mildura. It is a further two hour drive to Mildura on the Murray River. Lake Lascelles is five hundred metres from the town centre of Hopetoun Victoria. Hopetoun is a town of seven hundred residents. The town Hotel has rear unit accommodation if required. Lake Lascelles is always at full water capacity as it has a guaranteed water supply from Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water. An unpaved road encircles the lake of six hundred metres by four hundred metres. Free camping powered and unpowered sites are available to the waters edge and a few cabins are at reasonable rates. There are shower and toilet facilities on the lake foreshore. It's quite possible to enjoy a secret getaway weekend at Lake Lascelles. Away from the city crowd and take in the peace and quiet of the scenic lake surrounds. Water Sports, Fishing and Swimming Power boating is allowed and the lake holds a variety of fish such as redfin. The lake foreshore has green grass and is shaded by trees to the water's edge in many of the free camping area's. Swimming is popular. Even in winter, days may be mild and sunny. The lake has public BBQ area's and outdoor seating. The Hopetoun Caravan Park is between the lake and the town and not on the lake itself. Hopetoun As a small town Hopetoun has available to visitors: An IGA supermarket chemist service station (limited hours) hairdresser café and a takeaway shop Hopetoun Golf Course Hotel meals and accommodation A few churches Police A few retail shops Commonwealth bank with external ATM No traffic lights, parking meter's or crime Google Maps Hopetoun CURRENT FIVE DAY HOPETOUN/LAKE LASCELLES WEATHER ON THE FORESHORE OF LAKE LASCELLES SUNRISE OVER LAKE LASCELLES ARTWORK AT LAKE LASCELLES HOPETOUN SHOP FRONT (DISPLAY ONLY) HOPETOUN TOWN CENTRE ROUNDABOUT SMALL PARK IN HOPETOUN TOWN CENTRE RURAL DISPLAY NEAR HOPETOUN TOWN CENTRE PREV VICTORIA NEXT

Located within the Grampians National Park, Victoria is Roses Gap. Roses Gap Road is a fully sealed road connecting to the Western Highway and Wartook. The road provides access to Beehive Falls. These are usually just a trickle of water in the warmer months. Troopers Creek bush camp sites and The Wander Inn, Wartook are nearby if travelling by car. The more direct route to Halls Gap is a relatively flat gravel road of 20 km plus. Bushfires have raged in the area as can be seen from a few roadside fire affected signs that were never replaced. The bushland generally recovers within one or two years of a fire burning through the area. In the summer months the national park can get high temperatures and in turn this will dry out the underlying scrub. Roses Gap Road, once known as the 'Old Adelaide Road,' holds a significant historical value as it served as a vital route connecting different regions. This road, steeped in history, winds its way through picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses of towering cliffs that majestically rise from the surrounding bushland. The sight of these impressive cliffs, just a few kilometres off the road, adds a sense of grandeur and awe to the journey for travellers passing through. As one navigates along the current road, the presence of these natural formations serves as a reminder of the rugged beauty and geological wonders that characterise the area. Traveldriven DRIVE HALLS GAP TO ROSES GAP ROAD HEAT AFFECTED SIGN FROM BUSHFIRES BUSH WALK SIGNAGE TRACK CLOSURE NOTICE GRAMPIAN WILDFLOWERS TOWERING CLIFFS ALONGSIDE ROSES GAP ROAD SECTION OF OLD ADELAIDE ROAD NOW KNOWN AS ROSES GAP ROAD VIEW FROM TROOPERS CREEK BUSH CAMPGROUND TROOPERS CREEK AMENITIES CAMPGROUND UNWIND AND RELAX WEEKENDS THE WANDER INN. PREV GRAMPIANS NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Reeds Lookout . A central Grampians fire tower and Lookout located in the Grampians National Park. Victoria. Also, on occasion using the alternate spelling of Reids Lookout. Access is off a short turn off of Mount Victory Road. There is a sealed carpark and walking access along a short road to the fire tower. Views are to distant Lake Wartook and to the surrounding National Park. The Reeds Lookout stamped marker plaque is 2,330 feet above sea level. Bushfires have threatened this area in the past. A helipad is marked out near the lookout tower. Could be used in an emergency. In a bushfire, the smoke would likely make it unusable. The fire tower is a replacement for an earlier built timber tower thought to have been destroyed by bushfire. Local lakes and fire dams are used by fire-bombing aircraft such as water carrying helicopters. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP HALLS GAP GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE HALLS GAP TO REED LOOKOUT REEDS FIRE TOWER LOOKOUT DISTINCTIVE GRAMPIAN SANDSTONE VIEW OF VICTORIA VALLEY & DISTANT RESERVOIR REEDS LOOKOUT PLAQUE AND VIEWS PREV GRAMPIANS NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Mackenzie Falls The waterfall is the largest falls in the Grampians National Park Victoria. The falls are about a thirty minute drive from Halls Gap along a good, sealed road. There used to be a kiosk for many years with drinks and snacks available but summer bushfire damage made it unviable for a retail building in the area. There is a large carpark. The falls are approximately thirty-five metres from base to top and flow year round. The water flow is much greater in the cooler months enabling better scenic views. Mackenzie Falls from carpark to base of falls is a steep descent walk of 570 metres via 260 steps. For those unable to hike the many steps Mackenzie Falls Lookout is a great alternative walk. Mackenzie Falls Lookout This walk begins at the carpark. The walk is an easy 860 metres to a viewing platform opposite and above the falls. No steps. Viewing Safety It is crucial to emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and regulations when visiting natural landmarks such as Mackenzie Falls. The tragic events that occurred at the falls base, with four drownings on Christmas Day in 2004 and another in 2018, serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with disregarding such warnings. These incidents underscore the need for visitors to exercise caution and respect the rules in place to protect both themselves and others. By heeding these precautions and being mindful of the inherent risks posed by water bodies, individuals can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while appreciating the beauty of Mackenzie Falls. Traveldriven DRIVE MELBOURNE TO HALLS GAP VIA STAWELL MACKENZIE FALLS LOOKOUT WALK MACKENZIE FALLS PUBLIC AREA & CARPARK MACKENZIE FALLS LOOKOUT WALK PREV GRAMPIANS NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Halls Gap In The Grampians A small popular tourist town in Victoria. Located on Grampians Road, twenty-five km off of the Western Highway. The town is surrounded by the Grampians National Park. With a population of over four hundred. This increases many times over in holiday periods. Halls Gap is widely unofficially known as the tiny tourist capital of the Grampians National Park. All types of accommodation, fuel, retail, food outlets and a chemist are available in Halls Gap. Stoney Creek shops & Icecream Treat Many an unsuspecting tourist has sat down on the provided outdoor seating around the Stoney Creek retail boardwalk to indulge in a tasty bakery pie. Only to end teary eyed when one of the many small birds flutters down to remove the food from the haplass tourist's plate or outstretched hand. Also a few of the larger white cockatoo's mingle amongst the steady stream of people ready for any unattended morsels. On one of my visits to the Stoney Creek Boardwalk in Halls Gap I was given a free choice of icecream from the many varieties on offer in a home made waffle cone from Halls Gap Ice Creamery . It's not unusual to see a queue of people form at peak times. On another visit I received a triple scoop cone. Thankyou. The owners & staff of Coolas Ice Creamery knew me and wouldn't accept payment. During 2024 the icecreamery changed ownership. So no more free triple scoop icecreams for me from 2024 onwards. Prices are reasonable and I don't mind to pay after a long hike for a tasty cold scoop or two, or three. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP HALLS GAP GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT HALLS GAP FIVE DAY FORECAST HALLS GAP VIA STAWELL OR ARARAT VIA STAWELL IS NEARER TO THE WESTERN HIGHWAY THE MAIN STREET OF HALLS GAP STONEY CREEK, HALLS GAP STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN FLAVOUR ANOTHER DAY & ANOTHER VISIT TO THE ICECREAMY TRIPLE SCOOP FLAVOUR IN A HOMEMADE CONE HALLS GAP STONEY CREEK BAKERY & ICE CREAMERY VENUS BATHS WALK HALLS GAP HALLS GAP EMU CROSSING EMU'S GRAZING PREV GRAMPIANS NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

the most dangerous section of track is braking into Forrest's Elbow - Traveldriven Bathurst On day five of this Canberra road trip I was tempted to detour about 350 km to Bathurst. A regional city on the Central Tablelands of New South Wales, Australia. Distance from Sydney is about two hundred kilometres (120 mi) via the Blue Mountains. Bathurst is the oldest inland settlement in Australia. The population exceeds 37,000. Mount Panorama racetrack is located three kilometres (1.9 mi) from the CBD on the outer fringe of Bathurst. Mount Panorama is 877 metres (2,877 ft) above sea level and rises 215 metres (705 ft) above Bathurst CBD. Traveldriven CURRENT BATHURST FIVE DAY FORECAST BATHURST GOOGLE MAPS MOUNT PANORAMA RACING CIRCUIT MOUNT PANORAMA RACING CIRCUIT MOUNT PANORAMA BATHURST MOUNT PANORAMA COVERED IN LOW CLOUD READY FOR LAPS MOUNT PANORAMA DRIVING MOUNT PANORAMA RYDGES TO START/FINISH LINE RYDGES & TRACK LAYOUT MUSTANG GT 6 SPEED MANUAL OVER THE TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN MANY KANGAROOS NEAR CONROD STRAIGHT WILDLIFE HAZARD Mount Panorama Bathurst ROADTRIP DAY FIVE/SIX As mentioned, the drive was from Canberra to Mount Panorama, Bathurst. A detour of a little over three hours' drive nonstop. Accommodation was in Rydges Motel adjacent to Conrod Straight. It was a wintry few days. I drove the racetrack under rainy and wet conditions. Public road speed limits apply of 60 km on the circuit and 45 km through The Chase. Fog or low cloud was on top of the mountain throughout much of the day. Driving below posted limits here. Reduced visibility. Locals walk trackside most days. The inner enclosed area has a few homes, wineries and paddocks. Not uncommon for kangaroo's to be seen grazing and hop across the track. In my opinion, the most dangerous section of track is braking into Forrest's Elbow and still within speed limits as the car wants to push towards the outer barrier and understeer. Probably because I was unable to drive an optimal line through Forrest's Elbow and being a public road. Also, very wet conditions. On the tight sections of track, awareness of downshifting compression lock can be an issue if gear shifting is not timed correctly. I experienced no lockup issues. The track is a public road open to two-way traffic so prevents the driving line from a road safety perspective. At these low speeds the most fun section of track is second to third gear avoiding wheelspin on the wet road climbing into The Cutting. Followed by Skyline and through The Esses third down to second gear. Also, mild acceleration second to third gear out of the apex of The Chase . At somewhat low speeds, approaching a safe racing line can be attained through The Chase if it is a clear track. Correct gear selection is important for enjoyment and safety. This proves the track can be enjoyed driving to the posted speed limits. In driving mode, Sports or Track and on a wet road here, even adhering to speed limits tighter corners can induce a small rear wriggle sometimes. Selecting the Wet/Snow mode made driving more stable. Permanent surveillance cameras are placed around the circuit. Despite driving multiple laps. No driving infringements were incurred on the track. Bathurst & Homeward Bound Day seven On day five of the road trip meant arriving on dusk to Bathurst and the Rydges trackside motel. Car GPS instructed take a right turn onto Boundary Road, follow to the roundabout and drive onto Pit Straight. The shortest route surrounded by bush. Of course, kangaroos crossed the road out in front before Pit Straight. These were avoided. Two days later, dawn and sunrise leaving Bathurst to return to Victoria, along the same roads, a large kangaroo hopped between my car and a bus following behind. Only a few hundred metres from Pit Straight. The start of a 1,000 km solo drive to home in Victoria. Apart from this, no other incidents. On the Hume Freeway drove to within 50 km of Melbourne I ignored the GPS and detoured via Kilmore, Hanging Rock, then Gisborne to Bacchus Marsh. Over one hour fifteen minutes and 95 km to avoid the Melbourne five o'clock Friday peak hour. Arrived Western Freeway, Bacchus Marsh on nightfall. Worked out well. After a driving break, drove to the Wimmera and home. Twelve hours on the road and a little short of 1,000 km. Traveldriven PREV NSW NEXT PREV ROADTRIP CANBERRA NEXT PREV MUSTANG GT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Lake Burley Griffin is a man made lake in the centre of Canberra, Australia. It was formed in 1963 after the Molongol River was dammed. Lake Burley Griffin has a length of 11 kilometres (6.8 mi) and a width of 1.2 kilometres (0.75 mi). It has an average depth of 4 metres (13 ft) and a 40 km shoreline. About two km at its widest and about seven km long as the crow flies. Lake tours are available. Named after Walter Burley Griffin. Winner of the competition for a lake design in 1912. Swimming is allowed at Yarralumia Beach. Kayaking and paddle boarding is allowed on the lake. Two major bridge's cross Lake Burley Griffin. Commonwealth Avenue Bridge and Kings Avenue Bridge. A five km loop over the two bridge's is popular with walkers. It's possible to cycle around the lake. Murray Cod and Golden Perch are in the water body. Sightings of platypus are known. Lake Burley Griffin Cruises are available on most days. There are several cruise operators. Traveldriven INTERNATIONAL FLAGS OF COMMONWEALTH PLACE COMMONWEALTH PLACE THE JETTY LAKE BURLEY GRIFFIN LAKE BURLEY GRIFFIN CRUISES OFFER ONE HOUR FOR $25 ELECTRIC POWERED VESSEL JIM THE BOAT OPERATOR AND GUIDE LAKESIDE MEMORIAL JIM'S DISTINCTIVE STYLE OF COMMENTARY CANBERRA WATER JET NATIONAL CARILLION FROM LAKE BURLEY GRIFFIN CAR IN THE LAKE, A 1964 HOLDEN A PROJECT OF THE NATIONAL INDIGENOUS ART TRIENNIAL PREV ROADTRIP CANBERRA NEXT HOMEPAGE

The Australian War Memorial was founded in 1941 and has several main areas. These are the Commemorative Area (shrine) including the Hall of Memory with the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier. Memorial galleries and Research Centre. The War Memorial also has outdoor Sculptures. The Memorial is currently open daily from 10am until 5pm. Entry is free. Onsite under cover parking is available. Menin Gate Lions Australian War Memorial Canberra Through the main entry foyer to the War Memorial stand the Menin Gate Lions. In 1936 two large stone lions were donated to the Australian War Memorial by the mayor of the Belgian city of Ypres. They were given to the Australian government in the years after the First World War as a gesture of friendship. In exchange, the Memorial presented to Ypres a bronze casting of C Web Gilbert's sculpture Digger on behalf of the Australian government. Carved from calcareous bluestone in the eighteenth century, the lions had originally stood on plinths either side of the Menin Gate at Ypres -one of two entries into the medieval fortified city. It was through this gate that British and Dominion troops marched off the the battlefields of the Ypres Salient between 1914 and 1918. During this period the lions were toppled from their plinths by the same shellfire that reduced most of Ypres to rubble. Portions of the damaged sculptures were later reconstructed to show off the lions in their former glory. After the war, the Menin Gate was chosen as the site for a memorial to the thousands of allied soldiers killed in Belgium during the First World War who have no known graves. The names of 54,900 British and Dominion soldiers are commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial, of which 6,187 are Australian. -Australian War Memorial Canberra The Last Post The daily Last Post Ceremony is from 4.30pm. Free tickets are required in advance. The format is: Australian National Anthem then a piper's lament, a soldier's story is told and recited by Defence Force personnel, finishing off with the Last Post. A Wreath may be laid at the Ceremony with prior arrangement on the day. Australian War Memorial redevelopment works began in 2022 ($550 million) and are expected to be completed by 2028. Traveldriven MENIN GATE LIONS MAIN ENTRY TO THE WAR MEMORIAL CANBERRA MAIN ENTRY TO AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL CANBERRA INSIDE THE FRONT OUTDOOR AREA AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL POOL OF REFLECTION AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL CANBERRA ROLL OF HONOUR AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL ARMY VEHICLES ON DISPLAY PREV ROADTRIP CANBERRA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Mount Ainslie One of the best views of Canberra. Overlooks the Australian War Memorial and ANZAC Parade with distant views to both the old Parliament House and the new Parliament House of Australia. An elevation of 843 metres (2,766 ft). From the Lookout expansive views often include several hot air balloons rising over Lake Burley Griffin in the morning mist. Mount Ainslie Lookout is easily accessible by vehicle via a wide, well-made sealed road. ANZAC Parade Is one point one km in length and was officially opened on 25th of April 1965. The 50th anniversary of Gallipoli. ANZAC Parade, a significant avenue in many respects, is adorned with a total of thirteen memorials that pay homage to various historical events and individuals. Among these memorials, the Boer War Memorial from the period of 1899 to 1902 stands out prominently. This particular monument features a striking depiction of four soldiers mounted on horseback, capturing the attention of passersby with its powerful symbolism. The imagery of the four riders navigating their way through the natural landscape evokes a sense of both movement and contemplation. Each soldier is depicted as being acutely aware of the path ahead, reflecting the gravity of the circumstances they faced during the Boer War. The contrast of the natural stark shadows and the bright daylight serve to intensify the overall ambiance of the memorial, creating a poignant contrast that conveys a feeling of unease and unrest. The Boer War Memorial not only serves as a visual tribute to the soldiers who fought in this conflict but also as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the challenges overcome. As viewers gaze upon this poignant representation, they are encouraged to reflect on the historical significance of the Boer War and the enduring legacy of those who were involved. The memorial stands as a testament to the courage and resilience of those who served, ensuring that their memory lives on for generations to come. All the memorials are dedicated to Australian's and New Zealander's who served on active duty. Men and women. The centre section of the Parade is red gravel and the outer edge is lined by Australian blue gums. Unlimited unofficial parking is available in side streets. Mount Ainslie is one of Traveldriven's top eight Australian Lookouts. For other top eight lookouts please go to: Five Rivers Lookout of Western Australia Traveldriven ANZAC PARADE & PARLIMENT HOUSE VIEW FROM MOUNT AINSLIE DOWN ANZAC PARADE VANTAGE SPOT BEHIND THE MAIN LOOKOUT MOUNT AINSLIE LOOKOUT AREA BALLOONS OVER LAKE BURLEY GRIFFIN EARLY MORNING VIEW FROM MOUNT AINSLIE VIEW TOWARDS THE WAR MEMORIAL & MOUNT AINSLIE NO PARKING ALLOWED ALONG ANZAC PARADE PARK IN SIDE STREETS AND WALK VIEW THE VARIOUS WAR MEMORIALS ALONG THE PARADE. ANZAC PARADE SOLDIERS ON HORSEBACK BOAR WAR MEMORIAL PREV CANBERRA ROADTRIP NEXT HOMEPAGE

Cambewarra This small town is at the foot of Cambewarra Mountain. Located in Shoalhaven, on the south coast of New South Wales. The township has a general store and a picnic area at Tannery Road. Bed and breakfast and cottage accommodation are available. Cambewarra Lookout is at the top of the mountain and has a tearoom and picnic area with barbecue and toilet facilities. Picturesque views are across to the distant coast. There are green lawns and well-maintained garden beds. Cambewarra is about one hour's drive south from Wollongong, New South Wales. A nice part of regional Australia to get lost in. Lost in a good way. No major highways seem to cut through the general area. A good thing. The tea rooms are a hidden gem and easy to access. Light meals are available and great views. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP CAMBEWARRA GOOGLE MAPS CAMBEWARRA LOOKOUT WALK/ROAD TEA ROOMS CAMBEWARRA LOOKOUT & TEA ROOMS CAMBEWARRA GOOGLE MAPS PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE

Mount Panorama On race weekends camping is allowed next to the racetrack at McPhillamy Park Campground on Mount Panorama. McPhillamy Park is the highest point of the mountain. Hundreds if not thousands of camping sites are available. The campground is relatively flat and has amenity blocks. It is only open when major events take place. Road access is good for all towed vehicles. Winters are often cold and rain often impacts racing events held any time of year. Personal Experience Well before the year 2000 myself and a mate hitchhiked from the outskirts of Melbourne and up the Hume highway 1,000 km to a motoring event at Mount Panorama, Bathurst, New South Wales. The event held over the Easter long weekend. We were picked up late Friday and arrived the following morning by about midday Saturday. Hitchhiked all night through periods of rain and fog. There were frequent periods of waiting for a lift beside the dark roadside. To my amazement our arrival at Mount Panorama was in good time. We were picked up by drivers of cars or ute's. No trucks. The drivers were assorted farmers and families. At the event we spent time on the hill campground with thousands of revellers enjoying the party atmosphere. One of the funniest things I seen was an overturned car bonnet removed from an old car and a tow rope had been affixed to a car with a man skiing and pulled along behind with the bonnet underneath. Weaving a path along grass tracks near campsites. Very unsafe I imagine. I got an express bus to return home to be ready to work on the Wednesday. This was the first and only-time hitchhiking. Now not encouraged and illegal in Victoria. I haven't seen a hitchhiker for years now.   The King of the Mountain and Torana A9X Perhaps Mount Panorama is the most challenging and best racetrack in the world! In rural New South Wales, Australia. Several hours drive from Sydney. Peter Brock is the holder of the most race victories at Bathurst with nine race wins at the circuit and ten Australian Touring Car Championship wins. Driver of the legendary Holden Torana A9X. Brock set the lap record on the final lap of the 1979 race with a margin of six laps to second place. The purpose-built racing cars with a body similar to road going cars are now widely known in Australia as Supercar Racing. The winner of the annual Bathurst 1000 held in early October receives after the Bathurst 1000 race, the prized Peter Brock Trophy. Traveldriven The King of The Mountain https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Brock KING OF THE MOUNTAIN PETER BROCK PETER BROCK O5 A9X TORANA ALLAN MOFFAT 1977 FORD FALCON GT WOODSTOCK VILLAGE Short detour off the highway to Bathurst MOUNT PANORAMA GOOGLE MAPS MOUNT PANORAMA, BATHURST NEW SOUTH WALES Wikipedia, Mount Panorama Circuit Bathurst New South Wales PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE