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

THREDBO SKI VILLAGE Thredbo is a village and ski resort in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, Australia. It is about 500 kilometres (310 mi) south of Sydney, accessible by the Alpine Way via the Snowy Mountain towns of Cooma, Berridale, and Jindabyne. Thredbo village is built in the valley of the Thredbo River, also known as the Crackenback River, at the foot of the Ramshead Range. Lake Crackenback Lake Crackenback is seventeen km from Thredbo along the Alpine Way. The lake is very small in area and is about two hundred metres at its widest. Many holiday units line the foreshore, and the lake is popular for lakeside fishing. Thredbo Thredbo Village has around 4,150 beds, but a permanent population of only about 471 people. When the mountain is fully covered by snow, Thredbo has the longest ski runs in Australia, and this attracts around 700,000 winter visitors annually. In summer, Thredbo is a hiking and summer sport destination, including rock climbing and abseiling, fishing, cross-country cycling and downhill MTB riding and hosts a summer blues music festival. Thredbo is approximately 550ks from Melbourne. Driving from Corryong in Victoria then on to the Victorian/New South Wales border. The fully sealed scenic Alpine Way road begins and passes through Thredbo Village and continues to Jindabyne, the closest town in New South Wales. Kosciuszko Express Chairlift From Thredbo Village the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift operates 365 days a year. 1.8km in length and rises to a height of 560 metres. The open scenic chairlift takes 15 minutes one way to Eagles Nest restaurant, Australia’s highest restaurant and closest access point to Mount Kosciuszko. From the top of the chairlift there is a popular walking track of 13km return to Mount Kosciuszko's highest point. A relatively flat alpine area. Mount Kosciuszko is the highest mountain on mainland Australia. At a height of 2,228 metres (7,310 feet) from sea level. I visited in summer and did not use the open chairlift. I don’t like heights. The Kosciuszko Express open chairlift has since been supplemented by an eight person capacity enclosed gondola. Merritt's Gondola The Merritt's Gondola takes six minutes from Thredbo Village to arrive at the lower Merritt's Mountain House where dining is available. The Merritt's Gondola is often closed for annual scheduled maintenance during much of October and into November. Chairlifts remaining open after the official closure of the ski season from October onwards may also be closed for maintenance and reopen for the summer months to allow easier walking access to Mount Kosciuszko. Thredbo Alpine Coaster Open year round the Thredbo Alpine Coaster is 1.5 km in length. Speeds of up to 40 km are controllable by passengers as they travel down the twists and turns of the open air railed Coaster. Passes from $16 (2024) The Man From Snowy River Poem " The Man from Snowy River " is a famous poem by Australian bush poet Banjo Paterson. First verse: There was movement at the station, for the word had passed around That the colt from Old Regret had got away, And had joined the wild bush horses - he was worth a thousand pound, So all the cracks had gathered to the fray. All the tried and noted riders from the stations near and far Had mustered at the homestead overnight, For the bushmen love hard riding where the wild bush horses are, And the stock-horse snuffs the battle with delight. Verse thirteen and poem finish: And down by Kosciusko, where the pine-clad ridges raise Their torn and rugged battlements on high, Where the air is clear as crystal, and the white stars fairly blaze At midnight in the cold and frosty sky, And where around the Overflow the reed -beds sweep and sway To the breezes, and the rolling plains are wide, The man from Snowy River is a household word today, And the stockmen tell the story of his ride. Banjo Paterson Early History The Man From Snowy River was penned in the late eighteen hundreds. Australia was finding it's own identity in the world. A group of colonies. England still the highest authority in the land. Australia not yet a Federation of states. Australians looked for inspirations in something they could relate to. Tales from far off foreign shores losing relevancy. Stories and poems from the bush were told and written about. The characters be they real or fictional showed traits Australians admired. Resourcefulness and fairness in a land they were now accustomed too. Be it city or country. Poems were able to be printed and made available to the general public via newspapers of the day. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP THREDBO GOOGLE MAPS JINDABYNE GOOGLE MAPS THREDBO SKI VILLAGE NSW SKI FIELDS DRIVE CORRYONG TO JINDABYNE THE MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER CORRYONG VICTORIA Lake Crackenback New South Wales MAIN RETAIL STREET OF THREDBO OUTSIDE OF SKI SEASON MERRITTS GONDOLA ENTRY THREDBO THREDBO ALPINE COASTER STEEP CLIMB ON LEFT & DOWNHILL ON RIGHTSIDE LOOKING DOWN ON THREDBO By Toby Hudson - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?crid=9390276 PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE

A group of feral goats crossed the highway fifty km from Wentworth. Also encounted were small swarms of locusts over the Silver City Highway. - Traveldriven Mildura  A city with a population of over thirty-five thousand residents (2025) is inside the Victorian border and it is a distance of thirty km to the small town of Wentworth on the drive to Broken Hill in New South Wales. Mildura is a large fruit, grapevine and irrigation district. Broken Hill Is the only large mining city in the far west of outback New South Wales. Connected to Wentworth NSW by the fully sealed Silver City Highway and then onto Mildura in Victoria. Broken Hill's hot desert climate, combined with an average rainfall of 235 mm makes it a hard place to enjoy year round. Resident population is greater than 17,000. Many accommodation options are available. Broken Hill driving distance from Sydney is 1,150 km. If driving from Sydney, drive Sydney to Nygan where the Barrier Highway begins then onto Cobar, Wilcannia and Broken Hill. Driving distance from Melbourne 836 km. I was driving solo, a distance of almost 700 km from the Wimmera in Victoria. Silver City Highway The Silver City Highway connecting Broken Hill to Victoria is a fully sealed highway. Sections of road are unfenced with wandering livestock and wildlife. The area on occasion, may have severe weather of extreme heat or torrential rainstorms. Embarking on the Silver City Highway journey from the town of Wentworth, NSW, to the iconic destination of Broken Hill in a powerful mustang GT is an experience like no other. Covering a distance of 265 km, this road trip offers a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and unexpected encounters. As you cruise along the highway, the landscape transforms before your eyes, showcasing the diverse Australian outback scenery. Just fifty kilometres out from Wentworth, you might come across a group of feral goats leisurely crossing the road, adding a touch of rural driver beware of wildlife to your drive. The presence of small swarms of locusts hovering over the road creates a surreal sight, reminding you of the delicate balance of nature in this vast land. Amidst the vast expanse of the outback, you may encounter wandering sheep and horses, a testament to the agricultural heritage of the region. The occasional sighting of kangaroos hopping across the horizon, and hopefully not across the road in front, adds a touch of wildlife to your journey, highlighting the unique fauna that call this area home. Each passing kilometre on the Silver City Highway is a testament to the untamed beauty of the Australian outback, offering a glimpse into a world where nature reigns supreme and surprises await at every turn. From unexpected encounters with local wildlife to the ever-changing landscape, this road trip in a mustang GT is a memorable adventure that captures the essence of the Australian outback in all its glory. Coombah Roadhouse. The only service stop between Wentworth and Broken Hill is often closed. Understood to be closed into 2025 with no reopen date advertised. If open, diesel and 91 octane petrol available only. Road trains do operate on the Silver City Highway. It's a distance of 265 km or three hours' drive between Wentworth and Broken Hill with no fuel or food services available. Menindee Lakes The small settlement of Menindee is one hundred and ten km from Broken Hill along the fully sealed Menindee Road. Menindee Road joins the area known as Sunset Strip. The Sunset Strip follows the edge of Menindee Lake which is a very large lake by surface area and is the largest lake of four main lakes in the group. Many dead trees stand in the lake. A number of holiday shacks or older style homes line Sunset Strip. Residents of Broken Hill use the lakes for watersport recreational activities. Very often the lakes have little or no water being in a desert environment. Droughts are common. Sunset Strip appears to have very few people seen going about daily activities as does Menindee. Very limited or non-existent retail services are available. Kinchega Woolshed is available for the general public to inspect. A short drive less than ten km on unsealed roads from the Menindee lakes. The woolshed was one of the largest in New South Wales in its heyday. Now a historic relic of the past. Shearers were employed by the owners of the now ruined Kinchega Homestead. Traveldriven MILDURA VICTORIA GOOGLE MAPS BROKEN HILL GOOGLE MAPS MENINDEE LAKES GOOGLE MAPS BROKEN HILL CURRENT FIVE DAY WEATHER FORECAST DRIVE MILDURA TO BROKEN HILL WAYSIDE REST BREAK BESIDE THE MURRY RIVER BETWEEN MILDURA & WENTWORTH BIG LIZZIE RED CLIFFS 'BIG LIZZIE' THE WORLD'S LARGEST TRACTOR LOAD CAPACITY 80 TONS BUILT 1915. USEAGE WAS TO CLEAR BUSH FOR FARMLAND. COOMBAH ROADHOUSE CLOSED NO SERVICES (2022\2023\2024) COOMBAH ROADHOUSE CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE ENTRY SIGN SILVER CITY HIGHWAY LINE OF LODE MINERS MEMORIAL TOP LEFT THE BIG BENCH Line of Lode Road VIEW OF BROKEN HILL FROM THE BIG BENCH ON THE BANKS OF THE DARLING RIVER NEAR MENINDEE NSW 110 KM FROM BROKEN HILL ALONG THE FULLY SEALED MENINDEE ROAD OUTBACK HISTORIC WOOLSHED KINCHEGA, NEAR MENINDEE NSW PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE

Green grass is rarer than gold in Silverton. -Traveldriven Silverton The town is a famous Australian outback destination. Known for its outback scenery and locations for movie sets. Population is about fifty residents. Silverton is twenty-six kilometres north-west of Broken Hill on a sealed road. Broken Hill is a little over 1,100 km west of Sydney and 850 km north of Melbourne. The town was established after the discovery of rich silver deposits. These deposits later diminished out. Silverton is often referred to as a ghost town and is often frequented by day trip tourists in the cooler winter months. As of 2024 Silverton has: One working hotel with film memorabilia One modern bakery. One church Mad Max 2 Museum. Working Artist Gallery. Caravan/camping area with an amenities block. There are some derelict old dwellings about the town and some scattered housing. A historic jail with-out-buildings now used as a museum. The main street has several closed public buildings dating back pre-1900. Large tourist buses do frequent the town. Almost all the town roads are unpaved but these are still good for all types of vehicles. A shallow creek crossing with a concrete base must be driven over to enter the town. The creek named Mindioomballa Creek seldom flows water. The creek is only a concern if very recent rare torrential rainstorms have passed through. The creek crossing is about six hundred metres from the hotel. Silverton Hotel The original hotel opened in 1884 and was replaced a year later by a two-story building. This burnt down in 1918. Ruins of the burnt hotel are preserved to this day. The ruins are at the rear of the current hotel in a green grassed courtyard. On the other side of the courtyard are hotel accommodation units. Green grass is rarer than gold in Silverton. The hotel is open daily for patrons and meals may be ordered and eaten in the large adjoining and covered seating area (beer garden). Film memorabilia cover the interior walls of the hotel. As well as the Mad Max ll film, numerous big budget movies have been filmed in and around the Silverton area. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP SILVERTON GOOGLE MAPS BROKEN HILL GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE MILDURA TO BROKEN HILL Bullet riddled road sign on the Silver City Highway between Mildura and Broken Hill PIG MELONS? SILVER CITY HIGHWAY Silverton Hotel with replica Mad Max car. Photo taken 2008 GREEN GRASS IS RARER THAN GOLD IN SILVERTON self-contained accommodation is rear of hotel opposite the ruins and green lawn. RUINS OF BURNED OUT SILVERTON HOTEL THE SILVERTON HOTEL OUTBACK PUBS Silverton landscape Silverton scooter PREV NSW NEXT

ENGINE EXPLODED. EIGHT HUNDRED FEET UP "MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY" -Max the pilot GLADSTONE A Queensland coastal city 517 km north of the state capital Brisbane. Urban population is greater than 45,000. Approaching Gladstone by road the city is dominated by a power station. This gives the city a real industrial look. Gladstone is home to the retired patrol boat HMAS Gladstone. The ship is in dock on public display in the Port of Gladstone. Overnight motel accommodation was in Gladstone CBD off Goondoon Street. MACKAY The city is almost one thousand kilometres (600 mi) north of Brisbane, on the Pioneer River. Population is greater than eighty thousand. Mackay is nicknamed the sugar capital of Australia because its region produces more than a third of Australia's sugar. Two nights were spent in Mackay. Accommodation was at Rydges Motel. Time allowed for a cool swim in the refreshing water of the local Bluewater Lagoon. These are three tiered lagoons in Mackay’s city centre. A safe stinger-free swimming environment. Great place to cool off and relax. Family friendly and free admission. There is a waterfall and water slide connecting the lagoons. Café and BBQ facilities are onsite. GLADSTONE GOOGLE MAPS MACKAY GOOGLE MAPS MACKAY BLUE WATER LAGOON TIGER MOTH MUSEUM JOY FLIGHTS While in Mackay, I chose to take a flight in a Tiger Moth. I saw flights advertised on a billboard at the nearby Mackay Airport, and since it was something, I had always considered doing, I booked a half-hour joy flight from there. When I paid, the staff assured me that all their aircraft were certified and that both their planes and pilots had maintained a spotless safety record over decades of flying operations. However, during the flight: THE LONE ENGINE EXPLODED; 800 FEET UP A BALL OF BLACK SMOKE CURLED UP PILOT CALL IN HEADSET "MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY" MAX THE PILOT GLIDED BELOW TO AN UNSEALED UNDER CONSTRUCTION RING ROAD THE TIGER MOTH ROLLED TO A STOP BOTH OF US UNHURT TIGER MOTH & THIRTY MINUTE JOY FLIGHT The Tiger Moth had just flown over an extensive mangrove area returning to the airport on the city fringe. The mangroves are a known habitat for saltwater crocodiles. A loud bang was heard and a black football size ball of smoke rose above the engine. Our lone spinning propeller stopped dead. Max the pilot radioed and called a "Mayday, Mayday, Mayday". Three Mayday calls are a general emergency distress call to all aircraft and air traffic control in the vicinity. For us, this meant southern Queensland. Max radioed over the intercom. "Will put her down below on the right". I looked to the right. I could see small unmade roads and cane fields far below. I gripped the side of the open cockpit and braced my feet for impact. I stayed silent. Best to let Max the pilot do his job. I was glad of the tight seatbelt harness. There was a routine mandatory pre-flight safety briefing. I was told in the event of an emergency on the pre-flight safety briefing to pull the intercom cable out from the airframe panel to cleanly escape an unlikely water ditching. We weren't over water anymore. Down to the Ground Looking forward and eyes wide open I wanted to be aware of the surroundings when we touched the ground. I wondered if Max had suffered a medical episode. Myself an unfortunate victim and wondering now how do I survive. We banked right, glided above an unfinished overpass, and in a straight line touched down and rolled to a stop. Unpowered flight time to touch down on the road was five minutes thirty seconds. My video camera still rolling and out of focus capturing thin air and audio of rushing wind. I was more concerned with bracing for the expected hard landing. Me thinking for the previous five minutes if we would get seriously injured or worse. No panic, more of a calm foreboding feeling until touch down. Roll to Stop On the Ground Road workers came from everywhere. Eager to see if we were ok. A supervisor quipped you can't land here. Max replied we had no choice. Even though the airport was five minutes flight away we wouldn't have made the runway. Engine oil was everywhere. Max radioed be careful getting out over the aircraft wing as the engine oil would be very slippery. All emergency services were called out and arrived on the scene some thirty minutes later. Arriving together. Fire truck, ambulance vehicle, police and Mackay Airport authorities. Upon inspection, Max thought the crankshaft had broken in mid-flight causing the plane to come down. Perhaps $70,000 in repairs required. Milling around the front of the aircraft Max jokingly said, 'You Victorian's come up here to holiday and we nearly kill you'. Near Death Experience Emergency personal offered me a return to the ambo. station for a rest and observation as in their words Max and I had been through a near death experience. No. It gave us a fright, but all is ok. After about an hour of aircraft checks and questions. Emergency personal gave me a lift back to Mackay Airport. I carefully drove back to my accommodation where I stayed for the remainder of the day. I had no one to confide in as this was a solo three week road trip. I did not ask for a $200 flight refund. As I thought the money well spent to get out in one piece. Next morning I drove on to Bowen. Almost 200 km and a two hour drive. The plane incident easily put behind me. Technically a forced landing. However, at the time I thought a crash was the likely outcome. The aircraft was broken inflight. Well done to Max the pilot. Saved our lives and no injuries. Traveldriven BURIED IN THE FINE PRINT The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) states this is a Warbird and operated in the LIMITED category, passengers must understand that: The design, manufacture and airworthiness of the aircraft are not required to meet any safety standard recognised by CASA CASA does not require this aircraft to be operated to the same degree of safety as an aircraft on a commercial passenger flight. The passenger flies in the aircraft at his or her own risk In undertaking this Adventure Flight I accept the potential risks The Mackay Ring Road is a bypass route near Mackay, Queensland, Australia. Stage 1 completion was 2020. Stage 1 is 11.34 km in length and connects the Bruce Highway to the south of Mackay (at Stockroute Road) with the Bruce Highway to the north of Mackay (near Bald Hill Road). The bypass involved constructing a new bridge over the Pioneer River and an interchange with the Peak Downs Highway. MACKAY RING ROAD STAGE ONE Tiger Moth joy flight and crash (forced landing) at the time of the still under construction, Ring Road Stage 1, Mackay Queensland. TIGER MOTH FORCED LANDING ON RING ROAD EARLY MORNING BEFORE THE FLIGHT ALL GOOD TO GO THE OTHER TIGER MOTH IN PERFECT WORKING ORDER MACKAY AIRPORT HMAS GLADSTONE SHIP'S BELL HMAS GLADSTONE SHOWN AROUND ON PRIVATE TOUR PREV ROADTRIP TOWNSVILLE NEXT PREV QUEENSLAND NEXT HOMEPAGE

Mad Max Wasteland & Silverton Mad Max 2 the movie is set in a post-apocalyptic desert wasteland where gasoline and water are scarce commodities. This could almost describe present day Silverton . No petrol stations or fuel is available. Car repair services are unavailable. There are no health services or public transportation. Nor is there a plentiful water supply. Although, there is plenty of town character and visual appeal. Mad Max 2 movie locations surround Silverton. Wasteland Compound Outback Silverton New South Wales. Created by a few dedicated Mad Max 2 movie fans Wasteland Compound is located on private property. Just out of town. Beyond the Silverton Camel Farm where tours are conducted. In total, the week's inhabitants of Wasteland Compound numbered about one hundred. These people were accommodated onsite in their own tents and swags. A few hundred daily attendees were drawn from Broken Hill to attend the free weekend event. Diehard fans arrived early from interstate in themed attire from Brisbane, Sydney, Victoria and Western Australia. Many others intending to travel cancelled travel plans because of the previous weeks record rain. Some stations in the area recorded a daily total of up to 140mm (five and a half inches). Leading up to the event most outback unsealed roads were water affected followed by extreme heat. However, a great time was enjoyed by all those willing to brave the extreme weather. All people were welcome. The young, the old and tourists. Those who attended were able to buy and sell oddments in an exact full-size replica of Barter Town. Event merchandise was also available. Mad Max 2 40th Anniversary. A free event. A once only opportunity to experience the world of Mad Max 2 in real life. In a safe and fun authentic environment. A unique event enabled by the fans and Silvertown locals. There are rumours of another 45th anniversary in 2026. Traveldriven ENTRY TO WASTELAND & THE SILVERTON BARTERTOWN MAD MAX 2 REPLICA SET WASTELAND SILVERTON MAD MAX 2 MOVIE SCENE WASTELAND COMPOUND DRIVING SILVERTON TO WASTELAND MOVIE REPLICA YELLOW BUS AND GREEN TARP COVERS MOVIE REPLICA ORANGE OIL PUMP JACK KNOWN AS A 'DONKEY PUMPER' & A REPLICA OF BARTERTOWN MAD MAX VEHICLES NIGHT GAMES INSIDE THE WASTELAND COMPOUND WASTELAND CAMP SITE WASTELAND OVERNIGHT SLEEPING QUARTERS & ACTUALLY USED OVER THE WEEKEND IN WORKING ORDER WASTELAND TRANSPORTATION BIKE AND SWAG IN WASTELAND BOTH ACTUALLY USED OVER THE WEEKEND EMPTY FUEL HOT, DRY & DUSTY MOTORBIKE CHAIN STEERING WHEEL WASTELAND ROAD KILL, ACTUAL REAL ROAD KILL AND SMELL BARTOWN IN WASTELAND BYO 35C NON ALCOHOLIC DRINKS DRIVE WESTERN AUSTRALIA TO WASTELAND PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE

JACK BRABHAM Jack Brabham When the flag drops, the bullshit stops (Jack Brabham) Sir John Arthur "Jack" Brabham, AO, OBE (2 April 1926 – 19 May 2014) was an Australian racing driver who was Formula One world champion in 1959, 1960, and 1966. Jack was a founder of the Brabham racing team and race car constructor that bore his name. Bronze Statues In the Albert Park Lake area of Melbourne. Stop and stand between two F1 world champions. Jack Brabham and Alan Jones. The two bronze bust statues are located beside the Albert Park F1 motor racing circuit. Near the pit straight. Sir Jack lived to see the unveiling. Apparently, he felt honoured to be remembered as such. Created by Melbourne sculptor Barbara McLean in 2013. ENTER https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Brabham F1 WORLD CHAMPIONS J BRABHAM & A JONES BEING JACK: BRABHAM TRACK TEST F1 LEGENDS: JACK BRABHAM PREV PAGE NEXT