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

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

Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival. 22nd year. The Hoodoo Men have been reimagined by Tim Stout the singing drummer and songwriter driving the ship who has more than 40 years of performing. Collard Greens & Gravy have paved a way for themselves winning awards in the USA and in Australia including The Aria's and The Age Music Victoria Award for best Blues Album. Jules Boult & The Redeemers. As a performer and songwriter today, I am always reaching back in order to look forward. Reaching back to what? Well, the blues I guess? Those songs from turbulent times that still resonate with people today. Rattlin'Bones Blackwood. A master in the art of voodoo-driven sonic medicine, his live shows are a true vibrational exorcism. Dubbed the Jimi Hendrix of the Hammond Organ, Lachy Doley is Australia's most celebrated Blues Soul Rock Organ Player in the world today. excerpt program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 Traveldriven THE HOODOO MEN THE HOODOO MEN LIVE IN ECHUCA COLLARD GREENS AND GRAVY JULES BOULT & THE REDEEMERS RATTLIN' BONES BLACKWOOD THE LACHY DOLEY GROUP PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT HOMEPAGE

Lloyd Spiegel Lloyd's mastery of the art of acoustic blues guitar is truly remarkable. His fingers dance effortlessly across the strings, weaving intricate melodies that resonate with raw emotion and authenticity. Coupled with his powerful voice, Lloyd's performances are nothing short of captivating. Whether he is playing solo, pouring his heart and soul into each note, or leading a band with his electrifying presence, Lloyd's music leaves a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of listening. His acoustic performances are soul-stirring, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing. Lloyd's passion for music shines through in every performance, making each experience unforgettable and leaving a lasting impact on all who bear witness to his talent. Traveldriven Australian blues musician Lloyd Spiegel isn't here to change the world, just make it a little more bearable. Picking up the guitar at age four, Lloyd played his first professional show at age ten and was touring the east coast of Australia at 12. excerpt program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 STOOL AND GUITAR THE BASICS LLOYD SPIEGEL LIVE LLOYD SPIEGEL AND SON GUITARISTS LLOYD SPIEGEL AND FAMILY GUITAR AND TROMBONE BLUES WHISPERS PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT HOMEPAGE

Jesse Redwing Jesse is a multi-talented musician who captivates audiences with his soulful voice and impressive instrumental skills. His performances are a fusion of classic blues, original songs and soulful melodies that resonate with listeners on a profound level. With a dynamic stage presence, Jesse effortlessly transitions between playing the electric guitar and harmonica, showcasing his versatility and musical prowess. Having graced stages across Australia and the United States, Jesse has honed his craft through countless live performances, each one adding a new layer of depth and emotion to his music. His passion for music shines through in every note he plays, creating an unforgettable experience for all who have the pleasure of witnessing his talent live. Traveldriven Sydney's Jesse Redwing is one of the most soulful & authentic blues players in Australia. He has played extensively in a myriad of venues across Australia & done two US tours. excerpt program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 Jesse Redwing plays Echuca. Traveldriven JESSE REDWING & BAND JESSE REDWING LIVE JESSE REDWING SMOKESTACK LIGHTNING JESSE REDWING LIVE AT THE SHAMROCK HOTEL JESSE REDWING LIVE 2 AT THE SHAMROCK HOTEL JESSE REDWING LIVE 3 AT THE SHAMROCK HOTEL PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT HOMEPAGE

Phil Para Band. Phil and his band rock the Blues with a show full of all the classic favourites from Santana to Hendrix, Stevie Ray to Clapton, Rolling Stones to Muddy Waters plus a good measure of originals. Melbourne's king of the blues and guitar wizardry Phil Para is excited to be back playing to live audiences after most of his shows have been online for the last couple of years. excerpt program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 Traveldriven PHIL PARA ON STAGE PHIL PARA BAND PHIL PARA BAND HEY JOE PHIL PARA BAND WHITE ROOM PHIL PARA BAND PLAYS ZZ TOP PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT HOMEPAGE

Phil Para Band Phil Para and his band are renowned for their mesmerizing performances that pay homage to the legendary Jimi Hendrix. With a deep passion for the Blues genre, Phil Para skillfully incorporates all the classic favorites of Jimi Hendrix into their shows, creating a nostalgic yet electrifying atmosphere for the audience. The band's musical prowess is truly remarkable, with Phil's guitar antics capturing the essence of Jimi's iconic style with precision and flair. Each note played by Phil Para resonates with soulful melodies and raw emotion, transporting listeners back to the golden era of blues rock. The synergy between Phil and his band members is evident in every performance, as they effortlessly blend their individual talents to create a harmonious sound that is both captivating and authentic. Phil Para's dedication to preserving the legacy of Jimi Hendrix through his music is truly commendable, making him a standout artist in the contemporary blues scene. Traveldriven PHIL PARA LIVE GYPSY BAR PHIL PARA LIVE TWO GYPSY BAR PHIL PARA BAND LIVE THREE GYPSY BAR PHIL PARA BAND LIVE GUITAR ANTICS GYSPY BAR PHIL PARA BAND LIVE VOODOO CHILD GYSPY BAR PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT HOMEPAGE

Riverboat Tours Embark on a mesmerizing journey along the tranquil waters of the Murray River as you indulge in a delightful riverboat tour experience. Immerse yourself in the picturesque sights that line the banks of the Murray River, each offering a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and rich history of the region. These riverboat tours provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and explore the scenic landscapes that unfold before your eyes. Conveniently accessible, many riverboat tours allow for a spontaneous adventure by offering walk-up ticket purchases directly at the wharf. With tours departing on the hour, you can easily secure your spot and set sail on a memorable excursion along the Murray River. Particularly in the larger river towns, such as Echuca, weekends often present an array of tour options for visitors seeking to discover the charm of the river. For those looking to add an extra touch of excitement to their experience, riverboat tour tickets are also available for purchase during Echuca festival weekends. This provides a fantastic opportunity to combine the joy of a riverboat tour with the vibrant atmosphere of local festivities, creating a truly unforgettable outing filled with exploration and entertainment. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, a riverboat tour along the Murray River promises a delightful adventure that will leave you with cherished memories of this enchanting waterway. The Murray River has many riverboats. Small and large. Many are owned privately and are seen moored along the river system. The river can have noticeable water level height variation from winter to the dry summer months. River flooding does occur sometimes. Numerous snags can be a hazard. Especially when water levels are low. Droughts occur from time to time. The Murray is the longest river in Australia. Runs along the Victorian and New South Wales border and through South Australia to the sea. The Murray Cod is caught in it's waters. A tasty cooked fresh water fish. A large fish that can grow to over one metre long. River boat tours may be taken by tourists from Echuca Wharf and other towns along the Murray River. The riverboat captains tooting their loud riverboat horns. Three toots to leave port. Five to signal danger. Traveldriven PORT OF ECHUCA OLD RIVERBOAT ECHUCA WHARF OLD RIVERBOAT MOORED ECHUCA RIVERBOAT 'PEVENSEY' PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT

FARINA HISTORIC TOWN Farina, this abandoned town in Outback South Australia, holds a unique charm that beckons travellers to explore its history and remnants of a bygone era. Situated just a short detour off a bitumen road, this ghost town can be accessed by both 4WD and 2WD vehicles, making it a relatively accessible yet intriguing destination for adventurers. Located 55 kilometres south of Marree, Farina has remained uninhabited since 1967, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful landscape of roofless buildings frozen in time. Despite its abandonment, Farina is not forgotten. The efforts of volunteers to maintain the remaining structures, complete with nameplates and clearly named street signs, ensure the town's history is preserved for future generations. While no active building restorations take place, the dedication to preventing further deterioration is evident in the care taken to upkeep the site. Farina Modern Bakery (Open Daily) One of the notable features of Farina is the presence of a large modern bakery, its exterior reminiscent of a grand homestead, which serves as a popular stop for travellers passing through. The contrast of the bakery's modernity against the backdrop of the town's ruins adds a layer of intrigue to the overall experience. For those seeking a closer connection to the rugged beauty of the Outback, Farina offers a bush camping area away from the ruins. This secluded spot provides facilities for campers and has become a favoured campsite for those looking to immerse themselves in the stark beauty of the desert landscape. Furthermore, the climate of Farina, classified as a hot desert, adds to the allure of this remote location. The arid conditions and vast expanse of the surrounding desert create a sense of isolation and timelessness, further enhancing the mystique of this abandoned town. Traveldriven FARINA TOWN ENTRY FARINA RUINS FARINA'S MAIN STREET FARINA UNDERGROUND BAKERY STILL IN USE UNDERGROUND BAKERY SIGNAGE FARINA UNDERGROUND BAKERY FARINA WAR MEMORIAL PARK HUNDREDS ATTEND ON ANZAC DAY PREV PAGE NEXT

Marree Marree is the departure or endpoint for the Birdsville Track. It is also the starting point for the Oodnadatta Track. Flights over Lake Eyre and the region may be booked inside the booking office of the Marree Hotel. Lake Eyre is Australia's largest salt lake. The normally dry salt lake has been holding water in recent years. Accommodation in Marree was a few hundred metres from the Marree Hotel. The appearance of the multiple units were from the outside as of large windowless white cell blocks. None of the blocks had a window, not even the bathroom/shower. A phone alarm was set for a 6 am early rise to get on the road. However, on waking, no power was available for lights or anything relying on electrical power. Dressing in complete darkness, with no windows and attempting a shower was a bit challenging. Power resumed after about twenty minutes, allowing for a more relaxed approach. Marree Outback Roadhouse The previous night Dinner was at the Marree Outback Roadhouse and General Store. Howard, our tour operator, highly recommended the Friday night dinner. People come in from surrounding areas, in some cases driving quite long distances to eat at the Marree Outback Roadhouse on a Friday night for the roast. It did not disappoint. The hosts wheeled large meat platters out from the kitchen for all to indulge. A roast dinner choice of all you could eat and a selection from chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, and corned beef. Vegetables or salad. Followed by a dessert with fresh cream. Seconds were available to all. A great Outback meal enjoyed. Traveldriven OUTBACK TIDY TOWNS?? TOWN ENTRY SIGN TO MARREE DRIVING INTO MARREE THE BIRDSVILLE TRACK, MARREE LAKE EYRE ONLY HOLDS WATER ONCE IN A BLUE MOON BEST OUTBACK DINNER, MARREE OUTBACK ROADHOUSE AND GENERAL STORE OODNADATTA TRACK TRUCK MARREE HOTEL WINDOWLESS CELL BLOCK ACCOMMODATION OTHERWISE VERY GOOD MARREE TO BIRDSVILLE OLD MAIL TRUCK DESERT STONE MAN PREV PAGE NEXT

Mungerannie Hotel After an overnight stop at the Mungerannie Hotel on the Birdsville Track, and more than halfway down the track, our vehicle came across a few people pedaling mountain pushbikes towards Birdsville. A few at first, then more strung out further back and followed by a backup 4WD vehicle and an empty mini-bus. The backup vehicle driver pulled over and recognised our driver, Howard, from other Outback tours driven over the years. He said a group of twenty-four pushbike riders were riding Gulf to Gulf. They called the bike ride Bike and Wheels, a take on Burke and Wills' Gulf expedition. All riders in their sixties. The ride is greater than 2,200 km in length. The full ride to take not less than a month. The next overnight stop for them was some kilometres further up the track beside a creek bed. Hopefully reaching Mungerannie late the next day. We wished them good luck and continued south. Mungerannie Hotel is the only rest stop on the Birdsville Track offering accommodation, food, and cold drinks. Mungerannie Station and Homestead is behind the hotel and further back. Sammy, the friendly dog, often greets weary travellers off the Birdsville Track. Loving a game of fetch with a stick, Sammy retrieves thrown sticks non-stop and enjoys a friendly pat inside the Mungerannie hotel bar area. The Mungerannie Hotel Publican A previous long-gone publican and owner of the hotel, residing in the remote location of Mungerannie on the Birdsville Track, grappled with the challenges of solitude and isolation. The emptiness of the surroundings often weighed heavily on his spirit, prompting occasional bouts of eccentric behaviour. In moments of extreme quietness, when the absence of visitors stretched for days on end, the publican's frustration would manifest in peculiar ways. It was not uncommon for him to resort to using his gun as a means of combating the monotony, firing shots that echoed through the desolate hotel. The sound of bullets piercing through the silence, creating holes in the ceiling and walls, served as a stark reminder of the publican's struggle to cope with the profound sense of isolation. Perhaps fuelled by a mixture of loneliness and the numbing effect of alcohol, these actions provided a temporary release from the oppressive stillness that enveloped the establishment. Gunshots reverberated throughout the hotel, a testament to the lengths one would go to in order to stave off the encroaching solitude of the outback. Mungerannie Hotel Accommodation Accommodation units are on the left and down the side of the hotel. A wooden floorboard walkway guides visitors to their units. Some units are double berths; others are two singles. Rooms are fairly small and no room to swing a cat, so to speak. No chair, no table, no TV, no fridge. A window and an AC unit. Communal showers and toilets are across the dusty yard. All are clean and tidy. There are available hot cooked meals in the hotel. The staff are friendly and talkative, and of course there is Sammy the friendly dog. He loves a non-stop game of fetch the stick. Traveldriven MUNGERANNIE HOTEL IT'S A BLOODY LONG WAY THERE'S A TRACK WINDING BACK TO THE MUNGERANNIE HOTEL MUNGERANNIE HOTEL ENTRANCE MUNGERANNIE HOTEL ON THE BIRDSVILLE TRACK A COLD DRINK OFF THE BIRDSVILLE TRACK Sammy the friendly dog Mungerannie Hotel PREVIOUS PUBLICAN SHOOTING HOLES IN WALLS OUTBACK BIKERS ROYAL ENFIELD 91 UNLEADED AVAILABLE 299 CENTS PER LITRE A BED AND A WINDOW HOWARD'S BACKUP VEHICLE? DESERT SKY TOURS BIRDSVILLE TRACK ON THE MUNGERANNIE HOTEL TURNOFF BIRDSVILLE TRACK HEADING SOUTH BOAT & BIKES ON THE BIRDSVILLE TRACK BIRDSVILLE TRACK BIKE & WHEELS EXPEDITION PREV PAGE NEXT

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