Day One Outback South Australia to Birdsville, Queensland Before we began our road trip. A major setback to derail our nine day Birdsville itinerary. Apparently, the Birdsville Track is affected by recent heavy rain covering large sections of the track. This presented several options. Postpone the trip or do the planned itinerary in reverse. Postponement meant perhaps waiting twelve months as other upcoming tours were set to begin a few weeks after our return by the tour operator. Our small group tour in one 4wd Landcruiser planned and run by Desert Sky Tours based in Adelaide needed the itinerary to be rearranged to allow extra time for road conditions on the Birdsville Track to improve. A few extra days hopefully would be enough to allow the track to reopen. The Birdsville Track is 517 km in length and is an unsealed road. Howard, the driver and tour operator, thought if the road trip was done in reverse we would have a good chance of driving down a reopened track. If the track was still closed for a further extended period, our only option was to reach Birdsville via our reverse itinerary through outback New South Wales and outback Queensland. However, we would have to return the same way where the roads were somewhat in better shape. The vast majority of road trips into this part of Australia's outback are done from May to October, as daily temperatures rise close to 50°C or well over 100°F in the summer months. In the cooler months from May onwards, the days are generally sunny with average highs in the mid-twenties Celsius. Birdsville from Adelaide is around a 3,400 km return trip via Broken Hill in New South Wales. So, on day one our small group of three left Adelaide bound for Broken Hill in the far west of Outback New South Wales. A distance of over 600 km. Driving the South Australian mid north towns of Burra, Terowie, Yunta and Olary. We were soon driving along the World's End Highway past the Wildongoleechie Hotel towards Burra and up to Peterborough for a quick lunch at a café. World's End Highway was a rather apt name considering our road trip venture into the Outback. A group of feral goats were strung out beside the road not far on approach to Broken Hill towards the end of our first full day. Burra Burra is well known for its former six hundred or so Miner's Dugouts along the banks of the Burra Creek. Miners lived in these dugouts for protection from the extreme heat and cold weather. Virtually all dugouts were flooded in 1851 and only several survive intact to this day. There is no public access, but the remaining dugouts may be viewed over a wire fence from a road. If time allows, a gate key can be obtained from the local tourist office for a fee and for a closer inspection of the dugouts and other attractions. Terowie Terowie was declared a "historic town" by the South Australian government. There are many well-preserved 1880s buildings in the town, and the town is home to over one hundred and thirty people. The town was a large staging camp for WWII troops, using the railway to allow access for mass troop movements to Alice Springs and on to northern Australia. A most famous speech of the World War Two era was made in the town during a visit by General Douglas MacArthur, who in his famous speech declared for the first time "I shall return". The speech referred to retaking the Philippines, the Pacific islands that the Japanese had overrun. Traveldriven DRIVE ADELAIDE TO BROKEN HILL ON TOUR, JAN (WORLD TRAVELLER) HOWARD, TOUR DRIVER & OWNER WAYNE, (TRAVELDRIVEN) MINER'S DUGOUTS, BURRA THE FEW REMAINING MINER'S DUGOUTS OUTBACK HOTEL OFTEN REFERRED IN NAME AS THE 'WILD DOG PUB' OUTBACK ODDITIES TEROWIE RAILWAY STATION PLAQUE ON TEROWIE RAILWAY PLATFORM TO GENERAL MACARTHUR "I SHALL RETURN" PETERBOURGH HOTEL MOTORBIKE TOURS ARE CONDUCTED FROM HOTEL PETERBOURGH HOTEL BURRA COPPER MINE CHIMMEY THE MINE EMPLOYED UP TO 1,000 BEFORE CLOSURE PREV PAGE NEXT

"Betoota Hotel, a quick lunch stop for sausages in bread washed down with a XXXX bitter and then drive on to Birdsville." Desert Sky Tours Betoota The place used to be known as Australia's smallest town. As the hotel is the sole building in the area. For many years, the hamlet amid the harsh gibber plains of southwest Queensland, 166km east of Birdsville, consisted of just one pub and one resident. Belonging to a mysterious and eccentric publican named Simon "Ziggy" Remienko. He lived to be 88 years old and is buried in an unmarked grave behind the pub. It was said that the prices of his beer or petrol would rise or fall depending on his mood or whether he liked a customer. One hapless drinker was charged $80 for a carton of beer. When the customer returned for another carton the next day, it cost just $20. Asked why the price had dropped so dramatically, Remienko replied, "Because you came back." Betoota Hotel To this day the hotel remains the only building in Betoota. The Betoota Hotel stands as a timeless monument in the vast Australian outback, its weathered facade telling tales of over a century of history. At 114 years old, it holds the title of being the sole building in the remote outpost of Betoota, a place where time seems to have stood still. Situated along the desolate 390km stretch of road that connects Windorah to Birdsville, this iconic establishment serves as a beacon of civilization in an otherwise barren landscape. As travellers journey through the rugged terrain of the outback, the sight of the Betoota Hotel offers a sense of comfort and respite. Its walls have witnessed generations of nomads, explorers, and locals passing through, each leaving behind a fragment of their story within its walls. The creaking floorboards and dimly lit interior poolroom evoke a sense of nostalgia, harking back to a bygone era when the hotel was a bustling hub of activity and camaraderie. Despite its age, the Betoota Hotel continues to stand proudly, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the outback community. Its presence is a reminder of the enduring human connection that transcends time and distance, welcoming weary travellers with open arms and cheaply priced cold beer. In the vast expanse of the Australian wilderness, the Betoota Hotel remains a timeless landmark, a symbol of endurance and hospitality amidst the harsh beauty of the outback. A fun pronunciation of Betoota is Be-Two-ta. The words meant to be said are in brackets: be (order) too (two beers), ta (thank you). Traveldriven DRIVE INNAMINCKA - BETOOTA - BIRDSVILLE FORD FAIRLANE 500 ON THE ROAD TO BETOOTA DIAMOND & DUST BETOOTA STUDEBAKER TRUCK BETOOTA FORD MOTOR VEHICLE XXXX BITTER AVAILABLE BETOOTA PREV PAGE NEXT

"King has stayed with me till the last. He has left me at my own request, unburied and with my pistol in hand". Last notes written by Burke. Cooper Creek. 26th June 1861 Our road trip takes us west back into South Australia along the "roller coaster" and over sand dunes which are well vegetated with native hop bush, sandhill wattles, grevilleas, and in season Sturt desert peas. These red sandhills rise to about 15 metres at a spacing of five to the kilometre above the claypans west of Cameron Corner. One large lake holding water from recent rain events was driven around on this fairly well-defined track. The lake we called Lake Harry. Not sure if this is the correct name. Driving from Cameron Corner to Merty Merty via Riecks Road, the distance exceeds 120km towards the large outback Moomba Gas fields and short stretches of sealed roads. Fort Gray is bypassed on an unsealed road. Fort Gray is a research station for national parks? No public access. Giving the appearance of a homestead from the outside. It must be said that the unsealed road from Cameron Corner, referred to as the roller coaster, was the most interesting road section of our 3,500km trek through the Outback. Dig Tree The historic Burke & Wills Dig Tree location is accessed via station property on an easily travelled stony track. No station permission is required to visit the Dig Tree area. Overnight camping is allowed beside Cooper Creek. The actual Dig Tree is thought to have perished over time. Burke & Wills and the Dig Tree In 1860, 15 years after Sturt named the Cooper Creek, an expedition with Robert O'Hara Burke in charge and with William John Wills second in command, departed from Melbourne, costing 9,000 pounds. The goal of the expedition was to explore the inland areas and claim available land north of the southern Australian states as far as the northern coastline. The beginning of the exploring expedition consisted of: 4 officers 10 men (party totalled 19 men by start to finish) 27 camels 23 horses a special cart to float on water several drays and 21 tins of provisions With the benefit of hindsight and given a practical approach, far too much equipment was carried by the expedition. For example: A cedar and oak dinner table and chairs A large, heavy bathtub Eight tonnes of food Six tonnes of firewood 20 tonnes in total to be carried across Outback Australia. Burke & Wills Expedition Burke's party reached Cooper Creek and Burke divided the expedition in two and the four man party travelled the remaining 1,200 km to the Gulf of Carpentaria in 8 weeks. Burke took six camels along with Wills, King and Gray (an ex sailor).They encountered impenetrable mangroves on the Gulf of Carpentaria after almost reaching open coastal water and then turned back. Gray was the first to pass away on the return to Cooper Creek. The remaining three returned to the Cooper Creek Camp number 65 in a very weakened condition, and supplies were critical. Missing others of the original party by nine hours who had been waiting four months for Burke's return to Cooper Creek but had now gone. Campfire ashes still warm. Wills found a Coolabah tree with words cut into it reading; "DIG UNDER 40 ft W, Apr 21 1861." A small cache of food had been buried along with a note. Of the remaining men in Burke's returning party from the Gulf, only John King survived. King was in charge of some of the expedition's camels. King's survival was largely due to Aboriginal people feeding him and looking after him until a later search party found him on 15th September 1861. A total of three rescue parties were dispatched to find Burke & Wills. The expedition, rescue efforts, and associated activities cost 57,000 pounds. The tragic expedition and rescue attempts captured the early emerging fledgling nation. The Dig Tree, as it is known, is about an easy forty-five minute drive from Innamincka. The actual tree is not thought to have survived the ravages of time. Other blazed trees of Burke & Wills have survived. Robert O'Hara Burke Burke's cause of death was malnutrition & he lived to 40 years of age. He was reburied in Melbourne. William John Wills Wills Cause of Death was malnutrition & lived to 27 years of age. He was reburied in Melbourne. Charlie Gray Gray lived to 44 years of age and passed away at a suggested location known as Lake Massacre in Outback South Australia on the route of the expedition. It is not known if this is correct. The explorer Mckinlay in 1861 found a European buried in the surrounds of Lake Massacre. The skull was marked with two slight sabre cuts. The location was near a former native camp and there was evidence a fight had occurred. King survived the expedition and lived to be 33 years of age, but he was never able to recover his physical health. In total, seven out of the 19 men on the expedition died. Nardoo It is a fern that grows in hot and dry inland areas when rain causes temporary filling of water holes and road-side puddles. Often mistaken for clover, its correct name is Marsilea drummondii and is called by its common name of Nardoo. Mixed with copious amounts of water, it forms a thin flour-like paste and was eaten raw or cooked by Aborigines for generations. Burke and Wills, when their food stocks were gone, were fed Nardoo by Aborigines. However, they did not follow the Aborigine advice on how to prepare Nardoo properly to be safely eaten. This led to developing beri-beri and malnutrition and eventual death. Traveldriven DRIVE INNAMINCKA TO DIG TREE & BIRDSVILLE OUTBACK ROLLER COASTER NORTH OF INNAMINCKA ELECTRIC CATTLE GRID STAY IN VEHICLE FOR SAFETY SHELTER ON ENTRY TO BURKE & WILLS SITE DIG TREE SHELTER AND INFORMATION DIG TREE SIGNAGE ON THE COOPER CREEK BURKE & WILLS COOPER CREEK CAMP BURKE BLAZE FACE ON THE COOPER CREEK COOPER CREEK MORNING TEA AT COOPER CREEK ON THE BANKS OF COOPER CREEK SHADY COOLIBAH TREES COOPER CREEK RESTING PLACE OF O' HARA BURKE COOPER CREEK WILD NARDOO ON THE BANKS OF COOPER CREEK PREV PAGE NEXT

Strzelecki Track Day Four The Strzelecki Track has its origins in the Strzelecki Creek. The track more or less follows the route of the Strzelecki Creek. The first European party to see the creek was led by Charles Sturt on his northern expedition of 1844-45. Sturt named the creek after his colleague Sir Paul Edmond de Strzelecki, a Prussian nobleman who had explored parts of southern Australia. After 1870, when Harry Redford used it as a water source to move a thousand head of stolen cattle down from Queensland to South Australia, the route was realised as a viable way to move livestock by the then pastoralists of the day. Today, the Strzelecki Track supports freight and needed supplies to Innamincka and the Moomba Gas fields. Sections of the road are sealed. Innamincka The township is situated at the junction of the Cooper and Strzelecki Creeks. Innamincka was the last place cattle could be watered before travelling down the Strzelecki Track. The Innamincka Hotel and a police station was established in the 1880s. The police station closed in 1952. The Hotel along with a store operate to the present day. Moomba Gas Fields SANTOS (South Australia Northern Territory Oil Search) was founded in 1954 and operates the extensive natural gas fields in the Cooper Basin region to the present time. In 1963, Santos discovered natural gas in the Cooper Basin region. Further discoveries of oil were made in central Australia in the 1970s. A liquids recovery plant was built at Moomba. Moomba was purpose built along with a small village for SANTOS workers in Outback South Australia. Access to the associated Moomba village is restricted to employees and their families. Traveldriven TIBOOBURRA - CAMERON CORNER - INNAMINACKA AUDIO RECORDING HOWARD OF DESERT SKY TOURS OUTBACK ODDITY MOOMBA GAS FIELDS STRZELECKI TRACK INNAMINCKA TOWN ENTRY SIGNAGE BUY WATER AT THE DRINKING WATER STATION OUTBACK ROAD TRAIN OUTBACK ROAD SIGNAGE COOPER CREEK, INNAMINCKA CROSSING COOPER CREEK INNAMINCKA TRADING POST GENERAL STORE INNAMINCKA HOTEL EXTERIOR INNAMINCKA HOTEL INTERIOR OUTBACK BREAKFEAST PREV PAGE NEXT

CAMERON CORNER Tibooburra to Cameron Corner is a fascinating journey spanning approximately 140km of unsealed roads, immersing travellers in the rugged beauty of the Australian outback. This route leads to the unique junction of Corner Country, where the borders of three states converge, creating a distinctive point on the map. At this remote location, you will find yourself at the meeting point of New South Wales, South Australia, and Queensland, each contributing its own charm and character to the landscape. It's a remarkable experience to stand at this crossroads and witness the vastness of the surrounding territories. Amidst this wilderness, a general store stands as a beacon of civilization, offering a sense of respite to weary travellers. The Cameron Corner store not only serves as a pit stop for essentials but also provides a glimpse of history with the iconic Dingo Fence running alongside it. The Dingo Fence, stretching almost 6,000 km, symbolises the efforts to protect livestock from these wild predators. As you gaze upon this massive structure, you can appreciate the sheer scale of human intervention in this untamed land. The sight of the sturdy access gate crossing the road serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding this boundary, with a requirement for all passing vehicles to close it behind them, ensuring the continuity of this protective barrier. The Bandicoot and the Bilby wander the landscape in the night hours. Drivers beware of hitting these small endangered animals. Traveldriven DRIVE MILPARINKA TO CAMERON CORNER DINGO FENCE DINGO FENCE SHUT THE GATE CORNER COUNTRY INTO CHANNEL COUNTRY CAMERON CORNER STORE CAMERON CORNER STORE INTERIOR CAMERON CORNER STORE EXTERIOR GENERAL STORE CAMERON CORNER BEWARE THE BANDICOOT BEWARE THE BILBY PREV PAGE NEXT

Corner Country Day Three Well into the corner country as they call this part of Australia. Tibooburra is where the bitumen road meets the dirt. Unsealed roads and of course no railway or roadside fencing. Driving is at risk of wandering wildlife such as kangaroos, emu, dingoes, stray cattle and even the odd camel. Upon arrival in the unofficial capital Tibooburra of the outback corner country. One could be mistaken as going to Bedrock as in the Fred Flintstone tv cartoon. Large and small granite rocks fill the landscape. Population hovering around one hundred and thirty. Natural rainfall is always scarce here and watered grass is rarely seen. A statue of a camel and its Afghan handler is in the main street. Services are available for travellers. There is a small park dedicated to the expedition of Charles Sturt and includes a rowboat as was carried by Sturt's party in the hope that they would find an inland sea. Upturned to demonstrate futility and covered in copper sheeting, the boat is a must-see attraction. The town name is generally pronounced as Tib-oo-burra. A fun mispronunciation is To-boob-urra as said by some. Traveldriven SIGNAGE DRIVING INTO TIBOOBURRA TOWN OF TIBOOBURRA AMONGEST THE ROCKS TIBOOBURRA AFGHAN & CAMEL TIBOOBURRA DRIVE-IN CLOSED DOWN TIBOOBURRA BUS THE FAMILY HOTEL GOOD FOR A MEAL STURT'S BOAT TIBOOBURRA EDGE OF TOWN PREV PAGE NEXT PREV NSW NEXT

Broken Hill and Overnight Tibooburra Day Two A planned overnight stay in Broken Hill, an early start after sunrise, and a hearty morning breakfast before driving to an overnight stop in Tibooburra in outback New South Wales. Toyota Landcruiser easy driving. Broken Hill to Tibooburra is an all-sealed road, covering a distance of about 330km. The travel route follows the Silver City Highway via Fowlers Gap, Packsaddle, Milparinka, and the historic site of Depot Glen. Packsaddle Packsaddle is little more than a roadhouse/hotel in the outback, halfway between Broken Hill and Tibooburra. The Packsaddle is a clean and inviting stop with a good outback atmosphere. As they say, a true diamond in the dust. Fuel and accommodation are available. Established in 1958. Milparinka Milparinka is in Corner Country in far northwestern New South Wales on the banks of the Evelyn Creek. Gold deposits were found in the area in the 1870s. A few buildings have been restored. Located in Milparinka, there is: The Albert Hotel Currently open serving drinks & food. A store selling food and souvenirs. A modern large building housing an extensive gem and stone collection. The Milparinka Courthouse museum The Barracks Visitor Information Centre. The Police Cells Gallery. Bank ruins and other ruins. A small park with night sky and star explanation oddments. There is a caravan and camping area. Depot Glen The glen provided water for Captain Charles Sturt during his 1844-46 Central Australian Expedition. The expedition spent six months stranded here due to drought. The area is easily accessible by 4WD. However, the short walk to the actual campsite of Sturt is obstructed by hundreds of Orb spider webs strung between the vegetation and branches along the waterway. Traveldriven CHARLES STURT EXPEDITION & DEPOT GLEN AUDIO RECORDING HOWARD OF DESERT SKY TOURS DRIVE BROKEN HILL TO TIBOOBURRA SUNSET OVER BROKEN HILL BROKEN HILL, THE BIG BENCH PACKSADDLE OUTBACK BIKERS PACKSADDLE SIGNAGE DIAMOND IN THE DUST HANGING TOOLS OF THE TRADE OUTBACK HUMOUR OUTBACK PUBLIC ARTWORK ENTRANCE SIGN ON ENTRY TO MILPARINKA MILPARINKA TOWN BUILDINGS STILL IN USE ALBERT HOTEL, MILPARINKA ALBERT HOTEL BAR AREA AUDIO FILE OF A NIGHT AT THE ALBERT HOTEL MILPARINKA STONE AND GEM COLLECTION MILPARINKA STATE BANK RUINS CHARLES STURT EXPEDITION 1844 - 1846 JAMES POOLE SITE EXPEDITION INITIALS CARVED ON TREE PREV PAGE NEXT PREV NSW NEXT

Nhill Air Show Victoria In April 2024, an exciting one-day event took place at the Nhill Airport (Aerodrome), located just five kilometres north of the charming township. This event showcased a unique experience for attendees, offering a perfect opportunity for aviation enthusiasts and the general public alike to come together and celebrate. The Nhill Airport's strategic location, being over halfway along the driving route from Melbourne to Adelaide, makes it easily accessible to visitors from both cities and beyond. For a gate admission of $45, guests immersed themselves in a day filled with aviation marvels, thrilling displays, and interactive activities. The event captivated individuals of all ages with its diverse range of attractions, from air shows to aircraft exhibitions. The Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre Moreover, beyond this special event, the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre stands as a testament to the region's rich aviation history. Open on weekends to the public for a small entrance fee, the Heritage Centre offers a glimpse into the past with its fascinating indoor exhibits. Visitors can explore a treasure trove of aviation artifacts, learn about the evolution of flight, and gain insights into the significant role that Nhill has played in Australia's aviation heritage. Visiting the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre on weekends, aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike are in for a treat. These opportunities not only provide entertainment and education but also serve as a tribute to the enduring spirit of aviation and the importance of preserving its legacy for future generations to appreciate. The centre is a tribute to the thousands of young men and women who trained at the Nhill Aerodrome when it was a RAAF Base and training school for 10,000 people during World War Two. View aircraft and memorabilia recording Nhill's century of aviation history. The year 2024 marks the 100th anniversary of the Nhill Aerodrome officially becoming the first inland airport in Victoria. -excerpt from Nhill Air Show souvenir program Aircraft flying displays: DC3 Douglas Aircraft Company First flight was in 1935 Tiger Moth De Havilland First flight 1931 Winjeels &CT4s Australian built First flight 1955 Wolf Pitts All aircraft variants built in the USA from 1944 Beechcraft Textron Aviation USA Grumman Avenger USA first flight 1942 Trojan North American Aviation first flight 1949 Edge 540 Zivko Aeronautics first flight 1996 Sea Fury Hawker Aircraft of the United Kingdom first flight 1945 Air Show Australian Flag drop with parachutist, aerobatic display and the Paul Bennet Sky Aces. Paul Bennet Air Shows Paul Bennet, a dedicated and skilled Australian full time acrobatic pilot, has devoted his life to mastering the art of aerial manoeuvres. Born in 1973 near Taree, New South Wales, Bennet's passion for aviation ignited at a young age and has since propelled him to become one of the most renowned acrobatic pilots in Australia. With a fleet of approximately twelve acrobatic aircraft at his disposal, Bennet showcases his exceptional talent and precision flying skills at airshows and events across the country. His performances are not only awe-inspiring but also a testament to his years of training and experience in the field. One of Bennet's signature displays is the solo Wolf Pitts Pro aerobatic routine, a mesmerizing twelve minute spectacle that leaves audiences in awe. Equipped with a trailing smoke system, the display adds a visual element to his already exhilarating performance, creating stunning patterns against the sky. As the display commences from a height of 3500 feet above ground level, Bennet takes spectators on a thrilling journey through a series of gravity-defying stunts and manoeuvres, showcasing his mastery of the aircraft and his deep understanding of aerobatics. From loops and rolls to spins and dives, Bennet's performance is a symphony of precision and skill, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness his aerial artistry. Traveldriven NHILL GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE MELBOURNE TO NHILL SKELETONAL AIR FRAME TWO OLD TIMERS PACIFIC BELLES SINGING TRIO PAUL BENNET WOLF PITTS PRO FLAG DROP NHILL AIR SHOW 2024 AIR SHOW CROWD BETWEEN HANGERS FLYING HORSE & TOP GUNS SEA PLANE ON LAND PARKED AND CHOCKED FLIGHT CREW NHILL AIR SHOW 2024 SIDE FLY PARKED NHILL AIR SHOW HEROES OF THE SKY AIRBOURNE FLIGHT KIT PREV VICTORIA NEXT

Studebaker Classics April 2024. Classic car display inside the Airport grounds of the Nhill Airshow. The air show event was expected to draw from two to six thousand spectators. Attendance appeared to rival close to five thousand. Held at the Nhill airport over open paddocks on the outskirts of the small town of Nhill in Western Victoria. As an offshoot of the thrilling flying demonstrations, car enthusiasts were delighted to witness a captivating showcase of Studebaker classic cars. These iconic vehicles, once hailed as the muscle cars of the fifties, exuded a timeless charm and nostalgic allure. The sleek lines, powerful engines, and vintage aesthetics of the Studebaker classics transported spectators back to an era of automotive excellence and innovation. In addition to the Studebaker classics, a diverse array of other makes and models were also on display, adding further diversity and excitement to the event. The sight of these carefully preserved and restored automobiles provided a unique opportunity for attendees to appreciate the rich history and craftsmanship of the automotive industry. From elegant luxury cars to rugged off-road vehicles, each car make on display showcased the unique design and engineering prowess of its respective era. Studebaker Automobiles The vehicles were built between the years 1897 and 1966 spanning a total of seven manufacturing plants in the United States and Canada. The first plant being built in Indiana. At peak capacity, the combined plants employed up to 23,000 workers. The Australian Connection Right hand drive Studebakers were assembled in kit form from 1960 up until 1968 in Melbourne. Nhill Air Show & The Pacific Belles The Pacific Belles singing group has captivated audiences Australia wide with their mesmerizing performances in a multitude of shows. Their harmonious melodies and captivating stage presence have left a lasting impression on all who have had the pleasure of experiencing their talent. The Crafters Fair, a delightful showcase of handmade crafts and unique creations, provided a vibrant backdrop to the Pacific Belles' enchanting performances. Visitors of all ages were treated to joy flights, offering a thrilling aerial perspective of the event, while aircraft stunt shows added an adrenaline-pumping element to the festivities. The static aircraft displays, showcasing a range of impressive planes offered a glimpse into the fascinating world of aviation, captivating the imaginations of both the young and the young at heart. Overall, the combination of the Pacific Belles' musical prowess, the Crafters Fair's artisanal offerings, and the exhilarating aviation displays created a truly unforgettable experience for all attendees. Traveldriven FIVE TIGER MOTHS PACIFIC BELLES SINGERS PACIFIC BELLES TRIO Restored 1960 Hawk. Fitted with Ford 5.0 V8 and four-wheel disc brakes 1955 President Speedster 259ci V8 Golden Hawk Factory Supercharged V8 Studebaker Car Club of Australia Studebaker open air cruising GRAN TURISMO HAWK TWO DOOR COUPE TWO OLD TIMERS On left is a green 1908 Renault AX Roaster DIMBOOLA BRASS BAND PLAYED ON PREV VICTORIA NEXT

Mount Macedon Tea Rooms & Lancefield A gathering of Mustang enthusiasts and a select group of Mustang GT owners convened on a delightful Sunday morning for an invigorating tour drive. Commencing from the BP Calder outbound service station in Melbourne, the day commenced with the roar of engines and resonated with excitement in the atmosphere. The lineup of sleek Mustang GT cars stood poised, prepared to embark on the journey. Embarking on their route along the Calder Highway, the sun illuminated the path ahead, casting a radiant glow on the stylish exteriors of the Mustangs. The drive encompassed winding roads, providing an ideal opportunity for the drivers to demonstrate the prowess and dexterity of their cherished vehicles. Upon completing the drive, the convoy arrived on the Top Of The Range Tea Rooms, situated atop Mount Macedon. Thick fog enveloped the top of the mountain. The idyllic backdrop offered a tranquil setting for the Mustangs to rest and rejuvenate. Participants took a moment to stretch, share anecdotes, and appreciate each other's cars. Reinvigorated, the group descended the mountain's back, maneuvering through challenging twists and turns that tested their driving abilities. Their journey led them to the quaint town of Lancefield, where they congregated for a well-deserved lunch within the Lost Watering Hole microbrewery. The rustic charm of the brewery provided an ideal ambiance for the Mustang enthusiasts to connect over their mutual passion for these iconic vehicles. The Tour The designated meeting place was Calder BP, strategically located adjacent to the Calder Park Raceway, Dragway, and Thunderdome oval track. This area holds a unique significance, as it was a hub for motorsport enthusiasts and racing aficionados. Calder Park Raceway, now known for its thrilling drag races has a rich history of hosting adrenaline-fueled events that attracted spectators from far and wide. Calder Park Thunderdome The Thunderdome speedway, once a dominant force in the world of oval track racing, now stands as a monument to its glorious past. Its grandstands, though now quiet and empty, once reverberated with the roar of powerful engines and the cheers of passionate fans. The Thunderdome's legacy looms large over the landscape, a reminder of the excitement and drama that once unfolded on its hallowed grounds. Access to Calder Park and the Thunderdome is restricted on non-event days. The silence that now envelops these tracks is a stark contrast to the vibrant energy that filled the air during race days, a testament to the ebb and flow of activity in the world of motorsports. Calder Park Thunderdome History The park was constructed in 1962. Bob Jane the king of the retail tyre franchise chain later taking over ownership. The Thunderdome is one mile of banked speedway. The first purpose built circuit outside of North America to host NASCAR events. Events were held from 1988 to 2001. Much of the 24,000 seating arena is now in disrepair. Fond memories are often deeply rooted in our experiences, and one such memory that stands out is from the Thunderdome infield during a NASCAR event. The atmosphere in the infield was electric, filled with excitement and anticipation as the powerful engines revved up, creating a symphony of sounds that can be likened to giant bumble bees buzzing around you. The distinctive roar of the engines reverberated through the air, blending with the cheers of the crowd and the smell of burning rubber, creating a sensory overload that is both thrilling and unforgettable. Being in the midst of all this action, surrounded by fellow racing enthusiasts, added to the sense of camaraderie and shared passion for the sport. The sight of sleek cars speeding by, the adrenaline rush as they navigate the turns, and the strategic pit stops all contribute to the immersive experience of being at the Thunderdome infield. Each race became a story unfolding right before your eyes, with its own twists and turns, victories and defeats. Now just memories. It's a moment frozen in time, a snapshot of pure exhilaration and joy that stays with you long after the race is over. These memories from the Thunderdome infield serve as a reminder of the passion and excitement that motorsports can bring into our lives, creating a lasting impression. Tour Start After departing BP, as the cars got moving, road safety cameras were visible overhead along the Calder Highway. Then, there was a left turn off the freeway, leading to the scenic ascent to Mount Macedon. V-eight engines purring like the rumoured Lancefield big cats underneath many a mustang bonnet. Fog, low clouds and engine rumblings enveloping the mountain and cars. Much of the Tea Rooms were obscured by fog. The Memorial Cross walkway unseen in the fog. Standing one thousand and one metres above sea level or 3,284 feet. All followed the lead mustang to a vacant car park past the busy Tea Rooms tourist area. Almost filling half the park with mustangs. Four manual six speed mustangs among the small group of eleven. Drivers strolling about the parked mustangs. No time for the drivers to enjoy a cup of tea or scones and cream among the many Tea Room tourists. The Tea Rooms one hundred metres further back. Instead, a brief stretch of the legs before settling in for a fun Sunday drive of mustangs down the mountain to the Lost Watering Hole. The morning drive breaks into warm sunshine and country roads. A few of the mustangs bolted for nearby Hanging Rock and were not seen again. At least for the remainder of the day. Traveldriven Mount Macedon website Lost Watering Hole website DRIVE BP TRUCKSTOP MOUNT MACEDON AND LANCEFIELD ENTRANCE TO CALDER PARK THUNDER DOME THE THUNDERDOME MEET & GREET CALDER PARK BP BANKED EARTH OF THUNDERDOME IN BACKGROUND PARKED IN THE FOG (CLOUDS) MOUNT MACEDON MOUNT MACEDON MUSTANG CAR PARK WHIPPLE SUPERCHARGER MUSTANGS A PLENTY THE LANCEFIELD BIG CAT SIGHTING? PARK TABLE AND SEAT NEXT TO THE BIG CAT LOST WATERING HOLE BREWERY LOST WATERING HOLE FOR LUNCH LANCEFIELD PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

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 water's 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 surroundings. 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 areas. Swimming is popular. Even in winter, days may be mild and sunny. The lake has public BBQ areas 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

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. Arguments for and against. Tourists and Australia Bushfires Fire Survival Wildfires and forest fires are called bushfires in Australia. Our bushland Eucalyptus trees and their bark and oils make 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. Visitors to fire prone areas 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 roadblocks are driven around and then entered into 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 kilometres 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 was a high of 39 C and high winds. The fires burned 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 firefighting involved 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. Mopping 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 vigilant 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