When tourists try small town name pronunciations sometimes it sounds quite comical -Traveldriven DRIVE MELBOURNE TO RUPANYUP Rupanyup & Driving the Wimmera Mallee Silo Art Trail Victoria Rupanyup is a small town in Victoria. The town is home to approximately five hundred residents. The Silo Art Trail passes through this town, which also features several intriguing rustic-style statues. One is of a man patting his trusty dog next to a small seat. This statue is outside of the modern local supermarket. Another is of a woman in period costume outside of an early period store in the centre divider of the main street. As in many rural towns, Rupanyup has its fair share of closed retail buildings. The name Rupanyup is an Aboriginal word meaning ' branch hanging over water '. Minyip It is a small town located in the Wimmera region of Victoria, situated along the Silo Art Trail, approximately 320 kilometres northwest of Melbourne, with a population of around five hundred. The name "Minyip" is an Aboriginal word translated as "ashes" or "camping place". Minyip is known as the "Heart of the Wheat Belt". Warracknabeal This is a wheatbelt town in Victoria. On the banks of the Yarriambiack Creek. The Warracknabeal area has a population of less than three thousand. On the main street, there's a roundabout named Federation Place, featuring a group of six life-sized sheep statues on an elevated brick platform. Another roundabout displays a sheepdog atop stacked, full wheat bags. There are two double storey hotels in town. Both have wide covered verandas and counter meals may be ordered. The town has a few red brick period buildings. Post Office and a Town Hall. When tourists attempt to pronounce the names of small towns, it can often sound quite amusing. However, when a local says the name aloud, the pronunciation comes naturally to all. The drive from Rupanyup to Minyip and then to Warracknabeal covers eighty kilometres of sealed roads. There is a lot to see driving the Wimmera Mallee Silo Art Trail. Traveldriven WARRACKNABEAL GOOGLE MAPS OUTSIDE THE NEW SMALL LOCAL SUPERMARKET Life size statue and display store Rupanyup's main street RUPANYUP SUPPORT LOCAL COMMUNITIES BUY A COFFEE Closed shops in central Rupanyup RUPANYUP SILO ART DRIVING THE WIMMERA WHEAT BELT SHEEP HILLS SILO ART DRIVING SHEEP HILLS & WARRACKNABEAL PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

In the tropical north, in the greater Darwin area, lies a region rich with sights that harken back to yesteryear, showcasing a unique blend of history and culture that can only be found in the Top End of Australia. One of the most notable aspects of this region is its historical significance relating to WW2. The bombing of Darwin during WW2 and the significance of a port along with many airfields of the era and the essential large underground storage tunnel facilities that may be toured through. Quirky Attractions In addition to its historical sites, the tropical north is also home to a range of quirky displays and attractions that offer a light-hearted contrast to the more serious aspects of its past. For instance, one can find the famous Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, where visitors can get in the water with some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in the world. A major draw card of Crocosaurus Cove is the attraction called The Cage of Death. This unique experience allows tourists to get an up close person thrilling encounter, such as swimming with saltwater crocodiles in a secure enclosure. There is an addition fee for this experience. Another well-known attraction is Crocosaurus Park , situated just a fifteen-minute drive from Darwin City. While the main highlight is the saltwater crocodiles, the park also functions as a zoo, featuring monkeys, lions, buffalo, birds, and a variety of other animals native to Australia and from around the world. The zoo includes a moderate sized manmade lagoon offering a jumping crocodile cruise. How to imagine this is like a mini Adelaide River tour experience. Crocosaurus Park is a favourite destination for both tourists and locals. Darwin Mindil Beach Sunset Market Cultural experiences abound in this region, with various festivals and events celebrating the local heritage and community spirit. Local markets such as the very popular Mindil Beach Sunset Market provide a platform for artisans and food vendors to share their crafts and culinary delights, offering visitors a taste of the diverse influences that shape the Top End’s identity. The market is open on Thursdays in the dry season months and has up to one hundred and fifty specialty stalls. Traveldriven DARWIN WW2 TOUR OIL STORAGE TUNNELS CROCOSAURUS COVE WEBSITE CROCODYLUS PARK WEBSITE MINDIL BEACH MARKET DARWIN SUNSET ON MINDIL BEACH MINDIL MARKET CROWD MUD CRAB, CHARCOAL LOBSTER, OCTOPUS MINCED BALLS THE CAGE OF DEATH, CROCOSAURUS DARWIN CITY CROCODYLUS PARK IN DARWIN CROCODYLUS PARK & ZOO & A TALK ON THE DANGERS OF ADELAIDE RIVER WW2 UNDERGROUND OIL STORAGE TUNNELS TOYOTA BULL CATCHER BULL CATCHER BULL BAR & DRUM COLIN THE PET CROCODILE, ARNHEM HIGHWAY PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT

Ballarat Ballarat expanded into a large regional city from when gold was discovered in 1851. Located in the Central Highlands of Victoria, one hundred and fifteen km from Melbourne CBD via the Western Freeway. The city has a population of greater than one hundred thousand residents. In terms of population Ballarat is the third largest inland city in Australia. Often said to be one of the coldest cities in Australia. Lake Wendouree is a man made almost circular shaped lake of about two km across. The lake is located within the Ballarat city area and is a popular recreation area. Ballarat Springfest The Ballarat Springfest festival held in late 2025 celebrated its 30th anniversary. The festival is located at the Gardens Precinct, Lake Wendouree. Held on a Sunday, there are up to five hundred market stalls to explore, offering goods, food, and various other items for sale. A large vintage and classic car show called Show 'n' Glow is featured in the morning as a part of Springfest. Ballarat Attractions Apart from Springfest Show 'n' Glow Sovereign Hill Located within Ballarat city this is an open-air tourist park based around the gold era of the 1800s. Over sixty historically correct buildings with themed costumed employees. Officially opened in 1970. Eureka Stockade Memorial Park The Stockade is off of Eureka Street. Accepted as the site of the miners rebellion of 1884 against the British authoritarian rule and their soldiers. The Eureka Stockade Monument has four 64-pounder large cannons arranged in a circular pattern in parkland. Kryal Castle A themed medieval castle built off of the Western Freeway twelve km from Ballarat towards Melbourne. There are small medieval themed retail and family friendly amusements. Traveldriven BALLARAT GOOGLE MAPS SOVEREIGN HILL KRYAL CASTLE EUREKA STOCKADE MEMORIAL PARK 2025 SPRINGFEST SHOW & GLOW IS IT A TRUCK OR BUS? BUS\TRUCK WITH ITS RESERVE GAS SUPPLY FANCY INTERIOR THE LAST DRIVE HOT ROD & TEARDROP AUSTRALIAN PARCEL EXPRESS? COLORFUL WAGON WAGON ENTRY LOW REAR END & GOING HOME ALL FIRED UP & READY TO GO BALLARAT SHOW & GLOW NOVEMBER 2023 Many hot rods on the green grass Threat of rain and Ford hot rods Many immaculate cars Many supercharged Mustang Shelby official performance report from GM Motorsport in Melton, Victoria Mustang Shelby super snake in the long grass. BALLARAT SPRINGFEST SHOW & GLOW 2023 BALLARAT SPRINGFEST 2019 SHOW & SHINE 2019 Nice flaming paintwork. Open top. Fuel container on front or is it water? Vivid black and red. Front opening windscreen All bright red. Long body. Lowered Spotless interior. Left hand drive. Large matching colour steering wheel Left hand drive. Interior radio. Budweiser gear knob VB gear selector knob. High side mirrors Open wheeler road car DeLorean Back to the Future movie car. Road legal DeLorean time machine. Delorean made in 1981. Gull wing doors. Back to the past 1981 Hot rods on the green grass Two hot rods under a shady tree on firmer ground Overnight rain softened the ground Large fish fins on rear. Left hand drive Bright yellow. Two antennae on rear PREV SHOW & SHINE NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Murtoa's Big Weekend First weekend in October Friday 6th, Saturday and Sunday. October 2023. Show & Shine All those who attended were friendly people keen to see what is on display. Quite often the smaller Show & Shine displays in country towns have a few big, interesting surprises. Who knows what unusual vehicles are kept on farms or are in backyard sheds and are brought out occasionally for all to see. Show entrants come from far and wide. All are pleased to attend. Any trophies won are a bonus. The Show & Shine event held on a sunny Sunday on McDonald Street was a spectacle to behold. The classic cars gleamed under the bright sunlight. A hint of Mad Max vibes lingering in the air, giving the event a unique and edgy feel. Despite the vintage beauty of the cars on display, it was the people that truly made the Show & Shine memorable. The event seemed to attract a diverse crowd, each person bringing their own flair and personality to the gathering. From car enthusiasts to curious onlookers, each with their own story to tell. As the day unfolded, the sound of engines revving and the sight of polished chrome reflecting the sunlight created a sensory feast for all in attendance. The Show & Shine was not just a display of classic cars but a celebration of automotive history and the passion that drives enthusiasts to preserve these treasures. The car display was in the main street of Murtoa and Murtoa's Big Weekend is usually an annual event. A large market day with many stalls is also held over the weekend. The Water Tower Museum is open daily. Noon to two and has a large taxidermy collection. The annual Agricultural Show is held on the Friday to begin the weekend of activities. Murtoa is in the Wimmera two hundred km from Melbourne. Murtoa is also the home of the, 'Murtoa Stick Shed' and could be included on the Silo Art Trail route. Read Stick Shed post. Traveldriven MURTOA GOOGLE MAPS MURTOA BIG WEEKEND SIGNAGE OPEN AIR CADILLAC Murtoa Show & Shine MAD MAX Z900 MURTOA MOTORS PREV SHOW & SHINE NEXT

Camperdown Camperdown is a charming rural town located in the picturesque region of southwestern Victoria, Australia. It lies approximately two hundred kilometres to the west of Melbourne, making it accessible for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. The town is known for its rich agricultural background and beautiful landscapes, which include rolling hills and expansive farmlands. With a population that exceeds three thousand residents, Camperdown boasts a close-knit community where neighbours often know each other, fostering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. One of the notable features of Camperdown is Manifold Street, which serves as the main retail thoroughfare of the town. This street is not only a hub for shopping and local businesses but also an essential part of the town's identity. The name "Manifold" carries an interesting connotation, particularly in relation to automotive terminology, as it refers to a vehicle's exhaust or intake manifold. This association adds a unique character to the street, suggesting that it was perhaps designed with the presence of cars, motorbikes, and trucks in mind, inviting a sense of movement and activity. The bustling environment of Manifold Street often sees locals and visitors alike enjoying the various shops, cafes, and services available, making it a focal point for community engagement and social interaction. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP CAMPERDOWN GOOGLE MAPS CAMPERDOWN SHOW & SHINE CAMPERDOWN SHOW & SHINE MANIFOLD STREET Unusual stretched limousine ideal for taking it easy. Let someone else do the driving. Full length running board. Like the full size spare mag wheel on the back Hot rod Route 66. Exposed painted engine. Red and yellow nice contrast and the black car body. Suicide doors. Side chrome exhaust for show. Actual exhaust underneath the rear for road legal. A collection of older vehicles. Left of image in need of a paint job. Left unpainted for the effect. Red shiny mag wheels makes you wonder what is under the bonnet Two tone light and dark. Side running board blends in well. Wire spoke wheels suit the vehicle and lowered somewhat Hot rod in immaculate condition Nice curved front bodywork Light blue hot rod. Exposed engine mag wheels and skulls mural down the side. Suicide doors open backwoods on entry Big chrome grille. White roof and red body Down on Manifold Street. Plenty of show cars and onlookers PREV SHOW & SHINE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Halls Gap in the Grampians and the annual Hot Rod Show and Shine, February. A weekend in Halls Gap. Halls Gap is a town in Victoria and surrounded by the Grampians National Park. The town is in Fyans Valley between two ranges. The Grampians National Park (also Gariwerd), commonly referred to as 'The Grampians', is a national park located in Victoria. The 167,219-hectare (413,210-acre) national park is situated between Stawell and Horsham off of the Western Highway. About a twenty minute drive from Stawell the closest regional town. Halls Gap has a population of about four to five hundred. The approximate driving time from Melbourne is three hours following the Western Highway and a left highway turn off of Stawell on to Grampians Road for a further twenty-five km. Traveldriven ROLLIN HOT RODS HOT RODS ARRIVAL IN HALLS GAP SKY BLUE HOT ROD UNDER THE TREES ROD RUN STICKER AND CAR ENTRANT 66 HOT RED ROD DARK BLUE AND WHITE TONE WHITE RIMMED TYRES NICE MATCHING RUNNING BOARD LARGE CHROME GRILLE BUICK 1956 ROADMASTER PARKED AND READY COPS ARE DISLLUSIONED, TIRED, JADED AND FADED *STATE TROOPER* OLD SKOOL ROD REAR TYRES EXTEND FAR OUT FROM BODYWORK READY TO RUMBLE Row of hot rods Yellow hot rod suicide doors Hot pink hot rod and trailer Bright green Ford & motorsport rocker cover triple wipers Bright lime green hot rod with theme trailer and drive-in stand with side window food tray Red hot rod with rear suicide doors Red mustang with side vents mustang in neat and tidy trim Early model mustang interior left-hand drive PREV SHOW & SHINE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Hanging Rock Famous or perhaps infamous in Australia as a place of intrigue and mystery. The backstory is of three schoolgirls and a teacher on an excursion to Hanging Rock and all seem to have disappeared into the rocky outcrop never to have been seen again. Despite many failed searchers for the missing people. Occurring on Valentines Day, 1900. Hanging Rock is about eighty km from Melbourne in the Victorian countryside. A large rock is wedged above the walkway to the summit and this is where the name originates. Hanging Rock rises to about one hundred metres above and behind the café and the adjacent information building. Open daily. Indoor and outdoor shaded dining is available. The reserve itself is in natural bushland and many area's are grassed and cleared for the public to have BBQs or an outdoor picnic. A racecourse is part of the reserve and horses race on the track twice per year. New Year's Day and Australia Day. INTRIGUE AND MYSTERY A famous novel was penned by Joan Lindsay on the girls disappearance and published in 1967. Peter Weir directed the 1975 film Picnic at Hanging Rock. The film tells the story of the missing girls. Their fate unknown. Miranda, Edith, Irma, Marion and their teacher Ms McCraw. Only Edith returns to raise the alarm. Hysterical and vague. It's said by a few the event was supernatural. While filming on the set location many of the crews watches stopped at the rock for no apparent reason. During the premiere of the film the cinema clock stopped on twelve o'clock to the second. Is the 1900 disappearance fiction or true? The truth is now somewhat lost to history. Also, two girls had gone missing at Hanging Rock about eighty years before in the early 1800s. The bushranger 'Mad Dog Morgan' (1830-1865) was thought by some to have used Hanging Rock as a hideout. In recent years a few rock and roll international artists have performed at Hanging Rock and attracted upwards of twenty thousand concert goers. Woodend is the nearest small town to Hanging Rock. The general area with its small towns, nearby forest and weekend markets are a popular tourist drawcard. PICNIC AT HANGING ROCK CAR SHOW The 37th Classic Hanging Rock Picnic, a highly anticipated event, took place on the 11th of February 2024, marking another successful year for Victoria's largest car show. This annual gathering has become a tradition for car enthusiasts and spectators alike, drawing crowds from near and far to marvel at the impressive display of vintage vehicles. Notably scheduled just four days before Valentine's Day, the picnic provided a unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in a nostalgic atmosphere while celebrating their passion for classic cars. One of the highlights of the event was the prizes offered to vehicles aged 25 years and over, adding an exciting competitive element to the showcase. Owners proudly presented their meticulously maintained cars, hoping to secure a coveted award and earn recognition for their dedication to preserving automotive history. Moreover, the inclusive nature of the gathering allowed any vehicle to be displayed for public viewing, creating a diverse and vibrant exhibition that catered to a wide range of automotive interests. From vintage classics to modern marvels, the event showcased the evolution of automobile design and engineering over the years. Despite the large turnout and bustling atmosphere, organizers ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Thankfully, as far as is known, there were no reports of anyone going missing during the event, unlike in the film, Picnic at Hanging Rock. Traveldriven DRIVE WOODEND TO HANGING ROCK CAFE HANGING ROCK HANGING ROCK SUMMIT WALK THE STORY OF PICNIC AT HANGING ROCK FACT OR FICTION? EXPLORING MYSTERIOUS HANGING ROCK DISAPPEARING INTO THE ROCK HANGING ROCK CAFE A SMALL SECTION OF THE CAR SHOW IN FRONT OF CAFE ATTENDED BY MANY THOUSANDS HANGING ROCK FOOD AND TRADE AREA MYSTERIOUS HANGING ROCK IN THE BACKGROUND SHOW CAR, RACECOURSE TOWER & HANGING ROCK PREV VICTORIA NEXT PREV SHOW AND SHINE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Entry of $25 donation to the Good Friday Appeal Lincoln & Lincoln Land Lincoln is the luxury vehicle division of American automobile manufacturer Ford. The American brand is unavailable to buy in Australia with no dealerships. Lincoln Land in Australia is Jim's private collection of upwards of thirty-five Lincoln motor cars. A once only opportunity for the public on Good Friday to view the many motor vehicles. All Lincoln's on display are in pristine condition. Donation in 2025 and 2024 on entry of $25 to the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne. Also, live music, BBQ, and an Outdoor Show & Shine. Hundreds of people in attendance on the day. Amount raised for the Hospital appeal in 2024 according to local mainstream media was $55,000. Lincoln Land is on private property in the vicinity of the small town of Pomonal. On the fringe of the Grampian National Park in Victoria, Australia. Jim's Lincoln Display in Australia Most, if not all Lincoln's, were imported from the United States and all left-hand drive. Convertible open top continental GT's and hard tops. Two door and four door Lincoln's spanning decades of various models. Some models similar to what American presidents used. Lincoln was once described lovingly by Jay Leno, an avid American car collector, as driving a swimming pool on wheels. Jim's private collection of Lincoln motor cars in regional Victoria is open to the public only on Good Friday. For classic and muscle cars on display at local Show & Shine events in Australia please go to this page post . Traveldriven LINCOLN LAND JIM'S GARAGE TEXACO & LINCOLN SIT DOWN & ADMIRE MEMORABILIA ON DISPLAY FANTASTIC COLLECTION 'OLD MARGE' ANOTHER WING FULL OF LINCOLN'S PRISTINE CONDITION AMERICAN ENTERTAINER 1916 - 1987 JACKIE GLEASEN'S STRETCH LINCOLN MORE LINCOLN'S ON DISPLAY OUTSIDE CLASSIC CAR SHOW MORE VEHICLE'S OUTSIDE JAKES SPEED SHOP CAR DISPLAYS ON OUTSIDE LAWNS EXTENSIVE CAR DISPLAYS TVR GRIFFITH 500 SPECS TVR GRIFFITH 500 2024 TOTAL 11.15AM $20,280 RAISED END OF DAY GREATER THAN $55,000 2024 Lincoln Display of cars AS NEW MARK 1V "LARGE MARGE" PART OF THE OUTDOOR GENERAL CAR DISPLAY LINCOLN LAND 2024 OLD ZEPHYR POLICE CAR LIGHT & SIREN SIXTY-FIVE FORD ZEPHYR CARS ON DISPLAY DRAG RACER TURBO SIX TIGHT FIT PANELS REMOVED LINCOLN PARKED JIM'S LINCOLN LAND SIDE DOOR ENTRY TO LINCOLN LAND WALKING THROUGH THE CAR EXHIBITS ROLLS ROYCE SILVER GHOST 1920 LIVE MUSIC JIM'S GARAGE GOOD FRIDAY 2022 MORE LIVE MUSIC JIM'S GARAGE HOT ROD WOLF GEAR STICK HOT ROD SHOW & SHINE PETER BROCK O5 HOLDEN RACE CAR REST IN PEACE P BROCK (1945-2006) & A MOFFAT (1939-2025) PETER BROCK 05 REPLICA MODEL RACE CARS Jay Leno's Garage 1966 Lincoln Continental PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 32 VICTORIA RIVER Considered by many to have Australia's largest saltwater crocodiles in its waterways. Five hundred and sixty kilometres (350 mi) long. The river flows south of Gregory National Park which is the source of its water. Then continues to the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf in the Timor Sea. The Victoria River is the longest permanent river in the Northern Territory. The Victoria River meanders from the northern edge of the Tanami Desert to the coast near to the Western Australian/Northern Territory border. Victoria River Cruise In Western Australia The Victoria River Cruise has been discontinued. The afternoon cruise was previously booked from Timber Creek. All departures were from Timber Creek. The Victoria River itself is quite close to the small town. There is just one bridge crossing in the vicinity of Timber Creek and is for military use. There is no river access to the public from the bridge. Although the river cruise is discontinued those with a boat may access the Victoria River from Timber Creek at their own risk. The tour cruise included lunch on a pontoon moored in the middle of the river many km up river. The cruise operator hung fish bait out from the pontoon's side for crocodiles to eat. However, on this particular morning river cruise none took the bait. The operator thought crocs had been feeding on riverbank wildlife such as wallabies. Many wild cattle are sighted along the riverbank amongst the green foliage. Apparently, cattle stations lose two hundred plus cattle to crocs every year. Food for crocs. Back further along towards the town of Katherine, the Victoria Highway crosses the Victoria River Bridge and is visible from the Victoria River Roadhouse. If stopped roadside on bridge approach, and walking onto the bridge for an elevated river view. Saltwater crocodiles are occasionally seen in the river below. Along the length of the Victoria River this bridge is the only highway crossing over the Victoria River for the general public. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP VICTORIA RIVER ROADHOUSE GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME DRIVE LAKE ARGYLE - TIMBER CREEK - VICTORIA RIVER THE VICTORIA RIVER CRUISE TIMBER CREEK Victoria River croc food Bridge over the Victoria River Military area PROHIBITED AREA next to Victoria River PROHIBITED OFF LIMITS Victoria River Victoria River Sunset WELCOME SIGN TO TIMBER CREEK ANYTHING IS CROC FOOD PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT PREV N\TERRITORY NEXT HOMEPAGE

Echuca and Moama are Murray River towns separated by the Murray River on the Victorian and New South Wales borders. Echuca, a Victorian regional city, is a little less than two hundred km driving distance from Melbourne. Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival On the last weekend in July. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday offer a fantastic opportunity to enjoy free live music all day long. While the nights might be cool and occasionally rainy, sunny winter days are a frequent occurrence, providing a pleasant backdrop for exploring the music scene. Many of the venues hosting these live music events are conveniently located within walking distance, allowing visitors to easily hop from one performance to another. For those venues that are a bit further away, minibus transportation is often available, ensuring that music enthusiasts can experience a variety of performances without any hassle. So, whether you're strolling through the streets, catching a ride on a minibus, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, the weekend promises a delightful musical experience for all to enjoy. Music is in multiple venues in Echuca all around town on a paddle steamer and a winery or two. Some open stage and others inside hotels or along the riverfront in Marquees. All venues very busy. A few venues very likely to become full house with the most popular acts. The Winter Blues Festival event was attended by Traveldriven in 2025, 2024 and 2022. Many of the musician's return for multiple years as do many people who enjoy the music. The Echuca Blues Festival is a very popular event and never fails to disappoint. A diverse range of music from Blues to rock, and other music styles can be enjoyed live. Traveldriven PORT OF ECHUCA CIGAR BOX GUITARS FOR SALE ECHUCA ECHUCA GOOGLE MAPS   MOAMA GOOGLE MAPS 2024 Winter Blues Festival Jimi Hocking's Blues Machine He struts the stage with his band, playing his 'showy' guitar style while pulling all the classic stunts...behind the head... the duck walk... even the splits. excerpt, program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2024 Charlie Bedford One of Australia's exciting next generation artists, Charlie began playing in bars and clubs at the age of 12 and is now a regular on the Australian pub, club and festival scene. excerpt, program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2024 VOODOO CHILD & JIMI HOCKING PLAYING MANDOLIN CHARLIE BEDFORD PLAYING GUITAR & STOMPBOX ON A ECHUCA PADDLE STEAMER NO RAIN NO FLOWERS WRITTEN & PERFORMED BY CHARLIE BEDFORD 2022 Winter Blues Festival WINTER BLUES IN THE PARK PARK BLUES & ACROSS THE ROAD ODD CAPTAIN CAFE DAILY BIG BREAKFAST IN ECHUCA DAY ONE BIG BREAKFAST FRIED EGGS DAY TWO BIG BREAKFAST POACHED EGGS DAY THREE BIG BREAKFAST SCRAMBLED EGGS Winter Blues Festival 2022 Andrew Farrell , Piano Wizard He is widely acknowledged as a versatile virtuoso pianist with great technical and brilliant improvisational skills. Totally unique! excerpt, program guide Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival 2022 ANDREW FARRELL PIANO WIZARD PREV WINTER BLUES FESTIVAL NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 47 I needed to dispose of the unused fireworks now highly illegal in Victoria. -find a salt lake Stuart Highway The fully sealed highway runs the full length from Darwin on the coast in the Northern Territory via outback towns of Tennant Creek and Alice Springs and ending in the seaside town of Port Augusta in South Australia. Crossing the continent through the centre of Australia North to South. Outback Strange Lights In the Outback. Woomera to Port Augusta, South Australia, and nightfall along the main highway about halfway between the two towns. Perhaps 500 metres from the road, an intense bright white light was spread over a large area and was reflecting up from the ground between some low ridges. Similar to a floodlit sporting oval but lights low and unseen. The strange thing is why and how? Located in rugged desert countryside? So, no farmland with machinery. No road, rail or wayside stop. Not a mining area. No trucks. No houses or available power. Very isolated. Not a drone, spotlight, searchlight or scrub fire. Bit of a mystery! I'm sure there is a plausible explanation. Woomera A short eight km drive off of the Stuart Highway from the roadside stop of Pimba is the town of Woomera. The town is in fact a ghost town in the Far North region of South Australia. Its appearance is so unlike the vast majority of towns in Australia. Infrastructure but few people. The town buildings and dwellings still look in reasonable condition. The dry climate helps in this regard. Population 7,000 in the 1960s to a few hundred now. Easy to drive the many paved streets as it’s like a modern ghost town. Approximately five hundred kilometres (277 mi) north of Adelaide. "Woomera" also refers to the additional surrounds of the RAAF Woomera Range Complex. A flight-testing range covering an area of 122,000 square kilometres (47,000 sq mi). The Woomera range is operated by the Royal Australian Air Force and the town infrastructure still appears to be mothballed as of 2025. Woomera is a Department of Defence owned and operated facility. There are no restrictions for the general public to drive around the large township. There are no privately owned homes in the township. Woomera National Aerospace and Missile Park is interesting. Arrangement was made for accommodation in the old barracks from the Eldo Hotel after a cold drink. Eldo Hotel was the old mess hall. A few local workers were inside taking a quiet break. The only accommodation available is in the old barrack blocks. Corridors are very long and rather narrow. Not unusual for no overnight guests. Very quiet and eerie. Roxby Downs A sealed 78 km road connects to Roxby Downs. Established 1986. The small mining town has a supermarket and accommodation. South Australia Outback Drive To Adelaide I was driving past the occasional small and a few large drying salt lakes scattered along the main Stuart Highway. I considered deposing the remainder of the fireworks I still carried in any roadside salt lake. Perhaps Lake Hart would do. Possession illegal after Northern Territory Day. Only a couple of small boxes remaining. I decided against it. These fireworks were safely deposed of soon after arrival in Victoria in the next few days. I left the South Australian Outback behind on approach to Port Augusta. The place has a population greater than 13,000 residents. A city known as the Gateway to the Outback if driving North. The beginning or end of the Stuart Highway depending on direction of travel. The Stuart Highway north from Port Augusta to Darwin is 2,700 km. Not to be confused with the Sturt Highway 959 km in length located in NSW to SA. I was driving South and drove a further three hundred km onto Adelaide for overnight motel accommodation. The following day ended this road trip in Victoria. Victoria & End of Road Trip I did not use any free camping sites in outback or regional areas. Although fairly common, most appeared not to have any people. At least during dawn to dusk. People tend to keep to themselves after dark in these locations. I decided as a solo traveller I wanted to have an opportunity to chat with fellow travellers at the end of most days. That's why I used paid accommodation locations with access to convenient onsite amenities. Unpowered camping sites to budget motels. Although this was a solo trip, I enjoyed meeting fellow travellers every day and seeing the incredibly diverse country of Australia. For a more recent road trip in the opposite direction and different visited tourist sights. Go to, Road Trip Australia 2025 Day One post . Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP WOOMERA GOOGLE MAPS PORT AUGUSTA GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE COOBER PEDY - WOOMERA - PORT AUGUSTA BLAST OFF TO SPACE FIREWORKS BOX ONE OF THE FEW REMAINING ROCKETS OF WOOMERA'S PAST WOOMERA RAAF BASE WOOMERA OUTBACK RAIL UNDERNEATH AN OUTBACK RAIL LINE, LAKE HART LAKE HART PARKING BAY LAKE HART SALT ACCESSIBLE FROM HIGHWAY SALT LAKE LAKE HART WARNING ALIENS HAVE LANDED HERE? OUTBACK MESSAGE IN DRY SALT LAKE HART WALK ROXBY DOWNS CLOSED DOWN IN WOOMERA NO RADIO BROADCAST MUSEUM ROCKET PIECE OLD BOMBER IN PARK WOOMERA ROCKET PARK KEY TO WOOMERA WOOMERA MESS HALL ACCOMMODATION BLOCK OLD BARRACKS ACCOMMODATION BLOCK ANOTHER OLD BARRACKS THIRD ACCOMMODATION BLOCK NO OTHER TYPE AVAILABLE IN WOOMERA LEN BEADELL LAID TO REST IN WOOMERA CLICK wikipedia Len Beadell of Woomera CLICK ABC news gunbarrel-highway Len Beadell PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT PREV SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

ALICE SPRINGS IN THE HEART OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY Contrary to popular opinion, the Northern Territory can have cold, overcast and rain showers on multiple days. I experienced this around Alice Springs. Locally known as The Alice , the town is situated in the heart of Australia. Almost halfway between Adelaide and Darwin. The usually dry sandy Todd River flows through part of the city and hosts the Henley on Todd Regatta every August. Alice Springs is a good base to explore central Australia. Reverend John Flynn the founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service born in Victoria worked in central Australia. He campaigned for an aerial medical service for outback Australia. The RFDS museum in Alice Springs is very interesting. Many displays. During 2024 there was ongoing indigenous youth unrest in the Alice Springs area. A youth curfew was introduced to limit property damage. Often cited by media as the most dangerous town in Australia. Generally, the Alice Springs area is safe in the daylight hours for visitors. Lasseter's Reef Fabled Lasseter’s Reef is a legendary tale that has captured the imagination of many for decades. Lewis Lasseter's name became synonymous with mystery and adventure when he made the bold claim of discovering an incredibly lucrative gold reef in central Australia back in 1929. The allure of untold riches hidden within the vast and unforgiving Australian outback was enough to spark a gold rush frenzy among prospectors and dreamers alike. Tragically, Lasseter's triumph quickly turned into a heart-wrenching saga as he lost his way back to the elusive reef, ultimately meeting his demise in the harsh desert landscape in 1931. His final resting place in Alice Springs serves as a poignant reminder of the high stakes and unforgiving nature of the Australian wilderness. Despite his untimely end, Lewis Lasseter's legacy lives on through the numerous books, films, and documentaries that have sought to unravel the mystery surrounding his fateful expedition. The Lasseter Highway off the Stuart Highway to Uluru and 245 km in length is named after the prospector. The story of Lasseter's Reef continues to intrigue and captivate adventurers and historians, drawing them into a world where the promise of unimaginable wealth is tempered by the harsh realities of nature and human ambition. ALICE SPRINGS GOOGLE MAPS West of Alice Springs Glen Helen . Glen Helen Lodge is 130 km west of Alice Springs alongside the Finke River on a sealed road. The Lodge is now no longer accessible to the public (2025). There are no tourist facilities and there is no fuel available. Views are to the nearby West MacDonnell Ranges and of the Glen Helen Gorge cliffs. Nearby Redbank Gorge offers spectacular rock colors within the gorge and this is accessed by a somewhat rough track. Access is via a rocky dry creek bed walk to an entrance blocked by a pool of cold water. In drought years when the pool may be dry Redbank Gorge is one of the best experiences in the Northern Territory. Driving this far west of Alice Springs there are roadside views of Mount Sonder at 1,300 metres in height. The mountain is the highest point in the ranges. Mount Sonder is known locally as the ‘ sleeping lady ’. Glen Helen on the Finke River is just short of two hours' drive west of Alice Springs along an all-sealed road. GLEN HELEN GOOGLE MAPS GLEN HELEN AT THE END OF THE SEALED ROAD The return drive to Alice Springs was in the late afternoon. On this particular day the weather was cold, sky overcast and regular rain showers. Best to drive one day to the west of Alice Springs and the next day to the east. Or vice versa. East of Alice Springs Ross River is about 85 km east of Alice Springs via a sealed road. Located there is the Ross River Homestead. The Homestead has a Bar, café and dining area and is only available for large groups who must pre-book. Fuel is unavailable to tourists and tourists are not allowed to enter the homestead and the surrounding area. However, the drive along the Ross River Road leading to the Homestead is a scenic two-hour return drive east of Alice Springs along an all-sealed road. On the return drive to Alice Springs an oncoming roadtrain gave me a stone chip on my car windscreen. Traveldriven ROSS RIVER RESORT GOOGLE MAPS   ALICE SPRINGS FIVE DAY FORECAST WEST OF ALICE SPRINGS SEALED ROAD EAST OF ALICE SPRINGS SEALED ROAD ROSS RIVER HIGHWAY TERRY GILL WAS RIDING HIS HARLEY & HIT A CAMEL. EACH YEAR A MEMORIAL RIDE IS HELD RAISING FUNDS FOR CHARITY ROADSIDE MEMORIAL LASSETERS MEMORIAL, ALICE SPRINGS CEMETERY ROSS RIVER HOMESTEAD EAST OF ALICE SPRINGS OUTBACK ROCK STACKS OUTBACK ROCK OUTCROP THE THREE PILLARS SIGNAGE THREE CATERPILLARS OF EMILY GAP EAST OF ALICE SPRINGS ROSS HIGHWAY DESERT ROCK FLIES AND MORE FLIES ALICE SPRINGS RAZOR & BARBED WIRE AROUND CARAVAN PARK ALICE SPRINGS PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE