Warrior woman obliged for a photo. She carried a nice bow. I didn't ask if she could use it. -Traveldriven Mundi Mundi Lookou t & 40th Anniversary of Mad Max 2 The Mundi Mundi Lookout is located 29 km north of Broken Hill or 4 km north of Silverton and is the location of a Mad Max 2 chase scene. The lookout is accessed along a sealed public road. Everyone who could drive or ride made their way to Mundi Mundi Lookout. A few black Mad Max XB Falcons were in the mix of vehicles. The most memorable car from Mad Max 1, Max's black Pursuit Special was a 1973 Ford XB Falcon GT 351, a limited-edition hardtop. The XB sold in Australia from December 1973 to August 1976. Amidst tourists in their regular travel cars, Mad Max-themed vehicles, the ones road legal, I and others enthusiastically headed to Mundi Mundi Lookout for a sunset gathering. Everyone eager not to be left out before sunset. All participants in the 40th Anniversary weekend celebration of the Mad Max 2 movie travelled the 15 minutes in good time. Wasteland Compound on the outskirts of Silverton, a meticulously crafted replica from the Mad Max 2 movie, stood nearly empty awaiting all to return after dusk. As mentioned, various road legal Mad Max pursuit special XB Ford Falcon's were amongst the cars. An attendee with long dreadlocks was operating a drone in the air, seeking the best action shots. Another drove solo down from Queensland to attend. Sleeping roadside overnight in the old van he travelled in. Menacing Big Wez and Photo Shoot Movie lights and cameras were brought out for a photo shoot next to the Mundi Mundi Lookout sign. Cameras rolling. Big Wez and his menacing actions stealing the show. All enjoying the occasion. The owner of the Mad Max Museum in Silvertown wanting footage for his business. A Holden sedan Statesman, lacking doors, was utilized as a prop. This old Statesman, with iron and wire replacing the doors and missing front panels, was rolled off a flatbed towed trailer. The roof top siren and horn were in working order and the vehicle right hand drive as it should be. Able to be driven but not on public roads. Weather was hot dry and dusty. Typical Mad Max conditions. A warrior woman, in full movie themed attire, obliged for a photo. She dressed in all white movie themed attire more suited to cooler weather. She carried a nice bow. I didn't ask if she could use it. Before the light faded there were many enactments for photos and a group photo opportunity for those in themed attire . Much fanfare and fun. A few motorbikes added to the atmosphere. Return to Wasteland, Mad Max Country As the setting sun disappeared most of us returned to the highly detailed and reconstructed Wasteland Compound as seen in the movie for the night's entertainment. All the vehicles rumbling slowly past the Silverton Hotel and Silverton Municipal Chambers buildings back to Wasteland Compound. The compound was constructed over many months just outside of Silverton in the red desert landscape. It must be said, the on-location movie set of Wasteland Compound was long gone and constructed in a different area and not near this replica compound. A few hardy souls camped inside this replica Wasteland Compound over the weekend. Some slept in hammocks strung out underneath overhead tarps. All in Mad Max themed attire of course. During the day, temperatures climbed to 35°C (95°F), while the nights were cool and brisk with a clear, starry sky in the desert setting. Traveldriven MAD MAX SUPERCHARGER Wind farms were built many years after the filming of Mad Max 2. HOLDEN STATESMAN DOORS REMOVED & DRIVEABLE WARRIOR WOMAN MAD MAX GROUP OF PEOPLE THE FEARSOME FOURSOME? THEMED ATTIRE MUNDI MUNDI LOOKOUT DRIVEN FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA FRIENDLY MAD MAX GANG MAD MAX ROLL, CAMERA, ACTION MUNDI MUNDI LOOKOUT SCENE MAD MAX 2 PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE

TOWNSVILLE ROAD TRIP AUSTRALIA The road trip destination. 2,800 km from Victoria and home. I approached Townsville driving from inland Queensland and connected with the coastal Bruce Highway. The highway continues through Townsville and onto Cairns or down the coast south to Brisbane. The first task was to drive up Castle Hill. Here there are great views of the city and Magnetic Island. I reserved a relaxed three-hour jetski tour of Magnetic Island for a few days from now. The owner of the jetski hire conducting the tour. Both he and I on our skis circumnavigating the island. Large turtles may be spotted swimming in the clear waters and island features are pointed out. On Magnetic Island you can hike to the World War II forts and walk through the bushland on a clearly marked trail. The Strand While in Townsville visit and relax along "The Strand".  This is a two km watered foreshore promenade available to the public. There are shady palm trees, green grass, eateries, water parks etc along this thriving beach foreshore of Townsville. Located back behind the beach The Strand may be driven along its length. On this trip, convenient accommodation was in Rydges Motel in Palmer Street. A short drive away from the foreshore and central city. Palmer Street has the outdoor cafés, hotels and restaurants to enjoy. Souvenirs may be purchased along Palmer Street. The Strand Rockpool Enjoy a free swim in the sea water rockpool on the Strand. This is a saltwater lagoon. The large rockpool is fully enclosed and separated from the open sea. Has a shallow area and a deeper area for swimming. There are clear views of Magnetic Island across the water. The rockpool is usually attended by a lifeguard and is open most days. Provided and maintained by local government. Castle Hill Is a granite monolith in the suburb of Castle Hill, Townsville. Castle Hill stands at a height of 286 metres (938 ft) above sea level. A well-made sealed road leads to the top. Views are to the city skyline. Elevated views are of Magnetic Island that is some four km distant. Castle Hill Lookout is one of Traveldriven's top eight Australian lookouts. For another top eight pick please go to: Mount Wellington Tasmania Post Traveldriven CURRENT TOWNSVILLE FIVE DAY FORECAST ROAD TRIP AUSTRALIA ENTER CLICK/TAP TOWNSVILLE GOOGLE MAPS MAP OF CASTLE HILL ROAD CASTLE HILL & LOOKOUT Castle Hill Townsville from Castle Hill Castle Hill descent Castle Hill backdrop Castle Hill driving Two the same Townsville CBD Townsville artwork The Rockpool Along the Strand TOWNSVILLE QUEENSLAND GOOGLE MAPS PREV ROADTRIP TOWNSVILLE NEXT PREV QUEENSLAND NEXT HOMEPAGE

FIVE RIVERS LOOKOUT, WYNDHAM Wyndham to Five Rivers Lookout takes you to the top of one of the best views the Kimberley has to offer. The lookout stands 335m above sea level giving an excellent panoramic view. It is easy to find just by following the signs from Wyndham town centre and the sealed steep winding road will lead to the summit lookout. Suitable for both 4wd and 2wd vehicles. Not towed vans. Once on top stunning views will become apparent of the multiple rivers all around! There is plenty of parking and a covered picnic area with tables are available for tourists. The occasional roadtrain may be observed far below travelling to and fro from the Port on the dusty roads. From the top of the Gulf Bastion is where the following five rivers of the Gulf meet: Durack Kink Pentecost Forrest Ord Five Rivers Lookout is a crocodile safe area that provides visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region without the looming threat of fatal crocodile attacks. This lookout offers a safe vantage point to admire the picturesque landscape, including the convergence of five rivers, while ensuring the safety and peace of mind of those who visit. In contrast to the safety of Five Rivers Lookout, the area around Wyndham has unfortunately witnessed tragic incidents of fatal crocodile attacks in its waterways and surrounding areas. These attacks serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by these apex predators in certain environments. Visitors to Wyndham are advised to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with crocodile encounters. Underscoring the risks present in the vicinity of Wyndham, it becomes evident that being informed and vigilant when exploring natural habitats is crucial. The coexistence of humans and crocodiles in these regions underscores the importance of respecting wildlife and understanding the need for responsible behaviour to ensure the well-being of both visitors and the native fauna. Five Rivers Lookout is one of Traveldriven's top eight lookout picks of Australia. For one of the other top eight please go to: Castle Hill Lookout Queensland Post Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP WYNDHAM GOOGLE MAPS VIEW FROM FIVE RIVERS LOOKOUT FIVE RIVERS LOOKOUT CAMBRIDGE GULF VIEW FIVE RIVERS LOOKOUT WYNDHAM PORT AREA WYNDHAM, GOOGLE MAPS PREV WESTERN AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

GOLD COAST The Gold Coast is Australia's holiday destination. This a large coastal city in Queensland, approximately seventy kilometres south of Brisbane. Local residents are sometimes called Gold Coaster's. The area's population is greater than seven hundred thousand residents. The largest non-capital city in Australia. Surfers Paradise is the hub of the Gold Coast and has world famous surfing beaches and a high-rise beach frontage skyline. All types of accommodation are available. As are theme parks, nightlife, and rainforest hinterland. Travel Down Under to Movie World The Movie World Theme Park offers a captivating experience with its end-of-day Grand Parade, featuring a vibrant procession of beloved movie and cartoon characters. Among the highlights is the appearance of iconic figures like Batman, Cat Woman, Bugs Bunny, Tweety, and Sylvester the Cat, who delight spectators with their lively performances as they gyrate through the parade. The parade also showcases unique vehicles, such as the famous bat car, adding an extra element of excitement to the spectacle. In addition to the Grand Parade, visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of themed enactments throughout the day. One of the popular enactments involves a thrilling portrayal of the infamous 1930s gangsters Bonnie and Clyde as they attempt to rob a city bank. The enactment culminates in a dramatic showdown with the police outside the bank, creating a suspenseful and engaging scene for onlookers. Following this intense performance, a light comedy sketch is presented, providing a humorous and entertaining interlude for the audience. These immersive experiences at Movie World Theme Park not only entertain guests but also transport them into the magical world of movies and cartoons. The attention to detail in the character portrayals, the dynamic parade, and the engaging enactments all contribute to making the park a destination for those seeking a fun and memorable entertainment experience. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP Gold Coast GOOGLE MAPS Surfers Paradise GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT GOLD COAST FIVE DAY FORECAST GOLD COAST PARADE OF MOVIE CARS Gold Coast motorcycle hire Bonnie & Clyde Bonnie & Clyde Gold Coast the real Bonnie & Clyde car in the USA PREV AUSTRALIA ICONS NEXT PREV QUEENSLAND NEXT HOMEPAGE

Tipperary Town The town has a resident population of under five thousand. The song "It's a Long Way to Tipperary", became popular among the British military as a marching song in World War One. Rock of Cashel The Rock of Cashel, a prominent historical landmark in Ireland, holds significant cultural and architectural importance. Also referred to as Cashel of the Kings and St. Patrick's Rock, this site is steeped in centuries of rich history and folklore. Perched majestically atop a limestone hill, the Rock of Cashel commands attention with its striking presence and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Legend has it that the Rock of Cashel was formed when St. Patrick himself banished the devil from a cave on the hill, resulting in the creation of this iconic site. Over the years, it became a symbol of power and authority, serving as a royal stronghold and a centre of religious pilgrimage. The site's structures, including a round tower, a cathedral, and a high cross, showcase a blend of architectural styles spanning different periods in Irish history. Visitors to the Rock of Cashel can explore the intricate carvings, ancient artifacts, and ornate decorations that adorn its buildings, offering a glimpse into the past glory of this revered site. The atmosphere is imbued with a sense of mystique and reverence, inviting contemplation and reflection on the historical events that have unfolded within its walls. Today, the Rock of Cashel stands as a testament to Ireland's enduring heritage and serves as a reminder of the country's rich cultural legacy. Its significance as a symbol of Irish identity and spirituality continues to draw visitors from around the world, who come to marvel at its beauty and immerse themselves in the stories that echo through its ancient stones. Cashel, County Tipperary, Ireland. Cobh known from 1849 until 1920 as Queenstown, is a tourist seaport town on the south coast of County Cork, the town was associated with the RMS Titanic , which was built in Belfast. Facing the town is Spike Island . A now disused prison often referred to as the Alcatraz of Ireland. The prison used to hold high profile prisoners. Prisoners such as members of the IRA. Public tours are available of the prison and grounds. On a high point in the town of Cobh stands the cathedral church of the diocese of Cloyne, St Colman's. It's one of the tallest buildings in Ireland. Driving the Irish Countryside Driving through small colourful Irish towns. On the main road in one village the newly picked up hire car, a diesel Hyundai, the engine stopped in traffic. We were unable to move with a gathering line of cars behind. Leaving us wondering what to do for a good minute. I pressed the go pedal, immediately the engine started and the car moved forward. No thanks to the car hire staff for not telling me the car has a fuel saving mode. We drove along a short detour to Tipperary Town. Walked around Tipp Town Shopping Centre housing a small cluster of retail shops in Tipperary. Horse breeding and racing is very prominent in County Tipperary. Races are held at the Tipperary Racecourse and are often broadcast live on dedicated racing television channels in Australia. One roadside signage said you have come a long way. It must be said you can't be much further away than Melbourne, southern Australia. 17,365 km as the crow flies. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP TIPPERARY GOOGLE MAPS WINDSWEPT IRELAND COBH WATERFRONT LAST DEPARTURE JETTY FOR THE TITANIC BEFORE SETTING SAIL THE LAST SUPPER ON THE TITANIC? DOCKSIDE IN COBH AWAITING OUR DINNER WITH PRE DINNER DRINKS OLD JETTY FOR TITANIC TENDER CRAFT LAST PORT OF CALL COBH SPIKE ISLAND PRISON IRA MEMORIAL MAD HATTERS OF IRELAND WORRYING? THE WOLF OF WICKLOW IT'S A LONG WAY TO TIPPERARY FROM AUSTRALIA ROCK OF CASHEL & IRISH FOLKLORE NOT FAR TO TIPPERARY, TWENTY KM DRIVE COBH GOOGLE MAPS ROCK OF CASHEL GOOGLE MAPS PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Dublin The capital of the Republic of Ireland. The city is situated at the mouth of the River Liffey. Appearing from the outside as a much more pleasant a city than Belfast. Perhaps a larger number of tourists are catered for in Dublin than Belfast. Seems to be more tourist friendly attractions. Dublin city is home to the very popular and famous Guinness Brewery. Tours and tastings on tap are offered daily in the multi-story Brewery. The Guinness tastes much better on tap where the dark brew is manufactured onsite. Road Trip Belfast Our drive took us away from Dublin to the much different world of Belfast. The city appearing rather bland and cold. The city just two hours drive away. During the drive I innocently remarked will we drive through Londonderry? I instantly regretted the comment, and no fuss was made about it. But I realised people native to Dublin preferred Derry and those native to Belfast preferred Londonderry. I didn't want to stir up strong views one way or the other. I know much of the worst "troubles" were centred in the city. Not fully understanding the meaning behind place names can get tourists in trouble if not paid attention to when conversing with locals. Weather you call the city Derry or Londonderry it was not on our driving route. Row upon row of flags were displayed along streets outside of homes in the suburbs of Belfast. Both Irish and UK flags but, never mixed together. Always segregated to defined living areas of Catholics and Protestants. Even to this day. A reminder of the "Troubles" not all that long ago. Forward to the current day and our Irish hosts would not stop in any of these areas for fear of vehicle vandalism because of the Dublin number plates displayed. Distrust will always remain between the two. Belfast City The capital and largest city of Northern Ireland. Belfast's population is almost half that of Dublin. The city and CBD are notably smaller in size. A feeling overcomes one of to be careful when in and around Belfast. Personally, I felt Dublin feels more inviting to visitors. The famous cruise ship RMS Titanic was built in Belfast by Harland & Wolff's Shipyards. The company still exists to this day. As excited tourists we were driven by our Irish hosts to the Belfast Titanic Exhibition.  Needless to say, the Exhibition did not disappoint. There is a large café onsite. The Exhibition is spread over multi floors. Do yourself a favour and not just walk amongst the exhibits on display around the café area as some folks do. Explore all the walkways with interactive displays. You will be glad you did. Traveldriven CLICK TO ENTER BELFAST TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTER GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME https://www.google.com/maps/place/Titanic+Belfast/ DRIVE DUBLIN TO BELFAST & ATTEND THE TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTRE GUINNESS BREWERY DUBLIN LEPRECHAUN REAL OR FICTION? WHERE LEPRECHAUN'S ARE SEEN, DUBLIN FAMOUS HOTEL 'THE TEMPLE BAR' DUBLIN DUBLIN WATER RATES PROTEST ATTENDED BY IRA MEMBERS TAKE IT EASY TITANIC BELFAST EXHIBITION CENTRE HARLAND & WOLFF'S CRANES DOMINATE THE BELFAST SKYLINE TYPICAL BUILDING IN BELFAST PORT AREA DUBLIN GOOGLE MAPS PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Galway In the West of Ireland, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of County Galway, lies the vibrant city of Galway. This charming city is easily accessible by car, and the drive through the lush Irish countryside is very scenic. With a population of approximately eighty thousand residents, Galway is a lively hub of culture, history, and community spirit. The city centre of Galway is characterised by its bright and colourful shopfronts that line the winding streets, creating an inviting atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike. The layout of the streets may remind one of a micro–Royal Mile, akin to that of Edinburgh, with its charming nooks and crannies waiting to be explored. As the warmer months arrive, the city comes alive making it a perfect time for leisurely strolls through the bustling streets. Street Performer Emma O'Sullivan, of Galway During this season, one can often encounter a variety of street performers showcasing their talents, adding to the vibrant ambiance of the city. Among these performers, one individual stands out and has garnered a significant following: Galway's Emma O'Sullivan, who is an accomplished Irish dancer known for her captivating performances. On one particular day, as I wandered through the lively streets of Galway, I was drawn to the sound of lively accordion music that filled the air, accompanied by the rhythmic tapping of Emma's feet on the cobblestones. Her energy and skill attracted a large crowd, captivated by her artistry and the infectious joy that radiated from her performance. Emma O'Sullivan is not just a local talent; she is a well-known figure in the world of Irish dance, with many videos of her street performances circulating on platforms like YouTube. One such video, posted by the channel Traveldriven, captured a spontaneous performance during a chance encounter with Emma in the streets of Galway. This particular video quickly gained traction, going viral and amassing well over a million views, much to the surprise of its creator. Initially, the video was described as featuring tap dancing; however, it was soon pointed out that Irish dancing is a distinct and separate art form. Acknowledging this oversight, Traveldriven promptly updated the video description to reflect the accurate terminology. Reflecting on that memorable day, there are feelings of a twinge of guilt for not leaving a tip in the donation bag that accompanied her performance. It is a common practice to support street performers who share their talents with the public, and witnessing Emma's vibrant display of Irish culture and professional dance was a moment of appreciation for all visitors to witness on the day as she performed in the streets of Galway. Traveldriven GALWAY https://www.google.com/maps/ place/Galway,+Ireland   Emma O'Sullivan Irish dancing Greater than one million views on Youtube DRIVING AROUND THE COUNTRYSIDE WHAT A RELIEF! ROSS CASTLE SIGNAGE ROSS CASTLE HOTEL ROOM VIEW QUEEN VICTORIA SAID ONLY FIT FOR A LADY ONLY IN IRELAND MURPHY'S PUB, MURPHY'S LAW MAD HATTERS OF DINGLE IRISH FLOWER BOAT STORM IN A TEA CUP STORE IRISH COAST GUARD PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

LIVERPOOL HOMETOWN OF THE BEATLES & THE KOP MUSEUM (LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL CLUB) The population of Liverpool, a vibrant city in the northwest of England, is estimated to be around half a million people. Situated approximately four hours north of London, Liverpool boasts a rich history and cultural significance. The city is divided by the iconic River Mersey, which not only serves as a picturesque waterway but also plays a crucial role in the city's transportation infrastructure. One notable feature of Liverpool is the presence of two short road traffic tunnels that run underneath the river, providing convenient access between different parts of the city. FERRY CROSS THE MERSEY 'JERRY & THE PACEMAKERS' For those looking to experience a unique mode of transport, the short Mersey River Ferry crossing offers a delightful journey that can be enjoyed daily. The ferry ride typically lasts around ten minutes, allowing passengers to soak in the scenic views of the river and the surrounding areas. During the ferry crossing, passengers are often treated to the sounds of the famous song "Ferry Cross the Mersey" by Gerry and the Pacemakers, adding a touch of musical charm to the experience. For those interested in immersing themselves in the Beatles' legacy, a visit to the fab4 Cafe riverside is a must. Here, visitors can savor a cup of coffee while surrounded by Beatles memorabilia, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the city's most famous musical exports. Traveldriven LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL STADIUM ICECREAM FOR TOURISTS SOCCER CLUB NOT FOOTBALL CLUB LIVERPOOL, HOME OF THE BEATLES stairway to 'The Beatles' A BEATLES COFFEE? THE FAB4 CAFE, LIVERPOOL CROSSING 'THE MERSEY' BY FERRY LIVERPOOL LIVERPOOL GOOGLE MAPS PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

LONDON & SIGHTS London is the capital and largest city of England There are several London Bridge's. The underground Tube rail network could exit to any one of these bridges named London Bridge in the CBD. Several attempts on exiting the Tube revealed a different London Bridge. London Bridge, from the folk song, 'London Bridge is Falling Down' and Tower Bridge are about one kilometre apart. The famed Tower Bridge on approach to Tower Of London is a short walk from the Tube. The internal workings of the bridge lifting road deck counterweights may be viewed. Churchill War Rooms The war rooms are where the British government lead by Winston Churchill conducted the Second World War. Many rooms can be viewed. The bunker rooms are twelve feet below ground level under London city streets. Lord's Cricket Ground has interesting tours and is home to 'The Ashes'. Traveldriven CLICK TO ENTER TOWER OF LONDON https://www.google.com/maps/place/Tower+of+London BUSY LONDON ON THE BUSES LONDON BRIDGE DOCTOR WHO? BUSY TRAFALGAR SQUARE & BUSKERS CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS TOWER OF LONDON TOWER OF LONDON LONDON WEATHER TEST CRICKET AT LORD'S THE ASHES LONDON GOOGLE MAPS PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

PARIS, SIGHTS AND THE MONA LISA Paris is located in northern central France. Arc De Triomphe The outside viewing area situated atop the magnificent Arc De Triomphe provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the iconic Champs-Elysees Avenue and the surrounding cityscape. Visitors can access this elevated observation deck via a series of internal stairs, which wind their way up through the structure. Once at the top, one can appreciate the bustling large roundabout below, known as the Place Charles de Gaulle, which is often perceived as chaotic due to the numerous vehicles and pedestrians navigating through it. However, those who take the time to observe will find that the roundabout operates with a surprising level of order and efficiency, guided by the rhythm of Parisian traffic. The vantage point from the Arc De Triomphe allows visitors to see the radiating avenues that lead into the heart of Paris, making it a prime location for photography and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Mona Lisa Inside 'The Louvre,' the experience of viewing the Mona Lisa is uniquely engaging, as the painting is displayed on a freestanding wall, allowing visitors to walk around it freely. An encounter with Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece. As one approaches, the iconic smile of the Mona Lisa becomes increasingly captivating, inviting contemplation and admiration. The painting is rather small. The area behind the painting is designed to provide a welcome respite from the often overwhelming crowds gathered in front, offering a moment of tranquillity where visitors can reflect on the art without the constant bustle. The crush of people in front of the masterpiece is astounding. All vying to view the work. Palace of Versailles The location is in the outer suburbs of Paris. In an expansive and opulent estate that sprawls over an area larger than many small towns. The sheer scale of the grounds is awe-inspiring, encompassing meticulously manicured gardens, grand fountains, and a variety of historical buildings that speak to the grandeur of the French monarchy. To navigate this vast expanse in a reasonable amount of time, visitors can take advantage of a charming small tourist train that operates on wheels and does not require tracks. This convenient mode of transportation allows guests to explore the magnificent estate at a leisurely pace, providing opportunities to hop on and off at various points of interest, such as the Grand Trianon and the gardens of Marie Antoinette. The experience of visiting Versailles is not just about viewing the palace itself, but also about immersing oneself in the rich history and beauty that surrounds it, making it a must-see destination for anyone traveling to the Paris region. Traveldriven CLICK TO ENTER Av. des Champs-Élysées, https://www.google.com/maps/place/Av.+des+Champs- THE LOUVRE THE LOUVRE FEATURING 35,000 ART WORKS MONA LISA MONA LISA CRUSH VENUS DE MILO, IN NEED OF ARMS KING TUT OF EGYPT? ARC DE TRIOMPHE CLIMB THE INSIDE STEPS FOR THE VIEW PARIS PUSHBIKE TAXI EIFFEL TOWER SUNRISE Bus departure pickup opposite the Eiffel Tower, Paris. Book a full day return trip tourist bus to The Palace of Versailles. PALACE OF VERSAILIES PALACE OF VERSAILIES GARDENS PALACE OF VERSAILIES GALERIE DES BATAILLES (HALL OF BATTLES) HALL OF MIRRORS INSIDE THE PALACE CHAPEL PALACE GROUNDS PARIS GOOGLE MAPS VERSAILLES GOOGLE MAPS PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Stawell A small city (town) in the Wimmera region of Victoria about two hundred and twenty-five kilometres west of Melbourne. Population of around six thousand. Stawell is famous for the Stawell Easter Gift, a professional foot race held on grass. The length of which is one hundred and twenty metres or three hundred and ninety feet. Gift events are held on Central Park Oval. The town's cricket and Australian Rules football oval. The Stawell Gift began in 1878 and is a very prestige event. The Gift Final is broadcast on free to air television nationwide. Stawell is widely known as the gateway to the Grampians National Park which is about twenty km distant. Stawell is one of a few towns in Victoria retaining a large active gold mining operation employing hundreds of workers. 'Big Hill' Lookout The hill that overlooks parts of Stawell offers a breathtaking panoramic view that includes the vast expanse of the Grampians mountain range stretching across the horizon. This vantage point is accessible via one of three roads that wind their way up and down 'Big Hill. One of which leads to a two-kilometre stretch of a well-maintained sealed road that eventually reaches the gold mining operations. Along this road, there is a designated public viewing area where visitors can witness the mining activities up close and appreciate the industrial operations against the backdrop of the natural scenery. At the top of Big Hill, there are three sealed roads converging at a flat unsealed parking area, providing convenient access to elevated viewpoints offering views of the town and the majestic Grampians. The strategic location of Big Hill makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to admire the beauty of the surrounding landscape and take in the picturesque sights that unfold before them. Adding to the charm of Big Hill is a pioneer rotunda perched atop the hill, serving as a historical landmark and pays tribute to the area's heritage. Visitors have the opportunity to drive around this rotunda, allowing them to fully appreciate its architectural significance while enjoying the stunning town and Grampian views that it offers from different angles. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern mining activities makes Big Hill a unique and memorable destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the diverse experiences that this area has to offer. Down On Main Street Stawell's retail street, known as Main Street, holds a unique charm with its intriguing layout. A distinctive feature of Main Street is its unusual kink, a bend that adds character to the town's urban design. This kink is not just a random occurrence but a reflection of the historical development of Stawell as a mining settlement. The street's layout, including its twists and turns, is a testament to its origins and the growth of the town over time. As Main Street meanders through the heart of Stawell, it seamlessly transitions into Upper Main Street, creating a sense of continuity and connection within the town's urban fabric. This transition is not just a change in name but a nod to the evolution of the area and how it has expanded and adapted to meet the needs of its residents. Continuing on from Upper Main Street, Main Street takes a right turn towards Big Hill, leading residents and visitors on a journey through Stawell's past and present. This progression from the retail hub to the scenic route towards Big Hill showcases the diversity of experiences that Stawell has to offer. Overall, Main Street in Stawell is not just a thoroughfare for commerce and traffic but a living history book that tells the story of a town shaped by its mining heritage and the people who have called it home. The kink in Main Street is not just a quirk of urban planning but a reminder of the town's roots and the path it has taken to become the vibrant community it is today. Town Hall Clock Animated Figures Numerous tourists and locals have been observed watching the Stawell clock tower at the hour's peak. On the Town Hall clock tower facing Main Street are two animated gold miners operating a mining cradle of the pioneer era. The animated mining figures were installed in 1969 and the display was opened by the Victorian premier of the day. As hourly chimes ring out the animation begins and continues for some minutes. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP STAWELL GOOGLE MAPS STAWELL & MAIN STREET CATO LAKE STAWELL THREE WATER FOUNTAINS IN CATO LAKE STAWELL GOLD MINE OBSERVATION AREA BIG HILL LOOKOUT AT DAWN, STAWELL & GRAMPIANS STAWELL TOWN HALL AND ANIMATED MINERS ON CLOCK TOWER EVERY HOUR PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Standley Chasm Known as Angkerle Atwatye in the local Arrernte language, the chasm is a stunning natural wonder situated approximately fifty kilometres west of Alice Springs, a central hub in the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory. This remarkable geological formation is nestled within the rugged landscape of the West MacDonnell Ranges and is an essential part of the region's cultural and natural heritage. The chasm itself is located on privately owned Aboriginal land, which adds a layer of significance and respect for the traditional custodians of the area. Accessing Standley Chasm is convenient, as it lies just off the well-maintained, all-sealed Larapinta Drive, a scenic route that showcases the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding terrain. Visitors to Standley Chasm can expect a short yet picturesque drive of approximately ten minutes off of Larapinta Drive along a sealed road that leads directly to the entrance. This accessibility makes it a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking to explore the unique landscapes of the Australian outback. As of 2025, there is a general admission fee of $12 per person, which contributes to the maintenance and preservation of this beautiful site, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its splendour. CAFE AND CAMPING Upon arrival, guests will find a well-equipped on-site café, which offers a variety of refreshments and meals, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the stunning views of the chasm before or after their exploration. The café serves as a convenient gathering place for visitors to share their experiences and enjoy the local ambiance. The main Standley Chasm walk begins to the right of the cafe and is relatively flat. The walk follows alongside a creek and takes about twenty to thirty minutes. Sturdy footwear is best for the stoney areas walked upon. For those looking to extend their stay, Standley Chasm also features a camping area suitable for all types of vans. The ground is rocky and hard. Pitching a tent may be difficult. This camping area provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural surroundings, with the sounds of the outback and the starry skies of the desert at night offering a truly memorable experience. However, it is important to note that the ground in the camping area is quite hard, with no grassy sites available, and overnight temperatures may be quite low which may require campers to bring appropriate sleeping gear for comfort. Overall, Standley Chasm is not just a visual marvel; it is a place where nature, culture, and adventure converge, making it an essential stop for anyone travelling through the Northern Territory. For an insight into Alice Springs go to an earlier Road Trip WA/NT/SA post . Traveldriven DRIVE ALICE SPRINGS - STANDLEY CHASM STANDLEY CHASM SIGNAGE INSIDE THE CHASM FAR END OF THE CHASM COLD POOL OF WATER AND ROCKY BLOCKAGE COLD WATER AND GHOSTLY ROCK PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT