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

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

DAY 36 Tennant Creek The place did not appeal pleasant for an overnight stop. No noteworthy sights. So pushed a little further on to the Devil's Marbles Hotel late in the day. The decision to bypass the uninviting location for an overnight stay was a wise choice, as the lack of notable attractions and the somewhat dilapidated appearance of the small town did not offer much promise for a restful stop. The presence of windowed bars on most retail buildings added to the sense of neglect and perhaps even unease about the area. Instead, opting to continue the journey to the Devil's Marbles Hotel about one hour's drive further proved to be a more appealing prospect. This shift in plans likely provided the opportunity for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience, with the anticipation of reaching a destination that offered better accommodations and a more welcoming atmosphere. Devil's Marbles Northern Territory Karlu Karlu\Devil's Marbles Conservation Reserve. Devil's Marbles is an aboriginal sacred site. About one hundred km south of Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory and four hundred km north of Alice Springs. In 1953 an eight-tonne marble was taken and placed on John Flynn’s grave in Alice Springs. It was returned to the Devils Marbles in 1998. The marble was replaced with a more suitable rock with aboriginal permission. Bush camping is available. Devil's Marbles Hotel Accommodation is available in the Devil's Marbles Hotel and is a convenient overnight stop. Accommodation at the Devil's Marbles Hotel offers a convenient and comfortable option for travellers seeking a restful overnight stop amidst the stunning surroundings of the Devils Marbles. Located just eight kilometres north of this iconic natural attraction, the hotel provides a perfect base for visitors to explore the area. In addition to rooms, guests can enjoy the refreshing experience of a small swimming pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The hotel's proximity to the Devils Marbles ensures that guests can easily access the site and immerse themselves in its unique beauty. Whether you're passing through or looking to spend more time in this remarkable region, the Devil's Marbles Hotel promises a welcoming retreat with modern amenities and a tranquil setting. The hotel is in the middle of nowhere again. No other services such as fuel are available. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP TENNANT CREEK GOOGLE MAPS DEVIL'S MARBLES GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE DALY WATERS - NEWCASTLE WATERS - DEVIL'S MARBLES DEVIL'S MARBLES HOTEL ONSITE SWIMMING POOL INDIGENOUS STOCKMEN ON HORSEBACK DEVIL'S MARBLES & ILLEGAL OVERNIGHT CAMPING ON ROCKS THE RESERVE IS HOME TO FOUR SPECIES OF SNAKES OLD & NEW FINELY BALANCED THE DEVIL DID IT? A DEVIL OF A FLY A COLLECTION OF MARBLES HOT DESERT CLIMATE TOURISTS WALKING THE DEVIL'S MARBLES DEVIL'S MARBLES PLAYGROUND? UNSEALED HIGHWAY TURNOFF TURNAROUND AND GO BACK ABANDONED BESIDE THE ROAD ANOTHER WRECKED CARAVAN SOUTH AUSTRALIAN PLATE ON FOOT TO ALICE SPRINGS NEWCASTLE WATERS DROVER STATUE NEWCASTLE WATERS WETLAND THERE ARE NO SERVICES AT NEWCASTLE WATERS PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

MATARANKA SPRINGS NORTHERN TERRITORY The thermal water is said to relieve one's ailments. Located adjacent to the Roper River, the pool can sometimes get crowded, especially during June to August. The pool is filled with fresh spring water from the Daly and Georgina basins, and it maintains a consistent temperature of 34 degrees. The walkway and springs are shaded by palms. However, the ground floor is dry and brown and devoid of greenery from the top down and unsightly. Mataranka Springs are pools of water with one large pool for swimming and the pools are set amongst large palm trees reached via a boardwalk. Mataranka Springs are about one hundred and seventy km north of Daly Waters. BITTER SPRINGS Bitter springs are nearby to Mataranka Springs. Being only a short drive between the two. However, there is a big difference one to the other. In Bitter Springs, people float down a small waterway surrounded by bushland and shady trees to an area some two hundred metres downstream with an exit platform. On rare occasions the springs are closed by rangers because of a saltwater crocodile sighting in the area. Daly Waters Is a locality in the Northern Territory. About six hundred kilometres south of the capital of Darwin at the intersection of the Stuart Highway and Carpentaria Highway of which only 48 km is sealed. Daly Waters was established in 1927. With a population of only nine people. Daly Waters Airfield was a centre for the London to Sydney Air Race of 1926. A refuelling stop for early Qantas flights to Singapore and a World War II Airforce base. The historic Daly Waters Hotel was licensed in 1938. There is often free nightly live entertainment. Gets quite busy during peak holidays and its accommodation including caravan sites may be fully booked out. As an alternative, The Hi-way Inn Roadhouse may have accommodation available and is ten minutes' drive from the Daly Waters Hotel on the main north\south Stuart Highway. There are no other options. Numerous outback hotels try to impress and differentiate  from other localities  by unusual self-promotion. Apparently the wackier the better. Examples are photographed below. Larrimah Located over 500 km south of Darwin this very small settlement off of the Stuart Highway is centred around the now infamous Larrimah Hotel. The hotel was often frequented by 'Paddy', the missing local man presumed murdered in the Outback by persons who are perhaps known in the community. The story is told in a major Netflix drama. Based on a true disappearance. As of 2025 the mystery disappearance of Paddy is unsolved. The Larrimah Hotel lays claim to have the highest bar in the Northern Territory. Travellers may camp overnight in the local caravan park or stay in the hotel units. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP DALY WATERS GOOGLE MAPS MATARANKA HOT SPRINGS GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE KATHERINE - MATARANKA - DALY WATERS THE LONG LONELY ROAD LARRIMAH HOTEL IS ONE HOUR'S DRIVE NORTH OF DALY WATERS LARRIMAH HOTEL CLAIMED AS THE HIGHEST BAR! LAIDBACK AUSTRALIAN BARMAN NOT A, 'BACKPACKER BARMAN' ANYTHING TO ATTRACT TOURISTS TOURIST DRAW CARD? DALY WATERS ENTERTAINENT DALY WATERS PUB EXTERIOR DALY WATERS PUB TRUE BLUE...... DALY WATERS A TOURIST SERVO DISPLAY AND IS ACTUALLY USEFUL DALY WATERS INSIDE DALY WATERS HOTEL OUTBACK PUB BUSY TIMES THE BUCKING SHED DALY WATERS PUB TOURIST SALES ANYTHING FOR THE TOURIST DOLLAR DALY WATERS HOTEL FOR SALE MATARANKA REGION WE OF THE NEVER NEVER, MATARANKA MATARANKA SPRINGS NT MATARANKA SPRINGS MATARANKA SPRINGS THE ROPER RIVER SIGNAGE WALKWAY TO MATARANKA SPRINGS BITTER SPRINGS NEAR MATARANKA SPRINGS FLOATING DOWN BITTER SPRINGS WITH POOL NOODLES OVERNIGHT AT MATARANKA SPRINGS FREE NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT JULIAN JAMES & PARTNER PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 24 Robert Alistair McAlpine Baron McAlpine of West Green, England (14 May 1942 – 17 January 2014) Self-described as Scottish, Robert was a British businessman and politician. Business construction opportunities brought him to Perth in 1960. The family fortune was founded on the construction industry. In the 1980s McAlpine was involved in many tourism projects in Broome Western Australia. Personally, funding many of these. He envisaged the small coastal town of Broome in 1979 had tourism potential. Investment of Millions in Broome Western Australia McAlpine invested $500 million on various projects including the fabled and now closed Pearl Coast Zoological Gardens. Housing a very extensive African animal collection and hundreds of exotic birds and large scale aviaries. McAlpine established the Cable Beach Resort complex and its world class facilities. Helped aboriginal local culture with paid artwork and recognition. Invested spending time and money in the area for historic local building renovations and projects. He was made an honorary freeman of the Broome Municipality at an award evening in 2011. The highest honour bestowed to an individual by the community and officials. I am sure the term 'Lord of Broome' as used by many a Broome local, would have been seen as a tongue in cheek commentary of himself. Mr McAlpine would have found amusement and a chuckle out of it. Traveldriven BROOME BEACH RESORT CABLE BEACH GOOGLE MAPS The English Lord of Broome MONEY IN THE PEARL BUSINESS MORNING COFFEE CAFE BROOME REMOTE LEARNING BROOME Cable Beach FORESHORE CABLE BEACH RESORT AREA Broome accommodation with family OUT OF ORDER SWIMMING POOL IN NEED OF MAINTENANCE PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 23 In northern Australia, Western Australia and across to Queensland the saltwater crocodile population is growing in large numbers. More so in the multiple river systems near Darwin such as the Adelaide, Mary, and Daly Rivers. Along with many billabongs and estuaries. The saltwater crocodile population in Australia is estimated at 100,000 to 200,000. Crocodile habitat extends from Broome, Western Australia through all of the Northern Territory coast and all the way south to Rockhampton, Queensland. Crocodiles are a fully protected species. Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park, Broome The Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park, located just a short fifteen-minute drive from Broome, offers visitors a captivating and educational experience. Upon entry, adult guests are greeted with an admission fee of $50 (as of 2025), granting them access to a world of fascinating wildlife encounters. One of the main attractions at the park is the regular crocodile feeding shows that take place throughout the day. These shows not only showcase the impressive feeding habits of crocodiles but also provide valuable insights into their behaviour and predatory instincts. Visitors can witness demonstrations of prey entrapment, shedding light on the intricate relationship between these apex predators and their environment. In addition to its crocodile-focused activities, the park is also home to a diverse array of native wildlife, providing a comprehensive look at the natural wonders of the region. Among the inhabitants of the park are American alligators, adding an international flair to the wildlife collection. The presence of knowledgeable and informative guides further enhances the visitor experience, as they offer valuable commentary and share their expertise on the various species within the park. MALCOLM DOUGLAS Before Crocodile Dundee (the film) and Steve Irwin was the legendary top end adventurer Malcom Douglas. A poignant aspect of the park's history is the legacy of its founder, Malcolm Douglas. A former crocodile hunter, Douglas became a leading pioneer in wildlife conservation and education, Douglas dedicated his life to raising awareness about the importance of protecting crocodiles and their habitats. Tragically, his life was cut short in 2010 due to a single vehicle accident on his property. Despite this loss, the park continues to honour his memory by providing a platform for learning and appreciation of these magnificent creatures. Overall, the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park stands as a testament to the beauty and complexity of Australia's wildlife. Through its engaging shows, diverse animal residents, and informative staff, the park offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature and gain a deeper understanding of the fascinating world of crocodiles and other wildlife species. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP BROOME GOOGLE MAPS MALCOLM DOUGLAS CROCODILE PARK GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME MALCOLM DOUGLAS CROCODILE PARK MALCOLM DOUGLAS THE CROCODILE HUNTER GIANT CROCODILES FEEDING WORLD'S BIGGEST LIVE CROCODILES ZOOEY THE CROCODILE BLUEY THE CROCODILE CHOMP THE CROCODILE MANIAC THE CROCODILE SOUTHERN CASSOWARY OLD MAN CROCODILE MUDDY THE CROCODILE THE BULLET CROCODILE CROC CAMOUFLAGE HUNGRY CROCS SUNBAKING FROM THE MOUTH OF CROCODILE JAWS PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Day fourteen to twenty sailing on the MV Oceanic. Return to Broome Day 21 Dinosaur Footprints Gantheaume Point is a promontory about six kilometres (3.7 mi) from Broome, Western Australia. Dinosaur footprints and plant fossils, are preserved in the sandstone. Low red cliffs are set back off the shoreline. During low tide, dinosaur footprints can be seen uncovered by water about thirty metres (98 ft) out from the shore. There is no beach access. These prints are fairly well preserved and are imbedded in rock. It is allowed for anyone who would like to, to go and stand inside the prints to appreciate the size of the foot that made them. It is thought dozens of different dinosaur prints are in the area and may be found along many km of coastline. Many are from large three toed meat eating dinosaurs. Some prints are over a metre in diameter and quite a number of the foot prints are sunken a few inches in the surrounding rock. Many are well defined in the rock. Very impressive. Broome Hovercraft The hovercraft tour is highly recommended to cross over expansive mud flats to view dinosaur footprints. Hovercraft buzz does intrude into the cabin, but the seating is comfortable enough. The hovercraft is a smooth ride over water and mud and has an informative crew. Mud is not a problem at the site although all are likely to get damp feet disembarking and walking on the wet sand. Hovercraft operations are apparently discontinued during 2025 and may or may not resume. There are other tour operators offering tours to the dinosaur footprints. Flying Boat Crash Site A crash site of World War 2 flying boats is usually pointed out by tour providers during a low tide within the bay. Only during a low tide, the crash site of the World War 2 flying boats becomes visible, serving as a haunting reminder of the past. These once majestic aircrafts, now resting as skeletons on the ocean floor, tell a story of bravery, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of war. The wreckage serves as a solemn tribute to the soldiers who flew these planes, facing danger and uncertainty with every mission they undertook. The crash site of World War 2 flying boats serves as a poignant memorial, inviting reflection on the past and honoring the memory of those who fought and perished in the skies above. Traveldriven BROOME DINOSAUR ADVENTURES GOOGLE MAPS BROOME HOVERCRAFT BROOME HOVERCRAFT WASHED DOWN BROOME HOVERCRAFT TOUR ON THE BEACH DINOSAUR FOOTPRINTS STANDING IN THE FOOTPRINTS OF DINOSAURS DINOSAUR PRINTS standing in the footprints of dinosaurs BROOME MUDFLATS BIG BIRD HOVERCRAFT END OF TOUR TOWED TO THE HANGER PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 11 The sand being so hot it appeared to be on fire. -Ludwig Leichhardt (explorer) 1845 diary entry Sandfire Roadhouse Western Australia The place is in effect just a roadhouse on the Great Northern Highway in Western Australia between Port Hedland and Broome. On the western edge of the Great Sandy Desert. Sandfire is one of three fuel stations (the others being Pardoo closed 2023, and Roebuck 15 minutes drive outside of Broome) in the six hundred and ten km between the two towns. There is no general access to the indigenous community of Le Grange. Permit only. Sandfire is the only practical fuel stop between Port Hedland and Broome. The area is hot and dusty. There are a few caravan sites, a fast food restaurant and small bar. The Sandfire Roadhouse is 290 km north of Port Hedland and 315 km south of Broome. The roadhouse opened in 1970. According to reports, the first fuel payment was made with a carton of beer. In 1981 the road was sealed. A few resident peacocks wander near the roadhouse. The name Sandfire apparently comes from a diary entry of the explorer Ludwig Leichardt (1813-1848). 'The sand being so hot it appeared to be on fire'. The roadhouse was damaged by fire in 2007 and 2009 and was rebuilt. Sandfire Roadhouse is the home of the hitchhiking Chook, Salt'n'Pepper as seen on television. Pardoo Roadhouse Closed in 2023 (reopened 2024) sustained $4 million damage from Cyclone Lisa. No fuel or food available. Roebuck Plains Roadhouse is 35 km from Broome. Hence, Sandfire is the only fuel stop in a practical sense for the large distance between the two towns of Port Hedland and Broome if Pardoo is closed. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP SANDFIRE GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE PORT HEDLAND - PARDOO - SANDFIRE ROADHOUSE SANDFIRE UNITS OVERNIGHT STOP BASIC BUT CLEAN ON THE ROAD RED DIRT, ROADTRAINS & CARAVANS SANDFIRE ROADHOUSE PEACOOKS OUTBACK SOLO RIDER SANDFIRE ROADHOUSE ABANDONED ROADSIDE WILDLIFE DAMAGE? PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Great Northern Highway The highway is the longest in Australia with a total length of 3,200 km. This inland highway connects Perth to Wyndham in the far North of Western Australia. Travelling from Perth the highway route passes through Newman and onto Port Hedland on the coast. Newman is the turn off to the town of Marble Bar. The turnoff onto the road called Marble Bar Road continues to the small stop of Nullagine and onto Marble Bar. A road distance of about 300 km. Marble Bar Entry to Marble Bar may be either via the Great Northern Highway or via Port Hedland off of the coastal highway and then following the inland route. Marble Bar is a town in the Pilbara of north-western Western Australia. There are extremes of hot weather, with a mean maximum temperature second only to Wyndham, Western Australia. Claimed to be the hottest town in Australia. The town has less than two hundred residents and is located in the Pilbara region of north-western Western Australia. A famous Jasper rock outcrop can be seen along the Coongan River near town. Marble Bar Comet Gold Mine has an interesting museum and is seven km out of town. The most famous building in the town is the Ironclad Hotel built in the 1890s, constructed of corrugated iron. There is one Caravan Park within Marble Bar. Entry is across a small dry creek. Shaded sites are available. I was told by a fellow camper to spray ant killer around the parked car as Singapore ants may damage the electrical wiring in the engine bay. In days gone by several large gold nuggets were discovered in the area. Among them the 413-ounce Bobby Dazzler found in the 1890s. While I was in Marble Bar I used a White’s gold detector a few km out of town in a dry creek bed. Hot dusty work in the heat of the day. No valuable finds. On another much earlier road trip I drove solo Marble Bar to New Norcia down towards Perth on the then unsealed Great Northern Highway as mentioned above. A driving distance of thirteen hundred km of gravel via Newman an iron ore mining town in the Pilbara of several thousand residents. The drive continued down the Great Northern Highway through to Meekatharra and onto New Norcia. This road trip was in a two-wheel drive car. Now-a-days the Great Northern Highway is all sealed. Meekatharra Translates as 'place of little water'. Established as a small gold mining town and currently has about one thousand residents. There is accommodation available in the Meekatharra Hotel. Petrol and Diesel fuel is available. New Norcia A monastic town of numerous abbey's a little over an hour's drive from Perth. Abbey tours do not include the monastery as monks live in the building. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP MARBLE BAR MEEKATHARRA NEW NORCIA GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT MARBLE BAR FIVE DAY FORECAST TRAVEL DOWN UNDER & DRIVE PORT HEDLAND - MARBLE BAR MARBLE BAR & OUTBACK DEATHS DRIVING INTO MARBLE BAR MARBLE BAR MARBLE BAR WELCOME SIGNS CATTLE HORSEMEN OF THE OUTBACK BIGGER THAN THE STATE OF VICTORIA OLDTIMER WALKING INTO MARBLE BAR MARBLE BAR ROADTRAIN FOUR TRAILERS PRIME MOVER WITH FOUR TRAILERS OUTBACK HOMESTEAD OR BE IN THE SHIT PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE