Malahide and the Castle Malahide is approximately 18 km from the city of Dublin. The castle is surrounded by the town of Malahide. Malahide Castle, an impressive architectural marvel, dates back to the 12th century, making it one of Ireland's most historic and significant landmarks. This magnificent structure has a rich history, having been the seat of the Talbot family for nearly 800 years. The castle showcases a blend of medieval and Victorian architectural styles, reflecting the various renovations and expansions that took place over the centuries. Visitors to Malahide Castle can explore its beautifully preserved rooms, which are filled with exquisite period furniture, fine art, and artifacts that tell the story of the Talbot family's long-standing legacy. Malahide Castle Grounds & Squirrels The extensive grounds surrounding Malahide Castle are equally captivating, featuring lush gardens and sprawling parkland that invite exploration and relaxation. Among the natural inhabitants of these grounds, squirrels are a common sight, often seen darting through the foliage, running along stone walls and scurrying up the trees. These lively creatures contribute to the enchanting atmosphere of the estate, their playful antics providing entertainment for visitors and adding a touch of vibrancy to the serene landscape. The castle's grounds are meticulously maintained, offering a habitat rich in biodiversity and large shady trees, where squirrels thrive amidst the diverse flora. There are daily castle tours and a Gift shop. Numerous local sports organisations utilize the Castle grounds for their events on weekends, with specific fields designated for these activities. Muckross House The House is situated a mere six kilometres from the picturesque town of Killarney, a charming destination known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The journey from Dublin to Killarney spans approximately 300 kilometres by road, making it a popular route for both locals and tourists seeking to explore the beauty of County Kerry. This distance can typically be covered in about three to four hours by car, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route, which often includes scenic views of the Irish countryside. The mansion itself, a splendid example of 19th-century architecture, was constructed in the year 1843. Its design reflects the grandeur and elegance characteristic of that era, with intricate detailing and a majestic presence that draws the admiration of visitors. The estate is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty, further enhancing its appeal. Tours of the mansion are conducted daily, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the history and stories that have unfolded within its walls. These guided tours provide an opportunity to learn about the architectural features, the original inhabitants, and the significant events that have taken place over the years, making each visit a unique experience filled with educational insights and historical context. The Cliffs of Moher: A Natural Marvel The Cliffs of Moher are not just any sea cliffs; they are one of Ireland's most iconic natural landmarks, drawing visitors from around the globe. Situated along the western coast of Ireland in County Clare, these majestic cliffs offer breathtaking views and a unique glimpse into the power of nature. Traveling from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher The journey from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher by road is approximately 270 kilometres, making it a popular day trip for tourists and locals alike. The drive typically takes around three to four hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. As travellers make their way westward, they are treated to a scenic landscape that includes rolling green hills, charming villages, and the occasional glimpse of the rugged coastline. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, with opportunities to stop at various points of interest along the way, such as the historic town of Limerick or the picturesque village of Doolin, known for its traditional Irish music. Dimensions and Features of the Cliffs The Cliffs of Moher stretch for an impressive length of about 14 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. These cliffs are not only remarkable for their length but also for their stunning height. From the southern end, they rise dramatically to heights of 120 meters (approximately 390 feet) above the crashing waves below. Visitor Experience and Attractions For those visiting the Cliffs of Moher, there are numerous facilities and attractions to enhance the experience. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience includes an interpretive centre that provides insights into the geological and cultural history of the cliffs. There are walking trails that allow visitors to explore the area safely, offering various viewpoints along the way. Sometimes musical buskers are seen and heard along the walkway near to the Visitor Centre. Irish Traditional Wedding Accompanied by our Irish hosts, we embarked on a memorable journey to attend a traditional Irish wedding nestled in the picturesque countryside, a few hours' drive away from the bustling city of Dublin. Along the way, we passed by numerous hauntingly beautiful ruined and abandoned castles, each telling a story of bygone eras. Despite encountering a few wrong turns and moments of confusion, we managed to reach the charming village where the wedding was taking place just in the nick of time, with only 15 minutes to spare before the commencement of the service. The outdoor setting exuded a rustic charm, adorned with grand marquees and the tantalizing aroma of a roasting pig on a spit, adding to the festive atmosphere of the celebration. As we arrived, a moment of panic ensued when the car keys seemed to have disappeared amidst the lush green grass of the lawns. I frantically searching with the help of others, we scoured the area for over an hour, fearing the worst. Fortunately, after a thorough search, it turned out that the keys were merely misplaced, bringing a collective sigh of relief to all involved. Despite the initial hiccup, the rest of the day unfolded seamlessly, filled with joyous celebrations, heartfelt moments, and the warmth of Irish hospitality. It was a truly unforgettable day that left a lasting impression on everyone present, a perfect blend of tradition, camaraderie, and love that made the Irish wedding a truly magical experience. Traveldriven MALAHIDE IRELAND GOOGLE MAPS MALAHIDE CASTLE MALAHIDE CITY CENTRE OUT TO DINNER IN MALAHIDE IRISH HOTEL MUSIC JAM, MALAHIDE EXIT MALAHIDE CASTLE GATES MUCKROSS HOUSE WALKING THE POODLES MUCKROSS HOUSE CASTLE RUINS IN THE IRISH COUNTRYSIDE CASTLE RUINS CLIFFS OF MOHER CLIFFS OF MOHER MALAHIDE CASTLE GOOGLE MAPS PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

OUTBACK AUSTRALIA MAY 2025 ROADTRIP FROM VICTORIA The Township of Andamooka Andamooka is a unique remote settlement nestled in the heart of Outback South Australia and is accessible via a well-maintained sealed road that connects it to the nearby town of Roxby Downs. This route allows visitors to traverse the rugged landscape of the Outback with relative ease, making it an attractive destination for those seeking adventure and a taste of the Australian wilderness. The surrounding area is characterised by its arid desert environment, where the sun blazes down relentlessly during the long, hot summer months. Temperatures often soar, creating a stark yet beautiful landscape that is both challenging and captivating for residents and visitors alike. ANDAMOOKA PIONEERS The history of Andamooka is deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Absalom family, particularly the renowned outback artist Jack Absalom, who hails from Broken Hill, New South Wales. Jack's family played a pivotal role in the early development of the Andamooka opal field, which has become famous for its stunning opals. His father was the proprietor of the very first general store in Andamooka, providing essential goods and services to miners and their families. In a significant move for the family and the community, they constructed a house directly on the opal field in 1942, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the region's history. This establishment not only served as a home but also as a symbol of the pioneering spirit that characterised the early days of opal mining in Andamooka. The architectural style of the early Andamooka dwellings, commonly known as dugouts, is distinct from other opal mining towns such as Coober Pedy. These dugouts were primarily constructed from locally sourced stone and timber, ingeniously set into excavated areas of the ground. This method of building provided natural insulation against the extreme temperatures of the Outback, keeping the interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Unlike the more subterranean structures found in Coober Pedy, Andamooka's dugouts are often partially above ground, which lends a unique character to the landscape. The ingenuity of these early settlers is evident in their ability to adapt to the harsh environment while creating functional living spaces. VISIT ANDAMOOKA For travellers venturing into Andamooka, basic services are available to ensure a comfortable stay. The Andamooka Dukes Bottlehouse Motel has available a small number of rooms for travellers. To the side of the front entry to the integrated Post Office and store is the unique bottlehouse. Constructed from discarded bottles back in the day. ANDAMOOKA CARAVAN & CAMPING GROUND The caravan park offers powered sites and essential amenities, catering to those who wish to explore the area while enjoying the convenience of modern facilities. However, it is important to note that the park features a hard, stony ground, lacking the lush grass and shady trees that one might expect in more temperate regions. This rugged terrain reflects the arid nature of the surrounding desert, providing an authentic Outback experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stark beauty of the landscape while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow travellers in this remote and fascinating part of South Australia. Traveldriven About - Andamooka https://www.andamooka.sa.au DRIVE WOOMERA TO ANDAMOOKA DRIVE ADELAIDE - ANDAMOOKA THE HOUSE THAT ABSALOM BUILT ABSALOM HOUSE HISTORICAL COTTAGES PIONEER HOMES ANDAMOOKA HISTORY BOTTLE HOUSE OPEN DAILY OPAL FIELDS VIEW FROM ANDAMOOKA CARAVAN PARK PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT

DAY 5 INDIAN OCEAN DRIVE Where can you see a ute parked on a pub roof? I'll drink to that! -Cunderdin local Cunderdin Is a town located in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia. The Cunderdin Pub Located 156km east of Perth in the small town of Cunderdin is designed on the 'Etamogah' cartoons. Etamogah means ' Place of a good drink '. The much older Cunderdin pub burnt down in 2000 and was rebuilt as the Etamogah Pub. Seabird A small quiet coastal fishing area just over an hour's drive north of Perth. Population eighty. The foreshore has suffered major erosion and is subject to much more future damage by storms. A good spot for lunch of fish & chips by the Indian Ocean. From Seabird, drive north for 290 km along the scenic Indian Ocean Drive to Geraldton. A change from the Southern Ocean to the Indian Ocean. Great to see the ocean again. 3000 km from Melbourne. Pinnacles Desert of Western Australia Driving due north of Perth and roughly two hundred km, turn right off Indian Ocean Drive to the Pinnacles. The turnoff appears quite abruptly. A short unsealed scenic loop track threads between the Pinnacles. Two-wheel drive accessible. $17 per vehicle (2024). The desert contains thousands of weathered limestone pillars. Some stand tall up to three metres above the yellow base. Many resemble short tombstones and are only a metre in height. While many others resemble tall stone columns. Highly recommended are the Pinnacles Desert of Western Australia. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP SEABIRD GOOGLE MAPS THE PINNACLES DESERT GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME DRIVE Cunderdin - Seabird -The Pinnacles Desert UTE ON A PUB CUNDERDIN ARRIVE ON THE WEST COAST FISH & CHIPS 3,000KS FROM VICTORIA DRIVING THE PINNACLES DESERT LANDSCAPE DESERT VIEW WALK TRAIL DRIVING NORTH PINNACLES DESERT PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 12 CABLE BEACH BROOME WESTERN AUSTRALIA Cable Beach is a twenty-two km (14 mi) stretch of white sand beach on the Indian Ocean in Broome. Although it's not unheard of to see crocodiles, the sea water can be somewhat cold. Cable Beach was named after the telegraph cable laid between Broome and Java in 1889. Broome is a former pearling town in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Cable Beach is famous for swimming and beach activities. Beware of sea snakes. Crocodile sightings are rare. Broome is 1,700 km north of Perth. Staircase To The Moon Accommodation just for one night was pre booked in the Mangrove Hotel, Broome. The Mangrove as it is called by locals is highly recommended for a short stay. During the peak season accommodation costs are high. The hotel was my early morning pickup and departure point for the MV Oceanic Kimberley Islands seven day adventure cruise. The Mangrove Hotel gardens are a very popular viewing spot for the Staircase To The Moon. The hotel often has a feature night of live music and activities on Staircase To The Moon nights and is popular with families. Staircase To The Moon is a natural phenomenon occurring on a full moon rising over exposed tidal flats between March to October. The play of moonlight reflecting off of the tidal flats gives the illusion of a golden staircase. Free for all to observe. The phenomenon lasts until the moon is quite high in the night sky. Of course, if the sky is cloudy there is little effect. Fortunately, during this time of year most nights are clear. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP BROOME GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT BROOME FIVE DAY FORECAST RIP CURL WAVES FAMOUS CABLE BEACH Molly's Broome road trip. Video of famous Cable Beach and sunset camel rides. Swimming is allowed. The water is usually cold. On my visit I was told sea snakes may sometimes be seen in the Cable Beach water. Thanks to Molly Dixon Youtube channel for enabling Youtube sharing. Traveldriven BROOME PEARL DIVE HAT PEARL SHELL MANGROVE HOTEL MANGROVES MOTEL/HOTEL WATCH THE STAIRWAY TO THE MOON FROM THE REAR OUTDOOR DINING AREA & GARDEN STAIRCASE TO THE MOON MANGROVES MOTEL/HOTEL GARDENS BABY SHARK IN TANK AT FISH FARM BROOME TROPICAL FISH A FISHY TALE TROPICAL REEF FISH PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Meet friendly aliens and blast off into outer space free of charge. -Only in Carnarvon Day 7 Carnarvon Western Australia Is a coastal town situated about nine hundred kilometres (560 mi) north of Perth, Western Australia. Situated on the Gascoyne River which in turn enters the Indian Ocean. Tourist brochures advertise the town as experiencing the never-ending summer. The town is warm to hot year round. A town of spaceman, aliens in the museum and bananas. During the 1960s, NASA set up a tracking station just out of Carnarvon to support the Gemini and Apollo space programs. The tracking station was closed in the mid-1970s, and tours are now available at the space museum. Carnarvon Tracking Station & Museum The tracking station was built to support NASA’s Gemini, Apollo and Skylab programs. Commissioned in 1964. Operated for 11 years. OTC Satellite Earth Station , now the museum site, is six km from Carnarvon and four km north of the Tracking Station. Allow an hour or two to look through the space museum. Carnarvon has over 180 banana plantations. I think every household owns a dog in a backyard. I walked a few street blocks with constant barking dogs. I decided to bypass the Exmouth turnoff. From the turnoff it is a minimum distance of eighty km to reach Exmouth. On this road trip I continued on to Dampier instead. A further four hundred km away. Or about a five hour drive. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP CARNARVON GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE GERALDTON - CARNARVON CARNARVON TRAVEL TV SUNSET VIEW INDIAN OCEAN SPACE BLAST OFF EXPERIENCE CARNARVON SPACE CENTRE CARNARVON FORESHORE CARNARVON BANANA'S BLAST OFF OUT OF THIS WORLD SPACEMAN FRIEND ALIENS ARE FRIENDLY CARNARVON SPACE CENTRE CARNARVON PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Perth The capital of Western Australia. Located on the Swan River. The river flows to the Indian Ocean. The Swan River is a major feature through the city and is often bordered by parkland between the Causeway Bridge and the Narrows Bridge. The wide river water between the two bridges is known as Perth Water. Hire a pushbike and cycle around the two bridges. Cycling is a nice, paced way to see the Swan River parkland and city views. The expansive Kings Park offers elevated and spectacular views of Perth city and river. Swan Bells Swan Bells are a major tourist drawcard and these are on Perth's CBD fringe. Located on Riverside Drive. The Bell's chimes may be heard ringing out at regular times along the river foreshore. A cool Indian Ocean breeze is often felt in the afternoon. Commonly known as, 'The Fremantle Doctor'. Cottesloe Is a beach-side suburb of the city of Perth about half distance between the city centre and Fremantle. A popular beach with locals and visitors alike. Major surf lifesaving carnival's take place during the summer months. Fremantle Located about a half-hour drive from the bustling city of Perth, Fremantle emerges as a vibrant and historically rich port city, renowned for its maritime heritage. This charming destination is not only a gateway to the Indian Ocean but also a cultural hotspot where visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene. As you wander through the lively markets and along the picturesque city streets, you are likely to encounter numerous street buskers showcasing their talents, ranging from musicians to performers, adding a lively soundtrack to the urban landscape. This vibrant street performance culture is a testament to Fremantle's artistic spirit and its welcoming community. Famous Musicians, Buskers & Jail Time Fremantle holds a special place in the heart of rock music history as the hometown of Bon Scott, the legendary lead singer of the iconic rock band AC/DC. Known for his electrifying performances and distinctive voice, Bon Scott left an indelible mark on the music world before his untimely passing. A visit to Fremantle is incomplete without exploring the Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers an intriguing glimpse into the past. The prison, which operated until its closure in 1991, provides guided tours that delve into its storied history, including tales of the inmates who once resided within its walls. It is rumoured Bon Scott spent a brief period incarcerated here, adding a layer of intrigue to his already fascinating legacy. After his death in 1980, Bon Scott was laid to rest in Fremantle, solidifying the city’s connection to this rock legend. In the local cemetery, you can find a commemorative plaque dedicated to Bon Scott, which serves as a tribute to his life and contributions to music. The plaque is often adorned with various tokens left by fans, including guitar picks, flowers, and handwritten notes, reflecting the deep admiration and respect that many still hold for the artist. This small unassuming yet poignant memorial spot has become a pilgrimage site for AC/DC enthusiasts and music lovers alike, who come to pay their respects and celebrate the legacy of a man who inspired countless musicians around the world. A statue of Bon Scott may be found in the vicinity of the city's docks. Additionally, Fremantle was home to Matty Blade RIP. Matty was a renowned street busker who gained fame not only for his captivating performances but also for his remarkable talent in sword swallowing. Matty Blade holds a Guinness World Record for his extraordinary skill, which had drawn crowds and garnered attention both locally and internationally. His performances were a unique blend of danger and artistry, captivating audiences who gathered to witness his daring feats. Fremantle's street performance culture endures to this day. The city a dynamic place where art, history, and music converge in a celebration of creativity and community. Rottnest Island of Western Australia Commonly referred to as ‘Rotto’, Rottnest Island is located approximately 18 kilometres off the coast of Fremantle. This picturesque island is renowned for its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. One of the most iconic features of Rottnest Island is its unique and adorable inhabitant, the Quokka. The Quokka is a small marsupial, belonging to the macropod family, which also includes kangaroos and wallabies. Not dissimilar in appearance to a giant rat or a very small kangaroo, the Quokka is characterised by its round face, short ears, and stocky body. These charming creatures typically weigh around 2.5 to 5 kilograms and measure about 40 to 54 centimetres in length. Their fur is coarse and brown, providing excellent camouflage in their natural habitat, which consists of dense vegetation and coastal scrub. The Quokka has become a symbol of Rottnest Island, often referred to as "the world's happiest animal" due to its seemingly perpetual smile and friendly demeanour. Visitors to the island often seek opportunities to take photos with these endearing marsupials near the food court areas. Contributing to their popularity on social media platforms. With its breathtaking scenery and the charming presence of the Quokka, Rottnest Island continues to enchant those who visit, offering a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. It is thought there are 10,000 or so Quokka's on Rottnest Island. Many are seen around outdoor eating areas. Daily return ferry crossings are available. One-way crossings take a little over one hour. Rottnest Island has up to half a million visitors annually. There is a daily public bus service on the island and no private motor vehicles. Cycling is popular on the island. There are three small settlements. The Thomson Bay area has different types of accommodation available. The island can accommodate over 5,000 visitors. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP PERTH GOOGLE MAPS SWAN BELLS GOOGLE MAPS FREMANTLE GOOGLE MAPS FREMANTLE PRISON TOUR S ROTTNEST ISLAND GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT PERTH FIVE DAY FORECAST PERTH WATER PADDLESHIP (photo 1990s?) CYCLE RIDE BRIDGE TO BRIDGE SWAN RIVER COTTESLOE BEACH SURF LIFE SAVING WELL KNOWN FREMANTLE BUSKER, MATTY BLADE RIP OLIVER HILL BUNKER ROTTNEST ISLAND Paddy Hannan and his wheelbarrow Perth, Riverside Drive. Discovered 'The Golden Mile' Kalgoorlie. PREV WESTERN AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Drove all the way in first gear so as not to lose traction. Car still sliding occasionally. - Traveldriven Mount Buffalo The summit known as The Horn , has an elevation of 1,723 metres (5,653 ft). Who says you need a four-wheel drive to drive in the mountains! Driving solo a Mustang GT all the way to Horn Lookout on top of Mt. Buffalo. An unsealed road of up to ten km return. I enquired with staff at the carpark café and was assured the road, although unsealed, was suitable for all two-wheel drive vehicles with little elevation changes and no road edge drops. Mountain Stormy Weather Closed In The weather seemed reasonable so why not? Although it was a little cloudy it was pleasantly mild. A short time in along the narrow unpaved road, changeable mountain weather closed in for the worst. No room to turn back. Persistent rain and heavy ground level cloud. Howling wind gusts. The road base had become extremely slippery. Especially on a few raising hairpin bends with loose stones underneath. I soon found myself driving all the way in first gear at a low speed so as not to lose traction. Fortunately, only light braking was required. Even with these precautions the car was still sliding occasionally towards the undriveable road verge. I hoped not to meet any oncoming vehicles as there was very little room to pass. I reached the Horn's small carpark. Fog so heavy I could not see beyond the carpark. I did a multi-point turn in the flat small parking area. Unbelievably both the front car wheels were still sliding here on the multi-point turn. I was able to turn about and drove first gear all the way back to the sealed road. An unintended edgy experience. I did not see any other vehicles of any kind. Although early autumn, weather was like a cold and very wet, windy winter's day. I captured the drive on dashcam. I believe the road would be acceptable if not for the adverse weather. To this day, I don't know how good the lookout view is. Apparently, it's one of the best scenic views in Victoria, if not Australia on a clear day. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP Mt HOTHAM GOOGLE MAPS Mt BUFFALO GOOGLE MAPS Mt Buffalo Road Mountain Roadside Waterfall In the Mountains Horn Lookout drive & adverse Mountain weather Horn Lookout drive & 1st gear Mustang GT Molly's high country & Horn Lookout, Mount Buffalo roadtrip. Showing the Horn Lookout view in clear weather. Views may be obscured any time of year. Even in summer. In peak season, a small staffed portable food & drink kiosk may be available in the large carpark before beginning the drive along Horn Lookout Road. Thankyou to Molly Dixon Youtube channel for enabling sharing. Nice video. Traveldriven THE HORN ROAD & LOOKOUT MORE INFORMATION https://www.visitbright.com.au/listing/the-horn-picnic-area-mount-buffalo-national-park/ MOUNT BUFFALO WIKIPEDIA PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Great Alpine Road Located in Victoria, Australia. Tourists drive the towns of Omeo and Bright and in-between they pass through Mount Hotham and its sprawling Resort this being the highest part of the road in the Victorian Alps. A distance of one hundred and ten km and a little less than a two-hour drive between the two towns. The Great Alpine Road is entirely sealed. It received its current name as it is regarded as the mountainous counterpart to Victoria's renowned Great Ocean Road. Mustang Gt It is a very pleasant drive in the summer months driving a Mustang GT. The Great Alpine Road is occasionally closed in winter due to snow covering the road. Vehicle snow chains may need to be carried during the declared snow season. A legal requirement. The Great Ocean Road is an easy drive in summer. Omeo is about a five hour drive outside of Melbourne. A great escape to the cooler mountains during the hot summer months prevailing in the Victorian countryside. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP BRIGHT GOOGLE MAPS OMEO GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE OMEO TO BRIGHT THE GREAT ALPINE ROAD VICTORIA MOUNT BUFFALO ROAD MUSTANG IN THE ALPINE COUNTRY OMEO TOWNSHIP OMEO REST BREAK HILLTOP HOTEL OMEO BRIGHT TOWN CENTRE GREAT ALPINE ROAD AUSTRALIA GOOGLE MAPS PREV MUSTANG GT NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Kangaroos and Driving Kangaroos are often dazzled by headlights or startled by engine noise. These animals are known to often jump in front of road traffic. 'Beware of kangaroos' signs are commonplace in Australia. Throughout mainland Australia all drivers on roads may encounter kangaroos hopping around them or in front of their vehicle. Also, the smaller wallaby is likely to dart across in front of cars. Dusk and dawn is a particular risky time in rural settings. Remember if there is one wildlife road hazard out in front, there's almost certain to be multiple wildlife in the same place at the same time. Do not avoid the first and then hit the second emerging from the roadside. Do not leave the road and all ways brake straight. Even if it means a collision with wildlife. There may be available a phone number to report injured wildlife. The kangaroo population of the Grampians National Park is amongst the highest in the state of Victoria. As a result, serious vehicle collisions do occur. Kangaroos are a significant roadside hazard. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP HALLS GAP GOOGLE MAPS HALL'S GAP KANGAROO'S DRIVING HAZARD ROAD KILL PARTS $165 BROKEN INDICATOR, HEADLIGHT SURROUND & BONNET ALIGNMENT KANGAROO DAMAGE OF NIGHT BEFORE FIVE MINUTES DRIVE FROM WESTERN H/W GRAMPIANS ROAD, HALLS GAP TO STAWELL KANGAROO HOPPED RIGHT TO LEFT PREVIOUS NIGHT ON WET ROAD TYRE SKID MARKS TRY TO BRAKE BEHIND WILDLIFE IF POSSIBLE NEVER LEAVE THE SEALED ROAD KANGAROO BLOOD NEXT MORNING BLOOD STAINS ON ROAD KANGAROO RIP THE END RESULT A KILLED KANGAROO BUSY HALLS GAP DURING EASTER PREV GRAMPIANS NEXT PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Point Cook A bayside suburb of Melbourne. Twenty-two km south-west of the CBD. Point Cook has an operational RAAF Base. It is the birthplace of the Royal Australian Air Force and is the home of the RAAF Museum. Point Cook wetlands surround much of the base. Prior reservations obtained online are required to enter the Base and view the museum. RAAF Base Point Cook On entry to the security gatehouse visitors are issued with a day pass and continue driving to a carpark near to the museum. Old barrack buildings still remain. 'Warning beware of snakes' signs are placed on the outside walls of many of the old barracks. These areas are out of bounds to the public. People on the day, which was hot, didn't see any snakes. All public walkways are well clear and signposted. A few of the static strike aircraft on display are: McDonnell Douglas F-4E Phantom McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet General Dynamics F-111G (nicknamed the flying pig) There are many other non-strike static aircraft displays. A one plane flying display with commentary is performed on selected days for the gathering of people attending the museum. This is performed above the main runway by a piston propelled warplane of a previous era. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP RAAF BASE POINT COOK GOOGLE MAPS RAAF MUSEUM POINT COOK RAAF RETIRED VISITOR PASS DISUSED BARRACKS BEWARE OF SNAKES SIGNAGE Dassault Mirage III THE FLYING PIG F111 F I-11 FIGHTER BOMBER STATIC DISPLAY AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE TIGER MOTH McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

The Hotham Alpine Resort is a Victorian ski resort. Located on the slopes of Mount Hotham. The ski resort comprises an alpine village, situated at an altitude of 1,750 metres (5,740 ft) above mean sea level. Hotham Alpine Resort is located along the Great Alpine Road. Mount Hotham along with Dinner Plain boasts a maximum number of 7,000 beds during peak snow season. Driving the Great Alpine Road Embarking on a picturesque journey along the Great Alpine Road during the enchanting autumn months provided a unique and unforgettable experience. As I traversed through the winding roads, nature decided to surprise me with a touch of winter magic as Mount Hotham was blanketed with its first layer of snow for the season shortly after my passage. Falling light snow melting as it touched the surrounding hills allowing a safe wheel chain free drive through the mountains. The weather took a dramatic turn as I made my way through the region, encountering heavy rain and strong winds that swept across Dinner Plain during the late morning and followed by a similar weather pattern driving through Mount Hotham in the mid-afternoon. Navigating through the challenging conditions with my fog lights illuminating the path ahead, I continued my journey through thick fog of low clouds, eventually arriving at the charming town of Bright nestled on the other side of the majestic mountains. Autumn and winter a blend of seasons that added a unique charm to the landscape. The changing weather conditions only added to the allure of the journey, making it a truly memorable adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns. Large trucks are a common sight on the Great Alpine Road, traversing the winding mountainous terrain with their massive size and power. These trucks play a crucial role in transporting goods and materials across the region, ensuring that essential supplies reach their destinations efficiently. Seasonal Weather During the snow season, the road conditions on the Great Alpine Road can become treacherous and challenging to navigate. As a result, car wheel chains are not just recommended but required to enhance traction and ensure the safety of drivers and passengers. These chains provide vehicles with the necessary grip to manoeuvre through the icy and snowy roads, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring a smoother journey. Outside of the cold winter months wheel chains should not be needed as any snow has melted. Both large trucks and regular vehicles must adhere to changing road conditions as the impact of adverse weather conditions of rain and wind on travel along the Great Alpine Road may occur at any time of year. By following these guidelines, drivers can help maintain the flow of traffic and prevent disruptions caused by inclement weather, ultimately promoting safety for all road users. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP HOTHAM ALPINE RESORT GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME BRIGHT GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE VICTORIA GREAT ALPINE ROAD HILLTOP HOTEL OMEO MOUNT HOTHAM ALPINE ROAD PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

Blackwood The small town of Blackwood in Victoria is surrounded by the Wombat State Forest. A drive of about one hour northwest of the Melbourne CBD. There is a population of just a few hundred and the small community experiences cold and wet winters. Even locals are often heard to complain about the cold winter weather. There is a small mineral springs area behind the town centre accessed down a short unpaved road. Enabling those who choose to, to taste free natural mineral water trickling out from the earth. The town has a few small retail and coffee shops, a small post office and a hotel. Most are only open on selected weekdays or the weekend. Spirits At The Pub A captivating event that combines paranormal investigation with a delicious dinner experience. This unique gathering takes place once a month at the renowned Blackwood Hotel, a historic venue known for its mysterious past and eerie ambiance. Participants have the opportunity to explore the hidden corners of the hotel, seeking out signs of supernatural activity and communicating with spirits from another realm. During the investigation, guests are equipped with detecting apparel and guided through various areas of the hotel, including secluded corners where paranormal phenomena are said to occur. Experienced investigators share their knowledge and techniques, providing insights into the world of ghost hunting and the tools used to detect otherworldly presences. After the thrilling investigation, attendees can unwind and share their experiences. The cozy atmosphere of the pub adds to the mystique of the evening, creating a perfect setting for recounting chilling encounters and discussing the mysteries of the spirit world. Whether you're a sceptic or a believer, this experience is sure to leave you intrigued and perhaps even questioning the reality of the unseen forces that linger within the walls of the Blackwood Hotel. Bacchus Marsh Is a city located just off of the Western Freeway in Victoria. About fifty kilometres west of Melbourne. Population greater than twenty thousand. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP BLACKWOOD GOOGLE MAPS BACCHUS MARSH GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE BALLAN-BLACKWOOD-TRENTHAM-GISBORNE-BACCHUS MARSH FOREST DRIVE Driving a two hour loop through the forest. Ballan. Blackwood. Trentham. Gisborne. Bacchus Marsh. DRIVING BLACKWOOD TO TRENTHAM BLACKWOOD HOTEL 'RESURRECTION' est. 1868 Spirits At The Pub. Paranormal Investigation & Dinner Held once monthly. Inside the Blackwood Hotel STEAK SANDWICH, BLACKWOOD HOTEL MAIN BAR BLACKWOOD HOTEL, 'RESURRECTION' DRIVING BACCHUS MARSH PREV VICTORIA NEXT HOMEPAGE