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

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

SCULPTURES ON THE MARSH Derby was the first town established in the Kimberley, marking the start of the initial gold rush. Visitors may be disappointed expecting the Derby foreshore to sparkle with blue ocean. Often on the turn of the tides only large mudflats are seen. The eight sculptures adorning the Derby foreshore and the expansive mudflats serve as a profound tribute to the Warrwa people, who are the traditional custodians of this land. These artistic installations not only enhance the visual landscape of the area but also carry deep cultural significance, reflecting the rich heritage and history of the Warrwa community. The Warrwa People: A Brief Overview The Warrwa people have inhabited the region for thousands of years, developing a deep connection to the land, waterways, and natural resources that surround them. Their cultural practices, stories, and traditions are intricately tied to the environment, which has shaped their way of life. The Warrwa possess a wealth of knowledge regarding the local flora and fauna, and their sustainable practices have ensured the preservation of the land for future generations. The Significance of the Derby Sculptures Each sculpture placed along the foreshore and mudflats is not merely an artistic expression but a narrative that tells the story of the Warrwa people. These works of art are designed to evoke a sense of place and belonging, inviting visitors to reflect on the history and culture of the indigenous community. The materials used in the sculptures often draw inspiration from local resources, that further emphasize the connection between the artwork and the land itself. Traveldriven DERBY GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE - FITZROY CROSSING - DERBY SCULPTURES ON THE MARSH DERBY SIGNAGE MUDCRUB SCULPTURE STORKS SCULPTURE FACE SCULPTURE DERBY JETTY MAIN ROAD INTO DERBY LINED WITH BOAB TREES HISTORIC PRISON BOAB TREE PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT

Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit The circuit has several interesting plaque's dotted around the outside of the track. A few are for former drivers who came to grief at the track. One plaque celebrates the track opening in 1938. The National Motor Racing Museum is located next to the track off of Murray's Corner. Within a short distance from Rydges Motel trackside. The museum has a very interesting collection of both cars and motorbikes. Most if not all, have some time or other raced at Mount Panorama. A rich history of racing going back decades. There is also a well stocked merchandise area. Mustang GT Driving The Mount Panorama track circuit is a two-way public road and it is great fun driving the track in a Mustang GT. Any road going vehicle for that matter. Does not have to be a performance car. I've driven a small normal road going manual car with five gears and with a standard thirteen hundred cc four-cylinder engine on the track and it was great fun. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP BATHURST GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME MOUNT PANORAMA RACING CIRCUIT WIKIPEDIA DRIVING MUSTANG GT BALD HILLS RENAMED MOUNT PANORAMA, 1934 DRIVING MOUNT PANORAMA RACETRACK PUBLIC ROAD BATHURST RYDGES ROOM WALL CAR ART RETIRED V8 DRIVER, ALLAN MOFFAT AT THE NATIONAL MOTOR RACING MUSEUM SCOTT McLAUGHLIN & FORD MUSTANG SUPERCAR MUSTANG SUPERCAR ON TRACK DICK JOHNSON & HITTING THE ROCK BATHURST LAP RECORD AUDI R8 GT3 JENSON BUTTON F1 BATHURST LAP DRIVING BATHURST F1 JENSON BUTTON TICKFORD MUSTANG BATHURST 77 EDITION TICKFORD MUSTANG GT The Tickford Bathurst ’77 Special, is a high performance, limited edition Tickford Mustang GT which pays homage to the Ford Falcon XC Hardtops Allan Moffat and team-mate Colin Bond drove to in a strong 1-2 finish in the 1977 Bathurst 1000. The Tickford Bathurst Special vehicle fitted with a supercharger is quoted as increasing power output to in excess of 727 hp / 542 kw while torque increases to 827 Nm. PREV MUSTANG GT NEXT HOMEPAGE

MUSTANG GT It was Ford Executive John Najjar's idea to name the proposed new car, 'Mustang'. He was a fan of the World War II P-51 Mustang as flown by the USA Airforce. The mustang has been manufactured by Ford since 1964. Accessories A mustang authorised workshop installed the following. LED left and right sequential turn signal lights installation. LED daytime running lights installed. Also LED interior lights and glovebox (not shown). Cold air intake installed. The advantages are to draw in a greater amount of cool air into a car's engine. There are countless Mustang GT driving accessories available. Many are online. Traveldriven MUSTANG GT 6 SPEED MANUAL SEQUENTIAL HAZARD LIGHTS INSTALLED LEFT SEQUENTIAL TURN LIGHTS INSTALLED RIGHT SEQUENTIAL TURN LIGHTS INSTALLED TRI-BAR LIGHTS & LED LIGHTS BRIGHT WHITE LED DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS TWO CHROME COIL COVERS FORD RACING CHROME COIL COVER BEFORE COLD AIR INTAKE INSTALLATION STANDARD ENGINE BAY COLD AIR INTAKE ON CAR ROUSH COLD AIR INTAKE AND CHROME FORD COVER MUSTANG GT XFORCE CAT-BACK SYSTEM Stainless steel twin 3" cat-back varex rear mufflers. Xpipe and muffler Butterfly open/close noise control Remote control operated by driver. Expected increase of up to twenty horsepower. XFORCE STAINLESS STEEL MUSTANG XFORCE SYSTEM FITTING FUEL COVER NUMB HANDS & WEAKENED ARMS WASN'T AS EASY AS I THOUGHT MUSTANG GT FUEL COVER PREV MUSTANG GT NEXT HOMEPAGE

BIRDWOOD DOWNS The station is conveniently located just off the Gibb River Road, approximately twenty kilometres from the town of Derby, which serves as a key access point for travellers venturing into the breathtaking landscapes of the Kimberley region. An excellent sealed road runs directly past the main gate entrance, ensuring that visitors can reach the station with ease and comfort, regardless of the type of vehicle they are driving. This well-maintained road is a significant advantage, as it allows for smoother travel and easier access to the station's facilities. As one continues along the Gibb River Road, the bitumen eventually gives way to a 4WD unsealed road, which meanders into the heart of the Kimberley for an impressive 660 kilometres before finally exiting near the town of Wyndham. This section of the road is known for its rough and rugged conditions, presenting a more adventurous challenge for those who choose to explore the unspoiled wilderness of the region. ENTERING BIRDWOOD DOWNS STATION Birdwood Downs remains highly accessible from Derby, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned adventurers and families looking to experience the beauty of the Australian outback without the need for specialised vehicles. The main entrance to Birdwood Downs features a closed swing gate, which is an important aspect of the station's operations. All travellers are required to close the gate behind them upon entry or exit, as Birdwood Downs is a working station where livestock is present. An open gate could easily allow stock to wander off, potentially leading to complications in managing the animals. This emphasis on responsible access reflects the station's commitment to maintaining its operational integrity while welcoming visitors. From the main gate, there is a short drive of about three to four kilometres that leads to the station buildings, where visitors can find accommodation in Savannah huts and a designated camping area. The camping facilities with shady trees provide comfortable spots for caravans and setting up tents and enjoying the natural surroundings. The ambiance is enhanced by the presence of resident wildlife, including wandering peacocks and chooks (chickens), which often pay visits to the campsites, adding a touch of charm and liveliness to the experience. These friendly creatures can be quite entertaining and are a delightful part of the station's unique atmosphere. The old homestead may be inspected but it is really just a shell with an intact roof, open sides and suspect wooden floors. For those in need of assistance or looking to purchase supplies, Birdwood Downs features a staffed office that caters to inquiries and offers a selection of basic items for sale. This includes refreshments such as drinks and snack food, as well as various merchandise that allows visitors to take a piece of their adventure home with them. The office serves as a hub of information, providing insights into the workings of the station. As night falls, a communal fire pit becomes a central gathering place for travellers. This inviting space offers warmth and an atmosphere where fellow adventurers can come together to share stories and experiences from their journeys. The flickering flames create a welcoming environment, encouraging camaraderie among guests as they recount their travel tales and forge new friendships. The communal fire pit not only serves as a source of warmth but also enhances the overall experience of an overnight stay at Birdwood Downs, making it a memorable and enriching part of any visit to this remarkable outback station. Traveldriven DERBY GOOGLE MAPS BIRDWOOD DOWNS STATION WEBSITE DRIVE - DERBY - BIRDWOOD DOWNS STATION OPEN & CLOSE THE MAIN GATE FIRE PIT YARNS RESTING OUTSIDE BIRDWOOD DOWNS OFFICE SAVANNAH HUT & BOAB TREES OLD HOMESTEAD KITCHEN THE GIBB RIVER ROAD PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT

CROSS THE BORDER INTO WESTERN AUSTRALIA Everything seems to be larger in Western Australia. With over 12,500 km of coastline. It is Australia's largest state and is about one third of the continent. In comparison the state is ten times larger than the United Kingdom. Has the longest stretch of straight railway in the world and also the second longest straight road in the world, called the '90-mile Straight' (146.6 km) in length. This is a section of road along the Eyre Highway. The top one third of the state is in the tropical zone. Western Australia comprises a vast wheatbelt in the lower southern areas of the state. Western Australia contains four of the largest deserts in Australia. These are. Great Sandy Desert. Gibson Desert. Great Victoria Desert. The Tanami Desert. In the northernmost part of the state, all westbound vehicles from the Northern Territory on the Victoria Highway must stop at a fruit quarantine checkpoint located 40 km east of Kununurra inside the Western Australian border. IVANHOE CROSSING A popular water crossing spot for 4wd driver enthusiasts and for fishing. The crossing is about a ten-minute drive outside of Kununurra and water flows year-round over the river crossing. Other alternative routes are available for those not wishing to do a water crossing. The concrete causeway is five hundred and forty metres long (1,772 feet) and five point three metres wide or seventeen feet. The crossing is closed during the wet season. However, and often unseen, are large saltwater crocodiles inhabiting the area. Crocodile attacks have occurred in the vicinity of Ivanhoe Crossing. Traveldriven WESTERN AUSTRALIA QUARANTINE ROADSTOP IN BACKGROUND KUNUNURRA MARKET DAY CROCODILE WARNINGS ON APPROACH TO IVANHOE CROSSING IVANHOE CROSSING ORD RIVER IVANHOE CROSSING FLOODED DRIVING THE DANGEROUS IVANHOE CROSSING CAMP NEXT TO BOAB TREES PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT