6th October
Well we have arrived home safely and before long are back into the swing of everyday life. Kids are back at school, D's back at work and the weeks begin to the lead up for Christmas. Growing up I always heard how much some hated Christmas. It can be a very trying time and expensive as well but at the end of the day it is very special and we always need to remember that. So I am going to be organised and start preparing. 11 weeks I have to do just that.
I am sure you are all wondering why I got off the track a bit from talking about a wonderful holiday to the countdown of Christmas. I believe we should always have something to look forward to so now that our holiday is over I look forward to the festive season and all the yummy food and wine that comes with it.
Now, back onto the subject of our holiday.
It was all very worth it. We experienced four sections of our holiday. The first was areas of nothing, areas of scrub and areas of very dry. One of the few Australian set backs is that sometimes you have to travel through a lot of nothing to get to something wonderful.
Our second was the Flinders. A place that resembles not too many places anywhere else here is Aussie land. The colours of the landscape, the contours of the ranges and the harsh surviving land are reasons that everyone should come and see it for yourselves.
Our third was the departure of a dry and hot place to a coastal location of cold winds, sea mists and lots of ocean. The Yorke Peninsula is definitely an area of healthy and abundant farming and living, a complete opposite to the Flinders Ranges.
Our final part was the pleasant wander along the banks of the Mighty Murray River. A true gem she is, along with her history and the grand vessels that travel her.
In general the caravan parks were reasonably priced, clean and friendly. However I do have some negatives to say.
Firstly unfortunately the price increase for children in the caravan parks has increased over time more than the cost of the tariff for just 2 adults. When we first started caravanning the price of an extra child was between $3 & $5. $5 always seemed to be very expensive. At that time also caravanning was not as popular and there were less of the large and expensive vans coming in. Now an extra child is most of the time between $8 & $10. If you are staying at a Big 4 or a Top Tourist you pay $10 per extra child. Broken Hill Top Tourist was the most expensive caravan park in our entire trip coming in at $58 per night. The park was neat and tidy but very dated. Wellington Caves Caravan Park on the other hand was also neat and tidy, had new amenities and charged us $31 for the night. Wellington Caves ran rings around Broken Hill. Why is this so? Supply and demand of the grey nomads? It almost feels that by making the childrens' tariffs higher they protect the major increase in the initial tariff!
Merna Mora Station in the Flinders charged a flat $30 per powered per night whether there was two of you or 10 of you. Thank you Merna Mora.
I understand that everything is expensive these days but I don't believe that our boys use $20 per night more electricity and water that just the two of us.
Lastly on a negative note sorry but Yass Caravan Park is not worth stopping at. The bathrooms were ok regarding cleanliness but more so they crammed the vans in so close that there was no room to deploy your awning. That's how close we were altogether. In some instances there was only an arms length between vans. We paid $40 per night. Never again.
Don't think that my negative comments about caravan parks will stop us. That is what it is. It is still cheaper than staying in motels or apartments however we do bring our house with us!!!!
Free camping can combat this problem and that is what we did at Menindee Lakes. Great location and beautiful with all that water. If you have a van that is permanently set up for this kind of thing I can see why more and more people are doing this especially regarding the rising cost of staying in caravan parks. Thank you to the person who invented 12 volt capabilities and of course to the wonderful writers and researchers of Camps Australia Wide.
We did experience some extremes regarding the weather. The first couple of days were absolutely perfect with warm days and cool nights. The Flinders gave us hot strong northerly winds and temperatures over 37 degress whipping up the dust like there was no tomorrow. Then the Yorke Peninsula also gave us strong winds but from the south so they were cold and wet. Then the last couple of days were back to perfect. We all know that travelling you are certainly at the whim of the weather.
On a final note our holiday was wonderful and full of fun. My favourite parts were all of the Flinders and of course seeing the Adelaide. I am sure we will be back to the Murray sooner than later but once the kids are no longer wanting to come on holidays with us we will venture back to the Flinders to see everything we missed the first time.
Check out Merna Mora Station on Facebook as well as the Chocolate Apply Factory at Shepparton. Also check out my Colonial Girl Facebook page.
Until again...
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Yass
5th October
When your vehicle does its last turn that puts you in the direction of home you tend to stay in that position because once home is in sight you realise that that is where you want to be.
Our last night of our trip was in Yass. This was only because it was in the line of home and was located at a reasonable position for our last leg.
On our way though we did stop at Gundagai for lunch at the famous Dog on the Tuckerbox.
The caravan park at Yass was full to the brim and had no television reception. Thus at 8.30pm there were no lights on in the caravans except for ours of course. We were the only non grey nomads! The kids sounded much louder than normal as you could have heard a pin drop!
So tomorrow is home sweet home.
Until again...
When your vehicle does its last turn that puts you in the direction of home you tend to stay in that position because once home is in sight you realise that that is where you want to be.
Our last night of our trip was in Yass. This was only because it was in the line of home and was located at a reasonable position for our last leg.
On our way though we did stop at Gundagai for lunch at the famous Dog on the Tuckerbox.
The caravan park at Yass was full to the brim and had no television reception. Thus at 8.30pm there were no lights on in the caravans except for ours of course. We were the only non grey nomads! The kids sounded much louder than normal as you could have heard a pin drop!
So tomorrow is home sweet home.
Until again...
Friday, October 5, 2012
Shepparton
4th October
I am a very happy little camper. As you would have read in my post yesterday I was hoping that the PS Adelaide would grace our company at Pental Island Caravan Park.
At 6.45am I woke up to a paddle steamer whistle which was the indication that the Adelaide had left Swan Hill and was heading up the river. The owner had said that it was an hour and a half trip to the park. So to be on the safe side I took my trusty camp chair and sat on the banks of the Murray at 8am waiting. It was very peaceful and beautiful so the wait didn't bother me at all.
Then at 8.40am the PS Adelaide arrived blowing her whistle and paddling fast. She had been on her journey for almost one month and was headed home to Echuca.
Seeing her at Echuca is one thing, but to see her heading up the river with no commercialisation around was a huge thing for me. What I had considered to be bad timing not to see her at Mildura turned out to be good timing after all.
My previous blog also indicated that we would stay at Corowa after visiting the SPC Ardmona Factory at Shepparton. Well our plans changed.
After spending some time at the Historic Port of Echuca and indulging in a pie and a nenish tart we realised that going to Corowa would make it too big of a day. So we booked into the Big 4 at Shepparton early afternoon and spent the rest of the day shopping.
Our first stop was the SPC Factory with lots of great bargains - not just cans either. One lady who works there told me that people from as far away as Tasmania incorporate the factory into their travels because of the great bargains to be had. Only problem is finding space in the trusty Jayco swan for our purchases.
The second stop was the Chocolate Apple Factory which was recommended to us by the caravan park. This lady coats apples in chocolate then decorates them with all sorts of yummy things. They are so good she has even patented her idea.
So tomorrow we are on the downhill run for home. We'll see where we get too.
Until again...
I am a very happy little camper. As you would have read in my post yesterday I was hoping that the PS Adelaide would grace our company at Pental Island Caravan Park.
At 6.45am I woke up to a paddle steamer whistle which was the indication that the Adelaide had left Swan Hill and was heading up the river. The owner had said that it was an hour and a half trip to the park. So to be on the safe side I took my trusty camp chair and sat on the banks of the Murray at 8am waiting. It was very peaceful and beautiful so the wait didn't bother me at all.
Then at 8.40am the PS Adelaide arrived blowing her whistle and paddling fast. She had been on her journey for almost one month and was headed home to Echuca.
Seeing her at Echuca is one thing, but to see her heading up the river with no commercialisation around was a huge thing for me. What I had considered to be bad timing not to see her at Mildura turned out to be good timing after all.
My previous blog also indicated that we would stay at Corowa after visiting the SPC Ardmona Factory at Shepparton. Well our plans changed.
After spending some time at the Historic Port of Echuca and indulging in a pie and a nenish tart we realised that going to Corowa would make it too big of a day. So we booked into the Big 4 at Shepparton early afternoon and spent the rest of the day shopping.
Our first stop was the SPC Factory with lots of great bargains - not just cans either. One lady who works there told me that people from as far away as Tasmania incorporate the factory into their travels because of the great bargains to be had. Only problem is finding space in the trusty Jayco swan for our purchases.
The second stop was the Chocolate Apple Factory which was recommended to us by the caravan park. This lady coats apples in chocolate then decorates them with all sorts of yummy things. They are so good she has even patented her idea.
So tomorrow we are on the downhill run for home. We'll see where we get too.
Until again...
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| PS Adelaide |
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Swan Hill
3rd October
Do you like an almond or two? Do you like them roasted, lightly salted, smoked or flavoured? Well Renmark is the place for you. Almondco takes pride on the main road into Renmark. Any style almond you like they have.
Today with our travels we lost 1/2 hour as we entered back into eastern standard time. We actually entered three different states today. We left SA, entered VIC, over into NSW then back into VIC. Euston was our destination for lunch (of course this was on the banks of the Murray), through Robinvale then onto Swan Hill. Most of the countryside was interesting to look at especially when the road got very close to the Murray and we could see how full it really is. Between Boundary Bend and Swan Hill there are lots of brown road signs that just say "River" that we would assume would take you to places to camp. I am sure the Camps Australia book would be able to confirm this. I will check it out upon my return.
For the last couple of weeks I have been following on facebook the progress of the PS Adelaide from Echuca to Mildura. I had wished that we would be somewhere along the Murray to see this very special event. I was disappointed that it would not be.
However after arriving in Swan Hill today I find out that the Adelaide has made it to Swan Hill on its way home and is heading up the river past where we are staying tomorrow. I am hoping that it will pass by before we leave.
And where are we staying? Pental Island Caravan Park. This is a caravan park on a farm with beautiful river frontage. One of the best locations I have ever stayed at. I wish that we were staying longer. As I sit here writing my blog I can hear nothing but sheep. If any of you know me well there are plenty of wagon wheels taking up heaps of space - very tempting but it is not as if you can hide them under your jumper as you leave!!!!
Tomorrow we head to Echuca and onto Corowa.
Until again....
Do you like an almond or two? Do you like them roasted, lightly salted, smoked or flavoured? Well Renmark is the place for you. Almondco takes pride on the main road into Renmark. Any style almond you like they have.
Today with our travels we lost 1/2 hour as we entered back into eastern standard time. We actually entered three different states today. We left SA, entered VIC, over into NSW then back into VIC. Euston was our destination for lunch (of course this was on the banks of the Murray), through Robinvale then onto Swan Hill. Most of the countryside was interesting to look at especially when the road got very close to the Murray and we could see how full it really is. Between Boundary Bend and Swan Hill there are lots of brown road signs that just say "River" that we would assume would take you to places to camp. I am sure the Camps Australia book would be able to confirm this. I will check it out upon my return.
For the last couple of weeks I have been following on facebook the progress of the PS Adelaide from Echuca to Mildura. I had wished that we would be somewhere along the Murray to see this very special event. I was disappointed that it would not be.
However after arriving in Swan Hill today I find out that the Adelaide has made it to Swan Hill on its way home and is heading up the river past where we are staying tomorrow. I am hoping that it will pass by before we leave.
And where are we staying? Pental Island Caravan Park. This is a caravan park on a farm with beautiful river frontage. One of the best locations I have ever stayed at. I wish that we were staying longer. As I sit here writing my blog I can hear nothing but sheep. If any of you know me well there are plenty of wagon wheels taking up heaps of space - very tempting but it is not as if you can hide them under your jumper as you leave!!!!
Tomorrow we head to Echuca and onto Corowa.
Until again....
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| View of the Murray from Pental Island Caravan Park |
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| 100 year old shearing shed on farm |
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| Shearing Yards and River |
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Renmark
2nd October
After leaving the Peninsula we travelled across country to the Clare Valley where we visited three of my favourite wineries in the Valley.
Firstly we tried Sevenhill Winery, then Annie's Lane then onto Taylors. I feel that the Riesling here is beautiful as well as the wooded chardonnay.
Next town was Morgan where we came across the Mighty Murray for the first time on our trip. We had lunch in the park then continued onto Renmark.
Many times we have passed through Renmark and had a look at the PS Industry which takes pride at the wharf. Today was special because it was open to walk on. She had her 100 year anniversary last year.
We are staying at the Top Tourist Riverbend Caravan Park. As it suggests we are right on the Murray. This is a lovely park with wonderful powered sites right on the river. Note to self: come back here and spend a week relaxing and more relaxing.
So tomorrow we continue down the Sturt Highway to Swan Hill. It has been a while since we travelled this road but I always look forward to being and travelling near the Murray.
Until again...
After leaving the Peninsula we travelled across country to the Clare Valley where we visited three of my favourite wineries in the Valley.
Firstly we tried Sevenhill Winery, then Annie's Lane then onto Taylors. I feel that the Riesling here is beautiful as well as the wooded chardonnay.
Next town was Morgan where we came across the Mighty Murray for the first time on our trip. We had lunch in the park then continued onto Renmark.
Many times we have passed through Renmark and had a look at the PS Industry which takes pride at the wharf. Today was special because it was open to walk on. She had her 100 year anniversary last year.
We are staying at the Top Tourist Riverbend Caravan Park. As it suggests we are right on the Murray. This is a lovely park with wonderful powered sites right on the river. Note to self: come back here and spend a week relaxing and more relaxing.
So tomorrow we continue down the Sturt Highway to Swan Hill. It has been a while since we travelled this road but I always look forward to being and travelling near the Murray.
Until again...
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| View down the Murray at Renmark |
Monday, October 1, 2012
Heading Off
1st October
Well there really isn't much more to say about the Yorke Peninsula.
For all you history buffs we visited the Moonta Mines and saw a couple of old enginehouses. They were very grand indeed - reminded me of Burra but of course they were once all for copper mining.
My three lovely men in my life and myself took a lovely stroll along the beach at Port Hughes and walked to the end of the Jetty. We met a man there who was waiting for the right conditions to catch sharks. It was so windy you could feel the Jetty moving in the wind.
Farewell Port Hughes you are a lovely location (except next time don't give us any wind). We are headed tomorrow up through the Clare Valley to get some vino and then onto Renmark.
Until again...
Well there really isn't much more to say about the Yorke Peninsula.
For all you history buffs we visited the Moonta Mines and saw a couple of old enginehouses. They were very grand indeed - reminded me of Burra but of course they were once all for copper mining.
My three lovely men in my life and myself took a lovely stroll along the beach at Port Hughes and walked to the end of the Jetty. We met a man there who was waiting for the right conditions to catch sharks. It was so windy you could feel the Jetty moving in the wind.
Farewell Port Hughes you are a lovely location (except next time don't give us any wind). We are headed tomorrow up through the Clare Valley to get some vino and then onto Renmark.
Until again...
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| Something east coasters never see - the sun setting over the ocean |
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Down one Side and Up the Other
29th September
Well finally luck was on our side and the weather conditions were back to normal by the time we woke up.
Well finally luck was on our side and the weather conditions were back to normal by the time we woke up.
We did some exploring of the Peninsula today. We visited the
seaside markets at Stansbury, had lunch at a lovely town called Edithburgh
(very Cornish preserved), saw beautiful coloured water for this area at Point
Turton and then north heading home lastly checking out Moonta. I have to say
that Moonta and Edithburgh were both my favourites.
It is very easy travelling the Peninsula as the roads are in
great condition and extremely straight. There are an abundance of crops and
livestock around. This is a massive difference to the baron and dry conditions
of farming in the Flinders.
The weather is fine but cold – again complete opposite to
the conditions in the Flinders.
So for the next two days we stay put relaxing and more
relaxing. I am sure that my father-in-law is itching to catch as many squid as
possible off the huge jetty near the park. Salt and pepper calamari here we
come.
Until again…
The Yorke Peninsula, SA
28th September
We then took a detour to Port Augusta and had a look. In my
opinion it is not a very pretty town – I would call it more industrial. However we did find the Water Tower Lookout and saw some good views.
We then headed south down the western side of the Yorke
Peninsula passing through Port Pirie and arriving in Port Hughes. The section
of the caravan park that we are staying at is on the foreshore. And yep you
guessed it, the same low pressure system that gave us curry at Merna Mora was
waiting for us at Port Hughes.
Today we left Merna Mora but not without a blast – literally
blasts of wind roared during the last night of our stay. Unfortunately when you
are travelling you are at the whim of the weather and that was certainly the
case.
Our trusty Swan again served its purpose and stayed intact –
thank god! But it was not pleasant at all. The owner had told me that day that
the winds were not normal for this time of year. Yippee for us. Not only was
the night roaring wind but it was incredibly hot as well. The windows had to be
opened but because of the wind we were basically eating dust.
Aside that nasty wind front we really enjoyed our stay at
Merna Mora and would recommend it to anyone. I was sad to leave.
We travelled through Hawker and onto Quorn. In between we
visited some wonderful old ruins call Kanyaka Homestead. This was once a huge
sheep station which in one year sheared 40,000 head. It would have been very
grand and majestic in its day. |
| Kanyaka Ruins |
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| Port Augusta from the Water Tower Lookout |
It is a lovely place to stay with the jetty right near the
park and magnificent views of the Spencer Gulf but the wind was blowing like 60
bastards and we all know what 40 bastards feel like!!!! We have to be patient
and see what tomorrow brings.
Until again…
Merna Mora 4WDing
27th September
Today is very windy and so far has hit 37 degrees. We are
all struggling considering we are people from a cooler climate. Being in a caravan is
also not enjoyable when strong winds are prevailing. But our trusty Jayco Swan
has been in very strong southerly winds so we have every faith in her.
Oh I forgot to mention the dust. It is absolutely putrid. Dust everywhere in the van and you can never really feel clean. The black dragon now looks a grey colour.
Today is our last day to explore the Flinders.
Merna Mora offers 4WD tracks on their property. We paid $45
and did their Heritage Trail. It took us past the history of Merna Mora, the
family’s old homestead and the remnants of the Ghan railway. Once we ventured
further the track became very rough and steep. At least we got to explore part
of the 130,000 acres of the property. At stages it offered great views of the
area – our youngest believed it resembled Arizona in the USA. |
| Merna Mora Ruins |
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| Morning Tea in one of Merna Mora's creek beds |
Oh I forgot to mention the dust. It is absolutely putrid. Dust everywhere in the van and you can never really feel clean. The black dragon now looks a grey colour.
So tomorrow we pack up and head to the third stage of our
holiday which is on the coast of the Yorke Peninsula. I am sure we may
experience complete opposite temperatures when we arrive. The boys want to go
swimming but you never know just how cold the water may be. I believe that the
first order of business when we arrive will be to wash and clean everything.
First time in my life I won’t mind housework at all!!!!!
Until again…
Farina
26th September
Down to Lyndhurst where basically is only famous for being
the start of the Strzelecki Track.
Down to Leigh Creek where all the houses look the same and is basically a town for the coal miners. It was very neat and full of services. No need to turn off into there again. Been once and that is enough.
Today we drove to Farina. This is a deserted and dusty town
full of ruins which originated due to the Ghan Railway. Over the time the town
slowly died and is falling down.
If I learnt any lesson today it was that I am so glad that I
wasn’t a pioneer woman living in Farina in the late 1800s! |
| Farina Ruins |
Down to Leigh Creek where all the houses look the same and is basically a town for the coal miners. It was very neat and full of services. No need to turn off into there again. Been once and that is enough.
At Beltana Roadhouse we turned off and went to the historic
town of Beltana. Most of the buildings here are still in good shape. Clearly a
lot of them are still lived in which helps. It still was a very deserted
looking town – you could call it on the verge of being a ghost town.
Further on down the road we drove the Parachilna Gorge Drive
which was again another really good and well maintained road. This gorge had
lots of campers probably because it was so close to the main road. We drove to
Blinman and turned off to do a round trip using a PAR (Public Access Road)
which would take us to Artimore Ruins and Nuccaleena Mine. |
| Parachilna Gorge |
Things didn’t go as planned. The start of the road was fine
but when we turned off onto the PAR that’s when things ceased to be fun. The
first problem was we thought that the PAR would have been in almost as good as
condition as all the other roads we had been using. Unfortunately that was not
the case – the road probably had never been maintained. Our bible and map had
given us the absolute correct information but we were unaware of the actual
state of these PARs. We didn’t have a lot of time so slow going made us very
late. We wouldn’t have minded if we were on our own but because my
father-in-law was following we were totally aware of his tiredness and desire
to finish. What made matters worse was the Artimore Ruins probably didn’t stand
up to the hassle of getting there. If there had been plenty of time maybe our
attitudes would have been better. Because of all this I missed out on seeing
the Nuccaleena Mine.
We didn’t get back to the Station until quite late then
everything was rushed to have dinner and get to bed. What would have been a
good day turned into ½ a good day. All things aside though I personally enjoyed
the drive especially through Hannigan’s Gap and thought that parts were
magnificent. Maybe I need to stop worrying about what other people are thinking!!!!!!
Until again…
Flinders Ranges
25th September
Today was our first day to explore. Thanks to Ron Moon’s bible of the Flinders Ranges we had much information of where to go and what to see.
From there we did the Bunyeroo Gorge Drive. Another
beautiful drive and very easy to do. Dust everywhere though.
We checked out the Aroona Ruins then drove through the Brachina Gorge. Now that was a beautiful drive – the best of the day. Again well maintained and we passed just as many sedans as 4wds.
Until again…
Today was our first day to explore. Thanks to Ron Moon’s bible of the Flinders Ranges we had much information of where to go and what to see.
Firstly we drove the “Moralana Scenic Drive”. This drive is
said to be the best drive in the Flinders Ranges. This was very beautiful and a
very well maintained road and could really have been done in a sedan (good
weather permitting of course).
This drive came out on the road to Wilpena. This was a very
busy place (being the school holidays) with lots of places to park your van or
camper trailer. There were many powered sites and unpowered sites as well. At
Wilpena you can purchase most things including fuel. It was here that you could
walk to the edge of the pound. We couldn’t do that this time but will certainly
come back in the near future to see the pound.
We paid a small fee and visited the Old Wilpena Station
which was once a large sheep station. The main homestead has been well looked
after and is used as offices for the property. All the other outbuildings were
in relatively good condition. Thank god for the many different groups who get
together to help restore them. |
| Outbuilding on Old Wilpena Pound Station |
We checked out the Aroona Ruins then drove through the Brachina Gorge. Now that was a beautiful drive – the best of the day. Again well maintained and we passed just as many sedans as 4wds.
As mentioned in my last blog the start of the Moralana Drive
was opposite the entrance to Merna Mora and we ended the Brachina Gorge Drive
20kms north. Too easy.
Until again…
Broken Hill to Merna Mora
24th September
Today we left Broken Hill and headed over the border into South Australia. The scenery was pretty boring but I suppose you must expect that when you are heading to a destination that is far away from a lot of things.
As we knew that we had to hand in all our fruit and vegies
at the fruit fly station just into South Australia, we gave away our vegies to
a man at the caravan park at Broken Hill. Along the way between Broken Hill and
the Fruit Fly Station we ate all the fruit we had left. We didn’t know how
fussy they would be in checking our van but lucky for us they only wanted to
check the Engle in the back. They really relied on everyone being honest. Setting
up the van for them to check inside would have slowed us down.
For fuel, lunch and a stretch we stopped at Peterborough. I believe that if this town wasn’t in the path to get to the Flinders Ranges it may have been one of the many towns to struggle to survive. Here we had lunch in a “picture theatre” that was like stepping back in time to the 1940s. We purchased all new fruit and vegies and hit the road again. Peterborough is a lovely town who cater very much for the caravan/camper traveller. There were plenty of places to park your van which is always a big thought when entering a town you don’t know. Prices in their supermarket were also very reasonable – in fact in par with the supermarkets at home.
Until again...
Today we left Broken Hill and headed over the border into South Australia. The scenery was pretty boring but I suppose you must expect that when you are heading to a destination that is far away from a lot of things.
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| Over the border we go |
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| Lots of nothing |
For fuel, lunch and a stretch we stopped at Peterborough. I believe that if this town wasn’t in the path to get to the Flinders Ranges it may have been one of the many towns to struggle to survive. Here we had lunch in a “picture theatre” that was like stepping back in time to the 1940s. We purchased all new fruit and vegies and hit the road again. Peterborough is a lovely town who cater very much for the caravan/camper traveller. There were plenty of places to park your van which is always a big thought when entering a town you don’t know. Prices in their supermarket were also very reasonable – in fact in par with the supermarkets at home.
It took us another 2 ½ hours to get to our destination –
that was stopping for a top up of fuel at Hawker.
Our destination…Merna Mora Station. This station is situated
46kms out of Hawker on the road to Leigh Creek. The Fels are the owners and
have been welcoming visitors to stay at their station for over 40 years. We
have a fully powered site with showers and toilets. Our site is only $30 per
night which, considering we have paid up to $58 in some parks, is a very
reasonable tariff.
The location of Merna Mora is also a bonus in relation to
places in the Flinders. You can get to the start of the scenic drives quite
quickly without double backing all of the time. You are also directly on the
road to Farina and beyond which again allows you to get there and back quickly
without wasting time doing the same roads over and over again.
Before coming to the Flinders Ranges I thought that the only
place to really stay was at Wilpena Pound. However after reading a blog I found
out about Merna Mora. There are a few other stations around here to stay at but
having stayed at Merna Mora I would not hesitate to come back again. Wilpena
Pound is quite far away from all places to visit other than the pound itself.
Their average rainfall per year is 80mm so rain ruining your
stay may not be a major factor.
Check out Merna Mora at www.mernamora.com.au.
Telephone (08) 8648 4717.Until again...
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| Merna Mora Station |
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Menindee to Broken Hill
Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd
On Saturday we left Cobar and headed towards Wilcannia. Well
that town hasn’t changed since we were there 13 years ago except that maybe the
main corner store is now closed and boarded up. This town has a bad stigma
attached to it (for reasons we all know) and all businesses are closed except
for the service station which has security screens on every window. This time
however we decided to venture off the main road and see what else Wilcannia had
to offer. Recently I read a report that the buildings are quite grand and it
was once a large inland city with paddlesteamers visiting often. I must say
that there were a few grand and well maintained buildings but it was all very
quiet with no-one around. There was always a strange smell in the town too.
Didn’t know what it was but I felt uneasy!
We then started on the Menindee-Wilcannia Road. Before
leaving Cobar we taped up all seals of the van and even the lower vent of the
fridge to stop all that dust getting in. We drove on this road for 160kms and
what a good road it was. The condition it was when we used it D said he would
drive it with a sedan. We were pleasantly surprised as we imagined it would be
challenging. However there had been no rain and the day was perfect. So much
for being near the desert was really
green. You could have been travelling to Bathurst if you didn’t know any
better.
 |
| Menindee-Wilcannia Road |
Upon arriving at Menindee we found a secluded campsite on
the banks of the Darling River. Only disadvantage was it was really dusty – you
felt dirty all the time. Unfortunately
the sealing of the van had not been a complete success. We had a bit of dust
but nothing that couldn’t be fixed.
 |
| On the Banks of the Darling |
We enjoyed a camp oven feast of roast lamb and vegies. And
like all campsites there were millions of stars and no noise.
The next day my father-in-law cooked up a great breakfast.
From there we headed to Broken Hill
The caravan park at Broken Hill is neat and clean however
very pricey. Lots and lots of grey nomads that make it difficult to get powered
sites when needed!!! Thus why the parks can charge high rates.
Our first place to visit was Bell’s Milk bar where everyone
tried a different flavour of shake so everyone could have a taste of something
different. It was very 1950s themed and a very popular tourist attraction.
Once the milkshakes were finished we headed out to Silverton
where the boys visited the Mad Max Museum then back to Broken Hill to visit the Living Desert. It was very busy when we
were there as the sun was beginning to set over the sculptures which added to
the loveliness of them.
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| Silverton |
 |
| Mad Max's Car |
Until again…..
Friday, September 21, 2012
Wellington & Cobar (and everything inbetween)
20th September 2012
We all know that before you get to your intended destination you must sometimes encounter some boring parts to get there.
After having lunch with D's parents on the Bogan River at Nyngan we headed off towards Cobar. The countryside became very harsh and uninviting. No farmhouses could be seen from the road – just signs indicating the name of the properties. To live in this neck of the woods one must be certainly a dedicated farmer and must enjoy the company of a small amount of people. Our youngest even commented on the redness of the dirt – something that he hasn’t seen before. D is certainly looking forward to seeing the contrast of red on his black dragon!!!!!
So off to Menindee Lakes tomorrow via the Menindee-Wilcannia
Road on the western side. All reports tell us that the road is open. We will
however take a brief look around Wilcannia to see if the reports are telling
the truth that it clearly once was a grand old town!!!!!!
We all know that before you get to your intended destination you must sometimes encounter some boring parts to get there.
Once we descended off the wonderful mountain all the
paddocks were green and all the dams were full.
At one stage Canola crops were in abundance. Its vibrant yellow crop
against an oats crop made it look like major Australian support – green and
gold stripes.
It took us 3 ½ hours to get to Wellington. The trip was
hassle free and the countryside was beautiful. Here we stayed at the Wellington
Caves Caravan Park – what a lovely park and would definitely stay there again.
Lovely and neat, clean amenities and friendly staff.
The next day off on the road again we headed towards Cobar
and didn’t it start to get boring. Scrub, scrub and more scrub. Through Dubbo,
Narromine, Trangie, Nevertire, Nyngan then Cobar taking us 4 ½ hours. Thank God
for portable DVD players as the boys were as quiet as mice in the back. The
only caravan park in Cobar is full – lucky we booked ahead. Nice and friendly.
The only wildlife on the road was goats. A dear friend of
mine recently visited Broken Hill and she warned me of the abundance of them.
There weren’t that many but a stern looking billy goat with very healthy horns
and a long beard was certainly a highlight.
 |
| Oats & Canola Crop - Go Aussie |
 |
| Wellington's Famous Chimes |
After having lunch with D's parents on the Bogan River at Nyngan we headed off towards Cobar. The countryside became very harsh and uninviting. No farmhouses could be seen from the road – just signs indicating the name of the properties. To live in this neck of the woods one must be certainly a dedicated farmer and must enjoy the company of a small amount of people. Our youngest even commented on the redness of the dirt – something that he hasn’t seen before. D is certainly looking forward to seeing the contrast of red on his black dragon!!!!!
 |
| Nothing much to look at - at least it is straight driving - no car sickness today! |
Until again…..
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Old Gippstown
15th July 2009
Well surely by now you have figured out that one of my many passions is a tour back in time. Thanks to others that have the same passion and to those people who don't throw away their old treasures but donate them to museums, we can visit old towns to commemorate such times.
Another town I must mention is Old Gippstown, Moe. Again, this is a place that protects and maintains buildings that have been brought from all over to replicate living in the farming communities of the Gippsland.
It doesn't cost very much at all for a family to visit but it is certainly worth heaps in teaching our children about such times.
The day we visited was not very busy at all - I hope that this is not a show of the times that people have forgotten or are just not interested in remembering.
If this house was on a farm somewhere up for sale people would be swarming to buy it. Only thing wrong is that the kitchen, as all houses at that time were the same, was a separate building so if the kitchen caught fire the rest of the house would not burn down.
The volunteers are also very special. The men or women who were responsible in building this old beauty would have to have a special interest in this era.
While visiting the fire station, a lovely man even started up the vehicle for our boys. It sounded like it wouldn't necessarily get you to your next stop and gee it stunk of fuel but it was a lovely gesture.
Old Gippstown took us a few hours after lunch to explore. As it wasn't the Victorian school holidays at the time activities had ceased. The lovely old general store was still open for business though and thanks to the lovely fire engine man so was the fire station.
Take a visit soon to Old Gippstown to learn about farming the Gippsland in the old days.
Well surely by now you have figured out that one of my many passions is a tour back in time. Thanks to others that have the same passion and to those people who don't throw away their old treasures but donate them to museums, we can visit old towns to commemorate such times.
Another town I must mention is Old Gippstown, Moe. Again, this is a place that protects and maintains buildings that have been brought from all over to replicate living in the farming communities of the Gippsland.
It doesn't cost very much at all for a family to visit but it is certainly worth heaps in teaching our children about such times.
The day we visited was not very busy at all - I hope that this is not a show of the times that people have forgotten or are just not interested in remembering.
The volunteers are also very special. The men or women who were responsible in building this old beauty would have to have a special interest in this era.
While visiting the fire station, a lovely man even started up the vehicle for our boys. It sounded like it wouldn't necessarily get you to your next stop and gee it stunk of fuel but it was a lovely gesture.
Old Gippstown took us a few hours after lunch to explore. As it wasn't the Victorian school holidays at the time activities had ceased. The lovely old general store was still open for business though and thanks to the lovely fire engine man so was the fire station.
Take a visit soon to Old Gippstown to learn about farming the Gippsland in the old days.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Walhalla
Wednesday, 15 July 2009
When I was a little girl I remember watching a move called "Lost Horizon". It told a story of a plane that crashed in the Himalayas. The passengers were rescued and taken to a mysterious valley that was full of peace and tranquility. What I most liked about this movie was that one minute they were trekking through very heavy snow then through a cave they arrived in paradise. One extreme to another.
Walhalla is nothing like the mysterious valley in the movie but it was similar to me that we drove along a winding road and suddenly came to a gem hidden at the end of a valley.
Walhalla is a historic mountain gold rush village located in Victoria's Baw Baw Ranges. Like most gold rush towns they thrived while the gold was around then once it ran out, the town shrunk in size. Walhalla has only a handful of permanent residents now but I am sure they are proud to call it their home and wouldn't live anywhere else.
It has survived some terrible devastating bushfires but when you visit you would never know if it wasn't for the information held in the fire station.
All the existing buildings are an indication of the integrity of Walhalla's history.
The day that we were at Walhalla there was some celebration happening in the Town Hall. This filled the streets with cars and noise. I wish we had been there on a different day because I believe the empty streets and eerie quietness would have set the day off much better. Who knows we may have heard a whisper from back in the 1800s - I wish!
Again I feel happy that we have embraced Walhalla and made sure that it stays alive and not become a ghost town - even though it is classified as one of Australia's. Victoria I believe is very good at maintaining their heritage by taking these old and historic towns under their wing. There are many towns that have not survived but I suppose it is hard to maintain them if all they were were tent cities.
When I was a little girl I remember watching a move called "Lost Horizon". It told a story of a plane that crashed in the Himalayas. The passengers were rescued and taken to a mysterious valley that was full of peace and tranquility. What I most liked about this movie was that one minute they were trekking through very heavy snow then through a cave they arrived in paradise. One extreme to another.
Walhalla is nothing like the mysterious valley in the movie but it was similar to me that we drove along a winding road and suddenly came to a gem hidden at the end of a valley.
Walhalla is a historic mountain gold rush village located in Victoria's Baw Baw Ranges. Like most gold rush towns they thrived while the gold was around then once it ran out, the town shrunk in size. Walhalla has only a handful of permanent residents now but I am sure they are proud to call it their home and wouldn't live anywhere else.
All the existing buildings are an indication of the integrity of Walhalla's history.
The day that we were at Walhalla there was some celebration happening in the Town Hall. This filled the streets with cars and noise. I wish we had been there on a different day because I believe the empty streets and eerie quietness would have set the day off much better. Who knows we may have heard a whisper from back in the 1800s - I wish!
Again I feel happy that we have embraced Walhalla and made sure that it stays alive and not become a ghost town - even though it is classified as one of Australia's. Victoria I believe is very good at maintaining their heritage by taking these old and historic towns under their wing. There are many towns that have not survived but I suppose it is hard to maintain them if all they were were tent cities.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Coal Creek Village
Monday, 13 July 2009
After setting up home in the beautiful town of Healesville we decided to take a trip down to the south gippsland area to Korumburra. Here they have set up a historic village called Coal Creek Village.
Buildings from all over the gippsland area have been placed in this wonderful museum to help preserve them and show us what it was like "back then". Entry to this wonderful place was free and it took us most of the day to see it all.
A place like this totally relies on its volunteers to keep it going along with its little businesses that reside in the buildings. It feels great to enter the "general store" and see how they used to sell things and package things. I understand that the empty flour sacks were recycled and used as fabric to make childrens' underwear.
There were many different styles of buildings - grand ones, ones made of wattle & daub and standard colonial homes that I would imagine myself living in. They all had an "out house" of course - too early for indoor plumbing!
These kinds of places always make me feel happy. It's an opportunity to step back in time without having to do without the things we have come to rely on.
After setting up home in the beautiful town of Healesville we decided to take a trip down to the south gippsland area to Korumburra. Here they have set up a historic village called Coal Creek Village.
Buildings from all over the gippsland area have been placed in this wonderful museum to help preserve them and show us what it was like "back then". Entry to this wonderful place was free and it took us most of the day to see it all.
A place like this totally relies on its volunteers to keep it going along with its little businesses that reside in the buildings. It feels great to enter the "general store" and see how they used to sell things and package things. I understand that the empty flour sacks were recycled and used as fabric to make childrens' underwear.
There were many different styles of buildings - grand ones, ones made of wattle & daub and standard colonial homes that I would imagine myself living in. They all had an "out house" of course - too early for indoor plumbing!
These kinds of places always make me feel happy. It's an opportunity to step back in time without having to do without the things we have come to rely on.
After having a full day out we arrived back at Healesville in time to indulge at the Healesville Hotel. Let's face it you cannot go without having a chicken snity at a pub!
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Beechworth, Victoria
Saturday, 11 July 2009
We decided to choose Beechworth as our next destination to park the Jayco Swan for many reasons.
Firstly it is an absolute beautiful and historic town. Its streetscape is how it was during the 1800s and its Historical Precinct promotes the grandness of how buildings once were. Sadly some of the buildings have been knocked down in the past, mainly to accommodate the happenings of the once prisoners of the Beechworth Gaol. A gaol that is now decommissioned and owned privately. The residents of Beechworth had no idea of its future role and mainly showed their sadness of not allowing the public to visit it.
We decided to choose Beechworth as our next destination to park the Jayco Swan for many reasons.
Firstly it is an absolute beautiful and historic town. Its streetscape is how it was during the 1800s and its Historical Precinct promotes the grandness of how buildings once were. Sadly some of the buildings have been knocked down in the past, mainly to accommodate the happenings of the once prisoners of the Beechworth Gaol. A gaol that is now decommissioned and owned privately. The residents of Beechworth had no idea of its future role and mainly showed their sadness of not allowing the public to visit it.
 |
| Beechworth's Historical Precinct |
 |
| Beechworth's Old Hospital Facade |
Beechworth is also close by to Myrtleford and Bright. These towns too are definitely worth a visit. The Ovens River runs through Bright and I am sure is the favourite swimming hole for the locals during summer. However being there in July we could think of nothing worse.
As a lover of all things old and country and a little bit of primitive, I dragged the three men in my life into a wonderful shop I had always wanted to visit. Country Heart and Home. This was a beautiful shop with lots of things to see - definitely a shop where you need to do a few laps before you can be sure that you have seen everything. Being fair, my husband and the boys who always come with me, as they know me very well, even could find things of interest.
 |
| Country Heart & Home, Bright |
 |
| The Ovens River |
Lastly a dear friend of ours had recommended a ghost tour in town they had done on one of their holidays. Beechworth Ghost Tours took us on a night ghost tour of Mayday Lunatic Asylum. It is now owned by the Letrobe University. Our younger son was ten at the time and was a little bit worried he would come face to face with a ghost. Holding my hand very tightly at all times and keeping very close he was quite relieved that there had been no ghosts out that night. My husband and I had done a ghost tour at the Quarantine Station in Manly and we had both experienced certain things. There was none of that for us at Beechworth. However the history of the Asylum and how you were committed back in the days was very interesting.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Weddin Mountains National Park
Thursday 9 July 2009
When my husband and I choose a destination for our trips I sit on the wonderful net for hours searching for all places to visit. This particular trip took us down to Victoria and all around.
We headed off two days before the school holidays began just to give us those few extra days and to get out of the rat race before everyone else.
We arrived at Grenfell just before lunch and set up the faithful Jayco Swan in the only caravan park in town. It was neat and clean and had a very trusting feel about it. We had lunch then embarked on the first stage of our journey.
Just outside of Grenfell is the Weddin Mountains National Park. This certainly deserves a visit.
While researching endlessly on the net I stumbled upon two great things to see in the National Park. The first was Ben Hall's cave (a gentleman bushranger - so history says) and the second was Seaton's Farm.
Ben Hall's cave is accessed by a path that leads from Ben Hall's Campground. It is quite a pleasant campground with toilets. We were going to camp there initially but due to the time of year we decided not to. I must say that I felt quite spooked at this place and was glad that we had changed our minds. However of course if we were in the area again I would not hesitate to camp there.
The view from the cave was fantastic. Certainly something not to be missed.
Then we found Seaton's Farm. I loved it. Right up my alley. This was a farm that had been left as it was.
Mr Seaton was an amazing farmer - recycling his gift. He would flatten out old corrugated iron to make it go further. Use old wire to make his fences. The tool shed, the kitchen and the farm machinery all left as it was. Man they did it tough.
We walked around the farm all afternoon. My imagination was running so so fast. I was impressed that things had been left alone and not stolen or ruined. Great respect was had at this farm.
Our boys, 12 and 10 at the time, had a ball climbing on all the old tractors and ploughs.
Well done National Parks and Wildlife for taking this wonderful part of history under your wing.
Take your family out there sometime soon if only to show them just how hard some people have done it.
When my husband and I choose a destination for our trips I sit on the wonderful net for hours searching for all places to visit. This particular trip took us down to Victoria and all around.
We headed off two days before the school holidays began just to give us those few extra days and to get out of the rat race before everyone else.
We arrived at Grenfell just before lunch and set up the faithful Jayco Swan in the only caravan park in town. It was neat and clean and had a very trusting feel about it. We had lunch then embarked on the first stage of our journey.
Just outside of Grenfell is the Weddin Mountains National Park. This certainly deserves a visit.
While researching endlessly on the net I stumbled upon two great things to see in the National Park. The first was Ben Hall's cave (a gentleman bushranger - so history says) and the second was Seaton's Farm.
Ben Hall's cave is accessed by a path that leads from Ben Hall's Campground. It is quite a pleasant campground with toilets. We were going to camp there initially but due to the time of year we decided not to. I must say that I felt quite spooked at this place and was glad that we had changed our minds. However of course if we were in the area again I would not hesitate to camp there.
The view from the cave was fantastic. Certainly something not to be missed.
Then we found Seaton's Farm. I loved it. Right up my alley. This was a farm that had been left as it was.
Mr Seaton was an amazing farmer - recycling his gift. He would flatten out old corrugated iron to make it go further. Use old wire to make his fences. The tool shed, the kitchen and the farm machinery all left as it was. Man they did it tough.
We walked around the farm all afternoon. My imagination was running so so fast. I was impressed that things had been left alone and not stolen or ruined. Great respect was had at this farm.
Our boys, 12 and 10 at the time, had a ball climbing on all the old tractors and ploughs.
Well done National Parks and Wildlife for taking this wonderful part of history under your wing.
Take your family out there sometime soon if only to show them just how hard some people have done it.
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