The Adventure Way – from Toowoomba to Innamincka

Caravanning
www.caravanningoz.com.au

Australia ®
VOLUME 14 / NUMBER 1 / AUTUMN 2010

Let your spirit soar this Autumn in the

Flinders Ranges
and SA Outback

PRINT POST APPROVED

PP340742 00156 The Curry family Kakadu colours The Grampians Delicious recipes
adventure across captivate come alive in to try on the road
ISSN 1834 7312
the Top End caravanners Autumn this Autumn
Contents

Caravanning
Australia
AUTUMN 2010 ®

58
Adventure Way
A thrilling ride through some of
Australia’s most remarkable
places, where you’ll find the
spirit of adventure.
127 177
Northern Territory The Grampians
Discover the many facets of the This world-renowned National
Northern Territory, and find the Park has something to offer
experience that you’ve been everyone.
searching for.

GENERAL NEWS PRODUCT REVIEWS

4 Innovative Eco Structures 18 The Gunyah – a compact, luxury off-road caravan

14 Who are the Gall Boys? 28 The best way for portable caravan cooking
16 2010 National Caravan Clubs Rally 29 Gear up with the Cartel’s… New Combo Pak
17 Grey nomads – a great resource 29 The World’s Smallest Stove is Nature’s Brightest Spark
20 Airlie Beach’s BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort Wins 30 New Narva tail lamps offer touch of class
BIG 30 LED licence plate lamps complement modern vehicle
22 Trust Bosch Car Service to keep you safe on the road designs
24 Anglers urged to share tales of longtail tuna 31 ‘Quickfit’ trailer connectors make fitting quick and easy
26 Century launches new range of Deep Cycle AGM and 31 Powerful Work Lamps just the thing for long road trips
Gel Batteries 32 Australian debut for top selling fuel stabiliser
42 AL-KO International – It’s what’s under the van that 34 Battery charger maximises battery performance and life
matters 34 Economical remedy beats irritating air-conditioning
44 Polaris GPS and Rear Vision Systems leaks
126 Coromal Caravans, NT’s largest Caravan Dealer 35 Australian – Owned – Designed – Built
36 Nulon coolants extend life and add value
ON THE ROAD 36 Dayco offers NAK oil seals
38 Leading auto magazine tests top selling tyres
7 Fishing, Fridges and Farewells: The Curry family 38 New Gates Coolant hose packs
adventures never disappoint! 39 Wikango 2.2 App on your iPhone
40 Chef’n G’rabbit Junior Salt and Pepper Grinders, pop it
on and off you go!
RECIPES 40 Not another bloody torch! The latest, lightest and
brightest star in the Led Lenser system
56 8 Quick, easy and tasty autumn delights to try courtesy 40 Keeping food fresh for longer
of Heinz

TOWING
LATEST WINE REVIEWS
55 McWilliam’s Balance Endorsed by Weight Watchers 45 Caravanning Australia Towing Guide
Catching Thieves line up as Australia’s best soft option
Classic duo play to Margaret River’s strengths
NAVIGATION
LIFESTYLE 53 Navigating your way through the GPS maze
41 Credit where credit is due

2 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Contents

THE ADVENTURE WAY PUBLISHER

58 Discover the history and unique beauty of the Adventure

Way
61 Toowoomba and Darling Downs
66 Cunnamulla, Eulo, Wyandra and the Opal town of Yowah ABN 30 007 224 204
70 The adventure continues in the Bulloo Shire 430 William Street
QUEENSLAND Melbourne VIC 3000
PO Box 256
75 Meet the legends of Longreach
North Melbourne VIC 3051
76 The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame… more than a
museum – more reasons to visit Email: media@executivemedia.com.au
79 Step out on a jumbo jet wing walk Web: www.executivemedia.com.au
82 Country vs Coast in Queensland’s Capricorn Tel: (03) 9274 4200
87 North Burnett: A natural Queensland alternative Fax: (03) 9329 5295
89 Queensland’s Outback oasis
90 Richmond Shire
93 A miner taste of Outback Adventure ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
95 2010 Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo prepares to deliver a To advertise in Caravanning Australia please
heck of a ride
contact:
97 Tropical treats in Queensland’s north
98 Etheridge Shire – An explorer’s Treasure Chest Executive Media – South Australia
101 What’s on Where in Queensland Tel: (08) 8231 4433
NEW SOUTH WALES Fax: (08) 8231 3402
Email: adelaide@executivemedia.com.au
104 The Clarence Valley is home to the Clarence Coast and one
Executive Media – Victoria
of Australia’s largest waterways, the Clarence River
107 Old is new in Capital Country & Central New South Wales Tel: (03) 9274 4200
114 Snowy Valleys Way Fax: (03) 9329 5295
116 Explore the wonders Narrabri Shire has on offer Email: melbourne@executivemedia.com.au
121 What’s on Where in New South Wales
NORTHERN TERRITORY EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES
127 The Northern Territory: A Search for the Ultimate Experience Tell us about your caravanning experiences,
132 Don’t be left feeling tyred in the NT great places to visit, favourite recipes or even
140 Hermannsburg Historical Precinct
send us your holiday snaps*.
143 What’s on Where in the Northern Territory
Send your submissions to:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Ric Navarro
145 South Australian Outback: Diversity at its best Editor-in-chief
152 Port Pirie – Waiting to be Discovered Executive Media
154 Fire Danger Ratings 430 William Street
157 What’s on Where in South Australia
Melbourne VIC 3000
WESTERN AUSTRALIA PO Box 256
159 Walpole North Melbourne VIC 3051
160 A Western Adventure Email: ric.navarro@executivemedia.com.au
166 Explore, Discover and Experience the Kimberley with Web: www.executivemedia.com.au
Kimberley Discovery Cruises
Tel: (03) 9274 4200
170 Explore the magnificent Bungle Bungle Range with East
Fax: (03) 9329 5295
Kimberley Tours
171 Home on the Range * Printed Photos will not be returned unless a
175 What’s on Where in Western Australia stamped self-addressed envelope is included with
your correspondence.
VICTORIA
177 Caravanning in the Grampians DISCLAIMER
184 Enjoy some fun in the sun in Mildura
185 Spoil yourself in Mildura No responsibility is accepted by the publisher for the
187 Connecting the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas – accuracy of information contained in the text and
Getting there is half the fun! advertisements. It does not necessarily reflect the
188 What’s on Where in Victoria opinion of the publisher. Publication of any
TASMANIA advertisement does not constitute endorsement by
the publisher of any product, nor warrant its
190 Budget in style
suitability.
191 What’s on Where in Tasmania
© 2010 Executive Media Pty Ltd. Caravanning
CARAVAN CLUBS
Australia® is a registered trademark of Executive
192 Caravan Club Listings Media Pty Ltd

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 3

General News

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Eco tents are created to work in harmony with the
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4 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

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 On The Road

Fishing, Fridges and Farewells:

The Curry family adventures
never disappoint!
Sunset at Karumba

In our last story the Currys had just completed their Cape trip and settled in with the
Oakeys at Mareeba for a week. So after saying goodbye to the Oakeys and departing
Mareeba, the Currys were on to Karumba, Mt Isa, Gregory Downs, Lawn Hill National
Park and Alice Springs. Grab your cuppa and catch up with the Currys.
Words and images by Belinda Curry

W
e had been told by many travellers who we’d met along
the way not to miss Karumba (in the Gulf of Carpentaria),
so we headed in that direction. The floods that occurred
in the Gulf region early last year still have some travellers
unnecessarily concerned about the roads. We started our
journey with quite a bit of trepidation, only to discover that there
was nothing to be concerned about. The roads are great—the
only thing is that every now and then they narrow down to one
lane and you have to pull off onto the gravel and let the
occasional road train pass.
It is also a well-known fact that the place to stay in Karumba
is the Sunset Caravan Park, but getting in is a bit of a
challenge—one couple in Mareeba said they couldn’t get a site
in Karumba for months because it is the home to many southern
grey nomads who decide to make it home for the Winter
months. So I contacted Michelle and Rick the day prior and there
was no problem at all.
Within minutes of arriving in Karumba, Rick (the owner of the
Sunset Caravan Park) had Anthony booked on a fishing charter
called the Kerry D. Anthony was really looking forward to going
on his first ever fishing Charter. So at 6.45am the following
morning Anthony met the Kerry D and spent the morning fishing
in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Here is his brief recount of the
morning:
“In a quick summary, what a ripper of a morning! I couldn’t Anthony with his catch – Karumba

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 7

On The Road
Sunset at Karumba – doesn’t get much better!
help but think of how many of my former work mates would like
to trade places with me right now.
My very first fishing charter ended with the following results:
3 Two undersized blue salmon that had to be thrown back
3 One catfish thrown back
3 I bagged three very nice blue salmon.
In fact, Kerry D’s biggest catch of the day was attached to
my line until, as luck would have it, he spat out my hook when he
was literally half in the net. And to rub salt into my wounds I had
to watch a 12-year-old girl walk off the boat with a grand total of
9 beautiful fish.”
All in all, Anthony had a great day on the Kerry D.
One afternoon in Karumba we spotted the Sunset Tavern,
which is right across the road from the Sunset Caravan Park
(sunsets are a big thing up here, believe me). We walked from
the van and Anthony had a cold beer, I had a glass of wine and
the kids had a cold lemonade while we sat and watched one of
(L-R): Navigating the waters at Lawn Hill National Park and one of the best natural spas you’ll ever find.
8 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
Karumba’s spectacular sunsets. We took some great photos that
night as the sun changed and got more stunning as it dropped
below the horizon and we said goodbye to another day in
paradise.
One of the highlights of our trip has been meeting some
wonderful people many who have taught us more than just what
roads to take and what to see. We met a couple from Perth in
Karumba who had a very high-dependency son, and not only
does this not stop them travelling but they have an off-road
caravan that they use to explore many of Australia’s roads less
travelled, and climb mountains with their 10 year old on their
back so that he can enjoy the same experiences as his siblings.
No matter how tiresome we think our life gets at times travelling
with kids, we will always remember the dedication of this
beautiful family.
The next morning we said goodbye to Karumba, taking with
us lessons and memories that will last a lifetime. Next stop was a

Anthony and Jack admiring the Karumba catch.
couple of places that we had heard quite a bit about since
starting the trip: Gregory Downs and Lawn Hill National Park.
Arriving at Gregory Downs about 3.30pm, we were greeted
by a really pretty spot and it was so nice to be able to free camp
right on the river. The water is beautiful—you start upstream and
the current pulls you downstream. The kids had a ball here—
Anthony had stopped at a tyre centre in Karumba before we left
and grabbed a couple of tubes for them to use.
There were a couple of fellas here that had been camping for
a week when we arrived, funny characters who would float down
the river, walk back to the van, and grab a beer to enjoy while
drying off. Once they were dry and the beer was empty, they
would jump back in and do it all again.
We asked them about Lawn Hill and one of them screwed up
his nose and said, “I dunno why you’d bother, it’s nicer here!”.
Well we decided that because we had heard so much about it
we really needed to experience it for ourselves.
The warnings didn’t stop us from enjoying Lawn Hill National Park.
On The Road
One tin of opened beetroot can go an awfully long way.
Leaving Gregory Downs at 9am the next morning we arrived
at Lawn Hill at about 10am and then decided that we would hire
a canoe and paddle our way down though the gorge. We took
loads of photos and stopped at some small waterfalls to have a
swim before our return journey. We paddled for two hours, the
kids loved it and we got to see lots of birdlife and a couple of
very cute turtles. It was fantastic!
Lawn Hill Gorge was spectacular and we were so very glad
we decided to make the journey out, despite the advice we’d
been given to the contrary.
On the Monday morning the whistle blew—next stop Mt Isa.
Lunchtime saw us stop at a really quaint little pub called the
Quamby Hotel (‘The Pub in the Scrub’). This place had character.
We decided that due to the fact we had no food we would shout
ourselves lunch and a cold drink here, so we all jumped out of
the van excited about being able to have a nice meal. We walked
in and two blonde backpackers look at us from behind the bar.
Mt Isa glowing at night.
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 9
On The Road

We were struck by the natural beauty of the Devils Marbles.

After looking at the blackboard I tried to place our order. “We’ll imagine, is it?
have two chicken burgers, one works and a kids’ cheeseburger,” Our time in Mount Isa was filled with lots of very
I said, mouth watering. A very blank face looked back at me. uninteresting, non-touristy things (catching up on home
“One moment,” was the reply as she went out the back. I looked schooling etc.), but Anthony did take the kids to Isa`s family fun
at the other backpacker and asked what was up and she replied park and they had a ball. But soon it was time to make a
with an Irish accent so thick I could barely understand her, “The decision that we had been putting off for quite some time. From
cook’s gone into town and she’s just checking if we have any Tennant Creek will we head North (to Darwin) or South (to Alice
food.” Our very hungry stomachs growled. She came back out Springs and South Australia)?
and said, “Sorry but the cook’s in town and we don’t know how We always had intentions to travel north after maybe a side
to cook.” Anthony wanted to ask if he could cook the burgers trip down to Alice, but we had been a little worried that we may
himself! have left things a little late as the build up to the wet season was
So we walked out shaking our heads in disbelief and (by fellow travellers’ accounts) getting a little stifling. After much
Anthony found some leftover wraps in the van and proceeded to deliberation we finally decided that rather than speeding our way
spread some peanut butter and
honey on them. The kids thought he
was a legend and so did my
stomach.
We arrived at our new home, the
BIG4 Mount Isa (aka Arygilly
Caravan Park) and from that
moment we became “real Aussies”,
as the signage told us on the way
into town that you’re only a real
Aussie if you’ve visited Mount Isa.
Once set up, our first job was to
get into the local supermarket and
restock our depleted food supply.
After we bought our groceries and I
got over my amazement of the mine
right smack bang in the middle of
the town, we decided to head to the
top of the lookout that we had heard
was quite impressive, as it overlooks
the mine.
It was amazing and looked like a
massive cruise ship docked. Well
you know, with the lights, stacks
and all, it’s really not that hard to
Lawn Hill National Park.

10 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

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On The Road
(L-R): The kids enjoy Mt Isa’s free family water park and acting as aliens in Wycliffe.
through places we would head on to Alice, and from Alice we
would continue south to South Australia.
We left Mt Isa with the excitement that before long we would
finally be leaving our home state of Queensland for the first time
in the 4 months we had been on the road, and before we knew it
we had reached the border. Woohoo! So here we were finally in
the Northern Territory.
We drove and drove until I thought I was going to go insane. I
kept trying to talk Anthony into stopping for the day and he kept
sneaking an extra 100km here and there until finally I got my way.
41 mile Bore was our new home for the night, 70km east of the
three ways (near Tennant Creek). When I got out of the Patrol I
saw fine red powdery dust. Now we were in the outback!
When you pull over in a place like this after a long day on the
road with your kids you really appreciate the luxuries of your van.
I can remember when we were looking for our van and tossing
whether or not to get the shower/toilet. But let me tell you from
first hand experience that NOTHING beats sitting back after a
journey like this one with a cold beer, and watching all the other
people mixing up hot water to use in their makeshift outside
portable shower or coming out of the pit toilets gagging, and
once you have finished your beer or glass of Chardy you can
enjoy the gas hot water in the comfort of your own clean
onboard shower. Yes, I know I’m a bit of a princess, and if we
were just on the road for a couple of months I could survive
without it but we are on the road for 12-18 months, so it’s
necessary!
The next morning we drove through Tennant Creek and then
stopped at an old Telegraph station to have a quick look. We
marvelled at the amazing determination of our pioneers, and then
proceeded to our next stop and our new home for that evening,
the Devils Marbles. I don’t know why, but I had envisaged six to
eight large round rocks in the middle of nowhere, thought we’d
get out, take a couple of happy snaps, set up the van, go to bed
and that would be that. Well weren’t we surprised? The place
was awesome! Jack’s excitement level went through the roof.
“Wow Mum, look at that one, oh Dad look, it looks like it’s gunna
12 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
fall down!”
That afternoon once things had cooled off, we had our dinner
early and we went exploring on our bikes. We had an absolutely
brilliant afternoon, stopping to read the information board, which
explained how these amazing spheres were formed. The basic
aboriginal story tells of the Devils Marbles as the fossilised eggs
of the Rainbow Serpent. This extraordinary place was a trip
highlight that we will never forget.
After we bid the Devils Marbles a fond farewell, we made our
way further down the road to a place called Wycliffe Wells, which
had me intrigued as their claim to fame is that they have a huge
amount of UFO sightings here. We stopped at the Wycliffe Wells
UFO museum and had a wander around inside. I have always
had a fascination with all things unexplainable, and so I had a ball
reading all the newspaper clippings about reported sightings.
This was one of those quaint little quirky places that I just love.
Back in the Patrol and further up the road Anthony spotted a
cyclist and we decided to pull over to give this guy a cold drink
and a biscuit or two. He was very grateful for the cold water refill
and can of lemonade for later. He took photos of us before
getting back on his bike and continuing his hard slog around Oz
on his pushbike.
“Man, that’s keen!” I said as we got back in our car. I knew
that Anthony was in awe and at the same time wishing it was
him out there. The dangers these guys face are enormous—the
road trains out here would have you as a hood ornament in a
heartbeat and wouldn’t even know it!
We kept going and pushed on to a small place called Ti Tree.
Ti Tree’s claim to fame is that it has Australia’s most central pub
attached to the roadhouse, so with kids still asleep in the car I
told Anthony that regardless of whether he felt like it he had to go
in and have a beer. He has a little mission of completing a kind of
far-flung Aussie pub crawl. He has been to the most northern, on
Thursday Island, now this is the most central, we now just have
to find the most eastern, the most western and the most
southern! Well you know, it’s a hard job but someone has to do
it. The bar in the Ti Tree was amazing—it is made from recycled

Kerry D Fishing Charters.
sleepers from the Ghan railway line and the footrest was an old
Ghan track. Very impressive! And as all outback characters are,
the owner was a bit quirky—his coffin has also been made from
the recycled Ghan sleepers, and it too was very nice (as far as
coffins go).
We left the most central pub at Ti Tree and made our way
into Alice. Now here’s one of those iconic Australian places that
most Aussies want to visit sometime in their lifetime. We were no
different, and were really looking forward to getting there.
We arrived late in the afternoon and were blown away
immediately. I had imagined a flat, dust bowl kind of place with
Crossing the border into NT.
On The Road
six billion flies for every man, woman and child and the odd
tumbleweed rolling down the street, but to say I was pleasantly
surprised is an understatement. Alice Springs is set between the
spectacular MacDonnell ranges, and it really had us amazed.
That’s all for now. Join the Currys next time when they share
with you their time in Alice Springs, Uluru and Kings Canyon, and
they’ll reveal what incident had them running for the local BIG4.
If you would like to join the Curry adventures
you can visit them via their blog at
www.curryfamilyadventures.wordpress.com
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 13
General News
Who are the Gall Boys?
The Gall Boys from Kedron Caravans are a true
family business established in 1962.
B
arry Gall and sons David, Peter, Craig, Ashley and Glen are
all involved in the business, manufacturing some of the
most well known custom designed all-terrain caravans.
For over 10 years now, they have also been packing up the
camp gear and hitching a van up to a Landcruiser to head north
and document remote travels and produce some of the most
popular warts and all style adventure DVDs.
Over this time 7 titles have been produced, “Journey the
Kimberley”, “Circle the Gulf”, “The Rugged Cape York
Adventure”, “Free Campin’ the Outback”, “Tacklin’ the Top End”,
“Making the most of the Fraser Coast”, and “The Far NQ
Adventure”.
It’s been a two year break for them from the cameras and
2010 marks a much anticipated 8th release, “Crossin’ the
Canning”.
This latest trip starts from Brisbane to go up around the Gulf
and on to the Northern Territory’s Shady Camp for a rarely seen
mullet spawn through a weir thick with waiting Saltwater
Crocodiles and some Barramudi fishing, then back on the road
14 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
to the Daly River and on to Western Australia’s Kimberley region
via the Gibb River Road. A few days was spent as guests to
discover the highlights of Home Valley Station, and then on again
up to Kalumburu and the King Edward River.
A highlight of the trip from here is the beautiful historic
journey through the red dunes of the Canning Stock Route, from
wells 51 to 36, and to appreciate what the early day drovers
pushed through with the herds. The amount of work done in
isolation especially into preparation with the making of the wells’
deep timber lined walls, is trully something to appreciate.
The Gary Junction and Plenty Highway then led the way
home
The new release is set for late April and is a movie that will
capture most of what remote adventure has to offer the traveller,
from travel conditions, to areas and creatures to see, along with
boating, fishing and characters met along the way. Musical
accompaniment is from Matt James and makes for some great
viewing and entertainment.
From all the Gall crew, happy and safe travels!
General News

2010 National Caravan Clubs Rally

ALL ROADS LEAD TO ELMORE
All roads lead to Elmore in late December this year for Caravan Club members
from all Australian States, ACT and visitors from overseas.

T
he largest number of caravans ever to visit the area will
assemble at the Elmore Events Centre from 30th December
2010 for 11 days. This will provide a massive boost to all
businesses in the Bendigo, Echuca and Elmore region.
The end of this year will be full of excitement as club
members from around Australia prepare to catch up with friends
met at previous National Rallies, and make many new ones when
arriving and during the rally at Elmore. The 14th National Rally
begins Thursday 30th December at the Elmore Events Centre,
mid way between Bendigo and Echuca.The facilities at Elmore
Events Centre have provided a very suitable venue and have
been improved and upgraded since being confirmed as the Rally
Site.
The Elmore Field Day committee has been busy laying down
the foundations for a great rally and we have now booked all
entertainers that we know will provide a great variety of children have not been forgotten, with a day trip to a great place
enjoyment for those attending. As usual, clubs will be getting just for kids and of course, there are trips just for the adults like a
their concert acts together to give us all two great nights of fun Wine Trail Tour. Many other tours to surrounding attractions and
and laughter. places of interest have been organised.
Activities include craft sessions where our ladies can get The local townsfolk and organising committee are very
together and do their craft or just have a chat. Men folk have not positive that when you leave following this 14th National Rally
been forgotten and will enjoy the men’s shed where they can you will taking with you some very happy and positive memories.
indulge in all things ‘blokey’ and enjoy a chat as well. Peter Hillas
The rally program includes the usual sporting activities of 14th National Rally Committee
Lawn Bowls, Tennis, Golf and Disc Bowls. Tel – 03 9379 9349
The tour program has something for everyone to enjoy. The Mob – 0418 313 090

Phone in for the facts on fruit fly

Did you know you can check to see which fruit and vegetables
you can travel with when visiting fruit and vegetable growing
areas on your mobile phone? Check the website via your
NO FRUIT
mobile phone at www.fruitfly.mobi or visit www.fruitfly.net.au
Do not
NO VEG
next time you are online.
Because you could be transporting fruit fly without knowing
bring NO FINE
any fresh fruit
it, you can’t carry stone fruits (eg peaches etc), pome fruits (eg and
apples/pears etc), tropical or temperate fruit, citrus or fruiting vegetables
vegetables (eg tomato, chilli, capsicum) into the Fruit Fly into the
Exclusion Zone and you should not cross any state border with Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone
fresh produce. Use the roadside disposal bins provided or eat
up before you enter the Zone. Fines now go as high as
$100,000 under certain circumstances.
Protect our fruit and veg growers – be a fruit fly fighter!

Fruit flies will lay eggs in:

• Stone or pome fruit (eg apples, apricots, peach,
pear, quince, crab apple)
• Tropical or temperate fruit (eg avocado, banana,
berries, feijoa, fig, guava, grapes, passionfruit,
loquat, mango, pawpaw, persimmon)
• Citrus fruit (eg orange, mandarin, lime, grapefruit,
lemon, cumquat)
• Fruiting vegetables (eg capsicum, chilli, eggplant,
tomato, tamarillo)
www.fruitfly.net.au or www.fruitfly.mobi
All of these are restricted and cannot be carried into the
Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone or designated Pest Free Areas.

16 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 General News

Grey nomads – a great resource 

National Harvest state manager

Robert Hayes met up with Joe
and his wife Deidre who were
seven months into an indefinite
trip around Australia.
After an extensive working life in
Melbourne, Joe and Deidre were tired of the
grind of city life. They bought a caravan and
joined the throng of others heading off on
the big journey around Australia.
With Joe being cooped up in a
workshop and Deidre having worked in retail,
they were both keen to get some work that
would take them outdoors and meet some
new people.
“One of the first things we did was to get
a copy of the NHLIS Harvest Guide”, said
Deidre. “It had all the information we needed,
but we were concerned whether there would
be suitable jobs for people who were a bit
older. The NHLIS staff assured us that many
growers prefer to employ slightly older
people because of their reliability and skills” said Joe. expect seasonal work to be available anywhere and everywhere.
Since then the couple have worked in a variety of jobs from Do your homework and use resources such as the NHLIS to
pruning stonefruit and packing avocadoes to driving forklifts and increase your chances of finding work” said Joe and Deidre.
testing wheat at a silo in WA. To talk about work opportunities while travelling the Harvest
“Travelling and working is a great combination, but don’t Trail phone: freecall 1800 062 332.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 17

Product Reviews
The Gunyah – a compact, luxury
off-road caravan
Queensland business, Ozzie Off-Road (OOR) has an established, and enviable, reputation in
the manufacture of high quality touring camper trailers.
T
he brand has been around for over sixteen
years and, during that time, it has remained
a family owned business with a focus on
customer satisfaction. The firm sends its
products to an Australia wide customer base.
The lightweight luxury off-road caravan, the
Gunyah, is a recent addition to the product
range and is manufactured entirely by OOR.
OOR’s goal has been to provide a
comfortable living environment in a compact and
highly manoeuvrable all terrain caravan. To
ensure the strength required to achieve this, the
Gunyah is built on a galvanised steel chassis
with a complex, fully welded, alloy skeleton
supporting the superstructure.
A 3mm composite alloy panel makes up the
main exterior surface, with the traditional
polished armour plate to the lower parts. In
keeping with the “strong but light” theme, all
interior surfaces are finished in cutting edge, rot
resistant, lightweight materials.
Ozzie Off-Road chose the Cruisemaster coil
spring independent suspension system for the
Gunyah. Fitted with twin shock absorbers to
each side, it’s widely recognised as the leader in
its field. The caravan is attached to the tow
vehicle with an off-road universal coupling set
up.
18 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
As for creature comforts, the Gunyah boasts
a long list of standard inclusions. Items such as
air conditioning, hot water, shower & toilet, radio
& CD player, slide out external kitchen, loads of
internal & external storage, Aussie Traveller
awning, and roof mounted solar panel are just
some of the luxuries you can expect. As a bonus
the Gunyah is provisioned with cabling and
outlets for TV and can also be equipped with a
rear view camera.
It is even possible to have an RV Roof Air
Lifter System fitted to the pop top for a small
additional cost - an ideal option for the more
mature caravanner.
For the “end of day” comfort that we all
crave, you can choose between large split
queen twins or a full queen size bed and really
have a good night! There is even a 4 berth
option available.
Have a close look at the Gunyah, it delivers
much more than you might imagine. Without
doubt, it represents exceptional value for money
and it comes with its own five stars.
Ozzie Off-Road can be contacted on
(07) 5495 5333 or at
www.ozzieoffroad.com.au.
General News

Airlie Beach’s BIG4 Adventure

Australia’s leading holiday parks were recognised

as part of the BIG4 National Conference in Alice
Springs recently, with BIG4 Adventure
Whitsunday Resort, Airlie Beach, receiving the
2009 ‘BIG4 Supreme Award for Excellence’.

E
ach year, the ‘BIG4 Supreme Award for Excellence’ is given since 1996 and the State Tourism Award in 1998, 2006 and
to the Member Park that is seen to be foremost in delivering 2008.
BIG4’s foundation values; service, facilities, tourism BIG4 Holiday Parks distributes awards every year as part of
promotion and accommodation. its National Conference to recognise and celebrate Member
Owned and operated by the McKinnon family for the past 16 Parks who continuously improve their offering to guests and set
years, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort epitomises the the benchmark for the Australian Holiday Park industry. BIG4
meaning of a great family holiday, attracting more than 35,000 Holiday Parks’ state managers nominate Member Parks and staff
holidaymakers to Airlie Beach each year. Park owners/operators for the awards, and a panel of judges including the CEO, state
Greg and Naomi McKinnon accepted the award in front of more managers and external consultants who then select the final
than 250 delegates, and say they were thrilled when they heard winners.
their park’s name announced.
“As a family run business, we strive
to ensure BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday
Resort represents everything BIG4
stands for. To be recognised by the
industry and our peers is an honour.
This award makes us more determined
to continue to offer guests a high
quality product,” Greg adds.
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort
is set on 26 acres of beautifully
landscaped grounds, and boasts
facilities including a magnificent resort-
style pool with two waterslides, jumping
pillows, multiple playgrounds and an
outdoor movie screen. The park has
accommodation options to suit all
tastes and budgets, including nine
different styles of cabins ranging from
luxurious 4.5 star condos to one
bedroom villas, and powered sites.
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is
no stranger to awards; the Resort has
won its local tourism award every year

20 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 General News

Whitsunday Resort Wins BIG

“
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday
Resort is no stranger to
awards; the Resort has won
its local tourism award every
year since 1996 and the
State Tourism Award in
1998, 2006 and 2008.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 21

General News

Trust Bosch Car Service to

keep you safe on the road
Your family’s safety on
the road depends on
the professional, quality
servicing of your
vehicle. You can always
trust you local Bosch
Car Service workshop
to provide you with
expert repairs and
maintenance and
quality parts. However,
there are many simple
things you can do to
keep your own vehicle
in safe and healthy
running order, reducing
the risk of an accident
and inevitably saving
you time and money.
The list below includes some quick and easy checks you should always complete a couple of weeks
before leaving on your holidays. Doing so, and addressing any problems you made find, will help you
to arrive at your destination on time and most importantly, safely.

1. Check all fluid levels, including radiator coolant,
wiper washer fluid, brake fluid, engine & transmission oil
levels, clutch fluid (if applicable) and battery (if a
maintenance type).
2. Inspect battery terminals (as per your owner’s manual)
for corrosion and tightness.
3. Check tyre pressure when the tyres are cold;
recommended tyre pressures are printed on a sticker
affixed to inside of the driver’s side door in most cars
(see manual).
4. Check tyre tread. Tread depth should not be less than a
match head. Uneven wear may indicate a fault with the
steering, suspension or wheel alignment.
5. Don’t forget to check the spare tyre pressure and
condition: this is often a common oversight.
8. Consider a car first aid kit and vehicle fire
extinguisher.
9. Check wiper blades for condition of the rubber and
ensure the windscreen is clean.
10. Clean headlights and check (high and low beam), tail
lights, indicators, brake lights, park lights, stop lights
and number plate lights.
11. Check brakes and consult your local Bosch Car Service if
the car has a tendency to pull to one side when braking or
if there are any other symptoms which seem unusual.
12. Check handbrake by parking the car on a hill, putting it in
neutral and seeing if it holds firmly. If it doesn’t have it
checked and adjusted.

6. Check to ensure you have a toolkit including a jack,
wheel brace, spare globes and fuses.
7. Ensure your wheel nuts are correctly tightened.
Over tightened wheel nuts can prove very frustrating
when there is a need to change a tyre.
13. Check belts. The fan belt and any other drive belts,
such as air conditioning or power steering need to be
inspected thoroughly for fraying and correct tension so
that they do not slip. Any belts that are even slightly
frayed should be replaced.

With the added advantage of a national 12 month parts and service warranty, valid at participating Bosch Car Service workshops
nationwide, urgent repairs can be carried out by a trusted Bosch Car Service even when you are travelling.
Trust Bosch Car Service to get you and your family safely back on the road in no time. To find your nearest Bosch Car
Service workshop call us on 1800 060 060.

22 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

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General News

Anglers urged to
share tales of
longtail tuna

Coastal anglers are being

encouraged to help ensure the
long-term sustainability of
Australia’s newest ‘recreational
only’ species, the longtail tuna, by
reporting catches using a new
online system.

Recreational angler Alan Griffiths with a typical longtail tuna caught in south – eastern Queensland. PHOTO: SHANE GRIFFITHS

T
he information is being sought by a consortium of
recreational fishing groups and scientists led by the CSIRO
Wealth from Oceans Flagship. It will contribute to scientific
assessments of the condition of the longtail tuna population.
Longtail tuna (often incorrectly called northern bluefin tuna)
are commonly caught by anglers fishing in tropical and
temperate coastal waters around Australia, and even from the
shore.
In recognition of the species’ popularity among recreational
anglers, longtail tuna was declared a ’recreational-only’ species
by the Federal Government in December 2006. A small
commercial bycatch of 70 tonnes a year is allowed for Australia’s
Commonwealth fisheries.
“Longtail tuna may be susceptible to population decline even
under seemingly modest fishing pressure given its very narrow
coastal distribution,” Dr Shane Griffiths of CSIRO says.
“Without knowing the recreational catch, scientists are
unable to assess the condition of Australia’s longtail tuna
population,” says Mr Olyott.
“We recently discovered that the species is also slow-
growing and lives for at least 18 years.
“Fortunately, longtail tuna have not been heavily fished in
Australia, so we can put the right measures in place now to
ensure the population remains healthy for future generations of
recreational fishers to enjoy.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Australia’s recreational fishing
peak body Recfish Australia, Len Olyott, says that while
commercial fisheries are obliged to report their catches,
recreational fishers are not required to report their catches of
most fish species.
“Without knowing the recreational catch, scientists are
unable to assess the condition of Australia’s longtail tuna
population,” Mr Olyott says.
“We are sure that recreational fishers who have had the

24 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 General News

Longtail tuna are an exciting sport fish that take a variety

of lures and baits. PHOTO: SHANE GRIFFITHS

enjoyment of catching this magnificent

species will realise the benefits of this
project and will help scientists by recording
details of their fishing expeditions.”
The website (www.longtailtuna.com.au)
features an online logbook that allows
recreational anglers to submit fishing trips
anonymously. They can also register for free
to use the site as a personal fishing diary to
store and view details of their fishing trips.
Registered users submitting catch data will
enter a monthly draw for longtail tuna t-
shirts.
The longtail tuna project is funded by
CSIRO and the Fisheries Research and
Development Corporation, Recfish Australia,
the Australian Fishing Trade Association,
Sunfish, the NSW Recreational Fishing
Trust, Recfishing Research and the
Australian National Sportfishing Association.

23 Thornycroft Street
Campbellfield VIC 3061
Ph (03) 8339 0772 Fax (03) 8339 0776
Email: advantagerepairs@bigpond.com
Web: www.advantagecaravans.websyte.com.au

We are specialists in all types of

• CARAVAN & CAMPER TRAILER
• INNERSPRING MATTRESS SPECIALISTS
• ALL SHAPES & SIZES • LATEX & FOAM ALSO
AVAILABLE • NEW DESIGNS FOR JAYCO
EXPANDERS AND WINDSOR RAPID CAMPERS
DELIVERY NATIONWIDE
1300 307 304
57 Grice Street, Clontarf QLD 4019
www.madetomeasuremattresses.com.au
repairs to all makes and models.
• Over 20 years industry experience
• Insurance work
• Servicing
• Renovations/modifications
• Spare parts & accessories shop
Can’t find a new caravan you like? We will
custom build to your requirements. We also
manufacture Advantage dog floats and custom
build specialty trailers.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 25

General News

Century launches new range of

Deep Cycle AGM and Gel Batteries
Century Batteries, Australia’s oldest and most recognised battery
manufacturer has further enhanced its extensive product range with the
introduction of an exciting new range of Deep Cycle AGM and Gel Batteries

Century Deep Cycle AGM Range
Developed using state of the art manufacturing techniques and
some of the most advanced materials available, Century Deep
Cycle AGM batteries are the ultimate in deep cycle battery
technology and performance. Featuring specialist battery plates,
extra strong grid designs and superior active paste materials they
deliver long lasting, dependable deep cycle performance.
Century AGM batteries incorporate AGM (Absorbed Glass
Mat) technology which acts as a sponge like material,
suspending the loose electrolyte within highly porous glass fibre
mat separators. This eliminates the hazards associated with acid
spills and leaks whilst the sealed maintenance free design avoids
the need for regular topping up of electrolyte levels.
Century Deep Cycle AGM batteries have a low internal
resistance and low self discharge rate, enabling faster recharge
and longer shelf life. When fully charged they are robust enough
to be stored for extended periods of time and can be
conveniently recharged using a range of standard chargers and
the vehicles alternator.
Available in a range of sizes up to 120Ah, Century Deep
Cycle AGM batteries are ideal for use in applications where fast
recharge, improved vibration resistance and superior deep cycle
performance is required, including recreational vehicles and
accessories, dual battery systems, golf carts, mobility scooters
and marine systems.
Century Deep Cycle Gel Range
Century Gel Deep Cycle batteries are the latest in deep cycle
battery technology, designed to deliver long lasting, dependable
deep cycle power in the harshest of operating conditions and
environments.
The Century Gel range incorporates gel electrolyte
technology which holds the battery plates securely in an
immobilised gel, not liquid electrolyte, making them extremely
robust, resistant to vibration damage and will not spill or leak
when accidentally tipped upside down.
The range is completely maintenance free, requiring no
topping up of liquid electrolyte, whilst the valve regulated sealed
design enables installation in confined, hard to reach locations–
perfect for RV’, Caravans and marine applications.
Century Deep Cycle Gel batteries incorporate a range of
advanced design features to maximise durability and cycle life
performance. They offer improved recovery from a deep
discharge or when temporarily stored in a discharged state and
deliver longer cycles of power when compared with equivalent
flooded Deep Cycle batteries.
Available in 75Ah to 100Ah sizes, the Century Gel Deep
Cycle range is ideal for recreational vehicles and accessories,
electric powered vehicles, scooters, wheel chairs and solar
power systems.
Both Century Deep Cycle AGM and Gel batteries are backed
with a fully comprehensive nationwide 12 month warranty and
supported with one of Australia’s most extensive sales and
distribution networks.

To find out more information on Century Deep Cycle AGM and Gel products contact your Century Batteries
representative on 1300 362 287 or visit www.centurybatteries.com.au

26 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Dependable Power
with advanced AGM Deep Cycle technology.

Century Deep Cycle AGM Batteriess are the ultimate in deep p cycle battery
performance, designed to provide longer life and dependable deep cycling
capability in the harshest of operating conditions and environments.
onments.

Recreational vehicles and accessories through to marine systems, Century Deep

Cycle AGM batteries deliver dependable power and performance while you enjoy
the great outdoors!

For more information contact your Century deep cycle specialist on 13 22 87

CB123-936

www.centurybatteries.com.au
Product Reviews

The best way for

portable caravan
cooking
Cook a roast, stew or bake bread easily and
safely while on the road with the Dream-Pot.

A
non-electrical portable cooker or cooler, barbeque food
warmer and saucepans, all in one, the Dream-Pot has
been popular among the caravan and camping community
since 1996.
Introduced into the Australian market by Dream-Pot owners
Barry and Merran Green, it provides an energy efficient,
convenient, portable solution to cooking in the great outdoors.
It is not only ideal to cook soups, curries and stews, it is the
perfect way to prepare roast, corned silverside, scones and
cakes.
The product can also be used as a wine cooler, to set
yoghurt overnight, or as a rice cooker.
Fitting neatly into a 30cm space, the Dream-Pot does not rely baking. After a long day on the road or on your return to the
on any constant gas, charcoal beads or electricity to cook, campsite, the meals are ready, and cleaning up is simple.
therefore it is safe to be used while you travel. The Dream-Pot comes in 3 litre, 5 litre and 6 litre models.
The inner pots are stainless steel and the outer pot contains See Merran and Barry professionally conducting cooking
the highest quality insulative material, which ensures there is no demonstrations at various caravan, motorhome, camping state
additional heat in the caravan or vehicle, and no continual steam. shows, as listed on the Dream-Pot website.
Furthermore, it does not get hot on the outside, making it an Superior product knowledge, service and support is always
additional safety feature for your RV. guaranteed.
Start the meal cooking on the stove and then leave the
Dream-Pot in the caravan, car or in the tent to safely continue For more information, call 1800 636 073,
or visit www.dreampot.com.au.

28 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Product Reviews

Gear Up With The Cartel’s… New Combo Pak

L
eatherman, Carson and LED LENSER,
the crème of outdoor brands, have
teamed up to produce an adventure
Combo Pak for die-hard outdoor
aficionados. Whether it’s navigating through
harsh terrain, hunting in the dark, tinkering
with tools or bird watching, Combo Pak
delivers the goods needed for a successful
adventure.
Combo Pak includes:
3 LEATHERMAN ‘KICK’ MULTI-TOOL:
needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire
cutters, hard wire cutters, clip point
knife, large screwdriver, small screw
driver, Phillips screwdriver.
3 CARSON COMPASS: Sturdy metal
bearing finder is a personal navigator
that will aid in plotting a course.
3 CARSON TRACKER BINOCULARS:
Lightweight, hi-tech, multicoated 8 x 21
binoculars that fit easily into pockets.
3 LED LENSER PHOTON PUMP TORCH:
3 x 5 white LED, battery life 20 hours,
beam distance 28 metres, weight 98g,
max luminous flux 24, length 151mm,
body: anodised aluminium.
Combo Pak is excellent value at:
$199.00,
Stockists: Camping & Outdoor stores,
Contact: Zen Imports on 1800 064 200

The World’s Smallest Stove is

Natures Brightest Spark

T
ipping the scales at a tiny 160g, the OD-1BS by Soto rivals
the competition for top honours as the world’s smallest
single burner stove with a built-in igniter!
Tailor made for backpackers, campers or high altitude
mountaineers, the Soto OD-1BS has a 11,000 BTU output that
really tops the scales for heat output. The Soto OD-1BS will have
your water boiled or meal cooked in no time.
A piezo igniter is attached to the stove making lighting a
breeze. It sends out an electric spark that starts the flame once
the gas is turned on; no matches required!
Pot supports fold down around the burner head for an
extremely slim profile when stowed. When unfolded they firmly
support large pots and pans.
3 Ultra lightweight
3 Easy to operate
3 Huge heat output
3 Environmentally friendly
3 Case included
3 PPR $99.95
3 Dimensions when in use:
15 x 15 x 8 cm
3 Dimension when stowed:
3.4 x 4.62 x 6.37 cm
For further information
please contact Outdoor
Survival Australia 1800 558
707 or visit
www.outdoorsurvival.com.au
for retail stockist.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 29

Product Reviews

New Narva tail lamps offer touch of class

S
tylish new 130mm round
Narva lamps offer a touch
of prestige to the rear of
caravans, motor homes and
buses, boasting smooth lines,
attractive optics and affordable
pricing.
Recognised by some of
Australia’s leading
manufacturers who are fitting
the lamps as original
equipment, the modern design
is enhanced with the use of
highly polished free-form
reflectors, standard
incandescent globes and
durable PMMA acrylic material.
Three models are available
covering rear direction
indicator; stop-tail and reverse.
They are designed to mount
within a recessed cavity to
create a modern flush finish
and each lamp is pre-wired
with a sealed globe socket
fitted with a 12V globe. The ‘E’
approved and ADR compliant
lamps are also suitable for 24V
applications just with a change Available from leading automotive and caravan outlets the stylish new Narva 130mm tail
of the globe. lamps have recommended retail pricing from $29.50.

LED licence plate lamps complement

modern vehicle designs

N
arva’s new Model 8 LED vehicle elements and
licence plate lamps are incorporate the latest
stylish in design to automotive lighting
complement modern motor technological advantages.
The compact
new 10-30V
multi-voltage
We can give you great lamps feature a
stylish base and
TV Reception Australia wide! sculptured cover
which ‘snap-together’ making
installation quick and easy.
Three modern colour
variations are available in the
new Model 8 lamps with
charcoal/black, chrome/black
and all white. Each lamp has a
virtually unbreakable
polycarbonate lens.
Attractively presented in
modern retail visual blister
packs, the new lamps are ADR
approved and come with
Narva’s 5 year LED warranty.
For manufacturers and trade
users bagged packs are also
available in single units,
reducing the amount of
packaging wastage as well as
saving time and money.

• Two antennas to
choose from: “T”
Antennae with optional
signal booster or the
“Active Zone” model
with built in signal
booster. T Antennae plus optional booster
• Our unique registered
designed “Multi fit”
bracket and mast allows
quick and easy fitting,
dismantling and tuning.
• No drilling required for
poptop vans.
DX2700 Active Zone with built in booster

HAPPY WANDERER
C A R AVA N A C C E S S O R I E S

Unit 2/54 Byre Avenue, Somerton Park SA 5044 Ph 08 8376 2411

See more at www.happywanderer.net.au

30 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


‘Quickfit’ trailer connectors make fitting quick and easy
A
re-design of the popular
Narva flat 7 pin trailer
plug and socket is a
major step forward in
simplifying trailer wiring and
assembly.
The new design utilises a
threaded cap that can be
simply unscrewed by hand
allowing the top and bottom
outer casings to separate to
provide ease of access for
wiring up. Also assisting the
wiring process for both the
plug and socket are clear
convenient circuit identification
markings found within each
unit. Excellent sealing against
Powerful Work Lamps just the thing for long road trips
S
ome of the most powerful
compact LED flood and
spot beam work lamps
have been added to the Narva
range.
Utilising the latest in high
intensity LEDs, a powerful
white light is instantly
produced without any warm
up period. This whiter, crisper
light output is responsible for
reducing eye strain and fatigue
during long hours of night
work making it perfect for
worksite applications. Their
compact size allows them to
be easily mounted in confined
spaces to avoid damage
making them ideally suited to
the widest range of
applications in agriculture,
transport, 4WD and
workmen’s vans.
The 72249 lamp is just 110
x 110mm in size, yet it
produces an amazingly
powerful white flood beam
Serious Pulling Power
Further information
and availability
1800 683 577
sales@milford-auto.com
Product Reviews
the ingress of dust, grime and
moisture is provided by a
rubber grommet between the
upper and lower casings
which is held in place by the
threaded end cap.
The new ‘Quickfit’ trailer
connectors are manufactured
to the highest standard using
quality ABS housings and
nickel plated brass terminals.
Suitable for all trailers running
a 7 pin wiring system, both the
plug and socket comply with
all relevant ADRs.
Available from leading
automotive, boating, trailer and
transport outlets.
light output of 850 lumens.
A slightly smaller 72447
round lamp is just 93mm
diameter and has an excellent
spot beam with an output of
900 Lumen.
Even smaller, the
attractively styled oval work
lamp Part No. 72446 with
dimensions of 93mm wide and
81mm high from the base
mount, delivers a powerful
flood beam with a light output
of 300 Lumen with two LEDs.
Boasting multi-voltage 9 -
50V technology, pre-wired and
with die cast powder coated
aluminium housings the two
flood beam lamps have break, and each is fully Compact Narva multi-
virtually unbreakable supported by Narva’s 5 year voltage LED Flood and Spot
polycarbonate lens whilst the LED warranty. An added Beam Work Lamps are now
spot beam lamp has a special benefit is the low current draw available from leading
robust projector style glass ranging from 0.30A to 0.80A at automotive, 4WD and
lens. 12V and just 0.15A to 0.30A at transport outlets.
Their rugged construction 24V. Mounting hardware is Recommended retail pricing
guarantees a long service life, stainless steel and each lamp commences at around
especially with no filament to is sealed to IP66 rating. $129.00.
MILFORD
TOWBARS
Seriously good value!
Milford have now
developed a safe, strong
& value-laden Towbar
range for off-road,
caravanning, family
and fleet use. Milford
Towbars deliver rugged
performance, good looks
and the maximum level
of competitive value.
www.milford-auto.com
MIL0431
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 31
General News
Australian debut for top
selling fuel stabiliser
T
he launch of America’s top selling fuel stabiliser on the
Australian market is set to overcome starting and fuel
problems for cars and motorcycles not in regular use,
particularly classic, veteran and vintage vehicles.
The world renowned STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser marketed in
Australasia by international company Trico Products, addresses
the serious issue of stale fuel that can create problems for
engines that are stored for periods without use. Fuel that is
stored either in a can or in the engine fuel tank, starts going stale
after a little more than a month, resulting in hard starting, poor
performance and reduced engine life.
When added to fresh fuel, STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser stops the
formation of gum and varnish in engines. It contains corrosion
prevention additives to fight the damaging effects of Ethanol in
fuels and cleans fuel injectors and carburettors, restoring
performance.
Marketed for over 40 years and recommended by more than
100 engine and equipment manufacturers, STA-BIL Fuel
Stabiliser is safe to use in any petrol engine and is used by
millions throughout the world. It contains no additives that can
harm any engine, fuel injectors or catalytic converters but until
now has been virtually unknown to Australian market consumers
who are yet to experience the benefits of this amazing additive.
When storing vehicles for longer periods, many people drain
the fuel tank creating a host of additional problems as it is
impossible to get all the fuel out of the system simply by draining.
32 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
It generally requires the fuel lines to be blown out otherwise
sufficient fuel will remain in the system to gum up the engine.
Once drained of fuel, bare metal in the tank and system are
exposed to air and moisture causing harmful rust and corrosion
to form. Additionally, gaskets tend to dry out and crack leading
to leaks when the system is refilled. Draining fuel also creates its
own problems when attempting its disposal in an environmentally
safe way.
The addition of STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser to fresh fuel will keep
it fresh for 12 months. With double the recommended STA-BIL
dosage, fuel will remain fresh for more than 24 months and its
use with Ethanol blend fuels prevents induced water attraction
and separation. The ideal solution for cars and motorcycles not
in regular use is to add STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser to a full tank of
fresh fuel and be ready to go for a quick start.
STA-BIL is a concentrated formula that requires just 30mL
per 9.5 litres of fuel.
Suitable for all petrol engines the extensive market potential
applications for STA-BIL covers cars (including classic, veteran
and vintage); motorcycles; inboard and outboard marine
engines; lawnmowers; motorised garden blowers and
equipment; chain saws; generator plants etc.
New STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser is available from leading
automotive and marine outlets in handy 118mL, 236mL and
473mL size bottles and once a bottle of STA-BIL is opened the
formula will remain good for two years.
 Make a clean start
on your next trip

STA-BIL keeps fuel fresh

It’s time for the big trip and you need to know that all STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser protects
engines (generator, outboard, campervan etc.) are in all petrol engines
top condition. Fuel that is stored either in the engine,
fuel tank or fuel can, starts going stale after a little
more than a month. This results in hard starting,
poor performance and reduced engine life.
When added to fresh fuel, STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser Mowers and garden Chainsaws & power Leisure boats
stops the formation of gum and varnish in fuel equipment equipment

system components. It contains corrosion

prevention additives to fight the
damaging effects of Ethanol in
fuels and cleans fuel injectors and
carburettors, restoring your engines
performance. Classic Cars Seasonal farm equipment Jet skis

Marketed for over 40 years in the

USA and recommended by more
STA-BIL is available in three bottle
than 100 engine and equipment
sizes: 118ml, 236ml & 473ml.
manufacturers. Sta-bil is safe
to use in any petrol engine and
will not harm any engine or fuel
system components or catalytic
converters.

When you store, start with STA-BIL®

Fuel Stabiliser www.sta-bil.com.au
Product Reviews

Battery charger maximises battery performance and life

W
orld class 7-stage
technology with multi-
chemistry charging in
Projecta’s latest range of
battery chargers sets a new
standard for maximising
battery performance and life.
Engineered and designed
in Australia for use on all types
of battery including Gel; AGM;
Wet and Calcium, the new
chargers provide the
opportunity to have just one
charger to meet all your
charging needs. By selecting
the battery chemistry type,
Intelli-Charge adjusts the
charge to precisely match the
battery, extending battery life
and performance.
Intelli-Chargers are fully
automatic and deliver a
comprehensive and accurate last settings even when the out of sight—a feature that will undergone rigorous vibration
charging technique known as power has been turned off. delight caravan and motor- testing to pass both a military
7-stage charging, especially The larger units feature a home owners, as it avoids the and caravan standard. In
engineered for optimum selectable charge rate function necessity of checking a addition the circuit boards have
performance on all types of starting from as low as 2 Amps charger located outside the been conformal coated to
batteries. allowing the user to best suit vehicle. protect against moisture and
Major features such as user
the size of the battery. Ensuring long term dust.
friendly controls and easy to
read LED displays have been Additional features include a durability and service life, the Australian engineered and
incorporated into the new fully synchronised LCD display complete range of chargers designed, the Projecta Intelli-
Projecta Intelli-Charge chargers and remote control supplied feature short circuit protection Chargers are quality
which allow operators to with each charger. Total control and are constructed from guaranteed and covered by a 2
quickly customise the charge of the unit along with its extruded aluminium housings year Projecta comprehensive
settings and monitor the performance can be monitored complete with solid mounting warranty and are available from
charger’s performance. The even when the charger is flanges. They are shock-proof, leading automotive, 4WD,
chargers also remember the mounted out of the way and dust-proof and have camping and transport outlets.

Economical remedy beats irritating air-conditioning leaks

W
ith diminishing used
vehicle prices many
owners are reluctant to
spend too much on fixing those
sneaky leaks in air conditioning
systems that can sap their
performance and release
environmentally damaging
refrigerants into the
atmosphere.
But as vehicles age, even
little holes in evaporators,
condensers and systems will
slowly drain the effectiveness of
car, truck, van 4WD and
caravan installations and leave
owners gasping for relief on
warmer days.
But now these irritating
refrigerant losses can be
permanently sealed for little
more than a couple of hundred
dollars using a new product
that has been extensively
proven in the world’s major
automotive market, North
America.
Super Seal Pro liquid
formulation works by sealing
refrigerant leaks from the
inside—reacting with the
moisture in ambient air after
being carried in solution with oil
and refrigerant to the point
where the leaks exit. When the
sealant comes into contact
with the droplets of moisture
created by escaping refrigerant,
it forms a permanent low
tensile crystalline structure that
creates a barrier to prevent
further losses. In simple terms,
it repairs a leak in a similar way
as to how your body stops the
bleeding of a cut.
It is designed for use with
systems using flexible hose
type connections or with open
drive compressors. These
include systems used in cars,
trucks, buses, vans, 4WDs,
caravans, boats, trailers, farm
machinery and refrigerated
vehicles.
Super Seal Pro
permanently seals leaks in
condensers, evaporators,
accumulators, compressors,
gaskets, o-rings, metal lines
and rubber hose. The sealant
can be professionally installed
in approximately one hour by a
certified automotive air
conditioning technician. The
products are available through
most reputable wholesalers.
For more information
call (02) 6026 4886 or visit
www.cliplight.com

34 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


Australian – Owned – Designed – Built
A
ustralians enjoy travel, bush camping, beach camping and
many other outdoor leisure pursuits and what better way
than with a well appointed slide-on camper utilising one
vehicle for work and leisure with no additional costs such as
registration, tyres and springs to consider. The Trayon model
camper is a low profile practical package for travel and quickly
and easily set up by one person once the campsite is reached.
With the Trayon you can choose to leave the camper on
board, with the convenience of having all your equipment readily
General News
available for day trips, or if desired, the camper can be set up
free-standing in camp. When the outdoors beckons, a flyscreen
annexe provides a bug free area within minutes or a canvas
annexe quickly extends the living area of the camper.
With your portable home on board your vehicle, being able
to tow a boat, horse float etc. is a very attractive feature and one
of many which makes the Trayon Camper worthy of
consideraton, whether planning a weekend away or a leisurely
trip around our beautiful country.
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 35
Product Reviews

Nulon coolants extend life

and add value

N
ulon has long been known for market leading lubricants,
coolants and additives and is becoming recognised as
being at the forefront of pioneering new technology to
the Australian market.
With a strong and innovative history it was a natural
progression to expand the leading range of coolants for the
Australian market.
Although Type A coolant is often recommended for
vehicles manufactured after 1984, there are many vehicles that
still need servicing with a good quality Type B radiator coolant.
These cars require a very good quality corrosion inhibitor,
to protect metal components, but they do not require the full
anti-freeze, anti-boil properties that Type A coolants offer.
Nulon’s New Type B coolants offer superior corrosion
inhibitor technology offering excellent anti rust and corrosion
protection and superior heat transfer for maximum cooling
efficiency.
This gives Nulon Type B coolants an extra safety zone in
both time and distance for no extra outlay.
Contact Nulon on 1800 679 922 or
visit www.nulon.com.au for more information.

Dayco offers NAK oil seals

D
ayco Australia’s
commitment to
providing total quality
aftermarket automotive
solutions to Australian
automotive repairers
continues with the addition of
premium quality NAK oil seals
and a specially formulated oil
seal lubricant with all Dayco
timing belts.
Globally renowned NAK
engine rotary seals use
premium quality rubber
sealing elements and high
performance, premium
materials in their manufacture
making them suitable for high
speed and high temperature
applications.
The quality of
replacement oil seals and the
correct lubricant required is
critical to ensuring a reliable
timing belt kit replacement.
The Dayco specific oil
seal lubricant has been
designed to have the ideal
viscosity that allows even
application and spread during
assembly, while also
protecting the oil seal during
operation.
Dayco has even initiated
a colour-coded system for
oil seals to give the fitter or
end user complete clarity on
what they are buying and
fitting.
NAK Australia General
Manager, Simon Tesoriero,
said combining the
company’s premium quality
sealing products with the
premium quality Dayco range
of aftermarket timing belt kits
makes perfect sense.
“The NAK sealing
products are an integral and
reliable component to the
updated Dayco aftermarket
timing belt kit range,” he said.

36 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Product Reviews

Finally a Wedgie
that’s comfortable!
$ 29.95

It’s All About Comfort

The Wondawedge inflatable pillow is
ideal when camping, picnicking, is
fantastic on the beach and for reading in
the van or tent. It’s all about comfort.
For stockists call Wondawedge Australia,
(02) 4294 8619, 0401 536 602
The lounging pillow “The Wedgie” has fast become the
most popular product in the camping and outdoor scene,
this multi use inflatable pillow with attached ground sheet
is the most comfortable way to spend time relaxing,
providing all the support you need to sit, recline or lie
down.
The Wedgie is ideal when camping, picnicking, is
fantastic on the beach or for the outdoor concert and with
the Wedgie you inflate it to determine the comfort level.
Once deflated the pillow folds to about the size of a
book and conveniently tucks away in a small space in the
car, caravan or into your backpack. The Wondawedge
was designed by a Physiotherapist for proper back
support and it certainly is the best product for comfort.
RRP $29.95 • www.wondawedge.com.au

Save time and space with GoJacks, you can move

your car, boat, trailer or caravan sideways, spin it
around or put it in the corner, easily.
NOW WITH UPGRADED, METAL ROLLERS, BETTER WHEELS AND CAN
EASILY BE ADAPTED TO LARGER 4 X 4 WHEELS, UNLIKE OTHERS

2 sizes available 9” and 12”

for those wider tyres
PRICING: 2 x = $340 4 x = $580
Add $20 per jack for the 12” all prices are, plus delivery, pick up is free. GST INC
Call Bruce 0414 319 592 or Alec 0409 833 383 or call 1300 Gotools
NEW UPGRADE MODEL Email: gotools@tpg.com.au Web: www.gotools.com.au

Move anything on wheels, from here to there to anywhere...

Have you ever had to push and shove your van, car,
boat or trailer to get it into that wedge of vacant land
created when you put your vehicle away in the shed
or back yard?
Well, the clever GoJack is the solution to the
problem of space saving jiggling needed to win the
space back.
The jack goes around both sides of the wheels
and is easily pumped up to lift the wheels off the
ground, with a lifting capacity of 680kgs each, a set
of four will lift most vehicles.
There are 4 sturdy castor wheels under each jack
that turns your caravan into a shopping trolley, which
then lets you spin push and maneuver the caravan,
trailer, boat or car from anywhere to anywhere you
want.
Faster and safer than floor jacks and a fraction of
the cost of electric cart systems, GoJacks gives you
back that wasted space.
Mention this advert to receive $10 off the full price

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 37

Product Reviews

Leading auto magazine tests top selling tyres

L
eading UK car magazine
Auto Express has taken
the best selling
205/55R16 tyres found on
some of the most popular
family models and tested them
in one of the best places in the
world to test tyres, the Uvalde
proving ground in Texas.
All assessments were
conducted by Auto Express
drivers. Random samples of
each tyre were taken to ensure
they were the same as those
currently sold in the market. All
the leading brands were there
including Bridgestone;
Continental; Dunlop; Fulda;
Goodyear; Hankook; Kumho;
Maxxis; Michelin; Pirelli;
Vredestein and Wanli with
various speed ratings from up
to 200km/h to almost
300km/h.
To come to a final decision
when different drivers want
different things from their tyres,
the scores from all disciplines
were added up and weighted
to reflect the performance gap
in each brand. Whether the
track was wet or dry the
Continental tyre was up there
as a great performer.
Numerous tests were
conducted and it was noted
that several manufacturers
would not be happy with the
results however Continental
came out as the superb all-
rounder performing with
distinction in all conditions.
These tests revealed a
smaller margin from two of the
leading name brand wet track
specialists with only 30cm
separating Continental from
second and third. Where the
Continental tyres stopped in
35.7 metres the Chinese
contender took a huge and
alarming 46.5 metres to stop.
In the price category it was
not surprising that the Chinese
tyres came out on top but as
the drivers commented as the
result came in—“We’ve seen
how they perform.”
In the final assessment the
Auto Express tests revealed best tyre money could buy”. family,” said Gareth Taylor,
Continental as the all round “The professional Continental Australasian
performer in all conditions and independent tests conducted Marketing Manager. “It also
according to the independent by the AutoExpress team confirms the ‘Manufacturer of
assessment team “the tyre will provide a strong message for the Year 2009’ status for
perform anywhere and it motorists looking to provide a Continental as a leader in tyre
deserves the crown as the higher degree of safety for their development,” he said.

New Gates Coolant

PORTABLE SATELLITE TV
hose packs
CARAVAN & CAMPING
G
ates has
SATELLITE SYSTEMS released
Everyone deserves great TV anywhere, anytime another two
new coolant hose
• WIN packs into its
• GWN extremely popular
• ABC range.
• SBS Gates coolant
• IMPARJA hose packs take the
• CENTRAL 7 hassle out of
• MOVIES
shopping around for
coolant hose parts.
• SPORTS
Each hose pack
• NEWS includes the relevant
• MUSIC hose parts you need
• FREE TV for a complete hose
service, and also
AND MANY MORE CHANNELS! includes the required
clamps.
Portable Satellite TV 2 min Easy setup
The two new part
System from $249 No joining fees numbers are suitable
Perfect TV anywhere! Call and order NOW! No Contracts for Ford Falcon
BA/BF and Holden cause of hose failure.
RIVERVALE • Many dish sizes available ROCKINGHAM Commodore VZ. Fit Gates—the most
49 Gt Eastern Hwy • Various packages available, call to enquire 2 Commodore Dr
Don’t risk it—to prevent respected and trusted brand
(cnr Fitzroy Road) • Caravan systems for many satellites such
as C1, D1, B3, Intel8, etc.
(cnr Read St)
the risk of hose failure, change of hose, and preferred by most
all major cooling system hose. professional technicians.
PHONE 08 9472 7200 Fit the best—with patented For more information call
ECR technology, Gates hose is (03) 9797 9688 or visit
WWW. com.au proven to fight the primary www.gatesaustralia.com.au

38 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


Wikango 2.2 App on your iPhone
Join the greatest LIVE Speed Camera
warning community!
N
ext Destination Pty Ltd,
the Australian distributor
for AlerteGPS—the
European leader of Speed
Camera, School Zone, Railway
Crossing and Speed Warning
solutions and technology, have
put online their latest free
iPhone App Wikango 2.2, a
real-time speed camera
warning.
Understanding that not
every driver uses or needs
auto navigation, or that many
find Sat Navs complicated or
distracting, AlerteGPS
identified a need for a simple,
user friendly tool that only
provides warnings of fixed
cameras, red light cameras,
mobile cameras, school zones
and railway crossings locations
based on a free weekly
updated database. AlerteGPS
technology warns drivers only
when travelling in the direction
of the camera and only during
school open time zones thus
preventing unnecessary
warnings and noise pollution in
the vehicle.
The new Wikango 2.2 App
is the the No.1 real-time speed
camera warning software and
one of the most popular
applications on the Apple
Store having attracted over
700,000 users to join this
community of drivers within
just a few months. Not only
does it turn the iPhone into a
speed camera warning
device that communicates in
real time, it also alerts other
drivers to the location of
newly set up mobile speed
cameras.
The Wikango App has an
enhanced user-friendly
interface and works as a
safety car function. At the
touch of the screen it tells the
user the number of Wikango
users within a fixed radius
around the position of the
vehicle or the number of
Safety Cars present in front
of the vehicle and on the
same road. It also informs
the users the distance from
their vehicle to the closest
Safety Car.
The Wikango App
informs iPhone drivers of
mobile, fixed and red light
cameras only.
If you do not have an
iPhone 3G or 3GS or wish to
take advantage of the full
AlerteGPS database of School
Zones, Railway Crossings,
Black Spots and preset driver
Speed Alerts plus Speed
Cameras, AlerteGPS offer their
G200 and G220 receivers.
Both the G200 and the
G220 provide count down
warnings of fixed and red light
cameras (direction activated),
school zone warnings (time
activated) and railway
crossings with up to 900m
warning distance. To enhance
driving safety, the vehicle
speed is displayed together
with up to 3 preset speed
bands providing audio
warnings when speeding.
When passing a mobile
camera not found in the data
base, the location is recorded
by the driver with a single
press of a button. At a
convenient time this data is
uploaded to the AlerteGPS
web site where all other
AlerteGPS owners can share
this new mobile camera data
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 39
Product Reviews
Australia wide. All data
updates are free of charge.
The G200 has a single line
digital display and the G220
with an OLED 2 inch colour
screen shows icons depicting
the warning that is ahead. The
G220 has multiple screen and
alert options plus it comes
inclusive of an air vent bracket
which hides the unit away
below the windscreen. Both
the G200 and G220 come
with USB cable and car lighter
power adaptor. With prices
starting at $129 (less than the
cost of some speeding fines)
the AlerteGPS is a low cost
investment which will protect
your driving license and
demerit points.
Simple to use, just attach
the G200 or the G220 unit to
the car 12V power and away
you go—and it’s 100% legal.
AlerteGPS has 120,000
speed camera locations
checked and photographed,
and records direction of speed
cameras to avoid false
warnings. The database of
fixed speed cameras is
international including
Australia, United Kingdom,
Austria, Belgium, China, Spain,
United States, Finland, France,
Hong Kong, Italy, Malaysia,
Norway, Netherlands,
Portugal, Singapore and
Sweden.
Product Reviews

Chef’n G’rabbit Junior Salt Not Another Bloody Torch!!

and Pepper Grinders, Pop it
on and off you go!
K
eep your trip well
spiced with the
new Chef’n
G’rabbit Junior, a mini
magnetic salt and
pepper grinder set that
is ideal for caravan and
boat kitchens.
Each designer
styled little bunny has a
rare earth magnet on
its reverse side
enabling it to latch onto
the fridge front or any
metal panel for easy
access.
Ergonomically
shaped for single-
handed action on the
go, they disperse
freshly ground contents
with a squeeze of their
bunny ears.
Chef’n G’rabbit
Juniors are available as
a set (RRP $38.95) at
David Jones and
independent homeware stores
from
April 2010.
Stockist enquiries can be
directed to McPherson’s
Consumer Products, phone
1800 65 11 46.
The latest, lightest and
brightest star in the Led
Lenser system!
B
rand new from Led
Lenser. The L Series. “L”
stands for lightweight
and the first of the L series to
arrive in Australia is the Led
Lenser L7. Lightweight,
focusable and extremely
durable the L series are made
from aircraft grade
polycarbonate making them
the perfect edition to any
toolbox.
From the worlds leading
brand of technologically
advanced, high quality LED
torches and lamps.  Led
Lenser use state-of-the-art
engineering and a variety of
patent pending reflecting
systems to create the brightest
most energy efficient LED
lights available.
Incredibly compact the Led
Lenser L7 is a powerful torch
that provides up to 200 hours
of light from one set of
batteries and up to 100,000
hours of light from the LED
light chip.
It also has a focusable
beam from spot to flood and a
range of 650ft.
Features include:
3 1 x CREE high
performance LED chip
3 Effective beam range:
200m
3 Advanced reflector lens
3 3 x AAA Batteries
(included)
3 98 Lumens output power
3 160 hours operation on
one set of batteries
3 Advanced focus system
3 Splash proof lens cap
3 Weight: 132g
3 Length: 133mm
3 Price: $69.95
Stockist information call Zen
Imports: (02) 9807 9922

Keeping food fresh for longer

S
unbeam VS7800 Food
Saver is fantastic for
camping, caravanning
and boating enthusiasts as it
allows you to enjoy your time
away from home without
sacrificing good food. Built to
commercial standards, the
VS7800 will keep food fresher
for up to five times longer than
conventional storage methods.
The VS7800 Food Saver’s
vacuum packaging system
removes air and moisture from
specially designed bags and
containers while locking in
freshness and flavour. For
outdoor enthusiasts the Food
Saver helps to keep food
fresher for longer, while also
making it easier to carry and
store in the esky or caravan—
perfect for the weekend trip or
caravanning adventure.
Week long “roughing it”
diets consisting of tinned
spaghetti, baked beans and
two minute noodles are a thing
of the past as now you can
bring your home-made meals and fresh fruit and vegetables to The Sunbeam VS7800 is priced at an affordable $299 and is
where they are missed the most. available from Stockists – Ph: 1300 881 861 or
sunbeam.com.au.

40 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Lifestyle

Credit where credit is due

Don’t allow a bad credit rating to damage your long-term financial goals

I
f you’ve ever applied for a loan, a credit card or
even signed up to a mobile phone plan, then
the likelihood is that your personal credit rating
was checked as part of the process. If your
application was rejected, explains Daniel Lanna,
Business Development Manager with Centric
Lending Services*, it’s possible that this was due
to a poor personal credit score, or rating.
“This score or rating is based on information
about your personal financial history that’s
collected by specialist credit rating or reporting
agencies,” said Mr Lanna.
“It is based on factors such as your
repayment history on previous loans, credit cards
and specialist finance such as that offered by
many department and homeware stores, and
whether there are any unpaid or outstanding bills
in your name. This information is then accessed
by the bank or other organisation to which you
are applying.”
Mr Lanna described personal credit ratings as
a critical factor in getting finance, whether it be a
home loan, personal loan or credit card. However,
in the post GFC world, where credit has become
scarcer and credit providers have become less
inclined to take risks, it’s even more important.
“If you are unable to secure a loan through the
mainstream banks and lenders, this will mean
alternate lenders may charge higher interest rates
and will often offer lower lending amounts.
“That’s why it’s important both to monitor your
personal credit rating and to take steps to keep
your credit history as ‘clean’ as possible. Most
credit reporting agencies will keep details of any

“
defaults or unpaid bills on file for five years, which
means that just a few lapses can have
implications for years to come. Equally, even
consistent late payment can throw up a red flag
and impair your rating.
“Monitoring your credit rating is important
because it enables you to keep track of what the
reporting agencies are saying about you and,
especially, whether or not their reports are
accurate—often they are not,” he said.
According to Mr Lanna, sometimes incorrect
information about an unpaid bill or late repayment is listed
against your name—it may be that it was a disputed charge or
there was some other good reason for the non-payment on your
part, and you need to address that to clear your report.
“A common example is a client who is surprised to find their
loan application declined on the basis that they have had a small,
unpaid bill (under $500) with a Telco,” he said. “They had a
legitimate dispute with the service provider who has listed it as a
default, and as a result they have not been able to achieve their
financial goals and dreams. It is a high price to pay for what is
often a matter of principle.
“Similarly, with identity theft on the rise, it may be that
unauthorised charges and debts are being made in your name
without your knowledge—and these are definitely something you
want to know about.”
There are various services available that will provide you with
your own credit report—some for free, some for a fee. Mr Lanna
recommends a quick Internet search (use the search terms
‘personal credit rating Australia’) to show you the options.
“Once you have the report, if all is not well, there are options
to ‘repair’ your rating. If you intend on applying for any sort of
loan or credit, it’s probably a good idea to pursue them,” he said.
Make every effort to pay bills on
time; stay in contact with your
creditors if you’re experiencing
difficulty, and monitor your rating
regularly to be sure it’s accurate
“These repair services are offered by various specialist firms
which can contact creditors and agencies concerned and may
even offer advice and help with budgeting and personal financial
management. Again, a quick Internet search (search terms
‘credit repair Australia’) should yield a number of options.
“As with most of life’s less pleasant features, if at all possible,
prevention is better than cure. Make every effort to pay bills on
time; stay in contact with your creditors if you’re experiencing
difficulty, and monitor your rating regularly to be sure it’s
accurate,” he said.
“If you do run into trouble, be sure to seek professional help,
because a poor credit rating can present serious difficulty when it
comes to achieving a lot of life’s goals.”
*About Centric Wealth
Centric Wealth is Australia’s leading, non-institutionally owned wealth advisory
firm focusing on high net worth clients. It has approximately $5 billion in assets
under advice (AUA) with a network of 59 advisers across financial planning, risk
insurance, corporate benefit services, lending, accounting and business advisory,
general insurance and family office services.
Centric Wealth Advisers Ltd is an Australian Financial Services Licensee No 243 253.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 41

General News
AL-KO International – It’s what’s under
the van that matters
After a year of financial turmoil, successful companies are forging ahead with new
products, new technology and a focus on customer service and satisfaction.
This picture was taken in the Netherlands of a vehicle and towed boat and trailer that had AL-KO equipment fitted – we can surely
claim a life was saved!
A
L-KO International, Australia and New Zealand’s largest
supplier of original component equipment to RV industry
set a goal in 2009 to invest heavily in research and
development whilst the economy was facing hard times. This
strategy has seen existing products improved and new
equipment developed specifically to suit the landscape and
environment for which they are used.
One of the most important criteria for caravan owners to
consider when purchasing a van is towing comfort and safety.
This is why AL-KO products are always found on award winning
caravans, as this product range is dedicated to helping caravan
owners enjoy their time out on the road.
And as much as comfort is extremely important, of more
importance is safety. When travelling short or long distances, to
the country or to the shore, getting there safely, with no vehicle
problems will make the holiday of a lifetime all that more special.
AL-KO understands this and has spent countless hours on
research and development, testing all our products to make sure
they all meet our exacting standards, along with implementing
best practice procedures to ensure your components are the
highest quality components on the market.
AL-KO supports its extensive product range with branches in
Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland that are staffed by
highly trained personnel.
Our extensive range of equipment includes:
• Caravan and Trailer components
42 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
• Axles
• Brakes & Braking Accessories
• Jockey Wheels
• A full range of Couplings
• Corner Steadies and Landing Legs
• Hubs and Drums
• Springs and Suspension equipment
• Aftermarket Equipment – specifically designed for the
retail market.
Our range of AL-KO Aftermarket Products include boxed and
blister packed components that offer the van or trailer owner the
opportunity to replace their original, essential equipment with AL-
KO Genuine Equipment; no need to risk an inferior brand or
product.
With such a wide and complete range of AL-KO Genuine
Equipment, all available from selected retail outlets as well as
being standard equipment on all good quality Caravans and
RV’s, you cannot go wrong with AL-KO.
When you consider the purchase of a new Caravan, Trailer,
Motorhome or any type of RV, or if you want to upgrade your
existing towed vehicle, make sure the essential equipment you
choose is the same as the major RV manufacturers choose –
insist on AL-KO Genuine Equipment.
Because there is no price you can place on safety.
For further information visit www.alko.com.au
or call 1800 035 603.
General News

Polaris GPS and Rear Vision Systems

The Brief
Polaris is a well established company with 35 years
experience in the aftermarket accessory business.
Within this time Polaris has moved with the times to New Product –
incorporate many products to enhance the Dual Rear Camera

appearance and safety of your vehicle. With the new

Information and Technology era we have a wide
variety of In Dash GPS/DVD Multimedia Systems
and GPS Tracking systems to suit most vehicles.
Products and services
Polaris have been the market leaders for many years
within the Rear Vision Industry.
We are able to provide the latest in In Dash
GPS/DVD Multimedia units with Bluetooth, IPOD,
Radio, CD and a rear vision camera for that added
bit of piece of mind. All our GPS units come with the
latest version of Sensis Whereis Mapping. Many of
the units are vehicle specific so just tell us what type
of vehicle you have and we should have a system to
suit it. Also we can incorporate a two camera
operation for the car and caravan installation whilst
still only using the one screen.
Polaris continues to be the proud supplier for
both Wholesale and Retail markets in the Rear
Vision and GPS accessories industry. We pride
ourselves on our commitment to safety and
customer service. Any of our friendly staff are able to
talk you through the process of choosing a system
that is right for your vehicle and your budget. New 7” 17.5cm Digital Monitor

Model
Basic Caravan / Trailer Package
CV-10
This system operates
as a normal
Rear Vision System
/
when your caravan/trailer
Model aravan
Basic C Package is not attached.
CV-10
Trailer Woza Kit
ut
Ask abo Dual
120º Infrared
170º wide angle Eye Camera
our Rear Camera
$ 95 10 camera for the rear

6 2009/20
Optional Extra
of the tow vehicle.
Ca talogue
+ P&H

Miniature
Camera
Colour LCD Monitor

5.6” (14cm) Monitor WOZA Trailer Cabling Kit N15366

Phone: 1300 55 55 14 www.polarisrearvision.com.au

44 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Towing

Caravanning Australia
Towing Guide
Towing is one of the most skillful aspects of caravanning, yet without the appropriate care or
attention to detail, a poorly towed caravan can quickly become a major hazard for you and
other road users. At Caravanning Australia we’ve decided it’s time for a towing refresher, so
over the next four editions our friends at RACQ will be imparting their expertise in a series of
‘back to basics’ towing refreshers.
To get things going with this first instalment, we go to the heart of the most important aspect
of towing: your car. 3 PAGE 47

IMAGE COURTESY CCIA NSW

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 45

Towing

TALON
TA Stop Secure your trailer on and off your stationary vehicle in just
30 seconds using the unique TALON Trailer Lock!

Trailer Lock heft! The Talon Trailer Security Range includes the Talon Hitch Lock, Talon
Treg Lock and All Terrain Treg Lock. The Talon range houses the BiLock
Nothing escapes ▲ Boats
High Security Locking System for added security.
Contact Australian Lock Company or any BiLock Agent
▲ Trailers
an eagle’s ▲ Caravans
throughout Australia.

grip! ▲ Horsefloats
www.australianlock.com.au
Email: sales@australianlock.com.au
17 Doyle Avenue
Unanderra NSW 2526
Phone: 1300 00 LOCK
Fax: 02 4272 4677

TALON TRAILER LOCKS

The Talon trailer lock secures trailer, boat or caravan both on & off your stationary vehicle with the simple turn of
a key.
The innovative & fully cast stainless steel lock features the renowned BiLock High Security Cylinder with a
key system that is tamper proof & pick resistant. Its innovative design & use of a dual bladed key system
operates an 8 pin mechanism all within the 12.7mm cylinder. SCEC rated, Talon provides the ultimate security
solution.
The Talon lock is simple to use taking only seconds to install & detach from your vehicle. In addition the
Talon lock comes fully assembled in 1 piece.
All Talon trailer locks carry a 12 month guarantee on all stainless steel components & lock cylinder. This
comprehensive guarantee has been endorsed by motoring authorities across Australia.

LEARN CARAVAN
TOWING IN SAFETY
We offer a safe and easy one day course
for new or returning caravanners. Our 5km
closed circuit offers the ideal environment to
learn and practice your new towing skills.
Do you want to have a safe
and happy holiday? www.metec.com.au
At Destiny Caravan Towing and Backing School METEC DRIVER TRAINING CENTRE
we can help you do that.
We aim to help give you confidence in towing and
(03) 9725 4758
backing as well as loading your van with even weight
distribution and hitching up.
We are situated 35 klms north of Grafton in NSW, in
the Northern Rivers area.
You may also wish to purchase our practical
demonstration DVD and booklet. For all the latest
Caravan and Boat storage is also available.
For bookings or enquiries please call Jean and Phil product news and
travel stories,
Scott on (02) 6647 7558 or try us on
www.caravantowing.net

www.caravanningoz.com.au

46 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


Automatic transmissions, as pictured in the latest Land Rover above, eliminate the potential for premature clutch wear.
Tow vehicles information
When choosing a tow vehicle, there are a few things apart from
towing capacity and paint colour that need to be considered.
Automatic vs manual transmissions
There are a variety of opinions on the suitability of particular
transmission types, however ultimately the decision is up to the
end user. In general, smaller vehicles are better suited to manual
transmissions due to the lower internal power losses through
these gearboxes; while automatic transmissions, when mated to
larger capacity engines, offer flexibility and reduced driver effort.
Automatic transmissions eliminate the potential for premature
clutch wear arising from hill starts and manoeuvring.
Additionally, many manufacturers rate vehicles fitted with
automatic transmissions with a much higher towing capacity
than the manual version of the same vehicle. When using
vehicles with an automatic transmission for heavy towing, it is
desirable, and in some cases mandatory as part of the towing
package, to fit a transmission cooler to prevent transmission
overheating. For more information on this point consult your
vehicle’s dealer or a reputable automatic transmission specialist.
Towing
RWD vs FWD
There has been considerable debate over the suitability of front
wheel drive vehicles for towing. Traditionally, larger 6 and 8
cylinder rear wheel drive vehicles have been popular for towing
and manufacturers such as Ford and Holden ensure their large
passenger cars have ample towing capacity.
Increasingly though, front wheel drive has become more
common in larger cars and there are a number of front wheel
drive 6 cylinder vehicles on the market that have quite significant
towing capacities.
Most vehicles are capable of towing and both front wheel
drive and rear wheel drive vehicles, regardless of the number of
cylinders they have, are suitable providing the manufacturer’s
towing recommendations are followed. It’s fair to say however,
that front wheel drive vehicles tend to be slightly more sensitive
to poor load distribution, although inappropriate trailer loading
can adversely affect any vehicle, regardless of its drive
configuration.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 50
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 47
Towing

48 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

Towing
4WDs v Passenger cars
You’ve probably noticed that big 4WDs are popular tow vehicles
for caravans and horse floats, and there is good reason for this.
Quite simply, few passenger cars have sufficient towing capacity
to legally tow heavy trailers such as larger caravans and fully
loaded horse floats. While in comparison, larger 4WDs often
have quite high towing capacities and usually aren’t subject to
the speed restrictions that apply to many passenger cars
operating near their maximum towing load.
While we certainly aren’t suggesting that a big 4WD is
essential for towing, there will be cases where there won’t be too
many other options.
Petrol v Diesel v LPG
Where the vehicle you are considering has an optional diesel
engine, it may be worth considering. However before making this
decision it’s worth doing some homework first. Diesel engines
have a reputation for better fuel consumption, however this alone
may not justify the additional cost over an equivalent petrol
model. Unless you drive big distances every year or use lots of
fuel, the savings on fuel may take many years to repay the
increased cost of the diesel engine option.
50 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
This Land Rover illustrates why 4WDs are the preferred choice for Caravanners.
Remember that at times diesel can be significantly dearer
than petrol and diesel engines are generally more costly to
service as parts such as filters can be considerably more
expensive. Alternatively, instead of paying extra for a diesel
engine you may wish to consider an LPG powered vehicle. LPG
has a proven track record in reducing fuel costs and is widely
available, but it isn’t for everyone, or every vehicle. For more
information see our brochure “Facts on LP Gas”.
The information provided in this fact sheet is intended as a
general guide only. You should carry out further research and
investigations into the topics outlined above prior to
implementing any actions or recommendations.
Vehicle maintenance and repairs
Heavy towing is hard on a vehicle so expect to spend more on
servicing and maintenance if you tow regularly. Most vehicle
manufacturers regard towing as severe use and vehicle
maintenance schedules usually outline what additional servicing
is required. However don’t overlook the fact that things like tyres
and brake pads will also wear out faster when towing.
(source: RACQ)
 Towing

RACQ Caravan and Trailer Towing Workshops

R
ACQ can deliver the relevant training and education necessary to competently and safely tow a caravan, horse float, goods
trailer and many other types of trailers used for recreational purposes. The aim of these workshops is to help participants gain
a better understanding of the relevant towing laws and regulations. It also provides practical experience in regard to pre-
purchase, setting-up, safe towing and manoeuvring of caravans and trailers.
Content
The RACQ Caravan and Trailer Towing Workshops devote an equal amount of time to theory and practice at a low client to coach
ratio. RACQ can also arrange one-on-one tuition. Topics Included:
3 towing weights—legality
3 loading the caravan/trailer—central load distribution focus
3 brake types and legal requirements
3 connection types and accessories
3 ball-weights—testing methods
3 preparation—roadworthiness, registration, tyres, chains
3 hitching and connection
3 on-road skills
3 reversing and manoeuvring to site
3 fatigue management
Practical
3 group workshops—manoeuvring to site using participants’ own vehicles
3 individual sessions designed to meet participant requirements and may include on-road towing, coupling, uncoupling and
manoeuvring
Group workshops and individual sessions are held regularly.
For booking and pricing information contact RACQ’s Driver Education team on (07) 3361 2382 or 1800 680 039,
or email DriverEd@racq.com.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 51

Navigation

more versatile than a standard navigator

Seeka
navigator
Big 7 inch
screen!

Windows For nearly 50 years the one-stop shop for maps

CE
PolNav - Navteq for street navigation
OziExplorer CE for off road maps
Plus a map data SD card with
Fullers Adelaide & Country SA,


 
1:250k data for all of Australia,
& more!
The Map Shop has been supplying maps and travel books to
the Australian consumer for nearly 50 years. During that time
there have been many changes in presentation of mapping
data and the delivery methods. This has included Global
Positioning systems and digital maps on sd cards and CDs.
Selling GPS equipment for  over 15 years  and   running
short courses in their use; ensures that staff and customers
are kept up-to-date.
The Map Shop not only retails map products but publishes
its own map products having won prizes in the last two years
for the quality of its work.

6-10 Peel St, Adelaide 

This means that additional digital data is made exclusively
available to purchasers of GPS equipment from The Map
tel: 8231 2033 www.mapshop.net.au Shop.

YOUR WINDOW TO ADVENTURE

HEMA NAVIGATOR 5”
O N & O F F R O A D G P S N AV I G AT I O N

Large 5” easy-to-view widescreen

New 64-Channel GPS
Your window to adventure
2GB on-board memory plus 4GB microSD Card Hema Navigator 5” – On & Off Road GPS Navigation
Bluetooth and FM Transmitter 3 Large 5” easy-to-view widescreen
Rear-view camera ready 3 New 64-Channel GPS for improved location accuracy
Preloaded with HEMA 4WD & 1:250K Topo maps 3 2GB on-board memory plus 4GB microSD Card for extra
map and data storage
3 GREAT NAVIGATION APPLICATIONS, 3 Bluetooth and FM Transmitter
ALL IN ONE GPS! 3 Rear-view camera ready
3 Preloaded with HEMA 4WD & 1:250K Topo maps
3 great navigation applications, all in one GPS!
STREET NAV 4WD NAV TOPO NAV
3 STREET NAV – ROUTE 66
Route 66 OziExplorer Memory Map 3 4WD NAV – OziExplorer
3 TOPO NAV – Memory Map
$990 RRP BONUS backup DVD including the HEMA 4WD maps
and GeoScience Australia 1:250K topographic maps.
AVAILABLE NOW
RRP: $990 Available Now
www.hemanavigator.com.au www.hemanavigator.com.au

52 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Navigation

Navigating your way

through the GPS maze

Navigation, whether land, sea

or air is about making maps speak.
There are those who see the contours as hills
and valleys—3D vision; others as as coordinates
of a graph; others again look for the human
imprint. Irrespective of how we visualise the map
details they are all invitations to explore. And many
enjoy the sheer beauty of maps. Now we have
technology to expand on that with a bewildering
array of devices that may not only tell us where we
are but even how to get to where we want to go
(and tell you off if the wrong turn is taken!).
Caravanning Australia invited well known
cartographer and balloonist Anthony Stephens to
write about how to get the best of this array
of innovation. The right combination for you
may well save your life.

S
o you want to buy a GPS (Global Positioning System). You
go down to the store and are surrounded by a wall of in-
vehicle navigation devices, hand held GPSs, fitness GPSs,
etc. You look and are even more confused. You remember a
name you saw advertised on television or in a paper. Most
probably that one? Stop. Go back home and work out what you
really need.
The first thing you have to consider is—what am I going to
use the device for? Make a list of the intended uses. Is it to be
solely used for in-vehicle navigation? Easy. Is it only to be used
for bushwalking and cross country use where the life of the
battery charge is important? Easy. Is it to be used in a four wheel
drive vehicle so that additional non standard maps are required?
Easy. It may even be an idea to then give a percentage value to
each use to determine what capabilities in a GPS could be
dispensed with, i.e. 40% bushwalking, 20% fishing, 40% 4WD.
Next thing. Where do I buy it? Do I buy it over the net and
save a few dollars? Will I need back up service? Do I go to a
chain store and get informed assistance? Do I go to a specialist
store and pay a little extra for specialist support? What sort of
warranty do I get? If there are maps included, how much are
upgrades and updates? Is there a large range of maps available?
In-vehicle navigation devices
Walk into any chain store and you are faced by a wall of devices.
Some of the things to look for; Does it have TTS (text to
speech)? If it does then the name of the street is usually spoken
as well as the turn to make. Does it give lane change information,
i.e. the correct lane to take on a complex junction? Does it
display an image of an important junction as you approach?

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 53

Navigation

Does it have a good 3D

display (if you really need
it!)? Is the sound quality high
enough for the vehicle you
will be driving?
Having solved the
basics, do I need additional
capabilities? This could
include bluetooth
connection so that the in-
vehicle navigation unit
doubles as a hand free
phone connection. It could
include FM capability so
that the sound from the unit
is transmitted over the car
radio.
The weakness of these
devices is that most of them
use lithium batteries as a
power source and need to
be recharged either from the
car cigarette lighter or from
a mains transformer. Battery
life depending on the size of
the screen and brightness
can vary from anything
between 45 minutes and
upwards. The basic model has improved over that fifteen year
five hours. These devices are generally not waterproof. It would
not be a good device to use for a bushwalk in the country. period with quicker acquisition of satellites and hence a quicker
position fix. There are, usually, 24 active satellites at any one time
Handheld GPS Units covering the world so that it is now not unusual to see up to
Some of the very first GPS units on the market were handheld twelve satellites from any one location. For a three dimensional
units running on AA batteries. There are still a wide number of fix a minimum of four satellites are required; ideally spread evenly
these devices in use after fifteen years. They are the basic unit over the hemisphere. As more than four are usually seen, the
for the field observer, the bushwalker, boatie and anyone who software inside the GPS sometimes uses a system of averaging
needs a small locational device. They sell from about $150 to improve the locational fix. Despite what the GPS unit tells you
it is better to assume that the fix is only correct to about ten
metres in horizontal position.
All basic devices will give location in latitude and longitude as
well as giving a grid reference based on those used on standard
Australian topographic maps. Most devices will display a ‘snail
trail’ as you move over the Earth’s surface. All standard handheld
devices will allow you to record a point so that you can return to
the same point. They will also enable you to type in a geographic
location and then give you a bearing and distance to that point
from your current location.
As a device increases in cost, additional features are added.
The most important of these is the ability to add base maps to
the device. In Australia this is usually the 1:250 000 data
produced by the nation’s Geosciences Australia and then
specially adapted for the brand of GPS. Prices of these devices
start from about $375. Usually, the data for one brand is not
compatible with another so when looking at the initial purchase
one should consider the future cost of map data. For some of
the better known brands of GPS, such as Garmin, there is a
wide range of freely available base data (of varying quality) that
can be added to these models as downloads from the Internet.
Other features can include sunrise/sunset times, geocaching
download capability and point of interest databases. A number
of the dearer devices can also take the same data that is
available for the in-vehicle navigation units working out the best
route from one address to another. Usually there is no voice
prompt but a beep and a message on the screen.
Sometimes a handheld GPS is used attached to a laptop
computer as the GPS engine for more sophisticated software on
the laptop. One thing to consider if you are going to follow this
path is to ensure that the handheld GPS can be attached via
USB cable and there are appropriate software drivers available.
Summary
You will note that there has been no recommendation for any
one GPS type or brand. Everyone’s needs are different but the
important thing is to list the features you require before listening
to the salesman’s enthusiasm for a certain product.

54 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


McWilliam’s
Balance endorsed
by Weight
Watchers
I T
n an Australian first, newly launched
McWilliam’s Balance has become the
only wine brand in Australia to be
endorsed by Weight Watchers®.
3 One 150ml glass of McWilliam’s
Balance Semillon Sauvignon Blanc or
Shiraz has a Weight Watchers
POINTS® value of 1.
3 The introduction of Weight Watchers
POINTS on the McWilliam’s Balance
range of wines gives consumers the
opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine
while remaining on track with their
weight loss goals.
3 Over 1.8 million people follow the
Weight Watchers program in Australia
every year.
Weight Watchers and McWilliam’s
share a common philosophy of helping
consumers easily track and be aware of
their intake of both food and wine.
From consumer research, McWilliam’s
found that consumers want lighter, more
refreshing styles of wine that better align
to their lifestyle. McWilliam’s Balance has
just 8.5% alcohol, being 1⁄3 lower in alcohol
and 1⁄3 lower in kilojoules.
“We’re really pleased to have this
endorsement from Weight Watchers,”
says McWilliam’s winemaker, Jim Brayne.
“It’s fulfilling to know that we’re giving
people who like to enjoy a glass of wine a
lower kilojoule and lower alcohol option.
Our alignment with Weight Watchers is
about making dining out and entertaining
easier.”
McWilliam’s Balance Semillon
Sauvignon Blanc and McWilliam’s
Balance Shiraz are available nationally,
priced at RRP $16.99
Catching Thieves
line up as
Australia’s best
soft option
hey’re convenient, more
environmentally friendly than glass
and perfect for caravanning.
Catching Thieves has made available two
wines in a convenient, compact,
lightweight, soft bottle—with the only
thing weighing them down being an
adornment of a trophy and two gold
medals from Australia’s wine show grand
final, the National Wine Show of Australia.
This exclusive release will soon see
Catching Thieves soft bottle wines
popping up around Australia in bars,
restaurants and resorts and in bottle
shops from early 2010.
Anecdotally, consumers are beginning
to recognise the benefits of soft bottles:
3 A third less in weight when compared
to traditional 750mL glass bottles
3 Provide a lightweight and compact
solution for travelling
3 Cheaper to send to friends overseas
3 Reduce the risk of breakages
3 A compact bottle size while still
containing 750mL of wine
3 Environmentally conscious choice
These stylish, fruit-driven wines are
sourced from Margaret River, Western
Australia. The 2008 Catching Thieves
Cabernet Merlot stole a trophy and gold
medal while the 2009 Catching Thieves
Semillon Sauvignon Blanc snuck away
with a gold medal from what is regarded
as the pinnacle of wine shows in Australia.
Latest Wine Releases
Classic duo play to
Margaret River’s
strengths
E
vans & Tate’s Classic range carries a
name for which no explanation is
required. Since the winery pioneered
the Classic White style in 1987, the
essence of the range has been to reflect
the most classic varietal blends from
Margaret River. With their fresh fruit
character and elegant structure, the
current release 2009 Evans & Tate Classic
White and 2008 Evans & Tate Classic Red
display the benchmark classic style for
which Evans & Tate is known.
2008 Evans & Tate Classic Red
This wine’s well-matched pairing of Shiraz
and Cabernet Sauvignon is taken from a
vintage described by Evans & Tate
Winemaker Matthew Byrne as a typical
year…
“The 2008 vintage was a typical year
for Margaret River and by typical I mean
exceptional,” says Matthew. “2008
brought Margaret River vintage conditions
into line again,” he said.
2009 Evans & Tate Classic White
Evans & Tate Classic White is a wine that
shows remarkable consistency in style
from year to year. Crafted as a light to
medium bodied wine that is Semillon
dominant, the Classic White style is
achieved through blending premium
parcels of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc
fruit sourced across the Margaret River GI.
The 2009 Evans & Tate Classic White
and 2008 Evans & Tate Classic Red are
available nationally, priced at RRP
$19.99
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 55
Recipes
8 Autumn Delights from the kitchens of HEINZ®
Marinated Beef
Skewers
Serves: 6
INGREDIENTS
700g rump or topside steak, cut
into 5mm thick strips
¼ cup HP Sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp finely chopped rosemary
2 tsps L&P Worcestershire Sauce
2 tsps finely chopped mint
½ tsp finely grated orange rind
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
crisp salad, for serving
METHOD
1. Thread beef strips onto
skewers. Place into a glass or
ceramic dish.
2. Combine HP sauce, oil,
rosemary, L&P sauce, mint,
orange rind and garlic. Brush
over skewers and refrigerate
for 20-30 minutes.
3. Pre-heat a grill plate or frying
pan. Cook skewers for 5-6
minutes, turning throughout
cooking time to ensure even
cooking. Serve with crisp
salad and extra HP sauce if
desired.
56 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
Korma Curry with
Pumpkin
The aromatics that waft from this
recipe will drive the family crazy—
in fact, the intensity of flavour and
fragrance suggests the recipe is
far more labour intensive than the
10 minutes it takes to cook. It
was even voted by the Test
Kitchen Team amongst their
favourite recipes. It’s quick, easy
and well in budget which makes it
a firm favourite for caravanners as
well.
Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp olive oil
½ onion, sliced
¼ cup korma curry paste
400g pumpkin, peeled and
chopped
800g can crushed tomatoes
425g can GREENSEAS Tuna
Chunks in Brine, drained
½ cup HEINZ frozen peas
¼ cup cream
toasted slivered almonds and
coriander, for garnish
basmati rice to serve
pappadams (optional)
METHOD
1. Heat oil in a large frying pan
or saucepan. Cook onion for
2 minutes until softened. Stir
in curry paste and cook for a
further minute.
2. Add pumpkin and tomatoes
and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 5 minutes until
pumpkin is tender. Stir in
GREENSEAS Tuna, frozen
peas and cream. Cook for 2
minutes until heated through.
3. Transfer curry to a serving
bowl and sprinkle with
almonds and coriander. Serve
with basmati rice and
pappadams if desired.
Scrambled Eggs
with Salmon Salsa
This recipe is ideal for a weekend
brunch, a light lunch or Sunday
night dinner. Together, the
scrambled eggs and salmon
make such a luxurious
partnership. They are certainly a
favourite at our brunch table.
Serves: 2
INGREDIENTS
Salmon Salsa:
2 x 95g cans GREENSEAS
Salmon with Sea Salt & Cracked
Pepper, drained
¼ small red capsicum, thinly
sliced
1 tbsp finely sliced red onion
1 tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley
2 tsp olive oil
2 tsp lemon juice
Scrambled Eggs:
4 eggs
70ml cream
freshly ground black pepper, to
taste
2 tsp butter
toasted crusty bread, to serve
METHOD
1. Combine GREENSEAS
Salmon, capsicum, onion,
parsley, olive oil and lemon
juice then set aside.
2. Whisk eggs, cream, and
pepper together. Heat butter
in a frying pan over medium
heat until frothing. Add egg
mixture and cook stirring
occasionally, until just cooked
through.
3. Serve eggs on crusty toast
with salmon salsa.
Baked Bean Falafels
Packed with the goodness of
baked beans, these falafels are
easy to make ahead and freeze,
and can be served hot for dinner
or cold for lunch.
Serves: 4-6
INGREDIENTS
420g can HEINZ Baked Beanz in
Tomato Sauce
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic
1 cup dried breadcrumbs
¼ cup chopped fresh coriander
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1-2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp bicarbonate soda
2 pinches chilli powder
oil, for frying
pita bread or flour tortillas, to
serve
shredded lettuce, to serve
chopped tomatoes, to serve
METHOD
1. Combine the HEINZ Baked
Beanz, onion and garlic in a
food processor. Blend until a
soft paste is formed. Remove
to a large bowl.
2. Mix in breadcrumbs,
coriander, parsley, cumin,
bicarbonate soda and chilli.
Season to taste. Mix well to
combine. Roll into balls and
flatten slightly.
3. Heat oil in a large frying pan
and cook the falafels for 2-3
minutes on each side, or until
crisp and golden. Drain on
absorbent paper.
4. Serve wrapped in pita bread
with lettuce, chopped
tomatoes, sliced onion and
hummus.
HINT:
Alternately wrap the Falafels with
Tabouli.

Middle Eastern
Chicken Skewers
with Bean Puree
Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS
420g HEINZ Baked Beanz in
Tomato Sauce
2 cloves garlic, roasted
Squeeze lemon juice
2 tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley
Pepper & salt
4 chicken thighs, each thigh cut
into large cubes
Marinade:
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp freshly chopped oregano
1 tbsp Middle Eastern Baharat
(spice mix)
To serve:
4 Middle Eastern flatbread
8 Cos lettuce leaves
2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
4 lemon wedges
METHOD
1. Place HEINZ Baked Beanz,
garlic, lemon juice, parsley
and seasoning together in a
food processor and blend
until a smooth puree.
2. Combine marinade
ingredients and add the
chicken. Cover and
refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
Thread chicken pieces onto 8
skewers and BBQ on a hot
grill plate for 3-4 minutes
each side.
3. To assemble; place a warmed
flatbread onto each plate, top
with bean puree, lettuce
leaves and tomato. Place two
chicken skewers on top and
serve with a wedge of lemon.
Chicken Fried Rice
There’s nothing better to enjoy as
a special treat in front of the TV
than a fabulous bowl of chicken
fried rice. It’s easy to handle
without too much mess for
younger children, and its so
flavoursome they’ll be asking for
more.
Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tsp peanut oil
3 chicken thigh fillets, thinly sliced
3 cups cooked jasmine rice,
cooled
410g can GOLDEN CIRCLE Peas
& Corn, drained
½ red capsicum, cut into julienne
4 spring onions, finely sliced
2 tbsp soy sauce
sweet chilli sauce, for drizzling
METHOD
1. Heat a large non-stick frying
pan over medium heat. Pour
in eggs and swirl around pan.
Cook for 1 minute or until just
cooked. Remove from pan,
slice and set aside.
2. Add oil to pan and cook
chicken in batches until
golden. Remove from pan
with a slotted spoon and set
aside.
3. Increase heat to high and add
rice to pan, stirring
occasionally until it is starting
to turn golden. Stir in the
chicken, GOLDEN CIRCLE
peas & corn, capsicum,
spring onions and soy sauce,
stirring often for 1 minute.
4. Serve immediately, garnished
with the sliced egg and
drizzled with sweet chilli
sauce and extra spring
onions if desired.
Pasta with Beetroot,
Chives and Burnt
Butter
This recipe is perfect for times
when you need to pull together a
meal in a minute. You can add
small pieces of broccoli, some
baby spinach leaves or a handful
of green peas to increase the
vegetable content and make
more of a meal of it otherwise, it’s
particularly good served with
crusty bread and a simple salad
or as an entrée when entertaining.
Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS
500g fresh pappadelle pasta
Sauce:
150g unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
450g can GOLDEN CIRCLE
Diced Beetroot, drained
3 tbsp chopped chives
Freshly ground pepper and salt,
to taste
Shaved parmesan, to serve
METHOD
1. Cook pasta in a large pot of
boiling salted water as per
packet directions until al
dente.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a
large saucepan and cook
over low heat for 2 minutes
until the butter has started to
brown slightly. Add the garlic
and cook for a further minute
then add the beetroot and
chives.
3. Toss the sauce ingredients
around in the pan then set
aside. When pasta is cooked,
drain and add to the sauce.
Quickly toss together and
serve in pasta bowls. Serve
with shaved parmesan.
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 57
Recipes
Warm Roasted
Pumpkin, Avocado &
Beetroot Salad
Pumpkin, avocado and beetroot
are a great combination of
flavours, and together with the
basil and red wine vinegar
dressing, they make a truly
delicious salad. Serve this salad
with a leg of roasted rosemary
lamb, or quite simply on its own
as a starter to a meal.
Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS
500g pumpkin, peeled, seeded
and cut into wedges
1 tsp olive oil
Freshly ground pepper & salt, to
taste
80g baby spinach
1 avodaco, peeled, seeded and
sliced
½ cup basil leaves
850g can GOLDEN CIRCLE
Whole Baby Beets, drained &
sliced in thirds
2 tbsp slivered almonds, lightly
toasted, optional
Dressing:
50ml red wine vinegar
125ml olive oil
1 tsp honey
Freshly ground pepper & salt
METHOD
1. Place pumpkin wedges on a
lined baking tray and lightly
brush with oil. Generously
season with freshly ground
pepper and salt and roast in a
preheated oven of 200˚C for
30 minutes, or until pumpkin
is soft and lightly golden in
colour.
2. Meanwhile, prepare dressing
by combining ingredients
together in a jar and shaking
well.
3. Arrange the spinach,
avocado, basil and pumpkin
in layers onto serving plates
or alternatively, place together
in a serving bowl and toss.
Add the beetroot and sprinkle
with almonds. Pour dressing
over the salad and serve
immediately.
Adventure Way

Discover the history and unique beauty of the

Adventure Way
The Adventure way connects the Queensland coast to Outback South Australia, and travels
west from Brisbane through Toowoomba, Dalby, Moonie, Westmar, St George, Bollon,
Cunnamulla, Eulo, Thargomindah, and Nockatunga until it reaches the remote, legendary
region of Innamincka and Cooper Creek in South Australia. The journey takes you through
grain and cotton producing areas, brigalow and belah belts, and outback plains where
Mulga lines the road, until you eventually reach treeless gibber landscapes. From
Innamincka, you follow the historic Strzelecki Track to the Flinders Ranges, and then to
Adelaide. You will find many rewards along the way—try Opal fossicking—learn about the
rich history and legacy of our early pioneers—discover the beautiful landscapes, native
flora, fauna and migratory bird species, and most importantly, the “Spirit of Adventure”
inside us all.

58 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


F
or coastal-dwelling Australians, which is the majority of us,
the desert or interior of our country, represents a profound
expression of our nationhood. Whilst the desert is very
remote, and experiences extreme weather conditions, it is also
spectacularly beautiful and unspoiled. These qualities single out
the desert experience as an opportunity for real travel
adventures.
In the early days of settlement, travelling along the Adventure
Way was an extremely rough experience, with horse-drawn
Cobb and Co coaches negotiating their way across the region
on rutted dirt trails. However, these days, even travel by two-
wheel drive is possible. The Adventure Way is now almost all
bitumen to the South Australian border, with only 60km
remaining to be sealed. Unsealed roads continue through to
Innamincka, and to the famous Burke and Wills ‘Dig Tree’.
Although it is not advisable for motorists in two-wheel drive
vehicles to travel along this section of road, in fine weather,
conventional vehicles can travel to Innamincka and beyond. Both
the Highway and the road to the ‘Dig Tree’ are regularly graded.
Despite the harsh desert conditions of much of this terrain,
Adventure Way
Old Woolshed and Roo Carving at Currawinya National Park.
there is an abundance of artesian water in the region. The
discovery of water at the turn of the century enabled the
settlement of numerous small towns, which today have become
like little oases in the vast desert. These oases offer travellers a
respite from their long journey, where they can relax in modern,
comfortable accommodation, shop for necessities such as food
and fuel, and experience natural and historic tourist attractions,
birdlife, and fishing.
The scenery along this outback highway is spectacular.
Additionally, the region boasts a number of National Parks and
Nature Reserves, which are easily accessible to travellers. If you
don’t mind basic camping, there are ample opportunities to rest
for a day or more in these lovely, unspoiled areas. If you prefer a
little more comfort, there is no shortage of accommodation at the
various van parks, motels and pubs.
Cities/Towns
Toowoomba > Dalby > Moonie > Westmar > Flinton > St George
> Bollon > Cunnamulla > Eulo > Thargomindah > Innamincka
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 59
Adventure Way
Toowoomba
Toowoomba is a modern provincial capital, boasting beautiful
heritage buildings proudly mixed with modern, dynamic
architecture, and offering a wide range of attractions,
accommodation and dining options. Crowning the edge of the
Great Diving Range 700 metres above sea level, Toowoomba is
renowned for its architecture and open spaces that overlook the
Lockyer Valley. One of the city’s famous vantage points is Picnic
Point, from where you can explore the graded walks along the
range escarpment, or sit back, relax and take in the view.
Toowoomba really is Queensland’s Garden City, with more
than 240 public parks and gardens. In spring, the gardens are an
extravaganza of colour, and the city celebrates with the
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, held annually in September.
Toowoomba’s history has been preserved in its buildings. The
magnificently restored art deco Empire Theatre attracts regular
performances. A well signposted drive for visitors will take you
past the city’s finest architecture, including City Hall, the National
Trust Royal Bulls Head Inn and Heritage Street and historic
Russell Street. A visit to the Cobb & Co Museum is a must as it
houses Australia’s largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles.
Garden lovers will be kept busy exploring the city’s
internationally themed gardens, namely the University of
60 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
The Mother’s Memorial in East Creek Park—A Tribute to Lives Lost in War
Southern Queensland’s Japanese Gardens, and the New
Zealand themed park at Lake Annand. If you favour a stroll
among the flowers, visit the meticulously tended Queens Park
Gardens or take time out to smell the flowers in Laurel Bank
Park. Use Toowoomba as your base to explore this magnificent
region.
Attractions
3 Cobb & Co Museum, 27 Lindsay Street, Toowoomba
3 DownSteam Tourist Railway & Museum, 16 Cambooya
Street, Toowoomba
3 Empire Theatre, 56 Neil Street, Toowoomba
3 Grand Central Shopping Centre, Margaret Street,
Toowoomba
3 Japanese Gardens, West Street, Toowoomba
3 Newtown Park State Rose Garden, Taylor Street, Corner of
Holberton, Tor and Pottinger Streets, Toowoomba
3 Picnic Point, Tourist Drive, Toowoomba
Accommodation
3 BIG4 Toowoomba Garden City Holiday Park
3 Jeffery’s Rainforest Motel Caravan Park
3 Jolly Swagman Caravan Park
3 Toowoomba Motor Village CONTINUED ON PAGE 62
 Adventure Way

Toowoomba &
Darling Downs

W hatever the season…

Th ere ’s always a reason!
Toowoomba and the Darling Downs is renowned for its
abundance of cultural and sporting events throughout
the year. Just a lazy two hour drive from Brisbane is a
region bursting with weekend activities for all ages.

Gardenfest May 1,2 & 3 2010

To see how the experts prepare, maintain and grow their
gardens, come along to Gardenfest. Bunches of nurseries,
boutique producers and celebrity gardeners will be on hand
to demonstrate the best ways to keep your patch blooming.
www.gardenfesttoowoomba.com

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

Its on again in 2010! September 17 - 26 2010
7KHORQJHVWUXQQLQJÁRUDOHYHQWRILWVNLQGLVRQDJDLQLQ
so make sure you join us to experience all the fabulous enter- If variety is the spice of life, then
tainment, food, wine and colourful blooms of spring... The Toowoomba & Darling Downs has all the
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has something for everyone.
spice you need!
www.tcof.com.au

Queensland PGA Championship
November 2010
Come and experience professional golf at its best as the
Queensland PGA Championship tees off in November at
Toowoomba’s City Golf Club.
The 2010 Queensland PGA isn’t just about golf... it’s also
about fun, food and frivolity so make sure you don’t miss
this opportunity to witness entertainment at its finest.
www.pga.org.au www.citygolf.com.au
For more information visit
www.toowoombaholidays.info
or contact:
HAMPTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
8623 New England Highway, Hampton QLD 4352
Freecall 1800 009 066
Email hamptoninfo@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au
TOOWOOMBA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
86 James St (Warrego Hwy), Toowoomba QLD 4350
Freecall 1800 33 11 55
Email infocentre@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au
A
scenic 2 hour drive south-west of Brisbane you will find
the breathtaking beauty of Toowoomba and Darling
Downs. An eclectic mix of city convenience and country
charm, the region offers a wealth of places to explore and a rich
diversity of experiences for the taking.
Toowoomba's history and that of the Darling Downs is part of
the fabric of pioneering Australia. You can sense some of that
history woven into the architectural heritage of not only
Toowoomba but also the many towns and villages that form part
of this undulating landscape. There are museums and attractions
that are custodian to some of that history; antique shops that
offer treasure troves of local collectables and genuine old country
pubs that provide a warm welcome to visitors.
Toowoomba & Darling Downs is a region renowned for its
magnificent parks and gardens, scenic views, and providor to
plate gourmet food and wine culture. It is also a destination that
has a strong events foundation, with the region's event calendar
overflowing with exciting new experiences rich in cultural and
artistic diversity on any given day.
So whether you are planning a weekend retreat, family holday
or the adventure of a lifetime, Toowoomba and the Darling
Downs is your one-stop destination for value, variety and fun!

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 61

Adventure Way
Dalby
Dalby is situated on Myall Creek, 216km north-west of Brisbane,
and is Queensland’s main wheat producing region. This attractive
country town offers numerous cool and pleasant picnic places
along the river or at Thomas Jack Park, which is situated right in
the centre of town. Its status as a major services and agricultural
centre ensures the traveller that all of their shopping and
travelling needs will be easily met. The renowned Bunya
Mountains, so called because the Bunya tree was sacred to the
local indigenous people, are situated just 52km north of Dalby,
and a remarkable stand of Bunyas, some of which are estimated
to be over 500 years old, still remain in the area today.
Attractions
3 The Crossing: A memorial commemorating the first White
settlement of Dalby
3 Architecture: The Majestic Jimbour House, and St Joseph’s
Roman Catholic Church
3 Pioneer Park Museum
3 The Bunya Mountains National Park
3 Lake Broadwater Conservation Park
Accommodation
3 Dalby Tourist Park, 32 Myall Street, Dalby
3 Pioneer Village Caravan Park, Black Street, Dalby
3 Jandowae Accommodation Park, High Street, Jandowae
3 Glasby’s Caravan Park, Moffat Street, Kaimkillenbun
3 Bells ‘n’ Whistles Caravan Park, 40 Cedarvale Road, Bell
3 Lake Broadwater Conservation Park – Camping permitted
3 Cecil Plains Rural Retreat Caravan Park, Taylor Street, Cecil
Plains
62 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
Dalby is Queensland’s main wheat producing region
3 Bushland Park Cabins and Camping, 2495 Bunya Mountains
Road, Bunya Mountains
3 Bunya Mountains National Park – Camping permitted –
Permits required – Full facilities available
Moonie
Moonie is a tiny settlement at the intersection of the Leichhardt
and Moonie Highways. The town’s main claim to fame is that
Australia’s first commercial Oil Field was established in 1961, and
it is still in operation today. Legend has it, bushranger Captain
Thunderbolt passed through the area on one of his many
escapades.
Attractions
3 Moonie Interpretation History Panels – stroll through
the picnic gardens of the Visitor Information Centre, view the
restored Moonie oil equipment, with interpretation panels
identifying Moonie’s history in oil, sustainability, agriculture
and education.
3 The Moonie Crossroads Hotel – in the bar area, view the
murals, which depict the history of Moonie and Giant Cod
caught in local waters
3 Southwood National Park – Home to the rare glossy Black
Cockatoo
Accommodation
3 Moonie Crossroads Motel and Caravan Park, Cnr Moonie
and Leichhardt Highways, Moonie
CONTINUED ON PAGE 65

open spaces… surprising places…
T
he Western Downs Region is a place of exciting things to
see and do in Queensland. It stretches from Dalby to Westmar
and Jandowae to Wandoan. Visitors are welcome here, with
many fine restaurants and wineries to tempt your taste buds, and a
plethora of magical experiences to enjoy.
Go fishing for Murray Cod or Yellowbelly, or just relax in one of
the many secluded spots dotted around the Western Downs.
Many of these locations are bush camping spots, hidden away
from the well beaten tourist track. Such treasured locations are
often only shared amongst friends. Be sure to pick up your
‘Fishing & Camping in Queensland’s Western Downs’ flyer
from any of the Visitor Information Centres in the region.
Visit the longest fence in the world. The Dingo Barrier
Fence has its northern end between Jimbour and Jandowae
and the southern end is in South Australia some 5400 km away.
The Dingo Fence was first mooted in 1948 to protect the pastoral
Adventure Way
districts of South Eastern Australia from the menace of the dingo
and wild dogs.
Enjoy the fresh country air on one of the many Birdwatching
Trails – Myall Park Botanic Garden, Lake Broadwater, Waterloo
Plain and The Bunya Mountains. The area is noted for the many
coastal and western species which frequent the plains and the
rainforest.
Experience the treasures of yesteryear at Monty’s Garage in
Meandarra, Pioneer Park Museum in Dalby, Tara & District Historical
Museum, Miles Historical Village, Meandarra ANZAC Memorial
Museum, or sleep underground in a bunker at Possum Park, Miles.
Events for your enjoyment in the area include ‘Beef, Bells ‘n’
Bottle Trees Festival’ in Miles in September with the main
celebration on the 11th, and ‘Jandowae Timbertown Festival’
on the long weekend in June. The temperate climate at this time of
year makes a visit to the Western Downs an enjoyable experience.
Dalby 07 4662 1066
Chinchilla 07 4668 9564
Miles 07 4627 2455
www.wdrc.qld.gov.au
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 63
Adventure Way
BALONNE SHIRE VISITOR I NFORMATION CENTRE
Cnr Roe and The Terrace, St George Q 4487
Phone 07 4620 8877 Fax 07 4625 4998
Web www.balonne.qld.gov.au
Email vic@balonne.qld.gov.au
St George Caravan Park
*Situated 500m from the Balonne river*
★ Grass drive thru sites
★ Grass tent/camp sites
★ Powered & unpowered sites
★ Gas barbeques
★ Clean amenities
★ Laundry facilities
★ Clean, quiet & friendly
★ Pets under control welcomed
★ Cabins
Your hosts
221 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487
Ann & Ivan Bradley
Tel: (07) 4625 5778
welcome you
www.caravanningoz.com.au
64 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
Queensland’s Western Downs
Travelling north from the NSW border you visit the
towns of Hebel and Dirranbandi who are the
gateway to Culgoa Floodplain National Park and
the home of Cubbie Station.
Further north St George, the fishing capital of
inland Queensland sits on the banks of the
Balonne River where fishing tales of huge Murray
Cod and Yellowbelly come true.
Whilst in the Balonne Shire enjoy the warm
hospitality and explore towns with surprisingly
diverse experiences – make plans to stay a while
and enjoy what is on offer, serene rural
landscapes, historic pubs, and stunning water
views – the last thing you’d expect to find in this
western shire.
Those seeking peace and tranquillity are able
to stroll along a creek bank and spot some of our
varied bird and animal life. More active visitors can
boat, ski or fish on the Balonne River and
Beardmore Dam.
THE UNIQUE EGG
The world’s
only display
of Carved,
Illuminated
Emu Eggs
Displayed at Balonne Sports Store
108 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487
Phone: (07) 4625 3490 Fax: (07) 4625 4690
Opening Hours
Weekdays 9.00am to 5.00pm, Saturdays 9.00am to 12.00pm
or by appointment
You have to see it to believe it.

Westmar
Westmar is situated on the Moonie Highway, and has a
Roadhouse which offers fuel, groceries, meals, bar,
accommodation and regular Friday night entertainment. The
Bendee Road Reserve is a good fishing spot; however it is
accessible in dry weather only.
Attractions
3 Southwood National Park – Located west along the Moonie
Highway
3 Bendee Road Reserve – Fishing
Accommodation
3 Westmar Roadhouse – Motel rooms and cabins
3 Bendee Road Reserve – Camping permitted – No facilities
Flinton
A quaint town which bursts with excitement at the famous
Flinton Races held every Easter – operating since 1912, it’s been
dubbed the ‘Melbourne Cup of the West’. Flinton is a popular
tranquil locality to fish or have an overnight stop.
Attractions
3 Moonie River – Fishing
Accommodation
3 Flinton Hall – Flinton Road, Flinton. The banks of the Moonie
Adventure Way
St George is know as the inland fishing capital of Queensland.
River provide a serene setting for the perfect getaway –
Public facilities nearby.
St George
St George is known as the ‘Inland Fishing Capital of
Queensland’. Situated on the picturesque Balonne River, the
town is often referred to as an ‘oasis’. It has a great many fishing
locations, and picnic spots in the cool and pleasant River
Parklands. The streets are lined with beautiful Jacaranda and
Bauhinia trees that flower profusely in the Spring.
Attractions
3 Riversands Winery
3 Steve Margaritis’ Carved Emu Egg Collection
3 St George Heritage Centre
3 Beardmore Dam
3 Aboriginal Rock Wells
Accommodation
3 Kamarooka Tourist Park, 56 Victoria Street, St George
3 Kapunda Riverside Camping and Fishing Park, 12747
Carnarvon Highway, St George
3 St George Caravan Park, Victoria Street, St George
3 Pelican Rest Tourist Park, 12022 Carnarvon Highway, St
George
CONTINUED ON PAGE 68
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 65
Adventure Way
Cunnamulla, Eulo, Wyandra
and the Opal town of Yowah
Cunnamulla is located at the crossroads of the Matilda Highway and the Adventure Way on
the banks of the Warrego River and is a great place to stop and enjoy the nature and
culture of the Corner Country.
S
tories of traditional owners, explorers, pastoralists and
miners are brought to life at the Cunnamulla Fella Centre,
where the Artesian Time Tunnel experience will transport
you back 100 million years to reveal the many stories of water
and how essential water is to sustain life in the outback. Immerse
yourself in our local history at the Museum Heritage Exhibition or
browse our Art Gallery to admire the work of local and visiting
artists, including local indigenous art.
Enquire about camping and caravan choices, or consider a
station stay for a real bush experience.
We recommend a leisurely drive to the Cunnamulla
Bushlands or Allan Tannock Weir where you may witness a
number of sightings of over 200 species of birdlife and other
wildlife living in this area. Explore the trek along the sand hills or
the River Walk where you can enjoy a surreal outback sunset.
Travel approximately one hour’s drive north and find yourself
in Wyandra. Artists and photographers alike will appreciate this
streetscape. Lose yourself in the history as you walk or drive the
heritage trail. Enjoy a beer at the Gladstone Hotel or grab a
burger from the Post Office Café and get directions to The Beach
from a local.
Eulo, a short 65km drive from Cunnamulla boasts a number
66 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
of western-style shops including the Eulo General Store, Bilby
Burrow Art Gallery and the Paroo Patch. Treat yourself to a
rejuvenating mud bath at the Palm Grove winery and date farm
and be sure to stock up on local produce including Paroo
Apiaries honey. Drop a line in the Paroo River and enjoy the
tranquility of this environment. Don’t miss the Eulo Queen Hotel
where locals will relate stories of the real Eulo Queen and her
long love affair with Opals. The Opal town of Yowah can be
found 85km North West of Eulo along the Opal Trail. Marvel at
the geological landscape which awaits you on your approach to
the opal fields. Drive to The Bluff and take in the magnificent 180º
views and romantic sunsets. Following a relaxing artesian spa,
meet the locals around a fireside dinner. You can fossick for
boulder, matrix or the unique Yowah Nut Opal, or purchase good
colour from a local miner. The opal museums, art galleries and
sites of interest you will unearth in Yowah will amaze you.
For your free information pack contact:
Cunnamulla Fella Centre
E: cunnamullainfo@paroo.qld.gov.au
P: (07) 4655 8470
F: (07) 4655 1120
Website: www.paroo.info
Adventure Way

Top: Bush walking. Above: Artesian Time Tunnel. Right: Relax in one of the natural mud baths.

Bollon Attractions
Bollon is situated on the banks of Wallam Creek, near the 3 Bollon Heritage Centre
Thrushton National Park. The many River Red Gums in the 3 Nullawokka Aboriginal Guided Heritage Walks
area support a large koala population, as well as an 3 Thrushton National Park
estimated 110 different species of birds. 3 Abundant Wildlife
Accommodation
3 Wallam Creek – Camping permitted – No facilities
3 Thrushton National Park – Camping permitted – No facilities
CUNNAMULLA S.W. QLD
Cunnamulla
Positioned at the crossroads of the Matilda Highway and the
Adventure Way, on the banks of the Warrego River, Cunnamulla is
popular with caravan and camping visitors. The large Mulga Tree
and Mitchell Grass plains in this area host a myriad of birdlife. For a
taste of what there is to see and do, call at the Cunnamulla Fella
Centre. Experience the Artesian Time Tunnel, Indigenous and
pioneering heritage, and Art Gallery. Enquire about local self-guided
heritage and nature trails. Picnic in Centenary Park, Cunnamulla
Bushlands, or at Allan Tannock Weir. Browse the shops or relax over
• Adventure Way – stray and stay lunch in a local pub or cafe. Enquire about the choice of unique
• Hot free flowing artesian bore by camping and caravan accommodation, including bush camping and
secluded non powered bushland outback station stays.
• Powered sites with all amenities
• Abundance of bird and wildlife Attractions
• Authentic outback sheep/cattle stn 3 Cunnamulla Fella Centre and Artesian Time Tunnel
• History – home of memorabilia 3 Heritage and Nature Trails
• Property tours – old cemetery 3 Local birdwatching and fishing
• Varied accommodation – meals 3 The Beach Wyandra, 99km north of Cunnamulla.
• Enjoy the silence & outback magic
• Bookings in advance appreciated Accommodation
Ph: (07) 4655 4923 or (07) 4655 1679 3 Jack Tonkin Caravan Park
Fax: (07) 4655 4114 3 Station Stays including Bowra for the birdies, Nardoo, Charlotte
Email: charlotteplains@harboursat.com.au Plains and Aldville
Website: www.charlotteplains.com.au
3 Camping in Wyandra

68 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


Eulo
Eulo, situated on the Paroo River a short 65km drive west of
Cunnamulla, boasts the Palm Grove Winery and Date Farm, Eulo
General Store, local honey and unique galleries. Book yourself a
revitalising mud bath or drop into the mud springs on your way
to the opal fields. Walk through the air raid shelter or discover the
nature trails. Eulo is enroute to Currawinya National Park, where
you can camp at the Lakes or on the Paroo River. Meet the 200
species of birdlife and other wildlife that call the Park their home.
Follow the Opal Trail to fossick for unique boulder, matrix and
Yowah Nut Opal. Meet the local miners and discover the
interesting opal museums and art galleries in the colourful opal
town of Yowah.
Attractions
3 Palm Grove Date Farm, Winery and mud baths
3 Artesian Mud Springs
3 Paroo Lizard Track and Destructo cockroach Monument
3 Legendary Eulo Queen Hotel
3 Billabong and Granite Nature Trail Drives
3 Access to Black Gate and Yowah Opal Fields
3 Local organic produce including dates, figs and honey
Accommodation
3 Eulo Queen Hotel
3 Artesian Waters Caravan Park Yowah
Thargomindah
Thargomindah is situated along the banks of the Bulloo River.
The region abounds with birdlife, flora and fauna, and is in close
proximity to National Parks, and nature reserves. Thargomindah
is well known for its Hydro Electric Power Plant, which supplied
the town with electricity until the 1950s. The plant was
constructed in 1893, and was powered by water from an
Artesian Bore, which still flows today. A replica Power Plant Shed
has been built at the original bore site, and Hydro Power Plant
demonstrations are regularly conducted for visitors.
Adventure Way
Birds on Cooper Creek
Attractions
3 Lake Bindegolly National Park – located 40km east of
Thargomindah
3 Thargomindah Hydro Power Plant Display
3 Leahy House, Dowling Street, Thargomindah
3 Old Thargomindah Hospital & Visitor Information Centre
3 Heritage Walk, River Walk and Nature Walk
3 Currawinya National Park – located a few kilometres from
Hungerford
3 Noccundra Hotel on Wilson River
3 Burke and Wills ‘Dig Tree’ and ‘Face Tree’ on Cooper Creek
at Nappa Merrie Station
Accommodation
3 Lake Bindegolly National Park – Bush Camping
3 Explorers Caravan Park, Dowling Street, Thargomindah
3 Napunyah Caravan Park, Powell Street, Thargomindah
3 Noccundra Hotel – 20km south of the Adventure Way –
Powered & Unpowered Caravan
3 Wilson River Camping Grounds, Noccundra – Camping
permitted – Facilities adjacent to Noccundra Hotel
3 The Burke & Wills ‘Dig Tree’ on Nappa Merrie Station – Bush
Camping facilities provided including firewood – 14km from
the Adventure Way and 56km west of Innamincka – Entry
Fee $11 per vehicle – includes Camping Fee – Fishing
permitted
Innamincka
This small and remote legendary desert settlement is situated
across the South Australian Border, 372km from Thargomindah.
It offers a range of services and facilities to visitors including the
Trading Post (groceries, fuel, visitor information, accommodation,
EFTPOS); the Innamincka Hotel (accommodation, EFTPOS,
ATM); a tyre and mechanical service, break down rescue service,
and an automatic self serve laundry with shower and toilet
facilities, and the National Parks and Wildlife Service HQ.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 72
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 69
Adventure Way

The adventure continues

in the Bulloo Shire
The Bulloo Shire, known as the “Shire of Natural Resources”, is one of the largest Shires in
Queensland, totalling 73,600 sq kms. Large cattle and sheep Stations cover the region
together with major Oil and Gas Fields at Jackson, Ballera and Naccowlah, and Opal fields
at Black Gate. The Bulloo, Paroo and Wilson Rivers, together with Cooper Creek traverse
the Shire. Wildlife abounds, together with a variety of flora, and migratory bird species.

Thargomindah, nestled on the banks of the Bulloo River, is
situated in the spectacular south-west Corner Country,
1,000kms west of Brisbane, and provides the ideal base for day
tours. Thargomindah was the first town in Australia, and the third
in the world after Paris and London to have street lighting,
powered by hydro-electricity generated from artesian bore water.
Hydro Power Plant Demonstrations are regularly conducted for
visitors. Walk along the Bulloo River, and the Heritage Trail, and
visit historic Leahy House, the old Thargomindah Hospital,
Printery, and Post Office. Explore the old and new Cemeteries,
examine historic sites, go fishing or yabbying, be mesmerised by
the magnificent sunsets, or simply commune with nature.
Lake Bindegolly National Park, east of Thargomindah,
features the saline Lakes Bindegolly and Toomaroo, and
freshwater Lake Hutchinson, which are all filled to capacity from
the summer rains. The lake system is one of the most important
wetland systems in south-west Queensland, serving as a feeding
and breeding habitat for waterbirds. The park is home to more
than 195 species of birds, 80 different animals, and 300 species
of plants. Bush Camping permitted.
Hungerford is located near the Paroo River on the
Queensland/New South Wales border. The Royal Mail Hotel,
which doubles as a Post Office, was originally a Cobb & Co
Staging Post, and provides accommodation, meals, and fuel.
The Border Gate and Wild Dog/Dingo Barrier Fence stand
adjacent to the Hotel.
Currawinya National Park is several kilometres from
Hungerford, and features Lakes Wyara and Numalla as the
centrepiece of a variety of habitats across the Park – Explore the
Woolshed, the Granites, and old Caiwarro Homestead. Bush
Camping permitted.
Noccundra, west of Thargomindah across the Grey Range,
lies on the banks of the Wilson River. The Noccundra Hotel,
built of sandstone in 1882, provides accommodation, meals and
fuel, and has an Airstrip located directly behind the Hotel. Free
Camping is permitted on the Wilson River across from the Hotel.
From here, travel to the iconic Burke and Wills “Dig Tree”,
located on the northern bank of Cooper Creek on Nappa Merrie
Station. Bush Camping permitted.
Cameron Corner in the far south-west is where the States
of Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales merge.
Licensed accommodation, camping facilities, and an Airstrip are
onsite. A Survey Marker, dedicated in 1969, marks the spot
originally surveyed by John Cameron in 1882-1883.

70 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Adventure Way

Hub of the Bulloo Shire – Thargomindah is located along the fully sealed
Adventure Way, 200 kilometres West of Cunnamulla, and 1000 kilometres West of
Brisbane. Rich in history and natural resources, the region includes the historic towns
of: Noccundra, Hungerford, and Cameron Corner.

DISCOVER: CONTACT US:

• Thargomindah’s Hydro Power Plant Display Thargomindah Visitor
• Leahy House and the original Thargomindah Hospital Information Centre
• Historic Hotels at Noccundra and Hungerford Eccles Street (PO Box 46)
• Burke and Wills Dig Tree and the Face Tree Thargomindah QLD 4492
• Cameron Corner – where the three States meet Phone: (07) 4655 3399
• Lake Bindegolly and Currawinya National Parks Fax: (07) 4655 3374
• Station Stays at Kilcowera and Epsion Stations Email: thargotour@bigpond.com
• Great Fishing & Yabbying at Bulloo, Paroo & Wilson Rivers & Cooper Creek Website: www.thargotourism.com.au

Thargomindah Explorers
Caravan Park and Cabins
You and your pet will be made feel very welcome at the Explorers Caravan Park in Thargomindah by resident
Managers Paul and Ide Rush. The Park is owned and maintained by the Bulloo Shire Council, and is considered,
to be one of the best in the West. It is situated on an 11 acre site on the banks of the Bulloo River, and has
25 large powered sites, lined with native shrubs to provide privacy – 17 of these are drive through sites.
There are numerous unpowered sites, which are a combination of natural bush settings and grassed sites.
The Park is a AAA rated 4 Star Park and caters for everyone:
• The communal facilities are wheelchair friendly.
• We offer a fully screened Camp Kitchen, complete with a large Fridge/Freezer, full stoves, microwave, TV, and
stainless steel preparation area.
• An adjoining Barbecue area has a free Gas BBQ, and is equipped with tables and benches.
• The modern Amenities Block offers hot and cold Showers, and clean Toilets.
• We have a coin operated Laundromat.
• Internet and Next G phone services are available onsite.
If you would like some respite from your Caravan or Tent, we have 6 x 4 Star, fully self-contained en-suite Cabins, which
accommodate up to 4 people. For the budget conscious, we have 4 Bunkhouse style rooms, which offer single bed
accommodation for up to 6 people. All rooms have their own air-conditioner, Television and Fridge.
For more information on this ‘Luxury in the Outback’, or to enquire about bringing your pet along for
an ‘Outback Adventure’, please contact Paul and Ide at the Explorers Caravan Park, Thargomindah.
Tel: (07) 4655 3307; Fax: (07) 4655 3308; or Freecall 1800 820 890
Email: explorerscaravanpark@bigpond.com

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 71

Adventure Way

Innamincka’s fame stems from its association with the Burke

and Wills Expedition, whose sole survivor, John King, was
discovered near the Innamincka Waterhole. Wills’ grave is 25kms
west of the town, and the famous Burke and Wills ‘Dig Tree’ lies
to the east. Explorer Charles Sturt also passed through the area
in 1845.
Attractions
3 Graves of Burke and Wills
3 King’s Marker
3 Innamincka Town Ruins and Cemetery
3 Australian Inland Mission Hospital (HQ for NPWS)
3 Cullyamurra Waterhole
3 Coongie Lakes
3 Innamincka Reserve
3 Aboriginal Rock Art
Accommodation
3 Cooper Creek Homestay – Powered Campsites, Camp
Kitchen
3 Innamincka Regional Reserve – a full range of Park facilities
are available
3 Cooper Creek – Camping permitted along Cullyamurra
Waterhole, Policeman’s Waterhole, Ski Beach, Minkie
Waterhole – No facilities

Clockwise from top: Captivating sandhills, Opal Mining Interactive Display in

The Time Tunnel, Generations of Dreaming and Regatta on the Bulloo River.

72 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Adventure Way

Adventure Way Highlights

Top Attractions Visitor Information Centres
3 Cobb & Co Museum, Toowoomba Toowoomba
3 DownSteam Tourist Railway & Museum, Toowoomba Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre
3 The Empire Theatre, Toowoomba 86 James Street (Warrego Highway),
3 Japanese Gardens, Toowoomba Toowoomba QLD 4350
3 Newtown Park State Rose Garden, Toowoomba Tel: 1800 33 11 55
3 Picnic Point, Toowoomba Email: infoCentre@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au
3 Dalby Regional Art Gallery Web: www.toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au/events
3 Thomas Jack Park, Dalby Dalby
3 Lake Broadwater Conservation Park Dalby Tourist Information Centre
3 Jimbour House Thomas Jack Park, Drayton Street,
3 Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum Dalby QLD 4405
3 Monty’s Garage Vintage Car Museum, Glenmorgan Tel: (07) 4662 1066
3 Myall Park Botanic Gardens Fax: (07) 4662 2067
3 End of the Line, Glenmorgan (Historic Railway Siding) Email: dalbyvic@onthenet.com.au
3 Moonie Murals, Moonie Crossroads Motel Web: www.wdrc.qld.gov.au
3 Moonie History Panels, Moonie Rural Transaction Centre Moonie
3 Unique Egg, St George Moonie Rural Transaction Centre
3 Riversands Winery, St George Cnr Leichhardt & Moonie Highways,
3 Thruston National Park Moonie QLD 4406
3 Bollon Koala Habitat Tel: (07) 4665 0189
3 Nullawokka Aboriginal Guided Heritage Walks Fax: (07) 4665 0164
3 Cunnamulla Fella Statue Email: moonie.rtc@wdrc.qld.gov.au
3 Cunnamulla Fella Centre, Art Gallery, Museum, & Web: www.wdrc.qld.gov.au
Artesian Time Tunnel St George
3 Palm Grove Date Farm & Mud Baths Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre
3 Eulo Mud Springs Cnr Roe Street & The Terrace,
3 Yowah & Blackgate Opal Fossicking St George QLD 4487
3 Currawinya National Park Tel: (07) 4620 8877
3 Lake Bindegolly National Park Fax: (07) 4625 4998
3 Thargomindah Hydro Power Plant Display Email: vic@balonne.qld.gov.au
3 Leahy House Web: www.balonne.qld.gov.au
3 Old Thargomindah Hospital & Visitor Information Centre Cunnamulla
3 Noccundra Hotel Cunnamulla Visitor Information Centre
3 Burke & Wills ‘Dig Tree’, Nappa Merrie Station Centenary Park,
3 Innamincka Cunnamulla QLD 4490
Tel: (07) 4655 8470
Top Activities Fax: (07) 4655 1120
3 Visiting Public Parks and Gardens Email: cunnamullainfo@paroo.qld.gov.au
3 Visiting National Parks and Nature Reserves Web: www.paroo.info
3 Visiting Museums and Art Galleries
Thargomindah
3 Visiting Historic Hotels Thargomindah Visitor Information Centre
3 Exploring Historic Buildings Eccles Street,
3 Attending Local Events and Festivities Thargomindah QLD 4492
3 Heritage and Nature Walks Tel: (07) 4655 3399
3 Bushwalking Fax: (07) 4655 3374
3 Natural Discovery Email: thargotour@bigpond.com
3 Fossicking Web: www.thargotourism.com.au
3 Birdwatching
3 Fishing and Yabbying
3 Camel Races
3 4 Wheel Drive Tracks
3 Canoeing and Boating
3 Dining
3 Shopping

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 73

7 PARKS IN
7 GREAT
LOCATIONS
ON THE COAST
FACILITIES INCLUDE:
air-conditioned villas
powered sites
ensuite sites
camping sites
recreational facilities
kiosks and bbqs
Close to Gold Coast theme
parks and attractions.

Book online for some great deals

www.goldcoasttouristparks.com.au
GCC93076_CarQLD

or freecall 1800 444 474 Owned and operated by:

 Queensland

Meet the legends

of Longreach
Stacey Morton enjoys a taste of the landscape and lifestyle
of the Outback Queensland town of Longreach. 3 PAGE 77

Stockmen at waterhole.
PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 75

Queensland

The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame…

more than a museum – more reasons to visit
The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre is Australia’s premier outback
heritage institution. Since its opening in 1988, the Hall of Fame has played host to over one million
interstate and international visitors – providing each one with a spectacular outback experience.

S
ituated in Queensland’s central western town of
Longreach, the museum, stunningly constructed from
timber, stone and corrugated iron, is truly reminiscent of
the outback. With its unique design, the Hall of Fame stands
comfortably amongst the rugged yet vibrant rural landscape.
Inside, the Centre’s five themed galleries proudly display the
history behind some of Australia’s greatest and bravest
explorers, stock workers, pastoralist, and Aborigines. The
exhibits comprising an eclectic mix of objects, images, touch
screens, audiovisual presentations and open displays, allowing
visitors to interpret the outback story in their own unique way.
The Cattlemen’s Bar & Grill, together with the RM’s Cottage,
has the ability to cater for small or large groups and is ideal for
your next conference, corporate dinner or special event such as
your wedding day. Conveniently located alongside the Hall, we
can offer a wide range of unique indoor and outdoor facilities
with superior dining options that can be tailored to suit your
needs.
The menu features a variety of options ranging from exquisite
morning teas through to hearty steakhouse favourites featuring
Queensland’s best beef and rural produce. The fully equipped
kitchen has the ability to cater for the local area.

76 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Queensland

W
ith a bump, a rattle and the chef who has a drover’s stew simmering You can’t leave Longreach without
overwhelming thud of the horse’s on the camp stove. exploring the Australian Stockman’s Hall
hooves on the ground, we were We’re entertained by Chris and some of Fame. Tracing the stories of Australia’s
off. Yes, galloping at full speed (around great bush poetry as we sit back on the pioneers, the displays and information
35km/h) in a Cobb & Co carriage through banks of the Thomson River with our provide a fascinating insight into the way
the scrub on the outskirts of Longreach. drover’s stew in hand – but it’s the stars of life of yesteryear.
Sitting on the driver’s bench with our overhead that steal the show. Visit between May and October to see
trusted guide and horseman, Richard Also sharing the limelight in Longreach the R.M. Williams Outback Stockmans
Kinnon, the sounds of the carriage were is the latest addition to the Qantas Show. The story of a quintessential
muffled by the occasional ‘giddy up’ and Founders Outback Museum (QFOM). The Australian stockman, the show has a cast
crack of a whip. first passenger jet ordered by Qantas of five Australian working dogs (plus three
The carriage has been custom-made Empire Airways has returned home in mint adorable pups), a stockhorse, packhorse,
to travel safely at the speed of a full condition, landing in Longreach on June mule and small flock of merino sheep.
gallop. Back at the Kinnon & Co Station 10, 2007. Performed twice a day in a custom-
Store (located on the main street of Rolling out of the Boeing’s Renton built arena within the grounds of the
Longreach), there is an original Cobb & plant in Washington in 1959, the VH-XBA Stockman’s Hall of Fame, here you’ll learn
Co coach on display which made its last Boeing 707 was finally recovered in 2002 the secrets of rounding up sheep and
recorded journey from Longreach to in a poor state at the Southend Airport in training cattle dogs or even loading a
Blackall in 1893. Apparently, the Essex, England. pack horse as the star of the show takes
passengers were loaded onboard right A very dedicated team of Qantas you through the skills of the past and
out the front of the Station Store technicians volunteered and arrived at present stockman.
shopfront. Southend in June, 2006 to commence Located in the central heartland of
Richard operates the Kinnon & Co the restoration of the 707 for its journey Queensland’s Outback, Longreach lies
tours which include a traditional ‘smoko’ home to the Longreach museum. 687km west of Rockhampton and has a
of tea and scones, a 45 minute gallop Now restored to its former glory, the population of 4,500 people. It’s the
through the scrub and tour of Longreach original Qantas VH-XBA Boeing 707 is perfect place to experience our vast
as well as the screening of an Australian open to the public for guided tours at the Outback.
classic movie. QFOM.

Australian Stockman’s Hall Of fame. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND

For a taste of the real Outback

lifestyle, sign up for the Kinnon & Co Getting there
Clancy Campout. Sleep under a sky full of
stars in a swag on the riverbank of a By road:
working cattle property - dinner, campfire Longreach is a 14 hour drive north west of
entertainment and good old country Brisbane. An alternate route would be to make
hospitality are also included. the eight hour journey north to Rockhampton,
Another truly unique way to see the stopping for the night and then continuing due
beauty of this Outback Queensland town west for eight hours to Longreach.
is onboard the Thomson Belle paddle By air:
steamer. Billabong Boat Cruises owner Qantas has daily flights from Brisbane to
operators, Norm and Chris have been
Thompson River. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND

Longreach. Visit www.qantas.com.au

running sunset cruises along the beautiful Macair flies from Townsville to Longreach via
Thomson River for more than 11 years.
Winton. Visit www.macair.com.au
You can’t do anything but watch on as
the sky fills with pinks and purples, By Rail:
against the Outback landscape and the Queensland Rail (QR) runs service onboard The
majestic river – you definitely need to have Spirit of the Outback from Brisbane to
your camera in hand and ready. Longreach, departing twice a week. Visit
Skipper and bush poet Chris provides www.traveltrain.com.au
a very informative commentary on the Accommodation and Activities
abundant wildlife found along the river. For more information on accommodation and
Stepping back ashore as the sunlight the region in general visit:
fades we are greeted by Norm, our camp www.outbackholidays.info

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 77

Queensland

Waltzing Matilda Centre

more than a song

Experience the Waltzing Matilda Centre

The Waltzing Matilda Centre is the only museum in the world Pull up a stump by the water’s edge, in the ‘Billabong
dedicated to a song. Self guided tours allow you to experience Theatrette’ where the ghost tells his side of the story of
this multi-award winning attraction at your own pace. Waltzing Matilda.
s"ILLABONG4HEATRETTE Learn the truth, myth and romance behind Australia’s
s(OMEOFTHE,EGENDS%XHIBITION favourite song in the interactive ‘Home of the Legends’
s1ANTILDA-USEUM room. Explore the fascinating timeline of Winton’s history in
s/UTBACK2EGIONAL'ALLERY the Qantilda Museum.
s#OOLIBAH#AFÏ
Visit the Outback Regional Gallery and Foyer, offering
s3TATION3TORE
For your convenience an accredited Visitor Information new exhibitions every six to eight weeks. Choose a gift in
#ENTREAND7ESTPAC)N STORE"ANKAREALSOLOCATED the ‘Station Store’ or just relax in air-conditioned comfort in
inside the centre. the Coolibah Café.
Phone 07 4657 1466/1300 665 115 The Waltzing Matilda Centre is open 7 days from
9.00am. Closed Christmas, Boxing and New Years Day.
www.matildacentre.com.au

Experience Winton
When you take your trip to Winton, come to relax and
immerse yourself in the experiences this unique country town
has to offer, known for its friendly hospitality and big smiles.
Visit the Waltzing Matilda Centre, discover Lark Quarry
Dinosaur Trackways, the worlds only recorded dinosaur
stampede, try your luck at Opalton, play a tune on the Musical
Fence or visit Bladensburg National Park, just to name a few
of our attractions.
Winton is the ideal place to discover the outback, so pack
your car and venture out to Winton and experience the
diversity of this great area.

78 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


Step out on jumbo jet wing walk
The City of Bunbury jumbo jet carried 5.4 million passengers and flew 82.5 million
kilometres during her working life. Adrienne Costin discovered that even in retirement in
the Queensland Outback, this grand old dame of the air remains most accommodating.
n this day and age of unlimited air travel the size of a
I Boeing 747 is no longer surprising, but when that jumbo
resides in a regional airport and is exposing her inner
secrets to visitors, she becomes quite special.
The City of Bunbury has been the star exhibit at the
Qantas Founders Outback Museum in Longreach since she
arrived there in 2002, 82 years after the first Qantas plane left
this town on November 16, 1920.
She, and a neighbouring Boeing 707, are the only two
such planes in the world which are open to the public and it’s
a great opportunity to explore firsthand these giant machines
that fly us around the world.
Check out the cockpit and sit in the captain’s chair, hand
on the controls, imagining the machine is yours for the day.
The tiny area of cockpit and the array of instruments is
daunting to say the least, but from one who regularly drives a
car, the most disconcerting thing was the fact you can’t see
the nose of the plane from your seat.
Visitors taking the tour walk through the cabin and see the
padding and wires behind the lining walls, right down to the
cables along the roof which run from the controls in the
cockpit to the tail rudder at the rear. Nowdays its all done with
fibre optics, but it does make you appreciate how basic the
principles of steerage are.
A short climb down a very narrow ladder and you are in
Jundah Stonehenge
& Windorah
“Heart of the Channel Country
Experience the unique landscapes,
magnificent scenery and genuine
country hospitality of this great
land. Attend local events here in
the outback and stay awhile,
discover for yourself, it’s a great
place to live.
Each of the townships have
caravan parks, camping and hotel
accommodation.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION WRITE OR PHONE
THE BARCOO SHIRE COUNCIL P.O. BOX 14, JUNDAH QLD 4736
TEL: 07 4658 6900 FAX: 07 4658 6137
EMAIL: shire@barcoo.qld.gov.au Web: www.barcoo.qld.gov.au
Queensland
the workings of the ship – the part of the plane where the
engineers have to venture if something goes wrong – and right
next to the cargo hold which is impressively large!
An optional extra on this tour is a wing walk. Harness
firmly clipped in place, you step out of the emergency exit
door onto the huge wing and make your way out from the
plane. It gives an entirely different perspective on flying and
the plane and there’s something quite special knowing that
you are walking where few have been before.
Visitors can also take a tour of the smaller plane which
stands next to the jumbo – a fully restored Boeing 707 which
was the first passenger jet to be registered in Australia and
Qantas’ first jet aircraft. Privately owned before her return to
Longreach, the furnishings are stylish and give a great
perspective on just what you can do to the interior of a jet
plane.
The Museum is a modern, air-conditioned building
standing next to the Longreach airport terminal and is a stylish
tribute to Australia’s commercial aviation history. It is open 7
days a week, every day of the year, except Christmas Day,
and a range of admission prices are available. Prices for the
747 tour start from $19 for adults ranging through to the
“Ultimate Tour Package” which is $115 for admission to all
parts of the museum, both jet tours and the wing walk.
www.qfom.com.au
Barcoo Shire − Heart of the Channel Country
Ever changing, this region offers diverse beauty, from
dramatic red sand hills to peaceful waterholes and ancient
landscapes.
Take the time for a yarn with the locals of the friendly
townships of Jundah, Stonehenge and Windorah, where
you’ll find some of the best fishing in the Outback.
The region’s river system, including the Thomson, Barcoo
and Cooper’s Creek, are the beating heart of the channel
country, uniting together to flow onto their ultimate
destination, Lake Eyre, while the Great Artesian Basin feeds
natural springs and sub-artesian bores providing essential
water to this semi-arid land.
The Barcoo Shire has magnificent flora and fauna, it’s a
nature-lovers paradise.
Freedom and wide open spaces coupled with a relaxed
lifestyle undisturbed by the continuous buzz of traffic or the
horizons blotted out by the high rise buildings, is an
experience not to be missed.
Ph: (07) 4658 6900
Email: shire@barcoo.qld.gov.au
www.barcoo.qld.gov.au
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 79
Historically Longreach is known for its role with
QANTAS. The Queensland and Northern Territory
Aerial Service was founded at Winton on February 10,
1921 but was soon moved to Longreach where a hangar
ERHXLIGSYRXV]´W½VWXTYVTSWIFYMPXPERHMRK½IPH[IVI
constructed.
8LISVMKMREP5ERXEWLERKEVMWTEVXSJXLI³5ERXEW
Founders Museum’ and is heritage listed. It is a fascinating
reminder that Qantas is the only airline to manufacture
its own aircraft. The museum is an intriguing combination
SJLMWXSV]ERHQYPXMQIHMEHMWTPE]WQIIXMRKI\EGXMRK
museum quality requirements and also has two theatres
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The theatre in the original hangar continuously shows
historical aviation movies. The museum also features a
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*]WLSRISJXLIJSYRHIVWERHTEWXGLEMVQERSJ5ERXEW

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jet, “City of Bunbury” to see everything from the
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WTIGXEGYPEV;MRK;EPO8SYV8LMWMWEWQEPPKVSYTXSYV
I\TPSVMRKXLIGSQTYXIVFE]W¾MKLXW]WXIQWERHE
GLERGIXSWMXMRXLITMPSX´WWIEX[MXLXLILMKLPMKLXFIMRK
EFPIXSI\TIVMIRGIXLIWLIIVWM^ISJXLIEMVGVEJXJVSQ
SYXSRXLI[MRK%RH[LMPIXLIMWYRHSYFXIHP]
XLIFMKKIWXTPERIEXXLIQYWIYQMXMWSJGSYVWIRSXXLI
SRP]SRI8LIVI´WEVITPMGE(,EWFYMPXMRF]
5ERXEWERHYWIHSRXLI(EV[MRWIGXSVSJXLI0SRHSR
QEMPWIVZMGI%RSVMKMREP5ERXEW('MWWMXXMRKSRXLI
PE[RWEXXLIQYWIYQRS[VIWTPIRHIRXMRMXWRI[PMZIV]
ERHPSSOMRKEWKSSHEWWLIHMH[LIRMX[EWSTIVEXIHF]
±5ERXEW)QTMVI%MV[E]W²%PWSWMXYEXIHMRXLIQYWIYQ
MWER%ZVS/GSQQIQSVEXMRKXLI½VWXEMVGVEJXIZIV
used by Qantas.
8LIZIV]PEXIWXEHHMXMSRXSXLIGSPPIGXMSRMWXLI½VWXIZIV
5ERXEWNIXEMVGVEJXVIKMWXIVIHMR%YWXVEPMEXLI&SIMRK
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our dedicated team of volunteer engineers.
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interaction between Australia and the rest of the world
by reducing the travelling time to London to 28 hours is
RS[STIRJSVKYMHIHXSYVW
At the museum treat yourself to a delicious breakfast,
lunch, morning or afternoon tea in McGinness’
6IWXEYVERXERHFVS[WIXLVSYKLXLIKMJXWLST[LIVI]SY
GERTYVGLEWIWSYZIRMVWGPSXLMRKNI[IPPIV]FSSOWERH
Qantas memorabilia.
 Open 7 days - 9am to 5pm
(excluding Christmas Day)
Tours operate daily - Bookings are essential
Combination Tour Packages are available.
Ph 07 4658 3737 www.qfom.com.au
QANTAS FOUNDERS MUSEUM

QANTAS FOUNDERS MUSEUM

Longreach, Queensland
Qantas Museum Exhibition 747 Wing Walk tour
Original 1922 Qantas Hangar McGinness’ Restaurant
707 Restoration tour Founders Gift Store
Secrets of the 747 tour Art Gallery
Queensland

Country vs Coast
in Queensland’s Capricorn
Life on a farm can be pretty dirty work, but a beachside hideaway is
the perfect spot to wash off the dust, finds Jessica Reid. 3 PAGE 85

82 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

The new owners of TULLMACK CARAVANS are waiting and ready to meet
all the Travellers passing through Mackay.
As we own caravans ourselves we understand that you need a one stop shop
to help with all your inquiries, parts and sometimes small troubles. Our aim is
to keep our customers enjoying their journey in the most safest and enjoyable
way possible.
We also enjoy meeting new friends that sometimes becomes a yearly event.
I’m sure you will find our staff to be friendly and helpful should you wish to
buy or change your caravan to upgrade. Or maybe find your requirements
have otherwise found that you need some special luxuries that are well
deserved.
Greg, Heather, Trudi, Ross and Adrian are very professional in their field and
look forward to servicing your needs in anyway possible.
OUR SERVICES AND STOCK INCLUDE:
✔ New Vans ✔ Used Vans ✔ Parts ✔ Servicing and Repairs
✔ Millard ✔ Traveller ✔ Jurgen
TULLMACK CARAVANS – MACKAY
Tel: (07) 4952 3274
Mobile: 0403 465 180 Fax: (07) 4952 1555
77-79 Broadsound Road, Bruce Highway, Mackay QLD 4740
Queensland

CAPRICORN COAST
Caravan Parks
Enjoy the pristine beaches and
relaxed lifestyle of the Capricorn
Coast on a tropical holiday at
one of three absolute beachfront
caravan parks situated only 38km
east of Rockhampton

Choose from three beachfront locations on

Yeppoon Beachside | 4939 3738
Emu Park Bell Park | 4939 6202
Keppel Sands Bill Kingel | 4934 4899
Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre | 1800 675 785
SA1209 www.capricornholidays.com.au
Central Queensland’s Capricorn Coast
Beachside Caravan Park is located in Yeppoon. The
region’s major seaside town embraces its casual
atmosphere, offering a variety of entertainment, restaurants
and hotels.
Bell Park Caravan Park is the place to soak in the
serenity of this unique natural setting and relaxed
atmosphere, situated in the quiet village of Emu Park.
At Keppel Sands, the Bill Kingel Caravan Park is at the
most southern end of the Capricorn Coast. A hidden treasure
for holiday makers who enjoy absolute tranquillity.
Whatever escape you choose, you can be assured of a
holiday you will never forget.
Be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.

Queensland’s Central Highlands

Get a feel for the real rural Australian life with a visit to the
Central Highlands. This region is home to vast and diverse
agricultural and mining operations as well as some of
Queensland’s most dramatic natural landscapes.
The Central Highlands are ideal for a touring holiday with
the region boasting sprawling national parks with towering
escarpments and gorges, rainforest and waterfalls. Take
your time wandering the region’s marvel, Carnarvon Gorge.
Visit Blackdown Tableland National Park, just half an hour
drive off the Capricorn Highway and discover immense
sandstone gorges and sweeping views of the endless plains
around the park.
The town of Emerald is the hub of the Central Highlands
and is the gateway to the Sapphire Gemfields. Here the
whole family can fossick in the largest commercial sapphire
fields in the Southern Hemisphere—who knows what
treasure you might dig up!

84 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


I
’m not a country girl. Let’s get that straight from the outset.
I’ve lived in cities all my life and had never thought too much
about where the food in my fridge had come from prior to its
journey from the supermarket shelves to my home. So when I
found myself on Myella Farmstay squeezing breakfast juice from
oranges I’d picked off a tree, cooking an omelette with the eggs
I’d just collected from the chook pen and pouring milk on my
cereal that I’d squeezed the previous day from ‘Mia’s’ udder just
a few metres away, it awakened a whole new sense of
appreciation for the food sitting in my fridge at home.
Getting back to basics is one of the main attractions at
Myella Farmstay, which is situated a 90 minute drive south-west
of Rockhampton in Central Queensland.
The family-run operation was started by Olive and Peter
Eather in 1993 with their three children Lyn, Peter and Barbara.
Today 38-year-old Lyn rules the roost, coordinating the staff,
daily activities and answering the hordes of naive questions from
curious visitors like ourselves.
“Doesn’t that hurt her?” a concerned guest asked Lyn as she
pulled young Mia’s teets to fire milk into the bucket below.
BILBY EXPERIENCE
“Guaranteed to see a live Bilby”
Come visit, meet & enjoy a wildlife
experience that is close to our hearts and
will become close to yours as well.
Bilby Experience: 4 nights weekly - Monday, Wednesday,
Friday & Sunday nights from 6pm.
April - October Only (Special Tours by arrangement)
Bookings essential - please contact Charleville Visitor Information
Centre (07) 4654 3057
National Bilby Day – 2nd Sunday in September annually – To ensure
this little Australian is never forgotten.
Save the Bilby Fund Ltd, PO Box 155, Charleville QLD 4470
www.savethebilbyfund.com
Queensland
Mount Morgan School. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND
“Not at all—just wait until you see how brutal the calves can
be when they’re feeding,” she replied.
Moments later Mia’s baby calf Milo came storming in and
took over from Lyn and we saw just what she meant.
And while I’m sure Lyn could milk two cows at a time with
her eyes closed, for a first-timer it’s not as easy as it looks. But
after a few practice goes, our groans of frustration were quickly
followed by squeals of delight as we each contributed to filling up
the creamy bucket.
For visitors to Myella, the days are your own. Although
activities at the farmstay are optional, most guests take full
advantage of the daily experiences on offer.
Mountain and motor bikes are on stand-by, horses wait
patiently to be saddled for daily rides and 4WD farm tours are a
regular event on the 1,050ha property. The whip cracking and
lasso lessons are always popular, as are the resident kangaroos
and Pink Floyd the galah who call Myella home.
Like moths to a flame, guests are drawn back to the main
homestead at mealtimes where breakfast, lunch and dinner are
served at large communal tables with the Eather family.
Pat’s Gems Tourist
Fossicking Park
SAPPHIRE
• Fossicking – dig for your own
Sapphires
• Jewellery – Gold and Silver
• Gemcutting – facetting –
cabbing and polishing
• Manufactured Jewellery –
your design
• Licensed Café – indoor/outdoor
Phone (07) 4985 4544
OPEN 7 DAYS
An Award Winning Significant Tourist Attraction
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 85
Queensland

You can certainly

work up quite the
appetite at Myella, but
it would be hard to go
hungry. A hearty feast
of fresh salads, home
cooked dishes, roast
vegetables and beef
from the farm is
spread out buffet-style
for guests to indulge
in. And following the
meals, guests gather
around the fire to tell
the stories of their day,
compare animal
sightings and discuss
their new-found
farming skills.
The Eather’s
promise to leave
guests ‘stiff, sore and
dirty but happy’, is
one that certainly rings
true and after two
days on the farm
we’re sad to leave.
Driving back Myella Farmstay. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND

towards the coast we

stop in at the historic mining town of Mount Morgan for an
award-winning pie and tour of the town with TMC Tours. Once a
thriving mining town of 16,000 people, the TMC Tour takes
visitors on an eerie and interesting journey through Mount
Morgan, its now closed mine and nearby dinosaur caves.
Back on the road, we soon arrive at the new Seaspray
Resort, which is situated on a picturesque strip of coastline at
Zilzie Bay, in stark contrast to the dust and flat plains we had left
behind at Myella. When the resort opened in December last year,
Seaspray became the first real development in the area and it’s
fair to say that the owners have really splashed out.
The first stage of the resort development (there are also
residential areas and another nine stages planned) features 17
huge two and three bedroom fully self-contained loft apartments
and a superb rec club with a two-storey gymnasium, pools,
tennis courts, and kids club.
Chef Michael Hoare heads Seaspray’s fantastic bar and
restaurant, Coco’s @ Seaspray, with a menu featuring local
produce such as
tender crocodile
meat from nearby
Biloela Koorana Farm,
Caravan Park fresh scallops from
Yeppoon and beef
CLEAN • QUIET • SHADY from local cattle
farms. But before
Michael hits the
kitchen for dinner, he joins us on the beach for an afternoon sea
kayaking adventure.
The regular trips take off from the sands of Zilzie Bay, walking
distance from Seaspray, and take in the calm coastal waters of
the area. Left, right, left, right we paddle as the sun begins to set
and we visit two of the small islands in the Keppel Bay Group
sitting pretty just offshore.
Riding the gentle waves back into the beach I realise I’ve
worked up quite an appetite. And when I sit down to dinner at
Coco’s later that evening I savour each delicious bite and silently
thank the team at Myella for my newfound admiration of the food
on my plate.
The Essentials:
Myella Farmstay: www.myella.com.au
Seaspray Resort: www.seasprayresort.com.au
TMC Tour: www.tmctour.com.au
Holiday and accommodation ideas:
www.capricornholidays.com
Getting there:
Direct flights are available to Rockhampton from Townsville,
Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, with connections
from other major cities. Rockhampton is an eight hour drive
north of Brisbane. Self drive, jump on a Greyhound Bus, or
enjoy the comfortable coastal rail journey with Travel Train.

Gladstone Harbour Ferries

Curtis Endeavour & Curtis Endeavour II
• Scheduled ferry services to Curtis & Facing
Island for passengers and vehicles
• Self-contained en suite villa cabins
• Harbour cruises & functions
• Self-contained overnite vans with TV • Barrier Reef Island charters
• Shady drive-thru sites
• Kiosk, Camp Kitchens
• Recreation room
• Pool, Grassed camping sites
• Controlled pets allowed
Tel: (07) 4911 3932 Curtis Ferry Services
Ph (07) 4972 6990 or 0418 729 641
Email: biloelapark@bigpond.com www.curtisferryservices.com.au
Dawson Hwy, Biloela

86 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Queensland

North Burnett
A natural Queensland alternative
W
hen visiting the ‘North Burnett’ Enjoy a relaxing and affordable stay
you will discover the essence of at the Council Caravan Parks:
country Queensland. Experience Mountain View Caravan Park –
famous country hospitality and explore Biggenden – (07) 4127 1399
breathtaking scenery of natural beauty. 34 Powered sites, unpowered sites, 2
You will be amazed to discover several amenities blocks, laundry, covered BBQ
and modern camp kitchen.
national parks, lush orchards, vineyards
and vast grazing country. Enjoy fishing Mount Perry Caravan Park –
0427 563 271
and water sports at picturesque lakes and Self contained cabins, ensuites, caravan
dams and visit our many museums too. and camping sites, amenities, laundry and
Only 4 hours drive north of Brisbane camp kitchen.
and 1 hour west of Bundaberg, the North Eidsvold Caravan Park –
Burnett offers leisurely drives through (07) 4165 1168
quaint townships rich in heritage and 9 self-contained cabins, powered and non
spirit. powered sites
Mingo Crossing Recreation Area –
Highlights: 1300 696 272
3 Biggenden – Paradise Dam & Turtle 12 powered sites, camping ground,
Hatchery amenities block, undercover BBQ area,
3 Eidsvold – Unique siltstone mine & kiosk, office, boat ramp and fish cleaning
cutting stations.
3 Gayndah – Oldest town in Queensland
Pictured: Jones Weir, Mundubbera (top), Cania Gorge
3 Monto – Cania Gorge National Park National Park (left).
3 Mount Perry – Historic mining town
3 Mundubbera – Citrus Country

North Burnett ~ Naturally Beautiful

Ɣ National Parks Ɣ Abundant Wildlife Ɣ Dams, Lakes, Weirs Ɣ Scenic Drives
Ɣ Country Hospitality Ɣ Fishing and Boating Ɣ Historic Sites Ɣ 4WD Paradise
Ɣ Relaxed and Affordable Lifestyle

FEB Mundubbera Bats ‘n’ Bulls Festival MAY Gayndah Silverwhip Campdraft
FEB Monto Gold Buckle Campdraft MAY Monto Annual Cattle Drive
FEB Wuruma Dam Fishing Competition JUN Gayndah Races and Rodeo
MAR Cania Dam Freshwater Fishing Classic AUG Eidsvold Nogo River Challenge
MAR Eidsvold Golden Bell Campdraft SEP Mundubbera Heritage Day
MAR Monto Race Club Annual Races OCT Mount Perry Woodchop
APR Eidsvold Easter Musicians Muster OCT Monto Garden and Craft Expo
APR Gayndah, Mount Perry, Monto Shows NOV Mount Perry Dump Truck Pull
MAY Eidsvold, Mundubbera, Biggenden Shows NOV Mount Perry Races

Telephone:1300 696 272

Website: www.northburnett.qld.gov.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 87

Queensland

Experience the Isa

Experience the workings of an underground mine at the Hard
Times Mine. From the moment you descend in to the mine,
you are engrossed and captivated by the history, the stories
and the machinery.
The Isa Experience multi-media gallery interprets the
region’s fascinating cultural, indigenous, pioneering and
mining heritage through interactive displays which showcase
the rich history of Mount Isa.
The Riversleigh Fossil Centre educates and interprets the
fossils extracted from the nearby World-heritage Riversleigh
fossil fields. Join the Palaeontologist for a tour and see how
the fossilised remains are extracted from the Riversleigh
limestone.
Outback at Isa has something for everyone!

Chinamen Creek Dam at sunset

Cloncurry
Affectionately known by locals as ‘The Curry’, Cloncurry sits
on the junction of the Matilda and Flinders Highway nestled
by the Cloncurry River so named by explorer Burke as they
traveled through the district.
Cloncurry was founded in 1867 by Ernest Henry with the
discovery of Copper and since this time has built itself on
grazing, copper and gold mining.
Take the time to learn about our beginnings including the
founding of The Royal Flying Doctor Service in Cloncurry and
visit the original Qantas Hangar at the aerodrome to learn
about Cloncurry’s connection to its conception.
See you in the Heart of the Great North West!

88 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


Queensland’s
Pocket-sized koalas,
wombats the size of
cows and an ancient
gorge fringed by
Outback oasis
rainforest are just
waiting to be discovered
in Queensland’s very
own Outback oasis,
writes Jessica Reid.
T
hree hundred and ten kilometres and we didn’t so much as
pass a petrol station; three cars, two wedge-tailed eagles,
thousands of termite mounds standing like tombstones, an
emu, a roadside cattle muster and a couple of kangaroos, yes,
but otherwise it was just us and the wide expanse of
Queensland’s Outback.
We were on our way to two hidden gems in this remote part
of the State’s far north-west—Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National
Park and the World Heritage-listed Riversleigh Fossil Fields,
which are both, as we found, well worth the drive.
If you don’t have a 4WD, the best way to see these
spectacular landmarks is on one of Dell Burgen’s three day/two
night Yididi Aboriginal Guided Tours which depart Mount Isa
every Tuesday and Friday.
After driving such a long way through flat savannah land, we
were nearly at the Queensland/Northern Territory border and I
must admit I had started to doubt the legend of Lawn Hill’s
greenness and grandeur.
Yet almost out of nowhere we were suddenly at the gorge’s
entrance and before long were silently canoeing carefully through
the waterlilies and striking scenery.
Steep ochre cliffs guide the permanent fresh water gorge
along a winding path fringed with thriving green trees, ferns and
scrubs. About 1km into the gorge we tied off our canoes and
dived into the fresh water.
Queensland
Mt Isa night sky. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND
I was quickly drawn to the nearby tiny waterfalls and well-
placed rocks which created my own mini Outback spa, while the
fishermen, hikers and bird watchers in our group were also well
catered for in this incredible spot flourishing with flora and fauna.
The afternoon quickly slipped by before we headed back to
the area’s only accommodation at Adel’s Grove, which lies just
downstream from the gorge’s main entrance.
Adel’s Grove began humbly as an experimental Botanical
Garden in 1920 created by Albert de Lestang (hence the name
“Adel” derived from Albert’s initials).
By 1939, Albert had planted more than 1,000 species of
exotic and native plants, shrubs and trees, but in the early 1950s
disaster struck when a fire swept through the grove and
destroyed almost everything in its path including Albert’s dwelling
and trunk containing all of his research papers.
The current owner managers of Adel’s Grove, Rod and
Michelle Low Mow have been running the property since 2001
and have made quite a few changes since they took charge. The
site now offers a bar and restaurant, 17 permanently-erected
tents (complete with bedding, bedside table, deck and outdoor
setting), 15 cabins and 53 designated tent sites, which
according to the Low Mows are all booked out months in
advance during the peak season of June to September.
“I’m always asked if I feel isolated out here, but with so many
people coming through, it’s often a case of me wanting to get
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 89
Queensland

Richmond Shire – Richmond

Queensland
Situated on the Overlander’s Way, halfway
between Townsville and Mt Isa, the town
of Richmond sits on the bank of
Queensland’s longest river, the Flinders,
Richmond is busting at the seams when it
comes to things to see and do.
You’ll dig Richmond
Step back 100 million years
and discover the Richmond
Pliosaur and best preserved
dinosaur the Minmi at
Kronosaurus Korner.
• Visit one of the free fossicking
sites after experiencing
Kronosaurus Korner.

T
he Lakeview Caravan Park is sure to impress, with its
serene view of Lake Fred Tritton, Flinders River and the • Ask about
Bush Tucker Gardens. The caravan park caters for the
our Krono
touring public with clean amenities including disabled facilities
and baby bathroom, free barbeque area and drive through sites Kids Club
as well as grassed camping areas. The park also has ensuite
cabins and back-packer style accommodation in Twin Share • Relax at the Moonrock Cafe
Rooms. Phone (07) 4741 3772 or book online at
www.richmond.qld.gov.au. • Visit during one of
Kronosaurus Korner has some of Australia’s best vertebrate
and marine fossils on display, the air conditioned complex has
our events—check out
more than 200 world class exhibits. Why not fossick for your www.richmond.qld.gov.au
own treasure at one of our 3 free fossicking sites – ask staff at
Kronosaurus Korner for a map!!
for our calendar events.
The new attraction in Richmond along the Heritage Walk is
the Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre, this flagstone
replica is of the Cambridge Downs Homestead that became a
Store and Post office in the late 1800s. The centre showcases
items of historical and cultural significance including aboriginal
artefacts, a fully restored Cobb & Co Coach and other machinery
from the pioneering days.
Impressive Lake Fred Tritton has free barbecues, picnic
tables, water park, playground and exercise park which
compliments the 1.2 kilometre walking path around its
circumference. Lake Fred Tritton is perfect for boating, water Overlanders Way
skiing, jet skiing, fishing, swimming and canoeing. The Lake is lit (Flinders Highway), Richmond
at night for barbecues and walking. Ph: 1300KRONOK Fax: (07) 4741 3802
Email: enquires@kronosauruskorner.com.au
Don’t forget the 2010 BHP Billiton Cannington Richmond
www.kronosauruskorner.com.au
Fossil Festival 29 April to 2 May, 2010 – You’ll Dig Richmond

90 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Queensland

Historic photo of Mt Isa in its early days. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND

away from everyone,” laughed Rod.

Both Michelle and Rod were born and bred in Brisbane, but
met while working in Mount Isa as teenagers.
“We set off to travel around Australia, but didn’t get much
further than here!” said Rod.
While Michelle runs the restaurant and day to day operation
of the property, Rod takes daily trips to one of the area’s other
highlights – the Riversleigh Fossil Fields.
“Since 1967, scientists have increased Australia’s known
creatures by more than 1,000 from this site alone,” he said.
“Wombats the size of cows, flesh-eating kangaroos, three
metre tall flightless birds, pocket-sized and giant koalas, and 13
different species of crocodiles are just some of the creatures they
have discovered to be roaming the land where you are standing
up to 25 million years ago.
“This land used to be a lush rainforest and lake and I
guarantee you that under nearly every bit of rock out there you
will find a bit of bone which has been preserved in limestone,” Camels are a common sight throughout the region. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND
Rod said.
Granted World Heritage listing in 1994 for its outstanding operate each weekday during the school term at 10am.
representation of the evolution of Australian mammals and the And while there aren’t any pocket-sized koalas and gigantic
quality of its fossils, Riversleigh Fossil Fields covers a 10,000ha wombats roaming outside the classroom window, there’s
area, with ‘D-Site’ the only section open to the public. certainly enough history and heritage in this stunning part of the
Before or after seeing the real thing it’s highly recommended world to make you feel like you’ve gone back in time and back to
that visitors pop into the Riversleigh Fossil Centre in Mount Isa nature.
for an extensive insight into the region as it was millions of years Accommodation and holiday ideas:
ago, and into the process of fossilisation. www.adventureoutback.com.au
Here we watched a palaeontologist at work and saw a
number of fossils and life-size replicas of some of the ancient
animals which once inhabited Australian soil. Mount Isa Underground Hospital
The Riversleigh Fossil Centre is located in the Outback at Isa & Museum Inc.
complex which is also home to the famous ‘Hard Times Mine’,
which was built and operated by real miners and today provides
the opportunity to experience first hand the daily life and 1st April to 30th September
workings of an underground mine. 10am to 2pm 7 days
After donning bright orange overalls and hard hats with
lamps, we descended 30 metres into the mine and began Other times by appointment
exploring the rabbit warren of underground tunnels and
Admission $10.00,
pathways. Our passionate guide explained the history and
evolution of mining, showing us both past and present concessions available
equipment and even let each of us try the Air Leg Drill.
Joan St, off Deighton St
Other highlights in Mount Isa include a visit to Arilla Paper,
the indigenous paper-making company that uses everything from Mt Isa QLD 4825
mango leaves to cow poo to make paper, and of course the
Mount Isa School of the Air whose students live up to 500km Contact Diane Johns
away and come to ‘class’ over the radio. Tours of the school Tel: (07) 4749 0281 Mob: 0407 514 918

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 91

Queensland

Cloncurry
Cloncurry Caravan Park Oasis
Caravan Park With a name like Oasis you would expect
our caravan park to have shade, soft green
Oasis grass and a cool pool. And we do.
Flinders Highway, Cloncurry Qld 4824 We also have 31⁄2 star Deluxe Cabins,
(opposite Mary K Museum – Home of the Rockana)
refurbished amenities blocks with new
• Happy Hour 2 evenings a week washing machines and dryers, and a
• Shaded Swimming Pool bitumen road in the park that keeps the
• Shaded Powered and Unp Lawn Sites
outback dust down.
• All Sites Drive Thru
We also have the friendly good service
• Overnight Budget and Deluxe Cabins
that you would expect from a family owned
• Free Gas BBQs
and run Caravan Park.
• Campers Fridge and Microwave
• Coin Laundry Have a sausage or maybe try our
Cloncurry Curry at our Happy Hour. All
Owner Operators: Geoff & Christine
proceeds go to the Cloncurry Lions Club
Phone (07) 4742 1313
and you get the chance to meet your
Fax (07) 4742 0029
Web: www.cloncurrycaravanparkoasis.com.au
fellow travellers.

Welcome to Boulia
Boulia is located 300 kilometres south of Mount Isa at the

Experience Boulia
junction of the Diamantina and Kennedy Development
Roads. The town’s fame largely rests with its association
with the Min Min Light, a strange spectral light that can
OUTBACK MYSTERY appear, hover, disappear and reappear with an eerie will of
& ADVENTURE its own.
Most often described as a hovering luminescent ball, the
v Gateway to the Diamantina National Park
light has teased travellers, never approaching close enough
v Home to the mysterious Min Min light! to be clearly examined. Scientists are baffled to explain this
v Be entertained with the famous phenomenon.
Boulia Camel Races But there’s much more to be experienced in Boulia.
v Meet Dinosaur Dick- Stonehouse Spectacular scenery and a myriad of native flora and fauna
Museum & Fossil Display combine for what should be a memorable visit, rich in history
v Fish the Burke River, Georgina with fossils, culture and a pioneering past.
and local waterholes The first Europeans to pass through the area were Burke
v Be amazed by the spectacular and Wills. Burke gave his name to the river that the town
Lillyvale Hills
Boulia
stands beside. The town was established by the
v Visit Urandangie shopkeeper, Ernest Henry, in 1876 and was sited on the
v Channel Country Capital ‘Bullu Bullu’ waterhole of the Burke River.
Brisbane
Halfway between Windorah and Camooweal, Boulia was
an important resting point on the stock route. Boulia is
regarded as the capital of the ‘Channel Country’ so follow in
en the
Have you se the footsteps of Burke and Wills in the comfort of your
ht?
Min Min Lig vehicle along sealed roads through some of the most
Join
high us for a stunning outback scenery in Australia.
tec
& ligh h sound
ts
Millions of years ago, when inland Queensland was
Open how. tropical, prehistoric animals roamed the region. Boulia’s
daily
Fossil Museum exhibits a fascinating look at these
prehistoric creatures. A land of contrasts and vibrant colour,
Open daily- Boulia Shire encompasses over 62,000 square kilometres of
8am -4pm: Monday – Friday:
8am – Noon: Saturday & Sunday ever changing scenery and was once part of an inland sea.
Fishing, sightseeing and birdwatching can all be enjoyed
Phone: Min Min Encounter & Information Centre (07) 4746 3386
Fax: (07) 4746 3387 email: tourism @boulia.qld.gov.au www.boulia.qld.gov.au within the Shire.

92 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


A miner taste of
Outback Adventure
Best-known for its modern
mining operations, Mount
Isa also offers a taste of
unexpected adventure for
travellers. Fishermen,
birdwatchers and outdoor
types can get their fill in and
around Queensland’s
largest Outback town,
population 25,000.
P
rospector John Campbell Miles
was the first to get excited here,
when he stumbled across a silver-
lead-zinc outcrop by the banks of the
Leichhardt River in 1923. Some 500
claims were soon lodged and this
became Australia’s first company town,
with one in five working for the mine.
This multicultural town has residents
from some 60 ethnic backgrounds.
Dominated by a 265m exhaust
stack, The Isa now produces the world’s
largest amounts of lead and silver as
well as massive quantities of copper and
zinc. The city is thought to be named
after John’s sister Isabella or else it may
be a corruption of Mount Ida, a Western
Australian goldfield.
Outback At Isa is Mount Isa’s
biggest tourism attraction.  The $12
million complex hosts a range of
attractions including an underground
tour of a working mine, an amphitheatre,
gift shop, park, café, theatrette, and the
Sir James Foots building with displays
of Indigenous settlement and local
mining history.
Next door to the complex is the
Riversleigh Fossil Display Centre and
Laboratory.  John Scanlan gives tours of
the laboratory where visitors can find
out about the discovery of fossils in the
field to the laboratory processing and
then museum display.  At the centre you
can walk through interactive displays
with animals, vegetation and waterfalls
Queensland
from the three time periods preserved at
Riversleigh, ranging from 25 million to
50,000 years ago. The actual fossil fields
are 250km north-west of Mount Isa.
Mount Isa was home to one of the
fiercest Aboriginal groups, the
Kalkadoons. To learn about them and
their culture, visit the Kalkadoon Tribal
Centre and Culture-Keeping Place, next
door to the tourist information centre on
Marian Street. 
The School of the Air, Royal Flying
Doctor Museum, City Lookout
and Underground Hospital and
Museum are other popular Mount Isa
tourist attractions.
If you’re keen to cast a line and do
some fishing, pit your skills against
barramundi, sooty grunter, sleepy cod
and red claw crayfish at Lake
Moondarra, just 15km north of the city.
For birdwatchers, the area around
Camooweal, a former droving centre, is
teeming with 52 species of birdlife close
to the Georgina River. The town is
situated 188km west of Mount Isa and is
western Queensland’s last town, lying
just 16km from the Northern Territory
border.
If you happen to be in the area
around August each year be sure to
check out the southern hemisphere’s
largest rodeo returning for the 52nd time
in 2010.
For more information on Mount Isa visit
www.adventureoutback.com.au
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 93
Queensland

THE GREAT OUTBACK

Birdsville, Bedourie… NIGHT SKY
Big Red and Beyond…
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Historic Bedourie and Birdsville hotels, cafes,
restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, hotels, Centre and Observatory in Charleville.
motels, cabins, caravan parks, fuel & auto services,
magnificent & pristine bush camping. Charleville’s Cosmos Centre and Observatory
is a fascinating mix of day and night time
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ABUNDADNLIFE activities, that (if you will pardon the pun), has
OF WIL
universal appeal.

At night the full beauty of the Outback Night

Sky is yours to enjoy, the powerful Meade
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Bedourie and Birdsville
1300 794 257 So bring your adjectives and exclamations of
wonder, and come and enjoy a special look at
www.diamantina.qld.gov.au the Great Outback night sky.

94 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Queensland

2010 Xstrata Mount

Isa Rotary Rodeo
prepares to deliver
a heck of a ride
The Outback city of Mount Isa is ramping
up preparations for the Southern
Hemisphere’s largest rodeo event, the
2010 Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo, 6-
8 August 2010.

T
he thrilling, three day event returns for the 52nd time this
year and the action at Kalkadoon Stadium, Buchanan Park
promises electrifying bronc, bull and rodeo cowboy action.
Beast and human will show off their strength and skills as local,
interstate and international competitors compete for a prize pool
of more than $200,000 in events including roping, bronc and bull
riding, steer wrestling, wild horse racing, ladies barrel racing and
breakaway roping.
Spectators not exhausted from all the action in the arena can
find plenty more action at other events including the popular bull
ride and bareback competition held in the Bull Pit arena on the
Friday night, August 6 and the Mailman Express Sprint Horse
Race, a 200 metre sprint from a running start open to non-
thoroughbred horses.
The Zonta Bush Poets Breakfast is an entertaining way to
start of the day, the Mardi Gras Street Parade is a delight with its
colourful floats, live entertainment, dancing, carnival rides and
cotton candy and the Ute Muster is ideal for car-lovers.
Mount Isa is located in north-west Queensland, 900km
inland from Townsville along the Overlander’s Way and is easily
accessed by direct flights from Brisbane, Townsville and Cairns,
by road and bus.
Visitors coming earlier or staying on after the rodeo can
explore local attractions including Outback at Isa where they can
take a ‘Hard Times Mine Tour’ and visit the Riversleigh Fossil
Centre, Lake Moondarra, and the region’s twin jewels,
Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park and the fascinating
Riversleigh Fossil Fields.
For more information on tickets and rodeo events
www.isarodeo.com.au or phone (07) 4743 2706.
For accommodation and holiday ideas visit
www.adventureoutback.com.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 95

Queensland

The Savannahlander—
The outback rail experience
For more information contact
Phone: 1800 793848
Email: info@savannahlander.com.au
Web: www.savannahlander.com.au
Address: PO Box 718, Edge Hill
QLD 4870 Australia

Flying Fish Point Tourist Park

AAA 4 STAR Rated Tourist Park
• Centrally located, 7 kms from Innisfail
• The closest mainland access to Great Barrier Reef
– 30 seconds from the beach PO Box 179
Karumba QLD 4891
• Take day trips to Dunk Island, fish, walk the nearby rainforest Phone (07) 4745 9306
• Swimming pool, recreation room, laundry facilities Fax (07) 4745 9238
• Air conditioned cabins, non-powered sites from $25 2 Col Kitching Drive, Karumba QLD 4891
and powered sites from $29 • Special weekly rates Email: info@karumbapoint.com.au
Tel: (07) 4061 3131 39 Elizabeth Street, Web: www.karumbapoint.com.au
International Tel: 61 7 4061 3131 Flying Fish Point
• Powered & unpowered sites • On site caravans
Fax: (07) 4061 8533 Innisfail QLD
Email: info@ffpvanpark.com.au
• Dump point • Fish cleaning area • Pool
• Weekly events include FREE fish BBQ during busy season

holiday parks in the • Next to pool

• Close to great fishing

Burdekin • Friendly atmosphere

• Pet friendly
• Clean,tidy surrounds

BAYR
U RBURDEKIN
D E K I N C ACASCADES
SCADES
CC AAR R
A VAAVNA PNA R KP ,AARY R
K

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HOME HILL CARAVAN PARK
4782 2498
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96 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Queensland

Innisfail Court House. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND

Tropical treats in
Queensland’s north
If you’re searching for a magical escape where the rainforest meets the reef, there’s no
better place than Tropical North Queensland. A region of vibrant colour and natural beauty,
the World Heritage listed areas will compete for your attention in this welcoming
wonderland, and as Eden Cox discovers it’s one of few places where you’ll feel more spoilt
sleeping under the stars than in a 5-star hotel.

O
f course, you have the choice of both options in Cairns, a
good reason why many travellers start their Tropical North
Queensland experience here. With The Great Barrier Reef
and Wet Tropics Rainforest both nearby, Cairns is a good option
for the nature-lover.
But Cairns is also a modern city, with an exciting mix of
natural environments, and man-made attractions. Fine dining
experiences are plentiful, especially along the Esplanade, with a
range of cuisines to excite your palate night after night.
Art and cultural activities are many and varied, with festivals
held throughout the year. Make sure you visit the Reef Casino to
view its unique rainforest simulation, and take your time in the
Cairns Regional Gallery to see some of the country’s best
indigenous art.
From white water rafting to bungee jumping and skydiving,
there are great adventure options to suit the experienced and
inexperienced alike. But, if you don’t feel like jumping out of a
plane or off a bridge just yet, Innisfail makes a great day-trip
alternative.
At just over one hour’s drive from Cairns, this colourful town
is situated on the North and South Johnstone Rivers, surrounded
by a fertile, green landscape.
The region has been an important agricultural area for much
of its settled history, with sugar, tea, banana, pawpaw and other
tropical fruit plantations still grown here today. You’ll also find
fresh prawn, barramundi, crayfish and crocodile farming are
important parts of the region’s aquaculture.
If you’re lucky enough to be here in late March you can
experience The Feast of the Senses, a two-week festival ending
on March 28, which aims to tantalise the five senses with tropical
delicacies. This is really a festival for everyone, with fabulous
tropical foods, wine, and entertainment on offer.
If you want even more of a thrill, why not get up close (not
too close) to some local crocodiles? The Johnstone River
Crocodile Park is a conveniently safe way to do so. You’ll meet
some of Australia’s largest crocodiles, and go on a tour to learn
about these fascinating ancient beasts. Prefer the cuddly variety?
There are also pure-bred alpine dingoes and kangaroos residing
at the park.
At Innisfail, you’re only a short distance to Bowen, the jewel
in the Whitsunday crown, and it would be a shame to come so
close without discovering this picturesque town.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 100

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 97

Queensland
Etheridge Shire –
An explorers Treasure Chest
One of the many rich geological features that exist in Etheridge Shire is the Newcastle Range which
has the distinction of being the smallest populated Newcastle in the world.
T
he Newcastle Range is a well-defined and very important
part of the 39,000 square kilometre Etheridge Shire in the
Gulf Savannah which lies some 400 kilometres west of
Cairns and 370 kilometres east of the popular fishing spot of
Karumba in the Gulf of Carpentaria.
The shire is easily accessible along the fully sealed Gulf
Development Road which is part of the Savannah Way running
from Cairns, Queensland to Broome in Western Australia.
The Newcastle Range is roughly 2100 square miles in area –
this equates to 1,344,000 acres. However, the Newcastle
Range, as an entity and in its entirety, at any given time has a
population of probably no more than a few hundred hardy souls.
At the top, the northern-most end of the Newcastle Range, it
is situated half way between the towns of Mount Surprise and
Georgetown, with populations of 65 and 300 and 92 kilometres
apart.
The range is equidistant from the tourist mecca of Cairns, on
Queensland’s east coast, and the Gulf of Carpentaria in the west.
On either side, at the bottom of the range, are the towns of
Einasleigh, population 50, to the east, and to the west, Forsayth,
with 90 hardy souls.
The intrinsic industry assets of the Etheridge shire are derived
from the present and past existence of Newcastle Range.
Millions of years ago geomorphic upheavals and movements
within the range caused formations and deposits of gold and
semi-precious gemstones such as topaz, quartz, garnet,
aquamarine and sapphires.
Hundreds of thousands of years later, virtually ‘today’ in
geological time, these deposits washed down from the
Newcastle Range to the range’s peripheral areas. This resulted
in the whole Etheridge Shire becoming a major Australian
prospecting and mining centre for gemstones and gold and
98 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
visited by hundreds of fossickers every year.
The Shire has many varied attractions depending on the level
of adventure being sought by the traveller.
A visit to the web site for the Gulf Savannah Region
www.savannahway.com.au will help you plan your trip to the
region to maximise your enjoyment of the many unique world
class attractions available.
The multi-award winning TerrEstrial Centre situated in
Georgetown is the home of the Ted Elliott Mineral Collection. This
collection, which is the work of one man, Ted Elliott, contains
over 4500 mineral specimens in a myriad of fascinating colours
and shapes from the region throughout the world. Set out in nine
themed rooms with an array of audio-visual accompaniments. A
must see for any traveller, this collection will amaze you with its
beauty and its sheer size.
Whilst at the TerrEstrial Centre you will be able to get up to
date Tourist Information at the fully accredited Visitor Information
Centre. Make tour bookings for the Undara Lava Tubes and
Cobbold Gorge as well as other significant tourist attractions in
the region, look at some of the artwork of the region only on
display at the centre, use the internet café and generally relax in
the cool building.
Georgetown also offers access to a free public swimming
pool and free barbecues, an excellent river walk and plenty of
cool shady areas in its parks and gardens.
A place to base yourself to go fossicking for gold, explore the
region and the adjoining towns of Forsayth, Einasleigh and
Mount Surprise or simply relax away a few days or a week. This
is country Australia at its laid back best. Plan to come and plan
to stay awhile so that you can experience all this region has to
offer.
 AP
PA
PART
ART O
OF
FTTHE
HE
H EG
GULF
UL
LFF SAVANNAH
SAVA
ANNNAH REGION
REG
R EGIIO
ON
Located some 400km west of Cairns and 300km east of Normanton on the Savannah Way, Etheridge Shire includes
the historic townships of Georgetown, Forsayth, Mount Surprise, Einasleigh and Kidston spans from the Great
Dividing Range in the east, through to the diversly rich Newcastle Ranges and the lower plains around the Etheridge
and Gilbert rivers in the west.
Ongoing yields of Gold and gemstones such as Sapphires, Topaz, Garnets, Aquamarine, Moonstone, Quartz and
Diamonds exist in the region alongside world class eco-tourism geological attractions of the renowned Undara Lava
Tubes, Cobbold and Copperfield Gorges.
Whilst in Georgetown visit the multi-award winning TerrEstrial Center which houses the world class Ted Elliott
Mineral Collection as well as providing Tourist Information and Bookings, Internet Facilities and a significant artwork
collection of the region.
For further information on the region’s attractions please contact
Tel: (07) 40621485 Email terrestrialgeorgetown@bigpond.com
Queensland

At 6 hours’ drive from

Innisfail, it’s a good idea to stop
overnight at one of the many
towns on the way. Townsville is a
good option, with lots of camping
opportunities and a swag of
things to do and see. Don’t be
tempted to stay too long, though,
because Bowen is an ideal
destination for a laidback beach
holiday.
Beautiful bays and a perfect
tropical climate will greet you as
you enter the seaside town.
There are also eight award-
winning beaches to take your
breath away. Be careful to save a
little breath for snorkeling,
though, as some of the best
fringing reefs of the coast lie just
offshore and you will join a host
of brilliantly coloured tropical fish.
Before you leave Bowen,
make time to visit the famous
‘Big Mango’ located next to the
Bowen Visitor Information Centre Cumberland Chimney. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND
on the Bruce Highway. Here you
can find a range of mango products and preserves to take with yourself booking in to spend the night at one of the well-
you as souvenirs, and don’t pass up the delicious locally made equipped caravan parks in Mareeba.
mango ice cream! Now that you’ve seen so much natural beauty, you can head
It will do you well on your next drive to Georgetown, the back to Cairns with the knowledge that you’ve had a fulfilling
centre of the Etheridge goldfield and of amateur gold Tropical North Queensland experience. But before you do, stop
prospecting. The drive will take you just under nine hours, so at Edge Hill, just one hour from Mareeba, to experience life in a
take advantage of the numerous small towns along the way, tropical suburb.
including Greenvale, with various caravan park options. This leafy inner city suburb is one of Cairn’s oldest and most
Whilst Georgetown offers exciting opportunities to strike it popular. You’ll find yourself captivated by the pretty manicured
rich in the goldfield, it also provides a host of enticing gardens and restored pre-war homes on each street. Take this
environments to explore. The surrounding area is comprised of great opportunity to sample food from quality restaurants and
rolling hills and wooded savannah grasslands, and is home to a delis, whilst browsing through the many boutiques.
thriving variety of fauna and flora. Flecker Botanic Gardens is a must-see, as the only wet
Geographic attractions are world-class in Georgetown, and tropic botanic gardens in Australia, and you’ll find many tropical
visiting the amazing Undara Lava Tubes and the Cobbold Gorge plants from around the world. Visitors can bring a picnic or enjoy
is a great way to get the most out of the region. Visit the a barbecue on the grounds. There is also an orchid house, a
Terrestrial Centre where you will find a multi-award winning fernery and aboriginal plant-use garden to fascinate and delight
collection of 4500 mineral specimens in a myriad of fascinating you.
colours and shapes. There are nine rooms to explore, and each The Centenary Lakes is also a great place to spend an
has an audiovisual display. afternoon, with a wonderful rainforest boardwalk, Amazon pond
Once you’ve bagged yourself a gold nugget or two, it’s time lilies, native fruit trees, lakes and the occasional crocodile
to get back on the road and head for Mareeba, four hours north- sighting. Head indoors at the gardens’ art centre, housed in
east of Georgetown. Mareeba is the second largest Shire in three huge World War Two naval oil storage tanks, where you
Queensland and is an important cattle, mining, and horticulture can see local performance art and exhibitions.
region. Visitors will relish the chance to explore such rugged Cairns and its surrounding regions have such a great
terrain, and you can even ride the cableway over the top of the diversity of attractions that you’ll find your stay is never long
Kuranda Rainforest to the bustling Kuranda Markets. enough, and it’s no surprise that visitors return to this striking city
Camping options in the outback and hot air ballooning at year after year. Tropical North Queensland is so full of life, its
sunrise provide an irresistible combination, and you’ll soon find vibrant energy and youthful spirit is sure to rub off on you!

Burdekin Bridge. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND Cromarty wetlands. PHOTO: TOURISM QUEENSLAND

100 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
QUEENSLAND – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 2-4
Boulia Rodeo, Races and Campdraft
Every Easter, the Boulia Rodeo, Races and Campdraft manages to
provide fantastic entertainment for its visitors. Rodeo riders from
across Queensland compete for impressive prize money, and the
races draw punters, as well as candidates for Fashions on the Field.
Tel: 07 4746 3188

APRIL 3-5
Easter Vintage Festival, Toowoomba
For something different this Easter, head to Toowoomba for the
traditional festival at Highfields Pioneer Village. Enjoy displays and
demonstrations of pioneer life, art, music, and the age-old crafts of
silversmithing, blacksmithing and tinsmithing.
Tel: 07 4696 6309

APRIL 9-11
Noorama Picnic Races, Cunnamulla
This racing event is the authentic bush picnic racing experience, with
a five-race program, fashion on the field, and a picnic lunch. The
evening is full of music and dancing on the claypan, and a free
barbeque breakfast will get you up on Sunday morning.
Tel: 07 4655 4050

APRIL 16-18
Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival, Julia Creek
The three days of this festival are jam-packed with action, with the
triathlon, horse races, music, novelty events and ‘Australia’s best butt’
competition. Get along to Julia Creek, North West Queensland, to
experience this colourful event.
Tel: 07 4751 6607

APRIL 17-18
Dingo Creek Wine Jazz and Blues Festival, Traveston
The Dingo Creek Vineyard buzzes during this weekend event. Set in
the peaceful hills, the festival offers a great program of jazz and blues,
as well as food and drink and free camping. This event is a fundraiser
for SIDS and Kids Queensland.
Tel: 07 5485 1731

APRIL 28 – MAY 2
Stiches and Craft Show, South Bank April 17-18:
This popular show is the largest art, craft and design event in Australia.
Crafters, designers, retailers and suppliers are all on hand to sell and
Dingo Creek Wine
demonstrate their wares, and visitors can get involved in workshops Jazz and Blues
to hone their crafting skills. Festival, Traveston
Tel: 1800 770 222


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Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 101

What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
STATE – SEASON
APRIL 29 – MAY 3 MAY 7-9
Richmond Fossil Festival, Richmond The River Rock to Mountain Top Community Festival,
The area surrounding Richmond was once part of an ancient inland Eungella
sea, and this festival celebrates the geology and palaentology of the This three day festival celebrates the communities of the Pioneer Valley
area. There is a concert, live music, camel races and an action packed and Eungella. A lantern parade and fireworks will light up the weekend,
rodeo. while family entertainment, horse rides, arts, crafts and a bush carnival
Tel: 07 4741 3277 round out this friendly weekend.
Tel: 0408 724 748
APRIL 30 – MAY 3
Tree of Knowledge Festival, Barcaldine MAY 14-16
The festival starts on Friday night with a sportsman’s dinner, and the Australian Italian Festival, Ingham
rest of the week is jam packed with a wide variety of entertainment, Australian and Italian cultures come together in this festival showcasing
including a market, art displays, movies, drag racing and car shows, a all things Italian. Tropical North Queensland’s Italian heritage brings
procession, and the world’s richest goat races. great wines and, of course, fantastic food, to the festival, as well as a
Tel: 0427 512 247 lot of fun.
Tel: 07 4776 5288
MAY 1-3
Adavale Campdraft, Bull Bonanza and Gymkhana, MAY 22-29
Adavale Babinda Harvest Festival 2010, Babinda
It’s a cowboy’s paradise at the Adavale Campdraft, Bull Bonanza and The communities around Babinda come together in a week-long event
Gymkhana, with campdrafting and horse and motorcycle events. A celebrating the sugar harvest, where visitors can take part in the
licensed bar and a claypan dance floor will keep visitors entertained gumboot toss and umbrella toss, and witness the crowning of the
on the Saturday evening. Harvest Queen, also entertainment, competitions, rides and more.
Tel: 07 4656 4678 Tel: 07 4067 6226
MAY 7-9 JUNE 4-14
Australian Bronco Branding Championships, Birdsville The Wintersun Festival, Coolangatta
The iconic Birdsville hotel is where the fun begins, with the Bronco This is one for the car lovers, with over 1500 pre-1974 hot rod, classic
Branding Championships the main event, followed by a rough stock and custom cars on display. To complement the retro feel, rock’n’roll,
rodeo and light entertainment. Food, drink and camping are all rockabilly and swing bands will entertain visitors while they peruse retro
available at the championships. market stalls.
Tel: 07 4656 3321 Tel: 07 5536 9509

Queensland BLUEWATER
Maritime CARAVAN PARK
Museum ★★★ 3 Star Rating
41420 Bruce Hwy, Bluewater, Nth QLD 4818
One of the great experiences at Under New Management
South Bank, Brisbane. Danny Bauer – Manager
Kylie Burge – Assistant Manager
Open: 9.30am to 4pm
(last entry 3.30pm) • Powered sites • Unpowered Sites
• Cabins • Rooms
Cnr Sidon Street & Stanley Street, • Pool • BBQ • Shop
Southbank, Brisbane. PET FRIENDLY
www.maritimemuseum.com.au Ph: (07) 4778 6118 Fax: (07) 4778 6856
Tel: (07) 3844 5361 Email: bluewatercaravan@bigpond.com

Bribie Island Caravan Park CLERMONT CARAVAN PARK

Jacana Avenue, Woorim QLD 4507 The Clermont Caravan Park offers:
• On-site airconditioned cabins and vans • Large powered sites with slabs
Only 200m to beautiful Woorim Beach • BBQ area – Gas • Camper’s kitchen • Camping sites • Kiosk
• Laundry facilities • Golf course nearby • Recreation room
• Hire and sale of gold detectors at “Clermont Detectors” situated in park
• Powered caravan & camping sites • Public laundromat • Free Mine Tours, Gold Fossicking
• Budget cabins & deluxe family units Pets allowed under strict control
• Tennis Court, Mini Golf, Recreation Room BOOKINGS: (07) 4983 1927
New Managers – Cindy & Bruce
Freecall: 1800 649 831
Haig Street, Clermont QLD 4721
Web: www.bribieislandcaravanpark.com.au Fax: (07) 4983 3369 Email: clerparko@bigpond.com

102 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
QUEENSLAND – AUTUMN 2010
JUNE 12-13
Burnett Heads Lighthouse Festival, Burnett Heads
Over the Queen’s birthday long weekend, the Lighthouse Festival will
showcase acoustic and acapella music, as well as art displays. The
small town of Burnett Heads is a unique place to visit, and provides a
great backdrop for the festival.
Tel: 0411 602 406
JUNE 12-14
Caloundra’s Golden Orchidfest, Caloundra
Approximately 20 orchid societies will be presenting displays of
beautiful flowering orchids, bromeliads, anthuriums and foliage. Visitors
will be able to buy plants and associated products, including
photography and floral art.
Tel: 07 5491 5654
JUNE 13
World’s Greatest Pink Pub Crawl, Maryborough
This is your chance to get into the Guinness Book of World Records,
as Maryborough attempts to trump last year’s record of over 3000 pub
crawlers. One drink – alcoholic or not – must be sunk at each of ten
pubs over seven hours.
Townsville’s ghostly past
Tel: 07 4190 5825 The ghosts of Townsville’s past have been
unleashed with a new tour exposing the
tropical city’s most haunted secrets.

T
ownsville Ghost Tours visit some of the oldest and most
eerie places around the city, reliving the stories and
history of haunted locations by lantern and torch light.
The tours have been put together by Dave Dennis who spent
the past six months researching the city’s ghostly past,
hearing real stories from locals and employees of haunted
sites.
Visiting a range of locations including old pubs,
basements, cellars and cemeteries, guests on the tour will
hear haunting tales of disturbed spirits, crying children,
murders, resident ghosts and much more. The Haunted
Townsville Coach tour runs Friday and Saturday nights from
7.30pm to 10.30pm and you can also go on a Townsville CBD
guided Ghost Walk from 5.00pm every Friday and Saturday
evening.
A package combining both the coach and walking tour
with a meal and ghostly cocktail is also available. Tours also
VALLEY OF LAKES run to Hervey’s Range Heritage Tea Rooms on Mondays from
9.00am and to Ravenswood, the ghost town of North

TOURIST PARK Queensland, every Sunday night from 4.30pm.

Overnight stays in a haunted guest room are also available
to take the Ravenswood experience one step further.
Situated off Highway, walking distance More information: 0404 453 354 or
to Hotels, Cafés & Clubs, A/C Ensuite email ghosttours@westnet.com.au
Cabins, Budget Cabins, Drive-thru &
Ensuite Sites, 2 Camp Kitchens &
BBQ Areas, Swimming Pool CARAVAN & CAMPING
Your hosts: Newman Family EQUIPMENT
Freecall: 1800 Go2Esk (462375) South-East Queensland

26 Hassall Street, Esk Qld 4312 Big range of NEW RV ACCESSORIES

Ph: (07) 5424 1466 and SPARE PARTS for your caravan,
motorhome, camper trailer and boat.
Fax: (07) 5424 2815 • Caravan Equipment • Camping Products
Email: esk@valleyoflakes.com.au • Boat Accessories • Popular Fishing Gear
• Touring Books & Road Maps • General Hardware
270 Bruce Hwy (Eastern Service Rd), Burpengary QLD 4505
(next to IFS Service Station)
Phone/Fax: (07) 3888 4444
★★★★ 4 STAR RATING
www.caravanandcampingequipment.com.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 103

New South Wales
The Clarence Valley is home to the
Clarence Coast and one of Australia’s
largest waterways, the Clarence River
W
ith eighty kilometres of spectacular coastline, pristine
beaches, fabulous fishing spots, accessible National
Parks and historic towns, you will love touring the
Clarence Coast.
From Iluka in the North through to Yamba, Maclean, Grafton,
Minnie Water and to Wooli in the South, the Clarence Coast is
blessed with idyllic weather and picture perfect scenery.
Clarence Coast Holiday Parks offer a choice of
accommodation to suit all budgets—from unpowered camping
sites to 4 star cabin accommodation. With 5 parks to choose
from in coastal locations, Clarence Coast Holiday Parks are the
natural choice to stay when touring the Clarence Valley.
In the quiet coastal fishing village of Iluka, Iluka Riverside
Tourist Park is located on the river and you can cast a line
directly from a water front camping site into the Clarence River.
Explore World Heritage listed Rainforest at the Iluka Nature
Reserve or enjoy whale watching from the panoramic whale-
watching platform at Iluka Bluff in Bundjalung National Park.
Stay at the Calypso Holiday Park, Yamba. Centrally Located,
the park borders the Clarence River with views to Hickey Island.
As Calypso’s guest, you can moor your boat on the private
pontoon or simply find a great spot to watch the sunset across
the Clarence River. Experience Australia Best Town for yourself.
Brooms Head is a short drive from Maclean and regular
visitors don’t miss the opportunity to stay at the Brooms Head
Caravan Park. With refurbished cabins with ocean views, you will
104 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
be assured of a relaxing stay. With 1.5 kms of absolute beach
frontage, there is easy access to the Lifeguard patrolled beach
(patrolled during the holiday season), a tidal lagoon and various
rock pools. Anglers can catch bream, whiting, tailor and jewfish
from the rocks and beach or launch sea craft from the main
beach of the Sandon River.
Experience nature at its best in Minnie Waters and Wooli.
Explore the pristine beaches, bushwalk with an abundance of
native animals and enjoy the very best fishing and swimming.
Minnie Water Holiday Park is located adjacent to Yuragyir
National Park. With a choice of bush camping sites and a great
swimming pool, you will be able to sit back and relax.
Take a short drive to Wooli and visit the Split Solitary Marine
Park. For the adventurous try scuba diving or hire a boat and
explore the Wooli River. Enjoy a game of bowls and a meal at the
Wooli Bowling Club.
The Wooli Caravan and Camping Park is ideally located in
the centre of Wooli on the Wooli River and you are welcome to
experience the quiet village life for yourself. Not only does the
Clarence Coast offer world class beaches, National Parks and
beach side towns, you will find many examples of colonial
architecture, antiques and collectable arts and crafts throughout
the Clarence Valley.
Stay at one of the Clarence Coast Holiday Parks and begin
your journey of the Clarence Coast today.
clarencecoast parks
ilu k a | y a m b a | b ro o m s h e a d | m i n n i e w a t e r | w o o l i

the
New South Wales

THE DISH
CSIRO Parkes radio telescope
visitors centre & dish café

~ Great close-up view of the

telescope
~ Interactive & informative
displays & theatres
~ Hearty home made meals at
the dish café
~ Free BBQ, picnic & rest
facilities
free admission 7 days
Newell Hwy, 20km north of Parkes
(02) 6861 1777 www.csiro.au/parkesdish
The Dish – well worth a visit
Parkes CSIRO Radio Telescope, affectionately known as the
Dish, is the among the Central West’s greatest landmarks
and drawcards.
Those curious about the telescope, its history and its use
as for astronomy and occasional space craft tracking can
get a close look at the dish at the visitors centre and Dish
Café. Entry to the visitors centre and grounds is free with an
entry fee to the theatres.
Both the café (6862 1566) and visitors centre (6861
1777) are open from 8.30 to 4.15 every day except
Christmas and Boxing Days. Visitors are welcome to use the
visitor centre grounds during daylight hours.

Superb Parrot
Planning to visit Temora?
Superb Country
BOOROWA NSW
COME TO TEMORA Where better to stay than at the:
CARAVAN PARK
TEMORA CARAVAN PARK
BOOROWA Old Junee Road, Temora
• 20 powered sites
• Camping available
FOR THE TRUE • Free BBQ
• Laundry facilities
COUNTRY EXPERIENCE • Clean amenities

Immerse yourself in Boorowa’s history as you take a TEMORA AIRFIELD TOURIST PARK
Tenefts Street, Temora
stroll along the Shamrock Trail and revel in the local • 26 Powered Sites
heritage. Treasure hunt at our local galleries with • Powered and Unpowered camping sites
• Camp kitchen
quality gifts and art. Ask about our group day tours. • Free BBQ
• Laundry facilities
Join us for • Clean amenities
For bookings Tel: 0418 780 251
THE IRISH WOOLFEST
featuring
“The Running of the Sheep” Visit Young for
on SUNDAY 3rd OCTOBER 2010 (the long weekend)
John MacNally, top Irish Tenor, free street entertainment, • Cherries and Stonefruit
www.irishwoolfest.boorowa.net • History and Heritage
• HILLTOPS Wine and Produce
THE BOOROWA
A DUMP SITE
For an information pack on
CARAVAN PARK
IS LOCATED
OUTSIDE
THE CARAVAN
PARK
Motorhome friendly and animal friendly.
Young and District contact:
Shade and peace beside the river with new facilities. Young Visitor Information Centre
Call Teena on 02 6385 3658
Phone: Visitor Information Centre 02 6385 3885 Freecall 1800 628 233
Email: b.manion@boorowa.nsw.gov.au Railway Station, Lovell Street, Young
Located in NSW on the Lachlan Valley Way Email: info@visityoung.com.au
between Yass and Cowra www.visityoung.com.au

106 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 New South Wales

Old is new in
Capital Country &
Central New South Wales
You’ll find something new (or old!) at every turn in Capital Country and Central New South Wales,
with some of the oldest towns in the country. You’ll find abundant old-world charm and country
hospitality in many quintessentially Australian settlements dotted throughout the region.
According to Eden Cox, if you make the effort to explore far and wide, you’ll be rewarded with
rare and unexpected attractions.

View of Lachlan River in Cowra.

PHOTO: VINCE LOVECCHIO, TOURISM NSW

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 107

New South Wales

A
s Australia’s first inland city, Goulburn is incredibly rich in
pioneer heritage, and the area retains a country lifestyle
today. Visit the late 19th Century at the Garroorigang
Homestead, filled with antique furniture, Australiana, and convict
relics. The home is set in picturesque gardens all established by
the Hume family, descendants of the explorer, Hamilton Hume.
Here, you’ll learn some fascinating little details about the man
that you won’t find in a history book.
Turn a corner, not a page, to discover the colonial Goulburn
Brewery complex, because here you can taste as well as smell
the real ales brewed in the traditional way, with top fermentation
in open-top vessels.
There are also a maltings, a steam powered flour mill,
cooperage, tobacco curing kiln, and workers’ cottages in the
complex, and with live music, hotel and restaurant on site, this is
a very special experience of Australian history.
To take history even further back, try a two hour drive north-
east to the Wombeyan Caves, where you can marvel at the
Wombeyan underworld of chambers and passages filled with
outstanding geological formations.
Nearby Tumut offers something different, with peaceful
waterways providing great picnic locations and opportunities for
boating. Many visitors to the region simply spend time soaking
up the relaxed atmosphere and enjoying some of the spectacular
lookouts and vistas. Visit the Pioneer Cemetery on Adelong
Road and get to know the locals of a bygone era
Visitors to the region often head straight to Dubbo, and there
are many reasons why this is a good start. Not only is the city is animatronics and hologram exhibits that recreate the atmosphere
a good base for exploring the nearby towns, but it offers so and bring to life the stories of this fascinating place. Keep an eye
many varied attractions that no visitor leaves unsatisfied. So, out for the Condemned Man, the Ghost of Old Dubbo Gaol and
make sure you afford Dubbo a few days to impress you! the Executioner. The pitch-black solitary confinement cell is sure
Go back to 1859 with a visit the Old Dubbo Gaol for a to send chills down your spine!
spooky tourism experience that truly captures its visitors – You’ll probably need something completely different and a bit
figuratively of course! A very popular attraction, the fully restored more wholesome after this, so take a trip to Aladdin’s Cave
gaol features some new technological enhancements like Bottlehouse and bring the kids. This yurt-style building is made

Something
for everyone

Dubbo City Holiday Park

Book in anything from a tent space
or caravan site to a motel-style
family unit 24 hours a day
Book online now!
www.dubbocityholidaypark.com.au
2 Whylandra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
P (02) 6882 4820 E dccp@dubbo.nsw.com.au
A business unit of Dubbo City Council
Dubbo City Holiday Park includes all the benefits of a first
rate Park – without the crippling price tag. We have
accommodation to suit everyone, from a tent space or
caravan site, to villas and motel-style family units.
With late check in you’re welcome no matter what time
you arrive in Dubbo. During your stay take some time to
enjoy the free BBQ facilities, splash in the pool, swing, slide
and climb in the playground and bounce on our giant
jumping pillow!
At Dubbo City Holiday Park, we have thought of
everything to make your stay safe, relaxing and enjoyable.
Why would you want to stay anywhere else?

108 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 New South Wales

Young landscape. PHOTO: SALLY MAYMAN, TOURISM NSW

from about 3,000 bottles imbedded into the walls, and there are
a further 1,000 bottles suspended inside on marine rope. The
bottles themselves contain toys, photos, trinkets and messages.
Kids and adults alike will love peering into each one to discover
the treasure inside.
The next stop on your central New South Wales adventure is
Parkes, approximately 2.5 hours’ drive from Dubbo on the
Newell Highway. Today, Parkes is a thriving town boasting some
of the richest agricultural land in the state. But it was the
discovery of gold in 1862 that attracted many of the town’s first
residents. Parkes’ interesting past provides visitors with many
fascinating historical attractions.
To really get a sense of the town’s past and present, stop at
the Henry Parkes Centre, which incorporates local history with
antique farming artefacts. Marvel at the magnificent machines of
the past, including a large range of early tractors and harvesters

BROKEN HEAD HOLIDAY PARK 

Situated on the beachfront, just 7 kilometres
from Byron Bay, Broken Head Holiday Park is
/ƚ͛ƐdŝŵĞdŽƐĐĂƉĞ the perfect destination for a peaceful, simple,
relaxed holiday.
Kick back and enjoy the friendly
atmosphere, stunning views and sun

Self-contained Cabins Powered Sites drenched beaches of Northern New South

Motor Home Sites Unpowered Sites
RV Sites Kiosk Wales. The park offers a variety of
Gas Refills
accommodation including self contained
For Bookings & Enquiries Call cabins, villa, powered and unpowered site for
1800 450 036
Mention this advertisement at time of booking caravans/motor homes and tents.
to receive 10% off * Conditions Apply
Call us on 1800 450 036 to make a
booking today! Mention this advertisement at
BEACH ROAD
Broken Head NSW, 2481
time of booking to receive 10% off your stay*.
Pʹ 02 6685 3245
Eʹ info@brokenhd.com.au * Conditions Apply
* Valid Until 1st June 2010. Off peak seasons only.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 109

New South Wales
like the unique “Reins Drive Tractor” and the “Big Four”.
For the less mechanically-minded, the local history collection
will hold more appeal, with many interesting household and
business items from Parkes’ past. The displays are changed
regularly and include themes such as Railways, Post Office, and
Mining.
If you feel inspired by all the fascinating history at the
museum, you can even do a bit of research to find out if your
110 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
Flyfishing in Tumut River, Snowy Mountains. PHOTO: ROSS HONEYSETT, TOURISM NSW
ancestors played a role in the town’s past. The Parkes Historical
Society will be happy to help, or you can visit the Parkes Shire
Library and browse the local history collection.
After so much history, you’ll probably be ready for a bit of the
great outdoors, and the best natural environment to see in
Parkes is preserved in the Goobang National Park, located 30
kilometres north-east of the town. Covering around 42,600
hectares, the park forms the largest area of remnant vegetation
NATIONAL MOTOR
RACING MUSEUM
Murray’s Corner, Mount Panorama, Bathurst, NSW 2795
When you’re travelling through the Central West of
NSW top of the list of must see’s is the
internationally renowned Mount Panorama circuit.
Once you’ve completed a lap you must visit the
National Motor Racing Museum. With vehicle
exhibits changing regularly it’s always worth a visit.
The Museum Shop has an extensive range of
souvenirs, posters, videos, model cars and race
clothing (Mount Panorama, Ford and Holden as
well as the official merchandise from the Bob Jane
T-Marts 1000). EFTPOS is available.
Open: 9.00am to 4.30pm daily (except Christmas Day)
Bus tours are welcome by appointment
Phone: (02) 6332 1872 Fax: (02) 6332 3349
Website: www.nmrm.com.au
The Museum is a cultural service provided by Bathurst Regional Council
 New South Wales

Western Plains Zoo. PHOTO: GECKO PHOTOS, TOURISM NSW

in New South Wales’ Central West region.
Take the opportunity to watch for native birds on a peaceful
bushwalk, or try to identify some of the more than 300 plant
species that have been recorded here, including 40 species of
orchid. At over 55 kilometres in length, the Goobang National
Park can tire even the fittest of adventurers, and before long
you’ll be ready to get back on the road.
Drive about an hour and 40 minutes south-east and you’ll
discover Cowra and a number of wonderful relaxing experiences.
Extensive, beautiful waterways will entice you to spend a lazy
afternoon relaxing on a bank, or drawing a line for fresh fish.
Do make your way to the Japanese Garden, though, as you’ll
find an authentic open-air Tea House, a working Pottery House,
Tatami room (a traditional Japanese living room) and a Bonsai
House. If you’re not feeling superbly relaxed by the time you’ve
wandered the luxuriant grounds there’s little hope!

Narromine
Shire

Narromine – Picturesque Town on the Macquarie

This attractive country town is less than 30 minutes west of
Dubbo and has a long history among aeronautical
enthusiasts.
The historic local aerodrome houses the Narromine
Narromin
e Aviation Museum and is home to a locally built Wright Bros
Wright F Aviation Museum
lyer Rep &
Glider & lica
Ult Flyer replica.
Caravan ralight Flights
Parks in
& Trang
ie
Narromin
e The landscape is dotted with quaint country pubs,
Dump E
Coffee S
zy fabulous fishing spots along the Macquarie River and many
hops
Historic
Ho beautiful gardens and reserves.
Gooban tels
gN While in Narromine take time to visit Andonbel Alpaca
Iris Farm ational Park
, Lime G
rove, Alp
acas Coffee Shop, The Iris Farm, Edgerton Nursery, Lime Grove,
For more information call Narromine Shire Visitor Information Centre 02 6889 9980
the Aviation Museum or just take a stroll down our beautiful
or email info@narromine.nsw.gov.au
Websites: http://www.narromine.nsw.au main street.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 111

New South Wales
Stalactite formations inside Wombeyan Caves, Southern Highlands.
PHOTO: STUART OWEN FOX, TOURISM NSW
Wright Model A Flyer at the Narromine Aerodrome, Central NSW.
PHOTO: GECKO PHOTOGRAPHICS, TOURISM NSW
112 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
What a nice state of mind for a peaceful drive. Take
advantage by doing a day trip to Bathurst; about an hour-and-a-
half’s drive from Cowra. Once you’ve stopped for a well-earned
lunch, embark on a tour of the town’s three grand old houses on
a Bathurst Historic Home Pass.
Each house will give you fascinating insight into life in
Bathurst in three different eras. Abercrombie House (1878) is
known for its imposing Gothic/Scottish Baronial architecture, and
is the largest private home in the Central West. That’s not
surprising considering the 52 rooms, 7 staircases, and 30
fireplaces!
Chifley Home was once the residence of Prime Minister Ben
Chifley and still holds the original collection of household
furnishings dating back to 1914. The austerity of daily life during
the Great Depression is a real eye-opener.
Lastly, Miss Traill’s House is a colonial Georgian bungalow
built in 1845. Ida Traill, a prominent, wealthy resident lived here
from 1930 and her tasteful furniture, memorabilia, and art are
linked to early Bathurst and its people. By the end of the tour
you’ll be quoting prominent Bathurst-ians like a local!
Once you’ve returned to Cowra, you’ll be setting your sights
on Boorowa, the final destination in your Central New South
Wales adventure. Whether you’re staying a little longer in Cowra,
or just passing through, you can reach Boorowa in about an hour
via the Lachlan Valley Way.
When you arrive in the town start by exploring the Visitor
Information Centre for tours and maps. With a great selection of
B&C CARAVAN SERVICE
• Hayman Reese Towbars
• LP Gas Installation • S H Van Sales
• Insurance Repairs • Electric Brakes
• Gas Electric Fridges • Towing Accessories
• Air Conditioning • Fibreglass Canopies
• Large Range Caravan Accessories • Box Trailers
149A FITZROY STREET, DUBBO, NSW 2830
PHONE (02) 6881 8877
FAX (02) 6881 8227
 New South Wales

Picturesque view of lush lawns and garden at Milton Park, Bowral.

PHOTO: SUSAN WRIGHT, TOURISM NSW

locally-made souvenirs and furniture for sale, or wander the

some delicious, home-style
cakes and jams available, you
can stock up on treats for your
stay.
Before you head off to
Boorowa’s attractions, be sure
to order a Devonshire Tea at The
Magistrate’s Tea Room, and
have a look at the Courthouse
Building. This impressive
construction was built in 1883
at a cost of 5750 pounds, and
the lock-up was used as a
public gaol in the late 1800s.
Today, after major renovations
totalling $35,000, it is used for
art shows and exhibitions.
You’ll start to get a sense of
colonial Boorowa at the
Courthouse, but to really get a
feel for the history of the town,
you must visit the Glenara
Gallery located in a beautifully
restored Victorian mansion.
You’ll discover a fine range of
gifts, jewellery, paintings, and
picturesque gardens. It is no
mystery why the Glenara Gallery
is such a popular wedding
venue.
Embark on the Shamrock
Trail to take in some even more
impressive buildings of
Boorowa. The Visitor Centre will
provide you with a brochure on
the trail, which is full of
interesting information about
each site, including the old dairy
and the Mill Cottage (1854) and
the 1862 Webb & Cregos
dynamite storehouse.
You’ll feel truly lucky to have
experienced the region’s
charming buildings preserved
with such affection by the locals.
Not only do they tell the tale of
colonial Australia, but they
preserve the lives of those who
helped establish each town.
Keep them in memory and you
will help to continue the story of Large sculptures along the shore of Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra.
Central West New South Wales. PHOTO: HAMILTON LUND, TOURISM NSW

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Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 113

New South Wales
Snowy Valleys Way
W
hen the sun comes out and the
weather is fine, the impulse to get
in the car and go for a scenic drive
becomes nearly irresistible. And if you’re
willing to leave the highway, forgoing time
for other pleasures, you will discover the
essence of country Australia coupled with
a fascinating journey, on the Snowy
Valleys Way.
The Snowy Valleys Way – Gundagai
New South Wales to Beechworth
Victoria – is the newly launched touring
route encompassing over 300 kilometres
of breathtaking scenery and landscapes
and a whole swag of things to see and do
‘along the way’.
The Snowy Valleys Way starts in the
rolling hills of Gundagai – home of the
famous ‘Dog on the Tuckerbox’ and
winds its way south through Tumut, the
quaint townships of Batlow (famous for
apples) and Tumbarumba, crosses the
mighty Murray River at Towong and
continues south through Corryong and
Yackandandah ending in historic
Beechworth, Victoria.
This is a route where the journey is as
exhilarating as the destination. Winding
country roads reveal spectacular vistas
and welcoming hospitality. Travellers can
choose their own adventure - bushwalks
or 4-wheel driving, horse riding or
mountain bikes. Paddle, fish or water-ski
the numerous lakes, rivers and streams or
simply relax by their foreshores.
Partake in a festival or two – the
Snowy Valleys Way boasts a wide variety
to suit even the most discerning
festival-goer – wine and food, music that
spans all genres, luscious spring and
harvest festivals.
The Snowy Valleys Way’s festivals and
events are as diverse as the region it
traverses – country horse races viewed
from historic grandstands to true blue
rodeos with displays of horsemanship
second to none. There’s something on all
114 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
year that is guaranteed to tickle your
fancy.
For cultural explorers, step back in
time and explore the heritage of the region
at one of the rural museums, or visit an art
gallery or two.
Visitors to the Snowy Valleys Way can
choose to stay at cosy cabins, motels,
caravan and camping grounds, luxury
retreats, romantic B&B’s and rustic farm
stays.
In all, the Snowy Valleys Way offers its
travellers an unprecedented assortment of
historic, cultural, recreational, natural, and
picturesque sights along the way, all
guaranteed memory-makers. Every turn of
the road reveals a new photo opportunity
and a new activity.
So gather your Snowy Valleys Way
brochures and map, grab your camera,
start your engines, and hit the road.
More information is available
by visiting the website
www.snowyvalleysway.com.au or by
grabbing a FREE touring map and
brochures by dropping in at one of
these Visitor Information Centres along
the way:
Gundagai Information and Travel
Centre, 249 Sheridan St, Gundagai
NSW P: 02 6944 0250.
Tumut Region Visitor Centre, 5 Adelong
Road, Tumut NSW P: 02 6947 7025.
Tumbarumba Visitor Information
Centre. 10 Bridge St, Tumbarumba
NSW P: 02 6948 3333
W: www.visittumbarumba.com.au.
Corryong Visitor Information Centre,
50 Hanson St, Corryong VlC
P: 02 6076 2277
W: www.pureuppermurrayvalleys.com
Beechworth Visitor Information Centre,
103 Ford St, Beechworth VIC
P: 1300 366 321
W: www.beechworthonline.com.au
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
‘ALONG THE WAY’
Lannigan Abbey Art Gallery –
Gundagai – a stunning collection of
artwork set against the backdrop of a
magnificently renovated historic church
Dog on the Tuckerbox – Gundagai’s
famous icon.
Riverwalk – Tumut – a stroll among the
river walk will uncover a vast array of
threatened bird species thriving among the
reclaimed wetlands.
Tumut’s Festival of the Falling Leaf –
last weekend in April, a Gala Day
celebration of the autumnal hues of the
township’s famous deciduous trees.
Batlow’s Roadside Stalls for seasonal
produce straight from the farm & the
annual apple harvest March - May.
Tumbarumba’s Artists on Parade Art
Gallery – this community run gallery and
artist workspace is a wonderful way to
delve into the arts culture of this rural
community.
Tumbarumba’s Pioneer Women’s Hut –
Situated in a picturesque bush setting a
National Women’s Museum with significant
Collections.
The Man From Snowy River Museum –
Corryong – home of the legendary Man
from Snowy River
Tallangatta – explore the history behind
the town that ‘moved’.
Schmidts Strawberry Winery –
Yackandandah – set amidst acres of lush
strawberry fields, this winery is unique in
Australia. Using a traditional family method,
this international award winning fruit wine
has won many friends from all over the
country.
Pedal to Produce – Beechworth – the
perfect foodies holiday: cycling from a
quaint village café, down a country road to
taste award winning wines and onto a farm
gate to pick up some fresh regional
produce and meet the farmer who grew it.
on the alternate touring route to the Hume Highway...

Gundagai Information & Travel Centre 02 6944 0250 Corryong Visitor Information Centre 02 6076 2277
Tumut Region Visitor Information Centre 02 6947 7025 Beechworth Visitor Information Centre 1300 366 321
Tumbarumba Visitor Information Centre 02 6948 3333

w w w . s n o w y v a l l e y s w a y . c o m . a u
New South Wales
Explore the wonders Narrabri Shire
has on offer
While Narrabri is certainly the largest town in the Narrabri Shire, a visit to the North West would not be
complete without an exploration of the hidden gems to its west. Covering an area of some 13,065
square kilometres, the Shire offers an abundance of attractions to suit every palate.
J
ust west of Narrabri is the Australia
Telescope Compact Array. Capable
of receiving signals one thousand
times higher in frequency than FM radio
stations, the six gleaming dishes make up
the largest and most powerful radio
telescope in the southern hemisphere.
Open seven days, admission to the
observatory is free, with informative
displays, theatrette and interactive exhibits
making it a fascinating stopover for all
ages.
As you continue on to Wee Waa and if
you are a little thirsty why not stop at
Seplin Wine Estate and try a drop of their
award winning wine or port. Situated on
Chifley Road, the Widauer family have
116 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
established this lovely vineyard with onsite
cellar door. The region’s fertile loam soil
and warm summer sun leads itself to the
production of top quality wines.
The town of Wee Waa, located 41 km
west of Narrabri, is renowned as the
oldest settlement along the length of the
Namoi River, and is the Cotton Capital of
Australia. The interesting architecture is of
note, as is its top class historical museum.
Next stop on this westward tour is the
Cuttabri Wine Shanty, a place which
affords a glimpse into the harsh days of
our forefathers. Once a Cobb & Co
coaching stop it holds the distinction of
holding the second wine shanty licence
issued in Australia, and is thought to be
the only one still operating in the country.
Cuttabri offers an ambiance and amenity
hard to beat, with an enticing range of
cold drinks and sit down or take away
meals.
The Pilliga Forest is a vast, unusual
woodland characterised by native white
cypress and iron bark forests. Occupying
over 500,000 hectares the Pilliga
comprises the largest remaining area of
native forest west of the Great Divide. It is
an ideal place for bush walking, four-
wheel driving or simply getting back to
nature. From spring through to summer
the Pilliga Forest comes alive with an
abundance of native wildflowers which
can be experienced on mapped tourist
trails.
After the excitement of this tour, rest
those aches and pains with a visit to the
Pilliga Hot Artesian Bore Baths. Swimming
in the hot mineral waters of the bore has
been a popular recreational activity for
many years with its therapeutic value long
recognised. There is free camping
available at the baths, situated 3km from
the township of Pilliga, as well as toilets,
BBQs, and shaded areas.
 the heart of the North West…
From Mount Kaputar National Park, with its unique ecosystem,
geological formations and all encompassing views, to the CSIRO
Australia Telescope Compact Array, the Southern Hemisphere’s
most powerful radio telescope, there is no shortage of
attractions. Soak in the hot artesian bore baths in Pilliga, or
enjoy a visit to Cuttabri Wine Shanty, the second licensed wine
shanty in Australia which still operates today.
With accommodation and dining options to suit every need, you’ll be surprised
and delighted by the diversity this rich agricultural district has to offer.
 RESTAURANTS & EATERIES

Heart of NSW Festivities

Condobolin Art Exhibition
Lake Cargelligo Fisherama
Lake Cargelligo Sailing Regatta
argelligo C lassic Pairs (Bowls)
Northern Riverina Championships
Tennis Tournament
West Milby Rodeo Gymkhana
Euabalong Beat n Round the Bush
Festival
Lake Cargelligo Spring Ball
Tours, concerts & Workshops

November

Melbourne CLuncheon s

December

Christmas Street Party, Condobolin

Boxing Day Rodeo, Condobolin
Christmas Carnival in Lake Cargelligo
New South Wales

OBERON
simple pleasures OBERON
simple pleasures
Showcasing the majestic Jenolan Caves
and world heritage National Parks,
enchanting forest and farming country
and village life all at the centre of
The Tablelands Way experience
Oberon Visitor Information Centre
Adventure caving at is perfectly positioned close to the
Jenolan Caves spectacular Jenolan Caves and the
stunning landscape with World Heritage
Listed Kanangra Boyd National Park.
The centre provides the latest information
Fossicking on activities in the surrounding national
for sapphires and precious stones parks and State forest, including picking
edible forest mushrooms, fossicking for
Mountain Biking
in National Parks and State Forests sapphires and zircons, trout fishing in
the surrounding rivers and lake, mountain
Mushrooming in pine forests bike riding, horse riding, bushwalking,
and camping, to name just a few.

Bushwalking and hiking in world heritage national parks Drop in and speak to the girls from our
Award winning information centre.

Oberon Visitor Information Centre

Cnr Ross Street and Edith Road
Oberon Visitor Information Centre Oberon NSW 2787
Cnr Ross Street and Edith Road
Oberon NSW 2787 02 6329 8210 ...will take you there!
02 6329 8210 ...will take you there! OBERON COUNCIL

oberonaustralia.com oberonaustralia.com

Tamworth Regional Gallery Tamworth Powerstation Museum

The first municpal electric

street lighting in Australia
commenced in Tamworth
on 9 November 1888

Admission Fee applies

Admission free Open Tuesday - Friday 10am - 5pm, Group Bookings encouraged by appointment
Saturday 10am - 4pm Closed Sunday, 216 Peel Street cnr Darling St Tamworth
Open Monday by appointment. Wednesday - Saturday 9am - 1pm
466 Peel Street, Tamworth ph 02 6766 8324
ph 02 6767 5459
gallery@tamworth.nsw.gov.au powerstation@tamworth.nsw.gov.au
www.tamworthregionalgallery.com.au www.tamworthregionalgallery.com.au/museum.php

Visit Tamworth Powerstation Museum

On the 9th November 1888, Tamworth was the first town in
Australia to switch on electric street lighting. Tamworth
Powerstation Museum guides explain to visitors how the restored
John Fowler steam engines and replica Crompton dynamos work.
Although not the original 1888 engines, these two 1894
engines of the same make and type were found and restored to
working order in Tamworth for the centenary in 1988 and that they
are now understood to remain the only two of their kind left
surviving in the world.
A slice of Tamworth’s heritage has been preserved through this
museum.

120 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
NEW SOUTH WALES – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 1-4 APRIL 2-5
Tullamore Irish Festival, Tullamore Four Winds Festival, Bermagui
Easter weekend starts on Thursday night at this fantastic festival. Some of Australia’s premier musicians will take the stage at this three-
Beginning with a street parade and followed by Irish music, Irish songs, day festival in Bermagui. Stretch out on the grass and let the music
Irish dance, folk dance, songs and poems, this really is a unique wash over you, or get up and dance to jazz, blues and flamenco.
festival. See the Tullamore Dew Cup – hurdles with a difference – watch Tel: 0413 674 185
the Irish Tug-O-War and have a ball.
Tel: 02 6892 5044 APRIL 2-5
81st Corowa Easter Lawn Tennis Tournament, Corowa
APRIL 1-14
Sydney Royal Easter Show, Sydney Juniors, seniors, ladies and men compete for the singles, doubles and
mixed doubles titles in this annual lawn tennis tournament. There is
Come and experience all of the fun and excitement of this
free viewing for those not competing, so go along and check out
internationally renowned show – you can see the animals, meet the
farmers and be swept away by all the fantastic family entertainment. Wimbledon-style lawn tennis.
Tel: 02 9704 1000 Tel: 02 6033 4284

APRIL 2-4 APRIL 2-5

Campfires and Country Music, Hartwood
Over the Easter weekend, Hartwood hosts special guests Paul
McCloud, Peter Horan, Tom Maxwell and Laura Downing for Campfires
and Country Music. Bush camping is available onsite, so come by and
be soothed by music and firelight.
Tel: 07 5445 5937
Darling Harbour Hoopla, Sydney
Roll up, roll up to Sydney’s Hoopla Festival, where amazing acrobats,
death-defying stuntmen and hugely entertaining street artists and
circus performers come together to give you a thrill! The Big Top and
the Tiny Top will host more than 20 events over the Easter weekend.
Tel: 02 9240 8788

April 2-4:
Campfires and Country
Music, Hartwood

Your Hosts: Brian & Barb

MULGA CREEK Ph/Fax: (02) 4868 1099
HOTEL MOTEL Overnight & Holiday Accommodation
Email: mvvcp@bigpond.net.au
Web: www.mossvalevillagecaravanpark.com.au
Mitchell Hwy, Byrock NSW 2831 STANDARD CABIN: Sleeps 6, self contained, ensuite, kitchen, lounge area with colour
TV and heating.
• Powered Sites • Motel Units DELUXE CABIN: Sleeps 6, 2 bedroom, ensuite, self contained, kitchen includes
microwave, lounge/dining room with colour TV and heating. Doona, electric blanket to
• Self Contained Cabins main bed.
• Bistro Meals • Pets allowed under control EXECUTIVE CABIN: Sleeps 7. All deluxe facilities PLUS reverse cycle
airconditioning, verandah, outdoor furnishings. Doona, electric blanket to main bed.
• 9 hole golf course • Bird watching ONSITE CARAVAN: Sleeps 6, self contained with heating.
• Historical sites POWERED SITE: Powered with sullage. Drive through sites and slab sites.
CAMP SITE: Unpowered, shared amenities.
Ph: (02) 6874 7311 Fax: (02) 6874 7314 PETS ALLOWED: Conditions apply.
mulgacreekhotel@activ8.net.au CHECK IN TIME: 2.00pm CHECK OUT TIME: 10.00am
CHILDREN 3 AND UNDER – FREE • LINEN HIRE AVAILABLE

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 121

What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
NEW SOUTH WALES – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 3
La Festa – Faces of Australia, Griffith
The town of Griffith has unique cultural diversity, which is celebrated
on this fun-filled day. There will be international music, local food and
wine and market stalls, representing the variety of cultures based in
and around the city.
Tel: 02 6964 7555
APRIL 3-4
Gloucester Community Markets, Gloucester
Every Saturday of a long weekend, the Gloucester Community Market
brings a wide variety of stalls to Billabong Park. There are too many
to mention, but the stalls include plants, arts and crafts, glass,
jewellery, cakes and slices, and crystals.
Tel: 02 6558 1408
APRIL 4
Junction Junk, Wentworth
If you fancy your own bargain hunt, head to Wentworth for a fun day
of treasure hunting. Thousands of people, armed with town maps of
garage sale sites, race through the town in an attempt to win the
treasure hunt, or the lucky draw prize, and pick up some bargains on
the way.
Tel: 03 5027 3624
APRIL 9-10
Stroud Show, Stroud
Don’t miss the annual Stroud Show, where you’ll witness the
Commando Course Team Event, Keg Swap, Sheaf Toss and Dog
High Jump, along with the Ute Muster, Wood Chop and Bull Ride. A April 9-18:
demolition derby and a live band will cap off the weekend. Orange FOOD Week, Orange
Tel: 02 6591 7222

T
ake a break from everyday life and enjoy the freedom of
being in some of Australia’s most unique landscapes. The
national parks of Outback NSW are special places that have
been protected so that both visitors and locals can enjoy them
now, and into the future. They include Kinchega, Mungo (part of
the Willandra Lakes Region World Heritage Area), Mutawintji,
Paroo-Darling and Sturt National Parks.
There are lots of great things to see and do:
Far West National Parks • Set up camp next to the iconic Darling River and just let the
unique experiences, stunning landscapes world go by
• Immerse yourself in nature on a bush walk
• Explore the pastoral heritage of the region
Mutawintji Mungo Sturt Kinchega Paroo-Darling • Watch the amazing wildlife just going about it’s business
National Park National Park National Park National Park National Park • Learn about Aboriginal culture on a guided tour with a
Ph: (08) 8080 3200 Ph: (03) 5021 8900 Ph: (08) 8091 3308 Ph: (08) 8080 3200 Ph: (08) 8083 7900
Discovery Ranger
Department of
• Take in the vast semi-arid Outback landscape on a self-guided
drive tour
Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW

For more information, visit our website or telephone us – see our

www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au ad on this page for details.

122 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
NEW SOUTH WALES – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 9-18
Orange FOOD Week, Orange
Across the town of Orange there will be a week-long celebration of
the food and produce of the local region. Over 60 events will cater for
your taste buds, and you can meet the growers, producers, chefs and
winemakers of the region. A truly delicious week.
Tel: 02 6362 5151
APRIL 10-11
A Little Bit of Italy in Broke at Catherine Vale Wines,
Bulga
If you like all things Italian, don’t miss this Bulga festival where you
can play bocce, listen to traditional music, and of course indulge in
the great foods of the Mediterranean, including gelato, olives, cheese
and home made pizza. Bellissimo!!
Tel: 02 6579 1334
APRIL 17-25
NSW Caravan Camping 4WD and Holiday Supershow,
Sydney
Attention caravan and camping enthusiasts – do not miss the annual
Supershow in Sydney. Hundreds of exhibitors will show the latest
caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, 4WDs and camping
equipment, so you’ll find everything you need.
Tel: 02 9615 9999
APRIL 23-25
Boggabri Drovers Campfire Weekend, Boggabri
Anyone with a caravan, motor home, camper trailer, tent or 4WD is
invited to spend the weekend in Boggabri. Plenty of great activities
for the family include the Big Campfire, Camp Oven Cooking, craft
stalls, whip cracking and more. Come and get to know the locals.
Tel: 02 6743 4469

Stephen & Vicki Jackson

Corner Country Store & Freight Service
Tibooburra NSW 2880
ph: (08) 8091 3333
fax: (08) 8091 3331
ccstibooburra@telstra.com

BREAKFAST FROM 7AM • FUEL

• ICE • TYRE REPAIRS• EFTPOS

Kallara Station Stay

Powered and Non-Powered
Riverside Sites available
Caravanners most welcome
All types of accommodation

www.kallarastation.com.au
02 6837 3964

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 123

What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
NEW SOUTH WALES – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 30
Bush Poet Evening, Denman May 22: Albion Park Outdoor
This evening is always popular, with visitors coming to enjoy the lively
entertainment, poetry and music, soup and damper, and the great Camp Kitchen Challenge,
atmosphere. The following day, the Upper Hunter Food and Wine Albion Park
affair transforms the street into a food and wine mecca.
Tel: 0427 472 290
MAY 1
Wellington Show, Wellington
This will be the 135th annual Wellington Show, held in a beautiful
country town. See shearing and wood chopping competitions along
with a fashion parade, tug-o-war and novelty relay race. Don’t forget
the animals, food and showbags, either!
Tel: 02 6845 3007
MAY 1-2
Quirindi Rural Heritage Village Rally and Swap Meet,
Quirindi
The 11th anniversary of this festival includes displays of vintage
tractors, steam engines and working dairy equipment, army vehicles,
various cars and motorbikes. There is also a 650m miniature railway,
and make sure you visit the Blacksmith’s, and the village’s excellent
coffee shop.
Tel: 02 6746 1479
MAY 6-7
Wagga Wagga Gold Cup Racing Carnival, Wagga
Wagga
This prestigious horse racing event attracts a top field of horses, as
well as the customary ‘fashions on the field’ competition. This is one
of the biggest events in the Wagga area, so if you’re in the region,
don’t miss it.
Tel: 02 6921 2151
MAY 15-16
Lovedale Long Lunch, Lovedale
If you’re a wine and food lover, you’ll like nothing more than a long
lunch, so make sure you don’t miss this one. Dine your way around
seven participating wineries over the weekend, enjoying the wine,
gourmet food and music on offer.
Tel: 02 4930 7113
MAY 22
Albion Park Outdoor Camp Kitchen Challenge, Albion
Park
The outdoor cooking challenge is open to novices and experienced
cooks who use camp ovens, barbeques and other cooking apparatus
to whip up a feast. There will also be plenty of live music, local
produce displays and cooking demonstrations.
Tel: 02 4256 0158

Fighter World Aircraft Museum

Consider “Fighter World Aircraft Museum” for inclusion in your
travel plans. Situated at the RAAF Base in Williamtown. Fighter
World is only 20 minutes drive from Newcastle City Centre.
Watch the FA-18 Hornets and sit in a real jet cockpit.
Café on site.
Stay in touch with the latest news by visiting
Bourke’s Pharmacy www.fighterworld.com.au. This website will also show you
detailed maps and instructions on how to get there.
An Outback icon since 1878
Fighter World is a great, inexpensive day out.
32–36 Oxley St, Bourke NSW 2840 For further details ring (02) 4965 1810 or
Phone (02) 6872 2004 email admin@fighterworld.com.au.

124 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
NEW SOUTH WALES – AUTUMN 2010
MAY 29-30
Mount Victoria Village Great Train Weekend, Mount
Victoria
There will be fun for everyone at the Great Train Weekend, with a
vintage car rally, steam train excursions to Katoomba and Clarence,
activities and special exhibits.
Tel: 02 4787 1590
JUNE 5
Tibooburra Outback Cultural Festival, Tibooburra
Now in its 15th year, this cultural festival is held in the main street of
Tibooburra, and has plenty of events including the egg and spoon
race, three-legged races, throw the thong and a tug of war.
Tel: 08 8091 3405
JUNE 5-6
A Taste of Manly Food and Wine Festival, Manly
The first weekend in June sees the food and wine festival draw huge
crowds who are attracted to the beachside setting and the superb
quality of the food and wine. Manly’s restaurants will showcase their
cuisine, and wineries from around New South Wales.
Tel: 02 9976 1430
JUNE 11-14
Merimbula Jazz Festival, Merimbula
The far south Sapphire Coast of New South Wales sparkles over the
June long weekend, with jazz music, dancing and great company.
There will be approximately 150 bands and 700 musicians playing all
styles of jazz.
Tel: 02 6495 0673
JUNE 12-13
unWINEd in the Riverina, Griffith
This event focuses on local wine paired with regional food. Local
wineries offer a range of activities for all palates, including tutored
tastings, cooking demonstrations, music, and entertainment.
Tel: 1800 681 141
JUNE 12-14
Peak Hill Arts and Craft Exhibition, Peak Hill
This event is jam packed with arts and craft, including patchwork, cake
decorating, art, pottery, spinning, candle wicking, silversmithing, food
stalls, clothing revamp demonstrations and Devonshire tea and soup.
Tel: 02 6869 1306

Lake Hume
Tourist Park
Situated on the foreshore of
Lake Hume only minutes away
from Albury Wodonga. Whether
your holiday includes fishing,
GOULBURN SOUTH skiing, sailing, golfing, touring the

CARAVAN PARK wineries or relaxing, you’ll find it

at Lake Hume Tourist Park.
Quiet 11 acres of parkland
• Cabins • Power Sites – Camping • Kiosk
• Laundry • Playground • Phone • Gas Ref
• Modern Amenities • Covered BBQ
– Pets Allowed Conditional –
Tel: (02) 6049 8100 Fax: (02) 6049 8110
Your hosts Lianne and Robert
37 Murray Street
149 Hume St, Goulburn NSW 2580
Phone/Fax: (02) 4821 3233 Lake Hume NSW 3691
Email: go62356@bigpond.net.au Email: stay@lakehumetouristpark.com.au
★★★ Web: www.lakehumetouristpark.com.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 125

General News

COROMAL CARAVANS,
NT’s Largest Caravan Dealer

T
orque Motor Group was
founded by owner Tony Williams
in 1997. Starting as a Licensed
Motor Vehicle Dealer, the business
expanded to the RV industry with the
addition of Coromal Caravans,
Challenge Camper Trailers, a Spare
Parts and Service Department and
Used Caravan Sales.
We can assist you with Sales,
Finance, Insurance Claims,
Warranties, Caravan Service,
Electrics, Brakes, Spare Parts,
Accessories and Awnings.
Our staff believes that our after
sales service places us apart from
other dealerships as we treat each
client as an individual.
Find us at
www.torquemotorgroup.com or
910 Stuart Highway, Pinelands.
Opposite the Big4 Tourist Village.

NEW & USED CARAVANS FOR SALE

FULL RANGE OF SPARE

PARTS AVAILABLE FOR ALL
MAKES AND MODELS!

LARGE RANGE OF NEW COROMAL VANS AVAILABLE ON SITE!

PH:
“Experience the lifestyle, Discover the freedom”
8932 4252
910 STUART HIGHWAY, PINELANDS LMVD301

126 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Northern Territory

The Northern Territory

A search for the
ultimate experience
The Northern Territory is roughly split
into two substantially different areas—
the Top End, and the Red Centre.
Humidity, greenery and wetlands
dominate the Top End, whilst the Red
Centre offers harsher terrain with little
relief from the dusty red heat that
permeates the middle of Australia.
Despite their differences, both sides of
the Northern Territory divide provide
travellers with a uniquely NT experience.
But what is the genuine article, the real
deal of Northern Territory experiences?
Gemma Peckham investigates.

Rockpool at Gunlom Falls, Kakadu. PHOTO: TOURISM NT

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 127

Northern Territory

Explore Darwin’s Mindil Beach Sunset Market

In 1987 six people’s vision to bring a taste of Asia’s night
markets to Darwin came to fruition.
The Markets are renowned for the magnificent sunset
over Mindil Beach and a relaxed, stunning tropical setting.
Visitors can experience the vibrant, friendly and stimulating
environment.
Enjoy the taste of five continents with a selection of
culinary delights, and an extensive array of handmade craft,
art services including crocodile products, indigenous art and
jewellery. Every week a variety of live entertainment is offered
including live bands, street performers, cultural dance and
fire shows.
For more information go to www.mindil.com.au

The Northern Territory’s Best Kept Secret

(08) 8978 2313 Jackie & Dave have the pleasure of inviting you to
experience a perfect place for a relaxing holiday, approx
www.crabclawisland.com.au 1.5 hour drive from Darwin, on the way to Dundee Beach.

• Choice of accommodation
• Beach-front cabins
• Shady spacious powered sites
• Fully licensed restaurant
• Fantastic year round fishing

Crab Claw
• Boat hire, boat ramp
• 2 refreshing swimming pools
• Relaxed atmosphere
Island Resort • Open 365 days a year

Crab Claw Island

Crab Claw Island is 80ha of essentially un-touched wilderness, becoming an island at extreme high tides. Wander through
paperbark forests, experience the diverse wildlife. Fish the pristine waters for barramundi, salmon, mangrove jack, jewfish
and more—the sea, estuaries and creeks are easily accessed from the boat ramp. Coastline mangroves provide perfect
habitat for large mud crabs. Dolphins are resident; turtles and stingrays abound. Accommodation includes elevated air-
conditioned beach-view cabins and powered camping sites 75m from the waters edge. Dining can be self sufficient or a
sumptuous affair in the licensed open air restaurant. The island has a terrific team who pride themselves on old fashioned
service with a smile. Crab Claw Island is easy to find; take Cox Peninsular Rd off the Stuart Highway and follow the signs…
Escape, Enjoy, Experience…

128 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


D
arwin is synonymous with the Top End, and is often the
starting point from which a lot of visitors to the Northern
Territory begin their exploration of Australia’s most
enigmatic territory. Darwin is a city unlike any other in Australia, a
place where the locals live outdoors and visitors follow suit.
Water is a significant feature of the Northern Territory, and is
ever-present in Darwin. Stretching out beyond the recently
upgraded foreshore is Darwin Harbour, larger than Sydney
Harbour and home to marine ecosystems, a fleet of sunken
ships, a host of recreational water sports, and countless species
of fish ripe for the hooking. All of that, combined with a great
view, make Darwin’s Harbour one of the most beguiling features
of the town, and a great place to watch the sun drop through the
haze of dusk during one of Darwin’s classic sunsets.
The air in Darwin hangs thick with humidity, but the heat
encourages people outside, into the stalls of the Mindil Beach
Litchfield Safari Camp
Camping at Litchfield National Park
Northern Territory
Litchfield Safari Camp (Wangi
Tourist Park) is located just four
kilometres from Wangi Falls on the
western edge of the award winning
Litchfield National Park.
The safari camp offers a range of
camping options including powered
or non-powered sites for caravans, motorhomes or campers
and a coach camping area.
For direct bookings phone (08) 8978 2185 or
email reservations@litchfieldsafaricamp.com.au
www.litchfieldsafaricamp.com.au
Northern Territory
Darwin Wharf Precinct. PHOTO: TOURISM NT
sunset markets, along the foreshore, and around town. A trip to
the markets will stimulate all of the senses, not least the olfactory
as the smell of different foods infuses the humid sea air and
delivers that unique Darwin fragrance.
The tropical climate means that Darwin is awash with
greenery, which multiplies in various shades across the parks,
gardens and common spaces of the Top End’s harbour city.
Bicentennial Park on the Esplanade is perfect for a relaxed
afternoon, the George Brown Botanic Gardens provide a blend
of monsoon forests, coastal foredunes and open woodlands,
and Berry Springs, a beautiful swimming spot not far from town,
is just the place for afternoon idylls.
For a city so entrenched in the history and common ideal of
Australia, the multiculturalism in Darwin is remarkable. People
from over 50 different cultures live and work in Darwin, infusing
the lifestyle with a unique and exotic feel that is amplified by the
Come with us for a value packed and exciting
half day or full day offshore fishing charter.
Fish for, large fighting Black Jewfish and
Golden Snapper plus numerous reef fish.
Check out our web site www.darwinreefnwrecks.com.au
or phone 08 8941 6122
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 129
Northern Territory

Northern Australia in WW2

Australia’s Top End, and in particular Darwin, was the forefront of combat
operations against the country in WWII. More than 64 air raids were endured,
and hundreds of people killed. Darwin’s Military Museum charts the many
stories of the war, and military operations before and beyond. This small but
growing museum features:
• a 15 minute continuous film of the first raids on 19 February 1942
• armoured vehicles
• a range of artillery pieces
• engines and other machines of war
• scores of photographs detailing the actions
• an extensive collection of military firearms
All set in grounds of tropical plants and trees still dotted with WWII
fortifications
Set amongst the original 9.2-inch gun emplacements built to defend the
Australia’s Top End and particularly Darwin was the city and harbour, the air-conditioned centre of the museum is the original
forefront of combat operations against the country in command post that controlled the two vast 9.2 guns, meant to defend the city
at long range from enemy battleships. By the time the Japanese attacked the
WWII. More than 64 air raids were endured, and city in 1942, the capital ship had become the aircraft carrier – and the
hundreds of people killed. Japanese launched two devastating raids that the uncompleted guns could
not have stopped. But the city fought bravely, and for two years was the
The Darwin Military forefront of the raids that sought to suppress any attacks on the Japanese
right flank as it drove for New Guinea. 
Museum is set The Top End endured at least 64 air raids, and Broome in Western
amongst the Australia was also raided, with over 100 dying in the first attack. Eventually
squadrons of Spitfires supported by radar defended the coastline, and the
original 9.2-inch Allies fought back with bombers based in and around Darwin. Thousands of
gun emplacements troops on hundreds of ships transited through the town as the Japanese were
pushed back. Post-war the territory saw defences poised for confrontation
built to defend the with Indonesia, and now is home to thousands of Australian Defence Force
city and harbour, personnel.
The East Point Military Museum was the first museum of Darwin. It was
the air-conditioned formed out of war wrecks collected from around the Territory in the 1960s by
centre of the members of the Royal Australian Artillery Association, and their Collection has
now grown to thousands of badges, vehicles, artillery pieces, firearms,
museum is the original command post that controlled photographs, uniforms and more.
the two vast 9.2 guns, meant to defend the city at long At present the newly-renamed Darwin Military Museum is undergoing an
exciting and ambitious program of growth teamed with the Northern Territory
range from enemy battleships. Government.
Souvenirs and history books are available at the Darwin Military Museum
The Museum is open 9.30-5pm 7 days, except good shop
Friday and Christmas day
Open 9.30-5pm 7 days, except Good Friday and Christmas Day
Tel: (08) 89 81 9702 Fax: (08) 89 81 3135 Ph (08) 8981 9702 Fax: (08) 8981 3135

Enjoy Some Territory Hospitality

Located just 10 minutes from Darwin CBD, Nightcliff Sports
Club is the perfect place to grab a drink, have a flutter on
the pokies and KENO or back your favourite horse at the
TAB.
Nightcliff Sports Club is the social and bowling hub of
Darwin. Combine social bowls with a relaxing environment,
and while you are here enjoy a meal at the Bistro and our
extensive range of premium beers and wines.
Come and enjoy a nice cold one with the Territory locals
and friendly staff in air conditioned comfort.
Open every day from 10am till late. For enquiries
phone 08 8985 3121.

130 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Northern Territory

Kakadu Yellow Water Billabong. PHOTO: TOURISM NT

humidity of the area, giving visitors the feeling of really being on proportional population of indigenous Australians of any
holiday. Australian capital city, and the Aboriginal people have lived in the
Timorese, Vietnamese, Filipino, Papuan, Greek and Italian area for more than 50,000 years. The heritage of the land’s
backgrounds all add to this fusion of culture, along with traditional owners is evident throughout the Darwin region, in the
Australia’s indigenous culture. With such a wide range of artwork, music and spirit of the area.
traditions combining in this small city, there is an incredible A great place to discover the heritage of the land is in one of
variety of entertainment, cuisine and conversation to experience the National Parks that gather around Darwin, a tribe of open
in Darwin, so spaces huddling around the fire of the capital city.
much so that you Outside of town, the distant thunder of Litchfield National
can be transported Park’s waterfalls draws visitors from Darwin year round,
from Singapore to compelling them to pile into cars and travel just 90 minutes down
Europe to Vietnam the road. Living postcards emerge as you venture into the
to Central Australia National Park; sparkling rock pools, thick tropical undergrowth
within the space of and a variety of rock formations, all of which look as though they
a few hours. should have ‘Darwin’ emblazoned on them in fluorescent font,
Darwin has the with a spot for a stamp and some enthusiastically penned words
largest on the back.

Largest range of caravan parts in Darwin in Air

conditioned showroom (locks, latches, poles,
pegs, washing lines, ironing boards & lots more)
OPEN 7 DAYS • PHONE ORDERS WELCOME
Phone: (08) 8932 6777 Fax: (08) 8932 6177
878 Stuart Hwy Pinelands (Next to Repco)
for all your boat, trailer & caravan parts & accessories

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 131

Northern Territory
Don’t be left feeling tyred in the NT
What started as a dream, developed into NT Tyre Service. One man’s idea to capture a
niche market in Berrimah, backed by two of the most respected business men in the
Northern Territory saw this dream become a reality as the largest combined commercial
and retail store south of the Berrimah Line.
L
ocated at 1052 Berrimah Road, Berrimah, it is a
convenient location to service trucks, buses,
earthmoving and agricultural equipment, along
with cars and caravans of all shapes and sizes.
Being 500 meters off the highway, with an easily
accessible yard, means even the most novice of
drivers can swing a caravan or trailer in with ease
and in safety.
After the initial boom had calmed down to a
steady hum of day to day business, it was time to
start a new venture, bringing forth the birth of
Nightcliff Tyre Service ideally located at 9773
Dickward Drive, Nightcliff with state of the art
machines to fit passenger and recreational tyres
while you shop or have coffee and relax in the
Nightcliff Shopping Centre.
Both stores are official GT Radial & Continental
distributors in the Northern Territory, and both stores
offer full mechanical and latest technology laser
wheel alignment service, for your peace of mind.
Our highly skilled staff can advise you in the
purchase and technical fitment of the tyre to suit
your style of driving, whether it is towing a caravan
132 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
through the great Australian Outback, or taking a
boat down the sometimes harsh roads to get to that
secret fishing spot, our staff have extensively
researched the different brands available to fit you
with the best tyre to suit your needs.
We also sell a large range of tubes, batteries,
rims, rim accessories, tyre repair kits, in fact, any tyre
accessory you can think of, we can source it for you.
There is no other business in Darwin that has
such a large selection of stock available at any one
time.
NT Tyre Service has a fleet of five vehicles
servicing Darwin and rural areas, and on occasion,
further “down the track” to rescue vehicles stranded
without a spare.
The fleet consists of 3 Service Trucks fully
equipped for road-side service; these are supported
by two utes, fitted with compressors and used for
back up when the service trucks are unavailable.
Having a fast and efficient field service plan in
place is extremely important to our customers, and
therefore, we make it our priority to be available
twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.

&RQGLWLRQV$SSO\&DU/7[W\UHVRQO\

6HHZZZJWUDGLDOFRPDXIRUGHWDLOV

Call NT TYRE SERVICE or NIGHTCLIFF TYRE SERVICE

today for all your car, 4WD & carvan tyre needs.

Cnr Dennis Crt & Berrimah Rd 9773 Dickward Drive, Nightcliff

Berrimah Nightcliff
8947 4266 8948 0811
Northern Territory

Kakadu Air
Every visit to Kakadu should include a scenic flight. The Park
is so large that only from the air can you get a true sense of
the amazing size and magnificence of this great Park.
Many of Kakadu’s most breathtaking localities can only
be seen from the air. A flight over Kakadu and neighbouring
Arnhem Land reveals a vast and astounding panorama of
differing landscapes. The ancient sandstone plateau is
edged with spectacular towering cliffs and sliced by deep
ravines. Along the way there are scenes of hanging
waterways, primitive rainforests and, in the wet season,
spectacular waterfalls.
See the East Alligator River where it abruptly leaves the
rugged stone country to lazily wander across its vast
floodplain scattered with deep water billabongs.
During the dry season you will witness traditional
Aboriginal fires “cleaning” country for a new season of
hunting and gathering. In the wet, the same lands will be
shrouded in a thousand shades of green or silvered under
mirror-like floodwaters.
Few places on earth will reveal such immense areas of
vibrant, wild country, but with little indication of the heavy
hand of modern man.
Kakadu is a vast panorama of changing landscapes as
varied as ancient sandstone plateau, edged with dramatic
escarpments. In the wet season, numerous waterfalls, some
massive, plunge from the Plateau in spectacular form. The
lowland rivers thrust a winding path seaward, flanked by
billabongs, floodplains, forest and all things in between.
A Kakadu Air scenic flight rises above it all, giving views
that will forever change your perception of this timeless land.
Kakadu Air: The Northern Territory’s longest established,
most experienced, best equipped specialist scenic flight
company.

Corroboree Park Tavern

Corroboree Park Tavern is a convenient one hours drive from
cpt2@bigpond.com Darwin City.
Located on the Arnhem Highway, it is one of the major
entries to Kakadu and some of the Top End’s best fishing spots.
Come and enjoy a relaxing break while you plan your Territory
adventures.
The fully licensed Tavern is the entrance to our caravan park,
with 20 acres of lush native trees, grassed lawns and tropical
gardens, surrounded by 200 acres of native bushland.
Pitch a tent under shady trees beside our cool saltwater pool
or plug the van in at one of our grassed powered sites.
Air-conditioned double rooms or budget single rooms are
OPEN – 365 DAYS also available with full laundry facilities in a large centrally located
6am – Late ablutions block.
Fuel – ATM – Ice The Tavern serves not only icy cold beer of many varieties, it
Meals – Snacks also sells a wide selection of wines and spirits and is one of the
Drinks – TakeAway last takeaway outlets before entering Kakadu.
Beer. Wine. Spirits Delicious meals and snacks are available from our kitchen
Poker Machines from 6am to 8.30pm.
Our homemade pies and muffins are a real treat and if you
want a picnic lunch to take exploring, that can also be arranged.
There are many things to see and do around Corroboree.
Fogg Dam, Windows on the Wetlands, The Jumping
Crocodile Cruises, Corroboree Billabong Boat Cruise and Mary
River Houseboats are just some of the attractions.
Bird fanciers will thrill at the variety of birds on the wetlands
and billabongs, one at which to enjoy a half day is The Bird
Billabong.
Kakadu on our If fishing is your passion then you’ll have to stay at the Tavern.
Doorstep! The Tavern sits smack between the Adelaide and Mary River
World Renowned Systems, giving access to several nearby boat ramps for daily
and extended outings and also has a huge range of local fishing
Fishing Hot info.
Spots! If you’re up early enough you can book a tour with one of the
many fishing charters that call in each day.

134 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Northern Territory

Darwin Fishing Stokes Hill Wharf. PHOTO: TOURISM NT

Visitors are spoilt for choice, and a day at Litchfield could

involve lolling in the clear waters of the rock-holes, a natural
massage from a waterfall kneading those aching shoulders, or
wandering along clifftops from where water spills, and birds
wheel off into the distance. And then, after all that, Darwin is just
a short drive away.
Or, if you prefer to plunge into the depths of the Top End,
there’s only one place to go from Litchfield. East, to Kakadu
National Park. A land of fables, dreamtime and the most surreally
striking landscape imaginable, this is a place that defies time,
logic and reality.

> Caravan & ww

Camping sites w .auro
rare sorts.com.au
> Cabins

Toll Free 1800 811 154

Jabiru, Kakadu National Park
> Poolside bar and bistro
> Lagoon style swimming pool
> Powered sites
> BBQ area
> Air-conditioned cabins
Stay 3 consecutive nights, get 1 extra night free (campground only) –
Valid 1st April 2010 – 31st March 2011. Conditions apply.
Litchfield Park Magnetic termite mounds. PHOTO: TOURISM NT

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 135


It’s best not to try to absorb everything that Kakadu offers at
once, because you may fall victim to Stendahl Syndrome – a
condition in which the victim suffers dizziness, nausea and
confusion when exposed to something of immense beauty. If you
put yourself in the scene and experience it, instead of merely
looking at it, you’ll enjoy every minute.
The stories of the dreamtime have it that the Rainbow
Serpent created passages through rocks and formed waterholes
in the Kakadu landscape. Here, the Serpent has done an
enviable job, as Kakadu’s terrain is unlike anywhere else. There
are six distinct land areas within Kakadu National Park, which are
natural habitats for a variety of plant and animal life. These
regions include savannah woodlands, monsoon forests,
southern hills and ridges, and the tidal flats and coast region.
One particularly well-known region of Kakadu is the
floodplains and billabongs area where incredible waterbirds vie
for space with the ubiquitous Kakadu crocodiles over hundreds
of kilometres of shallow fresh water plains. The air and waters
Northern Territory
Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk). PHOTO: TOURISM NT
around Yellow Water are thick with birds, and the crocodiles
lounge on the banks, resting with an eye on you as you pass by.
Perhaps one of the most recognised areas of Kakadu is the
‘stones’ region, which fills the Arnhem Land landscape with
bulbous sandstone escarpments ranging from 30m to 300m tall.
Whichever region you visit in Kakadu, be sure to allow plenty
of time, because the bewitching nature of the dreamtime
landscape is certain to hold your attention for longer than an
overnight stay.
When you break your Kakadu hypnosis, head south-west to
Katherine, which sits just outside of Kakadu National Park.
The township of Katherine is the Northern Territory’s third
largest, and is just 320km south of Darwin. The Katherine River
is the heart of this region, beginning in the Northern Territory’s
famed Arnhem Land, and washing through the township on its
way to other rivers, elsewhere.
On the Gorge road just behind the Katherine Hospital, the
river is punctuated by Knotts Crossing, where horseback
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 137
Northern Territory

GOLF, BOWLS & SOCIAL

GREAT FAMILY BISTRO
OPEN 7 DAYS
LUNCH & DINNER
KIDS MEALS
GREAT VALUE
UNDERCOVER PLAYGROUND KATHERINE COUNTRY CLUB –
DISABLED PARKING & FACILITIES
“Where the Good Times Roll”
Why not drop in and discover what is on offer. Try your luck
and take on the locals in a round of Golf or Lawn Bowls, or
simply try the POKIES, KENO, or TAB, or enjoy a meal in the

Katherine Country Club
Pearce Street, -off Victoria Highway
Phone: 08 8972 1276
Fax: 08 8971 0442
Email: admin@katherinecountryclub.com.au
Website: www.katherinecountryclub.com.au
Members, Guests and Bona-fide Travellers Welcome
Country Bistro, or cool off and relax with a drink in the
Tropical Beer Garden or fully air-conditioned bar. For the kids
we have an undercover playground. Disabled parking and
facilities are available. Free Courtesy Bus every Friday and
Saturday night. So come along and experience the Katherine
Country Club Hospitality.
www.katherinecountryclub.com.au

Come, stay and relax – Mataranka –

Capital of the Never Never!
Located 100km south of Katherine on the banks of the
mighty Roper River, be surrounded by abundant bird
and wildlife, idyllic peace and the bewitching essence of
the outback.
Soak the pains and the day away in the tranquil
thermal pools; for the more energetic, engage in some
bushwalking through the Elsey National Park, visit the
local galleries, “We of the Never Never”, cattle station
and WWII memorabilia.
Try your luck fishing for Barramundi in the Roper
River or just enjoy a nice cool swim.

138 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Northern Territory

Kakadu Lotus flower. PHOTO: TOURISM NT

travellers and vehicles used to cross. The crossing was closed to

traffic in the 1990s, and there is now a bridge for a less watery
crossing. Aside from its history, this spot provides a great
starting point for exploring up- and downstream, where you’ll
find lovely pockets of land tucked away beside the twists and
turns of the river.
For water that comes up through the earth rather than
wandering over it, visit Katherine’s hot springs. What was once a
hole in the riverbed is now a carefully designed attraction,
providing visitors with a chance to view the source of the spring
water from a viewing platform. Despite the heat outside, a dip in
the springs is a refreshing alternative to the hot air – the water
remains at a fairly mild 32 degrees, which is just the right
temperature for a bit of relaxation.
To really wring the most experience out of the river, head to
Galloping Jack’s waterhole, where, if you’re lucky enough to
have an inflatable of some kind, the rapids will carry you through
spectacular scenery to a tranquil plunge pool, where people
swim and fish all year round. Exploration further afield could
unearth some fantastic riverside spots to dry off, relax, and listen
to the sounds of the Top End.
The Rainbow Serpent has slithered its way through the
Katherine Region, carving the famous Katherine Gorge, or
Nitmiluk, into the red rock earth of Nitmiluk National Park.
Katherine Gorge is a series of 13 gorges, formed over the
Kakadu Jim Jim Falls. PHOTO: TOURISM NT last 23 million years, that are connected during the wet season,
and separate when the dry sets in. The Katherine River winds
through these gorges at a pace dictated by the differing weather
conditions.
NOI’S TERRACE The dry season provides a fantastic opportunity for canoeists
and swimmers, with placid waters and an agreeable climate.
CAFE Importantly, during the Dry, the only crocodiles that might share
Aussie and Thai food menu the gorge with you are the freshwater variety, smaller than their
Dine in or Takeaway saltwater relatives and far less likely to give you any trouble.
The Wet in Katherine Gorge is a slightly different story. As
Tel: (08) 8972 2728 well as deterring canoeists and swimmers with its wild waters,
the swollen river provides an avenue for saltwater crocodiles to
enter the gorge, instantly adding a dangerous edge to your
~Seniors card discount on Coffees~ adventure. Short, guided boat tours run during the wet season
for those wanting to safely view the gorge’s beautiful limestone
Open 7 days walls, and the 7000-year-old aboriginal rock art adorning them,
Monday - Friday 7am to 8pm from the water.
Saturday 7:30am to 8pm Leliyn, or Edith Falls, is a year-round attraction for visitors to
Sunday 8am to 1pm Nitmiluk. The series of waterfalls is known for its beauty, and

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 139

Northern Territory

HERMANNSBURG HISTORICAL PRECINCT

• Art Gallery
• Museum
• Kata Anga
Tea Rooms
home to the famous
apple strudel
Entry fee - $10.00 Seniors $8.00
Open from - 9am to 4pm Mon-Sun 130kms west of Alice Springs.
visit: www.hermannsburg.com.au
Tel: (08) 8956 7402 or Fax: (08) 8954 8025

Hermannsburg Historical Precinct

Step back in time and visit Central Australia’s most fascinating historical destination.

L
ocated 130kms west of Alice
Springs, on a sealed road
Hermannsburg is the gateway to
Palm Valley, Boggy Hole, Namitjira
Drive, Kings Canyon and much more.
The Historical Precinct features
an art gallery with original pieces from
Albert Namitjira, a Museum of
memorabilia from the early German
Lutheran missionaries as well as the
Western Aranda people. Set
amongst the original buildings
established from the early 1800’s,
amongst the well known Namitjira
landscaped country.
Be serenaded by the sounds of
the Ladies Choir echoing from the
Church, as you enjoy our home made
meals available from our tea rooms,
with traditional German apple Strudel
through to scones and herbal teas.
Home to the well known
Australian Country music
singer/songwriter, for songs like
‘Raining on the Rock’ with John
Williamson, take in the landscape
and relate to the well known
Australian songs.

140 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Northern Territory

walkers ascend to the top,

occasionally washing off the heat of the
climb in idyllic rockpools on their way
up the falls.
There is a selection of walking trails
to take in the Edith Falls/Edith River
area, and it’s worth looking at some of
the longer options to really immerse
yourself into the scenery (and the
rockpools), away from the crowds that
gather at the foot of the falls.
If you’re travelling in autumn, your
time at Katherine may coincide with
the change in seasons. Wet season is
November to March, and dry is April to
October, so be sure to check
conditions before entering the gorge.
From the Top End, to a place
where there’s no such thing as wet and
dry seasons. From Katherine, it’s a
long, hot drive to Alice Springs, but
there are some great spots to stop and
take in more experiences that are
unlike any other.
Mataranka is just over 100km Fossicking near Tennant Creek. PHOTO: TOURISM NT
south of Katherine on the Stuart
Highway, and is a beguiling place to visit. Tennant Creek is bound tightly to a lot of people’s ideals of
Thermal pools are abundant in the area, deep enough to swim, the Northern Territory. Its spectacular sunsets, aboriginal heritage
warm enough to stay in for hours without getting cold, and clear and culture, and proximity to the Devil’s Marbles – one of the
enough that you can see the speckles on the smooth rocks most photographed landmarks in the Northern Territory – make it
underfoot. a quintessential central Australian location. Here, you’ll also begin
You can be guaranteed that you’ll dry off from your dip in the to experience the difference between the Red Centre and the
thermal pools as you head away from Mataranka, and approach Top End. Tennant Creek blends both – the earth is red, the sky is
the heat of Tennant Creek. Here you’ll find a town affectionately immense, but the town still has distinct wet and dry seasons,
dubbed the ‘Heart of Gold’ of the Northern Territory, a reference and the humidity over summer months rivals the northern climes.
to the friendly townsfolk and the gold-mining heritage of the town. Reach Alice Springs, 500km south of Tennant Creek, and

A visit to Tennant Creek is incomplete without visiting

the two major attractions
Battery Hill Mining Centre
Re-live the last Australian god rush! Experience underground
mining, visit the spectacular McLaughlin Minerals Collection
and the Social History Museum to see how families survived
the harsh Outback. Pan for your own golden souvenir and
chat with the friendly VIC staff. Ample parking, disabled
access.
Nyinkka Nyunyu Art & Culture Centre
Award winning Aboriginal Culture Centre where you will meet
local Warumungu people & discover their connections to this
land. Entrance to the world class gallery and museum
presents fascinating insights into contemporary Aboriginal
life, art, cultural activities and history. Aboriginal owned and
operated.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 141

Northern Territory

Gemtree Plenty Highway via Alice Springs

Gateway to the Gemfields
08 8956 9855

RED EARTH, RED GEMS, RED CENTRE

Experience the thrill of finding your own gems on a tagalong fossicking tour at
Gemtree,140kms NE of Alice Springs. Guided tours 9am daily (Apr-Sept).
Gemtree’s resident gemcutter can add sparkle to your gems. Have your
stones set into an exquisite 9 carat gold setting as a memento of your out-
back adventure.
The friendly, family run caravan park has clean amenities, A/C cabins,
powered and non powered sites set in spacious bush surroundings. There’s a
store, fuel outlet, internet access and payphone for your convenience. Nights
are magical under the stars by flickering campfires.
Bookings essential – 08 8956 9855.

PHS – our name is

what we deliver
We operate a variety of scenic flights 1Dis0%
around Ayers Rock (Uluru), the Olgas count t
(Kata Tjuta) and Kings Canyon areas.
Simply ring us for enquiries
or reservations:

• Pilot Training
• Scenic Flights
• Charter
Ayers Rock Kings Canyon
• Film & Video Production (08) 8956 2003 (08) 8956 7873 www.phs.com.au

Get a bird’s eye view of the iconic outback

Professional Helicopter Services Ayers Rock is the longest
operator of scenic helicopter flights around the iconic Ayers
Rock (Uluru) and The Olgas (Kata Tjuta).
Thrilling each passenger with spectacular views of these
Australian Icons and the vastness of the great Aussie
Outback.
Our Range of flights cater for the budget traveller to
those who want to see it all. Our fleet of modern
Helicopters, including the legendary Bell Jet Ranger and
Robinson R44, are equipped with exclusive bubble
windows to give you outstanding and unique views of this
amazing landscape.
PHS is the safest Helicopter Scenic operator in Australia
and the largest. Our name is what we deliver.

142 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


you will have well and truly shaken off the climatic conditions of
the Top End. The seasons that you’ll experience in this part of
the world are the extremely dry and hot season, and the slightly
less dry but still very hot season, with temperatures consistently
sitting in the high thirties. But it has to be said that the heat
enhances the experience of ‘The Alice’ – it wouldn’t be an
authentic Alice adventure if it wasn’t scorching.
With features such as Finke Gorge, the MacDonnell Ranges
and the Simpson Desert enticing visitors from just outside the
borders of Alice Springs, it’s sometimes easy to overlook the
township and head straight into the great outdoors. But Alice
Springs itself is an icon of the Northern Territory – stay for a few
days, and you’ll discover what a town like Alice has to offer.
Alice Springs is a town unlike any other, known for its quirky
festivals such as the Camel Cup, the Bangtail Muster, and the
Henley-on-Todd Regatta, in which competitors run their
bottomless boats down the dry Todd River. It’s no surprise that
the locals of the town are friendly folk with a great sense of
humour, and they’ll likely be happy to tell you a tale or two about
the Red Centre.
It’s no wonder that there have been so many films with Alice
as the central character, with such an incredible spread of
heritage, culture, stories and people to populate the scripts. In
Alice Springs, you can see the desert from every angle – take a
hot air balloon ride over the red plains below, explore the sandy
vistas during a round of desert golf at the Alice Springs Golf
Course, or take the Flynn Trail past some of the significant
heritage and cultural icons of the area, where you can learn the
stories that have made Alice Springs the star of the desert.
When you’ve exhausted all that Alice Springs has to offer,
well, there are always the rest of the desert landmarks to
discover.
So what is the quintessential Northern Territory experience?
Adventure, excitement, beauty, and culture. And where do you
find it? Everywhere. Just get to the Northern Territory, and every
day will provide the experience that you were hoping for.

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WHAT’S ON WHERE
NORTHERN TERRITORY – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 2-4
XXXX Timber Creek Gunamu Tourist Park Easter
Fishing Competition, Timber Creek
The Easter long weekend provides a perfect opportunity to head to
Timber Creek, where fishing enthusiasts and families are invited to
join the locals of the town for a fantastic weekend.
Tel: 08 8975 0722
APRIL 3-4
Aileron Bush Weekend, Alice Springs
Visit this extreme rough stock rodeo, where cowboys and girls pit their
wits against the beasts. There is also the notorious Mexican donkey
race, a ladies’ boot throwing competition, a tug-of-war and plenty of
novelty events.
Tel: 08 8956 8827
APRIL 3-4
Borroloola Barra Classic, King Ash Bay
Can you catch that elusive barramundi? Try your luck at the Borroloola
Barra Classic, with events that cater for serious and more casual
anglers. With prizes for all categories, and dancing, music and cane
toad races, this event has everything.
Tel: 08 8975 9800
APRIL 11
Fogg Dam Field Day, Humpty Doo
This is one for the whole family, with bird walks, a butterfly walk, talks
on water pythons and cane toads, and plenty more. The kids will love
the treasure hunts, and can learn about the history and culture of the
area from traditional land owners.
Tel: 08 8988 5599
APRIL 18
Hi to the Dry Craft Fair and Expo, Darwin
At the museum grounds in Darwin, this festival showcases the best
of the Top End’s arts and crafts, with demonstrations and plenty of
fantastic craft to buy. Browse the stalls and indulge in the food and
drink on offer.
Tel: 08 8981 6616
APRIL 20-27
NT Barramundi Classic, Daly River
Fishermen from all over Australia gather for this popular event, which
is invitation-only. 45 competitors fight for that big barra, while
spectators look on. Entertainment, fantastic food, a licensed bar and
excellent company are all part of the Barra Classic week.
Tel: 08 8941 3585
APRIL 30 – MAY 1
Daly Waters Rodeo, Campdraft and Gymkhana, Daly
Waters
This event attracts everyone from cowboys to caravan tourists, but
they all come for one thing—a very entertaining weekend.Live
entertainment is provided on the Saturday night, so be sure to bring
your dancing shoes.
Tel: 08 8975 9936
ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE
Experience the Premier Centre for Central Australian Art and Culture
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Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 143
South Australia
FREE ADMISSION / OPEN 7 DAYS / LICENSED CAFE / GUIDED TOURS / PLANT SALES
Enjoy the changing moods of this remarkable landscape
and take home some great AridSmart garden ideas!
Stuart Highway, Port Augusta
www.aalbg.sa.gov.au
AWARD-WINNING INTERPRETIVE CENTRE / OPEN 7 DAYS / TUCKERBOX CAFE
Ph (08) 8641 9193 / www.wadlata.sa.gov.au
Experience the incredible
‘Tunnel of Time’
“Spent 3 hours here - loved it!!!” Melbourne VIC
“We spent ages in here - it was fantastic,
great for kids too!” Lilydale NSW
WOOMERA HERITAGE
& VISITOR INFORMATION
CENTRE
DEWRANG AVENUE, WOOMERA,
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Take a walk through the history of WOOMERA.
See the large range of artefacts, rockets and missiles on
display in the interactive museum.
While you’re there why not check out the extensive range
of unique souvenirs.
Inside the Woomera Heritage Centre is a six lane
ten-pin bowling alley.
OPEN 7 Days a week 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Summer Season (Dec/Feb) 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
(Closed Christmas Day)
Outback Diner situated in the Heritage Centre offers meals,
drinks, snacks and morning and afternoon teas.
Group and bus bookings available by appointment.
THE WOOMERA HERITAGE CENTRE IS NOW AN
ACCREDITED VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE.
Phone: (08) 8673 7042 Fax: (08) 8673 6086
Post Office Box 125, Woomera SA 5720
Email: woomera.visitor@baesystems.com
Website: www.woomerasa.com
144 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
41 Flinders Terrace, Port Augusta
Woomera Village
The development of Woomera Village in 1947 was born out of
Britain’s need to develop their military capability following a
number of attacks during the closing stages of WWII. Most
significantly was an attack by the first ever Long Range Ballistic
Missile to be used as a weapon of war. These events identified
a major gap in Britain’s defence capabilities and as a result the
search for a suitable testing range began.
Once Australia was chosen as the site for a long range
weapons testing area, the government formed a rocket vehicle
recovery area and it was this area that became known as the
Woomera Prohibited Area, an area which spans 127,000 square
km.
In 1962 Woomera was the site used by France, West
Germany, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands in partnership with
Britain and Australia to form The European Launcher
Development Organisation, known as ELDO. This project built
and launched the ‘EUROPA’, which stood 104 ft 6 in and
weighed 105 tonnes, the largest vehicle to be launched at the
Range.
Woomera boasts excellent services and facilities. These
facilities include a six lane ten pin bowling alley, a movie theatre,
fitness centre, tennis courts, squash courts, basketball and
netball courts, swimming pool, bowling green, golf course and
Observatory from which you can view some of the best night
skies in Australia. Breen Park is one of the beautiful parks and
gardens in Woomera and it has excellent BBQ facilities.
The ELDO Hotel is a three star AAA rated hotel that offers
high quality accommodation to suit a variety of budgets. Also in
Woomera is the Woomera Travellers Village, which offers
Caravan Park style accommodation at very reasonable prices.
A number of clubs operate in Woomera including, The
Woomera RSL Club and The Woomera Sports Club, which are
open for meals on Thursdays and Fridays.
 South Australia

South Australian Outback:

diversity at its best
Some travellers might venture into the South Australian Outback expecting to
drive great distances across unchanging landscapes, but the reality of the
outback is quite the opposite. The landscape throughout the state’s wilderness
changes dramatically, from rocky outcrops and desert plains to national parks
teeming with native wildlife and foliage. Gemma Peckham takes us on a tour of
the South Australian outback, where the towns each tell their own unique story.

Highway 1 - Stuart Highway, Between Woomera

and Port Augusta, Flinders Ranges and Outback.
PHOTO: JOHN SONES © FROSAT & SINGING BOWL MEDIA

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 145

South Australia

MARREE DROVERS REST TOURIST PARK Getaway to The Outback

The Drover’s Rest Caravan Park is on the
corner of the Birdsville and Oodnadatta
Tracks at Marree.
The Dieri Aboriginal Corporation
purchased the Park with Managers, Dieri
Elder, Mr Phillip Stuart and his wife
Pauline.
Since purchasing the Park, the Dieri
People have taken great pride in
upgrading the surrounding grounds, camp
• Air conditioned Deluxe 2 bedroom ensuites and caravan sites, sheltered bbqs, camp
• Air conditioned Budget rooms fire areas, facilities, bunkhouse
• Lawned campsites
accommodation, onsite caravans and self
• Outdoor Campers Kitchen
• Laundromat • Payphone
contained cabins.
• Pets allowed on leash The Park has welcomed many tourists,
school groups, travellers from various
Find us at the corner of the parts of Australia and Overseas visitors.
Birdsville and Oodnadatta Tracks
Marree SA 5733 The Dieri People continually upgrade
Tel: (08) 8675 8206 the Park to suit the requirements of their
Fax: (08) 8675 8371 visitors.

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Australia home
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ice-cold beer – what more could you want
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Marree, situated at the beginning of the
and search for
Birdsville and Oodnadatta tracks, is the
ideal place to stop for a night, a meal, or Caravanning Australia
just a few drinks in the front or saloon bar.
The Heritage Hotel offers:
• A la carte dining in a friendly atmosphere
• An excellent selection of beers and wines
• Brand new air conditioned Motel units
• Large family rooms • Poker Machines • ATM
• Alfresco dining by the swimming pool
Railway Terrace, Marree
Ph: (08) 8675 8344 Fax: (08) 8675 8328
Caravanning
Australia ®

Email: marreepub@bigpond.com

146 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 South Australia

Leigh Creek Road, Flinders Ranges PHOTO: HUGH HARTSHORNE ©SATC

W
oomera is a town with astronomical history – literally. For
the past forty plus years, the site has been used as a
developmental and testing base for rockets, including the
Europa series of rockets, which were launched between 1964
and 1970.
Today, Woomera plays host to a variety of nations who use
the town’s rocket launching facilities for new developments, such
as communications satellites and a new Japanese supersonic
aircraft. Occasionally, lucky visitors will be able to view a
launching in the area, but for those who miss out, there’s still
plenty on offer. Missile Park has numerous outdoor displays of
fascinating relics, along with an amazing display of rockets,
missiles, aircraft and bombs that have been tested at the range.
There’s also plenty to see and do at the Woomera Interactive
Rocket Range Museum.
But outer space is not everything in Woomera – there’s plenty
of inner space to explore as well.
Woomera village is a lovely place to stop, offering a surprising
oasis in the middle of the South Australian outback. There are
lovely landscaped gardens, including Breen Park, a pocket of
greenery that emerges out of the desert, designed for relaxation
and family enjoyment. The lush green lawns are dotted with
shady trees that play host to a variety of native birds, so picnics
in the park are a delight.
From bird-watching to star gazing – the Woomera
Observatory is open most evenings, and offers a close-up view
of the South Australian outback’s dazzling night skies. Aspiring
photographers will be happy to know that the observatory has
facilities to connect SLR cameras to their telescopes, so you can
take away a celestial snap when you leave.
To get to the Flinders Ranges region from Woomera, head
south around the rim of Lake Torrens, via Port Augusta. At the
‘crossroads of Australia’, you can learn all that you need to know
about travel in any direction from Port Augusta. Preview the Woomera Rocket Park, Woomera PHOTO: JOHN SONES ©FROSAT & SINGING BOWL MEDIA

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 147

South Australia

Hot Air Balloon over Wilpena Pound PHOTO: ADAM BRUZZONE © SATC/ADAM BRUZZONE

outback that lies ahead by taking a visit to the Wadlata Outback

Centre, an impressive tourist centre that leaves nothing
unexplained when presenting information on the region. On
display are themed exhibits covering the aboriginal dreamtime,
the early pioneers who explored the Flinders Ranges and
outback regions, and the animals that roam the area.
Port Augusta stands right on the edge of the outback,
looking out over the plains, and if you do the same it’s easy to
imagine what the pioneers must have seen when settling in the
area. For more information about the pioneers’ era, make a visit
to the Homestead Park Pioneer Museum. The history of the
town’s railway and farming are presented in the museum, along
with a remarkable display – the Yudnapinna Homestead. This
building is a 130-year-old dwelling, furnished in great detail, that
gives visitors a picture of the lives and hardships of the pioneers.
You’ll be eager to set off into the great unknown after having
learned about the outback region, but on your way out of town,
be sure to stop at the Arid Lands Botanic Gardens, where you’ll
find an extraordinary mix of native flora as well as plants that are
unique not only to this area, but to the world.
You’ll see plenty of other outback plant specimens on your
way to Quorn, just 40km north of Port Augusta towards the
Flinders Ranges. This quaint township is also connected to Port
Augusta via the Pichi Richi narrow gauge rail track. Pichi Richi is
an operating railway museum based in Quorn, and runs heritage
trains that shuttle passengers across the captivating countryside
on the famous old Ghan railway. The rail trips run from March to
December in 2010, but days of operation differ from month to
month, so ensure that you check the timetable.
Quorn is synonymous with heritage, with charming building
facades edging the wide streets, and a historic pub on almost
every corner. The allure of the town is evident in the array of
movies that have been filmed in Quorn, including Gallipoli and
The Shiralee. The town walk is the best way to see the
Road Sign on Stuart Highway PHOTO: ALEX MAKEYEV ©SATC/ALEX MAKEYEV

148 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 South Australia

WOOMERA TRAVELLER’S VILLAGE & CARAVAN PARK

Old Pimba Road, Woomera SA, 5720
PO Box 62
Ph: (08) 8673 7800 Fax: (08) 8673 7700
Online: www.woomera.com E mail: info@woomera.com

x Office hours: 8am-7pm Daily Over 25 years of local knowledge x Tourist information

x Powered and un-powered We know Woomera! x Basic kiosk

sites available for caravans,
x Excellent TV reception (no
motor homes, camper
digital coverage)
trailers, tents
x Excellent drinking water
x En-suite motel rooms
x Friendly, helpful service
x En-suite cabins
x Laundry, pets welcome
x Budget cabins
x Camp kitchens
x Backpacker/contractor
rooms “THE CUDGEE BAR” x 10 minute walk to town

x Clean amenities (LICENSED ON SITE) x Rocket Range history brochure

x BBQ Area OPEN DAILY FROM 5PM x On-site management

The Original Link in Australia’s

Transcontinental Railways
One of Australia’s best-known steam train journeys, the Pichi
Richi Railway, is located in the heart of the Flinders Ranges,
at Quorn, South Australia. The railway is the last operating
portion of the famous Ghan railway. In 1974 the Pichi Richi
Railway Preservation Society restored the narrow gauge line
and now runs original stock using steam locomotives or
heritage diesels to haul 100 year old carriages.
The historic town of Quorn makes a great base for your
next Flinders Ranges holiday with camel safaris, numerous
4WD tracks, astronomy tours, art galleries, Aboriginal cultural
tours and a beautiful native plant arboretum featuring every
plant species within a 20km radius.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 149

South Australia

Arid Lands Botanic Gardens, Port Augusta PHOTO: ALEX MAKEYEV ©SATC/ALEX MAKEYEV

interesting sites of Quorn, and takes you past the Quorn Mill and
Quornucopia Gallery.
When you’ve seen all you can in Quorn, keep heading
towards the horizon where the promise of the Flinders Ranges
waits. On the way, you’ll find Hawker. This tiny railway township
lies at the junction of roads leading to Port Augusta, Marree,
Orroroo and Wilpena Pound, making it an ideal stopover point.
But before you pass through, remember that sometimes, smaller
locales can offer a lot.
The town was established in 1880, and has been a transport
hub since, catering to the needs of travellers passing through.
The town has a rich history which the locals display proudly at
various locations around the town. The best way to take it all in is
on the Heritage Walk, which highlights 28 points of interest along
the way, including the Post Office, Hawker Hotel, and the old
Railway Station. Most streets of the small town are adorned with
historical curiosities, so be sure to look out for them as you walk
around the village.
Just south of Hawker along the Quorn road are the
Yourambulla Caves, which display some fascinating examples of
Aboriginal rock art, painted in black pigment and red ochre.
Although the age and intention behind these paintings is not
clear, they are nonetheless remarkable local landmarks.
For a broader view of the topography, head to one of the
many lookouts scattered around Hawker. The unique silhouette
of Castle Rock lookout often convinces visitors that there’s a

RAWNSLEY PARK STATION Leigh Creek Caravan Park

WILPENA POUND Acacia Drive, Leigh Creek
Bookings at Leigh Creek South Motors (MOBIL)
PO Box 108, Leigh Creek SA

Top class facilities Phone (08) 86752016

www.leighcreekcaravanpark.com
overlooking Wilpena Pound ‘An initiative of the Leigh Creek Progress Association’
For a quiet, clean, comfortable stay. Best place to base
bushwalking, cycling, yourself and explore the Far Northern Flinders Ranges.
Close access to all facilities and services,
flights and tours. including Olympic size swimming pool.
Park Features:
• 3 Family en suite cabins a/c • 6 Twin share / DB en suite cabins a/c
All with kitchen facilities.
www.rawnsleypark.com.au • 2 Basic 4 berth cabins non en suite • 16 powered sites • 16 unpowered sites
caravanpark@rawnsleypark.com.au • Camp Kitchen with a/c TV and lounge • Free BBQ • 24 hour Laundromat
• Disabled Amenities• Pets welcome • Long term site rental available

Merna Mora
For all the latest Station
• Central Flinders Ranges.
product news and • Offering 6 powered sites with modern amenities in a
pleasant creek side setting.

travel stories, • Quiet & serene location on a working sheep/cattle station.

• A haven for artists - photographers - writers.
• Also self contained holiday units/4WD tracks.
www.caravanningoz.com.au • Resident hosts
www.mernamora.com.au
Email: mernamora@bigpond.com
Tel: 08 8648 4717 Fax: 08 8648 4712

150 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


building standing out across the plains, as the rock formation
looks remarkably castle-like, particularly in the softer light of dusk
and dawn. Climb to the top and feel like the king of the castle as
you take in the beautiful terrain stretching into the distance.
50km north east of Hawker is Wilpena, located on the edge
of Wilpena Pound. This fascinating area is part of the Flinders’
Ranges National Park, and is a must-see for visitors to the
region. Wilpena Pound is a huge natural amphitheatre 17km long
and 8km wide, and is a paradise for bushwalkers and nature
lovers. The vast flat plain is home to an abundance of native
plants and animals, and some of the most impressive scenery in
the Flinders Ranges.
The changing light colours Wilpena Pound’s remarkable rock
faces with different hues at different times of day, delighting
photographers who often manage to capture unique images.
The only way into the Pound is via a gap through which the
creek exits the area, and once inside, there are bountiful
treasures to discover.
The Pound can only be explored by foot, but what better way
to take in such a remarkable natural feature than by strolling
through it? There are plenty of well-marked bushwalks criss-
crossing the area, including one to the highest point in the
Flinders Ranges – St Mary Peak. Another worthwhile walk is to
the Old Homestead and Wangara lookout, which takes
bushwalkers through the Pound Gap, past the old Hill
Homestead, and up to Wangara lookout where the views across
the Pound are spectacular.
Camping is available in Wilpena, and you can base yourself
here for as long as you need to explore the area. With the
abundance of things to see and do, be prepared to stay a while!
When you begin to travel north again, the road will take you
through a great deal of the Flinders Ranges National Park, so be
sure to make plenty of stops to let your eyes take a break from
the road and take in the extraordinary scenery.
The next stop on the northbound road is Blinman, the
highest town in the Flinders Ranges. The town was founded by
CARLING FUEL
DISTRIBUTORS
Sixth Street, Quorn SA 5433
Ph/Fax: (08) 8648 6207
• EFTPOS • Cool Drinks
• Oils and Lubricants
Open Monday – Friday 8am - 6pm
Saturday 8am - 12.30pm Also Open Public Holidays
SHORELINE
Top Tourist CARAVAN PARK
We provide quality, clean accommodation or a site at reasonable
rates. Located close to local attractions and situated on the
Waterfront overlooking the scenic Flinders Ranges.
Enquiries/Reservations – Tel or Fax (08) 8642 2965
New Waterfront Self Contained Ensuite Units: 1 and 2 Bedroom Ensuite Units +
• Budget Cabins • Backpacker Accommodation
2 large clean Amenities Blocks – Well stocked Kiosk – Ice – Gas Refills
Powered, Shaded, Drive Thru and Ensuite Sites
BBQs – TV and Games Room
Laundry – Children’s Bathroom – Playground – Swimming Pool
Pets on Leash with Management permission
Gardiner Avenue (PO Box 519), Port Augusta 5700
Email: info@shorelinecaravanpark.com.au
Website: www.shorelinecaravanpark.com.au
South Australia
Robert ‘Peg Leg’ Blinman, a miner with a wooden leg who
discovered copper in the area in 1859. At its largest, the town
boasted a population of 1500, which has now dwindled to just
22.
The exodus may have taken a lot of people from the town,
but its charm and features of interest remain. The town itself is a
tiny settlement, with a post office, general store, the Wild Lime
Café and Gallery, and a hotel. A walk through the streets will
reveal the history of the township, with some buildings dating
back to the 1860s. Don’t miss the mud, wattle and daub Miner’s
Cottage at the end of the main street, which was built in 1862.
You can also visit the abandoned Blinman mine and take an
underground tour, and further tours of the Blinman and northern
Flinders Ranges region can be taken by four-wheel-drive, light
plane, or even on foot.
Our final destination on this tour of South Australia’s southern
outback is Leigh Creek, a small town whose existence relies
solely on the production of coal at the Leigh Creek open cut coal
mine. The town as it stands (Leigh Creek South) is only three
decades old, having been moved from its original site in 1980
due to the original town being situated on the coal seam. All of
the buildings and streets in Leigh Creek South are modern,
which presents an outback town unlike any other.
Leigh Creek has been transformed from a barren town of
convenience into an outback oasis through the instigation of a
tree-planting program. A trip to the lookout point just outside of
town gives visitors a panoramic view of the northern Flinders
Ranges, as well as a fantastic view of the giant open cut mine,
and an appreciation of the town’s development over the years of
the mine’s operation.
We leave the trail heading north into the South Australian
wilderness, but with the knowledge that there are more
incredible experiences, interesting townships and true outback
terrain to be seen further along, it won’t be too long before we
return!
WHYALLA
MARITIME
MUSEUM
Lincoln Highway,
Whyalla, SA 5600
Home of the 1941 HMAS Whyalla,
the largest land locked ship in Australia.
Open daily, 10.00 – 4.00
(except Christmas Day and Good Friday)
Free call 1800 088 589
Email: visitor.centre@whyalla.sa.gov.au
Stay at
Crystal Brook Caravan Park
Eyre Road, Crystal Brook SA PO Box 382, Crystal Brook SA
ENQUIRIES AND BOOKINGS
Phone: (08) 8636 2640 Fax: (08) 8636 3149
Email: crystalbrookcp@bigpond.com
The Caravan Park is nestled in a gully, amongst beautiful River Red
Gums, at the beginning of the Southern Flinders Ranges. The Park offers
visitors a peaceful and tranquil setting, guaranteeing rest and relaxation.
Facilities within the Park include:
• 21 Powered Grassed Sites • 20 Unpowered Grassed Sites • On site vans
• 2 Cabins • Dogs on Leash • BBQ Facilities • Linen available
Visit: Museums, Heysen Trail, Craft Centres,
Antique Shops, Bowman Park
A community managed park, See where the Southern Flinders Ranges begin
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 151
South Australia
Port Pirie – Waiting To Be Discovered
T
ake a sunset stroll along the beach, shop til you drop or
immerse yourself in a festive program of events – it’s all on
offer in Port Pirie.
This city is ideally located in the heart of the Southern
Flinders Ranges, just over two hours north of Adelaide and one
hour south of Port Augusta. Its location on the Spencer Gulf
combines a coastal lifestyle with unspoilt natural scenery and
plentiful attractions.
Come and see why Port Pirie has a reputation as the ‘City of
Friendly People’. This friendly, personal approach starts at the
local Visitor Information Centre, part of the thriving cultural
precinct that is the Port Pirie Regional Tourism & Arts Centre.
The centre pays tribute to Port Pirie’s rich railway heritage
and two of the city’s major attractions are based on this theme.
The Pirie Rail Express Miniature Railway and Pirie Model Railway
both operate from the Tourism & Arts Centre and are ideal for rail
enthusiasts and the young at heart.
Port Pirie’s main industry is the Nyrstar smelter, the largest
primary lead smelter in the world. This is celebrated with guided
bus tours, departing from the Tourism & Arts Centre every
Monday, Wednesday and Friday. While at the Centre, be sure to
check out Shakka the Great White Pointer Exhibition, featuring
the largest shark landed in South Australian waters, and the A
Class Port Pirie Regional Art Gallery.
152 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
The waterfront is ingrained into Port Pirie’s culture, from
Solomontown Beach through to the redeveloped foreshore.
Fishing, boating, swimming and water sports can all be enjoyed
or why not visit the newly redeveloped Community Swimming
Pool for a refreshing dip.
Delve into Port Pirie’s history with a self guided heritage walk
or by visiting the two fascinating museums, including a military
museum. Then there’s always a spot of shopping, with a mix of
large chain retailers and small businesses.
Three caravan parks are among the mix of accommodation
options in Port Pirie and you will never go hungry with the range
of dining available from cafés and restaurants to counter meals
and takeaway. Port Pirie is also known for its flourishing events
program which means there is always something to entertain,
inspire and amuse.
And if this is not enough, why not take a trip into the
Southern Flinders Ranges! With national parks, quaint townships
and spectacular scenery all half an hour’s drive away, this is the
secret side of the Flinders Ranges just waiting to be discovered.
Sip on local wine, picnic under the stars, meander down a
walking trail, peruse one of the many craft shops…the
possibilities are endless!
So what are you waiting for – get out and see what Port Pirie
has to offer!
Perfect Location – 2.5 hours north of Adelaide, on the Spencer Gulf.
Family Friendly – Plenty to see and do. PORT PIRIE
Experience Culture – Two museums, an art gallery, theatre and thriving REGIONAL TOURISM
cultural precinct are amongst the many cultural aspects to Port Pirie.
& ARTS CENTRE
Waterfront – Fishing, boating, swimming are all part of Port Pirie’s lifestyle – 3 MARY ELIE STREET, PORT PIRIE SA
and don’t forget to visit the multimillion dollar foreshore redevelopment.
• Home to the Port Pirie Visitor
Friendly Faces – Port Pirie has a reputation as being the City of Friendly
People. Information Centre
• Shakka the Great White Shark
Events City – There is always something happening in Port Pirie.
Exhibition
National Landscape – Port Pirie is nestled in the Southern Flinders Ranges, • Pirie Rail Express Miniature
part of an amazing National Landscape, the Flinders Ranges.
Railway
• Pirie Model Railway
• Nyrstar Smelter Tours
• Port Pirie Regional Art Gallery
• Delicious local produce
• Souvenirs, giftware
• Stateliner bus terminal
• Coach & Caravan Parking

PORT PIRIE REGIONAL TOURISM AND ARTS CENTRE

Phone: (08) 8633 8700 Fax: (08) 8633 8799
Freecall: 1800 000 424 Website: www.piriehasitall.com.au
South Australia

Fire Danger Ratings

There has been an increased frequency of extreme bushfires in the last 10 years. In
South Eastern Australia we have experienced several such events including the recent
Victorian Black Saturday bushfires in February 2009 and the Wangary Bushfires in
South Australia in 2005.

T
his summer Australian fire agencies
have introduced a new bushfire
warning system designed to help you
understand the Fire Danger Rating. The
Fire Danger Rating Recommended Action
rating is forecast by the Bureau of
Meteorology for the following day and is
an early indicator (or ‘trigger’) for you of
the potential fire danger and your Bushfire
CATASTROPHIC
Survival Plan should reflect this. For your survival, leaving is the best option
The Fire Danger Rating is determined FDI 100+
by the Fire Danger Index (FDI). The Fire
Danger Index is a combination of
temperature, relative humidity, wind
speed, vegetation and drought factors. EXTREME
Leaving is the safest option for your survival
A Fire Danger Index of 1 (a Fire FDI 75-99
Danger Rating of Low-Moderate) means
that a fire will not burn, or will burn so
slowly that its control presents little
difficulty. A Fire Danger Index in excess of Leaving is the safest option for your survival.
SEVERE
100 (a rating of Catastrophic) means that Only stay if you and your home are well prepared
fire will burn so fast and so hot that it is FDI 50-74
and you can actively defend it during a fire
virtually impossible to control.
CATASTROPHIC is the highest level of
Fire Danger Rating. On a day of
Catastrophic fire danger, leaving early is VERY HIGH Only stay if you and your home are well prepared
the best option for your survival – FDI 25-49 and you can actively defend it
regardless of any plans you may have.
You must leave for a safer place well
before a fire threatens your home.
EXTREME is the next highest level Fire
Danger Rating. Regardless of your plans,
HIGH Know where to get more information and
should a fire occur, leaving early is the FDI 12-24 monitor the situation for any changes
safest option for your survival.
The Fire Danger Rating chart will
assist you to understand the predicted
bushfire behaviour, potential impacts and LOW – MODERATE Know where to get more information and
recommended actions you should take for FDI 0-11 monitor the situation for any changes
each category level. Take the time to
review and understand the chart.

Prepare. Act. Survive.

Fires impact people, businesses and communities. A fire can threaten suddenly and without warning, all people living, working or
travelling in bushfire prone locations need to be prepared to take protective action.

By developing a Bushfire Survival Plan you can Prepare yourself, your family, home and property. You and your family need to know
what to do well ahead of time.

Use the new Fire Danger Rating system to Act by leaving early on high risk days or by preparing yourself to Actively Stay and
Defend.
• Inform yourself as much as possible about the danger well before any fire starts
• Don’t just ‘wait and see’
• Don’t wait for an emergency warning
• Watch for signs of fire
• You may have to act without warning

Your survival and safety depends on the decisions you make.

• The safest place is to be nowhere near a fire
• Being involved in a fire will be a traumatic experience

For more information on the Fire Danger Ratings and Bushfire Survival Plans go to www.cfs.sa.gov.au

154 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 South Australia

What if
there was a
bushfire
right now?

Are the gutters cleared?

Will the hoses reach?
What if it’s night?
What if the power goes out?
Where are the kids?
If you were confronted by a bushfire right now, each of these
questions – and many others – would suddenly become
very important. And that’s something you really need
to think about. But with a well prepared and practised
Bushfire Survival Plan you can take the first step to
being Bushfire Ready. So act now and download a copy at
www.cfs.sa.gov.au or call 8463 4200 and we’ll send you one.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 155

South Australia

ADELAIDE ZOO
Two great reasons to Adelaide Zoo, situated within a 5 minute walk from the CBD,
is home to over 1800 animals and almost 300 species of
visit a Zoo this year! exotic and native mammals, birds, reptiles and fish exhibited
in magnificent botanic surroundings.
Visit Wang Wang and
Funi, the only Giant
Pandas at Adelaide Zoo Pandas in Australia.
Visit Australia’s Giant Pandas - Wang Wang Watch them chomping
and Funi. The only Giant Pandas in on their daily diet of
Australia. 20kgs each of bamboo
or lazing around
enjoying their
Chimps at Monarto Zoo marvellous new home.
Swing into the spacious new chimp exhibit and
catch the Zu-loop shuttle bus to the panoramic Monarto Zoo
wildlife viewing platforms. Monarto, located 45 minutes from the CBD along the South
Eastern Freeway, is an open-range zoo with a natural
nal
Get up close and perso wilderness sanctuary that plays a vital role in breeding
e-s cene s
with a behind-th programs for threatened species. Zu-loop shuttle buses
Animal Interactive. depart regularly and take you to the wildlife viewing platforms
l.
Book in gs es se nt ia such as cheetah, giraffe, lion, rhino, chimp and painted
dogs. View free-ranging kangaroos and emus on self-guided
walking tracks or come face-to-face with Africa’s most
spectacular animals.
Adelaide and Monarto Zoo open from 9.30am – 5.00pm
Open 9.30am – 5.00pm every day of the year! every day of the year! For more information log on to
www.zoossa.com.au www.zoossa.com.au or phone: 08 8267 3255
0004

Explore the delights of Sevenhill Cellars

A visit to Sevenhill Cellars, the oldest winery in the Clare
Valley, is the ideal way to get to know Sevenhill wines. Our
experienced cellar door staff will guide you through our
diverse range of wine styles that express the authentic
flavours of Clare.
After tasting, you can explore the winery museum and
underground cellar. It’s a great a way to learn about the
Jesuits’ involvement at Sevenhill and the development of
winemaking in the Clare Valley.
Outside, our park-like setting, with its extensive trees,
lawns and picnic facilities, is the perfect place to stop for a
break and enjoy the serenity of Sevenhill.

156 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
SOUTH AUSTRALIA – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 2-3 APRIL 4
Terowie’s Days of Rail and Screen 2010, Terowie Port MacDonnell Fishing and Outdoor Expo, Port
Tag along with the locals as they take visitors on a tour of the MacDonnell
breathtaking scenery of the eastern station country. A barbeque lunch Head down to the picturesque foreshore at Port MacDonnell, where
will be provided, as well as a classic movie screened on a preserved you’ll find caravans, camping goods, outdoor gear, fishing tackle and
reel-to-reel projector. more. The expo will also include gardening and craft stalls, cars and
Tel: 08 8659 1104 motorbikes, and refreshments.
Tel: 08 8738 2929
APRIL 3
Port Victoria Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol Easter APRIL 9-10
Fishing Competition, Port Victoria Coonawarra After Dark, Coonawarra
The clear waters of Port Victoria are ideal for a fishing competition, and At the peak of the grape harvest, head to Coonawarra, where you’ll be
this is one for the whole family. Register in the morning, then weigh welcomed into the wineries to enjoy wonderful local produce, the
region’s finest wines, and to watch the grape harvesters in action.
your catch at 5pm, and join the barbeque, drinks and prize
Tel: 08 8737 2392
presentations in the evening.
Tel: 08 8853 2951 APRIL 10-11
APRIL 3 Laura Folk Fair, Laura
The Murray River Giant Pumpkin Competition, Cadell If you’ve never eaten a litre of ice cream in just over a minute, or if you’d
like to watch somebody else do it, don’t miss the Golden North Ice-
There’s a new event at the Cadell Harvest Festival – the Giant Pumpkin cream Eating Competition at this fair. There will also be art, craft,
Competition. Everyone is invited to enter, and entry includes two free hobbies, stalls, entertainment and a bush dance.
giant pumpkin seeds and a spot in the competition. Tel: 08 8663 2221
Tel: 0429 800 095 April 18
APRIL 3-5 STIRLING AUTUMN GARDEN FESTIVAL, STIRLING
Oakbank Easter Racing Carnival, Oakbank Stirling’s festival provides a fantastic opportunity to visit one of
If you think the Melborne Cup is a great day out, don’t miss this racing Stirling’s oldest and most famous gardens on Druid Avenue. Garden
carnival. Held every Easter Monday for crowds of 70,000 people, stalls, nursery stalls and garden art will be on show, and highlights
Oakbank’s carnival rivals the Melbourne Cup with its colour and include the historical coach tour past other impressive gardens, and
excitement. an array of scarecrows made by the locals.
Tel: 08 8388 4072 Tel: 0411 734 771

Cobdogla Irrigation and Steam Museum

Park Terrace, Cobdogla SA
• See the world’s only working Humphrey Pump, Blackstone Engine,
Fowler Ploughing Engine and other stationary engines
• Ride on the Bagnall Steam Train, Diesel Loco or the Tractor Trailer
• View National Trust Dioramas
• BBQ, Refreshments & Souvenirs available
Sunday 7 March 2010 – Steam Train Operating Day
Sunday 4 April 2010 – Humphrey Pump & Steam Open Day
Sunday 13 June 2010 – Humphrey Pump & Steam Open Day
Diesel train rides will usually be offered on Sundays subject to operator availability, between 1pm and 3pm.
$4.00 per head per ride. Children under 5 years free. All dates and fees subject to change without notice.
Enquiries to: The Barmera Travel Centre
Tel: (08) 8588 2289 business hours, Fax: (08) 8588 2777
Email: barmeravic@bigpond.com
After hours: (08) 8588 7186, (08) 8588 2323, (08) 8582 2603 or
austeam@riverland.net.au
A quiet retreat away from main roads.
Museum Phone: (08) 8588 7055 (Sundays only)
Centrally located in the beautiful Adelaide
Hills within convenient reach of Adelaide,
McLAREN VALE Barossa Valley, Southern Vales, South Coast
Lakeside Caravan Park and Murray River regions
Nestled in the famous • Ensuite Cabins • Shaded Sites
AAA McLaren Vale Wine Region,
close to beaches, the • Dump Point • WiFi Internet
Adelaide Hills and only a • Pets allowed upon approval
short drive to the City
Your perfect holiday base 40 Cameron Road,
• Ensuite cabins with colour TV & air conditioning
• Large grassed sites for vans & tents • Luxury ensuites
Mount Barker SA 5251
• Camp kitchen • Swimming Pool • BBQ
• Playground • Lakeside kiosk Phone: (08) 8391 0384
Field Street, McLaren Vale, SA 5171 Email: info@mtbarkercp.com.au
Phone (08) 8323 9255 Fax (08) 8323 9095
Email: mclarenvale@chariot.net.au Web: www.mtbarkercp.com.au
Web: www.mclarenvale.net

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 157


Walpole
Surrounded by the magnificent
Walpole Wilderness is the
idyllic town of Walpole.
T
here’s so much to see in Walpole—
the vast spreading views from Mt.
Frankland, the mirrored reflections in
the quiet rivers, the glory of the
wildflowers, the majesty of the trees and
the world famous Valley of the Giants Tree
Top Walk, the beauty of the inlets and the
rugged grandeur of coast and islands.
There is so much to do—boating and
sailing, fishing, bush walking, scenic drives
and climbing. The Walpole-Nornalup
region offers all standards of
accommodation-luxury chalets, motels,
budget accommodation, backpackers,
bed and breakfast, holiday houses and 3
caravan parks.
One of the most popular attractions in
Western Australia is the remarkable Valley
of the Giants Tree Top Walk and Ancient
Empire. This 600 metre long walkway rises
to almost 40 metres above the forest floor
giving the visitor a true bird’s eye view of
the forest. The Ancient Empire wanders
imaginatively through a grove of veteran
tingle trees.
Take time to explore the forest on
Hilltop Road and wander the magical 800-
metre trail to the Giant Red Tingle Tree
Western Australia
between the soaring karri trees and the
giant-girthed Tingles, rising 70 metres to a
high leafy crown. Drive on further to
Circular Pool, a beautiful pool in the
Frankland River. Select a portion of the
Bibbulmun Track, the 963-kilometre walk
trail from Perth to Albany, as it passes
through spectacular coastal and forest
scenery.
The Walpole region has stunning
coastline for you to explore including
Mandalay Beach, Conspicuous Cliff and
the fishing hamlet of Peaceful Bay.
Of the many inlets along the South
Coast of Western Australia, none is more
beautiful than the magnificent sheet of
water that makes the Walpole and
Nornalup Inlets. Behind the magnificent
beaches are hills clothed in with giant karri
trees with the Frankland and Deep Rivers
reaching their fingers into the heart of the
ancient forest.
Tree clad hills, wide spreading
estuaries and rugged coastal scenery
makes Walpole a “must” for the visitor.
Please contact the Walpole-Nornalup
Vistor Centre on arrival and they will help
plan your stay.
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 159
Western Australia

A Western
Adventure
For a perfect holiday you need a good mix of adventure, relaxation, indulgence, and
perhaps a little romance. But it sure helps if you can find a perfect destination, too. As Eden
Cox discovers, WA’s North West ticks all the boxes, so get ready for the road trip of your
life—you won’t want to miss any of WA’s extraordinary experiences.

HMAS Sydney Memorial, Geraldton

160 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Western Australia

W
estern Australia has a diverse landscape with sparkling
ocean beaches, ancient rock formations and lush forests.
To begin your North West Adventure, Geraldton is a good
base for experiencing many of these wonders, along with a
smorgasbord of water-based recreational and sporting activities.
While you’re here, have a go at windsurfing, kitesurfing, fishing or
diving, or simply laze on the pristine beaches.
Geraldton will definitely give you a good chance to unwind. In
fact, the city is so laid-back that even the trees lounge about
luxuriantly! You will be amazed by the horizontal trunks of ‘the
trees of Greenough’, the River red gums that have been bent
and shaped by the strong southerly winds.
But you haven’t fully experienced Geraldton until you’ve been
to The Abrolhos Islands. This spectacular archipelago of 122
islands boasts an incredible range of marine life, including
tropical and temperate marine species, and sea lions, dolphins
and migratory whales.
If you’re up for adventure, which is synonymous with any WA
holiday, have a go at scuba diving in the spectacular coral
gardens populated by hundreds of fish. Take note of the myriad
of varieties, then return to the surface to catch yourself some
fresh dinner!
The Abrolhos Islands are the jewels in the crown of Geraldton
city, and you will leave feeling envious of the locals who live on
the edge of this paradise.
But for travellers, paradise can be found in more than one
location, so get back on the road and head inland to discover
your own paradise.
Wongan Hills is a leisurely four-and-a-half hour drive from
Geraldton, and certainly worth the effort. The landscape of
Wongan Hills is a complex of ridges dissected by steep gullies
and rugged, untamed ground. For some breathtaking views of
the region visit Mount Matilda, whose highest point is 434 metres
above sea level.
If you’re a flora enthusiast, Wongan Hills is your nirvana. Plant
life is diverse and interesting, with many species unique to the
Wongan Hills.
Whether you found your paradise in Wongan Hills or feel Coalseam Conservation Park, east of Geraldton
there’s one waiting for you elsewhere, Mount Magnet is a great
stop on your road trip, just under 400 kilometres north-east of
Wongan Hills.
Mount Magnet is the longest surviving gold mining settlement
in Western Australia, beginning in 1891, and is the hub of the
Murchison today.
Mount Magnet will excite many visitors keen to explore
abandoned settlements or try their hand at gold prospecting and
fossicking. But first, take the Tourist Trail from the town centre
through old and new goldmine sites, to find spectacular hilltop
views.
You’ll discover magnificent granite rock formations, including
a natural amphitheatre that has been used as a romantic picnic
spot for over 80 years. It was once a popular lovers’ trysting
place, and according to rumour, is responsible for a large
percentage of Mount Magnet’s population!
If Mount Magnet’s gold history gets your blood racing, then
you’ll feel right at home in your next stop. Meekatharra is just
over two hours’ drive north of Mount Magnet along the Great
Northern Highway, and offers plenty of historical attractions of all
kinds.
First settled by prospectors in 1896, mining still continues
today on a small scale, but there are also many old gold mines
and machinery relics. The essential Meekatharra experience is
found in the ghost towns Peak Hill and Nannine, where you can
explore the ruins and get a real sense of the history of the region.
If you’re in the mood for a walk, take yourself along the
Meeka Rangelands Discovery Trail, which winds around
Meekatharra Creek. Keep an eye out for emus, kangaroos,
wedge-tailed eagles and bungarra lizards.
There are caravan parks and other accommodation options
for you to stay a night, so take the opportunity to spend a
relaxed evening beneath the dazzling stars of Meekatharra.
Refreshed and ready for more? Newman is waiting to show
you its unashamedly stunning landscape. Stop at Marble Bar, the
hottest town in Australia. Chinaman’s Pool and Marble Bar Pool
are popular picnic and swimming areas, and you can even take

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 161

Western Australia
Karijini National Park
Luxury in the Outback
100% owned by Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
• Uniquely furnished luxury eco tents with full linen.
• Hotel quality king or twin beds with private en-suite.
• Outback style alfresco licensed restaurant and bar.
• Campsites and caravan sites with BBQ facilities.
• Guided coach tours and adventure tour arranged.
KARIJINI ECO RETREAT – Karijini National Park
Hidden in the depths of the Karijini National Park in the remote
Pilbara region of WA, Karijini Eco Retreat is a unique and
ecologically sound development offering quality up-market
tented accommodation, campsites and an alfresco restaurant
and bar plus tour options.
Boasting top quality and comfortably furnished eco tents in
a rugged outback setting, choose from a deluxe furnished
safari style eco tents with quality king or twin bedding with linen
provided or get close to nature in the natural campsites for
campers or caravans.
Karijini Eco Retreat is 100% owned by the Gumala
Aboriginal Corporation.
Have Caravanning
Australia home
delivered
Subscribe NOW, go to
www.isubscribe.com.au
and search for
Caravanning Australia
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162 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
Savannah Campground (off Weano Road)
Karijini National Park, Western Australia 6751
Tel: (08) 9425 5591 Fax: (08) 9425 5566
Email: reservations@karijiniecoretreat.com.au
For reservations please call (08) 9425 5591
www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au
KARIJINI ECO RETREAT – Karijini National Park
Off Weano Rd, Karijini National Park, Karijini WA 6751
Postal Address: PO Box 6005 East Perth WA 6892
Telephone: (08) 9425 5591 Facsimile: (08) 9425 5566
Email: reservations@karijiniecoretreat.com.au
Web: www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au
Newman:
where your wildflower
adventure begins
Images courtesy
Jen Grey Wilson
and Don Palmer
Ma^G^pfZgOblbmhk<^gmk^%bgma^a^Zkmh_Ibe[ZkZpbe]Ühp^k
country, is the ideal stopover on your journey through the
spectacular Pilbara countryside.
The revitalised centre reflects a distinctly West Australian flavour
showcasing local and nationally made products such as books,
stunning objects of ceramic, glass or wood, and our beautiful
range of contemporary jewellery.
Take a walk through our mining and pastoral museums which explore
the history and industries which have shaped this unique and timeless
landscape, or book a tour of BHP Billitons Mt Whaleback Mine
– the largest open cut iron ore mine in the world.
OUR GIFT TO YOU
Mention this ad to staff at the Newman Visitor Centre
to receive your complimentary set of Wild Flower
postcards by photographer Jen Grey Wilson.
NEWMAN VISITOR CENTRE INC
Cnr Newman Drive and Fortescue Ave
Phone 08 9175 2888 Fax 08 9175 2964
Email newmanvc@bigpond.com
Opening times 8-5 (7 days)
Valid whilst stocks last, one postcard set per visitor.
www.newman-wa.org

home a souvenir from the jasper gem deposits.
Visit Coongan River as the sun sets for something truly
unique as the immensely colourful band of jasper sparkles in the
sunlight.
There’s no doubt that sooner or later you’ll make your way to
the only pub in Marble Bar, the Ironclad Hotel, built in the late
19th Century. What could be better than an icy cold beer in the
hottest town in Australia?
Newman itself is well worth the visit, just so you can tell the
story of its unusual beginnings when you get back home.
Newman is a relatively new town, established in 1968 by Mt.
Newman Mining Co. Pty Ltd (a subsidiary of BHP). But Aboriginal
occupation of this area goes back around 26,000 years.
The Martu people of the region lost their land as European
expansion crept inland on the back of gold discoveries and
Christian Missions. The area was also a missile-testing ground in
the 1950s, and was sold to the Shire of East Pilbara in 1981 for
$1.00. Today Newman is dotted with iron ore mines, including
the largest open cut iron ore mine in the world, BHP’s Mt.
Western Australia
‘Wanna Munna’ Aboriginal rock art site near Newman
Whaleback.
If rocks and trucks are your kind of thing, take a 1.5 hour
mine tour, stand beside monstrous transport vehicles and peer
into the 5 kilometre open pit to appreciate the feats of modern
mining.
Amazing as all this is, you’ll soon want to get out of the heat
and dust, and that means it’s time to head for Karijini National
Park, just three hours north-west.
If you haven’t been to Karijini National Park before, you have
no excuse to bypass it on this adventure! An experience of a
lifetime, you’ll find ancient rocky tunnels and plunging gorges,
crystal-clear waterways and beautiful waterfalls.
Pack a picnic and put on your walking shoes, because some
of the best scenery is only accessible by foot. Dales Gorge is a
prime example. If you allow yourself three hours for a return trip,
you can wander the four kilometre trail along the bottom of the
gorge to permanent water pools, just perfect to cool down in.
The lush greenery and ancient red cliffs are truly a sight to
behold.
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 163
Western Australia

Contact our
consultants about
4/-02)#% our great range of
caravans for sale
215 Flores Road, Geraldton
Tel: (08) 9923 1601
&5,,$!94/523/&
+!2)*).)'/2'%3
(Departing from Tom Price).
• Relax in air-conditioned
comfort with your ‘local’
guide.
• Morning tea and lunch
supplied. ROEBOURNE VISITOR CENTRE
• Swim in crystal clear pools Housed in the old Roebourne Gaol & Museum
and explore walk trails
through the gorges. Come and take a step back
• Pickup at Hotels, Tourist in the past to visit the Old
Park, Visitors Centre Gaol Museum. Roebourne
and Karijini Eco Retreat. is the oldest serving town
in the North West, with its
many old buildings, that
TOUR RIO TINTO’S has a rich historic past.

TOM PRICE IRON ORE MINE

• One and a half hour tour with
full commentary.
• See operating machinery/trucks.
• View the process plant and
train load out.
• Bookings and tour departures
from the Visitors Centre,
phone (08) 9188 1112.
• Bookings are essential for the very popular
Port to Port Tour
• Discover the Emma Whithnell Heritage Trail
• Arts & Craft Group in complex
(seasonal opening hours)
• Take a scenic drive to the Harding Dam,
ideal picnic spot.
• A must visit to Cossack (historic port) and the beautiful
Point Samson Peninsula
• Souvenirs and gift shop – jewellery, t-shirts,
books, DVDs and much more.
• Book Exchange.
Drop in for a free tea or coffee and
a chat with the friendly staff.
Ph: (08) 9182 1060 Fax: (08) 9182 1257
Email: roetour@bigpond.net.au

'2/50#(!24%23 40kms W of Auski Tourist Village

!6!),!",% Great Northern Highway, MUNJINA

Plan your own itinerary. WITTENOOM

GEM SHOP
All tours and charters in airconditioned bus or coach.

Enquiries & Bookings - Bob & Sue Stump

Phone (08) 9189 2032 Fax (08) 9189 1975 • Jewellery • Gifts • Souvenirs
Email: info@lestoktours.com.au • Gallery • Museum – Entry FREE
PH (08) 9189 7096
“Nature’s best”: – scenic Gorge with permanent Pools
www.lestoktours.com.au for swimming, relaxing, walking, camping and FREE

164 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Western Australia

Cape Keraudren coastline east of Port Hedland

Many visitors choose to spend a few days exploring the You’ll be spoilt for beautiful photograph opportunities at every
Karijini National Park, and you’ll be forgiven if you end your turn.
search for paradise right here. But, there is still more to see in the But if the remarkable feeling of being the only human on the
North West, and you won’t know what you’ve missed! planet is overwhelming, then pack the van and settle in for your
Your next destination is Port Hedland, but a stop at Tom drive to Port Hedland, just under four hours north on the Great
Price, just one hour west of Karijini on
Karijini Drive, is worthwhile. One of the
more unusual town names in Port Hedland Peace Memorial
Australia, Tom Price was named after Seafarers’ Centre Inc.
an American mining engineer who
died at his desk in 1962 as he worked Corner Wilson & Wedge Streets
on developing Iron Ore resources.
Full of impressive infrastructure, PORT HEDLAND
Tom Price is the home of Hamersley Visitor Centre
Iron Mine, Brockman and Marandoo 13 Wedge Street, Port Hedland
Mines. The rich, red earth contrasting
with the green flora will provide you Situated at the end of Port Hedland’s • Tour Bookings
with some fantastic photo main street – adjoining the Port area. • Public Internet
opportunities, including some brilliant • Extensive range of Gifts • Interpretive Centre
sunsets.
If photography is your passion, • T-shirts, Hats and Caps • Souvenirs • Accommodation Bookings
you should also visit the town of • Fishing Equipment • Food Stocks • Local/Regional and State Tourism Information
Wittenoom, the Gorges Capital of the • Cold Drinks • Chocolates • Modern Souvenir/Gift Range
West, just over one-and-a-half hours • Maps/Books/Prints
north-east. • Toiletries - including Australian Lanolin products
Wittenoom was once a large
• Famous BHPB Iron Ore Tours
• Jewellery (Opal, Hematite, Mother of Pearl)
mining town, but is a tranquil ghost • Public Toilets and Showers
• Postcards, Stationery (Agent for Australia Post)
town today with only a handful of Open Mon-Sun (May-Oct)
residents, and it’s perfect for a bit of • Religious Goods
Open Mon-Sat (Nov-April)
peace and quiet. The natural Internet Facilities • Email: phseafarer@westnet.com.au
environment is rugged and Tel: (08) 9173 1711 Fax: (08) 9173 2632
untouched, and the Wittenoom OPEN 12 noon to 10pm EVERYDAY Email: manphvc@norcom.net.au
Gorges are an unforgettable sight. Ph: 9173 1315 Fax: 9173 2413 www.westernaustralia.com

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 165

Western Australia

“Discovery One” at Raft Point, home of the famous Wandjina Paintings

View our very affordable cruises at www.kimberleydiscoverycruises.com.au
or call 1800 185 960 for further information.

Explore, Discover and Experience the Kimberley

with Kimberley Discovery Cruises

T
he Kimberley is Australia’s last true frontier.
Our vessel, Discovery One, delivers up-close
experiences of this pristine wilderness
through our Ecotourism cruises. We observe the
Kimberley’s natural beauty, maximising the
experience and enjoyment, while respecting this
magnificent natural asset.
While we visit all the well known features of the
Kimberley coast, our cruises also offer new and
unexpected discoveries and experiences. Our
Captain’s aim is to cover everything in the itinerary
but he has the flexibility, and the inclination, to
alter this a little if it means increasing your
enjoyment of the cruise experience.
Discovery One, a roomy 82’ catamaran, offers
a more relaxed and casual experience than larger
cruise ships, while still providing plenty of deck
space for everyone, including the top deck with
360 degree views. With a maximum capacity of
22 passengers, guests will quickly be on a first
name basis with both crew and other guests, who
all share a passion for travel, adventure and
learning. The smaller number of guests also
means that you can savour this unspoilt
wilderness without a crowd. This is to experience
a sense of timelessness and beauty beyond the
everyday.
View our very affordable cruises at
www.kimberleydiscoverycruises.com.au or
call 1800 185 960 for further information.

166 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Western Australia

Northern Highway.
After the untouched
wilderness of Karijini and
Wittenoom, you’ll be glad to find
lots of stores selling provisions for
your trip. Grab a coffee and cake
and soak up the relaxed coastal
atmosphere of Port Hedland. For
the keen angler there are an
abundance of pristine beaches
teeming with fish of all sorts, and
the peaceful mangroves will also
offer you fresh fare for dinner. It’s a
great opportunity to see a
mangrove ecosystem thriving,
untouched by human activity.
As magnificent as they are, try
to drag yourself away from the
sublime shores and find out about
the local history. The Dalgety
House Museum has an interesting
collection of artefacts exploring
the impact of white settlement on
the Kariyarra Aboriginal people of
the Pilbara. Also, make time to
appreciate the architecture of this The Staircase to the Moon phenomenon, which happens across Roebuck Bay, Broome

turn of the century building.

Once you’ve seen the streets from ground level, go up! The
Koombana Lookout provides panoramic views across the port
entrance and back across the Port Hedland hinterland. Try to
visit on a clear day and you’ll see almost forever!
You won’t see Karratha from the lookout, however a two-
and-a-half hour drive along the Great Northern Highway will get
you there. Karratha means good country in the language of local
Aborigines, and you’ll soon understand. The striking landscape
of the surrounding hills is covered in spinifex and its creeks are
lined with white-barked coolabahs. Beautiful beaches and unique
rock formations create inspiring scenes and perfect picnic spots.
Nearby Roebourne is equally impressive, and you’ll
appreciate time spent at the Millstream Chichester National Park
to gaze out over red earth and a brilliant aqua river, traverse a
rugged, rock-littered plain, or sit in the branches of a low tree to
soak your feet in a crystal-clear pool.
The Roebourne Court House is a fascinating 1887 building
that you can visit when court is not in session to see how the old

Cruise the Kimberley

with

• 9 Day Mitchell
Plateau cruise/fly
• 6 Day Rowley
Shoal packages
Cruise the Kimberley in the comfort of our custom
• Kimberley Big built 24m expedition vessel ‘The Odyssey’
Wet 7 day cruises Experience the untouched wonders of our spectacular north west.
Visit Mitchell Plateau, Horizontal Falls, Prince Regent and many
more incredible destinations. Our exploration vessel ‘Homer’ will
• 8 Day Monte take you up remote creeks that are home to unique Kimberley
Bello island wildlife. Witness amazing waterfalls and wonder at the ancient
aboriginal artworks found on the spectacular rock formations of the
expeditions Kimberley.
Odyssey Expeditions prides itself on providing experienced
• Store your caravan free of charge at guides to the Kimberley onboard the new, affordable, yet very
our Broome depot whilst cruising on comfortable vessel, the Odyssey, a custom built 24m expedition
Odyssey (Broome departures only) vessel launched in March 2006. The advanced catamaran design
• Get a free camel ride with Ships of ensures a quiet operation, spacious interior with phenomenal
the Desert when you book a stability.
Kimberley or Rowley Shoals cruise Our 12m expedition vessel ‘Homer’ truly sets our expeditions
with Odyssey Expeditions apart from other cruise vessels. She carries 20 guests in comfort
and safety with comfortable seating, shade cover, easy access
www.odysseyexpeditions.com.au ramp and stairs for landings, an onboard toilet and water facilities.

1300 683 255

Odyssey Expeditions – ‘Come and play in paradise’
Freecall 1300 683 255 www.odysseyexpeditions.com.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 167

Western Australia

Explore the Kimberley with Safari Stay

For those considering a self-drive adventure through the beautiful but remote
Kimberley region, APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventures’ four permanent
wilderness camps and lodges are for you. They offer a stress-free alternative
KIMBERLEY to camping, and make travelling through this rugged region easy, convenient
WILDERNESS and safe.
ADVENTURES 3AFARI3TAY
With Safari Stay, there is no need to carry a carload of equipment or
worry about setting up camp. Offered by Kimberley Wilderness Adventures

Kimberley Safari Stay

(a member of the experienced APT Group) Safari Stay allows you the
flexibility to stay in exclusive and strategically located permanent wilderness
accommodation offering unparalleled access to the remote icons of the
KWA’s Kimberley Wilderness Lodges and Camps take all the hard work out of stunning Kimberley.
At the end of a full day, there is nothing better than a comfortable tented
camping. All four are permanently hosted and fully serviced eliminating the need
cabin ready and waiting (with twin beds, fresh linen, doonas and lighting), a
to bring your own camping gear. Exclusive and strategically located in close
hot shower and time to enjoy a drink around the campfire. In addition to your
proximity to Kimberley icons, each permanent tent contains comfortable twin
accommodation, a three-course dinner and hearty breakfast are included,
beds and in-tent lighting. Enjoy hot showers, delicious homestyle meals served
from the value-for-money price of $195 twin share.
in the dining room and spend the evening relaxing by the open fire
An isolated and rugged region, the Kimberley can be a challenging
Bungle Bungle King Edward River experience for the self-drive traveller. However, with Safari Stay you can enjoy
Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge Marunbabidi Wilderness Camp the freedom to plan your own itinerary, as well as the peace of mind of
Located in the heart of World Heritage Purnululu On the banks of the Upper Kind Edward River, prepaid accommodation in the best locations. Furthermore, when you stay
National Park, this lodge has tented cabins with Marunbabidi Wilderness Camp provides easy a total of five nights or more, KWA offer significant discounts with their Safari
ensuited bathrooms and is the ideal base from access to Wandjina and Gwion (Bradshaw) rock Pass program.
which to explore the Bungle Bungle Range. art and to the Mitchell Plateau. The Gibb River Road and Mitchell Plateau camps are exclusively located
on Aboriginal land, and Safari Stay guests visit the country with the
Gibb River Road Mitchell Plateau permission of the traditional owners. In Purnululu National Park (Bungle
Bungle), your lodge is the ultimate base for touring. Exclusive to KWA,
Imintji Wilderness Camp Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge
Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge and Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge offer
ABN 44 004 684 619 Lic No 30112 MKT6348

Ideally located for exploring the many Featuring ensuited bathrooms and nestled
gorges of the Kimberley, including beside a delightful waterhole at Camp Creek, tented cabins with private ensuite facilities.
spectacular Windjana and Bell Gorges. this camp is a short distance from the En route to the Mitchell Plateau, the Marunbabidi Wilderness Camp at
spectacular Mitchell Falls. King Edward River makes for a welcome and pleasant stopover. Well
situated on the picturesque riverbank, this wilderness camp also provides
3 course Dinner, Bed & Breakfast from
per person, twin share
$195 easy access to Wandjina and Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art sites.
All accommodation is permanently staffed with dedicated hosts,
Single from $255, Child $156 (4-14years) ensuring you experience the wilderness of the Kimberley in comfort and
style. Hosts will happily share touring advice and, in constant contact with
Ask about our Safari Pass discount for stays of 5 nights or longer.
the APT Group’s Broome base, can also provide emergency communication
FREE CALL AUSTRALIA WIDE 1800 889 389 assistance if required.
or see your travel agent For more information on a Kimberley Safari Stay or Safari Pass call KWA
www.kimberleywilderness.com.au toll free on 1800 889 389 or visit www.kimberleywilderness.com.au.

FITZROY CROSSING FITZROY CROSSING —

VISITOR CENTRE THE HEART OF THE KIMBERLEY
Fitzroy Crossing is located on the bank
The Heart of the Kimberley of the Fitzroy River and has three
Visitor Centre staff are happy to help caravan parks for you to enjoy while
with all your needs while travelling
through the beautiful Kimberley region. you stay and visit some of the amazing
attractions in the area.
We stock a large range of postcards
and souvenirs and can assist with your The stunning Geikie Gorge can be
tour and accommodation requirements seen by boat tour or walking trails, you
Booking agent for can explore Mimbi Caves with the
• Geikie Gorge Boat Tours traditional owners and hear their
• Mimbi Caves dreamtime stories, or you can do
• Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek walking tours on Bunuba country, hear
• Horizontal Falls and many other the Jandamarra story and see
Kimberley attractions
magnificent rock art.
The Fitzroy Crossing Visitor Centre
staff are happy to help you with your
bookings and information on the
Tel: (08) 9191 5355
Kimberley region.
Email: fxtourism@sdwk.wa.gov.au

168 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


building has been restored to original condition.
Spend a few days in Karratha or Roebourne and you’ll find
there is lots to do and see. But, when you’re ready, the last leg of
your great West Australian road trip awaits!
If you haven’t yet visited Broome, this is a great opportunity
to discover what the city has to offer. From Roebourne, Broome
is a good nine-and-a-half hour drive, so it’s best to make a
stopover in one of the coastal towns along the way. Eighty Mile
Beach lies approximately half-way between the two towns, and
its secluded beaches, excellent salmon and mulloway fishing,
magnificent sunsets and white sandy beaches make it a good
choice. To top it off, there is even a caravan park in great
proximity to the beach.
The wonderful scenery on the rest of the long drive to
Broome is sure to keep your spirits up, and once you arrive you’ll
see the drive was worth it.
This tropical seaside town oozes charm and character, and
Western Australia
Aerial view of Geikie Gorge National Park
you’ll feel instantly welcome among locals with diverse ancestry,
including Malay, Chinese, Japanese, European and Aboriginal.
Wander Chinatown and taste flavours of Broome, enjoy a
handcrafted beer, or sip a cocktail at sunset. Stroll along famous
Cable Beach, then head back into town and pick up a perfect
Broome souvenir at one of the many pearl showrooms.
With so much to see and do, you might choose to end your
great adventure here, but if you really are the adventurous type,
it’s only another 5 hours to a quintessentially Australian
experience—Fitzroy Crossing.
Fitzroy Crossing is a friendly township with a mostly
Aboriginal population. The town owes its existence to the Fitzroy
River, which swells into a formidable torrent during the wet
season, making it one of the largest rivers in the world. In the
past, travellers had no way of crossing the rushing river, so
they’d hole up at the infamous Crossing Inn to share stories and
beer and wait for the waters to recede.
Luckily these days you’ll find a nice, safe highway and bridge
on your arrival, but that’s no reason to forgo a beer at the
Crossing Inn! This 1897 shanty inn and trade store has great
character, and in case you get a little pickled you can even stay
the night.
The main attraction of the town is the Geikie Gorge National
Park, the most easily accessible national park in the Kimberley.
The mighty Fitzroy River has carved an amazing 30 metre-deep
gorge into the remains of an ancient limestone barrier reef, and
during full flood, water rises over 16 metres up the gorge walls.
Over time the water has bleached the bottom of the gorge white,
an intriguing sight that will have you snapping your camera for
some amazing photos to take home.
Home… where’s that again? It’s certainly tempting to spend
each day touring these spectacular landscapes. You’ll always
find something to do or see, someone to share your stories with,
or a tranquil paradise to explore. Western Australia is the place
for a perfect holiday, and it will have you believing that perhaps a
perfect holiday is simply one that never ends.
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 169
Western Australia

Explore the magnificent

Bungle Bungle Range with
East Kimberley Tours

M
any travellers describe the Bungle Bungle range in the
East Kimberley of Western Australia as one of the world’s
great wonders. The Bungle Bungle range is an intricate
maze of spectacular sandstone beehive domes, narrow gorges
lined with magnificent fan palms and soaring cliffs with many
seasonal waterfalls and rock pools.
One of Australia’s most recognised natural icons, remote and
absolutely breathtaking, Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle)
has been recently been inscribed on the World Heritage List.
Major attractions in the park are Echidna Chasm, Mini Palm
Gorge, Picanniny and Cathedral Gorge.
Today, East Kimberley Tours, who has been operating for
over twenty seven years, is one of the most comprehensive
ground tour operators in Purnululu National Park, with a sixty bed
base camp offering many different touring options.
Their tours range from fly/drive, 4WD drive in and out, one to
three day tours, with tours departing from Kununurra and
Warmun/Turkey Creek. East Kimberley Tours make it easy for the
people who are travelling with their caravans as they offer tours
departing from Turkey Creek Roadhouse, where people are able
to pull up at Turkey Creek Roadhouse and park for the day or
night and join one of their tours.
East Kimberley Tours operate from the 1st of April each year
through to late November. For more information please
check out the website www.eastkimberleytours.com.au

East Kimberley Tours

Come and explore the magnificent Bungle Bungle with East Kimberley Tours.
With over 27 years of experience, East Kimberley Tours will guide you through
the amazing world heritage listed Purnululu National Park.
Touring options are available from Turkey Creek/Warmun and Kununurra, with
full day, two and three days tours available. Also the option of overnighting at
their comfortable and modern Bungle Bungle Bushcamp.
EAST KIMBERLEY TOURS
Bookings: 1800 682 213
Email: bookings@ekt.com.au
Web: www.eastkimberleytours.com.au

170 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Western Australia

Home On
The Range

The Gibb River Road has a new landmark. About 120 kilometres from Kununurra, the
stylishly simple HV8 signage – inspired by the station’s cattle brand – heralds the entrance
to Home Valley Station. The property’s pastoral interests date back many decades, but a
recent overhaul of its tourism facilities has made it a must-stop destination for travellers in
the Kimberley outback.

A
multi million dollar redevelopment at Home Valley Station is
more than a new accommodation option along the Gibb
River Road. Like its neighbour El Questro Station, Home
Valley offers everything from campsites to luxury villas. There’s
even a long term vision to develop a property to rival El Questro’s
exclusive homestead.
But the multi million dollar revamp at Home Valley has
broader implications. Owned by the Indigenous Land
Corporation and run on behalf of the Balanggarra people of the
East Kimberley, the station’s charter is to be economically
sustainable and to provide education and training for indigenous
people.
An onsite TAFE college trains students in the areas of
hospitality, tourism and station skills like fencing, landscaping
and stock handling. Outside of the classroom, students get
practical experience on the station in their field of expertise.
Everyone from the chef in the restaurant to the horse trek leader
to the bush tucker expert or the man playing the didgeridoo
around the camp fire could be a product of the ongoing training
in the new TAFE centre.
Entry to the TAFE, which operates throughout the dry season
from April to October, is highly competitive. A great incentive for
many is the opportunity for full time employment on the station,
without having to leave their east Kimberley home.
“We learn so much from the students too,” says Nicolle
Fenech, a senior manager on the property with husband Chris.
“They know so much about bush tucker and the local fish and
places of interest. They help us to build the activities that we offer
to tourists.”
Those activities include horse riding, fishing tours and bush
tucker tours. A resident bird expert turns even the least bird-
focussed visitors into confirmed twitchers. The pretty Bindoola
creek running through the property is not only a bird haven and a
great canoeing spot, but the source of spectacular falls in the
wet (when fly-in stays are possible) and swimming holes in the
dry.
Station tours take in the largesse of the scenery, from the
boab trees and pretty yellow kapok flowers to the red rock walls
rising out of glassy rock pools. Home Valley has some of the best
views of the Cockburn Range, the ancient ridge that rises out of
the landscape and marks the terrain as distinctly east Kimberley.
After a swim in the pandanus-lined Nyarli Lagoon or the Bogey
Hole, visitors can take a champagne sunset tour to witness the
technicolour magic—browns, reds, pinks, oranges and
purples—of a sunset on the range.
To see it is to understand why film maker Baz Luhrmann was
inspired to set the film Australia in this part of the world. A
lookout on Home Valley station—colloquially known as

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 171

Western Australia

Cane toads are on the march

towards Western Australia
Check your cars, trucks, bags, swags and
For the best photos in town equipment for hitchhiking toads.
Don’t confuse cane toads with our native frogs!
FAST PHOTOS The six most commonly confused native frogs are:

• Full Digital Service

• Cameras

to – Paul Doughty

frog
• Films

ket
t fro

Pho

roc
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py
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• Canon Agency

m
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L
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st r m ho
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Cyclorana au eirian
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• Sunglasses
• Perfumes

rowing frog
arbled frog
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Eftpos Available, most cards accepted

ted f

bur
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Diabetes Australia Sub-agent

foo

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C yc Lim nv Pla atu
lorana longip nodynastes co typle
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Kununurra Pharmacy If you see a cane toad, call the

2009534
cane toad hotline on 1800 084 881.
Freecall 1800 681 600
Tel: (08) 9168 1111 PO Box 236, Konkerberry Drive
Kununurra Shopping Centre

Kimberleyland
H O L I D AY P A R K

Have Caravanning
For all your holiday accommodation needs
• Camping • Ensuite cabins
• Large shady sites • Wonderful views
• Abundant Wildlife
Close to town, Celebrity Tree Park,
Lily Creek Lagoon, Canoeing, Fishing, Australia home
Bird Watching, Ice, Boat Ramp,
Shop, Local Barramundi
Tel: 1800 681 280 delivered
Email: stay@kimberleyland.com.au
Web: www.kimberleyland.com.au
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• Lily Creek Lagoon • Ord River
• Traditional Aussie BBQ
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• Available for Private Charter
Tel: (08) 9168 1718 Mob: 0409 681 716 Fax: (08) 9168 1719
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Email: thebbqboat@wn.com.au PO Box 1511 Kununurra WA 6743

172 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010


Chris and Nicolle Fenech, Home Valley Station.
Luhrmann’s Lookout—is said to be the exact spot where
Luhrmann first chose his film’s dramatic backdrop.
Back at the Home Valley settlement, the giant blades of an
old fashioned windmill make a rustic entry statement to the
Dusty Bar and Grill. A swimming pool provides cool relief for
guests, from campers to residents of the elegant Grass Castle
villas. Hands on training goes on in the thick of it all. And
alongside the TAFE, a convention centre is set to double as a
cultural centre, offering a sustainable income for indigenous
artists.
It’s clear that the station’s once-small tourism component has
blossomed into something befitting the outback – big and full of
promise.
Things to do at Home Valley Station
Do the Australia movie tour—seeing locations including Kidman’s
Krossing, Luhrmann’s Lookout and Jackman’s Jump-Up.
Watch the Cockburn Range change to a deep shade of pink
as the sun sets in the Kimberley, whilst enjoying bubbles and a
gourmet platter.
Look up to the sky as you take part in the Twitchers Tour—a
tour designed not only for the dedicated birdwatcher but for
Western Australia
Horse riding at Home Valley Station.
those just wanting to learn as well. Take a walk with the guide
along the edges of the Bindoola Creek to see if you can spot a
rare breed of bird such as the Purple Crowned Fairy Wren or the
Gouldian Finch.
Reel in a Barramundi in what locals call one of the region’s
most renowned spots. The Pentecost, Durack and Salmond
Rivers all run through the station, making fishermen spoilt for
choice. Despite receiving less attention, plenty of other exciting
fish lay waiting to be caught including Mulloway, Saw Fish,
Mangrove Jack and Mako Sharks.
Join one of the resident ‘horse whisperers’ on a trail ride to
the Pentecost River. Guide your horse across savannah plains,
rocky ridges, and river banks while the magnificent Cockburn
Range lies dormant on the horizon.
Get comfy in the saddle as you enter the Braham Cattle
Paddock and try your hand at a real cattle muster. Home Valley
Station has the ability to ‘turn on’ a cattle muster and allows
visitors to enjoy the thrill and excitement of controlling cattle in a
safe and educating environment.
The question remains. Will it return to you? Join in on the
Boomerang Throwing Competition to test your skill using the
traditional tool of the Aborigines. But don’t think you have
necessarily won when the Boomerang lands back in your hand.
There are plenty of other events to test your skill such as
endurance, maximum time aloft, juggling, longest throw, freestyle
and many more.
Accommodation at Home Valley
There is an accommodation option to suit all travellers at Home
Valley Station. Whether you are after a rugged outback
adventure, a stylish hideaway or a night out under the stars, you
are catered for at Home Valley Station:
Grass Castles—built using sturdy timber and steel to reflect a
historical homestead the rooms are lavishly furnished in the most
modern design.
Sand Castles—the safari style eco-tents are located in a
relaxed bush setting. The eco-tents, with their high pitched roofs
and large canvas windows allow you to stay in luxury,
surrounded by nature. Relax on your mini balcony or draw open
the windows at night for a glorious ceiling of stars.
Homestead Guesthouse Rooms—the new Homestead
Guesthouse rooms have replaced the original stockman’s
quarters but have been designed to replicate the previous
buildings so the feeling of history and authenticity remains.
If you like to rough it in the outback, snuggle down in your
swag at one of the best campsites along the Gibb River Road.
While the convenience of toilets, hot showers and BBQ facilities
are close, the breathtaking sights of the rugged outback are not
too far away either, making the Home Valley Station camping
area an ideal spot to base yourself during your stay in the
Kimberley.
For enquires about Home Valley Station, contact:
(08) 9161 4322 or visit www.homevalley.com.au
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 173
Western Australia

NORTHAM VISITOR CENTRE

The heart of the Avon Valley
• FREE POWER AND WATER (day use only)
• SHOWER FACILITIES
• AVON VALLEY INFORMATION
• LOCAL PRODUCE Visit Northam – historic heart of Avon Valley
• LOCAL ART & CRAFT Northam is the historic heart of the Avon Valley and the
• MIGRANTS EXHIBITION gateway to the Western Australian Wheatbelt. Located just
• ACCOMMODATION BOOKINGS an hour’s drive east of Perth, a colorful patchwork of
• STUNNING RIVER VIEWS
undulating hills and winding streams provides the backdrop
OPEN 9am - 5pm Weekdays,
9am - 4pm Weekends/Public Holidays for your scenic country escape.
Phone: (08) 9622 2100 Experience the charm of one of the seven hotels or
Email: tourist@northam.wa.gov.au
taverns, perfectly complemented by a visit to Avonbrook
www.visitnorthamwa.com.au
Wines — renowned for its sensational cheese platters. There
The Northam Visitor Centre highly recommends the
following accommodation providers and attractions: is a wide range of activities for the visitor to enjoy with the

Avonbrook Wines and Accommodation 9574 1276
Cola Café 9574 4407
Earth Sculptures 9574 2116
Fartart Studio 0439 096 638
Northam Caravan Park 9622 1620
Shamrock Hotel and Todd’s Restaurant 9622 1092
tranquility of a hot air balloon ride or the thrill of skydiving at
the top of the ‘to-do’ list. The visitor that seeks to keep their
feet on the ground can indulge in horse trail riding, archery or
an adrenaline pumped paintball session among the
picturesque countryside. See you in Northam!

Wongan Hills
“It’s a Wildflower Adventure”
Wongan Hills is a small thriving community with great
shopping, friendly people and amazing walk trails with more
than 1300 species of flowering plants.
Mt Matilda Walk Trail
This beautiful 3 hour wildflower walk to 5 hour scenic walk
has been listed as one of Western Australia’s Top 50 Trails.
See spectacular views of the Wheatbelt, wildflowers galore
and the elusive malleefowl. Glimpse the majestic eagle as it
hovers over the hills.
5th Annual Reynoldson Reserve Festival
12-14 November 2010 – weekend of stalls, guided walk
tours of this amazing reserve, photo exhibition and more.

174 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
WESTERN AUSTRALIA – AUTUMN 2010

April 11
All Australian Car Day,
Waroona
APRIL 8-12 MAY 1
Margaret River Wine Region Festival, Margaret River Pemberton Autumn Festival, Pemberton
This popular event kicks off with the Vintage Vibe Street Fiesta and This festival offers the usual delights of rides, food stalls and roving
Wine Barrel Cart Race on Margaret River’s main street. For the rest of performers, but the local competitions, including the Marron weight,
tug-of-war and great Australian pie bake off provide something
the weekend, sample fine wines and foods, and enjoy the Cabernet different. Fantastic family fun.
Cabaret and Vintage family concert. Tel: 08 9776 0144
Tel: 08 9757 9330
MAY 1-2
APRIL 9-11 Hills Heartbeat Festival, Perth
Fairbridge Festival, Pinjarra The hills lifestyle is celebrated in this two-day festival, where you can
Acoustic music is the order of the weekend at this relaxed festival. The visit galleries, wineries and pioneer villages. Two stages of
site is Fairbridge Village, a former farm school that is now heritage listed entertainment, plenty of art and craft, and a silent auction will keep you
busy.
and the perfect spot to see the acts on show this year. Great fun for Tel: 08 9497 1751
people of all ages.
Tel: 08 9246 3311 JUNE 5-7
Leonora Golden Gift Weekend, Leonora
APRIL 11 Amidst the commotion of the community concert, fireworks, horse
All Australian Car Day, Waroona racing carnival and market stalls, the Leonora Golden Gift athletic
The name is a good indication of the events of this fun day, but there’s carnival takes place, including the ‘Elite Mile’ – Australia’s richest
more in store for visitors. Alongside more than 500 classic cars, there 1600m foot race. A great experience in the Australian outback.
Tel: 08 9037 6044
will be market stalls, country food, regional wine, gourmet produce and
something for the kids.
Tel: 08 9586 1010
KEN PEACHEY
APRIL 11-13
Fremantle Street Arts Festival, Fremantle CARAVAN REPAIRS
AVRIL, MIKE, JASON DAVIES
Buskers from all over the world converge on Fremantle for this fantastic
week of street performance. See exciting acts including stage, screen, • SPECIALISTS IN ALL TYPES OF
music, circus, comedy and cabaret. This is sure to be an unforgettable CARAVAN REPAIRS & ALTERATIONS
weekend. • JAYCO WARRANTY
Tel: 08 9432 9888 • ANNEX, AWNING AND CANVAS WORK,
UPHOLSTERY
MAY 1
• INSURANCE CLAIMS
Beverley Tractor Pull and Dirt Drags, Beverley
If you’re into all things dirt and V8, head to the Beverley Racecourse 194 CAMPBELL STREET, BELMONT WA 6104
for the annual tractor pull. Tractors compete by pulling a weighted sled PHONE: (08) 9277 1381
along a 100m course, and the Junior and Senior dirt drags prove that FAX: (08) 9277 8528
you’re never too old or too young to get involved. EMAIL: info@kenpeachey.com
DL 2391 MRB–1167
Tel: 08 9459 4166

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 175

Victoria

Northern Grampians
Shire Council
A
bound in natural beauty, rich heritage and world
class events, the Northern Grampians is a
wonderful place to embark on an adventure of
discovery.
A treasure trove of experience awaits you in the
Northern Grampians. Bushwalk among some of Mother
nature’s most astounding work, tour the wineries, stroll
around original heritage buildings, or sample regional
cuisine.
An event for every interest awaits you in the
Northern Grampians. Enjoy the Stawell Gift (Easter), the
Halls Gap Jazz Festival (Feb), Grampians Grape Escape
(May), Festival of St Arnaud (Nov), or A Day on the
Green (Feb).
The Northern Grampians can offer a vast choice in
caravanning experience. Choose a bush camp site or
resort style holiday park – it’s all on offer. Accessible
attractions, designated caravan parking and helpful
Visitor Information Centres in Stawell, St Arnaud and
Halls Gap will ensure your visit is stress-free and
enjoyable.

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176 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Victoria

Caravanning in
the Grampians
Your next big adventure
A holiday in Victoria’s world-renowned Grampians has something for every age group—
whether is the most attention span-challenged teenager, through to the most leisurely
retiree, all age groups will find something that makes their day.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 177

Victoria

West Wimmera –
The Centre of
Everywhere
“The Place To See
& Be Seen”
West Wimmera is the
perfect destination for your
holiday, plenty of fresh air,
tranquility and relaxation.
Nature lovers will enjoy,
deserts, wetlands and rare
Visitor flora and fauna. The red-
Information tailed black cockatoo is
Centres one particular favourite
and if you can’t spy them
Edenhope in the field then check out the aviary bred birds at the Kaniva
Rotary Fauna Park.
☎ (03) 5585 1509 “The Food and Coffee Trail” is a must to experience.
Kaniva Historical heritage abounds in West Wimmera from north to
south, infrastructure built by the Chinese as they travelled
☎ (03) 5392 2418
from Robe to the Goldfields, the Gold Escort Trail that linked
Harrow Adelaide to the Goldfields, Museums which showcase sport,
☎ (03) 5588 1387 transport, heritage and history, heritage towns and buildings,
historical cairns and murals and so much more.
Visitors to West Wimmera are greeted in a friendly
manner, typical of true country hospitality. There is also
shopping, entertainment, and great locations for day trips.
For a fun & fantastic holiday, visit West Wimmera – The
Centre of Everywhere.
Check out tourism information on the website
www.westwimmera.vic.gov.au

Colitek Gold Centre

Have you ever thought. “Now that we are travelling and have more leisure
time, I’d like to try something different?”
What about Gold detecting, both for pleasure and profit. If so, we can
help you out at the Coiltek Gold Centre in Maryborough, central Victoria.
We have the best drop in centre in Australia, and are located right in the
middle of the golden triangle.
There is always a free tea or coffee available, and our experienced
staff will gladly talk to you about what you want to do, how you can go
about it, and whether or not it is for you.
We run training courses, days out, and offer full training at no charge
if you purchase a detector from us at Maryborough, or you can just hire
a detector.
Come and see us while you’re in Victoria and you will be glad you did.
Enhance your lifestyle

178 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Victoria

Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre

T
he Grampians are Australia in microcosm—only two-and-a-
half hours drive from Melbourne, just across the border from
SA, with forests and canyons, lakes and rivers, mountain
villages, old fishing huts and campsites, a place where you could
plan to spend a day and wish you had a week.
You soon discover that the Grampians is not one place, but
many—the Wartook Valley and the Northern Grampians, the
Southern Grampians, Ararat and Pyrenees and the rugged
Grampians National Park that links them, and the surrounding
rural villages and towns on the plains. Together, these stunning
regions provide a surprisingly varied range of high quality, but
affordable, places to stay. And one of the best and affordable
ways to experience all of this is to hook up the caravan or load
up the campervan as the adventure awaits.
The rural city of Ararat, often referred to as the gateway to
the Grampians, is ideal to begin exploring a wide range of
regional attractions. Whilst in Ararat, why not visit the sinister-
looking J-Ward? A former gaol for the criminally insane at Ararat,
J-Ward is now a museum for people whose sanity is not in
question. Or head to the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre and
learn the history of the Chinese during the gold rush.
Drive a little further west and pull into a local caravan park at
Halls Gap for a night or two. Discover Halls Gap’s popular zoo or
the Brambuk National Park and Cultural Centre, housed in an
extraordinary building with an undulating roof resembling the
sweeping wings of a cockatoo.
Renowned for its breathtaking rocky views, rich aboriginal
culture, European heritage and stunning spring wildflower
displays, Halls Gap is also your gateway to the Grampians
National Park, one of Victoria’s most popular holiday
destinations.
See the mountains of the Grampians National Park and stroll
their walking trails through the forests of blue gum and yellow
box and fields of flowering thryptomene. For those interested in
botany visit the deeply shaded valleys of the Grampians which
have been refreshed—the wildflowers are sensational and the
delicate orchids in the open woodland understoreys continue to
delight bushwalkers and wildflower enthusiasts alike.

Grampians “North West”

HORSHAM ‘your base’
Gateway to the Grampians National Park, Mt Arapiles and the Little
Desert National Park– Enjoy the natural beauty and festivities
where something is always happening in Horsham region. Ex-
plore a bustling rural city with country Victoria’s top golf course,
proud Regional Art Gallery and walking trails.

FOR YOUR F REE TOURING BROCHURE

FREECALL 1800 633 218 WEB www.visithorsham.com.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 179

Victoria
BRAMBUK the National Park & Cultural Centre
Situated in Halls Gap within the spectacular
Grampians National Park, this award winning
centre offers visitors extensive information on
the local Aboriginal Culture, history, rock art
sites, and the natural environment as well as
servicing the needs of visitors to the National
Park
Aboriginal owned and operated Brambuk’s
design and grounds interpret the traditional
stories of the local Aboriginal people. Discover
the culture of the Aboriginal communities of
Western Victoria through multimedia shows,
art exhibitions, artefact displays, cultural talks
and lots of fun activities such as didgeridoo
lessons, Bushtucker walks, boomerang
throwing and painting. Learn about the unique
six seasons of Gariwerd through our displays
FOR MORE INFORMATION PHONE (03) 5391 4444
180 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
or join our Aboriginal guides on tours to
ancient rock art sites and experience the
secrets of the natural world.
The on-site Gift Shop offers a range of
quality products; and the Bush Tucker Café is
licensed and serves delicious bush tucker and
contemporary food.
“Nga Keenatt Brambuk Badeema Djilga
Gariwerd”
(Brambuk welcomes you to try, taste & feel
the culture of Gariwerd)
Open 9-5 daily, admission is free.
Ph: (03) 53614000 Fax: (03) 5356 4455
E: info@brambuk.com.au W:
www.brambuk.com.au
277 Grampians Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381

Near the northern tip of the Grampians National Park, turn off
to visit Mt Zero Olives. The Grampians is the largest producer of
olives in Australia and Mt Zero is one of its several large local
olive oil producers, winning national awards for its extra virgin
olive oil as well as providing a showcase for produce such as
chick peas, capers, and red and green lentils grown on the
surrounding Wimmera Plains.
The diversity of the Grampians means you can walk, ride,
climb, kayak or spend time in rural townships such as Hamilton.
Hamilton is an exciting hub of the Grampians region and is home
to a fabulous art gallery which is regarded by many as one of the
best in regional Australia.
Located on the largest volcanic plain in the Southern
Hemisphere, explore the Volcanic Trail or for water lovers, why
not park the caravan at a local caravan park and drive out to
Lake Hamilton to enjoy a day fishing or water sports? Horsham
is also a great base for those who love adventure sports.
Located just 37 kilometres from Horsham, the world famous Mt
Arapiles is well renowned with rock climbers visiting from all over
the world to challenge themselves against this natural wonder.
TOOLONDO’S WASHTOMORROR
CARAVAN PARK
A peaceful caravan park set on the banks of the Toolondo
Reservoir on the western side of the Grampians.
Enjoy the relaxing environment – the golf course opposite –
the vineyard – the fishing in the Grampians reservoirs or
Glenelg River – rock climbing Mount Arapiles – gold
fossicking – or just enjoy the clean park facilities with
licensed kiosk (including Toolondo wine).
Resident owner Bob Haines
Tel: (03) 5388 2231
Victoria
Boroka Lookout
Wartook Valley is another of the Grampians’ real gems,
offering a new, fun and exciting way to discover this multi-
faceted region—a guided quad bike tour. Grampians Quad Bike
Adventures will take you on a tour of their 410 acre property at
the foothills of the majestic Grampians Ranges.
If quad bikes are not your thing then down the road you will
find another form of quad-powered transport at the Grampians
horse riding centre, with horses to suit everyone from novices to
budding Clancys riding on trails over a 460ha estate.
Not only is the Grampians renowned for its spectacular
natural attractions and huge variety of activities, but foodies will
love the Grampians region as well.
Sample terrific local lamb and beef from Hopkins River Beef
which supplies many of Australia’s top restaurants, duckling from
Nhill, honey from Horsham, environmentally friendly eggs that
taste the way eggs used to from Green Eggs or sample milk fetta
and Grampians Grand, a pecorino-style cheese from the
Grampians Pure Sheep Dairy.
One of the best ways to find out what’s available locally is to
visit one of the farmers’ markets in the region—Ararat on the
MACEDON CARAVAN PARK
• Grassed drive-thru sites • Ensuite cabins with reverse cycle A/C
• Clean amenities and laundry • Camp kitchen with TV
• Dump point • Children’s playground • Free undercover BBQs
• 60km on freeway to Melbourne CBD • Caravan clubs and
groups welcome • Free wireless internet
• Dog friendly – conditions apply • Small and large motorhomes
324 Blackforest Drive, Macedon VIC 3440
Hosts: Alister and Judi Smith
Tel: (03) 5426 1528 Fax: (03) 5426 3628
Email: macedonc@bigpond.net.au
Web: www.macedoncaravanpark.vpweb.com.au
GPS: South 37º25.91 East 144º33.56
PARK ★★★★ ★ CABIN ★★★★ ★
Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 181
Victoria

Warracknabeal Warracknabeal – the Heart of the

Historical Society Wimmera Mallee
The township of Warracknabeal (VIC), located on the
www.warracknabealhistory.org.au banks of the Yarriambiack Creek is a delightful place to
HISTORICAL CENTRE pull in and relax for a while or wander around and visit
81 Scott Street some of the historical sites and museums.
Open Sunday to Friday 2.00 pm – 4 pm The Warracknabeal Historical Society looks after a
number of significant buildings in the community and also
WHEATLANDS operates two museums, catering for both male and
WAREHOUSE female interests.
The Wheatlands Machinery Museum, open daily,
Secondhand Shop
houses a vast collection of farming machinery, tractors,
Cnr Scott & Phillip Sts – harvesters, gigs and much more dating back to the end of
Phone 03 5394 1231 the 19th century, whilst the Historical Centre, a former
Open Mon to Fri 9.30 am - 5 pm State Bank is home to a vast array of historical items
Sat 9.30 am to noon - Sun 1 to 4.30 pm including household ware, clothing, war memorabilia,
furniture etc covering the same era.
WHEATLANDS AGRICULTURAL To enable the Society to maintain these collections,
MACHINERY MUSEUM volunteers also operate a Second-Hand Shop to raise
Henty Highway - Phone 03 5398 1616 additional funds. This shop opens seven days a week,
Open 7 days a week including Saturday morning and Sunday afternoon.
There is vast array of items for sale ranging from
ANNUAL VINTAGE MACHINERY RALLY crockery to books by the thousands, furniture, hardware,
Easter Weekend toys, items to delight the ladies and boys stuff to keep the
men occupied for hours.
Featuring: Hart-Parr – Oliver – Twin City – Whites The Societies volunteers also run a three day vintage
plus American engines machinery rally over the Easter Weekend with working
Contact: Jean on 03 5398 1901 displays of tractors, machinery and engines along with
Email: jara@vic.chariot.net.au craft stalls etc along with full catering.

ararat
and surrounds
victoria
Caravan &
Camping
in the Southern
Grampians
Ararat, a vibrant provincial city 200kms west of
Melbourne, is a destination rich in heritage with
a wealth of attractions and activities on offer –
• Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre
• J Ward Old Gaol
• Grampians Wineries
• Ararat Regional Art Gallery
• Barkly Street shopping
• Gateway to the Grampians National Park
‘Take the time to stay a while.’
a

Call into Ararat Visitor Information Centre today

91 High St (Western Hwy), Ararat
Ample long bay parking available
Open 7 days, 9am - 5pm
Call toll free 1800 657 158
www.visitararat.com.au

182 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Victoria

Mt Sturgeon

second Sunday of each seasonal quarter, Stawell on the last
Sunday of each month and Hamilton on the last Saturday of the
month. Or, in the bigger towns, look for great providores such as
Darriwill Farm in Hamilton, where you can assemble delicious
picnic hampers including local Henty, Grampians and Pyrenees
wine.
It’s easy to stock up with choice cuts of local beef or lamb,
Taipan Wall
local cheeses and olives, treats from local producers and farm
gates. For those with a sweet tooth, why not hunt down some
award-winning vanilla slices—the Vanilla Slice Competition has
now been won by two local bakeries, Halls Gap back in 1998
and Stawell’s Waack Bakery in 2008.
Western Victoria, in particular the Grampians and Pyrenees,
has long been renowned for its wine. Big name labels such as Mt
Langi Ghiran, Seppelt, Taltarni and Crawford River sit alongside
boutique wineries known for their innovation and passion.
The Grampians is a region of diverse, high quality wine styles.
Conditions are just right for making the best wines, from elegant
sparkling pinot chardonnays and crisp, delicate rieslings to silky,
spicy shiraz.
For some the region is synonymous with the dank, fungus-
clad cellars of the Seppelt Great Western, the birthplace of
sparkling wine in Australia, whose bubbles introduced many
drinkers to wine.
The Grampians cannot travel so it is up to you. With great
caravanning options to suit every budget all year round and
fantastic activities and events throughout the Grampians, you are
sure to leave with some fantastic memories regardless of when
you choose to visit.
For more information: www.visitgrampians.com.au

FIGTREE HOLIDAY VILLAGE Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve

Figtree Holiday Village is & Camping Ground
Warrnambool’s most centrally
located tourist village, • On the banks of the Barham River
situated in a quiet setting • Surf beach/fishing, long beach walks, are just
with lush gardens. next door, across the Great Ocean Road
• Start of the Great Ocean Walk
Close to shops, hotels &
• Cabins, Powered & Unpowered Sites
restaurants and a short drive
to the beach. • Tennis Courts, Playground & Football Oval
• 700 metres to Town Centre & Golf Course
33 Lava St, Warrnambool VIC 3280 • 3 amenities blocks with laundries
Ph: (03) 5561 1233 Fax: (03) 5561 3068 Phone: (03) 5237 6577
Email: reservations@figtreepark.com
70 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay VIC 3233
Web: www.figtreepark.com www.apollobayrecreationreserve.com

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 183

Victoria

Enjoy some fun in the sun in Mildura

N
estled amongst the gum trees on
the edge of the Mighty Murray, is
one of Australia’s oldest and most
popular holiday destinations. Situated only
minutes from the heart of Mildura at Apex
Park (established in 1934) is the Apex
RiverBeach Holiday Park.
Surrounded by the river and the state
forest, Apex RiverBeach is set on 25 acres
of bushland, the park has over 300 sites,
consisting of powered and unpowered
sites, self contained cabins and villas as
well as onsite vans. Most sites are
spacious with plenty of room for large
motorhomes or buses.
With a Mediterranean climate with dry
summers and mild winters, Mildura is the
perfect place for your next getaway. Apex
RiverBeach Holiday makes the most of
this with its superb location and an can burn of some excess energy on the
ambience to die for. Whether you just jumping pillow or the inflatable water slide.
want to relax with a cappuccino from the Apex RiverBeach Holiday Park is
kiosk or sit by your van or villa and sip a ideally located to explore the surrounding
glass of wine from one of the many local district with its many attractions and
wineries while you watch the river go by, events which take place all year round.
or maybe take a stroll along the riverbank
at sunset, this is the place to do it. For bookings:
For the kids or the more active at Phone: (03) 5023 6879
heart there is plenty of room to ride bikes Fax: (03) 5021 5390
in the park or the surrounding forest. They Email: holiday@apexriverbeach.com.au

Apex RiverBeach Holiday Park

Among the tranquil gum trees on the Also available

banks of The Murray River you will find • Bait, Tackle and Fishing
the Apex RiverBeach Holiday Park. Licences available
Set on 25 acres, bordered by Mildura’s most • Pets welcome at managers
discretion (not in on-site
popular swimming beach on one side and the
accommodation
state forest on the other, the abundance of
• Boat Ramp
wildlife and the quiet relaxed setting would
make the ideal location for any holiday. • Ice
• Kiosk
Whether you are into water sports, bike riding • Gas
or bush walking, like to stay in a luxury villa, a • Jumping Pillow
caravan, a bus or a tent, we can • Boat Hire
accommodate your needs. • Camp Kitchen
Only 5 min drive from the heart of the city. • Dump Point

RI VERBEACH APEX RIVERBEACH HOLIDAY PARK

APEX
435 Cureton Avenue, Mildura
T (03) 5023 6879 F (03) 5021 5390 E: holiday@apexriverbeach.com.au
H O L I D A Y P A R K
www.apexriverbeach.com.au

184 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Victoria

Spoil yourself
in Mildura

If indulgence is what you seek, head to Mildura and discover the world-class
wine, top local produce, Mediterranean climate and fascinating local history.
The wide, flowing Murray River is the heart of the region and plays an
important part in Mildura’s culture. According to Eden Cox, a romantic sunset
paddleboat cruise down this majestic natural beauty reveals exactly why.
PHOTO: DAVID MITCHENER

T
he pristine natural features of Mildura make the region
instantly welcoming to visitors, and you will be captured by
wide, open skies, peaceful waterways, and amazing ancient
sand dunes. But even more welcoming are the locals, ever keen
to share their fresh produce and direct you to the sights and
activities in the area.
Mildura is an important Victorian Food Bowl, and you will
soon discover some of Australia’s most famous restaurants
serving an abundance of local produce. You’ll even find gourmet
local salt sourced from the Murray-Darling Basin! Check your
menus for Mallee lamb and Murray cod; these local delicacies
are a real fresh food experience.
Twenty per cent of Australia’s wines are produced in the
region, so don’t miss out on your chance to taste-test at one of
the many long-standing cellar doors. Hard as it may be however,
try not to spend your whole holiday at the cellar doors, or you’ll
miss out on all that the river lifestyle has to offer.
Take a refreshing dip in the Murray River or soak up some
sun on the white-sand banks, paddle a canoe or kayak, or join a
tour. Even if you lack boating experience, the river’s calm, flowing
waters provide the perfect opportunity to learn to sail or get
some rowing practice. For the ultimate relaxing Murray
experience, cruise the serene waterway on board an historic
paddleboat.
Once you’ve had a chance to thoroughly unwind, jump in the
car and take a peaceful drive to the towns of Robinvale and
Euston, the ‘Jewel of the Murray’. Situated between Mildura and
Swan Hill in south western New South Wales, Euston and
Robinvale are nestled on opposite banks of the Murray River.
Euston is bordered by the Euston State Forest to the west
and the river on the east, providing ample picnic locations where
you can stop and enjoy the delicious farm fresh fruit and
vegetables available at roadside stalls along the way.
If you want a tranquil escape to experience the river at night,
Euston offers camping on a sandbar alongside the mighty
Murray. Enjoy a spot of morning fishing in the pristine water, and
simply lie back and marvel at the ancient River red gums as the
sun sets.
Your next stop, Robinvale, is just a short drive from Euston.
Autumn is a beautiful season to visit the Robinvale region, as the
weather is warm, the river is high, and there are plenty of
activities and sights to make your visit complete.
This unspoiled region offers you a range peaceful river
activities and picturesque walks, and golfers will be pleased to
discover the Robinvale Golf Course.
By the time you’ve explored all the natural attractions in
Robinvale, Swan Hill will be tempting you with its rich history,
culture, and events.
Check out some of the historic homesteads in the region for
an insight into the history of Swan Hill. Tyntyndyer Homestead
built 1846 has a fascinating history and is a good place to start.
The property was built by the Beverage brothers and included

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 185

Victoria

(L-R top): Fishing on the Murray, The Murray at sunset (PHOTO: JON ARMSTRONG)
(Left): Winery in Swan Hill (PHOTO: DAVID HANNAH)

300 square miles of land. The property retained the name of the
rich grass plains of the area and became known as Tyntyndyer
Station.
The homestead is a drop log cabin made of local Murray
Pine, but was later bricked over with hand-made bricks. It is
classified as the first brick veneer construction in Australia.
To soak up some more local history, take the time to visit The
Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, established in 1961 to recreate the
thriving river port of the 1860s to the 1890s. The settlement has
an old locomotive, a working blacksmith’s shop and an old
newspaper office, as well as many other relics of pioneer days.
Swan Hill is also a great place to try something new for your
accommodation; houseboats! The freedom of a houseboat is
unlike any other type of accommodation, and many visitors rave
about the ability to simply drift where they please and sightsee
from the windows of their ‘floating hotel’!
With a wonderful climate and so much to experience, Mildura
and surrounding regions are great places to unwind, see some of
Australia’s untouched natural environments, and taste world-
class food and wine. Once you’ve spent time in the magnificent
heart and soul of the region, you’ll experience the majesty of the
Murray River, and will leave with its vital current flowing through
your veins.

Euston Riverfront ROBINVALE WINES

Caravan Park & Cafe
Resident Owners: Kaine & Kelly Millard
• Friendly Family Park overlooking Murray River
• River Frontage • Ensuite Cabins
• Grassed & Powered Sites • BBQ
• Takeaway Food • Lotto
• Newsagency • Coffex Coffee
27 Murray Terrace, Euston NSW 2737
Phone: (03) 5026 1543
www.eustoncaravanpark.com.au
Email: info@eustoncaravanpark.com.au
CERTIFIED ORGANIC & BIO-DYNAMIC WINERY-VINEYARD
Sea Lake Rd, Robinvale VIC 3549
Tel (03) 5026 3955 Fax (03) 5026 1123
• Monday-Saturday 9am-5.30pm • Sunday 10am-5pm
• Free wine tasting • Great value cellar door sales
& specials • Fine label wines, fortified & sparkling wines
• Credit Card facilities • Mail orders and discounts
• Non-alcoholic wines & pure grape juice
• A variety of new releases
Green Ecological Farming (No artificial fertilisers, chemical pesticides,
herbicides or hormone sprays).
Website: www.organicwines.com.au
Email: info@organicwines.com.au

186 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Victoria

Connecting the Bellarine and Mornington

Peninsulas – Getting there is half the fun!
T
he Queenscliff – Sorrento Car and Passenger Ferry
connects two of Victoria’s scenic, historic, food and wine
regions – the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas. It can
turn a long road trip into a relaxing, peaceful journey.
Alternatively, travel as a foot passenger and enjoy a magnificent
day exploring the quaint villages of Queenscliff or Sorrento.
There is much to do on the 45 minute crossing. Explore the
ferry and choose your favourite vantage point, whether it be from
inside the comfort of the air conditioned lounges with full length
windows, or from one of the outside decks. Sample the delights
of the onboard kiosk, watch the mighty ships as they leave and
enter the Bay or look out for dolphins as they frolic in the waters
or at the bow of the vessel.
View the Victorian coastline from a whole new perspective.
The scenery is at once noticeably different on each side. On the
Sorrento approach magnificent homes nestle into the rugged
clifftops, yachts moored in the small coves bob up and down
and the Sorrento pier beckons. As you near Queenscliff, the
historically significant Fort looms large with its high walls and
unique black Lighthouse, and the rooftops and chimneys of the
township contrast with the Harbour’s magnificent new marina.
There are two vessels, the MV Sorrento and the MV
Queenscliff each holding up to 700 passengers and 80 vehicles.
The MV Sorrento has disabled facilities with a lift from the vehicle
deck to the passenger lounge.
The vessels are specially designed to travel in all weather
conditions and operate 7 days a week, 365 days a year –
departing every hour, on the hour from 7am to 6pm. An extra
service at 7pm operates from the 26th of December through until
the end of daylight savings.
All vehicles have easy access to the ferry with a drive on drive
off facility – no turning required – perfect for caravans, motor
homes and larger vehicles.
But the journey does not necessarily have to start or finish
with the ferry. The Ferry Beach Café, located at the Queenscliff
terminal, has the best bay views in town. Stop before or after
your trip and enjoy the famous “Beachcomber” breakfast,
homemade soups or fish and chips made from fresh local flake.
The coffee is excellent and boutique beer and wines are also
available.
For further information please contact Peninsula Searoad
Transport on 03 5258 3244 or visit www.searoad.com.au.
Find out more about multi ticket passes* for regular users
and the caravan “early bird” special – $22.00* for any size
caravan (does not include motor vehicle, driver or
passengers) on the 7am and 8am ferries. *Conditions apply.

QUEENSCLIFF SORRENTO

CAR & PASSENGER FERRIES

Depart daily from Queenscliff Harbour and Sorrento Pier

• ON THE HOUR
• EVERY HOUR
• 7am to 6pm
• All year
• All weather

MELBOURNE

Y
FW
NE

PR
PE

S Port IN
CE
AN

IN CE

www.searoad.com.au PR S
Phillip
HWY

Bay
Geelong Frankston
Queenscliff
Ferry

Tel: (03) 5258 3244 Sorrento

Phillip Island

PO Box 214 Queenscliff 3225 BASS STRAIT

Peninsula Searoad Transport Pty Ltd

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 187

What’s On Where
WHAT’S ON WHERE
VICTORIA – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 2-5
Bendigo Easter Festival, Bendigo
Beginning on Good Friday, this long-running Easter Celebration has it
all – Easter egg hunts, the family day at Lake Weeroona, and onstage
entertainment throughout the day. A huge celebration for the festival’s
140th birthday will commence on the Saturday at Rosalind Park,
including games, activities and dance.
Tel: 1800 813 153
APRIL 2-5
Stawell Gift, Stawell
The famous Stawell Gift is a professional athletics meeting with sixty-
six events over three days, culminating in the famous 120 metre foot
race. There are activities requiring less athleticism, including a betting
ring, fashion parade, live music and children’s entertainment.
Tel: 03 5358 1326
APRIL 2-10
Queenscliff Seafood Feast, Queenscliff
Get prepared for the biggest seafood festival in all of Australia! A host
of volunteers will prepare a smorgasboard of seafood donated by the
seafood industry to fundraise for the Royal Children’s Hospital. 6.5
tonnes of seafood will be served, as well as 2700 litres of regional
beverages.
Tel: 03 5258 2426
APRIL 4
Bendigo Winemakers Festival, Bendigo
Easter Sunday each year is a time for breaking bread and drinking
wine, and what better place to do this than at a winemakers festival?
Held in the beautiful Castlemaine Botanic Gardens, with over thirty
winemakers in attendance, this vintage festival is worth a visit.
Tel: 03 5435 2519
188 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010
APRIL 17-18
Como Gardens Open Garden Weekend, The Basin
This historic garden contains rare and beautiful plants that have been
collected over many years. Over this fun-filled open weekend, you can
wander amidst the foliage, enjoy Devonshire teas and cheese tasting,
or take a ride on the steam train.
Tel: 03 9761 1341
APRIL 18
Cardross Indoor Autumn Market, Cardross
Country warmth and hospitality is on show here, with plenty of stalls
full of art and craft, and beautiful country food and wine. A delicious
breakfast will be available before the market opens, so get up early and
treat yourself .
Tel: 03 5024 1345
APRIL 23-24
Mt Beauty Music Festival, Mt Beauty
This year, the 11th annual Mt Beauty Music Festival brings you the
usual blues, roots, world music and country, but classical music has
now been added to the program. With wine, food, market stalls and
general good times, this is a high-country festival not to miss.
Tel: 03 5754 1962
APRIL 23 – MAY 5
Bright Autumn Festival, Bright
The annual Bright Autumn Festival spans a delightful two weeks,
celebrating the Victorian High Country’s beautiful autumn colours and
produce. The highlight of the festival is Gala Weekend, when you can
enjoy the parade and the market.
Tel: 1800 111 885
Super Sweet Strawberries
If you are looking for super sweet berries on your next visit to
the Mornington Peninsula – then Sunny Ridge Strawberry
Farm is the place for you. A third generation family owned
property, Sunny Ridge has been growing berries for over 40
years and is currently recognised for producing some of
Australia’s sweetest berries.
Each season from November to April, you can pick
strawberries while relaxing in the picturesque surroundings
of our hinterland property – there is nothing fresher than
strawberries picked straight from the fields!
Other seasonal fruits and berries can be purchased fresh
onsite from the farmgate along with a range of local gourmet
products such as honey, olive oil, relish, jam and chocolate.
Our dessert café is open year round with a seasonal
menu of indulgent delights like a traditional Devonshire Tea
or our famous Strawberry Temptation ice cream sundae. We
also have award winning fruit ice cream, made onsite using
our berries and other tasty ingredients and a boutique range
of strawberry wines and liqueurs – like nothing you’ve tasted
before.
Close to the Mornington Peninsula’s wine region,
beaches and quaint townships, Sunny Ridge has something
for strawberry lovers of all ages, so join us for a delicious day
out on your next trip through the Mornington Peninsula.
Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm
244 Shands Rd, Main Ridge VIC 3928
Tel: (03) 5989 4500
Web: www.sunnyridge.com.au
OPEN: Strawberry Season November to April,
7 days 9am-5pm (upick until 4.30pm)
May to October weekends only, 11am-4pm
Closed Christmas Day, New Years Day and Good Friday
 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
STATE – SEASON
APRIL 24-25 MAY 2
Upper Goulburn Winegrowers Vintage Celebrations, Lavandula’s Swiss Italian Autumn Harvest Festival,
Mansfield Lavandula
This is a food and wine lover’s perfect weekend, with Saturday’s ‘A Autumn is olive season in Lavandula, and on this lovely Sunday in May
Day on the High’ providing plenty to ingest and imbibe on the main you can join the olive harvest, and learn how to grow olive trees, pickle
street of Mansfield, and Sunday’s ‘Long Lunch’ serving up a delicious olives, and get your oil pressed.
menu of four courses in a majestic setting. Tel: 03 5476 4393
Tel: 03 5777 3447
MAY 29-30
APRIL 30 – MAY 2 34th Historic Winton, Winton
Koroit Irish Festival, Koroit This is a weekend of non-stop racing, featuring a wide array of historic
Koroit is nestled between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, and hosts the racing cars and motorbikes from the 1920s to 1980s. There are 46
annual three day Irish Festival, celebrating Irish heritage. There will be events, including 18 motorbike and sidecar races.
music, dancing, and even potato picking. Live music, street performers Tel: 03 5428 2689
and much more complete the weekend.
Tel: 03 5565 9355
MAY 1-2 Leongatha Apex Club Caravan Park
Grampians Grape Escape – The Food and Wine Managers: Bim and Kay Puru
Festival, Halls Gap
This year, celebrity chef Ed Halmagyi will excite culinary enthusiasts 14 Turner Street, Leongatha Vic 3953
with his impressive skills. As well as cooking demonstrations, there will Phone: (03) 5662 2753 Fax: (03) 5662 5514
be over 100 exhibitors showcasing wine, olive oil, lentils, fruit, ice- Email: leongathacvpark@bigpond.com
cream, tea and more.
Tel: 1800 065 599 Park features: Ensuite cabins, tent sites, powered sites,
BBQ, laundromat, children’s playground, recreation room,
MAY 1-2 walking distance to shops, tennis courts, swimming pool,
Pizzini Wines Tournament de Petanque, Whitfield golf course and bowling club.
For petanque players, or just those who are happy to give it a go, this
two-day event is hugely enjoyable. Watch the action on the petanque Dump point
field or join in, all the while indulging in the beautiful food and fine wine Close to beaches of Inverloch, Waratah Bay and
on offer.
Tel: 03 5729 8278 Wilsons Promontory.

Queen Vic – A Melbourne Icon

Queen Victoria Market is Victoria's premier open-air market.
Sitting on 2 city blocks, it is also the largest open air Market
in the Southern Hemisphere. The friendly competition
between stallholders, their passion for that they do, and their
interaction with customers is what gives the Market its Old
World charm and the addictive power to draw millions of
visitors each year. Visitors, who come not only to shop, can
be entertained by buskers who perform on the surround.
The vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere of this historic site
has endeared the Market to Melburnians for over 130 years.

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 189

Tasmania

Budget in Style:
Good food, Great fishing
By Greg Clarke

Good old-fashioned, every-day value for money doesn’t have to carry the cachet of the
‘sale’ ticket, not in parts of northern Tasmania, anyway.

I
found a couple of bargains hidden not far from the big-ticket
item of Cradle Mountain. Frenchman Remi Bancal’s CV
includes Paris’ Ritz Hotel and the legendary Mietta’s in
Melbourne. He and wife Ginette moved to Tasmania in 1999 and
ran Peppers Calstock in Deloraine before opening a four-room
B&B, Glencoe, in a converted farmhouse in 2006.
Eating at Glencoe is a bargain. The food is sourced from
locals and the vegetable garden out the back, and in a small
place like Glencoe the ostensible simplicity works a treat. Remi
buys the best local ingredients and cooks them into dishes he
thinks will do the strap of lamb or rump of goat justice.
Glencoe proves quite central. Cradle Mountain is about a 40-
minute drive west. The home port of the Spirit of Tasmania,
Devonport, is about 25 minutes north. Lake Barrington and
Sheffield are a scoot down the road.
In Highways to a War, the book by Tasmanian author
Christopher Koch, one character muses: ‘I seldom leave
Tasmania or [my] town. People say it’s a place where nothing
happens. I say a hundred and fifty years have happened . . .
Battles, revolutions, concentration camps, bombing raids and
many other consequences of history are far off in another
hemisphere; the town remains untouched, dozing among its
hills.’
Dozing is a compliment to a small town, a sign it hasn’t been
pressured into all that progress guff, and the description could
be of Sheffield.
On the back roads that twist through lush farmland about
Sheffield, Mt Roland is often a gobsmacking backdrop.
Elsewhere the Great Western Tiers and other great stacks of
Jurassic dolerite make Tasmania one of the most mountainous
islands on earth. But the island is also noted for its fishing.
It’s about an hour’s drive from Glencoe to Natone Hills Fly
Fishery and Ian and Christine Atkinson’s dairy farm. Ian is a
fourth-generation farmer and runs the last of 60-odd dairy farms
in the district.
The Atkinsons have stocked two of the largest dams on their
arresting property with trout and I have fetched up to learn to fly
fish. I’ve remained curious about a sport some purists consider
closer to art than abstract oil paintings.
A local, Grayden Haines, provides the fly fishing expertise
When Ian hooks a second fish I really should offer to help net
and has more than 50 years worth of experience in his tackle
it but am preoccupied with fishing my fly out of the nearby
box.
tussocks. With time I gain some casting proficiency, but become
Grayden has me casting in the paddock first. My fishing rod
much more competent at coveting the ostensible ease with
is beautifully uncomplicated and only once in the first 30 minutes
which Grayden and Ian cast their gracefully looping lines. 
of practising does the line get caught about my neck.   
I remain fishless, Natone’s 16lb record unthreatened. About
Ian lands the first fish within about five minutes. Jenny whisks
50 per cent of first timers catch a fish according to Jenny.
it off to the barbecue - a snack for morning.  
On my first cast I pray for a miracle. Divine intervention, act For those of you who do catch a fish and plan on returning to
one, occurs when the line doesn’t land on the water in a Glencoe, Remi will cook your trout: “Roast, sashimi, whatever,”
complete tangle. I am all out of credits a moment later and reel says the epicurean Frenchman.
the fishless fly in. Around the same time Ian plays a whopper, a For more information on Tasmania:
12 pounder he thinks, but it drops off the line.  www.discovertasmania.com

190 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 What’s On Where

WHAT’S ON WHERE
TASMANIA – AUTUMN 2010
APRIL 2 MAY 14-17
West Tamar 3 Peaks Festival, Launceston From France to Freycinet Festival, Freycinet
Picturesque Inspection Point Wharf sets a lovely scene for this family The French really know how to make food and wine, and this is evident
day, where you can taste some of the best food and wine in the Tamar in Tasmania’s celebration of the French exploration here in 1802. Great
Valley. Get involved in exciting activities both on and off the water. food, fantastic wine, exhibitions and concerts all form part of this
festival.
Tel: 03 6383 6365
Tel: 03 6257 8755
APRIL 4-10 MAY 16-23
International Mural Fest, Sheffield The Works Festival, Glenorchy
Being the town of murals, it’s only fitting that Sheffield hosts this annual Art and community come together in this biennial celebration of the
unique art competition. Nine artists paint head to head in a paint-off, creativity of Glenorchy’s community. Music, visual arts, craft and
vying to finish their murals within six and a half days. Visitors can cheer theatre are presented, and you can get creative yourself in the
the artists on, and vote in the People’s Choice award. numerous workshops, or enjoy live performances.
Tel: 03 6491 2425 Tel: 03 6216 6312

APRIL 17-18
Two Heads Disc Golf Open, Austins Ferry
April 17-18:
Any visitor to this event can compete, or stand by and watch as Two Heads Disc
competitors perfect their action in the disc golf championship. The Golf Open,
course is Australia’s first and oldest disc golf course, beautifully located
with bush and parkland terrain.
Austins Ferry
Tel: 0437 179 275

MAY 2
designed; made, Hobart
Furniture, jewellery, homewares, fashion, textiles, accessories and
gifts, all in the open air market at Hobart’s IXL Courtyard. Everything is
designer-made by local producers who are happy to meet the
shoppers and talk about the creation process.
Tel: 03 6234 9220

Bruny Island (one of Tasmania’s best kept secrets) is

historically one of the most significant places in Australia,
being the first landing place of European explorers during their
voyages of discovery to the ‘Southern Seas’.
Bruny is a unique island with sweeping beaches, spectacular
capes, rainforests, wildflowers and abundant bird life.
Access to Bruny Island is by vehicular ferry ‘Mirambeena’
which departs from Kettering (approx. 35 mins travelling time
south of Hobart), 10 times per day.
The ferry can carry up to 65 passenger vehicles at any one trip
and the crossing time is approximately 15 minutes.
Care must be taken when driving at night to avoid damage
both to the wildlife and to your vehicle, so please drive slowly
after dark.
Caravan Parks are located at Adventure Bay. Camping areas
are located at the Neck Beach, Cloudy Corner and Jetty Beach,
all have pit toilets. Firewood is not supplied and potted water
is limited so bring your own drinking water.
For more information about the Bruny Island ferry service:
www.brunyislandferry.com.au
For more information about Bruny Island:
www.brunyisland.net
or phone the Bruny D’Entrecasteaux Visitor Centre
on 03 6267 4494
Ferry Timetable Information 03 6273 6725
Bruny Island Ferry Company – Operator
www.brunyislandferry.com.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 191

Caravan Club Directory

AUSTRALIAN CARAVAN CLUBS

Send any listing updates to media@executivemedia.com.au
CAROUSEL CARAVAN CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC. SOUTHERN CROSS CARAVAN CLUB OF QLD INC.
NATIONAL Mrs Trish Lee Mr Rob Poulter
17 Bath Street, Birkdale, QLD 4159 65 Dunbar Street, Mt Gravatt East, QLD 4122
AUSTRALIAN TOURING CARAVAN, MOTORHOME AND Tel: (07) 3822 2761 Tel: (07) 3849 3429
CAMPING CLUB INC Email: trishlee@optusnet.com.au Email: poulter9@hello.net.au
Mr Brian Kelleher
12 Beltana Street, Grovedale, VIC 3216 COOLUM CARAVAN CLUB INC. SUNCOAST CARAVANNING CLUB QLD INC.
Tel: (03) 5243 1277 Mr Graham Knight Mrs Sandra Dolan
PO Box 898, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 38 Gannawarra Street, Currimundi, QLD 4551
CAMPERVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB OF AUSTRALIA INC Tel: (07) 5493 7391
Tel: (07) 5446 4339
(NATIONAL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE) Email: suncoastcaravanningclub@gmail.com
Ron Green, Secretary DOWN UNDER CARAVAN CLUB INC.
PO Box 327, Cardiff, NSW 2285 Mrs Arlene Hallen SUNSHINE CARAVAN CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC.
9 Hemdon Street, Gatton, QLD 4343 Mr Kev Gallagher
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CARAVAN CLUBS INC 4 Cone Court, Camira, QLD 4300
Mrs Lorraine Perry, Secretary Tel: (07) 5463 2448
Email: secretaryducc@gmail.com.au Tel: (07) 3288 4843
1 Resthaven Ave, Charmhaven, NSW 2263 Email: sunshinecaravanclub@gmail.com
Tel: (02) 4393 9564 DOWNS WANDERERS CARAVAN CLUB INC.
Email: lorriepete@bigpond.com.au Mrs Wendy Groves TOOWOOMBA & GOLDEN WEST CARAVAN CLUB INC.
PO Box 8077, Toowoomba Mail Centre, QLD 4352 Ms Marianne Enders
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY Tel: (07) 4687 7643
Email: bpwh@dodo.com.au
12 Brangus Street, Toowoomba, QLD 4350
TRUE BLUE CARAVAN CLUB INC.
CANBERRA CARAVAN CLUB INC Patrick Lawson
Mrs Maureen Taylor EXPLORERS CARAVAN CLUB INC.
Mrs Marie Hegerty 43 Learmonth Street, Strathpine QLD 4500
61 Eridunda Circuit, Hawker, ACT 2614 Tel: (07) 3205 4660
Tel: (02) 6286 2134 195 Witta Road, Maleny QLD 4552
Tel: (07) 5494 4404 Email: truebluecaravanclub@gmail.com
Email: secretary@canberracaravanclub.org.au

NEW SOUTH WALES

NSW STATE ASSOCIATION OF
CARAVAN CLUBS AND MEMBERS
Mrs Lorraine Perry, Secretary
1 Resthaven Avenue, Charmhaven, NSW 2263
Tel: (02) 4328 3965
Email: lorriepete@bigpond.com
BLUE MOUNTAINS CARAVAN CLUB
Merv Barnett, Secretary
91 Belmont Street, Merrylands, NSW 2160
CARAVAN CLUB OF AUSTRALIA LTD, SYDNEY
Mr Dean Wakely
17 Clisby Way, Matraville, NSW 2036
CENTRAL COAST CARAVANNERS
Mrs Robyn Baker, Secretary
PO Box 5144, Chittaway Bay NSW 2261
Tel: (02) 4388 5558
CENTRAL WEST CARAVAN CLUB
Mrs V. Goddard
152 Durban Street, Bathurst, NSW 2795
HUNTER REGION CARAVAN CLUB
David Harwood, Secretary
3 Victoria Road, Bolwarra, NSW 2320
Tel: (02) 4934 8078
NEWCASTLE CARAVAN CLUB
The Secretary
557/1126 Nelson Bay Road, Fern Bay, NSW 2295
Tel: (02) 4928 2436
SOUTH COAST CAMPERVAN CLUB
M. Nicholson, Secretary
102 Loralyn Avenue, St Georges Basin, NSW 2540 Mrs Brenda Usher
SOUTH COAST CARAVAN CLUB OF NSW INC
J. Johnson, Secretary
10 Waratah Avenue, Cudmirrah, NSW 2540
SHOALHAVEN CARAVAN CLUB
Kevin Hill, Membership Officer
Leigh Hill, Secretary
2 Meehan Street, Shoalhaven Heads, NSW 2535
Tel: (02) 4448 7990
SYDNEY CARAVAN CLUB INC
Tom McLean, Secretary
275 Oaks Road, Thirlmere, NSW 2572
Tel: (02) 4681 9640
TUGGERAH LAKES CARAVANNERS INC.
Katie Patterson, Secretary
57 Wandewoi Ave, Sane Remo, NSW 2262
QUEENSLAND
STATE ASSOCIATION – COMBINED CARAVAN CLUBS OF Mr John Dale
QUEENSLAND INC. (CCCQ)
Mrs Barbara Rutherford
1 Colvillea Close, Carseldine, QLD 4034
ADVENTURERS CARAVAN CLUB QLD INC
Pat Mander
31 Edwards Street, Flinders View, QLD 4305
Tel: (07) 3288 8370
Email: adventurerscaravanclub@gmail.com
BAYSIDE CARAVAN CLUB BRISBANE INC.
Mrs Deirdre Mulder
PO Box 1320, Browns Plains BC QLD 4118
Tel: (07) 3200 0096
Email: baysidecaravanclub@gmail.com
BUNDABERG CARAVAN CLUB INC.
Mrs Val Cunningham
39 Shaw Street, Bundaberg, QLD 4670
Tel: (07) 4153 6078
CAMPERVAN CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC.
Mrs Pat Evans
95/60 Endeavour Blvd, North Lakes, QLD 4509
Tel: (07) 3482 5095
Email: bpevo@flexinet.com.au
CAPRICORN CARAVAN & CAMPER CLUB INC.
Dawn Dicinoski
PO Box 5821, C.Q.M.C., QLD 4702
Tel: (07) 4928 5295
Email: dico-1@bigpond.com
Email: raymar@auzynet.com
FAMILY CARAVAN CLUB INC.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Mrs. Margaret Jaques ASSOCIATION OF CARAVAN CLUBS OF SA
10 Serissa Street, Crestmead, QLD 4132 Mrs Eva Warwick, Secretary
Tel: (07) 3402 0508 15 Kinnear Cres, Rostrevor, SA 5073
Email: mtjaques@optusnet.com.au Tel: (08) 8337 9274
Email: evawarwick@bigpond.com
FRASER COAST CARAVAN CLUB INC.
Barrie Sibson ADELAIDE CARAVAN CLUB INC
PO Box 5358, Torquay QLD 4655 Dianna Wilcox
Tel: (07) 4124 9710 63 Lord Howe Ave, Hillcrest, SA 5056
Email: sibsonb@bigpond.com BAROSSA VALLEY CARAVAN AND CAMPING CLUB
GOLD COAST CARAVAN CLUB INC. Mrs Jenny Lewis, Secretary
PO Box 611, Nurioopta, SA 5355
Mr Ken Maddison
Tel: (08) 8563 8211
4 Troon Court, Robina Qld 4226
Tel: (07) 5593 3446 CAMPERVAN CLUB OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA INC
Email: kenbeth4@bigpond.com Mr. Ken Purnell, Secretary
103 Mystle Road, Seacliffe, SA 5049
GUMNUT CARAVAN CLUB INC.
Isabel Campbell Tel: (08) 8296 3462
14 Melody Street, Victoria Point QLD 4165 CARAVAN CLUB OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Tel: (07) 3820 9932 Mr Bob Freak
16 Fowler Street, Seaview Downs, SA 5049
Email: gumnutcaravanclub@gmail.com
Tel: (08) 8449 4573
HERVEY BAY CARAVAN CLUB INC.
CAREFREE CARAVANNERS OF SA INC
Ms Linda Lakeman
73 Sempfs Road, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655 Mrs Yvonne Cooke, Secretary
170B Upper Sturt Road, Hawthorndene, 5051,
Email: oma_opa@optusnet.com
JAYCO OWNERS CLUB OF S.E. QLD INC. Tel: (08) 8178 0876
Email: mcock@bigpond.com.au
Glenys Cooper
PO Box 2160, Tingalpa QLD 4173 CMCA INC – CAMPERVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB OF
Tel: (07) 5537 7949 AUSTRALIA
Email: jayco_owners_club_seqls@hotmail.com Mr John Gray, Secretary
64 Foxfiled Drive, Onkaparinga Hills, SA 5163
KARRAMAR TRAVELLERS CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC.
Tel: (08) 8325 2989
11 Silkwood Court, Glenore Grove, QLD 4342 COROMAL CARAVAN CLUB OF SA
Mr John Gray, Secretary
Tel: (07) 5466 5168
Email: karramartravellersclub@gmail.com 64 Foxfield Drive, Onkaparinga Hills, SA 5163
Tel: (08) 8325 2989
KOOKABURRA CARAVAN CLUB OF IPSWICH QLD INC.
Mrs Ken King DAVE BENSON CARAVAN CLUB
Mrs Helen Manson, Secretary
35 Blue Gum Drive, Toowoomba, QLD 4350
Tel: (07) 4634 6960 12 Bass Place, Flinders Park SA 5025
Tel: (08) 8443 4749
Email: kandsking@hotmail.com
MACKAY CARAVAN CLUB INC. FREE SPIRIT CARAVAN/CAMPING CLUB INC.,
Mrs Mary Smith Secretary
Pearl Ashton
Mt Pleasant QLD 4740 47 Noolinga Way, Salisbury North 5108
Tel: (08) 8250 6818
Tel: (07) 4942 8371
Email; mackaycaravanclub@gmail.com Email: socrotees@hotmail.com
ELIZABETHAN CARAVAN CLUB LNC
MORETON BAY CARAVAN CLUB INC.
Mr Mervyn Smoker, Secretary
Mr Russell Walker
c/o Locked Bag 1 RSD, Smithfield, SA 5114
PO Box 1111, Burpengary D.C, QLD 4505
Tel: (07) 5498 7065
Tel: (08) 8287 5949
JAYCO CLUB OF SA
NORTH QUEENSLAND CARAVAN CLUB INC. Mr Kelvin Roberts, Secretary
11 Fitzgerald Road, Pasadena SA 5042
PO Box 4565, Kirwan, QLD 4817 Tel: (08) 8177 2029
Tel: (07) 4723 1784
Email: jaycoclubsa.asn.au
PENINSULA CARAVAN CLUB INC. Web: www.jaycoclubsa.asn.au
Bev Byng
MASONIC CARAVAN AND TRAVEL CLUB OF SA INC
122 Braun Street, Deagon QLD 4017 Mr Murray Balchin, Secretary
Tel: (07) 3869 0345 Unit 89, Masonic Village, Ridgehaven, SA 5097
Email: peninsulacaravanclub@gmail.com Tel: (08) 8264 7230
PLATYPUS CARAVAN CLUB INC. MURRAY BRIDGE CARAVAN & CAMPING CLUB INC.
Mr Ross Kelly Mrs Iris Mayr, Secretary,
141 Whites Road, Buderim, QLD 4556 46 High Street, Peake, SA 5301
Tel: 0409 668 108 Tel: (08) 8574 3085
QLD MASONIC TOURING CLUB INC. Email: lfnewman@adam.com.au
Mr Paul Millow NEW HORIZON CARAVAN CLUB INC
194 Edgewater Village, David Low Highway, Bli Bli, QLD 4560 Mrs Pauline Schilling
Tel: (07) 5450 0467 8 Colwood Avenue, Fulham, SA 5024
Email: robnpaul@gotalk.net.au Tel: (08) 8356 4301
QUEENSLAND CARAVAN CLUB INC. PACK CAMPING CLUB
Lynne Pomroy Mrs Lyn Cook, Secretary
6 Spenlow Street, West Chermside QLD 4032 24 Treefern Avenue, Rostrevor, SA 5073
Tel: (07) 3359 8297 Tel: (08) 8336 3124
Email: qccsecretary@acenet.net.au Email: lyn.cook4@bigpond.com
SOUTH EAST CARAVAN CLUB INC. PORT AUGUSTA CARAVAN CLUB INC
Sue Thorpe The Secretary
PO Box 824, Morayfield QLD 4508 PO Box 2454, Port Augusta SA 5700
Tel: (07) 5309 4237 Tel: (08) 8643 6449
Email: southeastcaravanclub@gmail.com Email: andymoz@internode.on.net

192 • Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010

 Caravan Club Directory

AUSTRALIAN CARAVAN CLUBS

Send any listing updates to media@executivemedia.com.au
ROAD RUNNER CARAVAN CLUB INC JAYCO OWNERS CLUB OF VICTORIA INC JAYCO CLUB OF WA INC
Mr Bill Henschke, Secretary The Secretary Mr Peter Birch,
7 Shipton Street, Elizabeth SA 5112 PO Box 41, Chadstone Centre VIC 3148 PO Box 893 Kalamunda WA 6296
Tel: (08) 8255 1388 KNOX CARAVAN AND CAMPING CLUB LEISURE SEEKERS CARAVAN CLUB
SA POST-TEL INSTITUTE CARAVAN AND CAMPING CLUB Mr Tony Doria, President Mr Cliff Miller
Mr Max Schultz, Secretary 275 Belmore Road, Balwyn North VIC 3104 20 Bellana Place, Quinns Rock WA 6030
1085 Greenhill Road, Summertown SA 5141 Tel: (03) 9857 5241 Tel: (08) 9305 7243
Tel: (08) 8390 0220 Email: doriaaj@netspace.net.au Email: cliff.miller@bigpond.com
Email: schultz2@chariot.net.au MASONIC CARAVAN CLUB OF VICTORIA INC M.A.D MEANDERERS CARAVAN CLUB
SOUTHERN CROSS CARAVAN CLUB INC Mr Ray Stevens, Secretary Ms Barbara Ruscoe, Secretary
Mr Jim Nurse, Secretary 16 Doulton Avenue, Heathmont VIC 3135 72 Boronia Avenue, Collingwood Heights WA 6330
16 Vitana Avenue, Ingle Farm SA 5098 Tel: (03) 9870 9715 Tel: (08) 9844 1200
Tel: (08) 8260 2043 Email: barbararuscoe@bigpond.com
MOORABBIN PROSPECTING AND CAMPING CLUB INC MASONIC TOURING CLUB OF WA INC
SOUTHERN NOMADS CARAVAN CLUB SA INC Mr Lou Blencowe, Secretary
Mrs Maria Humphreys Joan Menzies
PO Box 250, Glen Waverley VIC 3150 67 Hale Rd, Forrestfield WA 6058
43 Hawker Avenue, Plympton Park SA 5038
Tel: (08) 8293 7374
NORTH EAST VICTORIA CARAVAN CLUB INC Tel: (08) 9359 0738
Email: colinhumps@bigpond.com Avril Annett, Publicity Officer Email: kjmenzies@gotalk.net.au
PO Box 440 WAngaratta VIC 3677 MIDWEST CARAVAN CLUB OF WA INC
UNITED CAMPING CLUB
Mrs Gillian de Souza, Secretary RACV CARAVAN CLUB OF VICTORIA INC (BASED IN GERALDTON)
106 R.M. Williams Drive WAlkley Heights SA 5098 Mr Ray Spargo, Secretary June Davidson
Tel: (08) 8260 5401 PO Box 165, Ashburton VIC 3147 112 Kempton Street, Bluff Point, Geraldton WA 6530
Tel: (03) 9844 3345 Tel: (08) 9923 0773
Email: rae@adam.com.au
VICTORIAN CARAVAN CLUB INC Email: gjdavidson@westnet.net.au
WANDERERS CARAVAN CLUB INC. OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA MOTORISED CAMPER CLUB OF WA INC
Mr R. (Bob) Gosling, Secretary Mr Ken Haythorpe
110 Clow Street, Dandenong VIC 3175 Lilian Aiken
5 Westwood Street, Davoren Park SA 5113 c/o 2 Towerhill Rd, Alexander Heights WA 6064
Tel: (08) 8255 4911 Tel: (03) 9791 7577
Tel: (08) 9771 1433
Email: rgosling4@bigpond.com.au WESTERN DISTRICT CARAVAN CLUB Email: tadpole26@westnet.com.au
WOMBAT CARAVAN CLUB Mrs Pamela Parsons
7B Dunvegan Court Warrnambool VIC 3280 RANGEVIEW CARAVAN CLUB OF WA INC
Mrs Mary Jarrad, Secretary Brana Williams
5 Brentnall Avenue, Blair Athol SA 5084 Tel: (03) 5562 3464
3 Pries Ave, Kelmscott WA 6111
Tel: (08) 8344 2568
WESTERN AUSTRALIA Tel: (08) 9390 7019
TASMANIA AUSTRALIND HAPPY WANDERERS CARAVAN AND
Email: branawilliams@iinet.net.au
REDGUM CARAVANNERS INC
NORTHERN TASMANIAN CARAVAN CLUB CAMPING CLUB INC. Monica Houghton
The Secretary Mr Lloyd Merritt, President 117 Waterperry Drive, Canning Vale WA 6155
PO Box 7250, Launceston TAS 7250 PO Box 7, Boyanup WA 6237 Tel: (08) 9456 3411
Tel: (08) 9731 5405 Email: monica_h@optusnet.com.au
NORTH WEST CAMPERS AND CARAVANNERS CLUB
Mrs Elaine Mackenzie, Secretary WA ASSOCIATION OF CARAVAN CLUBS INC ROLLING WHEELS CARAVAN CLUB INC
532 Seabrook Road TAS 7325 Mrs Janet Dicker Alton Smith
Tel: (03) 6442 3983 34 Boonooloo Road, Kalamunda WA 6076 33 Halse Cres, Melville WA 6156
Tel: (08) 9293 4970 Tel: (08) 9330 1351
SOUTHERN TASMANIA CARAVAN CLUB INC
The Secretary BATAVIA FAMILY GETAWAY CLUB INC SANDGROPER CARAVANNERS INC
PO Box 743, Moonah TAS 7009 Bryan Joyce
Ruth Elliot
PO Box 236, Bull Creek WA 6149
VICTORIA
13 Quarry St, Gearldton WA 6530 Tel: (08) 9456 5585
Tel: (08) 9921 3994 Email: joyco@westnet.com.au
A.T.C.M. AND C.C. BI-TONE WEST COAST CARAVAN CLUB INC SOU’WEST GETAWAY CLUB INC
Mrs H. Beachley, Secretary, Mrs Helen Thacker (BASED IN BUNBURY)
PO Box 298, Croydon VIC 3136 26 Davies Cres, Kardinya WA 6163 Bruce Minchin
Email: atcmcc@optusnet.com.au Tel: (08) 9331 1267 28 Geographe Way, Bunbury WA 6230
Email: a.hkardi@optusnet.com.au Tel: (08) 9795 7255
ASSOCIATION OF CARAVAN CLUBS OF VICTORIA, AND
THEIR MEMBERS INCORPORATED BUSSELTON CARAVAN CLUB INC Email: minch2@bigpond.com
Mr Ray Stevens, Secretary Mary Robinson SOUTH WEST CARAVAN AND CAMPING CLUB INC
16 Doulton Avenue, Heathmont VIC 3135 PO Box 926 Busselton 6280 Kathleen Dyson
Tel: (03) 9870 9715 Tel: (08) 9752 2925 6B Falstaff Close, Mandurah WA 6210
AUSSIE ADVENTURERS CARAVAN Email: rjkmr8@bigpond.com Tel: (08) 9535 9353
BREAKAWAY MOTOR CAMPER CLUB Email: diceman40@bigpond.com
AND CAMPING CLUB INC.
Mr David Field Fran Comstive SUNNYWEST CARAVANNERS INC
PO Box 1056, Kangaroo Flat VIC 3555 1 Saggers Drive, Bentley WA 6102 Ron Harley
Tel: 0408 605 499 Tel: (08) 9361 1452 2 Wordsworth Drive, Darch WA 6065
Email: franjon@iinet.net.au Tel: (08) 9302 2598
AUSTRALIAN CARAVAN CLUB Email: ronald.harley@bigpond.com
ACC Secretary CAMPERVAN AND MOTORHOME CLUB OF AUSTRALIA
PO Box 631, Patterson Lakes VIC 3197 (PERTH WANDERERS) SUNSET COAST CARAVAN CLUB
Tel: 1800 734 493 Marilyn Wratten, Secretary Mrs Betty Sadler
Email: secretary@australiancaravanclub.com.au 1 The Avenue, Midland WA 6056 PO Box 2117 WArwick WA 6024
Tel: (08) 9274 1851 Tel: (08) 9447 1754
BALLARAT CARAVAN CLUB Email: bettysadler@bigpond.com
Secretary COUNTRY ROADS CARAVAN CLUB INC SWAN CARAVAN AND CAMPING CLUB
PO Box 5, Bakery Hill VIC 3354 [FORMERLY DUNDUKLUMPEN CC] Pam Watt
BENDIGO CARAVAN CLUB INC Brian Warner 26A Sholl Avenue, North Beach WA 6020
The Secretary 3 Manders Way, Singleton WA 6175 Tel: (08) 9447 9770
PO Box 2508, Bendigo Mail Centre VIC 3554 Tel: (08) 9537 1993 Email: kpwatt@smartchat.net.au
CENTRAL VICTORIA CARAVAN CLUB Email: toducks@bigpond.com
THE CARAVAN CLUB OF WA INC
Mr Barry Ryan, Secretary GARVEY CARAVAN AND CAMPING GROUP Val McCarroll
PO Box 10, Bendigo VIC 3550 Mr Dave Pattenden 2 Trevithick Close, Stirling WA 6021
COMBINED CARAVAN CLUB OF VICTORIA 4 Garvey Place, Bunbury WA 6230 Tel: (08) 9349 8166
Mrs Barbara Collins, Secretary Email: dna.pattenden@bigpond.com Email: vmach@arach.net.au
129 Dublin Road, East Ringwood VIC 3135 FAMILY WANDERERS CARAVAN & CAMPING CLUB INC THE JAYCO OWNERS CLUB OF WA INC
Tel: (03) 9893 1007 Robert Davenport Peter Birch
Email: barberic@optusnet.com.au 50 Goldfinch Loop, Woodvale WA 6026 PO Box 163, Burswood WA 6100
COMPASS CAMPER CLUB INC Tel: (08) 9409 3787 Tel: (08) 9361 2657
Mrs Glenys Ferguson, Membership Officer Email: rmdav01@bigpond.net.au Email: pvbirch@iinet.net.au
411 Boronia Road, Bayswater VIC 3153 FAMILY WEST CARAVAN & CAMPING CLUB INC TOURING CAMPERVAN CLUB
Tel: (03) 9729 5576 Mike Rice Mr John Holmes
COMPASS CARAVAN CLUB INC 15 Bismarck Approach, Rockingham WA 6168 1/42 Moondarra Way, Joondalup WA 6027
Mrs G. Edwards, Secretary Tel: (08) 9528 5887 Tel: (08) 9300 2163
PO Box 405, Frankston VIC 3199 Email: miker@westnet.com.au Email: touring.camper.club@live.com.au
Tel: (03) 9781 4074 GEOGRAPHE CARAVAN CLUB INC WEST COAST JAYCO CLUB INC
DRIFTAWAY CARAVAN CLUB INC Barbara Trichet Barbara Cheeseman
15 Gloucester Rd, Kalamunda WA 6076
The Secretary PO Pox 5199, West Busselton WA 6280
Tel: (08) 9293 4552
PO Box 1687, Geelong VIC 3213 Tel: (08) 9755 8028 Email: cheesydb@bigpond.net.au
GEELONG CARAVAN CLUB INC Email: barbara.trichet@bigpond.com
WEST SIDE CARAVANNERS INC
Mrs Faye Harvey, Secretary GYPSY ROVERS TOURING CLUB Jan Cocks
70 Earl Crescent, Bannockburn VIC 3331 Mr John Gilbellini, Secretary 10 Kilchurn Prom, Darch WA 6065
GIPPSLAND CARAVAN CLUB INC 1 Luita Street, Wembley Downs WA 6019 Tel: (08) 9302 3448
Mrs Karen Davis, Secretary Tel: (08) 9354 4717 Email: jan_cocks@hotmail.com
3 Plum Street, Doveton VIC 3177 Email: kjgibellini@bigpond.com WESTERN WANDERERS CARAVAN AND CAMPER CLUB
GREAT OCEAN ROAD COMMITTEE JAYBIRD ROADRUNNERS CARAVAN CLUB INC OF WA
Robyn Hoe, Senior Clerk Ted Gallop Sandi Wille, Secretary
PO Box 53, Torquay VIC 3228 44 Pirianda Way, Aveley WA 6069 12 Carrick Road, Mount Richon WA 6112
Tel: (03) 5220 5021 Tel: (08) 9296 8986 Tel: (08) 9399 9575
Email: robyn.h@gorcc.com.au Email: gallops@e-wire.net.au Email: ronsan@iinet.net.au

Caravanning Australia • Autumn 2010 • 193

“PEACE OF MIND MY FRIEND,
IS WORTH ITS
WEIGHT IN GOLD ”
Caravan fanatic John Marek travels for six months of the year through outback Western Australia and put his tyres through torture.

T
he caravan is packed and
you and your partner are
finally ready to head out on
your trip. The last thing you want to
worry about now is whether your
tyres will make it to the end of the
last trip exploring through virgin
country from south of Mt Magnet
to north of Meekathara in Western
Australia, there was a period of 5
days where we were driving over
nothing but rock-littered flats. After
through the sidewalls. I might also
add that they’re pretty quiet on the
highway. As for driving on bitumen,
very nice handling and low noise up
to the 110th km.
Next time I will get a set of ST’s for

“The caravan, well that needs to be on Coopers ST’s as well, as I have had more flats and
blowouts with the ‘cubby house’ than the Discovery. I realise that most people just use
LT tyres on their caravan, but for complete peace of mind, I’m going to fit Cooper’s ST’s
as I have on the Discovery. Peace of mind my friend, is worth it’s weight in gold.”

journey. But John Marek, a caravan
fanatic, has figured out how to
relieve his worries.
“I purchased a full set of Cooper
tyres from Tyrepower in Kalgoorlie.
I told the owner that as a prospector
I covered some pretty rough ground
and so a set were fitted.
I’m not too cautious with tyres - I
put them through a bit of torture. For
six months of the year they support
the fully loaded-up Discovery and
pull our small caravan throughout
the outback of Western Australia
while we search for that elusive
gold.
Cooper tyres are very good. On my
the first day I stopped worrying the caravan to match the Discovery.
about rock punctures and drove on, Having all the same tyres will be a
confident that the Discovery fitted god-send.”
with Coopers ST’s could handle it. John Marek
I only had to worry about the tyres
on the caravan, as they were fitted For your closest authorised
with another brand. Cooper Tires dealer and free
The last ten thousand kilometres info pack call:
have mainly been on bush tracks,
ungraded roads and rock-littered
1300 COOPER
(1300 266 737)
plains. I blew two LT caravan
tyres, but the Coopers handled it
all without a problem. No chipping
and no bits of rubber torn off the
tread. Those sidewalls are tough, as
there were a few rocky places where
I was certain that I was going to rip