Day 1
Thursday 2nd January 2025
Brisbane to Bellingen
419 kms
Sunny, 19 -28 degrees
A new year, and some new places to explore. Heading south, it was a driving day today. Lucky we had some very picturesque countryside to enjoy – very green after all the recent rains. The M1 was a great road, only slow part was through Coff’s Harbour. Our overnight stay was at Bellingen, a very pretty little town. We stayed at the Showgrounds, a nice shady park with large sites, and within walking distance to town. We set up, then walked across the river into town.
An early night after all the organising to get away.
Day 2
Friday 3rd January 2025
Bellingen to Cessnock
394 kms
19-25 degrees, cloudy, light to heavy rain
Basically another driving day , along the M1 – great road. We had about an hour of heavy rain which made driving quite stressful, but all of a sudden it stopped.
We arrived at Cessnock early afternoon, again staying at the Showgrounds. We set up, then went to the Information Centre to work out a plan for our next couple of days. Also a grocery shop to stock up on food items.
Now we’re ready to start the holiday part of the trip.
Day 3
Saturday 4th January 2025
Cessnock
16- 31 degrees
A relaxing drive along the beautiful tree lined roads through the Pokolbin region brought us to the Hunter Valley Gardens and shopping precinct. We have been here a couple of times before and it’s always enjoyable. We decided not to go back into the main gardens as it was just so hot , and the middle of the day. The shops, a coffee, and a general wander around had up suffice.
Next a wine tasting at Vamps Wine Rooms, owned by fourth generation of the famous Hunter Valley family, Lisa McGuigan. Her philodophy of “ life’s too short not to drink great wines” sits well with me. She has some very interesting marketing and labelling, and the wines were very appealing. Wine tasting experiences can be booked in the Bondage or Chainmail rooms. Next minute, we were signed up as members.
Lunch followed at Blaxland Inn in the same precinct. A nice menu with accompanying local wines.
Next a drive to Broke, enjoying the gorgeous countryside, vineyards, alpaca farms and other local sites. Of note were Crepe Myrtles which were flowering vividly – all shades of puns and purples, and whites. Quite a showcase. A contrast to the Hunter Lavender Farm – the flowers were at the end of their season, but still a pretty scene with the hills in the background.
Back to Cessnock, and our van, where we enjoyed sundowners and the cool breeze , before our dinner.
Day 4
Sunday 5th January 2025
Cessnock
15-35 degrees
Out to explore before it got too hot. We drove to the little mural town of Kurri Kurri – not too much happening there on a Sunday morning. We walked up and down the Main Street admiring the murals, and their “Big Kookaburra”. A couple of beautifully restored pubs marked each end of the Main Street. It was too hot for a coffee – 30 degrees by 11am.
We were at a bit of a loss as to what to do – we didn’t really feel like visiting any wineries, and it was just so hot! We ended up going back to Cessnock where we checked out the local retail, and enjoyed the air conditioning.
Then back to the caravan, where we cranked up our aircon, had a late lunch and a restful afternoon. The heat outside was zapping of all energy.
5pm came and we decided to test the elements and venture out – a drink at Harrigan’s Irish Bar, and then a delicious 3 course meal at Elements, both venues at Polkobin. Compliments to the chef at Elements. We had a beautiful outlook watching the king parrots nesting in the tree, and the daylight saving is so nice – wish we had that.
The temperature finally started to drop when the sun went down at 9pm, so we enjoyed watching a movie back at our humble little abode.
Day 5
Monday 6th January
Arrived at Woodbine Caravan Park in Lakes Entrance at 4pm. Took us ages to park. If you like being sardine in a can, this is the park for you! Once settled, we went for a walk around the town – very much a holiday resort, no doubt full of Melbournites! A nice vibe however. Dinner in tonight.
Cessnock to Wollongong
259 kms
18 – 32 degrees, sunny
We awoke to the sounds of horses training on the track which was at the back of the Van. Up early to avoid the predicted 39 degrees (it got up to 40) temperature. Away by 9am, and already 26 degrees. Thank goodness for the aircon in the car!
Back onto the M1, down through Hornsby, through the new Sydney bypass tunnel, onto the new tollroad M7 which turned into M31 (Hume Highway) , then onto B69 to Campbelltown. We avoided the steep descent of Bulli Pass instead taking Mt Ousley Road – still steep, but no where near as bad.
We were welcomed into Wollongong by Councillor Martin – we checked in to the Dolphin Suite for 2 nights. Got a great park out of the front of his townhouse block.
Then out for an explore of Richard’s local area – we drove up Bulli Pass (so glad we didn’t drive down this road with the caravan on), to Sublime Point Lookout, and Bald Hill Lookout. Spectacular view of Sea Cliff Bridge and the coastline. Drove through suburbs of Stanwell Park, Scarborough, Thirroul, Corrimal, Russel Vale (where Richard lives), Bulli Beach, through to the bustling metropolis of Wollongong. Richard gave us a great tour with much information about new and planned developments.
Day 9
Back to Richard’s for drinks on the lanai, followed by the chef’s own green chicken curry. A very nice evening.
Day 6
Tuesday 7th January
Wollongong
17-20 degrees, cold and rainy
Well the cool change came in with a bang – cold and raining! Not the Queensland weather we know – where is beautiful one day, perfect the next!!!
Our first stop today was the Kiama Blowhole. I had seen it as a child, and also taken my children there. It probably didn’t have the same impact as either of those occasions, but the little boy we were standing next, to was certainly impressed.
Onto Berry, a charming village in the Shoalhaven region of the NSW South Coast. With a charming main street, sophisticated shopping, the lush landscape and an assortment of epicurean experiences, it’s easy to see why Berry is a popular escape for glamorous Sydneysiders.
After a coffee at the very popular bakery, we experienced a little of the retail therapy – there was a great homeware store, and a very interesting shoe shop. Lunch at the pub was very filling – the seafood chowder was delicious. Afterwards, Richard took us to the “ must go to “ Treats Store – it had every type of jam, chutney, sauce, chocolates and sweets you could think of, all made on site. Too many temptations.
Driving back to Richard’s place, we had a tour of the southern end the Illawarra region. It really is a lovely part of the world. The coast line is very pretty and very well utilised. Thankfully the rain had stopped.
Dinner was a takeaway Vietnamese stir fry tonight. Something light after our filling lunch.
Day 7
Wednesday 8th January
Wollongong to Eden
410 kms
16-21 degrees, cloudy
An hour’s drive to Nowra where we met up with Tony and Rosemary for morning tea – a nice catch up on all the family news.
A big driving day today-we continued on the Princess Highway to Mogo, where we stopped in this cute little village for lunch – the bakery was calling, and yummy home made meat pies were on the menu. Some nice arts and craft shops here.
We arrived in Eden at 5pm, and checked in at the Eden Gateway Caravan park – a nice drive through grassy site. Once set up, we decided we needed to stretch our legs and walk along boardwalk surrounding Lake Curalo – the salt marsh, eucalypt forest and grasslands are home to abundant birdlife. Very pretty.
Ate in for dinner tonight, chicken cooked on the Weber always goes down well.
Day 8
Thursday 9th January
Eden
17-23 degrees, sunny
A beautiful sunny day today. Our first point of call was the Killer Whale Museum. We had a really interesting talk on how during whaling times, the Killer whales helped the whalers by herding the humpbacks into Twofold Bay. Once they had been harpooned, the killer whales would eat the humpback’s tongues, and then leave the rest of the whale for the whalers to process for oil.
That filled in the morning. We stopped at the seafood Co- op for some fresh prawns and oysters – yummy! Due to Eden’s unique location a variety of seafood comes through the port. Fishermen come in with fresh fish, as well as abalone, lobster and urchin , which are sent off to Sydney Fish Markets or processed through the local facilities at Snug Cove.
Then a little exploration of the area surrounding Eden. North first, to Beowa National Park. It is home to the Pinnacles – a 65 million year old erosion feature. It’s only a 1 km walk to do the return trip. A goanna and water dragon were sighted on the path. Also stopped for views for views of the beautiful beaches that sit on the southern side of the Pambula Rivermouth.
We made a stop at Broadwater Oyster Farm enquiring about farm tours – unfortunately all booked out. Just had to try a few more oysters instead. These were divine, so creamy, better than those from the co-op.
Then we came back to Twofold Bay and walked along the beach to the Rockpool area – a popular spot at this time of year. A rogue wave caught us unawares.
A drive south took us to Boydtown and Beermuna Beach. This is the site where the incredible relationship between the beowa (orca) and the Thaua people first began, and many years later became the base of Ben Boyd’s empire. All that remains now is the Seahorse Inn, now lovingly restored historic hotel. We enjoyed a drink here looking out to the beach.
Our day had been well and truly filled in – you could easily spend another day here. For dinner tonight we walked to the Eden Sports Club for a nice meal.
Friday 10th January
Eden to Lakes Entrance
309 kms
19-22, raining, cloudy
A late minute cancellation, and we were on our way to the 9am Captain Sponge’s Magical Oyster Tour for 2 hours. Luckily the heavy rain that had started during the night, stopped for our tour. This on the water experience took us on a journey through the Pambula lake environment where we learnt about its geology, formation and also the cultural, natural and ecological significance of the estuary.
More importantly we learnt all about farming Sydney rock oysters using modern aquaculture techniques to produce a premium world renowned sustainable shellfish … which, of course, we got to try. Exquisite! So fresh! The information in oyster farming was fascinating. It takes 3-4 years to grow a Sydney rock oyster, allowing the oyster to develop rich and unique flavours that reflect the estuary. No two Sapphire Coast oysters taste the same. We also had a lesson in shucking!
It was very peaceful on the lake and the water was so pristine. Flathead and tailor could be seen swimming close to the surface. Saw several sea eagles and their nests in the trees.
A short drive back to Eden, where we hooked up the van, then made our way to Lakes Entrance. Uneventful drive, beautiful and green. Of note are the gorgeous flowering agapanthus at every turn. Drove past the turnoff to Mallacoota which was where the bushfires were in 2020. Hard to believe that could happen here. Late lunch stop at Cann River.
Day 10
Saturday 11th January
Lakes Entrance
19-27 degrees, sunny, windy
A relaxing morning – a couple of loads of washing, and a top up with the groceries. A nice lunch and an afternoon siesta… well, we are on holidays!
Then a walk- we started off to do the 5 km boardwalk around Lakes Entrance. Lakes Entrance is the gateway to the largest lake system in Australia. Four hundred square kilometres of lakes, rivers, creeks, bays and backwaters await exploration. We walked across the pedestrian bridge to Ninety Mile Beach, which stretches along the town’s Tasman Sea shoreline. Wildlife around the beach and lakes includes kangaroos, pelicans and dolphins. We passed the aqua park on the way – that looked a lot of fun for families. Actually Lakes Entrance seemed a very family friendly destination – 3 mini golf courses, an amusement park, an Aquadome , and lots of fishing and water sport activities.
Our walk was cut a little short as the sky turned very ominous looking. We walked back to the van, but the storm passed us by. A few drops was all we got in the end. Anyway we were back in time for wine o’clock, followed by a nice pulled pork for dinner. Life’s good.
Day 11
Sunday 12th January
Lakes Entrance
19-29 degrees, sunny, hot, afternoon storm
We went for a day drive to explore some of the nearby waterways in East Gippsland.
Metung was 30 minutes away – it is a small and stylish village located near the Gippsland Lakes and sandy beaches – a great base for water sports enthusiasts. We had a look at the Metung Hot Spring Resort – looks a great facility, but too hot today for us for a hot bath. We enjoyed a coffee watching the boats coming in and out. We spoke to one couple who had boated from Lakes Entrance to have a pie from the local bakery for lunch. As you do!
Paynesville is the region’s boating capital. Anglers, windsurfers, jet skiers, and water skiers flock to the town to take to the water. We thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon at this waterside village.
We stopped for lunch at the restaurant Pier 70 , right on the water, for grilled fish and vegetables. Delicious. Then we caught the car ferry, as pedestrians (which was free) over to Raymond Island, 200 m off the coast, across from the town of Paynesville. The island is named after William Odell Raymond, originally a magistrate from New South Wales who established himself as a squatter in Gippsland in the 1840s. Raymond Island is home to a large koala population. They were originally introduced to the island in 1953. We saw 4 koalas on the 2.2 km koala trail, and one kangaroo. Very enjoyable.
We made a hurried return to the car as the skies had changed – so sunny an hour before, to dark clouds and thunder! We are in Victoria! It poured all the way back to Lakes Entrance. Lucky for me, someone had very kindly taken my washing off the line ( I had decided it was sheet washing day)!
It continued to rain for the remainder of the evening, so we missed out on our daily daylight saving fix – watched some movies instead.
Day 12
Monday 13th January
Lakes Entrance to Albury
319kms
17-32 degrees, sunny
An easy get away from Lakes Entrance – luckily quite a few of the caravans around us had left the day before – otherwise it might not have so such a simple procedure!
We had decided to travel the Great Alpine Road through the High Country. The 339-kilometre adventure along Australia’s highest year-round accessible sealed road takes you right up close to Victoria’s diverse landscapes. We travelled through lofty mountain ranges, down plunging valleys, into lush forests, and past rolling vineyards along the way. The old tobacco farms have metamorphosed into vineyards, hops farms, nut groves, berry and kiwifruit farms, apple orchards and olives groves, while beef and dairy cattle remain a big part of the agriculture. The mountain views were breathtaking, and the scenery unforgettable.
We passed through the gorgeous towns of Omeo, Mt Hotham, Harrietville, Bright and Myrtleford. We definitely want to return to this part of Australia. The changing of the leaf colours in autumn would be spectacular to see.
We arrived in Albury, to find that we had a flat tyre on the caravan – we think we only just got it as we arrived ( no shredding or obvious damage). A call to NRMA, and it was changed an hour later.
Luckily it was so quick, as we had arranged to meet with friends with met in South Korea who live in Wodonga. They vey kindly picked us up and we had dinner at the Newmarket Hotel ( in Albury, as opposed to Brisbane). It was really lovely to catch up with them- ironically they were going to Brisbane the next day!
Day 13
Tuesday 14th January
Albury
20-35 degrees, sunny, hot
First job- drop off the flat tyre for repair. Lucky it was able to be fixed – a nail was responsible for the puncture.
Then a day exploring the area around Albury. You could easily spend a few days in this region. Beautiful back roads shaded by the trees bordering the road edges. Nice and green. The area is well know for its wineries – but too early and too hot for drinking wine ( in my opinion)!
Rutherglen was the first town we visited – a town from the gold rush era with a lovely street scape. We walked up and down, stopping for a coffee. A couple of nice boutiques and gift shops. I managed to find a nice pair of baroque pearl earrings – I had been looking for a pair for a while. Amazing what places you find these little treasures in!
19 kms from Rutherglen was the historic town of Chiltern, also famous from gold mining days. Gorgeous streetscape, all buildings well preserved, and with plaques denoting circa and original use.
Half an hour away was Beechworth – a picturesque township, filled with lush green trees, boutiques and renowned restaurants and cafes. Also a very interesting historical precinct. We did a short walking tour where we were given the history of bush ranger Ned Kelly and his mentor Harry Power. We then did the Court House tour where we heard about Ned Kelly’s trials, also those of his family. The furniture in the court room was original, dating from 1958. The sandstone buildings are beautifully preserved.
Of course Frank had to try a pie from the very famous Beechworth Bakery – it did not disappoint! We walked along the main street stopping at the honey showroom where of course we did some sampling. We left with a bottle of honey and ginger nectar.
20 kms to Yackandandah another pretty little town. It was very hot by this time , so we only did a drive through. All these towns are so gorgeous, as is the countryside. Continuing on, we drove through Wodonga, then across the Murray River to Albury.
It was 35 degrees but this time, so we cranked up the air conditioning in the van, enjoyed a cold refreshing sangria, before cooking a bbq dinner.
Day 14
15th January 2025
Albury to Canberra
341 kms
18-33 degrees
Packed up and ready to go by 9am. Because there was no one else in our little area, and there was bitumen and marked lies, we decided we’d spend half an hour practicing our reverse parks. And job well done.. .. even if I say so myself!
Exactly 4 hours later, travelling the Hume Highway, we arrived in Canberra. Staying at Alivio Caravan Park Resort in O’Connor – a bit more upmarket than the Showgrounds we have been frequenting! Also three times the price! All the van sites are drive through, so didn’t take us long to park and set up. We didn’t have to do one of our newly perfected reverse parks!
It was so hot – the first thing we did was go for a quick dip in the pool! Very refreshing!
Then out for a drive – a bit of a trip down memory lane for Frank. Got to see a couple of the houses where he had lived in another lifetime. Then the storm, not too severe, but the temperature dropped 12 degrees in an hour! Thank goodness!
Dinner out tonight – First Edition at Braddon. Very nice. Two courses , both large – we came home feeling totally satisfied. Down to 14 degrees overnight. It’s hard to keep up – aircon the previous two nights, almost needed the heater tonight!
Day 15
Thursday 16th January
Canberra
14-23 degrees, sunny , windy
So much to see and do in our nation’s capital city, and we only had a couple of days to do it in!
Surrounded by forest, farmland and nature reserves, Canberra earns its nickname, the “Bush Capital.” The city’s focal point is Lake Burley Griffin, which is filled with sailboats and kayaks. On the lakeshore is the massive, strikingly modern Parliament House, as well as museums including the National Gallery. From Parliament House the road goes to the Australian War Memorial. The roads are all very well laid out.
The Old Parliament House opened earlier than many of the other attractions so we started our day’s events there. Built in the middle of a sheep paddock that is now part of the Parliamentary Triangle, Old Parliament House was at the centre of Australian democracy during its formative years. Only ever intended as a ‘provisional’ parliament, Old Parliament House had to grow with the needs of Australia’s evolving democracy. From a modest initial staff of 300 people, it was accommodating over 3,000 people by the end of its life. Now it houses the Museum of Australian Democracy. The free 45-minute “Highlights of Old Parliament House” tour was fantastic. The guide was extremely professional, offering a wealth of knowledge about the nation’s political history and the important work of public servants. I felt proud to explore the building and learn about Australia’s political journey. We went into both the House of Representatives and Senate chambers. The stories shared during the tour were captivating, and I could easily spend half a day soaking in all the information. Down stairs, the exhibition, the Year in Political Cartoons 2024, was quite entertaining.
Next, the Australian War Memorial, which is a profound tribute to the sacrifices of Australian servicemen and women. It effectively combines a museum with a memorial, showcasing an extensive collection of artifacts and personal stories that illuminate Australia’s military history from World War I to the present.
The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, offering visitors a deep, emotional connection to the experiences of those who served. The architecture itself is impressive, creating a solemn yet reflective atmosphere. We did the 80 minute tour, again free, where the guide highlighted some of the powerful stories of was. We had both been here a couple of times previously, but will always respect how sacred this memorial is. The words at the entrance resonated with me.
MORE THAN 103,000 AUSTRALIAN
MEN AND WOMEN HAVE DIED IN WAR.
“Here is their spirit in the heart of the land they loved; and here we guard the record which they themselves made”
The War Memorial is undergoing renovation, due to be completed in 2028. We spent 4 hours there, and could easily have spent a lot longer.
A bit of culture for the afternoon, starting at the National Portrait Gallery. The gallery is more dedicated to post modernism – creative and modern paintings plus historical paintings and portraits. We didn’t see the ticketed show but enjoyed looking around the free entry section.
Across the road was the National Art Gallery, the national art museum of Australia, as well as one of the largest art museums in Australia, holding more than 166,000 works of art.
A range of significant pieces are on display including Sidney Nolan’s Ned Kelly series, and Blue Poles by Jackson Pollock, purchased with the Prime Minister’s approval in 1973 for the bargain price of $1.3M now worth a reputed $500M.
We enjoyed the current drop in exhibition of Ethel Carrick and Anne Dangar , two important but under acknowledged female artists – one a painter, one a ceramicist. At first glance the two women had little in common, however both had a strong connection with France; and they both were innovators and groundbreaking artists. In the case of Carrick, she brought post-impressionism to Australia, in the case of Dangar, she advocated for cubism.
We took a drive up to Black Mountain to the Telstra Tower – we both remembered the great view of Canberra you could get from the tower. Alas, the tower is now closed, Frank was so disappointed that the revolving restaurant is now closed as he had wanted to go there for dinner. It was hard to get any view from the car park. Such a shame the tower is no longer operational.
A very full day. A stop off to buy a few groceries on the way back to the caravan, cooked dinner, and an early night. Cool tonight, and the wind had certainly stepped up. I think we’ve had every season in the 36 hours we’ve been here.
Day 16
Friday 17th January
Canberra
11-23 degrees, sunny, windy
We put the awning down first thing- the wind was getting worse, and better not to be worried about it while we were out and about for the day.
So the new Parliament House today. This iconic building, known for its impressive architecture, is located on Capital Hill in Canberra. Members of parliament meet at Parliament House to represent the Australian people and make decisions for the nation. All parliamentary proceedings are open to visitors. Parliament House is a striking blend of modern design and rich history. Its unique architecture, with a grass-covered roof and towering flagpole, is breathtaking. Visitors can enjoy free guided tours, fascinating political exhibits, and an impressive art collection. One of the 4 original Magna Carta documents is on display. We entered the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers- here the red and green are a more Australiana shade of the colours. An impressive view all the way to the War Memorial.
Next the Canberra Glassworks which is housed in the old Powerhouse. It’s a space where creativity, artistry, and craftsmanship come together to produce truly stunning works of art. The dedication of the artists and the incredible talent on display make the visit inspiring. You can watch the glass blowing process from the viewing gallery. Great displays about glass as you walk through the workshop area. Glass making courses are available.
A little drive to see Government House, the official residence of the Governor-General, in Yarralumla. Built in the 1830s, a humble homestead, it became the most palatial homestead in the region, and now it is the residence of the Governor General of Australia. The 1035 hectares surrounding the house are beautifully manicured gardens and lawns.
Overlooking Lake Burley Griffin, the National Museum of Australia explores Australian history and culture through indigenous heritage, landscape, people and journeys that connect Australia with the world. There were two ticketed events on, but we found plenty to see with all the free exhibits. If anything I thought the displays were a bit disorganised in terms of sequencing, but still interesting.
Another huge day. I have to say I enjoyed my time in Canberra, could easily spend another couple of days here, so much to see, and so many free entries. I loved the trees and green spaces in the city. Shopping centres are hidden from the main roads.
Because we had enjoyed our dinner so much two nights earlier at First Edition, we had decided to go back there – as often happens it wasn’t as good, but possibly it could have been our choice of food.
Still windy.
Day 17
Saturday 18th January
Canberra to Wyee
381 kms
13-degrees, sunny, windy in Canberra, rain along the way
Leaving Canberra on the Federal Highway, we soon joined the Hume Highway, diverting briefly to the Old Hume Highway for a morning tea stop at Berrima. I managed to get in a browse of a couple of the little shops there – mind you, Frank was the purchaser here with a nice brown leather man bag!
Back to the Hume and then onto the new Toll Road, the M7. This joined the M2 and the new tunnel. This meant we could get from Campbelltown to Hornsby in 45 minutes, at a cost $75 in tolls. Worth it when you’re towing a caravan .
Onto the Pacific Highway, until we turned off for Wyee where we were staying for the night at the MMM Campground. Lovely grassy spot surrounded by trees, and grazing kangaroos. Little hiccup when we were parking the van – someone didn’t close one of the tool box doors. The end result – a bent door! Nothing a ratchet strap won’t fix temporarily. Just a nuisance. Those doors are a pain as they open downwards.
We had a couple of hours before the predicted rain started, so we had a drive of the surrounding area, stopping at Morriset and Toronto, nice little towns nestled against Lake Macquarie.
Quiet night in for us. Only a couple of short showers overnight. Hard to believe only 100 kms away, Maitland had flood warnings.
Day 18
Sunday 19th January
Wyee to Tamworth
17-27 degrees, cloudy, sunny
All going to plan… hooked up and on route to Tamworth. All of a sudden, there was a warning saying our front left tyre had low pressure. Guess what, we could see a nail in the tyre. Another flat! Another call to NRMA. We managed to get off the highway into Kurri Kurri – the mural town we had been to on our way south.
Sure enough we had the tyre changed within the hour – what a great service. I had organised coffees, and we were back on our way.
Arrived in Tamworth at 2pm as originally planned, so no time lost. We stayed at the North Tamworth Football Club on the ever so green Jack Wollaston oval. Such thick lush grass! Set up fairly quickly- what took the most time was hooking into the water pipe line that serviced about a dozen caravans. Instant camaraderie at the park!
We had tickets for Brad Butcher at the Services Club – great show. Alison Forbes and Tori Darke, joined him for a couple of songs during the night.
Day 19 – 22
Monday 20th – 23rdJanuary
Tamworth Country Music Festival
14- 36 degrees over the 4 days, sunny
Fabulous four days enjoying the Festival. Peel Street was a colourful lively place to explore when we had an hour or two to fill in in between shows. Some great talent busking , also some not so great! Ones we really enjoyed were Nicole Matthews, Diamonds and Rust, Simply West, Mack Geiger and Amy Vee. Americana in the Park, just off Peel Street, was a great night.
Ticketed events we attended were Troy Casser Daly, who had a stream of guests, namely Kasey Chambers, Laurel Edward and Adam Harvey. Also The Pleasures , who had a drag queen as their MC, and an interesting guest, Henry Wagon. Another great act was Jen Mize, Linc Phelps, and Kelly Bouhaha.
Of course we went to Uncle Bob’s Jug Band – such a colourful assortment of talented musicians who dress in singlets and thongs, who only get together at Tamworth. They are so much fun. Washboods, to guitars, a trombone, to a base string and bottle tops are played! We love them.
One morning we went to the Bush Poets, again great entertainment. Greg North was the standout poet.
A visit to the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame was very interesting – some great memorabilia on display.
Wet to two nice restaurants- Tamworth Vietnamese Restaurant which we went to last year – nice food, inexpensive, and the venue close to the park. The Deco Wine Bar in Peel Street was very nice, more fine dining – beautiful setting, and delicious food.
All in all, it was a wonderful time in Tamworth. We were also lucky enough to be there at the same time as our friends – Garry and Denise, Lynda and Ian, Charlie and Sue, and their friend Jeanne from Stanthorpe. It was great to share some of the experiences with them.
Names we need to look out for at our next visit are Brooke Taylor, Shane Nicholson ( Kasey Chambers ex husband ) , Felicity Urquhart, Wolfe Brothers, Ross Webb and the Rusted Track (does Luke Combs covers).
Day 23
Friday 24th January 2025
Tamworth to Stanthorpe
355 Kms
20-32 degrees
On the road again! Homeward bound! A straight forward drive, up over the Mooni Hills, stopped at the quaint town of Uralla for coffee. All going well until we came to the famous narrow bridge at Tenterfield, where our driver’s mirror clipped the same mirror of an oncoming caravan. So we were minus a mirror for the remainder of our trip- lucky we didn’t have far to go. Apparently that bridge is notorious for accidents, luckily we escaped with only a missing mirror. The passing vehicle didn’t even attempt to slow down.
So with another repair to add to our list, we found our way to Travis’ farm and set up home for the night. Travis and Louise and the kids, were actually in Brisbane so we had the whole farm to ourselves.
Day 24
Saturday 25th January 2025
Stanthorpe to Brisbane
220 kms
20-33 kms
Early get away as we had an appointment at Condamine Caravan Repairs in Warwick to get the caravan window replaced. But of course, in the usual style influenced by the Aldred Factor, they had received the incorrect part. Another wait! However Jason did repair the leaking tap to the water tank, so our visit was not in vain.
So over Cunningham’s Gap we went, and we were in Brisbane before we knew it. Another great holiday – the few little challenges we had along the way had not dampened our love of being on the road in the caravan.
Total kms travelled : 4864 kms
Total fuel cost: $2566.84
Total accommodation cost: $1168 ( with the bulk being Canberra, Tamworth and Lakes Entrance )
Glammy Goes Global 