Category: The Backyard Tourist

Awesome things to do in my own backyard – Australia!

Best Destinations for Australian Wildlife Photography

If you’ve taken a look around either of my sites, you’ve probably noticed I have a bit of a passion for wildlife photography! I wanted to pull together a list of the best destinations in Australia for photographing our amazing native wildlife in the wild. I haven’t been to all of them so I called in some fellow travel bloggers for their top recommendations for wildlife photography in Australia!

This post contains affiliate links. Making a purchase through these links earns a small commission at no additional cost to you and is a great way of showing your support for this site.

 

Photograph Wildlife in Northern Territory

Kakaku

Kakadu National Park in the Top End is one of the top wildlife photography destinations in Australia. As well as the many cultural attractions of the park, its beautiful landscapes are home to prehistoric crocodiles and an abundant array of birdlife.

Naturally, the chance to spot a crocodile is one of the biggest draw cards when visiting Kakadu. It’s relatively easy to photograph these huge man-eating beasts at multiple spots throughout the park. Head to the East Alligator River where you can easily spot them from the banks. Or book a sunrise cruise at Yellow Water, where your guide will do their best to ensure an up close encounter. Cruises on Corroborree Billabong offer plenty of Saltwater crocodiles watching for their chance for an easy feed.

Photo Credit: Globeblogging

But even more spectacular is the impressive birdlife photography at Kakadu. One third of all bird species recorded in Australia are found here, in particular wetland species. Carefully time your visit for the best displays, late in the dry season from August to October, when large numbers congregate at the remaining waterholes. You’ll witness thousands of magpie geese, but also keep your eye out for the majestic Jabirus. Mamaukula Billabong is one of the best spots for photography, thanks to its bird hide.

 

Photograph Wildlife in New South Wales

Blue Mountains

Holly from Best of The Blue Mountains

Approximately one hours drive from Sydney City is the expansive Blue Mountains National Park, home to a wide variety of wildlife. At the right times you can be lucky enough to spot Wombats, Kangaroos and Wallabies, Reptiles and nocturnal mammals including Possums and Gliders.

Full of amazing photography locations, the Blue Mountains is also a great location for capturing Australian native birds in their bush habitats. Head to Wentworth Falls for a chance of spotting Black Cockatoos, and if you are lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time you may hear the distinctive creaking of the endangered Gang Gang Cockatoos. The clifftops of Katoomba offer the chance to spot Falcons on the hunt, while along the river tends to be a great location for spotting Kingfishers and various birds of prey including the Black-Shouldered Kite, White-Bellied Sea Eagle, Kestrels, Goshawks and the Australian Hobby.

A female Gang Gang Cockatoo

Lord Howe Island

Holly from Globeblogging

The UNESCO listed World Heritage Lord Howe Island is world famous as an island ecosystem and premier bird watching location. There has been over 200 different species recorded on the island and it is reputed to have more seabirds than any other Australian location. Even a visit to Lord Howe in winter still offers plenty of opportunities for photographing the local birdlife.

Home to several species of birds not found on the mainland, including the Lord Howe Silvereye, Lord Howe Golden Whistler and the endangered Woodhen, the island cliffs offer the chance to capture nesting seabird species while the beachside pine trees are the nesting location for migratory species. A few of these, like the Tern pictured, may even hang around into the Winter.

Hopping on one of the boat trips provides the chance for a visit from a curious Albatross, as well as Dolphins, Turtles, Rays, Galapagos Sharks and a wide range of fish species. Most of Lord Howe Island is a protected marine park, allowing the marine life to thrive. At Neds Beach visitors can purchase fish food for $1 per cup during business hours, and experience the fish swarming around the legs in just knee deep water.

 

Nelson Bay

Holly from Globeblogging

Not only does the Marina at Nelson Bay offer some fabulous opportunities for shooting native birds, including Pelicans, White-Bellied Sea Eagles, Corellas and the endangered Eastern Osprey, but taking a Dolphin Cruise on board Moonshadow offers the chance for some up close shots of the resident Bottlenose Dolphin pods.

Over the course of 90 minutes, the vessel will travel out into the bay in search of the Dolphins, which will often be curious enough to approach the boat for a closer look. At the right time of year you might be lucky enough to see calves in the pod. The operators are passionate and knowledgeable and familiar with many of the individual dolphins in the pods, and will share facts and stories during the cruise. Drinks and snacks can be purchased on board.

While sightings can naturally not be guaranteed, you are guaranteed a lovely afternoon out on the water with some great views regardless.

Sydney

Holly from Globeblogging

You might not immediately think of Sydney as a location particularly good for wildlife photography, but it happens to be a great starting point for one event that draws photographers and wildlife enthusiasts galore every year!

For approximately seven months out of every year, from May to November, Sydney is on the migration route for Humpback Whales moving along the east coast of Australia. While there are plenty of opportunities to watch for the telltale spouts of water along the coastline, undoubtedly the best chance to get some up close and personal chances at some shots of these impressive creatures is to grab a whale watching cruise.

The months of May, June and July are when the whales travel from Antarctica to the warm waters of Queensland for breeding and calving. September to November they will travel back to Antarctica, bringing them past Sydney once again, potentially with an enthusiastic and curious young one in tow!

 

Photograph Wildlife in Queensland

Birdsville Track

Victoria from My Australia Trip

The Birdsville Track, located in the vast Australian Outback, is a breathtaking destination for wildlife photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the enigmatic Dingos in their natural habitat. Stretching approximately 517 kilometres across the arid heart of the country, this iconic track offers a unique opportunity to witness and photograph one of Australia’s most iconic and elusive native species. Wild camping on the Birdsville track is common given there are few camping grounds around.

One of the most captivating highlights of the Birdsville Track is the chance to encounter the elusive Dingos in their natural surroundings. These wild dogs, with their striking golden coats, roam freely across the rugged terrain, making for a truly captivating subject to photograph. The remote and untouched landscape of the Outback sets the perfect stage for capturing raw and authentic wildlife moments.

The track’s isolation and sparse human presence make it an ideal location for wildlife photography, as animals are less disturbed by human activities, allowing for more natural behaviours to be captured. Patience and perseverance are essential virtues for any wildlife photographer, and the Birdsville Track is no exception. Early mornings and late afternoons present the best lighting conditions, and remaining inconspicuous while observing the animals will greatly increase your chances of capturing remarkable shots.

Photo Credit: Globeblogging

This remote and awe-inspiring location also offers a unique opportunity to photograph one of Australia’s most iconic creatures – the Emu. By spending time on the road, you increase your  opportunity for capturing Emus. Trust me, even if camping isn’t your thing, you’ll grow to love it after this experience.

The Birdsville Track spans the vast and arid heart of Australia, providing a perfect setting to encounter Emus in their untamed environment. These large, flightless birds gracefully traverse the outback, offering photographers a mesmerizing subject to focus on. Their distinctive appearance, with long legs and necks, make them truly captivating to photograph against the backdrop of the rugged outback landscape.

The key to capturing great photos of Emus or any other wildlife on the Birdsville Track lies in patience and observation. Emus can be curious and approachable but also wary of humans. To get the perfect shot, it’s essential to blend into the environment, move quietly, and respect the animals’ space.

 

Mission Beach

Natalie and Steve from Curious Campers

Mission Beach is on the Cassowary Coast in tropical North Queensland 2 hours south of Cairns. It is a fantastic destination for photographing Australian native wildlife, in particular the southern cassowary. These tall, striking birds with their black plumage, red and blue neck and distinct casque on top of their head, are best seen at dusk and dawn when they are feeding.

Cassowaries can be seen right in the township but forest reserves like Lacey creek and the Licuala Day Use Area are both sites where cassowaries are regularly sighted. The local Visitor Centre can tell you if any have been recently seen in the town.

Lucky walkers on the Kennedy Trail in South Mission Beach also sometimes encounter them along the rainforest and beach sections of the coastal walk. Another great place for a cassowary sighting is Etty Bay, 35 minutes North of Mission Beach. Here, a resident cassowary regularly patrols the beach front.

Unless you have the good fortune of walking straight into one on the rainforest trail, the best strategy for finding a cassowary is to be quiet and take your time as you walk the tracks. Their dark feathers make them hard to spot in the forest so patience might be needed. When you do see a cassowary, you will want to track it from a distance. Particularly when they have chicks in tow, cassowaries can be aggressive if they feel threatened.

When you do encounter a cassowary, it is a thrilling Australian wildlife experience. Their shrinking habitat is making them increasingly rare.

 

Photograph Wildlife in South Australia

Kangaroo Island

Josie from Exploring South Australia

You may be surprised to hear that Kangaroo Island is a great place for photographing many different types of wildlife, not just its namesake.

In fact, there are so many different animals and birds on the island that make it a dream for wildlife photography.

Koalas are one of the main attractions as they can be found in the trees across much of the island. Also look out for wallabies, echidnas, and reptiles – including goannas. If you are lucky you might also spot the elusive platypus.

Bird lovers will again be spoilt, with kookaburras, cape barren geese, spoonbills and the Kangaroo Island Glossy Black Cockatoo that was feared destroyed in bushfires, but is now recovering. Dozens of other bird species are here for those patient enough to photograph them.

Being an island, there are opportunities for marine photography too. Seal Bay is home to hundreds of sea lions, and there are Little penguins in Penneshaw. There are fur seals at the western end of the island, best spotted at Admirals Arch.

Ocean safaris can take photographers out to spot whales and dolphins in the waters surrounding Kangaroo Island. If diving or snorkeling is your thing, look out for the leafy sea dragons that call these waters home.

To get some great shots of the Kangaroo Island wildlife, I recommend heading out at dusk and dawn, as that’s when they tend to be more active.

 

Photograph Wildlife in Tasmania

It is important to note that entry into national parks in Tasmania does require a paid pass. You can either buy a single visit pass or an annual one, if you are visiting Tasmania and intend to visit 3 or more national parks it is cheaper to purchase the annual pass.

 

Bruny Island

Haley from Haley Blackall Travel

Bruny Island is located off the east coast of Tasmania, Australia and is a popular destination for photography due to its diverse range of wildlife. If you keep a keen eye out, you can spot the rare albino wallabies, Eastern quoll, Barred bandicoot, Pygmy possum and short-beaked echidnas. If you happen to be taking to the water on your Bruny Island itinerary, you may also get a good glimpse of seabirds and marine life such as the Australian fur seal.

The best time to visit Bruny Island for wildlife photography is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and the animals are more active. There are a number of places on the island where you can go for wildlife photography, including the Neck, Adventure Bay, and the South Bruny National Park.

If you are looking for some tips for getting great wildlife photos on Bruny Island, here are a few things to keep in mind. Patience is critical when capturing wildlife on the island, especially when it comes to the rare White Wallaby! They can usually be found in and among underbrush and forested areas. And of course, with most wildlife photography, remember to bring your telephoto lens and use natural light when possible.

 

Cradle Mountain

Holly from Globeblogging

The Alpine region of the Lake St Clair National Park features plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography. In fact driving within the park has some restrictions in order to manage the site and its native residents.

It is one of the handful of locations where you might spot the stunning Pink Robin, found mostly in Tasmania, and the Dusky Robin which is not found on the Australian mainland.

Ronny Creek was recommended to me as the spot to go to see the wildlife, and it was indeed here where I saw the Pink Robin (though I wasn’t lucky enough to get the shot.) However just a walk around the Interpretation Centre and Cradle Mountain Lodge is likely to offer up some photography moments, while a walk on the Cradle Mountain Boardwalk is almost certain to deliver Wombats, Bennetts Wallabys and Tasmanian Pademelons.

 

Launceston

Holly from Globeblogging

You might be surprised to see the city of Launceston on the list, but there are actually a couple of reasons why!

Within Launceston itself, a visit to Cataract Gorge offers plentiful opportunities for photographing wildlife. A stroll around the grounds offers bird life and languishing Wallabies, which though they are wild are quite accustomed to human presence and not phased by the camera attention. Though not Australian Wildlife there is also a large resident population of Peacocks which make attractive subjects, especially if they are ushering chicks around. One of the many hikes through the gorge offers more chances to catch the birdlife and maybe the odd Tasmanian Pademelon!

A short drive outside of Launceston can be found the Tamar Wetlands, an extensive boardwalk over water amongst reeds out to Tamar Island, where visitors can take in some of the history of the early settlements. The Wetlands feature an abundance of birds and a waterside bird hide for the photographer to wait for their shot. If you intend to use the bird hide it is better to visit this location in the morning. In the afternoon it faces the setting sun which makes managing light settings more challenging. Keep an eye out near the bridge for the tiny welcome swallows and superb fairy-wrens flitting around.

 

Narawntapu National Park

Holly from Globeblogging

Just over an hour from Launceston is another of Tasmania’s National Parks which is well worth the visit.

Narawntapu National Park is a large park which features a number of different environments, making it ideal for wildlife spotting. The bush truly meets the ocean here, so not only will you spot wildlife commonly seen in Australian bushland, but the beach will offer the chance for ocean birds and raptors. Narawntapu also features a large waterside bird hide on the river.

You are likely to see large mobs of Kangaroos grazing on the open plains near the visitors centre in the afternoon, and keep a watch out for the Tasmanian Pademelons! Narawntapu was the only place I managed a good shot of one!

 

 

Photograph Wildlife in Victoria

Port Campbell National Park

Tina from Veganderlust

Port Campbell National Park is the perfect outdoor destination in Australia. It’s not just home to the impressive 12 Apostles, a stunning limestone rock formation which you can visit while driving the Great Ocean Road, but it’s also home to a wide range of Australian wildlife.

The wildlife is so extensive that you won’t even need to look for long. Even on popular footpaths to coastal sights like the Thunder Cave, you can stumble upon echidnas, one of the few mammals worldwide which lay eggs.

The best way to spot echidnas is to keep your eyes open and look closely at the small bushes next to the paths, all while not making too much noise.

But what Port Campbell National Park is mostly known for is its wide range of seaside birds, from small fairy-wrens to big pelicans. Far out at sea, you might even see Albatross and penguins nesting on the shores.

 

St Kilda

Angie from Where Angie Wanders

One might not expect to come face to face with a penguin while traveling across Australia but if you head to the coastal town of St Kilda, close to the sprawling metropolis of Melbourne, you will find many of them.

These penguins are known as ‘fairy penguins’ or ‘little penguins’ and, when not out hunting in the ocean, live in the rocks along the breakwater at St Kilda.

They are only found in the waters along the Southern coast of Australia and parts of New Zealand but even so they are not in demise. This one colony in St Kilda their colony exceeds 1000 penguins.

If you head to the breakwater at dusk you will be able to watch them coming in to shore for the night and finding their places in the crevices of the rocks. You have to have a keen eye to spot them once they are hunkered down for the night as they are only 13 inches in height making them the smallest of all penguin species.

Make sure you are quiet when you are on the breakwater as you don’t want to scare them (or wake them up) and if you are lucky you will be able to capture this cute little creature on camera.

 

Yarra Bend Park, Kew

Kaitlyn from Carry On Only

Located on the Yarra River in inner Melbourne and only 4kms from the CBD, Yarra Bend Park in Kew is an easily accessible place to photograph wildlife.

As the largest natural bushland in Melbourne, this park is perfect for bushwalking, cycling, canoeing, picnics, bird and animal watching.

Grey-headed Flying-foxes are large bats native to Australia and are the main attraction, with a colony of up to 30,000 permanently situated along the river throughout the year. Sunset is the best time to visit and photograph the bats as you’ll be able to experience the unique “fly out” when thousands of flying-foxes leave the trees for the night and fly across the city skyline. During the day you’ll see them hanging in trees resting and sleeping and hear them chatting to one another. Autumn is mating season when they are particularly vocal.

Additionally, Australian mammals like Echidnas, Platypus, Brush-tail and Ring-tail Possums offer fantastic photo opportunities in the park.

The area is also abundant in birdlife, featuring the Laughing Kookaburra, Tawny Frogmouth, Rainbow Lorikeet, Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo, Red Wattlebird, Willie Wagtail, Sacred Kingfisher and Pied Currawong.

For capturing stunning shots of Australian wildlife in Yarra Bend Park, a telephoto lens is a must have. Due to its close proximity to the city center and the abundant variety of species living here, Yarra Bend Park is considered one of Melbourne’s best locations for wildlife photography.

 

 

Photograph Wildlife in Western Australia

Jurien Bay

Catrina from 24 Hours Layover
Jurien Bay is a lovely coastal town 220km north of Perth that is known for its friendly resident sea lions! The sea lions here are one of the rarest species in the world, and they are so photogenic!

You can actually swim with the sea lions here in Jurien Bay – in fact this is the best place in Western Australia to swim with them! This activity is an absolute must visit if you are keen to spot sea lions in their natural environment and get some great wildlife photos!

The sea lions live on a few small islands in the Marine Park just a 15 minute boat ride from Jurien Bay. You can go on a snorkeling trip and swim with the large colony of sea lions which is a really incredible experience!

The sea lions are known as one of the friendliest creatures of the ocean – they are very curious and playful and love to see new faces! They will often swim right up to your face as they are so inquisitive, so make sure to bring your Go-Pro or underwater camera as you can get some fantastic close-up shots! The water here is crystal-clear and very shallow, so the visibility is really good! Top tip – keep your Go-Pro on video record as opposed to taking single shots, to ensure you don’t miss any of the magic – these sea lions can swim fast! Then you can capture high-quality still photographs from the videos afterwards.

The tours depart in the mornings every day of the year and last around 2.5 hours! It’s best to book in advance as they do sell out quickly as they are so popular!

 

Rottnest Island

Holly from Globeblogging

Once plentiful across the Australian mainland, the cute Quokka is famous for its selfie appearances and can only be found on the Western Australian Rottnest Island.

You won’t have to look too hard to spot them either! The Quokkas have zero fear of humans in their protected domain and happily wander amongst the buildings and mingling people, and might even linger beneath your table while you dine in the hope of catching an errant snack.

The only mammal found on the island, the Quokka is also responsible for its name. They have flourished on Rottnest due to having no predators on the island, however are still listed as a vulnerable species. While they are undoubtedly the star of the show, Rottnest also offers plentiful bird life, reptiles, and marine life. There is a large colony of New Zealand Fur Seals at Cathedral Rocks, and during Winter the island is on the migratory route for the Humpback Whale.

 

What do you think of some of these locations for photographing Australian Wildlife in the wild? Have you come across any other must-visit locations? Let me know in the comments below and as always if you enjoyed this please share!

Should You Visit Lord Howe Island in Winter?

Lord Howe Island is a small island paradise approximately 600 kilometres off the coast of mainland Australia. With just a few hundred permanent residents, visitors are capped at 400 at any time and it is a popular holiday destination for both Australians and international tourists.

The Australian winter is in the months of June, July and August, which is the off-season for Lord Howe and you might not think is the best time to be visiting, but depending on what kind of holiday you like there may actually be some good reasons to think about visiting at this time of year. I visited at the beginning of June and thought it was a great time to go.

This post contains affiliate links. Making a purchase though these links earns a small commission at no additional cost to you and is a great way of showing your support to this site.

 

Reasons to visit Lord Howe Island in Winter

It’s Cheaper

The restricted numbers of visitors allowed on the island mean it’s a destination of some exclusivity, and as with any tourist destination it can be expensive to visit in peak season.

Accommodation will be cheaper at this time of year, and chances are you’ll find flights are too. Qantas flies to Lord Howe Island’s tiny airport with several flights daily, and if you’re a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and can be somewhat flexible on your dates you may even snag yourself a reward flight for just $90 and 6,000 points.

 

It’s Quieter

Being such a small island you can imagine the town and beaches can get pretty busy in Summer, and it might be harder to get reservations or the accommodation you want.

I would estimate there were less than 100 people visiting Lord Howe Island in early June. The locals get to know your face and name and everyone says hello or stops for a chat. It’s a really nice friendly place where everyone waves or nods as they drive or cycle by. I’d been noted walking around with my camera and was asked where it was if I was seen without it, and what I’d been shooting that particular day.

You’ll only see Neds Beach this empty in Winter

The Weather

Lord Howe Island’s weather is pretty mild even in winter. It was warm enough for t-shirts during the day with just a jumper needed at night. The water wasn’t overly cold and the days were warm enough for swimming.

Even the days when the weather forecast listed rain usually meant it was a 5 minute misty rain and then the rest of the day was lovely.

Last minute plans are easy

Advance bookings for everything are essential in peak season. I was able to walk into a restaurant and get a table, or book a tour the day before.

The flip side of this is that some parts of the island will shut or wind down for the Winter. While there were still a few operators running tours a number of others had shut down, and while there were still plenty of food options to choose from, some restaurants had closed or were operating on reduced hours.

So if there is a particular place you are interested in going or tour you want to take, it is worth making enquiries to ensure that it will be running when you plan to go. The tour operators still running told me they would be finishing up by mid-June.

But if you like the kind of holiday where you are happy to do your own thing and take care of yourself, then Lord Howe Island still offers you plenty to do.

 

Things to do on Lord Howe Island in Winter

Visit Neds Beach

Even though I am no water baby, this was actually one of my favourite things I did on the island. During the day you can hire snorkeling gear and wetsuits to have a closer look at the reef and purchase a cup of specially formulated fish food, all by placing your money in the honesty box. Much of Lord Howe Island is a protected marine area so fishing is not permitted, kids and adults will love standing in the knee deep water as scores of fish bump against their legs for a feed.

Neds Beach also happens to be a great photography location.

 

Photography

Wildlife

Lord Howe Island is known as a premier bird watching location, and while the migratory birds have mostly moved on by Winter, except for a straggler or two, there are still plenty of resident birds left to photograph. Head for the airfield for an almost guaranteed chance to photograph the resident Sacred Kingfishers which love to sit on the fence there.

Flowering trees will have plenty of Lord Howe Silvereyes and you might be lucky enough to catch a Lord Howe Golden Whistler – both a subspecies which is only found on Lord Howe Island.

A male Lord Howe Golden Whistler
In town you might be lucky enough to spot some Noddys on the roof of the post office, and a Tern or two that has chosen not to migrate for the season. White-Faced Herons, which happen to be one of my favourite bird subjects being comparatively slow-moving and quite photogenic, might be found wandering along the beachside areas. You can pick up your pocket field guide to the birds of Lord Howe Island in a number of stores around the island for $12.

White Tern perched in a pine tree near Thompsons Store
Clifftop locations such as the peak of Mount Eliza offer the chance to catch some seabirds, and if you take a boat trip you’ll likely see even more, including the chance at a whale on its Winter migration or Bottlenose Dolphins which frequent the area. You may even be lucky enough to catch an Albatross, which tend to be curious about boats and will often fly close enough for a decent shot. Just bear in mind that the water is a lot less still outside of the safety of the lagoon, so some motion sickness tablets might be a good idea if, like me, you aren’t always the best traveler on water!

A Black-Browed Albatross flying by for a sticky beak
If you have an underwater camera snorkeling offers the chance for sightings of Galapagos Sharks, Rays and turtles along with oodles of fish.

 

Landscapes

There is no shortage of stunning vistas from which to shoot on Lord Howe Island. Head to Neds Beach to catch a sunrise between the cliffs or Lagoon Beach for an easy sunset over Mount Eliza. When the surfs up head for Blinky Beach near the airfield to photograph the waves.

Astro

There is very little light pollution on Lord Howe Island, making it the perfect location for a bit of Astrophotography when the conditions are right. Winter is the best time for photographing the Milky Way, and while there are probably plenty of spots you can find to shoot, Neds Beach is well away from light sources and offers the chance to play with light painting the mountains with the Milky Way above.

Hiking

While Mount Gower is probably the most famous hike on Lord Howe Island, it does require a guide and a full day to do it due to the difficulty. However there is no shortage of other hikes to do which don’t require a guide and offer plenty to enjoy. I managed to fit in a hike to the Valley of Shadows and a climb up Mount Eliza, which was plenty challenging in itself if you start the route from North Bay. The final part of the hike does involve some scrambling and it is alongside a rather big cliff, so this isn’t one for the faint-hearted either!

Middle Beach is a short detour from the track to the Valley of Shadows
Given there is no phone service on Lord Howe Island, and internet is only available in a handful of designated locations, it’s a good idea to let your accommodation know your plans. I had my PLB with me in the event of an emergency, but this wouldn’t have done me much good if I hadn’t been able to activate it, a reality brought acutely home to me when I took a spill coming down Mount Eliza.

 

Kayaking

At least one of the boatsheds was still open in early June, and Kayaks could be hired for a paddle around the Lagoon unguided.

 

Visit the Lord Howe Museum

Curated by resident naturalist Ian Hutton, The Lord Howe Museum is open reduced hours during the winter months so you may find it is only open a couple of days a week. Entry is free and it features natural history collections and changing displays. It also hosts regular events and weekly lectures on birds of the island, even in winter, delivered by Ian himself.

 

 

Where to Eat on Lord Howe Island

There are plenty of options for places to eat on the island, although be aware that some will close for the Winter or operate reduced hours so choices may be reduced.

Lord Howe Island has a delivery ship arrive fortnightly with supplies, so the local restaurants have an emphasis on fresh produce which can be obtained from the island.

During the high season bookings for all sit down venues are required, and while I booked my first couple of nights after that I just walked in and I was never turned away.

 

Thompsons General Store

Open at 9am, Thompsons was open during the first week of June but it was their last week of operation for the season. They do a number of burgers and sandwiches plus coffee.

Their bacon and egg roll is truly amazing so worth the visit if they are open!

 

The Anchorage

Located in pretty much the centre of the only spot you could really call town, the staff at Anchorage told me they were open year round. They don’t open until 10am in winter though so if you’re after that early coffee or breakfast this isn’t the venue.

Some of the pricier meals I had on Lord Howe, the food was delicious and there were different specials every night.

 

 

 

The Crooked Post

Situated directly across the road from The Anchorage, The Crooked Post is a cocktail bar primarily, but serves a walk-in meal for dinner on Sundays and lunch a few days a week. There’s no menu, whats being cooked up for Sunday dinner is put on the board in the afternoon, when I went it was a Fish Curry. No bookings are required.

They have a great balcony area out the back which can be enclosed from the cold and wind or open on warmer days. I enjoyed a cocktail over my book before heading to dinner on several occasions. They also have the locally brewed beer on tap.

The Crooked Post is a great spot to while away the afternoon with a cocktail and a book

Driftwood

One of the fancier restaurants on the island, Driftwood was also on its last weeks of operation at the start of June.

Located on site at the Ocean View Apartments the menu is more Asian inspired than elsewhere on the island but was exceptionally good.

Ocean View Apartments also serve real coffee every day from 7am – 9am. The owner joked with me he had got sick of not being able to get a coffee anywhere first thing in the morning and so had put in a machine.

Ocean View Apartments are a short walk from the town centre via the road, or a shortcut directly there through a field that starts by the tennis court on Neds Beach Road.

 

Bowling Club

Serving pub style food five nights a week, as the Bowling Club is a little farther afield you may find your accommodation will transport you there, while the Bowling Club will drop you back after a couple of hours. If you don’t mind the walk it is definitely still walkable, as everything on the island is.

Fish for Dinner at the Bowling Club

Lord Howe Island Brewery

While I didn’t get the chance to eat here I have been told by several people that their pizza is one of the best meals on Lord Howe Island. Brewery tours are conducted on Thursday afternoons for $20, where you’ll hear about island history, all the Brewery does to supplement the island supply through their extensive nursery, and how involved they are with the growing and export of the native Kentia palm.

Jims

This was a hidden gem discovery for me as I happened to walk by on my way past to the grocery store. It is literally a backyard operation, where the residents built a cafe frontage in their yard and installed all the gear! Their coffee is probably the best I had on the whole island and they are open early! This is where the locals frequent for their morning coffee!

They don’t cook out the front but offer a selection of wraps and sandwiches for breakfast which can be heated, and they work with locals to offer a range of sweet treats.

They are open Sunday – Thursday from 7.30 – noon and they did tell me that they planned to be open for the whole season. You can find them on Middle Beach Road. You’ll walk past them if you are heading to Joy’s Shop for supplies.

 

Where to buy supplies on Lord Howe Island

If you’re the kind of traveler that doesn’t mind cooking for themselves to save a bit of money, then the closure of some restaurants isn’t really going to pose a major issue for you. Even if you do like to go out for a meal, chances are you’ll want to stock your room with drinks and snacks, or even have breakfast before the restaurants open.

 

Joy’s Shop

This is the number one place to head for supplies. Joy’s Shop is a large and well stocked general store with a range of fresh food and non-perishables on offer, and its a great place to look for anything you might have forgotten to pack! I bought a hat and travel sickness pills there. While there are a few other stores closer to the town, the selection is much more limited and I wished I’d waited til I made it to Joy’s before I shopped.

 

Thompsons Store

You can find some supplies available at Thompsons, but selection is much more limited.

 

Diamonds

Located near The Crooked Post, Diamonds is a small store offering a combination of fresh and non-perishable food options.

The great thing that they offer is pre-made local meals which can be thrown in the oven or microwave. A fantastic alternative to going out for a meal but not having to put the effort into cooking for yourself!

 

What you should take to Lord Howe Island for Winter

Luggage limits for traveling to Lord Howe Island are strictly enforced, so you wont have the ability to pay for more. You’ll have 7kg carry on and 14kg checked allowance, which you’ll find when you pack isn’t really all that much, so you’ll want to pack items which are versatile.

You will get both cool and warm weather, with potentially some misty rain, so you’ll need the whole swimmers, jumper and spray jacket range of clothing, plus some good walking shoes.

Some other things you may not think of to bring;

  • Tablet; this has become a travel staple for me. I’ve downloaded the Kindle app to it so it replaces that, you can pre-download movies and TV for watching on the flight or on the quiet nights in (there’s not really an active night life on Lord Howe) and in the case of your phone not being operational (as happened to me on day 2) its an alternative means of contact with the outside world if needed. I can also use it to view my photos from the day using an SD card reader.
  • Torch; there aren’t a lot of streetlights on Lord Howe Island, not so much of an issue with the longer days of Summer but definitely one in Winter! Most people will think to just use their phone, which is great except if something goes wrong with it. A headtorch will do the job too and takes up barely any weight!
  • Water Bottle; I always have a reusable plastic water bottle I travel with to save on buying single bottles of water. As a hiker water is really important! Mine fits nicely into the side pocket of my backpack.
  • A good backpack; my backpack is my carry-on bag, which serves as a great day pack for those daily adventures! The Denali daypacks are great!
  • Compressed Towels; A new discovery and staple addition to my backpack, these take up the space of a mint and with a bit of water expand into a little towel. Great for cleaning up on the go and biodegradable (though sadly the wrapping isn’t.)

 

Safety on Lord Howe Island

Its important to remember that there is no phone service on Lord Howe Island, so if you get in trouble outside of the limited range of the local wi-fi you can’t call for help.

Its a good idea to let your accommodation know when you are heading out and when you expect to return. I also carry a first-aid kit at all times and my Personal Locator Beacon. It’s best to research what PLB is best for your needs as there can be quite a variety in products.

Would you travel to Lord Howe Island in Winter?

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How to see Wildlife in Tasmania’s North

A landscape photographer friend of mine recently said she hadn’t heard of any of the things I did on my recent trip to Tasmania. I picked my destination purely based on cheap flights at the time and as a photographer with a passion for wildlife I naturally sought out those experiences. While it may not be as well known as other Tasmanian locations, there are still plenty of opportunities to spot and interact with wildlife in Tasmania’s top end!

This post contains affiliate links. Making a purchase through these links earns a small commission at no additional cost to you and is a great way to show your support to this site.

 

Wildlife in Tasmania

While it is possible to see many of the same animals in Tasmania as you would on mainland Australia, it also offers the opportunity to see species which are either not found, or rarely found elsewhere. Tasmania’s separation from the Australian mainland created an opportunity for the survival of species, including the Tasmanian Devil, and the Tasmanian Pademelon. The Dusky Robin is only found in Tasmania, and the Pink Robin is only found in a handful of locations on the mainland.

 

Where to stay in Tasmania

All of these experiences can be found within a 2 hour drive of the city of Launceston, which also has an airport and is known for its foodie culture, so it is worth considering basing yourself here. Depending on your budget and the length of your visit consider staying for a night or two at Cradle Mountain.

 

Where to find wildlife experiences in Tasmania’s north

 

Cradle Mountain

Located about 150km from the city of Launceston, Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park is an alpine region of spectacular landscapes worth the visit for that alone. It also happens to be an environment with plenty of opportunities to catch the local wildlife going about their business.

Given the cool and wet climate, that can change in the space of 5 minutes, it is also one of the places in Tasmania you can catch a glimpse of the Pink Robin and if you’re extra lucky you can catch a shot! Unfortunately for me I wasn’t lucky enough to get a shot but did see them in the area surrounding Ronny Creek, which was recommended to me as the location for wildlife in the park.

Even without hopping on the shuttle bus and riding down to the restricted access lake area, there are chances to spot wildlife on the numerous walks that start around the Interpretation Centre, which is the furthest you can drive into the park during shuttle hours. A walk on the Cradle Mountain Boardwalk is likely to offer up Wombats, Bennetts Wallabys and Pademelons and multiple bird species, with perhaps a Dusky Robin making an appearance.

The Bennetts Wallaby is known as a Red-necked Wallaby on mainland Australia. This one was cleaning itself in front of my car when I returned to it that afternoon.

A Common Wombat grazing by the Cradle Mountain Boardwalk
A somewhat average capture of a Dusky Robin, only found in Tasmania

How to visit Cradle Mountain

In order to visit any of the National Parks in Tasmania you will require a parks pass. A pass for 24hrs can be purchased at the Visitors Centre for $25.75, however if you plan to visit more National Parks then it is worth looking at a Holiday Pass purchased through Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife for $82.40 which will include Cradle Mountain.

During shuttle hours of 8.30am – 5pm the lake can only be accessed on foot or via shuttle. Parking is available at the Interpretation Centre which is the last point you are able to drive to during these hours. Be alert for wildlife on the road when driving down.

 

Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Mole Creek, less than an hours drive from Launceston, Trowunna is a wildlife sanctuary involved in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and care. They also offer a home for wildlife which is unable to be released back into the wild. Trowunna runs conservation and breeding programs for endangered species and being privately run, are reliant upon visitors to the sanctuary to keep undertaking this work.

Their most notable breeding program is for the Tasmanian Devil, which is rapidly declining in the wild due to the impact of human encroachment on the environment and a genetic disease. Only now found in Tasmania, the Tasmanian Devil is a scavenger which consumes all of a carcass, even the fur and bones, so it plays an important role in the ecosystem. Its thought the name comes from the truly awful noise it makes which the settlers would have heard in the night.

 

A large mob of Forester Kangaroos roam free in the park and are able to be fed by visitors. Food is available for purchase upon entry to the park.

 

 

Narawntapu National Park

Located just over an hour from Launceston on the Northern coastline of Tasmania, Narawntapu National Park has a number of different environments offering a diverse range of wildlife to spot including ocean and land birds, reptiles and macropods.

A lakeside bird hide also offers the chance to get up close and personal with some of the locals as they float by.

While a walk through the bush to the coast will not only deliver smashing views but likely some waterbirds and potentially hunting raptors.

There is also a good chance of glimpsing a Tasmanian Pademelon amongst the bushes.Whilst I spotted these at Cradle Mountain too, I was unable to get a shot of one in the open. These can only be found in the wild in Tasmania.

As Narawntapu is a National Park you will need either a pass for all National Parks, or you can purchase the 24 hr pass at the visitor centre upon arrival.

 

Beauty Point

This recommendation might surprise you as its a bit off the radar, but there are a couple of wildlife experiences to check out at Beauty Point. This trip is worth combining with the Penguins at Low Head rather than heading back to Launceston, while you have to drive around the water to get there, it’s in the same area.

Platypus House

If you’ve ever tried to photograph a Platypus in the wild, you’ll know what a mission it is. They are active at dawn and dusk meaning the bigger lenses with the reach to get them are probably not going to pick up enough light for a decent shot.

Platypus world is home to both species of Australian Monotremes, the Platypus and the Echidna. While they play an important role in the rescue, rehabilitation and care of the animals, it has also become a permanent home for those unable to be returned to the wild.

Pictured below is Jupiter, who now lives at Platypus House after several attempts to return him to the wild. On his last attempted release he took up residence at a salmon farm, smart from the perspective of a guaranteed food supply but perhaps not so much so for his life expectancy!

Entry to Platypus House is $26.50 for an adult and $12 for a child. A tour runs for approximately one hour.

 

Seahorse World

Situated in the building next door to Platypus House, Seahorse House is worth a look to see the plethora of species and learn about them.

Unfortunately all of my photos from this visit came out super noisy!

A tour is $24.80 for an adult and $10.50 for a child and runs for about an hour.

 

 

Low Head

Located a 40 minute drive from both Beauty Point and Launceston, Low Head Penguin Tours has exclusive access to the beach where a large group of Fairy Penguins nest. Running every evening at dusk, visitors are taken down to the shore where they can watch the penguins come ashore, and learn all about their behaviours and breeding. Then they’ll take you into the nesting bushes, where you are likely to have a few penguins pass close by you as they seek out their nest.

When there are chicks the parents leave them for the day, where the chicks will remain quietly in the nest until the adults return with the food at night.

You’ll need a good lens that opens wide to have a chance of shooting these guys at night. And even then, given the low light and moving subjects good photos are far from guaranteed, and those you get will likely need a fair bit of work!

In order to get these shots I used my Zuiko 12.40mm pro lens, which opens up to an f2.8.

 

Tamar Wetlands

Located just a short 15 minute drive from Launceston, the Tamar Wetlands is another National Park location you’ll need a pass for. It offers a different kind of environment and vegetation to the other spots on this list and includes a waterside bird hide not far from the beginning of the walk. I’d recommend visiting the hide in the morning, I was there in the afternoon and as it faces the sun going down the light bouncing off the water can make good images a challenge.

The walk travels through reedy vegetation to another part of the lake, before a bridge crossing to Tamar Island where early signs of the Tasmanian settlement still remain. Look out for waterbirds, Fairy-wrens amongst the reeds and Welcome Swallows around the bridge.

Welcome Swallow
Masked Lapwings
 

Cataract Gorge

You can’t get much closer to Launceston than this location, which is just a few kilometres from the city centre. The gorge is worth a visit for the hiking and scenery alone, including the longest chairlift in the world (it takes over 10minutes to cross!) It also happens to be a great location for catching some of the local birds and macropods, many of which are fairly used to oodles of people wandering around and not that fussed about posing for a photo. The Pink Robin has also been sighted here, albeit rarely.

Even though they aren’t native to Australia, the gorge has a large population of Peacocks which happily strut the paths, their colours making them an attractive photo subject.

The peacocks are judgemental at Cataract Gorge!
There is no entry fee for Cataract Gorge, though it is paid parking if you drive there. The chairlift costs $10 for a one way ride, which is a pleasant way to take in the vastness of the gorge from above. There is also an onsite cafe which has good coffee available.

 

Unless otherwise specified I shot all of these photos on my Zuiko 100-400mm lens and my Olympus EM5, which has now been replaced by the OM5. You can read more about my photography equipment here.

I hope you enjoyed these insights into where you can enjoy wildlife experiences in Tasmania’s north!

If so please share!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bloggers Love; The Best Books set in Australia you need to read

From fiction to non-fiction, colonial history to modern day, from novels set in the Australian outback to a tale of a city or country town, there is no doubt that the landscape of Australia offers vast opportunities for the backdrop of epic tales. Or even to be such a fundamental part of the story and its influence on the characters, that is really a character in itself.

Whether you’re looking for some new reading inspirations, or just interested in gaining a different insight or perspective on the amazing and mysterious country of Australia, check out some of the best books that feature Australia as an integral part of the story!

 

This post contains affiliate links. Making a purchase through these links earns a small commission at no additional cost to you and is a great way of showing your support for this site.

 

Down Under (Published in the US as In a Sunburned Country)

Author: Bill Bryson

Recommended by: Steve from The Trip Goes On

Down Under is the 2004 travelogue which details best-selling author Bill Bryson’s journey across Australia. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the “land down under” and is packed full of interesting facts as Bryson tries to unpick a continent that is often neglected by the world’s media (Neighbours notwithstanding).

The author takes us on a journey across Australia’s towns and cities, the vast outback, tropics and more. His interactions with the locals (including the wildlife) are insightful and often hilarious! From Adelaide to Aboriginal Art, Darwin to drowned prime ministers and Ned Kelly to the Nullarbor, Bryson paints a fascinating picture of this vast and untamed continent.

Down Under is one of Bryson’s best travel memoirs and contains his usual dry wit and acerbic observations. The book leaves no stone unturned while exploring the history of the nation and its people. Truly one of the most entertaining and informative books about Australia!

Click here to purchase in Australia

 

The Dry

Author: Jane Harper
Recommended by: Holly from Globeblogging

Published in 2016, this was a book that took me by surprise, having bought it because the film starring Eric Bana had recently been released and I thought it looked good. I didn’t expect it would be a page turner that I would not put down until it was finished, nearly 6 hours later. This is one of those books that will have you staying up well past your bedtime.

Harper is masterful at building the mystery while at the same time exorcising the demons of the past in the drought stricken town of Kiewarra, where Federal Police officer Aaron Falk returns to attend the funeral of a childhood friend not seen in years. Having left , or rather run out of, the town under a cloud of suspicion for a murdered girl, Falk has not returned since and is met by mixed sentiments and far too many memories. Asked to stay on by the parents of his friend and look into the finances of his farm, he begins to see that there is far more to the death of his friend than first appears.

With the drought almost a character in itself that shapes the lives and death of the towns residents, this book will keep you intrigued and guessing until the very end as both mysteries work towards their conclusions.

Click here to purchase in Australia

Four Fires

Author: Bryce Courtenay
Recommended by: Holly from Globeblogging

 

South African born Bryce Courtenay emigrated to Australia in the 1950’s and is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most popular authors. While many of his books are set in Australia, a personal favourite of mine was always Four Fires, published in 2001.

Set in a fictional small town in the state of Victoria, Four Fires is focused on the Maloney family. Descended from Irish convicts they are a tight family unit that is well down the social ladder. Courtenay’s exceptional character development and descriptive settings are at their impeccable best here, and the reader is drawn into the story of this dysfunctional family with a patriarch broken by war at times more interested in roaming the bush and fighting fires and a tough-talking matriarch who gets down to business and keeps the family afloat.

Courtenay uses the Four Fires as a metaphor to represent passion, religion, warfare and fire itself, seeing these as key in the shaping of the Australian people and their spirit. It is the novel that he felt most close to after his debut and I vividly remember the depiction of a bushfire bearing down on the family as they fought to survive and protect each other.

Having grown up in a bushfire region, perhaps this is why it resonated with me.

Click here to purchase in Australia

Johnno

Author: David Malouf
Recommended by: Emily from Wander-Lush

 

David Malouf’s Johnno is a cult-classic novel among Brisbanites. Published in 1975, it was crowned joint-winner of the ‘One Book One Brisbane’ competition in 2004 as the book that best represents the River City.

Johnno is a work of fiction that draws heavily on the author’s early years growing up in Brisbane in the 1940s and 50s. The story focuses on protagonist, Dante, and his blossoming friendship with schoolmate, Johnno, and follows the pair as they navigate through adolescence.

This book beautifully captures the city of Brisbane at a time when it played third-fiddle to Sydney and Melbourne. Evocative descriptions of the Botanical Gardens and the CBD still ring true today, and you can visit many of the bars and all of the landmarks mentioned in the book.

Johnno offers a very personal, barebones window onto life in Australia as a young person, highlighting elements of local culture that aren’t often deemed worthy of including on the pages of a novel. It’s a classic coming of age tale that in many ways is an emblem for the city of Brisbane itself, which has undergone huge transformation since Malouf’s debut novel was published.

 

 

My Brilliant Career

Author: Miles Franklin
Recommended by: John from Your Destination is Everywhere

 

My Brilliant Career is a romantic novel written by Miles Franklin, in 1901. It is the story of Sybylla, a headstrong teenage girl who dreams of becoming a writer. Growing up in rural Australia in the early 1900s, Sybylla had to overcome many obstacles including gender inequality and poverty in pursuing her dream.

For a romantic novel of its time, My Brilliant Career has quite an unconventional plot. Miles Franklin did an excellent job of taking us through Sybylla’s romantic journey, but the story does not end with her marriage. There isn’t even any hint of her living a happy life or having a “brilliant career” as a writer. The novel clearly shows that life was far from perfect (especially for women) in Australia at the time, something that the author had experienced first hand.

Although My Brilliant Career was written over a hundred years ago, the issues of poverty, gender inequality, as well as toxic family dynamics are still very much relevant in today’s world. Even though we have come a long way in improving many aspects of life, there is still work to be done.

Click here to purchase in Australia

 

Pearl Sister

Author: Lucinda Riley
Recommended by: Lara from The Best Travel Gifts

Pearl Sister is a must-read for anyone who loves to learn about Australian colonial history through an easy-to-read historical novel.

It’s the fourth book in the series The Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley. And though it would make sense to start at the first book, they are written in such a way that you will still understand the story if you start with, let’s say, The Pearl Sister.

In short, the Seven Sisters is about six sisters (not by blood) who have all been adopted from different parts of the world by Pa Salt. When he passed away, he leaves all his daughters clues about their past, which they all trace back to find out more about their roots.

Pearl Sister covers the story of CeCe D’Aplièse who finds out her roots go back to Australia. As she travels to Australia, the story switches between the present day and the stories of her great, great grandmother, Kitty McBride around 1900.

The combination of Australian history and culture from the past that’s covered in the book, with the mystery as to, why CeCe was adopted in the end, make you want to finish the book in one day.

Pearl Sister touches on some of Australia’s darkest parts of history, such as the dangerous pearl industry and the colonists’ treatment of the aboriginal people. Additionally, through CeCe readers will learn more about current aboriginal art and culture.

Click here to purchase in Australia

Picnic at Hanging Rock

Author: Joan Lindsay
Recommended by: Zoe from breastfeedingmama

First published in 1967, Picnic at Hanging Rock is about the vanishing of 3 school girls and their teacher during a school picnic at Hanging Rock. The author’s skillful style of mystery and intrigue has made this one of Australia’s most well-known books. A reputation for strange magnetic activity at the site, the remains of an extinct volcano in Victoria, only adds to the mystery

It’s a classic Australian must read, not only because it highlights the beautiful but dangerous nature of the Australian bush, but because it has captured the curiosity of the world since it was written. 50 years after its release, readers are still asking if the book is based on fact and what really happened at Hanging Rock? Author Joan Lindsay wrote a final chapter, but publishers refused to print it, in order to preserve the mystery (which had made the book so popular). However, after Lindsay’s death in 1987, the publishers released the final chapter, titled ‘The secret of hanging rock’ to answer the enduring curiosity.

Picnic at Hanging Rock is such a popular Australian novel that it has was made into a feature film in the 70s, and recently made into a mini series starring Natalie Dormer of Hunger Games and Game of Thrones fame.

Click here to purchase in Australia

 

Stolen

Author: Lucy Christopher
Recommended by: Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Stolen by Lucy Christopher is a captivating and unusual read. It follows the story of Gemma who is kidnapped from an airport while she is with her family. She is taken to the Australian Outback and held there by a young kidnapper. There is no civilisation anywhere close to where she is being held so life begins to feel normal very soon after she arrives. She is held for months and slowly adjusts to the new life in the Outback. Against all odds, she actually becomes very close to her captor Ty and begins to understand him and his story. The two eventually have a romantic relationship and the book takes a major turn. Stolen is not what you might expect. It sheds a different light on a story that could have ended very differently. It’s a real page-turner and easy to read. You’ll be left wanting to hear more about Gemma’s story.

Click here to purchase in Australia

 

The Light Between Oceans

Author: M L Stedman

Recommended by: Holly from Globeblogging

While definitely not a novel that will be everyone’s cup of tea, this is a sweeping tale of love, loss and deception.

Set against the backdrop of a recently concluded World War 1 and a coastal Western Australian small town depleted of its men, returned soldier Tom Sherbourne arrives to take up the position of lightkeeper on Janus island, a fictional island which lies hundreds of kilometres from the coast between two oceans. It is a solitary life that suits him after the noise and brutality of war.

Naturally this would be a fairly quiet story if it were just him on an island, but a chance encounter with a local girl upon his arrival changes the course of Tom’s future.

The story is a little slow moving at first, but as it reaches its second part it accelerates rapidly. This may leave you wondering what you would do if you were placed in their situation, and how your choices would be shaped by grief, love and isolation in a time before modern technology and convenience.

This debut novel was made into a film in 2016 starring Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Rachel Weisz, which was filmed in Tasmania.

Click here to order in Australia

 

Tomorrow When the War Began

Author: John Marsden

Recommended by: Bec from Travels in Gippsland

 

If you are looking for a thrilling, can’t put it down read the Tomorrow, When the War Began series of books is for you.

Aimed at young adults this book manages to bridge the generation gap and even adults will still enjoy it. Set in rural Australia the book is based on the character Ellie and her friends. They go camping out in the remote Aussie bush and while they are away Australia is invaded by a foreign nation and their country town is colonised.

Tomorrow, when the war began goes through their stages of shock, realisation and their evolution from adolescence into guerilla warriors against the invaders.

This John Marsden book was so popular that it spawned the Tomorrow series where we follow Ellie and her friends through another 6 books;

The Dead of Night
The Third Day The Frost
Darkness Be My Friend
Burning for Revenge
The Night is for Hunting
The Other Side of Dawn

In 2010, there was also a movie starring Caitlin Stacey based on the first book, and in 2003 the Ellie Chronicles were released.

Click here to purchase in Australia

Tracks

Author: Robyn Davidson
Recommended by: Ania from The Travelling Twins

Robyn Davidson’s Tracks is a memoir about her solo journey across the Australian outback. It’s one of the most influential travel books about Australia I have ever read.

It tells the story of Robyn who in 1977 decided to leave behind her life and set off on a 1,700-mile trek from Alice Springs to Sydney with only four camels and two dogs for company. Her goal was to explore an unknown part of Australia that few outsiders had ever seen – let alone crossed by foot. She encountered some incredible challenges along the way, including extreme heat, thirst, hunger and loneliness, but she pushed through them all until she reached her destination. The book captures what it feels like to be utterly lost in unfamiliar territory without any maps or directions – yet still determined to reach a goal.

What started as an adventure of self-discovery turned into one of survival. This book tells her story and provides insights into how she was able to make it through this harsh environment with few supplies. If you are looking for a true life journey that will inspire your soul, then this is the book for you!

Click here to purchase in Australia
What do you think of these recommendations for books set in Australia? Have you got any others?
If you enjoyed this please share!

Unique Shoalhaven Wineries you need to visit

Stretching from Kiama in the North to Milton in the South and Kangaroo Valley in the west, the temperate climate and lush soil of the Shoalhaven coast produces wines which have received in excess of one thousand Australian and International awards. A range of varieties are produced by the eight Shoalhaven wineries, including Chardonnay, Verdelho, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.

Now I’ll state it up front, I am no wine connoisseur. I have a sweeter palate so if I’m drinking wine its something like a sweeter bubbly such as Moscato or Prosecco, or a dessert wine. I also enjoy liqueurs and fortified wines such as Port. So if I am heading to a winery it’s because there is something unique about it that caught my attention.

Whether you’re making a day trip from Sydney or the mountains, or staying nearby, here’s my pick of the unique Shoalhaven wineries you need to include in your visit.

This post contains affiliate links. Making a purchase through these links earns a small commission at no additional cost to you and is a great way to show your support to this site.

Mountain Ridge Wines

Where to find Mountain Ridge Wines

Mountain Ridge Wines is just over 9 kilometres from the town of Berry, at 11 Coolangatta Road, Coolangatta.

 

What do Mountain Ridge Wines offer?

Mountain Ridge are continuously experimenting with their wines and have an expanding offering which includes Cabernet Merlot, Shiraz, Semillion, Verdelho, Pinot Gris and Moscato. They are also expanding their range of Liqueurs, currently offering Watermelon, Strawberry and Macadamia.

Tastings are available for $5 per person from 9am – 3pm weekdays and 9am – 5pm weekends.

They also sell produce made onsite, including honey and jams.

 

Why you should visit Mountain Ridge Wines

This small, family run Shoalhaven winery has built their business on the principles of sustainability and reducing their impact on the climate. Located on the side of Cullungutti mountain, their onsite restaurant menu features seasonal South Coast produce, some even grown onsite, designed to complement different wines.

Mountain Ridge also have a schedule of events that feature live music, art, workshops and sporting events and are available as a venue for organised events and functions.

You need to try the liqueurs!

Coolangatta Estate Winery

Where to find Coolangatta Estate Winery

Coolangatta Estate Winery is just over 11 kilometres from the town of Berry, at 1335 Bolong Road, Coolangatta.

 

What does Coolangatta Estate Winery offer?

This Shoalhaven Winery produces a number of white wines including Savagnin, Verdelho, Chardonnay and Semillion, as well as Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tannat. Wine production was impacted by the 2019/20 bushfires in the region, and there are less wines in their 2020 vintage as a result. They were able to make a lovely Frizzante Rose due to the grapes being grown higher on the mountain and above the smoke.

Wine tasting at the Cellar Door is available 7 days from 10am until 5pm for $10 per person which includes 6 wines. Alternatively you can plan to spend awhile and order a wine tasting paddle for $20 per person, which features 4 100ml servings. A range of food boards can be ordered to accompany wine tasting. It is best to book in advance.

Coolangatta Estate has an onsite restaurant currently operating reduced hours, so it is best to confirm and make a booking.

The estate is also available for functions and events.

 

Why you should visit Coolangatta Estate Winery

They don’t come much more unique than Coolangatta Estate!

The estate is the location of the first European settlement of the South Coast of NSW in 1822. Alexander Berry and Edward Wollstonecraft settled in the foothills of Coolangatta mountain with a grant of the land and 100 convicts. It became a village including mills, artisans and tradesman and an exporter of horses and cedar internationally, and cattle, tobacco and wheat domestically.

After remaining in the Berry family until the 1940’s the estate had fallen into disrepair. It was acquired by the Bishop family in 1947 who began major restoration of the convict built buildings. They commenced growing Sauvignon Blanc grapes in the 1980’s and the first vintage was produced in 1990, proving that wine could be produced in the Shoalhaven region.

These days, visitors to the estate can stroll around the grounds to see a piece of history, and even stay on site. Most of the buildings have now been converted to accommodation.

Curious what its like to stay in a stable? Check out my stay in the Larnach Castle stables!

 

Two Figs Winery

Where to find Two Figs Winery

Two Figs Winery is located 17 kilometres from the town of Berry, at 905 Bolong Road, Berry. This family-owned boutique Shoalhaven winery is perched on top of a hill and visitors will drive over a cattle grate and past grazing cattle to reach the building.

 

What do Two Figs Winery offer?

Two Figs have a broad range of red and white wines on offer, including Rosé, Chardonnay, Shiraz and sparkling. They also have a lovely dessert wine made from late harvest Verdelho and two varieties of port.

The 2020 Frizzante Rose has an evident flavour of strawberries and will definitely appeal to lovers of sweet wine.

While Two Figs does not have a restaurant or cafe on site they do offer cheese and local produce platters to be enjoyed with their wines.

A wine tasting is $10 per person and lasts 45 minutes. Bookings are recommended.

 

Why you should visit Two Figs Winery

The view!

Two Figs Winery has a spectacular elevated location looking over the Shoalhaven River. The views don’t come much better for a wine tasting!

 

Shoalhaven Winery Tours

If you’re interested in taking a day trip to the Shoalhaven wineries, but not really keen on the driving, you can book a Shoalhaven Coast tour which includes at least two of these wineries.

If you have a group together you can also tailor your own private tour.

 

Virtual Tastings

The Shoalhaven wineries have commenced rolling out virtual wine tastings using Facebook watch parties. Check the Shoalhaven blog for more details.

 

Where to stay near the Shoalhaven Wineries

Check out the nearby options below.

 

If you enjoyed this glimpse of unique Shoalhaven wineries please share, and let me know how you enjoyed your visit!

Where to see Quokkas; A Rottnest Island Day Trip

Rottnest Island has become somewhat famous in recent years, thanks largely to an adorable little mammal and a few celebrity selfies!

It would be easy to assume that seeing the Quokka is the only thing to do on Rottnest Island, I had made the same assumption after all. But there’s actually way more to this little island off the coast and a Rottnest day trip should be on the itinerary for any visitor to Western Australia. There’s so much to do in fact, you may even like to consider staying on the island!

Rottnest Island covers an area of 19 square kilometres and is located 18 kilometres from the Western Australian city of Freemantle. The island is an A-class reserve, which provides it the highest level of protection for public land. It is administered by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions under a separate act of parliament. The island has a resident population of around 300 people and is a prime tourist attraction. Visitors can choose to stay in a number of locations on the island.

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Why you should visit Rottnest Island

There’s more to Rottnest;

  • Colonial history; there are a number of structures which remain the way they were built over 150 years ago
  • Aboriginal history; the island has a dark and unfortunate history of Aboriginal mistreatment
  • Military history; activities pertaining to both world wars  occurred on the island
  • Spectacular scenery; marine, woodland, beaches, there is plenty to thrill the nature lover
  • Wildlife; its not all about the Quokkas!

 

Rottnest Island History

Rottnest Island separated from mainland Australia approximately 7000 years ago due to rising sea levels. Known as Wadjemup to the local Whadjuk Noongar people, artefacts dating back over 30,000 years have been found on the island, however there is no evidence to suggest they continued to inhabit the island after it separated from the mainland.

The name Rottnest comes from the Dutch, who named it ‘Rats Nest Island’ in 1696 after mistaking the resident Quokka population for rats. It was colonised by British settlers in 1829, thought to offer potential for salt harvest, farming and fishing. It has been a penal colony for Aboriginal people, a military installation and an internment camp for enemy aliens. Many of the buildings still present on the island were built during the colonial period.

Built in 1840, this premises was the residence of the Prison Superintendent until the Governor decided it was to be his holiday home

 

Aboriginal History

The Aboriginal name for Rottnest Island, Wadjemup, means; place across the water where the spirits are. Prior to the island’s separation from the mainland it was an important meeting place and ceremonial site. Today it is known as the resting place of the spirits and a place of stopover on the journey to the afterlife. There are 17 Aboriginal heritage sites on the island and the island continues to be of significance to the Aboriginal community due to being the largest known burial ground of Aboriginal people.

After the British colonisation of the mainland, conflict frequently ensued between Aboriginals and the settlers granted parcels of land, and according to Dr Glen Stasiuk, Rottnest Island was originally intended to be a place where the Aboriginals could be sent and move freely rather than be incarcerated on the mainland. In 1838 the first 10 Aboriginal prisoners arrived on the island and they had some freedoms initially, until the arrival of the brutal Henry Vincent as Superintendent. The island was formally made a penal settlement in 1839, which it continued to be until 1904. During these years it is believed around 370 Aboriginal prisoners died, Rottnest Island has the dubious honour of being the largest death in custody site in Australia. While this was mostly as a result of disease, records indicate 5 were hanged.

Aboriginal prisoners were forced to quarry the materials and construct many of the buildings on the island.

A cell attached to the boathouse was where prisoners awaited transport

A building known as The Quod housed the prisoners, which was completed in 1864. This was the second prison to be built on the island, after the first had been destroyed by fire. Construction was mainly carried out by the prisoners using limestone blocks from a quarry on the island.

The Quod was notorious for its terrible conditions. The 2x3m cells were at times occupied by five prisoners who slept on the floor with just a thin blanket for warmth. Cells had no furniture, windows or sanitation and disease spread quickly.

The Quod

Aboriginal prisoners also built the town chapel in 1860, which later served as a school during the day and a reading room at night.

 

Military History

Rottnest Island had a part to play in both World Wars. During 1914 and 1915 it was used as an internment and camp for Prisoners of War. In September 2015, 989 people were held there, 148 of which were Prisoners of War.

The island was deemed critical to the defence of Freemantle as it could engage hostile ships before they came into range of the mainland port. In 1934 the Commonwealth purchased land at Bickley and began construction on the Oliver Hill and Bickley Battery’s, guns and quarters at Bickley, Army Barracks at Kingstown and a fortress, command post and signal station at Signal Ridge. A railway was built from the jetty to the guns at Oliver Hill. The Barracks were completed in 1937 and Rottnest Island was declared a permanent station for troops.

Recreational use of the island was not permitted between 1940 and 1945 and Rottnest Island was exclusively a military location. After the war Kingstown Barracks were used as a training location and they were retained even after other Army land holdings were returned in 1967. The Army officially vacated the island in 1984 and the Barracks became an educational centre.

You are able to visit and tour the military installations on the island, including riding the railway at Oliver Hill.

 

Maritime History

Europeans were most likely to have been the first to land on the island with the Dutch in 1658, while searching for the survivors of another ship. William de Vlamingh was next recorded in 1696 and gave the island its name.

In excess of 13 ships lie in watery graves in the waters of Rottnest Island. Their locations are indicated by plaques on the shore.

Between 1848 and 1903 a Pilot station operated on the island. Pilots guided ships around the reefs and into Freemantle Harbour. A replica whaleboat like one they used is on display in the pilot boathouse near the main settlement.

The Pilot Boathouse

Lighthouses served to provide a communication link between the Pilot station and incoming ships, and after the last pilot departed the island in 1903 the lighthouse would telephone ship sightings to the lighthouse in Freemantle and a pilot boat would dispatch from there.

Rottnest Island lighthouse

The original Rottnest Island Lighthouse served for forty years until 1891, when plans for a replacement lighthouse were drawn up that would be 15 metres west of the original tower. The new lighthouse was opened in 1896 and is still an integral part of Australia’s navigation network encircling the coastline. The Rottnest Island Lighthouse stands 38 metres high and the lens revolves once every 60 seconds at an intensity of 1,300,000 candelas. The geographical range of the light is 23 nautical miles.

Tours of the lighthouse run daily, the view from the top is worth the climb.

 

Rottnest Land Wildlife

 

Quokkas

Undoubtedly the star of the show are the ridiculously cute Quokkas that earned Rottnest Island its name, observed to resemble a rat the size of a cat. They are also known as the short-tailed scrub wallaby, and are the only member of the genus Setonix.

The Quokka is the only mammal native to Rottnest Island which has a population of between 10,000 and 12,000. Having no predator on the island they have flourished there while they have disappeared in the wild on the mainland. They are listed as a vulnerable species.

 

Where to find Quokkas

The Quokkas can be found all over the island, but their population is densest near the main settlement due to the accessibility of fresh water and food.

You honestly won’t have to try too hard to find them, just walk through the settlement and you’ll come across them. Or even sit down for a meal and you may find a couple at your feet!

 

How to get a Quokka selfie

Again this isn’t terribly hard, but be prepared to get down on the ground!

The Quokkas are utterly unconcerned by people, so they aren’t going to run away. Chances are you will sit or lie down next to one and they’ll keep on doing what they are doing.

I was able to get one of mine by sitting in front of a wall that the Quokka was walking along, and offering it a leaf to make it stop behind me.

They can carry Salmonella, which is harmful to people so don’t touch them. Human food can also make them quite ill so don’t feed them.

 

Birdlife

The habitat and coastline of Rottnest Island offer food and a breeding habitat for up to 50 shorebird species, including osprey, gulls, terns, cormorants and parrots. It also supports breeding colonies of wedge-tailed shearwaters.

Stop on by the Rottnest Island visitor centre and pick up a map of the habitats if you are keen for some bird watching!

 

Reptile life

Some species of turtle are occasionally seen in the water off the coast. The island is home to 3 species of frog, 17 species of lizard and 2 species of snake, one of which is venomous.

 

Rottnest Marine Life

Rottnest Island is a Marine Reserve with a range of habitats and animals. Strict regulations apply to interactions with flora and fauna.

Along with being home to approximately 400 species of fish, 20 species of coral, a number of species of crustacean and the famous Western rock Lobster which you might try at the local restaurant. There are a number of popular snorkeling spots on the island and snorkel sets can be hired behind Hotel Rottnest.

 

New Zealand Fur Seals

There is a resident New Zealand Fur Seal colony at Cathedral Rocks. From a vantage point on the viewing platform you may be lucky enough to see them enjoying the sun on the rock or splashing about in the water.

Take the proper camera for this one, the phone probably isn’t going to pick much up from the distance. I’d also plan to head to this spot earlier in the day. While the afternoon sun on the water is stunning, it makes it difficult to see much.

Dolphins

Head on over to Salmon Bay on the North side of the island to see if you’re lucky enough to spot a pod of Bottlenose Dolphins.

Humpback Whales

In Winter Rottnest Island is along the Humpback Whale Migration route that runs past the Western side of Australia to warmer waters. Watch for whales from land between May and October at Cape Vlamingh.

 

How to get to Rottnest Island

As Rottnest Island is completely separate from the mainland, the only way to access it is by air or by sea.

By Ferry

Ferries are available from both Perth and Freemantle and are available as a basic transfer or packaged with other activities on the island. Ferry transfer prices also include the AU$18.50 admission pass to the island.

From Perth

Rottnest Fast Ferries depart twice daily from Hilary’s boat harbour, at 7.30am and 10am. I would recommend the 7.30am because it is so easy to spend an entire day on the island and still not see everything, the return ferry leaves at 4.30pm. The trip over takes 45 minutes.

Your ticket also includes a complimentary transfer from your hotel, great if you don’t have a vehicle to take advantage of the free parking at the boat harbour.

They also make a pretty decent coffee while you wait!

Arriving back at Hilary’s Boat Harbour

From Freemantle

Sealink Rottnest Island run ferries at three departure times, with the first at 8am. The journey from Freemantle is 35 minutes.

 

By Air

For a little more flexibility on times check out a seaplane flight with Swan River Seaplanes, including transfers from Perth CBD hotels.

 

How to get around on Rottnest Island

If you happen to like cycling you can head to Hotel Rottnest and hire a bike for the day.

If like me, bikes aren’t your thing head to the Visitor Centre and get a ticket for the Island Explorer bus. Your ticket is valid all day and you can hop on and off as you wish. Just be sure to be on the last bus back to the settlement if you have a ticket on the ferry back!

The island is full of walking trails so there are plenty of walks you can do between stops.

 

Tips to plan your Rottnest Island day trip

There really is so much to do on the island that it is deceptive how long it can take. If you are just planning to do a Rottnest day trip check out the tours available on the official site and get an idea of where you’d like to prioritise your time. I underestimated how long things would take and was still at the main settlement at lunchtime, leaving me precious little time to check out the rest of the island.

Accommodation is available on the island if you are keen to take your time.

Be sure to stop by the Rottnest Island general store for some cute Rottnest themed souvenirs, and be sure to try the locally sourced fresh seafood!

 

Rottnest Island Accommodation

If you’ve had a look and decided you need more than just a day to explore Rottnest Island, you have a few options available for accommodation.

 

Discovery Rottnest Island

For those seeking the creature comforts of luxury hotels, combined with closeness to nature, check out the Discovery Rottnest Island eco-resort for the ultimate glamping experience almost on the beach. Discovery Rottnest Island features a range of options to suit varying budgets plus a pool, restaurant and bar.

Book your stay at Discovery Rottnest Island

Karma Rottnest

Karma Rottnest offers premier style heritage listed accommodation featuring a pool, a la carte restaurant and 2 bars and is suitable for families and solo travellers.

Book your stay at Karma Rottnest

Rottnest Island Authority

The Rottnest Island Authority offers several villa’s and dormitory accommodation for the budget conscious travellers.

Book with Rottnest Island Authority

 

I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the fabulous place Rottnest Island is!

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Cruise the Humpback Highway; best whale watching Sydney

Every year, between the months of May and November, Humpback Whales undertake their migration along the eastern coastline of Australia. Eagle-eyed Sydneysiders may spot the whales from a number of vantage points along the coast. But if you want the chance to get a little bit closer there is only one way you’re going to do it, and that’s being out on the water! Sydney is one of the best places in Australia to observe whales.

This post contains affiliate links. Making a purchase through these links earns a small commission at no additional cost to you and is a great way to show your support to this site.

 

Best time to see whales

The annual migration of Humpback whales takes place between the months of May and November.

During May, June and July they are traveling north from the cold waters of Antarctica to the warmer waters of Queensland for their winter breeding and calving. During August the whales may be traveling either north or south and from September to November they are traveling south to return to Antarctica.

According to Wild About Whales, Humpback whales migrate on average approximately 5000km, which is one of the longest migratory journeys of any mammal.

Regarding time of day, I have done both a morning and afternoon session of the Go Whale Watching cruise, and the morning was significantly better for Humpback whale watching.

According to ORRCA during the Southern migration whales will tend to travel closer to the coastline to allow the calves to feed and rest and numbers will peak in October. Mothers and calves will often be accompanied by males to protect from predators.

There are some benefits to taking the afternoon cruise

Humpback Whale Migration Route

The eastern stretch of coastline of Australia has become fondly known as the Humpback Highway due to the volume of whales that travel it. It is one of multiple Humpback whale migration routes in the world. Humpback whales do not generally cross the equator, the southern population all migrate to the nutrient rich waters of Antarctica in Summer, and the warmer waters alongside South America, Africa and Australia for the Winter.

Numbers have been increasing every year since the end of commercial whaling, researchers from the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans predict over 35,000 Humpbacks will travel the Humpback Highway in 2020.

 

A Sydney Harbour Cruise with Go Whale Watching

It’s rare to see Humpback whales in Sydney Harbour, so expect to have to go out past the heads to the Humpback Highway where you have a good chance to see them. The plus side of course is you’ll get some great photo opportunities on your way! And while cloudy days may not always bode so well for weather and water conditions, they definitely make for good photos!

There’s nowhere else in Sydney to get this view!
Or with two Sydney icons in one!

Go Whale Watching is a family owned and operated business with a number of boats. While I was on two different boats each cruise, they were both clean and comfortable, and the company had ensured the number of people on board were strictly within state legislated requirements.

 

 

Cruising the Humpback Highway

Once out past the heads onto the open sea, the crew are positioned around the boat keeping watch for the telltale signs of the Humpback’s presence, a burst of water against the sky as they surface for air. They tell all the passengers to keep watch too, but it is the practiced eyes of the crew that inevitably spot them first.

Once spotted the crew will travel as close as they can to where the whale was spotted, and wait. Humpback whales need to come up for air regularly so eventually they will surface again, though there is no guarantee it will be in the same location. All boats are only permitted to go 100m from the whales. Anything closer than that is up to the whales.

Fortunately for the eager onlookers, Humpback whales are curious creatures so sometimes a cruise gets lucky. Once the whale surfaces the crew tells passengers to make lots of noise, to try and hold the whale’s attention and pique its curiosity.

 

Whale Behaviours

You may be lucky to see some of these exhibited by whales on the cruise. It took me three trips to capture all of these so don’t be disappointed if you don’t see some of them on your first attempt.

 

Breaching

We’ve all seen those epic shots of a whale leaping out of the water, it’s the crown jewel everyone wants to see.

Unfortunately, the one time it did happen on my second cruise I was on the other side of the boat and all I ended up capturing was the splashy aftermath!

When you’re a fraction too late for the big moment

On my third attempt though, luck was with us as the captain of the boat spotted the holy grail, a repeatedly breaching calf in the distance, and hot-tailed it over. This calf was having a grand old time putting on a spectacle for the surrounding boats and we got to watch him for at least 30 minutes. Mum didn’t join in the fun but made herself known from time to time.

 

 

Tail slapping

Also known as lobtailing, dolphins are also known to do this. The whale lifts its tail out of the water and slaps it down to make a loud noise. They may also slap the water with their flippers.

This is known as a Fluke Up Dive, when the tail lifts as the whale dives back down after surfacing.

The underside of the Humpbacks tail is called a Fluke and it is as unique as our fingerprints

 

Spy-hopping

This is where the whale pokes it’s head straight up out of the water to take a look around.

Check out this calf poking its head up for a look in between leaping out of the water. If you look closely you can see its eye.

Mugging

We were lucky enough to have a number of whales engage in this behaviour, which is when the whale approaches the boat and swims around it.

Circling our boat just below the surface of the water

Several were curious enough to poke their heads up to check us out, right near where I stood!

This behaviour is potentially less likely to be observed when it is a mother and calf, as mum will actively put herself between the calf and the boat.

Mum and Calf

Tips for having a great Whale Watching experience

1. The whales are more active earlier in the day. While the experience of being out on the ocean when the sun sets and the nighttime vista of Sydney coming back into the Harbour is pretty special in its own right, the timing means that the light is likely to be poor by the time you get out far enough out.

2. Check the weather. While cloudy days make for great photo lighting, it would be a bit miserable being poured upon.

3. Check the wind. You might not think about this one but it’s critical to a good experience, trust me on this one. According to the Bureau of Meteorology winds of 26 knots or more will indicate rough conditions for small boats. That’s 48km per hour.

4. If you’re a bit funny on the motion sickness thing, even if you aren’t expecting rough seas, it’s just a good idea all round to take a tablet 30mins before.

5. Wear a spray jacket. It will provide some warmth as well as protection from an errant wave. It’s not much fun sitting in wet clothes for a few hours.

Tips for photographing the Whales

While I am no professional, there are a few things that improved my chances of getting great shots.

1. Fast shutter speed. These are wild animals and they aren’t going to be still for you while you line up that great shot. Have a fast shutter speed set ready to go.

2. Don’t shoot full manual. Again, they aren’t going to say cheese and smile for you while you fiddle with your settings. I shot on Shutter Priority mode and let the camera set the rest.

3. Continuous shooting. Auto focus between shots takes precious moments, I figured out pretty quickly I was going to do better by having my camera set to take a burst of shots if I held the button down. It’s easy enough to delete the excess later and better than lamenting that moment you missed. Depending on your camera you may also be able to set to continuous focus.

4. Put a zoom lens on. I was shooting with my 40-150mm lens, which is equivalent to a 300mm on a full frame camera. I was lucky to have the whales come in nice and close for some head shots but its completely up to the whales how close they come. Chances are you’ll be shooting from a little way off.

 

Book your Whale Watching cruise

Book through Groupon for a great price on your cruise!

Go Whale Watching cruises depart from Pier 7 of King Street Wharf Darling harbour and run 2 – 3 sessions a day during whale season. Cruises run for a little under 3 hours.

Parking is available nearby at Darling Quarter, approximately 10 minutes walk from Pier 7.

 

My Photography Equipment

If you are interested in what photography equipment I use and recommend, check out some of the results in my Photography Equipment List.

 

Darling Harbour Accommodation

If you want to make a night of it, check out the options for accommodation in Darling Harbour below.

 

As always, if you loved this please share!

Driving around Australia; the best routes for your Aussie road trip

My cousin visited from the UK a couple of years ago. He was staying with my family in Western Sydney, but thought he could just pop on over to Uluru and take a quick trip through the Barossa Valley. He couldn’t believe it when I told him both would require hours of flying.

Non-Australians often don’t grasp just how immense Australia really is!

That vastness lends itself spectacularly well to Australia self-drive tours. While I have done a few routes myself, there are many left so I called in the troops to get recommendations from other bloggers on the best drives in Australia to add to your Australia Itinerary.

This post contains affiliate links. This post contains affiliate links. Making a booking or purchase through these links comes at no additional cost to you and is a great way to show your support for this site.

 

New South Wales

Sydney to Wagga Wagga drive

Paula from Truly Expat

Wagga Wagga is the largest inland city in NSW with a population of 64,000 residents. Wagga, as it is known by locals, is approximately 250kms from Canberra and 460kms from Sydney CBD.

Wagga is a quaint country town, full of wineries, great restaurants, amazing museums and art galleries and some fascinating boutique-style shops. I feel like every Aussie drama was written about this unique town, with its mix of country flair and big city living.

The drive from Sydney can take just under 5 hours if you choose not to stop, however stopping along the way at some great places is what the road trip is all about. Some of the best stops along the way are;

  • Heatherbrae Pies in Suttons Forest: What is an Aussie road trip without the great Aussie pie? Why not stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner at this old-style diner, it is open from 6am to 9pm every day except public holidays.
  • Suttons Forest cafe: If pies aren’t your thing, then head over to Sutton Forest Cafe, for some well deserved hot coffee and pastries. While you are there cross the road to ‘The Everything Shop’, you will be amazed at what you find.
  • Goulburn: Not many people stop at this town anymore, but the iconic Big Merino remains. While there you should drive up to the Rocky Hill Memorial and Museum, or walk if you have the time. The view from the top is impressive.
  • The Crisp Galleries: The Crisp Galleries was by far my favourite stop, the estate is amazing from the time you walk in. Walk around the gardens, eat from the delicious cafe and venture over to the museum and gift shop for a little look around. The slumped glass is beautiful, and so are the welcoming staff. They do hold significant events there, so check ahead of time.

 

Northern Territory

Alice Springs to Uluru drive

Cat from Walk My World

There’s nowhere quite like the Red Centre and a trip between Alice Springs and Uluru will take you right through the heart of the Outback. You might think there’s not much to see on a desert road trip, but this one will definitely surprise you. Keep an eye out for dingoes, camels, brumbies and of course the ubiquitous kangaroos!

There are a couple of routes you can pick; one is fully paved and is the quickest option, but if you have access to a 4×4 we’d recommend taking the Mereenie Loop. This unpaved road is pretty rough but will give you by far the best wildlife watching opportunities.

Before you start your road trip, spend a few days soaking up the sights in Alice with a visit to the Kangaroo Sanctuary, the Flying Doctors and the School of the Air. If you have more time, there are many beautiful gorges just outside the town centre.

Once on the road there are many stops you can make along the way including some of the Outback’s best hiking opportunities. There are also dozens of stunning waterholes to cool off in afterwards. An absolute must do is Kings Canyon where you can walk along the deep red canyon walls which offer breath-taking views, especially at sunset.

Once you arrive at Uluru prepare to be blown away by the huge monolith which glows particularly red in the early morning light. You can hike or cycle for 10km around the base and check out the indigenous art etched on to the walls. It’s an amazing sight and definitely one for your Australian bucket list. A visit to nearby Kata Tjuta (more incredible rock formations) is equally impressive and often overlooked.

Round off an amazing road trip with a night spent staring up at the starry skies, we’ve never seen the milky way so clearly!

Check out Uluru Tours.

 

Darwin to Katherine drive

Stephanie from Navigating Adventure

The journey between Darwin and Katherine in the Northern Territory is one of my all-time favourite road trips. We experienced this drive many times while living in Darwin.   Despite it being only 315 km one way heading south on the Stuart Highway, there are many opportunities for detours which provide some of the most unique experiences of the Top End.

If we were looking for some heart stopping action, our first detour was a left turn onto the Arnhem Highway, about thirty minutes into our journey. A further twenty minutes down the road we reach the Adelaide River where we would board a boat to see the amazing jumping crocodiles leap from the water right in front of us. On our way back, we would stop in for lunch at the iconic Humpty Doo Hotel – a true Territorian pub.

Once we were back on the Stuart Highway, we continue south for a short distance and take a right turn onto Cox Peninsula Road before stopping in at the tranquil Berry Springs for a swim. If we had time, we would keep going to Litchfield National Park and stay overnight. Here we loved to explore the huge termite mounds, stunning waterfalls, spectacular rock pools and great hiking tracks.

Once we had returned to the Stuart Highway we would call into the small town of Adelaide River to visit the war memorial and learn about the history of WWII in the Top End.

Approximately two hours later we reach Katherine where our must-do activities are the natural hot springs, and Nitmiluk National Park. We would either take a guided cruise or if we were feeling energetic we would hire a canoe to paddle down the Katherine Gorge. The ancient Aboriginal rock art and awe-inspiring scenery of this sacred place was always a magical ending to our adventure.

Check out Katherine Tours.

 

South Australia

Adelaide to Uluru drive

Emma from small footprints big adventures

In 2018 my family and I slowly drove from Adelaide to Uluru and back again and we loved the whole experience.

We found many amazing caravan parks to stay in and we tried a few free camps too, of which there were many to choose from. We also booked a campsite at Mount Remarkable but halfway up the mountain we had to turn back as it seemed our engine might blow up! Apparently towing caravans uphill is not as easy as I thought.

The camp we had to abandon is said to be one of the most beautiful campsites in Australia, but we still found many amazing views. The Lake Hart Salt Lake was pretty, and Bowman Park in Crystal Brook was a beautiful place to stay. We watched a goanna in a tree very close to our van, and a kangaroo with her joey bounded right past us one morning.

Another highlight was the town of Coober Pedy, where most residents live underground as it gets so hot. We did a tour of an opal mine, enjoyed the underground bookstore, found the best playground of the trip, and had a great experience at the Indigenous art gallery and native wildlife rescue centre.

And, of course, the best part of the trip was Uluru itself. We loved staying at Ayers Rock campground and exploring around Uluru and Kata Tjuta. We hired bikes to ride one day, hiked on others and watched the sun rising and setting from amazing lookouts. We also took some workshops both within the resort township and out in the bushland, which were excellent.

It was a magical road trip that gave me and my whole family a better understanding of the different landscapes and lifestyles of inland Australia.

Check out Uluru Tours.

 

Tasmania

Hobart to Launceston drive

Holly from Four Around The World

Tasmania is one of the most scenic parts of Australia. The entire island state is known for beautiful landscape and historic sites. And the best way to see it is by road trip.

We explored Tasmania from bottom to top, Hobart to Launceston, however, you can easily do it in reverse! Whether you take a campervan around Tasmania or hire a car and stay at some unique accommodation along the way, you will love this trip.

Starting in Hobart, take some time to enjoy the city. Visit Salamanca Markets for delicious food and local wares. Make sure you take a drive up Mt Wellington too for some incredible views. We also recommend making a day trip to Port Arthur too!

Leaving Hobart, you have plenty of choices of which route to take. You can road trip around the coast and enjoy stunning ocean scenery as you make your way to Launceston. Or take an inland route, as we did.

We recommend a visit to Strahan, a village by the water famous for their steam train and boat tour. Then head to Cradle Mountain for a chance to ditch your wheels for a while and enjoy a hike or two in the area.

Once in Launceston, you can’t miss Cataract Gorge, with many different activities you can do, including the scenic chairlift. It is also a great area for walks and wildlife spotting.

If you have the time during your road trip, do your best to fit in Wineglass Bay & Freycinet National Park along the way. You may need around 10 to 12 days to fit everything in but it will be worth it!

Check out Launceston tours.

 

Tarkine Drive

Taryn from Happiest Outdoors

The Tarkine Drive in Tasmania is a great off-the-beaten-path road trip. It’s in the remote northwest corner of the state. Along the way, you’ll travel down the wild West Coast and through the brilliant green of the rainforest. There are lots of places to stop to go for a hike, enjoy a viewpoint or try to spot wildlife.

It’s a 200km loop that starts and ends in the small town of Smithton. You can drive the entire thing in a day, but you’ll be very rushed. To really enjoy it, spend the night in Arthur River about halfway along.

The Tarkine region is named for the Indigenous Tarkiner people who once called this area home. (And if you’re unsure, Tarkine rhymes with “fine”.)  There are lots of aboriginal heritage sites to discover including some truly enormous shell middens.

The region is also home to the world’s second-largest temperate rainforest, with lots of huge old-growth eucalypts, myrtle, leatherwood, and pines. Some of the plants, like the giant tree ferns, date back thousands of years to the time of the Gondwana supercontinent. One of the best places to experience the unique ecosystem is on the short Julius River walking track.

The area is also a great place to try to spot wildlife. It’s one of the least populated areas in Tasmania so it has lots of animals. It has the only surviving wild population of endangered Tasmanian devils. The highlight of my trip was spotting one at our campsite just as the sun went down.

Victoria

The Bellarine Peninsula

Audrey from See Geelong

Point Lonsdale Lighthouse

From the Big Lap to the Great Ocean road, Australia has some of the world’s best-known road trips. But if you’re looking for a road less travelled, then head to the Bellarine Peninsula. This secret gem on the Victorian coastline is just 90 km south-west of Melbourne and is one of the best road trips from Melbourne. It is best visited over several days.

Starting in Melbourne the route takes in one of Victoria’s hippest new destinations, the city of Geelong. Be sure to stop here for a stroll along the stunning waterfront and views back over the bay towards Melbourne, or take in the sunrise from a hot air balloon. Then it’s time to head to the Peninsula to enjoy some of the state’s best wineries and seaside fishing villages.

It’s a truly spectacular drive with stunning sea views, beautiful farmlands and the gorgeous Australian countryside. The area is also home to art galleries, museums, historic buildings, lighthouses, and chic cafes. There’s plenty to do out on the water too including, surfing, paddle boarding, diving and fishing. For the ultimate in fun join a tour and go swimming with dolphins and seals.

One of the great things about the Bellarine Peninsula is that it’s a relatively small region so you don’t have to spend great lengths of time in your vehicle. For a truly epic Aussie road trip experience, we recommend combining your Bellarine road trip with the Great Ocean Road.

 

The Great Ocean Road Trip

Few routes are as iconic as the Great Ocean Road Trip.

This stretch of road, built by returning soldiers and sailors after the first world war, follows the Victorian Coastline for 243 kilometres, offering exceptionally picturesque views of Australian scenery. It is

essential driving for locals and visitors alike.

While it forms part of a larger route between Melbourne and Adelaide, the actual Great Ocean Road runs between Torquay, where you can take a surfing lesson, and Allansford. The part of the coastline that runs between Cape Otway and Port Fairy is known as The Shipwreck Coast, known to be the final watery graves of over 600 ships.  The treacherous nature of the coastline means it is also home to numerous lighthouses, some of which are open to the public and offer views out to sea. At the right time of year you might catch whales migrating or raising their young in the Logan’s Beach Whale Nursery.

The road also winds through the Cape Otway National Park on one of the rare occasions it deviates from the coast, lush green forest on either side of the road. There is heaps to stop and see and do along this stretch so don’t rush.

Probably the most famous attraction along the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles, although only eight now remain, the others having succumbed to the seas over time. Get here in the morning to beat the busload of tourists from Melbourne and have the best light for photographs.

 

Wilsons Promontory

Michela from Rocky Travel

If you plan to visit Melbourne and want to start your trip with a relaxed but rewarding road trip to a unique place in Australia, I can recommend spending a couple of days at Wilsons Promontory. Another of the best road trips from Melbourne.

This road trip is a two and a half  hour drive South-East of Melbourne to a fabulous National Park with over 25 walking trails, from day-hikes to multi-day-hiking trails. It is a unique part of Australia where you can see lots of native Australian animals in the wild and also enjoy spectacular hiking trails and safe swimming without feeling overwhelmed. An unusual combination in Australia where the natural wonders often conceal many challenges and hazards.

If you like photography, the Wilsons Promontory offers many top-notch spots for sunset photos and many breathtaking lookouts out to the oceans and the beautiful coastline. The best time to visit is in Spring or Summer, but make sure you book your space well ahead, as this is a top-rated destination among the locals. If you are visiting, the best way to plan your road trip is to hire a car in Melbourne and spend a few days either camping at Tidal River National Park or book yourself into more comfortable cabin lodges. Either solo or with a companion, here are more info on how to plan your road trip to Wilsons Promontory in Victoria.

Take a Wilderness Cruise at Wilsons Promontory.

 

Western Australia

Perth to Margaret River

Cal and Mar from Once in a Lifetime

Imagine a remote and secluded part of Western Australia, where panoramic beaches meet rolling hills filled with vines and cattle. This is the Margaret River. Located around 3 hours from Perth, an already isolated part of the country, is a wine lovers dream that has made a name for itself as a premium vino destination since its first vines were planted in the 60s. A brilliant Australian road trip you can take is to traverse the wineries of this region by doing a loop from Perth back to Perth.

Due to its Oceanic terroir that allows for cool nights and warm days, it’s a favorable region for growing Bordeaux-style grapes. Start at the pioneer of the region Vasse Felix, founded by Thomas Cullity back in 1967. The other founding wineries in the region include Leeuwin, Cullen, Voyager and Cape Mentelle. Four of these five are still run by the same family, which makes visiting them an intimate affair.

The latter winery Cape Mentelle belongs to a holding company, LVMH, but is still a gorgeous visit with a stunning beach, cattle that create natural fertilizer and the odd kangaroo. Cullen is great for biodynamic and certified organic wines. Leeuwin is a hidden paradise at the end of a winding road with fine-dining dinners. Voyager is a nod to South Africa’s Cape Dutch architecture with 4WDR tours.

If you love the grape elixir or hate it, traveling to the distant Margaret River is a treat for the eyes and a more laid back road trip in Australia for those seeking true relaxation. There are also quaint farmers markets, craft beer joints and quality food.

Check out Things to do in Margaret River for Wine Lovers.

 

Perth to Monkey Mia drive

Ioana from The World is my Playground

One of the most adventurous and beautiful road trips in Australia is from Perth, northbound towards Monkey Mia, a total of 865 km one way.

Start with spending a couple of days in Perth, and explore the city centre, the waterfront, and the beaches, or stop at Scarborough Beach on your way out of town for breakfast and awesome sunrise views.

Next, drive toward Lancelin Sand Dunes and spend a few hours sandboarding or walking around for awesome panoramic views. Then head to Nambung National Park to check out the Pinnacles – unusual limestone pillars in the dessert.

Stop by the charming town of Geraldton for a few hours – or spend a night here – before continuing on to Kalbarri National Park. The park itself is huge. If you enjoy hiking, sleep in the vicinity and plan to hike in the park the next day. The weather gets very hot and the hike itself takes a few hours, so it’s best to start at daybreak and bring food and water.

Check out Hamelin Pool before continuing to Monkey Mia. Your best bet is to stay at the Monkey Mia resort, a remote and relaxing resort near Francois Peron National Park, another park worth exploring. Wake up early and head to the beach for the main attraction. The infamous Monkey Mia dolphins will come out to greet you around 9am. The dolphins live in the wild but come and hang out at the beach every morning.

If you have a few extra days, you can continue past Monkey Mia and head to Broome, one of the most picturesque locations on the West Coast. You can drop off your rental car in Broome and take a small local flight back to Perth or drive back the same way but stopping at different attractions (like the Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake!).

 

Queensland

Atherton Tablelands

Lauren from Faramagan

Many people associate Cairns with the reef and rainforest, but did you know it is also home to some of the best waterfalls in the country? One of the best Cairns day trips is to head for the Atherton Tablelands which are a lush, wetlands surrounding the city. The Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls Circuit is a 17km driving loop that will allow you to tick off the most famous of these falls all in one day. Best of all, no expensive tour is required – it’s super easy to plan your own self-drive tour thanks to plenty of signage and lots to see and do along the way.

Situated around a 2 hour drive from Cairns, most people choose to start with Millaa Milla, the most famous of the waterfalls before ticking off other favourites such as Dinner Falls, Ellinjaa Falls, Barron Falls and Josephine Falls (Which even has a natural waterslide for a road trip stop you’ll never forget!)

Unlike the sea in Queensland which is often frequented by crocs, sharks or jellyfish the majority of these waterfalls are safe to swim in, providing a refreshing break to stretch your legs before continuing the waterfalls route. Always check weather warnings and signage at the falls before you enter the water as heavy rainfall can drastically affect the water depth and pressure.

During your road trip, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the abundance of wildlife in the area including kangaroos (especially if driving at dusk) echidnas, wallabies and platypus. From natural plunge pools to world-famous rainforest, the Atherton Tablelands will provide a road trip like no other!

Cairns to Cape Tribulation drive

Annie from Off Goes Annie

Driving from Cairns to Cape Tribulation is one of the most rewarding yet easy road trips in Queensland. With a total non-stop return driving time of just five hours, it’s possible to see this beautiful combination of beaches, reefs and rainforests in one day. To make the most of your adventure, take your time to stop at plenty of the stunning spots along the way, or spend a night below the tree canopy of the Daintree Rainforest.

From Cairns, you’ll first find yourself on the Captain Cook Highway, which has all the beauty of a mini section of the Great Ocean Road. Think winding roads alongside stunning hidden coves, with a backdrop of green hills, whilst you enjoy many secluded beaches. Next, you’ll come to the sleepy palm lined resort town of Port Douglas – have a wander around the shops or check out their epic long sweeping beach.

As you approach the Daintree Rainforest, you’ll need to make the river crossing by ferry. There’s no need to plan a time in advance as they run every 10-15 minutes, and tickets of AUD$28 can be purchased at the dock. Once arriving in the rainforest itself, the driving becomes even more wonderful. Winding roads below the thick canopy take you to a multitude of walking routes, and eventually, to the beautiful Cape Tribulation beach. Here, two world heritage sites of the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef meet, in a place of outstanding natural beauty.

Check out Cape Tribulation tours.

 

Were all of these great road trips on your list? Let me know below!

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Ghost Tours Sydney; The Rocks Walking Tour

A Lantern Ghost Tour – A skeptics tale

All places have stories. They may vary in infamy and the ability to make us scoff, gasp in wonder, or apply a healthy dose of skepticism. As a place increases in age it collects stories, and old stories grow in the minds and mouths of the storytellers, taking upon a life all of their own and passing into myth and urban legend.

Even as a local there can be many stories we never hear and things we haven’t seen unless we go in search of them. I may not live in Sydney itself but I have lived west of it my entire life and I still have plenty to see and explore.

The Rocks, Sydney Australia, has long been my favourite part of Sydney. Perhaps it’s my British heritage and love of history, but I love that the glass and concrete high-rises and offices give way to old stone structures and cobblestone streets, some of which date back to the establishment of the New South Wales colony. So much has been buried over time and is now being uncovered as the city expands.

So its understandable that the idea of a Sydney history tour appealed to me, and a ghost hunting Sydney adventure with Lantern Ghost Tours even more so! I didn’t see any ghosts, and I’m not sure if I’m disappointed about that or not, but it was a really fun and unique evening full of places I had never seen. Read on for my The Rocks ghost tour review or book yours!

 

 

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A spooky evening begins

The Rocks is one of the most historic parts of Sydney, dating back to the late 1700’s. A sordid history of plague, crime and hardship in the early settlement of Australia lends itself to it’s reputation of one of Sydney’s spookiest locations.

My tour kicks off at 8pm, but we are meeting out front of the Endeavour Hotel on George Street at 7.45pm and I’m surprised by the number of people waiting when I arrive after a brisk stroll from my car (parking tips to come!) Our guide is waiting dressed in corsetry, top hat and tailed black jacket, dramatically speaking in a booming voice and holding the namesake lantern aloft. This is going to be fun!

We wait a while longer for the other expected guests and are then ushered around the corner into the stone courtyard of another building which provides a wall for our guide, who introduces herself as Alison, to address us from. Alison runs through the rules for the evening, and we are all told to look at someone in the group that we don’t know and remember them, they will be our buddy for the evening. Rather than everyone being delayed by headcounts for the evening, we are to sing out if we can’t find our buddy in the group. We are also dramatically told that if a ghost follows us home, to keep the lights on.

She asks us if anyone knows what a divining rod is and I raise my hand, explaining that they are allegedly used to detect the presence of water. “Exactly!” She says and with a flourish pulls a pair of silver rods out of the sack I hadn’t noticed her carrying. “They actually detect the presence of energy, and we can use them to communicate with spirits.” She proceeds to demonstrate how to hold the rods to allow them free movement, followed by asking “Is there anyone here that wishes to speak with us?” At this point the rods may move to indicate an affirmative answer, which if so you could then ask follow up questions, instructing the rods to swing one way for yes, and the other for no. She offers the rods to the group and someone puts up their hand. Another two pairs from the sack closely follow.

All primed for our evening, she sets off and we all follow.

 

Susannah Place

Our first destination is a spot I have never heard of on Gloucester Street. It is a heritage listed piece of The Rocks Sydney history, a terrace of four houses built in 1844. It is now the Susannah Place Museum and can be toured during the day. We are gathered in front of number 64 on the rear side of the building. It was once the corner store. Surrounded by the old stone and corrugated iron it is easy to forget we are standing in the midst of a capital city.

old meets new at Susannah Place

Alison places her lantern on the step in front of the door of number 64, but mysteriously says she will not stand there for reasons she will reveal, but invites anyone from the group to have their photo taken in the doorway. No one moves, so naturally it is me that hands my phone to a member of the group and leaps into the doorway for a photo.

She then tells us that some people report feeling touches while standing in the doorway, and passes her phone around to show a photo supposedly showing two heads coming out of the door. It seems more likely a trick of the light to me, but I snap away with my phone curious to see whether anything gets captured. It doesn’t.

There are stories of a young boy murdered by a gang in this street, as well as a prostitute who worked this part of the street. Photos posted online also refer to a curtain which appears and disappears, but in my photos it never appears.

 

No ghosts here!

 

No ghostly curtains evident either!

 

The Susannah Place terraces from Gloucester Street

 

Observatory Hill – the best view in Sydney

From the bandstand at Observatory Hill

On our way to Observatory Hill we pass through a tiled tunnel, and are encouraged to add our footprints to the hundreds already marking the tunnel walls.

 

I’ve never been to Observatory Hill even in daylight. Huge trees overhang the path leading up to the bandstand. I admire them for their sheer size and dominance, but Alison tells us once we have reached the bandstand that they were once used for hangings, and there are still reports of sightings of the bodies swinging from them. The very first hanging in the new colony occurred here. Observatory Hill is the highest hill overlooking the area of the Sydney settlement and served as a fort, mill, hospital and school along with being the location of the colony’s first observatory.

While it’s certainly a chilling thought, I was unable to find anything verifying hangings in Observatory Park, though Gallows Hill, the site of many, is not too far away.

Ghosts or not, its worth the trip for the view!

 

Parbury Ruins

In the ultimate blending of the old and new world of The Rocks, in the basement of a modern apartment block on Windmill Street is preserved the remnants of a cottage built in the early 1800’s, discovered during construction in 2000. Alison has the keys to take us down into the foundations of the ruins, including the fireplace and a well.

 

 

 

We are told the story of Anne Walker, who’s body was found at the bottom of the well, and the three men believed to potentially be responsible for her death. Alison tells us Anne responds better to women and has some of the women in the group take the divining rods and stand over the well while she asks questions to the atmosphere and the rods spin madly around. Alison tells us she normally responds more emphatically to one of the three names as her killer.

The only reference I found to Anne Walker and this story was on paranormal forums. I could find no evidence that such a person existed at this time.

 

The Hero of Waterloo

Our next stop on the walking tour is the hotel The Hero of Waterloo, one of those that claim to be the first in the region. We have to walk up an alleyway first, and Alison pauses for a moment to tie back her hair and tuck it securely under her top hat. She tells us there is a ghost that frequents this alley that is partial to women with long hair and likes to run his fingers through it. I defiantly take my long hair out of its bun and let it hang loose down my back. But apparently the ghost didn’t like mine!

The Hero of Waterloo is named after the Duke of Wellington, who defeated Napoleon, and dates back to 1843. It has a notorious past and in some circles the reputation of Australia’s most haunted pub.

Back in those times, finding sailors to work the whaling ships wasn’t easy, but many found themselves with no choice. The term was ‘Shanghaied’ – the practice of kidnapping men to serve as sailors. Many a young man might find themselves drinking at the bar one moment, to waking on a ship out at sea via the smugglers tunnel which runs from the Hero of Waterloo down to the wharf. Mediums are convinced many of them never made it out of the tunnel. There are still shackles on the walls of the cellar and the tunnel entrance is still evident. There is talk of the tunnel being reopened for the purpose of tours, possibly the ones which have recently been commenced by the hotel.

The hotels own website refers to a rumour that in 1849 the publican at the time pushed his wife down the stairs to her death and they believe she frequents the hotel. Furniture is moved in the function room where no one has been and music played from the piano in the bar in the middle of the night, stopping when the owners descend the stairs with the piano lid left open. The piano was moved down to the cellar years ago to give the owners some peace. Guests have run screaming from the women’s toilet saying they saw a lady standing behind them in the mirror.

Our attention is drawn to the window above the door, where Alison tells us a figure has at times been photographed. Once again my camera reveals nothing.

See that second row of windows? Glass was expensive – they are actually painted on!

 

A short walk from the Hero of Waterloo the tour concludes under The Sydney Harbour Bridge.

 

The Niggly bits

What should you wear?

Ladies, leave the heels at home, or at least in the car. Many of the streets in The Rocks are old cobblestone and the steps down to the Parbury Ruins are of the holey scaffolding variety. You’ll be asking for trouble in heels.

How long does it run for?

It runs pretty close to the two hour mark.

Where should you park?

Street parking is pretty plentiful in The Rocks, paid for in blocks of two hours. If you head for Lower Fort Street you will be in proximity of both the start and finish points.

Is it real?

How long is a piece of string? The history is undoubtedly so. As for the stories, they say that the tour was put together with the assistance of mediums. I was able to verify some, such as the Hero of Waterloo and I saw references to the other tales mentioned in passing as we walked past other old hotels in the area. Some I wasn’t able to corroborate, but who’s to say how good the records were back then.

Will you see a ghost?

Best to temper your expectations here. While I am skeptical I am open to the possibility that there are things beyond our understanding, but there was nothing I witnessed on the tour to convince me.

Should you take a Lantern Ghost Tour of The Rocks?

The Rocks is a really old and interesting part of Sydney and personally I think it is a beautiful part of the city. I thought it was worth the money just to walk around and see some parts of The Rocks I hadn’t before and hear about their history. If you are looking for a Sydney night tour it is definitely a good bit of fun.

How much is it?

Get Your Guide sells this tour starting from $36.

Whether its a haunted location or just a street, The Rocks at night lends itself to some spooky and atmospheric photography.

 

Accommodation in The Rocks

If you want to make a night of it, check out the accommodation options in The Rocks below.

 

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Gigging in wine country; Making the most of Hunter Valley concerts

The Hunter Valley, about 250 kilometres from Sydney, is best known as one of Australia’s premier wine regions. In recent years the Hunter Valley has earned a burgeoning reputation as the hottest music destination, with a number of wineries taking advantage of their large property to play host to big name international artists and a day serving their wines to thirsty patrons seeking a fun day out. It has become commonplace for artists to add a Hunter Valley venue to their Australian tour, Kylie Minogue, Bryan Adams, Live and The Killers just to name a few!

If you’re thinking of buying tickets to a concert in the Hunter Valley, here’s some tips and tricks to make sure you have an amazing time!

This post contains affiliate links. Making a booking or purchase through these links comes at no additional cost to you and is a great way to show your support for this site.

Make it a Hunter Valley weekend away!

Chances are, if you’re heading to a Hunter Valley Concert you’re from out of town, so it makes a world of sense to get a group of friends together and make a weekend of it.

Accommodation prices increase any weekend there’s a concert on, but with a group you can make this much more cost effective by renting a house for the weekend. And besides, its just way more fun!

 

Hunter Valley Accommodation

Hunter Homestead

My last concert weekend was a group of nine adults, so naturally you need to think about the space you need, and a single bathroom place just isn’t going to cut it. Myself and the other organiser settled on the lovely Hunter Homestead. The two-storey house features five bedrooms plus a sofa bed, two bathrooms and an additional toilet, a paved undercover area out back with the barbeque and outdoor dining setting, plus a fire pit and plenty of firewood. The owners also live on the property for any issues.

Split nine ways the cost was less than $200 each for the weekend, and to further keep costs down everyone brought food to contribute so we were able to cook some meals rather than eating out.

A two bedroom cottage shares the outdoor area and makes Hunter Homestead suitable for even larger groups.

Hunter Homestead local

Wilderness Cottages

Another property with multiple choices for accommodation making it suitable for groups is Wilderness Cottages. Wilderness Cottages offer a charming two bedroom cottage, a two bedroom balcony apartment and a one bedroom apartment. All guests have use of the pool and again the owners are on the property.

I stayed here on a weekend that was just a friend and I, so we had the cottage. Each of the rooms had a comfortable queen size bed, the lounge featured a combustion fireplace and a barbeque on the front verandah. The property was large and had lovely views as the sun went down.

Inside Willow Cottage
Enjoying a glass of wine looking out over the Hunter Valley

 

Emma’s Cottage

Emma’s Cottage was a close runner-up for the accommodation for my last trip. It is situated on a vineyard and the owners are lovely people who bought the place a number of years ago for a sea-change from the city. There are four cottages to choose from, ranging from two to four bedrooms and guests have access to a pool.

Emma’s Cottage is one of my favourite Hunter Valley vineyards. If you go to their cellar door, be sure to ask to try their trademark Ruby – a carbonated red wine.

Vineyard at Emma’s Cottage

 

You can check out other options for accommodation below.

 

Hunter Valley Buses

There’s a reason I chose and recommend these accommodation options, and it’s a practical one. They are on the bus route.

When the Hunter Valley concerts are on the bus network runs like a well oiled machine, with a number of routes through the region picking up and dropping patrons off at the venue. Even if you wanted to drive, you would struggle to park anywhere, so your best and easiest option really is buying the $20 return bus trip.

Emma’s Cottage and Wilderness Cottages are both on Wilderness Road, and are pickup points on the bus route. Hunter homestead has a pickup a short 200m walk down the road.

The schedule generally goes through each route twice so check the timetable to ensure you pick the one best suited to you, and buy your tickets online in advance so they know they are picking you up.

Check out Rover Coaches for all the information.

Don’t forget where to meet your bus after the show!

Your Hunter Valley concert

There are a number of wineries that host concerts, Hope Estate, Roche Estate and Bimbadgen included. Each one has their own regulations around what will be permitted into their venue. Make sure you check their website for any restrictions on what you can take in.

List of things you need

1. A small backpack; you’re in for a long day.

2. A vinyl backed picnic blanket. Most venues will not permit you to bring in chairs, and you’ll have to carry anything you want anyway so the less bulky items you pack the better.

3. If you prefer something more supportive on your back an alternative to the picnic blanket is a beach mat.

4. Powerbank; don’t underestimate the importance of this one. My last concert weekend one of our group wasn’t able to locate us again in the dark and her phone battery had gone flat. She ended up having to get a taxi home after the show because she missed our bus and couldn’t call us. Besides, think of how much it would suck trying to walk back to your house after the bus dropped you off if you can’t use the torch on your phone. I am rarely without my Cygnett powerbank.

5. Cash; take at least some cash with you as a just in case to buy food and drinks. They will have EFTPOS facilities and sometimes an ATM, but I have seen the EFTPOS go down before, meaning hundreds of people lining up to get cash from an ATM. Ain’t nobody got time for that.

 

Weather specific items – Hot

Depending on the time of year the chances are pretty good that you’ll have fine weather. Be aware it can get very hot, and there is no shelter whatsoever. There will be free water stations available to stay hydrated.

1. Hat

2. Sunglasses

3. Suncream

It can also get very cold in the Hunter Valley at night. So sticking a pair of leggings and a light jumper in your backpack isn’t a bad idea either. I used both at the concert where the day had been stinking hot.

The stage on a sunny day

Weather specific items – Wet

This happened to me at my last Hunter Valley concert. It was still an amazing day, but it can get a little uncomfortable being sopping wet all night, and umbrellas are not permitted, so if wet weather is predicted for your show there are some things that can make it a little more comfortable.

1. Emergency Ponchos; just get all your group to chuck in on some of these. The more you can keep dry the better.

2. A nice dry jumper will be the best thing you ever saw at the end of the night.

3. Stick a garbage bag in your backpack. If it starts to rain whip it out and put the backpack in it. Viola – everything stays dry!

4. This is an out there idea perhaps, but one of our group last year brought a small tarp. It wasn’t big enough to keep us dry but it served to protect our things from the worst of the weather. A groundsheet would work equally well.

5. Think about a lightweight towel too. Turkish towels are great because they are so compact yet effective.

A sea of ponchos on a wet concert weekend

Last but not least, don’t forget to have a great time!

 

Food in the Hunter Valley

Whether you are looking for somewhere for a meal or some delectable treats to try there are plenty of options in the Hunter.

Hunter Valley Cheese Tasting

Hunter Valley Cheese Factory

Located in Pokolbin this small cheese factory is located at McGuigan Wines and immensely popular with tour buses, so hit it early to avoid the crowds.

Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop

Stocking local, imported and artisan cheeses, as well as a range of other produce and gelato, Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop is worth the visit. Stop in for a cheese and olive tasting platter.

You can also organise tours that incorporate cheese tastings. Check them out here.

 

Hunter Valley Chocolate Factory

The Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is a must, offering a range of delectable treats to make the mouth of any chocolate lover water! I always visit on my trips and inevitably spend far too much money. It’s a great place to shop for gifts for the chocolate fan in your life. They have a store at Hunter Valley Gardens and Peterson House and a boutique factory on Broke Road, Pokolbin.

 

Sabor Dessert Bar

While you’re on Broke Road, don’t drive past Sabor Dessert Bar. The coffee is great and their range of stunning desserts is just wonderful. Savor the sweetness as you look out on the vineyards and mountains in the distance.

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

Located in Pokolbin, Harrigans is the local pub for the region and often has live music on a weekend. It offers a menu of quality pub-style meals and snacks, the chicken schnitzel was one of the most tender I had ever had!

 

The Deck

Located in Lovedale, The Deck is a charming place looking over a large pond. While it has grown much larger in the years since my first visit it can get exceptionally busy so you may need to make a booking to be guaranteed a table.

 

Emersons

Located just a short drive down the road from The Deck in Lovedale, I stumbled upon this one by accident when we couldn’t find anywhere else to accommodate us. I’ll definitely be going back! They have one of the best breakfast menus I’ve seen with something to pique the interest of even the pickiest eater! I’m not kidding – my sister is one!

Things to do in the Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley concerts will be on a Saturday night, so you’re going to have some extra time to kill. Fortunately there is plenty to fill up a weekend in the Hunter region.

Hunter Valley wineries

Wine is a unique taste so everyone will have their own preferences. Some of my favourites are somewhat off the beaten track but no problem to get to if you have a vehicle.

Sandalyn Estate

I first visited Sandalyn Estate years ago when it was included on a wine tour on a hens weekend. They had an amazing Botrytis Semillon that I wish I had bought more of. My last two trips there they disappointingly haven’t had any of the same calibre, but their grounds are beautiful and they have some nice sparkling wines on offer, glitter decorated if it is the lead up to Christmas. They also serve coffee if you’re looking for that morning caffeine hit and you can try a number of delicious olive oil varieties.

Sandalyn Estate is on Wilderness Road Rothbury, it is a short drive from the three recommended accommodations.

 

Emma’s Cottage

Even if you don’t stay there, It is worth the visit to Emma’s Cottage cellar door. Make sure you try the Ruby, it was the result of an accident.

 

Thomas Allen Wines

A beautiful little boutique winery in Pokolbin, Thomas Allen Wines is a great place to take a group and relax at a table under the verandah. Make sure you try the Mistura if they have some, it’s pricey but very worth it.

 

Savannah Estate

This is my absolute favourite. It is out of the way and in the middle of nowhere, so this is one you would probably schedule to visit on your way home. I discovered Savannah Estate on one of my concert trips while in search of a good Port. I didn’t find the Port, but their sparkling Moscato is simply divine! I stop by every trip to pick up a bottle or two.

 

Bramblewood Fruit Wines

This one is so off the beaten track it doesn’t even have a website or a listing on Trip Advisor! If it is still around you’ll find it at 80 Lindsay Street, Belford in the lower Hunter Valley, and it’s worth the trip just for the unique, quirky value. Depending what is in season you can sample a range of fruit wines, including passionfruit, mango and boysenberry. It is the only fruit winery in the Hunter.

Check out some other top Hunter Valley wineries recommendations.

Hunter Valley charm

Hunter Valley Wineries Map

Plan your attack by downloading a Hunter Valley Wineries Map.

 

Hunter Valley Wine Tours

If you aren’t quite committed to doing your own thing, there are a couple of options for wine tours.

Ihop Hunter Valley run a hop-on/hop-off bus service that circuits twenty-five different wineries. You can choose which ones you get off at and stay as long as you please, grabbing the next bus when you are ready to move along.

Hunter Valley Wine Tours can take you on set small group tours or you can organise a private one. I’m told that they don’t bring out the good wines on group tours though!

Check out some other wine tour options here.

 

Christmas Lights Spectacular

If you happen to be in the Hunter between November and January it is worth the visit to Hunter Valley Gardens for their Christmas Lights spectacular. Featuring food, rides and an epic display of millions of Christmas lights, this will delight kids and adults alike!

Bookings can be made online but we were able to get in without a booking with no issues.

Hot Air Balloons Hunter Valley

I can’t vouch for experience on this one, as I’m not overly comfortable with heights, but the Hunter Valley region is well known for its hot air ballooning, Beyond Ballooning offers breakfast and flight packages.. This probably isn’t an activity you would look to do on a Sunday morning after the concert, given the early start.

Each October long weekend there is the Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta, balloons from all over the country will launch at sunrise to float over the countryside. I’m putting it on my bucket list to get there next year.

 

Hunter Valley Helicopters

Another one I can’t vouch on experience for the same reason as above. But if this piques your interest Slattery Helicopters and Hunter Valley Helicopters both offer flights over the valley.

Both the helicopter flight and hot air ballooning are activities which would require booking in advance.

 

 

 

Know of any other great activities in the Hunter Valley? Drop me a line and let me know!

 

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