Potato Point isolated beach, wildlife and much more than the name suggests!

Potato Point is located on the South Coast of New South Wales a 6 kilometre drive from the town of Bodalla which is famous for its cheese. 

Surrounded by the Eurobodalla National Park, Potato Point is a fairly isolated spot mainly populated by wildlife and holiday homes.

Kangaroos grazing on the beach front

There are a number of small beaches were you can enjoy an isolated walk, surf, fish or swim. We stayed at an eco friendly caravan park right on the beach which was solar powered and provided wood so we could light a fire in the fireplaces scattered throughout the park.

Friendly kanagroos grazed on the beach front and in the grasslands, no doubt moving back into the shelter of the National Park in the night.

You can take a long walk along the beach at the front of the caravan park to an inlet overlooking Tuross Head which is much larger as around 2,200 people live. There are fantastic views from this point across to the nearby mountains.

The August days were sunny but it was freezing at night so a fire was welcome!

We were lucky to spy a pod of dolphins frolicking in the ocean near our camp site and kookaburras also came to visit which topped off a short stay in this lovely location.

Torquay - the gateway to the Great Ocean Road

Torquay, originally know as Spring Creek, is a popular seaside town with holiday makers and one of the great surfing beaches found along the Great Ocean Road.  Its popularity stems from its close proximity and ease of access to Melbourne which improved substantially in recent years with the opening of the Geelong Ring Road.

Early morning near the Surf Life Savings Club

The area was originally occupied by the Wathaurong people for more than 40,000 years before white settlement occurred around 1871.  It was bountiful country for the Wathaurong with shellfish, mussels and oysters available all year round on the coastline and the grasslands inland providing significant grazing animals for hunting.

The Europeans modelled the beach front on European beaches with grass park lands and trees lining the beach.

Front beach Torquay

This area remains popular with families today with BBQ's, outdoor showers and toilets all available.

The Joseph Scammell was shipwrecked on the reef at Point Danger in 1891. Everyone was rescued from the ship but much of its cargo was looted by locals. Its anchor lay in the ocean for more than 80 years before being recovered and is now on display in the park at Front Beach.

The  Torquay Surf Life Savings Club opened in 1946 and is considered to be the oldest and largest club in Victoria. These clubs and their dedicated members play an important part in Australian seaside towns patrolling beaches, rescuing people in trouble and forming a social hub for the Community.

Torquay is one of the busiest beaches in Victoria and club members patrol the beach for more than 3,000 hours and perform between 20 and 30 rescues each year.  On weekends in the summer you'll find Nippers (young children) being trained on the beach, its a great sight as it means the next generation of life savers are being formed.

Torquay has grown substantially and now has a number of golf courses and hotels including the newly opened RACV Torquay Resort.   The Resort has accommodation,  a range of restaurants, a day spa and the Torquay Golf Club. 

RACV Torquay Golf Club

Peppers adjacent to the Sands Golf Resort also has a golf course, accommodation, a day spa and restaurant. The Whynham Resort is located at Zeally Bay Beach Torquay and also has a range of facilities.

If camping or caravanning is your holiday of choice these are well catered for at Torquay with Barwon Caravan Park, Torquay Holiday Park and Torquay Caravan Park.

Torquay has a range of restaurants, cafes and shops including a large and popular range of surf clothing outlets at Surf City Plaza. 

1 day Great Ocean Road Tour

2 day Great Ocean Road Tour

3 day Great Ocean Road Tour

3 day Melbourne to Adelaide Tour

4 day Melbourne to Adelaide Tour

Whale watching and more on the Fraser Coast

Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay is located on the Fraser Coast a region that is famous for its natural wonders including whales, dolphins and Fraser Island; which is the world's largest sand island and  Heritage Listed. 

We flew into Brisbane and drove the 3.5 hours to Hervey Bay along the Bruce Highway. But you can also fly into the Sunshine Coast or Hervey Bay itself. 

On the beach at Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay has a wide range of accommodation ranging from backpackers, apartments, resorts, caravan parks and house for rent. We chose to stay at White Crest Luxury Apartments as it was close to shops, restaurants and across the road from the beach.   

  
After checking into our apartment we booked a whale watching cruise for the next day, as this was to be a highlight of our visit to the area. We then set out to explore the local area and took a long walk along the beach.

Fishing at Hervey Bay

Like most beach side suburbs the town radiates out from the beach with accommodation, restaurants and shops lining the nearby streets. Hervey Bay has a number of suburbs which have grown over the years to cover quite a large area.  So don't be confused when you see names such as Torquay, Pialba and Point Vernon as these are all located along the coastline at Hervey Bay.

Great Sandy Straits Marina

The next morning we were collected outside our accommodation and taken to the Marina for our whale watching cruise with Whalesong, who are one of the many whale watching companies in Hervey Bay. We did a morning cruise but you can also choose an afternoon or full day cruise.

Smooth sailing even into a storm

We enjoyed a breakfast of quiche, bacon, sausages, salads and bread which was served shortly after we departed the Marina. The weather wasn't looking great as we headed out of the bay in search of whales. We went through some small rain storms but it was still very smooth sailing and we continued to enjoy staying out on the deck.

Our first experience of a whale breaching

After about an hour of cruising we came across our first whales which caused a lot of excitement and everyone moved outside onto the decks.  We observed a number of pods as the boat cruised from one area to another looking for more active whales.

A whale swims underneath our boat

The whales mainly travelled in pairs, some mothers and calves, we saw them waving with their fins, swimming up and down and breaching as they played in the ocean nearby.

Swimming close to the boat

Just before we headed towards home a whale decided to come so close to the boat that it swam beneath us and then popped up on the other side. It was an amazing experience being so close to this gentle but gigantic creature.

A final breaching before we head for home

Watching the whales breach was one of the best experiences of the morning. I found it hard to catch them on the camera but we did manage to some great acrobatics on video. 

Whale watching video

What to do in Hervey Bay

Best meal was at Maddigans Fish and Chips in Torquay, its a take away, but the range of fish and other seafood was fantastic.

Tin Can Bay

We left the highway and dropped in to see this quaint fishing and boating haven whilst travelling south to the Sunshine Coast. Tin Can Bay is also renowned for dolphin sighting at Norman Point, normally between 7.30 and 8 a.m.  

Tin Can Bay Harbour

Prawns, scallops and spanner crabs are all caught in this area with many destined for the overseas market.  We also saw a number of houseboats moored in the Bay demonstrating the range of water activities that draw people to the live and holiday in the area.

View from Les Lee Park, Tin Can Bay

Rainbow Beach

We took another diversion to Rainbow Beach another lovely seaside village known for fishing, boating, surfing. prawning and crabbing. 

Rainbow Beach is also known as the main entry point to Fraser Island due to the short ferry ride from Inskip Point.    Its where we crossed a number of years ago to spend 5 days on this amazing Island.

The town of Rainbow Beach has grown substantially since we last visited and there is now a range of shops, accommodation and activities to enjoy.

Fishing at Inskip Point,  Rainbow Beach

We were surprised at the extent of camping areas that line the road as you drive to Inskip Point.         These looked like amazing camping sites shaded by cypress pines and other trees and shrubs in walking distance to the beach and close to the town of Rainbow Beach. 

The coloured sands at Inskip Point (once known as Black Beach) are explained in the Kaby Dreaming story of Yiningie, the spirit of the gods, who often took the form of a rainbow. Yiningie was killed in a fight when he crashed into cliffs and his spirit coloured the sands.   

Ferry crossing from Fraser Island to Inskip Point

 More information about Inskip Point

A glimpse of Fraser Island

Journey across the Kimberleys WA

One of Australia's amazing journeys is to travel across the Kimberleys on the Gibb River Road. The trek naturally starts from Kununurra,  which is in East Kimberley just inside Western Australia's border with the Northern Territory. Its a lovely outback town with a range of facilities making it a natural base to travel to the Ord River Region, Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park) or stock up before heading onto the journey across the Kimberleys to Broome.

Aboriginal rock art located west of Kununurru 

courtesy Tourism Western Australia

The first humans to inhabit the East Kimberley area were the Mirriwung Gajjerong people with signs of their habitation dating back 40-60,000 years ago.  Early European settlers took more than 3.5 years and suffered severe hardship to establish cattle stations in the area. They were lured by the belief that the area was fertile,no doubt due to the massive Ord River which is 320 kilometres long and has a catchment area of 46,100 square kilometres. 

Aboriginal rock art located west of Kununurru 

courtesy Tourism Western Australia

Damming the Ord created one of the main attractions of the area,  Lake Argyle, which is the largest man made lake in Australia. The Lake provides a range of activities including fishing, boating and the chance to see a range of birds and animals.  Another option is to take a scenic flight over the Lake often part of a scenic flight to the Bungle Bungles.

Ord River courtesy Tourism Western Australia

We then headed down the Great Northern Highway and then off-road  to Purnululu National Park where we camped for a number of days.  The Bungle Bungles were truly amazing from the ground and also from the air. We took a 20 minute helicopter flight from the NP and seeing them from the air provided a totally different insight into the beauty of these amazing sandstone structures.  Cathedral Gorge, took my breath away, the colours of Echinda Chasm and Piccaninny walk were also hightlights of our short stay. 

Bungle Bungles Purnululu National Park
 courtesy Tourism Western Australia

We returned to Kununurra for a night to stock up before heading west across the Kimberleys. Route choice will depend on the type of vehicle and whether you're towing a trailer or caravan with full off road capability. We were well equipped and towing a 4WD camper trailer so headed to the Gibb River Road as it enables you to experience a much larger range of gorges. Before heading out you should check the latest road conditions as they change regularly and the road is closed at times during the year.

We spent a number of nights at El Questro Wilderness Park which was a lovely spot to explore the many natural jewels the Park has to offer. We camped in the campgrounds so didn't experience the Homestead but I understand it is an amazing experience, but very expensive.

El Questro Homestead 

courtesy Tourism Western Australia

My favourite walk was the El Questro Trail a walk that  takes about 3 hours along a narrow creek, through fern clad escapements, at points wading through water and easy rock climbs to end at a stunning waterfall where we swam and relaxed before heading back to camp for the night. 

View from the Cockburn Range located on El Questro

Courtesy Tourism Western Australia

Another great activity is visiting Zebedee Springs which are natural thermal springs located after a short walk through dense tropical vegetation. Relaxing in the pools surrounded by sheer cliffs and palms was an refreshing experience.  Its a good idea to time your visit between the tour groups so you have a chance for quiet relaxation.

Zebedee Springs

Courtesy Tourism Western Australia

Taking a boat cruise of Chamberlain Gorge was another highlight of our visit. Surrounded by dramatic towering escarpments the Gorge can only be accessed by boat. Besides the natural beauty of the Gorge we saw a diverse range of wildlife including rock wallabies. Another great day making it difficult to leave El Questro Wilderness Park but the rest of the Kimberleys beckoned. 

Termite mounds courtesy Tourism Western Australia

We headed to Drysdale River Station on the Mitchell Plateau bound for Mitchell Falls. The Station was a big surprise, not only did it have a camp ground and showers but the pub served the most amazing burger. The Kimberley Burger made with Kimberley beef was served with the lot including beetroot, pineapple, lettuce, tomato and so much more that it needed a skewer to hold it in place.  

We headed from Drydale River Station to King Edward River to camp overnight before heading the next morning to Mitchell Falls. The road to the Falls was very slow going but the trip was worthwhile as the falls were stunning. We walked to the falls and then took a short helicopter flight back to the base which meant we enjoyed the falls from both perspectives.

The Mitchell River area is important for the Wunambal people who have lived there for thousands of years. The area is also rich in rock art sites many which have remained untouched for thousands of years.    We continued north on the Mitchell Plateau to Kalumburu the northern most aboriginal settlement in Australia. When we arrived at the general store the local children flocked around us, very friendly and wanting to know what footy team we barracked for!

Courtesy Tourism WA

We camped at a remote beach camp-site run by one of the Kalumburu families. Camping facilities were basic but it was amazing camping so close to the Timor Sea. Crocodiles could be seen swimming in the water just off shore so it certainly wasn't the type of beach where you would jump in for a swim! The traditional owner took us on a boat ride to obtain local oysters which were huge and delicious.

From the Mitchell Plateau we headed back to the Gibb River Road and spent a number of days visiting a range of Gorges including Barnett River Gorge (great waterhole for swimming),  Bells Gorge (our favourite), Tunnel Creek (make sure you have a good torch), Windjana Gorge (where dozens of fresh water crocodiles basked in the sun as we strolled alongside) before heading to Fitzroy Crossing and civilisation.

Windjana Gorge National Park
Courtesy Tourism Western Australia

At Fitzroy Crossing we had a chance to restock and take a boat tour of Geikie Gorge. Our guide was a local aboriginal man who provided great insights into the area. The lands and valleys surrounding Fitzroy Crossing were home to the Bunuba, Gooiyandi, Nyigina and Walamakarri people.  The limestone was originally a reef formed by algae and lime secreting organism which are now extinct. The volume of water that flows through the Fitzroy River during the wet season must be amazing as indicated by the colour variations on the walls of the Gorge.

Geikie Gorge
Courtesy Tourism Western Australia

From Fitzroy Crossing we headed along the highway to Derby which is located on tidal flats on the edge of King Sound.  A long jetty was constructed in 1885 to service the growing needs of nearby the farmers.  Due to the tidal flats the jetty extends a long way from the land. Fishing is popular and we purchased fish and chips from a shop located at the start of the jetty.

Boab Tree

Courtesy Tourism Western Australia

The boab tree is a major attraction to the area. They are huge, interesting and at times have been used to house various things, the most famous being a prison boab used in the 1890's to lockup aboriginal prisoners on their way to Derby for sentencing. 

From Derby we headed to the most western point of our journey Broome known for its  beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets.

Staircase to the Moon Roebuck Bay

Courtesy Tourism Western Australia

We camped at Roebuck Bay which is the only caravan park in Broome located on the beach.  Roebuck Bay is also famous for the staircase to the moon, which is a natural phenomenon that occurs between March and October when the full moon rises over exposed mud flats. We weren't lucky enough to see it but understand its a spectacular sight.

Camel ride at sunset Broome

Courtesy Tourism Western Australia

Cable Beach at sunset is the place to be, whether you're relaxing at the Sunset Bar at Cable Beach Resort, riding a camel or just sitting on the beach the sunsets are stunning. An amazing end to any day.

Gantheaume Point is also an spectacular spot to visit where the red cliffs meet the ocean and more than 120 million years ago dinosaurs roamed. Dinosaur footprints can been seen at very low tide, the reef area is fragile so care needs to be taken. Also at the Point is Anastasia's Pool a round pool built by a former lighthouse keeper who built it for his wife who was crippled by arthritis.

Broome has a rich pearling history you can buy pearls in various shops, or take a historic journey on a pearling lugger. Broome has many other attractions including fishing, diving and a Japanese cemetery.  Its an amazing town to spend a week or so relaxing after such an amazing journey.

Phillip Island

Phillip Island is located approx 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne and is famous for its beaches, motor racing circuit and wildlife.

Penguin Parade

The highlight of any visit to the Island is the iconic Penguin Parade where you can watch the little penguins make their way across the beach heading towards their nesting areas after spending their day hunting in the ocean.

Penguin Parade

Tourism Victoria

Once upon a time, you could sit on the beach in the evening and the penguins would wander past quite close to you.  It was an amazing experience, but as crowds grew the need to protect the penguins and their habitat meant viewing platforms and walkways were constructed. Today there are a range of experiences that you can purchase including having a Park Ranger guide you to a private area to view the penguins on the beach (Ultimate Experience) or enjoying the penguins in the comfort of a Sky Box (VIP Experience) where you’ll also have fantastic views across the beach and help the Ranger count the penguins as they return for the night.

Sky Box
Phillip Island Nature Parks

Koala Conservation Centre

The Koala Conservation Centre is set up to show you how koalas live in the wild with very little human intervention. You can wander along an elevated boardwalk and see these amazing furry mammals in their natural habitat and have the opportunity to ask questions of the Rangers who manage the Centre.

There is also an interactive Visitor Centre where you can learn about the koala and purchase gifts from the gift shop.

Koala Conservation Centre

Churchill Island Heritage Farm

Churchill Island Heritage Farm provides insights into what life was like living on a farm in the early 1900’s. The farmhouse has been beautifully restored and there are a range of interesting outbuildings that give the impression that you’ve travelled back through time. You can also see a range of farm animals and beautiful views across to the mainland. For more information see our blog on Churchill Island Heritage Farm

Parks Victoria manage these 3 tourist attractions and you can purchase tickets individually or buy a 3 Parks pass which provides great value. See Phillip Island Nature Parks

Nobbies

The Nobbies Centre showcases Australian fur seals and the marine life of the Southern Oceans. Entry is free and there is a large cafe. information centre and gift shop. From the centre and boardwalks you can look across to Seal Rocks; a breeding ground for over 20,000 Australian Fur Seals.  

If you want to see the Seals up close you can organise a boat tour of Seal Rocks from a range of operators.

Rhyll Trout and Bush Tucker Farm

This attraction provides activities for people of all ages. Fish for a trout in the outdoor or indoor ponds and you can take your fish home with you or have it cooked and eat it for lunch. 

Take a walk around the Bush Tucker Trail and learn about the 22 varieties of bush tucker that are grown on the property. Paul Mannix and his family have re-vegetated the area with 22,000 trees which has converted pastures into an amazing natural bushland wonderland.

Or take a Tea Trail walk and pick leaves that you can later drink as tea with some lovely home-made wattleseed  scones. The licensed cafe also sells a range of products that are made from   the bush tucker or trout caught on the lake. We enjoyed a delicious smoked trout and smoked trout dip with some mountain pepper and chilli chutney.

Beaches 

Phillip Island has a range of beaches suitable for swimming, fishing and surfing.  Woolamai is the longest beach on the Island and the site of the only Surf Life Saving Club.  When visiting the beaches you should be aware that Australian beaches can be dangerous so you should always swim on a patrolled beach and between the flags. To learn more about  beach safety.

Cowes Beach

Cowes is a relatively calm beach and popular with families. Cowes is also home to the Island's main shopping strip with a range of specialty stores, supermarkets, pubs, restaurants and other stores.

Smiths Beach

Smiths Beach caters for both sufers and families and is located between Woolamai and Cowes.

 

Beach near Forrest Caves

Forrest Caves are part of eroding red basalt cliffs located between Woolamai and Surf Beach. You can wander through the caves at low tide and swim on the adjacent beach care should be taken as high waves and rips are common. 

Newhaven and San Remo (on the mainland) are popular for fishing.

National Vietnam Veterans Musuem

The Island is also home to the National Vietnam Veterans Musuem which has displays of photographs, memorabilia, vehicles and aircraft that detail the history of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War from 1962 to 1972.


Phillip Island Racing Circuit

Celebrating 60 years in 2012 the Phillip Island Racing Circuit is home to car racing and motor bike racing drawing large crowds to the Island for major events.

Other regular activities include go carts, hot laps and team building. To learn more Phillip Island Racing Circuit

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Another popular attraction is Panny's Phillip Island Chocolate Factory where you can buy or taste Belgium chocolates and learn about chocolates in the Amazing World of Chocolates.

Phillip Island Wildlife Park

The Phillip Island Wildlife Park is set over 60 acres and home to more than 100 species of animals and birds. Its a little tired and in need of work but popular with visitors as you can feed a range of animals as you wander through the park.

1 day Phillip Island Private Tour