Australia Tour '24
"Down Under Delight: A Motorcycle Adventure through Australia" Introduction: G'day fellow adventure seekers! Get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime as we gear up for our upcoming Down Under tour, an adrenaline-pumping motorcycle expedition through the diverse landscapes of Australia. Our tour kicks off in the vibrant city of Sydney, where the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Sydney - A Captivating Prelude: Sydney, with its bustling energy and stunning landmarks, serves as the perfect starting point for our Down Under exploration. Take the time to recover from the long flight and soak in the beauty of this metropolis. The Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, emblematic of Australia, are just the beginning of the visual feast that awaits you. Riding South - Unveiling Natural Wonders: Leaving Sydney behind, we head south on our motorcycles, traversing a national park adorned with waterfalls and, if luck is on our side, encountering the fascinating local wildlife. Our journey culminates in Jervis Bay, a coastal haven, where the sunsets over the ocean are nothing short of breathtaking. Canberra - Capital Marvels: The following day, we cruise towards Canberra, Australia's purpose-built capital. Marvel at the wide avenues, modern government buildings, and numerous statues that adorn the city. After a thorough exploration, we continue our southerly journey to Jindabyne, our resting place for the night. Mountain Majesty - Riding to New Heights: Prepare for a thrilling ride into Australia's highest mountains on the third day, featuring roads that climb over 1,500 meters, offering panoramic views and exhilarating curves. Yes, you read that right – Australia boasts some incredible riding terrain! Eildon-Jamieson-Road - A Biker's Paradise: The adventure continues with a day dedicated to conquering the renowned Eildon-Jamieson-Road, celebrated among Australian riders as one of the country's best. As we traverse the "gourmet country," our day concludes in the vibrant city of Melbourne, Australia's second-largest and one of the world's most livable cities. Tasmania - Island Escapade: A ferry ride takes us to Tasmania, where our journey unfolds amidst rainforests, coastal wonders, and varied landscapes. After a rest day in Hobart, we explore the east coast, reveling in the color diversity and Tasmanian contrasts. Our Tasmanian adventure concludes with a ride along the picturesque Lake Highway. Great Ocean Road - Awe-Inspiring Beauty: Returning to Melbourne, we seize the opportunity to traverse the Great Ocean Road, famed for its stunning rock formations and sea vistas. Two days are set aside for this spectacular journey, with an overnight stay in Apollo Bay, offering a chance to witness koalas in their natural habitat. Final Stretch - Ballarat and Melbourne Finale: From Warrnambool, we have the option to relish the Great Ocean Road once more or take the inland route through the gold country, culminating in the charming Victorian town of Ballarat. Our epic Down Under tour concludes in Melbourne, where we recommend setting aside an extra day or two for sightseeing in this enchanting city. Gear up, fellow adventurers! The Down Under tour promises not only thrilling rides but also a kaleidoscope of landscapes and cultural experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. Join us for a journey through the heart of Australia, where every twist and turn reveals a new facet of this captivating land.
Riding the Aussie Roads: From Sydney to Nowra G'day mates! Buckle up and throw on your riding gear, because we're about to take you on a ripper journey from the suburbs of Sydney to the charming town of Nowra. Our first day on the bikes was an absolute corker, filled with stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and a fair dinkum Aussie adventure. We kick-started our ride in Parramatta, just a bit west of the hustle and bustle of Sydney's city centre. Nestled near the highway, it was the perfect spot to rev our engines and hit the open road. But before we aimed for Nowra, we decided to get accustomed to our bikes, master the art of left-hand riding (a true blue Aussie skill), and get a feel for the Aussie roads. Our first port of call? The breathtaking Blue Mountains. Mate, the Blue Mountains National Park is a ripper of a place, spanning a whopping 270,000 hectares and decked out with the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not just a feast for the eyes but also home to a fair share of Aussie wildlife, including a variety of bird species. The views from the mountains are downright bonza. As we left the Blue Mountains behind, we opted for the road less travelled, winding through the Aussie farmland along the border of the national park. The air was thick with the scent of eucalyptus from the dense forest that surrounded us. Our stomachs started rumbling, and we decided to pull into Picton for a lunch stop at a top-notch Aussie pub. The air conditioning was a bloody blessing, especially considering the heat, even if the skies were a tad overcast. With no need to rush, we veered off the highway to explore the wonders of Morton National Park. Red sandstone and white waterfalls awaited us, and we made our way to the northern end to witness the beauty of the Fitz Roy waterfall. Crikey, what a sight! Just when we thought our day couldn't get any more Aussie, we spotted our first kangaroos near the Fitz Roy waterfalls. Talk about an iconic moment on our road trip! From there, we revved up our engines once again and cruised along Moss Vale Road, passing through the stunning Kangaroo Valley. Finally, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, we rolled into Nowra, where we're settling in for the night. A rip-roaring first day, and we can't wait to see what the rest of the journey holds. Stay tuned, mates!
Rainy Roads and Roo Encounters: Nowra to Jindabyne Adventure G'day fellow riders! Buckle up for our second thrilling day on the Aussie roads, cruising from Nowra to the stunning town of Jindabyne. Today's ride is shaping up to be a wet one, with the heavens opening up overnight and treating us to a proper downpour. Our overnight stay in Nowra was accompanied by the soothing sound of heavy rain, and as we woke up, it was still pelting down. No worries though, we suited up in our rain gear, ready to tackle whatever Mother Nature threw our way. And boy, did she have a surprise for us, kangaroos hopping around in the wet landscape. It was a true-blue Aussie moment, and we had several of those on our wet ride. Our first stop on this wet adventure was the Tianjara Waterfall, a gem that's usually a bit dry or has a mere trickle in the scorching summer months. But thanks to the relentless rain last night, we were treated to the full, breathtaking beauty of the waterfall. It was a sight to behold and a reminder of the wonders that a bit of rain can bring. Heading towards Australia's capital, Canberra, the rain startef fading away and a silver lining appeared – the sun broke through the clouds. In Canberra, we made our way to the top of Mount Ainslie for a ripper view over the city, a moment that made the wet ride absolutely worthwhile. The road then beckoned us towards Jindabyne, our final destination for the day. Nestled in an amazing hotel right on the border of the Snowy Mountains, we were treated to a room with a view that could rival any postcard. The rain may have followed us for half the day, but the promise of a cozy sleep and a spectacular mountain panorama made every drop worth it. As we rest our heads in Jindabyne, we reflect on a day filled with rain-soaked roads, kangaroo sightings, and the sheer beauty of nature in full force. Tomorrow holds more adventures, and we can't wait to see what the Aussie roads have in store for us. Cheers to the ride and the mates we meet along the way!
Conquering the Aussie Alps on our third riding day G'day, fellow bikers! Today's ride takes us into uncharted territory – Australia's highest mountains, complete with ski resorts and, believe it or not, a chance of some snow in the middle of bloody summer! We kick things off, saying ta-ta to the flatlands around Jindabyne and diving into the twisty turns of the mountains. Here in New South Wales, we're smack bang in the middle of the Aussie Alps, right next to the tallest peak, Mt. Kosciuszko. Buckle up, mates – the Alpine Way is where it's at, with its narrow lanes and hairpin bends. We could be tearing it up in this area all day long. Later on, we cruise through the Goulburn Valley, famous as Australia's fruit bowl. We're riding past the stunning Hume Lake, soaking up views that could stop a roo in its tracks. The mix of the Aussie Alps and the fruitful valley is a sight to behold. As the sun starts its descent, we roll into Wangaratta for a kip. This town's a ripper, nestled in the Victorian bush, and it's the perfect spot to rest our heads after a day filled with mountain highs and valley vibes. From the alpine wonders to the fruity delights, day three is fair dinkum proof of the diverse beauty Australia's got on offer. As our bikes roll through the highs and lows, we can't wait to see what's coming next. So, chuck on that helmet, tighten those straps, and let's hit the road for more fair dinkum adventures Down Under! Cheers to the ride and the cobbers we meet along the way!
Cruisin' Curves: From Wangaratta to Melbourne, Ready for Tazzy Adventure! G'day riders! Today marks our fourth day on the Aussie roads, and it's a ripper – we're setting off from Wangaratta with a clear goal: making it on time to Geelong for an overnight cruise to the beautiful Tassie, aka Tasmania. But, fear not, we're not taking the boring, straight road to Melbourne. Instead, we're diving into the twists and turns that make the journey just as exciting as the destination! With an early start at 7 in the morning, we're geared up and ready to roll. The ferry from Geelong awaits, and we want to ensure we've got plenty of time for a smooth check-in. No rush, just good times on the horizon. Our route takes us through one of the most curvy rides you can imagine. First up, Powers Lookout – a cracker of a spot that sets the tone for the twisty sections we're about to conquer. The road unfolds like a serpent, taking us to Lake Eildon and the lookout point near Jamieson. The views are nothing short of breathtaking, providing a perfect pit stop for a few snaps and a breather. As we navigate through the stunning and massive eucalyptus forest in the Yarra Valley, it's a motorbike paradise. The three E's – Eucalyptus, Elevation, and Endless curves – catch your eye, but you can't dwell too much because the roads demand your full attention. With every bend, we're getting closer to our final destination for the day – the bustling city of Melbourne. Just as planned, we roll into Geelong's harbor around 4 o'clock, right on time for the ferry to whisk us away to the enchanting island of Tassie. As the sun sets on our fourth day, we reflect on the countless curves, breathtaking views, and the anticipation of what lies ahead in Tazzy. The journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination, and we're loving every twist in the road. Cheers to the ride and the excitement of Tassie on the horizon!
"Tazzie Tales: Riding into the Wild on Day Five" G'day fellow riders! Day five kicks off in the wee hours of the morning as our ferry docks at the ungodly hour of 5:30 am. Sleep might have been a bit scarce, but the excitement of setting foot on Tazzie soil has our spirits soaring. Despite the early start, our eagerness to explore new territory propels us forward. Before hitting the open road, a hearty brekkie at the harbor is in order. We're joined by a bunch of other bikers who sailed in on the same ship. Most of them are kitted out for some serious off-road action, ready to tackle the rugged terrain Tazzie has to offer. Fueling up the bikes, we roll onto Tasmanian ground. The chilly temperatures, hovering around 10° in the morning, welcome us. It's a big contrast to the warm Aussie weather we've left behind. Our first destination? The iconic Cradle Mountain, which graces us with picturesque views during our morning ride. At the visitors center, we grab a quick coffee and some of us put on an extra layer to stay warm. The scenery is different here – more wild and rugged than what we've seen before. In Tullah, we stop to take pictures of Lake Roseberry. One thing we notice is there's more roadkill here. It seems like there's a critter on the road every 200 meters or so. Lunchtime arrives just before the West Coast does its thing – rain in the air. Luckily, we manage to avoid most of it while stopping for lunch. In the afternoon, we ride through Strahan before reaching Queenstown, a cute old mining village where we'll spend the night. Day five in Tazzie is all about chilly winds, wild landscapes, and a taste of something different. As we rest in Queenstown, we look forward to more adventures on the Tazzie roads. Cheers to the ride and the excitement of exploring this unique part of Down Under!
"Rolling into Hobart: Day Six of Our Tazzie Adventure" G'day mates! On day six, we're leaving the historic town of Queenstown behind and making our way to the capital city of Tazzie – Hobart. The road ahead promises more adventure, twists, and turns as we soak up the unique Aussie charm of this island. Just outside Queenstown, we take a detour to witness the impact of mining on the landscape at the Iron Blow Lookout. Back in the day, after gold was discovered, copper became the hot commodity. Miners went all out, clearing as much copper as possible, leaving a colossal hole in the Iron Blow mine. The surrounding hills suffered too, with trees chopped down to fuel the mine's furnaces. It's a stark reminder of the mining history that shaped this part of Tazzie. As we hit the road again, it transforms into a real rollercoaster ride, keeping us on our toes. The journey to our next stop, The Wall, takes us past the impressive Nelson Falls. The Wall is a masterpiece crafted by the artist Greg Duncan over more than a decade. Standing at 3 meters high and stretching 100 meters in length, it's a sight to behold – a true-blue Aussie artwork. Our curvy ride through the Tasmanian wilderness continues, and just before reaching the island's capital, Hobart, we make a pit stop at our last highlight of the day – the iconic Russell Falls. Tumbling down in all its natural glory, it's a picture-perfect moment that adds to the tapestry of our Tazzie adventure. As we roll into Hobart, the capital city awaits with its own unique charm and stories to tell. Day six has been a ride filled with history, art, and the breathtaking beauty of Tazzie's wilderness. Here's to more adventures as we explore the wonders of Down Under! Cheers to the road and the mates we meet along the way!
"Day Seven Down Under: A Tazzie Day of Choices and Explorations" G'day, mates! Day seven in Tazzie brings a classic Edelweiss rest day, giving us a chance to recharge and explore in our own way. Whether you're itching for a smaller ride or keen to check out the local wildlife, the options are as diverse as the Aussie landscape. For those not keen on the saddle, a short 30-minute ride takes you to one of Tazzie's wildlife sanctuaries, a chance to rub shoulders with the local stars like the Tasmanian devil, wallabies, and wombats. But if a leisurely day is more your style, there's nothing wrong with a sleep-in and a chilled afternoon stroll through Hobart – it's your call, cobbers! The riders' meet-up at 9 o'clock sees only Mark showing up, turning it into a private ride. Our destination today is the small peninsula of Port Arthur, home to a historic prison dating back to the 1830s. Opting for the direct route to dodge the tourist crowds, we dive into a guided city tour, unraveling the tales of creative prisoners and their escape plans – a ripper of an experience. Post-tour, we venture to the Tasman Arch, a natural wonder carved by the mighty Tasman Sea. A short walk to the edge of the cliffs treats us to jaw-dropping views of the sea and the rugged coastline. A pit stop with breathtaking coastal views on our way back adds a sprinkle of magic to the ride. Some of the crew joins Thomas for the shorter ride to a wildlife sanctuary, getting up close and personal with Tazzie's famous stars. Meanwhile, a few opt for a cold beer along Hobart's waterfront, soaking in the sights of the city. Day seven in Tazzie is a day of choices, from exploring natural wonders to getting to know the island's unique inhabitants. Each choice paints a different stroke in our Down Under adventure canvas. Here's to more discoveries and the mates we meet along the way! Cheers to Tazzie and the Aussie spirit!
"Cruisin' the East Coast: Day 8, Hobart to Launceston Adventure" G'day mates! Day eight unfolds as we bid farewell to the lively streets of Hobart, setting our sights on Launceston, Tazzie's second-largest city. The roads along the east coast trade the wild curves of the west for a different kind of beauty. Sure, the west coast was a ripper with its twists and turns, but the east coast has its own charm. Shaped by rugged granite rocks and kissed by white sandy beaches, it's a sight to behold against the backdrop of the blue and emerald-green sea. Riding the A3 Tasman Highway, we cruise along with forests, grasslands, and little streams and bays as our scenic companions. A pit stop in Swansea for a coffee recharge is just what we need before heading toward Freycinet and the iconic Wineglass Bay. Arriving in Coles Bay, Tom surprises us with the famous Edelweiss picnic, perfectly set up at the beach in a shady picnic area. The combination of good company, tasty bites, and the sound of the waves is an absolute winner. Post-lunch, we continue our coastal ride, heading to one of the day's highlights – the mountain road over Elephant Pass. We roll into the quaint town of sleepy Saint Mary before climbing into the flat highlands over the Esk Highway. As the wheels turn, the Midland Highway takes us straight to Launceston, our destination for the day. Day eight is a mix of coastal beauty, mountain roads, and the promise of Launceston's charms. As the sun sets on another day in Tazzie, we reflect on the diverse landscapes and memorable moments that make this Down Under adventure truly extraordinary. Here's to the open road and the mates we meet along the way! Cheers!
"Homeward Bound: Day 9 - Exploring Tazzie's Remote Corners" G'day fellow road warriors! Day nine marks the end of our Tazzie adventure as we make our way back to Devonport, where our trusty ferry awaits to sail us back to the mainland. Today's journey takes us through the more remote North-Eastern area of Tasmania, a region known for its hidden gems. Kicking off the day, we hit the Tasman Highway, carving through adrenaline-pumping roads nestled in the rainforest. The Sideling Lookout offers a breather, not just for enjoying the stunning landscape, but also for a quick pitstop as Chris discovers a pesky puncture in his tyre. After a speedy fix, we're back on the road, leaving the lush mountains behind as we follow the Ringarooma River to Gladstone, where dry fields and hills greet us. Through the remote farming areas, our lunch stop in Bridport provides the perfect chance to stretch our legs with a stroll along the beach. As we roll onwards, civilization gradually edges closer. Crossing the Tamar River outlet, we wind along smaller roads through logging areas. Before reaching Devonport for our ferry voyage, we rack up a few more miles, capping it off with a coffee stop in Frankford. In the harbor, we load our bikes onto the ferry, gearing up for a hopefully calm night back to Melbourne and the mainland. The sun sets on our final day in Tazzie, a journey that took us through rainforests, remote farmlands, and coastal vistas. As we sail back, we reflect on the memories made in this unique corner of Down Under. Cheers to the road, the mates, and the unforgettable Tazzie adventure! Until next time, ride on!
"Rising with the Sun: Day 10 - Great Ocean Road Adventure" G'day fellow riders! Day ten kicks off in true Aussie style – damn early in the morning as we roll off the ferry at 5:30 am, with the darkness still hanging around like a stubborn kangaroo. First things first – brekkie! We hit up the first open bakery a stone's throw from the harbor, gearing up for a day that could be summed up in three words: Great Ocean Road. With bellies full, we hit the road from Geelong around 7 o'clock, well ahead of the usual hustle and bustle. Our destination: Torquay, a surf mecca known not just in Australia, but around the globe. Here marks the beginning of the legendary Great Ocean Road, a ribbon of asphalt that winds its way along the southwest coast. As we ride, the views from the various lookouts along the road are nothing short of fantastic. Just before hitting Lorne, we take a detour into the hinterland, where the roads get curvier, and the traffic becomes a distant memory. After a ripper lunch in Colac, a small town perched on the shores of its namesake lake, we snake our way back to the coast. Thanks to our early start, we'll have plenty of time to soak up the sun at the beach, wander along the bay, and immerse ourselves in the laidback vibes of Apollo Bay, our home for the night. Since the bay faces east, there might not be a romantic sunset, but a beautiful sunrise is on the cards for those keen enough to rise and shine early. As we settle in for the night in Apollo Bay, we reflect on a day filled with breathtaking views, winding roads, and the unmistakable charm of the Great Ocean Road. Here's to the open road and the mates we meet along the way – ride on!
"Koalas, Picnics, and Coastal Wonders: Day 11 on the Great Ocean Road" G'day mates! Day eleven unfolds as we continue our journey along the western half of the Great Ocean Road, a stretch that weaves through the mountainous hinterland, promising plenty of twists and turns. Only about 30 klicks into our ride, we hit Cape Otway, a spot known for its dense tree population and the potential to spot some iconic Aussie creatures – koalas. Keeping our eyes peeled on the road and the trees, we strike gold. A koala, just a meter or so from the roadside, sits contentedly munching on eucalyptus leaves. A close encounter with one of Australia's cuddliest stars – a perfect start to the day! After soaking in the koala magic, we continue our journey towards the Cape Otway Lighthouse. Before we head for lunch a quick pit stop at Castle Cove Lookout is a must, where the views are nothing short of spectacular. Thomas, our master of surprises, treats us to another Edelweiss picnic before we split into groups. Some opt for the direct coastal route to Warrnambool, still buzzing from the morning's adventure. Others, seeking more thrills, head north for a treetop trail through the eucalyptus jungle. Back on the coast, we make our way to one of Australia's most famous sites – the Twelve Apostles. Despite the crowds, capturing a photo here is a must. More breathtaking lookouts like Gibsons Steps, Loch and The Gorge, or London Bridge dot our route to Warrnambool. As the day winds down, we reach our destination – Warrnambool. Beyond its picturesque old buildings, the town impresses with its fantastic location and stunning coastline. A bonus? You might even catch a glimpse of whales from the shore. Day eleven proves to be a mix of wildlife encounters, coastal wonders, and surprises at every turn. Here's to the Great Ocean Road and the mates we meet along the way – ride on!
"Homeward Bound: The Final Lap of Our Aussie Adventure" G'day mates! It's with a mix of joy and a tinge of sadness that we gear up for the last leg of our Aussie adventure. The time has come to bid farewell to the winding roads and stunning landscapes, as we make our way back to Melbourne to part ways with our trusty bikes. Opting for a more direct route instead of retracing the Great Ocean Road, we brace ourselves for the reality that our journey is drawing to a close. The city lights of Melbourne beckon, and with Taylor Swift concerts flooding the town, we decide to check into Melbourne a tad earlier. This way, those keen for a leisurely stroll through the city can soak in its vibrant atmosphere. Leaving Warrnambool, we head inland towards Ballarat, a historic gold-mining town where we'll pause for a hearty lunch. From here, it's the highway that guides us straight into the heart of Melbourne. As the city buzzes with life, we reflect on the incredible memories created during these two weeks of adventure. Our fantastic trip is winding down, but not before our traditional farewell dinner. It's a time to gather, chat, and reminisce about the highlights, the laughs, and the shared experiences. A heartfelt thanks to all for being part of this incredible journey – your camaraderie made it truly special. As the engines quiet, and the bikes find their temporary home, we raise a glass to the open road, the mateship, and the unforgettable moments Down Under. Until the next adventure – ride on, and cheers to the road that binds us all!