Australia by Car

Deep in central western Queensland lies the legendary township many consider to be the heart of the Sunshine State- Longreach. Experience the rich heritage and delve into the colourful past of this pioneering town which was settled in the 1870’s, and enjoy the outback stories of the friendly locals over a pint of beer in the local pub.

There are a variety of man made and natural attractions to see in Longreach. The Thompson River is a great spot for an evening river cruise, and fishermen will love to try their hand at catching the tasty yellow belly that lurk in its depths. This is one of Queenslands most prosperous wool and beef areas, so visit a farm and get shown the ropes of the industry. Read this article for more information on the region.

The Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach is one of the biggest attractions in Central Queensland. This large, modern establishment pays tribute to the pioneering men and women whose lives contributed to the outback lifestyle as we know it today. Its historical timeline is accurate and interesting, and you’re gonna need a few hours to fully appreciate it.

Longreach also has a long association with Qantas, which actually had its first operational base in the town before it grew into our national airline. This hangar is now part of the Qantas Founders Outback Museum, a great place to brush up on your aviation history and browse the records and artefacts in the museum.

Longreach is pretty far from anywhere… but remember the journey is half the destination. Pick up a car rental and drive the 1181 km from Brisbane or the 687 km from Rockhampton. Alternatively you could fly into Longreach Airport!

Phillip Island is best known for its Grand Prix racing circuit, the 4 kilometre long track where the Australian Moto GP is held each year. But the rest of this island is a far cry from thudding motors and pit girls- in fact its a serene, very scenic haven with sweeping landscapes, friendly locals and plenty of wildlife.

There is 100 kilometres of coastline to explore, coastline that boasts quiet secluded bays, swimming beaches, rocky cliffs and waves that many surfers claim to be better than those even at Bells Beach. The population of 7000 residents is spread between small townships such as San Remo and Cowes, and in these you will find a variety of accommodation to suit every budget.

Phillip Island is often referred to as Nature Island, and its wildlife attractions have helped put it on the tourist map. The most popular of these is the ‘Penguin Parade’, located on Summerland Beach. Every evening the resident colony of Little Penguins make the march from the oceans waves, up the beach and to their sandy burrows. This has become quite the attraction, and there is a marine centre, Nobbies, built next to the beach. Read this article for more info on the attractions of the island.

Other wildlife attractions are the Koala Conservation Centre, and Seal Rocks, where a colony of 16000 fur seals has made their home. You can follow up a morning of nature watching with a trip out to Churchill Island. Accessed by a bridge from the mainland, this small island is home to a complete working farm complete with all its original equipment- a fascinating insight into history.

Just over a two hour drive from the centre of Melbourne, Phillip Island could just be the perfect weekend retreat. For a great deal on a car to get there and back, check out car hire.