Australia by Car

When it comes to the harsh Australian outback, there are few towns that will pleasantly surprise you and make you actually want to stay. However, the city of Broken Hill will do exactly this, as well as much, much more!

Broken Hill is a thriving community on the edge of the New South Wales outback and is situated approximately 1,100 kilometres west of the capital, Sydney. It is the economic and cultural hub of far western NSW, and although it is regarded as an isolated mining city, it is often regarded as the “Oasis of the West” and the “Capital of the Outback“. Renowned for its vibrant art community and many artists’ studios, Broken Hill places a strong emphasis on the artistic and the unique. The city also cherishes its heritage, which is evident through the lovingly restored historic buildings and monuments that line the city streets.

When travelling to Broken Hill, there are several options you can take. If you choose to fly in, there are a few car hire depots in the city from which you can pick up your car rental. Alternatively, you can brave the harsh outback and drive all the way from Sydney: guaranteed to be a road trip you will never forget. Continuing on with your driving adventure, while in town take some time to venture along “The Silver Trail”, a 40 kilometre self-drive tour that will take you at least 2 hours. This drive features 113 fascinating local sites that will capture your eye’s attention and give you an insight into the local history and way of life.

Another short drive, south-east of Broken Hill is the Kinchega National Park. This park is noted for its interesting collection of Aboriginal artefacts and abundant native wildlife. It is definitely worth the 110 kilometre drive, as some of the sights here will simply amaze you. The drive along is stunning, with desert statues and natural rock formations offering pleasant changes from the otherwise harsh plains.

The city of Broken Hill will surprise and excite you, in more ways than one and will leave you with a new found appreciation of our great country’s outback.

The New South Wales Northern Rivers are undeniably one of the most beautiful areas in the state and feature some of the country’s best river landscapes. The main commercial and entertainment hub of the area is the town of Ballina, and although it is often overshadowed by the popular tourist destination, Byron Bay, it offers something unique and different that Byron simply cannot compete with.

Ballina is centred on an island at the mouth of the Richmond River and is nestled amongst a total of 32 kilometres of stunning, white sandy beaches. Essentially, Ballina is a natural fun park for beach lovers, surfers, keen fishers, and eager boaties and eco-adventurers. There are so many beautiful beaches that the only difficulty you will have here is choosing which ones to visit. The great thing about the Ballina beaches is that they still enjoy the great surf and sheer beauty of the Byron beaches, but without all the crowds.

The river also plays a prominent role in the community and is the source of much recreational pleasure. Take a river cruise along the Richmond and you will be able to partake in a spot of fishing, spot some humpback whales or simply sit back and take in your stunning surrounds. If you want to put your fishing rod to further use, take a short drive in your car rental out to Flat Rock or Angels Beach, the area’s secret hotspots for excellent fishing.

If the beach and river is not for you and you would simply prefer to browse the shops and enjoy some local cuisine at a trendy cafe, than a stroll along River Street is sure to please. The street runs parallel to the river and is where you will discover some fantastic cafes, restaurants and boutiques. There are also two major shopping centres, which will further ensure your shopping experience in Ballina is one to remember.

Next time you are in the great state of New South Wales, you just have to take a few days to explore the wonder and beauty of Ballina. The best way to do this is by renting a car, and there are several car hire depots in the area that will make this experience simple. Whatever you choose to do here, you are guaranteed not to leave disappointed!