campervan2

Mon 14.01 - We had a liein to 9.30am. By the time Martin and I got round to go for a shower the toilets were closed for cleaning. As we were both busting to go to the toilet also, this was one of the longest hours in our lives!! We caught a bus in a bit of the way and a tram into the City Centre. Melbourne is definitely faster than Sydney. There seems to be more hustle and bustle. First of all we went to Fitzroy gardens, to see Captain Cook's Cottage. This is reputed to be the house that Captain James Cook (the discoverer of Australia) lived in in England. It was moved out here in 1934.

We moved on to the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground). WEnt on an organised tour. Its a massive stadium that holds 90,000. Its used mainly for Cricket and Australian Rules Football. The first game of Compromised Rules Football was played here in October.

The Olypics were here in 1956 and they have a Museum that has the running suit and spikes that Kathy Freeman wore when she won her gold medal in Sydney 2000. There was also the green and white running shoes that Ronnie Delany wore in the 1500m in 1956 here in Melbourne when he won Ireland's only ever track and field gold medal.

Tues 15.01 - Went to Victoria Markets. It was massive. We then went to Southbank and had a drink in PJ O'Briens. Walked then to Rialto Towers on Collins Street. Its the tallest building in Melbourne and has fantastic 360 degree views of the city. We met up with Michelle Schmucki for a drink in Bridie Reillys. Good Craic.

Wed 16.01 - Left Melbourne at 10.30am. Went to Werribee. Called in for a couple of hours with Claires Aunt in Law's sister, Eileen O'Shea. Ate loads, took a few photos and then it was on to the beginning of the Great Ocean Road. We passed thru Torquay, the surfing capital of the South Coast of Australia. Stayed in Anglesea. Claire and I played Tennis. I beat her well!!!!!

Thurs 17.01 - Left Anglesea and started on the Great Ocean Road. Around 250km. (or 150 miles) is official Great Ocean Road. Windy roads with sheer drops to the Ocean and rugged coastline. There were lots of beautiful villages. Also passed thru Otway National Park.

Arrived at the 12 Apostles rock formation (see picture above) at 1.30pm. Had lunch and then decided that that we would go on a helicopter ride over the coastline. Martin and I went in one and the girls went in the other. It was absolutely fantastic. The views were breathtaking. Martin was holding on for grim life! but he also thought it was brilliant The flight lasted for 15 minutes. I was in the front and videoed most of it. The footage is pretty good. We walked then to the coastal views. Also stopped at London Bridge. This actually was a natural bridge until about 10 years ago a segment collapsed. A man and woman were trapped out on this rock and had to be airlifted off it. The funny thing was that the couple were actually having an affair, so there they were on national news being rescued when they were supposed to at work.

Left and headed, via Woolongong, for Port Fairy. It was known as Belfast up until the 1890's and then they changed it. We had great caravan park on beach. Great dinner in Royal Oak Hotel, great food. We went back to campervan, had a few beers and relaxed.

Fri 18.01 - Up at 7am. On road by 8.30am. We headedup thecoast to Mount Gambier, via Penola, Naracoote, then headed headed inland a little and stopped in Keith for lunch. After that it was on to the Dukes Highway arriving in Adelaide about 4pm. After loads of confusion we managed to get a caravan park. We booked a tour tomorrow and the girls relaxed. Martin and I watched tele in the inc\sect filled TV room!!