A Spirited Drive Along Victoria's Great Alpine Road

Picture this: a ribbon of asphalt unfurling across a landscape sculpted by ancient mountains, verdant valleys, and forests that seem to whisper tales of bygone eras. That's the Great Alpine Road, a 308-kilometre stretch of pure driving bliss that winds its way through Victoria's High Country. I recently had the chance to embark on this epic journey, and let me tell you, it's an experience that etches itself into your memory.

Visiting Qal'at al-Bahrain UNESCO site

 Qal'at al-Bahrain, also known as the Bahrain Fort, is an archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the island of Muharraq in Bahrain. Here are some fascinating facts about this ancient wonder:

Visiting Martindale Hall in South Australia's Clare Valley

 

Martindale Hall is a stunning 19th-century mansion located in Mintaro, South Australia, near the famous Clare Valley wine region. Here's what makes it special:

Visiting The Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre, Victoria

 

The Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre was established to commemorate the existence of the RAAF Base and WWII air school at the Nhill Aerodrome and the history of civil aviation in Nhill.

Visiting The Old Palace, Doha Qatar

The Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim was built in 1906 and is considered today to be one of the most significant cultural heritage sites in Doha.

OMO: A Journey of Discovery

To visit the Omo Valley in Ethiopia is to be transported to another time and place altogther. We immerse ourselves in the bewildering diversity of cultures and tribal traditions.

The sun rose golden over the arid plains of southern Ethiopia, painting the land with the soft, amber hues of dawn. My guide, Alemayehu, a man with an easy smile and a knack for storytelling, had warned me that today would be unforgettable. The Omo Valley, he said, was unlike anywhere else on Earth. He was right.

Visiting The Noojee Trestle Bridge

The Noojee Trestle Bridge was often referred to simply as Number 7', a reference to it being one of seven bridges along the Nayook to Noojee section of the rail link between Warragul and Noojee.

Construction of the bridge was undertaken between 1917 and 1919. When complete, it was one of the largest bridges of its type in the southern hemisphere. It was primarily used to transport timber from the forests around Noojee; however it also took passengers, goods and livestock to nearby towns.