Thanks for that Gill, that sounds great. It doesn't say if there's power, I'd better email them about that.
We are self sufficient, but if we stay a few days, it'd be good to have power.
I'd love to meet up with you Gill, I'll let you know dates etc as we get nearer. We'll be doing a slow trip, and will come towards Melbourne from the west.
As we start off from Brisbane, I'll keep a thread going as to where we're heading, so that hopefully we'll meet many GN friends along the way.
We'll also be asking for imput of what we should see along the way. Sis & bil have been to some of these places, but we are all new to Melbourne and surrounds.
-- Edited by Beth54 on Tuesday 26th of June 2012 01:00:32 PM
Dougwe said
05:20 PM Jun 26, 2012
Sounds great Beth, I have to agree with gillyb and suggest you don't waist your time with Dandenong, I lived in that area for 21 years and couldn't wait to get out. I am only a stone throw, well, maybe a long throw away from Pakenham and Berwick but very close to Phillip Island so yell out loud when you get there and we might be able to catch up. October is a pretty good time of year in that neck of the woods and Gippsland is worth checking out too, that's just down the road a tad.
Edit...typo's
-- Edited by Dougwe on Tuesday 26th of June 2012 06:31:39 PM
Beth54 said
07:12 PM Jun 26, 2012
Sis, bil and I are heading to Vic in Oct and have a list of places we want to see, and rellies to catch up with.
Two cousins we particularly want to see, one is in Ferntree Gully, and another in a care facility at Pakenham. We also want to see the Yarra Valley and Dandenong areas.
We know nothing about these areas other than from maps and google, but we want a base in the area. There seems to be several CP's in the general area, but this is the cheapest.
Beth I live just 5 mins from Akoonah Park and its a nice area, nice and green and quiet and only a short drive to Berwick and not far to walk to a lovely shopping area with lovely cafes at Beaconsfield, its much better that any caravan parks in the area. Markets are held there every Sunday so gets a bit busy for the day but I think you would enjoy it (Im not sure if they have any powered sites though).
Wouldn't recommend Dandenong (hope I don't offend anyone) but the Dandenong ranges are just beautiful with many places to explore, I'm sure you'll have a great time but will need to bring warm clothes, never trust Melbourne weather. Let me know when you are arriving I would love to catch up, how long are you coming for?
ozjohn said
09:53 PM Jun 26, 2012
I agree with Gil. It's better than any of the CP's in the area. The coffee shops and cafes etc in Berwick are as good as you'll find anywhere, and you're in the foothills of the fabulous Dandenong Ranges. Access to the city is easy via the Monash Freeway or by hassle free by train. The Mornington Pensinsula is only a short drive, and Phillip Island, Latrobe Valley and South Gippsland make good day outings. Enjoy your time down south, and rug up. Cheers, ozjohn.
Beth54 said
10:07 PM Jun 26, 2012
Thanks ozjohn. Yes, we want to go see all those places, and we'll certainly bring our layers of clothing.
Happywanderer said
10:10 PM Jun 26, 2012
Don't forget Greens Lake on your way down Beth. I should be there 2nd week in November.
Beth54 said
10:21 PM Jun 26, 2012
I haven't forgotten Marj. Spent yesterday arvo with Deb, maps and Camps 6, and I told her we HAVE to visit Greens Lake. We'll be coming by way of Echuca, and also spend some time in Bendigo seeing rellies.
Not sure when we'll be at Greens Lake though, may be too early for you.
Happywanderer said
10:26 PM Jun 26, 2012
I'm hoping to spend a bit of time there over the summer Beth, so never know, might see you on the way back.
Beth54 said
10:32 PM Jun 26, 2012
Happywanderer wrote:
I'm hoping to spend a bit of time there over the summer Beth, so never know, might see you on the way back.
That'd be great!
Beth54 said
01:18 AM Jun 27, 2012
I'll certainly let you know as we get near Doug. Phillip Island is on the list...HAVE to see the penguins!
I'll tell Sis & bil about the Dandenongs. What's wrong with the place?
Dougwe said
01:29 AM Jun 27, 2012
The "Dandneongs" are great but "Dandenong" it self is not so great.
Beth54 said
01:38 AM Jun 27, 2012
Dougwe wrote:
The "Dandneongs" are great but "Dandenong" it self is not so great.
Woops! Okay, I didn't realise there was a difference. I meant the Dandenong Ranges.
briche said
03:45 AM Jun 27, 2012
We stay there when we come back to Melb from our trips away. The facilities are good. Toilets and shows are great. Spots are limited, about 20. The guy you need to talk to is Graham Bower. His mobile is 0409195699. He is really helpful. When you talk to him please tell him the Brian and Cheryl say hi.
Beth54 said
05:03 AM Jun 27, 2012
briche wrote:
We stay there when we come back to Melb from our trips away. The facilities are good. Toilets and shows are great. Spots are limited, about 20. The guy you need to talk to is Graham Bower. His mobile is 0409195699. He is really helpful. When you talk to him please tell him the Brian and Cheryl say hi.
Thanks for that Brian/Cheryl. Are they powered? I couldn't see anything about power on the site.
Keith19837 said
10:31 AM Jun 27, 2012
Dougwe wrote:
The "Dandneongs" are great but "Dandenong" it self is not so great.
I can't understand your dislike of the place. There's lots to see there. For instance: The illegal drag races where my colleagues and I would give participants and supporters free transport and accomodation for a few nights. Free roadworthy testing where we would save them heaps of petrol 'cos they weren't allowed to drive their cars home. Lots of diverse factories with tall chimneys sending up their patriotic salutes into the atmosphere. A terrific Court House where my colleagues would introduce many people to the Magistrate for a visit and a chat; some could even win an all expenses holiday in variety of no star 'hotels'. Many solicitors offices offering to relieve you of your unneccessary gold. A wide central boulevarde where big rigs make driving an adventure. Yes, the City of Greater Dandenong has it all. LOL.
My sincere apologies to any Dandenongians if I've upset them. Every town does have its little problem spots.
-- Edited by Keith19837 on Wednesday 27th of June 2012 10:39:06 AM
Keith19837 said
05:16 PM Jun 27, 2012
Beth54 wrote:
Sis, bil and I are heading to Vic in Oct and have a list of places we want to see, and rellies to catch up with.
Two cousins we particularly want to see, one is in Ferntree Gully, and another in a care facility at Pakenham. We also want to see the Yarra Valley and Dandenong areas.
Any advise is appreciated.
I've lived and worked in and around Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs for many years and never used any of the C/Parks (which I suppose figures). I can tell you to stay away from the Lilydale Caravan Park on Warburton Hwy. I have nothing against the proprietors but it is used as a cheap housing alternative by many persons with certain legal issues who don't want to have lengthy conversations with my ex colleagues. Alot of items seem to get 'lost' there, and there are those who imbibe too much of what they deem to be a pleasant intoxicant.
The Yarra Valley is a little sparse at the moment as grape season is done and the vines all pruned back for next season's growth. The historic Healesville rail line does run short trolley rides on weekends, and if you're here for Halloween, they run a night time spook train that is a bit of fun. The Dandenong Ranges will still be in flower from Camelias, Winter Roses and the like. Be a bit careful on the Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd (often called the Tourist Rd). It is pretty winding and a bit on the narrow side considering the bends. The road often had wet patches on what normally seems a dry road and falling gum leaves/bark can also cause slippery patches. One particular bend to watch is the Devil's Elbow. It runs downhill when heading into Ferntree Gully. It's pretty tight but is very wide at that point. The 'Ranges' are full of tea houses, restaurants and little curio/antique type shops where a bargain can be found. The girls love these shops and spend heaps of time (and if you're not careful fellas, money) pottering about. Rickett's Sanctuary (actually an open air art and sculpture place) was set up by the renowned William Rickett who carved aboriginal people in old stumps and local wood. It is particularly cold at the moment and I'ld be surprised if we don't get snow in the Dandenongs this year (it happens about every 5-10 years) A 40 minute drive to Mt Donna Buang on the Warburton Hwy will get you to 'sighseeing' snow area where toboggans can be hired and shortish toboggan runs are set up (even the grown ups like this). If you're not used to snow, put plastic bags over your socks to keep them dry and your feet warm. Gloves, beanie and scarf will also make your day more enjoyable. Puffing Billy at Belgrave during school holidays and weekends is another option, as is the gold town of Warrandyte. The Yarra River was diverted at Pound Bend in Warrandyte to get some of the gold out and Warrandyte boasts one of Australia's richest reefs and (as all towns do) the oldest continuously running pub in Victoria. The penguin parade at Phillip Island has thousands of the little fellas waddling up within touching distance but at the right time of year (the rest of the time it's only a trickle). It is cold there during parade times as the wind is coming from Antarctica. Dame Nellie Melba's cottage still stands and open to the public at certain times of the year. She was the daughter of David Mitchell who quarried the local area for Lilydale Toppings (quarry still in operation). The Yarra Glen and Healesville 'flea' markets are open most Sundays, but with less stall holders during the colder months. Lots to see and do but late spring through to mid Autumn is when both the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley are at their best. An interesting fact: Mt Dandenong is actually a 'flat' volcano. Unlike the typical conical variety, Mt.D. spewed its lava in a flat 'pool' over the landscape and hardened. Over millions of years, the surround land eroded away at a much faster rate, leaving Mt.Dandenong (approx 1100ft at peak). Geologically it is quite famous worldwide due to this fact. Unlike most mountains, the soil is rich and is sold by various nursuries for gardening (mountain soil). Enough of my travelogue. For what it's worth.
Happywanderer said
06:07 PM Jun 27, 2012
Keith19837 wrote:
Beth54 wrote:
Sis, bil and I are heading to Vic in Oct and have a list of places we want to see, and rellies to catch up with.
Two cousins we particularly want to see, one is in Ferntree Gully, and another in a care facility at Pakenham. We also want to see the Yarra Valley and Dandenong areas.
Any advise is appreciated.
I've lived and worked in and around Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs for many years and never used any of the C/Parks (which I suppose figures). I can tell you to stay away from the Lilydale Caravan Park on Warburton Hwy. I have nothing against the proprietors but it is used as a cheap housing alternative by many persons with certain legal issues who don't want to have lengthy conversations with my ex colleagues. Alot of items seem to get 'lost' there, and there are those who imbibe too much of what they deem to be a pleasant intoxicant.
The Yarra Valley is a little sparse at the moment as grape season is done and the vines all pruned back for next season's growth. The historic Healesville rail line does run short trolley rides on weekends, and if you're here for Halloween, they run a night time spook train that is a bit of fun.
The Dandenong Ranges will still be in flower from Camelias, Winter Roses and the like. Be a bit careful on the Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd (often called the Tourist Rd). It is pretty winding and a bit on the narrow side considering the bends. The road often had wet patches on what normally seems a dry road and falling gum leaves/bark can also cause slippery patches.
One particular bend to watch is the Devil's Elbow. It runs downhill when heading into Ferntree Gully. It's pretty tight but is very wide at that point.
The 'Ranges' are full of tea houses, restaurants and little curio/antique type shops where a bargain can be found. The girls love these shops and spend heaps of time (and if you're not careful fellas, money) pottering about. Rickett's Sanctuary (actually an open air art and sculpture place) was set up by the renowned William Rickett who carved aboriginal people in old stumps and local wood.
It is particularly cold at the moment and I'ld be surprised if we don't get snow in the Dandenongs this year (it happens about every 5-10 years) A 40 minute drive to Mt Donna Buang on the Warburton Hwy will get you to 'sighseeing' snow area where toboggans can be hired and shortish toboggan runs are set up (even the grown ups like this). If you're not used to snow, put plastic bags over your socks to keep them dry and your feet warm. Gloves, beanie and scarf will also make your day more enjoyable.
Puffing Billy at Belgrave during school holidays and weekends is another option, as is the gold town of Warrandyte. The Yarra River was diverted at Pound Bend in Warrandyte to get some of the gold out and Warrandyte boasts one of Australia's richest reefs and (as all towns do) the oldest continuously running pub in Victoria.
The penguin parade at Phillip Island has thousands of the little fellas waddling up within touching distance but at the right time of year (the rest of the time it's only a trickle). It is cold there during parade times as the wind is coming from Antarctica.
Dame Nellie Melba's cottage still stands and open to the public at certain times of the year. She was the daughter of David Mitchell who quarried the local area for Lilydale Toppings (quarry still in operation). The Yarra Glen and Healesville 'flea' markets are open most Sundays, but with less stall holders during the colder months.
Lots to see and do but late spring through to mid Autumn is when both the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley are at their best. An interesting fact: Mt Dandenong is actually a 'flat' volcano. Unlike the typical conical variety, Mt.D. spewed its lava in a flat 'pool' over the landscape and hardened. Over millions of years, the surround land eroded away at a much faster rate, leaving Mt.Dandenong (approx 1100ft at peak). Geologically it is quite famous worldwide due to this fact. Unlike most mountains, the soil is rich and is sold by various nursuries for gardening (mountain soil). Enough of my travelogue. For what it's worth.
Wow, what an interesting read. Out of all that I have been on the Puffing Billy once, would love to do it again, and seen the penguins at Phillip Island a couple of times.
gillyb said
06:29 PM Jun 27, 2012
Keith19837 wrote:
Dougwe wrote:
The "Dandneongs" are great but "Dandenong" it self is not so great.
I can't understand your dislike of the place. There's lots to see there. For instance: The illegal drag races where my colleagues and I would give participants and supporters free transport and accomodation for a few nights. Free roadworthy testing where we would save them heaps of petrol 'cos they weren't allowed to drive their cars home. Lots of diverse factories with tall chimneys sending up their patriotic salutes into the atmosphere. A terrific Court House where my colleagues would introduce many people to the Magistrate for a visit and a chat; some could even win an all expenses holiday in variety of no star 'hotels'. Many solicitors offices offering to relieve you of your unneccessary gold. A wide central boulevarde where big rigs make driving an adventure. Yes, the City of Greater Dandenong has it all. LOL.
My sincere apologies to any Dandenongians if I've upset them. Every town does have its little problem spots.
-- Edited by Keith19837 on Wednesday 27th of June 2012 10:39:06 AM
Hahaha Keith thats very accurate but still only the tip of the iceberg..........
Beth54 said
09:34 PM Jun 27, 2012
Wow! Thanks for all that info Keith. I get what you're saying about the CP's. We're none too fond of them anyway.
We chose Oct/Nov hoping that it'd be a little warmer, but not hot. The bonus being that gardens should be lovely too.
It sounds a lot like our Tamborine Mt and Springbrook, in the Gold Coast Hinterland.
I've checked the penguin site and they'll be in good numbers and laying eggs around then.
Keith19837 said
10:26 PM Jun 27, 2012
Beth54 wrote:
Wow! Thanks for all that info Keith. I get what you're saying about the CP's. We're none too fond of them anyway.
We chose Oct/Nov hoping that it'd be a little warmer, but not hot. The bonus being that gardens should be lovely too.
It sounds a lot like our Tamborine Mt and Springbrook, in the Gold Coast Hinterland.
I've checked the penguin site and they'll be in good numbers and laying eggs around then.
Should be good then. Plenty of spring colour and the vines will be coming on. It is fairly cool in the Ranges even in spring early summer so throw a light jumper in the car. You will miss any snow (unless the weather decides to take charge) but that's O.K. Hope you enjoy.
Beth54 said
10:28 PM Jun 27, 2012
Keith19837 wrote:
Beth54 wrote:
Wow! Thanks for all that info Keith. I get what you're saying about the CP's. We're none too fond of them anyway.
We chose Oct/Nov hoping that it'd be a little warmer, but not hot. The bonus being that gardens should be lovely too.
It sounds a lot like our Tamborine Mt and Springbrook, in the Gold Coast Hinterland.
I've checked the penguin site and they'll be in good numbers and laying eggs around then.
Should be good then. Plenty of spring colour and the vines will be coming on. It is fairly cool in the Ranges even in spring early summer so throw a light jumper in the car. You will miss any snow (unless the weather decides to take charge) but that's O.K. Hope you enjoy.
I'll be throwing in more than a light jumper Keith! I'm a cold frog, so I'll come prepared for all seasons.
briche said
02:17 AM Jun 28, 2012
Yea sorry about that. They are powered and water is laid on
Brian
Beth54 said
02:20 AM Jun 28, 2012
briche wrote:
Yea sorry about that. They are powered and water is laid on Brian
Oh good. Thanks.
Beth54 said
04:26 PM Jun 28, 2012
Dougwe wrote:
Hi Beth, I was in that horrible place Dandenong today so decided to come home Via Berwick and check out Akoona Park and there are power sites available but not a lot. I'm not sure if you get a key to the Toilets etc but they were closed and about six CV's and a very large 5th Wheeler there. I didn't see any people around though and didn't have a lot of time to hang around.
Thanks for that Doug. The site says access to amenities block is via key pad code.
I'll ring them when the time comes and book a spot so we don't miss out. No idea of dates at this stage.
-- Edited by Beth54 on Thursday 28th of June 2012 04:27:03 PM
Dougwe said
10:55 PM Jun 28, 2012
Hi Beth, I was in that horrible place Dandenong today so decided to come home Via Berwick and check out Akoona Park and there are power sites available but not a lot. I'm not sure if you get a key to the Toilets etc but they were closed and about six CV's and a very large 5th Wheeler there. I didn't see any people around though and didn't have a lot of time to hang around.
ozjohn said
11:31 PM Jun 28, 2012
If you decide to spend a day or two on the Mornington Peninsula, drop us a PM and call by for a cuppa and your own tour guide. Ozjohn.
Beth54 said
11:41 PM Jun 28, 2012
ozjohn wrote:
If you decide to spend a day or two on the Mornington Peninsula, drop us a PM and call by for a cuppa and your own tour guide. Ozjohn.
Thanks Ozjohn, will do.
Esmeralda said
01:06 AM Jun 29, 2012
Dougwe wrote:
Hi Beth, I was in that horrible place Dandenong today so decided to come home Via Berwick and check out Akoona Park and there are power sites available but not a lot. I'm not sure if you get a key to the Toilets etc but they were closed and about six CV's and a very large 5th Wheeler there. I didn't see any people around though and didn't have a lot of time to hang around.
Gee Doug and Keith - I live in Dandenong. I know it is a little ethnically challenged and there are a few unsavoury characters around; but there are some nice people - as there are in other towns and cities across Australia. There are many worse places around both here and interstate.
It is unfortunate that many people think that Dandenong the suburb is the same place as the Dandenong Ranges.
And yes Beth, Olinda and other towns in the area are very reminiscent of Mt Tambourine area.
Beth54 said
01:11 AM Jun 29, 2012
Esmeralda wrote:
Dougwe wrote:
Hi Beth, I was in that horrible place Dandenong today so decided to come home Via Berwick and check out Akoona Park and there are power sites available but not a lot. I'm not sure if you get a key to the Toilets etc but they were closed and about six CV's and a very large 5th Wheeler there. I didn't see any people around though and didn't have a lot of time to hang around.
Gee Doug and Keith - I live in Dandenong. I know it is a little ethnically challenged and there are a few unsavoury characters around; but there are some nice people - as there are in other towns and cities across Australia. There are many worse places around both here and interstate.
It is unfortunate that many people think that Dandenong the suburb is the same place as the Dandenong Ranges.
And yes Beth, Olinda and other towns in the area are very reminiscent of Mt Tambourine area.
Sounds like Woodridge here in Logan City. I have no reason to go there anymore, thank goodness.
Thanks for that Gill, that sounds great. It doesn't say if there's power, I'd better email them about that.
We are self sufficient, but if we stay a few days, it'd be good to have power.
I'd love to meet up with you Gill, I'll let you know dates etc as we get nearer. We'll be doing a slow trip, and will come towards Melbourne from the west.
As we start off from Brisbane, I'll keep a thread going as to where we're heading, so that hopefully we'll meet many GN friends along the way.
We'll also be asking for imput of what we should see along the way. Sis & bil have been to some of these places, but we are all new to Melbourne and surrounds.
-- Edited by Beth54 on Tuesday 26th of June 2012 01:00:32 PM
Sounds great Beth, I have to agree with gillyb and suggest you don't waist your time with Dandenong, I lived in that area for 21 years and couldn't wait to get out. I am only a stone throw, well, maybe a long throw away from Pakenham and Berwick but very close to Phillip Island so yell out loud when you get there and we might be able to catch up. October is a pretty good time of year in that neck of the woods and Gippsland is worth checking out too, that's just down the road a tad.
Edit...typo's
-- Edited by Dougwe on Tuesday 26th of June 2012 06:31:39 PM
Sis, bil and I are heading to Vic in Oct and have a list of places we want to see, and rellies to catch up with.
Two cousins we particularly want to see, one is in Ferntree Gully, and another in a care facility at Pakenham. We also want to see the Yarra Valley and Dandenong areas.
We know nothing about these areas other than from maps and google, but we want a base in the area. There seems to be several CP's in the general area, but this is the cheapest.
http://www.akoonahpark.com.au/facilitiesDetail.php?recordID=6
Any advise is appreciated.
Beth I live just 5 mins from Akoonah Park and its a nice area, nice and green and quiet and only a short drive to Berwick and not far to walk to a lovely shopping area with lovely cafes at Beaconsfield, its much better that any caravan parks in the area. Markets are held there every Sunday so gets a bit busy for the day but I think you would enjoy it (Im not sure if they have any powered sites though).
Wouldn't recommend Dandenong (hope I don't offend anyone) but the Dandenong ranges are just beautiful with many places to explore, I'm sure you'll have a great time but will need to bring warm clothes, never trust Melbourne weather. Let me know when you are arriving I would love to catch up, how long are you coming for?
I agree with Gil.
It's better than any of the CP's in the area.
The coffee shops and cafes etc in Berwick are as good as you'll find anywhere, and you're in the foothills of the fabulous Dandenong Ranges.
Access to the city is easy via the Monash Freeway or by hassle free by train.
The Mornington Pensinsula is only a short drive, and Phillip Island, Latrobe Valley and South Gippsland make good day outings.
Enjoy your time down south, and rug up.
Cheers, ozjohn.
Thanks ozjohn. Yes, we want to go see all those places, and we'll certainly bring our layers of clothing.
I haven't forgotten Marj. Spent yesterday arvo with Deb, maps and Camps 6, and I told her we HAVE to visit Greens Lake. We'll be coming by way of Echuca, and also spend some time in Bendigo seeing rellies.
Not sure when we'll be at Greens Lake though, may be too early for you.
That'd be great!
I'll certainly let you know as we get near Doug. Phillip Island is on the list...HAVE to see the penguins!
I'll tell Sis & bil about the Dandenongs. What's wrong with the place?
Thanks for that Brian/Cheryl. Are they powered? I couldn't see anything about power on the site.
I can't understand your dislike of the place. There's lots to see there. For instance: The illegal drag races where my colleagues and I would give participants and supporters free transport and accomodation for a few nights. Free roadworthy testing where we would save them heaps of petrol 'cos they weren't allowed to drive their cars home. Lots of diverse factories with tall chimneys sending up their patriotic salutes into the atmosphere. A terrific Court House where my colleagues would introduce many people to the Magistrate for a visit and a chat; some could even win an all expenses holiday in variety of no star 'hotels'. Many solicitors offices offering to relieve you of your unneccessary gold. A wide central boulevarde where big rigs make driving an adventure. Yes, the City of Greater Dandenong has it all. LOL.
My sincere apologies to any Dandenongians if I've upset them. Every town does have its little problem spots.
-- Edited by Keith19837 on Wednesday 27th of June 2012 10:39:06 AM
I've lived and worked in and around Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs for many years and never used any of the C/Parks (which I suppose figures). I can tell you to stay away from the Lilydale Caravan Park on Warburton Hwy. I have nothing against the proprietors but it is used as a cheap housing alternative by many persons with certain legal issues who don't want to have lengthy conversations with my ex colleagues. Alot of items seem to get 'lost' there, and there are those who imbibe too much of what they deem to be a pleasant intoxicant.
The Yarra Valley is a little sparse at the moment as grape season is done and the vines all pruned back for next season's growth. The historic Healesville rail line does run short trolley rides on weekends, and if you're here for Halloween, they run a night time spook train that is a bit of fun. The Dandenong Ranges will still be in flower from Camelias, Winter Roses and the like. Be a bit careful on the Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd (often called the Tourist Rd). It is pretty winding and a bit on the narrow side considering the bends. The road often had wet patches on what normally seems a dry road and falling gum leaves/bark can also cause slippery patches. One particular bend to watch is the Devil's Elbow. It runs downhill when heading into Ferntree Gully. It's pretty tight but is very wide at that point. The 'Ranges' are full of tea houses, restaurants and little curio/antique type shops where a bargain can be found. The girls love these shops and spend heaps of time (and if you're not careful fellas, money) pottering about. Rickett's Sanctuary (actually an open air art and sculpture place) was set up by the renowned William Rickett who carved aboriginal people in old stumps and local wood. It is particularly cold at the moment and I'ld be surprised if we don't get snow in the Dandenongs this year (it happens about every 5-10 years) A 40 minute drive to Mt Donna Buang on the Warburton Hwy will get you to 'sighseeing' snow area where toboggans can be hired and shortish toboggan runs are set up (even the grown ups like this). If you're not used to snow, put plastic bags over your socks to keep them dry and your feet warm. Gloves, beanie and scarf will also make your day more enjoyable. Puffing Billy at Belgrave during school holidays and weekends is another option, as is the gold town of Warrandyte. The Yarra River was diverted at Pound Bend in Warrandyte to get some of the gold out and Warrandyte boasts one of Australia's richest reefs and (as all towns do) the oldest continuously running pub in Victoria. The penguin parade at Phillip Island has thousands of the little fellas waddling up within touching distance but at the right time of year (the rest of the time it's only a trickle). It is cold there during parade times as the wind is coming from Antarctica. Dame Nellie Melba's cottage still stands and open to the public at certain times of the year. She was the daughter of David Mitchell who quarried the local area for Lilydale Toppings (quarry still in operation). The Yarra Glen and Healesville 'flea' markets are open most Sundays, but with less stall holders during the colder months. Lots to see and do but late spring through to mid Autumn is when both the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley are at their best. An interesting fact: Mt Dandenong is actually a 'flat' volcano. Unlike the typical conical variety, Mt.D. spewed its lava in a flat 'pool' over the landscape and hardened. Over millions of years, the surround land eroded away at a much faster rate, leaving Mt.Dandenong (approx 1100ft at peak). Geologically it is quite famous worldwide due to this fact. Unlike most mountains, the soil is rich and is sold by various nursuries for gardening (mountain soil). Enough of my travelogue. For what it's worth.
Wow, what an interesting read. Out of all that I have been on the Puffing Billy once, would love to do it again, and seen the penguins at Phillip Island a couple of times.
Hahaha Keith thats very accurate but still only the tip of the iceberg..........
Wow! Thanks for all that info Keith. I get what you're saying about the CP's. We're none too fond of them anyway.
We chose Oct/Nov hoping that it'd be a little warmer, but not hot. The bonus being that gardens should be lovely too.
It sounds a lot like our Tamborine Mt and Springbrook, in the Gold Coast Hinterland.
I've checked the penguin site and they'll be in good numbers and laying eggs around then.
Should be good then. Plenty of spring colour and the vines will be coming on. It is fairly cool in the Ranges even in spring early summer so throw a light jumper in the car. You will miss any snow (unless the weather decides to take charge) but that's O.K. Hope you enjoy.
I'll be throwing in more than a light jumper Keith! I'm a cold frog, so I'll come prepared for all seasons.
Oh good. Thanks.
Thanks for that Doug. The site says access to amenities block is via key pad code.
I'll ring them when the time comes and book a spot so we don't miss out. No idea of dates at this stage.
-- Edited by Beth54 on Thursday 28th of June 2012 04:27:03 PM
If you decide to spend a day or two on the Mornington Peninsula, drop us a PM and call by for a cuppa and your own tour guide.
Ozjohn.
Thanks Ozjohn, will do.
Gee Doug and Keith - I live in Dandenong. I know it is a little ethnically challenged and there are a few unsavoury characters around; but there are some nice people - as there are in other towns and cities across Australia. There are many worse places around both here and interstate.
It is unfortunate that many people think that Dandenong the suburb is the same place as the Dandenong Ranges.
And yes Beth, Olinda and other towns in the area are very reminiscent of Mt Tambourine area.
Sounds like Woodridge here in Logan City. I have no reason to go there anymore, thank goodness.