PART 1 BLOGS & PHOTOS

PART 2 VIDEO CLIPS

 

PART 1, Blogs and Photos 

VICTORIA

Victoria: A Small State with Big Adventures

Victoria may be one of Australia’s smaller states, but it packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty and adventure. Whether you’re chasing waves or winding your way through mountain trails, this state has something for everyone.

A major tourist drawcard is the iconic Great Ocean Road — a coastal drive renowned for its dramatic sandstone formations, breathtaking cliff lines, and sweeping ocean views. It’s a must-see for every road-tripper.

Next on the list is the Grampians National Park, famous for its rugged rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil lakes. It’s a great spot for hiking, photography, and soaking in nature.

Head further north and you’ll find the mighty Murray River and the contrasting landscapes of Murray-Sunset National Park. Here, you can explore remote sand dunes in the north and marvel at the unique Pink Lakes in the west — a truly surreal experience.

But our favorite part of Victoria is undoubtedly the High Country (Australian Alps). In winter, it’s a skiing haven.

The rest of the year, it transforms into a

paradise for serious off-roaders. With steep trails, river crossings, and rugged climbs, this terrain is best suited for capable 4WDs like Toyotas and Nissans — not for heavy overland trucks.

This region is also rich in history, with remnants from the gold rush era scattered across the landscape — think old mining gear, forgotten settlements, and historic cemeteries.

The largest conservation area in the region is Alpine National Park, sprawling across multiple zones right up to the New South Wales border. Exploring it by 4WD is one of the best ways to get off the beaten track and truly immerse yourself in the wild.

A highlight not to miss is Craig’s Hut, also known as the Man from Snowy River hut. Originally built for the film, it was destroyed in a bushfire but has since been beautifully rebuilt in the Mt Stirling area. It’s a stunning spot that captures the spirit of the High Country.

Other gems in Victoria’s wilderness include:

• Snowy River National Park – remote and rugged beauty.

• Croajingolong National Park – coastal wilderness at its best.

• Cape Conran Coastal Park – serene beaches and forest walks.

• Wilson’s Promontory National Park (The Prom) – a beloved park with top-notch beaches and campgrounds. It’s popular, so be prepared for crowds.

• Phillip Island – world-famous for motor racing and the adorable Penguin Parade, a must-see wildlife experience.

in 1985 our first introduction to Victoria was as member of the Yarra Valley 4WD club. This was the start of many trips into the Victorian country side

The Victorian High Country is one of Australia’s most iconic off-road destinations, suited to both soft and hard off roading, ranging from steep hill climbs, deep river crossings and driving with many great view points. offering diverse terrain and stunning scenery. Some well-known tracks include:

• The Great Alpine Road: This scenic route takes you through the Victorian Alps and offers excellent 4WD tracks, including challenging climbs and river crossings. It’s a fantastic way to see Victoria’s rugged high country.

• Mount Stirling: Known for its steep climbs and thrilling descents, it’s a great spot for more experienced drivers.

• Wonnangatta Valley: A beautiful and remote area with historical significance and offers an opportunity for serious 4WDers to test their skills on rough terrain.

• Howqua Hills Historic Area: Offering steep climbs and impressive mountain views, this area is also home to a lot of local history. There are tracks for all skill levels here.

The proximity to the border with New South Wales also gives you access to tracks leading to Mt Kosciuszko, which is an exciting challenge for 4WD enthusiasts. Mid-December to March is definitely ideal, especially for avoiding snow in higher elevations and enjoying the clear views.

 

Over the years, we’ve enjoyed countless incredible destinations, though it’s impossible to list them all. Here are some standout locations: Craig’s Hut and Mt Stirling, known for their connection to the movie Man from Snowy River, Davies Plain, The Crooked River, Howqua Plains, and the Mitchel Trek. The Cobbler Plains and Razorback offer stunning views, while Butcher Country near Licola is a hidden gem. Wonnangatta Valley, with its famous Zeka Spur track and Widow Maker track (if it’s still open), is another highlight. We’ve also explored tracks around Swifts Creek, Dargo, and the Davies Plain area near the border with New South Wales, as well as the ski village of Thredbo. Not to mention the beautiful Man from Snowy River country near Mansfield and the Mt Buller Ski Resort, offering great off-roading with a mix of soft and hard terrain.

Lake Eildon, just over 100 kilometers north of Melbourne, is a bustling weekend getaway for Melburnians and a top destination for water sports. At the base of Mount Hotham lies Bright, a charming goldfield town steeped in history, and definitely worth a visit.

Big and Little Desert Area & Murray Sunset National Park & Hattah Kulkyne National park

For those who enjoy the desert, the Big and Little Desert area, Murray Sunset National Park, and Hattah Kulkyne National Park are all accessible from various directions—whether you’re coming from Broken Hill and Mungo National Park, Adelaide via Mildura, or Melbourne through the Grampians. The Big Desert, in particular, offers limited off-roading opportunities but is a playground for soft off-roaders and nature lovers. Being inland, it’s hot during summer, despite Victoria being one of Australia’s cooler states.

 

The Little Desert region offers excellent campsites along the Wimmera River, with soft 4WD tracks perfect for exploration. The Murray Sunset National Park is home to the stunning Pink Lakes, while Hattah Kulkyne National Park features both cycling and driving trails. A side trip to Eucha, once Australia’s busiest inland port in the mid-1800s, is a must. Today, it’s known for its historic buildings, museum, and the paddle steamers that depart from the remnants of the old wharf. Along the way, stop at Swan Hill, a great destination for wine lovers, and visit the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement.

The Grampians

The Grampians are another highlight, offering breathtaking scenery, great camping spots, and a variety of landscapes to explore. Be sure to visit the goldfields of Ararat, the charming town of St Arnaud, and the volcano at Penshurst. Wartook Valley, Mount Arapiles, Mackenzie Falls, and secluded creeks make for perfect camping and hiking opportunities, while the Aboriginal rock art adds a cultural touch to the area.

If you visit between mid-August and the end of October, you’ll be greeted by wildflowers transforming the area with a vibrant mix of colors. This is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The region is ideal for soft off-roaders, with a combination of asphalt and gravel roads. Some sections may have loose rocks or ruts. Enjoy stunning sandstone escarpments, deep gorges, and abundant wildlife.

Great Ocean Road and the Otways

One of Australia’s most famous coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road offers spectacular scenery and is easily accessible from all directions. Starting in Melbourne, the route ends in Port Fairy. Along the way, you’ll pass the surf town of Torquay and the iconic Twelve Apostles, with plenty of lookouts offering breathtaking views. The Great Ocean Road begins at Torquay, home to the world-famous Bells Beach, which hosts the annual Rip Curl Pro. Between Anglesea and Lorne, you’ll find some of the best coastal views.

 

Heading further west, you’ll find breathtaking views from the cliff tops, overlooking stunning beaches. About 10 km south of Anglesea, you can explore the Otway National Park, with various tracks winding through the area. Don’t miss Erskine Falls and the Otway Fly Treetop Walk. From there, you can follow the trails back to Lorne. On your way, stop by Port Campbell to witness the famous Twelve Apostles. If you’re visiting in winter, keep an eye out for whales at Logan’s Beach.

Next, head to Port Fairy, a charming fishing village. Explore the old whalers’ cottages, visit the seal colony, and take a photo at the iconic lighthouse.

Melbourne and the Yarra Valley

If you enjoy big cities, Melbourne will captivate you. With its European feel (and weather), it’s a city that offers plenty to explore. Hop on the free City Circle Tram, stroll through the Queen Victoria Markets for some shopping, and head to Lygon Street for dinner or one of the many restaurants along the Yarra River near the casino. A visit to Acland Street is a must for its European bakeries and cake shops. If the weather’s pleasant, don’t forget to visit St Kilda Beach for a relaxing day by the water.

Fitzroy & Yarra Valley:

• Fitzroy is known for its vibrant street art, boutique shops, and eclectic vibe, so the Sunday artist market there would definitely provide a great way to enjoy local talent.

• Heading east to the Yarra Valley is a treat for both nature lovers and wine enthusiasts. The Healesville Sanctuary offers a fantastic opportunity to get close to native wildlife, and the nearby wineries like DeBortoli add a perfect touch of indulgence to the experience.

• The Rainforest Gallery and the Black Spur Road are beautiful nature escapes, perfect for scenic drives, while Lake Mountain is a great destination for winter activities.

Phillip Island:

• Penguin Parade is definitely one of the iconic experiences, and the underground tunnel offering an up-close view of the penguins is a special way to enjoy this phenomenon. It’s not just about penguins, though—Phillip Island has beautiful beaches for relaxation and consistent surf spots for those into more active pursuits.

The whale watching between April and May is a must-see, and for those into motorsport, the Motor GP in October is a thrilling event. The opportunity to book a hot lap with a professional driver is perfect for anyone looking to get their adrenaline pumping.

Wilson Promontory: Known for its incredible natural beauty, the park offers a mix of stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and lush rainforests. The outdoor cinema (one of Australia’s oldest outdoor cinemas) is a charming touch, adding to the park’s laid-back atmosphere.

The hike to the top of Mount Oberon offers stunning views, making it a must for hikers. For those who love walking, the Drift Track (3 km) is a great option, taking you through sand dunes, thick bushland, and providing beautiful views across Corner Inlet. Just be careful not to get lost in the sand dunes!

Croajingolong National Park

Named after the Aboriginal people of the area, this park is a bit of a tongue twister. Located roughly halfway between Melbourne and Sydney, it’s easily accessible from the coast road. If you’re coming from Orbost, your first stop is Bemm River, but there are plenty of other coastal gems to explore, like Thurra River, Wingan Point, Point Hicks, and Little Rame Head. In between, you’ll find plenty of secluded camping spots, including around the tranquil Mallacoota Lakes.

 

Don’t forget the magnificent sand dunes at Thurra River and the historic Point Hicks Lighthouse. This is a truly spectacular part of East Gippsland, where white sandy beaches meet rocky headlands, lush rainforest, and towering eucalypts. In summer, the area is perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, soft off-roading, and snorkelling around the reef near Point Hicks. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, offering both adventure and tranquility. The main service towns nearby are Cann River and Mallacoota, each with its own charm and laid-back coastal vibe.

PART 2 VIDEO CLIPS