Destination's Journey

Tag: Australia

  • Terrigal on the Central Coast

    Terrigal on the Central Coast

    Terrigal

    Located on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Terrigal is a coastal town situated halfway between Sydney and Newcastle (90 minutes from both). Public transport connects via the train to Gosford and a connecting bus to Terrigal.

    We parked near the skillion, because it allowed easy access to the places we wanted to see.

    The Skillion

    Overlooking Terrigal and the surrounding coastline, the Skillion provides amazing views of the surrounding coastline and town. A walkway runs up the left side, making access easy, or you can walk on the grassed surface. At the top, a fenced lookout provides a safe place for viewing, because the nearby cliff is very high.

    At the base of the Skillion is a rock platform where the waves constantly splash and look amazing. Signs warn of the danger of walking in the area, not only from the waves, but from rocks falling off the cliff. A great way to see the rock platform is from Kurrawyba Lookout, which is safe and also gives a good view.

    • The Grassed Surface of the Skillion Terrigal
      The Grassed Surface of the Skillion
    • Looking Down From the Skillion Towards Terrigal
      Looking Down From the Skillion Towards Terrigal
    • View From the Skillion Towards Terrigal Lagoon
      View From the Skillion Towards Terrigal Lagoon
    • View From the Skillion Over Kurrawyba
      View From the Skillion Over Kurrawyba
    • View From the Skillion Towards Avoca
      Looking Towards Avoca From the Skillion
    • View From the Skillion Towards Avoca
      View From the Skillion Towards Avoca
    • Rocks at the Base of the Skillion
      Rocks at the Base of the Skillion
    • Rocks at the Base of The Skillion
      Rocks at the Base of The Skillion
    • Waves Crashing Over Rocks on the Rock Platform
      Waves Crashing Over Rocks on the Rock Platform

    Kurrawyba Lookout

    Situated on the headland opposite the Skillion, Kurrawyba Lookout is an easy five minute walk from the car park. This is the best place to get a safe view of the Skillion and the rock platform, because the platform itself is subject to falling rocks.

    • The Skillion and Rock Platform
      , The Skillion and Rock Platform
    • The Skillion and Rock Platform
      The Skillion and Rock Platform

    Terrigal Boat Harbour

    We bought a coffee at the Cove Cafe and sat on a bench in the park next door, watching the boats in the harbour and a group of swimmers while we drank it. It was very relaxing, as everyone else there was relaxing and enjoying the morning as well.

    On our walk around the area, we noticed a lot of pelicans, including some on the powerpoles, watching everyone else.

    • The Harbour at Terrigal
      The Harbour
    • Pelicans
      Pelicans

    Terrigal Lagoon and Beach

    The Terrigal Lagoon, is a safe place where families can enjoy the day near the water. Protected from the surf, this tidal area had people paddle boarding, swimming, or just relaxing.

    At the end of the lagoon, was an interesting sculpture, adding to the interest in the area.

    Past the lagoon is the magnificent sandy Terrigal Beach. The beach is patrolled every day from October long weekend until the end of the April school holiday break, but remember to swim between the flags.

    • Terrigal Lagoon
      Terrigal Lagoon
    • Sculpture in Terrigal Lagoon
      Sculpture in the Lagoon
  • Strickland State Forest is Unique and Wonderful

    Strickland State Forest is Unique and Wonderful

    Strickland State Forest

    Located on the Central Coast of NSW, less than an hour’s drive north of Sydney, south of Newcastle, or a 10-minute drive west of Gosford, Strickland State Forest is a great place to visit.

    The forest is only five square kilometres but contains an impressive variety of flora and fauna species, along with extensive walking tracks. These wander through varying forest types, past waterfalls, under cabbage tree palms and along creeks.

    The forest has excellent picnic facilities including an all-weather shelter, picnic tables and toilets.

    Banksia Picnic Area

    We parked at the Banksia Picnic Area, as it was close to the walk we wanted to do, as well as having toilets and picnic facilities. There is also an information board showing the walks available, which is great if you are not sure what you want to do. The walks are clearly sign posted and easy to follow.

    Strickland Falls Trail

    We chose the Strickland Falls Trail for this visit, because it passes through cool forest areas, full of ferns and passes a waterfall. The trail is well sign posted and generally easy to walk, although it does have steps in many places. The return trail was far easier and passed through tall eucalypts on the ridge.

    Lower Trail

    The trail towards the waterfall led downhill through a valley where we were surrounded by ferns and trees. On a hot day it felt nice a cool, making us appreciate it even more. The track varied from steps made of stones to flat dirt tracks. On most of the trail, we were surrounded by the plants and trees that the forest is famous for.

    • Start of the Strickland Falls Trail
      Start of the Strickland Falls Trail
    • Steps Going Uphill Strickland Falls Trail Strickland State Forest
      Steps Going Uphill
    • Strickland Falls Trail
      Strickland Falls Trail
    • Strickland Falls Trail Strickland Falls Trail
      Strickland Falls Trail
    • Ferns and Palms on the Strickland Falls Trail
      Ferns and Palms on the Strickland Falls Trail

    Strickland Waterfall

    The weather had been very dry prior to our visit, so the waterfall was little more than a trickle, but the surrounding area was wet and damp, giving it a wonderful atmosphere. Although we didn’t see the waterfall at its best, it was still a great place to stop and look around.

    From here, the track leads up to the ridge and dry forest above.

    • Strickland Falls Strickland State Forest
      Strickland Falls
    • Ferns and Palms on the Strickland Falls Trail
      Ferns and Palms on the Strickland Falls Trail
    • Ferns and Palms on the Strickland Falls Trail Strickland State Forest
      Ferns and Palms on the Strickland Falls Trail

    Upper Return Trail

    The return trail starts with steps leading up from the waterfall, but once you have climbed to the top, most of the remaining track is flat. It passes through dry eucalypt forest, where you can also see Gymea lilies. These were in bloom when we went in spring, with their two to three metre flower stems and bright red flowers making a great display.

    The return trail ends near the Banksia Picnic Area, which was near where we had parked.

    • The Return Track Strickland State Forest
      The Return Track
    • Gymea lily
      Gymea lily
    • Gymea lily
      Gymea lily

    What Did We Think of the Strickland State Forest?

    We loved the Strickland Falls Trail because it wandered through different forest types and was fun to walk. We will be going back to do some of the other walks in the future.

  • Historical Maitland in the Hunter Valley

    Historical Maitland in the Hunter Valley

    Maitland

    Situated on the Hunter River approximately 166 kilometres by road north of Sydney and 35 kilometres north-west of Newcastle, Maitland is a city in the Lower Hunter Valley of New South Wales. Located on the New England Highway, it is easy to get to and its heritage and proximity to the Hunter Valley vineyards makes it worth visiting.

    The Levee

    Running parallel to the Hunter River and encircled by Ken Tubman Drive, The Levee is a hive of activity. It offers a range of entertainment and dining options, a blend of small business and national retail stores. Professional services such as banks, solicitors and accountants are also located here.

    • The Levee on a Foggy Morning
      The Levee on a Foggy Morning
    • Street Art at the Levee
      Street Art at the Levee

    Buildings

    The city has several historic buildings, and many others with interesting architecture, making them worth searching out. Several excellent walks can be found here, downloadable as PDFs.

    Maitland Railway Station

    The railway reached Maitland in 1858, having reached East Maitland in 1957. This resulted in the building of the current Italianate style building being built in the 1880s.

    This building can be viewed from the carpark, or for a different perspective, climb the pedestrian overpass. This allows you to see it from above, where you can see the top of the building more clearly.

    Railway Station
    Railway Station

    Maitland Post Office

    Constructed in 1881 and designed by the Colonial Architect James Barnet, the Maitland post office is an example of Victorian Italianate design of stucco on brick. This is characteristic of Barnet’s work, making it a fantastic attraction in the centre of the city.

    • Maitland Post Office
      Maitland Post Office
    • Maitland Post Office
      Clock Tower at the Maitland Post Office
    • Maitland Post Office
      Maitland Post Office

    Old Bank of Australasia Building

    Built in 1869 and opened on 1st January 1870, this was the third bank constructed in High Street. The design of this building is one of the few colonial examples of Byzantine architecture and is significant for the skilful use of the curve and upper floor verandah. Although substantially altered, it still exhibits many original features making it significant.

    Old ANZ Bank Building
    Old ANZ Bank Building

    St. Mary’s Church

    Opened in 1867, St. Mary’s Church has a magnificent stone spire which is a landmark in the town and surrounding area. The building is a fine example of High Victorian Style Gothic architecture. Designed by the celebrated architect Edmund Blackett the building has excellent stone tracery windows and detailing, exhibiting craftsmanship of the highest order.

    St Mary's Anglican Church
    St Mary’s Anglican Church

    Old Synagogue

    Ceasing as a place of worship in 1898 the old Synagogue was the first of its kind in Australia. Designed by renowned local architect, John W. Pender it is a simple Victorian Romanesque building. Constructed in 1879 it subsequently served as a co-educational school until 1928, a meeting hall and is now, after restoration, used as a Credit Union office and shopfront.

    Former Maitland Synagogue
    Former Synagogue

    Heritage Mall

    Constructed as a Bicentennial Project in 1988 The Heritage Mall in the main commercial centre of Maitland contains many building styles. Best viewed by walking down the centre of the Mall, the history of many buildings can be viewed on their upper floors above the awnings

    Johnston's Boot Store Facade
    Johnston’s Boot Store Facade
    Old Building Facades
    Old Building Facades

    Courthouse

    Designed during the transition of Victorian and Federation periods, the Maitland Courthouse is an outstanding building. Designed by Walter Liberty Vernon and built in 1895-96, it is Federation Free Classical in style and detailing, using typical Federation materials such as face red brick with contrasting sandstone trim.

    Maitland Courthouse
    Maitland Courthouse
    Street by the Court House
    Street by the Court House

    Steamfest

    Established in 1986, Steamfest pays homage to an industrial steam era and the men and women involved in its operation.

    The heart and soul of Steamfest is its impressive assembly of steam trains. While there you can take a ride on one of the many unique train trips visiting various Hunter destinations or simply wander around and enjoy the displays.

    Read our full story and see our pictures of Steamfest here.

    • Traction Engines Hunter Valley Steamfest Maitland
      Traction Engines
    • Locomotive 6029 The Garrett
      Locomotive 6029 The Garrett

    Our photos are available for purchase on

    To see what else there is to do in the Hunter Valley, please see some of our other stories.