TRAVEL BULLETIN
RON AND VIV MOON’S LATEST NEWS AND INFO FROM AUSTRALIA’S TREKS AND TRACKS
TALLARINGA CONSERVATION PARK (SA)
The Department of Defence has announced closures of the Anne Beadell Highway for 2017 (February 26 to March 11; and June 11-30). When the park is open, tourists will need a DEWNR entry/camping permit or a Desert Parks Pass, as well as a tourist access permit from the Department of Defence. Details can be found at www. defence.gov.au/woomera/ permit-tourist.htm.
MILDURA COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL (VIC)
Enjoy the best of country music on the banks of Mildura’s mighty Murray River. The festival, featuring a great line-up of Australian independent country music acts, will run from September 23 to October 2, at 25 venues spread around Mildura and the outlying towns. It’s a lot of fun and there’s always a chance to go fishing or exploring around the area, too. For more info: www. milduracountrymusic.com.au.
AUSTRALIAN ANTARCTIC FESTIVAL (TAS)
This festival provides a fascinating look at the work Australia does in the coldest, highest, driest and windiest place on earth. Meet expeditioners, scientists, tradespeople and chefs, and be intrigued at the details of how people live and work at -40°C temps. The series of exhibitions, open days, entertainment and lectures will be held from September 8-11. For more: www. antarcticfestival.com.au.
BUSH TUCKER DAY (NSW)
Bush Tucker Day is all about creating culinary delights in traditional camp ovens over open fires. The event, located approximately 65km northwest of Parkes in the rural community of Trundle, will take place on September 3. There will be bush cooking competitions, bush tucker tastings, boiling-billy races and musical entertainment headlined by Troy Cassardaley. Camping, showers and toilets are available on-site, and campers are asked to pre-book. For more info: www. trundlebushtuckerday.com or call (02) 6892 1260.
NATIONAL BILBY DAY (QLD)
Head to Charleville on September 10-11 to celebrate national bilby day. On the Saturday a special steam train will arrive from Brisbane in time for the Charleville Fur Ball, which will feature a 1930s-inspired fancy dress party with refreshments, live music and dancing until 1am. Adults and kids will love the opportunity to get close to a bilby on the Sunday. For more: www.savethebilbyfund.com.
LAKE ARGYLE ADVENTURE RACE (WA)
Swim, run, mountain bike, paddle and run again. If extreme physical exertion is your idea of fun, the Lake Argyle Adventure Race might be just what you’re looking for. This year’s event will be held from September 2-4. There’s stunning scenery, cool water and an awesome atmosphere – and don’t worry about the crocodiles, they’re just freshies. For more information see: www.lakeargyleadventurerace.com.au.
DESERT SONG FESTIVAL (NT)
From September 9-18, singers, musicians and audiences from Alice Springs and Central Australia, as well as visitors to the region, can experience something special; choirs from the vibrant multi-cultural community will come together to present a series of events showcasing the unique culture of Central Australia. This year marks the fourth anniversary of the Desert Song Festival. For more information see: www.alicesprings.nt.gov.au/ events.