
The Stick Shed
The Stick Shed in Murtoa is a second World War grain storage area so unique that it has pride of place on the Australian Heritage Register. Who would have thought there would be a forest of mountain ash trees in the Wimmera.
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Just an hour drive from Hobart, and a little more from Launceston, the little town of Oatlands, Tasmania now bypassed by the Midland Highway, is a step back in time.
Once upon a time when you drove the Midland Highway, there were some great examples of topiary beside the road that were produced by one of the road workers (the late Jack Cashion). There were all sorts of shapes, from memory most were animals, and they provided a nice distraction as you drove along.
On my last visit to Oatlands, I spotted a few more examples of this interesting art form right in the town. But you don’t need distractions here – there is plenty to keep your interest. Not the least of which is the restored Callington Mill.
This magnificent structure, fully restored and operating, is now producing quality flours as the winds of the Midlands drive its sails.
Nearby is a blacksmith. And throughout the town are outstanding examples of Georgian buildings dating from the early 1800’s.
On a sunny day, you could buy a nice pie and find a picnic spot on the shores of Lake Dulverton.
UPDATE July, 2022: A recent addition to the Callington mill surrounds is a modern whiskey distillery. You can take a self-guided tour, have a taste, or even mix your own. All the more reason to stop and enjoy the hospitality of Oatlands.

The Stick Shed in Murtoa is a second World War grain storage area so unique that it has pride of place on the Australian Heritage Register. Who would have thought there would be a forest of mountain ash trees in the Wimmera.

Well off the beaten track, Arkaroola Wilderness Area is situated in the rugged and spectacular Northern Flinders Ranges,in South Australia.

A great stop-off point on the way to Daylesford in Victoria’s mineral springs area.

Casa Mila is the last private residence designed by architect Antoni Gaudí and perhaps his most iconic.

Ortigia – Syracusa’s Stunning Island The ancient island of Ortigia has many delights. The Fountain of Diana in the Archimedes Square on Ortigia Island. Syracusa

Serra San Bruno is high up in the mountains of Southern Italy. You get there on a twisting road that snakes up through the highland forests.
Trees hang over the road to create a tunnel that filters the sun and cools the air. Snow signs warn that, in winter, this could be a more tortuous trail.