Thomson Dam – Melbourne’s Secluded Water
The spectacular, secluded waters of the Thomson Dam have provided drinking water to the people of Melbourne since 1983
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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 spectacular, secluded waters of the Thomson Dam have provided drinking water to the people of Melbourne since 1983
Email from Ben: “I plan to climb Cradle Mountain when we visit the area in a few weeks – better start training”. So I reduced my alcohol consumption to one glass of wine a night (well, most nights) and did a bit of walking (on the flat) at weekends, so when we started our trek on a fine February day I was completely unprepared for what lay ahead.
Relax by the cozy fire, have a ride on a tourist train, visit a gold mine, wander through the historic cemetery – it’s a great weekend away in Walhalla.
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.
If Saint-Malo is for pirates, Dinard is for elegance! Situated in a lovely position overlooking the Rance Estuary, the beautiful 19th century villas are just made for the aristocracy.
At trip to the Vikos Gorge in North Western Greece is a journey back to nature and the tradiotional way of doing things.