Episode 13: 24 June 2006
The Postcards team takes you to the Grampians, where Bridget explores the regeneration after this year's devastating bushfires. She visits the Great Western Winery and accommodation at Meringa Springs. Lawrence finds gold at Gum San Chinese Museum and competes in the Stawell Gift. Glen takes a bike ride around Halls Gap before getting comfortable at Parkgate Resort. Leah Hudson visits the Halls Gap Visitor Information Centre and enjoys the region on horseback.
The Grampians
Grampians National Park is the third largest in Victoria, with spectacular scenery and colourful displays of wildflowers. A wide range of opportunities for outdoor recreation have made it one of the state's most popular holiday destinations.
The park is home to almost a third of Victoria's plant species, and a large percentage of its animals.
Offering some of the best sightseeing opportunities in the State, there is no better time to discover the Grampians than right now as it regenerates after the devastating bushfires earlier this year.
Stawell Gift
The Stawell Gift is Australia's oldest and richest foot race. It is run every Easter weekend, with the main race finals on the holiday Monday at Stawell's Central Park in the Grampians. The race is run on grass over 120 metres with competitors handicapped according to their form.
www.stawellgift.com
Seppelt Great Western
Bridget discovers Seppelt Great Western is a winery with a difference, with over a century and a half of winemaking experience.
Great Western is famous for its labyrinth of underground tunnels called The Drives. The tunnels which were excavated in the 1800s run for three kilometres providing vaults where their award winning sparkling wines can rest and develop.
Moyston Road
Great Western
Ph 03 5361 2239
www.seppelt.com.au
Halls Gap Visitor Centre
The Halls Gap Visitor Information Centre can assist you free of charge in finding suitable accommodation and to book activities in the Grampians.
Their detailed knowledge of the broad range of accommodation styles and prices can save you time and frustration. National Park general maps, walking maps, books and postcards are available for purchase and visitors are also assisted with information regarding their next destination beyond the Grampians.
Grampians Road
Halls Gap
Ph 03 5358 2823
Mt Sturgeon Farm
Leah experiences a real working sheep station as she helps round up sheep at Mt Sturgeon Farm. After rounding all the sheep up on horseback Leah tries her luck in the shearing shed.
Accommodation is available at Mt Sturgeon Bluestone Cottage. The semi self-contained historic cottages are ideal for romantic getaways or quiet retreats. Open fireplaces and magnificent mountain views are just some of the features of this magnificent accommodation.
Royal Mail Hotel
Situated in Victoria's spectacular southern Grampians is the historic Royal Mail Hotel. Located just 260 kilometres from Melbourne, the hotel is fast becoming a destination for visitors wanting quality accommodation and dining. Extensive renovations to the original 1850s hotel were recently completed.
98 Parker Street
Dunkeld
Ph 03 5577 2241
www.royalmail.com.au
Parkgate Resort Grampians
Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Grampians National Park and centrally located to Halls Gap, Parkgate Resort offers the ultimate holiday experience. A range of accommodation is available suiting all budgets, from luxurious spa studios to camping facilities. Each morning you will open your door to breathtaking scenery.
Whether you are looking to simply relax and unwind or actively experience the region's attractions, your stay at Parkgate Resort will be unforgettable.
Grampians Road
Halls Gap
Ph: 03 5356 4215
www.parkgateresort.com.au
Meringa Springs
Located three hours west of Melbourne, this exclusive establishment overlooks Wartook Valley, providing the most stylish accommodation in the region. Catering to the most discerning guests it ensures the highest standards of service and cuisine.
High ceilings, fire-places, rich timber finishes and stylish décor combine to create a new retreat with privacy and comfort in a beautiful rural setting. With a maximum of 10 guests, a holiday at Meringa Springs assures you of a relaxing, memorable and intimate experience.
2974 Northern Grampians Road
Wartook
Ph 03 5383 6363
www.meringasprings.com.au
Whats On
TV50
50 years of TV in Australia
Where: Australian Centre for the Moving Image
When: 22 June 1 October
More: thatsmelbourne.com.au
State of Origin Rugby League Fan Day
From the Coca Cola Zero Rugby League Road Train to interactive rugby league skill clinics for all ages, the State of Origin 3 Fan Day presents an opportunity to become involved in the game and win great prizes. The current State of Origin players and legends of Origin will be there to sign autographs.
Where: Federation Square
When: 30 June from 12pm
More: thatsmelbourne.com.au
International Puppet Carnival
Be amazed by the variety and artistry of puppets in the first International Puppet Carnival.
Where: Federation Square
When: 26 June 2 July
More: thatsmelbourne.com.au