Day 1 of the Roaring 40’s driving trip to the Tarkine. A little bit faster than a narrowboat is our favoured chariot, a Aston Martin DB9 Carbon Black. We are surrounded by Jaguars namely E types, XK’s and XJS’s with their lovely owners, many who we’ve travelled with before. Everybody is enjoying being out and exercising their toys.

First stop was Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden. This magnificent garden is like an amphitheater on a grand scale, in full flower. The Mollis Azalea’s were particularly vibrant with a sweet scent.

Whilst walking around the small lake I spied a fish struggling on the bank but then realised it was a platypus ! Quick get the camera, but by then he had swam off…..still I had been only 5 foot away, amazing to see in the wild.

A light luncheon was served, but being Melbourne Cup Day we all felt slightly under dressed compared to the ladies on some other tables.

A great choice for lunch. Next stop was at the Wonders of Wynard, with an excellent collection of Vintage Fords. Many of these are unique, being collected and restored over time by one passionate owner. Then back on the road again to our overnight accommodation at Tall Timbers in Smithton, considered the gateway to the Tarkine or “Edge of the World”. The Tarkine is an area similar to Wales but with no roads or towns. The only way in is by boat or foot…..Tasotter will always take the boat ! so we are all booked on a cruise tomorrow.