NSW → QLD Road Trip 2022–23

Setting off on our east-coast EV adventure

We packed the essentials into our electric car (Tesla Model 3) and set out to explore the east coast of Australia, out to Dubbo, up through Queensland to Cape Tribulation, down from Mackay to Bega and along the south Victorian coast, Great Ocean Road, The Grampians and much more. Last lunch before we go, courtesy of Shelly's Cafe. Somehow we managed to fit all of that (including 50L fridge, bed, chairs, tent, food, clothes, computers) into the smallest car that Tesla make.

First stop: The Oaks Pacific Blue Resort

First stop Port Stephens, at The Oaks Pacific Blue Resort, courtesy of credits from our last app contract for Luxury Escapes.

Soldiers Point Marina chargers, ICE-blocked

Looking at PlugShare for nearby chargers, we tried the free Tesla destination chargers on-site at Soldiers Point Marina. We had to wait for ICE cars to vacate the spots (anyone can park there). One charger wasn’t working and one wasn’t full capacity, so it wasn’t really worth bothering. They need to fix that. While there, we had lunch at The Deck Cafe/Restaurant & Bar, which was delicious.

An afternoon at Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

Leisurely afternoon at Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.

Coffee at Hollydene's Vines Restaurant, en route

On our way to Mudgee. Francis grabbed some coffee at the Vines Restaurant at Hollydene. The staff were lovely. Beautiful spot.

Dinner at Club Mudgee (with three wise men)

We had dinner at Club Mudgee. The locals were very friendly. We even saw Jesus and what I think were three wise men. A few work Christmas parties, I think.

A few days at Rosewood Cottage, Mudgee

Settled in for a few days of rural bliss at Rosewood Cottage Mudgee.

A Mudgee park lunch, before Dubbo Zoo

Back in Mudgee for lunch in the park. Beautiful place. Ready for our trip to Dubbo and Dubbo Zoo tomorrow 🦁 🐘 🦒

Gulgong's Holtermann Museum

Checking out the Gulgong Holtermann Museum, including huge detailed photos of Gulgong and Hillend from around 1870. The negatives were enormous glass sheets. Very thankful for my iPhone camera right now. Thanks to Phil for showing us around.

Swapping the Tesla for a zoo buggy

At Taronga Western Plains Zoo, swapping the Tesla for a somewhat slower electric vehicle, to drive around the zoo.

A safari feel at Western Plains Zoo

You really do get to feel like you’re on safari with the animals. Less fences, more space.

Setting up our MOGICS Carsule tent

For those who asked for it, here is our amateur fumbling setup of our MOGICS Carsule Tent. The Mogics printed and video instructions suggest a different positioning for the tent when inserting the poles, but that didn't work for me when I tried. I definitely need to refine my technique. The Carsule tent is designed to be connected to a hatchback car, covering the hatch. But we set it up next to our Model 3 since the boot is too small to enter/exit (ie it's not a hatchback car) and we preferred it beside the car. We used a suction cup from Bunnings on the roof of the car, to which we tied one side of the tent, which worked well. We moved all of our gear from the Tesla into the tent, so we could set up the bed in the back of the car.

How EVs charge: at home, and at a camp ground

Most of the time with an EV, we just plug it in overnight at home to get a full "tank" of battery charge ready to go in the morning. Any household powerpoint can charge the car at 10A (10 amps) (about 2.4kW). At a camp ground, you can usually get a 15A supply (about 3.6kW), which should have you charged and ready to go the next morning. This is a slightly technical video, of our first time trying to figure this out, for those interested.

First night car-camping, at Discovery Parks

Michelle at reception was very friendly and helpful, though a little puzzled when I mentioned that I wanted to plug in an electric car. We opted for a powered site with an ensuite (private toilet, shower and sink). We set up the MOGICS Carsule tent, moved the 50L Kings fridge and all our gear from the car into the tent and setup the Tessories bed in the Tesla. We had a swim in the pool, showered in the ensuite and walked up the road to dinner at Club Dubbo. We turned on “camp mode” in the Tesla which kept us in air conditioned comfort all night, using power from the battery, with no engine running. The bottom of the bed was slightly angled, putting too much weight in our hips, and kept us awake half the night.

A first night on the Tessories mattress

Fran's bed design parody followed by a fairly boring video of how the Tessories Australia mattress packs away. We had a terrible night's sleep, mainly due to needing better padding for our hips. But the air con worked a treat and we had ample head room.

Adding 4 % charge, just from going downhill

Nerd alert: We managed to add 4% charge to the car, just from going downhill.

Our first other-EV chat: Ian and Heidi

This was the first other EV we had seen since leaving the coast. Ian and Heidi have had their Tesla Model 3 since 2019. They have a tow bar fitted to carry their bikes (one is a e-bike), but they also tow trailers. For their current road trip, they have temporarily removed their back seats, so the backs fold down flat, giving them a flat extended boot and more space. They also raved about their portable induction hotplate. Great to have a chat about Tesla Road Tripping.

Locking myself out for a software update

I outsmarted myself. I locked myself out of the car. The Tesla notified me that there was a software update available. Normally this is done via a wifi connection at home at midnight when you’re not using the car. But I thought I knew better and tethered the car through my iPhone, told the car to update, accepted the warning that I won’t be able to use the car for 25 minutes. But, 10 minutes later, I wanted to open the door. Yeah, I’m not so smart. Edit: Updated with getting back into the car.

Breakfast in Armidale's Central Park

Breakfast in Central Park Armidale, supplied by Seesaw Coffee Co. A walk around St Peters Anglican cathedral, armidale and through St Mary's & St Joseph's Catholic Cathedral.

A U-turn for Stonehenge in NSW

On the way to Glenn Innes, we noticed some peculiar boulders off the side of the road. A quick U-turn and then we drove through Stonehenge Recreation Reserve.

The truly important issue: jam or cream first

We discuss the truly important marriage issues, such as the order of topping of a scone with jam and cream.

Our longest charger wait, in Tenterfield

Our longest wait at a charger so far. When we arrived at Tenterfield Visitor Information Centre, The NRMA charger, a grey Model 3 was already there charging (at the only charger). It was at 79%, so I figured they'll be back soon. They hadn't checked in using PlugShare, so I had no idea. We went for a walk through Tenterfield while I checked my Tesla Sentry Cam to see if they had moved. 30 minutes later, we came back to see they were at 99%. We waited in the car for another 20 minutes, while a red Tesla Model Y joined the queue behind us (we both check in as "waiting" in PlugShare). The grey model 3 owner returned saying that their app has just told them it had finished charging. I suggested/requested that they use PlugShare. Lessons learned: 1. The NRMA: We need more than one charger in these locations, please. The Model Y owner said they thought Tesla are adding some nearby, but not yet operational. 2. We need the chargers to request/facilitate checking in, so we can see whether it's…

Why EVs make better motel neighbours

Something I hadn’t considered: EVs are friendlier to other guests at a motel. No noise or fumes ☺️. Thank you Buckeroo Motel 🤠.

A drop-toilet stop at Heifer Creek

We stopped at Heifer Creek for the drop toilet and a sit in the nature with the magpies.

A Balinese-style B&B in Maleny

Staying at a Balinese villa style B&B in Maleny.

The frunk: smelly-laundry storage

Since there’s no engine in the Tesla, it has a “frunk“ (front trunk). We’re using it to store the smelly laundry and shoes. We were starting to run out of clothes, so it’s time to do the laundry.

Obi Obi Boardwalk, while the laundry runs

Walking along the Obi Obi Boardwalk, in Maleny. Great to have shade on a fairly hot day, and pass the time while waiting for the wash cycles at Maleny Laundrette.

Breakfast at The Edge Restaurant, Montville

Breakfast at The Edge Restaurant, Montvile QLD. Thank you, Helen ☺️

A Hervey Bay swim, just before the storm

We went for a swim in Hervey Bay, shortly after arriving. We walked far from the car to find a good place to swim. We saw the giant black clouds rolling in. Then the heavens opened.

Two tropical rainstorms, to Mount Larcom

Hit by two tropical rain storms between Bundaberg and Mount Larcom.

Following EV-charger signs into Miriam Vale

We spotted a series of small blue EV charger signs along the road, and followed them into Miriam Vale. What a lovely spot. The EV parking is a little further down the road from town, but there’s a cafe, toilet, nice park. Oh, and bats. Fran is not a fan of bats 🦇

A Mount Larcom charge, and a chat with Ben

A quick top up charge at the RACQ Chargefox charger in Mount Larcom, and a chat with Ben Chisholm. Ben recommended the Mount Larcom Cafe opposite, and I was tempted, but we had just eaten. We’re on our way north today to Rockhampton. Ben is on his way south, eventually to Brisbane. We chatted about living out of your car/van, solar panels and electric cars.

A washing-it-all-away swim in Yeppoon

Swimming in Yeppoon, on an isolated stretch of beach, washing away any responsibilities.

A very pumpkin-y lunch

Quick lunch between errands. The pumpkin came with pumpkin/hummus sauce. It was a lot of (too much) pumpkin!

The last mainland coffee, before the islands

I think Fran just had coffee from the last remaining place on the mainland. (She reviewed it as the “best in the area”.) So, now we’ll have to move to an island to find more.

Past Daydream Island, on the ferry

Passing by Daydream Island and other countless islands.

Ferry to Hamilton Island, for Christmas

We left our car near Airlie Beach and caught a ferry to Hamilton Island for a few days over Christmas. Two of our kids met us on the island. Erin works there and Ben flew in from the NSW Central Coast. We squeezed our bags onto the electric golf buggy and navigated the local traffic.

Reunited on Hamilton Island

Finally on Hamilton Island, reunited with Erin and Ben.

Buggy groceries on Hamilton Island

Driving the electric buggy, with groceries.

Cockatoos eye my breakfast at Bobs Bakery

Found coffee at Bobs Bakery - Hamilton Island. Cockatoos found my breakfast cereal and got very close, but I don't share.

Finally, a Whitsundays swim that won't kill you

Finally found a place to swim in the ocean in the Whitsundays where the jelly fish are not likely to kill you. Well, there are still warning signs.

Animals around Hamilton Island

Spotted some animals at the wildlife park and just roaming around the island.

Dinner and night lights with Erin

Erin took us out for dinner and to see the night lights.

Christmas Eve picnic on Hamilton Island

Christmas Eve: Evening picnic at the beach, with half of Hamilton Island.

Christmas Eve fireworks

Electric buggies everywhere on Hamilton Island

We left our Tesla Model 3 at Airlie Beach, to spend a few days on Hamilton Island. I was pleasantly surprised to see that most vehicles on the island are electric (golf buggies), with charging points at most parking spots and home garages. And no fumes as you walk along next to those vehicles ☺️. It seems so simple and logical when you see a place that has done it right.

A rainy electric-buggy island tour

Rainy day – Great time to tour the island in an electric buggy.

An awkward Ayr charger, between bollards

We charged the car and our bellies (thanks Ayr Woolworths) in Ayr, just south of Townsville. Really awkwardly positioned Chargefox charger, requiring a wide turn to avoid the bollards, while holding up traffic behind coming through a roundabout. The towns that have chargers, like Ayr, will get a lot more passing visitors as EVs increase in number. Other towns are missing out and need to get sorted.

Power-point parking at Oaks Gateway Townsville

We checked in at Oaks Gateway Townsville and discovered that some parking spots have power points. Very convenient for overnight charging. Thank you Oaks!

Up Castle Hill (Cutheringa), Townsville

We drove up to the top of Cutheringa (English name "Castle Hill"), for amazing views all around Townsville and over to Magnetic Island. It’s just short of the 300m height required for it to be classed as a mountain. Dozens of people were _walking_ up the hill!

Mango pancakes at the Frosty Mango

On our way from Townsville to Cairns, along the Bruce Highway, we stumbled across the Frosty Mango. They sell a while range of frozen fruity goodness, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. We cooled down with some mango pancakes and ice cream 🥭 🥞 🍨😋 .

Queueing at the Cardwell charger

We charged up at Cardwell (south of Cairns). We initially queued behind Aaron and Kylie in their Tesla Model 3 (Mackay to Cairns). While waiting, we drove up the road to buy lunch from a cafe, under “The Big Crab”. When we returned, we queued behind Vijay and his family in their MG (Port Douglas to Brisbane). We ate our lunch the pretty park next to the charger, whilst avoiding swimming and being eaten ourselves by crocodiles.

Charging in Cairns, plus an AQUA Lagoon coffee

Charged up for the trip to Daintree. Managed to beat Kylie and Aaron this time, who resorted to the slow 11kW charger next to us, until we finished. Enjoyed a delicious coffee and an ice block with fruit in it at AQUA Cairns Lagoon cafe. Tried to block a photo of me in portrait 🤪.

Crossing the Daintree River ferry

We crossed the Daintree River on the ferry. Notice on the other side of the river the toddler that seems to be driving a car from the sunroof.

Made it to Cape Tribulation

We made it to the northernmost point of our road trip: Cape Tribulation. Lush vegetation, lots of wildlife if you look closely. The ocean is eerie – it’s hard to tell where it ends and the sky begins. It’s so very humid in summer. Great little cafe/kiosk where we were staying. But we also cooked our meals in the camp kitchen. There’s no grid power here, north of the Daintree River, so the Safari Lodge and Campground (our accommodation) and other places all run on diesel generators. The generator supplies the electricity for the powered sites, cabins, lights, kiosk, washing machines, everything. A few places have solar panels. There are plans for a micro-grid to get rid of the diesel generators. I'm surprised that they don't have more solar here, but it is coming

Mossman Gorge in the Daintree

Visitors have to park at the center, then catch a shuttle bus to the gorge, then walk a nice 640m boardwalk to the popular river spot. The centre includes a cafe, toilets, gift shop and ticket counter. It’s pretty but seems to be a large overhead for a fairly standard river view, with room at the gorge for a limited number of visitors. There is a longer 2km walk, but we didn’t try it. They advise not to swim, but half the people do. We found out later that a couple of tourists were swept away by the river, prompting a search.

An Audi e-tron meet, with Linda and Louis

We waited for another Tesla Model 3, which was at 99% for ages when we got there, not checked in, in PlugShare. Then had a chat with Linda and Louis who arrived a while later, in their Audi e-tron. They had travelled from Wollongong, passing through Port Douglas. We agreed that we need more than one RACQ Chargefox fast charger in these locations. The layout of this charger is great: easy to park; can charge from either side; near shopping and toilets.

A friendly 10 A outlet, near Mission Beach

Staying at a BnB tonight, near Mission Beach, QLD. I tried to book one listed in PlugShare with a 7kW EV charger, but I chose the wrong one in Airbnb. Fortunately the host very kindly allowed us to plug into the normal 10A power outlet in the garage. It’s only 2kW, but it will get us mostly charged up by morning. Unfortunately, I made a bit of a mess when trying to do a three point turn at the top of the sloped loose gravel driveway, to reverse into the garage. Rear wheel drive is great for going forward up a hill, but not so good for reversing up a loose surface slope.

Two cassowaries on the Cassowary Coast

Anniversary breakfast at Cafe Johalia

Beautiful (but lethal) beaches near Mission Beach

So many beautiful beaches hidden behind rainforest buffers, such as Narragon Beach, near Mission Beach. The more beautiful the water, the more likely it is that it will kill you, according to the many warning signs for crocodiles and jelly fish.

A Cardwell charger chat with Brandon

Stopped to stretch and charge at Cardwell again. Chatted briefly with Brandon and family, returning from Cairns to Sydney in a Tesla Model 3 Long Range. He left their Model X at home, because he said the Model 3 is better suited to a road trip.

Crabs at Cardwell Beach

Mango pancakes, again

Yum! Fran says mid photo “but they’ll think that all we do is eat at cafes”.

Bats over Townsville, from the 17th floor

Bats flying over Townsville, viewed from the 17th floor.

Hotel Grand Chancellor, Townsville

Used some of my Luxury Escapes credits to book a “last minute escape” at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Townsville, which included $25 towards room service and a free buffet breakfast. We had some problems previously booking similar with LE, but it seems to be working now. Fran wanted to take the pancake machine with us. You can see Magnetic Island in the distance. We’re heading there next (today), for a couple of nights, taking the Tesla on the ferry.

First time on an Evie 10-minute fast charger

10 minute fast charge to 80% at Evie Networks charger next to a Puma Energy petrol station. This was our first time using one of these. Costs twice as much (60c/kWh) as the RACQ Chargefox chargers (30c/kWh) but they are about twice as fast for us (100kW vs 50kW, and theoretical max speed of 350kW). Also the CCS2 charger is on the right instead of left. One of the charging stations was in maintenance, but at least they had two, unlike the competitor. It took four attempts at plugging in for the charger to work. Francis seems to be more successful at this than me. Edit: Note the Tesla message about battery temperature. We don't currently have a way to tell the Tesla car to precondition the battery for a third party fast charger - only for Tesla fast chargers, which don't currently exist up here. Now off to Magnetic Island.

Driving the Tesla onto the Magnetic Island ferry

We drove the Tesla onto the ferry for the 35 minute trip over to Magnetic Island. Staying there for two nights. The AirTags in our gear sent some concerning notifications when we walked from the car to elsewhere in the ferry 😉.

Curlews, rock wallabies and tropical fish

Curlew, rock wallabies and tropical fish.

Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island, $150 a night

Found this great place, for $150 per night (last minute rates, I think) at Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island. Walked to: - Lunch at Picnic bay hotel. Note my excellent burger halving! - Swimming at Picnic Bay Beach, protected by stinger nets. But the water is so warm, that it’s not really refreshing. - Delicious Italian dinner at Mamma Roma. - Walk along the esplanade with the frogs. Had a chat with our hosts about EVs and took Jeremy for a spin in the Tesla. I think they’re now planning to add an EV charge point in the car port and maybe buying an EV themselves.

Power points spotted on the Magnetic Island ferry

Catching the ferry back to the mainland from Magnetic Island. Found power points on the ferry for 10A, 15A and five pin 32A. We asked the crew if we could charge if needed, to which they said “I don’t see why not”. Good to know for any future emergency. But we were already fully charged from the normal power point at the accommodation last night, and since the ferry is diesel powered, it would reduce the advantage of having an electric car 😉.

A bollard manoeuvre, and meeting Patty

Manoeuvred my way around the bollards with a three point turn again, at the RACQ Chargefox charger. Chatted briefly with Scott (before me in a blue Tesla Model 3 with bikes on a rack) and Patty afterwards. Patty is today moving with his dogs up from The Sunshine Coast to Port Douglas. His wife is driving another Tesla. They are planning to “hippy-fy” their new place with EV chargers for guests.

Up Mount Inkerman, knowing we'd recover the charge

The trees and/or birds in the parking on the main street in Ayr had left crap all over the car. Heading south from Ayr towards Bowen, we saw a steep drive up to Mount Inkerman lookout. Knowing that we’d recover the “fuel” on the way back down (thanks to the EV’s regenerative braking), we sidetracked up the mountain to check out the view, and the wallabies, and so I could eat my half of the pineapple cream pie 😋.

Auld Lang Syne, on the Tesla, in Airlie Beach

Belated Happy New Year with one of our kids, Erin, back in Airlie Beach, with the Auld Lang Syne Tesla light show. This was the first day she had seen the Tesla. In 30 seconds, she went from "what is this?" to selling it to the passers by. They asked many questions, so we fired up the "Carol in the Bells" light show and even tried our first auto summon.

Erin ferries over for one more night, at The Sebel

We stayed at the The Sebel Whitsundays, using more of my Luxury Escapes credits. Our daughter, Erin, ferried over from her workplace/home in Hamilton Island for one more get together before we head back south. I am dumbfounded by the parking of a couple of drivers (Ford Everest and Mitsubishi something), right up against the line 🙄, leaving no/little room for the next car.

Tourists ignoring the swim warnings, at Airlie Beach

Our final morning in Airlie Beach, at Airlie Beach Foreshore Markets, along with a cruise boat load of tourists, some of whom ignored or missed the warning signs to take a swim in the ocean. We watched with a mix of envy and fear as they cooled off from the heat.

Caraoke, sheltered from the heat

Sheltered from the heat and the covid cruisers in the cool Tesla, while singing some Caraoke, probably to the amusement of the Airlie Beach visitors and locals.

A picnic-from-the-fridge lunch in Proserpine

Top up charge in Proserpine. We walked around looking for some lunch, but found nothing open within walking distance. So, we had cheese, crackers, quince paste, cherries, nuts from our car fridge and grocery bag, in the delightful cool escape from the blaring heat and humidity.

Platypuses at Broken River

Platypuses in Broken River, Eungella National Park.

Inland to Eungella, on a tip from Greg

We detoured inland, thanks to a suggestion from Greg Hayden, to Eungella National Park. We managed to spot a couple of platypuses and many turtles at Broken River. Amazing view, delicious pub dinner, quaint accommodation and friendly staff at The Eungella Chalet.

Watching mist lift over Eungella

Watching the cloud/mist retreat in the morning, followed by our typical cereal and fruit brekky from our car fridge and grocery bag.

A last rainforest walk in Eungella

One last rainforest walk before we left Eungella National Park. Beautiful tall trees and elusive wildlife. When the sun is high, there’s very little shade for a parked car. So, cars get very hot. Fortunately the Tesla has automatic cabin climate control that turns on the air conditioning when needed, and we can cool it right down from the phone app when we’re on the way back to the car. Other cars, like a ute next to us, left their engine running while they went for a walk, so they could keep the air conditioning on.

Generating power while driving downhill, out of Eungella

Nerd alert: Regenerating (making power while driving downhill) from Eungella National Park.

Lunch with Kylie, while we charge in Mackay

We took up the offer of one of our blog watchers, Kylie, to meet up for lunch in her home town of Mackay, while our Tesla was charging. Kylie won a bet with her husband on the sale price of their previous ICE car, so she chose the Tesla Model 3 as their new car.

Back at Carmila, because Marlborough's still down

Back at the Carmila charger on our way south. Only reason we have to charge here is because the next charger at Marlborough is still Faulted 🤦. Come on RACQ, Chargefox and Mark Bailey MP, you need to do better. Chatted with Dave who had ordered his Model Y while waiting for his Model 3, and the Y came first. On their way to Mackay then Airlie Beach.

Charging in Rockhampton, with Marlborough still down

Charging up at the RACQ Chargefox charger in Rockhampton, Queensland. We couldn’t charge in Marlborough, because that charger is still faulted, listed in the Chargefox app as waiting for parts until January 19, after being broken for a month! I chatted with Bronwyn and Phil who (with two more of their family, not pictured) had driven their 2020 Model 3 from Brisbane to Mossman Gorge, currently on their way back. They said they had been caught at Marlborough, found the charger not working, and did not have enough charge to get to the next one. It’s a really long stretch out there – even the petrol stations have signs warning “99km to next petrol”, but the gap for EVs is more than twice that. So, they asked at the Marlborough Service Station if they could just plug into the mains supply for a slow charge, to which they said “Sure. We have an open kitchen”. We joked that maybe they broke the charger to increase food patronage 😉. But seriously, thank you for allowing the slow charge 😇.…

A 'fridge'-stickered Tesla in Rockhampton

Jake was waiting after us to charge in Rockhampton, Queensland. He’s on his way to get his windscreen repaired or replaced and will finally bid farewell to the “fridge” sticker. He told some stories of people damaging his car, such as jumping on the bonnet (while it was parked) and throwing sharp metal onto the road. Fortunately the Tesla’s sentry cam helped police track down the culprit and the car warned that tyre pressure was dropping. He said there is a lot of car theft in Rockhampton, so he’s thankful for the Tesla security features. There’s only one fast 50kW DC charger, so he resorted to the slow AC (7kW?) charger, since he carries the required type 2 cable. It was too slow, so he jumped in the DC charger when I was done. RACQ, Chargefox and Mark Bailey MP we need more than one DC charger at each location.

Plugged in next to Kristie's BYD

Chatted with Kristie, who was driving her BYD back to Ayr. Kristie checked in as “waiting” via PlugShare, which then alerted me that someone was waiting after me. Unfortunately, although I had entered my charging time into PlugShare, it doesn’t tell the next person how long they need to wait 🤔. Kristie said she has also previously been caught out at the faulted RACQ Chargefox 50kW charger at Marlborough Service Station, and had the use the slow (7kW?) AC charger. She said it had been broken (perhaps on and off?) since March last year! How is this okay Queensland Government and Mark Bailey MP? This also explains the congestion at the Rockhampton charger 🙄.

Chatting with Lachlan, in his BYD

Another BYD. Chatted with the owner, Lachlan, returning to Blackwater from Dubbo. Good to see a variety of EVs on the road. Did I mention that we need more fast chargers at these sites? 😉

Wind turbines on a ship, at Gladstone

Tried to follow the coast a bit more closely, through Gladstone and Tannum Sands. Lots of coal, aluminium and shipping. We spotted some giant wind turbine blades on a ship. Nice lunch at Flavours Marina.

Koorawatha Homestead Motel — first stay

We found this great place along the Bruce Highway. Peaceful, view of the mountains and stormy clouds, restaurant, room service, pool, freshly renovated, great price. I noticed that, as you can see in the photos, the giant 4WDs are too big to fit under the carport roof (here and elsewhere).

Breakfast at Hidden Garden Cafe, Agnes Water

Explored a little around Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy.

An RV-plug experiment with Tesla Summon

While waiting for another EV to finish using the only DC 50kW fast RACQ Chargefox charger in town, we played with connecting to an AC 7kW 32A 5 pin plug, usually used by RVs, and using the Tesla's "summon" feature. Mark Bailey MP: We need more than one DC charger at each location.

A roof-top drying rack, while DC charging

Mixing up the meals today. Breakfast and the final episode of season 1 of Goliath (on the car’s big screen) at 4pm while DC charging. The Tesla roof doubles as a drying rack for the dishes. It seems that almost all of Childers, Queensland closes at about 3pm. We couldn’t even get a coffee. So, it was DIY with the help of IGA Childers.

Visiting Caricature Queen in Maryborough

We unexpectedly ended up in Maryborough overnight and popped in to see Caricature Queen. The queen was away in her home studio, drawing, but we had a great chat with Barry and looked at the amazing work. We’re thinking of ordering one, with us, the Tesla, a charging cable, maybe Fran’s coffee, Tom’s bare feet, an outline of Australia's east coast, and some icons from our trip. Any suggestions?

Mary Poppins murals in Maryborough

We stumbled across the Story Bank and several murals and sculptures celebrating stories and Mary Poppins. Love the walk, don’t walk sign.

Pasta at Zacharys, while we wait for the Airbnb code

We made it back to ocean that’s not trying to kill us, in Noosa Heads. Impromptu pasta and pizza at Zacharys while waiting for our Airbnb host to reply with the access code.

Wasp 1, spider 0 — welcome to Australia

In the middle of hanging washing, I spotted this wasp who had apparently won a fight against a spider. Welcome to Australia!

Dinner and a walk in Noosa

Dinner in Noosa, with lucky parking right outside! Followed by a walk on the boardwalk. Beautiful.

A weird charger location in Noosaville

Two fast charging sites in Noosaville. According to the app, the other one was busy, so we opted for this one. The location seemed weird, but we found a coffee shop on site at Thomas Surfboards, with a barber and surfboard sales mixed in. They also directed us to Rick's Bakery up the road. And I had some cereal from the onboard Tesla pantry.

The coffee donut at Kenilworth Bakery

We finally managed to get to Kenilworth Bakery, on our second (southward) trip through the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. They make the lovechild of a coffee and a donut – the coffee donut! Introduced to us on YouTube by @bethandpaultravel. The bakery also sells ridiculously large donuts. The courtyard out the back has very groovy murals of musicians.

Cracking open the shoe cupboard for an RSL dinner

Invited to dinner by an old friend at the local RSL, meant that I had to crack open the shoe cupboard in the Tesla.

Back to The Edge Restaurant

Second time at The Edge Restaurant to use the remainder of our gift card credits (thank you, Helen). Great view, food and service.

A great day at Australia Zoo

Crikey! Australia Zoo was great. Well laid out. Good space for the animals and humans.

Coochin Creek dinner: not many options

After a great day at Australia Zoo and the The Glasshouse Mountains, we stopped up at Coochin Creek. Food options here are McDonald's, Hungry Jack's, some other burger place and Subway. After a small dinner, we were all ready to go, back to our BnB stay in Caloundra

Sunshine Coast tapas at The Boat Shed

We explored bit more of the Sunshine Coast, including Kings Beach, Caloundra, Currumundi Lake, Maroochydore, with tapas for lunch at The Boat Shed - Cotton Tree, next to this amazing twisted tree.

Across the Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges, to old youth leaders

We crossed the daunting looking Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges, across to the east of Brisbane. We caught up with my youth group leaders from decades ago. I know, we’re all still so youthful, right! 😉. We compared road trip stories and toured their fancy caravan. Thank you Ross and Sharon for giving us a bed and EV charge for the night and being our guides to the local area.

Valet mode at Rydges South Bank Brisbane

We used more of my Luxury Escapes credits to check in to Rydges South Bank Brisbane. Unfortunately, it didn’t include parking, so we had to cough up for valet parking. I put the Tesla in “valet mode” and gave them my Tesla key card.

An e-scoot through Brisbane's Southbank

Enjoyed a great walk and e-scoot through Brisbane’s Southbank Parklands.

Asking for Brisbane to Mount Tamborine tips

Tomorrow we're driving from Brisbane to Mount Tamborine, to stay there for a couple of nights. Any suggestions as to: 1. Which route from Brisbane to Mount Tamborine 2. Anything to see on the way? 3. What to see in the next couple of days while there? After that we'll probably head to Burleigh Heads, then south through Kings Cliff, towards Coffs Harbour.

Mexican dinner, after 'A Man Called Otto'

Evening dinner at one of the many Mexican restaurants, after watching “A Man Called Otto” 😢 at the cinema (only $9.80 per ticket here!). A short morning walk exploring a little bit more of the parklands. We stumbled across some cabinet containing old “World Expo 88” promotional material. I recall being here for that, on a road trip, on my 250cc motorbike.

A glamorous laundry day on the road

Yes, it’s all glam on our Tesla road tripping. We used our included late checkout to… do our laundry. Two of the three washing machines in the guest’s laundry were out of order, so we had to wait for the previous person to finish with the only working washing machine. It’s like faulty EV chargers all over again! 😉 A few items can’t go in the dryer, and there’s no clothes line, so we did some MacGyvering with the weird hotel coat hangers and the curtain rails.

Heading to Australian Electric Motor Co tomorrow

Tomorrow we’re planning on driving from Mount Tamborine to Australian Electric Motor Co in Burleigh Heads, to look at some electric motorcycles. Until a few weeks ago, I had technically only ever owned a motorcycle. The Tesla is the first car I’ve owned (Fran has owned previous cars). I sold off my last ICE motorcycle just before our road trip. I’m interested to see how an electric motor bike feels on the road.

Songbirds Rainforest Retreat, with alpacas

We stayed the past couple of days at Songbirds Rainforest Retreat in Mount Tamborine, Queensland, Australia. Beautiful cabin in the rainforest. Close to everything. And alpacas! We asked about charging. They said that there’s nothing set up at the cabins, but they kindly offered to let us charge where they plug in their electric buggies. I did find a power point under the corner of the cabin. But we didn’t bother with either, in the end. It would be so easy and helpful for places like this to just connect up a power point outside each cabin, or in the car spot.

St Bernard's Hotel, with food-stealing birds

Lunch at St Bernard’s Hotel. Beautiful view and gardens and audacious birds that will take your food.

Best coffee at Picnic Real Food Bar, Mt Tamborine

Popped in to Picnic Real Food Bar a couple of times while in Mount Tamborine, Queensland, Australia. Francis described the coffee as “The best I’ve ever had”. High praise from someone who has sampled all up and down the east coast of Australia.

An unusual charger layout at Miami Aquatic Centre

We charged up at Miami Aquatic Centre. The charger is between the parking spots, in a layout I haven’t seen before. I guess it’s more flexible to plug into front or rear car chargers without turning the car around. The display seemed to indicate 75kW, but I only got 37kW out of it, even though I was the only one connected. I checked in on PlugShare, so I could be alerted if anyone was waiting, while I charged up to 100%. If anyone else was waiting, I would disconnect after 95%, when the charge rate slows. However, there was a guy waiting in an MG. He hadn’t checked in using PlugShare and the Chargefox app doesn’t facilitate waiting, so I didn’t know he was waiting. I happened to look sideways at one point to see him parked in the other EV bay, which he’s not supposed to do, since it blocks others who might want to use the Chademo connector. But if he hadn’t, I wouldn’t have noticed. He is an Uber driver and this was his second time charging that day. He said he is waiting on a wall…

Visiting Australian Electric Motor Co for test rides

I visited Australian Electric Motor Co to test ride some Energica and Zero electric motor bikes and have a long chat with Tobin (the CEO) about the tech and the challenges of bringing them into Australia. Prices are still high on these models, but the specs are getting better all the time. These bikes fly – Some go 0 to 100 km/h in under 3 seconds, with good range and charging speed. No need for ignition, revs, clutch, gears, petrol, heat, fumes, noise or vibration. Sitting at the traffic lights next to an ICE motorbike, I was acutely aware of the whole process that they need to take off (revs, clutch, change gears, switch feet etc). But I just turned the throttle and zoomed away. It's a great ride.

Tobin / Australian Electric Motor Co — intro video

This is just a short introductory video, for a longer chat with Tobin, CEO of Australian Electric Motor Co, about the range of Energica and Zero electric motorcycles they import, distribute and sell. Why they do it, what they sell, and where they distribute them. More videos to follow with details on specific models and answering questions like "why are they so expensive?" Australian Electric Motor Co also exhibited at #FullyChargedLIVE in Sydney in March 2023, organised by Fully Charged Show.

Energica — part 2 of the motorcycle series

Energica – "The most advanced electric motorcycles available", "0 to 100km/h in 2.6s", "very premium bikes, but ... there's nothing really that comes close". This is part 2 in the series of videos, discussing electric motorcycles with Tobin from Australian Electric Motor Co. Coming shortly, videos discussing the cheaper Zero Motorcycles range, "why are electric motorcycles so expensive?", AC vs DC charging, and some test rides. Australian Electric Motor Co also exhibited at #FullyChargedLIVE in Sydney in March 2023, organised by Fully Charged Show.

Zero Motorcycles — part 3 of the motorcycle series

Zero Motorcycles range. "cheaper, lighter, a bit more manoeuvrable", "very easy to ride and a lot of fun". This is part 3 in our series of videos, discussing electric motorcycles with Tobin at Australian Electric Motor Co. Coming next: discussing pricing, importing, scooters and finally some test rides. Australian Electric Motor Co also exhibited at #FullyChargedLIVE in Sydney in March 2023, organised by Fully Charged Show.

Why electric motorcycles are still so expensive

Why are electric motorcycles still so expensive? What can be done to improve the prices? I continue the chat with Tobin from Australian Electric Motor Co. We discuss Energica, Zero Motorcycles, Verge Motorcycles (the hubless ones) and Sondors. Shout out to David Pocock. We need more action Chris Bowen MP. Australian Electric Motor Co also exhibited at #FullyChargedLIVE in Sydney in March 2023, organised by Fully Charged Show.

Last Queensland night at Burleigh Heads

Our last night in Queensland, at Burleigh Heads Beach, watching the Gold Coast as the sun sets and the lights come on.

A charger wait at The Farm, Byron Bay

We popped in to The Farm near Byron Bay to use one of the two DC chargers there. I think they are still free from The NRMA. Both chargers were already taken by Teslas. Neither one had checked in on PlugShare, so we didn’t know they were taken or how long they would be. In fact, the previous check in on PlugShare was by someone complaining that both chargers were occupied, with no check in. I chatted with Jack, who had hired the orange wrapped Tesla Model 3 to visit his parents in Byron. He’s been thinking about buying an EV, so hired this one to try it out. He had no idea about PlugShare or that you should vacate when the charging slows (after about 95%) if others are waiting. Perhaps those hiring out EVs should provide some simple introductory info. None of this really affected us, since we just moved to the Tesla superchargers down the road at The Macadamia Castle in Knockrow, where we also had a yummo lunch.

A boring detour through Myrtle Creek

Often, picking an alternative route leads to interesting places off the beaten track. But sometimes, it just leads to kilometres of the same old thing, with no interesting stops along the way, like this detour through Myrtle Creek. It did result, however, in a hilarious rant from Francis about the state of the drop toilet at this rest stop near “Kentucky”. Something about how the mosquitoes and march flies fight for the best position to attack your butt.

Tracking down our KILOS GEAR camping lights

Many weeks ago, we ordered some camping lights from KILOS GEAR. The delivery was delayed until after we were due to vacate our home in Saratoga. So, we redirected it to Auspost in Coffs Harbour, through which we were due to pass on our northward journey a couple of weeks later. But it didn't get there in time either. So, we asked Auspost to keep it for an extra month while we trekked through far North Queensland. Today, on our southward journey, we were finally able to collect the package.

Croquets at The Clog Barn, Coffs Harbour

Croquets for lunch today at The Clog Barn in Coffs Harbour.

On the Macleay River levy

Standing on the levy bank of the Macleay River that we’ve seen many times from the elevated highway (in the left distance of the photo).

Charging at Cassegrain Wines, near Port Macquarie

Charged up at the Tesla super chargers at Cassegrain Wines near Port Macquarie, New South Wales. Plenty of chargers, all working as usual, no waiting to start. We had light lunch in the cool of the car, used the toilets, ordered a coffee. We fully charged before all that was done, so we had to move the car from the chargers to not get “idle fees”. It’s a great system to keep people moving and chargers available.

A diversion through Gloucester

We diverted through Gloucester, NSW on our way from Port Macquarie to The Hunter Valley.

Hunter Valley laundry stop, with a free NRMA charge

January 25-27: Free charging thanks to The NRMA at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, so we used the money we saved on petrol to buy breakfast at Oscars,!

House-hunting at Murrays Beach

We were planning on heading south this morning, from the NSW Central Coast. But last night we found Murrays Beach, on-line, as a possible place to buy a home. So, we spent most of the day there, exploring the area, looking through some houses, sampling the food and coffee at “Murray’s” cafe. The owner very kindly let us in, past the “closed” sign. We loved the fact that the estate has been built while retaining a lot of the original trees. I am not a fan of new estates that wipe out all the nature, build houses, then plant saplings that take decades to provide shade. This is a beautiful town. Trees everywhere. It’s right on Lake Macquarie, just across the peninsula from Caves Beach and up the highway from Swansea,. But, in the end, we decided no. The trees and see-through fences make it feel open, but it’s still a bit squished. The streets are pretty narrow for the growing population. We were passed by a ute and 4WD hurtling along, just before a couple of young kids appeared on bikes.…

Hurstville Travelodge, with an EV charger

We drove through the evening from Murray’s Beach to Hurstville, to at least make it south of Sydney CBD before the next morning peak traffic. We checked Booking.com for accommodation in the area with an EV charger, and checked in to Travel Lodge in Hurstville. When we arrived, we couldn’t figure out where to park. Not clearly marked for Travel Lodge. With pillows tucked under arms, bags in each hand, we emerged through the lifts at… the club up the road, much to the amusement of the club staff. We then walked down the road to Travel Lodge, checked in, and moved the car. I grabbed some pizza for dinner, down the road, but spent ten minutes trying to find my way out of Westfield.

Audley Weir, then the Sea Cliff Bridge

Driving over the Audley Weir in Sydney’s Royal National Park and the Sea Cliff Bridge.

Bald Hill in Stanwell Park

No hang gliders today, but there was the usual great view of the coast, Sea Cliff Bridge, and Grand Pacific Drive. Flying High cafe and Bald Hill and The Ice Cream Van serve all the coffee and snacks you could want. The bins clearly explain what goes where. Nice job, Woolongong council. Francis went to the toilet. A few minutes later I heard her laughing. Curious, I tried the adjacent toilet. You press a button to get in, another to close the door. The toilet cubicle then talks to you, warning that you have ten minutes until the doors will open! It plays lift music while you do your business. You press a button to get two sheets of toilet paper at a time. It flushes the toilet when you wash your hands. Quite an experience!

Coffee and muffins at Sandon Point

Coffee and muffins from Blackbird Thirroul, at Sandon Point Beach.

Arriving in Batemans Bay on 5 %

We arrived in Batemans Bay with 5% remaining charge, which was exactly what the Tesla’s navigation had predicted. Because The NRMA chargers there are not known to the Tesla’s navigation, the car started to warn us on the way that there were no chargers nearby. But, we knew from the PlugShare app that there were two separate fast charger sites (2 x 75kW and 1 x 50kW) in Batemans Bay, so we just laughed at the warnings. It would be great if the Tesla navigation knew about other chargers. We plugged in, visited the toilets and had a short wander along the waterfront, before heading off again. The local shopping centre is also getting a bank of Tesla chargers soon. Road tripping is getting easier all the time.

Veggie pasties in Bodalla

Stopped at Bodalla for a lunch of veggie pasties. Realised as we left that there is a destination charger on site that we could have used. But it’s only 4kW (typically 7 or 11kW), so probably not worth bothering for a short stop.

Carters Beach and Mill Bay Boardwalk

A long-range plan in Bega, before the 400 km stretch

Warning: This is just a boring charging story, for those who are interested. We stopped in Bega to charge, since it was the last fast charger (50kW DC, free from The NRMA) before the 400km stretch to the next one in Sale. We needed to fill up to get through Gippsland. When we arrived, a blue MG was already charging and another Tesla was parking in the next spot. I checked into PlugShare as "Waiting". But the MG had not checked in, and the owner was nowhere to be seen. So, I didn't know how long they would be or how to contact them. The other Tesla driver, Sue, kindly offered to forgo her spot, since she could charge when home in Tathra. She told a story of previously waiting elsewhere for EVs to move, long after being charged and said "no one wants to be that guy". After a while, when the MG was at 94%, the owner showed up. He said he doesn’t use PlugShare because "I don’t want people knowing where I am". He said he plans to charge to near 100%, even though he knows it's very slow…

Arriving at Marlo Hotel, after a long range stretch

Arrived at Marlo Hotel, along the south edge of Victoria. Excellent food, staff and locals. Beautiful spot. Charging story: Today’s drive from Sussex Inlet (6.5+ hours) was one of the longer single day trips we’ve done. There were no fast chargers (50kW+) between Bega and Sale (400km+), so we booked in at the Marlo Hotel, since we knew it has a couple of Tesla destination chargers (11kW). Fully charged in four hours, while we slept, for free. Nice. The day after we passed through, I think, Tesla switched on the newly built superchargers at Cann River, which nicely bridges the gap between Bega and Sale. We may have been the last ones to do the trip the hard way.