Leaving on a road trip from Ballarat to Cairns is no small journey for anybody, especially when you start your journey at 7:30 PM on Thursday night. With excitement and a hell of a lot of stress, Bevan and I hit the road, ready for what we hoped would be an adventure filled with stunning landscapes and memorable stops. And it was just that.
The Journey Begins
As we left Ballarat, the darkened roads ahead felt intimidating. The first hour was smooth sailing, with clear roads and the thrill of leaving Ballarat. However, as I ventured deeper into the night, the quietness of the countryside began to feel eerie. The winding roads, sparse traffic and the many kangaroos made me question out decisions. There were moments we considered turning back; the isolation of the dark stretches seemed daunting. Yet, the promise of Cairns fueled my determination.
Midnight Stop at the Rest Area
By midnight, fatigue set in, and I decided to pull over at a rest area. I parked my car under the soft glow of the overhead lights, grateful for the chance to recharge. The rest area was a welcome sight—just a few trucks parked nearby, and the distant sound of crickets filled the air. I closed my eyes for three hours, allowing myself to rest before continuing the journey.
Hitting the Road Again: Gladstone Bound
After a refreshing break, we resumed our journey early Friday morning. The journey began again at 4am and brought with it a renewed energy, illuminating the landscapes I had only glimpsed in the dark. The drive toward Gladstone was filled with beautiful scenery—rolling hills, grazing cattle, and the occasional glimpse of the ocean. The roads were smoother, and I felt more confident behind the wheel. Especially after the short stop at the Parkes Big Dish.
As I approached Gladstone, I couldn't help but marvel at the transformation of the landscape. The bustling town was a stark contrast to the quiet roads I had traversed the night before. I stopped for breakfast, savoring a local café's offerings while planning the next leg of my journey.
Final Stretch to Cairns: A Quick Stop at the Big Mango
Saturday dawned bright and clear, signaling my final stretch to Cairns. With the anticipation of reaching my destination, I made sure to include a stop at the famous Big Mango in Bowen. This quirky roadside attraction is a must-see for anyone traveling along this route. Standing beneath the massive mango, I couldn’t resist snapping a few photos—it’s the perfect blend of fun and kitsch!
As I continued my drive, the landscape began to change again, becoming more tropical and vibrant. The closer I got to Cairns, the more excited I became. Palm trees lined the roads, and the ocean sparkled in the distance, welcoming me to my final destination.
Arrival in Cairns
Finally, after two long days on the road, I arrived in Cairns. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. The journey had tested my resolve and filled me with new experiences, from the late-night doubts to the refreshing stopovers.
