In this sponsored post CityNews highlights some of the picturesque landscapes, historic communities and fascinating events, on Canberra’s doorstop.

THE taste of a morning coffee, loading up the car, pulling out of the driveway – it all adds to the magical feeling of heading out on a road trip. 

And, luckily for Canberrans, surrounding the nation’s capital are picturesque landscapes, historic communities and fascinating events. 

But before heading out to nearby locations (that feel a world away), make sure the car’s serviced and ready to go!

EUROBODALLA SHIRE

Relaxing in the world of coastal beauty

With more than 25 camping spots and holiday parks, tourism, marketing and visitor information co-ordinator at the Eurobodalla Shire Council Lysanne Cameron says there’s a place for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.

“It’s a beautiful coastal region,” she says . 

“You can drive five minutes and find yourself on a beach and enjoying the quiet.

“There’s a variety of beach and river frontage views to camp at.” 

Part of a 130-kilometre mountain biking track, 70 kilometres of the Mogo Trail has been opened as a “sneak peek” ahead of the grand opening of the completed trail in 2025. 

Mountain bikers are encouraged to enjoy the trail, says Lysanne. 

Activities are not limited to recreational sporting and camping, with a slew of events for all ages, all year round. 

Lysanne recommends visitors utilise the council’s itinerary and event page on its website to catch up on “what’s on” in the shire. 

“It’s a relaxing environment,” says Lysanne. 

“Visitors should know that there are smaller establishments to visit outside of Batemans Bay that hold just as much historic charm and stunning views.” 

Although summer is always a busy season for Eurobodalla, Lysanne says autumn is her favourite time of year. 

“It’s perfect weather,” she says. 

“That tough wind that you get in summer dies down and it’s still warm enough to enjoy the water.” 

Eurobodalla Shire Council. Call 4474 1000 or visit eurobodalla.com.au

COOMA

Spring into the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre

Located an hour from Canberra, the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre is a great stop on any road trip. 

“A Snowy Mountains road trip is one of the most spectacular in Australia,” says a Snowy Hydro spokesperson. 

“Discover more about the iconic Snowy Mountains Scheme at the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre in Cooma. 

“A perfect spot on your way to Kosciuszko National Park, the centre offers a behind-the-scenes look into one of the world’s greatest engineering feats.”

Visitors can expect to find out about Snowy Hydro’s pumped-hydrop mega project, Snowy 2.0. 

“Check out a scale model of a tunnel boring machine and learn about Australia’s renewable energy story,” the spokesperson says.

“Experience a virtual flyover of the Snowy Scheme in our immersive theatre, or stroll through interactive exhibits highlighting our proud history and engineering innovations.

“Check out the real-time operating screens and see where electricity is being generated.” 

After discovering all the centre has to offer, visitors are encouraged to relax at the Discovery Cafe with a homemade pie, fresh sandwich, barista-made coffee or a milkshake and visit the souvenir shop. 

Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, Monaro Highway, Cooma. Call 1800 623776, or visit snowyhydro.com.au

FORBES SHIRE

Calling all barbecue fans to a sizzling weekend 

Forbes Shire Council is hosting the National BBQ Championships, with a $20,000 prize pool, over the weekend of November 9-10.

“Set across two sizzling days, come join the competition judging the best barbecue beef, chicken, lamb and pork,” says Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM.

“Get ready to have your mouth watering as we prepare for the shire’s annual championships.”

Visitors can expect to find live music, a bar, food trucks, cooking demonstrations, barbecue stalls and celebrity appearances, says Mayor Miller. 

Running for more than 20 years, Mayor Miller says this renowned event is a family favourite in the shire and beyond. 

“It’s a great chance to get the community out and about in a fun way,” she says.

With two days of cooking competitions, visitors can expect to be wowed by grilled and smoked meats with an opportunity for impromptu guest judges on day two. 

“A real highlight of the event this year is to see celebrity chef Matt Burgess come be our guest chef and presenter for the event,” Mayor Miller says. 

Teams of four are encouraged to enter the grilling competitions on the Saturday (November 9) with more than $3000 in prizes on the day.

Gordon Duff Drive, Forbes NSW. Call 6850 2300 or visit forbes.nsw.gov.au

Farm stay with a difference – in a luxury silo!

The Mathews family are the proud owners behind the Top Paddock Silo Stay – two silos that have been renovated into a three-bedroom house. 

“Our vision is to run a regenerative farm that looks after the land,” says silo stay co-owner Kylie Mathews. 

After moving on to the 485-hectare property in 2012, the notion of creating a farm stay was inspired by a trip to NZ. 

In 2022, the idea came to fruition, with Kylie’s husband spending every free second building their holistic dream. 

After a successful opening in March, 2024, Kylie says they are excited to share their dream with the public. 

“We provide a unique farm stay with all the luxuries such as air-conditioning, a spa, two queen beds and three single beds,” she says.

According to Kylie, demonstrating the importance of caring for the land has always been a priority, using biodynamics and implementing a revegetation program. 

“We’re trying to bridge the gap between the city and the country,” she says.

“We even offer farm tours for our visitors to experience life on the farm.”

The Top Paddock Silo Stay is pet friendly and Kylie says it is always best to book in advance to avoid disappointment. 

“Forbes has a lot to do, and we love encouraging our visitors to see the region.” 

Top Paddock Silo Stay, 138 Cooyong Lane, Forbes NSW. Call 0428 922499 or visit toppaddocksilostay.com.au

BAWLEY POINT

The ‘perfect place’ to unwind and enjoy

Willinga Park, set on 930 hectares of land about two and a half hours from Canberra, offers luxury accommodation, says marketing and sales manager, Nadine Young. 

The accommodation was opened to the public three months ago, offering a picturesque and relaxing getaway for visitors. 

“It’s very tranquil,” says Nadine. 

“It’s such a stunning getaway and the views are beautiful.”

Combining world-class accommodation with nature, Nadine says the park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy. 

“We operate 18 pavilions, some with two bedrooms and others with four.”

“They’re fully equipped, so it’s easy to set up home and settle in for a few days.” 

Each pavilion is self-contained, offering spacious interiors, free wi-fi, laundry facilities and two parking spaces. 

Scattered over the property are more than 30 sculptures, which Nadine says is a crowd favourite to explore. 

The venue is a prime location for weddings, conferences and luxury stays, with the park working alongside local services and businesses to ensure a seamless and professional experience. 

Nadine recommends anyone interested should book ahead of schedule to prevent disappointment – particularly ahead of the summer season. 

Willinga Park, 132 Forster Drive, Bawley Point. Call 4405 5666 or visit willingapark.com.au

JERVIS BAY

A coastal dip into maritime history and more

Opening in 1988 with two buildings and a ferry on display, the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum and Gallery has since become a significant arts and culture hub for the Shoalhaven, says curator Jody White. 

“With a world-renowned collection of maritime artefacts and historic vessels, as well as temporary galleries showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions throughout the year, the museum provides a ‘sense of place’ for the local community and offers historical and contemporary insight to our visitors.”

Recently winning gold in the Top Town Tourism Awards, Jody says the town of Huskisson offers stunning natural views and good food all just a quick drive from the sparkling coast. 

“As a volunteer-based organisation and community hub, the museum provides an opportunity for visitors to explore their interests, discover something new and be inspired by their experience,” says Jody. 

According to Jody, the rotating exhibit schedule means there’s always something new to see at the museum. 

“I feel honoured to be able to contribute here and continue my journey of exploration about this beautiful coast and community,” she says.

“The museum has many great learning and explorative opportunities for families, including our popular children’s treasure hunt.”

Doubling as a community hub, the museum also hosts a monthly twilight market on the first Saturday of the month from October to April, featuring live music, a bar, local-made gifts and produce. 

Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, 11 Dent St, Huskisson NSW. Call 4441 5675 or visit jervisbaymaritimemuseum.asn.au

BERRIMA

Sweet treats in a ‘happy place’

Lolly Swagman owner, Ian Richardson, reckons Berrima is such a “lovely area.” 

The business has been exploring new tastes for nearly three decades and 

Ian has been the proud owner of the lolly shop for the past 11 years, saying they always appreciate their Canberra customers.

Located in the heart of the Southern Highlands, the lolly shop stocks all-time favourite treats and the latest-trending tastes from around the world.

“We lost count at 1300 different treats and we know it’s more than that,” he says.

According to Ian, the store is a common stop on people’s trips to Berrima.

“It’s a happy place with kids excitedly exploring new tastes, older people reminiscing and sharing in the thrill of finding a favourite and the great stories that go with them,” he says.

“Berrima is an overall happy place to visit, and we love seeing visitors come in and explore.

“We often see people who’d come as children now bringing in their own children and sharing their experiences, which is lovely to be allowed to join in on. It’s nice to have that history.”

Located halfway between Sydney and Canberra, Ian says it makes the perfect road trip pit stop or meeting place. 

Lolly Swagman, 11 Old Hume Highway, Berrima. Call 4877 1137, or visit lollyswagman.com.au

YOUNG

Get Ready for the National Cherry Festival

Canberra “fun-seekers” are being called to a sweet weekend escape at Young’s 74th SWS Bank National Cherry Festival. 

Destination and economy manager of Hilltops Shire Council, Joe Conneely says: “This three-day extravaganza celebrates all things cherry. 

“There will be live music, delicious food, vibrant markets, rides and family friendly activities held throughout the weekend of November 29-December 1.”

Young is a 90-minute drive from Canberra.

Joe says some particular family favourites include the Friday night’s live music with Triple J’s rising star Birdee, a “dazzling” fireworks display, the crowd favourite Cherry Pie Eating Competition as well as the “vibrant” Woolworths Street Parade on the Saturday afternoon. 

“Make sure you don’t miss Sunday’s Big Breakfast, the Cherry Pip Spit Competition, the Gourmet Sunday Markets or our abundance of live entertainment,” says Joe. 

Outside of the festival, Joe says visitors are encouraged to pick their own cherries at the local orchards or enjoy some of Hilltops’ award-winning wines. 

“Come experience the sweetest time of the year!” says Joe. 

National Cherry Festival, Young NSW, November 29-December 1. Call 1800 628233 or visit nationalcherryfestival.com.au

QUEANBEYAN

How about a night out over the border?

For anyone who fancies a short trip, Queanbeyan Players will be hitting the stage on November 1-10 in a “toe-tapping” rendition of Nice Work If You Can Get It, a lighthearted comedy filled with singing, dancing and silly jokes. 

Queanbeyan Players president Jen Hinton says: “It’s a wonderful opportunity for people to come relax and have a great time, switching off the worries of the world even for just a couple of hours.

“It’s suitable for children, so it’s a great opportunity to bring your kids to the theatre and provide them with the amazing experience of live performance and live music.

“The arts, and particularly theatre, is a wonderful way to do that. There is the saying that laughter is the best medicine, and a show like Nice Work provides those laughs!” 

Jen describes the play as community oriented, promoting a fun and safe environment for players from all levels of experience to explore theatre and the arts.

According to Jen, adventure doesn’t have to be far away with locals able to enjoy a night out across the border in Queenbeyan. 

“The show offers fantastic entertainment without the long drive,” says Jen.

“Perfect for a local outing filled with music, laughter and fun.” 

She says it’s worth keeping an eye on their website and socials for any upcoming audition notices or ways to get involved.

Nice Work If You Can Get It. Tickets from theq.net.au or call 6285 6290. 

READY FOR THE TRIP

Mechanics who value their customers’ safety

Nathan Lee, owner of JAWS Automotive, says he is committed to ensuring his customers are prepared for their journey ahead.

“At JAWS we offer ACT Roadworthy Inspections, mechanical repairs, log book services, 100-point safety check, as well as NSW Pink and Blue Slip inspections for motor vehicles, motorbikes, trailers,” he says.

Previously in the hands of a family business for a decade, the name JAWS was inspired by the initials of the previous owner’s father, says Nathan, who was also the tow truck driver for the previous owner before buying the business in April 2022.

“We are a small, old school workshop that values our customers and their vehicle concerns [and] we try to help in any way we can if people are stuck needing a mechanic [at] the last minute.”

As part of the Phillip-Woden community, Nathan says they receive a fair bit of work from Lennock Motors, which is a large dealership that helps small, owner-operated businesses by sending work their way.

“We are, I believe, the only ACT Authorised Rego inspection station that does walk-in, on-the-spot rego inspections; all other authorised stations only do inspections by bookings,” Nathan says.

Nathan’s team are committed to working with the community to make sure their road trip goes as seamlessly as possible.

“We are also the preferred repairer for after-market warranties, and pride ourselves on doing a job well done.”

JAWS Automotive, 4 Salamander Circuit, Phillip. Call 6285 3455.

Caravan care starts here

Lloyd’s Caravans owner Kerry Lloyd and his sons love to hear where their clients venture.

Kerry says his customers are encouraged to come to Lloyd’s for a service and safety check – or other requirements such as accessories or insurance repairs – before their next adventure.

Lloyd’s Caravans has operated in Canberra since 1964 and are celebrating 60 years of exceptional service to Canberra and surrounding areas.

Kerry says he’s glad to carry on his father’s legacy as well as work with his sons – Mitchell who’s an auto electrician and Matthew, a spray painter.

Kerry, a qualified panel beater himself, says his customers can be assured that his team is made up of industry professionals to ensure the highest quality and level of care will be taken on their caravans.

Lloyd’s Caravans provide services such as caravan insurance repairs, modifications and servicing and can also work on trailers, camper vans, horse floats and motor homes.

“We’re all trained in the caravan industry trade and we are the preferred repairers for all major insurance companies,” Kerry says.

“Caravans and motorhomes are evolving all the time and we’re evolving with them.”

Lloyd’s Caravans, Unit 1-57 Tennant Street, Fyshwick. Call 0438 800652, email caravanscanberra@gmail.com