The Great Alpine Road provided the perfect setting from which to enjoy the very best of Victoria. (But of course I'm bias).

The Ladies at the Wonthaggi Information Centre were really helpful, visit them, they were great. The round-abouts in Leongatha were alive with silverbeet, beans and lettuce! It's true - vege gardens in the middle of the street! How good is that? Beautiful views of rolling hills and green pasture to boot, delightful touring.

We stayed a night at Lake Glenmaggie Outdoor Education Centre in Gippsland. Played champion boule and champion table tennis. And in the morning took in the surrounding bush, views of the lake, and a visit to the dam wall, special thanks to the outdoor centre's custodian, Greg Kaska.

Just past Ensay before Omeo, we stopped for a late picnic lunch. Then a few hours later we were treated to fine tea and cakes by the very gracious Di Di Geiger at High Plains Lodge, Dinner Plain - much to the delight of everyone. We are lucky.

Julie and Peter Braden welcomed us at magnificent Shepparton Lodge on Mt Hotham, and were very pleased to 'have the lodge blessed by Father Benedetto of Italy!' Walks and talks and long mountain drives. Beautiful and peaceful Harrietville. Great thanks to Elizabeth Paschke who put on a perfect morning tea for us at the church after mass resplendent with shortbread and fine chiner. Wine tastings at Boyntons, bakery tastings at Beechworth...and we all rolled home.

Adrian, Vince, Michael, Veronica, Jane and Father Benedetto - thanks!