Dam, Dam, Dam
Head to Tumut and the beautiful Tumut Valley via three spectacular dams (not including our own Lake Eucumbene). The first is pretty Journama Pondage at the foot of Talbingo, birthplace of Miles Franklin. Continue on past the mighty Tumut 3 Power Station. Just two of its six turbines can create enough electricity for all of the ACT. Drive up to the spillway of Talbingo dam and see how the power station is powered by water flowing through massive pipes. Before Tumut, we pass the Blowering Dam which we will visit on the return leg.
Tumut is a very pretty town. The early settlers planted poplars and willow trees resulting in spectacular displays in summer and autumn. Tumut has a large number of historic buildings notably its collection of fine hotels, the Court House and the very fine Anglican Church. We will tour the local millet broom factory where you will see straw brooms made by hand as people have done for centuries. If time permits we can visit the violet farm, home to over 1,000 species. Many are for sale. After some free time in Tumut, we head back to the Blowering Dam and drive up to the 120 metre high spillway for a spectacular view. Many water speed records have been set on this dam including the world record for fastest water skiing.