VIC - Winter cruise to Ararat

Despite a forecast of severe thunderstorms, an enthusiastic group of Victorian TOCA members met on the Western fringe of Melbourne to set off for an interesting day. We had the full Tesla S3XY line-up of cars on this trip, and they looked great in convoy up the Western Highway.

An hour into the trip we stopped at the Lucas Superchargers, to ensure we all had enough electrons to get to our destination and home again. The Supercharger speeds were impressive - many of us were alerted by the Tesla app to return to our cars before we had even collected our coffees.

We were soon on the road again, heading for the regional town of Ararat.

Our destination was J Ward, Ararat's old gaol and lunatic asylum. We heard fascinating stories of its time as a gaol with murderers and thieves, and later as the home for the criminally insane. Our tour guide, Jim, was very knowledgeable and interesting.

After the tour, we drove a short distance to Montara winery, where we enjoyed some delicious wines and pizzas while taking in their spectacular view.

The rain did eventually arrive, but luckily it was while we were inside for lunch. And it passed as quickly as it came, allowing us to head to One Tree Hill, which offered fantastic views of the region, including several wind farms.

Thanks to committee members Daniel and Garry for organising such a great day.