AU2010 - Lawrence Hargrave Drive

For tourists following the Grand Pacific Drive, …

 

 

… the route connecting Stanwell Park and Thirroul is the Lawrence Hargrave Drive, named after Lawrence Hargrave, an Australian aviation pioneer.

Starting from Helensburgh, a little town close to the natural splendours of the Royal National Park, the drive passes by the Sri Venkateswara Hindu Temple, which was established in 1978.

 

 

This temple is a glistening white South Indian-style Hindu temple set on top of a hilly area ...

 

 

… that had since became the focal point for Sydney’s Hindu community, holding regular festivals and celebrations.

 

 

A further drive down the road from the temple is the Garrawarra State Conservation Area, …

 

 

… which is also where Kellys Falls is located.

 

 

The picturesque Kellys Falls is accessible via an easy five minute walk from the roadside, or alternatively, cars can also be driven right to the falls.

 

 

However, the drive on the dirt road wasn’t that pleasant, due to the presence of huge pot holes. But, I suppose it was all worth it after being greeted by such spectacular scenery.

 

 

At the end of the dirt road, one can then follow the bush tracks to cross the top of the falls, …

 

 

… head over to the other side of the falls, …

 

 

… or seek out smaller waterfalls and water holes in the area.

 

 

Following on with our dazzling drive down the escarpment to the coast …

 

 

… we had a quick detour to Bald Hill Headland Reserve, …

 

 

… where Lawrence Hargrave first took flight. Apparently, this is also one of the famous launch pads for hang gliders in the region …

 

 

… that even the toilet has a hang gliding-themed mural.

 

 

Continuing down the coast …

 

 

… we arrived at our last and also the most famous feature of the Drive, the Sea Cliff Bridge.

 

 

One of the only seven off-shore parallel to coast bridges in the world, ...

 

 

… this $52 million structure is now considered a local celebrity, after being featured in many car advertisements around the world, including for Ferrari/Shell and Holden.

 

 

Our scenic drive along the coast …

 

 

… finally came to an end in Thirroul after winding through the coastal villages of Clifton, Scarborough, Wombarra, Coledale and Austinmer.

 

Photo credits: Chrys