Written by: Olly Bridge
What happens when you mix 1,000 kilometres of some of the most scenic roads in the world, a convoy of stunning cars, and a group of people who know how to enjoy themselves? Welcome to the Highball Rally Tasmania 2024 – a weekend where the engines roared, the laughs were loud, and the Negronis flowed freely.
As part of this rally, supporting the incredible work of Drive Against Depression, we embarked on a journey across Tasmania that was equal parts thrilling, breathtaking, indulgent, and sweaty (more on that later).
Day 1: Overnight Ferry and New Connections
Our adventure began on Thursday evening with a night ferry from Geelong to Devonport. The Spirit of Tasmania became our floating prelude to the rally – beers in hand and conversations flowing as we got to know each other. With a mix of excitement and anticipation (and a few Lark gin & tonics and Boags), we settled in for the crossing.
Rolling off the ferry the next morning, we made our way to House of Anvers, a breakfast spot that doubles as a chocolate wonderland. Hot coffees, strong enough to wake us from our ferry-induced grogginess, paired beautifully with their rich waffle treats – the kind of breakfast you know you’ll still be thinking about hours later.
From there, the drive to the Great Lake Hotel in Miena was pure magic. Winding roads led us through Tasmania’s Central Highlands, where the crisp air and rugged scenery set the tone for the day. Lunch at the hotel was hearty, classic pub fare – the kind that pairs perfectly with rugged wilderness it’s surrounded by.
The evening saw us roll into Hobart and check into the Hotel Grand Chancellor, our base for the night. Dinner at Suzie Luck’s in Salamanca Square didn’t disappoint either, think zingy, flavour-packed dishes and the kind of Negronis that make you want to order another round – which, of course, we did.
Day 2: Distilleries, Wilderness, and A Gym Redemption
After a night of indulging in Negronis, margaritas, and maybe a few G&Ts, I made a point of hitting the Hotel Grand Chancellor’s gym on Saturday morning. This wasn’t just a casual treadmill stroll – I put in a long, hard workout. We’re talking sweat, grit, and maybe a few self-reflective moments where I questioned my life choices from the night before. But it was worth it – the guilt from Friday night’s cocktails was well and truly left on the gym floor…
Fully energised (and slightly smug), I joined the group to head to Lawrenny Estate Distilling, where any health halo from my workout was quickly offset by more excellent Tasmanian spirits. The distillery tour was a standout – sipping world-class gin and whiskey while soaking up the views of the lush countryside and stately home.
Lunch was at the Hungry Wombat Café, a charming roadside stop where there were no wombats, but hold tight – they’re coming.
The drive to Strahan Village was nothing short of magical. Tasmania’s wild beauty was on full display as we cruised through lush forests and along coastal roads. By the time we arrived, the charming village felt like a perfect reward. Dinner at View 42 treated us to fresh seafood, fantastic wine, and – you guessed it – more Negronis.
Day 3: Mountains, a Wombat Superstar, and the Final Stretch
We kicked off day three with breakfast in Strahan before heading into Tasmania’s wilder side. The drive to Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, via MacKintosh Dam, was unforgettable. The scenery was nothing short of spectacular – towering mountains, glassy lakes, and roads that seemed designed purely for the joy of driving.
And then came the highlight of the weekend. Near Cradle Mountain, a wild wombat sauntered across our path like he owned the place (which, honestly, he probably does). Cameras came out, laughter echoed, and for a few minutes, we were all united in pure, childlike wonder.
Lunch at Peppers was the perfect way to soak in the last leg of the rally, with excellent food and that sense of contentment only a long drive and good company can bring. But the adventure wasn’t over yet. The final squirt provided a thrilling finale, with sweeping views and curves that felt tailor-made for drivers.
As the sun began to set, we arrived back at the Devonport ferry terminal and boarded the Spirit of Tasmania for another night at sea. This time, the vibe was different. Tired but satisfied, we raised our glasses (yes, there were more beers and maybe one final Negroni) to an incredible weekend and even better company.
The Highs, the Lows, and the Laughs
It wouldn’t be a road trip without a few hiccups. One car broke down, but in true team spirit, the group rallied to get it back on the road. And at the Hungry Wombat Café, a tourist decided to reverse into one of our cars. Miraculously, no damage was done – the kind of luck that makes you want to PPF your pride and joy.
But the rally wasn’t just about the roads or the drinks. It was about the people – a group of strangers who quickly became friends, bonded by the shared joy of driving, storytelling, and, of course, the occasional cured meat platter.
Driving for a Cause
Supporting Drive Against Depression added depth to every kilometre we covered. This charity, which uses the freedom of driving to promote mental wellness, is a reminder of how important it is to connect – whether that’s with people, nature, or yourself.
Reflections Over Negronis
As the ferry docked back on the mainland, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. Tasmania had given us its best – from the wild landscapes to the friendly locals (both human and wombat). The Highball Rally wasn’t just a drive; it was a celebration of life’s simple joys: good roads, great company, and the occasional expertly made cocktail.
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Tasmania on four wheels, take it from me: do it. And if you can do it with friends, a drink in hand (responsibly, of course) and for a cause that truly matters, even better.
Here’s to next year – and to more wombats, more laughs, and maybe just one more Negroni.