35km from Melbourne CBD the Werribee open range zoo is a great place for the family and for an opportunity to grab out the camera and take a few photos. Part of the Werribee park that includes the Werribee mansion and the state rose garden, the zoo is set over 225 hectares and includes a wide range of animals.

We were out on a family day event so I didn’t have the luxury of available time to hunt for photos and I recommend if you have the time for it, spend a day and a good amount of time watching the animals to line up your best shots. It was also raining the day we went, which has its upsides with the animals more likely to be about and not hiding from the sun but the downsides of lower light and noise from the falling rain.

Overall the facilities were good and I was amazed that it was possible to purchase food and drink without having to take a second mortgage on the house. I do recommend Werribee open range zoo and a great day out with the family and for photography.

Charlie's Auto Museum, Arthurs Seat, Victoria, Australia

Charlie's Auto Museum is located on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria and is a must for the auto enthusiast, especially if you like some of the old British and American Cars. The address is 175 Purves Road, Arthurs Seat and is approximately an hour and a half drive from Melbourne.

Charlie opened the museum in 1988 and over the years the collection has grown to over 80 vehicles and a wide range of paraphernalia.

Entry is a reasonable $15 for Adults with children $8. A family ticket is also available for $40. The staff are friendly and there is a cafe onsite for refreshments.

Located nearby is the Enchanted Adventure Garden which features a hedge maze and zip-line as well as the Arthurs Seat Eagle scenic gondola ride. Make it a full day trip and enjoy some of the local wines from the numerous wineries or head down to the beach to refresh on a hot day.