Grape Expectations by Max Crus Elon gated by eSafety Commissar.

Iam so disappointed, indeed angry, furious even.

I have written to X and Facebook many times (you can’t phone them, and obviously face to face with Facebook is out) but no matter how hard I have tried I can’t get anyone on X or Facebook to post an AI generated fake of myself selling some miracle product or even get a rightwing-nazi-nut-job to post some vile racist, sexist or religious garbage on my page.

Amicus McLaren Vale Reserve Shiraz 2021, $16.50. Not sure what the real prices of these wines are, so just divided 99 by 6, including delivery! Incredible. Very McLaren Vale and suitably solid stuff without being too sophisticated. 9.1/10.

Don’t they know who I am? Surely if Karl Kruszelnicki gets impersonated to sell wellness poisons, I’d be worth a clone fogging something.

Yes, that and other recent events have seen the social media debate turn to the dark side which has merely proved the arrogance of the various platforms and that they should be called to account. Maybe.

Of course that would mean siding with Peter Dutton and Sussan Ley, although oddly not the rest of them, who, paradoxically, demonstrated wholeheartedly during last year’s referendum debate that they believe lies and misinformation on social media are fne if it wins votes and donations.

Shiraz 2021, $16.50. Everyone wants to belong, however if Facebook is your only belonging, that’s where it gets sad. But if you get one of these, you’ll belong to the Hills too. Serviceable stuff with which to watch The Sound of Music. 9/10.

But yes, perhaps one must draw a line. Lies, deceit, AI generated fakes and how persecuted Donald Trump is, are all fair game, as is gambling, trolling and

2020, $16.50. Barely four years old but has that dusty old Parisian bistro character about it, a bit rough around the edges but when you’re in Paris, that just adds to the character and romance. 8.9/10.

Pirathon Barossa Valley abuse generally, so why not stabbings, massacres, beheadings and other vile stuff?

Just don’t show a bare breast or you will be smote by the full evangelical weight of Mark and Elon, you vile, perverted, flthy, godless, low-life cretin. You’ll be banned from FB and X forever.

The hardest bit to grasp, though, is that these platforms (who famously pay no tax nor heed to social norms and laws) are boast, Silver, subtly suggesting second place, although who wouldn’t be happy coming second in the world at something? Regardless it is alluring Barossan wine with a juicy-fruity nose (not the breakfast cereal btw) and defnitely smells younger not compulsory. We are not forced to watch awful videos or the National party explain its anachronistic sense of entitlement, so why not just switch off, Jacquie Lambie style?

Then if they’re still in business, just put warnings on social media as they do on cigarette packets and wine bottles about the relative truth and potential harm, and tax them to buggery while we’re at it.

Alas the issue merely highlights the weirdly weak-kneed worth of governments in this realm. We tax wine half to extinction, but Facebook and X barely pay a cent. Go fgure is the modern vernacular.

Vale Heritage Limited Edition Shiraz 2021, $16.50. ALike lots of stuff sold online, the limited edition probably means it is limited to how ever many bottles customers want. But it is big and lovely, so you will likely want more 9.3/10.

Meanwhile, look what I found advertised on Instagram recently…a six-pack from Vinomofo for $99! Just don’t follow the links to The Blind Boys of Alabama…ooh, hang on , they’re the good guys. I meant The Proud Boys of Alabama.

Sauvignon 2012, $?. The oldest of the bunch and the hardest to get into…sealed under cork. The antithesis of modernity. Haven’t they learnt anything from social media? Specially crafted for friends and family of Reschke apparently, so you can feel

Dubbo

Start your journey in Dubbo, a vibrant regional city with the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Here, you can enjoy a safari experience in Australia, viewing a wide range of animals in open-range settings. Dubbo also serves as a great base for exploring nearby historical towns and natural reserves.

Orange

Next, head to Orange, known for its excellent food and wine scene. This town is a haven for gastronomes, offering exquisite local produce and wine-tasting tours at its numerous vineyards. The region’s cool climate is perfect for growing Chardonnay and Shiraz grapes, making it a mustvisit for wine enthusiasts.

Bathurst Bathurst, Australia’s oldest inland settlement, is next on your list. It’s famous for the Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit, which hosts the Bathurst 1000 car race. However, the city’s history is not all about racing; it’s also home to beautiful heritage buildings and the fascinating Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum.

Mudgee

Further into your journey, Mudgee awaits with its charming colonial buildings and another thriving wine industry. Mudgee’s wine tours are a delightful way to spend a day, or even a weekend, sampling some of the best drops in the region, paired with gourmet local foods from surrounding farms.

ADVENTURE AND NATURAL BEAUTY

Blue Mountains

No trip to inland NSW would be complete without visiting the Blue Mountains. Known for dramatic scenery, it features steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and dotted villages. The area offers abundant hiking trails, scenic world cableway, and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.

Warrumbungle

National Park

For those who prefer a more rugged adventure, the Warrumbungle

National Park provides a unique blend of mountainous terrain, rich wildlife, and clear night skies ideal for stargazing. It’s a great spot for camping, hiking, and photography.

HIDDEN GEMS

Glen Innes and the Celtic Country

Explore Glen Innes in the New England region, known for its Celtic heritage. The town hosts an annual Australian Celtic Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the country. The nearby Standing Stones represent the Celtic connection and are a unique sight in the Australian countryside.

Lightning Ridge Lightning Ridge, known for the black opal, provides a unique outback experience. Visit the opal felds, try your hand at fossicking, or relax in the naturally heated Artesian Bore Baths.

PRACTICAL TIPS

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit inland NSW is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when the weather is mild and pleasant.

• Getting Around:

Driving your own or renting a car is the best way to explore inland NSW, as it allows you to travel at your own pace and access areas that are off the beaten path.

• Accommodations: From cosy bed and breakfasts in historic towns to luxury retreats in the countryside, there’s a wide range of accommodations available to suit any preference.

INLAND NSW AWAITS!

Inland NSW is a region of rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. It offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences that cater to all ages and interests. This guide only scratches the surface of what this vibrant area has to offer, so pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Australia.