Category: Clearview News

Big news for Hilux owners who love to tow. Clearview has officially launched a new range of towing mirrors built specifically for the Toyota Hilux N90. Whether you regularly tow a caravan, tow a boat, or head off with a horse float in tow, these mirrors are designed to give you the visibility and confidence you need on and off the road.

Why Hilux N90 Owners Need Towing Mirrors
Towing changes everything about how you see the road. The moment your load extends past the width of your ute, standard factory mirrors simply can’t keep up. You lose sight of what’s beside and behind you, and that’s when blind spots become dangerous.
If you’ve ever tried to reverse a caravan, merge onto a busy highway with a boat in tow, or change lanes while pulling a horse float, you know the feeling. And if you have a canopy on your Hilux, your rear vision is already compromised before you even hook up a trailer.
Clearview Towing Mirrors solve this by expanding your field of view. They push visibility out past your load, dramatically reducing blind spots and making everyday towing tasks safer and easier. Reversing, merging, and lane changes all become far more manageable when you can actually see what’s happening around you.
With the N90 rated to tow up to 3,500kg (model dependent), it’s a seriously capable ute. But capability on paper means little without the vision to match. Always check your owner’s manual to confirm your specific towing capacity before you head out.

Two Mirror Styles to Suit Your Setup
Clearview knows no two towing setups are the same, so the N90 range comes in two distinct styles. Both retract neatly against the vehicle when not in use, keeping a clean, low-profile look for daily driving. Most people won’t even notice them, until you extend them for your next adventure.

Next Gen — The Dual Mirror Design
The Next Gen features a twin mirror design that gives you the best of both worlds:

• A large flat top mirror that helps with reversing into parking spaces and lining up your hitch with a trailer
• A smaller convex mirror below that widens your understanding of what’s happening around the vehicle

With a taller mirror head, the Next Gen is ideal for frequent towing or heavier loads. If you tow anything from the smallest trailer to the largest van, this is the option built for the job.

Compact — Factory Look, Extra Reach
The Compact Towing Mirror keeps things simple. It looks just like a factory mirror but adds the extra visibility of Clearview’s towing extension.

• A single large convex mirror reduces the size of reflected objects, giving you a much wider field of view and fewer blind spots.

The lower-profile design makes it a great pick if you want that tidy, original appearance for daily driving while still gaining serious side visibility when you tow.

Three Positions, Up to 180mm of Extension
Both styles extend up to 180mm and offer three adjustable driving positions:

• Standard / Non-Extended: Sits flush with your vehicle for everyday driving and a sleek look.
• First Extended: A moderate extension, perfect for smaller trailers or caravans without feeling too wide.
• Second Extended: The full 180mm reach, ideal for larger loads, horse floats, or whenever you need maximum side visibility.

Adjusting between positions is simple. Just slide the mirror out by hand and it clicks into place in seconds. Once extended, both styles stay securely locked, so they hold firm even at highway speeds.

Key Features Available for the N90
Clearview Mirrors are engineered to work with your Hilux’s existing technology, not against it. Here are the features you can carry across to your new mirrors:

• 360° Camera Integration: Keeps your complete 360-degree parking view working. The original camera is removed from the factory mirror and installed into your Clearview mirror. Available only on vehicles with pre-existing 360° cameras.
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): Uses your vehicle’s sensors to alert you when another vehicle sits in your blind spot, through an indicator light, an audible alert, or a steering wheel vibration.
• Power-Fold: Folds your mirrors in and out at the press of a button. It matches your factory capability, including control through the key fob, touch-handle panel, and interior button. Suitable only for vehicles with factory power-fold.
• Indicators / Turn Signals: A clear indicator lens with an amber LED light. All Clearview manufactured mirrors come with a CAT5 indicator as standard.
• Electric Mirror Glass Adjustment: Vertical and horizontal adjustments to suit your preferred angle. Single mirror models offer full electric adjustment. On dual mirror models, the top glass is electric while the lower glass adjusts manually.
• Heat: Demists and defogs your mirror glass in frosty conditions, running off your vehicle’s existing de-misting system.

One important note: these features only work on vehicles that already have them fitted from the factory. The mirror itself can’t add new functionality your Hilux didn’t come with. Options may vary depending on your make, model, and year.

Built to Look Like They Came From the Factory
A towing mirror shouldn’t look like an afterthought bolted on to your ute. Clearview Towing Mirrors are meticulously engineered to follow the Hilux’s modern body lines, delivering a sleek, factory-style finish.
The result is durable, stylish, and so well integrated that it looks like it rolled off the production line that way. You get all the towing benefits without compromising the clean appearance of your vehicle, and every factory feature you rely on stays fully intact.

Important: Check Compatibility Before You Buy
Toyota is fitting different cameras across the MY26+ N90 range depending on transmission, and that directly affects which towing mirror fits your vehicle.

• For Automatic transmission double cab pick up models (with factory tub), the SR, SR5, SR5+, Rogue & Rugged X variants come with the new digital 360-degree cameras.
• For Manual transmission pick up models & all Cab Chassis (Auto + Manual) models, the SR, SR5, and SR5+ variants still use the previous N80 analogue 360-degree cameras.

Because of this split, confirming your transmission and body type before you buy is essential. Get it right the first time and you’ll match to the correct mirror without any hassle.

Find the Right Mirrors for Your Hilux
Ready to upgrade your towing setup? Don’t risk ordering the wrong mirrors for your N90. Head to the Clearview website and use the mirror filter to find the exact mirrors made for your vehicle’s make, model, year, transmission, and body type.
A few minutes with the filter now saves you the headache later, and gets you set up for safer, clearer towing on every trip.

Purpose-built, patented fit for the first all-new Prado in 15 years.

The Toyota LandCruiser Prado 250 Series is the first genuinely new Prado in 15 years — and anyone towing at its 3,500kg braked capacity wants to know what towing mirrors actually fit this vehicle safely. Clearview Accessories now has the answer.

Clearview Towing Mirrors for the Prado 250 Series are now available to order.

The 250’s factory mirror mount standard internal bracketry simply wasn’t built to support extendable towing mirrors safely. Rather than compromise, we’ve developed a unique, patented secondary mount design—engineered specifically to work with the Prado 250’s OE mount position. It gives the mirrors the structural strength they need, which means a safer, cleaner fit we can stand behind.

Two options to match how you drive

Compact Towing Mirrors — the streamlined choice for drivers who want towing vision with a smaller mirror footprint.

Next Gen Towing Mirrors — the flagship towing mirror with strong visibility, premium integration, and broad towing suitability.

Key features

• Compact and Next Gen options, so you get extended vision for towing and a clean, factory-look mirror for the daily run.
• Up to 180mm extension to see past wide caravans, boats, and horse floats.
• Three practical driving positions covering standard driving and towing.
• True replacement fit — a genuine bolt-on, not a bulky bracket-on workaround.

See More, Tow Safer

Towing a heavy load requires serious visibility. Standard factory mirrors often fall short when your load extends beyond the width of your vehicle. Our extendable tow mirrors significantly reduce dangerous blind spots around your Toyota LC Prado 250 Series. You gain better rear and side vision, which makes reversing, merging, and changing lanes much safer. Instead of struggling to see past your trailer, you get a clear, wide view of your surroundings

The 250 was designed to take you from the school run to the outback in a single week. Your mirrors should be ready for the same. Fit Clearview and see the difference before your next trip.

Avoid ordering the wrong mirrors! Use our mirror filter on our website to find the right mirrors for your vehicle!

Clearview Accessories has revealed a new co-branded 2026 Toyota Hilux N90 SR, built in partnership with TJM 4×4. The vehicle now travels across the country as both a rolling showcase and a working test platform, and it doubles as the proving ground for products Clearview has not yet released to the public.
What does it actually take to bring a new towing mirror or electric side step to market? For Clearview, the answer sits in plain sight on this Hilux. This vehicle is being used to rigorously test and refine our brand-new N90 Towing Mirrors and Power Boards before they reach dealers. In other words, the gear you see bolted to this truck is not a marketing mock-up — it is genuine research and development, out on real roads, under real load.

A partnership put on display
The Hilux carries bold graphics from both Clearview and TJM 4×4, and that visual pairing reflects a deeper working relationship between the two brands. The stated goal is straightforward: give people a firsthand look at TJM’s gear operating alongside Clearview products in a single, cohesive build, rather than as a list of parts on a spec sheet.
It is a fair question to ask whether “co-branded” vehicles are simply promotional gimmicks. In this case, the build resists that tag. The ute performs plenty of hard work behind the scenes, and the presence of pre-production components demonstrates that the collaboration is functional first and photogenic second.

The Clearview gear
At the centre of the build are Clearview’s own products, including two components still carrying R&D prototype status.
Compact Mirrors (R&D Prototype) — pre-production towing mirrors being validated specifically for the N90 platform.
Power Boards (R&D Prototype) — electric side steps undergoing the same real-world refinement.
Power Slide and Easy Slide — both personalised in TJM Gold, a nod to the partnership and a practical storage solution inside the canopy.
Fridge Cage — designed to protect a fridge for touring.
Cable Saver — a simple but often-overlooked way to protect your fridge’s cables.
Tyre Spider — The Tyre Spider® allows you to easily stagger tyre pressures across any combination of tyres via the 4 controllable inlet valves and digital pressure gauge.
Running prototypes on a high-visibility vehicle is a deliberate choice. If a component fails or underperforms, it does so where the team can see it — arguably a more honest approach than testing quietly and marketing loudly.

TJM 4×4 up front and underneath
TJM’s contribution focuses on protection, air, and vision — the fundamentals for genuine off-road use.
TJM Outback Bull Bar (pre-production, hand-made sample) — frontal protection engineered for the N90.
TJM Pro Series 5L Air Tank paired with the TJM Pro Series Twin Air Compressor — an onboard air setup for tyre inflation and air-powered accessories.
TJM LED Driving Lights — added distance vision for low-light and remote travel.

Power, storage, and the finishing details
Keeping a modern touring vehicle running means managing energy carefully, and here the build leans on Projecta. The system combines the IDC50X 50A DC-DC Charger, the PW2100 2100W Pro-Wave Inverter, the LB200-HD 200Ah Battery, an Intelli-IQ System Setup, and the SPM200-MC4 Solar Panel. Together, they keep the fridge cold and devices charged well off the grid.
The rear of the truck is finished with a Ridgetop Canopies unit, giving the Hilux a weatherproof, lockable workspace for the premium storage and battery management units inside.
Smaller details matter too. A JBA Fabrications Recessed Air Outlet & Switch Plate integrates the controls cleanly rather than leaving switches scattered across the cabin — a practical touch that reflects how much wiring a build like this involves. Underneath, TJM’s XGS Suspension carries the added weight, addressing one of the most common problems with heavily loaded utes: a truck that sits and drives well unladen but struggles once fully kitted out.

Why it was done
For anyone weighing up their own build, this Hilux offers something more useful than a catalogue. It shows how different products from several independent brands can be integrated into one functional vehicle — and it puts unreleased Clearview gear under scrutiny before customers are asked to buy it.
The Hilux N90 Towing Mirrors have just been released and Power Boards remain in testing, with wider availability to follow once validation is complete. In the meantime, the vehicle continues its dual role: promotional flagship and working development platform.
The full build breakdown, including links to each partner and product, is available on the Clearview fleet page. If you spot the ute at a 4×4 show, take a closer look — you may be seeing the next Clearview release before it hits the market.

Imagine sitting on a sun-drenched terrace overlooking endless rows of green vines, a glass of world-class wine in your hand. Pair that perfectly poured vintage with artisan cheeses, freshly caught seafood, and farm-to-table produce.

Travelling across Australia offers more than just stunning beaches and rugged outback terrain. The continent boasts a culinary landscape that rivals the most famous gastronomic destinations in Europe.

Australian winemakers and chefs take immense pride in their unique terroirs. The massive size of the country allows for a vast range of climates, producing distinct flavour profiles in every state. From bold red wines in South Australia to crisp whites along the western coast, every glass tells a story about the earth it came from.

This guide explores the absolute best food and wine destinations across the country. We dive into the rich heritage of the Barossa Valley, the coastal magic of Margaret River, and the historic roots of the Hunter Valley. Read on to discover what makes each region unique, which local dishes you must try, and how to plan the perfect tasting itinerary.

Barossa Valley, South Australia

Image sourced from southaustralia.com

Located just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, the Barossa Valley stands as the undisputed heavy hitter of Australian wine. European immigrants, mostly from Silesia and Prussia, settled this fertile valley in the 1840s. They brought their agricultural knowledge and vine cuttings, laying the groundwork for a world-renowned wine industry.

What Makes the Barossa Special
The Barossa Valley feels deeply rooted in tradition. You can still see the distinct European influence in the local architecture, historic Lutheran churches, and multi-generational family businesses. The region features some of the oldest continuously producing vines on the planet. Because the phylloxera plague never reached South Australia, many vines planted in the 19th century still yield incredible fruit today.

The warm, dry climate creates perfect conditions for producing deeply coloured, robust wines. However, the Barossa is not just about the grapes. The region champions a strong “paddock to plate” philosophy. Local farmers produce exceptional olive oil, cured meats, and stone fruits. Walking through a local farmers market here feels like stepping into a passionate community of flavour artisans.

Image sourced from artisansofbarossa.com

Must-Try Wines and Local Flavours
You simply cannot visit the Barossa without tasting its signature Shiraz. Barossa Shiraz is famous worldwide for its full body, rich dark fruit flavours, and notes of chocolate and spice. Stop by iconic cellar doors like Penfolds or Henschke to taste vintages that have shaped global wine history. If you prefer white wine, the neighbouring Eden Valley produces vibrant, floral Rieslings.

For food, lean into the region’s strong Germanic heritage. Visit local butchers to try traditionally smoked mettwurst, lachsschinken, and flavourful bratwurst. Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop is another absolute must-visit destination. Here, you can sample incredible pates, fruit pastes, and verjuice made right on the property. Pair a wedge of local triple-cream brie with a freshly baked sourdough loaf for the ultimate vineyard picnic.

Essential Visitor Tips
Rent a bicycle to explore the region at a relaxed pace. The Barossa Trail offers a paved, scenic path that connects major towns and dozens of fantastic cellar doors. This allows you to soak in the stunning vineyard views without worrying about driving.

If you plan to visit multiple tasting rooms, book a local driver or join a guided tour. Many premium wineries now require advance bookings for seated tasting experiences, so plan your itinerary well before you arrive. Visit during the Barossa Vintage Festival in April to experience the excitement of the autumn grape harvest.

Margaret River, Western Australia

Image sourced from Amelia Park Winery

Tucked away in the southwestern corner of Western Australia, Margaret River offers an intoxicating blend of culinary excellence and wild natural beauty. You will find this region roughly three hours south of Perth. It is one of the only places in the world where you can spend your morning surfing pristine ocean breaks and your afternoon sipping premium vintages at a luxury estate.

What Makes Margaret River Special
Margaret River produces a tiny fraction of Australia’s total wine volume, yet it accounts for a massive percentage of the country’s premium wines. The region benefits from a maritime climate, strongly influenced by the Indian and Southern Oceans. This cooling ocean breeze allows the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, creating highly elegant and structured wines.
The dining scene here is intensely focused on hyper-local ingredients. Chefs draw inspiration from the surrounding oceans and the fertile forests. You will often find native Australian ingredients, such as finger limes and saltbush, seamlessly integrated into fine dining menus.

Image sourced from Amelia Park Winery

Must-Try Wines and Local Flavours
Margaret River is globally celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The Cabernet here is often compared to the finest Bordeaux blends, offering notes of blackcurrant, bay leaf, and fine gravelly tannins. Vasse Felix, the founding wine estate of the region, serves as the perfect starting point to understand these elegant profiles. The local Chardonnay is equally spectacular, known for its bright natural acidity and complex stone fruit flavours.

When it comes to food, seafood takes centre stage. You must try marron, a large freshwater crayfish native to Western Australia. Chefs often serve it simply grilled with local garlic butter to highlight its sweet, delicate meat. The region also boasts a thriving truffle industry. Visit during the winter months to experience freshly shaved black truffles paired with handmade pasta and a glass of aged Cabernet.

Essential Visitor Tips
You absolutely need a car to explore Margaret River properly. The estates, beaches, and restaurants spread out over a large geographical area. Designate a driver for the day, or book one of the many luxury hop-on, hop-off wine tour services available in town.
Do not limit yourself to just wine. Margaret River also features a booming craft beer and boutique distillery scene. Spend an afternoon at a local brewery enjoying a pale ale and wood-fired pizza under the eucalyptus trees. Pack a warm jacket even in summer, as the coastal evenings get surprisingly cool.

Hunter Valley, New South Wales

Image Sourced from Hello Manly

The Hunter Valley holds the proud title of Australia’s oldest wine region. Located just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, it serves as the ultimate weekend escape for city dwellers and international travellers alike. Vine plantings here date back to the 1820s, making it the birthplace of Australian commercial wine.

What Makes the Hunter Valley Special
The Hunter Valley thrives in a unique, subtropical climate that technically shouldn’t work for high-end winemaking. Heavy summer rains and high humidity challenge the growers constantly. Yet, through generations of skill and perseverance, local winemakers have turned these conditions into an advantage.

The region embraces a lively, welcoming atmosphere. You will find a massive concentration of cellar doors, ranging from historic, ivy-covered stone buildings to ultra-modern glass tasting rooms. The Hunter Valley also excels at pairing experiences. Many vineyards offer masterclasses matching their wines with locally made chocolates, artisan cheeses, and even oysters.

Images sourced from De Bortoli Wines

Must-Try Wines and Local Flavours
Hunter Valley Semillon is a true global anomaly and a masterpiece of winemaking. When young, this white wine is incredibly crisp, zesty, and highly acidic. However, if you cellar it for a decade, it magically transforms. It develops rich, honeyed, and toasty flavours without ever seeing the inside of an oak barrel. You must taste an aged Semillon at historic estates like Tyrrell’s or Mount Pleasant to understand its brilliance.

The local food scene heavily supports the stellar wines. The region is famous for its farm-to-fork restaurants nestled right among the vines. Look for menus featuring slow-roasted lamb, wood-fired seasonal vegetables, and locally sourced cheeses. Make sure to visit the Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop to stock up on washed-rind cheeses and massive green olives before heading back to your accommodation.

Essential Visitor Tips
To truly appreciate the massive scale of the vineyards, book a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Floating silently over the misty, vine-covered rolling hills provides an unforgettable perspective of the valley. Most flights conclude with a traditional champagne breakfast.

Summer in the Hunter Valley gets intensely hot, so start your wine tastings early in the day. Make dinner reservations well in advance, as the top vineyard restaurants book out months ahead, especially on weekends. If you want a break from wine, visit the beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens to walk through meticulously curated floral displays.

Planning Your Culinary Adventure

Australia’s food and wine regions offer much more than just a great meal or a nice glass of wine. They provide a connection to the land and the passionate people who cultivate it. Whether you crave the bold, historic reds of the Barossa Valley, the elegant coastal whites of Margaret River, or the age-defying Semillons of the Hunter Valley, your palate will be heavily rewarded.

Start researching your favourite flavour profiles and mapping out your tasting routes. Reach out to local cellar doors to secure your spots for private tastings. Pack a healthy appetite, a curious mind, and get ready to taste the absolute best that Australia has to offer.

Imagine floating in the crystal-clear ocean as a gentle giant glides past you, or watching a tiny marsupial smile for your camera. Australia offers a wildlife landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. The continent broke away from other landmasses millions of years ago, allowing a deeply unique ecosystem of animals to evolve in isolation. For nature lovers and adventure-seeking travellers, visiting this massive country means stepping right into a living nature documentary.

You do not need to look hard to find amazing animals here. However, knowing exactly where to go turns a good trip into a life-changing expedition. Getting up close to these creatures in their natural habitats provides a powerful connection to the wild.

This guide highlights the absolute best wildlife encounters across Australia. You will learn everything you need to know about swimming with whale sharks in Western Australia, meeting the famous quokkas of Rottnest Island, and spotting koalas on Kangaroo Island. We also include essential tips to make sure your animal interactions remain safe, respectful, and unforgettable.

Ningaloo Reef: Swimming With Whale Sharks

The Great Barrier Reef usually steals the spotlight, but Western Australia holds a spectacular ocean secret. Ningaloo Reef stretches for 160 miles along the remote Coral Coast. Unlike most coral reefs, you can step straight off the beach and start snorkelling among vibrant marine life. The main attraction, however, arrives in the deeper water between March and August.

Why This Encounter Is Special
Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean. They can grow up to 40 feet long and feature a stunning pattern of white spots and stripes across their dark blue backs. Despite their massive size, these filter-feeding giants pose absolutely no threat to humans. They glide slowly near the surface, scooping up microscopic plankton and krill.

Swimming alongside a whale shark is a deeply humbling experience. When you drop into the water and wait for the shark to approach, your heart pounds with excitement. As the massive creature swims past, you can easily paddle alongside it. You get to observe its gills flexing and its massive tail sweeping through the bright blue water. It feels completely surreal to share the ocean with such a magnificent, peaceful giant.

Tips for Visitors
Book your tour well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak months of April and May. Tours operate out of the coastal towns of Exmouth and Coral Bay. Choose an eco-certified tour operator. These companies follow strict guidelines to ensure the boats and swimmers do not stress or crowd the animals.
You need basic swimming skills to enjoy this encounter. The tour guides will provide wetsuits, fins, and snorkels. When you are in the water, you must maintain a safe distance of at least 10 feet from the shark’s head and body, and 13 feet from its tail. Never try to touch the whale shark. Simply float, watch, and let the animal dictate the pace of the encounter.

Rottnest Island: Meeting the Happy Quokka

Just a short ferry ride off the coast of Perth lies Rottnest Island. This car-free island paradise features white sand beaches, hidden coves, and a fascinating history. However, the island is most famous for its permanent residents: the quokkas.

Why This Encounter Is Special
Quokkas are small, fluffy marsupials about the size of a domestic cat. They belong to the same family as kangaroos and wallabies. What makes the quokka truly famous is the natural shape of its mouth. The upward curve of their lips makes them look like they are constantly smiling. People often call them the happiest animals on Earth.
Unlike many wild animals, quokkas display very little fear of humans. They are incredibly curious and will often hop right up to visitors sitting on the grass or walking along the pathways. Getting a photo with a smiling quokka has become a rite of passage for travellers in Western Australia. Watching them nibble on native leaves or carry their tiny babies (joeys) in their pouches brings pure joy to anyone who visits.

Tips for Visitors
The best time to see quokkas active and foraging is during the early morning or late afternoon. During the heat of the midday sun, they usually sleep under the shade of thick bushes. Rent a bicycle to explore the island, as this gives you the freedom to find quieter areas where quokkas roam freely without large crowds.

You must remember that quokkas are wild animals, despite their friendly appearance. It is illegal to touch, pet, or feed them. Human food can make them extremely sick, and feeding them alters their natural foraging habits. To get a great photo, simply sit quietly on the ground and wait for a quokka to approach you. Use a selfie stick or a wide-angle lens to capture the famous smile without getting too close to their faces.

Kangaroo Island: Spotting Koalas in the Wild

South Australia features a rugged, spectacular sanctuary known as Kangaroo Island. Located a short ferry ride from the mainland, this island serves as a refuge for some of the country’s most beloved native species. Over a third of the island is protected by nature reserves and national parks.

Why This Encounter Is Special
While you can see koalas in wildlife parks across the country, seeing them in the wild offers a much more authentic experience. Kangaroo Island boasts a massive, healthy population of wild koalas. Because the island lacks natural predators like dingoes, the koalas thrive in the dense eucalyptus forests.

Walking through the bushlands and scanning the treetops feels like a real-life treasure hunt. When you finally spot a koala wedged comfortably in the fork of a tree, it is a thrilling moment. You might catch them munching lazily on eucalyptus leaves or sleeping soundly, which they do for up to 20 hours a day. The peaceful nature of the island makes this an incredibly relaxing and rewarding wildlife encounter.

Tips for Visitors
Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Flinders Chase National Park are the absolute best spots on the island for koala viewing. Walk slowly and keep your eyes focused high up in the crooks of the trees. Look for grey, fuzzy lumps nestled against the bark.

Bring a pair of binoculars or a camera with a good zoom lens. Koalas usually sleep high up in the canopy, so getting a close-up view requires some optical help. Keep your voice down while walking through the forests. Loud noises can startle them and cause unnecessary stress. If you see a koala walking on the ground to change trees, give it plenty of space to pass safely.

Exploring the Daintree Rainforest: The Elusive Cassowary

Tropical North Queensland houses the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest continuously surviving tropical rainforest in the world. Hidden deep within this lush green jungle lives one of the most fascinating and prehistoric-looking birds on the planet: the Southern Cassowary.

Why This Encounter Is Special
The cassowary looks like a living dinosaur. It stands nearly six feet tall, features bright blue neck skin, dangling red wattles, and a hard helmet-like crest on its head. These flightless birds play a crucial role in the rainforest ecosystem by eating large fruits and spreading the seeds across the jungle floor. Seeing a wild cassowary is a rare and breathtaking event. They move silently through the dense foliage, their dark feathers blending into the shadows. When one steps out onto a walking track or a quiet rainforest road, you immediately sense the raw, ancient power of nature.

Tips for Visitors
Cassowaries are highly territorial and possess powerful legs with sharp claws. You must treat them with extreme caution and respect. Never approach a cassowary or attempt to feed it. If you encounter one on a walking trail, stop immediately, slowly back away, and give the bird a wide berth to pass. Keep your camera ready, but prioritise your safety and the bird’s comfort above getting the perfect shot.

Plan Your Australian Wildlife Adventure

Australia provides endless opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you are holding your breath as a whale shark glides by, smiling back at a quokka, or searching the treetops for sleeping koalas, these encounters will stay with you forever.

To make the most of your trip, always prioritise respectful and responsible wildlife tourism. Choose ethical tour operators, give animals their space, and never feed wild creatures. Start outlining your itinerary, pack your camera and binoculars, and get ready to experience the wild, untamed beauty of Australia firsthand. Your next great adventure is waiting.

Australia might be famous for its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and unique wildlife, but a dark shadow lingers just beneath the surface. Beneath the cheerful tourism brochures lies a brutal pioneer history filled with convict settlements, harsh frontier justice, and tragic tales. This dark past left behind a heavy imprint, creating some of the most active paranormal hotspots in the world.

If you crave the thrill of a cold chill running down your spine or the sudden flicker of a lantern in an empty hallway, you are in the right place. Ghost hunters and dark tourism enthusiasts travel from across the globe to explore these terrifying sites. We have gathered the ultimate guide to the best haunted towns and places to visit across Australia.
Prepare to explore abandoned asylums, terrifying prisons, and cursed homesteads. Here is everything you need to know about Australia’s spookiest destinations and the restless spirits that still call them home.

Port Arthur, Tasmania: The Cursed Convict Settlement

Images from TripAdvisor

Nestled on the rugged Tasman Peninsula, Port Arthur is arguably the most haunted location in the entire country. Operating as a timber station in 1830, it quickly transformed into a brutal penal colony for the hardest British reoffenders. Over the decades, thousands of men and boys endured grueling labour, solitary confinement, and severe psychological torment.
More than 1,000 people died at Port Arthur during its operation. Today, the pristine green lawns and crumbling sandstone ruins hide a deeply unsettling energy. Visitors and staff regularly report bizarre occurrences, ranging from sudden drops in temperature to disembodied footsteps echoing through empty corridors.

The Separate Prison, designed to break the spirits of inmates through total isolation and silence, remains the most terrifying spot on the grounds. People frequently claim to hear heavy breathing or the rattling of chains in the dark cells. To get the full experience, you must join the famous lantern-lit Port Arthur Ghost Tour. Guides will take you through the darkest corners of the settlement, sharing documented stories of phantom children, glowing apparitions, and the tragic souls unable to escape their island prison.

Monte Cristo Homestead, New South Wales: Australia’s Most Haunted House

Image from The Little House of Horrors

If you travel to the quiet town of Junee in New South Wales, you will find a beautifully restored Victorian manor resting on a hill. Built in 1885 by wealthy landowner Christopher William Crawley, the Monte Cristo Homestead looks like a picture-perfect historic home. However, its walls hold a horrifying history of untimely deaths, tragic accidents, and murder.
The Crawley family experienced immense tragedy on the property. A young maid fell to her death from the second-story balcony, reportedly pushed by a dark force. A stable boy burned to death in his bed. A mentally disabled man was chained in the caretaker’s cottage for decades. Even the original lady of the house, Mrs. Crawley, reportedly never left the property after her husband died, and her spirit fiercely protects the home to this day.

Current owners and visitors report overwhelming feelings of nausea upon entering certain rooms. People feel invisible hands touching their shoulders or pushing them on the staircase. Some guests capture strange orbs and shadowy figures in their photographs. For the brave, the homestead operates as an antique museum and bed-and-breakfast. You can actually spend the night in the house, assuming you can manage to fall asleep while phantom footsteps pace the hallways outside your door.

Old Melbourne Gaol, Victoria: The Hangman’s Playground

Images sourced from the Old Melbourne Gaol

Right in the heart of modern Melbourne stands a grim reminder of the city’s harsh judicial past. The Old Melbourne Gaol operated from 1842 to 1929, housing some of Australia’s most notorious criminals. The bluestone walls held murderers, thieves, and mentally ill citizens in freezing, miserable conditions.

The gaol executed 133 people by hanging, including Australia’s most infamous bushranger, Ned Kelly. When you walk through the cell blocks today, the heavy atmosphere immediately hits you. The museum proudly displays the eerie death masks of executed prisoners, created as part of the pseudoscience of phrenology. These plaster casts capture the final expressions of the dead, adding a deeply unsettling vibe to the exhibits.
Paranormal investigators consider the gaol a massive hotspot for activity. Visitors frequently report cold spots, sudden feelings of dread, and the overwhelming sensation of being watched. Women visiting the gaol often report feeling unseen hands grabbing at their clothes, a phenomenon attributed to the angry spirits of male inmates. You can take a night tour called “Ghosts, What Ghosts?” or participate in an immersive experience where you get arrested and locked in the pitch-black cells.

Aradale Mental Asylum, Victoria: A Legacy of Pain

Image from Eerie Tours

Perched on a hill in Ararat, Victoria, the sprawling Aradale Mental Asylum looks like a fortress. Opened in 1867, the facility operated as a psychiatric hospital for over 130 years. At its peak, it housed hundreds of patients, many of whom suffered horrifying treatments common in early psychiatry, including electroshock therapy and lobotomies.

Over 13,000 people passed away within the walls of Aradale before it finally closed its doors in 1993. With so much pain, confusion, and suffering concentrated in one place, it is no surprise that the asylum is completely overrun with paranormal activity. J Ward, the section dedicated to the criminally insane, is particularly terrifying.

Ghost tours take you through the abandoned wards, the eerie morgue, and the terrifying solitary confinement cells. People hear scratching on the walls, strange banging sounds, and the distant wails of former patients. Some visitors have even reported severe phantom pains or inexplicable scratches appearing on their arms after walking through the men’s ward. It is a deeply sobering and frightening experience that demands respect for the lives lost there.

Picton, New South Wales: The Most Haunted Town

While individual buildings hold plenty of ghosts, the town of Picton claims the title of Australia’s most haunted town. Located just southwest of Sydney, this historic settlement is packed with paranormal locations. From haunted pubs to spooky maternity hospitals, the entire town crackles with strange energy.

The most famous location in Picton is the Redbank Range Tunnel, locally known as the Mushroom Tunnel. Built in the 1860s for the railway, the dark, damp tunnel stretches nearly 200 meters into the hillside. It became a popular shortcut for locals, which led to a devastating tragedy. In 1916, a woman named Emily Bollard walked through the tunnel at night and was struck and killed by an oncoming train.

Locals say Emily never left the tunnel. Visitors who walk into the darkness often see a woman in a flowing white dress drifting along the tracks. Some report sudden drops in temperature, while others hear the chilling sound of a train horn echoing in the empty tunnel. Beyond the tunnel, the Wollondilly Shire Hall and the Imperial Hotel also boast regular poltergeist activity, making Picton an essential stop for any ghost-hunting road trip.

Plan Your Spooky Adventure

Australia offers incredible opportunities for dark tourism and paranormal investigations. Whether you want to explore the convict horrors of Port Arthur, brave the haunted halls of the Monte Cristo Homestead, or walk the execution grounds of the Old Melbourne Gaol, these locations deliver guaranteed chills. Always remember to treat these historic sites with respect, as they represent real human history and profound tragedy.

Are you ready to grab your flashlight and experience the paranormal for yourself? Book a guided night tour, keep your camera ready, and prepare for the scare of a lifetime.

You’ve just picked up your new car. The paint is spotless, the interior still has that new-car feel, and the manufacturer’s warranty gives you extra confidence every time you turn the key.
Now comes the fun part: making it yours.
Maybe you’re planning weekend getaways with the caravan. Maybe you tow a boat, trailer, or horse float. Maybe you simply want your vehicle set up properly for the way you drive. You have a list of upgrades and personalisations in mind, but one question keeps coming up:
Will this affect my new car warranty?
It’s a fair concern. A new vehicle is a major investment, and no one wants to make a change that could create problems later. The good news is that some upgrades are designed to work with your vehicle, not against it.
That’s where Clearview towing mirrors come in.

The New Car Upgrade Dilemma
Many new car owners want to personalise their vehicle soon after purchase. It makes sense. Your car should suit your lifestyle, your travel plans, and your daily needs.
But when your vehicle is still under warranty, it’s natural to be cautious. You may wonder:

• Will this upgrade interfere with factory systems?
• Will it require wiring changes?
• Could it cause issues if I need to make a warranty claim?
• Is it worth waiting until the warranty period ends?

These concerns often lead people to delay upgrades they genuinely need, especially when it comes to towing. But if you tow regularly, clear rear vision is not a “nice to have.” It’s essential for safer, easier driving.

Why Towing Mirrors Are Important
Standard factory mirrors are designed for everyday driving. They’re great for commuting, school runs, and general road use. But when you hitch up a caravan, trailer, or larger load, your rear vision can be limited.
Proper towing mirrors help you:

• See more clearly down the sides of what you’re towing
• Change lanes with more confidence
• Reverse and maneuver with better awareness
• Reduce blind spots
• Create a more comfortable towing experience

For new vehicle owners, the ideal solution is an upgrade that improves function without creating unnecessary risk.

Clearview Towing Mirrors Are Designed for Peace of Mind
Clearview towing mirrors are a practical choice for drivers who want a serious towing upgrade while protecting the value and integrity of their new vehicle.
They are designed as a plug and play solution, meaning they connect to your vehicle without the need for unnecessary modifications such as drilling holes or wiring changes when installed correctly. This makes them a smart option for new car owners who want added capability without compromising their manufacturer’s warranty.
In simple terms, Clearview towing mirrors are made to work with your vehicle’s existing setup.
That means you can enjoy the benefits of purpose-built towing mirrors while keeping your warranty confidence intact.

No Warranty Worries When Installed Correctly
Clearview towing mirrors are made to be compatible with your vehicle and do not require the kind of invasive changes that can make owners nervous.
That makes them a low-risk, high-value upgrade for new car owners who want to tow with greater visibility and control.
For the best result, always make sure your mirrors are installed according to the supplied installation instructions for your vehicle.

A Smarter Way to Personalise Your New Vehicle
Personalising a new car should feel exciting, not stressful. The right accessories can make your vehicle more practical, more comfortable, and better suited to your lifestyle.

With Clearview, you get:

• A purpose-built towing solution
• Plug and play convenience
• A clean, vehicle-friendly installation
• Better visibility when towing
• Confidence for new car owners
• No impact on your manufacturer’s warranty when installed correctly
• It’s an upgrade that makes sense from day one.

Built for Drivers Who Tow
Whether you’re towing a caravan for family holidays, hauling a work trailer, or heading away with the boat, Clearview towing mirrors are built to make the job easier.
They’re designed for real towing conditions and everyday practicality. When you’re not towing, they still function as reliable mirrors for normal driving. When it’s time to hitch up, they give you the extra vision you need.
That combination makes them one of the most useful upgrades you can make to a new vehicle.

Upgrade With Confidence
Your new car warranty is there to protect your investment. Choosing the right accessories helps you enjoy your vehicle without putting that protection at risk.
Clearview towing mirrors give new car owners a simple, practical, and warranty-safe way to upgrade their vehicle for towing. With plug and play design and correct installation, you can personalise your vehicle with confidence.
So if you’ve just bought a new car and you’re ready to make it tow-ready, Clearview makes the decision easy.
Protect your warranty. Improve your visibility. Tow with confidence.

Imagine standing on a dark beach, listening to the gentle crash of waves against the shore. Suddenly, the water lights up in brilliant, electric neon blue. Every movement you make in the shallows sends sparks of light dancing around your ankles. This is not a scene from a science fiction movie. It is a very real, breathtaking natural phenomenon known as bioluminescence, or “sea sparkle.”
Australia boasts some of the most spectacular bioluminescent displays in the world. Witnessing the ocean glow under a blanket of stars is a truly magical experience that belongs on every traveller’s bucket list. Because these events rely on specific natural conditions, they remain a rare and highly sought-after prize for nature lovers and photographers alike.
This guide will uncover everything you need to know about chasing sea sparkle. We will explore the fascinating science behind the glow, highlight the best locations across Australia to witness it, and share practical tips to maximise your chances of seeing this elusive ocean light show.

The Science Behind the Sea Sparkle
The brilliant blue glow you see in the water comes from microscopic organisms. In Australia, the most common culprit is a type of microalgae called Noctiluca scintillans. These tiny single-celled organisms drift in the ocean currents, forming massive blooms when conditions are just right.
The glow itself is the result of a chemical reaction. When the microalgae experience physical disturbance, they emit a flash of light. A breaking wave, a splashing swimmer, or even the movement of a boat hull can trigger this reaction. Scientists believe this bioluminescence acts as a defense mechanism. The sudden flash of light startles predators and draws attention to larger creatures that might eat those predators.
During the day, a massive bloom of these microalgae looks very different. The water often takes on a murky pink or reddish-brown hue. You might hear locals refer to this daytime phenomenon as a “red tide.” Spotting a red tide during the day is one of the best indicators that the water will glow that same evening. Once the sun goes down, that murky red water transforms into a brilliant, glowing playground.
Best Places to See Bioluminescence in Australia
While bioluminescence can technically happen anywhere along the coast, certain areas experience the phenomenon much more frequently. The south-eastern coast of Australia is particularly famous for its spectacular sea sparkle. Here are the top hotspots to add to your travel itinerary.

Jervis Bay, New South Wales
Jervis Bay is arguably the most famous destination for bioluminescence in Australia. Located just a few hours south of Sydney, this coastal paradise is already renowned for having some of the whitest sand in the world. When the sea sparkle arrives, the contrast between the dark sand and the neon blue water is simply stunning.
Blooms here are known for their intensity and regularity. Local photographers and nature enthusiasts closely monitor the water conditions, making it easier to track potential sightings. Keep a close eye on Callala Bay, Barfleur Beach, and the famous Hyams Beach. These calm, sheltered stretches of coastline often trap the nutrient-rich water, creating the perfect environment for the microalgae to thrive and multiply.
The Derwent Estuary, Tasmania
Tasmania offers some of the most dramatic and consistent bioluminescence sightings in the country. The pristine waters around Hobart frequently host massive blooms of Noctiluca scintillans. The dark, unpolluted skies of Tasmania provide the ultimate backdrop, making the bright blue ocean appear even more vibrant.
The Derwent Estuary is a major hotspot. Locals regularly report incredible displays at Lauderdale Beach and Sandy Bay. Because Tasmania has a cooler climate, the contrast of the crisp night air and the electric ocean creates an unforgettable sensory experience. The island state has even spawned dedicated social media communities where locals share real-time alerts whenever the red tide rolls into the bay.
Port Phillip Bay, Victoria
You do not always need to travel to remote locations to witness sea sparkle. Victoria’s Port Phillip Bay frequently lights up, offering spectacular displays right on Melbourne’s doorstep. It provides a striking contrast to see the natural neon glow of the water against the backdrop of the city lights.
St Kilda Beach is one of the most popular spots for sightings. The calm waters of the bay provide a safe harbor for the microalgae. During a massive bloom, you can walk along the pier and watch the waves glow as they gently lap against the pylons. Other quiet coves along the Mornington Peninsula also offer excellent viewing opportunities away from the bright city lights.
Rare Sightings Beyond the East Coast
While the south-eastern states claim the vast majority of sightings, sea sparkle does make surprise appearances elsewhere. Lucky beachgoers have reported rare sightings along the coasts of South Australia and even Western Australia. Because these events are so heavily dependent on weather, currents, and nutrient levels, you should always keep an eye on the water, no matter where you travel along the Australian coastline.
How to Maximise Your Chances
Bioluminescence is notoriously unpredictable. You cannot simply book a tour for a guaranteed sighting. However, understanding the environmental factors that trigger a bloom will significantly increase your chances of witnessing the magic.
Hunt for the Red Tide
Your best chance of seeing bioluminescence starts during the day. If you are visiting a coastal hotspot, look at the water. If you notice thick, pinkish-red patches floating near the shore, you have likely found a massive algae bloom. Take note of the location and return to that exact spot a few hours after sunset.
Monitor the Weather Conditions
Weather plays a massive role in creating the perfect environment for sea sparkle. The microalgae thrive in warmer, nutrient-rich water. Many of the most spectacular blooms occur shortly after heavy rainfall. The rain washes vital nutrients from the land into the ocean, feeding the algae and causing their population to explode.
Calm conditions are also ideal. While you need some disturbance to trigger the glow, massive storms and rough seas will quickly disperse the bloom. Look for still, warm nights following a period of rain. Furthermore, try to plan your viewing during a new moon. The darker the sky, the brighter the bioluminescence will appear to your eyes.
Interact Gently with the Water
Once you find a glowing beach, you need to agitate the water to see the lights. Walking along the wet sand at the water’s edge will leave glowing footprints behind you. Tossing a handful of sand or a small pebble into the shallows will result in a brilliant splash of neon blue.
If the water is calm and safe, wading into the shallows is an incredible experience. Every movement of your arms and legs will create swirling clouds of light. Always prioritise safety, check local conditions, and never swim at unpatrolled beaches in the dark, especially if you are not familiar with the area.
Plan Your Glowing Adventure
Seeing bioluminescence in Australia is a reminder of how wild, unpredictable, and entirely enchanting nature can be. It requires patience, a bit of luck, and a willingness to explore the coastline after dark.
Whether you are planning a road trip down the New South Wales coast, exploring the rugged beauty of Tasmania, or enjoying the bayside beaches of Victoria, keep an eye out for the telltale signs of sea sparkle. Start tracking local alert groups, watch the weather patterns, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable night under the stars. The elusive ocean light show is waiting for you!

Further reading:

1. Where to see the best bioluminescence in Australia – Australian Traveller
   
2. Where to find bioluminescent beaches in Australia – Vacations & Travel
   
3. Bioluminescence in Jervis Bay – Jervis Bay Wild
   
4. I’ve chased bioluminescence around Australia, this place is No.1 – Escape
   
5. Sea Sparkle | A Night of Bioluminescent Magic – Roeselien Raimond
   

When you tow a caravan, boat, or trailer, your vehicle kicks up a storm of rocks, mud, and road debris. Without the right protection, this barrage can severely damage your expensive towable and your vehicle’s paintwork. A high-quality set of mudflaps is your first line of defence. In this Mudflap Buyer’s Guide, we will walk you through exactly what to look for when choosing mudflaps for towing. We will help you find a solution that keeps your assets safe, looking great, and ready for your next adventure.
Why You Need Mudflaps for Towing
Towing changes the dynamic of your vehicle. The tyres take on more load and grip, launching debris directly at whatever you are pulling. Standard factory mudflaps are rarely enough to stop this high-speed gravel.
Proper towing mudflaps provide crucial benefits:
1. Protect your investment: Stop rocks from chipping the paint and panels on your trailer or caravan.
2. Save money on repairs: Prevent costly damage to vulnerable parts like trailer wiring, exposed pipes, and front windows.
3. Keep your setup clean: Reduce the amount of mud and road grime that coats your trailer during a long trip.
4. Protect other drivers: Keep the roads safer by minimising the debris you throw at vehicles behind you.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Mudflaps
Not all mudflaps are built the same. To get the best protection while towing, keep these four essential factors in mind before making a purchase.
1. Material and Durability
Towing requires heavy-duty materials. Look for thick, high-quality rubber or reinforced polymers. The material must withstand cold temperatures without cracking and resist fading under harsh sun exposure. Thick rubber also prevents the flap from sailing up at highway speeds, ensuring it stays in place to block flying debris.
2. Size and Coverage
Size matters when you tow. The mudflap needs to be wide enough to cover the entire width of your tyre. It also needs to hang low enough to block the trajectory of rocks heading toward your trailer. However, you must make sure they do not drag on the ground when your vehicle is fully loaded.
3. Compatibility with Your Towing Setup
Your mudflaps must work with your specific hitch and vehicle. Some systems attach directly to the vehicle body, while others mount to the tow ball mount or hitch receiver. A hitch-mounted system is often ideal because you can easily remove it when you are not towing.
4. Ease of Installation
Nobody wants to spend hours drilling into their vehicle frame. Look for systems that offer a straightforward, bolt-on installation. Adjustable systems are a massive bonus, allowing you to fine-tune the fit to your exact vehicle and towing setup without special tools.

Rock Tamers: The Premium Mudflap System for Towing
If you want the ultimate protection for your caravan or boat, standard mudflaps just will not cut it. That is where Rock Tamers come in. As a premium, adjustable mudflap system, Rock Tamers provide unmatched defence for everything you tow.
Why Rock Tamers stand out as the top choice for serious towers:
1. Fully adjustable design: You can change the width, height, and angle to perfectly fit your specific vehicle and load.
2. Heavy-duty construction: Built with forged aluminium hubs and thick, tear-resistant rubber flaps that will not flap in the wind.
3. Hitch-mounted convenience: The system slides right onto your hitch. You can easily remove the entire setup when you leave the trailer at home.
4. Maximum coverage: Designed specifically to stop high-speed debris from destroying your expensive trailer, boat, or caravan.

Ready to Upgrade Your Towing Setup?
Do not wait until a stray rock shatters your vehicle or caravan window or ruins your paint job. Equipping your vehicle with the right mudflaps gives you peace of mind on every single journey.
Explore the Rock Tamers Mudflap System today to give your assets the premium protection they deserve. While you are here, browse all our Buyer’s Guides at the Clearview Accessories Towing Hub to make your next trip safer and more enjoyable.