Drive TV Series 8 Episode 6: Subaru Forester

02/03/2025 12:00 AM

Introduction: Welcome to the Riverina Region with the Subaru Forester

Do you remember on episode six of this season of Drive TV, I took you through New South Wales's Gold Rush region in the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro?

Well, this week, I'm going to an area connected to that, the area that fed and watered those miners in search of their fortune – and I'm doing it in a car designed for family adventures, the Subaru Forester. 

All variants of the Subaru Forester include dual-zone climate control, powered and heated front seats, a powered tailgate, roof rails, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assist functions.

One of my favourite things about the Forester – all Subarus actually – is that they remained distinctly traditional in the interior; there are no fancy touchscreens or minimalist cabins here, and I appreciate that.

The interior space is generous, and the sunroof in this spec makes it feel extra roomy. And with 498 litres of boot space, there's certainly enough room to pack generously. If you're a snow bunny or surfer, there's room for equipment. 

Skis and surfboards won't make an appearance on this trip. But for the sporting fans amongst you, fear not! The first stop is a little rural town that has been put on the map thanks to the unusually high number of talented cricketers it produced.

Cootamundra

Cootamundra itself is not a particularly big town; it's about an hour outside of Wagga Wagga and two hours outside of Canberra, and is home to 11,000 residents.

Dotted with cute boutique shops and cafes that wouldn't be out of place in a big city, this little regional hub is quite a vibrant place, and if you find yourself here, one spot you mustn't miss is the Captain's Walk – a short walk where you can see the bronze busts of 42 Australian cricket captains. The bust of Sir Donald Bradman, who was born in the town, takes centre stage, of course. 

Kimo Estate

After a leisurely morning in Cootamundra, it's time to hop into the Forester and get to my accommodation for the night – an incredibly tranquil eco-retreat not far out of Gundagai. 

In the heart of the Riverina, set along the Murrumbidgee River is the Kimo Estate, a working 7000-acre farm that also offers luxury accommodation in the form of old working houses and tasteful glass chalets – all set far enough apart from each other that you wouldn't know another soul is around. 

Totally off-grid and with a 360-degree view overlooking the entire valley, I spoke with David Ferguson, director of the Estate, who told me all about what's in store for the Kimo Estate in the near future – and without giving anything away, there is a lot coming up. 

Monte Cristo Homestead

After a restful night at the Kimo Estate, it's with some trepidation that I head to my next stop – a homestead that has the reputation for being one of the most haunted houses in the world. Gulp. 

The Monte Cristo Estate is just outside the picturesque town of Junee, which is 45 minutes from Gundagai or another half an hour from the regional city of Wagga Wagga. 

Here at this impressive manor, I'm meeting with current caretaker Lawrence Ryan, whose parents bought the property in the 1960s.

From mysterious noises to moving items to unexplained objects in photographs, Lawrence and his wife Hayley, herself a claimed reincarnation of one of the previous maids who worked on the property, talk me through Monte Christo's dark history and what guests might expect during a visit today. I have to admit, I'm glad I'm not staying the night!

Farewell to the Subaru Forester

It's been another fascinating trip through regional New South Wales, which feels a world away from the bustling coastline towns and cities.

The Subaru Forester was a fantastic vehicle to make this trip in: I've travelled 430km from home, so having a comfortable, safe car that feels capable of varying road and weather conditions is essential. Another successful trip!

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