Rediscovering SA by road

Posted 5 January, 2021 Tim Mason

From a dolphin safari in the waters off Kangaroo Island to meeting culinary royalty Maggie Beer in the Barossa, FIVEaa’s David Penberthy and Will Goodings packed plenty into their 5-day ultimate road trip with RAA.   After broadcasting from a different South Australian town each morning, the Breakfast presenters explored SA’s regions and discovered the places and people that make our state so special. We chatted to the duo about the highlights of their trip and what song is number one on their road trip playlist.  

What was your favourite experience on our ultimate road trip?

Will: There were so many highlights but being able to see the regions that were affected by bushfires last year – the Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island – get back on their feet, was fantastic. Locals in SA’s regions are so easy-going, knowledgeable and welcoming, and adversity has only made those qualities stronger. The KI Ocean Safari was a highlight. It only took around 60 seconds from setting off on the boat before we were surrounded by dolphins.

Was there an experience or region you felt was a hidden gem or exceeded your expectations?

David: The hidden gem for me was Clare. It really isn’t that far from Adelaide but is often overlooked by holiday-goers. I have no idea why – it was incredible. Not just for the delicious food and wine that the Clare Valley is known for, but also the history of the region and the delightful locals.  

Did you learn anything new about cars, motoring, or road tripping from our road trip expert, Mark Borlace?

Will: My main takeaway from Mark’s expert advice was not to take the obvious for granted. It is so important that motorists make sure they have everything in order before the set off on a road trip, even things they wouldn’t think to check or take for granted. Making sure everything is in working order, checking the tyres, packing plenty of water and supplies can all be forgotten in the commotion of setting off.

What’s your favourite SA road trip destination?

David: Kangaroo Island. A place which I have discovered is great for all fits – families, couples…everyone! There is so much to see on KI. Will: I love the South East – the region has absolutely everything. Amazing beaches in towns like Robe and Kingston SE, the history of Naracoorte and the delicious food and wine of the Coonawarra.  

What’s your number one song for a road trip playlist?

David: There are too many to name – but I was rocking to punk bands like the Cosmic Psychos and the Angry Samoans on our recent trip.  A tip for everyone… make sure you prepare for no CD players in modern cars – I have been caught out before! Will: I love listening to the boss, Bruce Springsteen on road trips. Classic songs like Thunder Road sound like they were written to be belted out on long country drives.

What advice would you give anyone planning their own ultimate road trip?

David: Make sure you speak to locals and take time to explore and uncover hidden gems in a region. There is so much to see and do in South Australia that there is no way to fit it all in on one trip – so make the most of your time! Listen to David and Will from 6am-9am weekdays on FIVEaa, back from 18 January.