Canberra Convoy Drive

📅 Saturday, 11th April 2026

This year’s run to Canberra will take us through a scenic back road route, avoiding the main freeway. The drive time is approximately five hours.

We have planned stops for morning tea and a cafe lunch, making for a relaxed six-hour day in total. It is a good mix of driving and socialising, ensuring we all arrive in the capital together.

Note: We will regroup at key points to ensure the convoy stays together.

Time Until Departure

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Auto Italia 2026

Sunday 12 April • 10am – 2pm

Queanbeyan Park, Campbell St, Queanbeyan

Displaying your car at Auto Italia the next day? Make sure you buy your vehicle display ticket before the event — spectator entry is free!

Buy Display Ticket Event Website

START / REFRESHMENT

McDonald’s Heathcote

Address: 1268 Heathcote Road, Heathcote NSW 2233

Departure: 8:30 AM (Sharp)

Our meeting point to grab a coffee and use the bathroom before we head off. Please arrive with a full tank of fuel.

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Depart 8:30 AM — Approx 1 hour 40 mins — Arrive 10:10 AM

MORNING TEA

Robertson Pie Shop

Address: 4400 Illawarra Hwy, Robertson NSW 2577

Arrive: 10:10 AM | Depart: 10:40 AM (30 min stop)

An iconic Southern Highlands stop famous for its huge range of savoury and sweet fruit pies. It is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and grab a mid-morning snack.

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Depart 10:40 AM — Approx 1 hour 10 mins — Arrive 11:50 AM

LUNCH BREAK

Lazy George Cafe Marulan

Address: Shop 1/69-73 George St, Marulan NSW 2579

Arrive: 11:50 AM | Depart: 12:50 PM (1 hour stop)

A popular spot in Marulan offering a great range of cafe classics. Whether you want a burger, a melt, or a fresh salad, they have plenty of options to fuel us for the next leg.

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Depart 12:50 PM — Approx 1 hour 24 mins — Arrive 2:15 PM

REGROUP POINT

Mick Sherd Oval, Bungendore

Address: 14 Butmaroo St, Bungendore NSW 2621

Arrive: 2:15 PM | Depart: 2:45 PM (30 min stop)

This is a quick regroup point at the oval to ensure the convoy is together before the final drive into Canberra. There are public toilets available here if needed.

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Depart 2:45 PM — Final Leg (20-40 mins) — Arrive ~3:15 PM

Main Stay: East Hotel

Secure Your Room Now:
Even if you're not 100% sure yet, we recommend booking via Booking.com. You typically don't pay until a few days before, and cancellation is often free. Don't miss out on staying with the group!

Check Availability on Booking.com View Hotel Gallery (Official Site)

Alternative / Self-Select

If you prefer a different budget or location, or if the main hotel is full, you are welcome to arrange your own accommodation nearby.

Queanbeyan is a great nearby alternative with various motel options.

We will all meet up for the drive and dinner regardless of where you stay!

EVENING

Dinner — Antica Ricetta

Time: 6:00 PM

Address: Shops 13 & 14 M Centre, Palmerston Lane, Manuka ACT 2603

Phone: (02) 6295 2778

Authentic traditional Italian — pizza, pasta, vino and birra in the heart of Manuka. A short walk from the East Hotel so no one has to drive!

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À La Carte Menu Set Menu — $55

The restaurant is now fully booked. No further seats are available.

Unfortunately, Antica Ricetta has reached full capacity and we're unable to take any more dinner bookings. Apologies if you've missed out this time — we hope to see you at the next one.

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Are you joining us?

Please register so we know to expect you for the convoy, dinner, or both.