WHEN The Doctor and The Colonel are trying hard not to punch climate change deniers in the face during carbon tax debates, they're doing their bit to promote and protect the south-west.
This week, the dynamic duo were in their secret headquarters in the Fletcher Jones Silver Ball when a letter arrived requesting an interview with them about the attractions of Warrnambool.
This was their response.
What do you think is the most interesting aspect of Warrnambool's maritime heritage?
The Colonel: Most people would say the wreck of the Loch Ard and its fabulous peacock, which is one of the most finely crafted ceramic cocks in existence. But I would say its our rich whaling history, which is now sadly lost. Those were the good old days... when whale burgers were sold in every corner store.
The Doctor: I'm fascinated by the legend of the Mahogany Ship, a fabled wreck thought to be buried in the dunes a few kilometres west of Warrnambool. Many crackpot history buffs have hypothesised that it could be either a Portugeuse caravel, a Chinese junk, a Phoenician galleon, a pure gold pirate ship or the Loch Ness Monster.
In a word or two, how would you describe Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and/or the Shipwrecked show?
The Colonel: Flagstaff Hill is actually better than stepping back in time because it has less disease. Shipwrecked is great - it's got dramatic shipwrecks, sunken treasure, soggy romance... and I'm pretty sure I saw a dinosaur.
The Doctor: Flagstaff Hill is the place where they filmed part of Quigley Down Under, the best Tom Selleck movie ever made in Australia. Shipwrecked is not in 3D, but still 100 times better than Pirates Of The Caribbean 4.
What's the best thing about living in Warrnambool?
The Colonel: Our secret headquarters is in the Fletcher Jones Silver Ball, which is the largest silver ball in the southern hemisphere, according to my research. We also have beautiful beaches, ample camping grounds, and an adventure playground that will blow your child-like minds.
The Doctor: It's got more pubs than you can swing a uni student at.
Do you have any insiders' tips re: less obvious fun stuff a young overseas traveller might enjoy doing in your town?
The Colonel: The scenic, picturesque lookout called Cannon Hill is great because its the only place in Warrnambool where you can still legally fire a cannon in public... or so I'm led to believe.
The Doctor: The perfect night out in Warrnambool - start at the Flying Horse where they brew their own beer, then go to The Loft, the Hotel Warrnambool or the Seanchai and watch a live band, then try to squeeze through "The Gap" between the Ice-Creamery and Pins 'n' Play, then cure your hangover with a hamburger from Kermonds.
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