Questions 1

READING PASSAGE 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 1-14, which are based on Reading Passage 1 below.

Section 1 (Questions 1 - 3)

Morpeth Town

Morpeth is today a small town about two hours’ drive north of Sydney. The town of Morpeth grew from an original 2000 acres of land given to an English army officer, Lieutenant Edward Close (1790-1866), in 1821. [Crack IELTS with Rob] During the 1830s and 1840s Morpeth became a major river port, due to its favorable location. Produce, hides and timber were brought to Morpeth from inland New South Wales and shipped down the Hunter River to the coast and then to Sydney. However, in 1870 a railway line reached the town, and the importance of river shipping began to decline. Today, Morpeth, with its beautiful old buildings, is a popular tourist destination.

Section 2 (Questions 4 - 7)

Where to stay - Accommodation

Country Comfort Inn, Hunter Valley

The Country Comfort Inn, Hunter Valley, is a beautifully restored 125-year-old building just 20 minutes from the vineyards.

Formerly an orphanage, the Inn is set on 10 acres of landscaped gardens complete with a pool, sauna, tennis court, spa, gym, billiard room, guest lounge, fireplace, cocktail bar, and two restaurants. Special packages are available. [Crack IELTS with Rob]

New England Highway, Maitland.

Call toll-free 1800 065 064

or (049) 32 52 88

Siesta Motel

“Spend a night – not a fortune”

That’s the Budget Motel chain motto. [Crack IELTS with Rob] The Siesta Motel, rated 3-star, is conveniently placed at the gateway to tire winery district and nearby to the historic towns of Morpeth and Wollombi.

The family-owned and operated Siesta offers air-conditioned comfort and a friendly atmosphere. A free light breakfast is delivered to your suite and excellent meals are available at the Maitland City Bowling Club next door. Quality of accommodation is assured and the tariff is the lowest in the district.

258 New England Highway, Maitland.

Phone (049) 32 83 22

Endeavour East Maitland Motel

28 modern, comfortable 3-star units which open onto the swimming pool and barbeque area. All units feature TV and videos, air- conditioning, 2 with spas.

Fully licensed restaurant with cocktail bar and lounge is open 7 nights. Close to all amenities.

New England Highway, East Maitland.

Phone (049) 33 54 88

Eskdale Country Cottages

Rustic cottages secluded amongst gum trees provide quietness and privacy on 200 acres. The cottages are located on the historic beef cattle property, “Eskdale”, nestled in the Williams Valley. [Crack IELTS with Rob] Each cottage is completely self-contained having 2 bedrooms, full kitchen facilities, and sitting rooms with TV and video and offers comfortable rural accommodation to those who enjoy the delights of the country yet still retain access to the city. Situated close to the towns of Morpeth, Maitland, Port Stephens & rainforests around Dungog.

Nelson Plains Road, Seaham NSW 2324.

Phone (049) 88 62 07, 88 62 09

Fax (049)88 62 09

Section 3 (Questions 8 - 14)

Description of the Morpeth Town

The best way to see Morpeth is to take the Morpeth Heritage Walk. This covers about three kilometres and takes visitors past many beautiful historical buildings. Starting at Fig Tree Hill, which has picnic facilities, stroll past the Surgeon’s Cottage, built in 1845, formerly home of the local doctor, now shops. From there you will come to Morpeth Bridge, erected in 1870, which replaced a ferry boat. Opposite it on the right is the Courthouse, still in use today. Continue your walk past the historic Railway Station, then turn into George Street. Stroll past gracious houses until you come to the Church of the Immaculate Conception on your right, built of bricks made in Gosford. [Crack IELTS with Rob] Continuing up George Street, you come to the shopping district; browse through the shops or stop for refreshment. Your tour of Morpeth will finish at magnificent Closebourne House, built in 1826 by Lieutenant Edward Close.