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AN INTRODUCTION TO AUSTRALIA Make new friends, look for work and start your Australian adventure with OzIntro As first weeks in Australia go, the one you can have with OzIntro is pretty amazing. If you arrive a little bit clueless (although you shouldn’t if you’re reading this), they’ll help get you started. They’ll provide you with seven nights accommodation in Sydney, an Aussie SIM card, an Australian bank account, a Tax File Number, a Medicare Card, and a jobs board to apply for work. Even before you leave your home country, they can help you apply for your visa and get a great deal on travel insurance, and they’ll pick you up from the airport after you land in Sydney – now that’s first class service. With all of the essentials taken care of, it’s time to enjoy yourself. OzIntro have an entire week planned of fun and games for you and your new friends. With your OzIntro group, you’ll get to enjoy experiences such as jet boating on Sydney Harbour, learning to surf, a pub crawl, a visit to the Sydney Aquarium, a trip to the Blue Mountains, and a BBQ on Bondi Beach. When the week is over, you’ll get to enjoy one last feast with a farewell dinner up Sydney Tower – but this doesn’t mean it has to be goodbye. After you’ve spent the
week bonding with this amazing group of people, why not continue your travels and see the rest of Australia together? You could even hop over to Thailand or Bali with OzIntro’s sisters, ThaIntro and Balintro. The help that OzIntro provides lasts long after the week over. You get access to the job network for 12 months so you can find work wherever you may be in Australia – a great way to find regional work. They’ll also give you loads of information on where you could travel to next in Australia with great deals and discounts. OzIntro is perfect if you’re travelling to Australia on your own. Whether on a Working Holiday, gap year or just a holiday, OzIntro offer everything you could possibly need for a great start Down Under.
Best of all? It costs just £399. Book your intro to Oz at www.ozintro.com
FESTIVALS DOWN UNDER Photo by Stawberry Fields
RETURN TO RIO
The ultimate weekend away will return to Wisemans Ferry, New South Wales featuring Carl Cox & Eric Powell’s Mobile Disco (10 hour set), De La Soul (Live), DJ EZ, Super Flu, Mr C, LTJ Bukem, Atish, YokoO & more TBA. Tickets cost $220 and camping is just $60 for all three nights. 11th – 13th November 2016, Del Rio, Riverside Resort, Wisemans Ferry, NSW facebook.com/ReturnToRio
FALLS FESTIVAL
70 acts including Bands, DJs and comedians from throughout Australia accompanying 20 international acts. There’s free camping, great atmosphere and a variety of activities and entertainment across a few days. 28th Dec - 1st Jan - Lorne, VIC 29th Dec - 1st Jan - Marion Bay, TAS 31st Dec - 3rd Jan - Byron Bay, NSW www.fallsfestival.com
LISTEN OUT FESTIVAL
Anderson. Paak, Stormzy, Asap Ferg and many,
many more combining to make Australia’s biggest and best touring festival a must.= 24th Sept Melbourne www.listenout.com.au
MEREDITH MUSIC FESTIVAL
In their own words, Meredith Music festival “Music, nature, nonsense, humanity at its most wonderful, wild times, excursions, incursions, retrospections, a retreat.” 11th - 13th Dec, Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre, VIC mmf.com.au
STRAWBERRY FIELDS
A celebration of art, music and all things creative over three days in November. A few hours outside of Melbourne, Australia is a diverse selection of both renowned and breakthrough electronic music from both Australia and overseas. 17th-20th Nov, VIC www.strawberry-fields.com.au
TOP 10 HIGHLIGHTS OF THE OFFICIAL HOME AND AWAY TOUR TO SUMMER BAY 1.Escape the city and head for the iconic Aussie
7.Write your name in the golden sand of
2.Get the lowdown from your expert Home and
8.You may even be lucky to see filming. Die-hard
3.Meet other Home and Away fans from around
9.Enjoy a bonus tour of Sydney’s magnificent
beach - Summer Bay!
Away tour guide on the filming, the actors, the gossip, the dramatic storylines and much, much more!
the world!
4.Learn about Home and Away, but also learn
lots about Sydney and the beautiful natural surrounding areas, take in views of national parks, coastal inlets and multi-million dollar real estate.
‘Summer Bay’.
fans will never forget the thrill of watching Home and Away being filmed and the possibility of being up close to their favourite actors.
coastline as you travel between Palm Beach and the world-famous Manly Beach.
10.At the end of the tour, check out Manly
5.See the famous outdoor filming locations
Beach and enjoy one of Sydney’s finest tourist destinations. Soak up the bars, the restaurants, the shopping, the beaches, the lifestyle, and to top it all off, you can take the ferry back to Sydney across the spectacular Sydney Harbour.
6.Soak up the Summer Bay lifestyle and re-
The Official Home and Away Tour to Summer Bay is your golden ticket to get closer to the drama of Home and Away. At $99pp, the tour departs from Sydney on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and lasts just under four hours.
including the Summer Bay Surf Club, Alf’s Bait Shop, the Pier/Diner and the iconic Summer Bay Lighthouse on the headland.
live your favourite scenes while you explore, photograph and discover the “home” of Home and Away - one of Australia’s finest beaches.
Book your tour to Summer Bay today at
officialhomeandawaytour.com.au
www.bbmlive.com
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SYDNEY
a unique view awaits The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a Sydney icon and a part of city life. Since 1932, it has been a symbol of Australia known the world over, and an important feature of the spectacular New Year’s Eve firework display. With its coathanger-like structure stretched across the beautiful natural harbour, Sydneysiders have driven it, walked it and sailed under it for years to travel between North Sydney and the CBD. With an arch length of 503 metres and the top of the arch at 134 metres above sea level, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is enormous, and chances are it will inadvertently appear in one or two of your holiday snaps – which isn’t a bad thing. Whether sparkling in the evening or clouded in fog on an early morning, the bridge is a marvel to look at any time of the day. If looking at the Sydney Harbour Bridge just isn’t enough and you want to get close enough to feel its smooth steel in your hands, you can climb it. BridgeClimb has been available since 1998, and it has become one of the top must-dos when visiting Sydney. With a range of climbs available throughout the day, including Twilight, Night, Dawn and Day, it’s an unforgettable feeling once you reach the top. Here’s 10 reasons why you should experience a Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb.
1. See Sydney From A Totally Different Perspective
You can’t get the same view of Sydney and beyond without sprouting wings, so get to the top and take in the views of the harbour, the CBD, the beaches and the surrounding region.
2. Face Your Fears
You know what they say: if you have a fear, face it head-on. So if you have a fear of heights, take it on with the BridgeClimb Sydney and be rewarded with spectacular views.
3. Strike A Pose
A holiday photo album isn’t complete without a snap of you on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Whatever your pose, make it something to remember!
4. Check Out That Sunset
Choose the Twilight climb and you can take in the beautiful sunset as the day comes to an end.
5. Tick It Off The Bucket List
BridgeClimb Sydney is one of the best things to do in Sydney and should be on most travellers’ bucket list!
6. Join The Celebrities
The likes of Eva Longoria, Kevin Spacey, Kit Harington and Usain Bolt have all climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and you can join the list!
7. Experience A Piece Of Australian History
When you embark on the climb, you don’t just get a view, but also a lesson in Australian history since the proposal of the bridge in 1815.
8. It involves 1,332 Steps
You climb 1,332 steps on the BridgeClimb, so it’s not only loads of fun, but also a bit of a workout.
9. It’s Romantic
If you’re in Sydney with your beloved, the views from the bridge are super romantic – which is why it’s so popular for popping the question!
10. It’s Fun!
In a group of 14, you can take on the bridge together, have a group photo to take home, and soak up the moment on the upper arch before making your way back down.
BOOKING ACCOMMODATION ONLINE Thanks to the digital revolution it’s now easier than ever to find a bed for a night, a week, six months or forever. However with so much choice, it can be a lot of effort. To save hours of scrolling through search engines, we’ve put together a collection of some of our favourite accommodation booking sites to get you going. Hostels, Hotels & Apartments
Most synonymous with the travelling backpacker, hostels are the number one go-to for short-term lodging for a number of reasons. To save time you may want to go directly to our very own bbmlive.com. We have a basic listing of some of our favourite hostels and accommodation around the country, however if you’re looking for an all-in-one viewing and booking option check out websites such as hostelbookers.com and hostelworld.com. For hotels wotif.com, booking.com are two of the best booking platforms for last minute or advance bookings. Also, keep an eye out for deals on undisclosed hotels at a discounted price, as you could bag a 4 or 5 star hotel for a fraction of the price. Moving onto apartments and a new trend that is sweeping the world, airbnb.com and homeaway. com are at the forefront of providing a booking service that creates a secure platform for yourself and homeowners to rent out your properties. The websites hold your deposit and rent until you and the flat owner have confirmed arrival and departure.
House Swap
If you’re looking for home comforts on the other side of the world but you’re worried about paying
rent or your mortgage while on your travels, you can swap your house for someone else’s. You don’t even have to swap at the same time. If a member of lovehomeswap.com stays in your house while you’re away, you can even earn points which can later be used to holiday in a house completely free. Other house swap websites include guardianhomeexchange.co.uk and aussiehouseswap.com.au.
Semi-Permanent Accommodation
For anyone looking to stay in one location for at least six months, whether to work solidly for the same employer or have a base for family and friends to visit, long-term accommodation is the logical choice. With many rental properties coming with a minimum sixmonth lease, you can have somewhere to call home while still experiencing the beauty of Australia.
House Shares
With accommodation eating a predominant chunk out of your wage, you’ll want to save as many cents and dollars as possible. FlatmateFinders.com.au lists hundreds of homes, as well as people that are also looking for a house share, based on your chosen city. The website is free to sign up to and contact 35 people but if you’re successful in your search, there is a finder’s fee. Those of you from the UK will be pleased to know Gumtree.com.au is here to help as well local sites such as au.easyroommate.com, domain.com.au and furnishedproperty.com.au, who list fully furnished share accommodation, apartments and student digs.
Permanent
If you’re migrating permanently to Australia for work or family then you may well be looking for a home of your own. Whether you’re buying or looking for a long term rental there are two main websites in Australia that are worth a visit, as mentioned above domain. com.au is a great place to start and then you also have realestate.com.au. Both websites cover the entire country and most estate agents will have their properties listed.
MELBOURNE HOSTEL GUIDE These hostels will help you find your feet when you arrive in Melbourne.
Discovery Melbourne
Based in the bustling CBD, Discovery Melbourne is your introduction to the city. Surrounded by the street art, unique laneways, super cool bars and markets, this fun and friendly hostel makes the most of its supreme location and aims to show you the best bits of a city that is one of the most liveable in the world. Facilities include a beanbag cinema, rooftop and basement bars, free breakfast, laundry, kitchen and WIFI. There are also daily events to help you get to know your fellow guests. The rooms themselves offer a variety if you’re keen to mix with others or are more of a private person. From a double room at $90 per night to an eight-bed mixed dorm at $36 per night, and a 16bed dorm at $30 per night, there’s plenty of choice to suit all at great prices for such a location. 167 Franklin Street, Melbourne www.discoverymelbourne.com
United Backpackers
Whether you come to Melbourne for work or play, United Backpackers Melbourne can help you out. Soft pillows after a hard day’s exploring, a sparkling kitchen and dining area, awesome TV room, amazing basement bar, great staff and an atmosphere to match, this hostel oozes the cool culture Melbourne is made of. Rooms to choose from include mixed and female-only dorms, twin and triple rooms, and with or without ensuite. 250 Flinders Street, Melbourne www.unitedbackpackers.com.au
Habitat
Away from the hustle and bustle of the inner city, Habitat sits in the heart of the Melbourne seaside district, St Kilda. This laidback accommodation is Melbourne’s first carbon neutral hostel, so your stay will be completely guilt free but still enjoyable, with free WIFI, free breakfast, open mic nights, bar crawls, BBQs, walking tours and more. There are shared dorms and private motel style rooms to suit everyone. 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda www.habitathq.com.au
THE ULTIMATE DAY TRIP SKYRAIL RAINFOREST CABLEWAY
Go above and beyond the tropical rainforest of Barron Gorge National Park on Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Located in Cairns, North Queensland, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway provides one of the greatest journeys in Australia. A unique experience, travel 7.5km in a gondola just metres above the canopy for spectacular views as far as the Coral Sea and Cairns Highlands. Not only do you glide over rivers and rainforest, you also make two stops at mid-stations to stretch your legs and explore. A Skyrail Ranger meets you at Red Peak Station for a guided boardwalk tour of the ancient tropical rainforest, where they share their knowledge of the giant buttress roots, towering Kauri Pines, climbing wait-a-while palms and other flora and fauna that surround you in this fascinating ecosystem. After your tour, make sure you take the time to absorb the beauty and atmosphere of the rainforest before re-boarding Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to Barron Falls Station. A Djabugay Aboriginal Guided Tour takes place at Barron Falls Station. Departing from the Rainforest Interpretation Centre that was
created by Skyrail alongside CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation), you are invited to learn about the Aboriginal history, language, culture, stories and traditions of the indigenous rainforest people in a small group tour on a natural rainforest trail. From Barron Falls Station, there are also walkways to three separate lookouts for further breath-taking views of Barron Gorge and Falls, at their most spectacular during the wet season from December to March. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is located just 15 minutes from Cairns city centre and 50 minutes from Port Douglas, and is open every day except Christmas Day and during scheduled maintenance. It is award winning for its excellence in sustainable tourism, and accessible for all ages and abilities, making it the best and most beautiful rainforest experience in the world.
For tour packages and prices, visit skyrail.com.au
CRUISE AROUND THE WHITSUNDAYS Spend a day cruising around one of the most pristine areas on Earth as you take to the water with Ocean Rafting. Offering day tours where you’ll encounter the top three destinations of the Whitsunday Islands; the pristine Whitehaven Beach, the stunning reefs and the Whitsunday Island National Parks - a day tour with Ocean Rafting will also take you to the iconic Hill Inlet beach on their Whitehaven Beach tours as well as extra special snorkel sites at Hook Island and Border Island to ensure a memorable underwater experience. Ocean Rafting provide two Whitehaven Beach tours to choose from - the Northern Exposure Tour which offers lots of snorkelling time for the water babies amongst you, and the Southern Lights tour which offers more beach time for the beach babes! All tours depart from Abell Point Marina North which you’ll find next to Sorrento Restaurant & Bar in Airlie Beach. Tours start from $149 per person. Book your Ocean Rafting adventure now at www.oceanrafting.com.au
A TROPICAL ADVENTURE The Daintree Rainforest is a mesh of jungle that spills onto the sands of the Queensland coastline, melting into the waters of the Great Barrier Reef. It’s here that you can lose yourself in this tropical wonderland on a Daintree adventure with Ocean Safari tours. One of the oldest unspoilt rainforests on Earth, it is here that you can embark on adventures such as horse riding treks, 4WD drives, surfing through the rainforest canopy or taking to the water in one of Ocean Safari’s vessels and discovering the pristine Great Barrier Reef. Want to experience the best of both stunning natural worlds? Why not book on Ocean Safari’s 2 Trips Deal including 1 day on Ocean Safari Cape Tribulation Great Barrier Reef day tours and 1 day on an Ocean Rafting Whitsundays tour… all for just $268 per adult. Find out more about Tropical North Queensland adventures at www.oceansafari.com.au
DOLPHIN FEEDING ON FRASER ISLAND Dolphin feeding has to be one for the ultimate bucket list. Getting up so close and personal with these beautiful creatures is a special experience you will never forget. Drop Bear Adventures has given us the extraordinary chance to interact with the dolphins, whilst exploring the wonderful gems of Fraser Island. A full Fraser Island Tour although exciting, can be time consuming. Instead, why not think about the amazing Cooloola National Park Day Tours, giving you a fresh glimpse of the beauty Fraser Island holds. All in one action filled day, the tour takes you to see the gorgeous sandy beaches, lush rainforests, the desert like sand dunes, and also includes a one in a lifetime opportunity to meet the friendly local dolphins. The Cooloola National Park Day Tours are packed full of unique fun. Starting early in the morning, you’ll get to feed Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphins that have been visiting the town for over 30 years. It is a heart warming beginning to your adventurous day, meeting and greeting the stunning creatures. The dolphins swim right up to you, eagerly awaiting their treats. Knee-deep in the glorious turquoise waters surrounded by the friendly animals has to without doubt one of the best experiences you may ever have. Don’t forget that the dolphins at Tin Can Bay aren’t the only wonder you’ll see on this day tour. The Cooloola National Park has so much on offer, and the beauty on land is definitely as stunning as the waters of Fraser Island.
Be assured that the dolphin feeding is permitted and regulated by the Queensland Government. The local volunteers have a wonderful routine, ensuring the daily ritual is both safe and enjoyable for both visitors and our dolphin friends. Visitors are also only allowed to feed the dolphins fish that is purchased directly on site; this fish is checked, unprocessed and agrees with them. It is important to remember the dolphins are wild animals and should not forget to fend for themselves. The fish they get given in Tin Can Bay is a morning snack to fill them up temporarily, and to make sure they don’t depend on it for sustenance. The estuarine dolphin who began this lovely tradition, named Scarry, sadly has not been seen in years. Her son Mystique and granddaughter Harmony are still regular visitors amongst the dolphin community, along with two others named Patch and Valentine. As with any wild animal experience, there is no absolute guarantee that dolphins will be present on your visit to Tin Can Bay, but it’s extremely rare for none of these friendly locals to show up.
Book Fraser Island adventures at www.dropbearadventures.com.au
5 REASONS TO VISIT KANGAROO ISLAND There are many reasons to visit this amazing part of South Australia, but here’s our top 5 reasons to visit Kangaroo Island right now! What is practically a zoo without fences, Kangaroo Island is a must see destination whilst travelling in Australia. Located south of the country, the island is made up of National and Conservation parks which set out to protect the wildlife including sea lions, koalas and, of course, kangaroos. Across its 155km length are large cliffs, long beaches and dense bushland, Kangaroo Island is just waiting to be explored.
The History
The island has a history dating back as far as the 1800’s. One open access attraction is the site of the first official settlement in southern Australia. Walk down the many paths and take
a journey through history as well as enjoying the native birdlife such as black swans and Australian pelicans. Since the 1930s, Aboriginal campsites have been discovered in a number of areas around the Island, including one near the sea lion colonies of Cape du Couedic.
Wildlife
Minutes from the mainland - albeit feeling a million miles away; Kangaroo Island is a sanctuary for wildlife and natural, rugged beauty. Unsurprisingly for its namesake, kangaroos outnumber people on the island! These furry locals have a population of roughly 30,000 compared to the 4,400 people living on the island. Breeding all year round, you’re likely to see the lovely sight of a baby ‘roo in its mother’s pouch. The ocean is teeming with fish and sea lions. And a top tip for visiting in the cooler months, if you stand on the shore you might just catch a glimpse of the southern right whales and their calves.
The Food
Due to the pristine condition of the island, the food is of amazing quality. The local food industry thrives off organic produce such as eggs and cheese as well as homemade jams, sauces and marinades. Kangaroo Island’s apiarists harvest honey from the pure strain Ligurian bees, and regional cheeses and yoghurts continue to find a place in food lovers’ hearts. Fresh seafood is featured across the Island and seasonally you can enjoy a variety of natural and farmed produce such as oysters, prawns, crayfish, whiting, snapper and, not forgetting freshwater marron
- it’s so easy to get a taste for Kangaroo Island!
The Views & Activities
The Island is bordered by beautiful beaches, tall cliffs and stunning granite formations. You can quietly see native Australian wildlife as they should be, in their natural habitats. Whether you want to dangle a line from a jetty, cast a line from one of the numerous beaches, or charter a deep-sea boat, the Island offers excellent fishing spots for all to enjoy. You can also take advantage of the many bike trails, or even sandboard the epic sand dunes whilst visiting Kangaroo Island.
High Quality Accommodation
Enjoy some peace and quiet in the accommodation that the island hosts. With limited numbers of rooms in each hotel and lodge, visitors get to embrace the tranquility of the island and enjoy their own private spots. Seaside holiday homes where you’ll hear waves lapping on the shore, bushland cottages with a trail to your own wilderness sanctuary - whether you’re in a five-star suite, a lighthouse keeper’s cottage or a swag under the stars, you’ll love waking up on Kangaroo Island.
Book your trip at kiadventuretours.com.au
SHARK BAY Discover your inner explorer Soak up the scenery and take part in exhilarating activities amongst a dramatic backdrop of white beaches on Shark Bay, with an Integrity coach lines hop-on hop-off pass. Shark Bay is a world heritage listed area that is said to be one of the most remarkable places in Australia, and is one of the most important natural treasures on earth. Whether you’re looking for incredible marine experiences, white sandy beaches or water sports, this place has it all. There is an endless list of things to do and see here, and a favourite with the Bay’s visitors is the epic water sports opportunities. But don’t be put off by the name of Shark Bay, almost all of the local sharks and rays here are harmless!
The protected inner gulfs of the amazing Shark Bay is perfect for Sea Kayaking. Surrounded by limestone islands, deep red sand dunes and incredible wildlife, you won’t find many other places that are perfect for this activity. Snorkelling and scuba diving are also a favourite amongst the Bay’s visitors. The sandy, seagrass sea beds are something you have to see with your own eyes, as well as the epic underwater shipwreck and private, vibrant coral reefs. The super strong winds on Shark Bay also make it the best place for kiteboarding and surfing! Tick Shark Bay off your must-see list with a hop-on hop-off tour at
www.integritycoachlines.com.au
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ALICE SPRINGS TO DARWIN Some of the world’s best-kept landscapes and wildlife are tucked away in the Australian Northern Territory. The glorious scenery on display make this vast region a desirable destination for any camping enthusiasts, but its vastness makes it difficult to plan and execute a well-organised, thorough trip. But fear not, as Mulgas Adventures offers expertguided tours that cater to both expert campers and camping newbies. The Alice Springs to The Rock to Darwin tour is the ultimate 5-Day camping adventure that will take you from the remote, charming Alice Springs to the Northern Territory’s capital, Darwin. A guided walk at the base of the UNESCO World Heritage Uluru, a relaxing swim in the scenic Mataranka Thermal Springs, and a journey through the majestic Kings Canyon rim trail only begin to scratch the surface of this in-depth tour. The expert guides will usher you through every step of the way to ensure your safety and full experience, along with historical and local insights regarding each stop. Aside from a full-scope knowledge of the area and some of the best views in the world, this package offers a range of exciting activities
that will bond you with your fellow campers and unforgettable experiences including camel rides, campfire fun, traditional bushtucker meals, and nights sleeping under the stars. This 5-days and 4-nights tour package combines the 3-day Uluru camping tour with the Alice Springs to Darwin Express meaning you get to save money whilst experiencing this incredible journey. This package tour comes with a free night in dorm accommodation at one of the selected Alice Springs hostels, a free camel ride, and 8 complimentary meals. What’s more the tour is also reversable so if you can see all of the aformentioned when starting in Darwin! The Alice Springs to The Rock to Darwin Package Tour is just $629 per person and departs only between March and end of October only. For more information visit
www.mulgasadventures.com.au
ACCOMMODATION
PERTH TO BROOME Top 5 places to visit One of the best adventures to take whilst visiting Western Australia, the journey from Perth to Broome is packed to the brim with diverse landscapes, fantastic ocean adventures, marvellous National Parks and incredible wildlife. But with so much to see, it’s hard to know where to start, so here’s our ultimate bucket list for the journey from Perth to Broome.
1. Nambung National Park
An otherworldly landscape, the first stop when travelling from Perth to Broome must be the Pinnacles. These ancient rock formations stand eerily together in the Nambung National Park with some reaching an incredible 2-3 metres high.
2. Kalbarri National Park
There’s more incredible rock formations to see here including Nature’s window, Murchison Gorge - which you can abseil into - and huge coastal cliffs, more than 300ft high. Here you can also spend an afternoon kayaking through the zig zagging waterways and enjoying hikes through the challenging terrain.
3. Monkey Mia
Probably the most popular destination on the tour, Monkey Mia is world famous for its
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dolphins. The dolphins of Monkey Mia are renowned for swimming into the shallows where you can get up close and personal with the marine mammals and even have a go at hand feeding them!
4. Coral Bay
Experience the incredible Ningaloo Reef in Coral Bay where you can see the shark nursery and swim with manta rays and whale sharks. June - October is the humpback whale migration season so if you’re travelling in this time keep your eyes peeled for a breaching whale on the horizon, or better yet, take a boat out to see them up close!
5. Karijini National Park
Karijini National Park is simply stunning. A nature-filled oasis in the dusty Western Australia terrain, here you’ll find rock pools and swimming holes teaming with life as well as bountiful cascading waterfalls giving you a real taste of paradise. See all this and more with Aussie Wanderer on their 9 or 14 day Perth to Broome tour.
www.aussiewanderer.com.au
THE KIMBERLEY This 10-day 4WD adventure explores the highlights of Kimberley that everyone should experience during their Aussie adventure. Does the idea of sleeping under the great Western Australia sky appeal to you? This tour allows you to do just that with over five outback camping locations to enjoy during your 10 day adventure. Departing from Broome and travelling through the beautiful Kimberley scenery, enjoy some morning tea after stopping by the Fitzroy River, before visiting the Mowanjum Aboriginal Art & Culture Centre for an insight into the culture of local tribes. You’ll then spend the afternoon exploring Tunnel Creek and discover the cave system’s stalactites and wildlife. After a refreshing swim in one of the water holes, fall asleep under the Kimberley night sky. Waking up in the 350 million-year-old Napier Range, in WA, you can go searching for freshwater crocs and other local wildlife before heading towards Bell Gorge in the afternoon considered one of the most beautiful parts of the Kimberley area, get lost in the crystal clear pools. Day 3 is all about swimming until your heart is content before camping by a billabong on Mt Barnett Cattle Station. The next day takes you to the private campsite for two nights in order to take part in many of the activities on offer. Take a dip in the refreshing Zebedee Spring and take
a cruise on Chamberlain Gorge. Campers are also free to explore the park at their own leisure. Travel to Lake Argyle in the Ord River Irrigation System. What was once a dry land is now a beautiful oasis where you can enjoy a sunset cruise on the lake and visit the Durack Homestead Museum. Day 7 and 8 is where you can explore the world famous Bungle Bungles. Spending two nights in a Kimberley Wild safari camp, this allows a full day to explore the area and take snapshots of the 20 million-year-old rocks. After the discovery of the rocks in the early 80s (the locals knew about them for much longer), it was made into a protected national park. Walk around the exotic palm trees in Echidna Chasm before taking an optional flight and getting an aerial view of the Bungle Bungles. On the way to Fitzroy Crossing, you’ll take a break in the town of Halls Creek and see the China Wall before spending the night by the Fitzroy River. Spend the last morning of the camping tour on a cruise through the beautiful Geikie Gorge. Learn about the fascinating geology of this natural wonder and discover the wildlife including freshwater crocodiles, birds and fish. Walk around Old Fitzroy Crossing and enjoy a lunch by the river before the journey back to Broome. However, there is always time for one more sunset on Cable Beach.
www.kimberleywild.com.au
NORTHERN TERRITORY Top 5 places to cool of your adventure Housing the famous Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park, these protected areas not only hosts incredible flora and fauna, but also incredible aboriginal rock art and challenging hiking opportunities. As you may know due to its positioning, this area of Northern Australia is renowned for its humid year-round climate, so no trip to these famous Australian National Park is complete without a need to cool off from the scorching temperatures.
3. Florence Falls
Located in Litchfield National Park, the Florence Falls descend from a whopping 210m height and are just 80km from Darwin. Here you’ll also find two great routes for hiking if you want to build up a sweat before jumping into the waters below.
4. Buley Rockholes
Here are our top five waterfalls and watering holes to tick off on your Northern Territory adventure… just watch out for the crocs!
Near to Florence Falls in Litchfield National Park, the Buley Rockholes can be found off a short street off of the road to Florence Falls. Here you can stay at the campsite, but make sure you keep an eye out for the freshwater crocs that call the area home.
1. Barramundi Gorge
5. Mary River Wetlands
One of the few waterfalls in Kakadu to flow even when it isn’t raining, the best way to cool off is to jump off one of the rock ledges into the refreshing waters below.
2. Jim Jim Falls
Plunging from a height of 200m and only accessible with a 4WD vehicle, these falls are registered on the Australian National Heritage List so make sure you’ve got enough room on your SD card for the amount of pictures you’re going to be taking. There’s even a sandy beach here if it wasn’t perfect enough for you.
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OK, so it’s not technically a waterfall or swimming hole, but it’s a great site to see on the back of a hovercraft. Go in the wet season and it’s a vast expanse of swampy wetland or the dry season to see it as a series of pools and billabongs. Home to the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the southern hemisphere, don’t stick your arms too far into the water, unless you like playing russian roulette with your limbs. See all this and more with Kakadu Wild Expeditions’ 3 Day Kakadu Explorer. Book now at www.kakaduwild.com.au
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THE DOWN UNDER CENTRE - LONDON The Down Under centre is your one stop centre for migration to Australia. They will provide you all the essential information for your journey to Australia. Welcoming all walk in clients who are looking to move to Australia, visit them in Ealing today to get you started on your migration journey! Specialising in providing Trade Skill Assessments for the purpose of migration to Australia, the Down Under Centre work exclusively with these Australian Government (TRA) Approved RTO’s: - Australian construction training services - Visa Skills programme (ACTS) - Future skills international (FSI) ACTS seek those in the construction and engineering trades to gather previous qualifications and evidence of employment to submit for a Skills Assessment so that they can gain a qualification valid in Australia and work under their trade.
The Down Under Centre also host monthly webinars where you can meet our partners and experts to help you with your migration journey. Speak with a MARA Approved Migration Agent for migration and visa advice, or speak with a recruiter who can go over the job opportunities available all over Australia. Receive special offers from their partners or special guests on the Webinar! We have handpicked a range of partners who are experts in getting you set up for your migration journey. www.downundercentre.com 48 Haven Green, Ealing, W5 2NX info@downundercentre.com
Future Skills International offer the Skills Assessment to Electricians for the purpose of migration, where they would need to obtain an Offshore Technical Skills record (OTSR) in order to work in Australia as an Electrician.
48 Haven Green, Ealing Broadway, W5 2NX downundercentre.com bbmlive.com
28th July, The Down Under Centre VISA INFO. JOBS INFO. TRADES. NURSING. CORPORATE. WORKING HOLIDAY. TRAVEL ADVICE.
In The Down Under Centre
An approved Registered Training Organisation (RTO), Authorised by the Australian Government (TRA), who can assess your skills against an Australian Qualification for the purpose of migration. visaskills.com
We are approved by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) by the Australian Government, to provide skills assessments to assist with obtainining skilled migration visas and for licensing purposes for electricians. futureskillsinternational.com.au
PSS are specialists in shipping international removals Australian Nursing Agency supply nurses on a and excess baggage to Australia and are known as casual, locum or permanent basis from all specialities the UK's 1st choice for international removals. to both public and private health sectors. Visit them at downundercentre.com/pss-internationalthe Down Under Centre in Ealing today. downundercentre.com/australian-nursing-agency removals_partner
Tailored made packages that include a bundle of services to suit anyone moving either to or from the UK that help young travellers relocate to Australia stress free! downundercentre.com/working-holiday-club/
Moneycorp are an award-winning foreign exchange specialist. Saving money for both individuals and businesses with bank-beating exchange rates when sending your money to a bank account in Australia. downundercentre.com/moneycorp_partner
National Australia Bank, known as NAB, is one of Australia's largest banks. Open your accounts with us prior to departure with priority opening downundercentre.com/nab_partner
Bupa provide high quality healthcare insurance for when you move to Australia. Quote the Down Under Centre for a consultation with their team in the UK. downundercentre.com/bupa_partner
T: 0203 376 1555 WWW.DOWNUNDERCENTRE.COM
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WORKING IN AUSTRALIA Australia is one of the top travel destinations in the world, but it’s also full of employment opportunities. With a thriving economy, high demand for skilled workers and desirable work-life balance, it’s no wonder thousands of people every year apply to work Down Under. See what your chances are with our quick guide to working in Australia.
Visas
There are a number of work visas that permit you to work in Australia from one day to retirement. Temporary visas include the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), a one-year visa that allows you to work for any one employer for up to six months while having a holiday in Australia. For something a little longer term, the Temporary Work (Skilled) Visa (subclass 457) is an employer-sponsored visa valid for up to four years. Permanent work visas that will allow you to stay in Australia indefinitely include the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186). There are also business visas available for if you’re planning on relocating your current business or starting a new business in Australia.
Skilled Occupation Lists
In many cases, work visas are for skilled individuals only, particularly permanent visas. The occupations that have a high demand for skilled workers can be found on the Skilled Occupation Lists. You must nominate an occupation on the
list in order to be considered and you must be able to provide evidence that you have skills and experience in your chosen occupation. Occupations currently on the Skilled Occupation Lists include Electrical Engineer, Secondary School Teacher, Midwife, Bricklayer, Carpenter, Dental Hygienist and Chef (excluding fast food/ takeaway).
Booming Business
Australia has one of the healthiest economies going with low unemployment and high wages. As a result, living in Australia is considered to be more expensive than the UK, but it’s all relative: high wages, high prices. Industries that are evergrowing in Australia include healthcare, I.T, trades and construction.
Skills Shortage
When employers can’t find permanent residents or citizens qualified enough to fill a job position, they can look overseas and sponsor someone to move to Australia and work for them. Australia is currently experiencing a skills shortage, resulting in a high demand for skilled individuals. If you have the skills that Australia needs, you could be ending 2016 with a new life in Australia…
For more information on working in Australia, visit www.bbmlive.com/ getting-started-in-australia and find jobs at www.bbmlive.com/jobs
WHAT’S THE COST TO BUY & RENT IN OZ? How much bed can you get for your buck? Looking at the three of the most popular cities for migrants, here’s what you can expect to pay for a one, two and three-bedroom home in Australia. Perth
P/W
To Buy
P/W
To Buy
P/W
To Buy
Central
1 Bed
400
500k
2 Bed
600
550k
3 Bed
1000
1.2 mill
Inner Suburbs
1 Bed
375
420k
2 Bed
450
425k
3 Bed
950
1.1 mill
25 Minutes From CBD
1 Bed
350
420k
2 Bed
400
400k
3 Bed
600
600k
50 Minutes From CBD
1 Bed
300
300k
2 Bed
300
350k
3 Bed
450
450k
P/W
To Buy
P/W
To Buy
P/W
To Buy
Sydney Central
1 Bed
650
500k
2 Bed
800
830k
3 Bed
2000
1 mill
Inner Suburbs
1 Bed
300
400k
2 Bed
650
850k
3 Bed
1000
900k
25 Minutes From CBD
1 Bed
300
420k
2 Bed
600
400k
3 Bed
900
600k
50 Minutes From CBD
1 Bed
300
300k
2 Bed
350
350k
3 Bed
450
450k
P/W
To Buy
P/W
To Buy
P/W
To Buy
Melbourne Central
1 Bed
200
200k
2 Bed
500
350k
3 Bed
700
600k
Inner Suburbs
1 Bed
200
165k
2 Bed
450
350k
3 Bed
700
600k
25 Minutes From CBD
1 Bed
200
420k
2 Bed
450
350k
3 Bed
600
550k
50 Minutes From CBD
1 Bed
200
300k
2 Bed
300
350k
3 Bed
450
550k
Prices are in Australian Dollars and current of January 2016
TRAVELLING SOLO
For many the idea of travelling alone is a problematic one, from the serious issue of ‘stranger danger’ to the more practical concerns of deciding where to go and what to do without anyone else’s input. However, there are many seasoned travellers out there who prefer solo expeditions and believe that if it’s planned the right way, going it alone can be just as rewarding as travelling with friends or family members. So if you’re thinking about tackling Australia by yourself, here are six pointers for a happy, safe, stress-free trip... 1. Scan all documents such as passport, ID and travel insurance and keep them electronically in case of emergencies. It makes more sense than to carry an information file around with you, particularly if you’re embarking on a proper backpacking adventure. 2. Keep in touch with friends and family throughout your journey. It’s good to allow a
little spontaneity into your trip – there’s so much to see and do throughout Oz, so let yourself be side-tracked – but always let someone know where you are through email or phone (it’s cheaper to call home if you get an international phone card).
3. Enjoy walking. With no one pulling you in any specific direction, it’s a good idea to start your journey with a nice long aimless walk through the area
in which you’ve arrived. Explore, check out places of interest, get a feel for your temporary home; you’ll become more relaxed about your holiday as well as your choice to do it alone.
4.
One of the best things about travelling solo is you don’t have to wait for anyone! With that in mind, it’s a good idea to get an early start if you’re planning on visiting a particular holiday hotspot or tourist attraction.
Shipping
You’re never really alone with social media! Like it or not, social media can put you in touch with people instantly, so if you find yourself standing in the middle of Sydney Harbour Bridge with no one to share the experience, you can always tweet or post a selfie and tell the world! Nothing wrong with a little electronic interaction, after all!
6.
Of course, you will be meeting people on your travels all the time! It’s not as if you’ll be shutting down all communication and retreating into your shell whenever someone asks you the time. But the great thing about travelling solo is you can evenly balance out your time between socialising and simply chilling out alone. It’s not a luxury you’re blessed with if you have a constant companion. Wherever you’re travelling in Australia, Seven Seas Worldwide can assist you with your baggage. Visit the website www.sevenseasworldwide.com for a fast, affordable and secure relocation service. We know a thing or two about moving because we’ve been doing it for nearly twenty years.
Try The International Move Cube That’s why we’ve created what we think is the most efficient solution to furniture removals: The MoveCube®. The MoveCube® is a furniture container inside a trailer that is brought to the door of your house or block of flats. All you need to do is load it with strong and welllabelled boxes and wait until we redeliver it to the door of your new address. It’s as simple as that. The MoveCube® comes in three sizes, the small MoveCube®; the medium MoveCube®; and the large MoveCube®. Our furniture shipping service covers the UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Thailand, Hong Kong and China. We believe household removals don’t have to be as stressful as people expect them to be. All we need from you is perfectly-packed, taped and labelled boxes for loading onto the MoveCube®.
Article courtesy of Seven Seas Worldwide
5.
PREPARING FOR INTERVIEWS Whether you’re are looking for a job on your working holiday visa, or are planning on migrating permanently, recruitment agency people2people can help you. Before making arriving in Australia, it’s a good idea to check out where you can fit into the market. Pre-interview tips Before an interview, it’s important that you project the very best version of you. These tips and hints can ensure you are as prepared as you should be for your interview. Do your homework Look at the company website, names of the people you are meeting, jump on LinkedIn or profiles on the company website. This will give you some more idea of what to expect and the types of people you will be meeting. Confirm details Its sounds obvious, but make sure you know the address and the time you need to be there. Also ensure you allow enough time to get to the interview, although don’t arrive more than 10 minutes before hand. This will put pressure on your interviewer, go for a coffee or walk if you arrive too early (but please don’t smoke!). Research the role Ensure you have thoroughly read the job description and what would be expected of you. You need to be able to demonstrate that the skills you have developed relate to the job on offer. Questions to ask Prepare questions to ask at the end of the interview with regards to the working culture of the company and the team, why did your interviewers join the company originally? Most importantly, BE YOURSELF, this is all about you after all!
Be prepared for ‘behavioural or competency based questions’ All companies will vary in their approach, however the same principal applies in answering behavioural based questions. Set the scenario, the action YOU took and the outcome. The question should be answered in the first person, such as I not WE. You need to explain some specific examples of your work experience and relate that back to the question. Talking about your own experiences should put you at ease. Know your CV Be clear on dates you worked with your employers and be ready to talk about any interests you have included. This helps them form a picture of the ‘whole’ person, not just the job filler. Know your strengths and weaknesses Be prepared to give examples and ALWAYS have a weakness! Turn the weakness into a positive, how you are improving, for example you are working on your Excel skills by taking online courses. Dress Code This can vary depending on the company for which you are interviewing, so dress accordingly. However if in doubt, always opt for a corporate style with a well groomed and tailored appearance. Browse available jobs and more tips at people2people.com.au
MARN: 0208986
Jobs
The Perks of Nursing In Melbourne Melbourne is said to be Australia’s most loved city, and it is not hard to see why. A popular place to work in for so many travelling nurses, this cosmopolitan city has great work opportunities across all nursing specialities and has some of the world’s best medical facilities. There’s a demand for nurses in Melbourne in a range of departments, with jobs available in Care, A&E, Midwifery or General Nursing. So whether you are wondering if Melbourne could be your new home, or simply hoping to work in the city to fund some travels, it is the perfect place to be a nurse. The conditions here are outstanding, and all of the public hospitals are major teaching facilities affiliated with the universities and are equipped with modern technologies. Nursing in Melbourne is not only enjoyable and rewarding, but it also offers opportunities to enhance your nursing knowledge and experience. There is a large amount of shift work available across Melbourne’s multiple specialities, and the people here are known to be incredibly enthusiastic and friendly. But we all know that life is not just about work! Melbourne is popular with Australians and overseas tourists alike, due to the fantastic combination of bustling city life and stunning beaches lining the entire coastline. This makes it the perfect place to live, and when you aren’t working in the hospitals there is plenty to see and do. There are 4.2 million people who are lucky enough to call Melbourne their home, and now is
your chance to become one of them. On your days off, you could spend your days surfing on the gorgeous beach, or wandering the city to see sights such as the Queen Victoria Market and the aquarium, or just meeting up with new friends in the cool bars and sipping on some of the world’s best coffee in the abundance of cafes! Melbourne isn’t too far from other attractions outside of the city, such as wineries, secret beaches, the Dandenong Ranges and more. It is easy to see why so many people consider it to be the most liveable city in the world. With so many opportunities for both UK and Irish nurses to work within the city, and a similar healthcare system to the UK, you can only agree that this is a fantastic opportunity. The Australian Nursing Agency is here to help you along your journey to becoming a Melbourne nurse. Before contacting them, please note you will need to be registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). If you are, then the next step is to ensure you have your CV, a current Police Check or Working with Children Check and two professional referees.
To apply for any roles with Australia Nursing Agency mention BBM and Phone : 039481 7222, Email : recruitment australiannursingagency.com or visit www.australiannursingagency.com
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MIGRATION AGENTS WHY DO I NEED ONE?
Most potential migrants are unaware of just how expensive it is to migrate to Australia. When hit by a $7000 visa-processing fee on top of travel, document verification and many other hidden costs, hiring a migration agent is the last thing on their minds. However, submitting an application without professional help is probably one of the worst mistakes a visa applicant can make. Not only is the process very complex and difficult, getting it wrong the first time will impact the success of any follow up applications. Whether you are looking at applying for a visa or have a loved one who is, check out the information below on why using a migration agent is the right way to go:
What is a migration agent?
A migration agent is a person who has been licensed and registered as a professional who can help give prospective visa applicants advice or who can help represent them as they file their visa application.
What can a migration agent do for you?
• Give you information as to the types of visas, which are available for you to stay temporarily or permanently in Australia. • Assess the facts and circumstances of your individual case to see if you have the necessary eligibility requirements to apply for a visa. • Help you obtain documents and fill out forms for submission • Inform you of the legal remedies available to you in case your visa application is refused • Refer you to lawyers who can help you with the legal aspects of appealing the refusal of your visa application
Can I trust a migration agent?
Migration agents have a duty to keep your confidential information and not to disclose them unless it is with your knowledge and consent and disclosure is in your best interest.
What difficulties may I encounter when dealing with a migration agent?
A migration agent may have many clients and so the migration agent may be under a lot of time pressure to meet deadlines and to see and confer with clients. They may not always be available for face-to-face meetings and so you will have to contact them through email or their mobile phone. This may be difficult for some people. Migration agents may have specializations: You must find a migration agent who specializes in the kind of visa you want to obtain so that you can be assured of the migration’s experience and expertise. Migration agents are under a contract for services and so they will charge a professional fee for their services. This is on top of the fees for filing the application and other fees for obtaining copies, verifying and translating documents. This professional fee is also on top of any fees for any assessments for your health, character and skills, which you may need in support of your visa application.
How can I tell which migration agent to trust?
• They will have a valid license. • Have an office with a street address and landline phone number. • Will not insist that you pay his or her fees up front prior to rendering any services. • Will set up a trust fund for the expenses incurred in connection with your visa application • Will send you a statement of account and report to you how the trust fund was utilised • Will not promise you that you will get the visa you applied for. • Will not promise that he or she will contact persons in the immigration office to ensure that your visa application is granted.
For more info or to speak to our team visit freedommigration.com
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