BBM Live December 2016 Tabloid

AUSTRALIA

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What’s On Around Australia?

New Year’s Eve Sydney Melbourne Exposed 2017 Early Bird Australia Travel Deals World Festival Guide South America Special Interviews

DUSKY

JAMIE T

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PROPER BOOZERS & EXPAT HANGOUTS Melbourne

Perth

Brisbane

TURF BAR

ROSIE O’GRADY’S

GILHOOLEYS

ASIAN BEER CAFE

ODIN TAVERN

Sydney CHURCHILLS SPORTS BAR

Chruchill’s have an exceptional menu where you can enjoy a schnitzel and beer for just $15.

532 Anzac Parade, Kingsford, NSW churchillsbar.com.au

THE ARGYLE

Situated in one of Sydney’s oldest buildings, The Argyle, situated on The Rocks present five bars over 2 floors. With resident DJs and musicians regularly hypnotising you with their sound, The Argyle is one of the best places to get your party fix on almost any night of the week. Here, you can expect $5 happy hour drinks from 5-7pm

every day, as well as delicious pizzas, and deserts to keep you satisfied. From sneaky hidden booths, to chilled out lounges, an outdoor area and dancefloor The Argyle has something to suit everyone. If you’re looking for the perfect place to ring in the New Year, this bar will be sure to show you a good time.

18 Argyle Street, The Rocks www.urbanpurveyor.com

THE BAT & BALL HOTEL

From 10kg buckets of chicken wings to one of the best roast dinners in town, the Bat & Ball will keep you fed and watered all week with nightly meal deals at great prices.

Corner of Cleveland & South Dowling Streets, Sydney www.parksidebar.com.au

Immerse yourself in amongst an Asian style boozer complete with Bintang Jugs and Katsu Curry.

Don’t miss happy hour from Wednesday to Saturday - 4 - 8pm.

120 Exhibition Street Melbourne www.europeanbiercafe.com.au

P.J. O’BRIENS

This Irish themed chain of pubs will certainly give you the feel of a traditional Irish pub. With live trad music, Guinness, Sunday roasts, pies and more, it’s the perfect place to cosey up on a Sunday for some TLC in the form of great ales and comfort food!

Southgate Restaurant & Shopping Precinct, Southbank www.pjobriens.com.au

THE CRAFTY SQUIRE

The Crafty Squire is a premium craft beer venue with a wide (and delicious) selection of brews on tap. www.thecraftysquire.com.au 127 Russell Street, Melbourne

Full of Irish charm, this Irish pub in Northbridge is where you can enjoy happy hour from Monday to Friday as well as live traditional Irish music and live sports! You’ll also find great food deals every day of the week between $10-$15.

205 James Street, Northbridge www.rosieogradys.com.au

Odin Tavern boasts an impressive layout of facilities with an outdoor beer garden, full TAB set-up and pool tables available near the sports bar.

51 Erindale Road, Balcatta, Perth www.odintavern.com.au

CROWN PERTH

Claiming to have ‘Australia’s biggest sports bar screens’ the Crown Perth is where you go if you are a real hardcore fan and don’t want to miss a pixel of action.

Great Eastern Highway, Burswood, Perth www.crownperth.com.au

ELEPHANT & WHEELBARROW

You can expect live music throughout the week as well as a damn decent Sunday Roast for just $15 and meal deals for just $14.90 throughout the week!

53-55 Lake Street, Northbridge northbridge. elephantandwheelbarrow.com.au

One of Brisbane’s most popular Irish Taverns, Gilhooleys is where you’ll find a proper meal straight from the grill, including their Friday steak deal and ribs for just $18.95 each. Fridays are also topped off with live music from 4.30pm.

Corner of Albert & Charlotte Street, Brisbane www.gilhooleys.com

PIG AND WHISTLE

The Pig and Whistle has a style and ambience all of its own and claiming a reputation as a ‘classic British pub’ get ready to fight for the best seats with some hardcore fans.

Riverside Centre123 Eagle Street, Brisbane www.pignwhistle.com.au

MICK O’MALLEYS

Another great Irish pub in Brisbane, you can enjoy their Thursday special from 5-9pm every week, including BBQ Pork Ribs, slow cooked and smoked with fries, coleslaw and an ice cold stubbie of Coors beer. You can also keep up with all the latest live sport including NRL, AFL, NFL, NBA and EPL throughout the week. And what’s more is their bottle shop is open til 9pm most nights and 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays!

171 - 209 Queen Street, Brisbane www.mickomalleys.com.au

Image courtesy of the The Horse.

The Turf Bar is a frequent favourite of BBM Live’s, it is one of the most well equipped sports bars in Victoria and will be a popular watering hole for the Euro 2016 cup watchers.

131 Queen Street, Melbourne Turfbar.com.au

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SPORTS

It seems the grand tradition of movie sequels being utter gubbins compared to the original also applies to films based on true stories – following the news that the Jamaican bobsleigh team’s van broke down last month on the way to a competition in Calgary, the site of their famous Winter Olympics debut.

Quicker than a studio executive could yell “Cool Runnings 2? Get Kevin Hart on the phone!” the stranded speed freaks were

saved by a passing sucker Samaritan.

David Schnerch was running errands when he passed by the van, and spotted team members fannying about with the vehicle’s battery. Schnerch pulled over and gave them a jump, and when that didn’t work he drove the whole mob to Canada Olympic Park himself so they could make their race.

“Just focus on the race,” he said. “We’ll get you what you need.”

After their race in Calgary, the team needed to make it to Whistler, British Columbia, for another competition. So Schnerch gave them the key to his truck.

“If they still need it, once they’re done they’ll get it back to me,” he said, presumably before freezing to death.

Scottish king of the swingers If horse racing is the sport of kings, and rugby is the gentleman’s game, then truly golf must be the sport of twats.

And if that’s true, then we may have found the world’s biggest ever twat after fairway fanatic Laurie Skuodas completed a mammoth 8091-hole round last month that

Fans put willies up players

And he joked: ”It is also an admission of guilt of a man with too much time and money.”

Ha, we knew it!

Initially, it all went to plan. The daring duo entered the stadium on the Friday with the rest of the tour group, then snuck off to the toilet and were forgotten about. They even slept there overnight - only to be found the following morning during a security sweep of the stadium.

And a pair of fetishy fans have paid the ultimate price for chucking the sex toy onto the field during an NFL game between the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots.

They’ve been banned for life.

“I thought it was funny the ref didn’t want to pick it up,” Brady said. “That was a first. Only in Buffalo.”

The 58-year-old, who clearly has too much time and money on his hands, made it his mission to play every single one of the 558 public courses in Scotland. And 13 years later, he’s completed the challenge.

Asked what made him want to do it Laurie said: “To echo a famous phrase, ‘because it is there’.”

against Arsenal by going on a tour of Old Trafford the night before – and then hiding in the toilets overnight in the hope no one would notice them sneaking into the stands before kick-off the following day.

First it was the racially-charged banana. Then it was the physically dangerous 50 pence coin. And now it seems sports fans have turned to the humble dildo as the missile of choice when throwing things at players.

“Luckily nobody was hurt, none of our players stepped on it and blew their knee out,” humourless Buffalo’s vice president of operations Andy Major grumbled.

The moulded member, which bore star player Tom Brady’s name and credited him as its sole owner, landed on the one-yard line, just short of Pats receiver Chris Hogan. It was eventually booted off the field by a referee to the delight of the crowd.

lasted over 10 years.

“We realise people will go to any lengths to watch a game at Old Trafford but these people went too far,” said a United spokesman.

Bogged down for the night

Don’t pretend you haven’t thought about it. When you’ve just finished watching a film in the cinema, we’ve all toyed with the idea of sneaking into another screening just for the sake of seeing a free movie.

It’s the same as breaking into Katy Perry’s house to sniff her knickers – once you’ve done masturbating, it’s very tempting to hide naked in her wardrobe until she gets home, despite what the judge said last time. We’ve all been there.

So full marks for commitment to a couple of Manchester United fans who attempted to watch their beloved Red Devils in action

“The fact that they and their belongings had been searched before entry means we are confident there was no risk to safety.”

So near and yet so far boys. Those security guards will get you every time – especially the bald, MMA expert called Jim who works at Katy Perry’s house. Our windpipe still feels bruised.

By Richard Gadsby

Running joke not that cool

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Your Festive Sydney Bucket List If you’re lucky enough to have some time off over the Christmas period and need to fill those weird non-days between Christmas and New Year then grab Sydney by the horns and really experience one of the most exciting cities on Earth.

Packed to the brim with sensational activities on both land and water, Sydney packs a punch to any visitor to her shores.

So here are just a few ideas on how to spend your time in Sydney over Christmas and New Year!

Bondi Beach

Here in Sydney, it’s the height of summer over Christmas, so take advantage of the beautiful weather by visiting one of

the most famous beaches on the planet.

Bondi Beach is famous for its surf, stunning views, sands and even the refreshing Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club - an essential stop off to cool off on a hot afternoon.

BridgeClimb Sydney

Literally the pinnacle of any Sydney activity, scaling the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an absolute must do whilst in town. Not only will you get the most incredible panoramic views of the city and Sydney Harbour, you’ll also be able to say you’ve climbed one of the largest bridges on earth. BridgeClimb Sydney offers climbs during the day, twilight, night and at dawn. You can even spoil someone with a BridgeClimb gift voucher this year and

EXPLORE THE SYDNEY OUTBACK of the ancient Aboriginal rock engravings whilst you cut your way through the dense bushland.

This tour will fill you up with local knowledge about the area and its history as you take in the flora, fauna and ancient culture before you indulge in some real Aussie bush tucker for lunch. On board with Sydney Out Back you’ll feel a million miles away from the glam and modern sites of Sydney, and will be transported back in time - giving you an idea of what the Sydney landscape looked like 250 years ago prior to the arrival of European settlers.

Leaving the city behind for the day, you can experience some real Aussie outback on Sydney’s doorstep.

With Sydney Out Back tours you can be immersed within the wilderness of the stunning Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park just a short drive out from the city.

Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park is where you’ll find one of the biggest

concentrations of historic Indigenous Heritage Sites in the world. Over the course of 8 hours, you’ll see stunning, unspoilt bushland as well as take to the water on board a 50 foot motor catamaran, giving you unrivalled views of this part of New South Wales. From the moment you leave Akuna Bay, one of Sydney’s most exclusive and remote marinas, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world.

Sydney Out Back pride themselves on taking passengers off the beaten track to sites that are inaccessible to the average tourist, all whilst packing in a medley of breathtaking moments giving you lasting memories of Sydney’s real history away from the buzzing lights of the city.

Taking to the water is one of the best ways to see some

www.sydneyoutback.com.au

BBM Readers can get a 20% discount using promo code BBMLive when booking online.

give them a truly memorable present. Visit www.bridgeclimbsydney.com for more information and to book.

St Georges Open Air Cinema

The Christmas holidays are a time for relaxing and watching obscene amounts of movies, so why not do so at the world’s most beautiful cinema - St Georges Open Air Cinema. Situated at Mrs Macquaries Point, the cinema will open on 5th December and overlooks the Sydney Harbour Bridge as well as the opera house.

The Rocks Very Merry Markets

Need to do a spot of Christmas shopping before the big day? The Rocks’ Very Merry Markets has everything from handcrafted

gifts to tasty snacks and is open until 8pm in the run up to Christmas meaning you can get your Christmas shopping done whilst walking around the markets and get some thoughtful and unique gifts for your friends and family. The market will be open on 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd December from 4pm8pm.

The Blue Mountains

Got a few days to kill over the holidays?

Why not head for the hills on a day trip to the Blue Mountains. Here you can hike, discover ancient Aboriginal rock art, horse ride, go kayaking, or simply have a picnic in this lush and wild National Park just a couple of hours outside of the city.

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Get Away To Summer Bay Hold me in your arms, Don’t let me go, I want to stay forever, Closer each day....Home and away…

If those lyrics are permanently emblazoned on your mind, then there’s one experience you can’t miss whilst in Sydney and that’s The Official Home & Away Tour.

Channel Seven and Flamin’ Galah Sydney Tours have developed a fantastic tour to give you a real taste of this famous Aussie soap. Departing from Sydney, The Official Home & Away Tour takes you to Palm Beach fictionally known as ‘Summer Bay’.

The famous strip of beach is where you may even be lucky enough to see some filming in action whilst on the tour as well as visiting famous parts of the set such as Alf’s Bait Shop.

On board the Official Home & Away tour you can also learn things you didn’t know about Home and Away including the area, the production, the filming and the people.

There’s also a chance to hear some

backstage gossip from those who have worked on the show.

The tour includes free time at Palm Beach where you can explore the all-important locations from the show such as the Pier, the Lighthouse and of course The Summer Bay Surf Club.

For die-hard fans of Home & Away you can relive some of your favourite scenes from the soap all whilst taking in the breath-taking scenery from the surrounding areas. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way and should the timing be right, you may get to meet some of the cast.

A great day trip out from Sydney you’ll experience the fun side of Sydney’s stunning Northern Beaches before ending up in Manly where the tour comes to an end. You can either then spend the evening wandering around Manly or catch the ferry back to Sydney.

With tours priced at just $99 per person, there’s no excuse to not tick this off your Aussie bucket list!

www.officialhomeandawaytour.com.au

EXPAT INTERVIEW This month we catch up with the founder of Beer Buddy, Josh Fordham from London.

Beer Buddy is a group that aims to help connect expat men in Australia so they can slip into their new lives and get some new mates along the way!

Why did you decide to move to Australia?

After meeting my now wife two weeks after arriving on a Working Holiday Visa back in 2012, we agreed that Australia offered a better way of life.

When did you make the move and how long did it take you to get set-up with a home and job?

We made the move in August 2015. I was quite lucky in the fact that the company I worked for in the UK were opening an office in Sydney, so the timing was perfect!

in Sydney. One evening, my wife told me that her and my daughter were going to her friend’s house for dinner, and suggested that I go out for a beer or something. Great idea!! Oh, hang on, I literally have no friends. How does a twenty something bloke who’s settled down find new mates? Go up to a group of guys in a pub and introduce yourself?

Not easy. So I looked online, found tonnes and tonnes of women only groups; mother groups, book clubs etc. - but I couldn’t find anything for men. So, I started a group. Slowly but surely, guys requested to join - it turned out that there are tonnes of guys all over Australia who share the same problem!! We now have around 1,300 guys on the group, which I run along with my mates Mike Rogers, Corey Scown and Andrew Schroder.

How was it obtaining your visa? Did you use a migration agent? What type of visa did you apply for?

It’s always a long process, whichever way you go about it. With Laura (my wife) being Australian, I went for the Partner (309) Visa. I did it all online myself and it was fairly straight forward! Mainly the 9 month wait that’s frustrating.

Tell us a little more about the events?

We try to host laid-back events on a quarterly basis - each have been hosted at Hillside Hotel in Castle Hill. The first event saw us raise $5k which was split between Beyond Blue and Westmead Children’s Hospital. Our second event saw us raise another $5k for a youth prevention suicide based in Doonside called Eagles RAPS. For the third event, we’re having a break from all the organising and are just going to enjoy a few beers, giving people an opportunity to meet friends.

What drove you to set up Beer Buddy?

I started Beer Buddy a few months after arriving

Find your new potential Beer Buddy’s at www.facebook.com/beerbuddyAU

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PICK OF THE FEST

LATE NIGHT SYDNEY

FALLS FESTIVAL

CIRCOLOCO

Seth Troxler & Ben UFO return to Sydney for Circoloco at the Greenwood Hotel.

Saturday 10th December 2016 www.eventbrite.com.au

29-31st December 2016 - Marion Bay, Tasmania 7th - 8th January 2017 - Fremantle, WA www.fallsfestival.com

1st January 2017 Melbourne letthemeatcakenyd.com.au

FOMO

6th January 2017 - Adelaide Gaol, SA 7th January 2017 - Riverstage, Brisbane, QLD 8th January 2017 The Crescent, Parramatta Park, NSW www.fomofestival.com.au

SUGAR MOUNTAIN

21st January 2017 Melbourne www.sugarmountainfestival.com

RAINBOW SERPENT 2017 27th - 30th January 2017 Victoria www.rainbowserpent.net

PARTY IN THE PADDOCK 2017 19th - 20th February 2017 Tasmania www.partyinthepaddockfestival.com.au

SECRET GARDEN

NYE ON THE HARBOUR 2017 Looking to party at one of the most epic New Year’s Eve parties in Sydney?

Cargo Bar is ready to bring it all in aid of welcoming in 2017.

Cargo Bar’s NYE on the Harbour 2017 will see a sh1t hot line up take to the decks in the form of The Aston Shuffle, Yolanda Be Cool, Touch Sensitive, Benson, Elizabeth Rose, Bad Decisions, Friendless and Ariane.

And if you’re not familiar with some of those names - you may remember Yolanda Be Cool from their smash hit ‘We No Speak Americano’ which sold 5 million copies worldwide, and The Aston Shuffle who regularly feature on Ministry of Sound compilations.

Sydney does New Year’s Eve bigger than any city in the whole wide world, so brace yourself for one hell of an epic night.

Cargo Bar is situated on the banks of the stunning Darling Harbour.

Catch Gabriel Moraes, Ark-E-Tech, Alec Sander, Methodix, Shepz, ZigMon, Jackson Winter, Zombie Apocalypse & more at a secret location.

Friday 16th December 2016 decoded.outer-rim.org

JUNGLE BELLS - FREE PARTY

Hosted by D-TECH M.C., SLICE, JVIGGY & TUKKA D, head down to Valve Bar for a night of Techno & Bass.

Friday 16th December 2016 www.valvebar.com.au

REIGN SYDNEY BOXING DAY

Join some of Australia’s best artists playing the greatest R&B and Hip Hop tunes at Cargo Bar. Monday 26h December 2016 www.thekeystonegroup.com.au

VIP $109 Package includes 2 hour beverage package, including spirits & canapés from 6-8pm downstairs in Cargo Bar.

24th - 25th February 2017 Brownlow Hill, NSW www.secretgardenfestival.com.au

Platinum VIP $159 Package includes champagne on arrival 3 hours of beverages, including premium spirits & canapés between 6-9pm upstairs in the lounge overlooking the stunning wharf and fireworks.

PITCH MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL

The party will take place over two floors and out onto the pier with fantastic views of the Harbour.

10th - 13th March 2017 TBA - Regional Victoria pitchfestival.com.au

APHOTIC WAREHOUSE FEAT. GABRIEL MORAES

Get your tickets now at cargobarnye.iwannaticket.com.au

Images courtesy of venues. Email marketing@bbmlive.com to appear on this page.

LET THEM EAT CAKE 2017

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photo courtesy of cousinjackspastyco.com

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HARBOUR PARTY NYE

Spend New Year’s Eve at Luna Park Sydney One of the most famous destinations in Sydney, Luna Park is renowned for bringing joy to the masses.

In prime position to catch the midnight fireworks, this year’s Harbour Party at Luna Park is set to be a big one. Live music, great food, drinks and a party atmosphere, you can hear the likes of Sneaky Soundsystem, Matt Watkins, KLP (Kristy Lee Peters from triple J’s House Party), Mashd n Kutcher and Havana Brown. These are just a handful of the artist who will be performing on the night with more acts set to be announced very soon!

Spending New Year’s Eve with some of the best live acts and DJ’s in the setting of an amusement park doesn’t get much better than this. In between acts you can enjoy rides on the carousel, ferris wheel, the Moon Ranger, the Spider and more. To keep you fed and watered you can pick from a plethora of food, including vegetarian, and alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. There are a number of tickets available from Palais VIP, Deck VIP, Sonar VIP, Diamond VIP and general admission tickets.

PALAIS VIP TICKET

With the Palais VIP ticket you can gain access to a private venue space above The Deck restaurant including a private balcony, floor to ceiling glass windows and views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House and Circular Quay. Perks of this ticket include canapes from 7-11pm, the Chef’s carvery until 1.30am, premium wines, beer and spirits allinclusive until 1.45am and access to the Palais, Deck or Sonar cocktail party. This ticket also includes exclusive entry to the Crystal Palace and Big Top VIP lounge bars and entry to Big Top Sydney and Crystal Palace for live entertainment from DJs and performers.

Tickets - $519.00 + booking fees

THE DECK VIP TICKET

Luna Park’s award-winning restaurant and bar, The Deck is where you’ll find uninterrupted views of the New Year’s Eve fireworks, the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay. This ticket gets you a selection of canapes from 7-11pm, the Chef’s selected carvery until 1.30am, a range of selected wines, beer and house spirits until 1.45 am and exclusive access to the Palais, Deck or Sonar cocktail party space from 6.30pm-2am. Also included are priority entry to Luna Park with free rides all night and entry to Big Top Sydney and Crystal Palace for live entertainment from DJs and performers.

Tickets - $499 + booking fees

SONAR VIP TICKET

For wining and dining with a side of VIP treatment, Sonar is an exclusive cocktail party space below The Deck which goes on to the Luna Park boardwalk. Included with the Sonar VIP ticket are canapes from 7-11pm, the Chef’s carvery until 1.30 am, all-inclusive wines, beer and house spirits until 1.45am and access to the Palais, Deck or Sonar cocktail party space. You’ll also get priority on the rides and entry to the Big Top Sydney and Crystal Palace for the live entertainment and DJs. Tickets - $429 + booking fees

DIAMOND VIP TICKET

Get the best of both worlds with the Diamond VIP experience. With this ticket you’ll get a free drink ticket upon arrival, free cloakroom use, priority entry to the rides and entertainment at the Big Top Sydney and Crystal Palace and access to the Big Top VIP lounge bars! You’ll even be able to get in prime position for the fireworks on the boardwalk.

Tickets - $259 + booking fees

Want to combine the excitement of Luna Park’s amusement rides with your New Year’s Eve celebrations? The General Admission Ticket gives you entry to Big Top Sydney and Crystal Palace for all the live entertainment, performers and DJs as well as access to loads of bars and eateries, including Lavender Green.

Tickets - $139 + booking fees

Get your tickets to Harbour Party NYE at harbourparty.com

Image by Digitography

GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET

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JAMIE T

With his genius lyric writing, energetic performances and ska, indie blend of a unique sound, we speak to South Londoner Jamie T ahead of his tour in Australia.

Here he fills us in on the need for fresh socks, cigarettes and his festival highlights as well as more on his new album Tricks.

Hi Jamie!

Hi Hannah, how are you doing?

I’m good, thanks. How are you?

I’m okay.

Where are you right now?

I am in Berlin. I’ve just played a show somewhere in Berlin.

How long are you in Germany for?

Just tonight. We leave in a couple of hours I think.

Where to next?

You know what? I’m not quite sure off the top of my head. Maybe Prague but I might have made that up. So, I don’t know.

How’s the show going down at the moment with everyone? Are you enjoying it or are you ready to play something else?

I’m enjoying it. You know, we haven’t been on tour all that long really so I’m still very much enjoying playing it. I don’t really tend to get sick and tired of playing stuff.

I get eager to come up with new things but I’m always happy to play things. But it still feels quite fresh which is kind of good.

What did you want to put across with this album?

How long have you got? I don’t know. It’s just an album in a sense. I was just trying to enjoy myself and I think for us, we’d been touring

Do you ever write songs while you’re on tour?

I do, yeah. I’m having problems doing that at the moment because I’ve been struggling a bit with my voice. So, when I’m not on stage, I tend to not really be able to sing.

Or I try not to because I’ve got to save it for doing gigs at night. But I try to write a bit on tour. I just jot things down more at the moment, to be honest, rather than picking up the guitar or anything like that.

Because I’ve got to look after my delicate, little voice.

Who or what is inspiring you at the moment?

I don’t know really. It’s a hard question. Whenever anyone asks me it, my mind just empties of anything. But I heard a band yesterday that I really like, a new band called Pinegrove. They’re somewhere from The States, a newish band. I’ve just heard their music and I thought it sounded really fresh. So, I suppose Pinegrove. There you go. I try and keep my eyes and ears open to new stuff. I think that’s always the most inspiring.

You’re heading out to Australia

again in the New Year. You were there last year, weren’t you? In the New Year?

We were there last year but I’m not sure it was over the New Year.

I can’t quite remember off the top of my head. It’s quite quick for us to be back so soon after having an album out. It normally takes us at least three years. So, it’s quite quick for us, that’s for sure.

Do you enjoy playing in Australia?

Yeah. I appreciate it now. The more I go to Australia, the more I like it.

I always liked Melbourne. Sydney took a while but now I really like it.

And we’ve done the Falls Festival before which we’re going to do this time. We did it about seven years ago and it was super fun. I’ve got really fond memories of playing it. It was mental. So, I’m looking forward to it.

Do you think you’ll get any extra time there or is it just in and out playing?

I’m not sure at the moment. My schedule keeps changing. But I might have a few days in Perth by the end of the tour. I’m not sure yet.

But I always have a couple of days at the beginning of the tour. I tend to fly out a few days early to try and reaclimatise because obviously, it’s so far. So, I always have a nice time walking around the city before the circus starts.

Seeing as you travel a lot, what are the things you can’t go on tour without?

There’s nothing you can’t go on tour without Darlin’. But the one thing I do like having is fresh socks.

So, I try and get fresh sports socks put on the rider because there’s nothing better than a pair of brand new socks. That’s about it. I’m

pretty easy to please really. Socks and – yeah, that’s it. And a pack of cigarettes. That’s me happy.

Where would you say is the strangest place you’ve ever had to do a gig?

Talking of that area of the world, on the Falls Festival we went and played in Tasmania and that was pretty crazy. I just never thought I would end up there really. We played in the middle of the woods on New Year’s Eve and it rained in the middle of our set. Anywhere else in the world, that would be a bad thing but it was amazing. So, that was pretty cool. I’ve played a lot of sets in a lot of strange back rooms where you never know. And you never quite remember until you’re in the room again and you’re like ‘I’ve been here before.’ I don’t know. The whole thing’s a blur to me, to be honest.

What’s your favourite track from the album to perform?

It changes quite a lot but at the moment I think the favourite to perform is probably Tinfoil Boy off the album. I’m quite enjoying that at the moment.

What can audiences at Falls Festival and the sideshows hope to get from your performance?

I don’t know. We like to play a mix of everything we’ve done really and try to play a bit for everyone. So, hopefully it’s going to be a mixed extravaganza spanning a decade.

Tour dates 4th January 2017 - Enmore Theatre, Sydney, NSW premier.ticketek.com.au 5th January 2017 - The Croxton, Melbourne, VIC secretsounds.com.au

By Hannah Shakir

quite a lot the year before with the album beforehand, Carry On The Grudge, and I definitely felt I wanted to write a record that took playing live into account, if that makes sense? So, I wrote this album more on guitar than I had before because I think after playing and being on tour for so long, I wanted to write an album that was more written for playing live. Some of the other albums, I didn’t really necessarily think about playing them live. That was in my head for sure.

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CLUB PICKS

DRINKS DEALS

SUMMER SERIES AT REVOLVER UPSTAIRS

PRAHRAN HOTEL

Kick off the weekend at this iconic venue with $3 pots, $6 pints of craft and $3 wines every Friday between 4pm and 7pm.

82 High St, Windsor prahranhotel.com

Revolver’s Summer Series returns with its biggest lineup yet. Catch techno giants Daniel Bortz and Late Nite Tuff Guy, plus more to be announced. So tear the floor up at Revolver this summer.

Now until Sunday 19th March 2017 revolverupstairs.com.au

BIG MOUTH

You’ll be spoilt for choice as you try and decide on a post work drink, with $4 schooners, $10 jugs, $5 basics and more to choose from on weekdays between 4pm and 7pm. Then on Fridays from 4pm until 10pm, don’t miss the $6 cocktails.

168 Acland St, St Kilda bigmouthstkilda.com.au

FRIDAY NIGHTS AT THE NGV

Catch the latest exhibition then hit the Great Hall for the best in local and international acts throughout the summer.

Now until Friday 10th March 2017 ngv.vic.gov.au

FED SQUARE LIVE

NO MONEY NO PROBLEMS AT BONEY Experience the best in hip hop from DJ Nik Arks, plus a revolving lineup of DJs offering a completely different spin every Thursday at Boney.

Now until Thursday 19th January 2017 www.boney.net.au

SOUL IN THE BASEMENT AT CHERRY BAR Don’t miss Cherry’s weekly soul party blending old and new, plus live bands and DJs taking you into the early hours for a great night out in Melbourne.

Now until Thursday, 19th January 2017 www.cherrybar.com.au

THE LUWOW

LET THEM EAT CAKE NEW YEAR’S DAY Christmas is coming, the raves are getting phat, so you better get your ticket to LTEC soon if you don’t want to miss out!

Let Them Eat Cake 2017 is set to be one of the best yet with a stellar line-up.

Calling in some of the world’s greatest dance, hip hop and electronica acts, LTEC 2017 is a massive way to welcome the new year.

This year’s LTEC line up includes the likes of Dusky, Maribou State, Tokimonsta, Onra, Mano Le Touch as well as artists such as Heidi, Leon Vynehall and more.

To give you a flavour of what you could enjoy at the next Let Them Eat Cake 2017

here’s our top 5 acts not to be missed at the Melbourne Festival.

Let Them Eat Cake is held at the stunning Italianate Mansion, set within 10 hectares of incredible gardens in Werribee Park.

The gardens where the festival takes place feature an ornamental lake, grotto, glasshouses, heritage listed trees and huge rolling lawns – all the better to party in. Werribee Park is just 35 kilometres out of the city and is accessible via coach, train or car.

Tickets are $160 plus booking fee available from letthemeatcakenyd.com.au

Venture to Melbourne’s very own Tiki bar for $10 Mai Tais every Wednesday, Friday and on weekends between 5pm and 8pm, or $6 tequilas and $12 Margaritas all day on Thursdays.

62-70 Johnston St, Fitzroy theluwow.com

BEER DELUXE

Chase away the weekend blues with $5 pints on Mondays and $6 for selected lagers, ciders, wines, spirits and more on Tuesdays, until 1am.

29 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn www.beerdeluxe.com.au

LITTLE RED POCKET

Looking for the perfect after work hang out. Head on down to this bar/club for a fun filled Friday night with $10 Absolute cocktails, $15 beer jugs, and 2-4-1 on beer, cider, spirits and wine every Friday 4-8pm.

Mezzanine, 422 Lt Collins St, Melbourne littleredpocket.com.au

By Sandy Dhaliwal

Enjoy summer nights of free, open air gigs with this seasonal program featuring everything from indie and pop to soul and electronica at the city’s hub of arts and culture - Federation Square.

Thursday 1st December 2016 – Thursday 16th February 2017 fedsquare.com

www.bbmlive.com 17

DISCOVERY RECOMMENDS: NAKED FOR SATAN It doesn’t get much hipper than Fitzroy drinking hole Naked for Satan.

Head a mere two kilometres northeast of Melbourne’s city centre and you’ll arrive in trendy Fitzroy, a rough around the edges hipster haven, filled with a treasure trove of quirky cafes, vintage clothing stores, independent record shops and a plethora of edgy live music venues. If that weren’t enough, head down on any given day of the week and you’ll be greeted with a wonderful mish-mash of lively street entertainment, impromptu pop up markets and an ever changing and much celebrated art scene; varying from commissioned murals and street art to galleries, studios and workshops.

And as you enter the cosmopolitan Brunswick Street venue, you’ll inevitably be equally as blown away at the lower level too, as you take in the exquisite and

wonderfully preserved vodka distillation equipment positioned at the front of the bar, as well as the bold, exposed ventilation ducts and provocative découpage of nudes adorning the bar’s shabby chic walls. With a rich history dating back to the 1930’s Depression Era, there is a real old soul ambience that resonates beautifully throughout this unique

location. From its framed vintage photos lining the walkways and gleaming chandeliers providing revellers with the most romantic lighting arrangements, to the grand, old-fashioned library style furniture and charming and fully functioning antique lift that takes you up to the bar above.

But what to drink you ask? Well, NFS prides itself on its exclusive blends of infused vodkas, ranging from the delectable chilli and cherry to the scintillating opium flower poppy. There are also an array of risqué cocktails including Lucifer’s Lovejuice, Bloody Satan and Dirty Diablo. While the wine, ciders, beers and spirit options are all fully and extensively stocked,

ready for your deliberating. If you’re partaking in a canape or five (definitely have five), be sure to ask what tipple might complement best, as the food and beverage menus have been harmoniously created to make for the perfect counterparts. Salud!

285 Brunswick St, Fitzroy, 3065 nakedforsatan.com.au

By Sandy Djaliwal

Sitting gloriously at the centre of all this goodness is the award winning and fiendishly named Russian vodka and Spanish tapas haunt, Naked for Satan. And though it might sound like an odd combination, the eccentric concept manages to work on every level. And we literally mean every level, with the roof top terrace undoubtedly dazzling on any first visit with its stunning views of Melbourne’s dramatic skyline, as well as its plush and chic outdoor setting, just oozing rustic appeal, while epitomising the city’s laid back and sophisticated drinking scene.

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Dusky will be heading out to Australia for the epic New Year’s Day festival that is Let Them Eat Cake.

Here we caught up with the dance duo to find out about their new album ‘Outer’ and unearth just what goes into their techno influenced sound.

We’re at the end of another year and what seems to have been another huge year for Dusky. What has been your high and lowlights of 2016?

Our first live show at Village Underground in London last April was a big moment for us. It was the first time we played a lot of the ‘Outer’ music out and was a big change going from DJing to actually performing our music. We had a few technical issues just before doors so it was a nerve-wracking few hours before we went on, but everything went without a hitch and it really went off in there. As for other big moments: finally releasing ‘Outer’, doing our first Maida Vale session and being asked back to do a second Essential Mix were all special for us. Our live show at Parklife in Manchester was especially crazy and a festival highlight! It’s definitely been a busy year fitting everything in, but there haven’t been any real lowlights and we tend not to focus on the negatives.

You released your sophomore album ‘Outer’ not that long ago, and the first single taken from that was the retrospective beats-based track ‘Ingrid is a Hybrid’. An amazing track which is very oldschool sounding and very reminiscent in parts of Orbital. Do you have an affinity with the music from early-mid nineties? What was your favourite artists/albums from that era?

It’s a hugely important era for us, as it is for a lot of electronic music fans who grew up when we did.

There are almost too many acts and sub-genres to mention, which is probably what made it such a diverse and inspiring time - there was so much to immerse yourself in: old school rave, hardcore, UK garage, Belgian techno, jungle, electronica, acts like Orbital, The Orb, Daft Punk and Chemical Brothers, we could go on!

‘Outer’ features a host of vocals from guests like Pedestrian, Solomon Grey, Gary Numan Wiley and Wiley. Numan especially must’ve been a big one for you to get! Was it an easy process getting him involved?

The instrumental for ‘Swansea’ had a very 80s-inspired electronic vibe, which Gary Numan

K

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Q & A: LIANNE LA HAVAS like the textures. It’s a story of a break up and then subsequent reuniting of a relationship with an ex-partner.

felt perfect for - he pioneered those sounds. We knew we wanted him on the record so found a way of getting the track to him… a friend of a friend of a friend used to work with him and passed it on.

Luckily, he really loved the track and emailed to say he was up for working on it. It was a massive result and a real honour for us.

From some of your recent DJ sets we’ve heard (the Triple J Radio mix comes to mind) it feels like Dusky is moving towards a more technoorientated sound. Is this a natural progression for you or a definite decision to move towards a harder-edged sound?

Techno is a big influence on what we do and has been for some time. It’s one of the bedrocks of modern dance music and has arguably influenced all the subgenres that have come since in some way.

You will be returning to Australia to play at the Let Them Eat Cake Festival just outside of Melbourne. You played there in 2014 which was only the second year of the festival - and now Resident Advisor calls it the best one day NYD festival in the world. What was the lasting memories from the festive which you took away with you?

The line-up was on-point and there was an obvious commitment to quality, credible sounds, so it was a really enjoyable one to play for us. The weather is always a lot better than London at that time of year too!

With 2017 just around the corner and your album released, what will be your main focus for next year?

Touring and promoting the album has been pretty non-stop for the past few months, so we’re looking forward to just getting our heads back into the studio and seeing what comes out. We’ve got a lot of activity planned for our 17 Steps label over next year, with EPs signed from Bwana, Christian Piers and B.K.R - the latter including a Jamie Jones collaboration. We’re also going to bring back our Take A Trip all the night set at some point next year too.

Catch Dusky at Let Them Eat Cake 2017 on New Year’s Day in Melbourne.

www.letthemeatcakenyd.com.au

What’s it been like touring with Coldplay? Any funny antics from the UK tour you can tell us about?

It’s all a blur, we rode around on fold up bikes because the stadiums were so massive, also getting to know Coldplay has been an absolute pleasure.

Everyone is so nice!

She burst on to the scene a few years ago with her incredible voice and quirky songs, and still rolling strong, we speak to Lianne La Havas whilst she tours her sophomore album, Blood alongside Coldplay.

Hi Lianne, how are you? Where are you right now?

HEY! I’m in Zurich getting ready for a solo show I’m playing tonight. Listening to some 90’s bangers with my tour manager Jim and one of my managers Lucy.

Gabrielle and Des’ree and we are all singing along.

Good, so the classics! So, You’re still touring ‘Blood’ which has done really well. Are you working on a new album?

I am! Watch this space new music coming soon, I am writing gradually every day.

My favourite track on that album is ‘Never Get Enough’ - what was the story behind this track?

I felt that track was a sort of genre defining song for me, it’s about combining something subtle and floaty sounding with something harsh and abrasive texturally. I

TREND

Being from South London, where would you say is the best night out in town these days?

Servant Jazz Quarters in Dalston for some live music and a cocktail.

When you’re not jetting around on tours, where would you say is your most ideal holiday location?

If I’m not at home in London I love a hot beach where I can do nothing. Beaches in Jamaica where my mother’s family are from and Tulum in Mexico are pretty great. Brazil is next on my list!

What process do you go through when writing new material?

A long arduous one! Ha. I like to live a bit of life and see what comes out at the end of it.

QUICK FIRE ROUND: Jogging or swimming? Jogging Mountains or beaches? Beaches Chicken or fish? Neither I am vegan.

Sting or Bob Marley? Bob Comedy or thriller? Comedy Caribbean or Greek food?

Couldn’t call it so I’m saying both.

Cat or dog? Cat Jazz bar or rave? Rave Catch Lianne La Havas tour dates run from 8th - 14th December.

Find tickets at www.moshtix.com.au

BBMLIVE.COM/NEW-TRENDS

Whether you want to spoil someone this Christmas or need tgo pack for an upcoming trip, here’s a few travel essentials you just can’t go without...

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1.

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1. Yoga Bellies ultra skinny yoga mat for yogis on the go - $120 - www.amazon.com 2. VOYA Voyager organic skincare travel set - $72 - www.voya.ie 3. Groov-e Fusion Headphones - $58 – Amazon, World Duty Free & Prezzybox.com 4. Happy Plugs Soundpiece Mini Bluetooth Speaker - $115.99 - www.happyplugs.com 5. HD multi-screen set-up for designers on the go - $250 - www.packedpixels.com 6. OBEY Women’s backpack - $99.00AUS www.obeyclothing.com 7. Picturekeeper 8GB photo drive for iPhone and iPad - $162 - picturekeeper.com 8. 4-in-1 Calming Concealer for dry & sensitive eyes - $20 - www.skinshop.co.uk 9. Tranverz Small Carry On Case - $200 - Eastpak.com 10. Olloclip Core Lens Set for iPhone 7 - $167 - www.olloclip.com

by Hannah Shakir

5.

www.bbmlive.com 19

20

EXPAT SERVICES

Working Holiday Visas Extend To 35 Year Olds From January 2017

There are quite a few of you in recent years who have taken the big step and started a new life in the Australia after leaving the United Kingdom. And we’d just like to say well done. It can’t have been easy.

But now hopefully you have the life you’d always dreamt of, or at the very least much closer to it. The only downside to living overseas is Christmas doesn’t really feel like Christmas. Sure, you have the presents and the good food and the ornate pine tree in the corner of the room but something’s missing. Now, what could it be?

May we venture to suggest that you could be feeling a little blue as most of your friends and relatives are still back in Blighty, enjoying Christmas in a chillier but nonetheless far more familiar climate to the humid one you’re currently experiencing? If so, we at Seven Seas Worldwide have a suggestion.

If there are particular Christmas traditions you’ll be missing this year, why not ask those in the UK to send you a gift package?

A little bundle of familiar items and handmade offerings that will instantly transport you home without the need to spend 24 hours on a Quantus airliner.

Popular gifts include handwritten cards and letters (even in 2016 they still mean a bit more than a text or a succession of heart emojis), family photos, childhood mementos like a favourite book, a favourite mug or item of jewellery or article of clothing. Food is often a staple in a gift package though we advise against it, just because Australian quarantine laws are so stringent. More of that later.

Regrettably you missed the deadline if you wanted to have your package sent by sea (you’d have needed to get something packed and sent off by October) but there’s still time to have something sent by air if you’re

willing to pay the extra price.

If you are planning on sending a more Christmas-themed gift package, here’s a small word of warning: Should the package contain any festive ornaments and decorations such as a Santa figurine or a traditional Christmas wreath, do consider the possible customs restrictions. Before you ask - no, customs officials are not notably less festive than other citizens. We’re sure there are plenty of inspectors who come to work in December with tinsel round the brims of their hats.

No, this is a simple reflection of Australia and New Zealand’s rigorous quarantine laws that prevent any item from entering the country that may be dirty or may have come into contact with the earth and not been sufficiently cleaned.

From our experience, pine cones are very popular as part of Christmas ornaments and decorations, so if you’re sending anything with pine cone adornment or similar, we urge you to think twice before sending.

Australian and New Zealand Quarantine laws famously request that boots, camping equipment and other outdoor items are thoroughly cleaned before packing off and sending. Any evidence of dirt could mean the worse for your consignment.

For more information and guidance on sending personal items to Australia, visit the Seven Seas Worldwide website. And if you’re celebrating Christmas in Australia, enjoy the seafood and think of your loved ones huddled round the television watching The Queen’s Speech as you take another dip in the pool to cool off.

If you’re moving within Australia, then call 1300 216 698 FREE and quote our BBM promotional code BBMAUS15W06 for a 5% discount.

Find out more about moving your belongings from A - B with minimum stress

www.sevenseasworldwide.com.au

Holiday Visa Subclass 417 and 462 applications will be reduced from $440 to $390. This gives applicants/backpackers a saving of $50 per application.

New Changes to the Australian Working Holiday Visa

• Passenger movement charge will be increased to 5%, which will be used to fund certain initiatives in support for the tourism industry in Australia.

• Applicants for both Working Holiday Visa Subclass 417 and 462, with an income less than $37,000, will be taxed at a lower rate of 19%.

• The age of visa eligibility has been extended from 31 to 35.

• Fees for both the Working

• 95% of departing backpackers’ superannuation will be withheld by the Australian government for applicants of both 416 and 462.

• Additional surcharges, such as credit card surcharges, will be waived to improve the visitor experience.

For workers on a Working Holiday Visa to enjoy these changes, they must choose an employer who is

registered with the ATO for the purpose of employing foreigners on a Subclass 417 visa. If they do, their workers will be taxed at a reduced rate instead of the previous 32.5%.

Anyone interested in applying for the Working Holiday Visa is advised to check the employer public register for information on whether or not an employer is registered with the ATO. With these changes, the number of applicants for Working Holiday Visas is sure to increase, after all who doesn’t want to work in Australia for longer?

For more information on Australian Visa matters visit www.bbmlive.com/visas

TAX WISE Tel : 08 9248 8124 Fax : 08 9463 6208 mairead@taxwiseaustralia.com.au PO Box 1874, Malaga 6944 www.taxwiseaustralia.com.au www.taxwise-australia.com

EXPRESS TAX Level 6, 155 Castlereagh St Sydney, NSW, 2000 1800 739 739 +61 (0) 2 9267 3200 www.expresstaxback.com.au

GREEN MIGRATION

Registered Migration Agent – 1464351 Little City Studio 118 Prospect Road, PROSPECT SA 5082 +61 8 417 837 973 zoe@greenmigration.com.au www.greenmigration.com.au

OPTIMA MIGRATION

Registered Migration Agent - 0532045 Subiaco Business Centre/ Suite 5, 531 Hay St Subiaco WA 6008 + 61 8 93808397 |M: 0409130865 lidia@optimamigration.com.au www.optimamigration.com.au

IMMIGRATION HELP CORPORATE OFFICE (AUSTRALIA)

181 Marion Road Richmond, Adelaide, SA 5033, Australia Phone: +61 8 8123 6039 | Fax: +61 8 7200 7536 Mobile No: + 61 0433303774 Email:contact@myimmigrationhelp.com www.myimmigrationhelp.com

TAXBACK.CO.UK Claim back your uk tax refund info@taxback.co.uk www.taxback.co.uk BACKPACKER TAX REFUNDS First Floor, 1A Morts Road Mortdale NSW 2223 +61 (0) 2 8065 5668 info@backpackertaxrefunds.com.au www.backpackertaxrefunds.com.au

MOVE MIGRATION PTY LTD

Registered Migration Agent MARN: 1382250 104/3 Eden Street North Sydney NSW 2060 Email: Eugene.Liu@movemigration.com.au Web: movemigration.com.au

CONTACT marketing@ what-media.com to advertise your services.

Sydney image courtesy of Tourism NSW

Don’t Miss Out On Home Comfor ts This Christmas

Come January 2017, new changes will be applied to Working Holiday Visas for Australia, all of which bring good news to visa holders and new visa applicants. The changes have been made with a view to promoting tourism in Australia.

www.bbmlive.com 21

22

RECRUITMENT. EMPLOYMENT. STUDY. MIGRATION.

Narrowing Down Your Job Search

I bet most of you reading this think the main reason is money, surely that has to be it, we work to earn money so we can live our lives and hopefully have enough left over for holiday in Hawaii once a year….

But that’s where you are wrong. Let me start by saying that there is nothing wrong with wanting to leave because you feel you are not being monetarily rewarded enough for your efforts, but ask yourself this, have you sat down one on one with your boss and had the discussion about a possible pay rise?

And if you have and there is no room in the budget, then by all means continue your job search.

This discussion is important because if this conversation hasn’t happened and you decided to hand in your notice after a recruiter has found you a position, your boss may then make you a counter offer which you may accept. This means the recruiter who has just worked tirelessly to find you that perfect job has just lost a great candidate, in you!

But what if you’re leaving for different reasons?

What if you want to work in a larger organisation where you can progress, one where you can break through the ceiling which limits you at your current position. How far are you willing to travel? And what salary increases are you looking for? What salary will

you accept for that dream role? Are you looking to expand your current skill set or pick up a completely new set of skills? What type of company culture do you want to be a part of? What is your preferred industry and more importantly, which industries don’t you want to work in.

I know reading all of this, can make your head spin a little, but these are all important questions you want to ask yourself and make notes on so when you approach the recruiter, they know exactly what roles to put you forward for. Inevitably the recruiter will probe a bit more to get a better understanding of you, what you’re after and your current situation, because there are some areas which just aren’t translated onto ‘paper’. Be honest with your recruiter, say no to roles that you don’t want to consider and enquire into roles that interest you. Your recruiter should always have time to take or return your calls, and if they don’t, find yourself a new recruiter.

Changing jobs is a big life decision and should be treated as such. If you are looking for work, answer the questions I have asked you here, make a note of them, and prioritise them. This will give you the best possible chance of finding your dream job.

By Ali Helou, Consultant in Western Sydney, people2people.

Find temporary & permanent work and job advice at people2people.com.au

CARPENTERS. ELECTRICIANS. CHEFS RECRUITERS. NURSES. SPONSORED JOBS Our clients are seeking professionals from overseas to fill a range of jobs across Australia. If you’re serious about staying in Australia and are seeking permenant employment or looking at skilled visas options, we want to hear from you.

If you’re coming to the end of your first or second year working holiday visa, or if you’re already in employment and are looking for a new sponsor please get in touch with our team asap. Our clients are looking for top talent and willing to sponsor for the right candidates.

Call 02 8005 8162 or email your CV to jobs@bbmlive.com

Sydney Opera House image courtesy of Tourism NSW.

At multiple points in our lives, each and every single one of us under take a job search for various reasons. Why you decide to leave current employment behind, is up to you, but have you thought about the reason why you’re leaving and what it is you’re exactly looking for, before deciding to hand in your four weeks’ notice period?

www.bbmlive.com 23

WWW.BBMLIVE.COM/JOBS

How To Lodge A Partner Visa Application For Australia If your partner is moving to Australia and you’d like to go with them, there is the possibility that you can lodge an application for a Partner Visa, also known as a De Facto Visa. Or perhaps you have landed a Skilled Working Visa in Australia and would like to find out more about bringing your partner along with you.

Either way, you’ll need to look into what is entailed when it comes to temporary partner visas (subclass 820) and provisional partner visas (subclass 309).

Owing to a high demand, visa applications for the aforementioned classes are currently taking between a year to 15 months to process. As such, it’s vitally important that your Partner Visa application for Australia is submitted with accuracy and no errors.

MARN 0960361

The Australian Government’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection has a website with document checklists to assist you with your Australian De Facto Visa application. It’s a good idea to print these out and check off each item to ensure you have collected all the prerequisite certificates and other evidence required.

This site also lists the necessary forms you will need to fill out for both the permanent and temporary classes of Partner Visas for

TSS RECRUITMENT

LEVEL 3, 7 HOWARD ST. RICHMOND, VICTORIA 3121 +61 03 9421 1020 WWW.TSSRECRUITMENT.COM.AU

HOW TO ACE THAT INTERVIEW WITH 5 SIMPLE TIPS Whether you’ve finished studying in

Australia, or need a job whilst you study in Australia, you’ll need to make sure you ace your job interview. Job interviews can be seriously daunting, so here are a few tips to help you through a job interview in Australia.

2. Don’t overlook common interview questions Whether it’s your first or tenth job interview, some questions never grow old. Why do you think there are entire articles about how to answer questions, such as “Why should we hire you?” or “What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?” These questions, and many others, reveal certain things about a job seeker, which is why you should prepare your responses for them. If they never come up during the interview, at least you are prepared. If they do, then you won’t end up at a loss for words, because your mind is completely blank.

1. Do some intelligence gathering More often than not, interview questions are designed to determine how you’ll fit in with the company culture and the job opportunity on offer. This applies to any job – be it working in a bar, shop or office! So knowing more about the company, your future employer, and the requirements of the job will guide you in providing the answers they are looking for.

Do your homework, and you will ace your interview. Check out the company’s website, published materials, and other resources that can provide you with a lead.

3. Arrive on time or earlier Arriving late for an interview is not something you want to do. Ever. One, it will reflect on your lack of punctuality, which is a major no-no for employers. Remember that time is money, and wasting even just a few minutes of it can result in loss of productivity and business. Two, you won’t have time to relax and calm down before the interview.

Can you imagine how you would feel being bombarded with interview questions, while your heart’s still racing from that jog up the stairs or the panic you felt knowing you’re late? Whichever way you look at it, arriving late should be avoided at all cost.

Australia.

Once you’re confident you’ve gathered all the necessary evidence and filled out all the necessary forms, it’s time to submit your application. The fastest and easiest way to do this is online, by creating an account using the Australian Government’s ImmiAccount service, which is featured on the aforementioned Department of Immigration and Border Protection section of their site. Here you can scan in all your documents and upload them directly to your account. The more detailed and exhaustive your application is, the faster it will be processed and you will stand a much better chance of gaining your desired visa. Once you’ve made an account you can login at your leisure to check on the progress of your application.

If you have any queries whatsoever regarding any aspect of the process of lodging an application for an application for a De Facto Partner Visa for Australia, it’s not a bad idea to get in touch with a registered migration agent.

To find out more about applying for a Partner Visa for Australia contact a migration agent today at info@freedommigration.com.au and mention BBM Live advert when calling on +61731 123 204.

For more information visit www.freedommigration.com

TSS MIGRATION

LEVEL 3, 7 HOWARD ST. RICHMOND, VICTORIA 3121 +61 03 9421 1020

WWW.TSSIMMIGRATION.COM.AU

4. Dress for success Ever heard of the term en-clothed cognition? It’s the idea that a person acts and behaves according to how they dress. Your clothes can influence your psychological process, so if you dress for success, you’re most likely to succeed.

During a job interview, success calls for a professional and formal outfit. Nothing too severe, of course. But decent and respectable. Along with appropriate clothing is good grooming.

5. Make a lasting impression Self-confidence can go a long way. If you add being courteous and polite into it, then you’re sure to make a good first impression.

Offer warm greetings to everyone, from the receptionist to the hiring manager, shake hands firmly, and express enthusiasm.

During the interview, be authentic, honest and concise. Hiring managers and recruiters can spot a liar a mile away, so don’t be that job seeker who lost their chance because of one small lie.

Find out more about studying in Australia at www.aussiestudies.com.au Or make an enquiry via email admissions@aussiestudies.com

24

A Guide To Working As A Nurse In Australia

10 Reasons Why Agency Nursing Is Becoming More Popular If you enjoy having the flexibility of choosing your own working patterns, then agency nursing could be just the right fit for you. You’ll get to focus on patient care, but it means you won’t forget your own priorities. So if you’ve come to Australia for a working holiday, then it means you can balance both working and travelling with relative ease. Here are ten reasons why agency nursing is becoming more popular than ever amongst Registered Nurses…

1. Freedom and flexibility

Now that healthcare professionals applying for a nursing job in Australia no longer have to register with each individual state, practising their profession has just become easier. It pays to be employed in one of the most popular travel destinations in the world as nursing in Australia means you can also travel Australia. But what does it take to work as a nurse in Australia?

Eligibility Requirements For Nursing Jobs In Australia You must prove that you are qualified to practise as a nurse through your educational attainment and work experience. If you still need to acquire additional skills, you have an option to sign up for a bridging programme.

You must prove that you are proficient in speaking the English language through a series of tests, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). If you’re from the UK, the US, New Zealand, Canada or Ireland, however, you may be able to skip the English language test.

Upon arriving in the country you will need to register with the Australian Health Practitioners Registration Authority (AHPRA) in order to nurse in Australia.

Visa Options For Nurses There are several visa options to choose from, permanent or otherwise, whether you have a high level of skills or not. You can choose to work temporarily, during a working holiday – available for nurses aged between 18 and 30 (or 35 as of 2017), or permanently as a skilled migrant. If you still need to upgrade your skills, you can apply for an occupational trainee visa and undergo a supervised training programme.

If your qualifications are accepted and you are approved for a visa, you only need to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia and the AHPRA to start doing the job you love.

Due to the complexity of the Australian visa system, you should employ the services of a migration agent. It is best to get all the requirements and paperwork right before lodging an application to ensure a higher rate of approval.

Nursing agencies will not dictate when and where you have to work; it’s entirely up to you so you can work when and where it suits you. You can choose to work jobs back to back or perhaps take time off in between.

2. Get the work/life balance right

The requirements of a permanent nursing role can be very demanding and could take a toll on your personal life. Agency nursing will allow you to choose assignments that fit in with your personal life so you can concentrate on other priorities.

3. Variety

You won’t get stuck in a rut as you’ll have the opportunity to work in different locations. Taking on nursing jobs via a nursing agency in Australia will ensure that no two days are the same as you get to experience nursing roles in different hospitals with different patients.

4. Professional development

With each new assignment, you’ll continue to gain great experience whether it’s developing your existing skills or learning something completely new.

5. Expand your network

Australia is looking for nurses in all fields. You should grab the opportunity to get a nursing job Down Under.

Having the opportunity to move locations and jobs will allow you to meet new people. The more people you get to know in your field could widen your chances of finding another role or just have someone to ask when in need of professional expertise.

Apply for nursing jobs now at

6. Opportunities to travel

www.bowerhealthcare.com.au

If you’re looking for something flexible and don’t

have any reasons or commitments to staying in one location, then this may open up an even broader range of assignments to you that require travel to different areas, such as Regional Nursing jobs – allowing you to visit new places and expand your network even further.

7. Job security

You don’t need to have a permanent role to have job security – there is a very high demand for nurses in Melbourne and Victoria, so there will always be a shift available if you want it.

8. Great pay

With such a demand for nursing staff in Australia, the rates of pay are excellent – and with agency work, you’ll typically get paid on a weekly basis, so no waiting for an entire month for the pay cheque to come in.

9. No politics

It doesn’t matter where you work, there are always politics in the workplace. Moving to different assignments allows you to remain impartial to these events and focus on the more important aspect of patient care.

10. No burn out

There’s no doubt that a long term job at a hospital or care home is hard work – and can become extremely tiring. As an agency nurse in Australia you can take as much time between jobs as you want allowing you the time and space to switch off and relax.

Apply now to find agency nursing jobs in Melbourne.

www.australiannursingagency.com

www.bowerhealthcare.com.au info@bowerhealthcare.com.au Mental Health Nurses for Eastern Suburbs We have been asked to source experienced Registered Mental Health nurses (or general nurses with mental health experience) for block bookings in a popular public hospital’s various mental health units (aged care through to MHICU).

Paid as a casual, your roster will be set up to 2 weeks in advance. Part-time hours might also be considered providing your availability is regular and ongoing. Block bookings available.

Essential requirements: Work rights in Australia , a minimum of 12 months postgrad clinical experience, compliance with NSW Health’s vaccination policy, current AHPRA registration, eligibility for National Criminal History Record Check and NSW Working with Children Check clearance.

Got a question?

Theatre Nurses Eastern Suburbs

We have been asked to source experienced Registered Nurses with Operating Theatre experience for block bookings in a popular public hospital’s various theatres. Paid as a casual, your roster will be set up to 2 weeks in advance.

Part-time hours might also be considered providing your availability is regular and ongoing.

What’s in it for you?

Block bookings at a popular and conveniently located public hospital, guidance with achieving compliancy for work in NSW (if moving from interstate, access to our on-line rostering/availability system, additional ad hoc shifts outside the block booking if required, professional Indemnity Insurance cover, Other shifts around the Sydney/metro area and contracts in regional/rural NSW. Essential requirements: Work rights in Australia , a minimum of 12 months post-grad clinical experience, compliance with NSW Health’s vaccination policy, current AHPRA registration, eligibility for National Criminal History Record Check and NSW Working with Children Check clearance.

Community Support Worker (Eastern Sydney)

We assist aged, frail, vulnerable and disabled consumers to live independently in their own homes in the community by providing support services, either on a private, fee for service basis, or through brokerage with a variety of Not-For-Profit community providers. We currently have a critical need for more experienced casual home care and support workers around Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs (multiple vacancies).

Duties include; the provision of high and low-level personal care, including personal hygiene, showering, dressing, etc.

Essential requirements: 3 months recent practical care experience in a relevant, local work environment (e.g. in-home care, nursing or group home, hospital, etc.), current work rights in Australia, 2 recent employment or study related references, your own insured vehicle with current NSW drivers licence, excellent communication and time management skills, Certificate III or above (Aged Care, Home & Community Care or Disability), Current First Aid Certificate, Current National Criminal History Record, Working with Children Checks (preferred).

RN’s - All Regional - NSW Our client hospitals are always pleased to accommodate travelling nurses willing to help out on a short-term, contract basis.

Although most roles require extensive specialty skills such as ED, ICU and mental health, we do have general positions at larger facilities at times. Although these roles do not suit nurses arriving in the country wishing to start immediately (as there are a lot of compliance requirements to achieve, some of which need you to be on shore to fulfill) we can help keep you busy locally in Sydney while you wait for a suitable opening.

Essential requirements: Work rights in Australia, a minimum of 24 months post-grad clinical experience in the area required, compliance with NSW Health’s vaccination policy, current AHPRA registration, National Criminal History Record Check and NSW Working with Children Check.

Contracts come with single room accommodation in nurses’ quarters or hospital rentals, travel expense reimbursement can be negotiated and a lump-sum bonus applies at the successful completion of the agreed terms.

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KAKADU TRAVEL GUIDE

Summertime in Darwin Darwin is a must on many an Aussie itinerary, from the great attractions around this tropical city to the wilderness that lies on its doorstep.

If you’re feeling brave then take a dip with some giant saltwater crocs at Crocosaurus Cove. Taking a plunge into the cage of death will get you right up close to these prehistoric beasts and you’ll also have the chance to meet some less scary creatures whilst visiting, including; barramundi, sawfish, archer fish and whiprays at the freshwater aquarium as well as turtles at the Turtle Enclosure.

45-minutes south of Darwin you’ll find the Territory Wildlife Park in Berry Springs. It’s here that you’ll have the opportunity to spot dingos and other native Aussie wildlife.

For more action-packed adventures a cruise along the Mary River Wetlands where you’ll find the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles on earth. On a cruise here the boat will get you right up to these ferocious beings in their natural habitat.

Here you can also enjoy fishing and birdwatching.

Discover Australia’s biggest National Park In The Northern Territory...

Fun fact - Kakadu National Park is roughly the size of Slovenia, so with 20,000 kilometers squared to explore, she’ll certainly keep you busy!

Amongst an ever-changing landscape of desert, lakes, forest, wetlands and escarpments, there are bountiful pieces of natural beauty coexisting next to some real Aussie wildlife. And when we say real Aussie wildlife we mean the likes of massive saltwater crocs, monitor lizards, turtles and more!

If we had to choose the highlights, it would have to be Twin Falls and Jim Jim Falls. Whether they’re in full cascade during the wet season (November til March) or dried up in the dry season, the actual rock formations are spectacular. In face, Jim Jim Falls is so spectacular that the water falls from a 150 metre height into a rock pool below - so if there’s one thing you need to see whilst visiting Kakadu - make sure it’s this waterfall!

However, as we said, Twin Falls isn’t to be overlooked. These waterfalls give you a real taste of tropical paradise as they lead to a sandy beach below creating an idyllic place to cool off.

Exploring Kakadu National Park isn’t just about seeing the flora and fauna however, as you have the chance to learn more about the traditional landowners as well as seeing some ancient Aboriginal rock art. Another fun fact - the Aboriginal traditional landowners of Kakadu National Park have been living in the area for 40,000 years and are subsequently

the longest continuous surviving human culture in the entire world!

Thanks to the knowledge of the local Aboriginals, they have denoted that there are six seasons that take place throughout the year in Kakadu, meaning there are different things to see at different times of year. From December to March the season is known as Gudjewg and temperatures are at 24 - 34 Celsius. At this time of year you can expect tropical thunderstorms, heavy rain and flooding. This is also when you’ll find Magpie Geese nesting.

Come Banggerreng - also known as April, temperatures remain the same, however the rain lets off but you may get the odd ‘Knock ‘em down storm’ which can damage the new plants as they attempt to grow. Yegge from May to mid June is when the locals will often burn some of the land to encourage growth, and temperatures are a little more bearable having cooled off somewhat.

The cool season from mid June to mid August sits at around 1732 Celsius is when the dry season (Wurregeng) begins and the burning continues. As the billabongs and creeks shrink wildlife crowds around the waters as it becomes scarce.

From mid August to October temperatures begin to rise again as Sea turtles come on shore to lay their eggs, and from October - late December Gunumeleng takes place as the land prepares once more for the wet season. With the ever changing weather of the Kakadu region it’s important to plan your trip.

Travellers Tip: Kakadu Wild Expeditions have tours departing from March - October from 3-5 days. www.kakaduwild.com.au

Feel like going off-track for a couple of days - or even just for the day, the Litchfield National Park is where you’ll encounter stunning swimming holes and waterfalls as well as soaring termite mounds and venture down the Adelaide River via boat to spot even more crocs as they lurk in the waters next to you.

For more fun to be had in the city, take in dinner on the stunning Darwin Harbour or sample the exotic delights of the Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Taking place every Sunday and Thursday evening, you can join the crowds that gather on the Arafura Sea shore as the market comes alive with hundreds of stalls.

You’ll find Crocosaurus Cover at 58 Mitchell Street, Darwin City (Corner of Mitchell & Peel Street) or visit www.crocosauruscove.com

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Race To The Centre

Jump on board Mulgas Darwin to Alice Springs express tour.

If you’re currently thinking about how best to utilise 2017 when it comes to adventures and travelling then being in Australia gives you a great head start.

One of the largest and most diverse countries on Earth, it’s almost impossible to know where to start and how long to stay in each location - especially if you’re only travelling for a couple of months and time is of the essence. The main things you need to ask yourself are; How much do I want to see? How much time have I got? And do I want to experience things that I can’t anywhere else in the world?

Answering yes to any of these pondering thoughts will put you in prime position to book onto an adventure tour!

The joy of taking to the open road in Australia, is that it is just that. Literally miles and miles of open road surrounded by mind-altering scenery that will leave you awestruck of the sheer size of the place. It’s with all this in mind that hitting the road from Darwin to Alice Springs is one of the best ways to get yourself to the ‘Red Centre’ - also known as the home to Uluru.

As well as epic scenery, you can also stop by the Mataranka Hot Springs for a healing dip (and essential if you’re stiff from being in the vehicle), as well as Daly Waters and the Devils Marbles. Upon arriving in Alice Springs you can make your onward travel plans to visit Uluru, Kings Canyon and more, or plan out your Red Centre adventure before you leave Darwin!

There’s no way you’ll want to miss out on the Red Centre whilst in the NT, trust us. After all the Red Centre is home to not only the most famous rock in the world, but also other mind boggling sites such as Kata Tjuta (also known as The Olgas), Kings Canyon and The Devils Marbles.

to Alice Springs express service via Edith Falls, Mataranka Hot Springs, Daly Waters and the Devils Marbles for just $299 over one night and two days.

Departs March - October so get ahead now and book!

www.mulgasadventures.com.au

New Year’s Eve in Darwin

For those of you who have either done a stint on Australia’s East Coast on the well trodden path of many before you - or for those of you who have just arrived in Perth an overland tour is a great way to travel from state to state. Far more exciting than jumping on a JetStar flight, an overland tour will open your eyes to the many wonders of the West Coast when travelling between two of Australia’s most remote cities Perth and Darwin.

If you happen to find yourself in the Top End this New Year then you’ll be pleased to know that this corner of Oz know how to party.

And what’s more if you’re visiting the area over the Christmas break then you’ll be fully entertained. The balmy weather will give you a truly tropical Christmas and New Year.

The distance between these two cities is 4,041 km - almost the equivalent from London to Delhi - so it should come as no surprise that it’s around 44 hours driving time. But with this mammoth distance in mind, you’ll of course want to split this up by being taken to some of the most jaw-dropping and exciting locations in Australia.

Here’s a rundown of how you can ring in the New Year in Darwin…

Over 22 days as you make your way across Australia’s North West, you can experience stunning, endless coastlines such as Eighty Mile Beach - as well as the delights of national parks such as Kalbarri and Karijini.

Karijini National Park is where you can take a dip in crystal clear swimming holes as well as watching out for native Aussie wildlife such as water monitor lizards, wallaroos and red kangaroos!

Il Lido Darwin Waterfront is one of the most stunning places to spend New Year’s Eve. With Il Lido you can enjoy DJs throughout the night with a complimentary house wine, beer or cider and a dip platter on arrival.

Here, you’ll be in the perfect position to see the New Year’s fireworks.

Tickets cost $25 per person.

Heading into the Kimberley Region you can visit the geological delights of the Bungle Bungles, Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge before making your way to Lake Argyle and heading towards your final destination of Darwin.

NYE Garden Party Spend this New Year’s Eve at the Precinct Tavern’s garden party. With both a restaurant and bar on site, you’ll be well catered too.

To find out how you can see all of the above and even more destinations along the way check out Kimberley Wild Expeditions.

Wharf One Spend this New Year’s Eve dining on a four-course meal at Wharf One as you sip on complimentary bubbles and take in the stunning waterfront fireworks. Here, you’ll also find some great DJs. Tickets start at $145.

www.kimberleywild.com.au

Travellers Tip: Mulgas Adventures offer a Darwin

NYE Outdoor Festival Just outside Wharf One you’ll find live music, DJs and alfresco dining with two and three course meals starting from $60. You’ll also be able to see the Waterfront Fireworks at 9pm and 12am.

Pssst!!! If you’re visiting Darwin during Christmas, save money on accommodation at Melaeluca on Mitchell - momdarwin.com

Images and words by Gabriel Laine

THE ULTIMATE AUSSIE ADVENTURE

It’s no secret that Australia is massive, but some journeys may sound longer than they actually are.

After all with Australia’s miniscule population, one thing you certainly don’t have to worry about whilst on a long journey is getting stuck in traffic.

In order to see the majority of these famous rock formations against the vast backdrop of the Outback you’ll need to get yourself to Alice Springs. Setting off from Darwin, if you’ve got a couple of days then it’s best to go via road so you can see more along the way. Of course flying in to Alice Springs is an option, but it’s also an expensive one, and you won’t get the added bonus of seeing more sites along the way.

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA TRAVEL GUIDE Western Australia is Australia’s largest State and is packed to the brim with adventure and excitements from the coast to the bush! Sprawling along most of Australia’s coastline it will come as no surprise that you can experience most water activities here as well as the stunning beaches that fringe the Indian Ocean.

If you’re planning on touring Western Australia then you’ll want to leave yourself plenty of time and with our hop-on-hop-off pass you’ll be pleased to know you can go at your very own pace. With routes going from Perth all the

way up to Broome you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to stop off, so here’s a few highlights not to be missed whilst backpacking across Western Australia.

Lancelin

One of the most famous and sandiest parts of Western Australia, Lancelin is the first stop north from Perth on Integrity Coachlines hop-on-hop-off route and is perfect for a few lazy days by the beach and a spot of sandboarding down the sand dunes.

Monkey Mia

Famous for its local dolphins,

Monkey Mia is where you’ll have the unique opportunity to hand feed wild dolphins as they swim into the shallows each day and is a fantastic resort to stop over at for relaxing and water sports whilst making your way north.

Exmouth

The gateway to the Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth is a must for those of you who want to see WA’s answer to the Great Barrier Reef, and should you visit between March and September you may even have the chance to swim with Whale Sharks as they migrate through the Indian Ocean to feed at the Ningaloo Reef.

Karijini National Park

The jewel of Western Australia, Karijini National Park is where you’ll find adventures by the bucket load. From swimming in billabongs under waterfalls to watching out for crocodiles and spotting other native wildlife, it’s here where you can really get back to basics and have your fill of nature and the real Aboriginal culture.

Broome

An old pearl fishing town, Broome is where you’ll see endless skies and some of the most dramatic sunsets on earth. Due to its location it is also where you’ll be

able to see the Staircase To The Moon - an optical illusion that happens as the moon rises. You may have seen the postcards of camels trekking across the beach at sunset, so why not make your picture perfect moment happen here.

If you’re thinking about touring the West Coast of Australia then save yourself some money with Integrity Coachlines hop-on-hop-off pass with an added 10% off with Promo Code BBMLIVE5. www.integritycoachlines.com

www.bbmlive.com 29 Although Monkey Mia is almost 850 kilometres from Perth there’s so much to see and do along the way you may as well make an action-packed road trip out of it.

SUMMER ADVENTURES TO MONKEY MIA

Setting off from Perth over four days with Aussie Wanderer will give you an action-packed road trip alongside like-minded travellers. Your first port of call will be the Pinnacles Desert which looks more like a moonscape than a desert, and is the perfect place to kick off your adventure.

A tropical paradise combining beach fun and marine adventures awaits you in Monkey Mia.

Driving along the stunning Indian Ocean Road you’ll take

in epic coastal views as you make your way up to Kalbarri National Park. Upon reaching Kalbarri you’ll be confronted with vast panoramic views of the rocky landscape and you’ll have the chance to hike the famous Z-Bend and maybe even abseil down the 25 metre walls of Murchison Gorge.

many years which attracts tons of visitors as you get the opportunity to see these incredible creatures up close.

As you head towards Shell Beach and Shark Bay the beach portion of your road trip begins as you prepare to meet the world-famous Monkey Mia dolphins. The Monkey Mia dolphins have been swimming into the shallow waters of the Monkey Mia resort for

Your way back to Perth doesn’t have to be a straight run, so on your way back to Perth you’ll stop off at Greenough Wildlife Park where you can hand feed kangaroos and also meet some other local Aussie wildlife.

There’s even time for one last adrenaline packed moment as you reach Lancelin. Lancelin is famous for its great sand dunes, so grab a sand board and surf your way down for one last hurrah before you return to Perth.

Whilst visiting Monkey Mia you can take a wildlife cruise for $35 or hire a kayak for $15 and go exploring in the crystal clear, blue waters.

Prices start from $645 and includes most meals, all accommodation, transport and entry fees to attractions.

aussiewanderer.com.au

FROM WA TO THE TOP END

Over 9 days Adventure Tours Australia will take you on an epic journey through some of Australia’s most intrepid terrain. Setting off from Broome in Western Australia in a 4WD, you’ll make your way off road through the Napier Range.

Eventually you’ll reach Tunnel Creek - a vast cave system that extends a massive 750 metres underground to reveal stunning natural formations.

Next it’s off to Windjana Gorge to spot a saltwater crocodile or two before taking to the Gibb River Road that will take you into the heart of the Kimberley Region. It’s along this part of the journey where you can stop off for a dip at either Galvins or Adcock Gorge before camping at Manning Gorge.

The next day will take you back on to the Gibb River Road to El Questro Station where you will also have the task of crossing a river in the 4WD for an added sense of adventure!

After enjoying the delights of El Questro with two nights camping it’s time to limber up for your trip to Purnululu National Park to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Bungle Bungle Ranges.

These enormous stripey domes are impressive to say the least and surprisingly were only “discovered” in 1983 by a film crew. After your visit to the Bungle Bungles, and Durack Ranges it’s time to bed down under the starry night’s sky in a traditional Aussie swag.

After two days of taking in the land surrounding the Bungle Bungle Ranges it’s off to Lake Argyle where you’ll have some free time to

enjoy the area, or take an optional sunset cruise. Whilst visiting Lake Argyle you’ll have the chance to spot Barramundi, birds and even freshwater crocodiles so keep those hands and feet well inside the boat!

From here you’ll cross the state border over into the Northern Territory. It’s here that you’ll make your final stops at either Katherine Gorge of the stunning Edith Falls before arriving in Darwin where the tour concludes.

This 9 day tour is the perfect way to make the journey from Western Australia to the Northern Territory if you’re looking to explore the North of Australia. There are a number of tours you can take from Darwin including exploring the famous Kakadu National Park or even the incredible Uluru.

Find more tours at www.adventuretours.com.au

Images courtesy of Tourism Western Australia

Embark on the ultimate Aussie overland trip from Australia’s north west to the Top End.

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Summertime on Kangaroo Island

Nowhere does summer time like Australia, and now that time of year has arrived it’s time to truly embrace the great Aussie outdoors for a summer to remember.

South Australia is now hotting up meaning frolicking in the sea; camping and long walks on the beach are all within reach.

If you’re looking for a short break away then hop on a ferry and head over to Kangaroo Island. Just a one and a half hour bus ride from Adelaide and a 45 minute ferry, Kangaroo Island is the perfect getaway for a summer holiday.

The pleasant Mediterranean weather means you get lots of long, sunshine-filled days to enjoy the exciting terrain of the Island - including the sandy beaches and fantastic walking trails.

You could spend a couple of days seeing the key attractions on the island including the Remarkable Rocks, Little Sahara and Admirals Arch. Or spend a little longer watching the seals play on the shore at the aptly named Seal Bay or kick

back and relax at Vivonne Bay Lodge.

If you want to really make a trip out of it, then stay for longer and sample the delightful local cuisine including some of the best wine and seafood South Australia has to offer. Kangaroo Island is also famed for its locally made honey thanks to the Ligurian Bees. Take a tour around Clifford’s Honey Farm or see some real Aussie sheep shearing at Rob’s Sheep Shearing.

Fancy some healing Eucalyptus oil to take home as a souvenir? Visit the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery and you’ll not only see how the product is made, but you’ll also have your own piece of Kangaroo Island to take home with you. Plus when you get that dreaded cold in a few months you’ll be able to inhale the scent of the oil and you’ll feel as if you’re back in your happy place - Kangaroo Island!

When it comes to activities during the summer on Kangaroo Island you can really get to explore the island. Whether you choose to explore via kayak taking in the island from the perspective of the water, or take to one of the many walking trails, you really can have an active trip. For the thrillseekers

you may even want to try your hand at sandboarding down the great dunes of “Little Sahara” - a perfect activity for those of you who don’t like to get too wet!

Who’s This Tour Good For?

Active types Explorers People who want to see the real Australia Wildlife lovers Wine gluggers Foodies

What to pack?

Swimming costume/bathers/sunscreen/hat Good walking shoes Backpack Comfortable clothing Warm, layered clothing for the evening Camera

To find great deals on Kangaroo Island tours visit www.kiadventuretours.com.au

THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT THE NULLARBOR PLAIN limestone covering a whopping 200,000 km squared and ranging 1200 km from east to west.

It’s Record Breaking

The Nullarbor Plain also boasts the longest section of straight railway line on the planet, spanning 478km. But that’s not all, it’s also home to the longest straight length of tarmacked road at 146.6km!

It’s Extra Terrestrial

Luckily for its extremely low population, many meteorites have been discovered on the Nullarbor Plain with some weighing many tonnes and are often perfectly preserved due to the desert climate.

Another Spaced Out Fact…

The Skylab crashed to earth in 1979 in Balladonia, near the Western Australia end of the Nullarbor.

One of the greatest road journeys in Australia, crossing the Nullarbor Plain was once deemed the most dangerous crossing in all of Australia due to the vast distance from Adelaide to Perth and lack of amenities along the way. Nowadays it is right of passage for international adventure seekers and an incredible once in a lifetime experience. Our 10 day camping adventure tours from Perth to Adelaide and vice versa show travellers the Real Australia as we cover two thirds of it overland! Yes that’s just a mere 4000km give or take a few.

A desolate plain with not one tree breaking the horizon, the Nullarbor Plain makes for one epic view, and one heck of an adventure whilst on South Australian and Western Australian tours. But here’s a few things you maybe didn’t know about the Nullarbor Plain that will put you in good stead for your adventure tour!

It’s Massive!

So massive in fact, that The Nullarbor is officially the world’s biggest piece of

It’s Latin For…

No Trees! Although the name sounds exotic and interesting, it literally translates as nothing (nullus) tree (arbor).

It’s Dry

So dry in fact the whole region only receives on average 200 mm of rainfall per year!

There’s No Nullarbor Nymph

In the 1970s an image of a woman living semi-nude amongst wild kangaroos leaked, however after many journalists descended on the tiny town of Eucla, population 8, it emerged that the whole thing was a publicity stunt. Damn it!

There Are Camels

Although camels aren’t endemic to Australia, you’ll find around 100,000 roaming the Nullarbor after being abandoned there having helped build the railways… and now they’re pretty much at home!

TRAVEL DEALS:

Book a Southern Ocean Wildlife Adventure Tour now for 2017/2018 and receive 10% off with promo code BBMLIVE Book a Secrets of Esperance Tour now for 2017/2018 and receive 10% off with promo code BBMLIVE6 Book an Adelaide to Perth 10 Day Camping Adventure Tour now for 2017/2018 and receive 15% off! Use promo code BBMLIVE10 Book now at www.nullarbortraveller.net

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Galangoor djali! Galangoor.

Butchulla bilam, midiru K’gari galangoor nyin djaa.

Ngalmu galangoor Biral and Biralgan bula nyin djali!

Wanya nyin yangu, wanai djinang djaa.

Welcome To K’gari

These are the welcoming words of the Butchulla. The traditional landowners of Fraser Island, known to them as K’gari. You’ll see these words upon arriving on the island.

The meaning roughly translates to - “Good day. Welcome! Butchulla people, Traditional Owners of K’gari, welcome you to country.

May all our good spirits be around you throughout the day. Wherever you go leave only footprints.”

Cared for and inhabited for thousands of years by the Butchulla Tribe, they hope that all who come to K’gari’s shores will treat it with the deep respect it deserves as K’gari is in fact royalty amongst their spirit world.

In Butchulla legend, K’gari was a beautiful white spirit called Princess K’gari. Beiral - a great god that lived in the sky - the god responsible for the creation of mankind. However once Beiral had made all the people he realised they had no land, so alongside the help of Yendingie - his messenger - Yendingie came down to earth with Princess K’gari to what is now called Hervey Bay. Here, they made the beaches and the mountains, the lakes and the rivers. In fact Princess K’gari enjoyed what she was doing so much that she worked extremely hard. Yendingie ordered her to have a rest so she went to sleep on some rocks. Upon awakening she said to Yendingie “I think this is the most beautiful place we have ever made. Please Yendingie, I would like to stay here forever.”

Yendingie replied saying, “Oh no, I could not allow you to do that.

You are a spirit and your place is with me”. The princess begged

and pleaded with him and at last he relented on the condition that he would have to change her as she couldn’t live on earth as a spirit. She agreed and the beautiful white spirit princess was turned into a stunning paradise island.

Yendingie did not want K’gari to get lonesome however, so he also gave her some trees and flowers.

The babbling brooks became her voice and the lakes were made to mirror so that she could look up to the skies and keep watch over Yendingie.

Yendingie also gave K’gari birds, animals and people to keep her company - and he even taught the people about procreation so their children could always make sure she was never lonely.

To find out more about Fraser Island tours visit

dropbearadventures.com.au

WHAT’S IT REALLY LIKE SLEEPING ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF?

One of the number one Great Barrier Reef tours departing from Airlie Beach, Awesome Whitsundays really knows how to give you the experience of a lifetime. If submerging yourself amongst the tranquillity and kaleidoscopic wildlife of the Great Barrier Reef is high up on your Australia bucket list, then read on.

With Awesome Whitsundays you can literally stay overnight on the Great Barrier Reef on their Reefworld Pontoon. Operating a variety of Great Barrier Reef tours from Airlie Beach, staying overnight on the Reefworld Pontoon comes via Awesome Whitsundays’ Reefsleep Tour. We speak to Awesome Whitsundays to find out what it’s really like on a Great Barrier Reef overnight tour.

What food and drink can you expect on the Reefsleep tour?

2x all you can eat buffet lunches, 2x morning & afternoon tea, a delicious barbecue dinner that’s all cooked on the pontoon and cooked breakfast in the morning before the day trippers arrive on your second day.

Is there a masseuse on board?

Yes, it is a little extra but you can book a massage either on board the vessel or at Reefworld pontoon.

Does the pontoon bob up and down (is there risk of sea sickness?)

The pontoon is very stable, because the enclosing reefs protect it. Sometimes it gets a bit choppy on the way out through the shipping channel. If you do feel a little seasick our staff are extremely helpful and caring.

Do you provide snorkel and diving equipment hire? Is this at an extra cost?

Yes we provide snorkel equipment, which is free. There is a guided snorkelling tour where you can learn about the fish and coral life, which costs a little extra. It’s well worth it to learn more about the incredible environment you are in.

Diving is available and is an extra cost. We have experienced divers and dive masters on board. You can do an intro dive – if you would like your first dive to be in the Great Barrier Reef. If you’re certified you can even do a night dive after dinner on Reefsleep. You just have to let us know 3 days prior.

Is there any particular times of year that are a special time to visit the Reef?

All year round is amazing!

What’s the rarest creature to look out for whilst snorkelling or diving on the Reef?

Seahorses are so tiny that they are really hard to find.

There are thousands of different fish species – it really is like you’re in an aquarium but in the ocean. If you’re lucky you’ll find Nemo, Crush the turtle; Gill the rebel, Bubbles and more.

Is the weather changeable?

Not really!

What are the risks when diving or snorkelling the GBR? Our staff are well trained, we have lifeguards on board watching the snorkelling areas.

What’s the absolute best thing about staying on the pontoon overnight?

The serenity of being in this stunning natural location.

You are one of a small group left on the pontoon for the afternoon, evening and morning before the day-trippers arrive. It’s so peaceful, waiting for the underwater nightlife to come to life, looking for turtles that come to nibble, laying back and seeing such a star-struck night sky.

Sleeping in a swag is an experience too and completely different – it’s such a unique Australian experience that you just have to experience if for yourself!

www.awesomewhitsundays.com

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A Local’s Guide To Cairns

This month, we speak to Cairns local, Emma Lucas at Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to find out a little more about what there is to do in Cairns and why you should visit this summer.

If you were to sum up TNQ in 3 words what would they be? Relaxed, Paradise, Sunshine. Anyone who needs to slow down, Cairns is the place for you.

For anyone visiting the Tropical North for the first time, what are the top 3 things they should do? Diving or snorkelling on the Barrier Reef, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Atherton Tablelands food+wine (especially for the cheese!). Breakfast at Ozmosis Café in Edge Hill.

Cairns is filled with amazing spots to eat and sample fantastic local produce.

What else is there to do near the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway? You can also visit the Military Museum, Tjapukai restaurant and cultural centre and the fresh seafood market. We are lucky, Skyrail is close to so many other iconic things to do in North Queensland.

Where’s the best place in Cairns to grab dinner out?

Ochre on the boardwalk is a favourite with locals.

Where’s the best place to head out for a drink in Cairns? Salthouse or the Boatshed.

Where’s the best place to stay if visitors are thinking of visiting for a week or so? Sea Temple Palm Cove for the massive pools. It’s also far enough away that it’s quiet, but close enough to zip down for shopping or dinner.

When’s the best time of year to visit? Depends, if you don’t like the heat; May – September. If you are a keen diver; October – January (5 knot season - commonly referred to as ‘glass out’).

Where’s the best place off the beaten track to visit?

Behana Creek Falls or Ross & Locke. These places are not advertised anywhere, so speak to a local to find out how to visit these places.

To find out more about the fantastic Cairns tours Skyrail Rainforest Cableway provide, view prices and packages and to book visit www.skyrail.com.au.

CRUISE AROUND THE WHITSUNDAYS A world famous water world awaits off Australia’s East Coast.

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 stunning Whitehaven Beach, the gorgeous and intricate 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 where you’ll take in the marine life of this enchanting area.

Each Ocean Rafting vessel holds 25-32 passengers allowing you to experience the gorgeous oceanic terrain away from the crowds, as well as providing snorkel lessons from your guide meaning you’ll be able to experience the stunning marine life up close and personal below the surface.

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

Ocean Safari Tour Review BBM Live’ Gabriel Laine jumps on board with Ocean Safari from Cape Tribulation to see just what’s so special about this part of the world, and this eco-friendly tour operator.

Ocean Safari is a unique independent company and the only one operating out of Cape Tribulation.

Upon reflection, I still can’t quite figure out why this place isn’t packed; they are the only ones operating on the island, they are fairly cheap, this is a half day tour which leaves time to visit other places, the ride is only 20 minutes, and their staff are all locals who know all the best secret spots.

We arrived the night before at the Jungle Lodge where we enjoyed a good night’s sleep in a very large and private campground. It is right in heart of the forest too, so you get to see amazing bits of nature, and wake up with the sound of the birds. (We also got to see a rather large prehistoric looking cassowary bird on our way too whilst it hung around the lodge!)

As we made the quick journey out to the reef the good tunes pumped out including drum and bass, Creedance, Clearwater and the Beatles - surprising, but fun! During the tour it felt like the locals were taking you to their spot, and you were a guest on board… which made for a special atmosphere.

Despite this being a half-day tour, we got to snorkel in two different locations. First, we stopped at a creek where we got to spend almost an hour in the water. Over there, you get to see a lot of wildlife, and the corals are absolutely amazing… Most importantly however, no one else but your

group is in the water! So, if you want peace and want to feel like you are alone visiting this beautiful part of the world, this is it.

We then moved to a different snorkelling spot not far from the first one, and this time we got to see sea turtles, stingrays, and starfish, which was truly amazing. And what’s more is despite having travelled all around Australia, I’ve never got to see and swim with turtles that close in any other location I’ve snorkelled at! What was also a bonus is that the knowledgeable, local crew were also great at answering any questions the passengers had about the reef and wildlife.

This tour really is a highlight whilst visiting Queensland and we highly recommend you to try it. Trust me you won’t be disappointed. Just remember to recycle, keep your crap away and leave everything on the reef as you found it, so many more like us can enjoy this unique spot!

www.oceansafari.com.au

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Why Travel Bloggers Love Asia

With the launch of our Asia tours to India, Nepal, Cambodia and Thailand we thought we’d find out the top reasons to travel around Asia from some of the world’s most prolific travel bloggers.

From Kathmandu to Bangkok, these guys are seriously welltravelled so we’ve also picked their brains for travel tips when it comes to exploring Asia. So before you book your next Asia adventure tour, find out from the professionals, the ins and outs of travelling Asia.

What’s your favourite thing about Asia?

‘In a world that’s getting smaller, I think cultures are also becoming more similar. But every time I go to Asia I am reminded how many unique places still exist in the world.’

Michael Turtle, @michaelturtle ‘It’s almost like a one stop shop for the 3 essentials; value, culture, beauty.’ - Tess Willcox, @hashtagtravelsociety ‘Asia is such a melting pot of cultures that offer a unique and different experience to anywhere in the western world. Be it the beautiful temples, unending and limitless hospitality and the food’ - Vicky Louise, @ maketimetoseetheworld

Why does Asia have such a pull for backpackers?

‘A lot of independent travellers have small budgets, and many destinations in Asia boast low-priced accommodation, food and experiences’ - Linda Martin, @indietravel ‘Asia has long been known as a budget traveller’s haven which is the main pull for independent travellers who are looking for ease of travel.’ - Roma & Russell, @ roamingrequired ‘Asia really does offer a plethora of different experiences and cultures that offers something for every market - not just backpackers. It is the quintessential destination for travellers who want to immerse themselves in a stunning place without the necessary price tag!’. - Tess Willcox, @hashtagtravelsociety ‘It’s the perfect place to travel solo and have an unforgettable - and potentially life-changing experience. Some continents are too similar to home and don’t offer enough of a challenge, while others may be considered a little too risky for independent vagabonds - Asia is the perfect balance.’ Sophee Southall, @sopheesmiles

What are the benefits of group tours around Asia?

‘Tours tend to go to the tourist hotspots, so they can be an easy way to see everything you’d like to, without having to organise transport. Plus, they can be a great way to meet like-minded people — as long as you choose the right company!’ - Linda Martin, @indietravel ‘You really can just go with the flow. No need to worry about language skills or reading a map, it’s all done for you!’ - Roma & Russell, @roamingrequired ‘Group tours are great for people who are short on time, but are looking to experience as much as possible’ - Vicky Louise, @ maketimetoseetheworld ‘It’s a convenient way to meet cool people

and make new friends - if you prefer being around like-minded people with a similar background to your own while travelling through foreign countries, group tours are a great option. The most important and valuable person on any group tour is the guide. Having this resource of local information at your fingertips is a major plus, so ask as many questions as you can!’’

- Sophee Southall, @sopheesmiles ‘For people who aren’t seasoned travellers, group tours are fantastic to both meet people, and travel with a bit of a safety blanket.’ - Tess Willcox, @ hashtagtravelsociety ‘Many parts of Asia don’t have the infrastructure that you find in places like Europe. It can be difficult to get between cities and it can take a long time, but group tours make the whole experience way more relaxing.’ - Michael Turtle, @michaelturtle

What is your top travel tip?

‘Read the reviews but don’t over plan. Book your flights and your first night or two of accommodation, then let yourself go with the flow. Having the freedom to change your plans is one of the highlights of travel’ Linda Martin, @indietravel ‘Do your research and speak to the experts - they know what they’re talking about’ Roma & Russell, @roamingrequired ‘Try and bear in mind time, running out is the worst. Ultimately, pick a country and/ or a tour that interests you and just do it’ Vicky Louise, @maketimetoseetheworld ‘Spend more time with locals than fellow travellers. If you show locals a strong desire to immerse yourself in their culture, you’ll be surprised what doors will open up for you.

Invitations to family gatherings, help when you need it, new international friends...the possibilities are endless. Help build cultural bridges. Be open-minded, friendly and genuine. Locals will want to learn as much about you, as you’ll want to learn about

them.’ - Sophie Southall, @sopheesmiles ‘Asia is an area where the culture and the experiences with local people are just as important as the landmarks. Make sure there is time to eat the street food, explore the markets and walk through the neighbourhoods.’ - Michael Turtle, @ michaelturtle ‘Talk to people and engage in their recommendations - the best trips I have taken have been the ones where locals opened up their homes and allowed me to experience traditions and customs through their eyes.’ - Tess Willcox, @ hashtagtravelsociety Read up on more of these fantastic travel tips by visiting our lovely travel bloggers’ websites. indietravelpodcast.com www.roamingrequired.com maketimetoseetheworld.com indietravelmedia.com sopheesmiles.com www.timetravelturtle.com www.hashtagtravelsociety.com

Asia Tours For 2017...

• • • •

India tours from $596 from 8 to 16 days including the Taj Mahal, Delhi and Jaipur.

Nepal tours from $922 over 9 days including Kathmandu, the Himalayas and Chitwan National Park.

Cambodia tours from $310 from 5 13 days including Angkor Wat, Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

Thailand tours from $623 from 7 days including Bangkok, Chiang Mai amd Wat Rong Khun.

Alternatively see what Asia combination tours are available to tick off more countries from your bucket list.

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36

SONUS FESTIVAL 2017 Phase One of Sonus 2017 is here to tantalise you into booking THE summer festival of 2017.

Every year, party goers flock in their thousands to the stunning island of Pag, Croatia to bear witness to some serious musical talent play at beach-side stages up and down the clubbing mecca that is Zrce Beach for Sonus Music Festival.

With the first 33 names on the bill for this year’s festival being announced it looks like Sonus 2017 is going to be one to remember.

With Croatia’s balmy summer temperatures, beautiful bays with crystal clear water and its fascinatingly unique culture, it’s no

surprise that the country is a hot spot on the European travel trail. Tourists from across the globe visit the nation every summer for its unique blend of historic culture and party scene - with areas such as the walled city of Dubrovnik and the coastline at Split being particularly popular. Aside from its natural beauty and historical heritage, it is also home to some of the continent’s best-loved music festivals and nightlife.

If you, like many seasoned festival goers wish to chase the endless summer then there’s no time like the present to start planning trips to Europe for the 2017 summer festival scene. We’ve been eyeing up this year’s Sonus Festival that takes place annually on the rocky island of Pag, off Croatia’s coastline. Sonus year in year out attract party goers from across the world, and this year looks like it will be no different, having just announced an epic line-up that

puts this festival firmly on our festival bucket list for 2017. Proving once again why it’s the leading party in the techno world, the beachside festival have revealed that the likes of American DJ and producer Seth Troxler, legend of the EDM world Loco Dice and Berlin-based duo Tale Of Us will be jumping aboard to form 2017’s lineup. As well as these techno heavyweights, highlights of the line-up to date include house DJ Nick Curly, UK favourite Jackmaster, Apollonia, Marco Carola, Fabio Florido, as well as mighty Bronx remixers The Martinez Brothers whom will also be performing. As things stand, Sonus 2017 looks set to be a clubbers’ paradise.

Across an epic five days and nights between 20th - 24th August 2017, Sonus attendees will be treated to the best in internationally revered DJs, live acts from the EDM world alongside stunning beach surroundings

and the warm and balmy Mediterranean weather. There is also the chance to jump aboard some incredible, once in a lifetime pool, beach and boat parties that makes the most of the amazing Croatian setting and the sensational talent that will be frequenting Croatia’s sunny shores.

Buy your ticket from as little as 159 Euros.

Alternatively, opt for a VIP ticket which gives you access all areas, fast lane entries, separate bars, separate sanitary areas with your own unique VIP wristband from 249 Euros. This can also be upgraded from a regular ticket from 90 Euros.

For ticket options and travel, rooms and package information as well as this year’s Sonus line-up in full, visit: www.sonus-festival.com

BBMLive’s Paraic Walker takes us through the best snow festivals for 2017.

plenty of fun to be had over the next few months and there is still loads of music to be heard.

Festival revellers all over the world seem to think that the festival season ends with the good weather but this could not be further from the truth. We take a look at what Snow Festivals have to offer to cure your summer festival blues.

If you want to go into the Christmas period in true festival fashion then Rise Festival is the place to go. This phenomenal festival takes place on the highest skiable glacier in Europe, situated in the Les Deux Alpes region of France from December 10th – 17th. This weeklong party offers Ice discos in igloos, nights in the woods and a perfect mix of live acts and DJ’s playing in both indoors and outdoor venues. The standout acts from this year’s line-up include the world famous Detroit born DJ Seth Troxler and London grime god Kano. When you’re not partying make sure you make the most of your chance to get on the amazing slopes this resort has to offer. After all nothing knocks off a hangover like skiing down the highest slope in Europe.

With winter fast approaching in Europe and America there is no need to go into hiding, what you should be doing is booking up one of the many snow festivals that are popping up everywhere from France, Andorra and Austria, all the way to Canada and the US. The Ski-Festival scene is one that is too often overlooked by so called full-time festival goers; with so much on offer we just can’t understand why.

With the snow festival season kicking off from late November to April 2017 there is

One common factor that seems to put most people off Snow Festivals is the financial side of things. But fear not there are winter festivals that come at very affordable prices!

There literally is no better place in the world to go to a snow festival on a budget than Horizon Festival. This trippy snow festival is now in its fifth year and has recently moved from the Bulgarian resort of Bansko, to the equally cheap and cheerful resort of Arinsal in the Pyrenees. This Andorran festival is perfect for techno lovers who want to enjoy their music in obscure forests raves and scenic mountain stages. Taking place from March 26th – April 2nd, this year’s line-up includes Motor City, Craig Charles, Red Dwarf and One Man!

Another Snow Festival to consider is Snowboxx 2017. Taking place from 18th - 23rd March 2017, this festival will take over the Avoriaz ski resort in France. Here you’ll be able to take to the slopes by day snowboarding and skiing and for apres ski you can enjoy some world class music from the likes of Basement Jaxx, Hannah Wants, Bicep, DJ Luck & MC Neat as well as Norman Jay and many more!

Snow Festivals are certainly not a new idea and closing this year’s winter festival season is a festival that has been in the game longer than most others.

Snowbombing Festival really is one of the world’s No.1 music snow festivals and is returning this year for its 18th year in a row! Snowbombing 2017 will be taking place in the ‘party capital of the Alps’, Mayrhofen, Austria, from 3rd - 8th April 2017. This veteran of the snow festivals has redefined winter sports holidays and has

set a very high bar for the rest to follow.

Constantly looking to give revelers the most unique festival imaginable, this year is no different with a host of new additions, including House of Voga. This fitness craze has taken the UK by storm and this year festival revelers get the chance to unwind and stretch out with a unique music-led yoga and voguing. If that wasn’t enough Snowbombing also offer igloo raves, mountain top stages and their famous pool party. All this matched with a huge line up of stars including one of the biggest bands in Britain at the moment, Blossoms. Joining these young lads from Stockport will be the likes of Giggs, Chase & Status, Shy FX, Eats Everything and many more.

The pros to jetting off to a Snow Festival this winter are endless, you get to immerse yourself in great music, great scenery, winter sports and there’s no muddy tents and wellies involved!

Words by Oonagh Turner & Paraic Walker

IT’S NEVER TOO COLD TO GO TO A FESTIVAL...

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38

5 Reasons Why Springfest is Better Than Oktoberfest You might worry that if you’re not in Europe for September, you’re doomed to miss out on the Oktoberfest experience. Never fear, there’s more than one German festival dedicated to bier. Enter Springfest, aka Fruhlingsfest, aka ‘Little Oktoberfest’. Like Oktoberfest, but better.

1. Better weather

As the name suggests, Springfest takes place during spring. In 2017, the golden showers will flow between April 21 and May 8, so you can expect the sun to be out, the flowers to be blooming and the birds to be singing you sweet German drinking songs as they sprinkle your dirndl-clad bosom with hop blossoms. Sure, it’s not the height of summer, but spring is certainly nicer than those cloudy days at the end of September.

2. Better crowd

Springfest is Oktoberfest on a “smaller” scale. There’s the same bier halls, just fewer open, meaning

that they’re flooded with fewer tourists. Fruhlingsfest draws crowds of tens of thousands, rather than millions, and unlike Oktoberfest these crowds are largely local. You’ll learn to prost with the bustiest of Bavarians, making Springfest an all-round more authentic experience than sharing a table with a bus group full of Australians at Oktoberfest.

3. Better surf

The Eisbach (“ice brook” in German) is a refreshingly temperate man made river which flows through the beautiful Englischer Garten in Munich. If you need a day to heal your hangover, take a blanket and some snacks, go nap on the sunlit grass, and indulge in a hangovercuring float down the river. Near the top of the Eisbach, there’s even a man made wave where you can go for a surf. Get in there and let the ice brook’s frozen fingers fondle you back to health, we promise it’s invigorating.

LA TOMATINA 2017

Love Tomatoes? Love a bit of culture? Then add La Tomatina Festival to your summer 2017 plans right now!

The incredibly messy, traditional Spanish festival takes place in Bunol near Valencia, Spain and sees millions of tomatoes hurled at everyone to create something resembling an OTT budget horror film. The tomato fight itself only lasts for 1 hour, but is certainly a once in a lifetime experience.

The fantastic location of La Tomatina festival puts you in the heart of Valencia, a fabulous city to explore.

From the Old Town, to the worldclass aquarium, the famous City of Arts & Sciences, or stunning beaches, there is so much to see in this gorgeous city.

This is an exciting time to visit Spain

as the day before you can also enjoy the Wine and Water Festival. This is a chance to join in with the Requena locals and celebrate the grape harvest. Here, you’ll also find a bull arena, street parade and live music to give you an epic prelude to La Tomatina.

If spending a few days in this region of Spain and experiencing La Tomatina for yourself sounds like the kind of fun-filled holiday you’re after, then First Festival Travel can take you there. Their four day package includes hotel accommodation with rooftop pool in Valencia, private transport to and from each festival, exclusive parties with discounted drinks, and of course the La Tomatina festival ticket. The tour is usually £219 pp but if you quote ‘BBM10’ when emailing info@firstfestivaltravel.com they’ll offer a 10% discount.

firstfestivaltravel.com

4. All the same good bits and still better

Dirndls and lederhosen. Pretzels and pork knuckle and other Bavarian bites. Bier and braids. Carnival rides and fun-houses with psychedelic holographic glasses. Bands of Germans drunkenly playing instruments and leading the halls in choruses of drinking songs, the words to which you can only guess at. Springfest boasts all of the same delights beloved by fans of Oktoberfest, but better, because the queues are shorter. And there’s the added bonus of a carousel that doubles as a bar.

Football, the world sport, die Welt sport. If you’re in town for Springfest, it means you’re also in town for football season. Go check out FC Bayern Munchen at at Allianz Arena, or if that doesn’t suit your slim Springfest budget, head to a kneipe to watch them on the big screen amidst shouts of schizen!

funsters at Stoke and 60 Euros per night which includes accommodation in pre-erected tents with mattresses and bedding provided, hot dinners and breakfasts made by the Stoke chefs, and exclusive access to the best party in Munich - Stoketoberfest at the Stoke campsite. The beer halls are an easy commute away, and an extra 10 Euros will get you unlimited beer and sangria for the duration of your stay with Stoke.

Springfest 2017 will take place between April 21 and May 8. Come with the budget-friendly

Book now with the code BBM to receive a free, unlimited beer and Sangria at www.stoketravel.com

5. Better football

SAILING HOLIDAYS IN GREECE

Your Guide To The Ultimate Summer Holiday Soaking yourself in the waters of the Aegean, sunbathing on the deck of a boat as it rocks gently to the rhythm of the waves whilst you sip on a cocktail… is this all sounding a bit too good to be true? Well you can make this a reality on a sailing holiday around the Greek Islands during the European summer.

The clear blue waters surrounding the Greek Islands are beckoning you to their shores for summer 2017. Spend a week swimming, sunbathing, island hopping and partying your way around the Greek Islands. As you coast from port to port you’ll have a unique opportunity to sample the cuisine, culture and nightlife of different islands, including Ios, Mykonos and the beautiful Santorini.

Spend your days exploring the islands and trying some real Greek cuisine such as Moussaka, Kleftiko or Saganaki (it’s fried cheese and you will become

addicted), or simply frolic all day long in the waters with your shipmates, or laze on the stunning beaches.

Holidays are of course best when you go with the flow, but for those of you who like to have a loose plan so you have more time for relaxation here’s a few places that you should definitely visit whilst sailing in Greece.

Things to do in the Greek Islands…

- Go kayaking around the island of Ios - Party the night away at Gupaloca on Mykonos - Eat Gyros!

- Go hiking on the islands of Naxos - Have a swim at Agios Fokas by Paros - Have a sunbath on the secluded Maganari Beach on Ios - Feel the healing Aegean Breeze coming off the sea - Ask for a Dr OUZO whilst on board with Sail in Greece

Find out more and book at www.sail-ingreece.com

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The Americas Rise

Some of the UK’s and USA’s best known and loved festivals have been taking place right under our noses in South America, from Creamfields in Argentina, Chile and Peru - to Lollapalooza popping up in Chile, Brazil and Argentina, the Latin American festival scene is one that is often overlooked, but really shouldn’t be.

With the Latin American summer taking place from January - March, it brings in its stride a whole new festival calendar for the global party elite to chase the endless sun.

Kicking off the festival season in Latin America will be Storyland festival (6th-8th January 2017), although the line-up is still to be announced, last year’s event saw the likes of Jamie Jones, Hardwell and Oliver Heldens descend on the Colombian beach town of Cartagena. Storylands Festival Cartagena aims to import the best house, techno and progressive house to the stage - as well as the beach for some epic partying in the hot Colombian sun.

With DJs and producers taking the reigns when it comes to putting on festivals and parties, in recent years we’ve seen the likes of Annie Mac put on Lost & Found Festival through AMP (Annie Mac Presents) as well as Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide Festival in Sete which has become a veritable staple on Europe’s summer calendar. And now it seems Nic Fanciulli will be taking things a step in the Latin American direction by bringing his event, The Social to Mexico and Colombia.

Combine your time in Latin America with adventure tours and experiences…

Free & Easy Traveller

With FNEZ you can enjoy tours of Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Peru and Panama. www.freeandeasytraveler.com

Outward Bound Costa Rica

On a gap year and got time to spare, spend a semester in Costa Rica with Outward Bound Costa Rica including expeditions, white-water rafting, abseiling and more. outwardboundcostarica.org

Day Tours 4 U

Operating in Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Chile if time is of the essence then get a taste of your surroundings with Day Tours 4U. daytours4u.com

Green Toad Bus

Want to travel around with one pass? Green Toad Bus can ferry you between Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina and Chile at an affordable price so you can see the most of Latin America during your visit. greentoadbus.com

EXPLORE ANCIENT PERU

LATIN FESTIVAL CALENDAR Storyland festival 6th - 8th January 2017 www.facebook.com/thisisstoryland Envision Festival 23rd - 26th February 2017 envisionfestival.com Electric Daisy Carnival 25th - 26th February 2017 mexico.electricdaisycarnival.com The Social Festival 17th & 18th March www.thesocialfestival.com

At present The Social Festival is a boutique music festival that showcases some of the world’s greatest dance music acts at The Kent County Showground in Kent, UK. The Social is put together by Saved Records and world famous, Kent local, DJ Nic Fanciulli. Speaking about the new direction of the festival, Fanciulli says, “We’re extremely excited to be bringing the social to Latin America for 2017. The festival started five years ago as a real labour of love and we’ve been inundated with support worldwide ever since. 2016’s summer edition saw a huge influx of fans from around the world, so we wanted to give something back.” Continuing on the location of the new events, he says, “I’ve always had an amazing relationship personally with Mexico and Colombia, and we couldn’t think of better places to bring the first international editions of the festival. We’ve got some extremely exciting headliners in place, and as always, we’re not holding back on the production.”

Bordering Brazil and Bolivia, Peru is where you’ll see an ancient world unfold before you.

The new intercontinental chapter of The Social will take place on 17th & 18th March in Mexico and Colombia in 2017. Having curated a selection of world class House and Techno talent, the Central and Latin American chapter will see iconic names such as Carl Cox headline the Colombian event.

Fanciulli and Cox are said to be on a mission to shine the spotlight on the flourishing dance scene in Latin America, and it looks like they may well succeed.

Also on our Americas radar when it comes to festivals is Envision Festival which will take place in Uvita, Costa Rica from 23rd - 26th February in 2017. This festival, now in its sixth year, is a yoga, arts, music and wellness festival. Music at this festival includes; reggae, ethereal house beats, sultry grooves, global bass, glitch hop as well as live performances. Taking place in picturesque settings, Envisions is one that is definitely for the “festival experience” as you dance barefoot on the Costa Rican

Peru was once home to the Incan people and their stamp on the area, still survives today in the form of the old Incan capital of Cuzco, and one of the most famous ruins on earth Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu is believed to have been built circa 1450, around the time that Pachacutec Inca Yupanqui (1438–71) and Túpac Inca Yupanqui (1472–93) two of the greatest Incan rulers were in power. However, interestingly the fort was abandoned around 100 years later due to the arrival of the Spanish settlers. Today the ruins are frequented by hundreds of tourists who come from all around the world to walk around the ancient ruins 7,970 ft above sea level.

There’s more to Peru than Machu Picchu however. Lake Titicaca near to the Bolivian border is one of South America’s largest lakes and houses some of the most rare aquatic wildlife including giant frogs. The lake borders both countries and is said to be the birthplace of the Incas. On its banks, you’ll also find ancient ruins as well as a tangle of jungle that fringes its shores.

Nazca Lines also takes centre stage whilst visiting this history-filled country.

beaches where the rainforests meet the shore.

A festival taking the crown when it comes to Latin America’s party scene is Electric Daisy Carnival. Having sprung up in the UK a couple of summers ago, unbeknownst to many EDC was raging all the while in Mexico City.

This year’s EDC Mexico edition will take place on 25th and 26th February 2017. At the event you can expect impressive set design, epic stage shows (pyrotechnics and all) as well as some A Grade electronic, house and dance music.

The pros of jetting further afield to Central and South America for a festival are combining your trip with a chance to see some of the most beautiful places on earth.

Immersing yourself in the home of Latin beats combined with the Latinos flare for the ostentatious when it comes to partying, you can guarantee you’ll have the festival experience of your life.

Nazca Lines are huge rock carvings that are thought to be around 2000 years old, however they were only discovered 80 years ago by plane (which should give you some idea of how large they are). These veritable “white elephants” appear to depict various animals such as monkeys and birds, however the meaning behind them is often theorised and disputed.

Another sight to behold whilst visiting Peru is the 900 meter deep, Colca Canyon. Vast in size the canyon is also home to the giant Condor.

Whilst visiting Colca you can also take advantage of activities such as water rafting, cycling, horse riding and trekking.

Travellers Tip:

Encounters Travel have 15, 19 & 21 day tours of Peru. (21 day tour includes Bolivia.) Visit Encounters Travel also operate tours in Morocco, Jordan, Russia, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, China, Turkey, Vietnam, Italy, Greece, Malawi, South Africa & Nepal!

Check out their tours at www.encounterstravel.com for more information.

By Hannah Shakir

The whole world knows about Rio Carnival but with the rise of festivals featuring world class DJs in Central and South America, we take a look at what the Festival Gods of the Americas have to offer…

40

BBMLive’s Oonagh Turner takes a sailing holiday in Panama and recalls her time of cruising past the 365 islands of the San Blas archipelago.

Once a region ravaged by piracy and best known for ageold legends of smuggling, the Caribbean Sea is now a hot spot for spirited travellers seeking its spectacular beaches and tropical climate. The islands range in size

Sail Panama’s Coastline And Discover A Tropical Paradise from larger sandy banks home to Indian Kuna tribes to sandy islets with a handful of low hanging Palm trees that dip elegantly into the pristine water.

This part of the world is a haven for budding sailors and eco tourists. From Colombia you can easily locate a tour company that will willingly sail you across the open water of the Caribbean Sea, meanwhile weaving through this crop of tropical islands and eventually to the border into Panama.

This is the only crossing available from South America to Central America due to public buses refusing to drive through questionable and dangerous jungle towns on the border. Of course you could fly to your destination but the sailing holiday adds that sense of adventure.

Day one of the trip involved departing the colonial town of Cartagena on Colombia’s northern coastline and setting sail, heading for open water. Our captain fitted the part perfectly, with a captain

Jack Sparrow air about him – complete with dreadlocks and a hip flask of rum in hand. We drifted across the sea with a school of dolphins swimming and playing in the waves of our catamaran.

North East Colombia juts out to shade the sea from large waves and swells, meaning this crossing was beautifully calm.

snorkelled the island’s shallow reefs. We also explored the Kuna villages on land – a tribe that have existed in this region for hundreds of years and continue to use coconuts as currency. The waters in this part of the world are tantalisingly clear, and you can spot perfectly formed starfish as you swim to shore.

Our catamaran was named El Gitano Del Mar, translating to The Gypsy of the Sea. It was kitted out with 20 beds and fitted with an on board kitchen where our chef whipped up some fantastic Caribbean feasts over the course of the excursion. We spent the day sunning ourselves and getting to know our fellow travellers on board. The plan was to continue sailing all day, at one point stopping to swim in deep open water, before sailing through the night and waking up in San Blas.

By night the stars were incredible, and perfectly reflected in the lazy waters of the Caribbean. The bioluminous plankton in the ocean also was visible at night and could be seen as our streamlined boat carved through the ocean.

After a day of exploring the islands, we watched the sun set on the horizon accompanied by a bonfire on land. Our on board chef cooked freshly caught lobster- a dish that went down well with our rum coconut

The second day involved leisurely floating around from island to island, based on the expert knowledge of our captain, who romantically claimed that he knew the Caribbean Sea like his back garden. We used the onboard kayaks, paddle boards and

This trip cost us $500 American dollars and our catamaran was fitted for 23 people. Food was included as were all the activities.

The following day we snorkelled a shipwreck our captain had heard about on the grape vine. The fish and coral in these parts are a rainbow spectrum of colour. The third and final night of our trip involved another beach bonfire and freshly caught red snapper fish on the BBQ. The next day we sailed reluctantly to Panama’s shoreline with our sea legs, new tans, friends and plenty of happy memories.

sailcolombiapanama.com

10% OFF CENTRAL AMERICA

Help Endangered Leatherback Sea Turtles on Your Next Holiday Leatherback turtles are fewer and fewer in numbers in spite of the fact that female leatherbacks may lay 60 to 120 eggs around four times per season (a phenomenon called Arribada).

This is happening notably due to the fact that their eggs are collected to be sold and turtles often get caught in fishing nets. Certain subpopulations of leatherback turtles have been said to be critically endangered by large conservation organizations. The U.S. Federal government has also listed the leatherback as endangered worldwide.

Though the future might seem grim for Leatherback sea turtles, important conservation efforts have been made in Africa and Central America – and you can now be part of it.

For the conscious traveller, you’ll be pleased to know that Outward Bound Costa Rica carry out tours where their “students” can have the chance to work with local biologists and with non-profit organisations dedicated to making the sea turtles thrive again. If you want to not only help endangered species, but also to hold baby turtles in your hands and learn more about marine life, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

These efforts are essential to increasing the sea turtle population, considering that the most important nesting beaches in the Pacific are in Mexico and Costa Rica, with other important beaches found in Nicaragua, Panama and Guatemala.

also participate in activities such as scuba diving and zip lining!

Should you choose to embark on a semester with Outward Bound Costa Rica, you not only get the opportunity to participate in these incredible service projects, but also to discover Central America thanks to their local instructors. You will

Register now and get 10% off your tuition fees for your adventure next summer! If you have any questions, contact them at

Outward Bound Costa Rica offer one Summer Expedition and Custom Programs that include service projects to protect endangered sea turtles.

outwardboundcostarica.org

www.bbmlive.com 41

ACCOMMODATION New South Wales Sydney The Globe Backpackers 40 Darlingurst Road Kings Cross, Sydney NSW 2011 Free: 1800 806 384 Ph: (02) 9326 9675 info@globebackpackers.com www.globebackpackers.com West End Backpackers 12 Pitt St Sydney NSW, 2000 Ph: 02 9211 4588 Free Phone: 1800 013 186 bookings@westendbackpackers.com www.nomadsworld.com/westend Bounce Sydney 28 Chalmers Street, Sydney 2010 Free call 1800890897 Ph (02) 9281 2222 book@bouncehotel.com.au www.bouncehotel.com.au Porterhouse Hotel 233 Riley St Surry Hills NSW 2010 Ph: (02) 9211 4454 info@porterhouse.com.au www.Porterhouse.com.au Big Hostel Single and double & Dorm rooms available Max 4 bed dorms.

212 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills Sydney NSW 2010 Ph: (02) 92816030 Free: 1800 212 244 reception@bighostel.com www.bighostel.com O’Malley’s Hotel 228 William Street, Kings Cross Sydney, NSW 2011 Ph: 02 9357 2211 admin@omalleyshotel.com.au www.omalleyshotel.com.au Sydney Central Hostel 428 Pitt Street Sydney 2000 Ph: (02) 9211 7323 stay@sydneycentralhostel.com.au www.sydneycentralhostel.com.au Kanga House backpackers 141 Victoria Street, Kings Cross, Sydney Ph: (02) 9357 7897 www.KangaHouse.com.au Sydney Northern Beaches Sydney Beachouse - YHA 4 Collaroy St, Collaroy, 2097 Ph: +61 2 9981 1177 mail@sydneybeachouse.com.au www.sydneybeachouse.com.au Guaranteed jobs/work all year.

Cheap weekly rates by the beach with free Surfboard, Bodyboard & Bike hire

Port Stephens

Melaleuca Surfside Backpackers 2 Koala Place, One Mile Beach, NSW 2316 Ph: (02) 4981 9422 Mobile: 0427 200 950 melaleucabackpacker@bigpond.com www.melaleucabackpackers.com.au

Katoomba

Katoomba Mountain Backpackers Lodge 31 Lurline st Katoomba, NSW Ph: 04782 3933 stay@katoombabackpackers.com.au www.katoombabackpackers.com.au Blue Mountains Backpackers Hostel 144 Bathhurst Road, Katoomba, NSW 2780 Ph: 02 4782 9630 bluemountainsbackpackerhostel. com.au

Byron Bay Byron Bay Accom Ph: 02 66 808 666 Email: bookings@byronbayaccom. net www.byronbayaccom.net Aquarius Backpackers 16 Lawson Street Byron Bay NSW 2481 Ph: (02) 6685-7663 Free: 1800 028 909 info@aquarius-backpackers.com.au www.aquarius-backpackers.com.au Nomads Byron Bay 1 Lawson Lane, Byron Bay, NSW 2481 Ph: 02 6680 7966 Free: 1800 766 673 bookings@nomadsbyronbay.com nomadshostels.com Arts Factory Lodge 1 Skinners Shoot Road, Byron Bay, NSW Ph: 02 6685 7709 info@artsfactory.com.au www.artsfactory.com.au An essential part of your journey LAKE TABOURIE TOURIST PARK Princes Hwy, Lake Tabourie, NSW 2539 Ph: (02) 4406-3101 www.laketabourietouristpark.com.au

Maca’s Camping Ground Ph: 02 6684 5211 1156 Main Arm Rd, Upper Main Arm NSW 2482, Australia www.macascampingground.com/ macascampingground@gmail.com

Queensland

CEDAR CREEK LODGES THUNDERBIRD PARK Cnr of Cedar Creek Falls Rd & Tamborine Mountain Rd, Tamborine, QLD 4272 info@cedarcreeklodges.com.au www.cedarcreeklodges.com.au Backpackers in Paradise 40 Peninsular Drive Central Surfers Paradise Queensland, 4217 Ph: (07) 5538 4344 Free: 1800 268 621 info@backpackersinparadise.com www.backpackersinparadise.com Surfers Paradise Backpackers rsrt Backpackers Resort,2837 Gold Coast Highway, Queensland 4217 Ph: 07 5592 4677 Free: 1800 282 800 spbr@bigpond.net.au www.surfersparadisebackpackers. com.au

Port Douglas United Port Douglas

37 Warner Street, Port Douglas, QLD

Ph: 07 4099 5011 unitedportdouglas.com.au Airlie Beach Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Road Airlie Beach QLD Phone: (07) 4946 6312 Free:1800 247 251 airliebeach@yha.com.au www.yha.com.au

Cairns

Cairns Share House 17 Scott Street, Cairns, QLD 4870 Ph: (+617) 4041 1875 info@cairns-sharehouse.com www.cairns-sharehouse.com Nomads Esplanade 93 The Esplanade, Cairns, QLD 4870 Ph: 07 4031 7477 Free: 1800 175 716 bookings@nomadsesplanade.com www.nomadshostels.com Dreamtime Travellers Rest 4 Terminus Street (corner of Bunda st.& Terminus st.)

Cairns 4870 Queensland Ph: (07) 4031 6753 info@dreamtimehostel.com www.dreamtimehostel.com

Cape Tribulation PK’s Jungle Village Cape Tribulation Road (PMB 7) Cape Tribulation QLD 4873 Tel: 07 4098 0040 info@pksjunglevillage.com www.pksjunglevillage.com Rainbow Beach Pippies Beach House Cnr of Spectrum Street & Cypress Avenue, Rainbow Beach FREEPHONE: 1800425356 info@pippiesbeachhouse.com.au www.pippiesbeachhouse.com.au 30mins FREE Internet on presentation of this ad PLUS FREE Breakfast & Eco Whale-Watching for all!

Western Australia Perth

western beach lodge 6 Westborough Street Scarborough, Western Australia, 6019 Ph. (08) 9245 1624 westernbeach@iprimus.com.au www.westernbeach.com BILLABONG RESORT 381 Beaufort Street, Perth WA Ph: 08 9328 7720 bookings@billabongresort.com.au www.billabongresort.com.au Britannia On William 253 William Street, Northbridge, WA Ph: 08 9227 6000 www.perthbritannia.com EXCLUSIVE BACKPACKERS 158 Adelaide Tce, Perth 6000 Ph: (08) 9221 9991 exclusivebackpackers@hotmail.com www.exclusivebackpackers.com Beatty Lodge 235 Vincent Street West Perth WA 6005 Ph: (08) 9227 1521 www.beattylodge.com.au info@beattylodge.com.au

Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort Monkey Mia Road, Shark Bay 3537 Ph: +61 8 9948 1320 monkeymia@aspenresorts.com.au www.monkeymia.com.au

Kununurra Kununurra Backpackers Adventure Centre 24 Nutwood Crescent, Kununurra WA 6743 Ph: (08) 9169 1998 or 1800 641 998 kununurrabackpackers.com.au info@kununurrabackpackers.com.au broome Beaches of Broome 4 Sanctuary Road, Cable Beach, Broome, WA, 6725 Ph : 1300 881 031 bookings@beachesofbroome.com. au www.beachesofbroome.com.au

Victoria redcliffs hotel 25 Jacaranda St, Red Cliffs VIC 3496 (03) 5024 1704 Johanna Beach Cottages 225 Blue Johanna Road Johanna Heights Victoria 3238 (03) 5237 4224 cottages@johannabeach.com www.johannabeach.com Brambuk Backpackers Hostel 330 Grampians Road, Halls Gap, VictoriaPh: 03 5356 4250 bramback@netconnect.com.au www.brambuk.com.au/ backpackers.htm Brambuk Backpackers offers travellers an affordable and comfortable range of accommodation, ideally situated within the stunning Grampians National Park.

Habitat HQ Freephone 1800 202 500 info@habitathq.com.au www.habitathq.com.au Award winning 4.5 star hostel with a homely & relaxed atmosphere Northern Territory Darwin Youth Shack 69 Mitchell Street, Darwin Ph: 1300 793 302 youthshack.com.au Melaleuca on Mitchell 52 Mitchell Street, Darwin Ph: 09 8941 7800 momdarwin.com Chillis Backpackers 69 Mitchell Street, Darwin Ph: 1800 351 313 chillis.com.au

Alice Springs Annie’s Place 4 Traeger Avenue, Alice Springs , NT, 0871 Ph: 1800 359 089 www.anniesplace.com.au Haven Backpacker Resort 3 Larapinta Drive, Alice Springs Ph: 1800 79 4663 / 08 8952 4663 www.alicehaven.com.au

South Australia Adelaide Adelaide Travellers Inn Backpackers 220 Hutt St Adelaide 5000 Free call 1800633747 Ph: +61 08 82240753 bookings@adelaidebackpackers. com.au adelaidebackpackers.om.au

Melbourne

The Deck 117 Harcourt St, New Farm Brisbane QLD 4005 Ph: 0433 777 061 the_deck@live.com.au Designed with the working Traveler in Mind. Minimum 2 week stay Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St, Brisbane QLD 4000 Ph: (07) 3236 1004 brisbanecity@yha.com.au www.yha.com.au

JJ’s Backpackers 11-13 Charles Street Cairns QLD 4870 Ph - (07) 4051 7642 Free- 1800 666 336 jjsbackpackers@ledanet.com.au www.jjsbackpackers.com Heron Island Ph: 02 9538 0751 www.heronisland.com

Aquarius Backpackers 44 Queen Street Gold Coast, Queensland Ph: 07 5527 1300 Free:1800 229 955 info@aquariusbackpackers.com.au www.aquariusbackpackers.com.au

Rambutan 113 – 119 Flinders Street, Townsville 4810 enquiries@rambutantownsville.com Ph: 07 4771 6915 www.rambutantownsville.com

Boranup Forest Retreat 422 Sebbes Road, Forest Grove Ph: +61 404 895 901 www.boranupforestretreat.com.au monkey mia

The Dive Shed Busselton

Wild Expeditions

Territory Expeditions

Townsville

COOLIBAH LODGE 194 Brisbane Street Northbridge Perth WA Ph: (08) 9328 9958 www.coolibahlodge.com.au

OCEAN BEACH BACKPACKERS

1 Eric St Cottesloe Beach Ph: 08 9384 5111 backpackers@obh.com.au www.obh.com.au

Boranup

Melbourne Discovery 167 Franklin Street, Melbourne VIC 300 Ph: 03 9329 7525. Freecall 1800 645 200 reservations@hoteldiscovery.com.au www.hoteldiscovery.com.au United Backpackers 250 Flinders Street, Melbourne Ph: 03 9654 2616 unitedbackpackers.com.au Independent & Budget Traveler Accommodation Provider Victoria Hall Accommodation 380 Russell Street, Melbourne 3000 Ph: 03 9662 3888 www.victoriahall.com.au

THINGS TO DO Skydiving iFly Downunder

123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith, Sydney Ph: 1300 366 364 www.iflydownunder.com.au

Sydney Skydivers

745 Picton Road, Wilton, New South Wales, Australia 2571 Ph: 1800 805 997 admin@sydneyskydivers.com.au www.sydneyskydivers.com.au

Southern Skydivers

2 hours South from Perth Busselton Ph: 1300 449 669 info@southernskydivers.com.au www.southernskydivers.com.au

Scuba Diving NINGLAOO WHALE SHARK & DIVE CENTRE

Located inside reception at the Exmouth Cape Holiday Park: 3 Truscott Street, Exmouth, WA Ph: 1800 224 060 ningaloowhalesharkndive.com.au

21 Queen Street, Busselton, WA Ph: 08 9754 1615 www.diveshed.com.au

Adventure Tours Awesome Whitsundays

Ph: 1800 293 7663 www.awesomewhitsundays.com

Shop 20, Johnny Chi Lane, Broome Ph: 1300 73 88 70 www.wildexpeditions.com.au

Margaret River Vintage Wine Tours

Ph: 0417 948 933 www.winetoursmargaretriver.com.au

Ph: 1300 115 922 www.territoryexpeditions.com.au

Mulgas Adventures

Ph: 08 8952 1545 www.mulgasadventures.com.au

Kakadu Wild Expeditions

Ph: 1300 73 88 70 darwinsales@kimberleywild.com.au www.kakaduwild.com.au

Australian Kayaking Adventures

The Peel Region Tourism

75 Mandurah Terrace, Mandurah Ph: 08 9550 3999 www.visitpeel.com.au

Ph: 1300 525 238 info@kadu4wdsafaris.com www.kakadu4wdsafaris.com

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours Vivonne Bay, Kingscote, SA

Ph: 1300 654 604 adventuretours.com.au

PO Box 1055, Ashmore City, QLD Ph: 04 1294 0135 www.australiankayakingadventures. com.au Cnr Captain Cook Highway and Cairns Western Arterial Road Smithfield, QLD Ph: 07 4038 5555 www.skyrail.com.au Contiki Ph: 1300 188 635 www.contiki.com

aussie wanderer

Ph: 0894382070 info@aussiewanderer.com.au www.aussiewanderer.com.au

Crocosaurus Cove

58 Mitchell Street, Darwin Ph: 08 8981 7522 www.crocosauruscove.com

Ph: 08 8202 8678 www.kiadventuretours.com.au

GOIN SOUTH

Four days, two famous Aussie icons, one awesome tour Ph: 1800 009 858

PENRITH WHITE WATER RAFTING

Ph: 02 4730 4333 booking@penrithwhitewater.com.au www.penrithwhitewater.com.au

Drop Bear Adventures

Ph: 1800 061 156 www.dropbearadventures.com.au

Kakadu 4WD Safaris

Adventure Tours australia Sydney Outback Tours

Ph: 1300 307 634 www.sydneyoutback.com.au

Real Sydney Tours

Ph: 0402 049426 www.realsydneytours.com.au

The Travel Yoga Company

Ph: 0411301820 www.theyogatravelcompany.com

Kimberley Wild Expeditions Ph: 1300 73 88 70 www.kimberleywild.com.au

The Official Home And Away Tour To Summer Bay Ph: 02 9977 7890 officialhomeandawaytour.com.au

Kite Surfing KITE REPUBLIC

10-18 Jacka Blvd. St.Kilda Sea Baths Complex, St.Kilda, 3182, Melbourne, VIC Ph: 03 95370644 www.kiterepublic.com.au

Water Activities GREAT OCEAN ROAD SURF TOURS 55B Surf Coast Highway, Torquay, Victoria, 3228 Ph: 03 5261 3730 info@gorsurftours.com.au www.gorsurftours.com.au

KANGAROO MARINE CHARTERS

9 Chapman Terrace, Kingscote, Kangaroo Island, SA Ph: 0427 315 286 www.kimarineadventures.com

ADVENTURE KAYAKING

7 Hastings Street, Glenelg South, SA Ph: 08 8295 8812 bookings@adventurekayak.com.au www.adventurekayak.com.au

PARADISE JET BOATING

Jetty ‘C’ Mariners Cove Marina, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach Qld 4217 Ph: 1300 JET BOAT (1300 538 262) thrills@paradisejetboating.com.au www.paradisejetboating.com.au

TRANSPORT MIGHTY CAMPERS

Nationwide Ph: 1800 670 232 www.mightycampers.com.au

GREAT SOUTHERN RAIL

Nationwide Ph: 1800 703 357 www.greatsouthernrail.com.au

Integrity Coach Lines

PO BOX 1131, Midland, 6936 WA Ph: 08 927 47464 www.integritycoachlines.com.au

Go Camper

90 Parkin Street, Rockingham, WA Ph: 1300 667 363 www.gocamper.com.au

42

CRYSTAL BALLS

Taurus Christmas is cancelled this year when the Coalition Government expands its “turn back the boats” campaign to include reindeer and sleds. Santa is promptly intercepted by Border Force officers over Northern Territory airspace and, after a brief interview, is immediately transferred to a detention camp on Nauru where he spends the next three years being abused and spat on while he waits for his holiday visa to be denied.

Gemini Top of the list for this year’s New Year’s resolutions is “get rid of that box full of rabid baboons”. Most random Christmas present ever.

Libra

Capricorn

Pisces

As you try to fall asleep on Christmas Eve, you are visited by three spirits - the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present, and the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come. Unfortunately, times have been hard in the ghost world since Dickens’ era and the trio of ghoulish Scrooge spookers have discovered that burglary pays much better than serving as a moral compass for Victorian England. The three of them beat you up then rob the place. The last image you recall before you fall unconscious from your injuries is the spectral form of the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come squatting in the middle of your ransacked living room floor and curling out a huge turd as the other two spirits laugh and goad him on.

Christmas is here and that can only mean one thing - that’s right, it’s time for your annual infestation of cockroaches. Don’t forget to put Mortein on your Christmas list.

With the British pound plummeting in value, you manage to buy the county of Suffolk for $5.50 and a ploughman’s lunch.

Leo

Aquarius

You get drunk at work’s Christmas party and end up shagging someone behind your partner’s back. You almost get away with it until your partner reads this horoscope and discovers your shameful secret.

You finally get round to watching West World to see what all the fuss was about but end up accidentally watching Wild Wild West, the late nineties film flop. You then make an utter arse of yourself when your friends ask if you’ve seen the latest episode and you start singing the Will Smith tune ‘Wild West’ in its entirety.

Cancer 2016 claims its last celebrity victim when Eddie Jones chokes on a turkey bone while trying to make a joke about Aborigines at a Christmas AFL function. Truly he died how he lived - as a fat, racist bastard.

Aries With the right wig and make-up, you bare an uncanny resemblance to Donald Trump.

You are duly hired as a body double by the new US President to help foil the inevitable assassination attempts during his tenure in the White House.

ASK CRYSTAL Dear Crystal, I’m currently cultivating a small cannabis farm in my attic but I’m having a little trouble adequately explaining the strange smell to my inquisitive neighbours. Any advice so I can throw them “off the scent” as it were?

Sincerely, Jack Dear Jack, Investing in a top-of-the-line industrial ventilation machine is your best bet. Believe me, you don’t want to skimp when it comes to something like this - not unless you want to be Mr Big’s bitch in the showers at Long Bay Correctional Complex.

The cheaper alternative is to simply break into your neighbours’ house at night while they’re asleep, put a gun to their heads, then calmly explain that you’ll pull the trigger next time if they can’t keep their mouth shut about ‘weird’ smells and shady-looking blokes hanging around your backdoor.

From experience, I can tell you both methods work - in fact the second method leads to a very different kind of ‘funny’ smell. Just make sure they don’t have a heart condition - I won’t make that mistake again.

Dear Crystal, Is it really so wrong for a man to love - both physically and spiritually - a Shetland pony? And with the marriage equality debate running, can you see a time in the near future where, perhaps, a man might be able to legally marry the domesticated animal he has fallen for?

Yours, George Dear George.

“Yes” to your first question, and “no” to your second. You ponyshagging freak.

Faithfully, Crystal

Scorpio There’s a knock on your front door on Christmas morning and, to your great surprise, it’s none other than Australian tennis star and ATP bad boy Nick Kyrgios and he’s holding the biggest cooked turkey you’ve ever seen. Before you can pick your jaw off the floor, he explains that he was visited by three Christmas spirits the previous night who taught him to stop being a massive arsehole and start being nicer to people - starting with you and your friends.

You welcome him in and the next few hours fly by as you drink and laugh with Nick and everyone you hold dear over a slap-up Christmas lunch. Things end on a slightly sour note, however, when you ask him why he chose you to have lunch with. Nick nods sadly and explains that when he was visited by the ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, he saw that you would die of bowel cancer by the end of next year. Merry Christmas, everyone!

Virgo You are successfully sued by Richard Branson’s team of lawyers after they argue in court that the name “Virgo” impinges on the intellectual property of the Virgin brand.

As a result, you are stripped of all your cash and forced to move to the UK, where you will spend the next 10 years serving over-priced, under-caffeinated coffee to always-delayed, never happy commuters on Virgin Rail.

JOKES

Why doesn’t Santa have any children? Because he only comes once a year, and when he does, it’s down the chimney.

Archie, Byron Bay What do the female reindeer do when Santa takes the male reindeer out on Christmas Eve? They go into town, and blow a few bucks.

Alice, Northbridge Twas the night before Christmas, and God it was neat, The kids were both gone, and my wife was in heat. The doors were all bolted, and the phone off the hook. It was time for some nooky, by hook or by crook.

Ollie, Brisbane How do you know Santa Claus has to be a man? No woman is going to wear the same outfit year after year!

John, Margaret River A young woman asks her mother, “Mum, how many kinds of penises are there?”

The mother, surprised, answers, “Well, daughter, a man goes through three phases. In a man’s twenties, a man’s penis is like an oak, mighty and hard. In his thirties and forties, it is like a birch, flexible but reliable. After his fifties, it is like a Christmas tree.”

“A Christmas tree?” the young woman asks.

“Yes, dried up and the balls are there for decoration only.”

Gareth, Perth I got a sweater for Christmas. I really wanted a screamer or a moaner.

Paddy, Sydney One day, a little boy wrote to Santa Claus, “Please send me a sister.”

Santa Clause wrote him back, “Ok, send me your mother.”

Max, Adelaide

Dear Crystal, What about marrying a monkey? They look more human than ponies, so surely it’s not as bad. Plus they don’t wear any clothes so the filthy little simians are practically begging for it. Surely not a court Christmas has been cancelled. Mary has owned up. in the land would prosecute me?

Paul, Bondi Yours George Dear George, Forget it, it’s not happening. I’ve just emailed Taronga Zoo to be on the lookout for an animal-shagging freak hanging around the monkey enclosure.

Sagittarius A double blow for you this month when your friends not only forget your birthday but also forget to get you anything for Christmas.

Still, that’s what happens when you’re an unpopular twat.

“You’re an angel.” I said to my wife, as I shoved the Christmas tree up her arse. Christian, Surry Hills Marks And Spencers new advert states that it wouldn’t be Christmas without M&S. They’re right too. It’d be Chrita. James, Port Stephans

The day after Christmas, I had a guy knock on my door, trying to preach to me about Jesus, saying how I should repent for my sins.

My 10-year-old son was still excited and ran to the door shouting “Santa Claus came to my house!”

The man looked at me and said “Isn’t he a bit old to believe that there’s an invisible man in the sky, watching everything you do, judging whether you’re good or bad?”

I looked at him and asked “Sorry, which church were you from again?” Simone, Fremantle Imagine my joy when I was getting out the Christmas decorations and found a present I forgot to give my kids last year. Their excited faces were a picture as they unwrapped it and opened the box.

Such a pity it was a puppy. Rachel, Bronte I’m working on hotel reception and it’s feeling all Christmassy. I just told a heavily pregnant bird that we’re full.

Clark, Wollongong

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