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SYDNEY
Weekly Specials At The Porterhouse Irish Pub
T HO T H G I R W NO
With winter settling in for the next few months, you’re bound to get a hankering for a rich, hearty dinner in warm surroundings. At The Porterhouse Irish Pub, you can sit by the fire and indulge on weekly specials including Chef’s Special on Monday, Beef & Guinness Pie on Tuesday, Chicken Schnitzel on Wednesday, Rum Steak on Thursday, Chicken Curry on Friday and Beef or Chicken Schnitzel Burger on Saturday. All of these dishes are just $12, and you can end the week with a Sunday Roast, choosing from beef or lamb, for $15.
By Sabrina Shales. Image courtesy of venue
Need something to wash it down with? Order a pint of Guinness, Kilkenny or Magners for just $7. 233 Riley Street, Surry Hills porterhouse.com.au
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Cheap Monday Pop-Up Store
You can now get new season and super stylish denim from Stockholm’s popular jeans brand in Surry Hills at the Cheap Monday pop-up store. Cheap Monday Pop will be in the garage of The Record Store on Goulburn Street until the end of June, so you can purchase their super skinny Spray On jeans, classic denim jackets, knitwear, footwear, t-shirts and more. Selling affordable on-trend jeans for guys and gals, Cheap Monday Pop is open Wednesday – Sunday. The garage of The Record Store, Goulburn Street, Surry Hills www.cheapmonday.com
Pyrmont Bridge Hotel
Home of sport, music, tap beers and great food, Pyrmont Bridge Hotel is a friendly local with the heart of a pub and the style of a trendy bar. PBH continues to screen the State Of Origin games, with 17th June and 8th July following on from the action in May. Not only will you get the games live and loud on the big screens, there will also be $5 wings and $5 big dogs, as well as 20 beers and ciders on tap to keep you going through the day. If you’re around Monday – Friday 9am-6pm, dig into a rump steak with mashed potato for just $8, one of the cheapest meals in the city! 96 Union Street, Pyrmont www.pyrmontbridgehotel.com
T HO T H RIG W NO
The Aussies are quick to snap at the British foods on offer in these golden shores, however, there was nothing to snap at here, with every mouthful of food and drink (a lot of Speckled Hen) working to prove the Aussies wrong.
With the weather absolutely pouring down outside, rock and roll on the speakers and smoked ham hock, crumbed pork belly and Old Speckled Hen in my belly, I was home, England home. Downstairs restaurant in Darlinghurst is the brainchild of British-born (Essex boy, just like myself) chef, Ben Allcock. With Quadrophenia, Bowie and the Sex-Pistols on the wall, this is my kind of restaurant.
Dharma Shala
Bondi’s original boutique yoga school, Dharma Shala provides classes in Vinyasa, Hatha and Yin yoga, through a combination of postures, pranayama, meditation and chanting. The different styles of yoga have been chosen to compliment each other, with flowing movements and physicality. As well as regular classes, there are also special sessions and workshop retreats, including a Sunday Yoga Workshop on 14th June that will consist of Vinyasa, pranayama and meditation. An afternoon of yoga from 12 – 3pm, the session will cost $54, which will be donated to the Nepal relief effort in the Solukhumbu region.
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Great food was combined with excellent service. Relaxed, comfortable, warm and friendly, that’s exactly how an English-boozerinspired-Darlinghurst-restaurant should be. Allcock and co. have taken the boozer out of London and slapped it in the middle of Sydney’s “too cool for school” quarter. With great effect. Rule Britannia!
Got a local story? Email reporters@bbmlive.com New students to Dharma Shala classes can receive two weeks of unlimited yoga for $45, and casual drop-ins are just $20 per class. You can also pay for 10 classes in advance at $160, and take them when you wish, or have one month of unlimited classes for $120. 108 Brighton Boulevard, Bondi Beach www.dharmashala.com.au
By Ash Leszczuk & Charlotte Mellor
Downstairs Restaurant Review
Once inside and sat at the 1800’s Londonesque, pub booth (think East London battle cruiser; boozer), I was happy to sit here all night, and we did, being the last customers in the restaurant to leave.
MELBOURNE
WIN
Melbourne Cricket Ground
Take a guided tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground and go behind the scenes of one of the world’s most iconic stadiums, and discover Australia’s largest collection of memorabilia across a range of sports inside the National Sports Museum. For a limited time only, the NSM is celebrating 100 years of ANZAC by displaying Rallying the Spirits, an exhibition exploring sport on the home front during World War I, which is not to be missed. Tickets are $22pp for an MCG tour or to visit the NSM, while a combined ticket offers great value at $30pp to do a tour and visit the museum.
Bored of your daily gym workout and fancy something a bit more fun and challenging? Hoops, Thighs & Buttocks offer hula-hoop classes for beginners and more advanced hula-hoopers that will get your booty shakin’ and your muscles toning. With their unique dance and fitness routines, this hot new exercise class will make working out a hobby and not a chore! 252 Kilda Road, St Kilda www.hoopsthighsbuttocks. com
By Sabrina Shales
For one lucky BBM reader we’re offering the chance to win a chance to review the MCG & NSM Tour and take a friend with you. To enter simply email us telling us why you should win in 25 words or less at competitions@bbmlive.com, head to facebook.com/bbmmagazine, twitter.com/bbmmagazine or our website www.bbmlive.com/win-a-melbourne-cricket-ground-tour Competition closes on the 30th June. Winners will be notified by email.For more info on the MCG Tour and venue terms and conditions of entry visit www.mcg.org.au Brunton Avenue, Richmond www.mcg.org.au
Hoops, Thighs & Buttocks
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Easy Travel To All Melbourne Attractions As a city goes, Melbourne is one of the most cool and cultured, with an array of attractions that often see it be compared to London. With art both inside and outside, animal experiences and historic landmarks, there’s more to Melbourne than meets the eye. Instead of paying for a taxi or traipsing around the city wearing your shoes out, invest in an unlimited bus pass with Melbourne City Sightseeing and you can get to all of these attractions with ease for an entire year. With stops right outside the most popular attractions, the hop-on and hop-off approach to the unlimited bus pass makes travelling around the city easier than ever. Departing from Federation Square, the City Tour stops right outside Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium (stop 2), Queen Vic Market (stop 8) and Crown Casino (stop 4), so you can meet the local turtles and seahorses, buy some local produce and watch live sports with a beer without worrying how to get there! Other must-visit destinations include the Eureka Skydeck, for spectacular views at stop 3; Melbourne Zoo, with its resident gorillas, elephants and lions at stop 9; and Chinatown, home of Asian food, fashion and entertainment at stop 12.
The St Kilda Tour departs the city centre to visit Melbourne’s premier beach suburb via South Melbourne, finishing back in the city at the National Gallery of Victoria. Stopping at The Esplanade (stop 4), Luna Park (stop 5) and the St Kilda Marina (stop 6), it allows passengers to see a different side of Melbourne. Whether you’re looking for rollercoaster rides, ocean views, beach fun or live music, you can get to it easily on board the Melbourne City Sightseeing bus. All of these attractions are the most popular in Melbourne City and St Kilda, and there’s no doubt you’ll want to visit some if not all more than once. For sheer convenience, flexibility and transport you can trust, an unlimited bus pass will give you the chance to explore Melbourne as much as you like, when it suits you, for an entire year. You could actually use it every day, and at $100 per pass, end up paying as little as 27 cents per day! This makes it the cheapest transport in the city – and you get a view as a bonus! Buy your unlimited bus pass from
www.melbournecitysightseeing.com.au and start visiting all of the major attractions in Melbourne!
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T O H HT G RI OW N
Basement Discs
Good Food & Wine Show
Calling all foodies. Australia’s largest food and beverage show returns this year, with over 110,000 visitors heading to shows in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane for a day of food and drink inspiration. The Good Food & Wine Show comes to Melbourne on 5th – 8th June, and is a way to get to know local producers and industry leaders with some of Australia’s most exciting food and beverages. Featuring a range of celebrity chefs, a tasty cheese alley, unique features and cooking master classes, you’ll end the day feeling inspired to try out new things. 2 Clarendon Street, South Wharf www.goodfoodshow.com. au
By Sabrina Shales. Images courtesy of venues.
Vinyl is making a comeback, and nothing is sweeter than the sound of your favourite single on a brand new vinyl record. Basement Discs is hidden underneath Melbourne’s busiest café district, and is a little gem for all music lovers. Spend a day discovering new music, or search for older classic favourites at Melbourne’s most authentic record store. 24 Block Place, Melbourne www.basementdiscs.com.au
Brother Baba Budan
We all love coffee made by people who know what they’re doing, and at Brother Baba Budan they have the best espresso in Melbourne. Named after the 17th century Sufi who smuggled seven seeds of coffee out of the Middle East, the people at Brother Baba Budan concentrate solely on the coffee, bringing you luxurious hot beverages and a coffee of the day speciality, perfect for your morning takeaway. 359 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne www.brotherbababudan.com.au
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T O H HT G RI OW N
PERTH
Bali Beautique Spa
Words by Mentari Sandiastri. Images courtesy of venues.
Too busy to go to Bali? There’s a piece of the island in the heart of the city, with Bali Beautique Spa ready to get you pampered and relaxed with an authentic Balinese spa experience. A variety of treatments, from traditional Balinese massages to hair treatment, are available using the best of Indonesian herbs and spices. Pay them a visit and you’ll be sure to come out fresh as a daisy. Tenancy 5, Fraser Suites, 10 Adelaide Terrace, East Perth www.balibeautiquespa.com
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Weekend Hangout
Cottesloe
Possibly Perth’s most popular beach suburb, locals flock to Cottesloe for leisure and relaxation. If you’re yet to discover all there is to do, here are a few excellent places to start.
Head To The Beach
Naturally, the most important thing to do in Cottesloe is enjoying the bright sands and water. Whether you just like to stroll along the beach or be adventurous in the water, it’s up to you how you’re going to enjoy one of Western Australia’s best known beaches. If you’re up for a ride on the waves, join a surfing lesson and feel the adrenaline as the waves hit you. Or, if you simply want to get refreshed, don your swimming attire and let the water welcome you!
Seafood At Sunset
104 Marine Parade, Cottesloe www.cottandco.com.au
Wine Indulgence
With an impressive collection of wine both from Australia and abroad, Lamont’s Wine Store is a must-visit for all wine enthusiasts. After strolling along the beach, pay a visit to the store and spoil yourself with a tipple or two – whether it’s a local favourite from one of WA’s famous wineries or something from European cellars, Lamont’s has it all. You can complete your wine experience by ordering from their extensive tapas menu.
12 Station Street, Cottesloe www.lamonts.com.au
By Mentari Sandiastri
One of the most famous restaurants around Cottesloe Beach is Cott & Co. Fish Bar, thanks
to their fresh and delicious seafood, friendly atmosphere and great location. Visitors can also enjoy the best view of the ocean from the restaurant. At dinnertime, make sure to secure the best seat so that you can enjoy the breathtaking sunset at the beach.
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T HO T H RIG W NO
DARWIN Trampoline Gelato
The only ice cream shop in the world to incorporate muffin flavours into their gelato, Trampoline Gelato brings you the very best of homemade iced goods, such as real fruit juice smoothies, tongue soothing sorbets, adventurous milkshakes and experimental gelato where all ingredients are sourced from local Aussie farms. A must for the tropical weather in Darwin, try out their orange and poppy seed or peanut butter gelato, or indulge on their mango sorbet and yoghurt shake!
Shop D7, 19 Kitchener Drive www.trampolinegelato.com.au
Hot Tamale
If your thing is tacos and tequila, then you need to head down to Hot Tamale for their authentic $20 tacos and top-notch tequila. Located at the atmospheric Darwin Waterfront, Hot Tamale’s Mexican cuisine is made with passion and fresh Latin American flavours. Inspired by Mexico City’s vibrant street food, Hot Tamale brings you tongue-tingling food. Hot Tamale is also home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and most impressive tequila collection, and a cocktail menu with over nine different margarita flavours. F2 19 Kitchener Drive, Darwin www.hottamale.net.au
Deckchair Cinema
Screening every night of the week through to November 2015, Deckchair Cinema takes advantage of the year-round sun and warmth. From classics to recent blockbusters, this June you can sit with a bag of popcorn and watch Fargo, The Sound Of Music, Guardians Of The Galaxy and Paper Planes. Jervois Road, Darwin City www.deckchaircinema.com
WIN A DIP IN THE CAGE OF DEATH
Get closer than ever to an iconic, prehistoric beast that lurks deep in the waters of Darwin’s most popular and unique attractions. Crocosaurus Cove introduces you to the saltwater crocodile, a globally feared creature and the most dangerous animal in all of Australia. Home to almost 200 of these beasts, some as big as five metres, a visit to the Cove is not complete without a dive in the Cage of Death. Too scary for many to conquer, participants are lowered inside a transparent cylinder into an enclosure, to share the same water and swim within inches of a saltwater croc. With 15 minutes to watch the croc, seeing it jumping, eating and swimming around the cylinder offers a completely different perspective of this reptile. Available to go it alone or with a friend, there is no other experience like this in Australia, so conquer any fears you may have, take a deep breath and go feet first into the Cage of Death. The Cage of Death is usually $165 for one person and $250 for two, but we’re giving you the chance to win this experience for you and a friend for absolutely free. All you have to do is head to facebook/bbmmagazine, share and like the competition post, and write to us at competitions@ bbmlive.com telling us what other animal you would take on in the Cage of Death. We know this is an amazing prize, so we do ask you to use your imagination! Competition closes on 30th June 2015 and the winner will be notified by email. Find out what the Cage of Death has in store at www.crocosauruscove.com. 16
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Where to stay in Darwin Chillis
The Northern Territory is teaming with amazing activities, so whilst you’re deciding what to do first, you’ll need somewhere to make your base camp. Here’s some of the best places to stay whilst in Darwin. . Melaleuca On Mitchell
Take full advantage of the fantastic facilities on offer at Melaleuca on Mitchell and the variety of suites available when you visit Darwin. From the twin, double and 4 share bunks (with and without en suites) and more, you can choose to relax in the hostel that is locally owned, as well as be looked after by the very friendly and accommodating staff. The hostel is perfectly located, being slap bang in the city centre making it very easy to reach all the best places to visit and explore. 52 Mitchell Street, Darwin www.momdarwin.com
Located in the heart of Darwin, Chillis is one of the biggest hostels in the city! Boasting an awesome spa deck, sun loungers to relax and soak up the sun as well as a BBQ area to enjoy the famous Aussie BBQs. After a breakfast in the mornings and not sure where to go? Chillis has you covered with its daily FREE breakfast for every night you stay at the hostel. 69 Mitchell St, Darwin chillis.com.au
Youth shack
Mitchell Street is the home to the exciting Youth Shack hostel in Darwin. Close to all the essentials a young traveller could as for, local pubs, restaurants and bars. After embarking on your adventure tour of the Northern Territory, Youth Shack is the best place to rest your head or if you want to jump right into the party then head to the bar as well as getting involved in the weekly events. With a mix of 8 share and 4 share dorms, a twin and double room, Youth Shack boasts a great variety of accommodation to suit anyone! The facilities include 24-hour check in, travel desk, Job Shack agency, bar and weekly events, and the all-important laundry facilities. 69 Mitchell Street, Darwin youthshack.com.au
BARUNGA FESTIVAL
Now in its 30th year, Barunga Festival is an amazing opportunity to meet, compete, discuss and celebrate the diversity of Australia. Celebrating everything from music and sport to culture, art and dance, Barunga Festival is an event that welcomes non-Indigenous people to experience the customs of traditional and modern Aboriginal life, held on the Queen’s birthday long weekend 5th – 7th June. With a strong history of showcasing the Katherine region in the Northern Territory, where remote indigenous communities come together to celebrate the positive aspects of community life, this hidden gem is for everyone to enjoy and engage with a remote community, in the small town of Barunga two hours away from Katherine.
Across the three days, highlights include the Riverside Acoustic Music Program in the APRA Music Tent, men’s and women’s football in the Oval, and traditional music and dance on the Skinnyfish Stage. As well as activities, there’s healthy food and drink available from The Hot Box, Juice’n Sorts, Roma Bar, Greek Affair, Dragonfly Catering and Ngan Jilngurru Outback Store, so you can stay hydrated in the hot temperatures of the north. With an incredible turnout of 3,000 visitors last year, this much-loved festival promises to deliver an incredible programme full of multiple festive activities. Tickets to Barunga Festival are $40pp + booking fee and include camping. Visit www.barungafestival.com.au for more information.
JOBS
JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN NORTHERN TERRITORY Unlike everywhere else in Australia, the Northern Territory provides a completely different experience as a working holiday maker. The tropical city of Darwin, desert stretching as far as the eye can see and outback farms straight out of a western movie, there are work opportunities and an alternate way of life that you just can’t get anywhere else. Check out the jobs that are available in this unique destination that is the Northern Territory. Hospitality
As the south succumbs to winter, all eyes are on the north between April and October, so the hospitality industry is rife with job opportunities from chefs and bar staff to hotel managers and maintenance staff to cater for the rush of working holiday makers heading to Darwin.
Nursing
Nursing is in high demand whether in urban or rural areas of the Northern Territory. Casual and registered nurses are being sought after in all manners, but especially aged care, critical care, A&E and midwifery.
Working on a Cattle Station
Get your hands dirty working at a cattle station in the outback. A truly rewarding experience, jobs
can range from fencing and mustering work to cooking in the kitchen, driving cattle and being an actual Jackaroo or Jillaroo in remote parts of NT.
Construction
Growing rapidly, Darwin has a particularly high concentration of construction projects throughout the year. Jobs you can find include roof carpenter, stonemason, pipelayer and bricklayer.
Fruit Picking
With seasonal harvests, fruit picking is great for casual or part time workers. The busiest season is probably mango season between September and November as hundreds of workers are required, but there’s also bananas all year round, melons between May and November, and grape picking November – December. To find your ideal job in Darwin and the Northern Territory, visit thejobshack.com.au. Website currently under construction, call 08 8923 9774 or pop in and see them at 69 Mitchell Street, Darwin.
Winter Warmer Cocktails With the weather being pretty rubbish and cold, there’s nothing quite like a winter warmer cocktail to take you through the colder months. Here’s a few of our favourites.
Royal Plush
Chancellor Cocktail
Millionaire
It’s not known who the genius was behind this cocktail, but we’re damn sure that the dry and delicious drink should be high on your list of what to order the next time you’re perched next to the bar. Ingredients: 2 ounces whiskey - blended Scotch whisky, 1 ounce ruby port, 1/2 ounce vermouth -French vermouth and 2 dashes orange bitters. Serve in an elegant cocktail glass.
Irish Coffee
The smoothness of the Irish whiskey, blended with the bitterness of coffee and the topping of cream is a popular warming tipple during winter and is a perfect way to round off a hearty meal at your local. Ingredients: 2 ounces whiskey - Irish whiskey, 5 to 6 ounces coffee, 2 teaspoons sugar topped off with heavy cream. Serve in a glass mug.
Esky’s Hot Pot
From the bright mind of Arnold Gingrich, the Esky Hot Pot is a delightful warm treat that was created way back in 1935. A timeless classic that you’ll enjoy time and again. Ingredients: 2 ounces whiskey - Irish whiskey, 1 sugar cube, lemon peel and 4 ounces water. To be served in a glass mug.
This is one simple drink to make, but gives a far from simple taste. The Royal Plush only requires two ingredients, red burgundy and Brut champagne served over a couple ice cubes in a Collins glass. Enjoy! Winter doesn’t normally put a smile on most people’s faces but the jovial ‘Millionaire’ cocktail will put you in a cheerful mood. It’s a great drink that is sweet and pleasant to sip on. Ingredients: 2 ounces whiskey - rye whisky, 1/2 ounce Grand Marnier, 1 dash grenadine and 1 egg white. Serve in a cocktail glass. With so many amazing cocktails to be constructed, why not become an expert and perfect your cocktail making skills with the Barmax Cocktail Course? With so many benefits, the BarMax Cocktail Course is a great way to spend an evening. And you can now get 30% off of the Cocktail Course by using BBMAUS when you book online at www.barmax.com.au. This means that you pay just $84 instead of $120 for a
course that can benefit your career, social life and entertainment!
The discount code is valid for single cocktail courses only until 30th June 2015. Standard terms and conditions for all products apply. Visit www.barmax.com.au for more information.
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SHIPPING
Tips for securing that all important job for your new life downunder
If you’re in Australia having moved from the UK, you will at least be sharing the same language as your potential employers (barring one or two local idioms that may have failed to cross the Indian Ocean) but it’s important to know what to expect as Australian employers are just as conscientious as anyone else - despite the nation’s famously laidback reputation, so put those Foster’s adverts at the back of your mind. Actually, put them at the back of your mind regardless; they’re awful. You’re lucky enough to be living in the digital age. Seriously, you’re tremendously fortunate, we can’t stress this enough. Do you realise how amazing that is? To just type something into a search engine bar and receive billions of pages on the subject in question? It’s incredible. And with that in mind, surely a little research on your employers won’t go a miss. Hit up their official website, find out about their business, think about how you’d fit into the company dynamic and how your talents could be successfully employed there. Take a notepad and pen with you. Your interviewers will usually tell you a bit about themselves and the company so it’s good to jot down any relevant information that you can refer to later. It’s best not to use your phone as a notepad. No matter how you style it, you’ll always look like you’re texting. It always looks a bit rude. Try not to do it. 22
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Perhaps at the end of the interview when they ask if you have any questions, you can fashion a question from your notes. It’s good to have a question than not have one. We don’t need to explain why, do we? Thought not. Let’s move on. It’s important to be friendly, assertive and, if you can, funny. Throwing in the odd joke or humorous observation during the interview could make all the difference. After all, a sense of humour is important to the dynamic of any team you’re working in. If you don’t have a sense of humour, then we can’t help you. You’re doomed. Oh and dress smartly. It doesn’t matter what the job is, you need to show you care enough to make an impression. That’s it really. Make sure your hands aren’t clammy before shaking theirs and go get ‘em. Don’t forget if you need assistance with moving items, luggage and personal effects around Australia, Seven Seas Worldwide should be your port of call. They have a network in place covering every square inch of the country, with a range of services designed to suit your needs. On top of that, they also have a top class storage service, should you need a place to hold your clutter sorry, treasured possessions - for a while. And if you need to send items overseas, Seven Seas Worldwide’s international team can be on hand to make the process a much less-stressful and altogether streamlined experience. Give them a call today. For help making your move to Australia or any other destination worldwide visit www.sevenseasworldwide.com.au
Words courtesy of Seven Seas Worldwide
Job interviews can be a scary prospect but they take on extra significance if you’re trying to get a job to start a career in another country.
TAX INFO
TAX FREE THRESHOLD THROWN OUT In May, the Budget for 2015/16 Financial Year in Australia was released and there were a number of changes in it, which could cause problems for future travellers.
The government have upped the fee from $420 to $440 and now it is set to tax the holiday makers, starting in July 2016.
The introduction of a revamped working holiday visa program will send shockwaves through all hopeful travellers who have plans to visit Australia.
Peter Shelley, the ATEC’s Managing Director voiced his concerns with the incoming WHM changes: “Also of concern is the impact of changes to working holiday maker visa fees and the removal of the tax-free threshold that will affect around 200,000 youth travellers who visit Australia each year and spend an average of $13,000 during their stay.”
The Federal Government is bringing into effect a 32.5% income tax on every dollar earned by any working holiday makers, tearing away the tax free threshold that once was. The move is in an attempt to raise further revenue, which has been forecast to be in the region of $540 million over a four year period. Annually, the WHM income tax will generate the government $135 million. “We don’t want to increase taxes on Australians, but we do want everyone to pay their fair share along the way”. These words were spoken from Joe Hockey, the Federal Treasurer and it will knock the enthusiasm levels down of any future travellers to the country. However, these figures have people asking questions… With the number of WHM applications dropping over the past 12 months, the figures outlined by Julian Ledger, CEO of THA Ltd have been questioned. They depend on a consistent flow of WHM into Australia. With the increase in visa fees recently, it is put forward as a reason why fewer applications are being made and with that said, there has been an increase to the price of the WHM visa. 24
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Have the changes to the Working Holiday Visa made you rethink your travels to Australia?
For the travellers themselves, they will have a number of questions to ask and it may lead to them looking to other destinations for their travel experiences. Wendy Aylward, Managing Director of AIFS pointed out the attention this announcement is getting on Facebook and she warned, “I expect to see comments throughout the day. Word will travel and those who factor tax returns into their travel planning may choose to head elsewhere.” The program is a way for both Australian and global travellers to benefit, as the WHV program ensures that the travellers undertake important rural jobs, those that aren’t as appealing to young Australians. With already fewer travellers applying for visas to Australia, will the government experience an even greater dip in figures once the income tax change is introduced next year? Visit www.bbmlive.com/tax-advice for more information.
Recruiters Wanted Experienced Recruiters wanted for various industries including IT, Finance, Media, Blue Collar, Health Care, Sales & Marketing Immediate start
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INFO@BBMLIVE.COM
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TRAVEL
The Big Walkabout
Whether you’ve just landed in Oz or have been working your arse off to save your dollars, The Big Walkabout with Contiki is your chance to see just what the big deal is with Australia. Over 24/25 days, you’ll get to stand upon its great landscapes, take part in amazing activities and snap thousands of photos on this mega adventure, all while making new friends along the way.
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It’s likely that you’ll have heard of some of the destinations on this trip, but some will come as a complete surprise. You’ll come to learn their multiple nicknames, like Uluru, which can also be referred to as Ayers Rock or The Red Rock, in the Northern Territory. You’ll experience the sheer size and changing sceneries as you travel from beautiful blue East Coast views to just-as-beautiful Red Centre desert (or vice versa, depending on where you choose to start). You’ll explore the bustling city of Sydney in New South Wales, with its Opera House, Harbour Bridge and urban beaches, and compare it to the tropical city of Cairns in north Queensland, and the even more tropical city of Darwin in the Northern Territory. As well as the major cities, you’ll visit coastal towns like Surfers Paradise, Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour, and outback
a surf school village and an outback bush camp. You’ll also be fed 34 meals in total, because you’re gonna need that fuel for all the fun you’re gonna have. Oh, and don’t let the name mislead you; you’ll also have a big, air-conditioned Contiki coach to sit in (you’d wear through too many shoes if you had to actually walk it). The Big Walkabout has many options for travel. You can start from Sydney and finish in Darwin, start in Darwin and finish in Sydney, and you can even book it with two days of sailing in the Whitsundays. If you’ve been longing to really see this great, big country, then this is the trip for you. It’s what you came all this way for and it’s what will make your time in Australia all that more incredible.
settlements like Katherine, Alice Springs and Tennant Creek. There will also be opportunities to head off of the mainland to step upon the paradise islands of The Whitsundays and Fraser. As with any Contiki trip, there are plenty of things to do in each location that are included or available to add on. After all, you can tick off much of that pesky bucket list right here in Australia. So what do you feel like doing? Swimming in secret rock pools in the middle of a national park? Taking a 4WD ride of Fraser Island? Or how about diving with saltwater crocodiles or skydiving from 15,000ft? There are activities for every type of traveller – from the daredevil who seeks adrenaline to the chill-out character who would rather lie on a beach. If you’re undecided, the Contiki team that will be with you all the way can lend advice on things to do (and encouragement when needed), and you can bet your fellow passengers will have a few ideas up their sleeves.
The Big Walkabout is one of many Contiki Holidays Australian trips from 3-25 days. If you’ve only got a few weeks to travel or if you’re looking to experience Australia and make new friends along the way, definitely consider organised group travel as an option. It’s great to share your experiences with like-minded people, and even better if they’re with you for the ride. Give Contiki a call on 1300-188-635, head to Contiki.com or visit your local travel agent.
Even accommodation and meals are well thoughtout. Over the length of the trip, you’ll be staying in hotels, resorts, lodges, hostels, a cattle station,
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15-Day Darwin To Melbourne Explorer
A journey through the centre of Australia can make you feel like a wilderness explorer, and that’s just what you get on this trip. 15 days from the Top End, down to the Red Centre, into Adelaide, along the Great Ocean Road and ending in Melbourne, you are literally travelling from the very north down to the most southern tip of Australia. And what a journey it is.
From Darwin, you get to explore the Northern Territory national parks of Litchfield and Kakadu, going in search of waterfalls, gorges and lakes, before embarking on the drive down to Alice Springs. The most famous outback town in the world, this is your springboard for Uluru, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta, all of which you’ll get to visit. Activities include watching Uluru during sunset and sunrise, taking a guided walk around its enormous base and visiting an outback camel farm. If you have the cash to spare, we do advise you experience the optional activity of riding a camel, the most popular transport in the desert. After 10 days in the north, you enter South Australia and visit another outback town, Coober Pedy. Recognised as the Opal Capital Of The World, you’ll get the chance to explore the unique and somewhat eerie town as you delve below ground to visit the mine and museum. A whole day is spent hiking through the Flinders Ranges, reaching the top of Dutchman’s Stern for incredible 360-degree views. Just when you’re starting to lag, it’s time to head to Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, and possibly the prettiest city you’ll encounter. Modest and underestimated, you can relax in Adelaide with a coffee and a good read, or take a day tour to Kangaroo Island or Barossa Valley. Leaving Adelaide, you’ll cross another state border into Victoria. Entering Grampians National Park, you’ll get the chance to stretch your legs with a hike to picturesque waterfalls, surrounding yourself in the beautiful nature of the Grampians.
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The next morning, it’s straight onto the Great Ocean Road. Arguably the most famous drive in the world, there are dozens of photo opportunities with London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge, the Twelve Apostles and even the koalas at Kennett River. Make sure to take in your surroundings, because before you know it, the Great Ocean Road is over and you’re making your way to your final destination. While your journey with your tour group and guide may finish in Melbourne, there’s no reason to end your own adventure. The capital city of Victoria, it is Australia’s most liveable city. Cool cafes, amazing coffee, street art around every corner and the inviting laneways will keep you walking around this city for hours if not days, with there always being something new to discover. Cultural, cosmopolitan and trendy, this is the London of the Southern Hemisphere. Along this mammoth 15 days, you’ll travel by minibus with your small tour group, and 4WD where necessary. As a journey through the outback, you can relish the full experience with six nights camping and eight nights in shared accommodation. Any national park fees are taken care of, so you can just enjoy the freedom of walking around these beautiful parts of the world. So, if Darwin’s in your itinerary, make sure you don’t miss this epic adventure right through the centre of Australia. 15-Day Darwin To Melbourne Explorer is $2195pp and available to book now at www.adventuretours.com.au.
5 Days 4WD In Kakadu For the fit and active traveller, Kakadu can be the ultimate adventure. While travelling by 4WD, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to hike through gorges, swim in plunge pools and stroll amongst forestry during a five-day tour with Territory Expeditions. Day One
Starting the day early from Darwin, your first experience of Kakadu is a drive along the Jim Jim Road before stopping for morning tea and getting to know your fellow passengers. New friends made, you’ll get to spend the rest of the day at Gunlom, popular for its waterfall, pools and beach, where you’ll set up camp for the night.
Day Two
Taking the day at a leisurely pace, you’ll gain access to the restricted area of Koolpin Gorge. Due to only a select number of people being allowed in at any one time, you may have the waterfalls and rock pools all to yourselves, and they’re well worth the drive and wilderness walk to reach them.
Day Three
Departing Gunlom, you and your tour group will head north to Barramundi Gorge, home to another plunge to provide relief from the Northern Territory heat. In the afternoon, you’ll 4WD it north to Jim Jim Falls.
Day Four
Today’s the day you get to visit one of the most beautiful treasures of Kakadu – the Twin Falls and Jim Jim Falls. Cascading in the wet season and trickling in the drier months, you can take a cruise to Twin Falls and admire the looming cliffs before walking to Jim Jim Falls and relax in yet another plunge pool. Finish the day with a sunset cruise along Yellow Waters spotting birds and crocodiles, and then set up camp at Mardugal for your final night in Kakadu.
Day Five
Your last day begins with a look at the aboriginal art of Nourlangie Rock and capturing the view from Gunwhardewharde Lookout. You’ll then get a chance to find out more about the region at the Bowali Information Centre, before stopping off at the Mamakala wetlands to watch native bird activity, and arriving back in Darwin in time for tea! You wouldn’t be able to see many of these spots without Territory Expeditions. For $1,050pp, they provide permits, food, water, tents, swags, transport, a tour guide and camp fees, book your 5-Day Kakadu 4WD Tour at
www.territoryexpeditions.com.au.
KING OF THE MOUNTAIN WITH MULGAS ADVENTURES Escape to the ancient landscape of the Western MacDonnell Ranges… So close to Alice Springs the outback town is practically sitting in them, the Western MacDonnell Ranges are absolutely gorgeous. They can defy what you originally pictured of the outback; refreshing water holes to swim in, a smothering of flora and bathed in sunshine, the area isn’t as visited as Kata Tjuta National Park, but it’s still well deserving of attention. With Mulgas Adventures, you can explore the Western MacDonnell Ranges over two days and visit its most pleasing highlights. Departing from Alice Springs, day one begins with a visit to Alice Springs Desert Park. Encompassing all that the outback has to offer, you can meet the residents of the nocturnal house, watch dingos and kangaroos, and check out the birds of prey. Onwards to Ormiston Gorge, this is your first experience of the Western MacDonnell Ranges, with a four-hour hike through the amphitheatre of Ormiston Pound and spotting Black-Footed Rock Wallabies. Your first day finishes with a drive to Glen Helen Resort, supper and sleeping under the stars in a swag. On day two, it’s time to discover Mt Sonder, the most breath-taking mountain in the Western MacDonnell Ranges and the fourth highest mountain in the Northern Territory. On a 16km hike, you’ll be able to capture some amazing
views so don’t forget the camera! After your mammoth walk, you’ll get to relax back at Glen Helen resort with a BBQ lunch and a cold drink, before visiting Glen Helen Gorge, a permanent waterhole. This 2-Day King Of The Mountain Tour with Mulgas Adventures costs $259pp and includes an experienced Australian guide, pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Alice Springs, all camping and park fees, meals, swags and an air-conditioned bus to travel around in. Remember good walking shoes (you’ll be hiking upwards of 20km over two days), a large bottle of water, a towel, a swimsuit for swimming and warm clothes during winter nights. You can bring your own sleeping bag, or hire one from your guide for $15. So what are you waiting for? Take this alternative tour of the Red Centre and become the King Of The Mountain. Visit www.mulgasadventures.com.au to book your trip now.
Litchfield National Park is less than two hours
away, and is often a weekend trip for many Darwin locals. The main access road for your campervan is the Stuart Highway with clear signs the whole way, and there’s a camping ground right by Florence Falls, easily the shining star of the park with a double waterfall plunging into a swimming hole and panoramic views from the top.
Northern Territory National Parks By Campervan
Nitmiluk National Park lies south of Kakadu, and can be driven from Darwin in four hours on National Highway 1. Camping is very popular here, so sites at Nitmiluk Gorge and Edith Falls have great facilities and are right by the most popular spots in the park. You could park up at either of these campsites and enjoy hiking, boat cruises and canoeing.
Image courtesy of Northern Territory Tourism
If you want the freedom to explore the Northern Territory national parks, you can hire a campervan and drive at your own pace along this famous landscape. From Darwin, there are three of the most famous national parks in the whole of Australia – Litchfield, Kakadu and Nitmiluk.
Kakadu National Park is accessible from Darwin via the Arnhem Highway. The biggest park in Australia, it can be fully explored with a 4WD, but you can still see many of its attractions in a 2WD campervan. The best time to go to Kakadu, or any national park, is during the dry season from April – November, because flooding can close some roads. Cruise around the South and East Alligator regions, book a crocodile cruise and make use of the facilities at Merl Campground.
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WESTERN AUSTRALIA Camel Ride On Cable Beach
Cable Beach is Broome’s iconic beach, with sparkling white sand stretching over 22 kilometres against the Indian Ocean. You can tread the sands of this beach on the back of a camel, riding along as the sun sets, turning the sky into a breathtaking burnt-orange backdrop. After your camel experience, sit down at one of the beachside bars and have a cocktail with the stunning sky in sight.
The Pearl Of Western Australia
Located 2,240 kilometres from Perth, Broome makes for an ideal destination if you’re on a tour up the west coast. If you don’t know why this town is so special, here are just a few things that set it apart from everywhere else.
Wandering in the Wilderness
Untainted natural beauty is the biggest treasure around Broome, and an adventure around the diverse natural sites is definitely a must. Cape Leveque boasts striking red cliffs and unpopulated beaches, and Windjana Gorge is home to freshwater crocodiles within its spectacular 100-metre-high rock walls.
Image courtesy of Tourism Western Australia
ESCAPE THE COLD IN BROOME THIS WINTER
Broome is home to world-famous pearls, which has been the central element of the town’s economy for over a century. In the north of Broome is the award-winning Willie Creek Pearl Farm, where you can get an insight into how these beautiful gems are made and processed, and treat yourself to a few pearl jewels fresh from the farm.
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Camping like you’ve never experienced before…
With an emphasis on flexibility and your personal experience of Australia, Outback Camp Tours provide a journey that is no ordinary trip. As well as showing all of the icons of Western Australia, Outback Camp Tours’ Mark Polich really provides a tour like no other. A unique character himself, he applies his Aussie bush-man knowledge and will encourage you to get to know the land by fishing for your supper, cooking on coals from an open fire, making damper bread, gathering wood and camping beneath the stars with your small group of new friends. With people from all over the world booking on this tour, and all pitching in to prepare meals, dinner is never the same from one evening to the next! The Perth to Darwin (or vice versa) tour runs from April – November, and covers the WA coastline to remote wilderness from the south to the north over an amazing 30 days. During this time, you’ll travel through the picturesque Swan Valley, one of Western Australia’s finest wine regions; visit beautiful coastal paradises like Monkey Mia, Shark Bay, Coral Bay and the Ningaloo Reef; and stand before incredible rock formations and deep gorges in the Pinnacles Desert, Karijini and El Questro Station that shame anything man has ever built. Camping on the land of each area you’ll visit, you’ll get to enjoy one – three days in most destinations to appreciate the activities on offer and the sights they behold. For example, once you reach Monkey Mia, you’ll have the time to meet the famous dolphins that come up to the coast on their own free will, a journey into Cape Range National Park and Yardie Creek will see the contrast between the blue ocean and the burnt red sands, and relax in the azure waters of Coral Bay with a swim or snorkel trip. 34
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While it may be tough to leave the delights of Monkey Mia, a journey through Carnarvon leads to the Ningaloo Reef and Coral Bay. The largest fringing reef in Australia, the Ningaloo is an oceanic nirvana of colourful coral, marine life and clear waters that you can swim for hours in. Again demonstrating the contrasting colours of WA, the national park of Karijini paints a picture in which time has stood still. Blessed with gorges, waterfalls, cliff faces and rugged red rock, you’ll enjoy two – three days of adventuring and over and underground. Further north is the outback town of Broome, famous for its unique offerings of moonrises, camel rides, pearling history and fruit festivals. Cable Beach beckons you to while away the hours or tread the sand on the back of a camel, but there are also walking paths to lookout points and museums that share the town’s history in pearling. From Broome is Gibb River Road, and you’ll get to experience the beginning and end of this famous dirt track with a visit to Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek, which tells the story of the aboriginal that escaped European settlers; and then a night at El Questro Station. Between these points is a visit to the Bungle Bungles, dozens of beehive rock formations formed over millions of years. Following a night at El Questro Station, you finally reach Kununurra and Lake Argyle, where you will spend a night before leaving Western Australia for the Northern Territory. Continuing the outback adventure, your first destination in NT is Katherine, which boasts the gushing waters of Edith Falls and Litchfield National Park. Here, you’ll get to relax in rock pools, bathe in waterfalls, explore around towering trees and camp in the grounds of this unspoilt park. Then to Nitmiluk National Park and a hike through Butterfly Gorge. Just before you arrive
Win An 11-Day Darwin To Broome Tour! We’ve got one 11-Day Darwin to Broome tour to giveaway for free courtesy of Outback Camp Tours.
in Darwin, you get one last experience of wild Australia on a Jumping Crocodile Tour. At *$2,400pp, travelling from Perth to Darwin with Outback Camp Tours really is all about you. *Food is additional, purchased as a group in major towns, again giving more flexibility to all budgets as well as suiting travellers with special dietary needs. Plan your Outback Camp Tour with outbackcamptours.com
On this epic overland adventure, you’ll get to visit amazing locations such as Litchfield National Park, Katherine, the Bungle Bungles, Gibb River Road and Broome. Usually costing $1,095pp, an Outback Camp Tour gets you back to basics and living with the land, cooking on campfires, catching fish, camping in the wilderness and making damper bread. To be in with a chance of winning this tour, just email us at competitions@bbmlive.com with your full name, a contact email address we can reach you on and the subject heading “Outback Camp Tours”. Terms & Conditions Entrants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Australian visa for the duration of the tour. Travel dates available are 31st July 2015 and 11th October 2015. Food is additional purchased as a group in major towns.
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Ten-Day Coast & Karijini Tour
Have the West Coast adventure of a lifetime with Kimberley Wild Expeditions as you explore the very best of what Western Australia has to offer. worth taking in the steep walls of the gorge from this perspective! From day 3 and 4 it’s time to really experience the pure beauty of Western Australia’s unspoilt coastline, including a close up with the world famous Monkey Mia Dolphins. Journeying to Exmouth, you’ll have the chance to snorkel the Ningaloo Reef. And after all that sun-soaked fun you can kick back and watch the kangaroos hop about the grounds of Kimberley Wild’s private campsite on Yardi Creek Station.
Setting off from Perth, your first stop will be the Pinnacles Desert, nestled in the heart of the Nambung National Park. Here you’ll witness the otherworldly beauty of the limestone towers as they loom across the horizon. From here you’ll make your way to Jurien Bay where you can get your adrenaline fix by sandboarding down the massive dunes. Day 2 will set you up for some further fun as you take in Murchison Gorge, and if you fancy a bit more of an adrenaline fix then why not try your hand at abseiling – at an additional cost – but well
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Day 6 will take you inland via the mining town of Tom Price to the exquisite Karijini National Park and the incredible Hamersley Ranges, which were formed over 2,500 million years ago. Here you’ll frolic in the billabongs and cascading waterfalls feeling like you’re totally at one with nature. After two days of jungle fun, it’s off south along the Great Northern Highway toward your last night on the expedition before heading back through the wheat fields to Perth by the end of the 10th day. If sleeping under the stars, making new friends, and experiencing adventure and real natural beauty is for you, then book your tour at
www.kimberleywild.com.au.
Journey From Perth To Exmouth Cruise the Coral Coast from the capital city of Western Australia to the heart of the Ningaloo Reef.
White, sandy beaches, burnt-orange cliff faces, winding rivers and wildlife both on land and in water, the journey from Perth to Exmouth is beyond beautiful. In five days, you can embark on this one-way trip with Aussie Wanderer, who not only take you to all of the great locations, but also introduce you to the activities available in each. Experts in Western Australian travel, these guys know all of the bits that shouldn’t be missed. From a visit to the Pinnacles Desert on day one, to snorkelling at Turquoise Bay on day five, each day is packed full. The Murchison Gorge, Natures Window and Z-Bend await in Kalbarri National Park on day two, with the opportunity to swim in the Murchison River. After waking up in the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, you’ll get to meet the famous visiting dolphins on day three, before driving up to Coral Bay in the Ningaloo Reef for a fourth day to do with as you wish, but options include swimming with manta rays, snorkelling the reef and simply lounging on the beach. The last day is spent exploring Cape Range National Park in Exmouth, delving into the deep canyons and admiring the rugged limestone ranges. From $795pp depending on the accommodation style you choose, Aussie Wanderer provides you with five-nights accommodation, meals as listed, transport, entry fees to parks and centres, a tour guide, plenty of fun and attractions. You can add on activities such as abseiling in Kalbarri, sailing and kayaking at Monkey Mia, and hiring snorkels at Turquoise Bay. Available year-round, Aussie Wanderer can show you that Western Australia is beautiful, memorable and a must-visit travel destination any time of year.
Visit www.aussiewanderer.com.au to find out more about the 5 Day Perth To Exmouth One-Way Tour.
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Southern Skydivers
skydive. On the day itself, if you feel ill and it’s not just nerves, contact your skydiving company. Will the weather affect the skydive? Cloud and wind shouldn’t affect a jump unless the wind is consistently over 25knots (around 46km per hour), in which case the jump will be cancelled. While you may prefer blue skies and little wind, don’t be put off by some cloud and wind. What’s the maximum jump height? In Australia, the maximum height you can do a skydive from is 15,000ft, which involves 66 seconds of freefalling.
If you’ve been considering a skydive but have too many unanswered questions, we put ours to Southern Skydivers in Western Australia. What are the weight restrictions for skydiving?Every skydiving company has a weight restriction for the load that the parachute can take. Generally, the limit is 110kg, but height, build and weather can all affect the decision to throw you out of a plane! Check with your chosen skydiving company to found out any specifications. Can skydiving make you sick? In general, you shouldn’t get sick from skydiving. If you suffer from motion sickness, tell your skydiving instructor and they will aim to make it as comfortable for you as possible. Also, make sure you eat before your
How much does skydiving cost? The cost of a tandem skydive can cost anything from $250750, depending on the height, the company, the location and the package you choose. As a oncein-a-lifetime experience, make sure you choose the right package for you, and try to not let the cost be the deciding factor. However, if you’d like a bit of a discount, just mention the BBMPROMO code when booking online at southernskydivers. com.au to receive $30 off of your skydive.
Win A Skydive! We’ve got one 14,000ft Tandem Skydive Ticket to give away for free to one lucky BBM reader. All you have to do to enter is email us at competitions@bbmlive.com with your name, contact email address and subject heading ‘Southern Skydivers’ by 30th June 2015. The Tandem Skydive Ticket will be valid for 12 months once issued and can’t be used in conjunction with any other offer.
EXPLORE THE PEEL REGION THIS WINTER Western Australia’s winter season has started, but the temperate climate of the Peel Region, just one hour south of Perth, with plenty of sunny days makes it the perfect destination to visit, especially in the cooler months. Be inspired by our list of things to do this winter. Action, water, speed, endless fun – that’s what you get when you go white water rafting in the rapids of the Murray River in Dwellingup. White water rafting is available during the winter months usually June to October. Book with the local operator, Dwellingup Adventures.
in the Peel Region of WA, just 50 minutes south-east of Perth. The winery is located at the picturesque Chestnut Farm nestled among virgin jarrah forests, with stunning vistas of the rolling landscape. The acclaimed Millbrook restaurant is superbly located on the second level of the winery and features a high timber ceiling, Blackbutt floor and glass bi-folding doors, which open onto a Jarrah deck with spectacular views of the vineyard and Serpentine National Park.
Touching permitted at Peel Zoo!
Off-road mountain biking
Experience the thrill!
Head to Peel Zoo in Pinjarra for a unique ‘hands on experience’. Hold a python, pet the kangaroos, tickle a ferret or feed the parrots at the walkthrough bird aviary. All guaranteed fun!
Travel back in time
At Dwellingup Station board the Etmilyn Diner Train and enjoy a five-course meal in the 1919 dining car or 1884 club car for an experience like no other. Your meal is served from the on-board wood stove as the train meanders through the forest, every Saturday night. Bookings essential. Or enjoy the scenery and magnificent sights and sounds of a Steam Locomotive hard at work climbing Western Australia’s steepest and most spectacular section of railway. The train operates on Sundays only (from May – October).
Wining & Dining
You don’t need to drive far from Perth to enjoy excellent food and wine. Millbrook is a boutique winery situated in the historic town of Jarrahdale
Langford Park, near Jarrahdale, is a popular mountain biking destination for beginners and advanced riders alike due to the gradual hills and fast, flowing single track. It has a whole host of trails in the area with a longer 17km outside loop. Just pick a path and go! Or check out the Munda Biddi Trail - over 1,000 kilometres of cycling heaven. As well as passing through magnificent Lane Poole Reserve with its swimming, camping and canoeing opportunities, the trail also takes cyclists through the historic timber towns of Jarrahdale and Dwellingup in the Peel Region.
Float your boat
Board a large, comfy houseboat at Mandurah (no special licence required) and cruise the calm waterways through world heritage-listed wetlands, watching the bank’s wildlife and scenery and stopping by a riverside tavern.
www.visitpeel.com.au
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NSW
Real Sydney Tours Winter in Sydney calls for a time of exploration in and around the city. You can’t lie on the beach for hours on end in your swimwear, so why not get a better understanding of your new home, however temporary or permanent, with The Real Sydney Tour? Six hours touring around one of the most famous cities in the world with a local will provide you with special highlights, secret hangouts and information that only a local could tell you. On The Real Sydney Tour, you not only take in a view of iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, but you’re also introduced to a variety of suburbs, and how each one is different from the next. You’ll visit backpacker-central Kings Cross, stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, see what Chinatown has to offer (traffic dependant), learn about the history of the Rocks, and explore the surrounding bays along the coast that many other tours don’t see. When it’s time to eat, you will enjoy a morning tea of Australian snacks at a harbour bay and lunch at Bondi Beach if you get hungry later on (at your own expense). As you drive around Sydney, your guide will tell you about local history and folklore, point out the best photo opportunities and show you some magnificent views. You’ll also get to catch a glimpse of Sydney local life, to see what you may have missed during your time here. The Real Sydney Tour is $600 for one – three guests or $175pp for groups of four or more. You can also add a trip to Featherdale Wildlife Park if you make a request when booking. Real Sydney Tours also go to the Blue Mountains to view the spectacular rock formations and breath-taking landscape, stopping at Featherdale Wildlife Park and Sydney Olympic Park on the 40
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way back. Anyone that wants to try the famous Australian wines can jump on The Real Hunter Valley Tour to sample the produce at McGuigan’s, Kellman’s Winery and the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company, and there’s an opportunity to see what lies over the other side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge with The Real Sydney North Shore Tour, including visits to Neutral Bay, Balmoral Beach, Manly Beach and North Head. As with The Real Sydney Tour, all of these trips are taken by a local guide and driver, who knows the area like the back of their hand. Book your Real Sydney Tour at realsydneytours.com.au.
Sydney OutBack Tours Enjoy an amazing day full of adventure in one of NSW’s most diverse and spectacular destinations, the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, located just 45 minutes from the Sydney CBD, by land and water. One of the only untouched areas left in New South Wales, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is as beautiful as it is a bit of a mouthful to say. Deep within the park are hiking trails, rock art and waterways. You also visit West Head lookout, home to the only place where five separate waterways intersect. As Australia’s second oldest national park, it’s home to more than 1,000 indigenous heritage sites, more than anywhere else in the world. Visit one of Australia’s most significant and sacred Aboriginal engraving sites, featuring more than a dozen unique rock engravings and discover other ancient Aboriginal Heritage Sites, only visible from the water. A great way to explore is via the unique and special 3-hour boat cruise through the scenic waterways and untouched wilderness of Ku-ringgai Chase National Park on board Sydney Out Back’s private 50 foot motor cruiser. The cruise includes a 2-hour Aboriginal cultural presentation including hands-on demonstrations of the didgeridoo, spears, woomera, fire making, and lots more.
The National Park has many stories to tell from escaped convicts to its important role it played in WWII. It was also home to the famous Skippy the Bush Kangaroo in the late 1960s. What might surprise you even more about Kuring-gai Chase National Park is that it’s so close to Sydney – just 25km away – but you feel a million miles from the busy city streets. To explore this stunning national park is on the Wilderness + Aboriginal Explorer Tour + Cruise with Sydney Out Back Tours. Running trips to Ku-ring-gai on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday, they’ll take you on an all-day journey through the park, picking you up and dropping you off at your location. This tour costs $199pp and includes gourmet bush tucker lunch, Park entry fees, coffee and snacks. Vegetarian and gluten free lunches are also available. Head to www.sydneyoutback.com.au to visit Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
QUEENSLAND
5 REASONS TO VISIT THE GOLD COAST RIGHT NOW
The Gold Coast is a hub of activity and is perfectly placed for you to explore some of the best attractions Queensland has to offer. So here are our picks of the top day trips to take when you visit the Gold Coast. Mt Tamborine Sky Walk Just under an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast, venture to Mt Tamborine to explore the rainforest in all its glory. Here you can walk through the treetops on the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk which is 1.5km in length. As you wind through the canopy you’ll be able to view the breathtaking vista of the rainforest from a new perspective. Cedar Creek Vineyard and Winery A day trip to this vineyard is a must as you leave the Gold Coast behind for the day. A simple drive to North Tamborine from the city and you’ll get to this charming vineyard to feast on some of the best food in the area and sample an impressive range of wines from the varietal tastes of Sauvignon Blanc, Verdelho, Chardonnay or Shiraz to the sweeter styles of Rose, Moscato, Ports, Liqueur Muscat and Dessert Wines. Treetop Challenge For all those active adrenaline junkies out there, you can have an excellent day out as you take on 42
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the 100 plus Tree Top challenges. From zip-lining to the Tarzan swing and climbing through nets and barrels anywhere from 2m – 20 m off of the ground through unspoilt bush land. Palm Beach Reef Situated on the Gold Coast, enjoy a day out snorkeling or diving on this large reef full of soft corals and sponges. Here you’re likely to spot hammerhead sharks, bronze whalers, wobbegongs, leopard shark, blue wrasse, and painted wrasse as you make your way through this magical waterworld… Dolphin Feeding on Moreton Island Just under four hours away from the Gold Coast, you can visit Moreton Island where you’ll find Moreton Bay. The Bay is home to approximately 600 bottlenose dolphins and each night pods will visit the shores of Tangalooma Island Resort. The dolphins have been visiting for over 30 years, and each night you can have the chance to hand-feed them a small amount of fish as they come up for their nightly visit to the beach. For more information on the incredible activities you can do when in the Gold Coast visit
www.visitgoldcoast.com.
4 Seasons...
Fraser Island The best time of year to go to Fraser Island depends on what you’re going for. While not many events take place on the island itself, good ol’ Mother Nature affects the island greatly, and this changes from season to season. Spring
During the spring months from September – December, the island’s rainforest is brought to life with magnificent wildflower, but it’s also when severe storms are most common. In the beginning of spring, you can see the last of the humpback whale migration as they return to southern waters. As Fraser Island is so close to Hervey Bay, recognised as the whale watching capital of the world, views of the magnificent whales are more than likely.
Summer
Reaching a peak temperature of 30 degrees on the coast during summer, this is probably the most popular time to visit Fraser Island if you’re a sun seeker. The more inland you travel, the warmer it gets, so protection from the sun is encouraged through hats, sun lotion and loose, thin clothing. While summer is the hottest season, it’s also the wettest, with about 160mm of rainfall per month
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between January and March. Early summer can also experience severe storms and marine stingers in the coastal waters.
Autumn
Early autumn might be the best time of year to visit Fraser Island if you’re after mild weather and pleasant temperatures. Calmer than the summer, rainfall has decreased, exotic birds migrate for the winter to decorate the rainforest, and Lake McKenzie is calm and still for a relaxing dip. Even if the temperature is lower than that of summer, sun protection should still be used.
Winter
It’s all action on Fraser Island in winter. Humpback whales begin migrating in July and can be best seen from Fraser Island’s Double Island Point; dingo pups also begin to come out from their dens to play, but you should still only admire them from afar; and huge schools of fish swim in the waters just off of the island, providing great fishing if you’re dining on the beach. Whatever time of year most appeals to you, Drop Bear Adventures run tours on Fraser Island all year round, so you can visit whenever you wish. Visit www.dropbearadventures.com.au to book your tour.
explore
Port Douglas Lying in the tropics of Far North Queensland, Port Douglas is a town that many choose to escape to when the south is in winter. If you’re spending a few months in this part of Australia, just look at the places you can go to on a daily basis.
The Great Barrier Reef
The closest town to the Great Barrier Reef, this underwater paradise is just a boat ride away so is the easiest location to take a day trip. Around a 90-minute boat ride depending on the chosen site, you can take a day trip to the reef with multiple tour companies including Wavelength, Poseidon Cruises and Low Isles Sailaway. Once you can jump off of the boat, you’ll be entering a world full of tropical sea life like turtles, starfish and anemones that call this enormous area home. Day trips to the Great Barrier Reef are around $200-$250pp.
Daintree Rainforest
Due to its close proximity to the Daintree Rainforest (by that, we mean right next to it), there are dozens of day trip opportunities from Port Douglas to explore the hiking tracks, village, river, eucalypt forest, wetlands, treetops and wildlife. The oldest living rainforest on earth, you can literally step back in time to when dinosaurs roamed. Ways to travel include walking tours, 4WD tours, Daintree River cruises, or self-driving along the sealed road with a map from one of the information centres.
Cape Tribulation
The only thing that separates the Great Barrier Reef from the Daintree Rainforest is Cape
Tribulation. An activity enthusiast’s dream, head here for bushwalking, kayaking, horse riding, diving, exotic fruits, zip lining and 4WD. Cape Tribulation is just a 45-minute drive north from Port Douglas, and is where the sealed road ends and 4WD track begins. While you can get to Cape Tribulation easily in a 2WD, book a 4WD tour and it will take you to secret spots and hidden treasures that your own car can’t!
Mossman
Even closer to Port Douglas is Mossman, a mere 15 minutes, in fact. A pretty town set within cane fields, there are historic pubs to sip a cold beer in and regional stores to buy local goods. If you come on a Sunday, be sure to browse the Mossman Markets in the morning, where you can fill up on fruits, vegetables, spices and cakes. Mossman has a self-title river and gorge located within the Daintree National Park. Here, you can swim in the refreshing waters of the Mossman River, explore the formation of the Mossman Gorge, and walk along the suspension bridge. Return from your day trip to the comfort of United Backpackers Port Douglas, the perfect place to end your day and begin a new one! Book your stay at
unitedportdouglas.com.au
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SOUTH AUSTRALIA
KANGAROO ISLAND An all-seasons island with many reasons to visit! Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours – one of Adelaide’s highest ranking tours on Trip Advisor - has dropped its price for its popular two-day trip to Kangaroo Island to just $399 for travel from 1st May to the end of August. Staying at the coolest backpacker accommodation on the island, Vivonne Bay Lodge, with full use of kayaks and bikes, the tour includes a visit to Seal Bay, sandboarding at Little Sahara and stops at Kangaroo Island icons, Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch.
“Our Lodge is in bushland with one kilometre of beach frontage and 10km of signed walking trails. Nothing beats relaxing on our deck after a fun day of small group touring and being visited by friendly kangaroos and koalas that call Vivonne Bay home,” SeaLink Marketing Manager Julie-Anne Briscoe says. The $399 price tag, $37 off the regular price, includes return coach and ferry travel from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, all meals – which receive excellent reviews - and dormitory accommodation (can upgrade to 2-4 share rooms), two days of small coach touring and great local driver/guides. Courtesy pick-ups are also included in Adelaide from selected hostels and hotels or the tour is just $355 from Cape Jervis if you have a car and want to leave it there for a couple of days. “Kangaroo Island is definitely an island worth visiting at any time of the year and many of the highlights you find on Kangaroo Island are appealingly different during the seasons. This tour is also about visiting the places that not every tourist gets the chance to see,” Julie-Anne says. “If you have a taste for adventure and don’t want to come home with copies of the same holiday snaps as everyone else, this tour is for you.” “In autumn and winter Kangaroo Island is the
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perfect destination and is when the hills become lush and green, the wildlife is more active than in the warmer months and cellar doors, restaurants and cafes provide incredible food and wine experiences.” The two-day adventure tour runs three days a week between May and October, increasing to four days a week in November and then daily from December to March. “You’ll also be travelling with people who are likeminded; who love a bit of soft adventure and want to meet the people and see the sights that make this place truly special,” Julie-Anne says. “Our guides are the best around and our guests are blown away by their friendliness and knowledge. You feel like one big family when you travel on one of our tours.” To find out more or have a copy of the Kangaroo Island Adventure Tour brochure sent to you, call +61 8 8202 8678 or visit www.kiadventuretours. com.au. The special winter offer is bookable online.
www.kiadventuretours.com.au.
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GLOBAL TRAVEL
T h a i la n d... w h er e to g o n ext? If one week in Thailand isn’t enough for you, book these amazing trips onto your ThaIntro experience and discover more of Thailand… Diving On Koh Tao
Not only loads of fun, you can gain a skill during your travel through Thailand with ThaIntro. By learning to dive on the island of Koh Tao, you can get your PADI Open Water Dive Certification. This is a beautiful place to do it, with crystal clear water, coral formations and a marine life including whale sharks! Add diving in Koa Tao to your ThaIntro experience and you receive an Open Water Dive Course and four nights accommodation.
Visit Chiang Mai
The jewel of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is bursting with wonder and culture. Where relaxation meets hustle and bustle, the city is surrounded by breathtaking mountains home to local hill tribes. Adding four nights in Chiang Mai, you’ll be able to trek through the jungle, spend a day at an elephant sanctuary, sail along a river on a bamboo raft and zoom through the jungle on a zip line.
Scuba Diving In Koh Phangan
As well as the full moon parties and sandy beaches, Koh Phangan offers an underwater world that’s popular for scuba diving. If you don’t
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want to take a full-on PADI course, you can still receive lessons and guidance from instructors, who will take you to perfect locations off Koh Phangan. With two dives off of the boat, you’ll get to experience the amazing sites and local marine life lying so close to shore.
Visit The Phi Phi Islands
Add four days onto your ThaIntro trip with a visit to the Phi Phi Islands on Thailand’s West Coast. Like Koh Phangan, you can chill out by day and party by night, with swimming, snorkelling and amazing sunsets from a boat. Made famous by The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio, you can also spend a night on a live-aboard trip to Maya Bay. If you’re spending a week in Thailand with ThaIntro, make sure you talk to your tour leader about adding one of these amazing trips to your experience! Book your trip at thaintro.com
Balintro
The guys behind OzIntro and ThaIntro have launched a new trip to Bali. Full of incredible experiences, Balintro is the perfect accompaniment to your trip to or from Australia. A fascinating country of ancient temples, glorious beaches, natural beauty, exotic islands and extraordinary wildlife encounters, it has the potential to be a trip of a lifetime. Spanning at least nine days, activities and highlights include the Kuta nightlife, surfing lessons, swimming beneath waterfalls, hand-feeding wild monkeys, meeting the locals, the rice paddies of Lovina, breakfast on the beach, spotting wild dolphins, snorkelling with turtles, visiting the Gili Islands and cycling. You can extend your trip to 12 days by adding on a trip to Ubud. If you choose this trip, you’ll be able to meet the residents of Monkey Forest, embark on a sunrise volcano trek and relax with a massage, as well as all of the previous activities. As with OzIntro and ThaIntro, you can expect great service on Balintro. All transport (including airport pickup), accommodation, activities as listed and plenty of meals are included in the cost. You’ll also be travelling with a group of like-minded people that you may decide to hang around with
for longer. And, of course, you’ll get the help of the super fun and knowledgeable Balintro guides. The nine-day Balintro trip is $799pp, and the Balintro + Ubud trip is $999pp for 12 days. With trips starting on 7th July, groups are expected to fill up quickly, so head to www.balintro.com to start your Bali adventure!
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Affordable Luxury In India
One of the most exciting travel destinations in the world, India is beautiful, bustling, enriching and can provide a real culture shock to the senses. So different from anywhere else, your first visit to this great big country can be daunting, no matter how much you want to see it. But with a local guide, three and four-star hotels and tours that have that tailormade touch to them, all of your concerns can fade away with Travel & Taste. Best Of India Luxury Tour
From food to temples and elephants to markets, you can visit the popular and lesser-known treasures of India. On this 10-day 11-night tour, you’ll visit the 300-year-old Chandni Chown Market and Mahatma Ghandi memorial of Delhi, the fortresses and al fresco art of Mandawa, and the ruggedly beautiful Amber Fort, which you’ll ride an elephant to get to just like the royal Maharajas! In Agra, you’ll get to spend one morning watching the white marble of the Taj Mahal light up in the sunrise, and take an overnight train to Varanasi, where you’re met with the Aarti ceremony on the River Ganges, as well as a boat ride along its waters.
Grand Heritage India Tour
For 15 days and 14 nights, you can get to grips with even more Indian culture and history on the Grand Heritage Tour. Destinations, monuments and experiences include the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort and elephant ride, as well as lakes and temples of Pushkar, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Fort Chittorgarh and Fort Kumbhalgarh, the City Palace and museum of Udaipur, a boat ride on Lake Pichola, the Jain temple comlex of Ranakpur, the oldest mountain range in India, the markets of Jojawar and Jodhpur, and a train ride through the beautiful forests and hills of Kambli Ghat Pass. If you want to travel around India but have no idea where to start, Travel & Taste provide comfortable and informative tours to many of its great regions. With a local guide, you’ll see and do things that you would have no idea about if you went alone. Breakfast is included each morning, and you can add on lunches and dinners with a simple supplement. You’ll also get to stay in hotels graded three and four stars, so after all that driving, you can have a little bit of luxury. This doesn’t mean that you have to empty your savings to enjoy it – the Best Of India Luxury Tours is $1459pp based on a single traveller in a car, or $899pp if two are sharing. Meanwhile, the Grand Heritage India Tour is $2198pp for a single traveller in a car, and $1499pp if two are sharing. These tours are available exclusively to BBM readers and won’t be found on travelandtaste.com.au for full details contact rohit@travelandtaste.com.au or visit
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BB Rea M de cl any aim 10 rs % B tou eats off r us Tra v co d in e: B g pro el BM m BEA o TS
Dance To The Rhythm Of India
With a focus on imagery, art and fashion, Beats Travel is the first known Music Travel Company rather than a traditional adventure travel company. This means that you can tour the world and attend some of the finest events known to music lovers. Combining local sights and activities with annual festivals and superstar DJs, these guys know how to show you a good time. Not content with visiting Europe’s famous parties, Beats Travel are heading to somewhere extra extraordinary: India.
Exploring a country with a colourful culture, India Beats will venture from Mumbai to Kerala showing a side of the country that no other touring company can offer, including the sights and sounds of Bollywood, the hedonistic trance parties in Goa, sailing through the beautiful backwaters of Kerala and the architectural delights of Hampi, on a 14-day tour. Journeying through cities, beaches, desert and jungle, you will get to see why it’s influenced so many authors, musicians and film directors in stories like The Jungle Book, Slumdog Millionaire and Indiana Jones. The up-and-coming India Beats will have a huge cultural aspect to it, but unlike other tours in this country, it will show more of the musical side, with tickets to Sunburn Festival in Goa included in the price. The India Beats tour is launching soon, combining your favourite passions – music and travel – so you can get the best experience possible. Book your India Beats tour at
beats-travel.com
Please note itinerary is subject to change.
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The Yoga Travel Company Providing retreats in Bali, Kangaroo Valley, Byron Bay, and recentlyannounced India, The Yoga Travel Company is for those that want to immerse themselves in the yoga experience. But be warned, this is not a holiday. While all activities are optional and depend on the retreat, a typical day can consist of getting up at 5am, doing silent meditation for 45 minutes, followed by breathing exercises for 45 minutes and a buffet breakfast in silence. While this may sound bizarre, just imagine having blissful silence for half a day, grabbing a plate of fruit and sitting under a tree in beautiful surroundings… If you really want a double shot flat white coffee, the Balinese staff have writing pads for you to write your order, and will bring it out to you. After breakfast, you can rest until 9.30am, then take part in vigorous physical Vinyasa yoga practice, break for a vegetarian-based lunch, rest until 4pm, and enjoy a satsang, translated to “truth speak”, where you can ask your teacher questions on yoga, meditation and mindfulness, that you don’t usually get the time for in a regular yoga class. In the late afternoon, you can cool down with a restorative Hatha yoga class and long, slow, deep relaxation. The Yoga Travel Company chooses these types of yoga because they are traditional, and encourage the spirit of self-enquiry in order to arrive at a quiet and calm space. About three to four days into the retreat, a call and response devotional chant may be introduced with a guitar, harmonium and tabla, in order to immerse yourself further into the music and yoga until your outer self falls away.
The locations of each retreat have been chosen to compliment The Yoga Travel Company’s philosophy. The Kangaroo Valley retreat is more focused on food and meditation, about two to three hours from the coast of New South Wales. The Byron Bay retreat is perfect for new people in Australia looking to make friends in one of the must-see destinations of Australia. The Bali retreat is aimed at advanced yogis, so much so that they are cherry picked or have to apply to go. And for those that want to go the distance and immerse themselves in the true yoga experience, there’s the new retreat in India. The yoga teachers – or professional educators – of The Yoga Travel Company were sent out to India last year to find the perfect spot, and the aim is to find the next exotic location during the first retreat. Join The Yoga Travel Company on their Byron Bay Retreat 15th – 20th October 2015 for $1,500pp in shared occupancy or $1,750pp in single occupancy. Or, join them in India 8th – 18th November 2015 for $2,250pp in shared occupancy or $2,700pp in single occupancy. Visit www.thelivingroomcoogee.com. au/theyogatravelcompany to book your yoga retreat.
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Step into paradise
Exotic and welcoming, Fiji is breathtakingly beautiful and perfect for exploring. Home to some of the most gorgeous islands on the planet, there are plenty of ways to while away the hours in this paradise. Fiji’s islands come in many sizes; Bounty, Treasure, Mana, Malolo, Castaway, Plantation, Octopus, Botaira and Robinson Crusoe Islands all have a resort to make your base and go off exploring, while islands like South Sea, Beachcomber, Tivua, Schooner and Savala are much smaller, and ones that you’d take a boat to for a half or full-day trip. Snorkel off the shores of South Sea or Treasure Islands where the water is so clear that you can spot marinelife as it flourishes amongst the coral reefs. It’s also gloriously warm, so you can spend hours exploring the waters that surround the islands.
If you’d prefer to relax and soak up island life, the aptly-named Robinson Crusoe Island provides opportunities to learn Melanesian dance, how to climb coconut trees, how to crack a coconut and how to fish. There’s also a chance to explore the inland treasures on a jungle bush walk, so you can take on the character that the island is named after. How about a full day sailing around many of Fiji’s islands? You can appreciate the location and formation of the islands on a cruise, with the option to jump straight off the boat to swim and snorkel in the waters below with your fellow sailors. Lunch may be a buffet on an island or a BBQ on the boat, complete with fish, chicken, beer, wine and bubbles! Whatever you’re looking for, delve into this tropical paradise and have your own Robinson Crusoe tail to tell, find your ideal trip at HotFiji.deals.
Get messy at haro wine fight spain the great
WINE FIGHT You might have heard of throwing coloured powder at Holi One Festival, and even lobbing tomatoes at La Tomatina, but have you ever heard of chucking gallons of red wine on friends and strangers? Intrigued? Welcome to The Wine Fight. Officially called La Batalla del Vino de Haro, this unique Spanish festival begins with an evening of street partying, bar hopping and dancing in the town of Haro, before you spend a few hours taking advantage of a bottomless supply of red wine and throwing it here, there and everywhere. When The Wine Fight is over, you can head back down the mountain, covered head to toe in delicious red wine. To experience this traditional event, you can travel with Stoke Travel, either from San Sebastian for €150pp or Barcelona €185pp, including a BBQ dinner, breakfast each morning, two-nights camping and unlimited red wine at the famous fight. Trips to San Vino run from 28th – 30th June. Book yours now at stoketravel.com.
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INTERVIEWS
DJ, record label-owner, festival curator, radio presenter and allround music guide, we chat to the man that is Gilles Peterson about artist selection, returning to UK festivals and going global in his search for the perfect beat. Hi Gilles, how are you doing? Very well, cheers! You play internationally, so what does it mean to you to come back and do UK sets like Tramlines Festival? It’s a lot less travelling, better paid and it’s easier! I don’t know why I ever go to Heathrow! It’s good to do stuff in the UK. I’m a renowned Londoner because I’ve been DJing on pirate radio, but I’m one of the Londoner’s that’s probably done the most outside of London from back in the ‘80s and I’ve always thought it was good to spread the word about the music. For me, it’s always a pleasure. What’s your process of artist selection for festivals? It’s just fun, isn’t it? It’s the best thing about combining radio, producing artists, A&R and club 56
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We’ve been to Traction Festival and Worldwide Awards; have you got any other exciting projects lined up? What I’m doing as a curator is pretty much limited to the festival and annual Worldwide Awards, but I’m going back to Cuba next week to do a new record about the depths of rhumba. I’m doing a bunch of compilations; a new Sun Ra album, and an album on a label called MPS – a Jazz label, which was probably the best Jazz label in the ‘60s and ‘70s. I’m doing a lot of radio stuff with the BBC, so I did a big thing yesterday with Chassol, and I’m doing an interview today with Jamie XX – so very busy! Your search for the perfect beat has led you to Africa, Brazil and Cuba; where next? Do you see yourself doing something in Japan? Yeah, I’d love to do loads of them! The rhumba album is like the ultimate conclusion of that search, because rhumba is the source of everything. It’s the connection between the slave ships of Africa bringing the music and this mystery of communication and rhythm through music. If you look at rhumba and how much music it’s influenced ie the original percussionists, congo players going to New York and changing the face of Jazz music, Tito Puente coming to New York in the ‘50s and changing the music scene with Latin big bands and cha cha cha, which culminates with really bad dance on Strictly Come Dancing! For me to go and find out the inner workings, that is the root of dance music and probably where the perfect beat exists. Read the full interview on
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By Merlin Ramos
gilles peterson
nights. Even when I was running clubs like Talkin’ Loud at Dingwalls or Monday nights at the Wag Club, I always incorporated live music with DJ culture and that was quite out of the norm back then. Then I spent time working at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland where I spent 10 years curating, and after that I decided to start my own festival, and that was just the perfect excuse to pick my favourite artists of that year ranging from obscure African music to out-and-out contemporary British bass culture. For me, that’s loads of fun. For the moment I’m putting together the final touches for the Worldwide Festival 10th Anniversary, and I’ve got two or three final nuggets to place. I’m trying to get a piano player called Ed Motta to perform and that will be the final piece of the puzzle. But, someone always pops up in the last month before the festival, so you’ve always got to leave a little bit of money spare for that!
roxanne emery
Hi Roxanne, how are you? I’m very well, thank you. Am I right in saying that you’re playing your first ever live vocal shows in Sydney and Melbourne this June for the Atlantis tour? Basically, I have performed one song before a couple of times with my brother when I’ve been on the road with him. But this is the first time I’m doing a full set – 30 minutes – and it’s filled with pretty much every song I’ve released, so it is the world premiere of that. You have a real country sound on your album, but you collaborate with many electronic dance acts. What will your set involve? It is going to be mainly the collaborations that I’ve done with dance acts, mainly because of the line-up and that music’s so big in Australia. There will be something in there more acoustic, and there’s actually an acoustic version of one of the dance songs called ‘On Fire’ on the album, so I’m probably going to do a couple of minutes acoustic just to show that side, but it is going to be a big set in terms of production. Do you have your heart set on singing in any particular venues or festivals in the world? I have actually just booked a couple of shows with Aly & Fila which will be amazing because
I’ve done a couple of tracks with them. In terms of places I’d love to perform, it’s not something I’ve thought about, but I’m definitely a lot more open to taking on gigs and touring with people. One thing I do love doing, which I’ve been able to do a couple of times with my brother, is perform acoustically and it’s an amazing experience. We did it recently at a sold out show at the Palladium in LA and it was amazing, suddenly all the lights went down, he walked over to the piano and I came on. There’s something very special about that. Having mentioned, Gareth (Emery), as your older brother, has he given you any advice or do you turn to him for it? He has given me SO much advice over the years. He would always be my first port of call. I’m actually on his management team and I do the A&R for his vocals, so whenever he’s working with an artist, I’ve gone out and found those songs. It’s amazing to be able to work with him and find the same passion in other people. He’ll give me advice on who to work with and how to promote my album. It’s really amazing to have him there and to work with him. Roxanne Emery will be part of the Atlantis tour alongside Paul van Dyk, MaRLo, Mark Sixma and Driftmoon. Friday 5th June – Hisense Arena, Melbourne Sunday 7th June – The Hordern Pavilion, Sydney Tickets available to buy from www.ticketek.com.au
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By Charlotte Mellor
A voice as sweet as sugar, a superstar DJ brother and spending her time between London and LA, Roxanne Emery is a darling of the music industry. Taking on a full set on a live stage for the very first time, she is the cherry on top of an incredible line-up for the Atlantis tour in Australia this June. To find out more about her, we sat down for a chat to talk all things music, holidays and what’s in the pipeline.
DANNY HOWARD With a packed season in Ibiza and Mallorca, we had a chat with Danny Howard to find out how he feels about heading back to his second home. We’ve been looking over your summer schedule and to say you’re busy is an understatement! Yeah, that’s how I like to be! It’s crazy. I’ve got a lot in Ibiza; I’m back at Pacha, which is one of my favourite clubs in the world, and it’s always surreal to play. I’m doing Cream at Amnesia, and Sankeys as well, so I’m well spread out across Ibiza. I’m doing Mallorca every week at BCM, that’s with my own brand, Nothing Else Matters, so I’m really excited about doing that every week. And we’re also gonna be doing a big London show at Cube with Nothing Else Matters, so that’s going to be exciting. David Zowie’s playing at that, DJ S.K.T, Mr H – a lot of people may not have heard of these DJs, but they’re all up and coming House producers that I think are gonna go on to do big things this summer, so it’s good to get them on the line-ups early. What memories do you have of playing at Pacha last year? My main memory – I did 20 gigs last year, which was mind blowing – every single week, at some point during my set, whether it was right at the 58
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beginning or as I was finishing, I’d have a second where I thought, “How did this happen?” It’s one of the most iconic clubs in the world and my idols played there, so for me to be behind the decks was just so special. Also, getting to play with legends like Masters At Work and Bob Sinclair. Ibiza just felt like home last year, because I was there so much. So you’ll be returning to your second home? Definitely. I lived there; I only flew back on a Thursday or Friday to do the radio show on a Saturday at 7pm and then I’d run to the airport to get a flight and I’d be back in Ibiza by midnight. I know I’m so lucky to be able to do that and tried to do the best possible set every time I played. It has a history of being the party island of the world, but what is it about Ibiza that makes it so? Is it the sort of place where you feel it as soon as you land? 100 per cent. I’ve never been anywhere where you get so many cheers when you land. You know you’ve landed in Ibiza, because where else would you land at midnight, get to your hotel at 2am, dump your suitcase and then go out? It’s crazy. What tracks will you be playing this summer? A lot! Top three would have to be Camel Phat ‘Constellations’ – it’s not actually been released yet but it’s one of those tunes that I’ll probably go to every single set because it creates a moment; also Denney ‘Low Frequency’ and Kolsch ‘Derdiedas’.
pat shortt Coming to Australia on his first nationwide tour this August, we speak to legendary Irish comedian, Pat Shortt, about making his way Down Under and the famous pub industry in Ireland. Hi Pat, how are you? Very good! Where in Ireland are you at the moment? I’m in Limerick. It’s quite overcast today; it’s typical Limerick and typically Irish! Well, hopefully you’ll get some sun when you come over to Australia for the Selfie tour! Yes! I’m very much looking forward to it, that I can assure you! And I’m looking forward to the audiences as well. It’s the first time I’ve been out to work or visit and I’m very much looking forward to it! What can ticket holders expect from Selfie? I’m not really a stand-up, I’m more characterdriven, and there was a show many years ago called One Hell Of A Do that I did that was hugely popular in Ireland, and it was based on an Irish wedding. Selfie started off being about a photographer who covered funerals, and it ended up being about a singing undertaker because my background is music. It worked its way into the Irish funeral, people’s approach to death and how they react to them. The whole show becomes a funeral and the madness that can happen at one. It’s good fun and there are characters like Mossey Burke who is the singing undertaker.
and drinking. And try and catch a hurling game in the summer! And, in your opinion, what’s the best pub in Ireland? Pat Shortt’s Bar – my own pub! Down in County Cork – that would probably be the best one! But there’s actually a pub in the village I live in called Guerin’s and two elderly people run it – mad as a brush – and it’s fantastic and daft and I would recommend anyone coming to Limerick to go to Castleconnell and visit Guerin’s Pub. But it’s very hard to tie down one pub, there are pubs all over the world but there’s something about an Irish pub, the atmosphere and music and food. It’s a fantastic thing in Ireland, and yet they’re struggling in the industry. I hope it won’t be completely taken over by large chains, which is happening a little bit. Pat Shortt Debut Australian Tour Dates Thursday 13th August – The Hi-Fi, Brisbane Friday 14th August – Enmore Theatre, Sydney Saturday 15th August – The Hi-Fi, Melbourne Sunday 16th August – Astor Theatre, Perth
Interviews by Charlotte Mellor
If we were to spend a weekend down your way, what would you suggest we get up to? Well, the thing about Ireland is it’s so small, so I think you’d have to travel down to Cliffs of Moher in Clare in the west of Ireland, you’d have to travel down to Kerry which is absolutely beautiful, and a place that a lot of people don’t really go to is Lough Derg and up to lakes Killaloe which is only five miles from where I live. There are so many small villages and a harbour on this huge lake – you could spend a week sailing around and eating
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Splendour In The Grass Sideshows
With a huge list of artists and bands coming to Australia for Splendour In The Grass on 24th – 26th July, there’s a chance for anyone that didn’t manage to get tickets to still see their favourites at sideshows. Here’s a roundup of who will be coming to a city near you.
Blur
Britpop legends, Blur, will be playing three sideshows either side of their headline set at Splendour In The Grass. Playing in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, the quartet will be supported by South London singer, Jamie T, to guarantee an unforgettable evening of music. With the release of the band’s new album, ‘Magic Whip’, Blue are definitely back. Saturday 25th July – Qantas Credit Union Arena, Sydney (with Jamie T) Tuesday 28th July – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne (with Jamie T) Thursday 30th July – Perth Arena, Perth (with Jamie T) secret-sounds.com.au 60
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Mark Ronson
The man behind the biggest song of 2014, ‘Uptown Funk’ Mark Ronson is playing three sideshows while he’s in Australia for Splendour In The Grass. A Brit and Grammy Award-winning producer and DJ, Ronson is one of the biggest names in music right now and his set is not to be missed. He will be joined by Pong, Tkay Maidza, Yolanda Be Cool and Jones Jr, and sharing the stage with Daniel Merriweather, Alex Greenwald of Phantom Planet, Andrew Wyatt, Keyones Star, MNDR, Theophilus London and Tame Impala frontman, Kevin Parker. Wednesday 22nd July – Metro City, Perth Tuesday 28th July – Hordern Pavilion, Sydney Wednesday 29th July – Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne secret-sounds.com.au
Catfish And The Bottlemen
The rock ‘n’ roll boys from Wales return to Australia following their support gig for The Kooks back in January, with their own headline shows. With gritty guitar riffs, sing-along choruses and the potential to make you swing from the rafters, a live show from Catfish And The Bottlemen is a riotous and memorable event. Wednesday 22nd – Corner Hotel, Melbourne (cornerhotel.com) Thursday 23rd July – Oxford Art Factory, Sydney (moshtix.com.au)
MØ
Joined by Swedish singer and rapper, Elliphant, Danish electro-pop songstress, MØ, will play two shows following her performance at Splendour In The Grass. With hit collaborations with Iggy Azealia, Major Lazor, DJ Snake and Elliphant already under her belt, who knows what’s next for this girl? Tuesday 28th July – Corner Hotel, Melbourne Wednesday 29th July – Oxford Art Factory, Sydney secret-sounds.com.au
The Wombats
Since their debut at Splendour In The Grass in 2008, The Wombats have come to be one of the most popular bands in the UK. Returning with third album, ‘Glitterbug’, the trio are bound to wow the crowds with songs like ‘Tokyo (Vampires and Wolves)’, ‘Jump Into The Fog’, and ‘Your Body Is A Weapon’. Thursday 23rd July – Metro City, Perth Monday 27th July – Enmore Theatre, Sydney Tuesday 28th July – Palais Theatre, Melbourne Thursday 30th July – Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide secret-sounds.com.au
Purity Ring
Renowned for their highly visual performances and eclectic style, Purity Ring will play two headline dates when visiting Australia for Splendour In The Grass. Bringing their mystical melodies, tamed
beats and beautiful blurred lyrics to Sydney and Melbourne, this Canadian duo, made up of Megan James and Corin Roddick, shine on any stage. Don’t miss them perform tracks from ‘Shrine’ and ‘Another Eternity’ live. Friday 24th July – 170 Russell, Melbourne (170russell.com) Monday 27th July – Metro Theatre, Sydney (www.ticketek.com.au)
Years & Years
Following their smash hit UK number one, ‘King’, Years & Years will be playing in Sydney and Melbourne following their debut at Splendour. With the release of their debut album, ‘Communion’ just before their gigs, you can look forward to hearing their R‘n’B, deep house and classic pop tunes live. Sunday 26th July – Metro Theatre, Sydney Thursday 30th July – Max Watts, Melbourne secret-sounds.com.au
Azealia Banks
Bold, opinionated and super cool, Azealia Banks is set to own the stage at Splendour, and will continue her domination Down Under with two sideshows. Whether grabbing your attention on social media or bringing bangers like ‘212’, she sure makes you sit up and listen. Friday 24th July – Metro Theatre, Sydney Sunday 26th July – Prince Bandroom, Melbourne secret-sounds.com.au
The Vaccines
Indie rockers, The Vaccines, will be joined by fellow Brits, Palma Violets, on their Sydney and Melbourne sideshows. With the recent release of third album, ‘English Graffiti’, on 22nd May, their big tracks and heavy guitar are a welcome presence at Splendour this year. Monday 27th July – The Corner, Melbourne Tuesday 28th July – Metro Theatre, Sydney secret-sounds.com.au
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One to watch SIVIK - EVERY THING One of Los Angeles’ most underestimated artists, SIVIK has brought us new single ‘Everything’, following the release of ‘High’ and ‘U Got’. The single is a lot more downtempo compared to his previous work, however the track is still drenched with his iconic pop-infused sound. The Los Angeles-based singer collaborates with Sweet + Talker on the record, taking a refreshing, new angle for the last track of his debut EP, which features top-notch tracks.
KALI UCHIS Off the back of two sold-out London shows, a surprise guest appearance at Coachella with collaborator Tyler The Creator, and the hype created around her mixtape album ‘Por Vida’, Kali Uchis is continuing to demonstrate with her self-proclaimed “lowrider soul” why she has been touted as one of the most exciting and unique talents of recent years. The video for ‘Rush’, which was directed by Uchis along with creative duo WIISSA, mirrors the peppy production of Kaytranada and BADBADNOTGOOD, channelling cali-soul vibes and uninhibited sexuality as Uchis and her gang of beautiful women hang out provocatively in pools and cruise around the desert highways in their lowrider. With the sun-soaked ‘70s-esque Super 8 handheld video-camera vibes, Uchis’ carefree, laid-back and sultrily soulful vocals glide through you like the wind in your hair as though you were cruising with them in the backseat of a cadillac with the top down. Together with her contemporary soul sound and her breezy sensuality, Kali Uchis is truly cruising towards a bright future.
‘Everything’ is available now on SIVIK’s ‘Spring Collection EP’
Upcoming Events At Big Top Sydney One of Sydney’s most unique entertainment venues (in the surrounds of Luna Park) Big Top Sydney has a great line-up of events. With Come Together 2015 over the June long weekend, there will be Hip Hop artists taking to the stage on Saturday, including Thundamentals, Seth Sentry, Horrorshow and Remi, and Indie acts like Ball Park Music, The Jungle Giants and SAFIA on Sunday. Also putting the spotlight on Big Top, bout two of the Sydney Roller Derby will take place on 12th July, and the energetic and no-holds-barred performance of Mafikizolo will be on stage on 18th July with a live band and dancers. Heading into the spring season, Tyler, The Creator, will be playing at Big Top for his Cherry Bomb World Tour, and no doubt providing a Hip Hop masterclass for the crowd. Visit www.bigtopsydney.com to see all events.
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BBM MUSIC CHART Unknown Mortal Ochestra Can’t Keep Checking My Phone
Mac Demarco The Way You’d Love Her
Hot Chip Why Ma ke Sense? Having signed to Domino Records for their previous effort, Hot Chip made the progression from less machine-driven dance sounds into more earthy and disco tinged atmospherics with their unique brand of geekchic, neo-soul electronica and they are continuing this trend with their outstanding new album ‘Why Make Sense?’. Championing clubs and festival dance tents throughout their glittering fifteen year career, Hot Chip are making strides into the heady heights of headlining slots, capturing their live energy on record with the naturally recorded drum beats which could possibly be inspired by the success of Daft Punk’s 2013 global nu-disco
phenomenon ‘Get Lucky’ and could definitely elevate Hot Chip into the international mainstream consciousness. The insatiably funky ‘Started Right’ is driven by smooth keys and a grinding bass line that could easily be lifted from an 80s Stevie Wonder track, whilst the joyous ‘Love Is The Future’ would fit perfectly on a late-night love songs playlist if it were curated by French-electro peers Soulwax. Lead single and album opener ‘Huarache Lights’ conveys singer Alexis Taylor’s enjoyment of playing live, preaching the lyrics “I know every single we play tonight will make the people just bathe in the light” through distorted electronic talkbox effects whilst the track euphorically ascends throughout it’s near six-minute duration with the crunchy keyboard riff and infectious jazztinged beat. In support of their new LP, Hot Chip will tour the US and Europe in the coming weeks as well as headlining Sonar in Barcelona and Green Man Festival later in European summer.
MIA Platforms
A$AP Rocky LSD
The Maccabees Spit It Out
Skepta Shutdown
Sharon Van Etten Just Like Blood
Froth Turn It Off L.A. Witch Kill My Baby Tonight www.bbmlive.com
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By Thomas Curtis-Horsfall & Sabrina Shales
ALBUM REVIEW:
FUNNY NEWS “This is because the closure mechanism of the gut is not designed to ‘open the hatch completely’ when we’re sitting down or standing up: it’s like a kinked hose,” added Enders while curling one out. “Although you can climb on your toilet seat and squat, the kink can also be… hnnnnyuuhhhhhhhh….. [plop plop] ahhhhhhhhhhh… ironed out by sitting with your feet on a little stool and leaning forward.”
Flushing out the truth Brace yourselves, you might want to sit down for this next bit of news. Actually, you might want to squat instead because it turns out we’ve all been shitting incorrectly for years. According to Giulia Enders, a German (obviously) microbiologist, people in Western countries are emptying their bowels in totally the wrong way - and instead of sitting on the loo, we should be squatting. Her book, Charming Bowels, which has topped the charts in her native country for several weeks (what is it with Germans and their scheisse obsession?), explores a number of gut health issues, from constipation to bacteria. Sounds like a real page-turder. “1.2 billion people around the world who squat have almost no incidence of diverticulitis and fewer problems with piles,” she says. “We in the West, on the other hand, squeeze our gut tissue until it comes out of our bottoms.” So apparently the right way to go is to squat. No wonder Paula Radcliffe is so fit and healthy. 64
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Ain’t nothing wrong with a bit of bump n’ Grindr Looks like we have an early contender for biggest religious idiot of the year – and as you can imagine, that’s quite a wide field to choose from. Bible-bashing pastor Matthew Makela has made quite the name for himself as an anti-gay advocate in the US and has previously called homosexuality “sinful” and likened it to alcoholism. But his hard-line reputation took a little bit of a knock last month when it was revealed he’d been sharing photos of himself on Grindr and claiming he “likes to cuddle naked”. Aww, he sounds so sweet. Who would have thought he was a very confused preacher of intolerance? The photos surfaced on gay and lesbian site Queerty after being posted by an anonymous Grindr user. Closet-loving Makela confirmed they were authentic before stepping down from his position at St Johns Lutheran Church and School in Michigan. Idiot.
Election a dead heat As election results go, it wasn’t a bad effort from runner-up candidate Caroline Mitchell in a ballot
for the Pennsylvania county last month, but we still think she might want to rethink her career in politics after coming second to a dead woman. Barbara Daly Danko, 61, died of cancer on 6th May but managed to shrug off that minor setback to win a seat on the Allegheny County Council. The campaigning corpse defeated Mitchell, 5,575 to 4,015. “Clearly she was well-respected by her constituents, which is pretty much as good as it gets for an elected official,” said Jared Barker, the county council’s chief clerk and director of legislative services. According to BBM’s sources in Canberra, the Labor party are now thinking about ditching Bill Shorten as leader and replacing him with Gough Whitlam before the next election.
Having the neighbours over for dinner “Tonight you will taste man flesh!” roars Saruman
the White to his Orc horde in the second instalment of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Coincidentally, it’s also a great line to come out with if you think you’re on the verge of getting a blowjob behind the back of a skip at the Cock n Bull in Bondi Junction. Admittedly most times it just leads to getting a knee in the knackers but, still, it’s worth it just for the comedy value.
He was shocked to learn the meat he was served was human flesh. “I did not know I had been served with human meat, and that it was that expensive,” he said while sharpening his incisors.
Stop – or it’s hammer time What’s the worst thing that can happen if you cross the road while the little man is still red? Think about it. If you answered “get hit by a car”, then “ha!” you’re wrong, as one poor pedestrian in China discovered when she was repeatedly hit on the head with an iron hammer by a screaming crossing guard who kept yelling “I won’t let you run the red light!” The patrol officer, who has not been named, hit the pedestrian repeatedly with an iron hammer, after the woman ignored her command to not cross the road in eastern Shandong province. Want to know the punchline? Apparently the pedantic guard waited until the light turned green, when the pedestrian was already halfway across the road, before launching her attack. At least she’s no hypocrite, we’ll give her that.
When Game of Thrones starts to drag on Sick of waiting for the next episode of Game of Thrones to come out?
Well spare a thought for a poor woman in the Hague for whom a walk in the park was the equivalent of a nightmarish journey through Westeros after suffering from a rare psychological condition which meant she saw dragons instead of human faces. “She could perceive and recognise actual faces, but after several minutes they turned black, grew long, pointy ears and a protruding snout, and displayed a reptilian skin and huge eyes in bright yellow, green, blue, or red,” the freakedout research team who studied the woman wrote in a report. Apparently the batshit crazy 52-year-old suffered from prosopometamorphopsia, a psychiatric disorder that causes faces to appear distorted and strange. You can see exactly the same thing at kicking out time in Derby city centre.
A life lesson to chew over
A peckish South Korean teacher with a penchant for rodents gave his pupils a lesson they’ll never forget after eating the class hamster in front of them. The reason? He wanted to teach the kids the value of life after they’d been caught teasing the poor critter. And no, we’re not quite sure of the logic behind that one either. “I couldn’t control the situation and couldn’t stand it,” said the 44-year-old teacher, known only as Yu.
“While watching the hamsters die from teasing, I thought I should teach the children it was wrong to make light of life.” Yu was arrested by police for child abuse and has since left the boarding school in Jeongeup, North Jeolla Province, after a protest by other teachers. To make matters worse, it’s believed the hamster was previously owned by Richard Gere. You might want to use some mouthwash fella.
A make-up wake-up call “The moment I wake up, Before I put on my makeup, I say a little prayer for you,” crooned Aretha Franklin back in the sixties.
But according to a recent study of the contents of knock-off make-up products, a more correct lyric would have been: “The moment I wake up, before I put on my rat droppings, urine, cyanide and arsenic…” And she should probably say a little prayer for herself after slapping that on her mug. Yes, a study into counterfeit cosmetics has found all of the above were present, and more besides. Detective Superintendent Maria Woodall said: “Beauty products are meant to enhance your features, however the fakes can in fact do quite the opposite. Our general rule is; if it seems too good to be true then it probably is.” Think about that the next time you’re on Khao San Road in Bangkok trying to get a few cheap presents for your mates.
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By Richard Gadsby
But failed chat-up lines aside, it turns out that tasting man flesh isn’t the sole preserve of goblins or girls who like gobbling – as the unwitting patrons of a hotel in Nigeria found out when it was closed down for selling human flesh. According to the BBC story, a priest who ate at the restaurant was presented with a bill of 700 Naira, or around $4.40, which is a considerable amount of money in a country with millions surviving on less than a $1 a day.
SPORTS NEWS
Stevie G kops it for the final time
So long and farewell Steven Gerrard. A true Premier League legend leaves the stage (not quite) at the top of his game after playing a record 6789 games for Liverpool and scoring a total of 4321 goals in 6,678,585 minutes. Who can forget that memorable night in Istanbul? BBM certainly can’t, although the night we’re thinking of involved 21-year-old twins in PVC and a shaved goat with a triple-headed strap on. That was the “real” plastic treble let me tell you. But much as BBM has enjoyed taking the piss out of Steeeevie G (said in a Scouse accent for best comedic value), especially in the last two years – and specifically THAT slip - there can be no doubt the English game is a poorer and stranger place without him. Truly his image will live long in the memory of football fans across the globe. Unless your name is Fabio Cannavaro, of course, as the Italian defender has already forgotten what the Kop legend looks like. No really. For among the hundreds of half-arsed tweets from Gerrard’s footballing contemporaries, Cannavaro’s heartfelt hashtag-happy message of - “27 March 2002 #stevengerrard #gerrard #england #liverpool #cannavaro #fabiocannavaro #italy #italia #photo @claudiovillaphotographer #respect #icons #topplayers” - stands out from the rest for one reason alone – he posted it with a picture of Frank Lampard. In Cannavaro’s defence, it’s common knowledge that Lampard and Gerrard went missing on the pitch whenever they played together for England so it’s easy to see how the Italian would become confused. But still, imagine how England could have exploited the knowledge that Gerrard is like the invisible man when it comes to world-class Italian defenders. What might have been eh Stevie? I’m sure Mourinho is thinking the same thing. 66
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Laying the foundations for a career
Usually when managers tell their players to “run through a brick wall” to help the team, it’s just a well-worn sporting cliche trotted out by lazy coaches. For young rugby league player David Andjelz, however, the phrase is all too literal. Ambitious Andjelz is hoping to get signed by a team in the NRL, so has been making videos showing off his ability. In one, he films himself running through a sixfoot wall of bricks – in a bid to prove he’s tough enough to cut it at the top. Angry Andjelz’s lumpen head gets smashed by the bricks, he then falls over before shaking it off and getting up again. He’s now sending the video to teams in a bid to try and get signed. If he’s really serious about cracking into the NRL, he should film himself shagging a mate’s dog or pissing into his own mouth. That usually does the trick.
Putin puts rivals on ice
Russian super hunk and sports star Vladimir Putin has once again demonstrated his total awesomeness at everything by scoring eight goals in a “no way fixed at all” game of ice hockey. All-powerful Putin, who runs Russia in his spare time, led his “all-star” team to a decisive 18-6 win in what is surely the greatest ice hockey underdog story since the Mighty Ducks. Incredibly (and totally legitimately, we’re sure) Putin even managed to outscore hockey greats like Pavel Bure in the WWII victory match. The publicity stunt is the latest in a long line of macho displays designed to inflate the 62-yearold’s tough-guy image. He has already been photographed driving a Formula One race car, deep sea diving in a submarine, hunting with a rifle in the wild and riding horseback while shirtless. OK Vlad we get it, you’re a big manly man who hates gay people. *Cough* Closet homosexual *cough*.
Bonkers Turkish manager Hamit Isik has already been banned from stadiums for arguing with a referee this season, but his habit of looking down on match officials hit new heights last month when he hired a cherry picker to get a birds-eye view of his team’s game from a nearby road. The Corum Beledivespor coach was hit with a 285-day (that’s nine-and-a-half months) stadium ban by the country’s Professional Football Disciplinary Board when he angrily confronted a referee. It meant he would not be able to oversee the opening leg of a crucial third division play-off fixture with Darcia Genclerbirligi - so the cunning nutjob had to improvise. Instead of watching the game from the comfort of his home or a hotel room, sneaky Isik did the next best thing and rented a cherry picker. Considering it was a 0-0 draw, it sounds like he must have parked the bus as well as hired a crane.
Getting to the roots of the problem He may have missed out on a medal at the London Olympics, but javelin champion Bryan Clay wins gold every time when it comes to acceptable forms of child abuse.
The big-armed dad of one, who won gold at the 2008 Olympics and silver the year before that, went viral last month after posting a video of himself helping to dislodge his daughter’s loose tooth - by tying it to a javelin and hurling it skywards. That should do the trick... although it would have been interesting if he’d got the wrong tooth. When asked on Twitter whether the pair had denied the tooth fairy a night’s work, the 35-yearold was quick to offer reassurance, ‘Oh no, don’t worry, the tooth is safely under her pillow!’ Whether the fairy exchanges the tooth for gold, silver or bitter tears from broken Olympic dreams remains to be seen.
By Richard Gadsby
Craning his neck for a good view
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CRYSTAL BALLS PISCES After three years of not wearing that nice coat in your wardrobe because the top button has fallen off, you finally come to the conclusion that you probably aren’t going to get round to fixing it. TAURUS You successfully sue Taylor Swift for inadvertently giving you diabetes after being forced to listen to her sugary sweet pop hits through various media over the last 12 months. Your lawyers prove that, on average, Swift’s saccharine songs contain 300 per cent more sugariness than the recommended daily allowance. Next month you start a class action against One Direction after claiming you were forced to cut off your own ears rather than listen to any more of their shit.
GEMINI
You spot a cute young couple holding hands and bashfully kissing each other on the train home from work. With your birthday so near, you feel a touch nostalgic as you realise you’ll probably never again experience that naïve first burst of overwhelming love for someone as you did in your younger days. It seems so long ago since you last felt like that. You’re so lost in melancholic reverie that it’s only when the station guard starts pushing and shouting at you that you realise you’ve been masturbating furiously for the last 10 minutes.
LEO
Ever the coward, you decide to dump your girlfriend by deleting everything off her iPod except “Somebody that I Used to Know” by Gotye. You even cheerfully remind her not to forget her headphones as 68
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she heads to work. After the 39th and final missed call that night, you figure she’s got the message.
MAD CANCER: FURY ROAD
It is the future - late June 2015. You’re in the UK. The Tories only won the election six weeks ago but already the country has devolved into a lawless postapocalyptic dystopia populated by tattooed tribes of feral petrol heads who feud over fuel and water in heavily customised oil rigs and classic cars. It is your destiny, as Mad Cancer, to join a rag tag group of hot women led by a one-armed Charlize Theron to overthrow the despotic warlord David Cameron and his white-painted army of War Boys in a climactic car chase filled with thrills, spills and explosions. Once Cameron is dead by your hand and his tyrannic empire lies broken at your feet, you decide to replace the out-dated first-past-thepost electoral system with a fairer one. Hurrah! You then slip back onto the road again, heading north to an even more frightening territory: Scotland.
ARIES
You are possessed by the spirit of Jonny Cash and spend the month mumbling incoherently and trying to shag old women.
AQUARIUS
While shopping for clothes you try to pull a jumper over your head and, in a million to one chance, it gets stuck. Permanently. You spend the next few months with one arm free and the other one poised like a cotton-covered desk lamp over your head with only the top bit of your head poking through the neck hole. You are nicknamed the elephant man by the press because your raised arm looks like a trunk due to the overhang from the jumper’s sleeve. Eventually, you are handed over for testing by
scientists who probe and study you as a medical marvel. After six years living in a cage as a test subject, you are freed by a group of Greenpeace activists and spend the rest of your days roaming the wilds of the African savannahs with your fellow pachyderms.
SAGITTARIUS
You are ostracised by your circle of friends for using culturally offensive stereotypes about people from Merseyside during a drunken rant about dole bludgers. You even use the “S” word a few times.
CAPRICORN
Your misspent youth playing on fruit machines pays off in the real world when you work out that if you press the button at pedestrian crossings three times, then hold it for four seconds, it changes to the green man instantly. Admittedly your new technique causes a few multi-car pile-ups resulting in several deaths, but that’s a small price to pay for getting where you’re going a few seconds earlier.
LIBRA
It wasn’t widely reported at the time, but in Joe Hockey’s new budget there was a special “Libra Tax”, which states that any star signs with a symbol designed to weigh things should logically “do most of the lifting”. That means you need to cough up an extra 20 per cent come tax time. Fork it over scaley!
VIRGO
After watching with bafflement the rise in popularity of vinyl records in the last few years, you decide to get ahead of the retro curve by spending $500 on cassette tapes of classic albums. By your foolproof reckoning, you should double your money in about five years when they’re popular again.
ASK CRYSTAL Dear Crystal, I’ve been having an affair with a married man at work for six months and I don’t know what to do. The thing is, I’m crazy about him, but he’s so guarded about his emotions that the only time he tells me how he really feels is when he’s been out drinking with his friends. I think the alcohol lowers his emotional defences, because he calls to tell me I’m the only woman for him and that he needs to see me right away. Inevitably, he comes to my house and we make mad passionate love on the kitchen floor for two blissful minutes. Then he wipes his cock on the curtains and catches a taxi. He’s so thoughtful about my reputation at work that he barely even acknowledges me in the office, and the one time I asked if I’d get to see him that weekend, he angrily told me to “keep my stupid fucking voice down”. I’m so confused Crystal, do you think
we’ve got a chance? Yours, Siobhan Dear Siobhan, I’ve been in the agony aunt game for 35 years now and all my experience is telling me that this guy is a keeper. Sure it’s tough at the minute, and he might seem like a cheating penis-driven jerk at times, but if you keep offering him no-strings sex for an indefinite period of time I have absolutely no doubt it’ll be wedding bells for you two lucky lovebirds sometime in the future. Congratulations! Dear Crystal, I’m in the middle of a massive argument with my fiancé, to the point where I’m not even sure we should get married any more. She keeps accusing me of being a commitment-phobe, but how can I marry a woman who won’t let me chase my dream of hunting down and killing the Loch Ness Monster? All I’m asking is
to postpone the wedding for a couple of years so I can stake out the loch and get my equipment together. Ideally, I’d like four years but I’m willing to compromise yet she refuses to budge at all. Would I be a fool to marry such an unreasonable woman? With best wishes, Chris Dear Chris, I see what’s happening here. I think, with the wedding approaching, you’ve got a little anxious and put the blinkers on. Just listen to yourself: you’re willing to compromise on your dreams so that selfish bitch can get married a little bit earlier. It’s clear to me that you need to kick this evil cow to the kerb at the first available opportunity. Be sure to thank me when the press are taking photos of you with your foot on the mythical beast’s severed head.
JOKES I was recently turned down on my application for an Australian green card, on account of my criminal record. Bit fucking ironic is it not? Ollie, Darwin Sex is a great thing to wake up to, except when you’re in prison. Mitch, Fremantle Jimmy turns to his mate and says, “Here’s a funny joke; pussy!” Friend turns to him and replies, “I don’t get it...” Jimmy smugly says, “I know”. Nick, Surry Hills My son just told me that he loves me. Bit awkward. He knows I’m married. Dwayne, Richmond
I love watching my previous girlfriends through a binocular. It’s ex sighting. Richard, Cottesloe I used to be a successful comedy impressionist. Fucking Operation Yewtree. Alex, Northbridge What should you do if your dinner is chewy? Best avoid Han Solo. Derek, Darlinghurst A woman leaning at the bar said to me “I love the strong silent type”. “You mean a man like me?” “No, farts, like the one I’ve just done!” Heather, Paddington www.bbmlive.com
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ADULT FUN
SEXUAL HEALING
At some point, for whatever reason, you may have to visit a sexual health clinic. Just like the UK, Australia has services to cater for any sticky situation you may find yourself in. Services and topics include male and female contraception, sexual advice, sexual behaviour, sexual health screening, abortion and miscarriage. Don’t be foolish or embarrassed: if you’re old enough to move half way around the world from mum and dad, you’re old enough to go see someone if and when you need to. Even if it’s just for a chat, you can book an appointment. All you need is your Medicare card. If you don’t have one, there is a fee, but you may still be able to be seen if you’re unable to pay.
Bendigo – 171 Hargreaves Street Ballarat – 710 Sturt Street
There are clinics throughout Australia, but you’ll find the majority in urban areas.
Brisbane – 270 Roam Street Kallangur – 1380 Anzac Avenue Gold Coast – 2019 Gold Coast Highway, Miami Cairns – 381 Sheridan Street Sunshine Coast – 80-82 Blackall Terrace, Nambour Mackay – 12-14 Nelson Street Rockhampton – 92 Bolsover Street Townsville – 35 Gregory Street
New South Wales
Sydney – Sydney Hospital, 8 Macquarie Street Ashfield – 328-336 Liverpool Road Fairfield – 24-26 Nelson Street Penrith – 13 Reserve Street Newcastle – Ground Floor of 384 Hunter Street Dubbo – 2B/155 Macquarie Street
Victoria
Melbourne – 580 Swanston Street, Carlton Melbourne – Level 1/94 Elizabeth Street Box Hill – 901 Whitehorse Road Geelong – Geelong Hospital, Swanston Street 70
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Western Australia
Perth – 70 Roe Street, Northbridge Perth – Royal Perth Hospital, Wellington Street Geraldton – Geraldton Hospital, Shenton Street Carnarvon – Corner of Stuart and Johnson Streets Broome – 4/9 Napier Terrace
Queensland
Northern Territory
Darwin – 87 Mitchell Street Alice Springs – 6 Gap Road Katherine – Katherine Hospital, Gorge Road For more helpful travel advice log on to www.bbmlive.com/getting-started-in-australia
ADVERTISE HERE CALL 0497100731 72
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WANTED!
ESCORTS, DANCERS, MASSEURS CALL OR TEXT 0497 100 731 OR VISIT WWW.BBMLIVE.COM
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Venture to www.bbmlive.com for more amazing travel inspiration The Diary Of A Travel Blogger Series
Alternative City Tours
Unforgettable Gap Year Trips For Solo Travellers The Best European Festivals
Mind-Blowing Travel Videos
With new travel stories every day, make sure you don’t miss out on your next adventure!
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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 www.ningaloowhalesharkndive. com.au THE SCUBA CENTRE Port Douglas-Cairns-Airlie Beach, 230 Sugarloaf Rd, Whitsunday Ph: 07 4946 1067 whitscub@gmail.com www.scubacentre.com.au
ADVENTURE TOURS CONTIKI Ph: 1300 188 635 www.CONTIKI.COM AUSSIE WANDERER Ph: 0894382070 info@aussiewanderer.com.au www.aussiewanderer.com.au KALBARRI ADVENTURE TOURS Ph: 09 9371677 kalcanoe@wn.com.au www.kalbarritours.com.au NINGALOO EXPERIENCE Ph: 08 99 425 877 manta@ningalooexperience.com www.ningalooexperience.com WILD EXPEDITIONS 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
THE PEEL REGION TOURISM 75 Mandurah Terrace, Mandurah Ph: 08 9550 3999 www.visitpeel.com.au DOLPHIN DISCOVERY CENTRE Lot 830 Koombana Drive, Bunbury Ph: 08 9791 3088 dolphindiscovery.com.au WESTCOAST JET The Boardwalk, Mews Road Fishingboat Harbour Fremantle Ph: 0403 606 033 info@westcoastjet.com.au www.westcoastjet.com.au KANGAROO ISLAND ADVENTURE TOURS Vivonne Bay, Kingscote, SA Ph: 08 8202 8678 www.kiadventuretours.com.au SWAGABOUT TOURS Ph: 08 82661879 info@swagabouttours.com.au www.swagabouttours.com.au CAMEL TREK AUSTRALIA P.O Box 95, Hawker S.A 5434 cameltreksaustralia@gmail.com www.cameltreksaustralia.com.au OUTBACK CAMP TOURS Ph: 04 2711 1071 outbackcamptours.com GOIN SOUTH Four days, two famous Aussie icons, one awesome tour Ph: 1800 009 858 BLUE MOUNTAINS ADVENTURE COMPANY Ph: 02 4782 1271 bmac@bmac.com.au www.bmac.com.au WAYOUTBACK AUSTRALIAN SAFARI Ph: 1300 551 510 / 08 8952 4324 reservations@wayoutback.com.au www.wayoutback.com.au 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 FREE MOTION SPORTS 6 Davenport Road, Shoalhaven Heads, NSW 2535 Ph: +61 401934236 info@freemotionsports.com.au www.freemotionsports.com.au OVERLAND TRACK PHOTO TOURS Ph: 04 13 487 644
info@overlandphototours.com.au overlandphototours.com.au CROCOSAURUS COVE 58 Mitchell Street, Darwin Ph: 08 8981 7522 www.crocosauruscove.com TERRITORY EXPEDITIONS Ph: 1300 115 922 www.territoryexpeditions.com.au MULGAS ADVENTURES Ph: 08 8952 1545 www.mulgasadventures.com.au ADVENTURE TOURS AUSTRALIA Ph: 1300 654 604 adventuretours.com.au SYDNEY OUTBACK TOURS Ph: +61 1300 307 634 www.sydneyoutback.com.au REAL SYDNEY TOURS Ph: +61 (0) 402 049426 www.realsydneytours.com.au THE TRAVEL YOGA COMPANY Ph: +61 0411301820 www.theyogatravelcompany.com OUTBACK CAMP TOURS Ph: +61-4-2711-1071 www.outbackcamptours.com KIMBERLEY WILD EXPEDITIONS Ph: +61 1300 73 88 70 www.kimberleywild.com.au Visit Peel Ph: +61 (0)8 9550 3999
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
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
BOWLING
STRIKE BOWLING Nationwide Ph:1300 787453 www.strikebowling.com.au PADDO BOWLS 2 Quarry Street Paddington NSW, 2021 Ph: 02 9363 1150
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
SURF SCHOOLS 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
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ACCOMMODATION NEW SOUTH WALES SYDNEY
SYDNEY BACKPACKERS 7 Wilmot St Sydney NSW 2000 Ph: 02 9267 7772 1800 88 77 66 (Free Call) info@sydneybackpackers.com www.sydneybackpackers.com CLOVELLY HOTEL 381 Clovelly Road Clovelly Ph: (02) 9665 1214 office@clovellyhotel.com.au www.clovellyhotel.com.au 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 CITY RESORT HOSTEL 103-105 Palmer St Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011 Ph: (02) 9357 3333 bookings@cityresort.com.au Skype: City Resort Hostel www.cityresort.com.au Show this ad for $5 off!
(Valid for new guests only. Min. 3 nights stay.)
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 LORD WOLSELEY HOTEL 265 Bulwara Rd Ultimo, Sydney 2007 Ph: (02) 9660 1731 info@lordwolseleyhotel.com.au www.lordwolseleyhotel.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
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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 THE ROYAL HOTEL 370 Abercrombie St, Darlington, NSW, 2008 Ph: (02) 9698 8557 info@royal.com.au www.royal.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
SYDNEYS SOUTHERN BEACHES
CRONULLA BEACH YHA Level 1, 40 -42 Kingsway Cronulla Sydney, 2230 Ph: 02 9527 7772 enquiries@cronullabeachyha.com www.cronullabeachyha.com www.yha.com.au
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 HUNTER VALLEY Hunter Valley YHA 100 Wine Country Drive Nulkaba, Hunter Valley, NSW Ph: 02 4991 3278 huntervalley@yhansw.org.au www.yha.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 www.bluemountainsbackpackerhostel.com.au
BYRON BAY
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 LAKE TABOURIE TOURIST PARK Princes Hwy, Lake Tabourie, NSW 2539 Ph: (02) 4406-3101 www.laketabourietouristpark.com.au
QUEENSLAND BRISBANE
BASE BRISBANE UPTOWN 466 George St, Brisbane City, Qld 4000 Ph: (07) 3238 5888 Free: 1800 24 2273 uptown@stayatbase.com www.stayatbase.com Free Tinbilly Limited Edition T-shirt With presentation of this BBM Ad 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
GOLDCOAST
TREKKERS BACKPACKERS 22 White Street, Goldcoast, QLD, 4215 Ph: (07) 55915616 Free : 1800 100 004 info@trekkersbackpackers.com.au www.trekkersbackpackers.com.au AQUARIUS BACKPACKERS 44 Queen Street Gold Coast, Queensland Ph: 07 5527 1300 Free:1800 229 955 info@aquariusbackpackers.com.au www.aquariusbackpackers.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 SURF N SUN Beachside Backpackers 3323 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, QLD 4217 Ph: (07) 5592 2363 Free: 1800 678 194 info@surfnsun-goldcoast.com www.surfnsun-goldcoast.com SLEEPING INN SURFERS 26 Peninsular Drive Surfers Paradise QLD Ph: 07 5592 4455 info@sleepinginn.com.au www.sleepinginn.com.au COOLANGATTA SANDS HOSTEL Cnr Griffith & McLean Streets Coolangatta 4225 QLD Ph: 07 5536 7472 hostel@taphouse.com.au www.taphouse.com.au 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
NOOSA
NOMADS NOOSA 44 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads, QLD 4567 Phone: 07 5447 3355 bookings@nomadsnoosa.com www.nomadsnoosa.com
HERVEY BAY
NOMADS HERVEY 408 The Esplanade, Torquay, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655 Phone: 07 4125 3601 bookings@nomadshervey.com www.nomadshervey.com
TOWN OF 1770
(Between Bunderberg & Rockhampton) COOL BANANAS 2 Spring Road, 1770, Queensland, 4677 Ph: (07) 4974 7660 Free: 1800 227 660 wheeler_danny@hotmail.com www.coolbananas.net.au 1770 SOUTHERN CROSS (Backpackers) 2694 Round Hill Rd Agnes Water QLD 4677 Ph: 0749747225 info@1770southerncross.com www.1770southerncross.com 1770 BEACHSIDE BACKPACKERS 12 Captain Cook Drive PO Box 212, Agnes Water QLD 4677 Ph: 07 4974 7200 enquiries@1770beachsidebackpacker.com.au www.1770beachsidebackpacker.com.au
PORT DOUGLAS
UNITED PORT DOUGLAS 37 Warner Street, Port Douglas, QLD Ph: 07 4099 5011 unitedportdouglas.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
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
MISSION BEACH ABSOLUTE BACKPACKERS 28 Wongaling Beach Road Mission Beach Queensland 4852 Ph: 07 4068 8317 Free: 1800 688 316 info@absolutebackpackers.com.au www.absolutebackpackers.com.au SCOTTY’S BEACH HOUSE 167 Reid Road, Mission Beach, QLD, 4852 Ph: 07 4068 8676 info@scottysbeachhouse.com.au www.scottysbeachhouse.com.au
WHITSUNDAYS BAREFOOT LODGE Whitsunday Passage, Whitsundays, QLD Ph: +61 7 4946 9400 Free: 1800 075 125 longisland@oceanhotels.com.au www.oceanhotels.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
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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
COOLIBAH LODGE 194 Brisbane Street Northbridge Perth WA Ph: (08) 9328 9958 www.coolibahlodge. com.au
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
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
SCARBOROUGH
MONKEY MIA
WESTERN BEACH LODGE 6 Westborough Street Scarborough, Western Australia, 6019 Ph. (08) 9245 1624 westernbeach@iprimus. com.au www.westernbeach.com
COTTESLOE PERTH OCEAN BEACH BACKPACKERS
1 Eric St Cottesloe Beach Ph: 08 9384 5111 backpackers@obh. com.au www.obh.com.au 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 78
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 www. 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
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VICTORIA MILDURA
REDCLIFFS HOTEL 25 Jacaranda St, Red Cliffs VIC 3496 (03) 5024 1704
GREAT OCEAN ROAD
JOHANNA BEACH COTTAGES 225 Blue Johanna Road Johanna Heights Victoria 3238 (03) 5237 4224 cottages@johannabeach. com www.johannabeach.com
HALLS GAP
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.
MELBOURNE
MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL BACKPACKERS 450 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne Vic 3000 Ph: 03 9662 4066 res@mibp.com.au www.mibp.com.au 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
ST. KILDA
JACKSON APARTMENTS 80 Ikerman St ,St Kilda Beach Ph:0433 118 334 or 0412 525 510 www.jacksonapartments. com.au Jackson.apartments@ bigpond.com 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 Specials from $20! FREE pick up from Tullamarine (min 3 nt stay) * Conditions apply
HALLS GAP
GRAMPIANS YHA ECOHOSTEL Corner Grampians and Buckler Roads Halls Gap 3381 Ph: (+613) 5356 4544 grampians@yhavic.org.au www.yha.com.au Eco accredited. Solar powered. Herb garden, free range chooks and friendly local kangaroos
NORTHERN TERRITORY DARWIN
ASHTON LODGE & WISDOM BAR 48 Mitchell St, Darwin, NT, 0800 Ph: 08 8941 4866 ashtonlodge@gmail.com www.wisdombar.com.au
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 www.adelaidebackpackers. com.au MAJESTIC MINIMA HOTEL 146 Melbourne Street, North Adelaide SA 5006 Ph:(08) 8334 7766 minima@majestichotels. com.au www.majestichotels. com.au