BBM Live November 2016 Tabloid

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JAMIE T TOURS OZ BEST NYE EVENTS A U S T R A L I A N S U M M E R F E S T I VA L G U I D E

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PROPER BOOZERS Melbourne

Perth

Brisbane

ASIAN BEER CAFE

ROSIE O’GRADY’S

GILHOOLEYS

TURF BAR

Sydney CHURCHILLS SPORTS BAR

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

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

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

131 Queen Street, Melbourne Turfbar.com.au

THE CRICKETERS ARMS

A firm favourite amongst Surry Hills locals, The Cricketers Arms serves up excellent meal deals such as $12 fish and chips, as well as drinks specials such as $5 house wine! You’ll even find great DJs alongside all this for a great night out.

106 Fitzroy Street, Surry Hills www.cricketersarmshotel.com.au

THE HORSE

From wood smoked beef brisket to roasted pork belly, if you want to fill up on the good stuff, then you can do it at this fine bar with food from Chicken & Sons. Not one for beer drinkers however, as you’ll find mostly cocktails and a great wine list here!

381 Crown Street, Surry Hills www.thehorsesurryhills.com.au

THE BAT & BALL HOTEL

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

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

P.J. O’BRIENS

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

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

THE CRAFTY SQUIRE

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

ODIN TAVERN

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

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

CROWN PERTH

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

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

ELEPHANT & WHEELBARROW

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

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

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

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

PIG AND WHISTLE

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

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

MICK O’MALLEYS

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

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

Image courtesy of the The Horse.

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

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

120 Exhibition Street Melbourne www.europeanbiercafe.com.au

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

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

www.bbmlive.com

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SPORTS

In the cash-laden world of a Premier League footballer, it’s easy for a young working class boy to have his head turned by the glitz and glamour of a pseudo-celeb lifestyle.

Inevitably, with everything they could possibly want within their reach, many fail to reach their true potential. Some get distracted by booze, some by gambling and some by women.

wanted. But it’s good to know some players still have their feet on the ground.

Angry fans take the pigs

“Wilfried earns a lot of money but has an eye for a bargain,” said a Sun “source”. “He loves his dog and the kennel was too good a deal to resist.”

Pissed-off Charlton Athletic and Coventry City fans joined forces to send a message to their respective owners at a clash between the clubs recently - by hurling hundreds of plastic pigs onto the pitch.

Sure he could’ve bought a diamond-crusted cage and got his butler to pick it up with barely a scratch to his bank balance if he’d

It also broke the record for the world’s biggest game of Pass the Pigs, with no less than 40 double-snouters rolled.

“It was different, I’ve got to say,” said Addicks manager Russell Slade. “All I think is as long as it’s done in the right manner and it’s done safely, then that’s fine.”

There were reports of a similar pig-on-pitch protest by Aston Villa fans at Villa Park, but it turned out it was just Gabby Agbonlahor. me, not particularly from the technical area ... David Moyes was probably the one who was critical of my decisions more than most.”

Benali’s blazing saddles Francis Benali wasn’t exactly known for lighting up stadiums up and down the country when he used to play for Southampton. In fact he wasn’t known, period.

But the forgettable former professional has become a Premier League journeyman in the true sense of the word after running and cycling to all 44 Premier League and Championship grounds in two weeks for charity. That’s a marathon a day, followed by 74 miles on a bike. To put it into context, Gareth Barry can barely run the length of a football field without collapsing in a sweaty mess. “It pushed me to my limit,” Benali said, after reaching the end of his journey at Southampton’s match with Burnley last month. “I’d probably go so far as to say it was a life changing experience for me. I hope the donations that come in for the charity make it a life-changing experience for people now and in the future that are suffering with cancer.”

Charlton fans have made repeated protests against owner Roland Duchatelet’s running of the club while Coventry supporters want owners Sisu to sell the club. Play was delayed for about five minutes while the pigs were cleared.

When told of Webb’s comments, Moyes wasn’t exactly apologetic. “Good,” he scowled. “It was part of wanting to win and part of making sure you do win. Everton was a tough place to go for any referee and we made sure they knew about it.

Moyes enjoys ref treatment The world has changed a lot since the day David Moyes ditched his day job at Goodison Park and began his spiralling descent into the Premier League dustbin.

People have chucked ice buckets over their heads, caught pokemon, posted photos of themselves without make-up and generally done very little of meaning with

their lives since Moyes’ failed experiment at Manchester United.

So it’s perhaps unsurprising that the sour-faced Scot was thrilled to finally win something again after being named the Premier League’s most annoying manager by ex-ref Howard Webb.

“They can all have their moments of course but the one that probably gave me the most stick, who I felt held no love for the refereeing profession, was David Moyes,” Webb moaned. “He’d be quick to criticise

“We didn’t make it easy for them if we could help it at that time. We fought them, don’t worry about that. We made sure they knew the job.”

Apparently Craig Bellamy was a bit of a twat too. Not the Melbourne Storm coach, the other one.

“The Premier League player who gave me the most grief would be Craig Bellamy,” Webb said. “I struggled to gain a rapport with Craig. A great footballer, he might be a lovely kid away from the game but on the pitch he was always quick with an opinion and didn’t really want to listen to mine.”

We’re starting to understand why Howard, you moany git.

David Moyes image by Jason Gullege. Words by Richard Gadsby

Zaha in the doghouse

So hats off to Crystal Palace hot shot Wilfried Zaha who, despite earning £35,000 a week, proved he still knows the value of a good bargain after buying second-hand dog kennel on eBay for a cool £200. And he made the seller drop it off at his sevenbedroom mansion to boot.

By Richard Gadsby

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

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

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

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

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

There’s also a chance to hear some

backstage gossip from those who have worked on the show.

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

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

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

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

www.officialhomeandawaytour.com.au

See Sydney In Style BBMLive’s Sandy Dhaliwal conquers her fear of heights, while enjoying some spectacular city views at the top of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge.

It goes without saying that travelling is such an enriching experience. You just get so many things out of it; be it discovering new cultures, learning a few life lessons, making unforgettable friends, trying unusual activities and generally escaping that comfort zone. Personally, travel helped me to face some of my fears. I am a London girl through and through and have never been particularly sporty or outdoorsy. But these days I can say I have trekked in the jungle and up waterfalls, pet tigers, fed crocodiles, as well as many other things that I never thought I would have attempted, had I not left home.

Before going travelling I had seen photos of friends scaling Sydney’s striking landmark, or recall mates telling me how they had done it, or were planning to do it. I had always found it surprising how casual they were about it too. The thought of actually undertaking such a feat, left my spine tingling and

legs feeling like jelly. But overall, I admired their fearlessness and longed to be more like them.

And after four years since I started my own epic journey abroad, I figured that it was time that I tackle that BridgeClimb. I was in Sydney and there was just no way I could leave without doing it.

Before, I would have let the fear get the better of me. But when you’re going from place to place, you don’t necessarily know if you’ll ever visit again, so you may as well just go for it. That’s been my philosophy while away and I am all the richer for it.

Aside from that, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s most revered and iconic sights; and the climb itself is hailed as one of the top things to do while in the region. It would be crazy to not really. Though nervous does not even begin to describe how I felt once it was booked and locked in.

www.bbmlive.com fascinating history and countless anecdotes; while at the same time checking everyone was alright – okay, mostly checking on me.

The walk itself was at a steady pace, which allowed me to really take everything in and feel in awe by all that was around me. The ascension was more exhilarating than scary and the higher I got, the better I felt.

As I took in the panoramic views of Sydney’s breath-taking coastline and surrounding landscape from the top of this prestigious architectural masterpiece, I knew I was going to be heading home with one less phobia. Returning back down along the opposite side of the bridge offered a further chance to see the city from a completely

But upon walking through the doors of the BridgeClimb headquarters, an overwhelming wave of calm washed over me and remained from that point on, as I was led to BridgeClimb Base to start preparation for the climb itself. Every single member of staff, every step of the way continued to make me feel completely at ease and valued as we were guided through the activity, safety and kitted out in the gear.

And they just couldn’t assist you enough.

So you never felt silly if you put on some of the protective accessories wrong or just needed a bit of help. It was as if they had some sort of magical Jedi training.

But in reality, I think everyone just had a wonderful demeanour, and loved and were brilliant at their jobs! We then met our climb leader, who again exuded the epitome of

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new perspective, as the wonderful Climb Leader continued with more bridge tales and facts. As things drew to a reluctant end, we undertook our post climb transformation and headed back to reality. I walked away feeling that while the climb might be over, the experience will forever stay with me and has permanently altered me. I can’t thank everyone at BridgeClimb Sydney enough for all playing their part in helping me getting over my fear. I left Sydney a braver person.

BridgeClimb Sydney is available for day, dawn, twilight and night climbs. Book your climb at www.bridgeclimb.com

tranquillity, as he further prepared and took us through the trip. He especially took note of my nervousness and constantly checked on me before we made our way out; which just made me feel extremely reassured.

Fortunately, I was with a great group too, who all took me under their wing and gave me a lot of encouragement and kept making sure I was enjoying myself. On top of that, it was a beautiful day with a bright blue sky and gorgeous sunshine. I was literally winning on every level!

Harnessed to the bridge itself, we made our way up the steps, enjoying varying levels of the city as we ascended. At the same time, I listened to my Climb Leader through headphones as he guided us single file on our route, as he spoke about the bridge’s

EXPLORE THE SYDNEY OUTBACK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wordy by Sandy Dhaliwal, Images by Sandy Dhaliwal & BridgeClimb Sydney

of the ancient Aboriginal rock engravings whilst you cut your way through the dense bushland.

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PICK OF THE FEST

LATE NIGHT SYDNEY LTJ BUKEM

FALLS FESTIVAL

A 4 hour set at Home Nightclub for some pure Drum & Bass action.

Friday 11th November Residentadvisor.net

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

1st January 2017 Melbourne letthemeatcakenyd.com.au

FOMO

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

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

SUGAR MOUNTAIN

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

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

RAINBOW SERPENT 2017

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

21st January 2017 Melbourne www.sugarmountainfestival.com

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

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

LNDRY XL FT MARCEL DETTMANN & LATMUN Take in a 4 hour set from this dance legend at one of the best clubs in Sydney.

Saturday 12th November Chineselaundryclub.com.au

MACHINEDRUM PRESENTS BY CHARADES + SUBSONIC MUSIC

Experimental beats and bass in conjunction with Subsonic Music.

Wednesday 30th November Residentadvisor.net

VIP $109 Package includes 2 hour beverage package, including spirits & canapés from 6-8pm downstairs in Cargo Bar. Platinum VIP $159 Package includes champagne on arrival 3 hours of beverages, including premium spirits & canapés between 6-9pm upstairs in the lounge overlooking the stunning wharf and fireworks.

PITCH MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL

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

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

Live music from 5pm with their house bands!

Every Friday www.sodafactory.com.au

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

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

SECRET GARDEN

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

FACTORY FRIDAYS

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

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

LET THEM EAT CAKE 2017

www.bbmlive.com

photo courtesy of cousinjackspastyco.com

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HARBOUR PARTY NYE

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

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

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

PALAIS VIP TICKET

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

Tickets - $519.00 + booking fees

THE DECK VIP TICKET

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

Tickets - $499 + booking fees

SONAR VIP TICKET

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

DIAMOND VIP TICKET

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

Tickets - $259 + booking fees

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

Tickets - $139 + booking fees

Get your tickets to Harbour Party NYE at harbourparty.com

Image by Digitography

GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET

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NATHAN CARTER Q & A are just beautiful - also I love Dublin and Belfast.

Staying Up All Night came out earlier this year, what’s the reaction been like to the album and where have you been touring it?

The album’s got to no. 1 in Ireland, and we’ve been touring the album in Ireland and the UK, and it’s been great.

The golden guy of the Irish charts, Nathan Carter is making his way over to Australia this November for 4 date national tour, so we caught up with him to see what he has in store!

Hi Nathan, how are you?

I’m in great form, and looking forward to my trip to Australia!

We’re really looking forward to seeing you Down Under, aside from touring, what else do you hope to get up to whilst in Australia?

I’m looking forward to checking out the beaches and the surfing. I’m a massive fan of water sports. And I love getting out on the boat when I can!

What are the three things you can’t leave home without when you’re touring?

Oh it’s got to be...my phone, my accordion, and a toothbrush . I guess...

Being influenced by country and western music, who are a few of your favourite artists?

I’m a massive fan of Vince Gill, Carrie Underwood, and Brad Paisley.

For someone visiting Ireland what would you say are the best things to see?

The lovely lakes and mountains in Ireland

What did you want to put across with the album overall?

This album contains quite a few of my own songs, and I’m really happy with the result.

What’s your favourite track on the album and why?

Liverpool is a song. That’s very close to my heart. It’s about growing up in my hometown...it brings a tear to the eye...

What’s on your rider?

Water, crisps, and Haribos, and some chocolate!

You’re fairly busy with touring, do you ever write music whilst you’re on the road?

Yes, I try to write when I can, and you never know when a song idea comes along, so I’m always writing down song ideas when I can...

Thursday 10th November – Finn McCools, Brisbane Friday 11th November – Prince Bandroom, Melbourne Saturday 12th November – The Gaelic Club, Sydney Sunday 13th November – The Boston, Perth Tickets on sale now from www.troubadour-music.com

JAMIE T Everybody’s favourite Brit indie, lyrical genius is winging his way back to Australia for Falls Festival 2017.

his laid-back hip hop vocal phrasing with an eclectic musical palette to form his very own, unique sound synonymous with only him.

But if you’re not heading to Falls Festival this year, then fear not, as Jamie T is performing a string of sideshows, so you’ll get your fill on the cheeky and talented Mr T.

A five-time NME award winner, Jamie T fuses his love of punk, folk, ska and reggae and has released four critically acclaimed albums to date which have all topped the top 5 in the UK charts.

The South Londoner will be performing tracks from his latest and fourth studio album ‘Trick’ and you’ll be able to hear his clever lyrics alongside his South London dulcet tones!

Jamie T classes his inspirations amongst Beastie Boys, The Clash and Tina Turner which should give you a relative idea of what you can expect. The talented London blends

You can catch Jamie T Live in Australia at the following venues in early January 2017.

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

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CLUB PICKS

DRINKS DEALS

DAREBIN MUSIC FEAST

BANFF

With over 600 artists performing across forty venues, you’re bound to find something you’ll love at this year’s music and arts takeover.

Ends Sunday 6th November musicfeast.com.au

Enjoy the finest rustic Italian cuisine as well as awesome drinks deals with $2.50 pots, $9 jugs and $3.50 wines, everyday between 3pm and 6pm.

29/145 Fitzroy St, St Kilda banffstkilda.com.au

DANCE TECHNIQUE AT NEW GUERNICA

FERDYDURKE

Hansel and Gretel meets Alice in Wonderland style decor at this Thursday night dance party, which couldn’t feel any more surreal. Enjoy disco grooves and cheap drinks ‘til late.

Ends Thursday 19th January 2017 newguernica.com.au

This hip hop themed art space is the perfect day drinking venue, with $16 Carlton jugs available all week from 12pm until 5pm.

Hungry? Don’t miss the gourmet hot dogs and sliders.

239 Lonsdale St, Melbourne ferdydurke.com.au

ENJOY YOURSELF AT KYLIE ON STAGE

RUM-BLE IN THE JUNGLE AT THE LUWOW

Get down to this quirky Fitzroy venue for its rowdy mid week Rum party and music courtesy of celebrated vinyl collector Joey Elbows.

Ends Wednesday 18th January 2017 theluwow.com

THE MONDAY BONE MACHINE AT BONEY

DJ T-Rek will help you get over those Monday blues with his mix of punk disco, garage and psychedelia. Cheap drinks and free entry ‘til late.

Ends Monday 16th January 2017 boney.net.au

THE EVELYN HOTEL

LET THEM EAT CAKE NEW YEAR’S DAY Possibly the biggest New Year’s Day party in Australia, Let Them Eat Cake 2017 is set to be one of the best yet with a stellar line-up. Calling in some of the world’s greatest dance, hip hop and electronica acts, LTEC 2017 is a massive way to welcome the new year.

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

To give you a flavour of what you could enjoy at the next Let Them Eat Cake 2017 here’s our top 5 acts not to be missed at the Melbourne Festival.

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

The gardens where the festival takes place feature an ornamental lake, grotto, glasshouses, heritage listed trees and huge rolling lawns – all the better to party in.

Werribee Park is just 35 kilometres out of the city and is accessible via coach, train or car.

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

Fancy a post work pint and gig? Head down to Fitzroy’s much loved Evelyn to catch some live music and comedy, plus deals on Carlton draught and cider, Monday to Friday between 5pm and 7pm.

351 Brunswick St, Fitzroy evelynhotel.com.au

RICHMOND CLUB HOTEL

Kick off your weekend early at this trendy Richmond bar with its well stocked selection of pints, wines and spirits at the bargain price of $6, every Thursday between 6pm and 7pm.

100 Swan St, Richmond richmondclubhotel.com.au

By Hannah Shakir

In celebration of Kylie’s On Stage exhibition at the Arts Centre over the next four months, DJ Argonaut will have us spinning around every Friday night at this Princess of Pop themed party at The Barre.

Ends Friday 13th January 13 2017 artscentremelbourne.com.au

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DISCOVERY RECOMMENDS: CHERRY BAR You have truly not experienced live music in Melbourne, until you have visited the world famous rock and roll institution that is Cherry Bar. Tucked cosily between some of the city’s most iconic laneways is the legendary Cherry Bar. A raucous live music venue, whose reputation has long been shamelessly preceding itself since its opening sixteen years ago.

Heck, this decadent dive bar is even located along a national treasure, AC/DC Lane no less! It doesn’t get any more rock and roll than that really - just in case you needed any further clarification in regards to the venue’s hard rocking credentials.

there on any given night. The likes of Axl Rose, Jack Black and the Arctic Monkeys have all been spotted knocking back drinks and dancing the night away across Cherry’s sticky floors. While Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine / Audioslave fame has been known to DJ whenever he’s passing through, loving the place so much that he’ll be in every night whenever he’s in Melbourne. Comedic glam

metallers Steel Panther will also without fail head over to throw their notorious and rather chaotic post gig parties while in the city.

And Noel Gallagher had such an amazing time last time he was there, that he even put in an offer to buy the place. The offer was of course declined, the owners are far too cool to sell out of course.

Let’s face it, what other venue would turn down a booking from Lady Gaga in favour of keeping

an existing booking promised to a local act. You guessed it, Cherry!

There are so many extraordinary stories surrounding this bar, the place is the stuff of legend.

And whatever the night you’re visiting, there’s bound to be a new tale yet to be told. It’s a place where something is always happening – quite literally, as its open until late every night, seven days a week. From open mics

and blues nights to soul and rock and roll parties, there’s always a memorable night to be had in this intimate setting. The decor might be shabby, the floors might be sticky and the bouncers may seem a tad scary, but you’re not going to find a more eclectic mix of people or a more genuinely friendly, laid back atmosphere.

AC/DC Lane, Melbourne www.cherrybar.com.au

IWords & Images by Sandy Djaliwal

Anyone who is anyone on the Australian live music circuit has either played or are aspiring to play at the infamous bar too; with many of the country’s biggest acts having already cut their teeth on Cherry’s very own red curtained stage. The home grown likes of Jet, Airbourne and The Living End, as well as international acts including the New York Dolls, the Black Keys, Cherie Currie and Richie Ramone are all counted amongst the star studded alumni of this much loved basement bar.

The impressive posters covering the bar’s walls will further attest to that!

Most interestingly though, it’s not necessarily who you might see playing at Cherry, but in fact who you might see hanging out

16

HANNAH WANTS

She’s become one of the leading female DJs in recent years and now we catch up with superstar, Hannah Wants ahead of her touchdown in Australia this January for FOMO Festival.

Hi Hannah, how are you?

Yeah I’m good thanks, how are you?

Yes great thank you! So where abouts are you at the moment?

I’m literally just at home at the minute, just sorting out some work, before going to play in Amsterdam this evening for a show, so just yes, just at home before I go to the airport.

You’re travelling a lot at the moment…

Yeah, yeah. I had my last Ibiza gig last week, so I won’t be travelling every week now, so it’s nice not to be travelling so much. But in a little while it’s back out to America. On Tuesday I’ll be off for a Halloween tour so I’ll be at the airport every day again for a little while. But it’s all good, I’m loving it.

So how did you find Ibiza this summer?

Amazing. It’s my favourite place in the world anyway and it means so much to me. And obviously, just having had a residency there at one of my favourite clubs, it’s always really special and I can’t wait for next year already!

What was a highlight?

Oh God, there were so many. I was lucky enough to be asked to play the Amnesia opening and the actual official Amnesia closing, so they were two big dream gigs of mine. I played at Pacha as well, for the first time. So it was really nice

to go and get a different vibe and a different crowd.

So your Fabric Mixtape, that came out in September, tell me, what did you want to put across with that?

I just wanted to kind of just put out the sound that represents me at this current time as an artist. I kind of went through old hard drives and old mixes and it’s kind of mad to see how my sound has evolved.

I just wanted to put out there, my sound I’m playing at the moment.

My sound has gone kind of less in your face, and slowed down a little in terms of techy and house sounds. It’s still bassy music. So I just wanted to represent myself as an artist now and include some of my own music. Obviously with everything that’s going on with Fabric at the moment, I’m pleased it’s come out when it has.

What were your thoughts on Fabric closing?

It’s just sad really. I’m not from London so I’m not as involved. If Rainbow venues in Birmingham, which is what I grew up with got closed down, I would literally be devastated. So I can see how everyone is feeling. It’s good they’re getting some support from some big people, so hopefully it will return.

We hope so! So being from Birmingham where would you say is the best night out there for anyone who’s visiting?

I would definitely say any of the

Rainbow venues. They’re ahead of the game in terms of what they put on. They cater for all kinds of music tastes, from dance to techno, house, drum and bass, after parties, day parties. For me, I’d just tell people to go to Rainbow venues all day long!

You’re coming out to Australia in the New Year for FOMO Festival, when was the last time you were here?

Let me check the diary… erm… it was 2015. I always try and get out there December - January time as it’s our English winter but their summer. So there’s a lot of festivals on then. It’ll be fun to play a different festival in Adelaide, Brisbane and Sydney.

What are the three things you have to have with you when you’re travelling so much?

There’s an obvious one - my phone as if I don’t have my laptop with me, I can be working off my phone when I’m travelling, so I can speak to people and stay on top of my socials. Starbucks as I’m really fussy with food. So sometimes I don’t know what’s going to be available when I’m travelling, so Starbucks really saves me.

Earplugs as well. I just like to block out the noise. I may look stupid, but I need a rest and I can’t sleep on planes without them.

Where would you say is the most amazing place that your career has taken you in the world?

So many places. I love Dubai. But just travelling in general I love, even if it’s somewhere like Texas, as I wouldn’t have visited there had I not been DJing there. It’s interesting just going to different places and even going to Australia and hitting the different cities. It’s better than just going on holiday to Sydney. I just like going to all of these places. Countries like Poland, that you wouldn’t normally visit. For example, I’m going to Estonia in a few weeks, and I wouldn’t have even known where that was. So places like that, I wouldn’t have visited if it wasn’t for work, so it’s good experiences, bad experiences, funny experiences but I get to see more of the world than I ever would if it wasn’t for my job.

Speaking of places such as Estonia and Poland, what do you think about the festival explosion that’s happened across the world?

TREND

What’s next up in your release schedule?

In terms of releases – I’ve just put a free download on my Soundcloud, which is called ‘Cure Me’. It’s a track I’ve been playing for my whole summer and it’s being going down really well, and so I thought I would just put it on as a free download which is something I used to do years ago way back when I was starting out. So I just used to put up tracks as free downloads, so I thought I would just kind of go back to basics and just give something back.

Catch Hannah Wants live at FOMO Festival this January. Visit www.fomofestival.com.au for dates and tickets.

BBMLIVE.COM/NEW-TRENDS

8.

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There are so many festivals going off everywhere, and especially in the UK. For me you know, I’m all good for it. I’m happy to live with the diversity, and you know, if people want to attempt to put on a festival for their own reasons then why not. You’re getting more different types of festivals, in parks or on piers, so you know, I think the more options there are out there, the better for people really.

2.

5.

7.

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by Hannah Shakir

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18

EXPAT SERVICES

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

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

New Changes to the Australian Working Holiday Visa

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

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

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

Whether you moved to Australia for the adventure, the work or quality of life, the one issue that remains a constant is one of money. Before moving to Australia, you will have planned your budget to ensure a smooth transition, setting up a bank account and so on. Now you’re here, what else can you do to keep on top of your finances? Here are a few tips courtesy of Seven Seas Worldwide, one of the most popular relocation companies in both the UK and Australia. Trust us, we’ve been in the shipping business for over twenty years; we know a thing or two about making a success of moving abroad.

Before moving to Australia, we have always suggested selling big furniture items such as beds, wardrobes and sofas, and buying new items at your final destination – it’s easier, cheaper and provides you with a healthier bank balance upon arrival which is always welcome. For those now living in Australia we suggest continuing this trend – perhaps challenge yourself to sell a household item, ornament or article of clothing a week to amass a nice tidy sum by the end of each month.

Another method of keeping the splurging down is to use cash.

It’s all too easy to flash the card in every shop you visit and lose track of just how much is in your account. By getting cash out of the trusty machine and spending it wisely, you’ll find you won’t be quite as lavish with the dough. Oh and never use a cash machine that charges - it’s a waste of money; walk a bit further and find a free one. Every little helps after all.

If you’re a young whippersnapper travelling through Australia for a year of adventure and thrills, here’s a newsflash for you – you still need to think about your finances.

You’re never too young to save; in fact in these economically troubling times, it’s essential, so start putting money into a savings account as soon as you can.

And don’t dip into it. It’s not for dipping.

Finally if you have money worries AND buy bottled water then there’s no helping you. Bottled water is an absurdity that we as rational human beings are only now just coming round to ditching. Walk the streets of any metropolitan city these days and you’ll see members of the public stare at their bottles of water with utter incredulity. And naturally the same goes for alcohol and cigarettes; if you can reduce the amount you consume each week or cut it out altogether, you’ll notice a slow but notable change in your bank balance.

For more money-saving advice and general guidance for the average UK expat, check out the Seven Seas Worldwide website.

We know what’s required for the next chapter abroad.

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

Find out more about moving your belongings from A - B with minimum stress www.sevenseasworldwide.com.au

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

For workers on a Working Holiday Visa to enjoy these changes, they

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

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

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

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

GREEN MIGRATION

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

OPTIMA MIGRATION

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

IMMIGRATION HELP CORPORATE OFFICE (AUSTRALIA)

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

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

MOVE MIGRATION PTY LTD

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

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

Sydney image courtesy of Tourism NSW

Money Saving Tips For Moving Around Australia

• Fees for both the Working

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

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

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20

RECRUITMENT. EMPLOYMENT. STUDY. MIGRATION.

Temp To Perm Will You Make The Cut? In the last few years, the number of people securing a permanent role by first undertaking the role on a temporary basis has seen a marked increase. In the recruitment world, it’s commonly known as a ‘temp to perm’ or temporary to permanent placement. The concept is not new, and, for many clients and job seekers, the ability to ‘try before you buy’ has merit. Having said that, the number of people willing to leave a permanent role to undertake a temporary role is, understandably, limited.

Those people, who through planning or circumstance find themselves undertaking temporary work, sometimes take on a role that has been specifically designated as a temp to perm. Often the assumption is made that they are the only candidate being considered for the permanent position. This is certainly not the case.

This article was prompted by a rather tragic story that unfolded recently within the Sydney temporary accounting team at people2people. A candidate – let’s call him ‘Leonard’, was undertaking a role for people2people and doing a good job. He was hired on the basis that the role could be temp to perm.

He was to be considered for the role but was not the only candidate being considered, although he was interviewed for the role.

advised about 24 hours after his interview by the hiring manager that she thought he was overqualified for the permanent role and so they were considering someone else. Leonard then replied, ‘Well today will be my last day!’ In response, the manager said, ‘Well if that’s the case, it’s going to be pretty hard for me to give you a reference.’

Unfortunately, this didn’t end well for either party, and Leonard finished up and will not receive a reference. There are two lessons for Leonard from this sorry tale. Firstly, performing the role on a temp basis, even if you are doing it well, is not a guarantee of getting the permanent role. There are too many other variables. The second lesson is that Leonard should have taken the bad news in his stride and worked on. The reference would have been useful, but the real tragedy is passing up future roles, other temp jobs and referrals. Most roles are filled through networks and only a minority through job boards and recruiters.

So, for Leonard, the answer is no, you are not guaranteed the job if you were told it was temp to perm. If you are not successful initially, taking a professional long term view is the best course of action to secure the best ultimate outcome.

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

Part of the reason Leonard was selected for the temp role was that he was overqualified for the role.

This can be quite common, so that the work can be completed quickly and efficiently. Leonard was

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

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

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

Falling In Love With An Aussie

Aside from the good weather and the fact you can get by with English, Australia also offers fantastic job opportunities, making it an attractive destination for migrants. However if you’ve chosen to dip your toes in the water first with a working holiday visa and no baggage - it’s highly likely that you may fall under the charms of a native Aussie. Your relationship may start off romantic and filled with sunset walks on the beach and splashing around in the ocean together, however when the impending doom of your visa coming to an end hits you, it’s time to make some decisions.

When You Should Apply For A Partner Visa

When this dreaded moment in any international relationship comes crashing down there are a few questions you have to ask yourself. 1) Do I want to stay in Australia for the foreseeable future? 2) Do I want to stay with this person for the foreseeable future? 3) Can I be bothered to go through the rigmarole of applying for a Partner Visa for Australia? And the answer to all of those questions are if you’ve fallen for a native Aussie as hard as you’ve fallen for Australia, then yes, you will need to go through the rather unromantic process of applying for a Partner Visa for Australia.

Depending on what stage your relationship is at and whether you’ve gone through the whole, “I’ll do one or two years in your country and you do one of two in mine”, the Australian Immigration Authorities will need to see that this is a genuine relationship. So proof of living together, joint bank statements, holiday photos etc. are all important to prove the relationship is genuine.

Types Of Partner Visas For Australia

When it comes to applying for a Partner Visa for Australia, you’ll also need to be aware that there are various different types of partner visa that may apply to you including: - Temporary Partner visa (subclass 820) - Partner visa (subclass 801) - Partner (Provisional) visa (subclass 309)

Costs of Visas For Australia

Applying for a partner visa for Australia can be a long and costly process, so using the services of a registered migration agent is probably your best route to securing a visa to live and work in Australia. You can use the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection’s visa calculator to find out what kind of costs you may incur when applying for your visa. Or simply contact an Australian Migration expert to find out which type of partner visa applies to you and how they can assist on helping your visa application be successful so you can continue to live loving an Australian as well as Australia!

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

For more information visit www.freedommigration.com

Sydney Opera House image courtesy of Tourism NSW.

The notion of leaving it all to go travelling, young free and single is something that many of us experience in our lives, but a major port of call for those upping sticks for a carefree life is often Australia.

Australia is considered an attractive option for those looking to change their life and with the promise of good weather and it being an English speaking nation - so why wouldn’t you want to move to Australia?

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WWW.BBMLIVE.COM/JOBS

Meet Chef Christopher This is his story on working as a chef in Australia For the last decade TSS have been involved in placing chefs from all over the globe into Australian kitchens and in that time one thing has become clear; while every chef is skilled and passionate about their career, none of our past candidates share the same story.

As a recent migrant to Western Australia Chef Chris, originally from the Philippines, has a wealth of unique and diverse cultural experiences that have shaped him and his career.

Recently Chris was generous enough to take time out of his busy day in the kitchen to tell us the story of how is career began and what brought him to Australia.

MARN 0960361

Growing up in Bahrain, Chris travelled back to the Philippines to study the culinary arts, graduating there when he was 17. After returning to Bahrain he began working as a Commis Chef before receiving an offer from the InterContinental Hotel in Dubai.

“Well Dubai is a big city” explained Chris “It was really good for a young chef starting out to be experienced in that environment, culinary wise and career wise with a really big company. It’s really fast paced, I learned a lot of skills”.

One of the best parts of that environment in his opinion, was the people he worked with. “People from South Africa, America, UK, France, pretty much all over…

India, Indonesia. So you get to be in the environment where you’re surrounded with different cultures and you sort of adapt and you grow and you have fun at the same time”. Though his career in Dubai was going

TSS RECRUITMENT

LEVEL 3, 7 HOWARD ST. RICHMOND, VICTORIA 3121 +61 03 9421 1020 WWW.TSSRECRUITMENT.COM.AU or Degree, each level of education in Australia is split into levels numbered from 1 to 10. For example certificates 1-4 are marked in accordance from level 1-4. Diplomas from a single Diploma to Advanced Diploma is between levels 5 and 6 and so on and so forth.

Popular Courses To Study in Australia

FINDING THE RIGHT COURSE Studying in Australia as an overseas student is a fantastic experience for anyone wanting to further their education.

Australia is packed to the brim when it comes to premier education facilities with Melbourne hosting some of Australia’s leading universities. When moving overseas to study it’s incredibly important you choose the right course for you as the culture shock

of a new country can be quite enough to cope with without worrying that you’ve chosen the wrong course or subject.

Choosing Which Course To Study In Australia There are many levels of qualification to choose from in Australia including Diplomas, Certificates, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate Degrees. The way to work out which level you’d like to study for your chosen subject against what qualifications you already have, and what their Australian counterpart levels are.

Levels of Education in Australia Whether you choose to study a Certificate

Due to the great education providers in Australia the range of subjects you can study is as vast as in other premier countries of education such as the United States and the United Kingdom, meaning the world really is your oyster when it comes to choosing your subject.

Popular subjects for foreign students in Australia include; English, Business, Accounting, Marketing, IT, Engineering, Technology, Hospitality and Nursing.

Why Study in Australia?

The benefits of studying in Australia are endless, and when it comes to choosing any of the aforementioned subjects, you’ll be pleased to know that these may come in handy should you wish to find work in Australia post graduation. Popular jobs for skilled migrants in Australia include Engineering, Hospitality and Nursing and with all visas and subjects in Australia you’ll also be required to have a good

well, he was soon pulled back home. “At that time my mother was really sick…so for family reasons with the same company I went back to Bahrain.”

Three years down the track and Chris was exploring his career options. His contract with InterContinental was finishing and he was thinking about applying for work on an international cruise ship. However upon returning to the Philippines he heard about TSS. “I decided just to continue with TSS because I believed there was a better opportunity for me here in Australia”.

That was two years ago, and Chris hasn’t looked back since. Taking up a position in a pub in Bunbury, Western Australia, he was excited to live and work in Australia. “I’d visited Australia several times when I was younger on family trips…I was really looking forward to coming over here”.

Having worked in several large-scale busy kitchen teams before there was a lot of adjusting that Chris had to go through.

“The kitchen here is busy however it’s also very organised” he said comparing Bunbury to his last positions. “Every place, every country, anywhere that you go there would always be a little bit of a cultural difference, but to me personally it’s all about the attitude that you put towards it”. Continuing on his new found life in Australia, Chef Chris muses… “It’s a chef environment, in the kitchen…we have a reputation for being a little bit politically incorrect at times…that’s a fun side of it”.

To find out more about applying for hospitality jobs in Australia speak to a TSS Recruiter at recruitment@tssgroup.com.au or visit www.tssrecruitment.com.au

TSS MIGRATION

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

WWW.TSSIMMIGRATION.COM.AU

understanding of the English language when it comes to both speaking and writing so if you come from a non-English speaking country it’s advisable to enroll on an English course so you can make the most out of studying in Australia.

Getting Advice On What Course To Choose At Aussie Studies our staff are on hand to help you with arranging your studies in Australia from start to finish. We can help you decide on what subject and level of study to choose as well as help place you at the most suitable education provider in Melbourne for you. The help doesn’t stop there though, you can even get help finding your student accommodation as well as arrange airport pick up and orientation so you can get stuck straight into student life in Melbourne.

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

22

A Guide To Working As A Nurse In Australia

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

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

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

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

5 Reasons Being an Agency Nurse Is Better

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

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

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

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

Apply for nursing jobs now at

www.bowerhealthcare.com.au

Working as an agency nurse in Australia has advantages over being employed as a regular nurse in clinics and hospitals.

As if nursing in Australia isn’t rewarding enough, you can enjoy even more benefits through nursing agency work.

Nursing agencies in Australia provide nurses to people or entities in need of their services, usually on temporary contracts. Healthcare professionals are seconded to private clients, care homes, and hospitals, depending on the demand.

Benefits of being an agency nurse • Better control over time and work site • Higher pay, more benefits • Better working environment • Obtain more experience and education • Provide quality patient care As an agency nurse, you get to choose a flexible schedule, whether you only want to work during the weekends, nights only or three times a week.

The choice is up to you. The nursing agency is then responsible for matching the shifts you choose with the available nurse jobs in Australia.

Most of the time, agency nurses work in remote locations, in private facilities or in different locations at any given time. This opens more

opportunities to earn more, and enjoy holiday pay and great penalty rates. Depending on the medical facility, territory and nursing agency, of course.

Moreover, you get to work in an environment where you can be independent and be part of the team at the same time. Nearly every healthcare professional craves for a cohesive workplace, and that’s exactly what you can enjoy as an agency nurse.

All of these lead to more experience and education. Being thrown in to different environments demand that you learn to adapt, while the challenges that come your way demand continuous learning, whether in the technical or non-technical aspect of the job. The experience and education that you gain will lead to higher pay rates and benefits.

For nurses on a working holiday in Australia finding nurse jobs in Australia through a nursing agency is the perfect way to earn money whilst you travel - all whilst adding to your nursing CV. What do you need to work as a nurse in Australia?

To find out more about nursing in Australia get in contact today at

www.australiannursingagency.com

www.bowerhealthcare.com.au info@bowerhealthcare.com.au Hospital Orderly in CBD, Inner West & Eastern Suburbs, Sydneyl

Bower Healthcare is seeking casual, experienced Orderlies for work in various wards and departments, including acute areas, in eastern based public hospitals.

We can offer an immediate start with shifts booked 2-3 weeks in advance.

We offer: Regular, on-going work for reliable performers, 8 hour shifts, morning and afternoon, Monday to Friday, Advanced roster, in addition to day-to-day bookings.

Essential requirements: Must have current work rights in Australia, 100% compliance with the NSW Health Department’s immunisation policy. Must posses more than 6 months relevant experience from here or overseas. Recent, professional local references. Current criminal record and working with children checks.

Got a question?

ICU / Acute Care - Sydney We are particularly keen to hear from any acute care Registered Nurses who are interested in casual agency work in ICU/ CCU/ED & HDU. We are currently seeking experienced RN’s (a minimum of 12 months post-grad experience essential) for shifts within acute care units at popular and conveniently located public and private hospitals in Sydney’s east.

We offer: Guidance with achieving compliancy for work in Australia, preregistration before arrival (if travelling from outside NSW), day to day and advanced rosters, block bookings, access to our on-line rostering/availability system, professional Indemnity Insurance cover, CPE online training options, professional, friendly service - no call centres, guaranteed! Choose your work pattern, from one shift to full-time equivalent hours.

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

Rural Contract (Registered Nurse) From beautiful coastal areas to the stunning Snowy Mountain ranges, with scenic agriculture and regional towns between, our client hospitals are always pleased to accommodate travelling Registered and Enrolled nurses willing to help out on a short-term, casual contract basis.

We are currently recruiting for many Registered (and Enrolled) Nursing positions, with immediate start dates and others with a lead time into the next month or so. Contract duration varies from a few weeks to 3 months and the terms for many are negotiable with 35 to 100 hourly rate.

Although most roles require extensive specialty skills such as ED, ICU and mental health, we do also have general positions at larger, regional hospital facilities.

Aside from the opportunity to assist an area in need of your services, we offer: •Single room accommodation in nurses’ quarters or hospital rentals •Return travel (from Sydney or Melbourne) or Travel expense reimbursement • Speedy and efficient turn-around from application to placement

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

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

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

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

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NORTHERN TERRITORY: TRAVERSE THE TOP END You’ve come to Australia for adventures and culture so don’t be surprised to find this by the bucket load in the Northern Territory.

Rock Art in the world. Booking on an adventure tour in the Northern Territory you can find out more about the traditional landowners of this unspoilt part of Australia as well as perhaps indulging in some traditional bush tucker!

The Northern Territory is where you’ll find the real heart of Australia with its expansive and world famous Outback as well as its dense and luscious rainforests. The Northern Territory covers a mammoth 1.35 million km2 so it isn’t surprising that the landscape in this Aussie state is pretty diverse!

Aside from enjoying the traditional culture, you’ll also be able to visit some ferocious creatures in the form of the enormous saltwater crocodiles.

In fact, the Mary River Wetlands are where you’ll find the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles anywhere on the entire planet! So keep your hands and legs inside the boat at all times.

The Top End is where you’ll be immersed in Aboriginal culture, and is home to some of the most ancient Aboriginal

Australia’s Top End is also home to some of the most stunning jungle in the country and is where you can visit the

delights of Nitmiluk National Park and Maguk and even swim beneath the cascading waterfalls. Nestled in the depths of Kakadu National Park you’ll find the stunning Gunlom Falls where you can enjoy an afternoon dip in the crystal clear waters - making the most of your tropical adventure.

The exotic rainforest adventures don’t stop at Kakadu however, as Litchfield National Park makes for a fantastic place to unwind before returning to Darwin, taking a few hours to delight at the tumbling Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and the Buley Rockholes.

Explore the Top End on board Kakadu Wild’s 5 Day Top End Explorer. www.kakaduwild.com.au

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

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

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

For more action-packed adventures a cruise along the Mary River Wetlands where you’ll find the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles on earth.

On a cruise here the boat will get you right up to these ferocious beings in their natural habitat. Here you can also enjoy fishing and birdwatching.

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

For more fun to be had in the city, take in dinner on the stunning Darwin Harbour or sample the exotic delights of the Mindil Beach Sunset Market.

Taking place every Sunday and Thursday evening, you can join the crowds that gather on the Arafura Sea shore as the market comes alive with hundreds of stalls.

Darwin is a great hub to meet like minded travellers and make onward travel plans, so pitch up in a great and centrally located hostel such as Melaleuca on Mitchell and you’ll be in prime position to discover Darwin and surrounds whilst visiting the Northern Territory.

You’ll find Crocosaurus Cover at 58 Mitchell Street, Darwin City (Corner of Mitchell & Peel Street) or visit www.crocosauruscove.com and Melaleuca on Mitchell at 52 Mitchell Street, Darwin, visit momdarwin.com to book your stay.

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Mulgas Adventures 4 Day Rock Tour Review BBM Live’s Gabriel Laine heads to the Red Centre on board with Mulgas Adventures to visit the most famous rock on Earth - Uluru.

Upon landing in Alice Springs we were super excited about the next 4 days that were ahead of us.

Day One - Uluru

Departing for day one, we left Cairns to fly directly to Uluru, which was a treat as most of the campers drive that day from Alice Springs. We waited a bit at the airport, and were picked up by Jason, our tour-guide, who drove straight from Alice Springs with a bunch of backpackers sharing the trip with us. From there, since we were a little late, Jason decided to leave the introduction chat ‘til later, and head straight to the camp to eat and get ready to visit Uluru, which was amazing. Arriving at Uluru we were hit with the mammoth size of this great docile rock as it dominated the horizon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.kimberleywild.com.au

That night we camped and enjoyed a great meal and a hot shower to wash the day’s hiking off. Jason cooked an amazing meal (fajitas) in the middle of nowhere, and of course, vegetarians also had an option especially for them.

Day Two - Kata Tjuta

Day two it was off to an early start again as we headed to Kata Tjuta to walk through the Valley of the Winds before reaching Kings Creek Station. Kata Tjuta was formerly known as The Olgas. The best way to describe it is like a field of mini Uluru’s except for, really not that mini! Jason woke us up with breakfast, singing loudly and obnoxiously, which seemed to work pretty well for even the most avid sleeper! We got there on time to see the sun rise above the rock-field, which was amazing, even with temperatures around 4 degrees!

Later on, we continued our trip by going to the valley of the winds. Jason gave us a comprehensive explanation of how this was created, and we had some time by ourselves to go visit the area.

Day Three - Kings Canyon

Day Three brought us to Kings Canyon which, to put simply is just pretty epic.

The vast gorges and sheer rock faces are enough to give you vertigo, but incredible nonetheless. At this stage, everyone knows everyone, and the visit is even more enjoyable! Kings Canyon was our favorite part of the trip: the heights, the water reservoir in the middle of an arid desert is amazing, and Jason would explain every little detail the aborigines would do in this special place.

Day Four – Uluru and back to Alice

Driving back to Alice Springs, Jason stopped in a nice hidden spot on the side of the road where we got to enjoy another view of the rock and scenery around. We then headed to the camel farm where some of us took the leap and tried riding one for 15 minutes.. Others were at the back looking at the animal farm where you can see kangaroos, emus, water bison, ducks, ostriches.. After the trip to the farm, we drove back to the airport where some of our crew were taking off, and then carried on down the road to head back to Alice spring.

www.mulgasadventures.com.au

Images and words by Gabriel Laine

THE ULTIMATE AUSSIE ADVENTURE

Next up was a walk around the great base of Uluru - giving us a totally different perspective of the rock being so close to it. Towards the end of the day we had the chance to see the rock illuminate as the sun set making it appear like it was almost on fire - all whilst having a glass of bubbly to mark the occasion of visiting such a special place.

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA TRAVEL GUIDE

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

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

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

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

Monkey Mia Famous for its local dolphins,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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WA - WHERE ADVENTURES LIVES Setting off from Perth, Aussie Wanderer’s 9 day Perth to Broome tour will see you encounter big adventures every single day.

From experiencing the rugged and rocky Kalbarri National Park, the Z Bend, and deep gorges to going face to face with the Monkey Mia dolphins, as well as snorkelling the Ningaloo Reef and swimming in the billabongs of Karijini National Park, there is so much to do

on this tour that it will leave you with the memories of a lifetime as well as putting a dent in your storage space from all the pics you’ll take!

Departing every Saturday from March to December, this tour is a great way to see the diversity of Western Australia and will take you from the city, to the north western town of Broome. It’s here that you’ll be able to take a camel ride on the famous Cable Beach - world renowned for its stunning sunsets, it’s here that you’ll also see

the Staircase To The Moon phenomenon.

If you’re a water baby, then you may want to consider timing this tour to coincide with the annual visit from the Whale Sharks who flock to Western Australia’s shores between April and July every year to feed at the Ningaloo Reef.

It’s also worth mentioning that every day you will hike for up to 4km on uneven terrain, so make sure you’re of a good fitness level, and of course have some proper hiking boots! This incredible tour includes five nights dorm accommodation, two nights safari tent camping, one night camping.

Get the full tour info at aussiewanderer.com.au

FROM THE ROCK TO THE REEF Take a week-long road trip from the Red Centre’s dusty expanses to Cairns’ tropical coastline – you’d better believe it when Aussies say their country’s diverse.

Australia’s Red Centre

Kick off this adventure in the arid heart of Australia and the true Outback town of Alice Springs, then stand in the shadow of iconic Uluru and count the ‘many heads’ of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Bond with your new travel mates as you tackle terrain that’s classic Australia.

Aboriginal Culture

There’s no better way to understand this land than by learning about it from its traditional owners. You’ll take an interpretive walk lead by a member of the local Mala people and learn more about their traditions and beliefs. Maybe take home a piece of the oldest culture on Earth with the Aboriginal arts and crafts of the Cultural Centre, then set up camp for the night in Watarrka National Park.

The Garden of Eden

Wake up in prime position to explore the towering rock faces of Kings Canyon. The sights here didn’t get dramatic names like the Lost

City, the Amphitheatre, and the Garden of Eden without being that little bit special – so make sure you’ve got a camera handy to capture this epic landscape for the folks back home. Head back to charismatic Alice Springs for the next part of this adventure.

Go Off Grid

After a day in Central Australia’s most iconic town, hit the old dusty road to Queensland.

We’re not just saying that either – this is a properly dusty route, a mostly dirt track through some of the world’s remotest countryside.

Heading east you’ll have the chance to grasp just how big this country is – Boulia is seen as just down the road from Alice at a 9-hour drive.

Rainforests & Waterfalls

Discover a whole different side to Australia as you enter Queensland. Memories of the dry desert will be washed away by the tropical rainforests, Millstream Falls and Porcupine Creek surrounding Hughenden. Head onto Cairns, where this tour comes to an end but the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef wait to be explored.

This trip is also available in reserve from Cairns to Alice Springs.

To find out more and book your Australian adventure visit www.adventuretours.com.au

Images courtesy of Tourism Western Australia

Explore Australia from the inside out with Adventure Tour Australia’s Rock to Reef.

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Explore Flinders Chase National Park

The jewel of South Australia’s Kangaroo Island, if you happen to be visiting this part of Australia, there’s no way you’ll want to skip Flinders Chase National Park.

see the island’s biggest predator - Rosenberg’s Goanna. A threatened reptile species, you can see these long lizards at this time of year due to breeding and egg-laying season.

Sitting high on ancient rocky platforms above the sea, the Remarkable Rocks’ surreal shapes and golden orange colours provide extraordinary photo opportunities.

A massive 326.6 km² there’s so much to see within Flinders Chase that you’ll want to make the most of your time here whilst visiting Kangaroo Island. Situated on the Western End of Kangaroo Island, Flinders Chase National Park is where you’ll find the famous Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch.

You can also enjoy the park and its diverse wildlife via a network of walking trails and boardwalks. Animals you are most likely to see include the Tammar wallabies, echidnas, brush-tailed possums and of course - Kangaroo Island Kangaroos (a subspecies of the Western-Grey kangaroo from the mainland)! When it comes to birds, Flinders Chase is also home to an enormous menagerie - including black cockatoos, black swans, galahs, rainbow lorikeets and many varieties of sea birds.

The Cape du Couedic Lighthouse is also worth a visit.

Commissioned in 1902 due to a vast number of fatal shipwrecks, there are also Lighthouse Keeper Cottages that you can stay in. Take in the dizzying heights of Weirs Cove - a steep sheer cliff that leads to a boardwalk where the Lighthouse supplies would have been delivered to - despite the 3 kilometres the inhabitants had to walk to pick up their goods!

Wildlife in Flinders Chase National Park A bountiful area of dense foliage, and both sandy and rocky coastlines, Flinders Chase is also where you’ll have the opportunity to see some of Kangaroo Island’s treasured wildlife. From December to January you can enjoy the delights of witnessing sights such as the fierce territorial battles between the Long-Nosed Fur Seals, at the peak of breeding season, from the viewing boardwalks at Admiral’s Arch. In February you’re also in prime time to

Things to do in Flinders Chase National Park Learn more about the park and its fascinating natural and cultural heritage at the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre. Stay in one of several campgrounds or rest in the heritage accommodation located throughout the park.

Whether you choose to visit Flinders Chase for the wildlife or the scenery, you can make the journey with Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours.

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

NULLARBOR TRAVELLER: ESPERANCE AND CAPE LE GRAND NATIONAL PARK A curious kangaroo is headed straight for me. Both ears flicked up, with wide coffee coloured eyes inspecting me. I can see her chestnut nose twitching, tiny whiskers waving up and down. As she lifts her head to sniff my hand, a sooty joey pokes its head from her pouch. I suddenly find myself closer to a kangaroo than I’ve ever been before - and I’m Australian!

On Nullarbor Traveller’s Adelaide – Perth 10 day tour, two of those days are spent camping at Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park. Named by explorer Matthew Flinders who took shelter in the bay during his travels, the bay lies east of Esperance on the south coast of Western Australia.

We arrived late at night and set up camp in the dark, with only the light from our head torches to guide us. I could hear the ocean from our campsite and eagerly awaited daylight.

I was finally going to see the famed ‘‘whitest beach” of Australia with my own eyes.

After sussing out the beach and making friends with the locals (a family of Western Grey kangaroos, two with joeys!) we headed off to climb Frenchman’s Peak. Named by French explorer Nicholas Bordeaux because of its resemblance to a beret, the entire peak is a solid granite rock which extends thousands of metres below the ground. At the top we were rewarded with a panoramic view of the National Park and the three main bays; Lucky, Hellfire and Fiscal Cove.

The afternoon was spent hiking along the Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail. The walk which took us along a rocky headland, descended into more picturesque bays with sweeping white sand and aquamarine water lapping at the shores. We passed giant whale bones strewn across the beach and even spotted small flocks of silvereyes fliting amongst eucalypt thickets.

Back at camp we were treated to a hearty meal cooked by our guide, Sandy who also had a surprise to help warm us up. We arrived at dinner to find a huge pot of mulled wine brewing! We drank and stories flowed of our past adventures. We reminisced about swimming with sea lions and dolphins, sleeping in swags under the stars and meeting the very hospitable owner; Hassie and his loveable dog Maggie at Coodle Park. There were lots of laughs and the atmosphere was warm. It was the perfect end to an eventful day.

But Esperance was not done with us. It had one more trick up its sleeve – and it was a beauty. After gobbling down pancakes cooked on the BBQ, we finished off our time in Esperance at a magnificent beach. As we stepped off the bus at Twilight Bay and gazed out across the cliff face, I saw movement in the water. Great black fins were emerging far out beyond the waves. Before I knew it, I was jumping up and down, excitedly screaming “WHALES!” Three Southern Right Whales in fact. It was undeniably incredible. I have to admit that I felt sad when our tour across the Nullarbor came to an end. It felt like we’d been through so much in just 10 days. We became a little bus family of like-minded travellers, brought together by a mutual love of adventure. It was action and fun, paired with unique wildlife encounters – one furry mum in particular, I won’t be forgetting anytime soon!

Get 15% off with PROMO CODE: BBMLIVE when booking at: www.nullarbortraveller.net

Images and words by Becs Bolden

It’s ironic that the Nullarbor; a seemingly endless, treeless plain would become our gateway to paradise. Rich red earth gives way to the turquoise waters and the white beaches of Esperance. A stark contrast which creates a unique and otherworldly experience.

When we awoke the next morning, Lucky Bay (true to its name) did not disappoint. The sand was indeed white. It looked like a wad of vanilla ice-cream spread smoothly across the bay. So pristine that it even squeaked beneath my feet.

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The world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island offers adrenaline, excitement, relaxation and exploration across its 1,840 km² mass.

Boasting many things to see and do, when it comes to relaxation, you’ll be able to sooth your bones in the Champagne Pools as well as take a dip in the crystal clear lakes including Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby.

Cast Away To Fraser Island

On the flip side of the coin, you’ll find action packed adventures as you 4WD along 75 Mile Beach and into the rainforests, taking a hike through the dense and tangled jungle of this

tropical island.

When it comes to watery adventures, Fraser Island borders Hervey Bay - one of the premier whale watching spots in the world, so keep your eyes peeled when you look at to the sea as you may see a passing Humpback Whale. On land you’ll see dingoes aplenty, but as cute as these wild dogs are, be sure not to feed them.

A trip to Fraser Island also gives you the chance to experience some real Aboriginal culture.

Here you can collect and taste Wongs – an Aboriginal delicacy, as well as learn how to catch worms for fishing bait before indulging in two true Aussie pastimes - throwing a boomerang and playing

the didgeridoo. By night you can camp under the starry night sky, far away from the towns you’ll see more stars than you ever imagined were up there.

Combining wildlife, action and the great outdoors, Fraser Island is something that has to be experienced by real adventurers, and with Dropbear Adventures all-inclusive 2 and 3 day tours - it’s a tour you simply can’t miss whilst travelling the East Coast.

Find out your tour options and prices, including additional whale watching and Whitsunday Islands tours from the mainland.

To find out more about Fraser Island tours visit

www.dropbearadventures.com.au

DISCOVER REEFWORLD

Imagine sleeping under a sparkling night sky, miles away from any land, as you gaze out at the blue depths of the Coral Sea as luminous marine life bobs to the surface. Sound like an unreal experience? Well you can make this your reality with Awesome Whitsundays’ Reefsleep experience.

With Awesome Whitsundays you can make your way out to the Reefworld Pontoon situated on the outer Great Barrier Reef atop Hardy Reef for a reef experience unlike any other. The Hardy Reef is just one of the many thousands of smaller coral reefs that make up the Great Barrier Reef. It’s here that you’ll discover an abundance of tropical fish, from tiny ones to even giant gropers. The vibrant subaqueous garden is where you will also have the chance to spot unicorn fish, cuttlefish, moray eels, parrotfish, marine turtles and reef sharks if you’re lucky.

Above deck you’ll find the sundeck with shaded areas as well as air-conditioned lounges where you can relax in between dives! For those of you who want to stay dry there’s even an underwater observatory and semisubmersible rides to see the reef up close.

Onboard Awesome Whitsundays Reefsleep tour you can combine an unforgettable two days of diving and snorkelling as well as a night sleeping out on the reef.

Spending the night out on the reef will also give you the opportunity to take a night dive to uncover a whole new experience under the cover of darkness.

An oasis surrounded by ocean, you can really experience the delights of the Great Barrier Reef’s kaleidoscopic water world when you spend a night on Awesome Whitsundays Reefworld pontoon.

Adventure Tours In The Whitsundays Reefsleep Awesome Whitsundays Reefsleep package enables you to stay overnight on the pontoon out on the Great Barrier Reef. Reefsleep includes 2 days on the Great Barrier Reef where you can spend the day diving or snorkelling and the night watching and waiting to see which creatures of the deep float to the surface.

Sailing There’s no doubt about it, the Whitsunday Islands are a sailor’s paradise, so why not take advantage of Awesome Whitsundays Reef & Whitehaven Adventure 3 day and 3 night package which includes climbing on board the stunning ‘Camira’ – a high speed catamaran where you can discover the thrill of sailing. Whilst using this vessel as a base for your trip you can swim and snorkel on your way to Whitehaven Beach. Stop at Whitehaven Beach – voted number 1 Beach in Australia and play beach games, go for a walk or just chill. Awesome Whitsundays Reef & Whitehaven Adventure package includes accommodation, Camira Sailing Adventure and a day out on a Great Barrier Reef Adventure.

Castaway Combining all the above Awesome Whitsundays also offer a 5 days and 5 nights tour called Castaway, where you can combine sailing around the islands on ‘Camira’ as well as snorkelling and an unforgettable experience – spending a night under the stars on Reefworld pontoon in the Great Barrier Reef. As well as that you have a day exploring the Hamilton and/or Daydream Island with your Island Hopper Pass and a day to relax and chill at Airlie Beach town.

www.awesomewhitsundays.com

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Discover Ancient Rainforests in Cairns in the calming, steamy rainforest and discover what lies beneath the canopy on the forest floor. At the Red Peak station you can walk amongst ancient, towering Kauri Pines and giant buttress roots as they weave through the forest, all whilst the Skyrail Rangers give you a guided boardwalk tour sharing their knowledge of the ancient forest and surrounding areas.

Discover ancient tropical rainforest and journey into one of the oldest continually surviving rainforests on earth with Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

Ascend to the rainforest canopy and glide along Skyrail Rainforest Cableway’s 7.5km experience of pure paradise!

Float gently above the rainforest canopy as you take in views of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Cairns Highlands, tropical Cairns and the Coral Sea on board the six person gondolas that glide just metres above the trees.

Whilst experiencing Skyrail Rainforest Cableway you can disembark at two stations to stretch your legs and take

Barron Falls Station has walkways to three separate viewing points providing breathtaking views of the Barron Gorge and Barron Falls. You can also learn more about your surroundings and the Australian Tropical Rainforest here at the Rainforest Interpretation Centre that Skyrail developed in conjunction with CSIRO to provide an informative and fun learning experience.

The most unique rainforest experience in the world, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is just 15 minutes from Cairns city centre and 50 minutes from Port Douglas making it the perfect day trip out whilst visiting these areas. Skyrail is open every day from 9:00am except for Christmas Day and during programmed, preventative maintenance.

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

EXPLORE WHITEHAVEN BEACH Setting off on an East Coast adventure? Tropical North Queensland is calling you!

Exotic encounters await you at Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the ocean. A tangled jungle overlapping the shores of the Pacific Ocean, the Daintree is full of wonderment and excitement in the form of rainforest adventures as well as exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands.

A day trip out to the Whitsundays from Abell Point Marina in Airlie Beach, you can make your way out to Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. It’s here where you can spend time relaxing on the pristine white silica sands of this world class eco-friendly beach taking in the perfection of your surroundings, every which way you turn.

For those of you who want to explore the incredible marine life that bustles beneath the surface, snorkelling here will put you in full view of some of the most interesting marine creatures on the planet. Whilst snorkelling here you can hope to see colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, clams and some of the most stunning coral on Earth.

All within a day’s work, you can venture out to Whitehaven Beach via high speed craft giving you plenty of time for your ocean adventure. It’s on Whitsunday Island that you can also

take a bush walk via the iconic Hill Inlet beach giving you further insight into the nature that inhabits the Whitsunday Islands. For a change of scene you can also explore the less frequented snorkelling spots of Border Island and Dumbell Island - taking a less touristy approach to visiting this part of Australia.

All the above and more is accessible via Ocean Rafting’s Northern Exposure and Southern Lights tours operating daily from Airlie Beach.

www.oceanrafting.com.au

10 Things You Didn’t Know About The Great Barrier Reef No trip to Australia is complete without snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef. You may know that it’s the largest living structure on the planet, but there’s a lot more than what meets the eye to this beautiful and fragile wonder of the world.

1. The Great Barrier Reef is actually made up of 2900 coral reefs, 1050 islands and corals cays.

2. Although being the largest living structure on Earth, the reef is actually around the size of Japan - spanning 350,000 square kilometres and stretches 2,300 kilometres along the Queensland coast.

3. The Great Barrier Reef plays home to over 1500 species of fish, 6 of the world’s 7 types of marine turtle, 3000 species of molluscs, 215 types of bird and 30 species of whales and dolphins and is also where you’ll find the majority of the world’s endangered dugong population.

4. Due to all the inhabitants of the Reef as we mentioned above, come each November there is a mass spawning season due to the temperature of the water. This natural event is also colloquially referred to as ‘sex on the reef’.

5. Not forgetting the enormous amount of coral, the hard coral that acts as the backbone of the Great Barrier Reef only grows a miniscule 1.5 cm each year.

6. With the Great Barrier Reef needing a massive amount of protection from environmental and human factors, every visitor over the age of 4 years old must pay a $6 reef tax when visiting - with the money raised from this going to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to help fund the

continued conservation of the fragile eco-system.

7. The thin layer of the living coral that comprise the Great Barrier Reef is only 8000 years old, which is a baby in comparison to the 500,000 year old dead coral and algae beneath it.

8. One of the most delicate ecosystems in existence, the worst natural predator of the Great Barrier Reef aside from humans are the beautiful, yet dangerous crown-of-thorns starfish. These starfish strip the reef of living coral, however the reef can usually regenerate after an infestation of these spiky gluttons.

9. The Great Barrier Reef is so large it can actually be seen from outer space.

10. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, alongside sites such as the Grand Canyon and Mount Everest, The Great Barrier Reef was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef and more on board with Ocean Safari.

www.oceansafari.com.au

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Forests, Mountains and Waterfalls: A Stray Adventure around NZ’s North Island

My week around the North Island with Stray combined epic adventure, unforgettable landscapes and non-stop activities. From the moment we all hopped on the bus, Stray set us up with a whirlwind of different activities, from hiking to caving to horse trekking with a handful of overnight stays at amazing off the beaten track locations thrown into the mix.

First stop was Raglan, the town put on the map by ‘The Endless Summer’. Whale Bay is a world renowned surf spot offering decent waves all year round. On that day the waves were coming in fast, no better time to sample Raglan’s thriving surf scene. Within minutes, I was kitted up with my wetsuit and board.

I warned my instructor to choose his words carefully whilst deciding my wetsuit size. He cheerfully countered with a grin that I was most definitely an extra small, as he handed me my actual size, medium. As a nervous novice surfer I was excited yet daunted to get back in the waves, fortunately, my instructor was obviously well practiced at dealing with slightly hysterical people. His happy go lucky attitude became infectious and the lesson flew by in a series of great waves and hysterical laughing at my bales.

As I’d been getting drenched, the rest our crew were unwinding in the extremely cosy Karioi Lodge. As you relax at the Lodge you are surrounded by thick bushland and views over the endless white peaks of Whale Bay’s waves below. You’d be forgiven for thinking you were lost in your own Kiwi wilderness, rather than just around the corner from one of the most famous surf spots on the planet.

The lodge’s relaxed vibe is just what you need at the end of a busy day, guests hang out in the inviting lounge, watching films or having drinks. In the summer months the onsite bar is opened up for guests to whip off their beanies and let their salt-soaked hair down. Add to that the warm rooms and piping hot showers to defrost any frozen limbs and the people behind Karioi Lodge are on to the ultimate post surf combination.

The eco-retreat caters well to the surf crowd, with easy access to Whale Bay, board storage and a partnership with Raglan Surf school.

But whether you’re a wave junkie or not, why not take advantage of the consistently good surf breaks and rent a board or take a lesson? Alternatively if you don’t feel like surfing, the stunning location of the Lodge means a wide range of walking trails are at close hand, giving guests the opportunity to see New Zealand’s native bushland at its finest. Nightly rates for a 4 bed shared room start at $30 with $75 for a private double.

Enroute from Raglan we were given a morning to stop off in Waitomo - local population 50 and a working population of a few hundred - and a tendency for sink holes!

Thousands flock to Waitomo every year to

explore the vast expanse of caves below and arguably the best place in New Zealand to see glow worms.

Those seeking adventure spent the morning abseiling and caving whilst the rest of us were captivated by the image of thousands of pale green lights twinkling in otherwise impenetrable darkness. We all clambered back onto the coach, competing frenziedly over who had had the best morning.

That night’s introduction to Maori culture on the edge of the beautiful Lake Rotorua was one of the highlights of the week. A local Maori family helped the boys attempt to terrify us with their Haka, whilst us girls learnt to dance with poise with varying degrees of success. Cosying up together in the Marae, falling asleep listening to the love story of Hinemoa and Tutanekai, was the perfect remedy to a hectic but hilarious day. Nightly rates are $80 a night meals included.

place most New Zealanders have never heard of. The road was surrounded on all sides by cattle clinging to steep unyielding hills and unending green views of dense forests. The silence of the surroundings were punctuated only by the occasional bleats of livestock.

After being led into an inviting hunting lodge, we were given an enlightening insight into the ambitious conservation efforts of Blue Duck Lodge, such as their conservation programme and breeding efforts of the native Blue Duck.

day trek to do in New Zealand, if not one of the top 10 in the world. I had built up in my mind an image of an epic trip through dangerous icy conditions, however, any nerves were completely unfounded, as the day that unfolded was the hands down best thing that I did.

There is no shortage of activities to help get the most out of the stunning landscape at Whakahoro. The ever popular horse trek allows you to get to the heart of the dramatic terrain, whilst the Bush safari introduces guests to the agricultural and conservation work of the lodge (with the ever-cute perk of bottle feeding lambs). Many of us opted simply to go for a walk through the lush surroundings to the thundering Kaiwhakauha Falls nearby. After a busy day outside exploring the local surroundings, we all retreated to the warmth of our own private lodge with a glass of wine and a roaring fire.

eye could see was blindingly white and any fatigue was quickly forgotten as I took in the dazzling landscape surrounding me. Once we reached the summit, we allowed ourselves a few minutes to stare open mouthed at the snowy peaks of the Tongariro National Park, before settling down to lunch on pleasantly warm rocks, heated by the volcano beneath us.

After the initial rocky part of our ascent, crossing volcanic plains between the mountains, we strapped on our crampons and learnt pick axe technique before traversing a great snowy valley. Everything as far as the

At our next stop Rotorua, Lord Of The Rings fiends scurried off to Hobbiton, settling down with a pint in the ‘Green Dragon’ pub, after a morning spent peering in Hobbit holes of all shapes and sizes. Other busmate’s went white water rafting (a white knuckle experience down grade 5 rapids) checked out local geothermal activity or pampered themselves at a local Polynesian spa. The action packed town is usually a popular one to hop off at, which couldn’t be easier, just wait for the next bus to come through and book yourself on.

Our second overnight stay with a Maori family, gave us an even more personal insight to modern Maori life. Nadia and Karl, proud members of the Ngati Manawa tribe, enthusiastically enveloped us with their concept of Whanau (family) as soon as we set foot in Kohutapu Lodge.

The lodge, overlooking crystal waters of Lake Aniwhenua, provides dinner and breakfast, hot showers, laundry facilities and even an onsite ostrich in case all of that isn’t enough.

Our Maori education extended into the rest of the evening. Making the most of the generous happy hour prices at their lakeside bar, we settled down in the warm haven of Kohutapu’s Lounge with a glass of red wine and tried our hand at traditional bracelet weaving.

Next came Maori bread baking, before we further fuelled up with a Maori Hanggi, a deliciously smoky way of cooking underground. As we sat nursing our somewhat larger stomachs, Nadine opened up about the problems facing some Maori societies and their philosophy of ‘change our town through tourism’. Local natural beauty and tourist sites are being cleaned up and Stray passengers are given the chance to visit the Maori school in a cultural exchange, aiming to show the children that the whole world is in their reach. All in all, pretty Ka pai! Nightly rates start at $80 a night meals included.

A sign stating ‘Whakahoro, population 8’ was our first glimpse of the ‘Blue Duck Lodge’, a

Owner of the Lodge, Dan dreams of making New Zealand the biggest conservation project in the world starting with the lodge, and after a day at Whakahoro it’s not hard to see what inspired him. Nightly rates start at $30 per dorm bed.

The absolute climax of the week was the Tongariro Crossing. Whilst looking at the snowy peaks of Mount Tongariro in the distance, I felt my stomach flutter with nerves and excitement. The nerves intensified as we were fitted with hiking gear, crampons and ice picks.

The 19.4km trek covers the length of Mount Tongariro and is considered the best one-

Our descent was part walking and part punctuated with screeches of excitement as we ‘glissaded’ (A.K.A slid) down the slopes, before being greeted with a well done drink as we completed our trek nine hours later and on a massive high. Tours run from $175 throughout winter and not one to be missed!

My week with Stray flew by in a series of hilarious moments and new adventures.

The bus itself has a really social atmosphere giving you travel buddies from the get go.

Our hilarious driver spent most of the trip wisecracking and keeping us entertained throughout the longer drives with scenic stops, quizzes and even gum-boot throwing.

The fact that Stray helps organise all accommodation and activities means I met great people, had epic experiences and it was completely 100% stress free.

straytravel.com

Words and images by Elen Gibbons

BBM Live’s Elen Gibbons hits the road with Stray NZ to discover New Zealand’s North Island armed with their Tom Pass.

www.bbmlive.com 33

34

THE BEST OF THAILAND&CAMBODIA Looking to secure your 2017 adventures, well then look no further than Travel Talk’s brand new Asia tours including a fantastic 13 day Thailand and Cambodia land tour.

With the best rates you’ll find from here to Kathmandu, Travel Talk’s newly launched tours enable you to see the very best of what Asia has to offer at gob-smackingly good prices!

On board Travel Talk’s Best of Thailand & Cambodia tour you will arrive in Bangkok where you’ll be taken to your hotel and meet your fellow adventurers! After a good night’s rest, you’ll awake in Thailand’s capital city and have a day of getting to know and explore Bangkok. You’ll visit the stunning 24-hour flower market before visiting one of the biggest Buddha’s you’ll ever see in your

life at Wat Pho. The famous golden reclining Buddha is a sight for sore eyes and will leave you feeling dwarfed in comparison.

Next up is a tuk tuk ride to the Grand Palace before enjoying lunch and heading out on a traditional Thai long-tail boat making your way through the canals around the city. As the city unfolds into suburbia the stunning view of gilded temples, stilted houses, basking monitor lizards and local men fishing will give you your first taste of the real Thailand before checking out the wild Thai nightlife on the Khao San Road.

Following your taster of Bangkok your next stop will be Kanchanaburi where you’ll experience the Allied War Cemetery, a ride on the ‘Death Railway’ and the Hellfire Pass!

Things then calm down as you spend the night in a floating raft on the Kwai River.

From Kanchanaburi via the ancient capital

of Ayutthaya you’ll reach Chiang Mai. Here you’ll find the divine Doi Suthep Temple which sits atop a mountain summit. It’s in Chiang Mai that you can also visit the bustling Night Bazaar full of a variety of wonders including some of the best street food you’ll taste in Thailand.

Making your way back to Bangkok you’ll then cross the border to Cambodia. Driving through rice fields and sugar palms you’ll arrive in the town of Siem Reap, your launch pad to Ta Prohm where you’ll find the ancient, mystical and downright incredible Angkor Wat, which is the largest religious monument in the world.

From Siem Reap you’ll move on to Phnom Penh where you’ll stop at Spean Praptos - one of the longest bridges from the Angkorian period. Here, you can take in

the local life and rice paddy fields before arriving at Skoun to try some deep-fried tarantulas and explore the exciting nightlife.

Spending more time in Phnom Penh you’ll be able to find out more about the bloody, but important recent history of Cambodia and explore the city before your tour concludes after 13 adventure and culture filled days.

6 Day Essential Cambodia from $373 per person 7 Day Essential Thailand from $623 per person 13 Day Best of Thailand & Cambodia from $1,460 per person 14 Day Thailand, Laos & Cambodia Discovered from $2,960 per person

www.traveltalktours.com

ENCOUNTER TANZANIA

From the Ngorongoro Crater to the peak of Kilamanjaro, Tanzania is a natural marvel just waiting to welcome you to its shores.

Any overland tour throughout Africa is bound to fill you with tales of adventure.

From the desert plains of Namibia to Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls, Africa takes the crown when it comes to adventure tours. However if you want to see some of the most exciting and endangered animals on earth as well as some spectacular scenery then Tanzania is pretty high up on the bucket list when it comes to touring Africa’s eastern countries.

Tanzania is home to the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro and is also where you’ll find the Ngorongoro Crater - the cradle that holds

many of the world’s endangered species. Its within the Crater that you’ll find everything from rhino to leopards, lions and elephants all living harmoniously alongside one another in a delicate balance threatened only by man.

Tanzania is also home to the great Serengeti National Park that borders Ngorongoro where you’ll see great herds of zebra, wildebeest, impala and more as they graze on the great plains. A vast country away from the national parks you’ll also find the stunning tropical, turquoise waters and pristine beaches in Zanzibar - a group of islands just off the coast of Tanzania. It’s

here that you may be lucky enough to come across some extremely rare and indigenous creatures such as the Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey, the Zanzibar Servaline Genet, and the Zanzibar Leopard.

on your overland adventure you could even continue south to Zambia and Zimbabwe over the course of 21 days - giving you a real insight into some of the most unspoilt terrain on the entire planet.

Bordered by Kenya and Malawi, an overland tour to Tanzania can be combined by driving through and onward to other Eastern African destinations meaning you can expand your experience of Africa as you travel over the borders, meeting the local people and seeing the difference in their cultures and their way of life.

For those of you looking for a real adventure packed to the brim with wildlife, culture, adventure and more, Encounters Travel offer both 10-day and 21-day overland tours to Tanzania.

Depending on how long you have to take

Find out more about Africa adventures at www.encounterstravel.com

www.bbmlive.com 35

SKI HOLIDAYS IN ANDORRAMOROCCO

All you need to know for you weekend in the snow with Stoke You don’t need sun to have fun - come with Stoke Travel on an Andorra Snow Weekender, a European jaunt full of powder, hot tubs and apres-ski in the ever-beautiful Pyrenees.

Travellers on a budget often assume that a European snow holiday is beyond their means, but Stoke’s all-inclusive packages mean that everyone can afford to go to the snow.

HOGMANY 2016

It may be a difficult thought that Christmas and New Year are just around the corner, but fear not as First Festival Travel have got the ultimate New Year’s Eve lined up for you in Edinburgh, Scotland.

If you want to do New Year how it should be done then don’t miss out on this year’s Hogmanay. To make the most of your trip to Scotland you can embark on a Hogmanay tour that will give you all the perks of a city break with a little exploration.

After arriving at your hostel in Edinburgh you will meet your tour leader in the evening who will talk you through your itinerary for the next few days. Come nightfall you will kick off the Hogmanay festivities with a torchlight procession. A spectacle to behold this is one tradition you won’t want to miss out on, and you can even purchase your own flaming torch to join in with the Scottish tradition. You’ll then have the chance to party the night away

The Andorra Snow Weekender is just 250 euros per person and includes two nights in a three-star hotel, two breakfasts, one dinner, private coach from and to Barcelona, lift pass and ski equipment. You can hire a snowboard for just 12 euros, purchase ski insurance for 13 euros and even receive a discount if you bring your own equipment! There are trips every weekend from January to March.

That’s because Andorra is a tiny, picturesque nation-state nestled between France and Spain, just a few hours from Barcelona. We’ll collect you on Friday afternoon and get you there in time for dinner and drinks - a little warm up before you hit the slopes on Saturday morning. Don’t be scared if it’s your first time in the snow - follow our advice and you’ll go from spud to shredder in no time!

Of all the places you can hit the slopes in Europe, Andorra has a reputation for being the best value and offering guaranteed powder. Never heard of it?

Book now with the code BBM to receive a free Stoke Travel beanie – a must-have in the snowy Pyrenees Mountains!

SAILING HOLIDAYS IN GREECE

and enjoy the Edinburgh nightlife.

On New Year’s Eve you’ll be issued with your official Street Party Pass meaning you can take advantage of all the Hogmanay festivities on offer.

The day will kick off with a huge group party at The Three Sisters Pub to ring in the New Year for New Zealand at 11am and for Australia at 1pm. The party will then rage on until night falls and it’s time to go to Princes Street for the world famous street party to welcome in 2017!

Upon waking up in the brand new year you’ll be free to explore Edinburgh or simply sleep off the NYE revelry. There will be plenty going on around town to keep you entertained either way so make the most of exploring this beautiful city.

To find out more about attending Hogmanay for New Year’s Eve visit firstfestivaltravel.com

All Aboard For Summer 2017 As we hurtle toward the end of 2016 there’s just one thing on our mind, and that’s summer 2017 holidays!

If you’ve already got itchy feet about wanting to make the most of the European summer in 2017 then you’ll be pleased to know that Sail In Greece have got you covered.

Combining touring and exploring with sun soaked days, how does island hopping around Greece’s coastline sound to you? On board Sail In Greece’s island hopping cruises you can wake up after a night on the tiles in some of the Greek Island’s premier party islands and jump straight into the Mediterranean to blast off your hangover. Spend the days swimming, kayaking and exploring the islands of Ios, Mykonos, Paros and the stunning Santorini, all whilst sampling the fantastic Greek cuisine.

The good food isn’t just reserved for terra firma however! On board Sail In Greece’s yachts and ships you can expect to start your day with a delicious and filling breakfast including seasonal fruits, freshly baked bread and Greek pies.

If chilling out whilst listening to some fantastic beats and topping up your tan is your thing, then relaxing on the ship’s sun deck whilst downing a few fresh cocktails is also something you’ll find readily available whilst on a Sail in Greece Tour.

Sail In Greece operate a variety of tours to suit whatever you’re after - the Yolo Yachting tour is perfect for those of you who are after a tour alongside a group of friends, whereas the Yolo Cruise will bring you together with a whole bunch of new people for a proper party cruise around the Greek Islands. If time is of the essence you can even try out their 1 day booze cruise from Athens.

With some of the most stunning scenery to experience in Europe, cruising around the Greek Islands doesn’t sound too bad for summer 2017.

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

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VISIT THAILAND IN 2017 Want to escape in the New Year to avoid the January post Christmas blues? Thailand makes for an exotic encounter.

Group tours of Thailand offer a great opportunity to meet like minded travellers as well as the chance to soak up the peaceful culture as well as experiencing the colourful Thai nightlife.

Thailand Tour Dates For 2017 Tour operator, ThaIntro have a number of tours departing in early 2017, starting in Bangkok - Thailand’s capital city travelling to: Koh Sok National Park Koh Phangan Phi Phi Island ThaIntro offer both 9 day tours that include Thai

cooking classes, city tours, nights out in Bangkok, a visit to an elephant sanctuary as well as an add on trip to the stunning Phi Phi Island for an extra three days should you wish to extend your Thailand tour.

ThaIntro also offer diving courses in Koh Tao as well as their Chiang Mai Adventure which will show you the jewel of Northern Thailand including Hill Tribe Treks, Bamboo Rafting and Jungle Zip-Lining.

Why Choose ThaIntro?

ThaIntro is a fantastic tour company for people travelling solo as well as groups of friends. Travelling within the comfort of a group means you’re safer than going it alone.

ThaIntro’s experienced guides also know the best places to show you when it

comes to seeing the best of Thailand and can help you learn the ropes before extending your travels solo or with friends. If you’re travelling for the first time, it’s also a good way to find your feet. Intro Travel also operate in Australia and Bali with OzIntro and BalIntro - so if you’re planning on moving on after Thailand, then be sure to visit introtravel.com.

Thailand Tour Departure Dates: 10th, 14th, 18th, 21st, 24th & 28th January.

Adventure starts now, so what are you waiting for?

Mention BBM Live advert when you call on (02) 9664 7000 or internationally on +6129664 7000. Level 14, 22 Market Street, Sydney, NSW

www.thaintro.com

10% OFF CENTRAL AMERICA

How To Handle Technology While You Travel `

Outward Bound Costa Rica pride themselves on “living in the moment” and have therefore developed a no technology policy whilst students are on their courses to enable them to re-connect with nature and disconnect from technology. However, they do also understand that travelling is different for everyone, and handling your technology use while traveling can be challenging.

Moreover, when you return home from the course, you won’t have an instructor whose job it is to keep track of the time. Once you go back to your daily routine, can you still live in the moment without being consumed by technology?

Here’s a few tips from Outward Bound Costa Rica on how to handle technology whilst you travel…

1. If you’re concerned, get some international credit While you don’t need to be on your phone every time someone likes your Instagram photo, or every time someone comments on a Facebook post, having some international credit can allow you to call your loved ones when you arrive at your destination safely. It can also allow you to warn them or the people waiting to pick you up if you are delayed. If you are anxious about giving up technology, make sure you actually have access to it when you might really need it.

Knowing that you have that access will allow you to cut down phone use when you actually should – and will keep you from dropping your phone in the ocean when you’re getting ready for scuba diving or snorkelling.

2. Choose a program or trip where you won’t need your phone Going on a program where others are in charge of following the schedule and getting you to places means that you don’t actually need technology. You can dedicate your trip to reconnecting with what’s happening around you, getting insights about yourself and developing friendships with your course mates.

3. Take loads of pictures Although Outward Bound Costa Rica take phones and computers away, they are big fans of taking pictures! That way you can look back in years to come at how you surfed, hiked or took a Gap Year in Costa Rica and Panama. Also, photos are such a great way to show others

what you have been up to.

Plus, if you are a social media junkie, wait for your following to explode as you post gorgeous pictures of Central America!

4. Get postcards!

Just because you can’t text or Whatsapp doesn’t mean you can’t let others know you are thinking of them. As a student on the courses you’ll get the chance to call home at least once. However Outward Bound also has a customized postcard service, so you can send beautiful images of Costa

Rica to your friends and family whilst on a course.

While postcards may seem a bit dated, they are actually a really lovely way to let people know you are thinking of them despite the fact that you are having a blast on the other side of the world.

Outward Bound Costa Rica carry out Summer Expeditions, Girl Scout Destinations, Gap Year & Semester Programs and outdoor training.

BBM Readers get 10% Off Outward Bound River to Sea Semester Booking online at www.outwardbound.org

www.bbmlive.com 37

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

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

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

Port Stephens

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

Katoomba

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

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

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

Queensland

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

Port Douglas United Port Douglas

37 Warner Street, Port Douglas, QLD

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

Cairns

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

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

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

Western Australia Perth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wild Expeditions

Territory Expeditions

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

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

Townsville

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

OCEAN BEACH BACKPACKERS

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

Boranup

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

THINGS TO DO Skydiving iFly Downunder 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith, Sydney Ph: 1300 366 364 www.iflydownunder.com.au

Adventure Tours

Sydney Skydivers

Ph: 1800 293 7663 www.awesomewhitsundays.com

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 Dive Shed Busselton

Awesome Whitsundays Australian Kayaking Adventures

PO Box 1055, Ashmore City, QLD Ph: 04 1294 0135 www.australiankayakingadventures. com.au

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Cnr Captain Cook Highway and Cairns Western Arterial Road Smithfield, QLD Ph: 07 4038 5555 www.skyrail.com.au Contiki Ph: 1300 188 635 www.contiki.com

aussie wanderer

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

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

Margaret River Vintage Wine Tours Ph: 0417 948 933 www.winetoursmargaretriver.com.au

The Peel Region Tourism

Mulgas Adventures

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

Kakadu Wild Expeditions

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

Kakadu 4WD Safaris

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

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

Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours Vivonne Bay, Kingscote, SA

Ph: 1300 654 604 adventuretours.com.au

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

GOIN SOUTH

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

PENRITH WHITE WATER RAFTING

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

Drop Bear Adventures Ph: 1800 061 156 www.dropbearadventures.com.au

Adventure Tours australia Sydney Outback Tours Ph: 1300 307 634 www.sydneyoutback.com.au

Real Sydney Tours

Ph: 0402 049426 www.realsydneytours.com.au

The Travel Yoga Company Ph: 0411301820 www.theyogatravelcompany.com

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

The Official Home And Away Tour To Summer Bay

ADVENTURE KAYAKING

Ph: 02 9977 7890 www.yahoo7.com.au/homeandaway

Kite Surfing

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

KITE REPUBLIC

PARADISE JET BOATING

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

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

Water Activities

TRANSPORT MIGHTY CAMPERS

GREAT OCEAN ROAD SURF TOURS

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

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

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

38

CRYSTAL BALLS entire family with a knife. He then puts the murder weapon in your hand and makes an anonymous tip to police. You are duly arrested and sentenced to 20 years in prison without parole. As you’re escorted away to your cell, you spot Jonesy and the rest of the gang from the pub struggling not to laugh at the back of the courtroom. The look on your face is priceless. Classic Jonesy.

Gemini

You develop a rare but severe form of peanut allergy that results in you turning into late TV magician Paul Daniels every time you come into contact with almonds.

Capricorn

Sagittarius

You unwittingly cause a bomb scare at work when you casually ask if anyone’s seen your new Samsung Galaxy Note7.

Scorpio

You make a hilarious new friend at your local pub called “Jonesy”, who loves to play practical jokes on people. It soon becomes your turn to be the butt of one of his brilliant pranks and the loveable larrikin pulls out all the stops. He slips a couple of sleeping pills into your drink, then waits until you fall unconscious before brutally murdering your

You make a hilarious new friend at work called “Jonesy”, who loves to play practical jokes on people. Soon it’s your turn to become the butt of one of his brilliant pranks and the loveable larrikin gets you good by waiting for you outside the office toilets then chucking sulphuric acid into your eyes. The look on your face (before it melts off) is priceless and the whole office is still roaring with laughter as you’re rushed to the nearest emergency department. Classic Jonesy.

Leo

You make a small fortune by disguising yourself as a pokie machine and standing in the corner of your local pub. Unfortunately, the money you make from people slotting

ASK CRYSTAL Dear Crystal, There’s a new girl at work I really like and I’ve made a point of getting to know her. I thought things were going well, we’d laugh and smile at each other a lot, and she even gave me her phone number when I asked if she’d like to go out some time.

But recently she seems to be avoiding me, to the point where she’ll make an excuse and leave the room if I walk in. I’m not sure what’s gone wrong. Should I send her some more photos of my dick?

Yours, James Dear James, At this stage, I don’t think it will make much of a difference. Your only hope is to tell her your phone was stolen as a prank by someone at work, preferably the weirdest looking guy in the office. If by some miracle she believes you, do not under any circumstances send her any more dick pics. I can’t stress that enough. Feel free to send them to me though. I consider myself something of a collector.

Dear Crystal, I’m an 18-year-old Dublin girl and have only just started my first serious relationship with a lovely boy from London who I met in Cairns while backpacking.

We’ve been taking things pretty slow for now but he keeps trying to pressure me into giving him oral sex. I’ve told him I’m not ready to take that step just yet but I can tell he’s getting frustrated and I’m worried I’ll lose him if I don’t do it soon.

We have anal sex and threeways all the time but he says it’s not the same. What should I do?

Sincereley Alison, Dear Alison, You’re taking it up the pooper and you’re worried about putting it in your mouth? Weird. If you seriously can’t handle the thought of having his bits on your lips, my advice is to tell him you’ll only do it if he puts some chocolate on his penis and wears a blindfold while you do it. When his eyes are covered, just bring in an Alsatian and let the mucky pup lick your lad to ecstasy. Your boyfriend will never know.

Dear Crystal, I think I have serious mental health issues. I’ve killed two people already and the voices in my head keep telling me to murder again.

I can only ignore them for so long. Please help before someone else dies by my hand.

Regards, Edward Dear Edward, Sorry but I’ve run out of space for this month. Catch you next time.

coins into your mouth is spent almost entirely on medical bills to remove 124 pieces of metal from your lower intestine.

Pisces

You make a new friend called “Jonesy” after he moves in next door and you soon discover he has a great sense of humour and a love of playing practical jokes.

Somewhat inevitably, the loveable larrikin eventually turns his natural flair for pranks on you and one night, just as you’re about to fall asleep, he releases a wild and confused Bengal tiger into your bedroom and props a chair against the door to stop you escaping.

The look on your badly mauled corpse’s face is priceless and even the guys from Taronga Zoo can’t help but crack up as they are forced to euthanise the tiger. Classic Jonesy.

Virgo

You spot a gap in the market for a kind of footwear that’s more formal than a pair of trainers yet more comfortable than a pair of shoes. You call them “shooners” and you pump all your savings into the new business venture. Are they a success? Find out next month in BBM’s insolvency special.

Libra

When I get my visions for each month’s horoscope, they usually come to me in the form of 10-minute montages summing up the pertinent points of the zodiac sign’s next

30 days. When I looked at Libra this month though, I just got 10 minutes of you trying to have a shit. Eat more roughage next month and you might get a more interesting reading.

Taurus

Coca-Cola enters into a $2million product placement deal with the owners of the zodiac. As part of the deal, all Taureans are contractually obliged to take a sip of Coke Zero every hour on the hour and loudly say “Ahhh, the refreshing taste of Coke with none of the calories.”

Aquarius

Congratulations, you manage to go the entire month of November without any alcohol passing your lips. It wasn’t intentional, you’re just so unpopular that no one invites you out.

Cancer

Finally, an affordable opportunity comes up for you to get a foot on the property ladder literally. Your entire savings are just enough to buy you the lower half of a step ladder leaning against an end-of-terrace flat.

Aries

I don’t have much space left for your horoscope so I’ll keep it as brief as I can.

Eaten by shark.

JOKES What is Donald Trump telling Independents? Orange Is The New Black. Terry, St Kilda What does Donald Trump say when he can’t find his Viagra? “The erection is rigged!” Garth, Balmain Now that Macy’s has severed ties, with Donald Trump, how can the average American look like the President elect? By hunting and killing their own hair piece. Harry, Palm Beach If minorities have the race card and women have the gender card, what do rednecks have? The Trump Card.

Penny, Perth How does Donald Trump plan on deporting 12 million illegal immigrants? Juan by Juan. Jody, Newcastle What’s the difference between Donald Trump and Ronald Reagan? If Trump gets Alzheimers his IQ will go up.

Patrick, Paddington Humpty Trumpty wants a great wall. Humpty Trumpty wants Mexico to pay for it all. Ben, Darlinghust What does Trumps hair and a thong have in common?

They both barely cover the asshole. Aaron, Fremantle Wanna hear a racist joke? Donald Trump. Ryan, Collingwood If Donald Trump gets elected President, there’ll be hell toupée. Nick, Surry Hills Donald Trump has labelled Hillary Clinton “disgusting” for taking a bathroom break during the recent Democrat debate.

Trump himself never has to go to the bathroom, as the crap just comes straight out of his mouth. Sarah, Glebe Donald Trump is visiting an elementary school one day.

In one of the classes, they’re in the middle of a discussion about words and their meanings.

The teacher asks Trump if he’d like to lead the discussion of the word “tragedy.”

He agrees to do so and asks the class for an example of a tragedy.

One little boy stands up and says, “If my best friend who lives on a farm, is playing in the field and a runaway tractor comes along and runs him over and kills him, that

would be a tragedy.”

“No,” says Trump, “That would be an accident.”

Next a little girl raises her hand and says, “If a school bus carrying forty children went off a cliff, killing everyone inside, that would be a tragedy.”

“No, I’m afraid not,” says Trump. “That’s what we would call a great loss.”

The room goes silent for a while as no other children volunteer.

Trump looks around the room and says a little testily, “Isn’t there anyone here who can give me an example of a tragedy?”

At last, a little boy at the back of the class raises his hand and says, “If a private jet carrying you, Mr Trump, was struck by a missile and blown to smithereens, that would be a tragedy.”

“Fantastic!” shouts Mr Trump, “That’s exactly right. And can you tell me why that would be a tragedy?”

“Well,” says the boy, “Because it sure as hell wouldn’t be a great loss and it probably wouldn’t be an accident either.” Dave, Cottesloe

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