BNE Magazine Issue 28

FR EE YO M UR AG AZ IN E

WIN A HOLIDAY IN ULURU SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018

ESCAPE

Canada’s royal connection LA nights and more

WHAT’S ON BRISBANE FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS DAVID WILLIAMSON’S NEW WORLD PREMIERE

EAT

BRISBANE’S BEST FOOD TRUCKS

THE

ROYALS ARE COMING

Welcome to your free BNE magazine, brought to you by Brisbane Airport

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CONTENTS 4 6 8 10 36

Win a holiday at Uluru

Enter our competition for a chance to win

People with a passion for aviation four ways

Why we love the People’s Prince Books

Good reads for any journey, from family dramas to epics for the long haul

ESCAPE 14 10 ways to see Uluru

20 24 42

New flights direct from Brisbane to Ayers Rock Airport make it even easier to visit

LA nights

When the sun goes down in Los Angeles the city is alive with things to do

Royal engagement

Why Victoria in British Columbia should be on your bucket list

Escape Extra

In the footsteps of James Bond; Air Canada flight review; top lodge

More Escape Extra

Treetop dining; tidal sculpture gallery; cabin upgrade auction, and more

10 things to do in Toowoomba Pet-perfect itineraries, train rides, mountain hikes, and more

From light and healthy to decadent, there’s plenty of choice at Brisbane Airport

Brisbane’s best food trucks

The new way to eat takeaway and where to find it

WHAT’S ON 32 David Williamson’s world premiere

How Prince Harry has become our favourite royal

Jewellery designer Christie Nicolaides shares her chic picks

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High on flying

STYLE 12 Secrets of style

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TASTE 28 Breakfast in transit

Brisbane Airport News

Dining award win; new security screening rules; more flights to Whitsundays and more

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oyal fever is about to sweep the country again as our favourite prince arrives to host the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney, an event he initiated following his own military service, as he says, “to help the world understand and be inspired by the spirit of those who wear the uniform”.

As host nation, Australia will field its largest team of competitors yet. Find out what the Games mean to some of the Brisbane-based entrants on page 10.

With the start of Spring, it’s natural to start daydreaming about holidays and there’s plenty of inspiration in this issue, from the red hot reasons to visit Uluru to the royal links to one of Canada’s most picture-perfect cities.

Start planning here…

The bitter rivalry, battle for fame and madness behind a great discovery

33

Brisbane Festival highlights

34

Hitchcock thriller

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What makes a home; the answers kids want; sit in on a séance, and more Stage adaptation of a Hitchcock masterpiece; festival with an island vibe; Priscilla bus stops in Brisbane, and more

Events calendar

What’s happening around the city

GALLERY 37 Day in the life

People in transit at Brisbane Airport

NEED TO KNOW 38 Helpful information for

BNE magazine is published bi-monthly

by Brisbane Airport Corporation.

visitors to Brisbane Airport

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Destination map Brisbane region map

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Brisbane Airport Corporation Corporate Communications and Media Manager: Leonie Vandeven Managing Editor: Heather McWhinnie (editor@bnemagazine.com.au) Advertising sales: advertising@bnemagazine.com.au Designers: Leanne Thompson and Mhari Hughes, PrintPublish. Cover: Mark Cuthbert/Getty Images Image, top: Meunierd/Shutterstock.com ©2018 Brisbane Airport Corporation The contents of this publication are not for reproduction, redistribution or reuse by any means whatsoever or in any form whatsoever without express permission of the publisher. Advertising: all advertisements in BNE magazine are the responsibility of advertisers. Advertising is accepted on the understanding that it does not contravene the Trade Practices Act. Responsibility is not accepted by BNE magazine for statements made or the failure of any product or service to give satisfaction. The publication of any material or editorial does not necessarily constitute endorsement of views or opinions expressed. While every effort is made to avoid errors, some information contained in the publication may be superceded.

I QUEENSLAND 26 Steve Parish

Photographer, artist, educator BNE September/October 2018 | 5

BRISBANE AIRPORT NEWS

More flights to

whitsundays

It’s been almost 18 months since Cyclone Debbie devastated the Whitsunday Coast in far north Queensland but it hasn’t dampened tourism to the region. A record number of passengers travelled through the local airport in the last financial year, making it one of the fastest growing regional airports in the country.

To help meet demand Virgin Australia has boosted its services between Brisbane and Whitsunday Coast Airport with three extra flights per week, departing Monday, Thursday and Friday, while Whitsunday Coast Airport has recently completed a runway upgrade and terminal expansion.

Flight details at www.virginaustralia.com

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Korean Air which has been flying between Brisbane and its home hub in Seoul, South Korea, for 25 years with passenger numbers booming to more than 110,000 last year. Korean Air connects Brisbane travellers to one of the world’s widest networks that includes 127 cities across Europe, North America and Asia. It flies four times weekly between BNE and Seoul.

DESTINATION DUBBO

Flight details at www.koreanair.com

ECO SMART FAIR

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risbane Airport Corporation is partnering with CitySmart to host its annual EcoFair on 4-7 October at Skygate shopping and dining precinct. The fair showcases simple and fun ways to incorporate eco-friendly principles into everyday life, including daily workshops, free plant giveaways, electric vehicle displays and more. Free event, 10am-3pm daily.

Regional airline Fly Corporate has added Dubbo, NSW, to its destination network launching daily services between the city and Brisbane. Fly Corporate’s regional network from Brisbane includes Armidale, Biloela (Thangool), Coffs Harbour, Inverell, Moree, Narrabri, Orange and Tamworth.

Flight details at www.flycorporate.com.au

a crust above French-style bakery Upper Crust opened its first Australian outlet at Brisbane Airport and it has been a recipe for success. Their crispy baguettes, filled with local ingredients and made fresh daily in store, are not only a hit with customers the outlet was named Regional Winner (Asia Pacific) in the Food to Go category at the international Airport Food and Beverage (FAB) Awards. Find Upper Crust on Level 2, after security, at the Virgin Australia end of Domestic Terminal.

6 | BNE September/October 2018

WORLD’S BEST AIRLINES

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ix of the top 10 airlines in the annual Skytrax’s World Airline Awards operate international services direct from Brisbane Airport. Singapore Airlines took out top spot as World’s Best Airline for the fourth year in a row and was named World’s Best First Class, Best Airline in Asia and Best First Class Airline Seat in the 2018 rankings.

Others in the top 10 are Emirates (4), EVA Air (5), Cathay Pacific (6), Hainan Airlines (8) and Thai Airways (10). The awards are based on surveys of more than 20 million travellers who rated more than 335 airlines between August 2017 and May 2018.

NEW RULE FOR POWDERS

SURF LIFESAVING SENDS OUT AN

SOS International passengers are now required to present all powders in their carry-on baggage separately for screening as new restrictions have come into force on some types of powders. Most common powders, such as cosmetics, baby formula, coffee, sugar and spices remain unrestricted however others, such as some talcum powders, salt and salt scrubs, sand (including souvenirs with sand or granular matter inside such as snow domes), certain foot powders, powdered deodorants and so on are limited to volumes of less than 350ml per passenger. To check the list and the regulations search the security screening guidelines under passenger information at www.bne.com.au

Surf lifesaver Chloe McGrath (above) may be a member of Queensland’s smallest surf club – at Coochiemudlo Island in Moreton Bay – but it didn’t stop her raising more than $18,000 for Surf Life Saving Queensland and earning an Innovation Award for her initiative to hold an Emergency Services Community Awareness day in Redland Bay. McGrath, who is also a professional lifeguard at Streets Beach at South Bank, was one of 11 surf lifesavers who raised a combined $500,000 as part of the Summer Surf Program to help fund surf lifesaving activities.

It is estimated that more than 3 million people went to Queensland beaches last summer where surf lifesavers carried out 1,178 rescues, 11,275 first aid treatments and volunteered close to 390,000 hours on patrol. This year, Surf Life Saving Queensland is hoping to raise $350,000 during its annual SOS Week on 15-21 October when volunteer members will be collecting donations in the city and at the Gold Coast 600. Brisbane Airport is a proud supporter of Surf Lifesaving Queensland and donations can be made online at www.lifesaving.com.au

BOOST FOR MINI FARM PROJECT When Nick Steiner enrolled in a permaculture course he put his knowledge to good use, growing and harvesting produce in his own backyard which he then donated to his local community action centre to help people in need.

Steiner’s boss was so impressed with what he was doing that his company, Wine & Dine’m catering and events, offered to sponsor the project and to give up land behind their warehouse to be used for garden beds. Three years later that project has grown to become the Mini Farm Project, now cultivating food from three urban locations in Brisbane for distribution to organisations including Caboolture Community Action, Wesley Mission and food relief agencies such as Food Bank, SecondBite, OzHarvest and FairShare.

In the last two years the Mini Farm Project has donated more than 300kg of fresh produce, grown and harvested with the help of volunteers who work every weekend with Steiner across the ‘mini farms’, established as part of a land share scheme, from inner city Spring Hill to suburban Camp Hill.

The Mini Farm Project is also one of the latest community organisations to receive a grant from Brisbane Airport’s Community Giving Fund which it is using to purchase more seedlings, fertiliser and chickens for a new coop at its Camp Hill site. Brisbane Airport handed out $52,000 in cash grants last financial year and applications for the next round of grants are now open until 30 September 2018, for details search ‘community giving fund’ at www.bne.com.au In the meantime the Mini Farm Project welcomes volunteers at its sites on any weekend. Find out how to contribute at www.mfp.org.au

BNE Maps + More Download the Brisbane Airport app to access important flight information, terminal maps and parking, shopping and dining options at the airport. Add your itinerary and more. Available free for iPhone and Android at Google play and App Store

Follow Brisbane Airport

BNE September/October 2018 | 7

FEATURE

High ON flying

Steve Boyd

THE PILOT As a senior captain with Cathay Pacific Airways flying the Airbus A330 and A350 from his Brisbane base, Steve Boyd’s job is to get passengers to their destination as smoothly as possible. However, when he’s off-duty and taking passengers on Fighter Pilot adventure flights, things are a little different.

Boyd, 48, is the owner of two vintage warbirds including an Aero Vodochody L39 Albatross built in 1988 that served with the Ukranian Air Force until it was brought to Australia in 2006, and a 1944 CAC Wirraway that served with the RAAF from 1945 until 1959.

“Being able to share the experience of flying in these aircraft with others is really what it’s all about for me,” he says. As one of the Fighter Pilot team, Boyd takes his thrill-seeking passengers up to speeds of 700km per hour performing aerobatic manoeuvres such as loops, rolls and flying upside down. In the Wirraway – one of only three still flying in Australia – he approaches aerobatics more gently but there’s still a few loops and rolls in between some nice big wingovers.

Boyd started flying gliders at 16 and earned his commercial pilot’s licence 15 months after finishing high school. “I’ve always been fascinated with all aspects of aviation and my interest in warbirds began at an early age while attending various air shows. Seeing and hearing these magnificent machines in their natural element resonated with me,” he says.

As a Fighter Pilot, Boyd also takes part in air shows and flypasts.

Find out more about adventure flights at www.fighterpilot.com.au

8 | BNE September/October 2018

Images: Steve Boyd by Mark Greenmantle; Zac George by Marc Grimwade

When Charles Kingsford Smith landed in Brisbane after completing the first trans-pacific flight from California in 1928, he received a hero’s welcome from thousands gathered at Eagle Farm. Today, we’re no less fascinated by the art of flying and some go the extra mile to satisfy their passion, as Tonya Turner discovers …

THE PLANE SPOTTER An innocent trip to Brisbane Airport in 2012 with a friend seeing his father off to the US on a Qantas 747 turned out to be a fateful encounter for Lance Broad. “As it departed, the sound and presence of the 747 got me hooked. It was intriguing how something so big got off the ground,” he says.

Ever since, Broad, 34, has been a regular plane spotter. By day he’s an assistant retail store manager but on his own time Broad heads out at least once a week to the best vantage points for capturing planes of all sorts on camera. He also travels the world as much as he can, taking the opportunity to go plane spotting in places such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Orlando, Alaska, the Caribbean and Europe.

“I didn’t know plane spotting was really a thing until I started meeting people who do it on forums,” he says. Broad now has his own Facebook page focussed on his hobby – YBBN Spotters – which showcases hundreds of his aircraft images and has attracted more than 11,000 followers.

But it’s not all about keeping up with appearances. Broad and his fellow spotters are so familiar with the sounds of different aircraft that they can name a model flying overhead without looking, just by the sound and pitch of the engine.

“If you are on the ramp late in the night as a GE-90 on a Boeing 777-300ER fires up, all of the different sounds are like music, simply because of the engineering,” he says.

For Lance, the 747 will always be his first love. “It’s where it all began for me. The 747 is iconic and special because of its beautiful shape and what it did for aviation – the routes it could fly – when it was built,” he says.

Find out more about plane spotting at Brisbane Airport at www.bne.com.au

Lance Broad

THE COLLECTOR Peter Crouch’s lifelong affair with aviation began when he was just 17 years old. After World World II when the Australian government was encouraging a new generation to learn to fly, Peter seized the opportunity to get subsidised lessons and took to the skies. Over the years he continued flying, working and volunteering in the aviation industry, co-founding the Ballarat Aviation Museum, working for Boeing Defence Australia ordering parts and equipment for F1-11s and helping save Brisbane’s historic Hangar 7 as part of the Eagle Farm Aviation Society.

Crouch is now in his 70s and has built an impressive collection of aviation memorabilia over the years, loaning or donating items to various museums around the country. “I just love machinery and flying,” he says.

His collection includes items big and small, from a Hercules military aircraft four blade propeller and a nose cone “that looks like Darth Vader’s helmet” to aircraft instruments, silk maps and metal buttons with hidden compasses from military pilots’ coats.

“In those days they didn’t have navigation aids or GPS like we do today.

If pilots or air crew were taken prisoner and escaped or got lost, they used a compass and a map to find their way back,” he says.

The silk maps were lightweight, easy to conceal, waterproof and virtually indestructible. Amongst the aircraft instruments stored in Peter’s garage in Ipswich are an airspeed indicator and altimeter, but neither come close to his most prized possession – his uncle’s bomber pilot logbook. “I consider that a very valuable asset. In my eyes it’s irreplaceable. You can always buy instruments but you can’t buy a pilot’s logbook,” he says.

THE BLOGGER

Zac George

When it comes to travelling, Brisbane teenager Zac George, 18, is much more interested in the journey than the destination.

“My grandfather was a pilot at a young age so flying runs in the family.

He would show me pictures of aircraft and tell me stories about them. On the weekends we’d often go down to the airport viewing locations and just watch take-offs and landings for hours,” he says.

George left school in Year 10 to pursue his passion for aviation. Inspired by the blog ‘One Mile at a Time’ he soon developed a strategy to get the most mileage, literally, out of frequent flyer points. One year, he took 156 flights mostly using points, but it’s one of his first flights, paid for with hard-earned dollars, that is still his favourite. George was the youngest passenger (buying his own ticket) to board Etihad’s Residence (a three-room suite on their A380 with butler service ) two years ago and it took him two years to save for the eye-watering $20,000 fare, but it also earned him an audience for his budding blog and it is still his most popular post so far.

Writing on ‘Points from the Pacific’, Zac details how to use credit cards and spend money strategically to earn the most points from various airlines. This includes holding multiple credit cards (paid in full each month), categorising your spending, joining frequent flyer programs with good airline partnerships and using points only for international flights.

These days Zac travels overseas on first or business class about once a month with domestic flights in between, but just in case you’re feeling a little green with envy, there is a downside. “Fatigue and sickness can come with constant travel,” he says.

Read Zac George’s blog at www.pointsfromthepacific.boardingarea.com BNE September/October 2018 | 9

COVER STORY

Prince Harry prefers to be out of the spotlight at the events he supports but when he arrives at the Invictus Games in Australia in October we’ll all be watching.

Story by Tonya Turner

WHY WE LOVE

THE PEOPLE’S PRINCE 10 | BNE September/October 2018

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ver the years the world has watched Prince Harry grow from a baby in the arms of his loving mother, to a griefstricken 12-year-old at her funeral, a rebellious teenager, a young soldier and to a loving husband. Although his older brother William is second in line to the throne, it is Princess Diana’s youngest son who has captured the hearts of the people, inspiring a new generation as his mother, popularly known as the People’s Princess, once did.

Before his worldwide adoration and tradition-busting royal wedding to American actress Meghan Markle earlier this year, Prince Harry, who turns 34 this month, had a tough time finding his place in the world, but over the years the public has forgiven him for his missteps. Combined with his charm, warmth and good humour, it seemed the more mistakes he made, the more relatable he became.

His willingness to crack jokes, laugh and play football with kids, share popcorn with a sneaky toddler and build genuine relationships through his charity Sentebale, which supports the wellbeing of children and young people affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Africa, also has gone a long way to making Harry the most popular member of the Royal Family after the Queen.

Perhaps more than anything, Harry’s popularity can be largely attributed to his military career. In 2005 he started training to be an officer with the British Army and the following year a public debate erupted over whether he should serve with his unit in Iraq on an upcoming deployment.

“There’s no way I’m going to put myself through (the Royal Military Academy) Sandhurst and then sit on my arse back home while my boys are out fighting for their country,” he said. In the end, the decision was made for him that, due to safety concerns for both Harry and the unit, he wouldn’t be allowed to go. But Harry seemed to have finally found a sense of purpose and belonging. In 2008 he would go on to serve in Afghanistan, becoming the first member of the Royal Family since Prince Andrew in 1982 to serve in a war zone.

Harry served again in Afghanistan in 2012-13 as a helicopter co-pilot and gunner with the Army Air Corps. It was later in 2013 on a trip to the Warrior Games in the US that Harry witnessed the positive impact sport could have on the recovery of wounded, injured and ill servicemen and women. He vowed to create a similar event in the UK and in 2014 the first Invictus Games were held in London with more than 400 competitors from 13 nations.

The second Games were held in Florida in 2016 before the event went annual. In 2017 it was held in Toronto, when Harry told the world: “Invictus is about the example to the world that all service men and women, injured or not, provide about the importance of service and duty. The true scale of this example was brought home to me when I left Afghanistan after my first deployment there in 2008. As I was waiting to board the plane, the coffin of a Danish soldier was loaded on by his friends. Once on the flight, I was confronted with three British soldiers, all in induced comas, with missing limbs, and wrapped in plastic. The way I viewed service and sacrifice changed for ever. And the direction of my life changed with it. I knew that it was my responsibility to use the great

platform that I have to help the world understand and be inspired by the spirit of those who wear the uniform.”

The Invictus Games in Sydney will be the biggest yet, with more than 500 competitors from 18 nations competing in 11 adaptive sports.

Brisbane-based Emma Kadziolka, 29, a nursing officer in the Australian Army is one of them. It is her second year taking part in the Invictus Games and her experience as co-captain last year is one she’ll never forget.

“It was an absolute privilege to represent the team we had last year in Toronto. I was overwhelmed I got named, but it’s nice to be recognised by your team-mates and in return do the right thing by them,” she says.

Emma was diagnosed with a brain tumour in November 2016. While the outlook for its progression is unclear, signing up for the Invictus Games to compete in indoor rowing and athletics has helped keep Emma in top physical and mental condition. “Being in a team environment is very important for your mental health, for coming to terms with potentially bad news or to rehabilitate an injury. If you’re around likeminded people it goes a long way to your recovery,” she says.

The competitive nature of the Invictus Games has also been a huge motivation. “Anyone can go to the gym or do a circuit but if you’re actually training towards something I find that you put in a lot more and it keeps you honest and focussed,” Emma says.

Squadron leader Amanda Scott says the Australian athletes have benefitted greatly from the Games over the years as they have helped to assist rehabilitation and recovery. “A lot of the competitors say, too, that it’s about the friendships they make,” she says.

Trent Forbes, 40, served in the army from 1997 until 2016. It is his first year competing in the Invictus Games and he’s found his cycling training has been critical in keeping him physically active and engaged with the community. It is also helping his mental and physical rehabilitation from injuries relating to multiple deployments in Timor-Leste and Afghanistan.

“The biggest thing for me is my continued recovery … the Invictus Games is another level for me to continue to push myself and improve myself. I’m doing cycling to push my limits. It’s like anything in life, the more you do it the better you become,” he says.

His wife Shelley and their two daughters aged nine and 11 will be in Sydney to cheer him on. “Shelley is looking forward to meeting Meghan and Prince Harry. They do float around the event so I’m sure it will happen. He definitely brings a lot of awareness to some of the issues within the veteran community so that will be a highlight,” Trent says.

Emma has already met Prince Harry twice, first in Sydney for the launch of this year’s Games and in Toronto. “His presence is very much felt around the athletes because he spends a lot of time with them rather than with the media which is nice. He comes up, has a chat, has a joke, he’s very personable and a very good ambassador for veterans’ affairs and current serving people. To hear him speak is very motivational when he talks about his experiences … He’s served and he understands and he’s using his position in society to help others, and by doing that he earns a lot of respect from us,” she says.

The 2018 Invictus Games is on in Sydney 20-27 October. See www.invictusgames2018.org

Prince Harry meets competitors. Centre, right: Trent Forbes training; and bottom, Donna Young with Prince Harry

Left: Emma Kadziolka in training Images: opposite page, this page top left, far right/Getty Images; others this page, Australian Defence Force

BNE September/October 2018 | 11

STYLE

Style Icon

Christie Nicolaides Jewellery designer

With her onyx eyes, ruby lips and bold jewel-toned prints, jewellery designer Christie Nicolaides cuts a regal figure in Brisbane. Here, she tells Emily Deacon about the inspirations that inform both her personal style and her sought-after collections Photography by Lucy Laucht

“You can’t wear a big pair of earrings without a bold lip,” says Nicolaides, who is rarely seen without either. With her jet-black tresses, Dolce & Gabbana prints and statement jewels, the Brisbane beauty looks as though she has jetted into Queensland from Cinecittà studios in Rome. Nicolaides’ penchant for cinematic glamour is evident in her dramatic jewellery collections, treasured by A-listers and stylish women everywhere, and in her unfailingly groomed appearance. This is a woman who wears fragrance to bed.

A former stylist, Nicolaides launched her own jewellery brand in 2015. The collection includes gold-plated, stone-studded earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets that recall Byzantine antiquities (except in the price). Her shoulder-grazing, doorknocker earrings, in particular, cry out for a special occasion.

How did you begin designing jewellery?

“I’ve always been a collector of jewellery and accessories, and growing up with a grandmother and a mother who were really into fashion helped. My playbox was full of vintage pieces and Valentino costume jewellery. I decided to start designing my own because I felt I couldn’t find what I was looking for. I noticed there was a gap in the market for really good, high-end costume jewellery. It turned into a full-time job quickly.”

How would you describe your personal style?

“I always aim to be polished and glamorous, and dress appropriately for where I’m going. I love bold colours, fun prints and I often start with the jewellery. I dress for my shape, that’s the stylist part of me. I’m always conscious of wearing flattering pieces that feel beautiful, look beautiful on and move beautifully when I walk. I am very measured and careful with how I put things together, and accessories are a big focus.”

How important is travel when you’re designing your collections?

“It’s vital in terms of sourcing stones, working with my manufacturers, and ensuring the collections are exciting. Plus, a lot of my inspiration comes from seeing how other women dress. Rome is one of my favourite places to observe women. Some would argue that the fashion in Italy is very classic but then you get this beautiful mixture of old Italian style and avant-garde fashion that comes through in Milan. And how can you not be inspired visiting the Punta della Dogana museum in Venice or staying in a palazzo on the Grand Canal?”

12 | BNE September/October 2018

What’s your skin care routine?

Does your Greek heritage also inform your designs?

“I try to go back to Greece every summer. Greek women and European women approach fashion and jewellery in a different way. What might seem ostentatious here is definitely natural and normal in Europe. I love style-conscious European women with perfect hair and nails.

Beauty is a focus that flows across every aspect of their lives, from the way they cook to the way they decorate their homes to how they dress.

That’s who I always have in mind.”

There’s an ancient Greek opulence at play in your work. How do you take something with an old-school feel and make it modern?

“I love antiquities. One thing I get from ancient jewellery is that beautiful yellow gold. Those pieces look so wonderfully old, fragile and aged.

I’ll take elements from them, such as the colour of the gold and the shapes within them, but then I’ll blow them up to bigger proportions to make them more contemporary. I have always looked to runway jewellery from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s too which is big and bold.”

Do you like to match your lip colour to your accessories?

“Yes, it’s playful and it’s fun! I also match colours with my outfit and with my manicure. I know that sounds a bit ’80s but I love it. Depending what I have coming up, I have my nails done and I make sure my lipstick matches. There’s no point wearing beautiful clothes and jewellery if your hair and nails aren’t done.”

“I’m very big on moisturiser! I moisturise nearly three times a day. Every second night I use Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel. I find they’ve made such a big difference to my skin. I love Chantecaille Vital Essence and La Mer The Treatment Lotion. I also love Flower Harmonizing Cream from Chantecaille and I use Chantecaille Stress Repair Concentrate as my eye cream. I do most of my skin care regime at night, before I go to bed. In the past I’ve also used the Darphin Intral Air Mousse Cleanser as part of my morning routine.”

And your fragrance of choice?

“I love Une Rose by Frederic Malle. It is so lush.

I always spray myself after a shower before I go to bed – I feel like it is so lovely going to bed smelling beautiful.”

Read more about Mecca muse Christie Nicolaides’ personal style and other style icons in The Mecca Memo at www.mecca.com.au and shop her look at Mecca Maxima, Level 2, Domestic Terminal, Brisbane Airport.

Shop Christie Nicolaides’ jewellery collections at www.christienicolaides.com.au

“I always spray myself after a shower before I go to bed – it is so lovely going to bed smelling beautiful.”

We hear that NARS Audacious Lipstick in Annabella is a go-to colour…

“Yes, I love it! I did play with some beautiful Rodin lipsticks recently, and they’re nice to layer.

I like that opaque, matte-finish lipstick. I love that strong pigment which is why ‘Annabella’ is so beautiful.”

BNE September/October 2018 | 13

ESCAPE

WAYS U TO SEE ULURU

New direct flights between Brisbane and Uluru make it even easier to visit this natural wonder

This page, above: Uluru, photographed by Stanislav Fosenbauer/ Shutterstock.com. Opposite page, clockwise from top left: the annual Uluru Camel Cup; stargazing on an Astro tour; bush tucker cooking demonstrations and tastings are among the dining experiences at Ayers Rock Resort; Bruce Munro’s Festival of Light, all images Ayers Rock Resort 14 | BNE September/October 2018

luru is an ‘island mountain’ which began its formation more than 550 million years ago and, risen from the sea, now stands a majestic 348 metres above ground. However, perhaps even more startling, about 2.5km of it is, in fact, underground. What you’re really seeing is the tip of a huge, hot, red iceberg.

By road, the ‘Rock’, as it’s often called by locals, is more than 450km from Alice Springs but Jetstar now flies direct from Brisbane to Ayers Rock Airport, only about 20 minutes drive from the Rock itself, making it easier than ever to visit the World Heritage-listed area. Here’s a quick guide to the best ways to experience Uluru.

1. The walk around the base of Uluru is more than 10km and can take

almost four hours but it’s well worth the effort to fully appreciate the natural and cultural beauty of the Rock. If this seems daunting there are shorter guided walks such as the free daily Mala Walk which is 2km return and hosted by park rangers. The 90-minute walk offers a snapshot of the traditional Anangu culture, rock art and how the park is managed. The Mala Walk has wheelchair access.

Another easy walk around part of the base of Uluru is the short track to Mutitjulu waterhole, home of a wanampi, an ancestral watersnake, and a place to see cascading waterfalls in times of rain.

For more walks information see www.parksaustralia.gov.au

2. A self-guided cycling trail around the base of Uluru can be completed in less than three hours and signs along the way describe important cultural and natural features of this sacred site that has been home to Aboriginal people for at least 30,000 years. Bike hire $50 per person (less for children age 6 or under). See www.outbackcycling.com

3. Dining is a unique experience, from a Desert Awakenings

7. Uluru is a sacred site for the Traditional Owners and it can have a

8. Low humidity and light pollution allow stargazers of all ages a

9. Bruce Munro’s brilliant Field of Light installation will continue to

breakfast outdoors to watch the sunrise, followed by a guided walk at the base of Uluru, to the Sounds of Silence and Tali Wiru dinners against the backdrop of Uluru under the stars.

See www.ayersrockresort.com.au

4. The cave paintings at Cave Hill, about 100km from Uluru and

accessible on a 4WD day tour, illustrate the Seven Sisters Tjukurpa (creation story) which is explained by a local Anangu guide through the Songlines of their traditional homeland. Views from the top of the hill extend to Uluru, Mount Conner and the Musgrave Ranges.

Cost $280 per adult. See www.seitoutbackaustralia.com.au

5. One of the most interesting and leisurely ways to travel at Uluru

is by camel and tours range from 90 minutes to longer sunset and sunrise tours, starting from the camel farm at Yulara which is also home to the annual Uluru Camel Cup (24-25 May 2019).

Once you’ve been on one you’ll appreciate the skill of the riders to stay on at a gallop! At the Cup, visitors dress up for Fashions on the Field, festivities take over the Outback Pioneer Hotel, there’s a gala ball and plenty of family-friendly activities. See www.ulurucameltours.com.au

6. The Australian Outback Marathon (celebrating its 10th year on

27 July 2019) attracts runners from all over the world. The 42km course does not circle Uluru but it does offer great views of both the Rock and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) along the way and, while the trail is mostly flat and unsealed surface, there are a few small sand dunes thrown in to add to the challenge. There are shorter courses ranging from 6km to suit different abilities of runners.

See www.australianoutbackmarathon.com

spiritual impact on many visitors so it’s no surprise it is a popular site for wellness retreats where the focus is meditation, mindfulness and life-changing workshops between desert tours, stories around the campfire and more. Uluru Wellness Retreat (7-13 September 2018, see www.businessisbliss.com) and Desert Dreaming Yoga Retreat (20-28 April 2019, see www.northernterritory.com) are two examples. spectacular view of the southern skies on a nightly Astro Tour or at the annual Uluru Astronomy Weekend (14-16 September 2018) hosted by leading astronomers. The enlightening weekend includes activities, demonstrations, astro-photography, a starlit dinner, discussions on cosmic events, the Universe, dark matter, Aboriginal astronomy and navigation and more. See www.ayersrockresort.com.au light up every night year-round at Uluru until December 2020.

The installation of 50,000 solar-powered light stems comes to life after sunset and tours range from walks through the Field of Light to scenic helicopter flights overhead, some with dinner or canapés and sparkling wine included. Prices from $42 per adult to $615 per adult. See www.ayersrockresort.com.au

10. Ayers Rock Resort is a one-stop-shop for accommodation at Uluru, with options from camping to 5-star luxury. It also offers access to all kinds of experiences in addition to those mentioned here, including scenic flights, dot-painting workshops and Segway tours. Free activities for hotel guests include Indigenous theatre performances with insight to local legends, as well as bush tucker cooking demonstrations and guided nature tours. See www.ayersrockresort.com.au

GETTING THERE Jetstar flies direct between Brisbane and Uluru three times weekly. See www.jetstar.com

LA nights ESCAPE

D

Daytime in Los Angeles is the time to stroll Venice Beach, tour the movie studios, shop the malls, even hike the Hollywood Hills, but when night falls another side of the city awakens. This is when the town comes alive with dining, music, club crawls and more. Explore LA after hours guided by this three-night itinerary …

NIGHT 1

Start by checking into the right hotel and you won’t have to travel far for a good night out. Mondrian Los Angeles is located right on Sunset Strip, close to Fox Studios, Paramount Pictures, Staples Center, Dodgers Stadium, Hollywood Hills, Santa Monica, Rodeo Drive and Getty Museum.

Choose a room with panoramic views of the city and the night lights will be a perfect backdrop to your own private happy hour before splurging on California cuisine at the restaurant, Ivory on Sunset. After

16 | BNE September/October 2018

Prepare for a busy nightlife on a visit to Los Angeles where chic boutique hotels, dozens of hipster bars and a vibrant music, theatre and art scene vie for attention

sundown DJs step up the beat at Skybar, the open-air ivy covered pavilion poolside that stays open until late (and non-guests are welcome after 1pm daily). Find it at 8440 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood.

While controversy still surrounds Brisbane’s own Whiskey Au Go Go nightclub, long ago destroyed by fire, the legendary Whisky A Go Go which opened on Sunset Strip in 1964, still stands just a five-minute Uber drive from the Mondrian. The historical landmark has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and, in its heyday, was the launch pad for ‘go-go dancing’ and host to a long list of bands including The Doors, Led Zeppelin, The Who, Blondie, The Police, Van Halen, Guns N’ Roses, Metallica and Mötley Crüe. Today its regular jam nights host emerging and established artists. Find it at 8901 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood.

Other famous music venues nearby include the Rainbow Room and the Roxy (both a couple of blocks west on Sunset), and the Viper Room on Sunset Boulevard just east of the Whisky.

NIGHT 2 After a day of following in the footsteps of celebrities, from the forecourt of the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard to a Starline tour of celebrity homes (or the TMZ Secrets tour) drop into the original Barney’s Beanery in West Hollywood. The diner serves up everything from breakfast burritos and burgers to chilli and foot-long hot dogs and has been the drop in spot for generations of movie stars, authors, pop artists, pop culture icons and rock and roll legends, from Marilyn Monroe and Marlon Brando to Jim Morrison and Janis Joplin. Find it at 8447 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood.

Alternatively, you may score a celebrity sighting of co-owner Ryan Gosling should he drop in to check his investment at Tagine, the modern Moroccan in Beverly Hills run by amiable chef Ben Benameur (Sean Penn, Meryl Streep and Keanu Reeves have all been snapped there in recent months). Find it at 132 N Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills.

Aim for an early sitting because the meeting time at the first venue on an LA Epic Club Crawl is 8-8.30pm on Friday and Saturday nights.

Opt for a Hollywood or Downtown LA tour with VIP entry to venues (up to four per night) from the luxe, such as The Reserve, The Room and W Station at the W Hotel and the large, such as Exchange LA, to the Tim Burton-themed Beetle House and boisterous Rusty Mullet sports bar. See www.laepiclosangeles.com

Opposite page: Skybar by the pool at Mondrian Los Angeles has a view of Sunset Strip. This page, from left: Upstairs rooftop bar at Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles; the lobby at Theatre at Ace Hotel. Above: MidCentury Modern interior of Birds & Bees on Broadway; Elvis Presley cocktail – peanut infused bourbon with banana bread on the side

NIGHT 3 The historic Theatre at Ace Hotel is a restored 1600-seat movie palace, a cathedral to the arts, with a three-storey-high grand lobby, an ornate open balcony and a vaulted ceiling dotted with thousands of mirrors that glimmer like tiny stars. The theatre was built in 1927 as the flagship movie palace for United Artists and has been delicately restored to host a wide variety of events, from music concerts to dance performances and film festivals. Take in a performance or just enjoy cocktails and an unforgettable sunset at the adjoining Ace Hotel’s rooftop bar before dinner. Find it at 929 S Broadway, Los Angeles.

The newly remodelled boutique hotel inside the historic building is also a good starting point for the Downtown Art Walk which takes place on the second Thursday of every month between 6pm and 10pm. Either follow the map on a self-guided walk or take the guided tour of galleries, artist studios and cultural institutions and enjoy pop-ups, openings and special events scheduled on these nights. See www.downtownartwalk.org After some serious art appreciation seek out Birds & Bees, a Mid-Century Modern inspired speakeasy in the basement of a Downtown office tower.

Amidst the exposed foundations, steel and concrete interiors, furnishings look like they are straight from a Mad Men bachelor pad. Follow the wooden fence alongside the red brick wall at the northwest corner of the parking lot to find the secret entrance, and descend to find a creative cocktail menu that includes such gems as the Twirly Mustache (London dry gin, coffee sherry, lemon, egg white, house bitters and black cherry coffee bitters) or the Elvis Presley (peanut infused bourbon with banana bread on the side) and punch bowls. Find it at 207 S Broadway, Los Angeles.

Find more guides to the nightlife of LA at www.discoverlosangeles.com

GETTING THERE Qantas has launched its daily Dreamliner service direct between Brisbane and Los Angeles, with onward connections to New York. See www.qantas.com BNE September/October 2018 | 17

ESCAPE

R OYA L ENGAGEMENT Victoria is steeped in the majesty of its namesake but that’s not the only reason the capital of British Columbia should be on your bucket list, writes Leonie Vandeven

Clutching the back of the little seat in front of me I peer out the cabin window of our seaplane mentally preparing myself for my first aircraft water landing.

I’m not sure what a seaplane water landing should feel like, but I’m becoming increasingly concerned that our ‘runway’ is a patch of harbour teeming with other seaplanes, yachts and dinky little green ferries – flying the national maple leaf flag of Canada – weaving at a decent speed through the harbour traffic like mopeds in Rome.

With military precision the tangle of craft in our way clears a path for our seaplane to glide like silk on top of the clear and cool water of Victoria Harbour on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, which is actually

an International Airport complete with its own air traffic control tower.

Within seconds our ‘runway’ is again consumed by dozens of watercraft until the next seaplane take-off or landing, which comes within minutes and then again and again in a never-ending stream. Later I learn seaplanes have right of way at all times except, of course, when killer whales are on the runway!

It is a rock-star way to arrive in the beautiful, historic and very British coastal city of Victoria, the capital of British Columbia.

The inner harbour is indeed the beating heart of Victoria, flanked by landmark buildings from the Edwardian era throwing breathtaking reflections of historic architecture across its gently rippling surface.

The namesake of one of the greatest monarchs ever to rule, Victoria, in its early days, was a favourite location for royalty, Hollywood starlets and world leaders seeking respite and solace. Today, while it sees its fair share of celebrities, it attracts millions of visitors from all over the world who come to soak up the history, architecture, art, gardens, wildlife, hospitality and food on offer. You’ll need at least a week to enjoy the best parts of this glorious city and these things should be on your must-do list:

Stroll in the spectacular gardens

From top, this page: Parliament Building and Queen Victoria statue; The Butchart Gardens.

Opposite page: Seaplanes ready for take-off; float homes at Fisherman’s Wharf; take tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel Images: Shutterstock.com

18 | BNE September/October 2018

A former limestone quarry and now a National Historic Site of Canada, The Butchart Gardens is a paradise for plant and nature lovers with more than 900 varieties of botanical specimens creating a kaleidoscope of colour in every direction. It’s a popular and spectacular sight but there are more parks and gardens in Victoria that are just as impressive with velvet soft lawns and mass plantings of fragrant and bright blooms. For more on gardens to visit see www.tourismvictoria.com

Take tea at The Empress

Dine on fresh seafood

Follow in the footsteps of royalty and partake in the century-old tradition of ‘Tea at the Empress’. Luckily, calories don’t count on holidays, or at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, so enjoy guilt-free shortbread, raisin scones with clotted cream and strawberry lavender jam, and caramel banana cake (rumoured to be Prince Harry’s favourite) while sipping a sustainablysourced tea blend from a bone China cup. Pinky up is optional. See www.teaattheempress.com

Steamship Bar and Grill in the Heritage Steamship Terminal is the place to relax overlooking Victoria’s mesmerising harbour while enjoying world-class local wine and seafood. Offering ‘inspired West Coast food’ from local halibut and sockeye salmon to oysters, island dairy and cheese, it’s the perfect spot to pull up stumps after a busy day exploring beautiful and historic Victoria. See www.steamshipgrill.com

Glimpse into the past

Victoria is 35 minutes from Vancouver by seaplane (see www.harbourair.com) or 3 hours 15 minutes by high speed catamaran (see www.v2vvacations.com) Book your Canadian holiday adventure at www.travelassociates.com.au

The Royal BC Museum is home to some of the region’s most treasured artefacts, from First Nation totem poles and ceremonial items to dinosaurs, 19th century relics and a Victorian era submarine.

See www. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca

Explore the harbour by ferry Experience the hustle and bustle of Victoria Harbour while drinking in the views of the city from the comfort of a quaint and surprisingly manoeuvrable ferry boat. Between dodging seaplanes and rowers the enthusiastic captain shares an enormous amount of local history, pointing out sacred First Nation territories and historical landmarks. Half the fun is bobbing around in something resembling a child’s bath toy! See www.victoriaharbourferry.com

GETTING THERE

In its early days Victoria was a favourite place for royalty, Hollywood starlets and world leaders

Air Canada flies direct between Brisbane and Vancouver daily (see www.aircanada.com). Read our flight review on board the 787-800 Dreamliner on page 20

Wander Fisherman’s Wharf A short walk from downtown Victoria a vibrant little community of float homes sits peacefully alongside the tourist wharf bustling with whale watching tour departures, street entertainment, fish and chips and ice-cream vendors.

Unlike houseboats, these float homes are not motorised and, if not for the slight bobbing on their moorings, could be mistaken for little country cottages, painted in cheerful colours and trimmed with blooming window boxes and fairy lights.

Trail killer whales Killer whales are often spotted from the seaplane on the harbour runway but just in case you don’t spot one, hop on an Eagle Wing whale and wildlife tour. It also includes a visit to otter, seal and seabird colonies, and a wealth of information is shared along the way.

See www.eaglewingtours.com BNE September/October 2018 | 19

ESCAPE EXTRA

THE FACTS • Aircraft: Air Canada Boeing 787-800 Dreamliner • Route: Brisbane to Vancouver

ON BOARD

AIR CANADA BOEING 787-800 DREAMLINER

• Class: Signature Class • Flight time: 13 hours 30 minutes • Schedule: Daily • Baggage allowance: 35kgs

W

ith new aircraft technology making a world of difference to long haul travel, aircraft type is now high on the checklist for savvy travellers. Boeing’s Dreamliner is one of the newest and Air Canada recently unveiled its upgraded Signature Class on flights between Brisbane and Vancouver.

THE EXPERIENCE

The daily flight departs Brisbane Airport at 10.40am, arriving in Vancouver at 7.35am local time. Both at check-in and boarding Signature Class passengers have dedicated lanes and are fast-tracked through security screening. With Border Force Smart Gate technology both screening and immigration took 10 minutes.

Signature Class passengers are welcome in the Air New Zealand Business Lounge at Brisbane Airport which offers sweeping views across the airfield to Brisbane city. The walk from lounge to gate is less than a few minutes, with priority boarding providing a seamless experience.

On board Signature Class guests are offered a glass of French champagne, sparkling water or orange juice, a warm towelette, and a bowl of roasted nuts after take-off.

While pyjamas are not provided, guests receive a smart black amenities kit with eye mask, socks, Vitruvius brand hand cream and lip balm, toothbrush and paste, ear plugs and glasses cleaning cloth. Noise cancelling ear phones, slippers, sleep mattress, blanket and pillow are also provided.

THE AIRCRAFT

The 30 per cent larger windows and 2.4-metre vaulted ceilings give the cabin an instant feeling of light and space. Surprisingly this extends to the lavatory which also has a large window so the view at 42,000 feet is uninterrupted.

There are 20 Executive Pods laid out in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing privacy as well as aisle access for every passenger. Each seat extends to an 80-inch fully lie-flat bed.

Adjustable seat preferences, such as massage capable head rest, lumber support and the ability to make the seat density firmer or softer, allows passengers to personalise their experience down to the smallest detail. There are also universal power points, USB outlets and generous working and storage space.

Living up to its name, the Dreamliner offers a superior long haul experience with lower cabin altitude, better air filtration, full spectrum LED lighting and reduced engine noise all contributing to less fatigue and jet lag. Smooth Ride technology also makes automatic adjustments to reduce the effects of turbulence.

REFRESHMENTS

The meals on my flight were tasty and super fresh. A choice of four main courses were offered for lunch – roasted lamb, duck red curry, barramundi, and pasta with truffle

20 | BNE September/October 2018

cream – bookended by an appetiser of smoked salmon with flying fish roe and avocado salsa, and cheeses and strawberry cheesecake, fresh fruit or ice cream for dessert.

Light bites including creamy chicken and mushroom tarragon pie, prosciutto bean salad or a hot pastrami, pickle and onion sandwich can be ordered at any time. A selection of European wines grace the drinks menu, with the only Canadian wine a Pinot Noir from Niagara that paired beautifully with the lamb. Lavazza espresso was a welcome surprise, as was the Signature bourbon, ginger ale, lemonade and maple syrup cocktail.

ENTERTAINMENT

Across all classes passengers can select from 600 hours of options including the latest film, TV and music and Signature Class passengers enjoy generous 18-inch viewing screens.

BEST BITS

The genuinely welcoming and attentive crew; the view from the lavatory window; the firm/soft seat adjustment; and the Signature Cocktail.

– Leonie Vandeven

IN THE FOOTSTEPS

OF BOND

Seamless connectivity

O

ptus and TravelSIM Australia have joined forces to launch gotravelsim, a mobile service that can be pre-ordered by international travellers before they arrive in Australia. Customers simply purchase a gotravelsim while they are overseas and it is delivered to their accommodation on their arrival, ready for use anywhere in Australia.

“Even before their plane lands, travellers can obtain their local mobile number and share it with friends and family for seamless communication,” says TravelSIM Australia CEO Jamien Zimmerman.

Plans are available from $30 per month. See www.gotravelsim.com

Y

ou don’t have to be a James Bond fan to be impressed by the total awesomeness of the new 007 Elements installation 3000 metres above sea level in the Austrian Alps. The installation clings to the mountaintop above the ski resort of Solden in the Austrian Tyrol where thrilling action scenes were filmed for the most recent Bond adventure in Spectre.

Just getting to 007 Elements is like a scene from a Bond film – a ride in a cable car high above snowy peaks – and floor to ceiling windows give a vertigo-inducing view down the mountainside. Inside, nine exhibition spaces pay homage to the Bond films, with a particular focus on Spectre which used nine locations in the area for scenes, including the mountainside car and plane chase.

The building has been designed to mimic a Bond-like experience and it’s a multi-sensory journey through the timed exhibition; visitors buy tickets for a specific time slot and follow programmed sequences for part of the tour. The building is not heated, interior temperature is 1°C so as not to affect the permafrost, so visitors need to rug up, but the super cool (in design) ice Q restaurant, which was used as the exterior for the Hoffler Klinik in the film, is right next door for a warming bevvy. Open daily, tickets available from the Bergbahnen Solden ticket offices or online. For details see www.007elements.com

Wild luxury

Huka Lodge, near Lake Taupo in New Zealand’s North Island, has been named Best Resort Hotel in Australia and New Zealand in Travel + Leisure’s coveted annual World’s Best Awards. There are just 25 suites in the Lodge, which is set in more than six hectares of manicured grounds on the banks of the Waikoto River in central North Island. While guests can enjoy a host of activities from golf, hiking and horse-riding to the sort of adventures New Zealand is famous for – bungy jumping, jet boating, sky diving to name a few – those with a yen to take a tour less travelled might prefer the Ultimate Huka Experience. The day-long expedition includes a helicopter flight to sight deer and wild horses, waterfalls, and the volcanic craters of Tongariro National Park, as well as a cruise and trout fishing on Lake Taupo with delicious refreshments along the way, of course. For more information see www.hukalodge.co.nz Qantas and Virgin Australia fly direct from Brisbane to Auckland more than 25 times weekly.

BNE September/October 2018 | 21

ESCAPE EXTRA

Treetop dining

IN FIJI

Nanuku Auberge Resort at Pacific Harbour, Fiji, is known for its luxury facilities but now it has taken its five star service to new heights with the launch of a treetop dining experience on an open-air platform suspended above the ocean amidst the branches of a 70-year old Dilo Tree. True romantics can book anything from a champagne breakfast to a candlelit dinner personalised by a private chef on the airy platform or choose to have a Lomana Spa luxury treet’ment calmed by the sea breeze and sounds of the lapping waves below.

See www.nanuku.aubergeresorts.com Fiji Airways and Virgin Australia fly direct between Brisbane and Nadi, Fiji several times weekly

art goes underwater The world’s first semi-submerged art ‘gallery’ is now open to view in the waters surrounding the Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi Resort, just a short swim from shore. The installation, called the Coralarium, is not only an homage to the abundant sea life and pristine coral reef surrounding the resort, it also plays a part in regeneration, creating artificial reefs, free from harmful pollutants, which will eventually become an integral part of the local ecosystem and provide a sheltered sanctuary for ocean life. For more information see www.fairmont-maldives.com

STAR CHEFS

lead gourmet escape Nigella Lawson (above) called the Margaret River region in Western Australia “magical” when she first visited two years ago and loved it so much that she returns as one of the star guests at the annual Gourmet Escape event on 16-18 November. Lawson will take part in a series of events over the festival weekend including the iconic Gourmet Beach BBQ and Nigella’s Tea Party at Howard Park Winery. Meanwhile Tetsuya Wakuda (Sydney) and Mitch Orr (Melbourne) lead a brigade of national talent and Rick and Jack Stein add to the star-studded list of international guests – including several hot off the World’s 50 Best Restaurants List – on the packed program of 45 events in more than 25 breathtaking locations south west of Perth. See www.gourmetescape.com.au Qantas, Tigerair and Virgin Australia fly direct between Brisbane and Perth several times daily

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at FREYCINET

UPGRADE

NEW WAY to STAY

LIVE AUCTION for UPGRADES

Freycinet National Park is recognised as one of the most beautiful and pristine natural environments in Australia and the new Coastal Pavilions at Freycinet Lodge allow guests to feel close to nature inside and out thanks to their walls of curved glass and natural Tasmanian timbers. There are nine pavilions boasting views of the bay or the surrounding bush, each with a deck (complete with sunken bathtub) that has a cargo-style net around the edge (instead of a balustrade) that can double as a handy hammock for afternoon siestas.

Each pavilion has a king-size bedroom, ensuite bathroom and separate living area and, if you just can’t drag yourself away from the view for breakfast, a picnic hamper can be delivered to your door. The pavilions are part of a recent transformation at Freycinet Lodge that also includes six Mountain Terrace suites with views of the Hazard Mountains. Prices from $429 (Mountain Terrace) or $549 (Coastal Pavilion) per night. See www.freycinetlodge.com.au Jetstar and Virgin Australia fly direct between Brisbane, Hobart and Launceston, Tasmania several times weekly. Freycinet Lodge is 2-2.5 hours drive from each city

Passengers booked on Etihad flights can now bid for cabin upgrades in a ‘live’ auction process where real-time updates are sent by SMS or email to their smart device. An email invitation is sent to customers to bid for the one-cabin upgrade seven days prior to their flight and auctions take place from 24 to six hours before their flight’s departure.

Once the auction closes, the successful winner is notified and a new boarding pass issued on the Etihad Airways Mobile App or provided at check-in.

See www.etihad.com

Escape?

on the hunt for A GREAT holiday Discover the best of Brisbane and the Gold Coast with overnight accommodation and a $30 hotel credit.

For stays until 31 Jan 2019. Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability.

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BNE September/October 2018 | 25

I

QUEENSLAND

STEVE

PARISH Photographer, naturalist, artist educator

Where do you live?

I live in the bush on the slopes of Mt Mellum in the Blackall Ranges, between Landsborough and Maleny. We have been here for two years since moving from Brookfield in Brisbane.

You were born in Britain – what brought you to Queensland?

I was born in the UK to Australian parents. My father was caught up in World War II while doing his engineering degree at Oxford. We left immediately after the war; I was six months old. We moved to Melbourne, then Adelaide and Perth. I came to Queensland in the 1970s because I wanted to be closer to a tropical climate for diving.

What do you like about your neighbourhood?

The hinterland to the Sunshine Coast has spectacular flora and fauna and landscape features such as the Glass House Mountains. It is a wonderful place to set up a family community, which we are currently doing.

What favourite places would you recommend to visitors?

The Sunshine Coast hinterland is a gateway to many ecosystems: mangroves, rainforest, crystal clear river systems such as the Noosa River, sandy beaches and islands.

From top: Steve Parish in the field; birds captured in action – preening and taking a morning bath; Nandroya Falls, Wooroonooran National Park, north Queensland; and view of the Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Photography by Steve Parish 26 | BNE September/October 2018

It has been said that award-winning photographer Steve Parish OAM has done as much for Australian tourism as Paul Hogan and Steve Irwin combined with his stunning photography of wildlife and landscapes that has featured in thousands of books, calendars and postcards for decades. But just as importantly he has shared his passion for the environment with thousands of others to show that we all can benefit from a connection to nature.

What do you consider to be the most photogenic spots on the Sunshine Coast?

The Noosa River and adjacent paperbark and wallum swamplands would be number one on my list of favourites. Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, where I often run workshops, is becoming a second home.

It’s considered to be the Sunshine Coast’s best example of hinterland rainforest. The Glass House Mountains are a big favourite. We rented a home for the first year with an overview of the Glass House Mountains so I was able to experience its many moods.

Where and when are you happiest?

Alone and in the field with nature and no demands, listening to music and creating art on my computer, sharing the wonders of nature and creative life adventures with others are when I am in a state of joy.

What is one of your most memorable photography experiences in Queensland?

The rainforest of Tropical North Queensland and diving on the Great Barrier Reef are my key memory banks when I think of Queensland.

Tropical rainforest is particularly special at night when the nocturnal mammals, frogs and reptiles are active. On the Great Barrier Reef boat access diving with the freedom of long bottom times are also special.

What inspired you to take up photography and choose to focus on nature and wildlife?

I had a childhood interest in fish as a spear fisherman. Over time I became more interested in the lives of fishes than eating them.

I took my first fish photograph at the age of 16 and discovered this would be my hobby. Within a decade my hobby became an obsession and a decade later a profession.

Your business is about more than taking photographs – what is the philosophy behind Nature Connect?

Through our activities we aim to encourage the community to explore nature, whether it’s sharing stories, inspiring photographers to connect with nature and share its wonders or encouraging others to decorate their home or office environment with fine art nature photography. We want to inspire the community to regard the natural world as essential to their spiritual, mental and physical wellbeing.

Do you have a favourite subject you like to photograph?

No, photographing a single subject has no interest. I photograph for stories, although I am very partial to birds and mammals as subjects for my cameras.

How often are you outdoors taking photographs?

Most days, right outside my studio door. I have a coffee with a camera most days. Work takes me around the world so I am in the field away from home around four months of each year.

How many photographs are in your collection?

Over 300,000 digital and 500,000 analogue photographs. The analogue images are soon to be viperously culled!

You teach a lot of others through photography workshops, books and courses. What do you hope they will take away about the environment from working with you?

My process is to excite others to find their creative life purpose and I primarily use nature and the human connection to achieve this end.

When people connect with nature by their own validation they soon become a devotee, no selling needed. Humans are hard-wired to nature, however most of us lose our way due to life’s many distractions.

What do you do to take a break from taking photographs?

Photography is actually second to writing, so I write. I also love film and music.

Learn from Steve Parish Steve Parish will host a Wildlife Photography Workshop at Chermside (morning) and a Photo Walk at South Bank (afternoon), both on 22 September and he has joined with Griffith University to lead a sixweek online Masterclass starting from 15 October (registrations close 23 September). For details see www.steveparish-natureconnect.com.au

BNE September/October 2018 | 27

TASTE

Best Breakfasts AT B R I S B A N E A I R P O R T Making time for breakfast is a good start to a journey, writes foodie blogger Kerry Heaney and here she shares her favourite options at Brisbane Airport

Early flight departures often mean leaving for the airport well before breakfast time and while it’s tempting to opt for a bit of extra sleep-in instead, missing the most important meal of the day is not the best way to start a holiday or business trip.

Breakfast boosts metabolism, reduces the risk of cravings and improves concentration. So, if you don’t want to be tired, hungry and slow by the time you get to your destination, making time for breakfast is an important start to a trip.

Of course, smashed avocado is one of the most popular breakfast choices around but according to Airport Retail Group director George Drivas, who oversees four Coffee Club venues at the International and Domestic Terminals at Brisbane Airport (and one each at Skygate and the nearby Service Centre), a good proportion of close to 150,000 eggs used at the venues each year end up covered in Hollandaise sauce as Eggs Benedict.

BEST QUICK For a super early trip, I like to start with a coffee and something easy to digest like a cup of bircher muesli and yoghurt from one of The Coffee Club kiosks outside Brisbane Airport’s Domestic Terminal for a snack on the fly. The kiosks open at 5am and also serve ham and cheese croissants or bacon and egg muffins for something more substantial.

Over at International Terminal, another local favourite is the hand-baked organic grain muesli from Gold Coast-based The Muesli Folk served at Windmill & Co (Level 3, after security).

BEST LIGHT Watermark Books and Café (Domestic Terminal, Level 2, opposite Gate 24) serves a huge bowl of fresh fruit salad that just begs for a blob of yoghurt and their coffee of choice is the socially responsible and locally-roasted Campos blend.

At International Terminal (Level 3 after security) Boost Juice serves up a low fat and liquid source of protein in the Strawbrekkie Smoothie, a blend of oats, strawberry yoghurt, blueberries, strawberries, apple juice, whey protein, banana and ice.

BEST HEALTHY Keeping it light but a little more sustaining, and with a little more time to relax, I like the organic muesli board of toasted muesli and a mango cheek accompanied by Shaw River yoghurt and banana infused with honey sauce at Glasshouse Bar (Domestic Terminal, Level 2, near Gate 40).

BEST DECADENT Alternatively, Glasshouse Bar can add a fried egg to its Croque Monsieur, the traditional French breakfast sandwich filled with smoked ham and Emmental cheese with a touch of Dijon mustard and béchamel – grilled, of course.

From top: the breakfast selection at Botanist Kitchen and Bar; eggs with Hollandaise sauce at The Coffee Club; and muesli with mango cheek at Brisbane River Grill

BEST VIEWS For a farewell breakfast joined by friends and family not travelling, Botanist Kitchen and Bar at International Terminal (Level 4, before security) offers views of aircraft and runway action from its balcony position, along with menu specials such as corn and herb fritters with avocado or Spanish eggs.

BEST LOCAL PRODUCE I like to have a good meal before boarding a long international flight as it can be some time before food service starts on a plane and at Brisbane River Grill (also at International Terminal, Level 3, after security) the free-range eggs from Tamborine Mountain on sourdough bread with a side of local Chriberg double smoked bacon is my brekky of choice.

Boarding an international flight well-fed means you can concentrate on adapting to the time zone in your port of arrival. That’s one of the secrets of avoiding jet lag sorted!

Find out more about dining at BNE at www.bne.com.au and follow Kerry Heaney at www.eatdrinkandbekerry.com.au 28 | BNE September/October 2018

DINING AT THE CALILE

Hot talent chef Kitak Lee (below) has been tempted away from Melbourne’s two-hatted The Table at Kuro Kisumé to take charge at The Lobby Bar opening this month at The Calile Hotel, Fortitude Valley’s hottest new address on James Street.

Raised in South Korea and trained in Europe, Lee arrives at The Calile Hotel with an impressive resume peppered with names such as Sydney’s Momofuku Seiobo (on the World’s Best Restaurant list) and Bilson’s. Lee’s menu is contemporary all-day dining, with dishes such as beef tartare with puffed grains, capers and a brown butter emulsion, duck confit cured in shio koji, honey cider jelly with grated pecorino and black pepper, and raspberry millefeuille with a miso caramel among the choices on the menu.

The signature modern Greek menu that has made Hellenika such a hit at Nobby Beach on the Gold Coast is also coming to the Calile this month as owner Simon Cloftis expands in Brisbane. See www.thecalilehotel.com

TOP class

Katrina Ryan has been sharing her passion for Pan Asian food (above) with master chefs-in-the-making for years through her Golden Pig cooking school but at last food lovers who’d rather just enjoy the spoils without the preparation can take a seat in the new restaurant now open after hours inside the cooking school’s industrial warehouse.

Ryan’s menu is mostly Thai-inspired with some Chinese, Vietnamese and Japanese influences. “I think Asian cuisine and ingredients are a beautiful match with our subtropical climate,” she says of her decision to feature signature dishes such as Sichuan spiced half duck with mandarin, miso, black vinegar and star anise, or King Salmon with sweet soy, chilli and ginger, executed by chef Sarah Hockings and her team in the kitchen.

Bar manager Cameron Silk has crafted a selection of Asianinspired cocktails to accompany the small bites menu served daily from 5pm (and complementing a concise wine list and generous craft beer menu).

The Golden Pig cooking school operates Sunday and Monday; the bar and restaurant Tuesday to Saturday. See www.goldenpig.com.au

BUON APPETITO Bringing new meaning to ‘brand experience’ furnishing retailer Coco Republic showcases its design aesthetic in the new L’Americano Espresso Bar in tandem with a menu created by head chef Barry Jarman, bringing a taste of la dolce vita from the Italian Riviera to busy Wickham Street in Fortitude Valley. Serving Vittoria coffee, bruschetta, a special organic egg selection, antipasti, dolci and more from early morning to late afternoon daily this is smart casual dining with echoes of the set of The Talented Mr Ripley. L’Americano is at 400 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley. See www.lamericano.com.au

Home of fresh foodie talent

Maya Krikke (left) and Phin Prak are just two examples of start-ups that have made it from incubator to trader status thanks to Wandering Cooks which has now turned its space (car park and all) into a more permanent showcase for fresh foodie talent committed to ethical practices. Pop-up events and weekly food truck meet-ups in the laneway have been replaced with a beer garden and bar, the Coffee Shed and Deli featuring artisan producers including Maya and Phin.

After 15 years working in other people’s kitchens Phin serves up his own flavour of Cambodian cuisine (on his own charcoal barbecue) as Aburi Boi Street Food on Tuesdays and Saturdays as part of the Daily Special Food Makers program at Wandering Cooks while Maya’s FFF (finely fermented fruit) kefir drinks, a probiotic alternative to soft drinks made at Wandering Cooks, are available at the bar.

They join other foodie newbies including baker Susie Yang (Pie Town pies), Alicia Ferguson and Emma Heather (Genki Milk Co almond milk), Josh Russell (Sunday’s Coffee) and Tanea Saul (gluten and grain-free vegan Naked Crackers). Find out what’s on at www.wanderingcooks.com.au BNE September/October 2018 | 29

TASTE

bestfood trucks

BRISBANE’S

It’s the new takeaway, and some vans are so popular they’re the food of choice at special events. Here are 10 of the best roaming Brisbane …

The Bun Mobile

Fuel Fuel is the mobile pizzeria driven by Salt Meats Cheese, the popular permanent fixture at Gasworks. The van has already clocked up some miles, doing a tour of capital cities and the Gold Coast before parking, at least until the middle of November, at West Village, West End. Fuel serves up authentic Napolistyle pizzas, artisan cured meats, cheeses and brunch-worthy breakfasts but co-owner Stefano De Blasi says they have cooked up something special for the new SMC Laneway pop-up in West End, putting a special focus on botanics.

Fuel’s menu includes a range of fully plantbased vegan and vegetarian wood-fired pizzas with cured meats offered as adds-ons while a cocktail bar serves custom drinks infused with Australian native herbs, and there’s a gelato bar as well. See www.saltmeatscheese.com.au

One of Brisbane’s first fulltime food trucks continues to be a favourite, voted Brisbane’s Best Food Truck four years in a row for its twice cooked pork, teriyaki chicken and wagyu beef classics served on Asian style steamed buns. Wherever it goes, crowds follow as its reputation has spread far and wide, thanks to praise from The New York Times which named it “one of the best eateries in Brisbane on or off wheels” and appearances on Taiwanese, Singapore and Indonesian television shows. See www.thebunmobile.com.au

King of the Wings Voted Best Food Truck in Brisbane 2018 and Australia’s representative at the World’s Biggest Buffalo Wing Festival in New York, King of the Wings was Australia’s first Americanstyle chicken wing food truck and is still one of the most popular – they have almost 27,000 followers on Facebook.

There are six ‘flavours’ to choose from – Bee Sting with honey sesame is a crowd favourite – but find them on a Wednesday night if you want to try the Sticky Ginger Plum. Yum. See www.facebook.com/kingofthewingsbrisbane

30 | BNE September/October 2018

The Frying Piggy Taking their inspiration from street food around the world and focussing particularly on pork owner/operators Peter and Diana take the Frying Piggy on the road from northern NSW to the northern suburbs of Brisbane. Always on the menu are the ever popular Popcorn Pork, marinated with a house mix of herbs and spices, Cheesy Bacon Bombs (soft, stretchy and gooey cheese wrapped with bacon), and bacon chips and their signature homemade sauces – Tangy Bourbon BBQ, Spicy Korean BBQ, Smokey BBQ and Peri Peri Mayo – keep the fans coming back for more. See www.thefryingpiggy.com.au

Gelato à Go-Go A love of Italian gelato and classic French motoring inspired Andrew Lucas to combine his two passions and create Gelato à Go-Go which has been on the road for less than a year. Lucas imported his vintage Citroen H van from France, had it painstakingly restored, and fitted out with a gelato cabinet custom-made in Italy. He then partnered with multi-award-winning Maleny Food Co. in the Sunshine Coast hinterland to supply the gelato which is made with fresh Guernsey milk from a nearby family farm and local fruit. Lucas serves up to eight different flavours of gelato and sorbet (in a choice of cups or waffle cones) and changes the selection almost daily – thanks to a massive 100 flavours to choose from at Maleny Food Co. See www.gelatoagogo.com.au

Vira Lata Husband and wife Carlo and Taline run this roaming modern Brazilian and Portuguese street food kitchen on wheels using secret family recipes and inspiration from their travels to add their own twist to some ethnic classics. Carlo, who has a Portuguese heritage, says the concept for their truck comes from São Paulo’s sandwich culture with an ‘extra gesture of care’, hand-making many of their ingredients. Don’t forget to order the piri piri or smoked paprika-laced Vira Lata fries with that sandwich or burger. See www.viralatafoodtruck.com

Ma Petite Cuisine Or, as owner and chef John likes to call it ‘my little kitchen’, where he cooks up French dishes served by wife Camille every Friday night at Boundary Street Markets, West End. Born and raised in Alsace in a family of restaurateurs for three generations John shares his culinary heritage in a menu of classics, including a Plat du jour, (dish of the day, usually slow-cooked and in a rich sauce), ratatouille, croque monsieur, beef bourguignon and a sweet selection of tarts and profiteroles. See www.mapetitecuisine.net

The Wiener Wagon It’s hard to miss Marion Mullan’s brightly coloured, custom-built retro-style food van, with its ’60s tunes playing the soundtrack to your order. The menu is a mix of traditional German sausages and award-winning hand-made modern blends by local butchers served on freshly baked rolls. The foot-long cheese kransky, oozing with melted cheese and a little kick of spice, is the most popular order, with loaded fries not far behind. See www.thewienerwagon.com.au

London Spuds Happy Soul Bowl Even the bright yellow van looks like it’s smiling and your gut will thank you too for choosing a Green Pesto Bowl, a Super Bowl or a Sesame Bowl from the menu – all boasting fresh green vegetables, avocado and things like quinoa tabbouleh, sesame, almonds, chickpeas and all sorts of other ingredients that are good for you. See www.facebook.com/happysoulbowl

Who can resist Prince Harry, David Beckham or Dr Who? Or maybe Adele is more your type – off the London Spuds menu, that is.

Prince Harry (above), for example, is filled with tasty chilli beef, cheese and sour cream; David Beckham with fresh mushrooms and salad crunch; Dr Who with baked beans; and Adele with pineapple and bacon bits. The spuds are cooked in special English potato ovens and all served with pure butter and sour cream. You can also order vegan options or build your own combo. See www.londonspuds.com.au

For more food trucks and where to find them see www.bnefoodtrucks.com.au BNE September/October 2018 | 31

WHAT’S ON

David Williamson’s latest play looks behind the scenes of a great discovery and the battle to make it history

Behind BRILLIANT minds Isaac Newton and Edmund Halley are super heroes in the science world for their discoveries made in the 17th century, one most famously for defining the laws of motion and the other for the comet that comes around only once every 75 years. Not so well known is how the two crossed paths – and how they might just as quickly have gone their separate ways, changing the course of history if they had.

The back story is not the stuff of legend, only the final outcome, leaving playwright David Williamson with plenty of license to piece together the puzzle that drew these two together, and how Isaac Newton’s theories were even shared at all.

In Williamson’s hands the drama that unfolds is blackly comic, exposing grand delusions, bitter intellectual rivalries and the fight for fame – all the makings of a compelling script for the stage and the backbone of his new play Nearer the Gods which has its world premiere in Brisbane on 6 October.

Williamson’s works have entertained audiences for more than 40 years by expertly casting a satirical eye view on the political and social mores of our times (Don’s Party, The Club and Emerald City among them) but the inspiration for his latest play comes from his earliest days at university.

“I was the first mechanical engineering graduate from Monash University (Melbourne) and Newton’s laws were the foundation of everything we learned. I was astounded and awed at how one man took us from total ignorance of the laws of the universe to an almost complete understanding in one giant leap – one of the truly great geniuses 32 | BNE September/October 2018

NEED TO KNOW • Nearer the Gods is on from 6 October to 3 November • The title comes from the last line in the Ode to Isaac Newton written by Edmund Halley in 1686 • Isaac Newton is played by Rhys Muldoon • Edmund Halley is played by Matthew Backer • William McInnes plays King Charles the Second • The play is a world premiere and is the first to be held in the new Bille Brown Theatre, a multi-million dollar upgrade of the former studio space

Photography by Jonno Searle Brisbane Airport is a proud partner of Queensland Theatre

of all time – but when I started researching him I found, to my amazement, that but for Edmund Halley, mankind’s single most significant leap forward in knowledge may never have happened.

“My playwright’s instinct was ‘what a great story’. Everything in the play, based on a great amount of research, either happened or could have happened. The actual sources are sparse so some conjecture was necessary but nothing, to my knowledge, is not plausible,” says Williamson.

Indeed the squabbles, the self-doubt, the risk to relationships and reputation that fuel the plot could just as easily have been inspired by modern academia or the corporate world.

“Human nature doesn’t change and this is a fascinating and blackly funny study of how the deep and ancient emotional impulses urging us to attain power, and status, and to belittle and vanquish our rivals, can be at odds with our capacity for logical reason. You see the opposing forces at work every day in the jugular political and business worlds,” says Williamson.

“The politics of science are no less ferocious than any field in which egotistical and brilliant minds are fighting for fame and a foothold in posterity.

Brilliant intellects can still be emotionally erratic. It sometimes seems in fact that the more intellectually brilliant the more emotionally erratic.”

Nearer the Gods is a Queensland Theatre production, and only the second time one of Williamson’s plays has had a world premiere in Brisbane. It’s the first collaboration between the playwright and QT’s artistic director Sam Strong who will direct.

LIFE OF A HOUSE There’s a saying in film-making ‘show, don’t tell’, a principle that appears to have been applied wholeheartedly to the stage production of Home by its creator, American theatre artist and self-proclaimed absurdist Geoff Sobelle. Not many words are spoken in Home, which will have its Australian premiere at Brisbane Festival, but a house is conjured from nothing on an empty stage, filling room by room as generations of inhabitants move in, grow up, get old, argue, do laundry, fall in love, work and party – the stuff of life that shows what it means to create a home. The audience is asked to join in, following instructions in various ways and, eventually, invited to celebrate the result. It’s a lively choreography of illusion, live music, some clever engineering and audience interaction that shows, sometimes absurdly, just how complicated making a home inside a house really is.

From 12-15 September at Playhouse, QPAC. Tickets from $47 (adults) plus booking fee.

Fright night

BRISBANE FESTIVAL

highlights

Séances are spooky enough but set one in a shipping container, in complete darkness, and turn up the sound for a super sensory experience and it’s spine-tingling stuff. Séance is a concept created by UK theatre company Darkfield and brought to Brisbane after a sell-out season at Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Small groups are shut in the dark for an intense 20 minutes at a time and cutting edge 3D technology plays with your mind so you won’t know what to believe by the time the séance ends.

Brisbane Airport is a proud partner of Brisbane Festival on 8-29 September. See the full

From 8-29 September at Treasury Brisbane Arcadia, Cultural Forecourt, South Bank.

Tickets $20 each (adults) plus booking fee.

program at www.brisbanefestival.com.au

Brett Boardman

Drama with a PHYSICAL DIMENSION

Physical troupe Legs on the Wall has created a powerful new work for Brisbane Festival, weaving together aerial choreography, video design and a story about an Australian family dealing with grief and loss. Man with the Iron Neck is ultimately a story about survival and embracing life which is based on elements of co-director Josh Bond’s own story and was written by performer and first-time playwright Ursula Yovich. It is one of eight world premiere performances at Brisbane Festival.

From 26-29 September, Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm. Tickets from $50 plus booking fee.

charge

From 25-29 September, Roundhouse Theatre, Theatre Republic, Kelvin Grove. Tickets from $25 plus booking fee.

AND DON’T MISS...

Dylan Evans

KIDS IN

It’s age versus experience in the new work by innovative Brisbane-based theatre group The Good Room and a group of young people aged 9 to 13 are the ones asking all the questions. In I Have Been Meaning to Ask You, they grill adults on everything from ‘how come adults drink to have fun?’ and ‘why do you go to work?’ to ‘how do I know I am real?’

Circa performing to Schubert and Stravinsky; Yothu Yindi and The Treaty Project in concert; the Nunukul Yuggera Aboriginal Dance Company in tandem with the River of Light laser show

ALL about the BOY

Irish theatre company Dead Centre likes to do things differently. Last year their production, Checkov’s First Play had an audience member as its main character; this year Hamnet stars 11-year-old Aran Murphy (above) who has no previous acting experience but performs a brilliant, emotional, and sometimes funny monologue, alone on stage for almost the entire play. According to Dead Centre’s coartistic director Bush Moukarzel that fresh approach is crucial to the success of the work.

The play is inspired by the true story of Hamnet, William Shakespeare’s only son who died, aged 11, while his father was away working in London. Hamnet dies without knowing his famous father and, in a tour-deforce performance from young Murphy, the play is his response to being left behind and living in the shadow of his father’s greatness.

From 8-12 September at Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane. Tickets from $42 plus booking fee.

BNE September/October 2018 | 33

WHAT’S ON

festival IDYLL

Island Vibe boasts more international acts on its program this year than ever before including the highly anticipated Jamaican singer Jah9 (pictured), French reggae star Naâman and Britain’s Mad Professor. They join a line-up of Australians including Ben Walsh and The Bird, Torres Strait guitarist extraordinaire Chris Tamwoy and Melbourne’s Jazz Party.

That’s not all the festival has to boast about. Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island) is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to stage a festival – adjacent to pristine beaches for swimming and surfing, abundant wildlife in the wings and wide open spaces the platform for performing arts – but more than that it has been a leader in progressive and sustainable initiatives, minimising its impact on the local environment, from day one.

Single-use plastic is long gone and water refill stations, bike hire, biofuel generators, solar-powered stages and recycling are the norm. With the introduction this year of only compostable packaging and reusable dishes provided by vendors, the aim is to cut even recycling to zero.

Day tickets from $35-$95, three and four-day passes from $220 plus booking fees. Camping extra cost. See www.islandvibe.com.au

Hitchcock thriller a sizzler The Australian stage adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller film North by Northwest has become a sensation, opening first in Melbourne then touring to the UK and Canada to rave reviews. Just how the production team has managed to translate the suspense and action of the highly acclaimed 1959 movie to the stage has been widely applauded by reviewers at every performance, and no spoilers divulged!

All the twists and turns of Hitchcock’s original work are retained for this production in a clever combination of screen and stage action, recreating drunken car rides down twisting roads, the love affair on a train, even the cliff hanging ending. While setting up comparisons to Hitchcock’s masterpiece was always going to be risky this production comes through with flying colours – but it’s on for two weeks only. From 27 November to 9 December at Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane. Tickets from $69.90 plus fees at www.qpac.com.au

CLARE BOWEN’S BIG BREAK

Fresh from filming her sixth and final season of the television series Nashville in the US, Australian singer songwriter Clare Bowen headlines her own string of concerts on home soil to coincide with the launch of her self-titled debut album. Although her musical influences started early, Bowen’s long-running role on Nashville has been the launching pad for her own music as she performed regularly on screen and off, recording and touring with her cast mates and working with Grammy Award-winning producers.

Bowen’s album will be released on 21 September and she plays the Tivoli, Fortitude Valley, on 3 October.

Tickets $79.90 plus fees. See www.thetivoli.com.au

UGH OF C A N’T GET ENO

CHER Hot from her star turn in the film Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again and bouyed by how much fun she had at Mardi Gras in Sydney earlier this year Cher is taking a break from the extended run of her show in Las Vegas to say ‘Hello again’ Australia this Spring. Cher plays the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall, on 28 and 29 September, tickets from $203.60 plus fees. See www.ticketek.com.au 34 | BNE September/October 2018

In honour of Steve Irwin The Steve Irwin Gala Dinner celebrates the life of the still beloved Crocodile Hunter and raises vital funds for the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital on 10 November, at Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre, South Bank. Tickets $190 each. See www.steveirwingaladinner.org/tickets/

He has gone where no man has gone before, written more than 40 books, released eight records, won two Emmys and a Golden Globe (among other awards), he breeds horses, sold a kidney stone for charity and plays on the World Poker Tour, so William Shatner has more than a few good stories to tell. And, as everyone’s favourite Captain James T. Kirk of the Starship Enterprise – after all these years – he can charge fans $350 to have their photo taken with him. Join the queue when Shatner’s World The Return Down Under arrives at the Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane on 9 October. Tickets from $99 plus fees at www.qpac.com.au

disco bus

The film Priscilla Queen of the Desert was a runaway success. The heart-warming and hilarious story of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus bound for the outback to put on the show of a lifetime won an Oscar and spawned a musical that has delighted audiences for 10 years. It’s been an epic journey for the stage production which has been to Broadway, London’s West End, Europe and Asia since its world premiere in Sydney and finally it arrives in Brisbane for the first time with more gloss and glitter than ever. The disco-drag show features a dazzling array of more than 500 costumes, 200 headdresses and a show-stopping parade of hits including ‘It’s Raining Men’, ‘I Will Survive’, ‘I Love the Nightlife’ and many more. Priscilla Queen of the Desert opens at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane, from 26 September. Tickets from $65.90 plus fees. See www.qpac.com.au

swing

Singers, swing dancers and a Big Band orchestra boogie back to the 1940s in the musical revue In the Mood at the Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane, on 15 October. Tickets from $81.90 plus fees. See www.qpac.com

WHERE

SEPTEMBER Turrell’s Night Life From 1 James permanent exhibition

GOMA, South Brisbane

1

Gene Simmons Band

The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley

2

Stuff You Should Know, Podcast Live Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills

From 7 Cinderella, Queensland Ballet

Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane

8-29

A Fleeting Bloom, Japanese Art from the Collection

QAGOMA, South Brisbane

12-16

Sydney Contemporary Art Fair

Edwina Corlette Gallery, New Farm

14-16

The Home Show

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

14-16

Eco Expo

Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills

15

Big Adopt Out, dogs and cats

Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills

the new Sciencentre From 17 Sparklab, experience

ALL ABOARD THE

IN THE MOOD FOR

WHEN WHAT

Queensland Museum, South Brisbane

19-22

Dust, Dancenorth

Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm

20

The Cat Empire

The Triffid, Fortitude Valley

20+21

Vance Joy

Riverstage, City Botanic Gardens

22

Emma Pask

Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point

22+23

Oz Comic-Con

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

25

Jeff Dunham

Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall

26+27

PJ Masks Live

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

28

The Piano Guys

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

28

Eskimo Joe in concert with Camerata

Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane

29

Riverfire

Brisbane River, various locations

Monkeys! A Primate Story

Queensland Museum, South Brisbane

From 29

OCTOBER 3

The Tough Guy Book Club

The Burrow Art Gallery, West End

4-7

The Gizmo, adapted from the book

by Paul Jennings

Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm

5-14

Oktoberfest

Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills

6

Leaving Jackson: The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show

The Old Museum, Bowen Hills

6+7

Brisbane Open House

Various locations across the city

12-14

Queensland Brides, Wedding and Honeymoon Expo

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

13

Australian Burlesque Festival

Until 14 Bristopia 18-24

Women in Voice

The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley Museum of Brisbane, City Hall Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm

From 19 Don Giovanni, OperaQ

Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane

19+20

9 to Thrive, Business Chicks

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

20

Swan Lake, Queensland Ballet

Riverstage, City Botanic Gardens

21

World Travel Expo

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

24-28

Japanese Film Festival

Event Cinemas, Myer Centre, city

26-28

Good Food and Wine Show

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

27

Brisbane Fashion Runway

The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley

27

Carl Barron

Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall

27

Lawrence Mooney, An Evening with Malcolm

Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm

From 27

Neon Tiger, La Boite Theatre Company

Roundhouse Theatre, Kelvin Grove

28

Parkway Drive

Riverstage, City Botanic Gardens

Until 28 Australian Glass and Ceramic

Queensland Art Gallery, South Brisbane

Until 28 100% Brisbane

Museum of Brisbane, City Hall

William Shatner model at Madame Tussauds wax museum, Hollywood.

Image: Anton Ivanov/Shutterstock.com

The captain’s BACK

BNE September/October 2018 | 35

BOOKS Read and learn It may be a work of non-fiction but The House (Allen & Unwin), Helen Pitt’s chronicle of the birth of the Sydney Opera House, has been called a drama-filled page turner – one that will give you a different view of ‘the sails’ that look so spectacular on approach to Sydney Airport; if everyone’s got at least one book inside them then Richard Skinner’s Writing a Novel (Faber) may help you write yours; and, conveniently travel-sized, The Little Book of Yes (Profile) is essential reading before you ask anyone for anything – if you want the answer to be, well, yes!

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY COLLIDE

in the bush

Brisbane-based author Sally Piper (above) loves bushwalking and nature which makes a vivid and intense backdrop to her new novel The Geography of Friendship (UQP), a close examination of female relationships tested to the limit in the face of danger and fear. The story unfolds as three women reunite after more than 20 years, attempting to restore a bond that had been broken, but it only proves that the event that drove them apart continues to haunt them. Will they ever be able to get past it? About her book, Sally Piper says:

“The Geography of Friendship is a memorandum of the power of female friendship and the importance of unity. In a world where women are taught to be afraid, it’s empowering to realise the strength we hold together.”

FAMILY SECRETS & LIES

LAID BARE

3

BUNCH of THREES For the long haul Open Chris Hammer’s epic (496 pages) Scrublands and you won’t be able to put it down until the truth about a monstrous rural murder is clear; Sophie Hannah successfully continues the legacy of Agatha Christie in The Mystery of Three Quarters (HarperCollins), another whodunnit for Hercule Poirot’s little grey cells to solve; and The Katharina Code (Michael Joseph), the first instalment of Jørn Lier Horst’s Cold Case Quartet, is Nordic Noir at its best.

Page to screen

In The Apology, the first adult novel by Ross Watkins, lead character Adrian Pomeroy is a teacher at a boys’ school whose life starts to unravel in spectacular fashion when he finds himself at the centre of an allegation likely to end his career. When he turns to his brother for help it only adds to the web of secrets and lies.

About his book, Ross Watkins says:

“My central focus in writing this novel was to portray the veneer, dysfunction and resilience of contemporary Australian family life, especially when it comes to the abuse of male authority and assumptions of control.”

36 | BNE September/October 2018

In the companion book to the History channel series The Pacific In The Wake of Captain Cook, actor Sam Neill retraces the explorer’s footsteps across the Pacific and re-examines Cook’s legacy with a contemporary eye; Garrard Conley’s harrowing memoir Boy Erased (HarperCollins) is the true story behind the upcoming film of the same name directed

by Joel Edgerton; and Liane Moriarty follows up the multi-media success of Big Little Lies with Nine Perfect Strangers (Macmillan), already snapped up for a future film by Nicole Kidman.

Find more good reads at Watermark Books & Café, Newslink, Aero and News Travels, Domestic Terminal Level 2 and at News Travels, International Terminal Levels 2, 3, 4.

DAY IN THE LIFE Dani Soesilo arriving in Brisbane from Melbourne

Rachel Phillips, Emma Spark and Michelle Horn departing for Thailand

BRISBANE AIRPORT is the gateway to 81 CITIES across Australia and overseas, opening up a WORLD of adventure for more than 23 MILLION passengers every year. These are just a few snapped on their journey...

Alice Parola farewells Elena Martinelli departing for Perth

Tina and Dorothy Magoekia at International Terminal Maddi Arnold departing for Melbourne

Kobie Ayre and Nick Ritter departing for Newcastle

Photography by Marc Grimwade

David Checa, from Spain, arrives in Brisbane to study

Adrienne Jackson and daughter Ruby returning from Port Macquarie

Adrian Peterson and Blaze Reedy departing for Bali

BNE September/October 2018 | 37

BNE NEED TO KNOW

Enviro-friendly BUSES

A new fleet of electric buses is now being used to transport passengers between Brisbane Airport terminals and Skygate retail precinct or the long-stay AIRPARK. The new buses are quieter and better for the environment, reducing carbon emissions equivalent to taking 100 cars off the road each year. Interiors, too, have been designed with travellers in mind, with plenty of luggage racks, three full-sized double doors for easy entry and exit and GPS next-stop announcements.

Brisbane Airport is the first Australian airport to introduce a fleet of 11 electric buses for passengers and services operate between Domestic and International Terminals from 4am to 11pm daily, in a loop between terminals and Skygate from 6.30am (weekdays, from 8.30am weekends) to 6pm and 24/7 between terminals and AIRPARK. Terminal Transfer Bus services are free. For timetables see www.bne.com.au/passenger/to-and-from/terminal-transfers

TRANSPORT OPTIONS AT BRISBANE AIRPORT PASSENGER PICK-UP ZONES

TERMINAL TRANSFERS Passengers transferring between the terminals can travel via the free Transfer Bus which departs at regular intervals from Level 2 International Terminal and Level 1 Domestic Terminal and travels via Skygate.

38 | BNE September/October 2018

BNE PARKING Convenient, secure and undercover short and long-term parking is available within walking distance to both terminals. For more information about special offers and full product offering including valet, car washing, AIRPARK and more see www.bne.com.au

RIDE SHARE PICK-UP ZONES Look for the signs indicating Pre-Booked Express and Ride Booking (Ride Share) zones outside each terminal.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT TransLink is the local bus, ferry and train public transport network stretching north to Gympie, south to Coolangatta and west to Helidon. For information and timetables see www.translink.com.au or call 13 12 30.

TRANSPORT BOOKINGS Image: Uber

Domestic Terminal: A dedicated pick-up waiting area provides free parking for the first 30 minutes for drivers arriving to collect passengers from Domestic Terminal, located beside the P2 long term car park and accessed from Dryandra Road. Passengers can contact the driver when they are ready for collection and the driver can proceed to the pick-up location. For easy how to use instructions see www.bne.com.au/ International Terminal: The dedicated passenger pick-up area for international arrivals is located at ground level at the northern end of the International Terminal. It is accessible only to drivers collecting passengers who are ready and waiting at the kerb.

Alternatively, waiting areas with longer parking options can be found at the pick-up waiting area accessible from Dryandra Road (up to 30 minutes), Skygate shopping and dining precinct or Kingsford Smith Memorial (both up to two hours), all just minutes from International Terminal.

Drivers collecting passengers with a disability or mobility limitation from International Terminal can stop in accessible waiting bays on the Level 4 ‘Departures’ Road.

Domestic Terminal: On the central road between the taxi pick-up and passenger drop-off on either side of the Skywalk.

International Terminal: Outside the terminal at the southern end on ground level.

A Brisbane Airport access fee of $3.50 applies to all pick-ups from the Ride Booking zones, which will be added to your booking by your ride sharing service. For location maps see www.bne.com.au/to-from-brisbane-airport/ transport-options

Coach, rail, limousine and corporate car bookings can be made at the Visitor Information Centre, Level 2 International Terminal or Level 1 Domestic Terminal.

TAXIS AND AIRTRAIN Taxi ranks International Terminal Level 2, kerbside Domestic Terminal Level 1, kerbside Airtrain provides regular rail links between Brisbane Airport, Brisbane city, Gold Coast and TransLink network as well as terminal transfers. Tickets available in the terminal or at the station.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES For information about accommodation, tours, transfer tickets and general enquiries, Visitor Information Centres are located on Level 2 International Terminal and Level 1 Domestic Terminal Central Area.

LOCAL AMENITIES

CURRENCY EXCHANGE Travelex currency exchange and transfer facilities are on Levels 2, 3 and 4 International Terminal and Level 2 Domestic Terminal near Gate 23.

Skygate is Brisbane Airport’s retail and dining precinct, a short free ride on the Transfer Bus from the terminals. There are more than 160 stores, including brand-name factory outlets, a 24/7 supermarket, hairdresser, gym, restaurants, chemist, medical clinic, hotel, beauty services, barber, tavern and golf leisure centre.

BAGGAGE LOCKERS

AIRPORT ambassadors Welcoming volunteers are available to answer questions and offer directions to visitors within Brisbane Airport’s Domestic and International Terminals. Look for ambassadors wearing bright blue shirts if you need assistance and our team of Chinese-speaking ambassadors wear red shirts.

TAX REFUND SCHEME (TRS) The TRS enables international travellers to claim a refund, subject to certain conditions, of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) that you pay on goods bought in Australia. For details see passenger information at www.bne.com.au If your purchase is part of your carry-on luggage: The TRS office is located past security and passport control, just to the right of the JR/Duty Free entrance.

If your purchase is packed in luggage you intend to check: Before you check-in your luggage make your way to the Australian Border Force Client Services Office, located on Level 1 International Terminal. For further information call 1300 363 263 or see www.customs.gov.au

TOUR BRISBANE AIRPORT Do you have a question about the new runway?

Would you like to go ‘behind-the-scenes’ of airport operations? Brisbane Airport hosts free tours for community groups. Find out more at www.bne.com.au/tours

ROTARY CLUB OF BRISBANE AIRPORT The club is a vibrant group of professionals with a shared passion to support the local community who meet weekly and new members are always welcome.

For details see www.bneairportrotary.com

Find small, medium and large lockers for short and long-term hire at the terminal entrance to the public car park at the International Terminal, at either end of the Domestic Terminal, or next to the bus stop at Skygate.

DISABILITY ACCESS Airlines are responsible for assisting passengers with disabilities within terminals.

Passengers should refer to their airline’s policies prior to booking their ticket.

A dedicated Changing Places bathroom facility for the use of travellers with special needs is located on the central ground floor area of Domestic Terminal (near Qantas baggage carousel 3).

Facilities for assistance dogs are available at International Terminal Level 3 Departures and Domestic Terminal Level 2 Central Area.

POLICE For assistance at Brisbane Airport telephone 13 12 37.

LOST PROPERTY International Terminal Visitor Information Centre, Level 2; call (07) 3406 3190 or email international@sqt.com.au

Domestic Terminal Enquiries first to airlines –

Qantas (gates 1-25) call +61 7 3867 3264 Virgin Australia (gates 38-50) call +61 7 3114 8150 Jetstar (gates 26-36) call + 61 7 3336 1752 Tigerair email ttbne.ops@aerocare.com.au before contacting Visitor Information Centre, Level 1; call (07) 3068 6698 or email domestic@sqt.com.au

Car parks and buses

Contact Visitor Information Centre as above.

WiFi access

Brisbane Airport has the fastest uncapped free WiFi in Australia available at International Terminal and Domestic Terminal Central Area.

BNE IT ALL BEGINS HERE

Seoul

Beijing

South Korea

China

Tokyo (Narita) Japan

Shanghai (Pudong)

Guangzhou

China

China

Shenzhen China

Dubai

United Arab Emirates

Bangkok

Abu Dhabi

Hong Kong

Taipei Taiwan

China

Thailand

United Arab Emirates

Manila

Philippines

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia

Singapore Singapore

Port Moresby Papua New Guinea

Denpasar Indonesia

BRISBANE

BRISBANE

to the world

To 81 destinations direct from Brisbane and beyond

Air China

Air Canada

Air Niugini

Air New Zealand

40 | BNE September/October 2018

Aircalin

Air Vanuatu

Cathay Pacific

Alliance Airlines

China Eastern Airlines China Airlines

Emirates China Southern Airlines

Eva Air

Etihad

Fly Corporate

Fiji Airlines

Vancouver

Canada

Los Angeles USA

Honolulu

USA

Darwin

Nauru Nauru

Cairns

Apia Honiara

Solomon Islands

Mt Isa

Port Hedland

Espiritu Santo

Longreach

Vanuatu

Alice Springs

Port Vila Vanuatu Nadi

Uluru

Fiji

Noumea

New Caledonia

Auckland

Perth

New Zealand

Moranbah Barcaldine

Rockhampton Gladstone

Emerald

Blackall

Biloela Bundaberg Windorah Charleville Fraser Coast (Hervey Bay) Birdsville Roma Miles Quilpie BRISBANE BRISBANE St George Toowoomba Thargomindah Cunnamulla Norfolk Island Moree Inverell Narrabri Coffs Harbour Tamworth Armidale Dubbo Port Macquarie

New Zealand

Queenstown

Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) Hamilton Island Mackay

Townsville

Cloncurry

Samoa

Newcastle Lord Howe Island Canberra

Adelaide

Orange Sydney

Wellington New Zealand

Christchurch New Zealand

Melbourne

Dunedin

New Zealand

Launceston Hobart

Map not to scale. Please note airlines and destinations are current at time of print.

Hawaiian Airlines Hainan Airlines

Korean Air Jetstar

Malindo Air

Malaysia Airlines

Philippine Airlines Nauru Airlines

Rex

Qantas/ QantasLink

Solomon Airlines Singapore Airlines

Tigerair

Thai Airways

Virgin Australia

BNE September/October 2018 | 41

ESCAPE EXTRA

10 top things 6. ON WITH THE SHOW The art deco Empire Theatre continues to host worldclass performances, from orchestras, dance troupes and stage plays to musicals and comedies, so it’s worth checking what’s on during your stay – and you’ll also see the historic grand proscenium arch that is believed to be the only one remaining in the Southern Hemisphere. See www.empiretheatre.com.au

TO DO IN TOOWOOMBA 1. PET-FRIENDLY CARNIVAL Crowds flock to Toowoomba (less than two hours drive west of Brisbane) for the Carnival of Flowers (above, from 21-30 September) and this year pets will be welcome too with the introduction of Petals & Pups, the event’s official dog-friendly program.

There are more than 30 dog-friendly activities, 27 off-leash parks, 20 humanand-hound accommodation stays, and the carnival has its own canine ambassador leading the way. For event details and pooch-friendly places to stay and play see www.tcof.com.au

2. SPIRIT OF THE OUTBACK Cully means ‘friend’ and the annual Cully Fest aims to bridge the gap between city and country in a festival that celebrates the heart and spirit of outback culture and tradition. The program includes art, craft and survival activities, Indigenous dance, storytelling, bush tucker cooking demonstrations, fossil digs, opal fossicking, concerts, street theatre, a film festival, comedy sessions, social discussions and workshops. At Toowoomba Showgrounds, October 13 and 14. See www.cullyfest.com

3. CITY TOURS Lindsay Booth has lived in Toowoomba for more than 30 years so he’s an authoritative guide (and the driver) on the Toowoomba Sightseeing tours, which provide either a two-hour or three-hour snapshot of the city’s highlights. Booth is a self-confessed history buff too so his tours are filled with stories about the heritage sights. Even locals have given the tour a thumbs up for finding out things about their city they didn’t already know and it’s a good way to get your bearings about town. Cost $20 per adult.

For details see www.toowoombasightseeing.com.au

4. WALK IN THE PARK It’s not called the Garden City for nothing. Toowoomba has more than 150 public parks and gardens within coo’ee of the city centre and they are at their blooming best in Spring. Explore Queens Park and the Botanic Gardens (a sprawling 25 hectares just east of the city centre), then wander Laurel Bank Park in the city, the Japanese Garden, Waterbird Habitat, and Newtown Park State Rose Garden just for starters.

5. TRANSPORTED BACK IN TIME Just a walk across Queens Park the Cobb+Co Museum is a step back in time to the pioneering days of horse-drawn transport in Australia. If you don’t know a carriage from a buggy or a sulkie, this is where to find out. In addition to the exhibition there is a program of hands-on artisan workshops – blacksmithing is booked out months in advance – and the café is well worth a stop for hand-made sausage rolls, shepherd’s pie and scones. Open daily with guided tours twice a day. See www.cobbandco.qm.qld.gov.au 42 | BNE September/October 2018

7. EAT LOCAL Start at Ground Up Espresso for the best coffee in town, find Phat Burgers for a family-friendly lunch or be spoilt for choice at the Walton Stores, the latest urban renewal project in town and a buzzy dining precinct; join the cool crowd for lunch at Ortem and blend in with the locals at the Spotted Cow come beer o’clock. For take-home produce fill your shopping bags at My Local Feast Farmers’ Markets in the Empire Theatre grounds (every Thursday) and the Cobb+Co Museum grounds (every Saturday).

8. MOUNTAIN HIKE It is no walk in the park but the hike up Table Top Mountain does provide panoramic views of the region from 700 metres above sea level and it’s worth the sweat. The stone steps at the start are an indication what’s ahead: some rough terrain and steep sections. Search parks and gardens at www.tr.qld.gov.au

9. WILD ENCOUNTERS Darling Downs Zoo is as close as you’ll get to African lions, white lions, herds of zebra, baboons, antelope and the Aldabra giant tortoise without leaving Queensland and you’ll find some local species at home there too, including emus, kangaroos, dingoes, lizards and more. It’s about 40 minutes drive south of Toowoomba. Entry $35 (adult).

See www.darlingdownszoo.com.au

10. TAKE THE TRAIN Not just any old train but the 40-minute journey to heritagelisted Spring Bluff Station (below), known as South East Queensland’s prettiest station. Services operate twice a day from Toowoomba during Carnival of Flowers or it’s also a picturesque drive from Toowoomba following Murphy’s Creek through the countryside. Train tickets $20 adults.

Book online at www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au

BRISBANE REGION MAP

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which Brisbane Airport stands and pay respect to their Elders past, present and emerging. *The general locations of larger Indigenous language groups of South East Queensland on this map are indicative only, based on the AIATSIS Map of Indigenous Australia published by Aboriginal Studies Press

Map illustration by Eun-Young Lim. Map is not to scale or exact and an indication only.

BNE September/October 2018 | 43

M O E N ET D E ING M A S N D Conveniently located adjacent to the Domestic Terminal of Brisbane Airport, the Brisbane Airport Conference Centre is perfectly situated for your next meeting, recruitment interview, training or consultation.

Available for hire by the hour, get the most out of your meeting in one of our modern, light-filled boardrooms.

BOARDROOM PACKAGE includes: Pads and pens Still or sparkling water Selection of individual snacks Nespresso coffee and tea selection

STANDARD RATES 1 Hour 2 Hours 3 Hours

$150 $250 $400

ASK ABOUT OUR DAY DELEGATE PACKAGES

MEET A LITTLE LONGER

bn e a h g . c om.a u | 0 7 3188 7373 | h9559-sb@accor.co m