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Phone 1300 758 184 Queensland Tourist News SUMMERTIME EDITION 3.14

The Village has captured and preserved some of the original buildings from the Gladstone Region.

• Food, drinks and ice-cream SPECIAL FEATURES ● Studio style with kitchenette, ironing facilities and guest laundry ● 1 & 2 bedroom self contained apartments ● Saltwater pool (heated during winter) ● Ducted air conditioning ● DD phones & internet ● In-room safes ● Underground parking ● Lifts ● Quality Restaurants, Bars, Fast Food + Shops - All within 300 metres of Ocean Breeze

• Driver Reviver site • Admission is $5 Adult & $2 Children under 14 yrs • No dogs please • Open daily 8am to 4pm

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See some of Australia’s historical buildings.

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MARKET DAYS December 2, 2014 - 2015 March 1, May 3, July 26, August 30, September 27, October 25, December 6.

CALLIOPE RIVER HISTORICAL VILLAGE Bruce Highway - 6 klm north of Calliope Cross Roads, Gladstone

PHONE 07 4975 7883 - Email: harveyh@bigpond.com

Win

a Tropical Reef Holiday!

Win a trip on the reef to Lady Musgrave Island and a 1770 LARC day tour with three nights accommodation at Edge on Beaches Resort.

Enter on page 18

COASTLINE NEWSPAPERS PTY LTD. Managing Director/Editor: Michael McRae, 32 Takalvan Street, Bundaberg, PO Box 1775 Bundaberg 4670. ACN 010897542 ABN 96 010 897. Est 1986 - an independent Bundaberg owned family newspaper. Typeset and layout by jpg Design & Print P/L, Sunshine Coast. Printed by Fairfax. Copyright © Coastline Newspapers. Reproduction of any portion including advertisements and photographs without permission is not permitted and may render one liable for damages.

DISCLAIMER: This publication is designed to provide authoritative information with regard to the subject matters covered. Whilst every effort has been made to present all information accurately, the Publisher accepts no liability for the accuracy of any inclusions, or any advice given,or for omissions from the publication. NOTE: All charges, facilities and timetables are subject to change without notice.

Welcome to the Sunshine State

From the Editor’s pen Welcome to the Sunshine State!

We’re delighted to welcome readers in Toowoomba and Ipswich. This Tourist Queensland is not only delivered to homes in these cities but is also available at over 400 pickup points around our state..

You’re sure to find some excellent ideas for your next Queensland holiday no matter what time of year you choose. We hope you find Tourist Queensland an informative and colourful snapshot of the best our state has to offer.

Our other publication Coalfields Express is the only newspaper home delivered into our mining towns so PAGE 2

please contact us if you would like more information.

We have a fabulous prize to give away – a three-night break at Agnes Water with a visit to the Barrier Reef and a trip on the LARC. Enter on page 18.

We welcome your feedback on Tourist Queensland so email Michael@coastlinenews.com.au or check out www.coastlinenews.com.au for more about Queensland.

We look forward to seeing you.

Michael McRae, Managing Editor, Coastline Newspaper Group.

WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

Are we there yet?

This is a vast state we live in, so how far is it from one place to the next? Here’s a few distances between major centres.

Brisbane to Cairns - 1700 km Brisbane to Town of 1770 – 480 km Brisbane to Mount Isa – 1820 km Brisbane to Rockhampton – 649 km Brisbane to Whitsundays – 1132 km Brisbane to Sunshine Coast – 95km Rockhampton to Longreach, Winton – 687 km Rockhampton to Mount Isa – 1328 km Gold Coast to Sunshine Coast – 182 km Sunshine Coast to Cairns – 1596 km Cairns to Townsville – 349 km Cairns to Mackay – 734 km Mackay to Airlie Beach – 149 km Townsville to Airlie Beach – 310 km

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

Queensland – Where Australia Shines Get ready to take home marvellous memories of your Queensland experience – hours of sunshine and year-round tropical climates cultivate a sense of well-being and ultimate relaxation, along with the chance to indulge in your love of sports and outdoor recreation – it’s all here in this vast state of contrasts.

Queensland’s cities and towns are thriving with cosmopolitan energy and a strongly defined sense of place. Make sure you catch all the important city sights. With innate optimism and eclectic appeal it’s no wonder Queensland is recognised as offering unbeatable nightlife, the most entertaining cities and why residents from all corners of the globe come to live here.

You’ll never forget Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island just off the coast of beautiful Hervey Bay (our whale-watching capital).

See nature’s wonders up close – turtle nesting, whale-watching, koalas and crocs – our wildlife abounds. Explore pristine beaches of the Sunshine and Gold Coasts, luxurious Whitsunday Islands and Heritage-Listed Daintree Rainforest in the Tropical North. With over 200 National Parks and a range of unique rainforests there’s something to please every nature-lover.

One of the world’s seven natural marvels, the Great Barrier Reef is waiting for you to uncover its magic – under it, above it, on it – there’s a myriad of ways to enjoy it. The 3000 individual reefs and coral islands harbour thousands of fish and marine creatures.

Watch the progression of protected humpback whales on their journey along the coast, while Mon Repos Beach near Bundaberg has the largest turtle rookery in the southern hemisphere – both unique sights to see.

The Outback – there’s adventure out there! From rollicking stockmen to desert sand dunes and even the odd dinosaur – heritage-rich Matilda Country of the central west, Mining Country in the north west – right here in our backyard. Visit the Qantas

Rudd’s Pub – home of Dad and Dave

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef. The reef contains an abundance of marine life and comprises of over 3000 individual reef systems and coral cays hundreds of picturesque tropical islands.

Museum in Longreach – a tribute to Australia’s international airline and The Stockmans Hall Of Fame. Where else can boast an average of 300 sunny days a year? Average summer and winter temperatures range from 9C to 29C in Brisbane and 17C to 31C in Cairns. You won’t find anywhere much colder than 1C even in the hills of South East Queensland Country.

Welcome to Queensland – let the sunshine in.

Step back in time and visit historic and extremely colourful Rudd’s Pub at Nobby, 35km from Toowoomba.

If it’s atmosphere you want, here it is – come and get it!

Immerse yourself in the incredible photographic collection and memorabilia adorning every wall (and ceiling), enjoy a cold ale and delicious country meal. (they make a great Caesar Salad too) Dine in the Heritage lounge where Steele Rudd sat while writing his famous “Dad & Dave” stories, and while in Nobby you can visit

the grave and memorial of Sister Elizabeth Kenny, who pioneered the treatment of infantile paralysis.

Rudd’s Pub still retains and character and charm of a hotel from a bygone era and along with photographs, there’s farming implements, tools your great grandfather used, bottles, kitchen utensils, books and other fascinating items.

While in the Toowoomba region, try and pay a call – it’s a great little pub. p

Enjoy a day out with Thomas at the Workshops Rail Museum Meet Thomas The Tank Engine and the Fat Controller at the Workshops Rail Museum in Ipswich from December 26 to February 1st, open from 9.30am to 4pm.

• Thomas Play Pit with Thomas truck building activities • Story readings, games, puzzles, colouring in at Imagination Station.

• Adventures Of The Blue Engine at the Cinema • Make your own craft creation to take home and dig for dino bones.

There’s fun for the whole family too

– see the huge model railway, take a guided tour of the active railway workshop (enclosed footwear needed) try driving a train on a simulator.

The Workshops Rail Museum is a wholly interactive, authentic heritage and cultural experience at the birthplace of rail. Make history come alive with hands-on exhibits, colourful stories, multimedia encounters – all among huge steam locos and massive industrial machinery.

Some of Queensland’s special offers for accommodation.

Go to www.coastlinenews.com.au for more!

liday?

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Regency Waterfront

Self contained studio units from

BURLEIGH HEADS

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$125 per night

Stay 7 nights and Pay for 5

Phone 5449 7139

Phone 07 5535 8866

Plan to spend about three hours to enjoy all the activities, pack a picnic to enjoy in the grounds or get lunch at the Café – wear enclosed footwear if you’re touring the active railway workshop. Phone 3432 5100.

(The Christmas Express is welcoming passengers on December 14 with a festive return journey to historic Grandchester Station.)

Going boating?

Log on and off with VMR Gladstone.

VMR Gladstone Base, Alf O’Rourke Drive P: 07 4972 3333 F: 07 4972 3396 E: gladstone@vmraq.org.au W: vmrgladstone.org.au, Find us on Facebook Duty Controller: 0408 864 317 Call sign: VMR 446 Gladstone or VMR Gladstone

Ph: 1300 758 184 - Fax: 07 4153 3821 Email: ads@coastlinenews.com.au Post: Coastline Newspaper Group PO Box 1775, Bundaberg 4670, www.coastlinenews.com.au Some photos in this edition of Coalfields Express courtesy of Tourism Queensland.

We publish:

COALFIELDS EXPRESS for our mining towns There’s one coming soon!

BUNDY BOOK - Printed March 2015.

ADVERTISING BOOKINGS NOW OPEN

Stay 2 Nights and 3rd Night is FREE

See our publications at coastlinenews.com.au Partners in boating safety

Conditions apply. Mention this edition of Tourist Queensland when booking.

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

Contact Us

TOURIST QLD - Printed May 18, 2015.

$170 per night Phone 1800 111 808

Say Hi to the Fat Controller.

WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

Like us on Coastline Newspapers Facebook.

PAGE 3

The

DEPARTUREwithGATE Mike O'Connor

“Didjavagoodoliday?” they ask I look forward to holidays with childlike anticipation and sulk and pout when they are over.

This despair that attends my return to the real world is then compounded by friends, who feel it their sworn duty to inquire as to the quality of my time away.

“Didjavagoodoliday?’’ they ask. If you’ve had the worst time of your life – holiday apartment with a sweeping view of the rubbish bins, football team checked in next door, lost heavily at the pokies, non-stop rain and house burgled on your return, you’re not really going to want to relive the experience.

If you’ve had a wonderful time – upgraded to a spa suite, found a wallet stuffed with cash, children made new friends and left you alone from dawn until dusk, woman in the unit next door kept flirting with you – you don’t want to be reminded that it’s all over.

Those in the habit of assaulting friends newly returned to their daily toil with “Didjavagoodoliday?’’ please note that a

simple ``Welcome home’’ will suffice.

We all deal with the horrors of the return to work in different ways. My approach is to wallow in a deep depression from which I can take five days to emerge.

Human nature will also conspire to make your return to the coalface as traumatic as possible by planting the thought that the year that stretches ahead until your next holiday will be different.

This year, your talents will finally be recognized, and the rewards that are so rightfully yours will flow.

This year, that one person with whom you work who makes your life miserable will be found out as the fraud you have always known them to be and resign in disgrace, never to be seen or heard again.

You will also stop procrastinating and become a model of instant action, emails answered within hours and maybe, just maybe, for a very short time, you will actually believe that this is the way that the year will be.

That is until you hear that small but

insistent voice in your head saying: “Who are you kidding? This year will be exactly the same as last year except that at the end of it, you’ll be a year older.’’

There is no such thing as jetlag!

One way of softening the return to work is to pretend there is no such thing as jetlag.

I did this once, getting off the plane after a 30 hour journey from London and going straight to work.

I felt surprisingly alert all day and went home that evening and congratulated myself on my resilience.

I went back to the office the next day and by 11am was sleeping soundly at my desk and drooling over my computer keyboard in industrial quantities.

The rest of the week was a sleep shrouded blur. As well as nodding off periodically at my desk, I was found slumped over a table in a café snoring gently into my lunch and at one point, fell asleep while sitting in my

It’s time you discovered Lord Howe Island This World Heritage-listed paradise located 660km off the north coast of NSW is less than two hours' flight from Brisbane or Sydney.

QantasLink departs from Sydney most days and from Brisbane on weekends. A seasonal weekly service from the Island is also available from Port Macquarie from February to June and September to December.

At any one time, you'll be one of only 400 visitors on Lord Howe Island, regarded as one of the most beautiful in the Pacific. A holiday here is relaxing and unhurried, where getting around by bike or on foot is the way to go and there are plenty of adventures and activities to choose from.

World Heritage-listed for its outstanding natural beauty, remarkable geology and rare collection of birds, plants

and marine life, Lord Howe is surrounded by the world's southernmost coral reef. Pristine waters teem with marine life and rare coral form Lord Howe Island Marine Park, one of the largest in NSW. There's a whole host of waterbased activities including scuba diving, fishing, snorkelling, surfing and kayaking.

On land, there's no better way to seek out Lord Howe's 64 unique species of flowering plants, the endangered woodhen and seabird colonies than on well marked walking tracks.

If you're feeling especially adventurous, join a tour to climb to the summit of Mt Gower, one of the island's towering twin peaks. From the summit, you'll be captivated by the view - Mt Lidgbird in the foreground and The Lagoon below.

Specialising exclusively in

LORD HOWE ISLAND & NORFOLK ISLAND

PAGE 4

Be extremely careful in your choice of destination!

One way of lessening post-holiday depression is to be extremely careful in your choice of destination.

Do not do as we did and find yourself in a European destination surrounded by people of indecent wealth at every turn.

We kept hoping that in their hearts, they were desperately unhappy but they kept laughing and drinking more champagne.

Eventually we were forced to concede that they were having the time of their lives and would continue to do so long after we had returned to work.

Lord Howe Island - Just Paradise!

www.oxleytravel.com.au

1 CALL for BEST DEALS on flights, accommodation, tours & activities, group bookings & travel insurance.

Free call 1800 671 546 - 7 days

car at a set of traffic lights.

Apart from those brief interludes of consciousness in which I managed to eat, I slept at my desk for the entire week.

By the second week, I’d recovered but by then I had managed to sleep through the usual depression.

Call for a brochure!

On the descent, the jagged-spire of Balls Pyramid rises from the sea.

The architect-designed Lord Howe Island Museum opened in 2002. The museum has a range of innovative displays on the island’s World Heritage environment, community and history going back to 1788.

There is also a learning and scientific centre holding valuable archives, photographs and records with a reading/ research room with computer facilities, photocopying and internet access.

A wide range of accommodation styles, sumptuous spa treatments, beautiful hotels and great restaurants make Lord Howe Island the perfect getaway.

Feed the fish at Neds Beach Neds Beach Sanctuary Zone offers a unique opportunity to view an amazing diversity of fish and marine life close to shore.

There is a special purpose zone here to allow visitors to view and experience limited hand feeding of fish.

To help keep marine life healthy, there are plans for a fish food dispenser located at the Neds Beach shelter where visitors can access a handful of healthy fish food.

Research has found that too much food or the wrong type of food can be harmful to marine wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy the commentary of the local operator who feeds the fish daily at low tide (weather dependent).

Discover a wonderland of coral and marine life close to shore. Observe curious kingfish, silver drummer, bluefish, colourful reef fish and WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

larger creatures like turtles and Galapagos whaler sharks. Lord Howe Island Marine Park - worth discovering, worth protecting.

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

“Sell Up, Pack Up & Take Off� – win a copy

Letter to the Editor

Is living in a beautiful exotic location a completely impossible dream? Not with this sensible, practical guide to the how, why and when of establishing a new life overseas.

“We have had the most amazing time at Kingfisher Bay Resort. We couldn’t believe how lucky we were to land in such an idyllic spot – from the moment we met the staff at the check in centre, we were given first class service.

Our room overlooked natural vegetation, lilypond and we could see the sunset from our verandah – but this was surpassed by the spectacular sunset viewed from the Jetty Hut Bar where we had a glass of wine, cheese platter and an uninterrupted view of the sun sinking behind the hills over the bay.

Even though it was late in the whale watch season we saw a mother frolicking with her calf. The Captain spent a lot of time sharing his wealth of knowledge with passengers and went out of his way to ensure we got the most out of the trip.

Best of all was the relaxed style of holiday at Kingfisher Bay; three levels of dining allowed plenty of choice. Being Tasmanians we made full use of the spacious swimming pools at all times of the day. With a choice of four pools there was no crowding, just freedom to enjoy the facilities to their best advantage.

I can’t thank you enough for making this opportunity available to us, it was truly wonderful – we are definitely going again - Nola

Authors Stephen Wyatt and Colleen Ryan believe their experiences living abroad have enriched their lives and those of their children. They’re passionate about the benefits of selling up, packing up and taking off at various stages of life, especially retirement.

Whether you’re 40 plus and feel burnt out and needing a change, or older and facing retirement, this is the perfect book for you – find out how to live an exciting, comfortable but cheaper life overseas – on long term or trial basis.

Sell Up, Pack Up & Take Off published by Allen & Unwin tells you about people living the dream in Asia or Europe, making their dollar go further – with better houses, better social life, more luxury, more adventure.

Find out how to get a visa, buying and renting a house, pros and cons of various countries, managing health insurance, pension, super and tax.

The Tourist Queensland has copies of this handy guide to give away – write your name, address, phone number on the back of an envelope, post to Coastline Newspaper, PO Box 1775, Bundaberg. Q 4670 or enter via our website www.coastlinenews.com.au. Entries close Wednesday, January 28.

Winners will be advised and names listed on our website.

Nola Polmear of Tasmania was the winner of our Fraser Island Kingfisher Bay Resort, Quick Cat II Whale Watch competition in our last edition of Tourist Queensland.

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

REACH SERIOUS REAL ESTATE INVESTORS Have you got a home or land to sell?

Our miners enjoy the highest incomes in Queensland.

The Coalfields Express reaches this prime market.

For advertising details phone 1300 758 184 or email ads@coastlinenews.com.au www.coastlinenews.com.au

Advertise in the Coalfields Express Don’t miss your chance to enter our free competition to win a trip to the Barrier Reef and an adventure on the Larc from the Town of 1770. Full details on page 18.

Qantas – Toowoomba flights set to commence

More than 27,000 flocked to Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport (BWWA) recently for their Community Open Day, delighted to see 2014 IndyCar champ, Will Power race a Cessna Mustang Citation jet down the newly-completed 2.87 km runway.

The local Toowoomba boy flew back to Australia especially to celebrate the event. “I’ve never raced a jet before so it was very exciting,� said Will, Australia’s first IndyCar champion.

The free event was the last chance to preview Australia’s newest airport near Toowoomba before QantasLink services begin on November 17.

Wagner’s director and event organiser, John Wagner thanked everyone who attended the event, particularly the 300 volunteers.

Just 30 minutes from Rockhampton, Central Queensland.

www.coastlinenews.com.au

The

Experience www.southburnett.qld.gov.au

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11 return flights per week Qantas will service 11 return flights per week to and from Sydney and provide a Toowoomba centric schedule of double daily services on weekdays and daily on weekends.

Premier Campbell Newman said the Qantas agreement was a sign of confidence in the growing south-east.

BWAA is the first greenfield public airport built in Australia in 50 years and the nation’s first privately funded public airport. “This is a momentous occasion for Australian aviation, the Toowoomba region and the airport,� said Mr Wagner.

WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

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PAGE 5

BRISBANE

Brisbane – our vibrant capital Exciting Southbank.

Australia’s third biggest city, this stylish and vibrant city has evolved around the large Brisbane River which meanders through the centre and over the years bridges have been built to connect North to South with Story Bridge one of the most famous.

With hot summers and pleasant winters, exceptional weather and laid-back holiday atmosphere, the city now attracts people from all over the world to sample Brisbane’s top-class restaurants and performing arts complexes.

The Queen Street Mall is where Brisbane Tourism is located and just across the river is the South Bank visitors centre. Many hotels are concentrated around the city centre, Spring Hill to the north,

PAGE 6

Petrie Terrace on the west, Fortitude Valley and New Farm to the north-east and the West End District in the southern suburbs.

Brisbane also has a number of top museums, providing in-depth Queensland information and artefacts. Architecture throughout is varied, with a number of impressive historic buildings dating back to the early 19th century, combined with modern skyscrapers.

This combination of old and new makes the city’s skyline breathtaking, particularly at night when the lights of the tallest buildings are reflected in the river.

Brisbane Greeters welcome the world Staffed by passionate volunteers, the Brisbane Greeters Program provides visitors with a personal perspective of the city and reveals the heart and soul of Brisbane across four tour categories: Arts and Culture; History and Heritage; Family Fun; Architecture.

It is part of the Global Greeters Network, which began in New York in 1992 and has since been successfully adopted by 27 cities around the world including Toronto, Paris and Berlin as well as Adelaide and Melbourne in Australia.

Program itineraries include Churches Shrines and Sculpture, Contemporary Design, Historic

Pubs, Wartime Brisbane, Government Heritage, A River Runs Through, The Great Outdoors, Family Fresh Food and a Feast of Public Art. Visitors can book via www.brisbanegreeters.com.au or through the Brisbane Visitor Information and Booking Centre in the Queen Street Mall – which is the starting point for all tours.

Tours take between two to four hours via a combination of guided walks and public transport with a maximum of six guests.

Visitors can select from a number of suggested tour itineraries or customise their own.

Welcome to Brisbane.

#

WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

BRISBANE Live on stage at QPAC

Walk this way

Spirit of Christmas – December 19, 20.

The highly anticipated New Farm Riverwalk connecting New Farm and the Brisbane CBD is open. The $72 million, 900 metre long floating walkway caters to cyclists, pedestrians and runners, and features a segregated pedestrian and cycle path as well as shaded rest and viewing areas.

Tourists and locals can feast on panoramic views of The Story Bridge and the city skyline as a backdrop for their walk. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au

A much-loved QPAC tradition, this year’s special guests are Simon Burke and Christie Whelan Browne.

Joining them are Queensland Symphony Orchestra, QPAC Choir, Brisbane Chorale, Brisbane Birralee Voices, Opera Queensland tenor,Virgilio Marino and music theatre graduate William Bourchier from the Conservatorium.

Friday December 19 at 7pm and December 20 at 2pm and 7pm. *****

Giggle and Hoot and Friends – January 3 to 11 Jimmy Giggle, Hoot and Hootabelle bring pals Bananas in Pyjamas and Hoopla Doopla’s Zap, Mimi and Jango to the Playhouse.

The 50 minute spectacular has everyone’s favourite songs, dancing, fun and laughter.

The ABC4Kids preschool program’s live show will be one of hottest tickets for family entertainment this summer.

Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo – Cremorne Theatre, from January 3 An educational and fun experience with the audience coming eye to eye with an array of lifelike creatures from cute baby dinosaurs to huge carnivores and hervicores.

Brought to life by sophisticated design, electronics and theatrical presentation, the large-scale puppets provides amazing visual experiences – unforgettable! *****

Brisbane CBD gets big global brands

The Illusionists 1903 – Concert Hall, January 4

A host of new international retailers are opening their doors this Spring, with more to come before the end of the year.

Since October and through November, Queens Plaza will welcome high-end luxury brands Paspaley, Bulgari and the first Burberry store in Queensland.

At the other end of Queen Street Mall, the recently opened NEXT Hotel and rooftop bar – the highly anticipated upgrade of the historic Chifley on Lennons – includes a space for the first Forever 21 store.

Local retailer Cotton On, opened its largest Australian store in the Mall last September.

Jamie’s Italian is expected to open in Rowes Arcade before the end of the year, while Dior will take up tenancy at Queens Plaza early next year.

A $2 million precinct development proposed for Roma Street coinciding with the launch of Hotel Jen will also further expand the food and beverage options available in the CBD.

World premiere of their new production with world class Illusionists hand-picked from across the globe will transport you to the golden age of magic, when conjurers were the rock stars of the day.

This larger than life production explores in exquisite, turn of the century grandeur the true artistry of magic with a cast of world famous magicians playing incredible characters, each embodying magical greats of the past. See the impossible recreated LIVE ON STAGE. ***** For bookings for any of these shows telephone 136 246.

Diana Plaza Hotel your sanctuary in the city

*$129

Accommodation & Hot Buffet Breakfast for 2 Walk to QPAC & Southbank • FREE Parking

• 4 Star Accommodation

• Day Spa & Fitness Centre

• Restaurant & Bar

* Rate is subject to availability & applies to Fri/Sat/Sun nights only

Diana Plaza Hotel 12 Annerley Road, Woolloongabba Brisbane Qld 4102 Phone (07) 3391 2911 | Email info@dianaplaza.com.au www.dianaplaza.com.au

Are you hungry?

Then let’s eat!

Celeste Mitchell from Tourism Queensland checks out Brisbane’s latest fast eating hotspots.

Every Friday come 4pm, a hungry cavalcade makes its way north.

Escaping the city clutches, office buildings cleared out, the roads fill up as locals in the know make their way to an old abandoned docking site in Hamilton.

As you approach, it looks like a carnival – is the circus in town? – but as you spot the shipping container at the entranceway, emblazoned with giant, lit-up lettering, spelling “Eat” – it’s clear what we’re all here for.

Eat Street Markets have been the hottest foodie destination in Brisbane since launching last November and with numbers not showing any signs of slowing down, the Friday and Saturday night ritual has now been extended to open Sundays from 11am-7pm.

The concept is pretty simple: 80+ shipping containers fitted out into food stalls serving up everything from pork belly dumplings to paleo chocolates, woodfired pizza from Banneton Bakery to Korean sliders, Lindt chocolate quesadillas (yes, really!) to honey puffs and haloumi, gözleme… well, the list almost never ends! But the vibe is electric – all the buzz of an Asian night market with live music to boot, just 10 minutes from the city.

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

The sneaky shipping containers seem to multiply every time you visit, with art, homewares, flowers, produce and clothing stalls sprouting up in between the live music and must-visit cronut Kombi, so you can get your kombucha and a new floor rug ‘to go’.

Still, the lines never seem to get any shorter for Miss Claude’s Crepes!

PS. There is now a $2 per person entry fee. Stalls take cash only but there are a couple of ATMs on site, if you don’t mind lining up.

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PAGE 7

Looking for the perfect opportunity to relax, indulge and unwind?

Granite Belt – experience ‘the four seasons’ A mecca for gourmets and wine-lovers nestled between vineyards and National Parks; named for the large prehistoric granite boulders scattered across the landscape, The Granite Belt is two hours drive south-west of Brisbane.

Grapes have been grown in the Granite Belt since Granite Highlands

MAXI TOURS

the 1870s with the region developing the reputation as a leading wine producer. You can taste whites – verdelho, semillon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc; classic full flavoured reds - shiraz, merlot and cabernet sauvignon varieties.

Those with a more adventurous palate can follow

Take a break with us

WINERY TOURS & CHARTER

You drink - we drive Spend your day being pampered and tasting some of the best wines in the country.

Cottages

Group pick ups from other areas-check website for details

From $160 per night Includes breakfast basket.

• Full & Half Day Tours • Weekend Packages • Christmas & Birthday Tours • Progressive Lunches • Personalised Tours • Wheelchair Friendly Bus

Phone Allan today to make your booking

1800 852 969 or 0417 192 179 www.maxitours.com.au allan@maxitours.com.au

the Strange Bird alternative wine trail which covers some of the more unusual varieties including viognier, mourvedre and tempranillo.

There’s also food to match – everything from modern Italian and delis to traditional pub fare.

Apart from artisan breads and pies, locally cured meats, cheeses, vinegar, chocolates and olive oil, check out the wild asparagus, fennel and saffron growing through the region.

The Nude Food Trail is self-drive, showing you where to eat and find the best produce – apples, pears, berries, stone fruit, persimmons, figs, olives and a huge range of vegetables in season.

array of cafes, shops, gift stores and galleries.

Flowing through the town is Quart Pot Creek, with more than 5km of walking and cycling tracks with great picnic and bbq areas.

Explore as much as you can of the Granite Belt’s gourmet and wine experiences, quaint villages and hamlets – a memorable holiday experience.

Superb accommodation choices to suite all tastes and budgets range from luxurious cottages and apartments to B&Bs, motels, caravan and camping, cabins and farm stays.

Stanthorpe – continuing a rich heritage

Camping Grounds From $13pp per night Pets on leashes welcome • Creek frontage

• Swimming Holes

• Walking trails

• Bird Watching ... plain relaxing.

With its rich multicultural and agricultural heritage, Stanthorpe is nationally recognised for its winemaking, diversity of produce, arts, craft and culture with an amazing

Nestled in the Great Diving Range Phone Margaret today at 07 466 66 058 or visit www.goomburraforestretreat.com.au

Tranquility, peace & quiet in a relaxing environment

There’s nothing like a winter holiday in gAustralia like a Winter holiday for the Kiwis

r Tourist the Kiwis!

Queensland crosses the ditch ...

Wine tasting at the College Stanthorpe is home to the Queensland College of Wine Tourism (QCWT) and you can do a wine tasting at its Banca Ridge Cellar Door and lunch on local produce at their Varias Restaurant.

Like its wine, the College has matured over the past eight years adding more programs, developing teaching models and creating tourism packages.

One of these is the Winemaker For A Weekend package, where you can learn to make wine “hands on” as well as indulging in a sensational food and wine experience.

You’re also invited back for another weekend to taste your own wine – well worth checking out.

Peter Orr from the College said it’s impossible for him to name his favourite season on the Granite Belt.

“Autumn for the lovely crisp mornings and mild sunny days …

Spring for the new growth in the vineyard as a promise of things to come..Summer for the grape harvest, Winter for the ice and frost – all the seasons have their own uniqueness.”

Have fun making your own wine.

The total visitors from New Zealand to Australia in 2013 was 1.21 million and increases every year. Now you can advertise to Kiwis.

The Tourist Queensland will be home delivered into premium suburbs in cities in the North Island of New Zealand.

BOOKINGS FOR ADVERTISING NOW OPEN. BOOK EARLY TO SECURE A PRIME SPOT!

PAGE 8

Printed on May 18, 2015 Phone or email now!

• See most places of interest • Visit famous wineries and enjoy samples • Experienced commentary • Private tours arranged • Wheelchair access

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GOLD COAST

Need a coffee fix?

Travellers, spa-enthusiasts and coffee drinkers can now relish in an activity that blends their three favourite elements into one.

Ripple Massage, a mobile day spa that provides spa treatments throughout Queensland, recently developed Australia’s first coffee massage in conjunction with two Queensland companies.

The Ripple Coffee Massage uses premium beans from Queensland’s own Merlo Coffee in a treatment package that can also take place in one of the state’s prettiest mountain retreats, Witches Falls Cottages in the Tamborine Mountains.

The massage starts with warm coffee oil and includes a full body coffee scrub and a coffee hydrating face mask. To extend the “perks”, clients get to take home a gift box with coffee candle, handmade coffee soap and Merlo chocolate coated coffee beans.

The two-hour Ripple Coffee Massage Package costs $195 per person, while a private cottage at Witches Falls Cottages costs $270 per night (mid-week rate) inclusive of a choice of BBQ breakfast or Gourmet Breakfast Hamper. Witches Falls Cottages caters for adults only. www.ripplemassage.com.au

Magic Millions new Women Ambassador Edwina Tops-Alexander, one of the best show jumping riders in the world, has been announced as the 2015 Magic Millions Racing Women Ambassador. Australianborn, Ms Tops-Alexander will return home to attend the week long Carnival culminating in Raceday on Saturday January 10. She will join Zara Phillips MBE, Patron of MMRW, to draw awareness to women's roles in the racing industry as part of the 2015 Jeep Magic Millions Carnival. For the past five years, Edwina has regularly been ranked as the highest female show jumping rider in the world, the only rider to win the coveted Global Championships Tour crown on multiple occasions.

She is the only female ranked in the top 10 on the tour this season. "I am thrilled to be involved in the 2015 Jeep Magic Millions Carnival alongside co-owners Gerry Harvey and Katie Page-Harvey,” she said. "Winning the Australian Young Riders Championship in 1995 was a game changer for my career and prompted my move overseas. Subsequently, show jumping has taken me all over the world and opened doors to countless opportunities.

Queensland Minister for Tourism, Jann Stuckey, said to attract an equestrian athlete of Edwina’s caliber further cements the carnival’s international status as a preeminent thoroughbred sales and racing event.

Skypoint Climb - thrilling 360o views of the coastline and beyond Australia’s only beachside Observation Deck and highest external building walk, Skypoint is located 230m above sea level in the heart of Surfers Paradise.

Thrill to 360 degree views of the glistening coastline and beyond. Indulge in the all day dining menu and by night the Observation Deck transforms into a chic lounge bar with entertainment Friday and Saturday and Sunday.

Take on the SkyPoint Climb on a guided journey reaching 270m into the sky atop the iconic QI resort building.

In the morning, during the day and twilight, the 90 minute experience includes group photo, certificate,Climb Cap and entry to SkyPoint Observation Deck. Climb and Dine packages available www.skypoint.com.au, telephone (07) 5582 2700

Where you want to be Burleigh Surf Beachfront

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Currumbin’s lorikeets famous for 60 years

Think Currumbin and if you’re a Queenslander you probably have a childhood photo with a lorikeet tucked away somewhere. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in a natural bushland environment includes education and animal hospital.

Popular residents include a huge crocodile, koalas to cuddle, a mob of kangaroos, flocks TOURIST QUEENSLAND

of feeding lorikeets; see the reptile and bird shows.

The not-for-profit theme park has been a well known Currumbin landmark for more than 60 years – all revenue is reinvested into the park to help fund conservation-based research, education and to care for injured wildlife.

P. 07 5535 8866 E. mail@burleighsurf.com.au

W. www.burleighsurf.com.au

1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments and 3 Bedroom Sub-Penthouses, fully self-contained with spa baths. Expansive sea views opposite patrolled beach. Full resort facilities, indoor heated pool, spa, tennis court, gym, games room and outdoor pool.

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PAGE 9

SUNSHINE COAST

Sunshine Coast - more than 100 kilometres of beaches Great for families looking for holiday fun and couples seeking a romantic retreat, Noosa is the perfect place to get away from the workday world.

Miles of pristine coastline and lush hinterland, superb cuisine, action and adventure, or just the perfect piece of sand on which to sit and ponder?

The Sunshine Coast is all this and more, taking in the coastal communities of Caloundra, Kawana, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Coolum, Noosa, Rainbow Beach and Tin Can Bay. An extensive range of accommodation ensures your ideal retreat is right here. (and the food is…..incredible!)

element o n

The Sunnie Coast also takes in the tranquil hinterland including the Glass House Mountains, Blackall Range, Noosa Hinterland and the Mary Valley; as well as more than 100 kilometres of beaches. It’s the perfect combination for a dream holiday.

Explore art galleries, antique shops and eateries in the villages of Maleny and Montville; the wineries sprinkled through the region and national parks with rainforests and waterfalls.

Kids can be kept happy fishing, visiting world famous Australia Zoo, Ginger Factory, Underwater World at Mooloolaba; canoeing or wandering the markets.

Rivers, sheltered bays and surf beaches provide a variety of swimming spots.

Factor in something for Mum and Dad - a well deserved massage, a quiet rainforest walk, a round of golf or a romantic dinner in the mountains or by the sea.

Things to Do

You’ll never be short of activities whether you’re in the mood to get physical or put your feet up, you’ll find something.

Fishing and diving are superb and the golf courses are world class.

From exciting theme parks to tranquil national parks, fresh food trails to pampering spa treatments, the choice is yours.

coolum beach

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PAGE 10

1808 David Low Way Coolum Beach 07 5455 1777 1300 139 744 www.elementoncoolumbeach.com.au

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07 5444 5777

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TOURIST QUEENSLAND

SUNSHINE COAST Araleun Retreat - dedicated to improving health and well-being

Caloundra Coastal Walk - the most scenic shorelines

Rejuvenate, relax and retreat yourself on the outskirts of Gympie.

Araleun Retreat is dedicated to improving health and well-being, spread over 10 acres and helping people from all walks of life reach their full potential.

Araleun provides five or 10 day weight loss programs and a three-day de-stress program. It focuses on solving health issues such as eating disorders, stress and anxiety and serves up healthy cuisine to suit all dietary requirements.

In addition to the live-in treatment, guests are provided with 10 weeks’ ongoing support afterwards, helping them achieve goals at home.

A five day live-in program starts from $1,500 all inclusive. www.araleunretreat.com.au

Eumundi Night Markets are back

This stretches 25 kms along some of the most scenic shorelines you could ever wish to see.

The path is a continuous coastal link from Golden Beach in the south, where it hugs the Pumicestone Passage before passing Bulcock Beach and Kings Beach on its way round Caloundra Headland heading north following the long, sandy beaches of Kawana to Mooloolaba.

Along the way visit some historical sites including Military Jetty used for military operations in World War II and the heritage listed Kings Beach Bathing Pavilion constructed in 1937. The headland section follows a trail of plaques honouring the lives of those lost in war. Keep an eye out for the wreck of the SS Dicky that ran aground on Dicky Beach in 1893 during a cyclone.

Hinterland’s authentic charm The beautiful Sunshine Coast Indulge in the huge range of food and Hinterland is little more than an hour wine from award winning restaurants north of Brisbane with an average and chefs who ensure dining is a must elevation of 450m allowing the here in the Hinterland – boutique cooler climate unique attractions in cafes, degustation experiences, each of the different seasons. gourmet pizzas – all showing the These charming historic towns and abundance of local organic premium village of Maleny, Montville and produce. surrounding areas are rich with skilled artisans, innovative professionals and vibrant businesses, all passionate about their local community and environment.

Browse in galleries of stunning works, cute and quirky specialist shops – here you are spoilt for choice and sure to find something unique to take Diners are spoilt for choice in the charming back home with you.

Hinterland.

Malibu

mooloolaba

STAY- RELAX – UNWIND The Ultimate in the Heart of Mooloolaba

Website: www.malibu.com.au

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Call Dawn now on 0429 401425 to impress your family and friends with your own homemade dairy products. www.easycheesy.com.au

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This Noosa Riverside motel makes the perfect base for exploring Noosa.

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Join these workshops held from 9am to 1pm each Saturday at Cooran.

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Combine exercise and exploration with Noosa Running Tours, a locally-operated eco-business that provides guided walks and runs through the headland section of Noosa National Park - exploring the beaches, parks, rivers, trails, boardwalks and coastal surroundings of Noosa.

Fitness gurus can enjoy daily sunrise or sunset tours covering distances of 6km, 10km and 12km while learning fun facts about Noosa from the tour guide. Personalised, corporate, private group and kids’ tours are also available.

Daily sunrise and sunset tours starts at $30 per person for 45 minutes and approximately 6km – maximum group size is six. www.noosarunningtours.com.au

Windward Passage

★ THE ULTIMATE STAY 2 ROOFTOP APARTMENTS (1 WITH ROOFTOP SPA ) ★ 1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS FULLY SELF CONTAINED APARTMENTS (PRIVACY ASSURED) ★ GUARANTEED OCEAN VIEWS FROM ALL APARTMENTS ★ HEATED LAP POOL AND SPA ★ UNDERCOVER SECURE PARKING ★ CAFES, RESTAURANTS, SHOPS AND PATROL BEACH ALL JUST FOOTSTEPS AWAY FROM OUR DOORWAY

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Here are the dates: December 5, 12, 19 and January 2 – from 5pm to 9pm there’s retail therapy under the stars with more than 200 stalls and shops plus gift wrapping.

Eumundi will sparkle like never before with Santa making visits for fabulously affordable Santa photos. The Christmas Tree has an upcycled theme this year with visitors invited to hang shiny cutlery up there.

There’s Christmas Craft Workshops or make a lantern for the Lantern Parade on December 19.

DIY take-home craft kits are great stocking fillers.

Add in street performers, carollers, classic car displays, live music and Eumundi is transformed into one huge Christmas celebration.

Starry Nights Outdoor Movies from 7pm are Bedtime Stories (December 5) Rise Of The Guardians (12th) Muppet Christmas Carol (19th) Turbo (January 2).

Fitspirations from new running tour

• Stay 4 nights - includes Pumicestone Passage Cruise • Stay 3 nights midweek - incl return trip to Eumundi markets

PHONE: 5492 3666 Email: holiday@windwardpassage.com.au Website: www.windwardpassage.com.au

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165 per night

2 Bedroom Ocean View Apartment

• Luxury 2 & 3 bedroom spacious fully self-contained, oceanfront apartments • Onsite restaurant • Heated pool and spa • Full size tennis court • Gym and games room • Central to Sunshine Coast attractions • Undercover security parking • BBQ • Free cable TV

Coolum Beach, Sunshine Coast P: (07) 5446 3888

www.clubbcoolum.com.au enquiries@clubbcoolum.com.au

Minimum 4 night stay, subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Excludes school holidays. Valid 30.03.15.

PAGE 11

A girl of many talents!

Go fishing at Rainbow Beach One of Rainbow Beach’s great attractions is beach fishing with unlimited scope of nearly 100km of beach to choose from. Catching fish goes hand in hand with a great holiday and that’s where Rainbow Beach has it made.

Beach fishing yields dart, whiting, flathead, bream and tailor. For the rock fishing enthusiast, there are some big catches to be had off Double Island Point such as mackerel and kingfish.

The variety of fish caught in the Great Sandy Straits and estuaries is extensive due to the mangrove breeding grounds found throughout.

Some of the more popular varieties are whiting, flathead, bream, cod mangrove jack, mackerel,

tailor and some of the tall stories told by the locals would have you believe they catch the occasional barramundi.

If you want fresh bait there’s plenty. The Tin Can Bay foreshore at low tide will produce yabbies and Rainbow Beach can supply fresh sand worms and pippies for the beach angler. Local shops also have bait for fishing and crabbing.

Great reef fishing is a few miles offshore and charter trips can be arranged. The reefs have Red Emperor Sweet Lip, Snapper, Pearl Perch, Parrot and Coral Trout.

Do you like to “Throw in a line?� Turn to page 19 for Fishing with Foxie!

Rebecca Greiner of Bundaberg is 2014 St Luke’s Senior Female Sports Star of the Year, 2014 Wide Bay Schools Sports Star of the Year, a Queensland Rep. in Touch Football and Hockey.

She is Australian Under 16 rep. in Hockey and toured South Africa this year and was selected again in the Australian U/16 Girls Hockey Team that is touring Europe in 2015.

In her spare time she loves fishing and she caught this Pearl Perch off Rainbow Beach while out fishing with her dad on the “Keely Rose�.

Rainbow Beach

AFFORDABLE LUXURY RETIREMENT LIVING FOR THE OVER 55’S

Your golden gateway to some of the most amazing natural attractions to be found anywhere in the world.

Swim with the dolphins, explore the spectacular scenery of Fraser Island, see the rainforests, heathlands and freshwater lakes. Fish or four wheel drive or just drag your feet along miles of golden sand.

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Visit Carlo Sand Blow, an amazing spectacle in itself with postcard views.

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Stay at Plantation Resort in the centre of town directly opposite the beach with easy walking distance to the shops, cafĂŠs & hotel.

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The apartments have spectacular ocean views and picturesque sun sets. The one, two and three bedroom apartments are fully self-contained, beautifully appointed with modern dcor and spacious layouts. There’s plenty of room on the roof top terrace apartments to have a BBQ with friends. Maybe just escape to celebrate that special occasion. We have lots to offer you just give us a call and we are happy to accommodate you for your next holiday.

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We put much more value and maintenance back into our Villages. This enables us to maintain a pristine Retirement Village for now and the future.

Exit Fees, yes we have them. Ask us what the benefits of having exit fees mean.

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-*'&45:-& 104*5*0/ 4&$0/% 50 /0/& ] $0/7&/*&/$& -0$"5*0/ ] "8"3% 8*//*/( -"/%4$"1*/( SALES OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK from 8am to 5pm FRASER SHORES RETIREMENT VILLAGES 58 – 100 Nissen Street, Pialba Q 4655 P 4124 6246 | www.frasershores.com.au Retirement Village conditions apply.

PAGE 12

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TOURIST QUEENSLAND

HERVEY BAY & FRASER ISLAND Hervey Bay - the gateway to Fraser Island All those 40 tonne mammals can’t be wrong!

This year’s whale watching season is at a close but no matter what time of year you visit familyfriendly Hervey Bay there’s plenty more to see and do.

It’s the gateway to Fraser Island and you can see it from a different angle as you leap into a beautiful skydive location, make your own waves on a jetski or join the professionals for world-class game fishing.

Hire a bike and ride along Hervey Bay esplanade with great views across the bay and the track is well serviced with barbecues, playgrounds, parks and gardens.

Protected waters have stinger-free swimming and Urangan Pier is where the whole family can throw

in a line. It’s especially nice to wander along the Pier at dusk watching the pelicans glide peacefully on their way – tranquillity plus.

Cosmopolitan dining, luxury resorts, unit or camping accommodation all combine together served generously with the warmth of the locals – so perfect and so accessible – take the whales’ word for it.

Fresh from the ocean to you – Hervey Bay is famous for its scallops, so fresh they were caught just now! Here is the freshest seafood in Australia.

Enjoy large juicy prawns indoors, or buy fresh off the boat and cook on a beach barbie.

It’s kids’ paradise too, so take them for a splash at the free water education park, Wetside.

Fraser Island the largest sand island in the world It’s the largest sand island in the world and seemingly a contradiction of natural conventions.

Rainforests need high rainfall and rich soil to thrive but for the past 800,000 years rich rainforests have defied Mother Nature to call Fraser Island home.

See untouched freshwater lakes and creeks, including rare dune lakes. Wetlands, heath decorated with wildflowers and towering rainforest trees all thrive from nothing more than sand.

Self Drive – accessible by 4WD only. All roads are sand tracks. Take your own vehicle or hire from Hervey Bay, Kingfisher Bay Resort, Rainbow Beach and Brisbane. Off-road campers allowed, but caravans discouraged.

One, two and three-day escorted 4WD tours depart from Hervey Bay, Rainbow Beach and major island resorts.

By Barge – Vehicular barges and passenger ferries operate regular services from River Heads, and Inskip Point (Rainbow Beach). Phone 1800 072 555 Aboriginal Heritage – Fraser Island continues to be a culturally significant place for the Butchella people. It was the island’s food resources that prompted them to name it K’Gari meaning paradise.

More information for your Fraser Island visit from Fraser Coast South Burnett Tourism phone 1800 444 155 or www.frasercoastholidays.info

Fraser Island returned to Butchulla people The Federal Court has granted native title rights to World Heritage-Listed Fraser Island to the indigenous Butchulla People who have called it home, or K’Gari (paradise) for at least 5,000 years.

It has not always been an idyllic home, with its people fighting off forced removal, sand mining and environmental damage to maintain their connection to the island.

South Native Title Services CEO, Kevin Smith said K’Gari is internationally renowned for its striking natural beauty and unique environmental and Aboriginal cultural values.

“The determination means the State Government, national parks and the Butchulla tribe are able to work together to help enhance the natural beauty which is largely covered by national parks.”

Butchulla elder Susan Graham said the traditional owners had been trying to gain native title for decades.

“It’s so important for it to be publicly recognised, that Government recognises it, the community understands it, and for our people, that this is the country they belong to.”

Swim with whales at Hervey Bay

Whale watching has been taken to the next level with the release of Whale Watch 2.0 – an immersive experience where watchers can slip over the side of the boat and swim with Humpback Whales in calm protective waters.

Hervey Bay pharmacist Jarred Smith, his wife and friends were some of the very first to dip their toes into the calm waters, and so close they made eye contact with the whales, saw remora fish feeding on the skin and minute details on the barnacles.

“It was the most incredible thing to have two curious whales circling, then slowly coming up below us from the depths. Each was the same length as six of us put together, but so incredibly graceful, so inquisitive,” said Jarred.

“To hear snorkellers yell with excitement through their snorkel, well that’s a sound to behold,” said Skipper Brian Perry.

The Quick Cat II (Hervey Bay Whale Watch) will leave Fraser Island again in 2015 from August to October. Book early to go swimming with the whales.

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PAGE 13

BUNDABERG & BARGARA

Turtle Encounters – the real meaning of “awesome” Visitors meet a hatc

hling before its long journey be gins.

Mon Repos Beach ch 15 minutes from Bundaberg’s city centre has the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on Australia’s eastern mainland and most significant loggerhead population in the South Pacific.

Turtle Watching Time is on until March when the hatchlings scurry out of the nest down to the ocean.

These “grand old ladies of the deep” can travel up to 3000 kms to their traditional nesting beach every few years.

“Researchers now also have an idea where they go in between visits,” said one of the rangers.

“A satellite tracking device placed on the turtle’s carapace sends signals showing how long they take to travel from feeding grounds to nesting areas.”

Loggerheads begin breeding around age 30 with one of the oldest tagged at Mon Repos 60 years old. It is believed they live to about 100.

Rangers and volunteers do their utmost to ensure maximum comfort and minimum stress to the magnificent creatures, while allowing tourists to

get up close and personal, to witness nature unfolding.

To begin your Mon Repos Turtle Experience you are required to book and pre-purchase tickets.

Prices – Adults 15 plus $11.25; Concession, Students $5.85; Children 5 to 14 $5.85. (ask about family prices) Turtle Express – if you don’t have transport book a ride to and from your accommodation – info@bundaberg-coaches.com.au, phone 41 53 1037.

Tickets can only be booked through Bundaberg Region Visitor Services by phoning 41 53 8888 or www.bundabergregion.org/destinations/naturalencounters/turtles When visiting Bundaberg pick up your free copy of the Bundy Book which has turtle news, and information on lots of places to visit in the region.

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PAGE 14

AFFORDABLE LUXURY RETIREMENT LIVING FOR THE OVER 55’S We put much more value and maintenance back into our Villages.

This enables us to maintain a pristine Retirement Village for now and the future.

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TOURIST QUEENSLAND

BUNDABERG & BARGARA

First TQ Touchscreen unveiled in Bundaberg Tourism Minister, Jann Stuckey said turtle season visitors to Mon Repos Beach at Bundaberg would be among the first to access new tourist information touchscreens and a smart phone app positioned at various locations from Eidsvold to Bargara.

“These initiatives have been put in place to encourage visitors to stay longer and experience more as we work towards our state-wide goal of doubling overnight visitor expenditure by 2020,” she said.

The first Tourism Queensland touchscreen unveiled at Bargara means visitors to the Bundaberg region have all the information they need literally at their fingertips, just in time for the Turtle Season which officially began on November 10.

National Parks Minister Steve Dickson said the Bundaberg turtle experience continued to be a

Tourism Minister, Jann Stuckey unveils the first Queensland touchscreen, located at The Windmill Café at Bargara.

Turtle Timelines Mon Repos Beach is home to the largest concentration of nesting Loggerhead Turtles in the South Pacific and most accessible rookery on our east coast and here’s the turtles’ own calendar of events: November: nesting season starts with the first Saturday when nightly Turtle Tours begin.

Bookings are essential by contacting the Information Centre 4153 8888 or www.bundabergregion.org/destinations/

natural-encounters/turtles December: nesting season reaches its peak with tours running except for December 24, 25, 31.

January: Hatching Season starts as the turtles begin to appear and scurry to the ocean with only one in 1000 surviving to come back to Mon Repos to breed. Even though the first babies are hatching, other mums are still laying their eggs in January.

February: Hatching is in full swing.

The hatchlings can be disoriented by bright lights with Bundy running the

“Cut the Glow to Help Turtles Go” campaign so they head in the right direction, towards the sea.

Late March: Turtle Time comes to a close.

major drawcard for the region.

“Nesting and hatching turtles are one of the most spectacular wildlife spectacles in Australia, with more than 28,000 people enjoying this unique Queensland experience at Mon Repos last season,” Mr Dickson said.

“The Newman Government is currently undertaking a $450,000 upgrade at the Mon Repos turtle centre, and this will help encourage more tourists to visit the region and enjoy this experience.”

’S COOPER MEIDER AGE H C S COMPLEX SEE THE ARTISANS AT WORK BUNDY KEGS - See the Coopers making Oak barrels for Wines and Spirits.

Unique gifts - Shop on line or call in Bundy Kegs make and manufacture small American white Oak Casks for maturing your favourite fortified wine or spirit. They also sell locally hand crafted timber pieces such as intarsia, bowls, vases, jewellery boxes, coasters, hand carved wildlife and many more.

Prices for Oak Casks start at $160.

3 - 7 Alexandra Street, East Bundaberg

Green Turtle T40221 returns to the ocean after laying at Mon Repos.

Near the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery

Phone: (07) 4151 8233

Gold Coin Donation MONDAY - FRIDAY 9AM - 5PM SATURDAY 9AM - 1PM

www.bundykegs.com

Bundaberg Rum – it all began here More than 100,000 rum fans and tourists make the journey to the Bundaberg Distilling Company Bondstore each year to explore the rum-making process first hand, starting with the molasses kept in the world’s largest molasses storage wells.

Thousands travel from across Queensland and interstate to celebrate a new rum release whether a limited edition or permanent product – rum aficionados, collectors and historians love sharing in the Bundaberg Rum journey.

The Barrel House is a remarkable behindthe-scenes story with 1000 small barrels from around the world helping deliver depth of character and flavour to the original rum reserves enabling production of premium rums.

Relax in the Bundy Tasting Bar, take home exclusive items from the Spring Hill House Retail store, take a BDC Distillery Tour or self-guided interactive experience.

Full details on www.bundabergrum.com. au, phone 4131 2999.

There’s no need to go to Bali!

You will find a great range of Bali and Asian imports.

• • • •

Mens and Womens Clothing Furniture (wood, bamboo, water hyacinth, beds, lounges, dining settings and teak units Bags, shoes, jewellery Lamps, wall hangings, mirrors, pictures, artefacts, Manchester, décor pots, Balinese garden and water feature pots and much more.

Enquire about the house and unit packages. Wholesale and Retail

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

BurneƩ Heads Holiday Park A unique harbour location only minutes from Mon Repos Turtle Rookery & 15 minutes from Bundy.

07 4159 4313

Miara Holiday Park

A riverfront & bush camping holiday spot on the Kolan River mouth just 45 km’s north of Bundy.

07 4156 1171

EllioƩ Heads Holiday Park

Best of both worlds with the ocean & river on your doorstep, just 15 minutes from Bundy’s city centre.

07 4159 6193

Moore Park Beach Holiday Park An absolute beachfront location surrounded by parkland & endless beach just 20 min north of Bundy.

07 4154 8388 27 See Street, Bargara - (one block from the ocean), BARGARA

0411 424 049 - 0447 809 092 WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

PAGE 15

TROPICAL NORTH

Tropical North Pirates Of The Whitsundays Queensland Wild, unspoilt, and adventurous by nature, Tropical North Queensland is home to two World Heritagelisted natural wonders and enough adventure to tick off the bucket list of even the most seasoned traveller.

The deep connection with the reef and our ancient rainforests lures adventurers and un-winders from near and far to experience one of the world’s last remaining patches of untouched wilderness.

The laid-back, tropical centres of

Cairns and Port Douglas are major gateways to the Great Barrier Reef and natural starting points for expeditions to the Gulf of Savannah and Cape York’s remote wilderness areas.

Disconnect from the world and pamper yourself at a rainforest ecoresort, spend a week diving the reef, or race down the rapids of the Barron River.

The choice is yours, and the options are endless.

On the Mossman River.

PAGE 16

Funnel Bay near Airlie Beach is a probable location for the blockbuster movie, Pirates Of The Caribbean 5 to begin filming in the Whitsundays next February.

A Temporary Local Planning Instrument is still in place covering filming in the area after 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea was shelved.

Surrounded by rainforest and accessible only by 4WD or boat, Funnel Bay was also used

by Angelina Jolie for her directorial debut film Unbroken.

Other locations will include areas north of Mackay, Port Douglas and the Village Roadshow Studios at Movie World on the Gold Coast.

The film will create thousands of jobs and attract millions of dollars to Queensland.

Hamilton Island new direct flights QantasLink has started direct flights from Brisbane from Fridays to Mondays on its 74 seat Q400 aircraft ideally suited to the route.

CEO John Gissing said it’s great news for tourism and the Whitsundays 74 islands including fabulous Hamilton and the ultra-luxury One& Only Hayman Island.

“Qantas is the only domestic airline operating out of the Great Barrier Reef Airport to include an inflight meal and checked in baggage no matter what time you fly or which class you travel in.”

Hamilton Island CEO Glenn Bourke said he’s delighted to welcome the Brisbane service to complement the current Qantas Sydney to Hamilton route.

Qantas began operating three Sydney flights a week on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday during peak season earlier in the year, flying the

cast and crew of TV program, Modern Family to the region.

Come fly with me.

With views across the sparkling Coral Sea, Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island is the place where you and your tropical dreams meet.

Nestled amongst natural island beauty, and bathed in a warm, tropical climate the beautiful heritage listed Magnetic Island, just off the Tropical North Queensland coast is only a 20 minute fast ferry ride from Townsville.

Grand Mercure Apartments is located right beside the island’s spectacular harbour, with a state of the art ferry terminal and marina and only a short distance to over 23 beaches, bays, cafes, local galleries and golf course.

The resort offers 4 swimming pools, spa, BBQ, exercise room and boardroom.

Guests can select from a variety of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury beachhouse style apartments, most with uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea. With Bush Walks, Horse Riding, Jet Ski Hire / Tours, Fine Dining and many more enjoyable activities Grand Mercure Apartments on Magnetic Island is a holiday destination that you simply can’t afford to miss.

www.onebrightpoint.com.au res1@grandmercuremagneticisland.com.au

07 4758 2100 146 Sooning Street Nelly Bay Magnetic Island Queensland 4819

WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

TROPICAL NORTH

Sunlander’s final farewell Departs Brisbane: Sunday, December 28.

Departs Cairns: Wednesday, March 31 2015.

Don’t miss your chance to take one last trip or perhaps your first, before The Sunlander’s retirement on December 31 and be a part of Queensland railway history.

Queenslander Class customers will be treated to a host of special touches to commemorate the farewell journey; a premium experience that The Sunlander is most famously known for.

The Sunlander’s retirement will mark a significant milestone in Queensland Rail’s history; don’t miss the chance to take away the fond memories travelling along Queensland’s coastline enjoying the traditional comfort.

Inclusions: Travel overnight in a Queenslander Class Sleeper cabin from Brisbane to Cairns or vice versa.

All meals with local produce sourced from within 100 kms of the railway track travelled.

Exclusive Queenslander Class lounge and dining car.

Wings Adventure Park

Get down and dirty as you race a mini 4WD through the amazing hinterland on the Whitsunday Coast. Wings Adventure Park will open on January 5 and will get your heart racing. Climb from the valley floor to the hilltops of the rainforest, slash through muddy potholes, and conquer tracks through grassland, marshland, wetlands, creek beds and bumps.

Conway National Park & Sunset Tapas via Segway

Explore the beautiful National Park on a guided Segway Tour through the lush green rainforest.

The tour includes a traditional high tea under the rainforest canopy. A second guided tour will take visitors along the Bicentennial Boardwalk from Airlie Beach to Cannonvale to see a spectacular sunset over Coral Sea while indulging in tapas at Abell Point Marina.

The Sunlander in 1953.

There will be a special menu, commemorative merchandise and travel certificate.

Queensland organic and sustainable amenities pack.

Visitors swap maps for apps

A new travel app has been launched to direct visitors to the closest information centres while they’re travelling around Queensland, so they can quickly find what they’re looking for.

Tourism and Events Queensland developed the app in partnership with the Queensland Information Centres Association (QICA) to promote the network of 116 accredited Visitor Information Centres across the state.

New Whitsunday Wonders

Inside these hubs of knowledge, travellers can find the information they’re searching for first-hand from locals who know all the insider tips and gossip way before Google does.

As well as using GPS technology to locate the closest three VICs, the app also reveals the top things to see and do close by.

Entertainment tablet including presentation by QR resident historian Greg Hallam.

For all enquiries telephone 1300 131 722.

Yeppoon’s raining tourists With the help of Skydive Capricorn, willing visitors are now hurtling towards the beach at 200 kph, strapped to Lloyd Cofield who caters for adrenalin enthusiasts who love to leap out of planes.

Leaving from Hedlow Airport halfway between Rockhampton and Yeppoon, Lloyd makes it happen after a 30 minute safety brief and a 15 minute plane trip reaching up to 12,000 feet.

Lloyd was part of the four person team taking part in the World Championships of Formation Skydiving in 1999, finishing sixth from 25 nations. He now has over 8,000 jumps to his name in over 20 years of experience.

Not only does the weather on the Capricorn Coast create perfect conditions to skydive almost all year round, it’s the views of Great Keppel Island and the surrounding Southern Great Barrier Reef that give Skydive Capricorn what it takes to be a premier attraction for Yeppoon.

New Indigenous Qualia Experience Enjoy a cruise aboard Qualia’s luxury cruiser Atomic, to view ancient Aboriginal cave drawings.

The caves, located at Nara Inlet Hook Island, were commonly used by the Ngaro Aboriginal people prior to European settlement. Following this, is a short cruise to Langford Spit, one of the most picturesque locations in the Whitsundays, where you can enjoy a Qualia cocktail and excellent snorkelling.

For further information visit the website www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au

BOWEN ACCOMMODATION

BOOK ONLINE NOW • Affordable • Self Contained • Overnight or Long Term • Studio Apartments • 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments • Free Wi-Fi • Pool • BBQ

+617 4786 2232

47 Horseshoe Bay Road, Bowen 4805

info@skyviewunits.com.au

The free app is available to download for iPhone and android now.

Singapore-Cairns flights take-off in 2015 Silk Air has announced its first regular Queensland service with flights between Singapore and Cairns to bring 20,000 extra passengers to the Tropical North each year.

They will run three times a week from May 2015 in a partnership deal between the Queensland Government, Silk Air, Cairns Airport and Tourism Tropical North.

Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey said the new flights will generate $14 million in visitor expenditure for Cairns in the first year alone.

“They will provide a seamless transit for international travellers to connect with Cairns from India, the UK, Europe and Asia via the major hub of Singapore with the route TOURIST QUEENSLAND

supported by the Attracting Aviation Investment Fund established by the Newman Government.”

Member for Cairns Gavin King said the announcement would begin a new era of aviation travel into the Tropical North

Set on 10 acres of peaceful tropical gardens, plenty of room for the whole family, or a quiet relaxing getaway by yourself.

“This great announcement for Cairns will assist in achieving the state-wide goal of doubling annual overnight visitor expenditure.”

The new Silk Air route will operate from Singapore-Darwin-CairnsSingapore twice a week and direct to Cairns (Singapore-Cairns-DarwinSingapore) for the remaining flight.

Enjoy our large swimming pool, tennis courts and free BBQ and mingle with the wildlife.

61-79 Mandalay Avenue, NELLY BAY Magnetic Island

“Adventure and joy delivered with confidence and poise.”

WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

PHONE (07) 4778 5200 info@amarooonmandalay.com.au amarooonmandalay.com.au

PAGE 17

THE WEST Heart of the Channel Country

Jundah, Stonehenge and Windorah There is plenty to see and do in our back yard ... 62,000 square kilometres of it!

• Relax and unwind in tranquil surroundings • It's a photographer's paradise

The heart of the Channel Country has something to offer everyone Located deep in the heart of the Channel Country, the Barcoo region is one of the more remote shires with an area of 61,974 square kilometres in far Western Queensland, incorporating the townships of Jundah, Stonehenge and Windorah. The main industries are beef, oil, wool, opal, and tourism.

The Thomson River flows into the shire from the north, while the Barcoo River enters the east, merging to form Cooper Creek. This mosaic of channels flows on to Lake Eyre during the wet season.

Improved roads and facilities make this area an attractive outback holiday destination.

Jundah, Stonehenge and Windorah are linked together by a sealed road that

continues on to either Quilpie or Longreach, giving an unbroken sealed road access from the east coast.

Enriched with history, unique landscapes, distinctive flora, fauna and serenity, that allows one to enjoy every moment and experience of the outback. The heart of the Channel Country has something to offer everyone.

Travellers can choose to enjoy the tranquillity or experience one of the many annual events held in the local communities.

Designated camping areas on permanent waterholes adjacent to each of the towns, give ample opportunities to fish or catch the delectable yabby for the camper's menu.

• Explore the diversity of our National Parks • Fish the Thomson, Barcoo & Cooper's Creek river systems • Visit our museums and historical sites • Enjoy the breathtaking star displays at night • Take part in the annual events

For further information contact us at: Jundah Information Centre 07 4658 6930 email: jundahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au

Stonehenge Information Centre 07 4658 5857 email: stonehengeinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au

Windorah Information Centre 07 4656 3063 email: windorahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

Win

Win a day on the Reef and a Tropical a 1770 LARC Day Tour Reef Holiday!

Here’s your chance to experience the Southern Great Barrier Reef and visit Lady Musgrave Island and Lagoon, a true coral cay on the reef.

On your Larc Tour you will be taken on an amphibious craft to access and explore the National Parks, restored lightstation and pristine waterways bordering the Birthplace of Queensland – the Town of 1770.

You and a friend can enjoy three nights accommodation at the Edge On Beaches – Luxury Resort.

Edge on Beaches Resort - Luxury accommodation

Would you like to win?

Here’s how to enter Name a place in Queensland, for each of the letters in the name COASTLINE. (We’ve given you a clue with A.) Post this entry form to Reef and Larc, Coastline Newspapers, PO Box 1775, Bundaberg Q. 4670 or enter via our website: www.coastlinenews.com.au Entry is free but only one per household to avoid disqualification.

Entries close January 28. A draw will be held if there is more than one correct entry. The winner will be announced in our February edition of The Coalfields Express and on our website.

C O A S T L I N E PAGE 18

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Agnes Water ……............................................................... ……............................................................... ……............................................................... ……............................................................... ……............................................................... ……...............................................................

This is just the luxury beachside accommodation you’re looking for, in a prime location just 300m from the exquisite main Agnes Water beach.

Your self-contained apartment offers the perfect base to experience the adventure and relaxation activities throughout this superb getaway destination.

Why settle for a hotel room? Spoil yourselves in one of the beautiful villas in a landscaped oasis of tropical gardens, four resort-style pools (one heated all year) on-site managers, tour bookings (and the choices are endless).

You’ll never forget your stay at The Edge On Beaches – your friendly hosts are waiting to greet you.

Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 can be whatever you wish to make of it. It can be an adventure of exploration, with the local area providing the perfect setting for many fun and interesting tourist attractions. Call Edge on Beaches today for a getaway you will never forget 07 4902 1200 or email: info@edgeonbeaches1770.com.au www.edgeonbeaches1770.com.au

Have a Great Barrier Reef day with Lady Musgrave Cruises One of the Southern Great Barrier Reef islands is Lady Musgrave, a unique coral cay and lagoon.

Enjoy a fabulous day aboard the 22 metre high speed vessel Spirit Of 1770 which moors alongside the floating pontoon for a fun filled day.

Sheltered crystal clear waters offer spectacular snorkelling and coral viewing. Take a ride in the semi-submarine; enter the underwater observatory or above water-level enjoy the glass-bottom boat.

Explore the island on a guided walk and enjoy morning and afternoon teas, plus tropical buffet lunch with seafood.

Drinks and snacks from the bar, snorkelling equipment provided with flotation vests, sunscreen, reef-walking shoes - bring swimsuits,towel, sunnies and hat.

Try Scuba diving – Introductory dives for the inexperienced in shallow waters within the lagoon, and certified divers are transferred to selected sites outside the lagoon.

Lady Musgrave Cruises departs from Town Of 1770 with same day return coach services from Bundaberg. Phone 1800 63 1770.

WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

Explore the National Parks and waterways on the Larc As you arrive in the Town of 1770 look to your left and you will see two big pink boats with wheels. These are the LARCs! An iconic, pink, amphibious craft, providing exclusive access inside Bustard Head Lighthouse – the only open operating lighthouse in Queensland.

1770 LARC! Tours, explore the National Parks and waterways bordering the Birthplace of Queensland – the Town of 1770.

On a full day Paradise Tour visitors can enter Queensland's only open, operating Lighthouse at Bustard Head, enjoy a picnic lunch and billy tea and sandboard down the towering dunes on Middle Island.

There’s also a two hour LARC + Lunch tour and one hour Afternoon Cruise taking in the pristine coastline of Eurimbula National Park with a fun LARC “splashdown”. www.1770larctours.com.au, phone 4974 9422.

TOURIST QUEENSLAND

Fishing

with Foxie

BY JOHN FOX

The southern part of Queensland has the best freshwater lake fisheries in Australia With summer all the dams in the southern part of Queensland should start firing up with bass and yellowbelly.

This part of Queensland is lucky to have some of the best freshwater lake fisheries in Australia Lakes like Somerset, Boondooma, Bjelke Petersen, and Cressbrook are all stocked thanks to the hard work of the local fish stocking Associations.

As the water temperatures rise in the lakes the fish will move out of the deeper water and up onto the shallower timbered areas of the lake to start feeding.

Casting blades, tail spinners or spinnerbaits to the edges of the lake and retrieving them back through the timber is a good way to tempt feeding yellows and bass into striking.

Early morning also try casting these types of lures around the rocky points. Cast across the ledges and let your lure sink into the deeper water before you retrieve it back up over the shallow water.

For the trollers try some deep diving lures that work around the five metre mark. Use a slow troll and use lures that give you a slow rolling action if you are chasing yellowbelly. If you are chasing bass you can speed up your troll a little and use lures with a more vibrating action.

Some good bass and yellowbelly are also caught by using bait, with the best bait being live shrimp and freshwater yabbies.

The best dead bait we have found is frozen salt water yabbies. All these baits can be fished by using a small sinker or fished under a float.

If fishing out of a boat use a small 00 or 0 size ball sinker directly above your hook, lower it down and then use a bobbing action or your rod, this will make your sinker make a noise on your hook and help attract fish.

If fishing from the bank use a float as this will enable you to place your bait amongst the timber and logs where the fish hang out, without getting hooked up all the time on the snags.

Red Claw are worth the effort If you are heading out to any of the lakes don’t forget to throw in a couple of redclaw pots as there are plenty of redclaw around and they are well worth the effort as they are a good feed.

Everyone has their own idea what is the best bait for redclaw, everything from rockmelon, half boiled potatoes and sweet corn to KFC chips seems to work and can be used.

Place your traps around the weedy areas of the lakes and place them at different depths the first time you set them as redclaw usually hang around the same depths depending on the water temperature.

Depth between ten to twenty feet is normally the most productive place to run your traps.

These nice couple of yellowbelly were caught by the Gilberts of Mount Perry using live shrimp and fished in the snags.

Captain of your own holiday Dreaming of a holiday by the water?

What about a holiday ON the water?

Explore Queensland’s scenic waterways aboard a boat that has all the luxuries of a family home.

Houseboats offer hotel comfort with camp-on-the-beach style adventure.

No crowds, no traffic, just you, the boat and uninterrupted views of spectacular waterfront locations (the ones you won’t see from a resort window).

Cruise along World Heritage listed Fraser Island, spot dolphins from your bedroom in Tin Can Bay, or cast a line along the

Getting people on the water since 1970.

We’ve Got You Covered ...

WHATEVER FLOATS YOUR BOAT!

FOR ALL YOUR BARRA FISHING TACKLE AND GEAR

We also hire an extensive range of paddle craft from our Kedron Showroom from as little as $45 per day.

Phone us now!

www.barratackle.com.au TOURIST QUEENSLAND

Noosa River – from the comfort of your deck.

And because you’re the Captain of this offshore adventure, you can explore where you want, when you want, and stay as long as you like.

Drop anchor at a secluded cove for a day of fishing, stop for a swim and snorkel, or just soak up the views as you take your house on tour. Check out the website www.queenslandholidays.com.au/thingsto-see-and-do/hire/houseboats

Options

Together

The Kids

Lightweight

Ph:

3359 9330

295 Gympie Road, Kedron, Qld. 4031.

COMPETITIVE FREIGHT AUSTRALIA WIDE

www.roscocanoes.com.au WWW.TOURISTQUEENSLAND.COM

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TOURIST QUEENSLAND